Thursday, September 30, 2010

TLHS: STAR and Advanced Placement Results by Jane Gladshteyn, Terra Linda Wind Intern

After receiving the results of the 2009-2010 Standardized Testing and Reporting (STAR) exams, Principal Lars Christensen is proud to report that Terra Linda High School has made “significant improvements in all sub-academic disciplines.”
On Monday, September 13, the California Department of Education publically announced the 2010 Academic Performance Index (API) reports for the schools in the district. Terra Linda High has improved by thirty-five points, pushing the school’s API from 763 to 798. Prior to the STAR exams, the state notified the school that it needed to bring up its API score by at least 5 points. However, even with these improvements, TL has still failed to reach the statewide goal of 800. The highest improvement in the district (and in all of Marin County) was at Madrone Continuation School, which improved its score of 491 by 288 points. San Rafael High, on the other hand, only improved seven points, boosting its score to 734.
TL improved in all subjects of the STAR tests, except for Life Science, which showed a slight decrease, down 0.9% from the previous year. The most notable improvements were in Chemistry, Physics, General Math, Algebra 1 and 2, and, especially, in Summative Math, which jumped from 42.2% advanced or proficient to an impressive 80%.
The advanced and proficient scores in ninth, tenth, and eleventh grade English increased by an average of 3.78% from last year. The advanced and proficient scores in mathematics increased by 18.80%, in History, they increased by 2.61%, and in science, they increased by an average of 7.69%.
Christensen acknowledges that such improvements happened for a number of reasons. First, Christensen says that because students were more aware of the importance of STAR tests, they took these exams more seriously. Secondly, he believes that teachers were more cognizant of the STAR related topics, due to a curriculum more aligned to the state standards. He also mentions that teachers made efforts to “see all students as individuals” by working towards individual needs, providing extra help. Thirdly, Christensen thinks that by having only one STAR exam per day, testing was “more conducive to positive results.” And lastly, Christensen states that such results occurred because there was more outreach to parents, which encouraged student-parent talks, stressing the importance of the exams.
If the school does in fact eventually reach its ideal API score of 800, Christensen says that he will be able to have less support classes and instead offer more electives. He does note that, either way, there will be “no direct monetary effects” based on the API score.
Alongside the impressive STAR test results, Assistant Principal Justin Mori holds the results of the AP current year score Summary. The results show that 329 TL students took the AP exams, in subjects including English, Spanish, French, Calculus, Statistics, Biology, Environmental Science, and U.S. History. Christensen describes that overall, “we improve to a great degree.”
The top scores were achieved in AP levels of Spanish, English Literature, and Environmental Science. Fifty percent of students scored a 4 or 5 on their AP Environmental Science exam, sixty-four percent had such results on their AP English Literature exam, and eighty-five percent on their AP Spanish exam. To offset these outstanding results, seventy-three percent of students scored a 1 or 2 on their AP Calculus (AB) exam, showing the greatest decline in scores. Christensen says that although he is concerned about Calculus, he trusts that “Mr. Gustin and the Math department will do everything to rectify the situation.”
Christensen notes that, although we have made major progress, the challenge now is to sustain these scores and continue to improve. He says the Terra Linda is a high-performing school and he “expects nothing less.” Christensen thanks all the Terra Linda students, teachers, and staff, and notes that the hard work “hasn’t gone unnoticed, it is very much appreciated.”

Digg 4 Review by Aaron Kammerman, TLHS

Digg 4 Review
The time has come to finally review Digg 4, the newest revision of the popular news aggregator, Digg.com. This is no doubt the most important upgrade to the site, due to the addition of a number of improvements and new features.
Before I continue, the new Digg currently can only be accessed if you’ve received an invitation, which you have to request. To request one, just go to new.digg.com and click on “Request an Invitation.”
Let’s first get to the design of the site. There are two tabs at the top that divide the homepage into two sections, named My News and Top News. My News shows the stories submitted only by people you follow. This is a much needed feature has been lacking from the site for a ridiculous amount of time, since there was absolutely no way of viewing those stories in one page before. Top News works the same way as in the previous Digg, displaying the front-page news from the whole community. This makes everything much more organized with less of a cluttered feeling. It also gives the site much more of a social edge, which I believe is the next evolution in getting news online.
What about article submission? Has it been improved? Well, the good news is “yes.” Even though submission of content is one of the two most important things in Digg, it had always felt like it was a hassle to do something that should have been quick and intuitive. The old submission process felt bulky, slow to complete, and even worse---sometimes displayed an “Unknown Error” message after you had gone through the whole procedure.
Submitting an article, this time around, is very convenient. There is a text box that’s at the top homepage and each category page. Just enter in a URL and the submission box expands to easily allow the editing of the description and of each category. That’s it. Also, a new feature many have been clamoring for allows the submission of a site’s RSS feed URL, making it so that any future articles get submitted automatically.
The “Upcoming” page, where all articles had previously gone before having a chance to make it onto the homepage, has now been removed. This increases the chances of any article getting onto the main page and also makes Digg less bloated and more sleek.
Overall, I think Digg 4 is the most important evolution yet. It also brings features that have been lacking for a long time and feels more complete. I think many users will grow to embrace and love the changes, a feeling that I had while using the site’s latest revision.

