F R A N K L Y S P E A K I N GA N E W S L E T T E R F O R A N D B Y M A R I N C O U N T Y E M P L O Y E E S

S E C O N D Q U A R T E R 2 0 0 9V O L U M E 1 4 • N U M B E R 2

100 Years of Info andEmpowermentBy Laurie Thompson—Library

Library Journal, the premier publication for librarians, hasawarded the Marin County Free Library (MCFL) three stars for excellence in library service. After evaluating over 7,000public libraries throughout the United States, Library Journalawarded stars to only 256 libraries, based on four per-capitaservice indicators—library visits, circulation, program atten-dance, and public Internet computer use. The Marin CountyFree Library is proud that, on average, each of our residentsvisits 7.6 times and borrows an average of 10 items annually.

Highest Honorto the FairBy Steve Petterle—P&OS

“In the county fair world, it’s like winningOscars for best picture, best director,best actress and best actor, all combinedinto one!” Those were Jim Farley’s (CS)words as he described the significance ofwinning the Louis B. Merrill Award fromthe Western Fairs Association for the2008 Greenest County Fair on EarthMarin County Fair. Stephen Chambers,Executive Director of the Western FairsAssociation, adds, “Marin County is thenational model….” Impressive as thisyear’s award is, it’s even more remark-able that the Marin County Fair has wonthis award four times in the last 12 years.Congratulations, Jim and crew. ■ And

MCFL is one of 30 “starred” libraries in its expenditure category nationally and one of only 16 starred libraries inCalifornia. The full report is available at www.libraryjournal.com. ■ How did we get here? ■ In 1876, William Poole, a pioneer of the public library movement in the United States,defined the public library as, “an agency established by statelaw, supported by local taxation or voluntary gifts, managedas a public trust, and open to every citizen of the city orcounty that maintained it.” This same philosophy inspired theCalifornia Legislature to pass the County Free Library Law

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speaking of awards, the 2009 MarinCounty Fair is a winner in the making.The fair team is parlaying last year’ssuccess into some Cool Green Fun foran even bigger and greener event. Thefair comes to Marin from July 1 through

Fair Team — Front row, L to R: Christian Gutt, Jean Joseph, Lonnie Garey, and Grania FlanaganSecond row, L to R: Linda Benson, Cindi Dauenhauer, Ann Albertoni, Marion Boyd, and David ZoellnerThird row, L to R: Antonio Ramirez, Chris Haeuser, Charlie Barboni, George Pegelow, Larry Elliott, TonyTaubert, and Jim Farley Not pictured: Pedro Alegria, Cynthia Price, Bonnie Yuen

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County Librarian Virginia Vail Keating is seated at her desk in the Marin County Free Library, then located in the basement of the courthouse in downtown San Rafael, circa 1936.

Continued on page 11

Children at Camp Thayer in southern Sonoma County, reading librarybooks delivered by the Marin County Free Library, circa 1935. One ofthese delivery boxes survives in Library Administration at the Civic Center.

July 5. Entertainment will includeCreedence Clearwater Revisited andeco-hero Steve Trash in his Big GreenMagic Show. For more details aboutthis year’s county fair, check outMarinFair.org. ■

The Marin County

Free Library is proud

that, on average,

each year each

of our residents

visits 7.6 times and

borrows an average

of 10 books.

Impressive as this

year’s award is,

it’s even more

remarkable that the

Marin County Fair

has won this award

four times in the last

12 years.

F R A N K L Y S P E A K I N G

Editorial BoardJoan Brown, Editor-in-Chief, Human Resources,

Civic Center Volunteers, 499-7167Heather Burton, IST, 499-6169Jack Govi, County Counsel’s Office, 499-6117Cio Hernandez, H&HS, 507-2848Larry Kay, Public Works, Nicasio Corp.Yard, 446-4421Kelley Litz, H&HS Admin., 20 N. San Pedro Road,

San Rafael, 499-6924Joe Spaeth, Public Defender, 499-6321Anne Starr, Human Resources, Civic Center

Volunteers, 499-6028John Vogee, Administrative support, Human

Resources, Civic Center Volunteers, 499-7407

Design: Rob Roehrick, Roehrick Design Copy Editor: Bill Pryor, Civic Center

Volunteers Photographer: Janice Hughes, D.A.’s OfficeProofreaders: Leslie Miller and Christina

Walcoff, Civic Center VolunteersPrinting: Marin County Printing Services

Frankly Speaking is a quarterly publication for and by Marin County employees. It is accessible with paychecks, on the MINE hompage, and at www.co.marin.ca.us—enter Frankly Speaking in the searchbox. E-mail articles, cartoons, photos, poems, etc., tojbrown@co.marin.ca.us. For articles please identifysubject, your name, and phone number. For photos,include all names and the photographer’s name. Digitalphotos must be shot at the highest quality setting.

Reporter of the Quarter: Anne Starr

ScheduleArticles Due Publication DateFriday, May 29 Friday, Aug.14Friday, Sept. 4 Friday, Nov. 6Tuesday, Nov. 24 Friday, Jan. 29, 2010Friday, Feb. 26, 2010 Friday, May 7, 2010

F R A N K L Y S P E A K I N G Purpose and Priorities

The Marin County newsletter is intended for internal communication. Thenewsletter will not include partisan or non-partisan political activity, or issuesrelated to labor disputes and grievances.

