Hospital conciliates allegations that it fired employee for objecting to religious concepts in mandatory training
Commission staff refuse to share the religious content included
By Office of Communications & Legislative Affairs, U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
MARTINEZ, Calif. – Martinez Animal Hospital has agreed to provide $20,000 to a former employee following an investigation by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the federal agency announced on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.
According to the EEOC’s investigation, the hospital subjected an employee to mandatory training which he objected to because it incorporated religious content contrary to his beliefs; he also requested to be excused from any future trainings with similar content. The EEOC investigation concluded he was terminated within days.
Such alleged conduct violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits retaliation by an employer because a worker engaged in protected activity, such as making a request for a religious accommodation.
“I expressed my concerns to management over training I was required to attend and was soon fired,” said the worker. “I’m very glad the EEOC defended my right to speak up and ask for a religious accommodation, such as an exemption from religious-based content that made me uncomfortable.”
“We commend Martinez Animal Hospital for their commitment to preventing any future retaliation,” said Carlos Rocha, federal investigator and director of the EEOC’s Oakland Local Office. “This case should serve as a reminder for employers to train supervisors and representatives to recognize what may constitute protected activity under federal EEO laws and how to respond in a way that does not interfere with workers’ rights.”
Following the investigation, the parties engaged in the EEOC’s pre-litigation conciliation process, resulting in a settlement requiring the hospital to provide back pay and compensatory damages; revise its non-discrimination policies and procedures; conduct training for all employees, managers and human resources personnel; post a notice concerning equal employment opportunity rights in English and Spanish; track all accommodation requests; and report to the agency for two years.
For more information on retaliation generally, please visit https://www.eeoc.gov/retaliation, and for guidance on retaliation in the context of religious accommodation, please see section 12–V, part B., in EEOC’s Guidance on Religious Discrimination.
The EEOC’s San Francisco District has jurisdiction over Northern Nevada, Northern California, Washington, Alaska, Oregon, Idaho and Montana.
The EEOC is the sole federal agency authorized to investigate and litigate against businesses and other private sector employers for violations of federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination. For public sector employers, the EEOC shares jurisdiction with the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division; the EEOC is responsible for investigating charges against state and local government employers before referring them to DOJ for potential litigation. The EEOC also is responsible for coordinating the federal government’s employment antidiscrimination effort. More information about the EEOC is available at www.eeoc.gov. Stay connected with the latest EEOC news by subscribing to our email updates.
Multiple efforts to reach Rocha and District Director Christopher Green asking what was the religious content in the training and for any documents from the investigation that can be shared were unsuccessful prior to publication time.
8/11/24 UPDATE: Later, an EEOC spokesperson responded, “We have no comment beyond the release.”
A federal Freedom of Information Act request was then submitted for any and all documents related to the case and the religious content included in the training.
Please check back later for any additional updates.
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
Read MoreNews from the East Bay Regional Park District
Masaki Quarry (left) with his catch and Jameson Sims shows off the rainbow trout he caught. Photos: EBRPD
Includes CA Free Fishing Day Aug. 30
By Dave Mason, Public Information Supervisor, Public Affairs, East Bay Regional Park District
Groundbreaking Celebrates New Point Molate Bay Trail Extension.
East Bay Regional Park District board members, leadership, and staff joined with elected officials, City of Richmond representatives, and community leaders on Friday, Aug. 1, 2025, to break ground on the construction of the Point Molate Bay Trail Extension Project in Richmond. This extension is a major step forward in expanding public access to Point Molate and enhancing regional connectivity along the San Francisco Bay Trail.
Point Molate Bay Trail Extension Project Groundbreaking at Point Molate Beach Park Staging Area in Richmond, California on August 1, 2025. Photo by Cali Godley. Photos source: EBRPD
Once completed, the new 2.5-mile segment will connect the City of Richmond’s Point Molate Beach Park to the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge, providing seamless access to the existing bike and pedestrian path on the bridge. The trail extension also includes scenic views of the bay shoreline, a 600-foot boardwalk, and interpretive panels sharing the area’s natural and cultural history.
The project is a partnership between the Park District and the City of Richmond, which owns 1.25 miles of the 2.5-mile trail extension project area. The Park District is leading design, permitting, and construction of the trail.
For more information, visit www.ebparks.org/news and www.ebparks.org/projects/san-francisco-bay-trail-point-molate.
Hot Days Ahead!
After a relatively mild summer, the weather is heating up! When enjoying Regional Parks this August, keep the following tips in mind to beat the heat:
- Avoid visiting during the hottest part of the day. If you do visit the parks, go in the morning or early evening when it is cooler.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
- Don’t forget to bring extra water for your pets!
- Wear sunscreen and lightweight, light-colored clothing.
- Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen the effects of heat on your body.
Also, consider visiting Regional Parks with shady trails and cooler weather. For some cool options, visit www.ebparks.org/visit/shady-hikes-cooler-parks.
Crab Cove Fish Festival at Doug Siden Visitor Center at Crab Cove in Alameda, California on August 31, 2024. Photo by Cali Godley. Source: EBRPD
Learn about the Fin-Tastic Fish of the San Francisco Bay at the Crab Cove Fish Festival.
Crab Cove Fish Festival at Doug Siden Visitor Center at Crab Cove in Alameda, California on August 31, 2024. Photo by Cali Godley. Source: EBRPD
The numerous fish species that thrive in the deep, murky waters of the San Francisco Bay come in all shapes and sizes, from the tiny 2.5-inch Delta smelt, which is endangered, to long-living sturgeons that can reach up to 7 feet. In the bay, pipefish that look like seahorses hide in eelgrass beds. The male plainfin midshipman, also known as the singing toadfish, serenades females along the rocky shore. Swell sharks lay camouflaged egg cases called mermaid purses among the sea kelp. Each of these unique, fin-tastic fish plays a role in keeping the bay healthy and thriving.
