The Word From Washington

Today is TUESDAY, June 7, 2011. The Shell Clubhouse was full last night as Main Street Speaker Series speaker Marc Sandalow took to the podium to share his wisdom and insights into the various myths surrounding politics, politicians, and the media. The best news of all, according to Marc, is that the country's not broke. Yes, he said, there are very serious financial issues facing our nation, but if you look at places like Sierra Leone, which is actually broke, America is wealthy. Sandalow brought many years of experience watching the various political dramas unfold in a town known for drama, and he assured us that things are not quite as dramatic as we're constantly told they are. The media, he explained, loves conflict, and will jump at tales of battles and scandal every time over more mundane, but important, stories about the work that gets, and doesn't get, done every day in the corridors of power. This gives us, the readers, the impression that things are in a constant state of dire emergency, when in fact business as usual is the order of the day. He also regaled us with the tale of the rat in the News Gazette bathroom, one of my favorite stories from when we both worked at that fine establishment. It was great to have Sandalow -- now a Washington, DC resident -- back in our town for an evening.

1. This Saturday is the Alhambra Hills Open Space Committee picnic at Susana Street Park. This group, whose mission is to facilitate the public purchase of 300 acres of land in the Alhambra Hills now slated for housing, will be offering information booths on various environmental topics, live entertainment, free food and various speakers. The event takes place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, visit their website.
2. If you feel like traveling to Europe this Saturday, but just don't have the time, you're in luck. Just head to Roxx's on Main for their Taste of Italy dinner. Roxx will be serving a five course meal starting with an Appetizer Sampler of Bruschetta with a fresh tomato-basil topping, slices of Italian meats and cheeses with warm French bread and assorted olives, peppers & marinated onions.  Followed with "farmers market" fresh tossed vinegarette salad & homemade vegetable minestrone.  Choice of entree is Beef Bourguignon made with rib-eye steak and red wine, a Three Mushroom Risotto made with Parmesan cheese & white wine, or a delicious Pesto Chicken Florentine. Dessert will be their chocolate torte with raspberry drizzle & sea salt, or rum-soaked sponge cake with a creamy espresso frosting.  There will be several wines to pair by the glass or bottle.  If you are a home-winemaker, there will be no corking fee -- just bring in your bottle and enjoy with your meal.
3. Our own 12U Martinez Bulldogs are going to Cooperstown Dream Park in New York in July to represent the city. The team is presently ranked first in California, second in the regionl and fourth in the nation. Go 'Dogs! 
4. And don't forget to let your local garage band know about , a day-long festival of local music on June 25 that will benefit the Martinez Unified School District Music Boosters. They are still seeking local bands of the younger variety, so if you know one, give them a call. 
5. Forecast calls for clouds today, but no rain, and sunshine for the rest of the week. There's some good news to take with you for the rest of the day.