C O M M U N I C A T I O N •D I V E R S I T Y •R E C O G N I T I O N •E D U C A T I O N •N E W S •F U N •I N T E R A C T I O N

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Our own Marin County YouTube!By Janell Myhre—Sheriff’s Office

Have you ever wondered what would happen if you could share your MarinCounty departments’ good deeds with thousands of people? Well, you can. ■ TheMarin County GChannel is like our own YouTube. This innovative way of sharingand communicating information is here for county employees and residents to useand enjoy. ■ Immediate information, archived forever in digital format, is at yourfingertips. You can access the GChannel at www.maringchannel.org. Live andarchived information is available in webcasts. There are hundreds of GChannelentries online right now, with more being produced every week. ■ If you can’tmake it to the Civic Center for an important meeting, or must miss an item on theBoard of Supervisors agenda, or want to share a county presentation or trainingwith others, GChannel can solve all of these problems with a click of the mouse.You can watch GChannel videos online, on local public access stations, or on thecounty’s own YouTube channel. ■ Many Marin County efforts already are on theGChannel, including public service announcements, documentaries, training videosand videos about county services, Marin County Green Business information, CivicCenter Volunteers, and the work Marin County is doing for our homeless popula-tion such as Project Homeless Connect. Also available is information regarding current events in the county, such as SkyTans presentations or a video of the newHealth and Wellness Campus opening. You can also view the Get Ready Marintraining. You can see it all online, at your convenience. ■ The GChannel is agreat county service and resource. If your department is interested in putting something on the GChannel, contact Jerry Kay at jerry@kayproductions.net. ■

Stress: County has plan to help you copeDaily news about the economy and various industry crises contribute to a rise in individual stresslevels due to the multiple life adjustments that may be required. If you are feeling overloaded,please remember that the county provides all benefit-eligible employees with an EmployeeAssistance Program (EAP). The EAP is a service designed to help you and your eligible familymembers manage life’s challenges. If you need help, call:

Employee Assistance ProgramToll-free 24 hours a day, 7 days a week800-227-1060

All EAP contacts and referrals are confidential.

If you have questions or would like a brochure about the plan, please contact one of your Human Resources benefits representatives weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.: Meloni GailPage, 499-7006; Joy Fossett, 499-7447; Freeman Suen, 499-7843; or Anthony Wesley,473-4317.

Vacation Photos Wanted!It’s entry time for our 14th Annual Vacation Photo Contest. Employees can be either the photographer

or in the photo taken any time since the fall of 2008.Previous participants are welcome! Printed or high-resolution digital photos should be submitted to JaniceHughes, c/o DA’s Office, Rm. 130, Civic Center, orjhughes@co.marin.ca.us by September 4. Winningphotos will be published in the Fourth Quarter FranklySpeaking and displayed in the Civic Center Cafeteria.Thanks to again to Marin Filmworks for donating $25 gift certificates for the top three winners.

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By Steve Petterle—P&OS

I’m not ashamed to admit that some-times I use a thesaurus when I write.But I try to use it as little as possible,following some of my previousexperiences. ■ There was a pointin my life when I was somewhatdependent upon a thesaurus. Itbecame most evident many yearsago in the writing of one specificletter, where my desire to perfect a writing style became a drivingcompulsion, an impulse, a craving.My letters weren’t good enough—Iwanted to make them better, moreoriginal. And I wouldn’t let it go. ■

It was a simple letter, at least itstarted out that way. “Thanks for theopportunity, etc., etc.” But the more I wrote, the more it began to feelcontrived, ordinary, dull, mundane.Back then, I wanted everything I wrote to be memorable, superb,tremendous. So I opened the thesaurus. Things quickly got out of control. ■ For perspective, the last paragraph of my draft letterbefore using the thesaurus read:Unfortunately, this area is not withinour jurisdiction. We suggest that you contact the City of Mill Valleydirectly for further information. ■

It seemed rather boring, lackluster,and mind-numbing to me. With thehelp of my thesaurus, I translated itinto: Discontentedly, this milieu is not surrounded by our province. Weadvocate with the aim of makingyou drop a line to the Municipalityof Grind Gorge unswervingly forsupplementary statistics. ■ Theperson who opened and read myletter called to ask if I was okay.They were genuinely concerned. I guess I went too far. Now I don’trely on my thesaurus so much. It sits on my desk collecting dust,amassing grime, stockpiling grunge,accruing debris. It feels good towrite without a crutch. ■

PERSPECTIVE

P E T T E R L E’S

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If you want to know where somethingis, a good way to find it is to look at a map, traditionally a large piece ofpaper. Today, maps also are digitalfiles that can be displayed on anydevice with a viewing screen. ■

There is a technology, body of knowl-edge, and a way of working that isknown as Geographic InformationSystems (GIS). GIS is a computer-basedtechnology that creates, stores, orga-nizes, analyzes, and displays maps of anything that can be representedgraphically. The mapped entities havereal-world coordi-nates directly tiedto the earth’s surface, whichmeans you can see everything inrelation to everything else. If a pictureis worth a thousand words, a GIS mapis worth ten thousand. You immedi-ately can see the connectedness of allthings. Attributes (facts) about thosemapped entities are included with themap so that you can inquire aboutand analyze those characteristics. ■

The county has a very sophisticatedGIS operated by a team of experts inthe Community Development Agencyand Information Services Department(with experts in a few other depart-ments as well). Together, we providedigital maps and data, and applica-tions that show these maps on county

computers and the Internet. ■ Weuse GIS to help county employees seethe information we have to manage.GIS lets us become more efficient andproductive by improving businessprocesses and facilitating work flow.We can become more knowledgeableas well (and correct mistakes we neversaw in the paper world). By shiftingsome tasks to a computer informationsystem, we free ourselves to do moresophisticated work or provide moredirect attention to customers. HavingGIS on all county computers and the

Internet allowseveryone to seethe same things,thus providingbetter communi-cation, and more

clarity and understanding. Look at ourpublic GIS applications on the Internetatwww.co.marin.ca.us/depts/is/main/gis and at MarinMap’s web site:mmgis.marinmap.org. ■ We wantpeople to see GIS as a normal part ofdaily life in the digital age. We wantGIS to become as commonplace anduseful as e-mail, increasing everyone’sgeographic literacy as we go aboutour business. As wireless connectivityand portable devices become com-monplace, GIS applications such as ours will answer the “What?” and“Where?” questions on demand,almost anywhere. ■

New GIS Online with MaplinksBy Fred Vogler—CDA

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Matrix GIS Team L to R: Ray van Cleave, Margaret Moster, Fred Vogler, Dennis Healey, BrianQuinn, and Frank Godino Not shown: Chris Edwards

If a picture is worth a thousand words, a GIS map is worth ten thousand.

You immediately can see the connectedness of all things.

