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by Peter Mendoza Posted on January 19, 2021
Good Morning my Family and Community,
I hope each of you had a wonderful Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. Below is the PM Morning report for you. Sending a virtual smile your way.
As I reflect on the importance of Dr. King’s legacy I can’t help but be mindful of the fact that the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960’s served as the building blocks for the Disability Rights and Independent Living Movements. Dr. King recognized that the Civil Rights Movement needed to embrace all marginalized communities; laying the groundwork for recognizing the importance of intersectionality and the inclusion of people with disabilities in the struggle for rights. Marin CIL is intentional about embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion in all of our programs and services.
“The Marin Center for Independent Living is committed to embracing the values of equity and inclusion of diverse populations of people with disabilities. Furthermore, we believe in a community that treats all with fairness and justice. While Marin CIL has engaged in and developed multiple programs that are culturally and linguistically competent, we recognize the power of systemic racism and that we have an opportunity to learn and do more.”
Reflecting on Dr. Martin Luther King and Civil Rights Overlooked Goals
Posted On: January 31, 2019
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a time for all Americans to reflect upon Dr. King’s efforts and accomplishments, as well as his unrealized goal of creating a fully equitable and accessible society. In the years following his death, two important issues regarding Dr. King’s work and the Civil Rights Movement seem to have been forgotten, eliminated or at least obfuscated, either intentionally or inadvertently by the mists of time. First, we fail to emphasize Dr. King’s important realization, only a year before his assassination, that his Civil Rights Movement had to include all marginalized people, an insight that linked the Civil Rights and the Disability Rights Movements. Secondly, as he broadened the audience included in the movement, he narrowed the focus of his activity to the issue of employment as the key to achieving the goal of a Just Society.
Most people equate the words “minorities and civil rights” with African-American populations; whereas people with disabilities are seldom perceived of as a minority at all, when, in actuality, they comprise the largest minority group in the US. Each minority group has its own life experiences and different sources and degrees of oppression and discrimination. Granted, a blind person has never been lynched because he or she is blind, nor has a person who uses a wheelchair had a cross burned in the front lawn because he moved to a certain neighborhood. Nonetheless, people with disabilities have been marginalized all throughout history.
African-Americans have experienced oppression and discrimination from a system created, legislated and maintained by bigotry and downright hatred; whereas people with disabilities suffer oppression and discrimination at the hands of a paternalistic system that offers “discrimination with the smile” and the best of intentions– intentions that usually reflect a need to maintain the status quo.
African American children were prevented from attending certain public schools by codes and laws. Children with disabilities were prevented from attending certain schools by smiling and well-meaning education officials who told parents that “it is better for both children with disabilities and ‘normal’ children if the disabled kids are educated at home or at least in ‘special classes.’” Both experiences, be it overt or covert discrimination, represent the exercise of the establishment’s power. But “Separate Is Not Equal!”
While people with disabilities cannot equate their experiences with 500 years of slavery and dehumanization, that shouldn’t discount the consideration that members of this minority group, all throughout history, have suffered from dehumanization, infanticide, euthanasia, and institutionalization.
It was less than a year before his assassination that Dr. King decided to include all marginalized people into a movement that would make the nation realize and appreciate the injustice, oppression and antidemocratic nature of poverty and lack of opportunity. Though people with disabilities were probably not on his radar screen or involved in the movement at the moment they were taking notes and realized sooner than many African-American leaders that not only is “Separate Unequal! Separate is also Weak and Ineffective!”
Just as Dr. King decided to change and re-create his movement, mainstream American history decide to change its view of Dr. King’s tactics and his objectives. In his book, The Radical King, Cornell West asserts that Dr. King has been deodorized, sanitized and “Santa-Clausified” by history. Due to a type of “historical amnesia,” West notes people have forgotten that almost ¾ of White Americans perceived Dr. King as an unpatriotic threat to this country because of his attitude and actions concerning the Vietnam War and ending Poverty. West also points out that, “even a slight majority of African-Americans believed that Dr. King was, “setting the black freedom movement back.”
In fact, one of the most iconic pictures in the collective memory of the US is Dr. King giving his “I Have a Dream” speech at the Lincoln Memorial. Very few people will remember that that the FBI sent out a memo decrying Dr. King as “the most dangerous Negro of the future in this nation from the standpoint of communism, the Negro and national security” and even fewer will recall that Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech was given to publicize what Dr. King described as the Fourth Revolution, which he called the “Poor People’s Campaign” and that that particular event at the Lincoln Memorial was named the “March for Jobs.”
Dr. King realized that employment was the key to self-sufficiency, independence, and equality. “If a man doesn’t have a job or an income, he has neither life nor liberty nor the possibility for the pursuit of happiness.”
The general population is quite familiar with Dr. King’s statements, such as “injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere” and with his dream that his children might be judged “not by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.” Do you think there’s a chance that we’ll hear the following quote from Dr. King in 2019? “A nation that continues year after year to spend more money on military defense than on programs of social uplift is approaching spiritual death.”
In short, Dr. King realized that all marginalized groups—such as African-Americans or Americans with disabilities—must join together and form one united and powerful force working for everyone’s civil rights. Access to meaningful employment and economic independence will help us realize a more just society for all. This year let us remember that in unity we can tap into Dr. King’s power.
Thank you Dr. King!
Source: Reflecting on Dr. Martin Luther King and Civil Rights Overlooked Goals
County of Marin Update
Marin Vaccine Update: Preparing to Move into Phase 1B
Marin County’s network of health care providers and supportive agencies are working closely to prepare to transition to Phase 1B of the COVID-19 vaccination framework soon, offering vaccinations to frontline essential workers and those aged 65 and over.
Hear more from Dr. Willis about the effort behind Marin County’s mass vaccination clinic, the partnership and volunteerism that makes this possible, and what’s in store as Marin County moves into Tier 1B later this week.
WATCH ON YOUTUBE
Sharing from CDCAN
WHEN: JANUARY 20, 2021 - WEDNESDAY
TIME: 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM (Pacific Time)
WHO: CALIFORNIA HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CHSS) AGENCY AND THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH (CDPH)
WHAT: COMMUNITY VACCINE ADVISORY COMMITTEE - MEETING #8
MEETING INFORMATION - TWO WAYS TO PARTICIPATE IN MEETING
CALL-IN NUMBER (LISTEN ONLY):
ENGLISH - CALL IN NUMBER: 844-721-7237
ENGLISH - CALL IN NUMBER PASSCODE: 2243784
SPANISH - CALL IN NUMBER: 877-402-9753
SPANISH - CALL IN NUMBER PASSCODE: 1424990
YOUTUBE LIVESTREAM: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkNEUkIwtlc_kPenEZMUlOw
WHEN: JANUARY 21, 2021 - THURSDAY
TIME: 10:30 AM (Pacific Time)
WHO: STATE SENATE EDUCATION COMMITTEE AND SENATE BUDGET SUBCOMMITTEE #1 ON EDUCATION
WHAT: JOINT INFORMATIONAL HEARING
SUBJECT: Governor’s Safe Schools for All Plan: Will it Help Schools Open Safely?
WHERE: State Capitol - Room 4203
LIVESTREAM LINK: https://www.senate.ca.gov/calendar
Step 1: Scroll down to "Committee Hearings"
Step 2: Scroll down to "Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Committee"
Step 3: Click on "Watch Hearing" for livestream video or "Listen" if you want audio only
Note: to make public comments remotely please see below to make public comments by phone.
CALL-IN NUMBER - LISTEN ONLY (to listen only, but not make public comments): 1-888-251-2909
CALL-IN NUMBER ACCESS CODE - LISTEN ONLY (to listen only, but not make public comments): 7362832
RECORDED VIDEO OF HEARING (usually posted for download within a day or so) - scroll down to hearing date :https://www.senate.ca.gov/media-archive
HEARING DOCUMENTS
WHEN: JANUARY 21, 2021 - THURSDAY
TIME: 3:00 - 4:00 PM (Pacific Time)
WHO: GOVERNOR'S OFFICE OF EMERGENCY SERVICES - OFFICE OF ACCESS AND FUNCTIONAL NEEDS [logo pictured below right]
WHAT: COVID-19 UPDATE - VACCINE UPDATE (open to public stakeholders)
TWO WAYS TO PARTICIPATE IN THE MEETING:
USING ZOOM (NO advance registration needed): Participants will be able to ask questions and provide comments using chat feature (raise hands or type in comment or question) or by the call-in line below).
ZOOM MEETING LINK: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86066941378
ZOOM MEETING ID: 860 6694 1378
OR
CALL-IN LINE:1-669-900-9128 ("Welcome to Zoom")
CALL-IN PASSCODE: 86066941378#
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
L. Vance Taylor - Chief, Office of Access and Functional Needs
California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services
3650 Schriever Avenue
Mather, CA 95655
Office Phone: 916-845-8202
Email: vance.taylor@caloes.ca.gov
Governor's Office of Emergency Services/Office of Access and Functional Needs webpage:
https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/access-functional-needs
Sharing from the Marin Independent Journal
Marin’s former Whistlestop nonprofit names new chief
By ADRIAN RODRIGUEZ | arodriguez@marinij.com | Marin Independent Journal
PUBLISHED: January 18, 2021 at 5:52 p.m. | UPDATED: January 19, 2021 at 7:26 a.m.
Vivalon, the San Rafael organization formerly known as Whistlestop, has named a veteran nonprofit leader as its new chief executive.
The move comes as a key moment for the organization, which serves older and disabled adults. Construction is expected to begin this year on the nonprofit’s new campus in downtown San Rafael.
“It’s exciting that there is so much that we’re doing right now,” said Anne Grey, 55, of Larkspur, the new chief executive. “During COVID, we’ve pivoted Vivalon to virtual programs, expanded food services, just really being able to rise to the occasion — meeting the needs of the community.”
Grey began her new role last week working alongside retiring chief executive Joe O’Hehir, who is exiting the organization after 12 years. His last day is Feb. 28.
For full article: Marin’s former Whistlestop nonprofit names new chief
A Tidbit from Me: Marin CIL welcomes Anne Grey to her new position and looks forward to working with her in her new role. Marin CIL values Vivalon as one of our important partners supporting the independence of older adults and people with disabilities in community. Marin CIL wants to express our appreciation to Joe O’Hehir, Vivalon’s retiring Chief Executive Officer. Joe has been a strong supporter of Marin CIL, a good friend, and a strong champion for older adults. We wish him all the best in his next chapter. We value and appreciate his many years of devoted service to our communities.
Marin hospitals nix Moderna vaccine batch after state alert
By MATTHEW PERA | mpera@marinij.com |
PUBLISHED: January 18, 2021 at 6:54 a.m. | UPDATED: January 19, 2021 at 7:26 a.m.
Hospitals in Marin have stopped using a batch of the Moderna coronavirus vaccine after state officials warned of a series of allergic reactions in Southern California.
An abnormally high number of people experienced anaphylactic shock, a severe allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention, after receiving a shot of the Moderna vaccine at one San Diego vaccination site, Dr. Erica Pan, California’s top epidemiologist, said in statement Sunday night.
While the number was fewer than 10, the cluster of negative reactions prompted the California Department of Public Health to recommend pausing the administration of some 330,000 doses from the batch, which had been distributed throughout the state, until an investigation was complete.
“A higher-than-usual number of possible allergic reactions were reported with a specific lot of Moderna vaccine administered at one community vaccination clinic,” Pan said. “Out of an extreme abundance of caution and also recognizing the extremely limited supply of vaccine, we are recommending that providers use other available vaccine inventory and pause the administration of vaccines from Moderna Lot 041L20A until the investigation by the CDC, FDA, Moderna and the state is complete.”
For full article: Marin hospitals nix Moderna vaccine batch after state alert
Sharing from The ARC of California
Governor’s January Budget Summary
Governor Newsom released his 2020-21 budget blueprint. The budget projects a one-time windfall of revenue despite the challenges of the pandemic; however, the governor’s budget hedges against a possible revenue shortfall in the following year/s. The proposed budget will now be debated by the legislature and a final budget will be sent to the Governor for approval in June. Below is a summary of the governor’s proposed budget and its impact on Californians with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families:
Regional Center Services
The proposed budget estimates regional center caseload growth to 368,753 clients and a total budget of $10.5 billion. Budget highlights include:
• Extends the provider supplemental rate increases to December 31, 2022, instead of the existing elimination date of December 31, 2021.
• Similarly, extends the suspension of the mandated 14 furlough days (aka Uniform Holiday Schedule) to December 31, 2022.
• Creates a new Community Navigator Program to partner with Family Resource Centers to increase access and outreach to underserved communities.
• Creates new Emergency Preparedness/Response Coordinators in each regional center.
• Expands the Systemic, Therapeutic, Assessment, Resources, and Treatment (START) Services.
• Greatly expands supports and resources for individuals with IDD that are involved with the criminal justice system.
• DOES NOT propose any investments to fund the $1.4 billion underfunding to regional center service as identified in the 2019 DDS Rate Study.
Pandemic Response
The Budget includes $211.7 million ($150.4 million General Fund) to address COVID-19 impacts on the developmental services system. Funding supports utilization increases for purchase of services above base funding levels and direct response expenditures for surge capacity at the Fairview and Porterville Developmental Centers and other operating costs in state-operated facilities.
Family Resource Centers and Community Navigators
The Budget includes $5.3 million ($3.2 million General Fund) for the Department of Developmental Services to contract with family resource centers to implement a navigator model statewide. The navigator model would utilize parents of individuals in the regional center system to provide education on resources, advocacy, and mentorship to other parents of individuals being served by the regional center system. The purpose of navigators is to increase service authorization and utilization in diverse communities, furthering health equity within the developmental services system. Funding includes resources for a one-time independent evaluation focused on improving the effectiveness of existing disparity projects.
SSI/SSP
The budget includes no increase for the State Supplemental Payment (SSP). Effective January 2021, the maximum SSI/SSP grant levels are $955 per month for individuals and $1,598 per month for couples. The projected growth in the Consumer Price Index is 2.2 percent for 2022. As a result, the maximum SSI/SSP monthly grant levels will increase by approximately $17 and $26 for individuals and couples, respectively, effective January 2021.
Read Full Text Here
Family Caregivers and Direct Support Staff are Prioritized for Vaccines, as Confirmed in New Letters from Department of Developmental Services
Last week the California Department of Developmental Services confirmed that family caregivers, direct support staff, and certain regional center employees are eligible for phase 1A vaccine prioritization. These letters can be helpful for families, service providers, and regional centers in access to phase 1A vaccines if encountering challenges at the county level.
For Direct Service Employees
For Family Members
For Certain Regional Center Employees
Families:
The purpose of this letter is to clarify that family members of certain people are “health care workers” pursuant to the State of California’s Vaccination Plan and thus are prioritized for COVID-19 vaccination within Phase 1A.
Employees:
The purpose of this letter is to clarify that these providers’ employees who provide direct care, in-home-support and other health and developmental services are “health care workers” pursuant to the State of California’s Vaccination Plan, and thus are prioritized for COVID-19 vaccination within Phase 1A.