Digg 4 Review

Digg 4 Review by Aaron Kammerman

The time has come to finally review Digg 4, the newest revision of the popular news aggregator, Digg.com. This is no doubt the most important upgrade to the site, due to the addition of a number of improvements and new features.

Before I continue, the new Digg currently can only be accessed if you’ve received an invitation, which you have to request for. To request one, just go to new.digg.com and click on “Request an invitation.”

Let’s first get to the design of the site. There are two tabs at the top that divide the homepage into two sections, named My News and Top News. My News shows the stories submitted only by people you follow. This is a much needed necessity that has been lacking from the site for a ridiculous amount of time, since there was absolutely no way of viewing those stories in one page before. Top News works the same way as the previous Digg homepage had worked before, displaying the front-page news from the whole community. This makes everything much more organized and gives it less of a cluttered feeling. It also gives the site much more of a social edge, which I believe is the next evolution in getting news online.

What about article submission? Has it been improved? Well, the good news is “yes”. Even though submission of content is one of the two most important things in Digg, it had always felt like it was much more of a nuisance and a hassle for something that should have been quick and intuitive. The old submission process felt bulky, slow to complete, and even worse, sometimes displayed an “Unknown Error” message after you had gone through the whole procedure.

Submitting an article, this time around, is very convenient. There is a text box that’s at the top homepage and each category page. Just enter in a URL and the submission box expands to easily allow the editing of the description and of each category. That’s it. Also, a new feature many have been clamoring for allows the submission of a site’s RSS feed URL, making it so that any future articles get submitted automatically.

The “Upcoming” page, where all articles had previously gone before having a chance to make it onto the homepage, has now been removed, most likely for the purpose of increasing the chances of any article being able to get onto the main page and also for the intention of making Digg less bloated and more sleek.

Overall, I think Digg 4 is the most important evolution in the site’s future. It also brings features that have been lacking for a long time and feels more complete. I think many users will grow to embrace and love the new change, a feeling that I sensed while using the site’s latest revision.

What I Didn't Know About Mulch: Much!

What I Didn't Know About Mulch:
Please DO NOT use the "hairy" shredded bark. It is very prone to everything from exhaust pipe "clinkers" to cigarettes & we might end up doing lots of run to put out smoldering spots. I would recommend a larger "chip" bark like ¾ inch or larger. Any size will be better than the shredded, so use what you think is best for the situation. Ideally would be to lay down heavy contractor cloth to help keep the weeds down.
Bradley R. Mark, Captain Specialist, Vegetation Management Program, San Rafael Fire Department, 415-485-3309

The 2010 Great California ShakeOut on 10/21

The 2010 Great California ShakeOut on October 21 is 4 weeks from today, and already more than 5.6 million Californians are registered to participate. If you participated in 2009, we do not automatically assume that you as participating again. This is why we request that you renew your registration each year. If you are not sure if you are registered for 2010, visit www.ShakeOut.org/whoisparticipating to view lists of participants by county or for the entire state.

If you are not listed for 2010, login today to quickly update your information and confirm your participation.Drill Manuals and other resourcesTo help organizations plan their drill, we have created drill manuals for K-12 Schools, Businesses, Non Profits and Other Organizations, and for Government Agencies and Facilities. These can be adapted for use by other organizations as well. Each manual has instructions for multiple levels of drills, from a very basic Drop, Cover, and Hold On drill to a more comprehensive exercise of your disaster plan. Download the manuals from the ShakeOut Resources page, where you can also download posters, flyers, and other materials. "2010 ShakeOut Participant" stickers and more...Schools, community groups, and many other organizations may be interested in our popular new 1" round 2010 ShakeOut Participant stickers (similar to the "I Voted" stickers provided at polling booths). A roll of 500 stickers is $20 plus shipping.

The ShakeOut Shop has been created for ShakeOut participants who are requesting items to commemorate their drills, spread preparedness messages, and encourage others to participate. In addition, your organization can become a ShakeOutShop Affiliate, and receive 10% of every purchase made by people who click a ShakeOut Shop link on your website. This can be a great fundraiser for schools and other groups! Are all your organizations participating?There are 20 categories of organizations for which we provide details for how to participate and also list who is participating in each category.