On Aug. 23, Crab Cove hosts its annual Fish Festival from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visitors can observe fish up close at the Mobile Fish Exhibit and enjoy fish crafts, face painting, fishy games, and much more! The Doug Siden Visitor Center and Aquarium at Crab Cove in Alameda is a great place to learn about local fish species.
Also consider dropping in on Wednesdays or weekend afternoons at 3 p.m. to watch fish feeding.
Source: EBRPD
CA Free Fishing Day.
Saturday, Aug. 30, is a free fishing day in California and in the East Bay Regional Park District as both Park District fishing fees and state fishing license requirements are waived for visitors. Fishing is a great way to spend time outdoors—from first-timers to seasoned anglers. It’s a fun activity for all ages that offers a chance to slow down, enjoy nature, and connect with family and friends.
There are plenty of opportunities in the East Bay to cast a line. The Park District offers 10 fishing lakes, five bay and delta shoreline piers, and 25 miles of bay and delta shoreline for fishing. For more information, visit ebparks.org/recreation/fishing.
The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.
By Walnut Creek Police Department
We want to share an urgent message regarding a prolific scam targeting our residents. The scam is generally referred to as a “courier” scam, and preys on victims through manipulation and technology. The scam employs several methods, to include:
– Receiving a pop-up window on your computer alerting you to fraud or a hack. The pop-up will typically urge you to click on a button within the window or ask you to call tech support (a phone number provided by the suspects). Once you do these two things, the suspects have access to your computer, as well as the ability to manipulate you over the phone.
– Receiving an email alerting you to a purchase you did not make (commonly PayPal), and then requesting that you call tech support, which is connecting the suspects to you.
– Receiving an alert that your computer is vulnerable to viruses and is unprotected. Once you follow the prompts to pay for current protection, you are contacted by the suspect informing you that you overpaid, an excessive refund will be issued to you, at which point you are responsible for paying them back the difference. (This is common using PayPal).
– Receiving a call from someone posing as a family member or friend, stating they’ve been arrested or had an accident, and need cash quickly.
– Receiving an alert that your money has been used for criminal activity and that you are under investigation, after which you need to deliver your money to the suspects so they can “secure” it.
Almost all of these scams include the following techniques:
– You will be required to go to the bank to withdraw a large sum of cash, after which you will be instructed to meet with a “courier” or driver to hand over the cash.
– The suspects contacting you on the phone will be highly aggressive, controlling your movements through manipulation, and may even threaten you or your family.
– The suspects will attempt to avoid apprehension by using spoofed email addresses and phone numbers, and will state they work for major financial institutions and government entities.
– The suspects will ensure you’re following instructions by insisting you stay on the phone with them, FaceTime them, and photograph cash you intend to deliver to them.
It is WCPD’s first priority that its community members do not fall victim to crimes such as these. If you are contacted through any of the above means by people employing these tactics, simply disregard pop-ups and emails, do not click on anything within them, and do not call tech support phone numbers offered within these messages. If there are people in your family who may be vulnerable to these scams, please have conversations with them regarding tech and financial safety.
Thank you for reading and stay safe.
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Person of interest Arpy Yap and the Volkswagen Touareg he’s known to drive. Photos: Brentwood PD
Targets solo females in parking lots in ruse
By Brentwood Police Department
The Brentwood Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance regarding a series of vandalism incidents that have occurred throughout the City of Brentwood.
The individual in the photo has been identified as 48-year-old Arpy Yap of Daly City. Yap is suspected of targeting solo female victims in parking lots. In each incident, the victims returned to their vehicles to discover their tires had been vandalized or deflated. Yap reportedly appeared shortly after, offering assistance in exchange for money.
Yap is known to drive a blue Volkswagen Touareg with a roof rack.
We are releasing this photo in an effort to identify any additional victims or witnesses who may have information related to these incidents.
This is also being shared as a public safety advisory. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Brentwood Police Department at (925) 809-7911. Callers may remain anonymous.
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By CHP – Golden Gate Division
California Highway Patrol (CHP) detectives arrested a 39-year-old Hayward man in connection with a May freeway shooting on Interstate 880.
Detectives identified Rony David Murciascastillo as the suspect after a May 26 incident in which a driver reported being shot at while merging onto northbound I-880 from Jackson Street. The victim was not injured.
On July 30, CHP Special Investigations Unit detectives and the Golden Gate Division Warrant Service Team served a search warrant at Murciascastillo’s home. Detectives located him at a San Pablo casino, where the San Pablo Police Department took him into custody.
Authorities booked Murciascastillo into Santa Rita Jail on suspicion of attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, and multiple felony gun and drug charges.
“The incredible work our detectives do is responsible for yet another freeway shooter being held to answer for their crimes,” said CHP Golden Gate Division Chief Don Goodbrand. “I also want to thank our partners at the San Pablo Police Department for their assistance in taking the suspect into custody quickly and safely.”
According to localcrimenews.com, the six-foot tall, 190-pound Murciastillo is Hispanic and is a resident of Hayward.
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
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Aug. 19th rally in Sacramento
By Greg Burt, California Family Council
SACRAMENTO, CA — In a stirring and impassioned announcement before his congregation last week, Pastor Jack Hibbs of Calvary Chapel Chino Hills (a congregation of over 10,000) issued an urgent call to action for Californians: mark your calendars and make your way to Sacramento on Tuesday, August 19th for a rally and lobby day opposing Assembly Bill 495, a bill critics say obliterates parental rights and creates legal loopholes making child kidnapping easy.