These contracted service providers include, but are not limited to:
by Peter Mendoza Posted on January 15, 2021
Good Morning my Cherished Family and Community,
I hope you are all doing well today. Welcome to the PM Morning Report. It been an active week. This morning once again started early for me. I am feeling the call of the coffee bean once again. Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend. Sending a virtual smile to you today
County of Marin Update
Top Vaccination Questions Answered
As you likely know, the COVID-19 vaccination process is underway in Marin County. We understand staying on top of the latest details can be confusing. Things change, sometimes daily, sometimes hourly. With so many messages coming from the state and neighboring counties, Marin County Public Health has attempted to simplify things by answering some of your top questions, including:
by Peter Mendoza Posted on January 14, 2021
| Good Morning my Family and Community, I hope you are all doing well today. Marin CIL’s advocacy desk has been busy this morning. Lot’s going on. Definitely a good day for coffee and chocolate to start the morning. Don’t worry I did include blueberry waffles in the mix. Here is the PM Morning Report for you. Wishing you the very best and sending you a virtual smile this morning. Marin County COVID-19 Status Update: January 13, 2021 The Marin County COVID-19 Status Update is published daily to share important news and resources related to the COVID-19 pandemic and to keep the local economy running. We remain here for you. Marin’s Vaccine Clinic Operating Smoothly Our Point of Dispensing vaccine clinic -- or “POD” – in San Rafael is serving up to 1,000 people per day providing first doses to a wide array of health care workers (and second doses to those who receive their first dose a few weeks ago). Here is an insider view of our POD and more information about our planning efforts to serve the next phase of distribution, including the many older adults in our community. WATCH ON ABC7News.COM Know a Marin County healthcare worker in need of a vaccine? Refer them to our COVID-19 vaccine distribution webpage for information on eligibility and access. Marin Leaders Advocate for Greater Vaccine Supply Today, the Marin County Board of Supervisors sent a letter to Governor Gavin Newsom advocating for additional vaccine supply to be allocated to Marin County. Marin County continues Phase 1A (health care workers) vaccine distribution and is planning its advance to Phase 1B when supplies allow. Due to scarce vaccine allocation and limited resources, we are distributing vaccine in Marin County based on recommendations from CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, prioritizing 1) prevention of morbidity and mortality and 2) preservation of societal functioning. With 1 in 4 Marin residents over the age of 65, a group that is at higher risk of adverse outcomes from COVID-19, we know how important it is to be able to vaccinate this group quickly. Unfortunately, Marin’s vaccine allocation from the state is determining how quickly we can move in vaccinating our older adults. We have not received the vaccine supply necessary to launch Phase 1B in Marin County. View The Letter Sharing from CDCAN JANUARY 13, 2021 - STATE CAPITOL UPDATE NEW COVID-19 VACCINES: DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENTAL SERVICES ISSUES LETTERS FOR REGIONAL CENTER SYSTEM DIRECT SERVICE EMLPOYEES, FAMILY MEMBERS OF CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AND CERTAIN REGIONAL CENTER EMPLOYEES Clarifies Those Individuals as "Health Care Workers" Under State's Vaccination Plan and Prioritized for COVID-19 Vaccination Within Phase 1A - Updated Frequently Asked Questions from Department of Developmental Services SACRAMENTO, CA [BY MARTY OMOTO, CDCAN LAST UPDATED 01/13/2021 04:35 PM] - The Department of Developmental Services (DDS), the state agency that oversees the 21 non-profit regional centers who coordinate funding and services to over 350,000, infants and toddlers (in Early Start), and children and adults with developmental disabilities, issued three letters this afternoon (January 13th), clarifying that regional center system direct service employees, family members of certain individuals with developmental disabilities, and certain regional center employees are considered by the State as "health care workers" under California’s Vaccination Plan, and thus are prioritized for COVID-19 vaccination within Phase 1A. CDCAN NOTE: To receive the free CDCAN Reports, send email request to Marty Omoto (with "CDCAN Reports Subscribe" in the subject line) to: martyomoto@att.net . LINKS TO THE UPDATED FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND LETTERS CLARIFYING COVID-19 VACCINATION ELIGIBILITY FOR PHASE 1A The following, compiled by CDCAN, are the links to the UPDATED (as of January 13, 2021) Frequently Asked Questions from the Department of Developmental Services (DDS), and the three letters released this afternoon (January 13, 2021) clarifying COVID-19 vaccination eligibility for Phase 1A. People impacted should print out the letter that applies to them and give it to their health care provider or others dispensing the vaccines for them: UPDATED JAN 13, 2021 - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ON COVID-19 VACCINATIONS FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENTAL SERVICES - PDF Document (5 pages): https://www.dds.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Vaccine_FAQ_01132021.pdf Sharing from the SILC The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) will hold a webinar to provide an overview of the relaunch of the California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal (CalAIM) initiative on January 28, from 2 – 3 p.m. Please register for the webinar here if you are interested in attending. About CalAIM: The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) has developed a framework that encompasses broad-based delivery system, program and payment reform across the Medi-Cal program, called CalAIM: California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal. CalAIM advances several key priorities of the Administration by leveraging Medicaid as a tool to help address many of the complex challenges facing California’s most vulnerable residents, such as homelessness, behavioral health care access, children with complex medical conditions, the growing number of justice-involved populations who have significant clinical needs, and the growing aging population. This proposal recognizes the opportunity to provide for non-clinical interventions focused on a whole-person care approach via Medi-Cal that targets social determinants of health and reduces health disparities and inequities. How to File a Complaint with the Office for Civil Rights The Office for Civil Right’s mission is to ensure equal access to education and to promote educational excellence through vigorous enforcement of civil rights in our nation’s schools. The Office for Civil Rights enforces several Federal civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination in programs or activities that receive federal financial assistance from the Department of Education. Discrimination on the basis of race, color, and national origin is prohibited by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; sex discrimination is prohibited by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; discrimination on the basis of disability is prohibited by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; and age discrimination is prohibited by the Age Discrimination Act of 1975. These civil rights laws enforced by OCR extend to all state education agencies, elementary and secondary school systems, colleges and universities, vocational schools, proprietary schools, state vocational rehabilitation agencies, libraries, and museums that receive U.S. Department of Education funds. VIDEO: How to File an OCR Complaint Sharing from the Disability Organizing Network Andy Imparato (Executive Director, Disability Rights California), Aaron Carruthers (Executive Director of State Council on Developmental Disabilities and Christina Mills (Executive Director, California Foundation for Independent Living Centers- Marin CILs membership Organization) have some updates they’d like to share from a statewide vaccine advocacy perspective and more importantly to discuss best practices for developing county strategies to get the vaccine to people with disabilities. Topic: C19 Vaccine Strategy Meeting Time: Jan 14, 2021 06:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85702380573 Meeting ID: 857 0238 0573 One tap mobile +16699006833,,85702380573# US (San Jose) Sharing from the Marin Independent Journal Email foul-up in Marin draws ineligible virus vaccine seekers By MATTHEW PERA | mpera@marinij.com | PUBLISHED: January 13, 2021 at 5:47 p.m. | UPDATED: January 13, 2021 at 5:54 p.m. Hundreds of people ineligible for coronavirus vaccinations signed up for shots this week after a link to Marin County’s appointment system was shared on social media, a health official said. The link was initially sent in an email to health care workers, who are included in the first phase of the county’s effort to distribute its limited supply of Moderna and Pfizer vaccines. “What occurred is, somewhere one of our health care providers forwarded that link to someone else,” said Dr. Matt Willis, Marin County’s public health officer. “That link went out, and it was separated from all the contextual information that normally goes along with it.” The link opens up an online software system, PrepMod, which California is using to coordinate vaccine distribution. It allows people to sign up for a time slot to be vaccinated at the Marin County Civic Center. It typically comes in an email explaining that first vaccine doses in Marin are being offered only to a select group of people, including health care workers, first responders and nursing home patients. County officials quickly closed the registration system on Sunday after they were notified that the link had been shared on social media sites, Willis said. Officials then sent out an email to anyone who had signed up for an appointment, notifying them that shots would only be given to health care workers who could show medical credentials to those administering the vaccines. For full article: Email foul-up in Marin draws ineligible virus vaccine seekers Marin supervisors approve 5-month eviction ban By RICHARD HALSTEAD | rhalstead@marinij.com | Marin Independent Journal PUBLISHED: January 13, 2021 at 5:06 p.m. | UPDATED: January 13, 2021 at 5:45 p.m. Marin landlords soon will be barred from evicting tenants who can’t pay their rent because of the pandemic. Marin County supervisors voted unanimously Tuesday to enact the moratorium, which takes effect Feb. 1 and lasts through June 30. “We have to do this to keep people housed in Marin,” said Supervisor Dennis Rodoni, the board president. “We don’t have a choice.” The resolution prohibits landlords from attempting to evict a residential tenant if the tenant has provided a declaration of coronavirus-related financial distress within 15 days of receiving notice demanding payment of rent. The tenants, however, will still owe the unpaid rent and can be sued for the money. Tenants who notify their landlords as specified will have up to 90 days after June 30 to pay the overdue rent before they will be deemed to be in default. Unlike most other county resolutions, this action will also apply to renters in all of Marin’s 11 municipalities as well as the unincorporated area of Marin governed by the supervisors. The action was supported by the Marin County public health officer, Dr. Matt Willis. In a statement, Willis wrote that “renters who have lost income due to COVID-19 may be at risk of homelessness if they are evicted for nonpayment of rent.” Willis added, “Such displacement, destabilization and any increase in homelessness would increase the risk of transmission of COVID-19 throughout the county.” For full article: Marin supervisors approve 5-month eviction ban A Tidbit from Me: Marin CIL provides important safety-net services and advocacy support for people with disabilities and older adults. One of the most frequently requested services is housing support. This includes housing retention and advocacy. Marin CIL together with community members and our community partners Legal Aid of Marin, Fair Housing Advocates of Northern California, California Alliance for Retired Americans (CARA), Marin Community Action Team (Marin CAT), Marin Environmental Housing Collaborative, and the Marin Aging Action Initiative have been working collaboratively to support various housing sustainability initiatives including Fair Housing ordinances, rental protections, and both Project Roomkey and Project Homekey programs. Marin CIL appreciates our Board of Supervisors extending eviction protection for an additional 5 months. This is good news for people with disabilities and older adults in our communities. San Rafael school district launches mental health service By KERI BRENNER | kbrenner@marinij.com | Marin Independent Journal PUBLISHED: January 13, 2021 at 6:38 p.m. | UPDATED: January 13, 2021 at 6:48 p.m. San Rafael City Schools is launching a free mental health service for district students, families and staff. Superintendent Jim Hogeboom said this week the district was launching Care Solace, a round-the-clock online assistance to help people find local mental health-related programs and counseling. He said district students, workers and families will be able to access Care Solace either through a dedicated phone line or website. “All school staff and families can use the tool to connect with community-based mental health care resources and providers,” Hogeboom said. “Their proprietary care navigation system taps into a vast database of mental health care resources to find carefully vetted local therapists and programs in minutes.” More information is at caresolace.com/srcs. “SRCS is dedicated to prioritizing mental health and wellness, and is excited to bring this new resource to our community,” Hogeboom said. Focus continues statewide on strengthening mental health resources during the pandemic. On Tuesday, a coalition to improve mental health for kids, families and school staff was also announced. For full article: San Rafael school district launches mental health service Sharing from the Aging Action Initiative Brain health and reducing risk of cognitive decline Friday, January 15, 9am-12:15pm (English); Friday, January 22, 9am-12:15pm (Spanish) The Alzheimer’s Association, in conjunction with Collabria Care, is holding its winter education conference. The keynote speaker is Dr. Sergio Lanata, assistant professor of Clinical Neurology at UCSF Memory and Aging Center, and the topics will focus on the many aspects of maintaining a brain-healthy lifestyle, latest updates on Alzheimer's science and understanding memory loss: what is normal and what is not. Register here (English) or here (Spanish). Questions about this event should be directed to Shelley Dombroski at sdombroski@alz.org. Save the date: Inform & Connect resumes January 25! AAI's Inform & Connect program will resume on Monday, January 25 at 2pm with a presentation about COVID: the latest about sheltering, care, vaccines and more. Registration info to come. Source: Marin Aging Action Initiative |
by Peter Mendoza Posted on January 13, 2021
Good Morning my Family and Community,
I hope you are doing well today. Certainly a lot going on in our world. Today as I am writing the PM Morning Report I am reflecting on current events. Our country and our world is going through a challenging time on many fronts. As we continue to work for equity and justice through the work we do serving our communities it’s important that we remember to practice self-care. I wanted to remind folks about the warm line which is a great resource (available in both English and Spanish). We all need you need someone to talk to. Through the warm line you can also find out about additional resources available to you. If you are a person with a disability or older adult always feel free to reach out to Marin CIL if there is anything we can do to support you. Sending each of you a virtual smile today.
Warmline Now in Spanish | Support During Difficult Times
Posted on March 25, 2020 Category Updates Tagged Mental Health, Peer Support, Warmline, Wellness
UPDATED January 6, 2021
In an effort to curb the spread of COVID 19, state and local officials have issued a shelter in place order. As a result, many of us are experiencing fear about the future, confusion, and loneliness due to restricted contact with our peers, friends, and loved ones. Even though the Enterprise Recovery Center is closed at this time, we are still available to help.
A new report from the Kaiser Family Foundation reveals that mental health issues are a concern for about 50% of Americans as the COVID-15 health crisis continues. This is particularly true for families and those who have lost income because of the pandemic. For over twenty years, Community Action Marin’s Mental Health program has operated the “Warm Line,” a call in service where trained Peer Support Specialists are available by phone for anyone who feels the need to talk.
The Warm Line is not a counseling service. Instead, people listen, and if callers want feedback, the Peer Support Specialists may make suggestions. All staff are familiar with the services available in Marin County (mental health and other services) so can direct people to places where they can get additional help, whether it is a mental health service, a food bank or affordable child care.
WARM LINE EXTENDED HOURS: ENGLISH SUPPORT
(415) 459-6330
During these stressful times, we recognize the importance of providing extra care, comfort, and support to those with mental health challenges. For this reason, we are extending our peer support Warmline to 9am until midnight, 7 days a week.
COMMUNITY ACTION MARIN LAUNCHES SPANISH LANGUAGE MENTAL HEALTH WARM LINE
(415) 457-4026
On May 4, Community Action Marin launched a Warm Line for Spanish Speakers. Marin’s Latinx population have been disproportionately economically affected by the restrictions of Shelter in Place as many work in low wage, public-facing jobs that do not offer a “work from home” option. The Warm Line will begin with limited hours; 1PM – 6PM, Monday to Saturday provided by bilingual staff from Community Action Marin’s Family Partners program.
County of Marin Update:
COVID-19 Update to the Board of Supervisors
In his presentation, Dr. Willis provides a detailed report of case and hospitalization rates for both Marin County and the Bay Area; progress in our COVID-19 vaccination efforts; and a simplified model for knowing when you may be eligible to receive the vaccine.
WATCH ON YOUTUBE
Healthcare Worker Vaccine Update: All Tiers of Phase 1A Now Open
Currently, vaccinations are available for healthcare personnel defined in Phase 1A (all tiers) of the state’s framework. Marin County has received an additional allocation of vaccine from the State of California and is now administering 1,000 vaccinations per day. We are committed to continuing our rapid utilization and distribution of all doses received.
