Who's who gathers slowly at 123 Bolinas

A who's who of Fairfax gathered at 123 Bolinas () to learn about the new CittaSlow movement in town. Earlier this month, Fairfax was certified as the second CittaSlow -- slow city -- in the U.S. The event last night was designed to help educate the business community about what being a slow city means and how they can get in on it.

Supervisor Hal Brown, most of the town council and staff, sanitary district board member Pam Meigs, water district candidates Peter Lacques and Frank Eggers, and local business owners listened to Sustainable Fairfax Executive Director Pam Hartwell-Herrero talk about how they can become involved in the Slow City movement.

CittaSlow, which started in Italy, grew out of the Slow Food movement. And, in order to become certified, Fairfax had to meet a number of criteria. Those included:

• Contain fewer than 50,000 people.
• Commit deeply to preserve and sustain the environment.
• Encourage thoughtful development and use of new technologies for sustainability.
• Foster local culture and preserve heritage traditions.
• Promote healthy eating and lifestyle.
• Support local artisans and businesses.
• Welcome visitors.
• Encourage active participation in community life