Christine Anderson of San Ramon, California, was recently announced as the Second Place Winner in Family Travel Forum's 3rd Annual Teen Travel Writing Scholarship Contest. Hosted on FTF's website www.travelbigo.com, the competitive contest received a record number of applicants. With more than 8,500 submitted for review of a team of esteemed judges, this year’s scholarship was incredibly competitive and revealed the most outstanding work in teen travel writing.
Family Travel Forum (FTF), the award-winning family vacation publisher, announced the winners of its 3rd annual Teen Travel Writing Scholarship competition. More than 8,500 student travel blogs – a 30% increase over 2008 – were submitted by Americans ages 13 to 18 hoping to win a merit scholarship.
Students wrote on an extraordinary range of topics -- from family reunions with clueless relatives and making friends at the local bookstore to manning health clinics on tropical islands and searching for rare flowers in a rain forest. The 28 winners traveled near and far with their family, friends, or student travel groups, and shared stories about Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and the United States.
You can read about "Beautiful Nepal" by Christine Anderson of San Ramon, California. Christine brings much insight about the people and what life is like in Nepal.
Chistine says, "Nepal, you are a country of many contradictions, and the place that I owe my eternal gratitude."
Congratulations Christine!
Monday, December 7, 2009
San Ramon Teen Wins 2nd Place Travel Writing Scholarship Contest
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Save Mount Diablo Hike
Save Mount Diablo Hike, Saturday November 7, 2009, 9:30 a.m.
Some of the Best Views You’ve Never Seen.
Brand New Hidden Valley Open Space & the Threatened Tassajara Valley.
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Hidden Valley Open Space: Photographer, Scott Hein
Seth Adams, Director of Land Programs for Save Mount Diablo, is leading a hike in the new Hidden Valley Open Space in San Ramon, this Saturday November 7, 2009, 9:30 am.
All participants have the option of 1 mile (350’ gain/loss), 3.5 mile (650’ gain/loss), or 4.5 mile full loop (800’ gain/loss). Time: 1-3 hours depending on which option is chosen.
The hike is both about informing the public about this incredible new preserve, and also about threats to the Tassajara Valley, which are visible from the trail. The hike begins at a hiker gate across from 2187 Longleaf Circle in San Ramon. Bring water, layers and sunscreen.
For more info, call George Phillips at 925 947-3535 or e-mail: gphillips@savemountdiablo.org .
More info about the issue and hikes at: http://www.savemountdiablo.org/Tassajara/TVhome.htm .
SMD is leading six hikes in Hidden Valley Open Space:
- Saturday November 7, 2009, 9:30 am. Led by Seth Adams, SMD’s Director of Land Programs.
- Sunday December 6, 2009, 9:30 am. Led by Troy Bristol, SMD’s Land Conservation Associate.
- Saturday January 16, 2010, 9:30 am. Led by Troy Bristol, SMD’s Land Conservation Associate.
- Sunday February 21, 2010, 9:30 am. Led by Scott Hein, Chair of SMD’s Land Committee.
- Sunday March 21, 2010, 9:30 am. Led by Troy Bristol, SMD’s Land Conservation Associate.
- Sunday April 11, 2010, 9:30 am. Led by Seth Adams, SMD’s Director of Land Programs.
Or you can take a hike by yourself, using this self-guiding map and description. Hidden Valley Self Guide Hike .
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Public Hearing Notice For City Center Mixed Use Project
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE SAN RAMON CITY CENTER MIXED USE PROJECT.
San Ramon
The City of San Ramon Planning Commission Will be Holding a Public Hearing on Tuesday, November 3, 2009 to Consider:
Applications: Amendments to the Sunset-Bishop Ranch Development Agreement and a portion of the Chevron Park Development Agreement relating to the San Ramon City Center Mixed Use Project. (DA 09-850-001 and DA 09-850-002 - Filed on October 14, 2009
Owners/Applicants: City of San Ramon and Sunset Development Company
Location: The project site is comprised of several parcels at the intersection of Camino Ramon
and Bollinger Canyon Road (A.P.Ns: 213-133-063, 213-133-086, 213-120-010, -011, -013, -017 and -018).
Request: Consideration of Amendments for the Bishop Ranch Development Agreement and a portion of the Chevron Park Development Agreement Assigned to and Assumed by Sunset Building Co, LLC, for the City Center Mixed Use Area (as identified above). Applicant requests extension of certain deadlines relating to certain transfers between the parties, the sale and re-acquisition of certain properties, and other related matters.
CEOA: The impacts of the project described in the Development Agreement amendments were analyzed within the San Ramon City Center Final Subsequent EIR (SCH#2007042022) which was prepared for the project pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines, 1970 as amended (CEQA). The City will be making environmental findings pursuant to CEQA in connection with these Development Agreements.
If you challenge this application in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission at, or prior to, the public hearing.
SAID HEARING will be held by the Planning Commission, City of San Ramon, commencing at 7:00 PM, on November 3, 2009 in the Council Chamber at 2222 Camino Ramon, San Ramon, California, 94583.
