Breaking the Cycle of Despair Downtown

Today is WEDNESDAY, June 1, 2011. You wouldn't know it's already June, when the weather feels like early March. Wet, cold. . . yet there is still a spring-like tint in the air, when new aspirations are forming, and it feels as though there is possibility everywhere. It can sometimes feel like Martinez, or at least downtown Martinez, is stuck in a never-ending cycle of dashed hopes, cynicism and despair. But there are things on the horizon that lend strength to the idea that this cycle could be broken. There are a host of new businesses coming that are aimed at not only residents, but folks from out of town. The library, though delayed, will be open this summer, and will be better than ever. Renovated parks and a new pool. And our farmers markets are drawing record crowds. And then there is the Downtown Matters series, workshops and field trips aimed at presenting new ideas for the city. Keep your eye on Martinez Patch for more details about this exciting opportunity.

1. The City Council meets tonight at 7 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 525 Henrietta St. Among the items on the agenda are the approval of plans and the funding for renovation of Tavan Fields and Rankin Park, and for Holiday Highlands Park. Also on the agenda is consideration of the city's Urban Water Management plan, which calls for an overall 20 percent reduction in water use by the year 2020. 
2. And tonight, don't be surprised if the City Council hears from seniors upset over the proposed cutback in Senior Center staff in 2012-13 to help balance the budget. Read Martinez Patch later today to find out what happened at yesterday's Budget Subcommittee meeting, when councilmembers Mark Ross and Lara DeLaney were confronted by a room full of polite but clearly upset seniors.
3. The continues today in the Marina parking lot. Show times are 5:30 p.m and 7:30 p.m.
4. Don't miss today about the homeless woman who was sleeping behind the ballfields, only to have her window broken by a home run. She called the police, but meanwhile both teams took up a collection and presented her with the money. The hearts in this city are an inspiration. 
5. Also, if you missed it, check out Superintendent yesterday about the use of technology in schools. She has some great ideas about the effects of technology, and the changes it is likely to impose throughout the classroom.