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Transition to Wellness is a collaborativemedical respite program for homelesspeople who are released from the hos-pital. The pilot program is funded bySutter Healthcare, Kaiser Permanente,the Marin Community Foundation, and the County of Marin. The projectrecently received a generous grant from Kaiser’s Community Benefit Fund.Current capacity of the program is fourrespite beds at Homeward Bound’sNext Key Center, a treatment facilityadjacent to the New Beginnings Centerin Novato, and one motel bed in San Rafael. Sr. PHN Margaret Levine(H&HS) is the nurse case-manager.Support Service Worker Andre Harris

(H&HS) provides linkages to criticalcounty and community services. Bothare part of the Aging and Adult casemanagement team supervised by RitaWidergren (H&HS). ■ In the first fourmonths of operation, 20 homelesspeople were placed in the program. Ofthose 20, 12 were placed in transitionalhousing upon release rather thanreturning to the streets. This statistic iscompelling because it shows that withfocused support, homeless individualscan overcome the obstacles to attainingsecure housing. ■ At left is a pictureof Britton (his first name only) taken atMotel 6 when he first was introduced toTransition to Wellness following hospi-talization at Marin General Hospital(MGH) for pneumonia. The first state-ment he made was, “I want to thankeveryone who had anything to do withme having this bed to sleep in. I wokeup and took a hot shower today. That issuch a gift.” After seven days he wasdischarged to the Mill Street HomelessShelter in San Rafael where he stayedsuccessfully for five weeks. He then

experienced a severe increase in hischronic obstructive pulmonary diseasesymptoms and was re-hospitalized atMGH. ■ At left is Britton at the NextKey Center following his second hospi-talization at MGH. He is very proud ofcelebrating 60 days clean and soberand is making great efforts to quitsmoking. With Andre’s support, Brittonapplied for general assistance duringhis first Transition to Wellness stay. Heis now receiving general assistancewhich makes him eligible to go to NewBeginnings Center upon release fromthe respite bed. ■

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“I am so proud of

the MMRC. This

award is a testa-

ment to the quality

of the volunteers

who are making

sure that Marin

County will be well

prepared in the

event of a disaster,”

says Supervisor

Susan Adams.

Britton, beforeTransition toWellness

Britton, at NextKey Center

Team working with homeless people discharged from local hospitals L to R: Rita Widergren, (with student nurses Sarah Bailey, David Hoey, and Lindsay Bearer), Margaret Levine, and Andre Harris

Student nurses provide a human touch forthe homeless in San Rafael.

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Nurses Help the HomelessBy Margaret Levine—H&HS

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MMRC First to Win NewNational AwardBy Anne Starr—HR

The Marin Medical Reserve Corps (MMRC) was presented the first Community Resilience Award in the nation by theSurgeon General’s Office of the Civilian Volunteer MedicalReserve Corps. ■ The corps develops partnerships amongactive and retired medical professionals and other interestedMarin residents to help educate, train, and deploy volunteersand resources in the event of a large-scale local emergencysuch as an earthquake, epidemic, or terrorist attack. ■ Toqualify for the recognition, the MMRC team demonstrated outstanding resilience in “the four R’s”: robustness (strength to withstand a stressor); redundancy (backup elements areavailable); resourcefulness (capacity to identify problems andmobilize resources); and rapidity (ability to act quickly). ■

Competition from other Medical Reserve Corps units acrossthe United States was intense, according to Program ManagerBrian Waterbury (H&HS). He credited the MMRC’s devotedvolunteer physicians, nurses, mental health experts, dentists,trades people, chaplains, administrative assistant Florence deLosada, and the many others who make up the corps. “I have

said it many times but am going to say it again: I am trulyhonored to be associated with such a wonderful group ofdedicated individuals,” said Brian. In addition to excellentvolunteer support, the MMRC has been “very, very blessed tohave the full support of the Board of Supervisors and seniormanagement in the county.” The MMRC was established in2004 and Brian is the sole employee. ■ Brian accepted theaward in early April on behalf of the 288 members of thecorps at the Integrated Medical, Public Health, Preparedness,and Response Training Summit in Dallas, Texas. ■

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Marin Medical Reserve Corps Manager Brian Waterbury, center,accepts the first Community Resilience Award from Rear AdmiralRobert Williams, Acting Deputy Surgeon General, left, and Capt.Robert Tossato, Director, Surgeon General’s Office of the CivilianVolunteer Medical Reserve Corps.

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The board of the newly establishedMarin Energy Authority (MEA), com-posed of nine elected representativesfrom the county and member cities and towns, gathered on February 5 for their first board meeting to begintheir charge of collectively studying,promoting, developing, and managingenergy programs that will address climate change. The meeting markedthe culmination of five years’ hard workby staff who visited local jurisdictionsand attended public forums to engagein dialogue and ask and answer ques-tions. Principal Planner Dawn Weisz,Planning Aide Jamie Tuckey, AssistantPlanner Omar Pena (all CDA),Supervisor Charles McGlashan andaide Leslie Alden (BOS), and SupervisorHal Brown and aide Cyno Connolly(BOS), are to be commended for thesuccessful creation of this Joint PowersAuthority, an agency independent fromthe county. They have made establish-ing a brand-new organization from theground up look deceptively easy. ■

The first charge of the board, chairedby Supervisor McGlashan, is to decidewhether Marin County will proceedwith implementing a Community ChoiceAggregation program (CCA). ■

Community Choice Aggregation wasestablished by the California legislaturein 2002 (AB 117) to give cities andcounties the authority to procure elec-tricity on behalf of customers withintheir jurisdictions. Under a CCA pro-gram, Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E)would deliver the electricity to customersand continue to read electric metersand issue monthly bills. Customerswould have the choice of being auto-matically enrolled in the Marin CleanEnergy (MCE) program or continuing to get their power from PG&E. MCEwould reduce Marin's greenhouse gasemissions by providing twice as muchrenewable power initially as Marinreceives now. MCE also promises tomake prices more stable over the long term by decreasing reliance onimported fossil fuels. In addition, MCE

will fuel small, locally based green businesses. MCE will enable local deci-sion-making over what kinds of powerMarin utilizes. For more information,see www.marincleanergy.info. ■

