August 31, 2008 by adrielhampton

My Baby, the New Walnut Creek Library

Living in Walnut Creek and free from the political abstinence required by my former job, in 2005 and 2006 I made a concentrated effort to reshape the runaway Walnut Creek Library project. … When I began my “Save Civic Park” campaign, the proposal threatened massive new taxes, a mega-garage in Walnut Creek’s central creekside park, and the taking of a historic private property. … Through my efforts and those of my friends and neighbors, the project was changed to a grand structure with an underground garage, lower tax load, and no eminent domain. I am very proud of the work we did there. … In these photos, the wooded lot behind the plywood sheathing was saved in part by my campaign. … I miss living in downtown Walnut Creek. Today I saw huge swaths of graffiti behind the Yacht Club restaurant, and the Civic Park bathrooms were a mess. That wouldn’t last on my watch. …

Predicting the local SF races

Just entered the Usual Suspects “Best Political Mind” contest. Some tough picks in the supe races, and I don’t expect to do well. Districts 3, 9 and 11 could all be close for three more candidates. In 11, I have to think the Party endorsement (unofficial link – the Dem ‘s have a very poor Web presence) is going to rule the day. Try your hand. … Good luck!

August 28, 2008 by adrielhampton

Brian Schweitzer and Jared Diamond

Watching the Montana governor’s speech on energy policy, I’m reminded of Jared Diamond’s musings in “Collapse” on his most beautiful place in the world, Montana’s Bitterroot Valley, and the challenges of sustainability. … Fire in that speech – closed very strong. …

August 25, 2008 by adrielhampton

Uh, yeah …

“Two high-powered, scoped rifles in the car along with camouflage clothing, walkie-talkies, wigs, a bulletproof vest, a spotting scope, licenses in the names of other people and 44 grams of methamphetamine” … Unnamed gov source: “premature to say that it was a valid threat.”