Are the organizations you are involved in participating? Is your employer, your community group, your church, your child's school, and others? Many groups may never have had earthquake drills or perhaps have no plans for how they will respond and recover. You can make a difference by suggesting to them that an easy first step is to register for the ShakeOut.

We're all in this together...The ShakeOut has grown because of people like you, who see the value of practicing how to protect ourselves and for getting prepared. We have formed the Earthquake Country Alliance to foster an earthquake and tsunami resilient California. If you have similar commitments please join the Alliance.

Thank you for your participation and commitment to earthquake safety!

What's Happening at the Marin Center?

What's Happening at the Marin Center? Check out their online magazine

http://www.pageturnpro.com/County-of-Marin/17374-Marin-Center-Fall-2010/index.html#/1

Dominican University Concert Series

10/17/10 -

Dominican University of California's Guest Concert Series begins on Oct. 17 with the Ariel Ensemble, the resident ensemble of the Chamber Music Society of Sacramento. Performances also will include San Francisco Symphony musicians, Philharmonia Baroque and the St. Lawrence String Quartet. The performances are part of the Expression series sponsored by the department of music and performing arts at Dominican. All Sunday afternoon concerts start at 3 p.m. at Angelico Hall.

The Ariel Ensemble is comprised of William Barbini, Kineko Okumura and Paul Ehrlich on violin, Victoria Ehrlich on cello and clarinetist Patricia Shands.

On November 7, the popular Tilden Trio, an ensemble-in-residence at Dominican, will perform again at Angelico Hall. The trio consists of Juilliard School classmates Sarn Oliver (violin) , who is the first violinist in the San Francisco Symphony, and associate principal San Francisco Symphony cellist Peter Wyrick and pianist June Choi Oh, a faculty member at Dominican and the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.

Tilden Trio quickly became a sought-after ensemble since forming in 2004 after collaborating for decades in various ensembles settings, starting in the pre-college days.

Subscription season tickets for the series are $72 for general admission and $60 for seniors, music teachers and students, and $40 for youth. They can be purchased in advance through Dominican's Web site at www.dominican.edu/events. Subscription single-event tickets are $18 for general, $15 discount and $10 youth and can be purchased at the door prior to each performance. Admission is free for Dominican faculty, staff and students.

Angelico Hall opens 30 minutes prior to each performance. Parking is free at Conlan Center at the intersection of Grand and Acacia avenues in San Rafael. For more information, contact June Choi Oh at 257-0128 or e-mail her at joh@dominican.com.

MMWD Candidates Forum - 10/15

10/15/10

MMWD Candidates Forum

Jack Gibson, Peter Lacques, Armando Quintero, John O'Connor, Glenn Dombeck, David Behar and Frank Egger This is to confirm the date and time of our MMWD Candidates Forum for Divisions 1, 2 and 3: Oct 15th, Friday, from 7 to 9 pm at the San Rafael City Council Chambers, 1400 Fifth Avenue. Please plan to arrive by 6:45 so we can get settled in and begin on time.
Each of the co-sponsors, Sustainable Marin, Sustainable Fairfax, Sustainable San Anselmo and Sustainable San Rafael will be getting the word out about this great opportunity for the public to hear directly from each of you about your ideas and qualifications for the MMWD Board.
I thank you all for accepting this invitation to debate and will be sending you our prepared questions within a week.
Sincerely, Bernie Stephan - 488-4567

FREE TRAVEL TO BRAZIL

Terra Linda Rotary is looking for 4-5 young professionals, age 25-40, who would be interested in a vocational and cultural exchange trip to Brazil next spring. This is a life altering experience! And its all-expense paid! Millie Anderson, 987-8636

Climate Challenge Kick-Off Event Saturday 10/9

10/10 Climate Challenge Kick-Off Event is Saturday 10/9 !
A 350.org Global Work Party

Sustainable San Rafael will host a 10/10 Climae Challenge Global Work Party on SATURDAY, October 9, walking door-to-door to engage bussinesses and residents in ten practical actions to reduce carbon emissions by ten percent in each of the next ten years.

Gather for a Kick-off Rally at 1:00 Saturday at San Rafael City Plaza to form teams and pick up 10/10 Climate Challenge material for distribution along 4th street or in your own neighborhood.

Then re-convene for a Celebration at 3:00 Saturday at the Plaza to mark the day's work and the commitment of San Rafael and Marin to carbon reduction and a green economy--and to urge everyone to help meet the 10/10 Climate Challenge.

Headlining the Celebration, San Rafael and Transportation Authority of Marin officials will accept the donation of two electric vehicle chargers from the Coulomb Company to begin gearing up public garages for the new generation of zero-emission cars scheduled to arrive at the end of this year.

Representatives from Marin Clean Energy will describe how residents and businesses can now complete the zero-emission circle by plugging their EVs into 100% renewable Deep Green electricity. 60% of Marin's carbon pollution comes from petroleum powered cars and 17% from fossil fuel electricity.