During its start-up phase, MEA will be housed under the CommunityDevelopment Agency (CDA). DawnWeisz will split her time with the CDASustainability Team to serve as theInterim Director for MEA. Administrativesupport will be provided on a part-timebasis by Jamie Tuckey, KathleenSuhrke (CDA), and Lauren Houde(CDA). Many others will continue todonate their time and expertise to theestablishment and success of this orga-nization. The efforts of so many dedi-cated people have truly been a study incollaboration. MEA has been funded bythe Marin County Board of Supervisorsduring the start-up phase, with theexpectation that the county will be reim-bursed should CCA be implemented. ■

For more information, please visitwww.marinenergyauthority.org orattend a board meeting held at 7 p.m.the first Thursday of every month at 1McInnis Parkway, San Rafael. ■

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L to R: Lauren Houde, Cynthiarose “Cyno” Connolly, Kathleen Suhrke, Dawn Weisz, Charles McGlashan, Leslie Alden, Jamie Tuckey, and Omar Pena

Marin Clean Energy

(MCE) will enable

local decision-making

over what kinds of

power Marin utilizes.

vehicle owners, AnitaErola (HR), Kathy Ah San(Treas/Tax), and LourdesBascara (Public Guardian),won travel blankets. ■

Participating County ofMarin carpoolers will haveanother chance to winprizes during the month ofJune. Top your antenna with a Go Green Get Green ball. For details, email Jeri Stewart (DPW) atjstewart@co.marin.ca.us or give her a call at 499-6519. Go green! ■

Try to Top This!By Jeri Stewart—DPW

Carpool savings can be substantial.Three persons in a mid-sized vehiclecommuting 20 miles to the Civic Centerfrom the East Bay can save about $728a month over the same three personstraveling separately, considering vehicleoperating costs, tolls, and commutestipends. Add $22 per month for a similar commute over the Golden GateBridge. ■ There’s been nothing butrave reviews from County of Marin

carpoolers since Caltrans opened thefirst phase of the Highway 101 south-bound carpool/bus/motorcycle lane inFebruary. The new lane shaves 15 to 20 minutes off travel time from SonomaCounty during the morning peak commute. ■ In celebration, GreenCommute Program held a Carpoolers’Appreciation Event February 16 throughMarch 2. Foam antenna toppers werehanded out to County of Marin carpool-ers. Program staff then spotted markedvehicles at various county parking lots.A drawing was conducted and three

Community Choice AggregationsBy Lauren Houde—CDA

A terrific antenna topper

Meet Gracie and Sasha, the latest invaudeville duos! These show biz birdsdo it all. According to talent scout LisaCassidy (Co. Counsel) their signaturesong is the whistle theme from TheAndy Griffith Show. For an encore,they even belt out screeching cathowls. How cool is that? On a privatenote, their rehearsal space is Lisa’sshower stall. But that’s more than weneeded to know. ■

It’s amazing what some people will do to get into the Loch Lomond YachtClub. Take Curtis Havel (CDA) and hisso-called 25-foot yacht. Curtis (akaCaptain Curt), even with his charm,still had to volunteer to tend bar andtell jokes in order to get in. And thebest part—everyone is laughing andhaving a great time. ■

Maybe sympathy cards should be sent to the Registrar of Voters’ Office.Elaine Ginnold (Treas/Tax) was sur-prised to hear that Governor Arnoldunexpectedly called for a specialstatewide election on May 19, thusforcing vacation cancellations andreshuffling of summer plans. ■

Proud mother Tami Fehrenbacher(Library) opened the New York Timesto find a feature article on her daugh-ter, Jill Fehrenbacher. Jill is a founderof the Greener Gadgets Conferencethat was held earlier this year at theMcGraw-Hill Conference Center inmidtown Manhattan. This was a gath-ering of premier inventors, designers,and leading company representativeswho are making consumer electronicsmore eco-friendly for all of us. ■

Neshama Franklin (Library) is a professional storyteller, of sorts. Thisspring she appeared at the JuliaMorgan Center for the Arts in Berkeleyto tell the story of Imelda in Bolinas.Imelda, a visionary non-capitalist, wasinstrumental in keeping the BolinasFreebox (free clothes, toys, etc.) func-tional, operational, and free for manyyears. Thanks Neshama for keepingthe storytelling tradition alive. ■

Laney Morgado (DPW) and hubbyJason proudly welcomed daughterKaia last October 17. Bill Hernandez(Sheriff) and wife Trisha appreciatesleep more than ever now with thearrival of little William on February17, their first. Brian Rockwell (CAO)and wife Lisa added to the New Yearwith newborn daughter Coraline onFebruary 21. Eric Richardson (Sheriff)and wife Jodi haven’t lost their edgewith little Jack, born February 18, whonow is fourth in line at home. ErnestKlock (DPW) and wife Nicole rolledout the proverbial red carpet for sonPorter on February 28. Hats off to newparents everywhere. ■

Alysanne Taylor and Eva Patterson(both Library) had the happening of a lifetime while visiting Guyana lastJanuary. They experienced BarackObama’s inauguration from the view-point of the local Guyanese people. It was all spontaneous parades, flagwaving, music, and dancing in thestreets! Most touching, however, wasthe excitement locals expressed asPresident Obama pledged to bringclean drinking water to developingcountries like theirs. ■

O D D S & E N D S B y T o m V a s g i r d

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Cheers to grandparents. Let’s hear it forBill Kelley (CDA) and little Adin TannerKelley, who made his debut on lastNovember 28. Joan Brown (HR) can’tstop talking about granddaughterJosephine Marie, born on January 22for added New Year’s excitement. ■

Tom Vasgird (Aud. Cont.) should havebeen paying attention during the heavyFebruary rainstorms, instead of readingMad Magazine, when walking hisBelgian Shepherd, Katie, and mini-Schnauzer, Charlie. Walking next to an overflowing stream, he didn’t noticethat Charlie had fallen in and wasbeing carried away. It took Katie’sbarking and knee-slamming to get herhuman’s attention to save Charlie. ButTom was hardly the hero. ■

Amber Dooley (Co. Counsel) puts her passion for the ocean in practiceand action. She has been helping to rehabilitate baby seals at the MarineMammal Center for the last eightyears. The love and understanding shefeels for these scared and helpless babypups is not deterred by frequent bitesand nips. She also wants everyone toknow that the Mammal Center reopensin June and will be visitor-friendly andaccommodating for all. For info. visitwww.marinemammalcenter.org. ■

Melissa Davis’ (Prob.) Marine sonLance Corporal Tanner deployedMarch 28 to Iraq and is expecting to be back home for Christmas. ■

Superlative Quiz

Bryon Karow’s (Aud-Cont.) middlename refers to a famous Americanhero. What’s up with that? (answer below)

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Lisa with Gracie and Sasha

Answer:Arthur, after General DouglasMac”Arthur” the Medal of Honor winner andSupreme Commander of US Forces in the Pacificduring WWII. As a little boy, Bryon was nick-named “General MacArthur” by his family.

