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TO: BOARD OF SUPERVISORS fes, CONTRA
FROM: Tony Colvin,
COSTA
Community Services Director ;�� COUNTY
DATE: January 7, 2004
SUBJECT: MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR., 26TH ANNUAL COMMEMORATION
SPECIFIC REQUEST(S) OR RECOMMENDATION(S) & BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION
RECO'MME'NDATION'tS):
1. DECLARE January 20, 2004 as the 26th Annual Commemoration honoring the life of Dr.
Martin Luther King, Jr.
2. PRESENT the 2004 Humanitarian of the Year Award to Walter Ruehlig, the Student
Humanitarian of the Year Award to Jullie Z. Lal, Deer Valley High School, and the 2004
Honorable Mention to Susan Prather.
3. DIRECT the County Administrator to add Walter Ruehlig to the perpetual Humanitarian
plaque, establish a Student Humanitarian perpetual plaque, add Jullie Z. Lal to the perpetual
plaque for 2004, and add Candace Foster to the Student Humanitarian perpetual plaque for 2003.
BACKGROUND/REASON(S) FOR RECOMMENDATION(S):
For the past 25 years the Board of Supervisors has had a commemorative:celebration honoring
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This year, the Community Services Director recommends that
January 20, 2004 be designated as the date to commemorate the life of Dr. Martin Luther
King, Jr. At this commemorative celebration, a Humanitarian of the Year is acknowledged. Last
year the Board of Supervisors also acknowledged a Student Humanitarian of the Year.
In 2003 the Student Humanitarian of the Year was established.
For 2004, the Martin Luther King Jr. Committee is requesting that a perpetual plaque be
purchased and placed in the foyer next to the Humanitarian of the Year perpetual plaque. The
committee recommends including the Student Humanitarian of the Year as part of the ongoing
annual commemoration.
CONTINUED ON ATTACHMENT: YES NATURE:
' RECOMMENDATION OF COUNTY ADMI TRATOR RECOMMEN TION OF BOARD COMMITTEE
APPROVE _OTHER
SIGNATURE(S). «---,
ACTION OF BO > APPROVED AS RECOMMENDED OTHER
J- U41 IQ&4 2
VOTE OF SUPERVISORS
I HEREBYCERTIFY THAT THIS IS A
UNANIMOUS{ASSENT ` L k '"' ) TRUE AND CORRECT COPY OF AN
AYES: NOES: ACTION TAKEN AND ENTERED
ABSENT: ABSTAIN: ON MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF
SUPERVISORS ON THE DATE SHOWN.
Contact: , _J
ATTESTED_ /� �ut-ye t� iX 3 o
JOHN SWEETEN,OLERK OF f
THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
cc: CAO
AND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR
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SCRIPT AND BACKGROUND INFORMATION
26"'Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration
and Humanitarian of the Year Award
Contra Costa County
Board Of Supervisors
January 20, 2004
Information is given in order of appearance with the program. Noted Supervisor will
distribute award to recipient.
Tonv Col6n will 'Introduce himself. Key points: (2 minute)
Welcome Audience
Comment on Dr. King's legacy
Introduce Board Members and point out that each member has a role in the
program
Introduce Supervisor Glover—Master of Ceremonies
Supervisor Glover comes to the podium. Key Points: (3 minutes)
➢ Welcome Audience
26"' Annual Celebration
Opening Remarks
Speak on significance of Dr. King's work and how it provides an example of
leadership for the County and our communities
Introduce Terry Blink— Soloist (Background Information Not Provided)
Terry Blink sings (Song Selection Not Provided) (3 minutes)
Supervisor Glover returns to the podium Key Points: (I minutes)
Thank Terry Blink
Introduce Lumie Herns, Pastor of Stewart Memorial Church, Pittsburg, CA—
Orator of"I Have A Dream" speech.
Background Information on Pastor Hems not Provided)
Pastor Lumie Herns —Recites MLK's "I Have A Dream" speech. (10 minutes)
Supervisor Glover will return to the podium and thank Pastor Hems, comment on his
presentation and presents him with a Certificate of Appreciation. [ntroduce Keynote
Speaker, Daniel Boggan, Former Vice Chancellor, U.C. Berkeley.
(2 minutes)
Background Information:
M.J. Robb I
MLK 2004 Script
FINAL--Jan,20,2004
''I'll-,....I.....-........................................................................... ................
...................................................
Mr. Boggan has 30+ years of public administration experience, including 7 years
as Vice Chancellor for Business and Finance at the University of California,
Berkeley. In addition, Mr. Boggan's experience includes serving as the City
Manager of Berkeley, CA; County Administrator for Essex County, New Jersey;
Director of Management Services, City of Portland, Oregon; and City Manger of
Flint, Michigan.