Ten people will each describe a different way that they're reducing their own carbon footprint to meet the 10/10 Challenge. Then the county's Green Business Program will show how businesses can become certifiably green, helping to drive a sustainable Marin economy. Speakers will also highlight the opportunity to join other carbon-reducing work parties happening throughout Marin over the 10/10 weekend.

It's Marin's way of showing that it's possible to reach and surpass the 80% carbon reduction that scientists say is necessary by 2020 to begin to arrest the serious climate changes already taking place.

The event is among thousands of Global Work Parties being organized by 350.org, which is building a citizens movement to insist that governments return atmospheric carbon to the 350 parts-per-million needed for a stable global climate. Co-sponsored by Sustainable Marin, Green Sangha, Ecos Circle, San Francisco Electric Vehicle Association, The Marin Youth Center, the Canal Alliance and Crush 23.

When is the last time someone read outloud to you?

10/04/10, 3:15-4pm

FREE CHILDREN'S EVENT
Long time teacher and Marin resident, Laurin Abramson, will be reading her recently published children's book, 'Coco the Bunny', under the trees next to Coco's hutch at Montessori de Terra Linda on Monday, October 4th at 3:15pm. Local area children and their families are invited to hear the story and see the bunny who inspired it. Montessori de Terra Linda is located across the street from Scotty's market. The reading will take place on the lawn just inside the gate. Light refreshments will be served and this free event is scheduled to conclude at 4pm. All Terra Linda neighbors are encouraged to be a part of this fun storytime!

SummerFest for TLHS !

10/2/10
SummerFest
Each and every one of you can make a difference in our children's future here in San Rafael. Whether you're a parent, a business owner or community member please join us in helping provide an enhanced and equitable education for all children who attend public school in San Rafael.
HeadsUp is a collaboration of parents, teachers, community members and school administrators committed to helping provide the best possible education for the 6,000 students in San Rafael's elementary K-8 and high school districts. Because of the drastic state budget cuts in education, HeadsUp has made new commitments this year to help raise additional funds for programs that have been cut or reduced, including libraries, counseling and outdoor education.
Investing in our children's education is one of the most important investments for the future you can make - as a parent, as a community member, as a business. Our mission is to enhance the quality of education in our public schools by funding vital programs and services for all children, kindergarten through high school. www.headsup.org
The time has come to join the 2010 Summerfest and we need you. You can make a meaningful contribution in many different ways. Here are ways to participate in this year's success:
Fundraising is Critical: ? Is your business or employer interested in being a sponsor? All sponsors receive recognition and visibility at the event and pre-event media. Become a community hero: contact Cristine Dewey at cristine@rocofilms.com for sponsorship information. ? Will you participate in soliciting sponsorships as part of the fundraising team? Please contact: Cristine Dewey cristine@rocofilms.com 415-455-8277.
Summerfest Support Team: ? Will you please consider joining the Summerfest 2010 Support Team? There are many different types of roles and tasks. Have fun and be part of the team; plus we really need your help. Please contact: Judy Tuatagaloa judywt13@comcast.net 415-459-2225.
Event Set-Up, Coordination and Participation: ? Each school will be coordinating and manning their activity booths. Will you please sign up with your school's HeadsUp coordinator and be part of your school's team? Please contact: Your School Summerfest Coordinator: Coleman - Becky DeShields retrogirl@tam.net 415-453-2259 Glenwood - Cari Gerlach carig@marinoutdoorbootcamp.com 415-259-7269 Sun Valley - Sarah Caveney sarah.caveney@att.net 415-690-6640 Bahia Vista - Delia Lucio silvinoydelia@att.net 415-717-5360 Laurel Dell - Marcella Hauser, Tracey Hessel marcella.hauser@sbcglobal.net tracey_hessel@yahoo.com 457-7512 San Pedro - headsupsr@gmail.net 415-491-6405 Venetia Valley - Tamara Hull tamarahull@yahoo.com 415-472-4200 Davidson - Amy Jonak Ajonak2@comcast.net 415-378-7760 TLHS - Francesca Kennedy kennedylewis@earthlink.net

Sustainable Fairfax - Model for others...

10/02/10

Sustainable Fairfax is delighted to be a model sustainability organization for others in Marin and beyond. The work we do at Sustainable Fairfax is made possible by the hard work of our dedicated volunteers and the donations from members, friends and local businesses. We hope that you will join us for our 11th anniversary fundraiser party on Saturday October 2, 2010, 6pm to 9pm featuring Hog Island Oysters, organic and local food from our wonderful Fairfax restaurants and sustainable wines. Tickets are $75 per person or $125 per couple. Tickets are also available at the door.
If you cannot attend, but are able to make a donation to enable us to continue our meaningful work, please send your tax-deductible contribution to: Sustainable Fairfax, 141 Bolinas Road Fairfax, CA 94930, Attention: Anniversary or donate online via our website http://www.sustainablefairfax.org/content/view/52/21/
On behalf of the Board of Directors, please accept our sincere appreciation for your support of Sustainable Fairfax.