Alysanne Taylor and Eva Patterson

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Please e-mail the informa-tion from your department toOdds & Endscolumnist, Tom Vasgird, tvasgird@co.marin.ca.us

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Social GroupsBy Nancy Grisham—Co. Counsel and Rick Fraites—BOS

Throughout the county workforce, employees with commoninterests or hobbies have gathered to form social clubs.These groups meet during lunch break or after hours. Mostare open to new members. Could that new member be you?

Board of Supervisors’ aides and others gather over lunch todescribe their latest reads. They choose their own books, yetoften the aides are on the same wavelength. For example, atone gathering, every book shared had something to do withone of the world’s cultures. At another, world history was thecommon thread. After books are read and reviewed, theyare shelved in the aides’ mini-library, located in “Aides’Row,” for sharing with other interested readers. ■

Want to polish your communication skills or learn to speakcomfortably before a group? Standing Orations, the localToastmasters club, fosters confident communication andeffective leadership. The club provides a supportive, fun,nurturing environment in which to practice interviews, runmeetings, compete, learn to evaluate, share ideas, and prepare for opportunities. Composed mainly of countyemployees, Standing Orations meets Wednesdays fromnoon to 1 p.m. For more information, contact StandingOrations president Melanie Phelps (H&HS) at 499-4214. ■

A Life/Work Balance Group group was started in the PublicDefender’s office to develop activities beyond work, enhancemembers’ lives, and help them to view the world in abroader context. Activities are eclectic and have includedholding an exhibit of members’ artwork, bowling, andattending a professional baseball game. The group is opento new members. Contact Bonnie Marmor (PD) at 499-6321for information on joining. ■

The long-established Golf Group has a loyal following. Thegoals are to have fun and enjoy friendly competition duringthe 19-week season. Twenty two-person teams and a group of substitutes play weekly on Tuesday evenings at the IndianValley and Peacock Gap golf courses. The season closes inAugust with a tournament and awards banquet. As the seasonstarts, participants pay to cover their costs. For details, call JoeSpaeth, Marin County Public Defender, at 499-6321. ■

Miriam Martinez (BOS) and Connie Lazzaretto (DPW) havebeen going on long walks after work for several years. Theywalk several days a week and alternate scenic routes, all wellover a mile long. Their goals: stay healthy, enjoy the sights,and share companionship. Occasionally they coordinate walkswith visits to the Thursday night Farmers’ Market in San Rafael.If you’d like to walk with them, contact Miriam at 499-4268. ■

Several county employees believe doodlingsharpens the mind, reduces stress, and createsart. Sharon Silver (CDA) has been doodlingsince childhood and believes it can be medita-tive and a learning enhancement. “In highschool, I doodled during lectures and it helpedme concentrate,” said Sharon. “In collegebiology, I aced the frog dissection exam bydoodling frog parts while studying.” ■

Sandy Barrett (Aud-Cont.), Kathleen Suhrke(CDA), and others get together several days aweek at noon to crochet. They are able to takea break from phone calls and go to the countylibrary on the fourth floor of the Civic Center,where they can work on their craft projects,talk quietly, and share patterns. ■

An informal jam session for musicians meets Fridays aroundnoon, usually at the “rug room.” Typically, six to 12 peopleattend, some with acoustical instruments, and some who arevocalists. They play a variety of music, including folk music,60s and 70s rock, and more. For information, call JohnWilson (IST) at 499-5062. ■

The Public Defender’s Book Club meets monthly or quarterly,depending upon the length of the book. Books are chosen by consensus. Members read the book, then get together todiscuss it. Their goal is to celebrate reading, reflect upon thehuman condition, and explore the landscape of the soul.Anyone interested is invited to participate. Please contactBonnie Marmor (PD) for more information at 499-6321. ■

A couple of scrapbooking groups ceased with the retirementof some members. If there is interest in starting a new one,Sandy Barrett (Aud-Cont.) is willing to act as a consultant, as she has been an enthusiastic scrapbook keeper for years.Her phone number is 499-6161. ■ These are just some of the possibilities. There must be other skills and interests in ourmulti-talented county workforce. Find others with the sameinterest and get started. Bon voyage! ■

L to R: Tanya Albert, Maureen Parton, David Escobar (standing), BobBeaumont, Leslie Alden (standing), Susannah Clark, Cynthia Connolly,Liza Crosse, and Katie Rice

Melanie Phelps speaks during a speech competition.