If you are a Phase 1A eligible healthcare worker in Marin County, you are encouraged to pursue a vaccine through one of the following options:
by Peter Mendoza Posted on January 12, 2021
Good Morning my Family and Community, I hope you are doing well this morning. The rooster crowed early this morning so I was up early. Today was a multiple coffee day with extra chocolate and whipped cream. Some days you just need a few extras to start the day. The batphone at the Marin CIL advocacy desk rang early. Lots to do. Wishing everyone the very best today. Here is the PM Morning Report for you. Sending a smile. Marin County Update Marin County COVID-19 Status Update: January 11, 2021 The Marin County COVID-19 Status Update is published daily to share important news and resources related to the COVID-19 pandemic and to keep the local economy running. We remain here for you. Vaccine MythBusters: Know the Facts! It's likely you've heard claims about COVID-19 vaccines on social media or from the people in your life. Knowing what is true about vaccines, and what isn’t, is crucial to community and business recovery. Over the next few days, we’ll bust some myths that exist about the COVID-19 vaccine and share facts that should be shared widely. ❌ MYTH: I’ve already been diagnosed with COVID-19, so I don’t need to receive the vaccine. ✔️ Fact: If you have already had COVID-19, there’s evidence that you can still benefit from the vaccine. Due to the severe health risks associated with COVID-19, and because re-infection and transmission to others is possible, people may be advised to get a COVID-19 vaccine even if they have been sick with COVID-19 before. At this time, experts don’t know how long someone is protected from getting sick again after recovering from COVID-19. The immunity someone gains from having an infection, called natural immunity, varies from person to person. Some early evidence suggests natural immunity may not last very long. |
by Peter Mendoza Posted on January 11, 2021
| Good Morning my Wonderful Family and Community, This past Saturday, Jennifer and I took a road trip to Marin, where I received my first shot of the Moderna Covid vaccine! Through my work at Marin CIL, I am an essential worker. I want to express my appreciation to everyone who is supporting vaccine distribution locally and nationally. I appreciate the team at Marin County Fire, the Medical Reserve Corps, and Marin Public Health, and everyone who is protecting the health and welfare of our communities. Minimum side effects yesterday, some minor muscle pain, like when you work out too hard. (YES I do work out!) Today I am feeling a little tired and still have some minor soreness (like a flu shot) but I am ok. No fevers, no chills, etc. All is good. While I was there at the vaccine location, I went into work mode and did a little technical assistance at the request of the folks at the site. Everyone always laughs because I never seem to stop working. You know what they say….duty calls! I think getting the vaccine is important. I weighed the potential side effects against what could happen if I got Covid, and it was clear to me vaccination was the best way. I am protecting my family, my friends, my community and everyone I care about. Even when you are vaccinated you will still have to wear a mask and practice social distancing, but baby steps toward a brighter future. Here's to a kinder, gentler 2021 after a difficult week for our country. Sending each of you a virtual smile today! County of Marin Update Marin County COVID-19 Status Update: January 10, 2021 The Marin County COVID-19 Status Update is published daily to share important news and resources related to the COVID-19 pandemic and to keep the local economy running. We remain here for you. Vaccine Update: Healthcare Worker Vaccinations Continue Vaccine operations are in full swing to provide much needed vaccinations to frontline health care workers. Marin Public Health’s vaccine clinic (also referred to as a “Point of Dispensing”) has averaged approximately 800 vaccinations per day over the past two days and will expand this next week as more doses become available. In addition, Marin Public Health requested additional doses from the State of California beyond our normal allocation because of our rapid utilization and successful distribution of doses we’ve received so far. Marin Public Health is prioritizing vaccination distribution as defined by the California Department of Public Health. Currently, vaccinations are limited to frontline healthcare personnel, as defined in Tiers 1 & 2 of Phase 1A of the state’s framework. Vaccine MythBusters: Know the Facts! It's likely you've heard claims about COVID-19 vaccines on social media or from the people in your life. Knowing what is true about vaccines, and what isn’t, is crucial to community and business recovery. Over the next few days, we’ll bust some myths that exist about the COVID-19 vaccine and share facts that should be shared widely. ✔️ Fact: Less Than 0.5% Experience Severe Vaccine Side Effects In the same trials, vaccines resulted in side effects that were generally mild to moderate and lasted no more than a couple of days. Symptoms included irritation at the injection point of the arm, chills, fatigue, muscle soreness and fever. Less than 0.5% of trial participants experienced severe symptoms as an allergic reaction to the vaccines. Remember, these symptoms are normal for any vaccine and are a sign that the body is building immunity. |
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| A Tidbit about the Marin Organizing Committee: The Bay Area IAF is an affiliate of the Industrial Areas Foundation (IAF), the nation’s oldest and largest leadership development and organizing network. The IAF bases its work on the idea that a healthy democracy requires the active participation of ordinary people. The Bay Area IAF is a broad-based network of local institutions—faith-based, non-profit, educational, labor, and civic organizations—that come together to develop leaders, identify shared issues affecting our communities, and take action around these issues. Member institutions pay dues to ensure that Bay Area IAF has a secure and independent core budget, and is primarily accountable to its own constituents. The Bay Area IAF is strictly non-partisan and is multi-issue. Our member institutions work together to develop our local agendas by engaging constituents, both within and across our institutions, in conversations about the issues affecting their families, neighborhoods and communities. MOC is currently working on multiple issues, including protections for renters in Marin, affordable housing, quality of life for older adults, and mental healthcare in schools. Past issues have included access to health care, housing-focused shelter and neighborhood safety. |
by Peter Mendoza Posted on January 8, 2021
Good Morning my Exceptional Family and Community,
I hope you are all doing well today. This week has been challenging for all of us. I wanted to take a moment to encourage each of you to remember to practice self-care. Remember you are valued and cared for. Below is the PM Morning Report for you. Sending you a smile.
Marin County Update
Extension of Stay-Home Order is Anticipated
With a regional COVID-19 sheltering order set to expire January 8, Marin County Public Health officials are expecting the State of California to issue an indefinite extension of restrictions intended to slow the spread of the virus that has led to 115 Marin deaths.
Due to dwindling intensive care unit (ICU) capacity at hospitals across the region, the state implemented a stay-home order for the Bay Area region, which includes Marin, on December 17 for a minimum of three weeks. The stay-home order will be lifted once the region’s ICU capacity forecast meets or exceeds 15%.
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) ICU capacity projections are based on four factors:
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by Peter Mendoza Posted on January 7, 2021
Good Morning my Valued Family and Community,
I hope you all are doing well this morning. As I am writing to you today, I can’t help but reflect on recent events. The challenges to our democracy that have been taking place, including the events at the U.S. Capitol, remind us once again of the importance of coming together to work for a better world. The Independent Living and the overarching Disability Rights movement must continue to work to abolish racism, ableism, sexism, and ageism even in our own systems and communities. Everyone has a right to be treated with dignity and respect. We must continue to lift up marginalized communities. We must speak out against all acts of violence and hate speech. While there are always differences around ideology, we must come together. Here’s the PM report for you today. Sending a virtual smile to each of you.
Marin County Update
Progress continues with vaccinating frontline healthcare workers
Marin County’s COVID-19 vaccination distribution began Wednesday, December 16 and has continued throughout the past three weeks. Today, Marin Public Health launched a vaccine clinic for staff of residential care facilities for the elderly, dialysis, hospice and home health care. This signals the launch of Tier 2 within Phase 1A of the vaccine prioritization framework set forth by the California Department of Public Health.
By the end of this week, nearly 12,000 doses will have been distributed to frontline health care workers in Marin. Marin Public Health hopes to complete Phase 1A by the end of the month but will need more vaccine supply from the State to achieve this goal.
Related Links:
by Peter Mendoza Posted on January 6, 2021
Good Morning my Marin CIL Family and Community,
I hope you are all doing well this morning. 4 am came early this morning and the Batphone rang early. Lot’s to do. A lot going on today so here we go. Enjoy the read! Raising my cup of coffee to you this morning. Have a wonderful day!
Breaking News from CBS NEWS:
Warnock projected to win Georgia Senate seat as Democrats near majority
BY GRACE SEGERS, KATHRYN WATSON AND CAROLINE LINTON UPDATED ON: JANUARY 6, 2021 / 12:01 PM / CBS NEWS
CBS News projects Democrat Raphael Warnock has defeated incumbent Senator Kelly Loeffler in Tuesday's Senate runoff election in Georgia, making history as the Peach State's first Black senator. The other race between incumbent GOP Senator David Perdue and Democrat Jon Ossoff leans Democratic as of Wednesday morning.
Gabe Sterling, a top Georgia election official, said about 65,000 votes remain uncounted Wednesday morning, mainly from areas where Democrats typically perform well. Ossoff enjoys a lead of just over 17,000 votes, or 0.4% of the vote.
If Democrats win both seats, there will be a 50-50 split in the Senate, with Vice President-elect Kamala Harris as the tie-breaking vote in her capacity as the president of the Senate.
"I'm just so very grateful to the people of Georgia," Warnock said Wednesday on "CBS This Morning." "They sent a strong and clear message last night when they sent a person who grew up in public housing, one of 12 children in my family, I'm the first college graduate. That I am serving in the United States Senate in a few days pushes against the grain of so many expectations. But this is America."
Marin County Update:
Update to the Board of Supervisors
Dr. Matt Willis (Public Health Officer) and Dr. Tyler Evans (Deputy Public Health Officer) presented an update at today’s Board of Supervisor’s meeting. Topics covered included COVID-19 case trends, current status of the Blueprint for a Safer Economy and the Stay-Home Order, and COVID-19 vaccine distribution.
WATCH ON YOUTUBE
RELATED RESOURCES:
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by Peter Mendoza Posted on January 5, 2021
Good Morning my Fabulous Marin CIL Family and Community,
I hope you all are doing well this morning. Today started early for me. I think I see a second cup of coffee in my future. Below is my PM Report for you. There is a lot going on. Sending you a smile today. Wishing you all a wonderful day.
County of Marin Update
New Year Message from the Public Health Officer
How does Dr. Matt Willis sum-up 2020 in one word? What was his most challenging aspect of the past year? And, what do some words from Bruce Springsteen have to do with our COVID-19 response? For answers to those questions and more, watch this video:
WATCH ON YOUTUBE
RECAP: Community Conversation with Schools Community
Earlier today, Dr. Matt Willis and Dr. Lisa Santora joined Marin Superintendent of Schools, Mary Jane Burke, for a virtual town hall discussion about the status of schools reopening to site-based instruction and COVID-19 data trends tied to classrooms. In addition, Dr. Santora reviewed Marin County’s effective mitigation strategies and the new “California Safe Schools for All” plan.
WATCH ON YOUTUBE
Data Map Updated to Show Cases by Census Tract
Today, our epidemiology team unveiled an updated version of the “Confirmed COVID-19 Cases by City and Community” map that can be found on the data & surveillance webpage. The new view provides a more granular view of case trends versus grouping the data by city or zip code. Most of Marin County’s data is now shown by census tract and has been updated to correspond to 2019 American Community Survey population estimates. However, because West Marin census tracts are so large, West Marin data is defined into regions that combine adjacent geographies where the cumulative total population for that area is greater than 1,000.
For compliance with confidentiality standards, case information is only shared for geographies with greater than 1,000 population and more than 10 cases cumulatively, after which day-to-day increases are permitted to be shared even if the daily increases are fewer than 10 cases. For all regions, both the cumulative and 30-day case counts are shown. Data for each jurisdiction can be accessed by clicking on an individual region or clicking on the downward arrow at the base of the map.
Sharing from the Marin Independent Journal
Newsom: State’s virus vaccination pace too slow
By ASSOCIATED PRESS |
PUBLISHED: January 4, 2021 at 8:13 p.m. | UPDATED: January 5, 2021 at 6:44 a.m.
SACRAMENTO — Only about 1% of California’s 40 million residents have been vaccinated against the coronavirus, setting a pace of immunization that’s “not good enough,” Gov. Gavin Newsom said Monday.
The Democratic governor said the state is trying to execute the massive vaccination campaign “with a sense of urgency that is required of this moment and the urgency that people demand.”
Still, the 454,000 doses of vaccine that have been administered in California represent just a third of the more than nearly 1.3 million received in the state so far, according to the California Department of Public Health. Distribution hiccups and logistical challenges — including hospitals having more vaccine doses available than people available to take them — have slowed the initial vaccine rollout in California.
Across the country, the pace of immunizations has gone slower than planned due to logistical hurdles and differing approaches across states and counties. On Monday, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said nearly 4.6 million shots have been dispensed.
For full article: Newsom: State’s virus vaccination pace too slow
Sharing from Cal OES
State Officials Announce Latest COVID-19 Facts
January 4, 2021 Monica Vargas
SACRAMENTO – Today the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced the most recent statistics on COVID-19, including data on intensive care unit (ICU) capacity across the state. Based on ICU data, four regions, San Joaquin Valley, Southern California, Greater Sacramento and the Bay Area continue under the Regional Stay at Home Order. Once a region’s four-week ICU projection shows a capacity of greater than or equal to 15%, the order will be lifted for that area.
Current Available ICU Capacity by Region
by Peter Mendoza Posted on January 4, 2021
Good Morning my Extraordinary Marin CIL Family and Community,
Welcome to the first PM Report of 2021! Happy New Year! I hope each of you were able to enjoy the new year and were able to get some rest and enjoy time with your bubble. This morning started early for me. Phone rang early….lots to do.
Breaking news: My wife Jennifer just let me know that KTVU channel 2 in Oakland reported that Zoom, slack, Microsoft Teams, and Gmail web are currently having periodic outages. Apparently, Slack is the platform primarily affected. I am hoping for a kinder, gentler 2021 for all of us. Sending a smile your way.
County of Marin Update
Stay Home Order: What’s the status?
One of the top questions we’ve received recently is, “when can Marin County – and the entire Bay Area – exit the State of California’s Regional Stay Home Order?”
The Bay Area region is scheduled to remain under the Regional Stay Home Order until January 8 at the earliest with potential to extend depending on four-week ICU capacity projections. On Friday, California Department of Public Health (CDPH) will begin issuing four-week ICU projections for the 11 county Bay Area.
The ICU capacity projections are based on four factors:
by Peter Mendoza Posted on December 30, 2020
Good Morning my Always Wonderful Marin CIL Family and Community,
I hope you are all doing well today. It is a brisk morning, which was cause for an extra cup of coffee as I write this blog this morning. As 2021 draws nigh I can’t help but think how different 2020 has been. Our society and our community has had to adapt to doing things much differently. Who would have thought that social distancing would become the mantra of the year. While during this time of year we take stock on our many accomplishments (and to think we did all of this with a pandemic) we also remember those who are experiencing hardship and everyone affected by Covid-19. I wish for a much kinder and gentler 2021 for all of us. Sending a virtual smile.
Marin County Update
COVID-19 Scams Are Out There: Protect Yourself from Fraud
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), predatory business practices are not going away even during one of the largest public health emergencies in modern history. Officials at the federal, state and local levels are encouraging everyone to be leery of cold calls, suspicious offers for fraudulent COVID-19 tests, grants, vaccine sign-up lists or other services.
Scammers are using telemarketing calls, text messages, social media platforms, door-to-door visits and many other tactics to commit COVID-19-related scams. Fraudsters are offering COVID-19 tests, HHS grants and Medicare prescription cards in exchange for personal details, including Medicare information. These services are illegal.
Tips on How to Protect Yourself (via HHS)
by Peter Mendoza Posted on December 29, 2020
Good Morning my Marin CIL Family and Community,
I hope you are all doing well today. Once again I was up before revelry. A lot happening in our world. Today’s PM report primarily focuses on Covid 19 related updates. Wishing you all the very best sending you a virtual smile.
Sharing from CDCAN
DECEMBER 27, 2020 - FEDERAL UPDATE
PRESIDENT SIGNS $900 BILLION CORONAVIRUS RELIEF PACKAGE TIED TO $1.4 TRILLION TO FUND THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 2021 - MEASURES TAKE EFFECT IMMEDIATELY
Congress Will Take Up Vote on Monday (December 28th) on New Legislation to Increase Stimulus Checks to $2,000 - But Prospects for Passage Are Uncertain With Key US Senate Republicans Opposed
SACRAMENTO, CA [BY MARTY OMOTO, CDCAN LAST UPDATED 12/27/2020 11:30 PM PACIFIC TIME] - After several days of threatening a veto, President Trump signed late Sunday afternoon (December 27th) the $1.4 trillion federal government funding measure and the $900 billion coronavirus relief funding package, averting a government shutdown, and continues several critical COVID-19 relief programs including stimulus checks and additional federal unemployment benefits.
The bill was signed by the president after the additional federal unemployment benefit program expired Saturday evening (after 11:59 PM), and it is not clear yet what the states need to do to resume that temporary program.
President Trump, despite threats in the past few days of a veto, signed the $2.3 trillion spending package from his Mar-a-Lago private club in Palm Beach, Florida.
The relief legislation includes direct payments of $600 per adult and per child. The amount per adult is half the $1,200 payments that were provided under the CARES Act enacted in March (see below for link to that and the other COVID_19 relief funding bills), but the amount per child is slightly larger than the $500 allowed under that law.
Two expiring CARES Act programs, Pandemic Unemployment Assistance, which made benefits available to the self-employed and gig economy workers, and Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation, which provided additional weeks of benefits, were extended for 11 weeks, averting a fiscal crisis for tens of millions of Americans.
The spending bill also includes $284 billion in funding for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which provided distressed small businesses with forgivable loans to keep them afloat and leave employees on the books.
Meanwhile, the US House of Representatives controlled by Democrats, will vote on Monday (December 28th) on new legislation that would increase the $600 in the coronavirus relief-government funding package to $2,000, an amount supported by Trump and Democratic leaders - but opposed by many key Republican Congressional leaders. That increase will likely pass the US House - controlled by Democrats - but face an extremely steep hill to win passage in the US Senate where key Senate Republicans remain opposed.