Currently, Mr. Boggan is a Business Development Consultant for Seibert
Brandford Shank and Co., LLC, Prior to Joining Siebert Brandford Shank and
Co., Mr. Boggan served as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of
the National Collegiate Athletic Association (N-CAA), with responsibility in
running the day-to-day operations of the NCAA.
Mr. Boggan attained a Bachelor of Arts degree from Albion College and attained
a Master's degree from the University of Michigan.
On a personal note, Mr. Boggan is married and he and his wife, Jacqueline Ann,
of 26 years, have 3 sons and a daughter,
Mr. Boggan delivers keynote address. (15 minutes)
Supervisor Glover thanks Mr. Boggan, comments on the keynote address and presents
him a Certificate of Appreciation. Then introduces soloist Ruth Hunter—who will sing
"What About the Children"
(I minute)
Background Information:
Ms. Hunter has worked for with Community Services Department for thirteen
years holding the position of a teacher and currently as a Children Center Site
Supervisor in San Pablo
Ms. Hunter is a devoted singer and spends much of her time singing in church and
stage productions.
Ms. Hunter stated that she sings because it makes her happy and she loves to
bring joy to others.
Ruth Hunter signs "What About the Children." (3 minutes)
Supervisor Glover thanks Ruth Hunter, makes an appropriate comment about her
performance and presents her with a Certificate of Appreciation.
A WARD CF.REUONY
Supervisor Glover announces the start of the award ceremonies, inviting Supervisor
John Gioia and Supervisor Millie Greenberg to present the 2004 Honorable Mention
category.
(I minute)
M.J. Robb 2
MLI{2004 Script
FINAL—Jan.20,2004
Supervisor Gioia and Greenberg introduces the Honorable Mention Award to the
audience. Request that Susan Prather come forward. They then read her background
(below), present the award and read the wording. Supervisor Gioia and Greenberg then
present the award to Ms. Susan Prather. (Photo Opportunity)
Background Information: (2 minutes)
Honorable Mention: Ms. Susan Prather— Since the 1970's she has devoted her
adult life to assisting the homeless and disadvantaged in Contra Costa County. In
more than 25 years of service to this county, she has personally and
compassionately assisted countless homeless, elderly, and indigent persons in
need of shelter and housing, medical services, personal and employment
counseling.
Ms. Prather is the founder and Executive Director fresh Start, which not only
acts as a respite and service center for the homeless but also as a community
where members serve while being served; assisting in the daily upkeep of the
facility homeless people. Ms Prather founded Fresh Start in 1999 and since
inception has grown the organization from a small program funded by the City of
Walnut Creek to its current non-profit status, helping dozens of members each
week in their struggle to maintain personal dignity in the face of homelessness.
➢ Ms. Prather has been an advocate for homelessness nationwide, appearing before
congressional committees and testifying in court cases in support of homeless
rights.
Ms. Prather also co-produced and narrated a PBS award-winning documentary
called "Homeless not Helpless."
y In the mid-1990's Ms Prather ran and paid for the Advocacy Project, a volunteer
organization that provided a free phone number that homeless people in the
county could call at any time of the day or night.
y Ms. Prather's advocacy for full fiscal accountability from agencies that assist the
homeless resulted in the tightening of reporting standards for all agencies
receiving funds to provide homeless assistance.
y The mission of Fresh Start is to EMPOWER homeless individuals; families, and
those at risk of being homeless by rebuilding their self-esteem and;providing
advocacy services necessary to arrest their downward spiral.
Ms. Prather lives by the mission of Fresh Start and as she was quoted as saying in
the Walnut Creek journal, "The most important part of my job is to remind people
that they are somebody, that they count and they are important."
➢ Today, we would like to recognize Ms. Prather for her dedication to the homeless
of Contra Costa County as well as throughout the United States and present her as
the 2004 Honor Mention—Humanitarian of the Year.
M.J. Robb 3
MLK 2004 Script
FINAL.—Jan. 20,2004
HUMANITARIAN OF THE YEAR
Supervisor Glover requests Walter Ruehlig to come to the front. He then reads his
background information (below) and the wording on the award before presenting.
Then Walter Ruehlig to address the audience. (Photo Opportunity)
Background Information. (2 minutes)
Walter Ruehling has embodied the ideals of a "Peacemaker' and `ambassador of
Universal Brotherhood' throughout his adult life, beginning with his commitment
to public service 35 years ago with the Peace Corp. Walter displays his special
passion for diversity and youth mentoring through his affiliation with some 30-
community organizations.
Currently a vocational counselor and the Director for Special Programs at
Pittsburg Adult Education Center, Walter works with clients with mental,
emotional or physical disabilities assisting them in their vocational rehabilitation
and training. However Walter's services don't stop there.