L to R: Nicki Azarbakhsh, Inge Lundegaard,Jack Liebster, and Don Allee

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customer service within the departmentand to enhance service provided at theAssessor’s two public counters, alongwith requests received by phone, fax,and e-mail. Since its inception, the com-mittee has suggested and implementedmany changes, including customer service comment cards, revisions to documents to clarify complex matters fortaxpayers, and guidelines for courteouscommunications with the public. ■

The Assessor-Recorder’s (Assessor)Customer Service Steering Committeewas originally organized in 2002 tohelp implement the county’s StrategicPlan. The steering committee, consistingof Shane Blair, Gail Drury, PhyllisGray, Greg Ingrassia, Rick Langhals,Jed Learned, Wendy Patterson, GregPryor, Mike Rakitnichan, David Siebe,Connie Siebler, Wendy Sorensen, andKathy Tobin, looks at ways to improve

Team of the QuarterBy Cathy Selmi—IST

Responding to suggestions taken from comment cards, the committeeupdated the public website to make iteasier to find information. They alsoimproved the automated phone tree utilized by the public for information.■ The department now produces aquarterly newsletter which is distrib-uted to all Assessor staff. Within itspages are useful tips and ideas forproviding better customer service andsuggestions for ways to be moreinvolved in the department. ■ TheGreen Subcommittee is charged withthe task of developing best practices forconservation in the Assessor’s Office.One of their actions was to have waterfilters installed on the department’ssinks to provide employees with filteredhot and cold water, saving money and resources. ■ Assessor-RecorderJoan Thayer said, “Since 2002, whenformed, this team has raised the bar forimproving customer service internallyand externally in conformance with thecounty’s Strategic Plan at minimal cost.The group is highly imaginative, inven-tive, and motivated, working with little ifany direction from management.” ■

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Back row, L to R: Rick Langhals, Mike Rakitnichan, Greg Pryor, Greg Ingrassia, Shane Blair, Jed Learned and David SiebeFront row, L to R: Kathy Tobin, Phyllis Gray, Gail Drury, Wendy Sorensen, Connie Siebler and Wendy Patterson

Effectiveteamwork inthe Assessor-Recorder(Assessor)and DistrictAttorney’s(DA) officesled to tophonors for

Doug Allen (Assessor), the Supervisorof Volunteers of the Year 2008-09, and Paul Peterzell, the Civic CenterVolunteer of the Year 2008-09. ■

Doug, an Assessment RecordingSupervisor, coordinates a team of volunteers working on a paper-to-digital conversion project to improveaccess to public records. The job is “literally years ahead of schedule”thanks to dedicated volunteers, Doug

says. ■ There is no particular secretto being a good volunteer supervisor,Doug says. “I admire and appreciatethe fact that our volunteers want tomake a difference. I try to make themfeel welcome and part of the team.”He recommends that others considervolunteers as a resource. “Would youbenefit from extra help? Try it anddecide if it works for you,” says Doug.■ Volunteering definitely works in the DA’s office, where Paul Peterzellbelongs to a team of seven volunteermediators. He joined the team in 1998,and has mediated disputes amonghundreds of people. ■ Bob Nichols(DA), the deputy district attorney incharge of the consumer unit, invitedPaul to volunteer after he retired froma career at the Marin IndependentJournal. “I volunteer because I

Congratulations,

Doug and Paul!

Effective Teamwork Leads to Top CCV HonorsBy Anne Starr—HR

thoroughlyenjoy help-ing peopleand learningnew things,and it keepsme in touchwith thecommunity,”Paul says.“People who call us generally aregrateful that they have found an officethat exists to help them.” ■ Paulcredits his supervisor, David Ball (DA),with making his volunteer work apleasure. “David finds just the rightbalance between providing guidanceand leaving enough space for his volunteers to develop their skills,” says Paul. ■ Congratulations, Doug and Paul! ■

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Paul Peterzell, Civic CenterVolunteer of the Year

Doug Allen, Supervisorof Volunteers of the Year

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Quianne Hunter is a secretary with Parksand Open Space (P&OS). She raises thebar for customer service, responding topublic inquiries, facilitating park reserva-tions, and treating everyone with courtesyand respect. Working with IST staff,Quianne was instrumental in launchingthe new online park and facility reserva-tion system. Currently, Quianne supportsP&OS’s popular and growing volunteerand environmental education programs,providing information, coordinatingevents, distributing publicity, maintainingthe community contacts database, andsupporting efforts of field managers andstaff. ■ Quianne provides essentialback-up services in the busy administra-tive office, revealing the traits her co-workers appreciate and the departmentrelies upon—she’s friendly, dependable,has an undeniable sense of humor, and isthe ultimate team player. Quianne neverfails to bring a smile to one’s face and isa shining example of excellent customerservice, quality teamwork, and service tostaff and community. ■

By Cristina Torresan—P&OS

Elly Ferrell is a phenomenal organizerwho is dedicated to her work. Asmanager of the county’s PrintingServices, she oversees print projectsfrom county departments and anumber of outside agencies. Shehandles a broad spectrum of projects,ranging from massive, complicatedreports to simple copies and businesscards. Many of her tasks involve last-minute, urgent requests. In her 36years of service she has earned areputation as someone who alwayscan be relied upon to get the job doneaccurately and professionally. ■ Ellyalso helps with a number of specialfunctions, including the Marin CountyCraft Fair, where she sells her beauti-ful hand-knit scarves. She volunteersto help with the county’s StormwaterPollution Prevention Program by con-ducting annual garden tours. ■ Ellytruly deserves recognition as Employeeof the Month for her exceptional workethic and dedication to her colleaguesand the residents of Marin County. ■

By Sharon DeMartini—DPW

Everyone loves to work with Jim Toth.He has been a key member of theMERIT group, which is responsible for supporting and updating thecounty’s SAP fiscal software since itsformation in 2005. He is the leadBasis Administrator, which means hehas the responsibility for keeping theSAP system up and running 24 hoursa day, 7 days a week. Jim learnedsomething completely new when hejoined MERIT. His previous experiencewas as a software programmer, andhe now manages hardware systems.■ A county employee for 11 years,Jim constantly goes above andbeyond the call of duty. He willalways respond to late night phonecalls or e-mails to help a teammate or client. Jim is a calming presence intime of stress and pressure. Outsideof work, Jim enjoys fly-fishing,Argentine tango, and golf. His MERITteammates join the rest of the countyand congratulate Jim for this well-deserved honor. ■

By Angie Hisanaga—IST

Linda Jadeson, a bilingual nutritionist at the H&HS Health Clinics, died unexpectedly on

February 28. For more than seven years, Lindacounseled pregnant women on diet and nutritionas part of the Sweet Success diabetic program inthe Maternity Clinic and for the Women, Infants

and Children Program. Linda believed that “what I do today is very important because I am

exchanging a day of my life for it.” ■

In Memoriam�

Dave Dell’era passed away unexpectedlyon April 18. Dave had worked in the

Department of Public Works as a BuildingMaintenance Worker since 2001. His

supervisor, Richard Wallace, commentedDave was appreciated as a conscientious,self-motivated worker who always got thejob done. Dave is survived by his parents

and his brothers and sisters. ■

Venise “Vinnie” Nahmens passed away from illness on March 24. Vinnie, a Deputy

Probation Officer, served the Marin community for more than 25 years and was known

for her dedication and hard work to help herdefendants over the years. According to her friends

and colleagues, she was “a light that shinedbrightly on all who knew her.” Vinnie is survived

by her mother, step-father, and sister. ■

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Dennise Colla (IST):“There was a payphone outside the store where Iworked. When theemployees came in,at 6:30 or 7 a.m.,each one stopped and called the manager to say they were sick. Afterfour or five people, he was wonderinghow he was going to open the store!”

