 | | | From left: Rachel Zinn, Don Tatzin, Candace Andersen, Steve Falk, Teresa Gerringer, Richard Whitmore, and David Gerson Photo Jeff Heyman, City of Lafayette | | | | | | Driving rain didn't dissuade hundreds of people from showing up to a joint reception at the Lafayette Veterans Memorial Center Nov. 27 for six public servants who are retiring or moving on in their service to the city.
Following refreshments and mingling, people took their seats, with many having to stand due to the size of the turnout, to listen to anecdotes and stories along with long lists of accomplishments of the six.
Executive director of the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce, Jay Lifson, performed master of ceremonies duties.
The honorees were recognized in alphabetical order, starting with City Manager Steve Falk, introduced by Lifson. Falk was the first to mention what was to be the common thread through all the speeches - that of community involvement. Noting that 28 years is a long time for a city manager to stay in one job, he credited the city council, the chamber of commerce, and his "brilliant" city staff and said it was "because we did it together."
Former Lafayette School District Board Member Ann Appert introduced outgoing Lafayette School District Board Member Teresa Gerringer, who is now taking a seat on the city council.
Former LAFSD Superintendent Rachel Zinn introduced outgoing LAFSD Board Member David Gerson.
City Council Member Mike Anderson introduced outgoing Mayor Don Tatzin as he leaves the council after 33 years of service, noting his legacy of making all feel welcome to the podium to speak at council meetings with a simple greeting each time of "Welcome" to put people at ease.
Tatzin for his part highlighted the collective achievements of the past years and expressed his optimism that the next council will solve issues of traffic and parking.
Acalanes Union High School District Superintendent John Nickerson introduced outgoing Board Member Richard Whitmore, who is leaving the board but taking up the position of Superintendent of Schools at LAFSD.
And then finally Gerringer reappeared to introduce Zinn as she leaves the position of LAFSD superintendent.
Contra Costa County Supervisor Candace Andersen was on hand to present resolutions.
Tatzin noted that between them all, their service amounted to 125 years.
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Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA