Bad Irish Accents, Fun Around Town

It's THURSDAY, March 17, 2011. Happy St. Patrick's Day. Did you remember to wear something green today? If not, stop by Martinez Patch headquarters so that we can pinch you. This is the day you're bound to hear the worst Irish accents in town, and find stuff to eat and drink that's inexplicably dyed green. It's a fun holiday, though things tend to get a little more, um, ceremonial when it falls on a Friday or Saturday. So top o' the marnin' to  ye, sure 'n you'll be doin' foine (see? there's a cheesy Irish accent to start things off).

1. Speaking of St. Patrick's Day, did you catch our list of to celebrate? You want to do that — there's a lot going on tonight. Just get home early enough to avoid regrets in the morning.
2. The City Council and the Planning Commission gave a great shout-out last night to the 230 students at who participated in the city's g Mayor Rob Schroder and Commissioner Harriett Burt (a former teacher) praised the efforts of the kids, who shared their opinions of what is right and wrong with the city and what it should look like in 30 years. Go Bullpups! 
3. While we're reviewing, please take a look at the piece on bullies in Wednesday's , and join the conversation. This is a difficult subject, but one most of us have faced from a variety of angles. The Martinez Unified School District is taking steps to deal with it, as is the federal government. Let us know what you think about it.
4. The installation of cameras in various trouble spots around the city is nearly complete. Martinez Patch will be doing a story in the very near future about where these cameras are, what they're supposed to be seeing and what the Police Department hopes to accomplish with their use. Stay tuned.
5. Finally, , the man who assists the homeless in Martinez, told the City Council that there are about 24 homeless people in the city, including those who live in recreational vehicles. That, he said, is about a two on a scale of 10 in terms of a problem. He added that there are no homeless camps at Waterfront Park. Kudos to Stewart and the Martinez Police Department for helping those who need it.