“I have to tell you, if this bill passes, I am going to ask you to leave the state of California,” Pastor Hibbs declared from the pulpit. “You got to get out. You got to run with your kids. You got to go.”
The bill is the first piece of legislation authored by newly elected Assemblywoman Celeste Rodriguez (D–San Fernando). She sold AB 495 as a “compassionate” solution for children of detained immigrant parents. But opponents warn the measure does far more, and far worse, than what its title suggests.
The Threat of AB 495: A Legal Loophole for Kidnapping?
The “Family Preparedness Plan Act of 2025” would allow unrelated adults, broadly defined as an “adult caregiver” with a “mentoring relationship with the child” to assume custody-like control over a child through a one-page Caregiver’s Authorization Affidavit. No court appearance. No notarization. No parental consent or notification. No background check. No verification of identity required.
“Presto, someone walks away with your child,” warned attorney and president of Our Duty-USA Erin Friday, who called AB 495 “a child trafficker’s and kidnapper’s dream bill.”
Attorney Nicole Pearson, founder of Facts Law Truth Justice, testified before the State Senate:
“California wants to let someone that is not related to your child remove her from school, enroll her in any other school in the state, authorize any medical treatment of her, including mental health services and drugs, without the parents’ notice and knowledge or consent. This is not fear-mongering. I’m not being hyperbolic,” she said. “These unintended consequences are terrifying, and they are unavoidable.”
Even medical decisions, including psychiatric drug prescriptions and sex-trait modification procedures, could be authorized by these unvetted adults without the knowledge or consent of the child’s parents.
August 19th Rally: Mobilizing for Parental Rights
Real Impact and Capitol Resource Institute have pulled together a coalition of parental rights advocates, legal experts, pastors, and concerned citizens, to hold the “NO on AB 495 Rally and Lobby Day” featuring Pastor Hibbs as keynote speaker. Other speakers include best-selling author and speaker Heidi St. John and Jonathan Keller, President of California Family Council, with more speakers to be announced soon.
“I’m going to ask all of you to drive, bus, fly, I don’t care how you get there,” Hibbs told his church. “We’re looking for a minimum of 5000 people to be there that day.”
Schedule – Tuesday, August 19, 2025
- 1:00 PM PT – Rally Begins (West Steps of Capitol, 1315 10th Street, Sacramento)
- 2:00 PM PT – Lobby Training
- 2:30 PM PT – Legislative Office Visits
This isn’t the first time Hibbs has rallied thousands to the Capitol. A previous event back in 2022 drew nearly 2000 people to the Capitol to protest a bill to legalize infanticide. Organizers hope to top that turnout this time.
A State in Crisis
Hibbs’ warning is dire, and he isn’t mincing words. “I would not subject my child to one second in this public school system with this new law, AB 495,” he thundered.
California Family Council agrees the bill is incredibly dangerous. “AB 495 is a grave threat to the God-given responsibility of parents to raise and protect their children,” said Greg Burt, CFC’s Vice President. “It undermines every safeguard we have in place for child welfare and does so in the name of compassion. But compassion without guardrails is not mercy, it is madness.”
A Biblical Call to Courage
Pastor Hibbs was clear: this is a line in the sand.
“If you have kids in the state of California and this passes, you gotta go,” he said. “Your child’s safety is number one in your life, and I don’t care if you like the weather, and I never thought that day would ever come when I would encourage you to leave.
Watch Pastor Hibb’s announcement here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DMyRHyHPhXb/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=d4429a01-f040-4f0f-9efa-f657888103ec
About California Family Council
California Family Council works to advance God’s design for life, family, and liberty through California’s Church, Capitol, and Culture. By advocating for policies that reinforce the sanctity of life, the strength of traditional marriages, and the essential freedoms of religion, CFC is dedicated to preserving California’s moral and social foundation.
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Angel Montano. Source: GoFundMe
ID’d as a U.S. Marine reserve officer
By Allen D. Payton
The Richmond Police Department announced that on Monday, August 4, 2025, at approximately 5:00 p.m., Richmond Police responded to a 911 call about a man armed with knives threatening to kill people inside a home in the 400 block of 1st Street.
When officers arrived, they heard a disturbance inside. When officers announced their presence, they were confronted by a subject who came to the door armed with at least one edged weapon. During the confrontation, two officers discharged their firearms, and the subject, unfortunately, suffered fatal injuries at the scene.
According to a KRON4 TV news report, the man was identified as 27-year-old Angel Montano who “served in the U.S. Marines as a reserve officer “
Per protocol, the Law Enforcement Involved Fatal Incident Protocol has been activated. The Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office is leading the investigation into this incident.
Investigators are in the early stages of this investigation. The Richmond Police Department is committed to conducting a thorough and transparent investigation. Updates will be shared as new information becomes available on the Richmond Police Department’s website.
A GoFundMe page was set up by Liz Montaño to raise funds to cover funeral and burial expenses with the following message:
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the sudden and tragic passing of our beloved cousin, Angel Montano, at just 27 years old.
Angel was a proud U.S. Marine, a devoted son, brother, father and to many a loyal friend. Angel brought light and strength into every room he entered. His unexpected loss has left our family heartbroken, and we are doing everything we can to give him the memorial he deserves.
We’re raising funds to help cover funeral and burial expenses, and to support his loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. Any donation, no matter the amount, is deeply appreciated. If you’re unable to give, sharing this page and keeping our family in your thoughts and prayers means just as much.
Thank you for honoring Angel’s memory with us. Your support brings us comfort and strength.
-The Montano Family
Con el corazón en la mano, compartimos la repentina y trágica pérdida de nuestro querido primo, Angel Montano, a tan solo 27 años de edad.