CDCAN NOTE: To receive the free CDCAN Reports, send email request to Marty Omoto (with "CDCAN Reports Subscribe" in the subject line) to: martyomoto@att.net
Legislation is Fifth Coronavirus Relief Bill
The relief package signed into law by President Trump, is the fifth coronavirus relief bill since April when it passed the 4th relief bill (HR 266 - the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act).
The US House did pass on May 15, 2020 (by a largely party-line vote of 208 to 199) the $3 trillion "Health and Economic Recovery Omnibus Emergency Solutions Act" or Heroes Act - HR 6800) - but the bill was blocked from any hearing or votes in the US Senate by US Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnel (Republican - Kentucky).
The sweeping agreement came after days of around-the-clock talks to reach a deal on funding the government and as leadership faced growing pressure from rank-and-file members from both parties in both houses to pass at least some coronavirus help before the end of the year. The agreement nearly was derailed with last minute demands by President Trump and a threat to veto the entire spending package which would have meant a government shutdown and expiration of key COVID-19 funding programs.
Trump Demands Congress Rescinds Some Spending Provisions and Increase Stimulus Checks
"I will sign the Omnibus and COVID package with a strong message that makes clear to Congress that wasteful items need to be removed," Trump said in a statement upon signing the spending bill "I will send back to Congress a redlined version, item by item, accompanied by the formal rescission request to Congress insisting that those funds be removed from the bill."
Presidents do not have the power or authority to blue pencil or line item veto items in a spending bill - unlike some governors - including California -who can reduce or eliminate levels of spending not required by state or federal law.
President Trump's "formal rescission" request that Congress rescind some of the spending in the funding package, will likely be ignored by Congress . The spending amounts and provisions in the bill were part of a deal reached December 20th (Sunday evening) by House and US Senate Democrats, Republicans and the White House (as represented by US Treasury Secretary Mnuchin).
Congress Passed the Coronavirus Relief and Spending Bill Last Week on December 21st
Congress last week (December 21st) passed the $1.4 trillion bill to fund the federal government at current levels through the end of the federal budget year (September 31, 2021) and the fifth coronavirus relief bill that provides over $900 billion in coronavirus relief.
The US Senate passed the bill late Monday evening on December 21st by a vote of 92 to 6 (the vote was not yet final at the writing of this report)..
US House passed the measure earlier on Monday evening (December 21st), with House Democratic leaders dividing the spending package to allow for two separate votes:
The first vote in the US House featured funding for several key federal agencies — including the Pentagon and Department of Homeland Security, that the House passed by a vote of 327 to 85, with the no votes split virtually evenly between Republicans and Democrats.
The second vote in the House earlier Monday evening (December 21st) combined funding for the remaining federal government agencies along with the COVID-19 relief funding, passing that by a vote of 359 to 53, with the opposition coming largely from conservative Republicans who were opposed to the enormous spending in the COVID-19 bill and its impact on the deficit.
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Major Provisions Not In the Bill
As previously reported last week by CDCAN, major funding for state and local governments - a major priority for Democrats - and liability protections - a major priority for Republicans - were left out of the agreement in order to break the stalemate and allow a much smaller relief bill to move forward. Democrats argue that more relief legislation will need to be enacted once President-elect Joe Biden takes office on January 20th, though Republicans are already resisting that idea.
Senate Majority Leader McConnell said Monday evening that he will "insist" that any COVID-19 relief next year - when the Biden Administration will take office - must include protections against coronavirus-related lawsuits.
"I think liability relief is really important," McConnell said during an interview on Fox News. "And if there is another coronavirus relief bill after the first of the year, I'm going to insist that liability protection for these universities and health care providers is a part of it."
What the Coronavirus Relief Bill Contains
The following, compiled by CDCAN, are the major provisions of the over $900 billion coronavirus relief bill that Congress passed (December 21st) and that President Trump signed into law on Sunday (December 27, 2020). Both houses would have to approve any increase in the stimulus checks that Trump said he wanted, a prospect - at this moment in time - seems unlikely in the Republican controlled US Senate. :
by Peter Mendoza Posted on December 28, 2020
Good Morning my Marin CIL Community and Family,
I hope you are all doing well today and were able to get some rest over the holidays. It was a quiet Christmas, gathering with family in our bubble, which included a conference call with my brother Michael. I caught up on some rest, which I thoroughly enjoyed. We enjoyed chocolate and sugar cookies from family friends and we watched a movie "Jingle, Jangle, and Things".....a wonderful movie that I whole-heartedly recommend. Below is the PM Report for you. Sending each of you a virtual smile this morning. Happy Monday!
Sharing from the Marin Independent Journal
Marin judge might let San Quentin inmates relocate over virus
By RICHARD HALSTEAD | rhalstead@marinij.com | Marin Independent Journal
PUBLISHED: December 26, 2020 at 11:36 a.m. | UPDATED: December 26, 2020 at 4:51 p.m.
A Marin County judge might soon begin ordering the transfer of San Quentin State Prison inmates to other prisons in response to a wave of coronavirus safety complaints.
Some inmates, however, might prefer to remain where they are if they can’t be released. Charles Carbone, a prisoner rights lawyer in San Francisco, said that is because “right now everywhere else is hotter than San Quentin.”
As of Saturday, there were 9,155 active coronavirus cases among inmates at California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation sites throughout the state. Ten prisons had 500 or more cases, but San Quentin had just four, the third least of any prison in the state.
“We are in COVID freefall in our prisons,” Carbone said. “The numbers are just skyrocketing. There is no end in sight.”
The situation at San Quentin, however, has changed dramatically since the summer. Coronavirus infections at the prison began to climb dramatically in June after 121 inmates were transferred there from the California Institution for Men in Chino, where an outbreak was already underway. It was later revealed that the inmates who were transferred were tested for the virus, but not close to the transfer date.
Cases at San Quentin exploded, reaching their height at around 1,413 on July 8. Eventually, 2,152 of San Quentin’s population of 2,763 inmates would contract the virus, and 28 would die, more than at any other prison in the state. Nevertheless, by Aug. 7 there were only seven active cases at San Quentin.
Regarding San Quentin’s low case count now, Carbone said, “That is what happens when you get two-thirds of the population infected.”
During the summer, when the virus was still spreading rapidly at San Quentin, inmates there began filing petitions with the court. The inmates asserted that their continued incarceration during the severe outbreak violated the Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits “cruel and unusual punishment.”
For full article: Marin judge might let San Quentin inmates relocate over virus
A Tidbit from Me: The disability community and Centers for Independent Living have been paying particular attention to the outbreak of Covid-19 in California’s prison system. According to the Sacramento Bee, “More than half of the California prison inmates who’ve died after contracting the coronavirus as of early this week had disabilities known to the state corrections department” Article: About half of California prison inmates killed by COVID-19 were disabled, advocates say
The Independent Living Movement considers all people with disabilities living in institutional settings, including correctional institutions, our brothers and sisters. Meaning, regardless of what offenses they may have committed their rights must be respected including their right to access quality medical care. To learn more about this important civil rights issue please reach out to us.
Relief bill might stop Golden Gate Bridge district layoffs
By WILL HOUSTON | whouston@marinij.com |
PUBLISHED: December 22, 2020 at 1:26 p.m. | UPDATED: December 22, 2020 at 5:56 p.m.
Nearly 150 Bay Area bus and ferry workers facing layoffs in less than two weeks might be keeping their jobs after a new federal coronavirus relief package was sent to President Donald Trump’s desk on Tuesday.
In response to the $900 billion relief package, the governing board for the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District is set to meet on Wednesday to consider rescinding its Nov. 13 decision to lay off 146 bus and ferry employees and to cut pay by 10% for its managers, administrators and board members through furloughs.
“We’re thrilled,” said Denis Mulligan, the district’s general manager. “It’s a welcome lifeline and it couldn’t have happened any later.”
Shane Weinstein, president of the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1575 that represents about 250 bus drivers with the district, said the meeting came as “very welcome news” to the many workers who face losing their jobs in less than two weeks.
“I just know that this right here is going to be able to give us some more time and more space for the vaccine to take effect,” Weinstein said.
The new coronavirus stimulus package includes $14 billion for mass transit, of which about $975 million is expected to go to Bay Area transit agencies, according to the Metropolitan Transportation Commission.
For full article: Relief bill might stop Golden Gate Bridge district layoffs
A Tidbit from Me: This is wonderful news for the disability community. Golden Gate transit serves the 101 corridor from Santa Rosa to San Francisco and also connects with El Cerrito BART. People with disabilities and older adults are more dependent on public transportation to live, work, and recreate in their communities. Marin CIL is a member of the Golden Gate Bridge Highway and Transportation District Accessibility Advisory Committee. The role of the Accessibility Advisory Committee is to provide technical assistance to Golden Gate Bridge’ staff and Board of Directors to ensure that the district bus and ferry system is accessible and useable by all people with disabilities. The next meeting of the ACA is January 14, 2021 1:30 pm. For further information regarding the ACA, call Jon Gaffney, ADA Compliance and Program Manager, at (415) 257-4416 or email jgaffney@goldengate.org. Feel free to reach out to Marin CIL if you need support or need more information about accessible transit options in Marin County and North Bay.
Sharing from the ARC of California
The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) is requesting your assistance and guidance in updating its Office of Access and Functional Needs (OAFN) Library.
The purpose of OAFN is to identify the needs of individuals with disabilities and others with access and functional needs before, during and after disasters and to integrate them into the State’s emergency management systems.
OAFN utilizes a whole community approach by offering training and guidance to emergency managers and planners, disability advocates and other service providers responsible for planning for, responding to and helping communities recover from disasters. In short, OAFN plans for the realities of disasters by integrating access and functional needs into everything Cal OES does including partnership development, outreach, training, guidance and providing technical assistance.
The OAFN provides resources to support this effort, that are industry best practices, and aims to be the “go to” resource for emergency managers and planners.
Do you know of a resource that you would like to see ADDED or UPDATED on the OAFN Library (https://www.caloes.ca.gov/individuals-families/access-functional-needs/afn-library)?
Please submit your recommendations here: https://bit.ly/3peJD3y.
Email any questions to Janlia Riley at janlia@constantassociates.com, or call (424) 320-2583.
Source: Office of Access and Functional Needs (OAFN) Library
Sharing from the National Low-Income Housing Coalition
Statement from NLIHC President and CEO Diane Yentel on the COVID Relief Bill with Emergency Relief for Renters Signed into Law by President Trump
Dec 28, 2020
WASHINGTON, DC – President Trump signed last night, December 27, the coronavirus relief bill passed by Congress last week that will provide immediate and essential relief to millions of struggling renters, preventing tens of millions of people from losing their homes in January. The new law extends the CDC’s federal eviction moratorium through January 31, keeping struggling renters housed and preventing further spread of and deaths from COVID-19, and includes $25 billion in emergency rental assistance. The law also extends the spending deadline for certain coronavirus relief funds, some of which are allocated for rental assistance.
The CDC eviction moratorium was set to expire on Dec. 31. At that time, renters will owe an estimated $30B to $70B in back rent, more than they can possibly pay off. If the president had not signed the bill into law with an extension of the eviction moratorium, tens of millions of people would have been at risk of losing their homes with catastrophic consequences – for children, families, communities, and our country’s ability to contain the pandemic. Increased evictions would have led to increased spread of, and potentially deaths from, COVID-19.
For full Statement: Statement from NLIHC President and CEO Diane Yentel on the COVID Relief Bill with Emergency Relief for Renters Signed into Law by President Trump
A Tidbit from Me: Marin CIL is working with our partners Legal Aid of Marin, Fair Housing Advocates of Northern California, and the Marin Organizing Committee to create more opportunities for accessible and affordable housing in Marin. During the Covid-19 pandemic Marin CIL has been working together with our community organization partners, people with disabilities, older adults, and public officials to identify disparities impacting underserved communities. In response the Marin County Board of Supervisors has approved an emergency resolution to prevent residents, families, and business owners from being evicted because of a sudden loss of income tied to the Covid-19 pandemic. This ban is in effect countywide in every city, town, and unincorporated area of Marin County. The ordinance was extended through September 2020. Additionally, Marin Health and Human Services, with the direction of the Marin County Board of Supervisors, has launched the Emergency Rental Assistance Program. This program supports people who are at risk of homelessness and need rental assistance to prevent eviction due to a loss of income from the COVID-19 pandemic. The Marin County Board of Supervisors and the Marin Community Foundation have joined together to provide $2 million in rental assistance to residents whose livelihoods have been affected by the Coronavirus pandemic. To learn more about Marin CIL’s initiatives that support the availability of accessible, affordable housing for our communities please feel free to reach out to us.
by Peter Mendoza Posted on December 21, 2020
Good Morning, my Marin CIL community and family!
I hope you are all doing well today. This week, the PM Report will be paused for the Holidays. Yours truly is trying to remember how to take a vacation. My family tells me this is a skill that I really need to master.
I want to wish everyone Happy Holidays. Please be safe. Stay home. Wear a mask. Enjoy time with your bubble and visiting relatives and friends remotely.
Many people. Especially during the Holidays, are facing housing insecurity and access to basic resources. I wanted to share some important information on the Marin County Emergency Rental Assistance Program.
The program is currently open and accepting applicants. If you or anyone you know needs emergency rental assistance, there are three easy steps to apply.
by Peter Mendoza Posted on December 18, 2020
Good Morning my Incredibly Fantastic Marin CIL Family in Community,
I hope you are all doing well this morning. I thoroughly enjoyed our virtual holiday party with my Marin CIL family yesterday. It was fun sharing family holiday stories and breaking bread during this pivotal time in our history. 2020 transformed and affected all of us and caused us as individuals and as an agency to adapt to a new way of doing what we do….keeping Marin CIL’s mission and vision at the forefront of everything we do. Wishing you all a wonderful day. Sending a virtual smile your way. Happy Holidays to you, your family, and community.
Sharing from the County of Marin
More Free COVID-19 Testing on its Way in Marin
County partners with Curative to collect self-administered oral swab test
San Rafael, CA – Free COVID-19 testing by oral swab is coming to Marin County. Five rotating locations will offer coronavirus testing by online appointment for anybody, whether insured or not, as early as December 21.
The County of Marin has partnered with Curative, which offers a novel coronavirus test that has a higher clinical sensitivity than nasal cavity swab tests. The simple, painless test is self-collected, and results are returned within 48 hours by email or text. To date, Curative has distributed more than 5 million test results nationwide and is processing about 70,000 test kits per day with plenty of capacity.
Local test collection locations will rotate around Marin County, and online appointments via the Curative website will be available beginning four days before opening day at each location.
Here’s the schedule:
by Peter Mendoza Posted on December 17, 2020
Good Morning my Wonderful Family in Community,
I hope you are all doing well today. First, I wanted to take a moment to wish my friend and PCA (Sarah) a heartfelt Happy Birthday! She is probably going to kill me for mentioning this….I think it’s important to honor those who support our community to do the things we do every day. Happy Birthday Sarah thanks for being there for me so early in the morning and sometimes late into the night. Wishing all of my valued leaders a wonderful day!
Breaking News: Advocacy to Protect Home and Community Based Services Needs to Happen NOW. Make your voice heard!
Sharing from Justice In Aging
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by Peter Mendoza Posted on December 16, 2020
Good Morning my family in community,
I hope you are all doing well this morning. There is quite a bit packed into today’s PM Morning Report so let’s get right to it. Have a great day. Waving “hello” to you this morning.
Breaking News
Disability Rights California and Covington & Burling, LLP Seek Emergency Court Action to Release Medically Vulnerable Patients from Crowded State Mental Health Hospital and Save Lives in the Midst of Surging COVID-19 Outbreak
110 patients with mental health disabilities test positive in ten days; 10 dead since start of pandemic
Dec 15, 2020
(Los Angeles, CA) Yesterday, Disability Rights California (DRC) and Covington & Burling filed an emergency motion in federal court to force the Department of State Hospitals (DSH) to discharge medically vulnerable patients from Patton State Hospital, one of the largest psychiatric hospitals in the country that is in the midst of a massive and deadly COVID-19 outbreak.
Hundreds of patients who are involuntarily confined at Patton State Hospital have conditions that put them at high risk for severe illness or death from COVID-19.