In 2001, as the Chair of the Contra Costa County Human Relations Commission,
he organized Antioch's first "Season for Non-Violence"peace march
commemorating the 50`}' and 30"' anniversaries of the deaths of Mahatma Ghandi
and Marin Luther King, Jr. respectively. Representatives from 9 faiths joined in
the interfaith candle lighting witnessed by over 150 citizens.
Mr. Ruehling's goodwill includes work in the Philippines and home-builds with
Habitat for Humanity and the Mexican Corazon group. He has hosted students
from three continents, assists the Antioch-Chichbu Sister City Organization and is
currently coordinating an Italian group delegation exchange for later this year.
Y Mr. Ruehling, a life educator, works with the disabled; is a five-time foster parent,
and currently sponsors an East Indian child through middle school and a Filipino
polio victim through medical school.
A resident of Antioch, Mr. Ruehling has mentored for the Boy Scouts, Little
League, PTA, and Job Corps and leads the international service award-winner St.
John Bosco Circle—Columbian Squires of Antioch.
Mr. Ruehling passionately believes that by cultural exchange the family of man
will recognize their sameness and transcend dissimilarity. Walter is a man of
faith who lectures and serves as Vice—Facilitator of St. Ignatius of Antioch
Church Pastoral Council. He truly believes we are our brothers' keeper.
5= Dr. Fraid, Afghan Coalition Director, lauds Walter, a certified conflict resolution
mediator and mediation instructor, as one "who walks, works and carries on with
his motto and conviction, there is only one race, the human race."
2003 STUDENT HUMANITARIAN OF THE YEAR
M.J. Robb 4
MLK 2004 Script
FINAL—Jan. 20,2004
.......................................................................................
..................................
Supervisor Mark De Saulnier come to the podium and provides a brief update of last
year's FIRST annual recipient of the "Student Humanitarian of the Year" award -
Candace Foster (background information below). (Ms. Foster will not be in
attendance)
Supervisor De Saulnier then expresses the committee's desire to make the "Student
Humanitarian of the Year" award an on-going program and discusses the Board's action
to approve the request and the addition of the "perpetual plaque" in the foyer of the Board
Chambers, next to the adult Humanitarian of the Year plaque to represent the student
honorees; beginning with last years winner(2003 — Candace Foster) as the first name to
be added to the plaque.
Supervisor De Saulnier then invites Supervisor Uilkema to come up and introduce the
2004 Student Humanitarian of the Year.
Background Information: (2 minutes)
Candace Foster graduated from Antioch High School in June 2003.
Candace is Currently a student at Diablo Valley College where she acts as a
mentor/tutor for other students
Candace worked as a volunteer in a child care center last summer and is currently
working at Macys in Concord
Candace continues to volunteer her time at the Antioch Senior Center where she
has forged many strong, caring relationships with the residents.
2004 STUDENT HUMANITARIAN OF THE YEAR
Supervisor Uilkema requests Jullie Lal to come to the front. She then reads her
background information (below) and the wording on the award before presenting.
Then Jullie Lal will address the audience. (Photo Opportunity)
Background Information: (2 minutes)
➢ Since middle school, Jullie Lal's passion has always been helping children. She
frequently volunteered at her younger sister's pre-school at a local community
center, continuing to volunteer when her sister entered elementary school, It is
there that she began to notice the struggles of students whose native language was
Spanish and decided to pursue proficiency in Spanish.
Jullie pursued Spanish up to an advanced level and began to use her proficiency to
tutor students whose first language was Spanish.
A resident of Antioch, Jullic tutors her fellow students at Antioch's Deer Valley
High School in math and also took a job working at her local Kaplan Score
Center, where she teaches children of all ages and backgrounds, some with
learning disabilities such as autism.
M.J. Robb 5
MLK 2004 Script
FINAL Jan. 20,2004
Throughout high school, Jullie has been a member of the California Scholarship
Federation, which stresses leadership, academic excellence, and community
service.
Jullie has been active in community service, volunteering her time to Highlands
General Hospital in Oakland; working at the Martinez Homeless Shelter; as well
as being a dedicated fundraiser and volunteer for the Juvenile Diabetes
Foundation and the American Diabetes Association.
Jullie has been a Juvenile diabetic since a very young age and empathizes with
those who have to live their lives with chronic illnesses. Her belief is that "Rising
above adversity is the key to inner strength. -
Currently in her senior year in high school, Jullie and her friends founded a club
known as "Helping Hands,"dedicated to aiding the homeless in their area. The
club held a food drive to collect food for the Martinez Homeless Shelter, and each
member"adopted" a child for the Holiday Season.
