The Marina, St. Patrick's Day and Marketing

Today is TUESDAY, March 15, 2011. We are heading toward St. Patrick's Day, just two days away from now. But today let's talk about the . The City Council is scheduled to discuss the fate of this facility Wednesday, when staff will ask members to apply for regional and federal grants to help fund the repair project. But one council member, Mike Menesini, said the city should rethink the whole marina issue. He said many dollars have been spent on study after study, without much to show for it. The city is facing an $800,000 deficit and there is not much to spare. In light of that, should we as a city cut our losses and walk away from the Martinez Marina? Should there be another kind of water-based facility there, or perhaps let it return to wetlands? Or should the latest plan, which seems feasible if the money comes through, be given a chance to work? What do you think? Let us know.

1. Meanwhile, wants you to know that April 17 is downtown cleanup day and she is seeking volunteers. If you want to make a difference, e-mail her at bjkapsalis@aol.com.
2. If you didn't know, is having a St. Patrick's Day dinner on Thursday, featuring corned beef and cabbage as only it can do it. The dinner is served from 5 to 9 p.m. Faith and begorrah, for sure. Call now for reservations.
3. If you missed Armando's Blues Jam last night, don't fret. You can attend tonight's , the debut every-other-week blues jam at The Station (formerly Ferry Street Station). The show begins at 7 p.m., and will feature a host of local players. That could include you, if you bring your instrument and blues attitude on down.
4. The City Council and the Planning Commission are having a joint meeting Wednesday at 6 p.m. to discuss the This will be a good meeting to attend if you're interested in how the city should look in the next 20 years. The two panels will review results of the outreach that began last year in which citizens were asked a series of questions about the future. This is a review session — no decisions will be made, but it's interesting to see the response to the public's input.
5. Finally, don't forget about the contest, under way through the end of the month. Send us your slogan, logo or any other marketing material you think would help the city enhance its reputation. Send your entries to jim.caroompas@patch.com.