In the last 10 days, more than 110 patients have tested positive for COVID-19. One patient, Sgt. Ricardo Tapia, a decorated Marine veteran with a traumatic brain injury, recently described the hospital as a “ticking time bomb.” He tested positive for COVID-19 this week.
The outbreak has been deadly. Since COVID-19 entered Patton’s patient population, 10 patients have died, at least 11 more have required acute hospitalization. One Patton patient, James Moore, has been fighting to get moved to a safer setting, stating, “[w]ith all of my medical conditions, I do not know if I will survive the pandemic.” Mr. Moore also tested positive for the virus last week and was hospitalized with difficulty breathing, coughing up blood, and running a persistent fever.
The outbreak at Patton was predictable and avoidable. In March 2020, the State authorized the Director of California Department of State Hospitals, to take whatever steps were necessary to protect the patients in her custody and care with Executive Order N-35-20.1 To this day, Director Clendenin has not issued a single directive to get patients out of Patton.
For full article: Disability Rights California and Covington & Burling, LLP Seek Emergency Court Action to Release Medically Vulnerable Patients from Crowded State Mental Health Hospital and Save Lives in the Midst of Surging COVID-19 Outbreak
Sharing from our friends at PG & E
Pacific Gas and Electric Company’s (PG&E) primary responsibility is the safety of the customers and communities we are proud to serve. On Wednesday, December 16, we are inviting our customers to join us for an interactive safety town hall. During this town hall, customers will hear about our work to prevent wildfires, get answers to their questions and have an opportunity to share feedback with our team.
We encourage you to share this invitation with anyone who would be interested in learning more about:
by Peter Mendoza Posted on December 15, 2020
Good Morning my Family in Community,
I hope you are doing well on this very cool morning. I am at my computer very early this morning. There is a lot on my calendar. I am contemplating whether I should have a second cup of coffee. I think the answer is yes! Lot’s to do…so here you go. Have a great day. Be good to yourselves and each other.
Breaking News
24 professionals named for North Bay Nonprofit Leadership Awards in 2020 including Marin CIL’s own Kathleen Woodcock. Kathleen serves as our Director of Community Resources and Fund Development and is an indispensable member of our team. 2020 has been a transformative time for Marin CIL. We are extremely proud of Kathleen and our entire organization for the great work they do supporting the independence of people with disabilities and older adults in Marin County. Marin CIL would also like to extend a heart-felt congratulations to our friends and partners Omar Carrera CEO of Canal Alliance and Paul Fordham, Deputy Executive Director for Homeward Bound who are also receiving this prestigious award. Congratulations Kathleen and all the winners. Thanks for all the work you do in support of our communities every day.
Source: 24 professionals named for North Bay Nonprofit Leadership Awards in 2020
County of Marin Update
COVID-19 Vaccine Doses Headed to Marin County
Late last week, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine, and California’s COVID-19 Scientific Safety Review Workgroup confirmed the vaccine to be safe and efficacious. Clinical trials show the vaccine is 90% effective at preventing the SARS-CoV-2 virus which causes COVID-19.
[VIEW MESSAGE FROM DR. WILLIS ON YOUTUBE]
This is an exciting moment and a new chapter in Marin County’s COVID-19 response. Later this week, the initial doses of this new vaccine will arrive in Marin County and we’ll begin the process of vaccinating those at highest risk of contracting COVID-19, including our frontline health care workers at hospitals and skilled nursing facilities. Vaccine production is in its infant stages and supplies are currently limited. While the vaccine is scarce, Marin Public Health will prioritize distribution based on the likelihood of exposure to the virus at work, or to vulnerability to serious illness if infected. It may be a few months before the vaccine is available to the general population.
Vaccine is essential to bring COVID-19 under control, but the virus is raging now. We must focus on what we can do today to save lives. It is critical for people to protect themselves and their families by wearing face coverings in public, not mixing with other households, washing hands regularly and maintaining physical distancing. Even after we have safe, effective vaccine to offer the public, all these measures will be important for ending the pandemic.
New Webpage for COVID-19 Vaccine Information
Marin Public Health has launched a new COVID-19 Vaccine webpage at Coronavirus.MarinHHS.org/vaccine. There, you can find ongoing updates about the COVID-19 vaccination effort in Marin, answers to frequently asked questions, and a library of resources for providers and the general public.
A great opportunity for students with disabilities (Please share far and wide)
The 2021 YLF application deadline has been extended to January 29, 2021.
The California Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities (CCEPD) has extended the application deadline for the 2021 Virtual Youth Leadership Forum for Students with Disabilities (YLF). Please provide this information to any organizations and contacts you have that work with youth to help us get a diverse and qualified group of applicants.
YLF is a six-day summer self-advocacy and leadership development program for students with disabilities, including post-YLF workshops after the weeklong event (workshop dates and times to be determined). The 2021 YLF is scheduled for July 11 – 16 virtually using the Zoom platform. All reasonable accommodation expenses are sponsored through a public-private partnership.
Young people with disabilities have more opportunities and more challenges than at any other time in our nation’s history. With the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), they have unprecedented opportunities to fully develop as constructive, contributing members of our society. However, many need encouragement and information about resources to develop as leaders in their communities. The forum enables them to learn from each other and from successful adults with disabilities who are recognized leaders and role models. Such a forum benefits not only the participants, but all young people with disabilities, communities in general, and the adults who assist in producing the forum.
Please note that an earlier version of this email stated that there was a possibility of the event being hosted partially in person. Since that announcement was sent, the YLF planning partners have decided that the 2021 event will be hosted fully online.
Students must complete an application, write an essay and provide letters of recommendations. Students will also be interviewed by a YLF partner team in their local communities. This is a competitive process and not all students will be selected. Applicants must be sophomores, juniors or seniors during the 2020-21 school year ending by June 30 to be eligible to apply.
YLF applications must be completed electronically and emailed to ylf@dor.ca.gov. The deadline to apply is January 29, 2021.
The 2021 application and related documents, including an outreach flyer, can be found at https://www.dor.ca.gov/Home/YLF.
For other questions, please call the CCEPD office at 855-894-3436 or email us at YLF@dor.ca.gov.
A Tidbit from Me: If you need more information or need assistance navigating the application process please reach out to Marin CIL.
Sharing from our friends and partners at the Department of Developmental Services
The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) wants to hear from you about your experiences working with your regional center and service providers during COVID-19. Please take a few minutes to answer the survey below. DDS will share the combined information on its website. Individual responses will not be shared.
DDS: Self-Advocate and Family Survey
Sharing from the Marin Independent Journal
Marin’s coronavirus surge: 2 more deaths, 1 ICU bed remains
By MATTHEW PERA | mpera@marinij.com |
PUBLISHED: December 14, 2020 at 7:25 p.m. | UPDATED: December 15, 2020 at 7:20 a.m.
Marin’s coronavirus infections continued to snowball over the weekend, as health officials reported two more people died of COVID-19 and just one intensive care bed remained in the county’s hospitals.
The fatalities, both reported on Sunday, brought Marin’s death toll to 106 since the beginning of the pandemic, according to county data.
By Monday, Marin’s remaining ICU bed availability had dipped to 3% after three more COVID-19 patients were transferred to intensive care on Sunday.
County data showed that 28 ICU beds were filled out of the 29 for which staff are available in Marin’s hospitals. Eleven of those beds were occupied by coronavirus patients.
For full article: Marin’s coronavirus surge: 2 more deaths, 1 ICU bed remains
The goal of the PM Report is to share information that is relevant and meaningful to our communities in support of enhancing full participation through community engagement and advocacy opportunities. Please feel free to send Peter Mendoza (Marin CIL's Director of Advocacy and Special Projects) any announcements or updates that you feel would be beneficial to our communities. If you have any questions or comments please feel free to reach out to Peter at: peter@marincil.org or (415) 234-3840.
by Peter Mendoza Posted on December 14, 2020
Good Morning my Family in Community,
I hope you are all doing well today. Lot’s happening in our world and I’ve been on the go. Raising my Mocha in your honor today. My calendar just beeped…..time for a meeting. Have a wonderful day. Sending you a smile!
Sharing from the Marin Independent Journal
Marin City critics blast county over fast-tracked housing
By LORENZO MOROTTI | lmorotti@marinij.com | Marin Independent Journal
PUBLISHED: December 13, 2020 at 11:19 a.m. | UPDATED: December 14, 2020 at 6:57 a.m.
Marin City residents and community leaders say they are unhappy with the county’s fast-track approval of a five-story, 74-apartment complex on Drake Avenue.
At an online meeting on Thursday with county planning representatives, Marin City leaders said the county should have denied the plan. They argued that the community, one of the more racially diverse in Marin, already has the highest density of multi-family zoning in the county.
Critics also said the project will add traffic congestion to a fire-prone area with limited emergency egress, critics said.
Marin Community Services District board member Terrie Green said there are predominantly White communities in Marin that lack affordable housing.
For Full Article: Marin City critics blast county over fast-tracked housing
A Tidbit from Me: As a young person my second apartment was in Marin City. The people who live in the community are vibrant. This valued community has been often times overlooked when it comes to receiving safetynet services and opportunities to achieve economic independence that have been offered to other communities in Marin. The concern expressed in this article once again raises issues relating to racial equality and equity.
Sharing from the ARC of California
Disability Thrive Initiative Launch
Dear Family/Self Advocate,
You are invited to participate in a FREE Webinar on Wednesday, December 16, 2020 from 3:00 to 4:15 p.m. introducing California’s Disability Thrive Initiative. The Initiative was launched in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the shift in how your regional center services are currently being delivered to you and/or your family member to keep you as safe as possible.
Throughout 2021, the Disability Thrive Initiative will deliver free webinars, support, and a resource library to help the IDD community with the alternative services offered during the public health crisis.
To join the LIVE online event, please REGISTER EARLY at DisabilityThriveInitiative.org/Webinar. Interpreters will be available for ASL and Spanish..
We strongly encourage you to take part in the webinars, and to stay connected to the Disability Thrive Initiative through their social media channels, so you can stay informed of the latest information about COVID-19 and its impact to your services.
Source: Disability Thrive Initiative Launch
COVID-19 Department of Developmental Services and CA Department of Public Health Update
Last Friday the Developmental Services Taskforce met to provide an update for stakeholders throughout the state. The Department shared their concern that there is an alarming increase in the number of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the state that are testing positive for COVID-19, an increase in hospital admissions, and an increase in deaths. The Department is tracking the number of new cases, and hospital admission so they can work with individuals, families, and providers to continue to identify trends and develop strategies to slow the spread of COVID, provide care for people who have tested positive, and plan accordingly for surge capacity. Complicating the issue is the increase number of direct support professionals and family members that are testing positive. Accurate data is essential to developing interventions, so the Department is requesting that if someone in the household – clients, family members, direct support person – tests positive they contact their service coordinator to let them know.
Dr. Ron Chapman, California Department of Public Health, spoke to the DS Task Force about the COVID-19 Vaccine and the work that is being done at the state level to address issues of priority and distribution. The California Department of Health and Human Services Agency, CA Department of Public Health, had created a Community Vaccine Advisory Committee to address issues specific to equitable vaccine implementation and decision-making. The disability community is well represented on the Advisory Committee as the State Council on Developmental Disabilities, Disability Rights CA, Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund, are among the members of the Advisory Committee. The Advisory Committee will meet 6 more times between now and February 17, 2021. If you are interested in learning more about the work of the Advisory Committee visit: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/Community-Vaccine-Advisory-Committee.aspx.
The first round of doses of the vaccine are expected to arrive in CA early this week and be prioritized for frontline workers in hospitals and health care. The CDPH is projecting that there will be approximately 2 million doses in California by the end of December. The CDPH has published recommended guidelines based on a phased approach to vaccine distribution which can be found here: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/CDPH-Allocation-Guidelines-for-COVID-19-Vaccine-During-Phase-1A-Recommendations.aspx.
Source: COVID-19 Department of Developmental Services and CA Department of Public Health Update
A Tidbit from Me: Christina Mills, Executive Director of the California Foundation of Independent Living Centers is a member of the Community Vaccine Advisory Committee.
Mark your calendars: SCDD will be hosting upcoming community meetings:
SCDD will be hosting community input sessions to share information, explore your concerns and establish plans for ongoing communication regarding Vaccine Committee activities.
Wednesday, December 16th – 8:30-10:00 AM
Register in advance for this meeting:
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJErf-6opj8rHdVUdpiTtMCY04VmLDQRiMPC
Thursday, December 17th – 11:30 AM-1:00 PM
Register in advance for this meeting:
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJEtdeCurzMuH9bNtIlBGSpcZOuDK2DQCfif
Thursday, December 17th – 6:00-7:30 PM
Register in advance for this meeting:
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJYud-quqzMiGdJJVwMd6CDV66zWFRDBNzvA
Friday, December 18th – 3:30-5:00 PM
Register in advance for this meeting:
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJElduihpjwiHdXKP1X-vWiIx98FL_CTlqzc
If you would like to request reasonable accommodations, contact Charlotte Endres of SCDD by emailing Charlotte.Endres@scdd.ca.gov.
If you cannot join one of these sessions but want to contribute comments or concerns please fill out our survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VZ5J5JK.
This is a time sensitive, special opportunity to hear from other stakeholders and learn about committee information. SCDD’s intention is to share regionally informed, specific concerns within our community directly with the Governor’s CVAC.
Sharing from CBS 13
‘It’s Ridiculous’: Man In Wheelchair Says It Took Days And An Ambulance To Get To Testing Site After COVID-19 Exposure
By Marlee Ginter December 13, 2020 at 11:31 pm
SACRAMENTO (CBS13) – A nightmare mission to get a COVID-19 test took one man on a wild ride to a testing site.
After being exposed to COVID-19 when one of his caregivers tested positive, Russell Rawlings told CBS13 he never imagined it would be so difficult to get tested.
“It’s scary honestly, and I didn’t expect it to be,” said Rawlings.
Rawlings, who has cerebral palsy, is an active voice for those with disabilities. He said it took him several days and an ambulance to get to a COVID-19 testing site.
“They’d never had people even ask about these things. They hadn’t thought about it because I guess no one has ever raised the flag with them,” said Rawlings.
“Then we couldn’t even get a caregiver to come in in the evenings because we were all exposed and no one wanted to come in and work, obviously,” said Rawlings’ roommate and live-in caregiver Aleathea Simmons.
To make matters worse, Rawlings said by the time he arrived in the ambulance, he was 10 minutes past his appointment time and everyone had left for lunch.
“So here I was strapped to a gurney in a parking lot for a little over an hour,” said Rawlings.
Source: ‘It’s Ridiculous’: Man In Wheelchair Says It Took Days And An Ambulance To Get To Testing Site After COVID-19 Exposure
Tidbit from Me: Russell is a good friend of mine who is also the Statewide Community Organizer for the California Foundation for Independent Living Centers. He supports the Systems Change Hub which is part of the Disability Organizing Network (DOnet). The Disability Organizing Network consists of community members with disabilities and staff from Independent Living Centers (including Marin CIL). Russell’s story brings up health care disparities people with disabilities and older adults experience in their every day life. These disparities have been amplified because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Sharing from CDCAN
IMPORTANT STAKEHOLDER PUBLIC MEETINGS TODAY AND LATER THIS WEEK COVERING:
by Peter Mendoza Posted on December 11, 2020
Good Morning my Family in Community,
Happy Friday! Yesterday the PM Morning Report took a pause because yours truly was having some disability and technology issues. It comes under the category of “stuff happens”. All is good. Have a great weekend. Here is the PM Morning Report for you.
County of Marin Update
“Answering The Call” Crucial to Contact Tracing Success
A crucial tool in slowing the spread of COVID-19 in any community is contact tracing. Contact tracing is when public health workers identify and notify the people who were exposed to infected people. They let them know that they’ve been in close contact with an infected person, and what to do next to keep themselves and their loved ones safe. Public health departments have used contact tracing for decades to fight the spread of infectious diseases.
How does it work?
Public health workers contact those who have tested positive by phone. People who have tested positive may be asked about people they were with who they may have exposed while they were contagious. Public health workers then call those close contacts to let them know that they may have been exposed. When they do this, they keep the name of the person who tested positive confidential.