Posting Period: October 23 2009 to November 3. 2009
Applebee's Honors Local Heroes
APPLEBEE'S HONORS LOCAL HEROES WITH DISCOUNTED ENTRÉES
San Ramon Restaurant Offering 25 Percent off Entrées for Police, Fire and Military Personnel
(San Ramon, CA)---Good deeds seldom go unnoticed and Applebee's Neighborhood Grill and Bar is doing its part to celebrate a job well done: From this point forward, the 17900 San Ramon Valley Road location will be offering a 25 percent discount on all entrees to any uniformed police, fire, paramedic and military personnel who dine in at the restaurant.
"This is our way of saying thanks to the people that help make our community special and keep it safe," said Anand Gala, president and CEO of Gala Corp, the management company behind Applebee's. "These individuals work far beyond the normal 9-to-5 work day and oftentimes their jobs never really stop; this selfless commitment to others will be reflected in our promotion because it, too, will never end."
The heroes discount will be available whenever the restaurant is open – Monday through Thursday and Sunday from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. – but is limited to one entrée per customer.
Established in 1982 and headquartered in Orange County, Calif., Gala Corporation is one of the leading privately-owned hospitality and food service companies in the United States. From unassuming beginnings with a single property, Gala Corporation is today recognized as a first-class developer and operator of hospitality and food service assets with a customer-focused and quality-minded approach to business. Additionally, Gala Corporation provides third-party management services to multi-unit fast food and full-service restaurant companies and investment groups. Management services are available for most any brand or chain in the U.S. For more information, visit www.galacorp.com
Celebrity Crab Fest & Sports Auction
Celebrity Crab Fest & Sports Auction
10th Anniversary of Foundation
Established in Memory of The Daughter of Hall-of Fame NFL Oakland Raider Fred Biletnikoff
The 10th Annual Biletnikoff Foundation Celebrity Crab Fest & Sports Auction will be held from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Friday, November 13 at the Marriott at Bishop Ranch, 2600 Bishop Drive, San Ramon, California. Tickets are $130 per person and attire is casual. Last year's sold-out event raised $60,000 for the foundation. Master of ceremonies will be Greg Papa, Bay Area sports broadcaster and radio voice of the Oakland Raiders. The Raiders are celebrating their 50th season.
The Biletnikoffs formed The Biletnikoff Foundation, located in Dublin, CA, in memory of their daughter Tracey who was brutally murdered by someone she had dated. Before her passing, she was working toward becoming a drug rehabilitation counselor at the Women's Recovery Association in San Mateo, the facility that helped her overcome substance abuse.
The Biletnikoff Foundation supports Tracey's Place of Hope, a residential treatment program; the Women's Recovery Association for girls who are low-income, homeless or at risk of homelessness; Biletnikoff Foundation Scholarship Fund; Tim Brown Touchdown Club; East Bay Agency for Children; Tim Brown Mentor Camp; Live Oak Swim Team for "at-risk" children during the summer; Families First with services for children and families; and STAND, Stand Against Domestic Violence.
Crab Fest 2009 highlights include dinner with celebrities and past and present Oakland Raiders; live entertainment from Mad Jack; Choreographer La Tonya Watts' East Bay Dance Company in a Michael Jackson tribute; drawings for diamond jewelry and 58" flat screen TV; and a special performance by the Raiderettes, and the Biletnikoff Angels.
There will be live and silent auctions with many exclusive items available for bid, including sports memorabilia; Hall of Fame travel packages, an Oakland Raiders home game package; a package for a performance of The Nutcracker at War Memorial Opera house with the Biletnikoffs; foursome of golf at the Olympic Club in San Francisco; Angel island deluxe day for four people; Bay Area airplane flight for three by Tucknott Electric; sports celebrities autographs; and wine tasting by Robert Mondavi Winery that is donating all the wine for the Crab Fest.
There will be a Red Carpet photo shoot. A highlight will be Don Dimas Cigars with hand-rolled cigars.
For the fifth year, the Biletnikoff Foundation will be giving back even more to the community by awarding $1,000 educational grants to aid high school seniors to fulfill their dreams of entering college.
Confirmed celebrity guests include Greg Townsend, Michael and Merriweather, Mervyn Fernandez, Jerry Porter, Mel Renfro, Mark Davis, Lincoln Kennedy, MacArthur Lane, Raymond Chester, Clem Daniels, Jack Tatum, Loreto Garza, George Atkinson, Bob Lilly, Raider Coaches and Staff; Tom Flores; Jeremy Brigham, Former Raider Tight End and M.A.D.F. Founder; Joey Gilbert, from television show The Contender, and former World Boxing Organization and North American Boxing Organization Super middleweight Champ; Joey Chestnut, World Hot Dog Eating Champ; Robert L. Mundo, former Golden Gloves of the U.S. Air Force, and many more.
Crab Fest sponsorship opportunities are available from title sponsor at $25,000 to grant sponsorship at $1,000. Ticket holders who are grant sponsors of $1,000 will have the opportunity to award the scholarships in person at the Crab Fest.
Fred Biletnikoff was All-AFL/AFC four times, 1971 NFL receiving champion, and played in two AFL All-Star games, four AFC-NFC Pro Bowls, eight AFL/AFC title games and two Super Bowls. He was MVP in Super Bowl XI. He was the Oakland Raiders wide-receiver coach. Biletnikoff has a national award named after him. For the past 12 years the Biletnikoff Award has been presented to young men in football who continue to have outstanding careers in the NFL.