Jullie has demonstrated a true sense of community in her volunteer activities and
dedication to helping others. Jullie's philosophy is, "In helping others, we shall
help ourselves, for whatever good we give out completes the circle and comes
back to us."
Supervisor Glover comes to the podium and again introduces Soloist - Terry Blink.
(I minute)
Terry Blink performs — (Song Selection Not Provided) Q minutes)
Supervisor Glover returns to the podium, thank Mr. Blink, make an appropriate
comment and present him with a Certificate of Appreciation. Then move into closing
remarks.
Closing remarks by Board of Supervisors (5 minutes)
I minute each
District 5 Supervisor Glover, Chair
District 4 Supervisor De Saulmer
District 3 Supervisor Greenberg
➢ District 2 Supervisor Uilkema
➢ District I Supervisor Gioia
Supervisor Glover returns to the podium and introduces - Carl Coates, who will lead
the audience in singing"Lift Every Voice And Sing." (Background information below)
Announce to audience that the words to the song are provided in the brochure,
(I minute)
Background Information:
Mr. Coates is the Diversity Services Program Manager for the Contra Costa
County Health Services Department
Mr. Coates has served on the Contra Costa County Human Relations Commission
in 1998
M.J.Robb 6
MLK 2004 Script
FINAL—Jan.20,2004
111.1.11............................................................................................................-
..............................................................................
.................................
Mr. Coates currently serves as Subcommittee Chair on the Annual Martin Luther
King, Jr. Commemoration Planning Committee.
Mr. Coates resides in Pittsburg and his hobbies include reading, exercising and
singing.
Mr. Carl Coates leads the audience in the song, "Lift Every Voice and Sing."
(3 minutes)
Supervisor Glover returns to the podium, thanks Mr. Coates, makes an appropriate
comment and presents a Certificate of Appreciation.
Supervisor Glover calls Velma Braggs, Community Services Food Operations
Supervisor, and her staff to the front, thanks them for preparing the refreshments for the
ceremony and presents them with a Certificate of Appreciation.
Supervisor Glover thanks everyone for coming and invites Guests and Board members
to the reception in the foyer. Meeting adjourned. (3 minute)
M.J. Robb 7
MLK 2004 Script
FINAL—Jan.20,2004
41
Susan Prather
P.O. Box 681
El Cerrito, CA 94530
Susan.Prother*Comeast.net
January 20, 2004
TO: Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors
Community Services Department
I thank you. It is indeed an honor to receive the Honorable Mention for the 2004
Humanitarian of the Year Award. I would like to give an honored mention to those
I have served over the years, the people on our streets, my friends. Most
important, today I honor and remember those who did not survive, those who died
on our streets without care, comfort or shelter.
To be recognized in the name of Dr. Martin Luther King is more than an honor, it is
a privilege. Dr. King's "Letter from Birmingham Jail," written on April 16, 1963, is
one of many writings that have inspired my work for over the years. "An injustice
anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere" is a statement made by Dr. King that
keeps many of us fighting for and demanding justice.
In honor of Dr. King I invite you to share his humanity: Right now, today,
open a building for emergency winter shelter for people who are homeless.
Dr. King once said when toldthat he was moving too fast and that he had to
wait for change: "We know that unless change happens right now, overnight,
change will never came." I implore you, right now, today: Stand with the
poorest of the poor in your County. Open an emergency shelter to save lives.
Again, I thank you for recognizing my work. In doing so,you recognize the people
that I have served for many years. The latter is the most important part of this
award.
Sincerely,
S4441N NUS
Susan Prather
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r. Martin Luther King,Jr,was a i itaf'figure Ofthe modern
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era, His lecres and dialagues stirred the concern
and sparked the conscience of generatintt. The rnvexnerz#s and
Marches he led bro.c�ght significant changes in the fabric n£rlerican
life through his courage ;and s dntinn phis devotion gave
direction to thtrtert years,�f c rights actives, His charsrr�atic
leadership inspired men and women,young and ofd., in this nation
and.A and the world.
flr. King's concept of"somebhdiness," which sy r bc�Ii ed the
celebration of human worth and the conquest
Of sub
zgatinnt gave
be and poor people hope axed a sense of dignity His piic�sophy of
non-violent action,end hisstrategis forrational and non-destrctiv
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change,galvan�red the conscience of his natir n and reordered
its +rior"ties f Ips xvisdurn, hts wards, his'actic�ns,his cbMMitrnent,
and hts dream fora ewWay oflife are intertwinec#tivith thel�mezican
experience.