Contact tracers will:
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by Peter Mendoza Posted on December 9, 2020
Good Morning my Absolutely Wonderful Family in Community,
I hope you are doing well today. There is a lot packed into today’s PM Morning Report for you.
I wanted to draw your attention to tómmorrows Marin Commission on Aging Townhall. The speakers will be Senator Mike McGuire and Assemblyman Marc Levine. Marin CIL participates on the Legislative Committee of the Marin Commission on Aging which played a key role in planning tomorrow discussion. See below for more information:
Sending you a smile as I have a second cup of coffee in your honor.
Sharing from the Marin Commission on Aging
You’re Invited to a Town Hall Meeting with Senator Mike McGuire and Assemblyman Marc Levine.
Thursday, December 10, 2020
10 - 11 a.m.
This event will focus on relevant issues for older adults in Marin County, including information and coordination during natural disasters, the COVID-19 pandemic, affordable housing, housing the homeless, and California’s Master Plan for Aging.
Senator Mike McGuire
Senator Mike McGuire represents the 2nd Senate District which includes Del Norte, Humboldt, Lake, Marin, Mendocino, Sonoma and Trinity Counties. He was elected to the state senate in 2016 and has led efforts to invest in roads, bridges, and highways, is an advocate for strong public schools, and the environment.
Assemblyman Marc Levine
Assemblyman Marc Levine represents the 10th State Assembly District- Marin and Southern Sonoma Counties. He is focused on representing the local interests of Marin and Sonoma, protecting our environment, and supporting our schoolsand universities.
Moderated by:
Lee Pullen, Director, Area Agency on Aging, County of Marin
11:15 a.m. Commission on Aging Business Meeting
Members of the public are encouraged to attend!
MARIN COUNTY COMMISSION ON AGING
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8526641821?pwd=S3ZlQzdDQ0R0aC9INWo3Y0NwM01nQT09
Meeting ID: 852 664 1821
Passcode: 94903
Dial in number 1+ (669) 900-6833
County of Marin Update
VIDEO: COVID-19 Update to the Board of Supervisors
Today, Dr. Matt Willis updated the Marin County Board of Supervisors about the current COVID-19 response. His update provided greater detail about surges in cases locally and nationwide, rationale for adopting the state’s Regional Stay Home Order, an overview of new local and state restrictions, new details on COVID-19 vaccine efforts in Marin County, and more.
WATCH ON YOUTUBE
The Regional Stay Home Order: What is allowed to operate?
As of today, December 8 at 12pm, the State of California’s Regional Stay Home Order is in effect for Marin County. Under the Stay Home order, all gatherings with members of other households are prohibited, except as expressly permitted in the State’s Regional Stay Home order. The intent of the order is to reduce gatherings and activity in our communities to stop the spread of COVID-19. The Regional Stay Home Order asks all individuals to stay home or at their place of residence as much as possible, except to complete only the most essential tasks, like go to the doctor, buy groceries, take your child to school, go on a hike, or worship outdoors.
The Regional Stay Home Order affects business operations in several industries. Here is an overview of businesses that must close, modify operations or can continue under the order. For further clarification, please visit the State of California’s Regional Stay Home Order webpage.
Arts & Entertainment
by Peter Mendoza Posted on December 8, 2020
Good Morning my Family in Community,
I hope you are all doing well this morning. I am working really hard to get my motor running…..and I’m not talking about my powerchair. It is definitely a multiple coffee day. Here is my PM Morning Report for you. Wishing you the most fabulous day.
County of Marin Update:
Marin County COVID-19 Status Update: December 7, 2020
The Marin County COVID-19 Status Update is published weekdays and as needed to share important news and resources related to the COVID-19 pandemic and to keep the local economy running. We remain here for you.
New Stay-Home Order Starts Tomorrow: What’s Open?
The Stay-Home order goes into effect in Marin County tomorrow (Tuesday) at 12-noon. We understand the State’s Regional Stay-Home Order is has left some room for interpretation and have been doing what we can to navigate questions received by our call center (415-473-7191) and our COVID-19 response team (contact them here).
The state has created a helpful FAQ on their Regional Stay-Home Order information webpage and we have updated the “Guidelines for Businesses” section of MarinRecovers.com to help guide industries about necessary business changes. As we continue to receive clarification from the state regarding those “gray area” questions, we’ll continue to update those resources at MarinRecovers.com.
In addition, two webinars will be held this week to help provide further clarification. Find details for those two events below.
Schools & Public Health Community Meeting
The Marin Office of Education will host a virtual community meeting with Marin Public Health to provide an updated on COVID-19 in Marin County and the current situation at Marin County schools. All Marin County school and parent/guardian communities are invited to participate. English & Spanish available. More information available online.
Panelists:
Dr. Matt Willis – Public Health Officer
Dr. Lisa Santora – Deputy Public Health Officer
Tuesday, December 8, 11:00am to 12:00pm
How to participate:
Online: Zoom.us
Call-in: 1 (669) 900-6833
Webinar ID: 838-1396-3089#
Passcode: 083245
Community Conversation Event – “The Stay-Home Order: Q&A For Businesses”
We understand the Stay-Home Order arrived quickly for everyone, especially our businesses. Join us for a virtual town hall meeting especially for businesses as we tackle your questions about the new Stay-Home order. Questions will be taken during the event.
Panelists:
Dr. Matt Willis – Public Health Officer
Max Korten – Coordinator for Marin Recovers Industry Advisors
Wednesday, December 9, 2:00pm to 3:00pm
How to participate:
Online: Zoom.us
Call-in: 1 (669) 900-6833
Webinar ID: 956 2661 1169
Attendee ID: #
Passcode: 074775
District Attorney, Fairfax PD Address False Social Media Post about Swastika Case
San Rafael, CA -- A recent social media post falsely attributed information from the Marin County District Attorney's Office and Fairfax Police Department about an incident involving a man posting Nazi swastika stickers around downtown Fairfax in late November.
District Attorney Lori Frugoli said a post on Facebook falsely indicated that the incident was staged. She said no such information exists, nor has any such information been relayed to her office or Fairfax Police.
On November 24, a resident videotaped another individual placing the swastika stickers and contacted Fairfax Police. Officers contacted the individual, documented the incident, and forwarded a report to the District Attorney’s Office. The case is under investigation and any information regarding the status of the case will be issued by the respective offices.
“We take incidents of hateful conduct and hate crimes seriously as we know how harmful this conduct is to our community,” Frugoli said. “Intentional and unintentional posting of false information about the case compounds the harm to our community and those who have the courage to step forward and report incidents and crimes of hate. Please take a moment to check sources before sharing or posting information that could be harmful to our community.”
The DA’s Office and Fairfax Police encourage and support the reporting of crimes of hate and hateful incidents to local law enforcement agencies. Messages may be left on the Marin County District Attorney's Hate Crime Hot Line at 415-473-2585.
You have subscribed to News Releases & Advisories for Marin County. This information has recently been updated.
Visit the Newsroom to view all County news releases.
Sharing from CDCAN:
Governor Appoints Tomas Aragon As New Director of the California Department of Public Health - Appoints Elizabeth Landsberg as Director of the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development - Appoints Mary Watanabe As Director of Department of Managed Health Care
Governor Gavin Newsom announced today (December 7th) three key health related appointments including tapping Tomas Aragon, the Health Officer for the City and County of San Francisco, to fill the position of director of the California Department of Public Health - the critical state agency in charge of leading California's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sandra Shewry, MPH, MSW, vice president of External Engagement for the California Health Care Foundation (CHCF), was named on August 21, 2020, as acting director of the California Department of Public Health. Shewry, who served from 2004-2007 as director of the California Department of Health Care Services, was brought on as acting director to fill the vacancy caused by the abrupt resignation of Dr. Sonia Angell late Sunday evening, August 9th. Her resignation came less than a week after state officials reported a tech glitch that resulted in an undercount of coronavirus cases and confusion about the scope of infections as the state’s death toll crossed 10,000. Angell was named to the post by Newsom in October 2019 and served less than a year. Despite the circumstances surrounding her departure, Newsom praised her leadership especially in the area of health equity.
State law requires that the director of the California Department of Public Health also serves as state health officer and must be a physician. In August the Governor named Erica Pan, MD, MPH, as acting state health officer, while Shewry served as acting director of the department. Presumably Aragon will fill both posts, though the announcement did not specifically indicate that.
The Governor announced the following appointments:
by Peter Mendoza Posted on December 7, 2020
Good Morning my Fabulous Family in Community,
I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. A lot happening in the world of advocacy this week. So let’s get to it! Here is my PM Report for you. Sending a virtual smile to each of you!
County of Marin Update
Virtual Grand Rounds: National COVID-19 Surge
The nation is already experiencing an unprecedented and widespread surge of COVID-19, which may get further compounded by holiday travel, social gatherings and the risk of co-infection with winter respiratory viruses.
On Tuesday, December 8 at 12:00pm, the California Health and Human Services Agency (CHHS) and Medical Association (CMA) are hosting a conversation with physicians that hold central roles in our national COVID-19 response:
by Peter Mendoza Posted on December 4, 2020
Good Morning to my Wondeful Family and Community,
I hope you are having a wonderful morning. Alot happening today including an imnportant Stakeholder meeting regarding California's implementation of the Electronic Visit Verification Program. This is breaking news....the notice for this meeting was published Wednesday evening. Let's get right to it! Here is the morning report for you. Enjoy the read!
County of Marin Update:
Marin County COVID-19 Status Update: December 3, 2020
The Marin County COVID-19 Status Update is published weekdays and as needed to share important news and resources related to the COVID-19 pandemic and to keep the local economy running. We remain here for you.
Governor Issues Stay At Home Order Triggered by Regional Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Capacity; Marin Spared For Now
As COVID-19 case rates and hospitalizations continue to rise and threaten to overwhelm the state’s health care delivery system, California health officials today announced a Regional Stay at Home Order that goes into effect if intensive care unit (ICU) capacity drops below 15 percent in a given region. No regions currently meet this threshold, but some are projected to within the next week.
State health officials are tracking ICU capacity across the state by five regions: Northern California, Bay Area, Greater Sacramento, San Joaquin Valley and Southern California. Marin County falls within the Bay Area region.
Current available ICU capacity by region:
by Peter Mendoza Posted on December 3, 2020
Good Morning my Brothers and Sisters in Community,
I hope you all are doing well today. It is high-speed, low-drive for me. Lots going on this week. Today many of our Marin CIL team are attending the exciting Independent Living Conference hosted by California Foundation for Independent Living Centers (CFILC) and California Area Agencies on Aging (C4A). Here is the PM Report for you. Have a fabulous day.
Tipping my hat to you this morning…over a cup of coffee
Marin County COVID-19 Status Update: December 2, 2020
The Marin County COVID-19 Status Update is published weekdays and as needed to share important news and resources related to the COVID-19 pandemic and to keep the local economy running. We remain here for you.
VIDEO: Message from the Public Health Officer
Marin’s Public Health Officer, Dr. Matt Willis, provides an update on Marin County’s status within the State’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy. In addition to highlighting some of the successes that have helped Marin County maintain a lower case rate than much of the state, he also warns that cases continue to increase in Marin and its too early to relax.
WATCH ON YOUTUBE.
Wanted: Public Health Nurses to Join our COVID-19 Response Team
Do you have a nursing background? Are you interested in part-time work while contributing to Marin’s COVID-19 response? We have a job for you!
Marin Health and Human Services has an immediate opening for a Public Health Nurse. Public Health Nurses are an important member of our Communicable Disease Prevention and Control Team, assisting with coordination of testing, communicable disease investigation, and communicating with residents and providers about COVID-19.
For more information about our Public Health Nurse position, or other available jobs with the County of Marin, please visit marincounty.org/jobs.
Sharing from USA Today
New DOT rule paves the way for airlines to ban emotional support animals on flights
Julia Thompson
USA TODAY
The Department of Transportation announced Wednesday it will revise rules around flying with emotional support animals and will no longer consider them to be service animals, which are required by law to be allowed to fly with passengers on commercial airlines.
The revised Air Carrier Access Act rules define a service animal as "a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability," according to a release from the U.S. DOT.
The DOT notes it no longer considers an emotional support animal to be a service animal, paving the way for airlines to ban them if they don't fit established rules about pets.
Policies will be set by individual airlines but must conform to the DOT rules, which will go into effect 30 days after the final ruling is published in the Federal Register, though that date has not yet been announced.
The changes are a departure from the previous DOT guidance issued last year, which said that airlines could not restrict passengers from traveling with emotional support animals, nor could they ban a specific breed or species of support animal.
Airlines are currently prohibited from refusing service dogs based on their breed, and that prohibition will continue under the new rules.
Airlines have also questioned whether some passengers may be trying to pass off their pets as support animals – be they cats, rabbits or birds, among others – in order to avoid paying the associated fees.
For full article: New DOT rule paves the way for airlines to ban emotional support animals on flights
A Tidbit from Me: Emotional support, according to the Air Carriers Access Act, current regulations state “a service animal is any animal that is individually trained or able to provide assistance to a person with a disability; or any animal that assists persons with disabilities by providing emotional support.” Airlines may require proof from a medical provider or physician that you are a person with a disability and require the use of an emotional support animal as an accommodation for air travel. The letter from your doctor , in most cases, needs to be dated within one year from your flight. Additionally, most airlines require advance notice anywhere form 24-72 hours. It is important to check with the airline on which you are going to be travelling in advance of your trip to ensure that you have enough time to get the documentation necessary for your flight. If you need support or assistance planning your disability accommodations for your flight please reach out to us.
Sharing from Fair Housing Advocates of Northern California
Fair Housing in Times of COVID-19 Panel
Wednesday, December 9, 2020
12:00 to 1:30 pm
by Peter Mendoza Posted on December 2, 2020
Good Morning my Brothers and Sisters in Community,
I hope you are doing well this morning. It has been a busy morning in the Mendoza household. My Bat-phone rang early. Like all of us today there is quite a bit on my calendar. Wishing you all the very best. Sending you a smile this morning. Enjoy the read! This morning report is for you.
County of Marin Update
Blueprint Update: Marin Remains In Tier 2 (“Red”)
Today, California Department of Public Health (CDPH) provided another update on the Blueprint for a Safer Economy, a statewide plan for reducing COVID-19 and keeping Californians healthy and safe.
CDPH confirmed Marin County’s placement in Tier 2 (red status) for a third straight week. Marin County is one of only six California Counties not in Tier 1 (purple status), which is the most restrictive Tier of the blueprint.
CDPH’s December 1, 2020 assessment for Marin County includes:
CDPH’s update was based on data from November 19 to November 25 with a four-day lag. Marin’s adjusted case rate and test positivity rate have increased by 1.0 and 0.3%, respectively, since CDPH’s analysis on Saturday, November 28.
Marin’s Blueprint progress:
by Peter Mendoza Posted on December 1, 2020
| Good Morning my Brothers and Sisters in Community, I hope you are doing well today. Today I got up before the chickens…it is a multiple coffee day for me. Lot’s of great work to do today. Here’s my morning report for you. Sending you a smile this morning. County of Marin Update: Marin County COVID-19 Status Update: November 30, 2020 The Marin County COVID-19 Status Update is published weekdays and as needed to share important news and resources related to the COVID-19 pandemic and to keep the local economy running. We remain here for you. State Announces Temporary Tax Relief for COVID-19 Impacted Businesses Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that California will provide temporary tax relief for eligible businesses impacted by COVID-19 restrictions. The temporary tax relief entails an automatic three-month income tax extension for taxpayers filing less than $1 million in sales tax, extends the availability of existing interest and penalty-free payment agreements to companies with up to $5 million in taxable sales and provides expanded interest free payment options for larger businesses particularly affected by significant restrictions on operations based on COVID-19 transmissions. In addition, the Governor announced the creation of a $500 million COVID Relief Grant for small businesses that have been impacted by COVID and the health and safety restrictions. Funds would be awarded to selected intermediaries with established networks of Community Development Financial Institutions to distribute relief through grants of up to $25,000 to underserved micro and small businesses throughout the state by early 2021. Non-profits would also be eligible for these grants. The California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) is establishing the program and will make it available to small businesses as soon as possible. For further details on both program, continue reading the Governor’s news release. Marin City Affordable Housing Gets Green Light Community Development Agency approves new 74-unit multifamily facility San Rafael, CA – Aligning with one of Marin County’s biggest civic needs – more affordable housing – a new 74-unit multifamily housing complex in Marin City has received approval from the Marin County Community Development Agency (CDA). The applicant, AMG & Associates of Encino, California, is proposing to construct a 73,793-square-foot multifamily apartment building on the site of the Village Baptist Church in the 800 block of Drake Avenue in Marin City. It would involve construction of a five-story building, 56 feet 8 inches tall, with 74 units. The applicant proposes a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom units ranging in size from 592 to 1,128 square feet per unit. Except for one manager’s apartment, every unit would be designated for households that qualify as very low and extremely low income. For example, a four-person household with an annual income of up to $87,000 would be considered very low income, and a two-person household with an annual income of up to $41,800 would be considered extremely low income. More information about qualifying income limits for affordable housing units is on the Marin Housing Authority website. The development includes an 80% density bonus under state law, which adds 33 units above the 41-unit maximum allowable under the Countywide Plan, because of the significant level of affordability that will be achieved. The affordable housing development is financed entirely by private investors under a state tax credit and will not require any County of Marin or other public funding. The applicant has indicated construction would start in 2021 and finish within 21 months. CDA staff has posted the development plans online. It’s the first development proposal submitted to the County under a new state law intended to streamline certain types of housing developments to address California’s severe housing shortage and affordability crisis. The law, Senate Bill (SB) 35, applies to cities and counties that have not met their state-mandated Regional Housing Need Allocation targets. To facilitate the development of housing in Marin and elsewhere, which, in the past, has often been met with community opposition and a lengthy review process, state law now limits local review to compliance with adopted objective development standards and bypasses public hearings. The law requires the County to utilize a new review procedure that does not provide the level of public participation that residents and County planners are used to. “While there are critics of the streamlined process that we are required to follow, County staff planners have applied the utmost rigor in reviewing this application to confirm it met all requirements under state law as well as the County’s well-established zoning and development standards,” said Tom Lai, CDA’s Interim Director. A Tidbit from Me: Marin CIL in collaboration with many community partners including Fair Housing Advocates of Northern California, Legal Aid of Marin, and the Marin Organizing Committee worked together to promote accessible affordable housing for people who have very low and extremely low income. Marin CIL exists to assist persons with all types of disabilities to achieve their maximum level of sustainable independence as contributing, responsible and equal participants in society. Everyone deserves an accessible and affordable home. Sharing from Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund (DREDF) DREDF Comments Urging TCAC to Adopt Increased Accessibility Standards November 20, 2020 On Friday, November 20th, DREDF submitted comments strongly urging California's Tax Credit Allocation Committee (TCAC) to adopt proposed regulatory changes that would increase the number of required mobility and sensory access features in new Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) developments. The LIHTC program is one of the state's largest affordable housing development programs. TCAC initially proposed cutting these accessible housing requirements in half, but in response to overwhelming and compelling public testimony, TCAC has now proposed to increase accessible housing in new construction projects. If adopted, these regulatory changes provide an opportunity for California to address the accessibility gap in our state and set an example for the rest of the nation. Source: DREDF Comments Urging TCAC to Adopt Increased Accessibility Standards The goal of the PM Report is to share information that is relevant and meaningful to our communities in support of enhancing full participation through community engagement and advocacy opportunities. Please feel free to send Peter Mendoza (Marin CIL's Director of Advocacy and Special Projects) any announcements or updates that you feel would be beneficial to our communities. If you have any questions or comments please feel free to reach out to Peter at: peter@marincil.org or (415) 234-3840. |
by Peter Mendoza Posted on November 30, 2020
Good Morning my Brothers and Sisters in Community,
I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. At the Mendoza house we sheltered-in-place over a Thanksgiving lunch with those who are in our bubble. We incorporated Zoom which provided an opportunity for my Dad and my brother and Jen’s Uncle to join us. My brother Michael turned 55 years old on Thanksgiving. The Mendoza ensemble sang “Happy Birthday”. We sounded ok but we are a long way from Carnegie Hall. I am thankful for each of you. Wishing you all the very best. Here is my PM Morning Report for you.
In Community,
Peter
Marin County Update:
SPECIAL WEEKEND EDITION
The Marin County COVID-19 Status Update is published weekdays and as needed to share important news and resources related to the COVID-19 pandemic and to keep the local economy running. We remain here for you.
With rising COVID-19 cases across the Bay Area and new announcements today from the California Department of Public Health, we are issuing a special weekend edition of the Marin County COVID-19 Status Update to help equip you with the very latest information.
Statement in Support of Santa Clara County’s New COVID Measures:
Health officers from four Bay Area counties and the City of Berkeley today are expressing their support for Santa Clara County’s new health order restricting higher-risk activities to reduce the likelihood of hospitals becoming overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients.
Santa Clara County officials estimate that hospitals in their county will reach or exceed capacity in the coming weeks if they do not take decisive action to stem the spread of COVID.
Given their situation, Santa Clara County officials announced they would enact new rules for businesses and residents, which go into effect on Monday, Nov. 30.
The new rules reduce the number of customers allowed in stores at a given time, limit hotels to only essential travel and require travelers coming into Santa Clara County from distances greater than 150 miles to quarantine for 14 days. They also temporarily prohibit youth, collegiate, and professional contact sports in Santa Clara County.
While health officials in neighboring Bay Area counties say they haven’t reached the same critical point as Santa Clara, they may also have to take similar actions soon in order to preserve remaining regional hospital capacity to treat both COVID and non-COVID medical conditions, such as severe illnesses caused by flu. A month ago, there were 262 people hospitalized with COVID in the Bay Area; as of yesterday, that number had nearly tripled to 759.
That’s why Health Officers in Alameda County, Contra Costa County, Marin County, San Francisco, and the City of Berkeley are expressing their unified support for Santa Clara County’s decision.
“COVID doesn’t care about borders or county lines. What is happening in Santa Clara County now may reach that level elsewhere in the Bay Area in the near future,” said Dr. Chris Farnitano, Contra Costa County’s Health Officer.
“We’ve gained so much ground in keeping Marin’s testing positivity and hospitalization rates low,” said Dr. Lisa Santora, Deputy Public Health Officer. “We need to do what we can to keep our essential operations open. If we begin to see what Santa Clara is experiencing, this action can help protect the critical functions in our community including site-based school learning.”
Dr. Farnitano, Dr. Santora and other Health Officers urged people to continue taking basic safety precautions to protect themselves and others from COVID:
by Peter Mendoza Posted on November 25, 2020
Good Morning Brothers and Sisters in Community,
I hope you are all doing well today. I want to wish you all a wonderful Thanksgiving. This has been such a transformative year for Marin CIL. Having to adapt to a remote service model, embrace technology, and reimagine the way we provide key safety-net services for our valued community members we serve every day. I want to take a moment to honor Marin CIL staff and the Board of Directors, Marin CIL Auxiliary Board our community partners, our valued donors, and most importantly our community members we have the privilege to serve every day. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Thankful for each of you today.
Marin County COVID-19 Status Update: November 24, 2020 The Marin County COVID-19 Status Update is published weekdays and as needed to share important news and resources related to the COVID-19 pandemic and to keep the local economy running. We remain here for you. Blueprint Update: Marin Remains In Tier 2 (“Red”) Today, California Department of Public Health (CDPH) provided its weekly update on the Blueprint for a Safer Economy, a statewide plan for reducing COVID-19 and keeping Californians healthy and safe. CDPH confirmed Marin County’s placement in Tier 2 (red status) for a second straight week. Marin County is one of only eight California Counties in Tier 2, with five more in Tier 3 (orange status). All other counties are within the most restrictive Tier 1, (purple status). CDPH’s November 24 assessment for Marin County includes: While this week’s data technically falls within Tier 3 levels, we must (1) have been in the current tier for a minimum of three weeks; and (2) meet criteria for the next less restrictive tier for all measures for the prior two consecutive weeks in order to progress to the next tier. CDPH’s assessment was updated on November 23 with a 4-day lag on metrics, so the data presented reflects metrics for November 11-18. This past weekend, we saw an increase in daily cases (Dr. Willis addresses this in his video, below), which will likely keep us in Tier 2 or possibly push us into Tier 1 soon. Where can I find more detail on Marin’s Blueprint data? We’ve overhauled our State Metrics for Marin County webpage to provide greater clarity of Marin’s Blueprint data over time, and how our data relates to the state’s tier framework. The webpage is updated whenever the State provides a new Blueprint update (typically Tuesday afternoons). Message from Dr. Willis: “Wake Up Call” Marin’s Public Health Officer, Dr. Matt Willis, shares and urgent message with Marin residents, shedding light on some of the recent COVID case-trends in Marin County. Dr. Willis also discusses how our collective choices in celebrating the holidays safely can potentially stop or reduce a further surge in cases. View on YouTube Spread the word: Special webinar for Youth Sports Organizers Our local contact tracers are noticing a disturbing, growing trend: transmission of COVID-19 through youth sports. The main reason for this ranges from teams not wearing masks or following youth sports guidance, to teams traveling to areas outside of Marin County and bringing infections back with them. The Marin Recovers Industry Advisors and Marin Public Health will hold a special webinar specifically for youth sports organizations, clubs or providers to discuss ways to reduce COVID-19 infections among youth athletes and supporters. Please forward this information to any sports providers, coaches or trainers you may know so we can stop this trend. Webinar Date: Monday, November 30 at 2:00pm How to participate:
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| PG & E has made some important changes to your account. Starting this month, your billing preference has been changed to paperless. This month only, you will receive both a paper bill in the mail and an electronic copy of your bill via email. Going forward, your future monthly bills will automatically switch to a paperless e-bill that you can easily view, download and print at your convenience. PG & E understands this option may not work for all our customers. If you choose to opt out of paperless billing to continue receiving a paper bill, just click here. You should see a preformatted email. Simply click 'send,' and we will unenroll you from paperless. If you choose to continue receiving paper bills, you will receive a confirmation email in approximately five to seven business days. Remember, you can modify your billing preference at any time or view your PG&E bill by visiting pge.com. PG&E hopes you'll enjoy this easy and environmentally-friendly option. Thank you The goal of the PM Report is to share information that is relevant and meaningful to our communities in support of enhancing full participation through community engagement and advocacy opportunities. Please feel free to send Peter Mendoza (Marin CIL's Director of Advocacy and Special Projects) any announcements or updates that you feel would be beneficial to our communities. If you have any questions or comments please feel free to reach out to Peter at: peter@marincil.org or (415) 234-3840. |
by Peter Mendoza Posted on November 24, 2020
| Good Morning Brothers and Sisters in Community, I hope you are all doing well this morning. This morning started early for me. I already feel like it’s going to be a multiple coffee day for me. Lot’s to do on my calendar today. Wishing you all a wonderful day! Raising my coffee cup to you this morning. There’s a lot happening in our world so here we go with your PM Morning Report. County of Marin Update: State Creates Advisory Committee to Inform COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Today, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced a new advisory committee with broad representation from organizations throughout California to provide input into the distribution and allocation of the COVID-19 vaccine. The Community Vaccine Advisory Committee will be chaired by California Surgeon General Dr. Nadine Burke Harris and will provide input and feedback for the ongoing planning and engagement efforts. California's planning process for the eventual distribution and administration of COVID-19 vaccines is guided by three overarching principles: (1) ensuring the COVID-19 vaccine meets safety requirements; (2) ensuring the vaccine is distributed and administered equitably, at first to those with the highest risk of becoming infected and spreading COVID-19; and (3) making transparency a top priority by bringing in community stakeholders from the beginning. Related Resources:
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by Peter Mendoza Posted on November 23, 2020
Good Morning my Brothers and Sisters in Community,
I hope each of you is doing well on this rather cool Monday morning. This weekend the Sandman came knocking….I had been working my tires to the rim lately. This past week there were many projects on deadline and a few evening meetings. For me it’s been high-speed and low drag. I decided to rest a little more and binge watch various retro TV shows from the 1970’s. I feel rested today. Here you go with the PM Morning Report. Have a fabulous day. Take care of yourself and each other.
County of Marin Update:
Marin Holding Steady in Red Tier 2
Marin County is holding steady in red tier 2 as Thanksgiving week approaches.
"We will only move into purple if the state requires it based on our COVID-19 case numbers,” said Public Health Officer Dr. Matt Willis. “We’re watching the numbers very closely each day and so far are encouraged to see that we are currently stable in the red tier. Looking at what’s happening elsewhere, we are of course concerned that the regional surge will reach Marin. It’s prudent for us to anticipate an eventual move to purple, while we do all we can to hang onto the gains we’ve achieved. No county is an island."
If case rates increase significantly in Marin, the county would move in the purple tier and the state’s curfew, announced yesterday and effective November 21 through December 21, would become mandatory.
Public Health Officials Remind Residents to Get Flu Shots Before the Holidays
Health officials from across the Bay Area are asking the public to fight the flu by getting the annual vaccination for influenza before the holidays. Each winter, people sick with flu crowd hospitals and urgent care clinics -- resources that may already be strained due to COVID-19. Early and timely flu shots can prevent a disease that hospitalizes 200,000 Americans every year.
To keep yourself and your family out of the hospital, doctors recommend an annual flu shot for everyone age 6 months or older. The flu shot is a safe, effective way to reduce your chance of missing work or ending up in the hospital due to severe flu. Symptoms of the flu can be similar to early symptoms of COVID-19, meaning that this year, people with flu symptoms may require a COVID-19 test and may need to stay home from work and isolate away from their families while awaiting results.
For those with medical insurance, flu shots are free as a preventive service at doctor’s offices and most retail pharmacies. Those without health insurance can obtain free or low-cost flu shots through local community clinics. Find more locations near you that offer flu vaccine using the Vaccine Finder.
For more information about flu, visit flu.marinhhs.org.
Nearly All Marin Ballots Counted from Election
Registrar plans to certify local results by December 2
San Rafael, CA – The Marin County Elections Department has counted all ballots from the November 3 General Election with a few exceptions. More than 158,000 ballots have been tabulated resulting in a turnout of just over 90%, second only to the turnout in the November 2008 General Election that was nearly 91%.
Outstanding ballots include those that were postmarked by November 3 and will arrive in the mail by the 5 p.m. November 20 deadline, and those waiting for voters to fix a signature problem – either missing signature or mismatched signature. Voters have until 5 p.m. Monday, November 30, to return their signature verification letter.
Registrar of Voters Lynda Roberts started the mandatory manual tally of ballots on November 17 following California Elections Code section 15360. The manual tally is ongoing and will be completed prior to Thanksgiving. Roberts plans to officially certify the election by December 2.
A complete description of the post-election canvass, including the manual tally process, is found at www.marinvotes.org.
More information about the election can be found on the County’s Newsroom. Follow the Elections Department on Facebook.
You have subscribed to News Releases & Advisories for Marin County. This information has recently been updated.
Visit the Newsroom to view all County news releases.
Sharing from the Marin Independent Journal
A Tidbit from Me: One of the articles that caught my attention this morning is written by my friend GARY KLIEN | gklien@marinij.com | Marin Independent Journal, who I have known for almost 25 years. In the article, a California Appeals Court took the unusual step of indicting the Marin legal system for not taking in to account a defendant’s mental health conditions as part of a plea agreement and sentencing. For background, in October 2018, a San Rafael man was charged with threatening to kill his neighbors. He pleaded guilty just six weeks later without mounting a defense, despite the prospect of prison time. According to the article Mr. O’Hearn had a documented history of various mental health related conditions including schizophrenia and had been hospitalized on multiple occasions. Mr. O’Hearn’s attorney is believed to only have met with him twice prior to his taking the guilty plea. Mr. O’Hearn, in taking the guilty plea, avoided prison time for the felony conviction. However, pleading guilty to a felony threats charge counted as a “strike” toward a potential three-strikes under California law. This case was heard by a three judge panel and the opinion published by Justice Kline.