For tickets and information contact the Biletnikoff Foundation, 7080 Donlon Way, Suite 126, Dublin, CA 94568, (925) 556-2525. Tickets may be ordered online at www.biletnikoff.net.
"Being a victim affects generations; let's break the chain today."
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Meals On Wheels CVS/Pharmacy LPGA Challenge
9/23/09 San Ramon, CA
Yesterday, as a part of her efforts to spread awareness about senior hunger in America as a part of the Meals On Wheels campaign entitled The Next Meal, [http://www.thenextmeal.org/] , LPGA Tour Professional, Jee Young Lee made local San Ramon meal deliveries to shut in seniors.
Jee Young delivered meals with Ann Frasier of the San Ramon organization, Meals On Wheels, Senior Outreach Services, [1300 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 (925) 937-8607 x 111].
Jee Young's example is similar to other LPGA players as they attempt not only to entertain and thrill area fans with their talent and determination on the golf course, but to also bring awareness of local needs, perform valuable services in the communities surrounding their tournaments and to set examples for area youth as to how best to succeed in sports and in life.
Thank you for your efforts in bringing attention to senior hunger which exists even in great communities like San Ramon.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Doug Burr For City Council in San Ramon
Doug Burr
Candidate for City Council
Doug lives in the Dougherty Valley with his wife and two children. He went to UC Davis, earning a BA in Economics and an MBA. He is a management consultant, advising Fortune 500 companies. Doug spent 8 years in the US Army Reserve where he ended his service as a Captain in the Infantry.
As Doug puts it, "My first experience in politics was trying to get stop signs put in front of our local school. The City Council refused, so I authored an initiative to let the voters decide. The City Council unanimously voted to sue me, I believe to stop me with a SLAPP (strategic lawsuit against public participation). They said more than one stop sign was too many issues."
Doug Burr is running for San Ramon City Council to serve the San Ramon residents. He believes that the City should operate in full transparency. "We need to publish all contracts prior to the City signing them, residents should have access to every expenditure the city makes, to the penny. (except for healthcare details and expenses on children)," said Doug.
Other areas of importance to Doug include keeping Tassajara Valley undeveloped. "The current City Council is moving towards annexing the Tassajara Valley, a way to bypass the voter approved Urban Limit Line and allow massive development with a large percentage of low income housing. This would reduce the value of existing San Ramon homes. I am also concerned about the City Council's other action's urbanizing our city."
With eminent domain now on the books in San Ramon and with the fact that the City Council and the Redevelopment Agency being one and the same, since it is the City Council members who serve as the governing board; Doug is very much concerned about the misuse of redevelopment agency funds and possible eminent domain actions for the North Camino Ramon Specific Plan and other areas in San Ramon.
Doug places much value on supporting education in the San Ramon Valley and having great schools which not only benefit San Ramon's youngest citizens but also help drive higher property values. Doug was aghast when, "the City Council voted to raise the speed limit from 25 to 40 mph on a two lane road with a blind curve, going up a hill with homes on one side and two parks on the other side, What were they thinking?"
After local San Ramon residents complaints fell on deaf ears at the City Council meetings and its members, they spoke with Doug, a leader on traffic safety, who ended up taking an active roll in protecting our youth, and made a difference in the San Ramon community while providing safer streets for our youth and citizens.
Support Doug Burr For City Council
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
National Health Care Letters to the Editor
Regarding the Whole Nation Health Plan : The basic consideration was that 46 million Americans did not have health coverage. This is about 15% of the total population of the U.S. ( 305 mil ).
That means that 85% has/or did have coverage. A breakdown of the 46mil can be found at... The Myth of the 46 Million Uninsured.
Many of those choose not to have coverage, many qualify for programs, but have not made an application, some are of the Medicaid under count. And there are other categories.
My concern is, the government would have us put brand new tires on the car... when all we need to do is fix the flat one.
Ted G.
West Covina , CA.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
New San Ramon City Email Subscription Service
The City of Ramon has launched a new email and digital subscription solution to enhance the way City residents receive and access municipal information.
You can also get an automated alerts widget for your website which can be seen right here at the San Ramon Tribune.
The City of Ramon is launching the subscription service throughout its website at www.sanramon.ca.gov. Signing up is free, easy, and risk-free for residents. Links to sign up are found on the City web site home page and on the individual pages that are being offered up for subscription or simply by clicking here. The only information required is an email address, and subscribers can change their subscription details or cancel the service at any time.
This is an ideal way to stay informed as to what is going on in San Ramon. We at the San Ramon Tribune applaud the city for implementing this excellent service.
Send us your stories, thoughts, comments, articles, and feedback today. Please read the San Ramon Tribune welcome message for more information.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
San Ramon Municipal Election Candidate Filings
The November 3, 2009 election will be to elect a Mayor for a two-year seat (2009-2011), and elect two City Councilmembers for four-year seats (2009-2013).
Qualifications to be eligible to hold the office of Mayor or Councilmember is that a person at the time the nomination papers are issued, must be a registered voter of the City of San Ramon. Candidates must declare whether they are filing to run for election for a council seat or the Mayor's seat.
