Hero: Congratulaciones to the County of Marin Probation Department and the Canal Welcome Center in San Rafael for renewing their partnership to assist at-risk youth. This innovative alliance, beginning its fourth year, funds and runs three programs: Partners For Success, Consejo (advice) for Restorative Justice and Presente Youth Leadership Development. More than 200 young people have participated, and triumphs abound, including an 18-year-old who finished probation, got a job at a bank and is working on a business administration degree, and a 17-year-old who improved greatly in academics, completed high school and now manages an ice cream shop. “I’ve seen their paths turn from the wrong direction toward a successful life,” says Douglas Mundo, founder and executive director of the Canal Welcome Center. Great work by all.
Zero: Grrr. The National Park Service (NPS) is again behaving secretly about the controversial Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) proposed dog management plan. The plan was halted in May after a group of dog and recreation advocates filed a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit and obtained documents that suggested a nefarious and possible illegal conspiracy among some NPS officials in an effort to remove dogs from nearly all of the areas where they are allowed currently. The NPS convened a three-person review panel to investigate; however, the members haven’t been identified and aren’t accepting public input. To combat the lack of transparency, more than 35,000 people signed a petition to keep recreational dog walking in the GGNRA. Add your name at petitionsite.com/takeaction/728/478/486/.
