Could face 10 years in prison and $250,000 fine
By U.S. Attorney, Northern District of California
OAKLAND – On Monda, March 4, 2024, a federal grand jury indicted Edijalma De Souza Ferreira, charging him with smuggling ammunition from the United States to Brazil without an export license, announced United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent in Charge Tatum King.
According to the indictment, filed February 27, Ferreira, 46, of Richmond, Calif., smuggled thousands of rounds of ammunition in two container shipments that were exported from the Port of Oakland in 2021. Export of the ammunition was contrary to the Export Control Reform Act and associated regulations. The indictment charges Ferreira with a felony violation of 18 U.S.C. § 554.
Ferreira was arrested on February 29, 2024, and made his initial appearance in federal court in Oakland the same day. He was released on bond and his next appearance is scheduled for March 6, 2024, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Donna M. Ryu for identification of counsel.
An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, Ferreira faces a maximum sentence of ten years of imprisonment, and a fine of $250,000 for the 18 U.S.C. § 554 violation. However, any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle J. Kane is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Kathy Tat. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by HSI with assistance from the U.S. Department of Commerce, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Container Security Initiative, the HSI Brasilia Attaché Office, and the Customs and Revenue Service of Brazil.
See case details at U.S. v. Ferreira, 4:24-cr-00120-YGR-1 (DMR) |
Read MoreSold it in Oakland, SF; Hercules PD assists
By Brentwood Police Department
IF YOU DECIDE TO STEAL IN BRENTWOOD
On Monday, March 11, 2024, around 1:30PM, Brentwood officers were dispatched to Ulta at the Streets of Brentwood for a report of a theft of over $6,300 in merchandise. The reporting party provided a description of the two suspects, who had just fled in a vehicle.
BPD officers contacted the Streets of Brentwood Security, who were able to obtain the license plate of the suspect car from video surveillance. The officers confirmed the car was a rental vehicle, as it is common for organized retail thieves to use rental vehicles to commit crimes in order to evade detection.
Later that day around 5:00 PM, Hercules PD located the suspect vehicle and detained two of the occupants identified as 19-year-old Andrea Glaser of Oakland, and 21-year-old Tyerra Destiny Townsend of Pittsburg. BPD detectives responded to the city of Hercules as soon as they were notified.
Both suspects admitted to stealing from Ulta and also said they sold the stolen merchandise in Oakland and San Francisco for cash. None of the stolen merchandise was recovered; however approximately $1,000 in cash was found on Glaser and Townsend.
Glaser had additional warrants and Townsend, who is on felony probation in Contra Costa County, received additional related charges. Both Townsend and Glaser were placed under arrest for organized retail theft.
According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, the 5-foot, 4-inch, 120-lb. Townsend is being held on no bail in the West County Detention Center in Richmond. Her next hearing is scheduled for Thursday, March 14 at 1:30 PM in Superior Court. Additional information about Glaser could not be located online.
The cooperation and assistance provided by the Streets of Brentwood Security team and Hercules PD were instrumental in solving this case. Their collaboration exemplifies the collective commitment to maintaining public safety and combating criminal activity in our city.
Furthermore, this investigation highlights the dedication of Brentwood PD officers and detectives in solving crimes and ensuring accountability within the community.
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
Read More
By Candice Martin, DCRR Racing Media
Antioch, CA…The rainy weather has prevented things from happening at Antioch Speedway for the last three weeks, but this Saturday night, March 16th that’s about to change. The 64th season of auto racing begins with an exciting five-division lineup.
The track at the Contra Costa County Fairgrounds is the only place to enjoy auto racing in the county. There will be weekly racing from Saturday night through the end of October with some events planned in November as well.
The popular IMCA Modifieds are the headliners. This division enters its 35th consecutive championship season. They started in 1990 as the track became the third in the state to add the division.
Nearly 15 years ago, the IMCA Sport Modifieds were offered as a slightly more affordable alternative. This is also the opening night of the fourth season for the IMCA Stock Cars.
Rounding things out will be the Pacific Coast Hobby Stocks, which began being featured at the speedway in 1995. Also, the 26th season for the Wingless Spec Sprints will begin. Antioch Speedway was the first place to feature a wingless, carbureted Sprint Car class in the state.
Last season, Troy Foulger of Oakley and Billy Bowers teamed up for a stellar effort. The duo picked up championships in both the Modified and Stock Car classes, making this the first team to ever win two championships in the same season at the track. Furthermore, Foulger was the IMCA Stock Car State title winner.
The closest point battle last season was featured in the IMCA Sport Modified ranks, where Kenny Shrader of Pacheco, Jason Ryan Jr of Oakley, Trevor Clymens of Brentwood and Mark Garner of Antioch all had a shot at the title going into the finale. Shrader beat Ryan by just two points. Ryan also settled for second in the State point battle behind Clymens.
Grayson Baca of Brentwood left little doubt who the Pacific Coast Hobby Stock title winner would be, despite the resurgence of Antioch’s Ken Johns late in the season. Not to be forgotten in the mix, Gilroy’s Jarrett Soares scored a pivotal win late last season to notch the Wingless Spec Sprint title as Oakley’s James East again settled for second.
General consensus is that these are the five most popular classes featured in the speedway’s lineup, and this will be a rare opportunity to see them all in the same night as the curtain comes up on an exciting new season.
As we approach spring, this is a unique opportunity to see green grass in the infield and cars with new bodies on them as they hit the racetrack for the first time. It’s a clean slate for everybody, and anything is possible.