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PAMIEL OGGAN
Frtrrrter VIce Chancellor,
U.C. lierkelq�y
r: Bo an has over thirty years of public administration
r experience. His past experience includes servixtg
seven years as Vice Chancellor for Business and Finance at the:
niv
# rsity of California,,Berkeley- City Manager relf y:
California;County Administrator for Essex County, Nelvv Jersey;
Director of Management-Services,City of Portland,Ore On;;a4d.
City Manager of Flint,Michigan.
Ik31r. Roggan currently is a Business'Devele pro nt Consultant for
Siebert Brandford Shank and C ., l C. Prior tq joining Siebert.
Brandford Shank and Co., Mr Boggan served as Senior Vice
President and Chief'Operating OtTicer csf rhe National Collegiate
Athletic Association, is running the d. to,d
operations of the NCAA.
Mr. Boggan earned his M.A. from the University of Michigan anti
received his B.A. from Albion College. On a more personal note,
Mr.Boggan loves wor nig with children. He currently chairs the
national Sports Corporation Board of l irec hors,as well as the
.Boards of The Ntit nal Writing Project,and the East Oakland Youth
Development Foundation.
Mr, Btggan is married and lie and wife,Jacqueline Arta,416
years, have three sons and a daughter.
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stud�rsrs f rcarn three cottinrats;assists the umhhibuiateittf
�ganxzation and is cuurc:Hating an Italian ytaurh dele ativh a haage
M4-,A c... h& lfetimeducatt+r,vscar with the disabled. Hes ar
time foster parent and reHtiy spr,nsca s an East Indian cl ld tiirvu h
tniddle.shea�+l diad aitipirxo rso vieta thtoughediai schoral.>He
hasentxred fur the Boy dts,Linde> ert4,and Jobrs
and leads the international cervi ward wvixner Jol*raoscvPT
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2004 5;?urfent
lha Qa titarian of the Year
lace,middle school,jullie I;al s
fission has always been hellsing
ldren Elie frequently volunteered a
her younger sister's preschool�t a local
community enter. She continued her volunteer work when l ier sister
entered elementary school,and took time�n�stice t stt a es cif
students whose dative language yvas Spanish. ftealiirige benefits #
speaking second language,ItJe pursued Spanish up t0 JALL.AdVanced
Placement Level d u d her garlic erie r to tutor Iis anic s z:ts, ljw LL
L
she tutored her fellow studexsts in math at Titer galley fiig�
Scl?ool. Sle took her wnrlt a stx further and tck a jobas an assistant
coach ata local Kaplan Sere Winter Tigre,she taught,chilclr of all'
different ages and back grsunds,. ,.1d srse with learning disabilities such as.
autism.
Throb OUtL hoerHigh school,years,Mollie bas been a member of the
al s rnia Scholarship ederatiOn'whicri stresses leadership,academie
excellence,and ceimmunity service< ullie�crlurtteerl her time at
Highland General Hospital in Oakland. 13einga juvenile diabetshe
em atltized with chow who have to live their lines with cliranie illsxe s.
iter belieffs that risir� al�r�ve adtersity i's the key to inner strength. the
has participated it f4 draisers l ld by
the u �Diabr Les P stzndat£on
and American Diabetes Association.
During her senior of
high school,Jullie d her friends found
a club
later as"Helping Hands,"dedicated tv aiding e hOMeless in their area.
In this eflart,she made visits tto helW iac,,it iartiner. The club held
a food drj_V'eL.tP.LCojlectf6odjor die shelter,and eat member"adopted"a
child who they bought gifts for during,Ghristxnas. Ju l%e's philosophy is
in helpingothers,we shall help ourselves,Fear whatever good we give out
completes the circle and comes back to us."
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Susan Prather
P.O. Box 681
El Cerrito, CA 94530
Susan.Prather*Comcast.net
January 20, 2004
TO: Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors
Community Services Department
I thank you. It is indeed an honor to receive the Honorable Mention for the 2004
Humanitarian of the Year Award. I would like to give an honored mention to those
I have served over the years, the people on our streets, my friends. Most
important, today I honor and remember those who did not survive, those who died
on our streets without care, comfort or shelter.
To be recognized in the name of Dr. Martin Luther King is more than an honor, it is
aprivilege. Dr. King's "Letter from Birmingham Jail,' written on April 16, 1963, is
one of many writings that have inspired my work for over the years, *An injustice
anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere' is a statement made by Dr. King that
keeps many of us fighting for and demanding justice.
In honor of Dr. King I invite you to share his humanity: Right now, today,
open a building for emergency winter shelter for people who are homeless.
Dr. King once said when told that he was moving too fast and that he had to
wait for change: *We know that unless change happens right now, overnight,
change will never come.' I implore you, right now, today. Stand with the
poorest of the poor in your County. Open an emergency shelter to save lives.
Again, I thank you for recognizing my work. In doing so, you recognize the people
that I have served for many years. The latter is the most important part of this
award.
Sincerely,
S4444-1
Susan Prather
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.... ..... ......
SCRIPT AND BACKGROUND INFORMATION
26"'Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration
and Humanitarian of the Year Award
Contra Costa County
Board of Supervisors
January 20, 2004
Information is given in order of appearance with the program. Noted Supervisor will
distribute award to recipient.
Tony Col6n will introduce himself. Key points: (2 minute)
➢ Welcome Audience
➢ Comment on Dr. King's legacy
➢ Introduce Board Members and point out that each member has a role in the
program
➢ Introduce Supervisor Glover—Master of Ceremonies
Supervisor Glover comes to the podium. Key Points: (3 minutes)
➢ Welcome Audience
➢ 26'h Annual Celebration
➢ Opening Remarks
➢ Speak on significance of Dr. King's work and how it provides an example of
leadership for the County and our communities
➢ Introduce Terry Blink—Soloist (Background Information Not Provided)
Terry Blink sings (Song Selection Not Provided) (3 minutes)
Supervisor Glover returns to the podium Key Points: (I minutes)
➢ Thank Terry Blink
➢ Introduce Lumie Herns, Pastor of Stewart Memorial Church, Pittsburg,CA—
Orator of"I Have A Dream" speech.
Background Information on Pastor Hems not Provided)
Pastor Lumie Herns—Recites MLK's "I Have A Dream" speech, (10 minutes)
Supervisor Glover will return to the podium and thank Pastor Hems, comment on his
presentation and presents him with a Certificate of Appreciation. Introduce Keynote
Speaker, Daniel Boggan, Former Vice Chancellor, U.C. Berkeley.
(2 minutes)
Background Information:
M.J.Robb
MLK 2004 Script
FINAL-Jan. 20,2004
➢ Mr. Boggan has 30+ years of public administration experience, including 7 years
as Vice Chancellor for Business and Finance at the University of California,
Berkeley. In addition, Mr. Boggan's experience includes serving as the City
Manager of Berkeley, CA; County Administrator for Essex County, New Jersey;
Director of Management Services, City of Portland, Oregon; and City Manger of
Flint, Michigan.
➢ Currently, Mr. Boggan is a Business Development Consultant for Seibert
Brandford Shank and Co., LLC. Prior to joining Siebert Brandford Shank and
Co., Mr. Boggan served as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of
the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), with responsibility in
running the day-to-day operations of the NCAA.
➢ Mr. Boggan attained a Bachelor of Arts degree from Albion College and attained
a Master's degree from the University of Michigan.
➢ On a personal note, Mr. Boggan is married and he and his wife, Jacqueline Ann,
of 26 years, have 3 sons and a daughter.
Mr. Boggan delivers keynote address. (1 5 minutes)
Supervisor Glover thanks Mr. Boggan, comments on the keynote address and presents
him a Certificate of Appreciation. Then introduces soloist Ruth Hunter who will sing
"What About the Children"
(1 minute)
Background Information:
➢ Ms. Hunter has worked for with Community Services Department for thirteen
years holding the position of a teacher and currently as a Children Center Site
Supervisor in San Pablo
➢ Ms. Hunter is a devoted singer and spends much of her time singing in church and
stage productions.
➢ Ms. Hunter stated that she sings because it makes her happy and she loves to
bring joy to others.
Ruth Hunter signs "What About the Children." (3 minutes)
Supervisor Glover thanks Ruth Hunter, makes an appropriate comment about her
performance and presents her with a Certificate of Appreciation.
A WARD CEREMONY
Supervisor Glover announces the start of the award ceremonies, inviting Supervisor
John Gioia and Supervisor Millie Greenberg to present the 2004 Honorable Mention
category.
(I minute)
M.J. Robb 2
MLK 2004 Script
FINAL,—Jan. 20,2004
................................................................................................................................................................................
..............................................................................
Supervisor Gioia and Greenberg introduces the Honorable Mention Award to the
audience. Request that Susan Prather come forward. They then read her:background
(below), present the award and read the wording. Supervisor Gioia and Greenberg then
present the award to Ms. Susan Prather. (Photo Opportunity)
Background Information: (2 minutes)
Honorable Mention: Ms. Susan Prather— Since the 1970's she has devoted her
adult life to assisting the homeless and disadvantaged in Contra Costa County. In
more than 25 years of service to this county, she has personally and
compassionately assisted countless homeless, elderly, and indigent persons in
need of shelter and housing, medical services, personal and employment
counseling,
➢ Ms. Prather is the founder and Executive Director Fresh Start, which not only
acts as a respite and service center for the homeless but also as a community
where members serve while being served; assisting in the daily upkeep of the
facility homeless people. Ms Prather founded Fresh Start in 1999 and since
inception has grown the organization from a small program funded by the City of
Walnut Creek to its current non-profit status, helping dozens of members each
week in their struggle to maintain personal dignity in the face of homelessness.
➢ Ms. Prather has been an advocate for homelessness nationwide, appearing before
congressional committees and testifying in court cases in support of homeless
rights.
➢ Ms. Prather also co-produced and narrated a PBS award-winning documentary
called "Homeless not Helpless."
➢ In the mid-1990's Ms Prather ran and paid for the Advocacy Project, a volunteer
organization that provided a free phone number that homeless people in the
county could call at any time of the day or night.
Ms, Prather's advocacy for full fiscal accountability from agencies that assist the
homeless resulted in the tightening of reporting standards for all agencies
receiving funds to provide homeless assistance.
➢ The mission of Fresh Start is to EMPOWER homeless individuals, families, and
those at risk of being homeless by rebuilding their self-esteem and providing
advocacy services necessary to arrest their downward spiral.
➢ Ms. Prather lives by the mission of Fresh Start and as she was quoted as saying in
the Walnut Creek journal, "The most important part of my job is to remind people
that they are somebody, that they count and they are important."
➢ Today, we would like to recognize Ms. Prather for her dedication to the homeless
of Contra Costa County as well as throughout the United States and present her as
the 2004 Honor Mention—Humanitarian of the Year.
MI .J.Robb 3
MILK 2004 Script
FINAL--Jan. 20,2004
---l—......I.........................................................................................I..............................................................................................
. ... ............................
HUMANITARIAN OF THE YEAR
Supervisor Glover requests Walter Ruehlig to come to the front. He then reads his
background information (below) and the wording on the award before presenting.
Then Walter Ruehlig to address the audience. (Photo Opportunity)
Background Information: (2 minutes)
➢ Walter Ruchling has embodied the ideals of a "Peacemaker' and 'Ambassador of
Universal Brotherhood' throughout his adult life, beginning with his commitment
to public service 35 years ago with the Peace Corp. Walter displays his special
passion for diversity and youth mentoring through his affiliation with some 30-
community organizations.
➢ Currently a vocational counselor and the Director for Special Programs at
Pittsburg Adult Education Center, Walter works with clients with mental,
emotional or physical disabilities assisting them in their vocational rehabilitation
and training. However Walter's services don't stop there.
➢ In 2001, as the Chair of the Contra Costa County Human Relations Commission,
he organized Antioch's first "Season for Non-Violence"peace march
commemorating the 501h and 30"' anniversaries of the deaths of Mahatma Ghandi
and Marin Luther King, Jr. respectively. Representatives from 9 faiths joined in
the interfaith candle lighting witnessed by over 150 citizens.
Mr. Ruehling's goodwill includes work in the Philippines and home-builds with
Habitat for Humanity and the Mexican Corazon group. He has hosted students
from three continents, assists the Antioch-Chichbu Sister City Organization and is
currently coordinating an Italian group delegation exchange for later this year.
➢ Mr. Ruehling, a life educator, works with the disabled; is a five-time foster parent;
and currently sponsors an East Indian child through middle school and a Filipino
polio victim through medical school.
➢ A resident of Antioch, Mr. Ruehling has mentored for the Boy Scouts, Little
League, PTA, and Job Corps and leads the international service award-winner St.
John Bosco Circle--Columbian Squires of Antioch.
➢ Mr. Ruehling passionately believes that by cultural exchange the family of man
will recognize their sameness and transcend dissimilarity. Walter is a man of
faith who lectures and serves as Vice—Facilitator of St. Ignatius of Antioch
Church Pastoral Council. He truly believes we are our brothers' keeper.
➢ Dr. Fraid,Afghan Coalition Director, lauds Walter, a certified conflict resolution
mediator and mediation instructor, as one "who walks, works and carries on with
his motto and conviction, there is only one race, the human race."
2003 STUDENT HUMANITARIAN OF THE YEAR
M_J-Robb 4
MLK 2004 Script
FINAL—Jan.20,2004
.............................
........... ..................
Supervisor Mark De Saulnier come to the podium and provides a brief update of last
year's FIRST annual recipient of the "Student Humanitarian of the Year"award -
Candace Foster (background information below). (Ms. Foster will not be in
attendance)
Supervisor De Saulnier then expresses the committee's desire to make the"Student
Humanitarian of the Year" award an on-going program and discusses the Board's action
to approve the request and the addition of the"perpetual plaque" in the foyer of the Board
Chambers, next to the adult Humanitarian of the Year plaque to represent the student
honorees; beginning with last years winner (2003 — Candace Foster) as the first name to
be added to the plaque.