Angel fue un orgulloso miembro del U.S Marine, un hijo, hermano y padre devoto, y un amigo leal para muchos. Angel iluminaba cada cuarto donde entraba con su carisma y sonrisa. Su partida inesperada ha dejado a nuestra familia con el corazón destrozado, y estamos haciendo todo lo posible para darle el homenaje que se merece.
Estamos recaudando fondos para ayudar a cubrir los gastos del funeral y entierro, así como para apoyar a sus seres queridos en este momento tan difícil. Cualquier donación, sin importar la cantidad, es profundamente agradecida. Si no puedes donar, compartir esta página y mantener a nuestra familia en tus pensamientos y oraciones es igualmente agrdecido.
Gracias por honrar la memoria de Angel con nosotros. Su apoyo nos brinda consuelo y fortaleza.
La Familia Montano”
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To either keep the bike-pedestrian path open 24/7 or allow conversion to breakdown lane every Mon.-Thurs.
By 511 Contra Costa
On Thursday, August 7, 2025, the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC) will decide whether to keep the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge bike-pedestrian path open 24/7 or allow it to be converted to a breakdown lane every Mon.-Thurs. Submit comments in advance or attend meeting (virtually or in person). The meeting will last from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
This Commission meeting will operate as a hybrid meeting under teleconference rules established by the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act. Commissioners are located at the primary physical location and may be located at the teleconference locations specified below, all of which are publicly accessible. The Zoom video conference link and teleconference information for members of the public to participate virtually are also specified below.
Primary physical location
Metro Center
375 Beale Street, Board Room, San Francisco
415-352-3600
Teleconference locations
- Earl Warren Hiram W Johnson Building: 455 Golden Gate Ave., San Francisco, CA 94102
• 100 Howe Ave., Ste. 100 South, Sacramento, CA 95825
• City Hall: 701 Laurel St., Allied Arts Rm., Menlo Park, CA 94025
• 675 Texas St., Ste. 6002, Fairfield, CA. 94533
• 176 E. Blithedale Ave., Mill Valley, CA 94941
• 197 Palmer Ave., Falmouth, MA 02540
• 1195 Third St., Ste. 310, Napa, CA, 94559
• 890 Osos St., Ste. H, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
• 500 County Center, 5th Fl., Buckeye Conf. Rm., Redwood City, CA 94063
• 2379 Sheffield Dr., Livermore, CA 94550
• 1021 O St., Sacramento, CA 95814
If you have issues joining the meeting using the link, please enter the Meeting ID and Password listed below into the ZOOM app to join the meeting.
Join the meeting via ZOOM
https://bcdc-ca-gov.zoom.us/j/87295886829?pwd=my206SeP5kGy5bSz3kcbUFbbbCgxYK.1
See information on public participation
Teleconference numbers
1 (866) 590-5055
Conference Code 374334
Meeting ID
872 9588 6829
Passcode
891700
If you call in by telephone:
Press *6 to unmute or mute yourself
Press *9 to raise your hand or lower your hand to speak
Details: http://511cc.org/rsrbridge
For more information about the BCDC visit
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Fine art photographer Jeff Heyman with student. Source: Jeff Heyman
Adventures in Photography for camera photographers and Fun Photography! for smartphone users
At Acalanes Adult Education
If you want to pick up a camera this fall, award-winning Contra Costa photographer Jeff Heyman is teaching two photography classes at Acalanes Adult Education.
Adventures in Photography is a course on how to use different camera techniques to improve your photographs and help you tell a story with each picture. Fun Photography! is designed for smartphone photographers so they can get the most out of the “best camera in the world” — the one you have with you.
You can read course descriptions and enroll in the classes at https://acalanesadulted.asapconnected.com/?org=3904#CourseGroupID=12444
Acalanes Adult Education is located at the Del Valle Education Center, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd., near Rossmoor, in Walnut Creek. Classes start soon! Call 510-280-3980, Ext. 8001, for more information.
Jeff Heyman’s work has been featured in The de Young Museum Open 2023. For more information visit his website heymanfoto.com, Instagram @heymanfoto or call 510.499.1420.
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To serve homeless veterans and others; volunteers needed
Community Day Sept. 13 is for anyone and everyone
By Delta Veterans Group
The Delta Veterans Group brings Contra Costa County (CCC) “Stand Down on the Delta” a Homeless Veterans’ “Hand Up” event every other year (2015, 2017, 2019….) DVG is proud to bring Stand Down on the Delta 2025, September 12-15, to the Contra Costa County Fairgrounds in Antioch.
This is a four-day event wherein U.S. military veterans receive services in Medical, Dental, Veterans Treatment Court, Housing, Job Placement, Mental Health and Drug and Alcohol Counseling.
We are also looking for volunteers. Please contact us through our website at Contact Us | Delta Veterans Group.
To date the Stand Down on the Delta biennial event has helped thousands of veterans and their families, served thousands of meals, given away over 1,100 pairs of boots, over 1,500 sleeping bags, over 1,300 pairs of new jeans, $500,000 in dental care, taken over 200 veterans fishing on our Delta shores and helped many more find permanent housing.
We work with over 70 different organizations during our four day Stand Down on the Delta event. In September of 2019 over 850 Volunteers from around the State of California and even as far as South Carolina came to Antioch to help us provide these great services to our veterans.
About DVG
Delta Veterans Group is 501(c)3 Veterans service non-profit that assists our Nation’s finest men and women with housing, employment, health, and education services. Founded in Contra Costa County in 2012 by Army veteran J.R. Wilson, DVG has now grown to provide services to surrounding Northern California areas including Alameda, Monterey, Napa, San Joaquin, San Francisco and Solano counties.
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Hospital conciliates allegations that it fired employee for objecting to religious concepts in mandatory training
Commission staff refuse to share the religious content included
By Office of Communications & Legislative Affairs, U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
MARTINEZ, Calif. – Martinez Animal Hospital has agreed to provide $20,000 to a former employee following an investigation by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the federal agency announced on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.
According to the EEOC’s investigation, the hospital subjected an employee to mandatory training which he objected to because it incorporated religious content contrary to his beliefs; he also requested to be excused from any future trainings with similar content. The EEOC investigation concluded he was terminated within days.
Such alleged conduct violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits retaliation by an employer because a worker engaged in protected activity, such as making a request for a religious accommodation.
“I expressed my concerns to management over training I was required to attend and was soon fired,” said the worker. “I’m very glad the EEOC defended my right to speak up and ask for a religious accommodation, such as an exemption from religious-based content that made me uncomfortable.”
“We commend Martinez Animal Hospital for their commitment to preventing any future retaliation,” said Carlos Rocha, federal investigator and director of the EEOC’s Oakland Local Office. “This case should serve as a reminder for employers to train supervisors and representatives to recognize what may constitute protected activity under federal EEO laws and how to respond in a way that does not interfere with workers’ rights.”
Following the investigation, the parties engaged in the EEOC’s pre-litigation conciliation process, resulting in a settlement requiring the hospital to provide back pay and compensatory damages; revise its non-discrimination policies and procedures; conduct training for all employees, managers and human resources personnel; post a notice concerning equal employment opportunity rights in English and Spanish; track all accommodation requests; and report to the agency for two years.
For more information on retaliation generally, please visit https://www.eeoc.gov/retaliation, and for guidance on retaliation in the context of religious accommodation, please see section 12–V, part B., in EEOC’s Guidance on Religious Discrimination.
The EEOC’s San Francisco District has jurisdiction over Northern Nevada, Northern California, Washington, Alaska, Oregon, Idaho and Montana.
The EEOC is the sole federal agency authorized to investigate and litigate against businesses and other private sector employers for violations of federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination. For public sector employers, the EEOC shares jurisdiction with the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division; the EEOC is responsible for investigating charges against state and local government employers before referring them to DOJ for potential litigation. The EEOC also is responsible for coordinating the federal government’s employment antidiscrimination effort. More information about the EEOC is available at www.eeoc.gov. Stay connected with the latest EEOC news by subscribing to our email updates.
Multiple efforts to reach Rocha and District Director Christopher Green asking what was the religious content in the training and for any documents from the investigation that can be shared were unsuccessful prior to publication time.
8/11/24 UPDATE: Later, an EEOC spokesperson responded, “We have no comment beyond the release.”
A federal Freedom of Information Act request was then submitted for any and all documents related to the case and the religious content included in the training.
Please check back later for any additional updates.
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
Read MoreNews from the East Bay Regional Park District
Masaki Quarry (left) with his catch and Jameson Sims shows off the rainbow trout he caught. Photos: EBRPD
Includes CA Free Fishing Day Aug. 30
By Dave Mason, Public Information Supervisor, Public Affairs, East Bay Regional Park District
Groundbreaking Celebrates New Point Molate Bay Trail Extension.
East Bay Regional Park District board members, leadership, and staff joined with elected officials, City of Richmond representatives, and community leaders on Friday, Aug. 1, 2025, to break ground on the construction of the Point Molate Bay Trail Extension Project in Richmond. This extension is a major step forward in expanding public access to Point Molate and enhancing regional connectivity along the San Francisco Bay Trail.
Point Molate Bay Trail Extension Project Groundbreaking at Point Molate Beach Park Staging Area in Richmond, California on August 1, 2025. Photo by Cali Godley. Photos source: EBRPD
Once completed, the new 2.5-mile segment will connect the City of Richmond’s Point Molate Beach Park to the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge, providing seamless access to the existing bike and pedestrian path on the bridge. The trail extension also includes scenic views of the bay shoreline, a 600-foot boardwalk, and interpretive panels sharing the area’s natural and cultural history.
The project is a partnership between the Park District and the City of Richmond, which owns 1.25 miles of the 2.5-mile trail extension project area. The Park District is leading design, permitting, and construction of the trail.
For more information, visit www.ebparks.org/news and www.ebparks.org/projects/san-francisco-bay-trail-point-molate.
Hot Days Ahead!
After a relatively mild summer, the weather is heating up! When enjoying Regional Parks this August, keep the following tips in mind to beat the heat:
- Avoid visiting during the hottest part of the day. If you do visit the parks, go in the morning or early evening when it is cooler.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
- Don’t forget to bring extra water for your pets!
- Wear sunscreen and lightweight, light-colored clothing.
- Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen the effects of heat on your body.
Also, consider visiting Regional Parks with shady trails and cooler weather. For some cool options, visit www.ebparks.org/visit/shady-hikes-cooler-parks.
Crab Cove Fish Festival at Doug Siden Visitor Center at Crab Cove in Alameda, California on August 31, 2024. Photo by Cali Godley. Source: EBRPD
Learn about the Fin-Tastic Fish of the San Francisco Bay at the Crab Cove Fish Festival.
Crab Cove Fish Festival at Doug Siden Visitor Center at Crab Cove in Alameda, California on August 31, 2024. Photo by Cali Godley. Source: EBRPD
The numerous fish species that thrive in the deep, murky waters of the San Francisco Bay come in all shapes and sizes, from the tiny 2.5-inch Delta smelt, which is endangered, to long-living sturgeons that can reach up to 7 feet. In the bay, pipefish that look like seahorses hide in eelgrass beds. The male plainfin midshipman, also known as the singing toadfish, serenades females along the rocky shore. Swell sharks lay camouflaged egg cases called mermaid purses among the sea kelp. Each of these unique, fin-tastic fish plays a role in keeping the bay healthy and thriving.
On Aug. 23, Crab Cove hosts its annual Fish Festival from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visitors can observe fish up close at the Mobile Fish Exhibit and enjoy fish crafts, face painting, fishy games, and much more! The Doug Siden Visitor Center and Aquarium at Crab Cove in Alameda is a great place to learn about local fish species.
Also consider dropping in on Wednesdays or weekend afternoons at 3 p.m. to watch fish feeding.
Source: EBRPD
CA Free Fishing Day.
Saturday, Aug. 30, is a free fishing day in California and in the East Bay Regional Park District as both Park District fishing fees and state fishing license requirements are waived for visitors. Fishing is a great way to spend time outdoors—from first-timers to seasoned anglers. It’s a fun activity for all ages that offers a chance to slow down, enjoy nature, and connect with family and friends.
There are plenty of opportunities in the East Bay to cast a line. The Park District offers 10 fishing lakes, five bay and delta shoreline piers, and 25 miles of bay and delta shoreline for fishing. For more information, visit ebparks.org/recreation/fishing.
The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.
By Walnut Creek Police Department
We want to share an urgent message regarding a prolific scam targeting our residents. The scam is generally referred to as a “courier” scam, and preys on victims through manipulation and technology. The scam employs several methods, to include:
– Receiving a pop-up window on your computer alerting you to fraud or a hack. The pop-up will typically urge you to click on a button within the window or ask you to call tech support (a phone number provided by the suspects). Once you do these two things, the suspects have access to your computer, as well as the ability to manipulate you over the phone.
– Receiving an email alerting you to a purchase you did not make (commonly PayPal), and then requesting that you call tech support, which is connecting the suspects to you.
– Receiving an alert that your computer is vulnerable to viruses and is unprotected. Once you follow the prompts to pay for current protection, you are contacted by the suspect informing you that you overpaid, an excessive refund will be issued to you, at which point you are responsible for paying them back the difference. (This is common using PayPal).
– Receiving a call from someone posing as a family member or friend, stating they’ve been arrested or had an accident, and need cash quickly.
– Receiving an alert that your money has been used for criminal activity and that you are under investigation, after which you need to deliver your money to the suspects so they can “secure” it.
Almost all of these scams include the following techniques:
– You will be required to go to the bank to withdraw a large sum of cash, after which you will be instructed to meet with a “courier” or driver to hand over the cash.
– The suspects contacting you on the phone will be highly aggressive, controlling your movements through manipulation, and may even threaten you or your family.
– The suspects will attempt to avoid apprehension by using spoofed email addresses and phone numbers, and will state they work for major financial institutions and government entities.
– The suspects will ensure you’re following instructions by insisting you stay on the phone with them, FaceTime them, and photograph cash you intend to deliver to them.
It is WCPD’s first priority that its community members do not fall victim to crimes such as these. If you are contacted through any of the above means by people employing these tactics, simply disregard pop-ups and emails, do not click on anything within them, and do not call tech support phone numbers offered within these messages. If there are people in your family who may be vulnerable to these scams, please have conversations with them regarding tech and financial safety.
Thank you for reading and stay safe.
Read MorePerson of interest Arpy Yap and the Volkswagen Touareg he’s known to drive. Photos: Brentwood PD
Targets solo females in parking lots in ruse
By Brentwood Police Department
The Brentwood Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance regarding a series of vandalism incidents that have occurred throughout the City of Brentwood.
The individual in the photo has been identified as 48-year-old Arpy Yap of Daly City. Yap is suspected of targeting solo female victims in parking lots. In each incident, the victims returned to their vehicles to discover their tires had been vandalized or deflated. Yap reportedly appeared shortly after, offering assistance in exchange for money.
Yap is known to drive a blue Volkswagen Touareg with a roof rack.
We are releasing this photo in an effort to identify any additional victims or witnesses who may have information related to these incidents.
This is also being shared as a public safety advisory. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Brentwood Police Department at (925) 809-7911. Callers may remain anonymous.
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By CHP – Golden Gate Division
California Highway Patrol (CHP) detectives arrested a 39-year-old Hayward man in connection with a May freeway shooting on Interstate 880.
Detectives identified Rony David Murciascastillo as the suspect after a May 26 incident in which a driver reported being shot at while merging onto northbound I-880 from Jackson Street. The victim was not injured.
On July 30, CHP Special Investigations Unit detectives and the Golden Gate Division Warrant Service Team served a search warrant at Murciascastillo’s home. Detectives located him at a San Pablo casino, where the San Pablo Police Department took him into custody.
Authorities booked Murciascastillo into Santa Rita Jail on suspicion of attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, and multiple felony gun and drug charges.
“The incredible work our detectives do is responsible for yet another freeway shooter being held to answer for their crimes,” said CHP Golden Gate Division Chief Don Goodbrand. “I also want to thank our partners at the San Pablo Police Department for their assistance in taking the suspect into custody quickly and safely.”
According to localcrimenews.com, the six-foot tall, 190-pound Murciastillo is Hispanic and is a resident of Hayward.
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
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Aug. 19th rally in Sacramento
By Greg Burt, California Family Council
SACRAMENTO, CA — In a stirring and impassioned announcement before his congregation last week, Pastor Jack Hibbs of Calvary Chapel Chino Hills (a congregation of over 10,000) issued an urgent call to action for Californians: mark your calendars and make your way to Sacramento on Tuesday, August 19th for a rally and lobby day opposing Assembly Bill 495, a bill critics say obliterates parental rights and creates legal loopholes making child kidnapping easy.