Crime in Santa Margarita Neighborhood

09/28/10
the crimes you are asking about are residential burglaries:

* Unit block of De La Guerra occ'd on Sept 1 between 5 and 7 pm, entry gained through unlocked bathroom window
* Unit block of Pico Court occ'd on Sept 16 between 7:30 am and 3:30 pm, possible entry through Doggy door
* Unit block of Santiago Way occ'd sometime between July and September, unknown entry

Home security tips and reminders will be included in the Fall edition of the PD newsletter.

There is no new information to release regarding the sexual assault and the case remains under investigation.

Margo Rohrbacher
Supervisor/PIO
San Rafael Police Department
415.485.3045
margo.rohrbacher@srpd.org

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Community Media Center of Marin

10/30/10, 10am-Noon
Annual Member Meeting of the Community Media Center of Marin, to be to be held Saturday October 30st from 10:00 am until Noon at the Marin Youth Center (1115 3rd Street, San Rafael, CA). Prior to the meeting, annual board elections will take place via ballots for two board member positions. The nomination/petitions are available at http://cmcm.tv/board along with the CMCM By-Laws. Also on the site are the nominations by the CMCM Board. The North San Rafael Coalition of Residents (including Santa Margarita Neighborhood Association) is a member.

Bioneers is Coming!

10/14/10 - 10/18/10
the Bioneers Conference, which is an annual leading edge forum presenting breakthrough solutions for people and planet. This year it will take place October 14-18 at the Marin Center in San Rafael. Attend the inspiring Bioneers plenaries and workshops to learn about social and scientific innovations to create a better world. This year's roster of speakers and topics promises a rich experience. www.bioneers.org
Keynote presentations by:
· Dr. James Hansen, head of the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies, will share his personal odyssey into climate action and civil disobedience.
· Dr. Jane Goodall, whose discoveries about primates in the early 1960s revolutionized our understanding of our own species, and who now devotes her life to preserving our planet's biodiversity, will reflect on the roles we must play to ensure a better future for generations to come.
· Gary Hirshberg, Founder/CEO of Stonyfield Farm and sustainability activist for over 33 years, asks us to make radical changes in how we think about our relationship to nature and economic growth to benefit both people and the planet.
· John Francis, the renowned "Planetwalker," who, horrified by an oil spill in the 1970s near his home, refused to ride in motorized vehicles for 17 years as he walked across continents to raise consciousness.
· Andy Lipkis, founder of Los Angeles' TreePeople, a visionary of urban forests and cutting-edge innovator in the re-shaping of cities to make them sustainable will share current efforts to reverse climate damage and make communities stronger.
· Gloria Feldt, prominent women's rights leader and author, will speak about the transformational power of embracing controversy, and share her own personal transformation from timid teen to nationally recognized leader.
· Dr. Anthony Cortese, founder of Second Nature, a leader in the effort to green American higher education, will discuss the role of education in the era of climate change and present some promising developments.
When you register to attend Bioneers, use the coupon code "Bioneers2010" and receive 10% off the price of admission. We hope to see you there!

GUBERNATORIAL DEBATE IN S.R. 10/12

10/12/10, 6pm

Marin Democratic Headquarters is projecting the gubernatorial debate (sold out at Dominican) on a large screen at 1701 Fourth St. at G, I believe it starts at 6:30.... be there earlier.

Four Courses to Financial Success !

09/30/10, 6:30-9pm
Four Courses to Financial Success: A Benefit for Homeward Bound, WHERE: The Next Key Center . 1385 N. Hamilton Parkway, Novato, CA 94949, COST: $49 includes tastes from the full menu; Meet Jeff Stoffer, certified financial planner and certifiably incurable chef, in a special fundraiser for Homeward Bound to feed your appetite and your future.

A former Chez Panisse chef, Jeff will treat guests to a four-course menu capped by the famed restaurant's pear tarte tatin as well as a four-course plan for financial success. Jeff will share tips and techniques learned working side-by-side with chefs Alice Waters and Paul Bertolli while using delicious food to convey strategies of healthy financial planning. Whether setting a financial table or preparing a dinner party, Jeff shows that success depends on how you chart and follow your course.

