Springtime in Martinez

Today is WEDNESDAY, April 20, 2011. Since the rains have subsided, I've been spending most early mornings down at the waterfront, watching the multitude of colors and textures proliferate in crazy, unexpected patterns. Between the river and the sky and the wetlands, life here is sometimes agonizing in its beauty. There are many people who continue to consider our city nothing more than a refinery with a few shops nearby; if they only knew how deep and powerful is the earth's display for those of us lucky enough to call this place home, they would be shopping for housing here. Sure, the economy could be better, and we want all of our businesses to thrive. But sometimes we need to see beyond those things, and spring in Martinez is most certainly one of those times to have a grateful heart for the abundance of beauty right in front of us, and all around us.

1. It's one of those Wednesdays for which there is a City Council meeting, beginning at 7 p.m. The one item on the table for discussion is the fee schedule for the new swimming pool.
2. The council will also consider approval for the proposed tonight. Come on down and show your support for this one.
3. If you're at the corner of Ferry and Green streets around 4 p.m., you might want to stop by and check out the ribbon cutting ceremony for . It's the grand opening, and there will be terrific snacks involved.
4. Speaking of cheese, if you want to be the person who says "say cheese," instead of the person saying "cheese," you might want to stop by the store tonight at 7 p.m. for the two hour introductory class to photography. Every picture tells a story, they say, and maybe it's time to tell yours.
5. Of course you are aware of today's at , correct? If your paleontologist is between the ages of three and six, they need to join the others for an exploratory search for dino bones (hint - they will find them).