Raymond Anciaux(H&HS): “I used tomanage a unit withL.A. County. I hadone of the staff callreception all day,asking to page‘Aprila Foola,’ which she did. Theentire staff enjoyed that one.”

Greg Ingrassia(Assessor): “Myfriend had alwayswanted to work for one of GeorgeLucas’ companiesand had submitted a resume. He received a call from a “Lucas Recruiter” to meet at arestaurant for an interview. He arrivedwith his portfolio in hand, only to find about ten of his friends drinkingmargaritas and cheering his arrival.”

Aaron Malilay(DPW): “My carbeing stolen! Mycousin did it andshe got a friend of hers to help her. They hid it in a different parking structure and didn’ttell me the truth for about two hours.”

Roving ReporterBy Connie Siebler—Assessor-Recorder

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In honor of April Fool’s Day, what is the best prank you’veeither pulled on someone or someone has pulled on you?

HaikuBy Bob Beaumont—DPW

Rampant miraclesEntwine themselves about usEven as we sleep.

InaugurationInklingsBy Danny Maples—Sheriff’s Office

I started April 6, 2008, a cold, drizzlyday, with Sergeant Fred Marziano(Sheriff), Deputy Dan Marrett (Sheriff)and his K-9 partner Verona, andParking Enforcement Officer BarbieSorensen (Sheriff), assigned as part ofa County of Marin security team at aprivate fundraiser in Kentfield for thenSenator Barack Obama. The sun brokeout just in time for Senator Obama’sarrival. As he passed by he smiled andwaved from his vehicle to the cheeringcrowd gathered on the street. ■ Fredwas in contact with Senator Obamathroughout much of the day, includingthe opportunity to shoot some hoopswith him. Senator Obama passed Fredthe ball and said, “Put it up.” Even withsuch pressure on him, Fred made theshot. During Senator Obama’s speech,Fred couldn’t believe this was the sameman he had just shot hoops with. ■

After his speech I escorted SenatorObama to the street to meet his sup-porters. We made small talk and hethanked me for being there. SenatorObama greeted every person, includ-ing some kids running a lemonadestand nearby. He was a very normal,personable man with a great deal ofcommand presence. ■ Some MarinCounty employees had the good for-

tune to attendthe inaugura-tion and agreedto share theirexperiences. ■

Auna Harris(Sheriff)attended theinaugurationwith her aunt.They tookrefuge in

the area directly behind the CapitolReflecting Pool. Not even the coldweather could dampen their spirits andexcitement of being a part of such anhistorical event. ■ Herman Clark(Sheriff, Mounted Posse) attended withhis sons. Their seats were close enoughto the podium that all the pomp and

circumstance was palpable. He felteveryone was in a great place emotion-ally that day. ■ From ChristineGimmler’s (CDA) vantage point theCapitol dome was visible in the dis-tance. However, her attention was onthe nearby Jumbotron. Later, shewatched the presidential parade from

the comfort of a nice, warm officebuilding. ■ Mark Burbank (Fire) traveled to Washington D.C. with hiswife and children for the inauguration.Due to the crowds, cold weather, andhaving small children in tow, theywatched the event on a big screen attheir hotel. ■ With only a week’s

notice,TeresaTaylor-King(H&HS)bought her planeticket toattend theinaugura-tion. Shefought offthe cold

weather by wearing the most clothesshe had ever worn in her life. Later, she attended the Mid-Atlantic Ball, sawthe First Couple dance together, andgot good photos. ■ Approximately 2million people attended the inaugura-tion, but not one arrest was made. Isthis a sign of great things to come? ■

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Mark Burbank and family standing next toyou-know-who

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L to R: Herman Clark and his sons Matthewand Brian at the inauguration

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L to R: Auna Harris and her aunt Toni Adams-Robinson at the inauguration

L to R: Teresa Taylor-King andfriends at the Mid-Atlantic Ball

Senator Obama

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person, including

some kids running

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in 1909 and the Marin Board of Supervisors to pass a resolu-tion in favor of a free library system for Marin in 1914. ■

Forward-thinking citizens including Daisy Lawton, a Tomalesschool teacher, and Anne T. Kent, a librarian from LongIsland who had married into the prominent Kent family, traveled to hamlets and ranches throughout Marin, talking to parents, teachers, and local leaders about the need formaking books accessible to all, particularly those in outlyingand rural areas. ■ On February 14, 1927, the doors ofthe MCFL opened in the basement of the old Marin Countycourthouse in San Rafael. Murial Wright, former librarianfor Tuolumne County, was the first library director. MarinCounty residents, numbering about 27,400 at the time,embraced the new library system, checking out over 36,000books during its first year of operation—about 1.3 books forevery resident. Today, the Library’s circulation has expandedexponentially. With a current population of approximately248,000, the Library loaned 1,516,094 items during fiscalyear 2007/08. ■ Twelve branches of the MCFL were estab-lished during its first decade. Several communities in WestMarin chose unusual venues for their libraries. The BolinasBranch was started in a houseboat donated by a local resident. The innovative residents of Point Reyes Station

remodeled an old railroad car,outfitting it withcustom shelvingand desks. ■

From the begin-ning, an impor-tant mission of

the MCFL was to make books and learning available to children and students. Until 1966, when school districts hadestablished systems of their own, an important service of ourlibrary was to provide local schools with books, maps, andother educational materials. In the early years, the Libraryalso sponsored a program which shipped books to youngpeople attending summer camps. ■ Virginia Vail Keatingbecame Library Director in 1935. Her philosophy was tofoment a love of reading among young people in Marin andto serve the needs of diverse Marin townships by cateringcollection development to their interests. Library servicesexpanded significantly during her 33-year tenure.Innovations included creationof a non-circulating collectionon Marin and California history—today’s Anne T. Kent California Room—and implementation of bookmobile service in 1948 to the mostremote areas of the county.During the 1950s, Mrs.Keating worked with FrankLloyd Wright on the design forthe new main branch of theLibrary at the Marin CountyCivic Center. ■ By 1971, the regional library plan wascompleted, with newly constructed facilities in Novato,Fairfax, and Corte Madera. Smaller branches catering tothe diversity of West Marin have been maintained and thebookmobile continues to provide services to remote locations.■ In 1974, the MCFL implemented an automated librarycirculation system, the fourthsuch system in the nation. In 1995, the Library was instrumental in the creation of MARINet (marinet.lib.ca.us),a consortium of city andcounty libraries which share a single online catalog. Thatsame year the Library beganoffering Internet access to thepublic. ■ As times havechanged, so has the Library.Today, feature films on DVDand bestsellers on CD circulate alongside printed books.Online services continue to expand, encompassing every-thing from tutoring and reference to electronic books anddatabases, including access to local history via the CaliforniaRoom’s digital archive (www.co.marin.ca.us/library). MarinCounty librarians provide computer classes and tutoring on the use of online databases, searching the Internet, thebasics of e-mail, using Microsoft Word, and Excel. Theyorganize lectures, workshops, book clubs, and story times for children. ■ In 2009, as in 1909, the public library is a cornerstone of democracy, ensuring that all who walkthrough our doors can freely access the information andtechnology that empower them as individuals. ■

100 Years of Info cont’dFrom front cover

The Marin County Free Library Bookmobile at MarshallSchool, 1948

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A group of children outside the Novato Branch of the MarinCounty Free Library at the Community House, circa 1928

The Civic Center Branch of the Marin County Free Library, circa 1962,in the recently opened Civic Center

The Point Reyes Station Branch of the Marin County FreeLibrary, located in a former railway coach, in 1931

Welcome to New Employees!

Listed in order of hire date from Nov 27, 2008 through Feb 18, 2009Jean Hughes Senior Clerk/Typist, DCSSVictoria Gonzalez Community Library Spec., LibraryCynthia Hiroshima Senior Clerk/Typist, H&HSBarbara Barry Admin. Secretary, HR

Farewell to Retirees!Philip Youngholm Technology Systems Spec. III, LibraryAudrey Andrus Supervising Purchaser, DPWKathy Harris Legal Process Asst. II, DCSSJames Innes Deputy Sheriff, SheriffMary Lee Bulleri Secretary, SheriffJames Nash Deputy Sheriff, SheriffCharles Thompson Deputy Sheriff, SheriffRichard Arrow Auditor-Controller, Aud-Cont.John Rohrbacher District Attorney Inspector, DAKenneth Canziani Deputy Sheriff, SheriffRosa Ortiz-Gruhn Licensed Mental Health Pract.-Billing, H&HSSteven Nash Deputy Sheriff, Sheriff

&WELCOMEFAREWELL !

By Racy Ming—H&HS

The Marin Employment Connection of Health and Human Services (H&HS)and the county Probation Departmenthave joined forces to form theProbation-Employment Task Force. The goal of the task force is to reducerecidivism in our community by connecting people on probation to the workforce community. Task force members include Racy Ming, AndreaBizzell, Eric Petersen, and Tim McClain(H&HS), and Teresa Torrence-Tillman,Kathleen Paulsen, Melissa Davis,Lynda Triplett, Cynthia Fix, and Jeff

White (Probation). ■ The task force put on a resource fairentitled The Road to Work at the armory on January 13.

Twenty different organizations sent staff to participate in the Road to Work.

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People on probation were required to attend by their probation officers and in some cases as part of their sen-tencing. Eighty-nine probationers came to the fair, and 20different organizations sent staff to speak with the atten-dees. ■ The program included a keynote speaker, shortinspirational talks by three people who turned their livesaround and are now successfully employed, and short presentations by each of the agencies. Attendees found outabout services of interest to them. The plan was for everyperson to leave with a next step in mind. Some attendeeswon prizes and gift cards in a raffle. ■ The overall feedback was very positive. Many cited the inspirationalspeakers as the best thing about the event. Many also mentioned feeling valued and cared about by the largenumber of organizations present. Going forward, the taskforce plans to repeat the Road to Work event on June16. ■

Task Force Finds Roads to Work

Tim McClain, an employment developmentcounselor with the Marin EmploymentConnection, describes services.

New Café Does Double-DutyBy Anne Starr—HR

There’s a new place to buy coffee, lunch, and healthy snacks at the county’s Marin Health and Wellness Campus. But theBlue Skies Café is more than a destination for a great organicsalad. It’s also the site of a dynamic work training programfor clients of Buckelew Programs, a nonprofit organizationthat serves people with mental illness.

It took close coordination between the county andBuckelew to establish the café. Jeanne Miche (DPW) andDPW colleagues arranged for the coffee cart and related

equipment. Jennifer Vuillermet and Thomas Lyons(both Co. Counsel), and Terry Toner (DPW) drafted the concessionaire’sagreement and request for proposals. Jeanne and H&HS staff includingJohn Grima, James Villella, Kerrie Desbiens, Margaret Kisliuk,Sparkie Spaeth, and Linda Armstrong helped administer the RFP andselected Buckelew—after a popular taste testing session!—to be thevendor. Linda, the H&HS Nutrition Program Manager, reviews the menus,and Kerrie, the H&HS Facilities Manager, helps facilitate the operation.

Private and state grants underwrite the program; the county provides thespace, the coffee cart—and many of the customers. Blue Skies Café is opento the public 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays at 3240 Kerner Blvd., San Rafael.For more details, call 456-4950.

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