The Nomination Period commences from July 13, 2009 through 5:00 p.m. August 7, 2009. If one of the incumbents does not file, the closing date for filing nomination papers for non-incumbents will be extended to Wednesday, August 12, 2009, at 5:00 p.m. It is the obligation of each candidate to meet all filing requirements and deadlines.
More information can be found at The City of San Ramon website.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Run San Ramon July 4, 2009
A Healthy Beginning to the 4th of July Holiday in San Ramon at the Annual Run San Ramon 10k/5k/3k Run and Walk.
Looking for a fun holiday event that positively affects your waistline? Join the City of San Ramon Parks & Community Services Department for the annual Run San Ramon 10k/5k/3k Run/Walk. This is a certified, flat, paved route beginning at the San Ramon Community Center at Central Park, 12501 Alcosta Blvd, right off the 680 freeway at Bollinger Canyon Road.
Race is open to all ages with medals given to the top 3 finishers in 18 different age groups for those 5 and over. As well as complimentary commemorative race t-shirts for all those who pre-register by June 26th for the event.
Race day registration begins at 6:30 am and the first race starts at 8:15am.
How to Register
Registration forms are available online: Download the PDF Registration Form or by calling 925.973.3240.
Or Register Online: >>Click Here
Special thanks to our sponsors: Shapell Homes, Chevron, Forward Motion, Fleet Feet, Dr. Lue, Sun Deep Cosmetics, Peet's Coffee, Skyhawks Sports, KTVU Channel 2, KICU TV 36 and Bay Area News Group.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
The Death of the Newspapers in the US
Here is an indepth interview with Richard Rodriguez, about the death of the San Francisco Chronicle.
This story, "The Death of the SF Chronicle" gives a great overview about the death of our newspapers throughout the US. Very interesting and very informative.
Are we becoming a Craigslist society?
Is our "civic fabric" ruptured?
Where have all the good writers gone?
Read the article in the New America Media.
Listen to the full audio interview with Richard Rodriguez.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
San Ramon Art And Wind Festival
The San Ramon Art & Wind Festival, the BEST festival in the East Bay, is scheduled for Sunday and Monday May 24th & 25th in San Ramon's Central Park, 12501 Alcosta Blvd. from 10am to 5pm both days.
The festival will feature an early morning hot air balloon launch on Monday, May 25th at 6am. Bring the family for a spectacular close up view of 6 hot air balloons as they lift slowly into the sky.
Shop for handmade items at over 150 arts & crafts booths featuring a wide range of artwork including paintings, sculpture, woodwork, toys, hand painted clothing, stained glass, music, photography and more.
Kites are one of the main attractions of the event. There will be kite flying demonstrations by professionals from all over the country, free kite making workshops for youth, and lots of kites to buy. After purchasing or making your own kite, spend some time enjoying the beautiful San Ramon Central Park and perfect conditions to practice flying a kite.
There will be entertainment on three stages and an expanded interactive kid's activity area with Inflatable Bouncers and Slides, Rides for the little ones, Face Painting, Rock-Climbing Wall, a Train Ride and crafts for kids.
Take a break from all the fun and enjoy great food provided by area non-profit groups. This year we will have 23 food booths operated by local non-profits that raise much needed funds for their organizations. There will be gyros, peach cobbler, caesar salad, tri-tip sandwiches, sausage sandwiches, ice cream, sushi, hot dogs, hamburgers, cotton candy, nachos and more. Last year the non-profit groups who participated collectively earned over $70,000.
The Art & Wind Festival would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors. Special thanks to our presenting sponsor Chevron and our gold level sponsors Windemere and Comcast. Silver sponsors of this year's festival include the San Ramon Regional Medical Center, KKIQ, Contra Costa Times/San Ramon Valley Times, and the San Ramon Marriott Hotels.
More information on the various events and times can be found at the San Ramon website.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
School Re-Opens in San Ramon
Coyote Creek Elementary School to Re-Open WEDNESDAY, MAY 6th
County Health Department no longer advising schools to close due to H1N1 virus
Attention City of San Ramon Parks & Community Services Afterschool Enrichment Programs:
The City of San Ramon was notified that the Contra Costa County Department of Health has advised the SRVUSD to re-open Coyote Creek Elementary School on Wednesday, May 6th.
Beginning Wednesday many after school enrichment programs will be resumed at Coyote Creek Elementary School.
Classes that will take place this week:
Tennis, Wednesday
Intro to Mandarin, Thursday
Spanish, Friday
Classes that will not take place this week:
Origami, makeup will be held on 5/13
Chess, makeup will be held on 5/28
Critters n' Clay, makeup will be scheduled look for further information at your next class meeting!
The District and City of San Ramon are still recommending that any student who may exhibit flu-like symptoms to stay home until they have been symptom-free for at least 24 hours, and advising families to see their physician if members of the household exhibit symptoms.
If you are enrolled in a class that was cancelled this week you will be receiving notification by Friday if a makeup class is planned, or a credit will be issued for the missed class. Should you have any questions about City of San Ramon classes, please call 925-973-3200.
For more information visit the city website: www.SanRamon.ca.gov
San Ramon Valley Unified School District
Health Guidance for response to H1N1 Flu modified. Schools Reopen.