If you love to cook or just love to eat, come see how expertise in the kitchen can help plan a well-fed retirement. Tickets are available online when you visit https://www.hbofm.org and click "Take A Cooking Class" or by calling 415-382-3363, x243

Legal Aid Marin & Borders Books

09/29 & 30/10
Legal Aid Marin & Borders Books - Any purchases made at Borders Books in San Rafael or on-line (from anywhere: http://www.borders.com/online/store/Home) using the attached bar code coupon or promo code on September 29 and 30, 2010 will benefit Legal Aid of Marin.

The more purchases made during this time, the greater the percentage of benefit to the agency. We will also be gathering at Borders Books in San Rafael on Thursday, September 30 to celebrate this opportunity with Borders Books and to invite the public to learn more about Legal Aid of Marin and the people that make up this non-profit agency.

This event has been posted on twitter and we hope to have the attendance of a group of a few dozen faithful individuals looking for a tweet-up (a gathering of similar-minded twitter aficionados). All food and beverages purchased at this event will also benefit Legal Aid of Marin equal to book, music or movie purchases in the San Rafael store or from anywhere on-line. How does a book help thousands? When it supports access to justice through Legal Aid of Marin.

Spread the word and we hope to see you on September 30th. Early holiday shopping is highly encouraged. Thank you for all of your support. P.S. - No other physical Borders Books stores, besides San Rafael, will accept the coupon. http://www.legalaidmarin.org/borders-books-benefits-days

The Spy Pilot Chronicles

09/29/10, 7-9pm

The Spy Pilot Chronicles with Brian Shul: You're invited to attend this one-time showing of Brian Shul's extraordinary presentation about his experience as a pilot for America's fastest airplane.This is an unforgettable, inspiring multi-media "movie" about the famous spy plane, the SR-71 "Blackbird," and its most famous pilot, Brian Shul.

You don't even have to be interested in aeronautics or military things to be moved, inspired, and awed by this presentation. It's a tale of a miraculous come-back after a near death experience, a little known piece of 20th century history, and a visual feast of extraordinary photos. Brian narrates in person - his tale is fascinating!

It was a huge hit here 2 years ago and should not be missed this time. Great for young people, too! This event is sponsored by the Terra Linda Rotary Club as a fundraiser for our 2011 Rotaplast trip to India. Rotaplast takes teams of plastic surgeons to developing countries to repair cleft lips and palates of children and adults 14 times per year.

You can buy tickets from me. $35 ahead or $40 at the door of Lark Theater. Don't miss this! The tickets are selling! Don't miss this one! It was recently described as "An eleven on a ten scale." This is so inspiring. Please consider bringing your young people! Send a check to: RCTL Foundation, P. O. Box 6452, San Rafael, CA 94903, Include your return address and I will send you tickets. Millie Anderson millieander@comcast.net

The Spy Pilot Chronicles

09/29/10, 7-9pm

The Spy Pilot Chronicles with Brian Shul: You're invited to attend this one-time showing of Brian Shul's extraordinary presentation about his experience as a pilot for America's fastest airplane.This is an unforgettable, inspiring multi-media "movie" about the famous spy plane, the SR-71 "Blackbird," and its most famous pilot, Brian Shul.

You don't even have to be interested in aeronautics or military things to be moved, inspired, and awed by this presentation. It's a tale of a miraculous come-back after a near death experience, a little known piece of 20th century history, and a visual feast of extraordinary photos. Brian narrates in person - his tale is fascinating!

It was a huge hit here 2 years ago and should not be missed this time. Great for young people, too! This event is sponsored by the Terra Linda Rotary Club as a fundraiser for our 2011 Rotaplast trip to India. Rotaplast takes teams of plastic surgeons to developing countries to repair cleft lips and palates of children and adults 14 times per year.

You can buy tickets from me. $35 ahead or $40 at the door of Lark Theater. Don't miss this! The tickets are selling! Don't miss this one! It was recently described as "An eleven on a ten scale." This is so inspiring. Please consider bringing your young people! Send a check to: RCTL Foundation, P. O. Box 6452, San Rafael, CA 94903, Include your return address and I will send you tickets. Millie Anderson millieander@comcast.net

Coupons for Restaurants !

Coupons for Restaurants: pay $6 for $10 value; pay $10 for $25; pay $25 for $60 ! http://www.restaurant.com/index.asp?pgn=home

Sustainable Marin Training in Social Media!

09/27/10, 6:30-8:30pm (RSVP 9/20 today!)
Sustainable Marin: Get hands-on training on how to add/manage content on our new website and how to use social media to further our sustainability goals. Here it is!


When: Monday, Sept. 27, 6:30-8:30 pm

Where: Community Media Center of Marin ("cm2"), 819 A St., San Rafael.

Who: --Those who signed up at Chautauqua to attend the Training

--Those who want to be contributors of content: articles, images, videos, podcasts, event information, surveys, and so on

--Others interested!
Bring: Some computers available, sharing necessary--bring a laptop if you can! Note-taking a must--bring a notebook. AND, bring suitable material to post! We'll use this in the training.

RSVP: by Sept. 20--important! email kamesg@gmail.com, add subject "[SM] web training" and please let us know if you're bringing a laptop!

Content homework: Please bring electronic materials and web references with you so we can demonstrate and you can get hands-on experience posting to our site.

Examples: 1. articles appropriate for our sustainability work (ALWAYS include citations/references, web page urls etc.)2. photos 3. event info/calendar items4. resources/references5. news items, blog material6. names/urls of other groups/org we "ought to" connect with 7. other material that will make our sites vibrant and relevant!

Goodwill Truck Back at Northgate

Goodwill Truck Back at Northgate
further south, south of movie theater entrance off Las Gallinas

Warm Wishes: Bocce Fundraiser Fun

9/26/10, 9:30am
Warm Wishes: Bocce Fundraiser Fun, www.MarinLink.org

Car Runs on Compress Air !

Car Runs on Compress Air !
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ztFDqcu8oJ4

Be A Tree Hero!

09/24/10
Annual Dinner & Tree Hero Award from Marin ReLeaf - www.marinReLeaf.org

COMMUNITY FORUM: Aging in Place

09/22/10, 6:30-8pm
Aging in Place Community Forum: Marin County's Department of Health and Human Services presents Aging In Place, a free community forum on Wednesday, September 22 at 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. at the Bank of Marin, 501 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., Greenbrae. Featured experts will address topics that include transportation, adult protective services, estate planning, trusts, Marin Village, Alzheimer's support, and hiring a caregiver. Complimentary wine, champagne and hors d'oeuvres will be served. Contact Kathleen Woodcock at 459-6245 at ext. 17 or mcilkathleen@gmail.com to reserve your space.

A Taste of Downtown

09/22/10, 4-8pm
The popular A Taste of Downtown San Rafael returns on September 22, from 4 to 8 p.m. Restaurants and merchants throughout Downtown San Rafael will be offering hors d'oeuvres and wine samples. A free cable car shuttle will pick up and drop off attendees at designated stops during the event. You may purchase a $25 "Tasting Wristband" prior to the event at www.sresproductions.com or on-site in Downtown's City Plaza, and pick up your wine glass and a map with all of the tasting locations. Experience the flavor of Downtown San Rafael and don't miss this unique and affordable event!

FREE WORKSHOP FOR OLDER ADULTS

09/22/10, 6-9pm
SENIOR ACCESS is hosting a free workshop feature Dr. Patrick Arbone of the Institute on Aging at 70 Skyview Terrace. Registration is required. www.senioraccess.org

SMART: Citizens Advisory Committee on Station Area

09/22/10, 7-9pm
SMART Train: Citizens Advisory Committee re Civic Center Station area planning: The first committee meeting will be 9/22, from 7-9 p.m. at Guide Dogs for the Blind in the Volunteer Center. Subsequent meetings will be 2nd Wednesdays; same time, same place. Planning coordinator, Rebecca: Planning.Coordinator@cityofsanrafael.org.

The World of Mountain Lions

09/21/10, 7pm
The World of Mountain Lions, free, Marin Human Society

Eichler Roofline Modification Proposed

09/21/10, 7pm
Design Review Board re Roof Modification: Request for an Environmental and Design Review Permit to allow a roof modification to an Eichler home at 774 Del Ganado that would increase the structure height from approximately 8.5' to a maximum of 14' above finish grade to the ridgeline. steve.stafford@cityofsanrafael.org

Paramedic Tax Yard Signs Available

Measure I: Paramedica Tax Renewal: Got Your Yard Sign Yet? email your name & address to carolynlenert@msn.com and I will deliver to your yard.

Or go to http://www.isupportparamedics.com/ - Paramedic Tax renewal information for November ballot measure -

Drake Terrace Celebrates Older Adults

09/20 - 09/26/10
KISCO Senior Living Communities Celebrate at Drake Terrace. Scheduled Monday, September 20 through Sunday, September 26, 2010 Active Aging Week is organized by the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA), an association that supports professionals who develop wellness and fitness facilities and services for adults over 50. The annual health promotion celebrates individuals who live life as fully as possible within the six dimensions of wellness (physical, spiritual, cognitive/intellectual, social, emotional, professional/vocational/environmental) and embrace active-aging their daily life.

At Drake Terrace located at 275 Los Ranchitos Road, activities include:
9/20 Tea & Talk - Later in Life Passions;
9/21 Stars Over Hollywood Entertainers;
9/22 - Author Book Signing with Bob Danzinger;
9/23 - Mr. Toad's Tour of San Francisco and Long Term Care Insurance Presentation;
9/24 - Writing Class: Memoirs and Short Stories from our Residents;
9/25 - Trivial Pursuit; and 9/26 - Family Day with Ping Pong and Root Beer Floats.