Supervisor De Saulnier then invites Supervisor Uilkema to come up and introduce the
2004 Student Humanitarian of the Year.
Background Information: (2 minutes)
➢ Candace Foster graduated from Antioch High School in June 2003.
Candace is currently a student at Diablo Valley College where she acts as a
mentor/tutor for other students
➢ Candace worked as a volunteer in a child care center last summer and is currently
working at Macys in Concord
➢ Candace continues to volunteer her time at the Antioch Senior Center where she
has forged many strong, caring relationships with the residents.
2004 STUDENT HUMANITARIAN OF THE YEAR
Supervisor Uilkema requests Jullie Lai to come to the front. She then reads her
background information (below) and the wording on the award before presenting.
Then Jullie Lal will address the audience. (Photo Opportunity)
Background Information: (2 minutes)
➢ Since middle school, Jullie Lal's passion has always been helping children. She
frequently volunteered at her younger sister's pre-school at a local community
center, continuing to volunteer when her sister entered elementary school. It is
there that she began to notice the struggles of students whose native language was
Spanish and decided to pursue proficiency in Spanish.
➢ Jullie pursued Spanish up to an advanced level and began to use her proficiency to
tutor students whose first language was Spanish.
➢ A resident of Antioch, Jullie tutors her fellow students at Antioch's Deer Valley
High School in math and also took a job working at her local Kaplan Score
Center, where she teaches children of all ages and backgrounds, some with
learning disabilities such as autism.
M.J.Robb 5
MLK 2004 Script
FINAL- Jan,20,2004
➢ Throughout high school, Jullie has been a member of the California Scholarship
Federation, which stresses leadership, academic excellence, and community
service.
➢ Jullie has been active in community service, volunteering her time to Highlands
General Hospital in Oakland; working at the Martinez Homeless Shelter; as well
as being a dedicated fundraiser and volunteer for the Juvenile Diabetes
Foundation and the American Diabetes Association.
➢ Jullie has been a juvenile diabetic since a very young age and empathizes with
those who have to live their lives with chronic illnesses. Her belief is that "Rising
above adversity is the key to inner strength. "
➢ Currently in her senior year in high school, Jullie and her friends founded a club
known as "Helping Hands," dedicated to aiding the homeless in their area. The
club held a food drive to collect food for the Martinez Homeless Shelter, and each
member"adopted" a child for the Holiday Season.
Jullie has demonstrated a true sense of community in her volunteer activities and
dedication to helping others. Jullie's philosophy is, "In helping others,we shall
help ourselves, for whatever good we give out completes the circle and comes
back to us."
Supervisor Glover comes to the podium and again introduces Soloist - Terry Blink.
(I minute)
Terry Blink performs —(Song Selection Not Provided) (3 minutes)
Supervisor Glover returns to the podium, thank Mr. Blink, make an appropriate
comment and present him with a Certificate of Appreciation. Then move into closing
remarks.
Closing remarks by Board of Supervisors (S minutes)
1 minute each
➢ District 5 Supervisor Glover, Chair
➢ District 4 Supervisor De Saulnier
➢ District 3 Supervisor Greenberg
➢ District 2 Supervisor Uilkema
➢ District 1 Supervisor Gioia
Supervisor Glover returns to the podium and introduces -Carl Coates,who will lead
the audience in singing"Lift Every Voice And Sing." (Background information below)
Announce to audience that the words to the song are provided in the brochure.
(I minute)
Background Information:
➢ Mr. Coates is the Diversity Services Program Manager for the Contra Costa
County Health Services Department
➢ Mr. Coates has served on the Contra Costa County Human Relations Commission
in 1998
M.I.Robb 6
MLK 2004 Script
FINAL—Jan.20,2004
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111.111,..........................................................................
...........................................
Mr. Coates currently serves as Subcommittee Chair on the Annual Martin Luther
King, Jr. Commemoration Planning Committee.
Mr. Coates resides in Pittsburg and his hobbies include reading, exercising and
singing.
Mr. Carl Coates leads the audience in the song, "Lift Every Voice and Sing."
(3 minutes)
Supervisor Glover returns to the podium, thanks Mr. Coates, makes an appropriate
comment and presents a Certificate of Appreciation.
Supervisor Glover calls Velma Braggs, Community Services Food Operations
Supervisor, and her staff to the front, thanks them for preparing the refreshments for the
ceremony and presents them with a Certificate of Appreciation.
Supervisor Glover thanks everyone for coming and invites Guests and Board members
to the reception in the foyer. Meeting adjourned. (3 minute)
M.J.Robb 7
MLK 2004 Script
FINAL—Jan.20,2004