Contra Costa County Department of Public Health is no longer closing schools because of H1N1 (swine flu). Coyote Creek Elementary was closed on May 1 and will reopen tomorrow, May 6. The District dispatched a sanitizing crew to Coyote Creek on Monday and Tuesday to spend two full days sanitizing and disinfecting the school following the school’s closure due to two “probable” cases of the H1N1 influenza virus.
The decision to reopen the school was made after the Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued new guidance on Tuesday that schools no longer needed to be closed unless student or staff absences interfere with the school’s ability to operate, because the H1N1 flu appears to be less severe than initially determined.
The following recommendations remain in place:
- Anyone who is sick (fever with cough or sore throat) should stay home until they are symptom free for 24 hours.
- Consult your physician or health care provider if symptoms persist.
- Everyone is encouraged to continue practicing good hand washing and cough etiquette.
- County health will continue to monitor N1H1 Flu situations.
- City will continue to work with and cooperate with the county and school district assessments and decisions.
More information on the new guidance is available on the CCHS website: www.cchealth.org or the CCHS Health Emergency Information Line at 1-888-959-9911.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
San Ramon Swine Flu Coyote Creek School Closing
At approximately 7:30 Friday evening, 05/01/09, the Contra Costa County Health Department notified the San Ramon Unified School District that a Coyote Creek Elementary School student has tested positive for the Swine Influenza (H1N1 Virus).
For the safety of all students and staff, Contra Costa County health officials have ordered that Coyote Creek Elementary School, located at 8700 Northgale Ridge Rd., San Ramon, and the attached daycare facility be closed beginning Monday, May 4th. School may resume as early as Monday, May 11th, unless we are advised to extend the closure beyond that date.
As of this evening, there are no other schools in our district with a confirmed case of the H1N1 virus. As of this writing, all other schools in the district will remain open, and will function as normal.
For more information about the H1N1 virus, call your healthcare provider, visit Contra Costa Health Services' website: www.cchealth.org or call the Health Emergency Information Line: 1-888-959-9911.
The school district will continue to keep you updated as more information becomes available. Please continue to read your emails and visit the district website (www.srvusd.net) for updated information.
Subscribe to the automatic San Ramon Valley Unified School District email updates.
Monday, April 27, 2009
War is Hell!
Open Letter To The MEEK
Upon my return from Japan in 1954, I was assigned to another Air Force Intel. Unit here in the States. A group of 20 of us were given the task to find out "How Do You Make Some One Talk Right Now?" We had unlimited sources of information from history, other services, people and the practices of other countries. I can only tell you our results were upgraded to Top Secret and re-assigned to "Washington." These methods were far more stringent than those allowed at Guatanamo.
To suggest that disallowance of these current procedures will influence our enemies to reduce similar procedures or lessen retribution to our soldiers is asinine.
Any method that will save the life of one or more U.S. lives is justified. WAR IS HELL!
To those of you who disagree.....please, please take a walk in the shoes of the of the vulnerable!
T. Grinst...
Submit your letters to the editor today.
More about article submissions to the San Ramon Tribune.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Free Marriage Conference for Families in Foreclosure
FamilyLife is offering free admission to its Weekend to Remember marriage conference April 24 - 26 for couples who are in the midst of foreclosure or who have experienced it in the past six months. The conference will be at the San Ramon Marriott.
FamilyLife Weekend to Remember events in California to be held through May
Little Rock, Ark. (April 14, 2009) – FamilyLife®, the global, donor-supported leader in marriage conferences, will present Weekend to Remember® in six locations throughout California during the months of April and May. The Weekend to Remember marriage conference aims to strengthen healthy marriages and heal troubled ones in an engaging, supportive and non-threatening environment.
While every couple is encouraged to attend, FamilyLife would like to extend a special invitation to couples who have been hit especially hard by the economic crisis to attend the Weekend to Remember conference for free. Couples who are in the midst of a foreclosure or have gone through foreclosure in the past six months can register by calling 1-800-FLTODAY. Thanks to support from generous donors, a limited number of free registrations will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
"It's no secret that money issues are among the top causes of divorce, and with the economy the way it is, elevated financial problems are taking a very serious toll on many marriages and families," said FamilyLife President, CEO and Co-Founder Dr. Dennis Rainey. "The threat of losing your home to foreclosure only compounds the stress within marriages. Regardless of your financial situation, you need to make marriage a priority. In that spirit, our goal is to support couples during these uncertain times and equip them with the necessary communication and conflict resolution tools to survive this crisis as a team."
During the months of April and May, FamilyLife's Weekend to Remember will be held throughout California. The following conferences are accepting registrations.
- Sonoma (Rohnert Park) – April 17-19 at the Doubletree Sonoma Wine Country
- San Ramon – April 24-26 at the San Ramon Marriott
- Los Angeles (Woodland Hills) – April 24-26 at the Warner Center Marriott
- Irvine – May 1-3 at the Hyatt Regency Irvine
- Santa Clara – May 1-3 at the Santa Clara Marriott
For more details visit the website at www.FamilyLife.com/Weekend.
"While this conference can assist those couples looking for an overhaul, it's also a positive way to impact and fine-tune all marriages," said Dr. Rainey. "We live in stressful, distracting times, and amidst the blur of modern life it becomes alarmingly easy for couples to grow apart. That's why it's critical to strengthen your connection before the gap between you grows too wide. We developed the Weekend to Remember to do just that – help couples enhance and strengthen their most important earthly relationships."
Couples interested in more information or registering for an upcoming FamilyLife Weekend to Remember conference can visit www.FamilyLife.com/Weekend or call 1-800-FLTODAY (1-800-358-6329). To donate to FamilyLife, a 501c3 non-profit organization, that helps couples in the United States and around the world build healthier marriages and families, please visit www.FamilyLife.com.
About FamilyLife
For more than three decades FamilyLife, a global, donor-supported, non-profit organization co-founded by Dr. Dennis and Barbara Rainey, has focused on the mission of using practical, biblical principles to build healthier marriages and families through conferences and media channels. FamilyLife, a 501c3 non-profit organization, works in 100 countries around the world to help to transform lives and restore hope through its Weekend to Remember marriage conferences, Homebuilders small group curriculum, FamilyLife Today™ radio broadcasts, Hope for Orphans® orphan care ministry, FamilyLife publications, and the internet. For more information, visit www.FamilyLife.com.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Free E-Waste Recycling Event in San Ramon
Where: DVC – San Ramon Campus
Corner of Watermill Rd. and Bollinger Canyon Rd.
(Back Parking Lot)
When: Saturday, April 4th
9:00AM to 1:00PM
View Larger Map
*Mark this event on your calendar for the first Saturday of each month. Don't miss out!
Drop is free, and no limit! *(Holidays excluded)
ELECTRONIC ITEMS ACCEPTED
Televisions Monitors Copy Machines Computers & Components
Fax Machines Printers Toner Cartridges Telephone Equipment
VCRs & DVDs Cell Phones Power Cables Video Game Systems
Stereo Equip. Scrap Metal Wire s Audio/Visual Equipment
Microwaves **AND MORE**
PLEASE – NO Household Appliances, Furniture, Fluorescent Bulbs, or Paint.
For More Info:
WWW.NOEWASTE.COM
Toll Free: (866) 335-3373
Sponsored by:
Electronic Waste Management,
E-Waste Recycling Is a California State-Funded Program
Friday, March 13, 2009
Food Drive Collects Over 28,000 Items
Seventh Annual Youth Food Drive Collects Over 28,000 Items in Livermore, Pleasanton, Dublin, Sunol, San Ramon, Alamo, Danville and Concord
The Seventh Annual Youth Food Drive, held on Saturday, March 7 in Livermore, Pleasanton, Dublin, Sunol, San Ramon, Danville, Alamo and Concord collected over 28,000 for local food pantries.
The donations will go to food pantries including Tri-Valley Haven, Junction Avenue site, Livermore; Church of Christ, Livermore; Interfaith Sharing, Tri-Valley; Valley Bible Church, Pleasanton; Showers of Blessings Ministries, Dublin; St Vincent De Paul Society, Livermore and Dublin; and Monument Crisis Center, Concord.
Approximately 1,200 youth volunteers from 75 Girl Scout troops, two 4-H Clubs, and 11 youth ministry groups participated in canvassing approximately 35,000 homes to collect non-perishable items. High school students staffed the four major collection sites.
The Youth Service Council organizes and leads the food drive each year. The Council is a non-profit corporation run by student volunteers and created to assume the leadership role for youth-run community service programs in the Tri-Valley area. It is a coalition of Tri-Valley public and private high school leadership students managing youth service programs.
To contact the food drive, leave a message at (925) 998-6513.
Email: youthfooddrive@comcast.net.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Donate Used Cell Phones To Support US Troops
Anthony Kane's used cell phone collection point will take place at St. Joan of Arc Church, located at 2601 San Ramon Valley Blvd, on Saturday, March 7th between 5 pm – 7 pm and Sunday, March 8th from 7am – 2pm.
For each phone I collect, soldiers will get one hour worth of talk time!
Free nights and weekends, no roaming charges… that may not be so easy if you are a soldier overseas…
More than 150,000 troops are serving overseas and are away from their families. Anthony Kane a Life Scout with San Ramon Troop 834 is calling on San Ramon residents to support these brave men and women by donating their used cell phones. Kane hopes to collect used cell phones for his Eagle Scout Project to help keep soldiers connected with their families.
Americans will replace an estimated 150 million cell phones this year, with the majority of phones either discarded or stuffed in a drawer. Most people don’t realize that the small sacrifice of donating their unwanted phones can have a tremendous benefit for a worthy cause like Cell Phones for Soldiers, the non-profit organization Kane is collecting for.
The donated phones are sent to a recycling company, which pays Cell Phones for Soldiers for each phone – enough to provide an hour of talk time to soldiers abroad.
Approximately half of the phones are reconditioned. Phones and components that cannot be refurbished are dismantled and recycled to reclaim materials, including:
- Gold, silver and platinum from circuit boards
- Copper wiring from phone chargers
- Nickel, iron, cadmium and lead from battery packs
- Plastic from phone cases and accessories
Anthony Kane's collection will take place at St. Joan of Arc Church 2601 San Ramon Valley Blvd, on Saturday, March 7th between 5 pm – 7pm and Sunday, March 8th from 7am – 2 pm.