To participate please visit www.kiscoactiveaging.com or contact the community directly: Drake Terrace at 415-491-1935.

Thursday, September 2, 2010

HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATED

On July 13 and August 10, 2010 City of San Rafael staff gave informational presentations on the Housing Element Update to the Planning Commission. The power point slides for these presentations can be found at the following link under the "What's New" section:
http://www.cityofsanrafael.org/Government/Community_Development.htm

If you have any questions regarding the Housing Element Update, please contact me. Ian Bronstein Housing Element Staff Community Development City of San Rafael Intern 3@cityofsanrafael.org 415.485.3458

CHILDREN'S ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH

Please join Environmental Working Group on September 30 at the beautiful Conservatory of Flowers, Orchid Annex for an informative morning about how toxins like pesticides, plastics and parabens can affect children's health, Thursday, September 30, from 10am to noon. RSVP www.ewg.org

Alice Shabecoff, author of Poisoned for Profit: How Toxins Are Making Our Children Chronically Ill, will be speaking about what you can do to reduce your family's exposure and how the government is failing to protect us.

Following the presentation there will be a panel discussion featuring Renee Sharp, Director of EWG's California office; Michael Green, Executive Director of the Center for Environmental Health; and Stacy Malkan, Co-founder of the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics. Lots of time for your questions!Questions and Answers moderated by Christine Gardner, founder of http://www.moregreenmoms.com

OPEN SPACE: VOLUNTEERS PARTY !

Hello Parks and Open Space Volunteers,

It is once again time for the Annual Marin County Parks and Open Space Department's Volunteer Recognition Picnic at McNear's Beach Park. It is happening on Saturday, September 11th, 2010 from 11am-2pm. Your invitation is attached to this email. This is our way of saying thank you to all of our wonderful volunteers. It allows us to recognize your valuable community service. If you haven't been volunteering much lately but are interested in getting back in to it this is also a great way to get reacquainted with the program. Come out and be inspired. As always, the Ranger staff will prepare a delicious meal including BBQ tri-tip, chicken, grilled vegetables, and other tasty treats. Feel free to bring a favorite dish to share. Participants will receive "door" prizes and we'll provide a snow cone machine and a jumper for the kids. You may even be the recipient of a volunteer award.

This is a family event, so bring the entire gang for a day of fun in the sun at McNears Beach Park, 201 Cantera Way, San Rafael. Parking fee waived for volunteers. Please RSVP by Wednesday, September 8th.

Sincerely, Greg Reza Volunteer Program Coordinator Marin County Parks and Open Space District (415) 499-3778 Email - greza@co.marin.ca.us

CELL ANTENNA PROPOSED IN LUCAS VALLEY

09/08/10
PROJECT: Old Lucas Valley Road (MMWD Water tank at Jerry Russom Park) - Request for Environmental and Design review Permit and Use Permit to allow the construction of new 40-foot tall monopole with 6 antennas for AT&T wireless communication facility equipment on a 1.05 acre water tank site: APN: 165-010-03; Park/Open Space (P/OS) District; Black Dot Wireless for AT&T, applicant; MMWD, Owner File No(s).: ED009-002 & UP09-003.
MEETING DATE/TIME/LOCATION: Wednesday, September 8, 2010, 7:00 p.m. City Council Chambers, 1400 Fifth Ave at D St. San Rafael, CA
FOR MORE INFORMATION; contact Kraig Tambornini, Project Planner at (415) 485-3092 or kraig.tambornini@cityofsanrafael.org.

SMART Station Area Planning - Update

TONIGHT - 09/02/10 - Note this Group does not advise on the Station itself; only the surrounding neighborhood/development issues.

A brief update will be made on the Downtown San Rafael Station Area Plan to the Redevelopment Agency Citizens Advisory Group on Thursday, September 2. The meeting is located in the Community Development Conference Room on the third floor of City Hall at 1400 Fifth Ave from 7 - 9 p.m. The agenda is attached.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Rebecca Woodbury
Planning Coordinator
City of San Rafael
planning.coordinator@cityofsanrafael.org
tel. 415.485.3076

SOLAR PANEL ROADWAYS IN DEVELOPMENT:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ep4L18zOEYI&feature=player_embedded#!

This is a remarkable development!

CORRECTION: Munson ParkSuspect NOT in Custody

MUNSON PARK SEXUAL ASSAULT: CORRECTION of my misreading earlier press release actually related to a different incident. I apologize for the confusion. Carolyn Lenert

The suspect in the Munson Park attack has not yet been identified and we continue to ask the public for any information they may have to assist us in our investigation. Please contact me if you have any questions.
Margo Rohrbacher MARGO.ROHRBACHER@CITYOFSANRAFAEL.ORG
San Rafael Police Department