“I have to tell you, if this bill passes, I am going to ask you to leave the state of California,” Pastor Hibbs declared from the pulpit. “You got to get out. You got to run with your kids. You got to go.”
The bill is the first piece of legislation authored by newly elected Assemblywoman Celeste Rodriguez (D–San Fernando). She sold AB 495 as a “compassionate” solution for children of detained immigrant parents. But opponents warn the measure does far more, and far worse, than what its title suggests.
The Threat of AB 495: A Legal Loophole for Kidnapping?
The “Family Preparedness Plan Act of 2025” would allow unrelated adults, broadly defined as an “adult caregiver” with a “mentoring relationship with the child” to assume custody-like control over a child through a one-page Caregiver’s Authorization Affidavit. No court appearance. No notarization. No parental consent or notification. No background check. No verification of identity required.
“Presto, someone walks away with your child,” warned attorney and president of Our Duty-USA Erin Friday, who called AB 495 “a child trafficker’s and kidnapper’s dream bill.”
Attorney Nicole Pearson, founder of Facts Law Truth Justice, testified before the State Senate:
“California wants to let someone that is not related to your child remove her from school, enroll her in any other school in the state, authorize any medical treatment of her, including mental health services and drugs, without the parents’ notice and knowledge or consent. This is not fear-mongering. I’m not being hyperbolic,” she said. “These unintended consequences are terrifying, and they are unavoidable.”
Even medical decisions, including psychiatric drug prescriptions and sex-trait modification procedures, could be authorized by these unvetted adults without the knowledge or consent of the child’s parents.
August 19th Rally: Mobilizing for Parental Rights
Real Impact and Capitol Resource Institute have pulled together a coalition of parental rights advocates, legal experts, pastors, and concerned citizens, to hold the “NO on AB 495 Rally and Lobby Day” featuring Pastor Hibbs as keynote speaker. Other speakers include best-selling author and speaker Heidi St. John and Jonathan Keller, President of California Family Council, with more speakers to be announced soon.
“I’m going to ask all of you to drive, bus, fly, I don’t care how you get there,” Hibbs told his church. “We’re looking for a minimum of 5000 people to be there that day.”
Schedule – Tuesday, August 19, 2025
- 1:00 PM PT – Rally Begins (West Steps of Capitol, 1315 10th Street, Sacramento)
- 2:00 PM PT – Lobby Training
- 2:30 PM PT – Legislative Office Visits
This isn’t the first time Hibbs has rallied thousands to the Capitol. A previous event back in 2022 drew nearly 2000 people to the Capitol to protest a bill to legalize infanticide. Organizers hope to top that turnout this time.
A State in Crisis
Hibbs’ warning is dire, and he isn’t mincing words. “I would not subject my child to one second in this public school system with this new law, AB 495,” he thundered.
California Family Council agrees the bill is incredibly dangerous. “AB 495 is a grave threat to the God-given responsibility of parents to raise and protect their children,” said Greg Burt, CFC’s Vice President. “It undermines every safeguard we have in place for child welfare and does so in the name of compassion. But compassion without guardrails is not mercy, it is madness.”
A Biblical Call to Courage
Pastor Hibbs was clear: this is a line in the sand.
“If you have kids in the state of California and this passes, you gotta go,” he said. “Your child’s safety is number one in your life, and I don’t care if you like the weather, and I never thought that day would ever come when I would encourage you to leave.
Watch Pastor Hibb’s announcement here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DMyRHyHPhXb/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=d4429a01-f040-4f0f-9efa-f657888103ec
About California Family Council
California Family Council works to advance God’s design for life, family, and liberty through California’s Church, Capitol, and Culture. By advocating for policies that reinforce the sanctity of life, the strength of traditional marriages, and the essential freedoms of religion, CFC is dedicated to preserving California’s moral and social foundation.
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Angel Montano. Source: GoFundMe
ID’d as a U.S. Marine reserve officer
By Allen D. Payton
The Richmond Police Department announced that on Monday, August 4, 2025, at approximately 5:00 p.m., Richmond Police responded to a 911 call about a man armed with knives threatening to kill people inside a home in the 400 block of 1st Street.
When officers arrived, they heard a disturbance inside. When officers announced their presence, they were confronted by a subject who came to the door armed with at least one edged weapon. During the confrontation, two officers discharged their firearms, and the subject, unfortunately, suffered fatal injuries at the scene.
According to a KRON4 TV news report, the man was identified as 27-year-old Angel Montano who “served in the U.S. Marines as a reserve officer “
Per protocol, the Law Enforcement Involved Fatal Incident Protocol has been activated. The Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office is leading the investigation into this incident.
Investigators are in the early stages of this investigation. The Richmond Police Department is committed to conducting a thorough and transparent investigation. Updates will be shared as new information becomes available on the Richmond Police Department’s website.
A GoFundMe page was set up by Liz Montaño to raise funds to cover funeral and burial expenses with the following message:
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the sudden and tragic passing of our beloved cousin, Angel Montano, at just 27 years old.
Angel was a proud U.S. Marine, a devoted son, brother, father and to many a loyal friend. Angel brought light and strength into every room he entered. His unexpected loss has left our family heartbroken, and we are doing everything we can to give him the memorial he deserves.
We’re raising funds to help cover funeral and burial expenses, and to support his loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. Any donation, no matter the amount, is deeply appreciated. If you’re unable to give, sharing this page and keeping our family in your thoughts and prayers means just as much.
Thank you for honoring Angel’s memory with us. Your support brings us comfort and strength.
-The Montano Family
Con el corazón en la mano, compartimos la repentina y trágica pérdida de nuestro querido primo, Angel Montano, a tan solo 27 años de edad.