For additional information, contact Anthony Kane at cellphones4eagle@comcast.net
Thursday, February 26, 2009
The Lincoln Secret - Book Signing at Borders Books
John A. McKinsey, the author of the new novel, The Lincoln Secret, will be at the Borders Books in San Ramon on Sunday, March 1 from 1:00-3:00 signing copies.
Stop by and meet John McKinsey and ask him questions about his novel. Feel free to pass this information along to those who may be interested
There were mysteries left behind during Lincoln's Administration and the Civil War that were never discovered-Until Now!
The Lincoln Secret is a modern-day, mystery adventure. The fictitious modern-day characters delve into documented sources about Lincoln, his origin, the assassination and the Civil War. Readers can hardly put down this book as they are engrossed in the story and at the same time they learn about American history! Yes, all the historical information comes from source documents. Lincoln faced great adversity throughout his presidency; however he stuck with his principles, ended slavery, and kept the Union together.
Copies are available at the San Ramon Borders Bookstore and Amazon.com: The Lincoln Secret.
For more information; visit www.thelincolnsecret.com and www.youtube.com/thelincolnsecret
If you are interested in having the author be a guest speaker, please contact Angelina at amckinsey@martinpearl.com
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Stimulus Watch "Shovel-Ready" Projects For San Ramon
Projects in San Ramon, California
Below are the "shovel-ready" projects for which this city has requested federal stimulus funding. You can click on a project to read (and add to) its description. You can also discuss the project and vote on whether you believe it is critical or not. Add more details about the projects on the site's wiki.
The total cost of all the projects submitted by San Ramon is $49,578,300
Other cities in the TriValley Area listed on Stimulus Watch website.
The total cost of all the projects submitted by Livermore is $134,705,000
The total cost of all the projects submitted by Pleasanton is $203,099,000
Dublin and Danville were not listed in Stimulus Watch as of the date of this published article. Though, here is an article in the Daville Weekly about Danville requesting 1 million dollars for improvements to Diablo Road.
"At their Feb. 17 meeting, council members unanimously approved the resolution, which will bring nearly $1 million into Danville to help fund a road improvement project on Diablo Road."
It sounds like this is the case of the squeaky wheel getting the grease. I guess Pleasanton and Livermore have very squeaky wheels, and then San Ramon just has one squeaky wheel, and Daville has a minor bearing noise. Not sure what happened with Dublin...
Maybe here is the answer:
9. Why is my city not listed?
The data on this site comes from the U.S. Conference of Mayors' MainStreet Economic Recovery Report. If a city did not include its "shovel-ready" projects on that list, you won't find it here. However, this does not mean that cities that are not included here do not have projects they'd like to see funded. Once the stimulus bill passes, cites will make requests for federal grants, and we will likely see grants to projects not listed on this site.
Feel free to post your comments.
More about article submissions to the San Ramon Tribune.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
San Ramon Business Expo and Speed Networking Mixer
Sterling Business Services presents
Business Expo and Speed Networking Mixer
Face to face interaction will never be beat as a means of relationship building. Sterling Business Services brings full networking opportunities to the local community. At each mixer, businesses will market their product or service locally, become a community resource, and showcase exactly what they offer.
Each mixer includes a Business Expo portion and a fully guided networking session. Bring 75 business cards and be prepared to meet local business leaders. Our belief is when you shake someone’s hand and exchange business cards you are not just receiving a card, you are in fact meeting a friend.
Don’t become underemployed or unemployed, get connected today. People in our community are looking for answers and resources - serve them and the community. Take this opportunity to encourage, engage and empower each other with relationships that build the community and highlight you as a business resource.
Thursday, February 12, 2009 from 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Sterling Business Services in collaboration with Farmers Insurance will present a Business Expo and Speed Networking Mixer. Contact Sterling to learn how you can showcase your business as a Sponsor or Exhibitor.
DETAILS AND INFORMATION
Date: Thursday, February 12, 2009
Time: 5:30 p.m. Business Expo and Refreshments
6:30 p.m-8:30 p.m. Networking Mixer
Location: Farmers Insurance
3130 Crow Canyon Place, Suite 180, San Ramon, CA
Admission: $20 in advance / $30 at the Door
Payment: http://www.ultimatescs.com/payments.php
Contact: nicole@ultimatescs.com or 1.888.894.0315
Monday, January 26, 2009
The Mall War Heats up in San Ramon
Our hats go off to Lisa Vorderbrueggen, the Contra Costa Times Political Editor for her uncovering some of the behind the scenes legal happenings in San Ramon as it relates to the Downtown City Center Project. This is a must read article.
Search for: Mall war front shifts to San Ramon
By Lisa Vorderbrueggen
Contra Costa Times
Posted: 01/24/2009 06:37:34 PM PST
Updated: 01/24/2009 10:40:16 PM PST
THERE ARE NO coincidences, right?
Consider these developments in San Ramon related to its partnership with Sunset Development to build a new city center and high-end shopping mall downtown:
Read the Contra Costa Times article.
The Times article mentions that, "Stockton attorney Steven Herum filed a public records act request in November with San Ramon seeking all documents related to the project."
In addition to those items, maybe Lisa can ask some questions of Mayor Abram Wilson and Alex Mehran of Sunset Development Company. Maybe "Deep Throat" will give her some insight.
Why did Abram Wilson abstain for voting for or against Sunset Development buying back the 7.5 acres of property from the City of San Ramon for just a cost of living increase? See links in article: San Ramon Monkey Business in the Sunset
Does Mayor Wilson have any ties to Sunset Development for financial arrangements as part of his background being that of an Investment Banker?
Does Mayor Wilson or his company stand to gain any moneys on this San Ramon City Sunset Development public/private partnership agreement?
When will the city of San Ramon be releasing the Financial statements and public/private partnership agreements which were promised to be released months ago?
With Sunset Development's control over the proposed Downtown City Center properties (the 7.5 acre property has already been sold back to Alex Mehran) using the Option to Repurchase Property clause for substantially less than the properties are worth for both the 7.5 acres and the 11 acres, and the right for Alex Mehran to exercise that clause for whatever reason, including if he does not like what is being proposed to be built; did the City of San Ramon really own the property at all? Or was it a shell game? Or was this a scheme for Alex Mehran to avoid paying property taxes on the properties for all these years. Note: The option to Repurchase Property clause has been extended and will continue to be extended by the City Council, otherwise Alex Mehran would exercise his option to repurchase.
Mayor Wilson, your bio tells us that the cost has gone up substantially from the proposed $750,000,000.00 to now $900,000,000.00 and the downtown center project hasn't even been started yet. If you had those figures from at least 6 months ago, why haven't you released the actual financial figures to the public?
Given the state of the economy, and since this is a public/private partnership arraignment between the City of San Ramon and Sunset Development, what are the City liabilities and ultimately what will the San Ramon Taxpayers be on the hook for, if Sunset Development can not fill occupancy rates to the level prescribed? With reports almost everyday of major department stores, i.e. Mervyns closing, or downsizing, what happens in the case of not having any major department anchor stores or hotel chain coming to the San Ramon Downtown Center? What are the increased costs to the City for services and infrastructure support going to be? What if tax revenue is down, because of low occupancy rates, where will the money come from to pay for all the increased services?
From the N.E.W.S. Side of San Ramon.
Please read our San Ramon Tribune Welcome page today.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
2.7 Million Dollar Grant Available for San Ramon
With ballot "Measure WW" having being approved on Nov 4, 2008 by over two thirds of the voters in Contra Costa and Almeda County, it will provide funding to protect open space and create additional regional parks and trails for recreation. The bond measure was not a new tax, but an extension of a previous parcel tax for homeowners in Alameda and Contra Costa counties.
A quick breakdown of what the funds are for.
• $500 million bond extension was approved by two-thirds of voters in Alameda and Contra Costa counties.
• This extension does not increase the tax rate above the present maximum rate of $10 per year per $100,000 of assessed valuation (i.e. a home assessed at $400,000 will pay $40 per year).
• $375 million (75%) of revenue will fund Regional Park acquisitions and capital projects, with $26.2 million (7%) of that amount held in reserve for unanticipated future needs and opportunities.
• $125 million (25%) of proceeds will go to cities, special park and recreation districts, county service areas, and the Oakland Zoo for much-needed local park and recreation projects. Livermore area voters are not part of this extension tax as Murray Township was not within the East Bay Regional Park District’s jurisdiction in 1988 when the initial bond measure was passed. EBRPD continues to serve this community through new acquisitions of parklands.
• The Park Advisory Committee will provide citizens’ oversight to monitor all bond expenditures.
In addition to the general funds that are being used by East Bay Parks for projects throughout Contra Costa and Alameda counties, San Ramon is also entitled to a local grant of approximately 2.7 million dollars directly, with no matching funds required by San Ramon for either new park acquisitions, park land improvements, and even capital improvement projects.
Eligible Grant Projects
Capital Projects that will provide lands and facilities for recreational activities and services an historic preservation are eligible. Projects must be consistent with the Grantee’s park an recreation element of the general plan or appropriate parks and recreation planning document Public art projects are eligible as long as they are in or adjacent to a parks and recreation facility. The following types of Capital Projects are eligible for grant funding:
- Acquisition (fee title or permanent easement for public access projects)
- For land acquisition project applicants must submit a copy of the land agreement and appraisal if applicable for District approval prior to acquisition.
- Development (including renovation of recreational facilities)
- Libraries
- Street and highway beautification
- Master Plans
- Public art not associated with a parks & recreation facility
- Maintenance Equipment Purchase (trucks, mowers, tractors, etc.)
- Non-fixed equipment (removable soccer goals, portable air conditioners, etc.)
- Recreational programming and staffing
- Normal maintenance and repairs expected to last less than 25 years. (The District shall make the final determination regarding expected project life.)
Let's hope our San Ramon City uses this money wisely. Here's an idea. How about including the San Ramon citizens in on deciding how the money should be used. By-the-way, the funds do not need to be used on one project only. Source: East Bay Parks Measure WW
Be sure to send in your articles today to the San Ramon Tribune.
