A notable aspect of Lynwood Elementary School is that it is home to Novato Unified School District’s Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program. DLI provides an opportunity for children to learn to think, read, write, and communicate naturally in two languages: English and Spanish. Native Spanish speakers and native English speaker students learn together, beginning in TK/Kindergarten through 5th grade. In addition, students gain an increased cultural competency and appreciation for people from different countries. 

The 3rd grade classes we visited with are currently studying government, and it was a great experience talking with them about local government and answering their thoughtful questions ranging from what sports we enjoyed playing as children, to what inspired us to run for office, and how we collaborate with other elected officials to accomplish our work. They were surprised to learn we still have homework as adults but thrilled to learn that the residents of our districts are our bosses (and not the President of the United States!).  

Thank you Lynwood Elementary for sharing your morning with us. This group of young students were a joy and an inspiration - we may even have a few politicians in the making! 

Fire agencies throughout Marin County, in partnership with Golden State Women in the Fire Service (GSWFS), have come together to host the first annual Girls Fire Camp in Marin for campers ages 14-18. This free, two-day camp, led by GSWFS, volunteers, and women in the fire service will encourage and empower campers to learn skills associated with fire service, such as emergency medical services, extrication, ventilation, ladders, hose lays, and other essential skills. Campers will have the chance to prove to themselves that they, too, can become a firefighter! 

HERo Girls Fire Camp
October 7 and 8
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM (check-in at 7:30 AM)
Novato Fire District's Station No. 62: 450 Atherton Ave, Novato 

Who can attend: Students ages 14-18; this camp is inclusive to all genders.  

What is provided: The camp is free for all who attend. Breakfast and lunch will be provided both days. Water and hydration stations will be available. All equipment will be provided by the fire agencies and camp directors.  

What to wear: Campers should dress in clothing that they find comfortable and easy to move in. Personal protection equipment (PPE) will be provided to the campers each morning. Each camper will also be provided with a camp t-shirt. 

Registration: Scan the QR code in the image below or visit bit.ly/3Z8s1IR. Registration is required to attend, and spots are limited.   

One of the Board of Supervisor Subcommittees I serve on is the Climate Action Subcommittee. I am impressed with the County’s Sustainability Team and the numerous efforts and programs underway including programs to promote renewable energy, address climate change, encourage green building, recognize green businesses, and implement energy efficiency projects.  

Several great community programs and events are being launched this fall (two are noted below) to help residents make sustainability improvements in their home, work, and in everyday life. Not only do these programs and opportunities help ensure that Marin is healthy, vibrant, and sustainable for many generations to come – many of these programs have the added benefit of saving us money!  

Free Home Energy-saving Kits
Save energy and money! The Rising Sun Center for Opportunity Green House Call Program provides no-cost (free) energy-saving kits to Marin residents. Whether you rent or own your home, or live in a single-family home or apartment building, you are eligible to receive a no-cost energy saving kit that includes energy efficient light bulbs; a smart power strip or multiple smart energy plugs; draft-stopping outlet gaskets; and faucet aerators and a shower head.

Visit the Rising Sun website to fill out your survey and reserve your kit online, or call (510) 665-1501 ext. 300. Available now until the end of October. 

Marin Green Home Virtual Tour  
Join the free, virtual Marin Green Home Tour on Thursday, October 26 at 6:00 PM and learn how Marin neighbors are adapting their homes to combat climate change, improve air quality, generate clean energy, and move towards a safer, healthier, greener, more resilient future.

This virtual event will feature six Marin homes, showcasing solar, storage batteries, heat pumps, induction stoves and cooktops, passive solar, an electric fireplace, greywater systems, rainwater harvesting, water monitors, native and edible gardening, and even sheep as lawnmowers! Learn the most up-to-date information about local, state, and federal funding sources and resources to help you get started greening your own home. The event will include live Q&A with the homeowners. 

For more information and to register check out the Marin Green Home Tour website.  

Habitat Greater San Francisco is selling one previously-owned, affordable home located at 4 Mount Burdell Place in Novato. The application period is open and closes on Friday, October 6, 2023, at 5:00 PM.  

Details and application criteria for this three-bedroom, two-bathroom home can be found on the Habitat website.  

Applicants must attend one virtual information session before applying for the home. Presentation materials can be provided in English and Spanish upon request.  

Session dates:    

•    Saturday, 09/30/2023 @ 10:00 AM (English)   

•    Saturday, 09/30/2023 @ 1:00 PM (Spanish)  

•    Wednesday, 10/04/2023 @ 11:00 AM (Spanish)   

•    Wednesday, 10/04/2023 @ 5:30 PM (English)