Angel fue un orgulloso miembro del U.S Marine, un hijo, hermano y padre devoto, y un amigo leal para muchos. Angel iluminaba cada cuarto donde entraba con su carisma y sonrisa. Su partida inesperada ha dejado a nuestra familia con el corazón destrozado, y estamos haciendo todo lo posible para darle el homenaje que se merece.
Estamos recaudando fondos para ayudar a cubrir los gastos del funeral y entierro, así como para apoyar a sus seres queridos en este momento tan difícil. Cualquier donación, sin importar la cantidad, es profundamente agradecida. Si no puedes donar, compartir esta página y mantener a nuestra familia en tus pensamientos y oraciones es igualmente agrdecido.
Gracias por honrar la memoria de Angel con nosotros. Su apoyo nos brinda consuelo y fortaleza.
La Familia Montano”
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To either keep the bike-pedestrian path open 24/7 or allow conversion to breakdown lane every Mon.-Thurs.
By 511 Contra Costa
On Thursday, August 7, 2025, the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC) will decide whether to keep the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge bike-pedestrian path open 24/7 or allow it to be converted to a breakdown lane every Mon.-Thurs. Submit comments in advance or attend meeting (virtually or in person). The meeting will last from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
This Commission meeting will operate as a hybrid meeting under teleconference rules established by the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act. Commissioners are located at the primary physical location and may be located at the teleconference locations specified below, all of which are publicly accessible. The Zoom video conference link and teleconference information for members of the public to participate virtually are also specified below.
Primary physical location
Metro Center
375 Beale Street, Board Room, San Francisco
415-352-3600
Teleconference locations
- Earl Warren Hiram W Johnson Building: 455 Golden Gate Ave., San Francisco, CA 94102
• 100 Howe Ave., Ste. 100 South, Sacramento, CA 95825
• City Hall: 701 Laurel St., Allied Arts Rm., Menlo Park, CA 94025
• 675 Texas St., Ste. 6002, Fairfield, CA. 94533
• 176 E. Blithedale Ave., Mill Valley, CA 94941
• 197 Palmer Ave., Falmouth, MA 02540
• 1195 Third St., Ste. 310, Napa, CA, 94559
• 890 Osos St., Ste. H, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
• 500 County Center, 5th Fl., Buckeye Conf. Rm., Redwood City, CA 94063
• 2379 Sheffield Dr., Livermore, CA 94550
• 1021 O St., Sacramento, CA 95814
If you have issues joining the meeting using the link, please enter the Meeting ID and Password listed below into the ZOOM app to join the meeting.
Join the meeting via ZOOM
https://bcdc-ca-gov.zoom.us/j/87295886829?pwd=my206SeP5kGy5bSz3kcbUFbbbCgxYK.1
See information on public participation
Teleconference numbers
1 (866) 590-5055
Conference Code 374334
Meeting ID
872 9588 6829
Passcode
891700
If you call in by telephone:
Press *6 to unmute or mute yourself
Press *9 to raise your hand or lower your hand to speak
Details: http://511cc.org/rsrbridge
For more information about the BCDC visit
Read MoreFine art photographer Jeff Heyman with student. Source: Jeff Heyman
Adventures in Photography for camera photographers and Fun Photography! for smartphone users
At Acalanes Adult Education
If you want to pick up a camera this fall, award-winning Contra Costa photographer Jeff Heyman is teaching two photography classes at Acalanes Adult Education.
Adventures in Photography is a course on how to use different camera techniques to improve your photographs and help you tell a story with each picture. Fun Photography! is designed for smartphone photographers so they can get the most out of the “best camera in the world” — the one you have with you.
You can read course descriptions and enroll in the classes at https://acalanesadulted.asapconnected.com/?org=3904#CourseGroupID=12444
Acalanes Adult Education is located at the Del Valle Education Center, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd., near Rossmoor, in Walnut Creek. Classes start soon! Call 510-280-3980, Ext. 8001, for more information.
Jeff Heyman’s work has been featured in The de Young Museum Open 2023. For more information visit his website heymanfoto.com, Instagram @heymanfoto or call 510.499.1420.
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To serve homeless veterans and others; volunteers needed
Community Day Sept. 13 is for anyone and everyone
By Delta Veterans Group
The Delta Veterans Group brings Contra Costa County (CCC) “Stand Down on the Delta” a Homeless Veterans’ “Hand Up” event every other year (2015, 2017, 2019….) DVG is proud to bring Stand Down on the Delta 2025, September 12-15, to the Contra Costa County Fairgrounds in Antioch.
This is a four-day event wherein U.S. military veterans receive services in Medical, Dental, Veterans Treatment Court, Housing, Job Placement, Mental Health and Drug and Alcohol Counseling.
We are also looking for volunteers. Please contact us through our website at Contact Us | Delta Veterans Group.
To date the Stand Down on the Delta biennial event has helped thousands of veterans and their families, served thousands of meals, given away over 1,100 pairs of boots, over 1,500 sleeping bags, over 1,300 pairs of new jeans, $500,000 in dental care, taken over 200 veterans fishing on our Delta shores and helped many more find permanent housing.
We work with over 70 different organizations during our four day Stand Down on the Delta event. In September of 2019 over 850 Volunteers from around the State of California and even as far as South Carolina came to Antioch to help us provide these great services to our veterans.
About DVG
Delta Veterans Group is 501(c)3 Veterans service non-profit that assists our Nation’s finest men and women with housing, employment, health, and education services. Founded in Contra Costa County in 2012 by Army veteran J.R. Wilson, DVG has now grown to provide services to surrounding Northern California areas including Alameda, Monterey, Napa, San Joaquin, San Francisco and Solano counties.
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