Appellate ruling scolds Marin court over threats conviction
PUBLISHED: November 22, 2020 at 11:28 a.m. | UPDATED: November 22, 2020 at 12:20 p.m.
The appeals court decision states in relevant part…
“Pretrial diversion of mentally ill offenders will not always be appropriate,” Justice J. Anthony Kline wrote for a three-judge panel, “but the plight of our prisons, the needs of mentally ill prisoners, and the expectations of our Legislature demand that it receive more serious consideration by defense counsel, prosecutors, probation departments, and sentencing courts than it did in this case.”
“No reasonable lawyer could have acted as Selby did in the circumstances of this case,” Justice Kline wrote.
Further, in an unusual “postscript” to the opinion, Kline said the system set O’Hearn up for failure.
“So far as the record shows, neither the probation department, the district attorney, nor the court, questioned the wisdom and efficacy of a sentence including probation conditions O’Hearn was almost certain to violate, which would likely result in his imprisonment — a result sought to be avoided by the United States Supreme Court and the California Legislature,” wrote Kline.
The ruling is unusual in that the court chose to certify it as a “published” opinion, meaning it can be cited in other cases. That option is generally used for rulings that break some legal ground, but the rules of court also allow it for opinions on a “legal issue of continuing public interest.”
This case once again brings up the concern raised by Disability Rights organizations and behavioral health advocacy organizations, including the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
“In a mental health crisis, people are more likely to encounter police than get medical help. As a result, 2 million people with mental illness are booked into jails each year. Nearly 15% of men and 30% of women booked into jails have a serious mental health condition.” - NAMI- Jailing People with Mental Illness
To read the entire article: Appellate ruling scolds Marin court over threats conviction
Sharing from Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund is Hosting an Important Webinar:
Reasonable Accommodations in California Housing and COVID-19
When: Tuesday, December 1, 11:30 – 12:30 p.m.
The pandemic has highlighted how important disability rights protections are including the right of disabled tenants and shelter residents to receive reasonable accommodations to maintain housing stability. This training will cover the definition of disability in light of COVID-19, reasonable accommodations that may be helpful to prevent evictions during this time, and additional California renter protections.
Presenters:
Sydney Pickern, Staff Attorney
Linda Kilb, esq., Director, California Legal Services Trust Fund Support Center Program
The webcast will take place on Tuesday, December 1, 11:30 a.m. –12:30 p.m
REGISTER HERE:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_sl5bDL1PQDWRYki5qPFgjA
Real-time captioning will be available during this webcast. The registration confirmation process includes reasonable accommodations requests.
Summer 2021 Legal Internships
The Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (“DREDF”), located in Berkeley, California, offers summer internships for current law students. The internships generally involve a 40-hour per week commitment for at least 5 weeks, and preferably 8 to 10 weeks.
TO APPLY:
Please submit the following materials, preferably in a single PDF file, to info@dredf.org with “ATTN: Summer 2021 Legal Internships [YOUR LAST NAME]” in the subject line:
by Peter Mendoza Posted on November 20, 2020
Good Afternoon, my brothers and sisters in community, HAPPY FRIDAY! I hope you are all doing well today. It has been a very busy week for me, with much to do, which caused a pause in yesterday’s PM morning report. My Batphone was ringing off the hook! These days the Batcave is at Mendoza Manor, where we specialize in Universal Design. Instead of a pole leading to the Batcave, we have a nice gentle sloping ramp. The Batmobile has a ramp too!
Here is my effort to get you all caught up! Enjoy your weekend!
County of Marin Update
Preparedness Counts. Ready for Holiday Celebrations?
The first fall rains in Marin County usually mark the end of fire season and the beginning of the holidays. While the tail end of 2020’s devastating fire season is most welcome, many are apprehensive about how the coming holiday celebrations will look.
When planning your holiday celebrations, think “safety first.” To protect loved ones, our community, and health care workers, keep these tips in mind:
by Peter Mendoza Posted on November 17, 2020
Good Morning Brothers and Sisters in Community,
I hope you are having a wonderful week so far. There is a lot happening relating to Covid-19. It is important that all of us stay safe and practice social distancing. My motto is: “Take care of ourselves and each other.” Here is the PM report for you today. Sending a smile your way!
County of Marin Update
Marin Joins Statewide Cautionary COVID-19 Step Back to Red Tier 2
Marin County is one of 40 California counties tightening restrictions per State of California mandates in response to a surge of COVID-19 cases across the state and region.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced today that Marin was moved from orange to red, to use common virus status terminology. The step back comes just three days after the Marin County Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) notified local businesses and agencies about preemptive restrictions to stem the virus’ spread locally. But Monday, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) officially moved Marin from orange-colored Tier 3 (“moderate risk”) to the more restrictive red Tier 2 (“substantial risk”) on its Blueprint for a Safer Economy.
Twenty-eight counties on Monday were moved into the purple Tier 1, the most restrictive status on the Blueprint scale, because of widespread virus spread. Marin is now one of 11 counties out of 58 in red Tier 2 status; 41 are in purple Tier 1.
The primary restrictions beginning Tuesday, November 17, are:
by Peter Mendoza Posted on November 16, 2020
Good Morning my Brothers and Sisters in Community,
I hope you had a wonderful, restful weekend. This morning is very brisk and I am looking forward to my morning walk with Latte the Wonder Dog. Latte is a cattle-dog. We incorporate social distancing and Covid protocol during our morning stroll. So much happening in our world today. So let’s get to it. Wishing you all a wonderful day!
County of Marin Update
Marin Tightens Restrictions To Contain Spread
With COVID-19 transmission and hospitalizations on the rise across the region, Bay Area health officers are tightening local rules for higher-risk indoor activities where the virus can spread more easily.
In Marin County, case rates have nearly doubled in the past 10 days and continue to rise, prompting Public Health Officer Dr. Matt Willis to issue an order to tighten restrictions to limit further spread of the virus. Under the order, the following industries should reduce operations to match “red” Tier 2 allowances within the State of California’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy, effective Tuesday, November 17:
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by Peter Mendoza Posted on November 13, 2020
Good Morning my Brothers and Sisters in Community,
Happy Friday! There was a little more of the winter chill in the air this morning. I must admit I got up a little bit slow this morning. The theme for today is: More Coffee!! Wishing you all the very best. Lot’s going on. Here is the PM Report for you today.
County of Marin Update
Public Health introduces new restrictions to stem COVID-19 surge
Marin County worked hard to graduate from red to orange COVID-19 status in October, but its residents will have to double down on efforts to prevent a step backward in the pandemic economic recovery.
As coronavirus cases surge in Marin, regionally, and nationally, the Public Health Division of Marin County Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) said new precautions in the next few days and weeks will determine whether Marin is relegated back to the red Tier 2 (substantial risk) from the orange Tier 3 (moderate risk) on the State of California’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy scale.
Marin HHS has introduced recommended actions for industries and activities labeled higher risk for virus transmission. Businesses and organizations are being asked to take the following steps immediately:
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by Peter Mendoza Posted on November 12, 2020
Good Morning my Brothers and Sisters in Community,
I hope each of you had a wonderful Veteran’s Day. Once again I want to pay homage to all the Veterans who so valiantly serve our country and remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to our Nation. This morning there is a lot going on in our world. So here we go….this PM report is for you.
County of Marin Update
VIDEO: Dr. Willis provides update to Board of Supervisors
Dr. Matt Willis provided an update on Marin’s COVID-19 response during today’s Marin County Board of Supervisor’s meeting. Topics covered include current COVID-19 case trends in Marin and across the United States; our current status on the Blueprint for a Safer Economy; New restrictions in response to increased cases across the Bay Area; holiday gathering and travel guidance; and an update on a possible COVID-19 vaccine.
WATCH ON YOUTUBE
Blueprint Update: Marin County remains in Tier 3
Today, California Department of Public Health (CDPH) provided its weekly update on the Blueprint for a Safer Economy, a statewide plan for reducing COVID-19 and keeping Californians healthy and safe.
CDPH confirmed Marin County’s placement in Tier 3 (orange status) for a third straight week. CDPH’s November 10 assessment for Marin County includes:
by Peter Mendoza Posted on November 10, 2020
Good Morning my Brothers in Sisters in Community,
Today there is a lot going on. It was a two coffee morning for me. I want to start out with a special note to Veterans from Marin CIL.
Marin CIL would like to take a moment as we get ready to celebrate Veteran’s Day. Members of the Armed Forces have given so much to our Nation including those who have given their lives in service. We would not have many of the freedoms or rights that we have today without their service. We would also like to honor Veterans who are members of the Marin CIL family. There are over 5.2 million Veterans with disabilities living in the United States. Marin CIL serves all people with disabilities including Veterans. If you are a Veteran and believe that you may benefit from Marin CIL’s programs and services feel free to reach out to us. We are here for you. In honor of Veteran’s Day Marin CIL will be closed and the PM Report will take a pause and return on Thursday.
There's quite a bit happening today so let's jump right in!
County of Marin Update
Public Health Emphasizes Safe Holidays and Travel
Today, public health officers from the counties of Marin, Alameda, Contra Costa, Monterey, Napa, San Mateo, San Francisco, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, and Sonoma, and the city of Berkeley have issued joint recommendations for staying safe during the holidays. The recommendations cover gatherings and travel, with recommended steps to reduce risk during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The joint recommendations for travel and gatherings advise that in-person gatherings be small, short, stable (no more than three households over an extended period), and outdoors. Also, nonessential travel, including holiday travel, is not recommended. Travel outside the Bay Area will increase chances of infection and potentially spread the virus. For those who are traveling, there are tips to help avoid catching COVID-19 or spreading it to fellow travelers. Those travelling outside the Bay Area are strongly recommended to self-quarantine for 14 days upon return if activities while travelling created higher risk of getting COVID-19.
Marin County Public Health Officer Dr. Matt Willis said family and friends who plan to travel to a holiday gathering should consider being tested for COVID-19 before and after the gatherings. He said it’s more important than ever to practice the usual precautions, such as a wearing a face covering, washing hands frequently, avoidance of touching surfaces and other people, using hand sanitizer often, and maintaining a minimum of six feet from others.
“Marin residents considering travel should know that COVID-19 rates are high in many regions across the county, and not everyone around you will always be taking the right precautions,” Willis said. “Keep doing the things you’re doing to protect yourself and others, even if the people are around you are not.”
Marin has seen relatively low COVID-19 rates recently despite increases around the state and across the country, he said. On October 27, Marin was moved up on the State of California’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy scale from Tier 2 (substantial risk) to Tier 3 (moderate risk) because of its public health successes in suppressing the novel coronavirus.
“We’ve worked hard to achieve our gains, but we’re seeing increases in cases regionally and could easily backslide if we import the virus back into our homes,” Willis said.
Cases are rising around the country and are beginning to increase here in the Bay Area as well. When people who live in different houses or apartments are together at the same time in the same space, risk of COVID-19 spreading goes up, even when the people are relatives or friends. Please celebrate safely this year and protect yourself and your family by including masks, keeping a distance, and staying outdoors.
The safest way to celebrate this holiday season is virtually or with members of your household. Gathering with people outside your household – even extended family – increases the risk of getting and spreading COVID-19. There are many ways to enjoy the holidays with loved ones without gathering:
by Peter Mendoza Posted on November 9, 2020
Good Morning my Brother and Sisters in Community,
Alot to cover! This past Saturday morning several media outlets reported that President Trump received 214 electoral votes while former Vice-President Biden and Senator Harris received 279 electoral votes declaring former Vice President Biden and Senator Harris the winners of the 2020 Presidential election. This is a historical moment in our country’s history. Part of the glass ceiling came tumbling down. Vice-President elect Kamala Harris is now the first woman and first person to identify as Black and as South Asian-American in the role of vice president. Vice-President elect Harris has deep Bay Area roots. She grew up in Oakland and served as San Francisco district attorney before going on to become attorney general of the state — she was also the first African-American to serve in that role. This election has particular meaning because this year is the hundredth year anniversary of the 19th amendment which granted women the right to vote. It is the 55th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act which aimed to overcome legal barriers at the state and local levels that prevented African Americans from exercising their right to vote under the Fifteenth Amendment (1870) to the Constitution of the United States.
Georgia runoff elections will determine control of US Senate: How we got here
Josh Peter USA TODAY
The outcome in several contested states will determine whether Joe Biden defeats President Donald Trump. But if the former vice president wins, the ambitions of a Biden presidency could well come down to Georgia.
With control of the U.S. Senate hanging in the balance, the two Senate races in the Peach State are headed for a possible runoff election.
The runoffs will mean a campaign on an almost national scale, with tens of millions of dollars spent by both sides.
Biden has been quiet on the Senate balance as he awaits the results in his own election.
Here’s what to know:
What's a runoff election?
They're second elections held if no candidate in the first election receives a majority of the votes. The two candidates with the most votes qualify for the runoff.
For Full article: Georgia runoff elections will determine control of US Senate: How we got here
Sharing from CalABLE
CalABLE is a savings and investment plan offered by the state of California to individuals with disabilities.
Eligible individuals, family, friends and employers can contribute up to $15,000 a year without affecting the account beneficiary's public disability benefits. CalABLE account owners who work can contribute even more to their accounts. Best of all, earnings on qualified withdrawals from a CalABLE account are federal and California state tax-free.
Individuals with a disability that occurred before age 26 are eligible to open a CalABLE account.
November 5, 2020
The agenda for the November meeting of the California ABLE Act Board is now available at https://www.treasurer.ca.gov/able/meeting/2020/20201117/agenda.pdf.
Meeting details are as follows:
When: Tuesday, November 17, 2020 at 1:30 p.m.
Where: 915 Capitol Mall, Conference Room 587, Sacramento, CA 95814
Call In: Public Participation Call-In Number (877) 810-9415, Access Code: 6535126
Online: Public Participation is also available via Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/96621404983
There will be an opportunity for public comment before the end of each agenda item. Public comments on each agenda item should address items relevant to that item; please hold comments on other topics until the public comment period before adjournment of the meeting.
If you have any questions, please contact us at calable@treasurer.ca.gov.
Sincerely,
CalABLE Staff
Sharing from the San Francisco Housing Action Coalition
Housing and Homelessness in Marin (for young people!)
Sunday, November 8th 2-3pm Co Hosted with Marin Antiracist Coalition
Are you, or do you know any young people who could learn more about housing in Marin?
With two pivotal hearings at the county level coming up on supportive housing for Marin’s most vulnerable residents, it is hugely important to get people across Marin involved in housing and homelessness issues. Yet, strong educational barriers to understand housing issues and institutional barriers to show up at local hearings mean that young people have largely been absent in conversations on housing and homelessness in spite of the large impact of housing issues on our community.
With short presentations on housing, homelessness, and how to give an effective public comment, we will bridge the gap between future generations of Marin and the meetings where decisions are being made right now. At the end, you can put these skills to work by writing a letter in support or speaking at a hearing for Project Homekey proposed homes!
What IS Affordable Housing?
Tuesday, November 17th 5-6:30pm Co-Hosted with Housing Crisis Action Marin
Join us for a workshop and panel to delve into rich conversations about the state of affordable housing and the work being done to make Marin more affordable. Our workshop will explore how people of different incomes and backgrounds afford housing in Marin. The panel will feature the diverse perspectives of individuals who produce, protect, and preserve housing in Marin and how we can make our county’s housing more attainable moving forward.
Actions: Speak up for Project Homekey!
In the next 2 weeks, the County of Marin will be deciding whether to accept $20M of Project Homekey state funding to redevelop three sites for supportive housing in Marin. Long-term, these projects would together create almost 140 new units of permanent supportive housing, with critically important, immediately available interim housing for Marin's unsheltered community members.
At recent community meetings for these projects, speakers have voiced opposition to having these homes in our communities (“Novato residents blast County plan …” and “Corte Madera residents vent …”). These projects are far from approved, and Supervisor Arnold has already called for the county withdraw from the purchase of the site in Novato.
Despite allegations that these projects will bring crime and other problems, over 90% of the people housed through these programs are still housed, and we’ve seen massive reductions in healthcare and criminal justice utilization once people get inside. Housing is medicine.
Check out how you can participate, let me know if you want to get involved or have any questions, and feel free to use any of the talking points below in your comments...
What you can do…