Jason Robles of Rio Vista ended up runner up in the IMCA Stock Car class for the second-straight season last year. He’s hoping to get back in the winner’s circle for the first time since 2022, an honor his son Kenneth Robles of Rio Vista earned at the opener last season. Kenneth topped the rookies and ended up third in the standings. 2022’s top rookie, Jason Jennings of Antioch, returns this week after a year off.
Last season’s top IMCA Modified rookie Andrew Pearce of Oakley also won the State title. Each year this talented up-and-comer has improved noticeably in his driving skills. The DeCarlo family should be back in action again, including two-time champion Nick DeCarlo of Martinez and his Hall of Fame father Terry DeCarlo, Sr. of Martinez. Nick and brother Terry DeCarlo, Jr. of Martinez are anticipated in the IMCA Stock Car ranks as well.
Terry, Jr.’s daughter Taylor DeCarlo of Martinez is one of the top Hobby Stock drivers in the field. Jewell Crandall of Antioch will attack the season with renewed excitement, and other returning stars include Aidan Ponciano of Oakley, Kevin Brown of Oakley and Jared Baugh of Pittsburg.
The Wingless Spec Sprint division will be visited by top competitors from out of town throughout the season with a Hunt Series race scheduled for next week. Some of our top stars include ageless veteran Roy Fisher of Antioch, Jeff Scotto of Brentwood, Steve Maionch of Sonora and Bob Newberry and nephew Dylan Newberry of Brentwood.
There’s plenty of anticipation in the air as we get ready for the excitement that only a night of racing at Antioch Speedway can bring. It’s not a show that you will want to miss.
The gates will open at 4:00 PM with the first race starting at 6:00 PM.
Adult tickets are $20, Senior/Military $15, Kids (5-12) $15 and kids four and under free.
Parking for the Speedway is located on L Street between W. 10th and 18th Streets.
For further information, go to www.raceantiochspeedway.com or check out the Antioch Speedway by PROmotions Facebook page.
Read MoreI thought I would update our communities. In this day and age, it’s so important that we continue to provide accessible quality education for our communities so we can build and sustain a skilled and educated workforce.
Heading into 2024 and final year of my term as a Trustee for Ward 5 in Contra Costa Community College District I would like to underscore my role and the successes of the District.
Coming onto the board I brought my experiences as a positive collaborator, consensus builder, positions in Technology and Finance and understanding the issues in the communities we serve. Coming out of the pandemic my role is to contribute to support increasing enrollment, oversight of policies, helping set priorities, educational quality, financial review’s for approval of budget, selection of our Chancellor and approve key leadership positions.
Education is a key to helping our communities improve as valued members of our workforce. Beyond Associate Degree Transfer programs we continue to support pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs as part of our wide array of CTE programs with valuable skills certifications.
Some of our priorities included Leadership Stability, Educational Quality and Equity, Workforce Development and Community Partnerships. I am sharing the results of these efforts as the recent President of the Governing Board of Trustees and overall, as a key member of the board.
I worked to create a respectful approach in building relationships with fellow board members and restoring the trust of the 3 Academic Senate bodies as we together moved forward in a shared governance model.
Our faculty and staff are the heart of the District and we worked closely with United Faculty and Local 1 on new contract agreements to ensure the needs of its members were addressed and aligned with our priorities and ensuring financial stability for the future.
Leadership Stability: Having a transformative leadership team drives our mission, prepares us to meet the challenges of the future and provides stability for our faculty, staff and for student success. Approvals completed for the following key positions:
Chancellor – Mojdeh Mehdizadh
Executive Vice Chancellor – Micaela Ochoa
Chief Finance Officer – Tony Wold
Director of Human Resources – Dan Cueva
President Los Medanos College – Pamela Ralston
President Contra Costa College – Kimberly Rogers
Educational Quality and Equity: Our Colleges continue to receive recognition and here is a snapshot of these recognitions. The commitment of our faculty and classified professionals are underscored in the way students thrive and rise to succeed.
Los Medanos College – Aspen Institute Award – Recognized as 1 of the top 150 colleges for Community College excellence. The 6 critical areas reviewed for this award are teaching and learning, transfer and bachelor’s attainment, workforce success, access, and equity for students of color and students from low-income backgrounds. Received 2021 Equity Champion Award for transferring students.
Diablo Valley College – Ranked as #1 in the state in transfers to UC Berkeley, Saint Mary’s College, and Cal State Maritime Academy.
Additionally, DVC ranked in the top 5 for large schools Community Colleges in California based on graduation and transfer rates.
Contra Costa College – Chosen as one of the 10 US Colleges to participate in Achieving the Dream (ATD), a program that uses high-level coaching and other resources to help community colleges collect and analyze data, then use those findings to help students succeed.
Recognized for their Center for Science Excellence and Green Energy Programs and also offering the only Hybrid Technician Certification in the Bay Area. CCC continues to be a leader in Culinary Arts and Journalism.
Equity– The District was awarded a grant by the State Chancellor’s office to research and create the framework for a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging framework as part of an Institutional Effective Plan to improve our culture of belonging and improve student success.
Los Medanos College and Contra Costa College are recognized as Hispanic Serving Institutions with robust STEM programs. The Puente, Umoja, and African American Male Leadership programs thrive in the District and lead to a unique experience for students and faculty.
Partnerships and Community Engagement: I diligently provided the details needed to have Diablo Valley College partner with United Latino Voices and the Mount DIablo School District to increase enrollment and pilot an augment outreach and enrollment through culturally and linguistically diverse approaches.
The pilot may lead to DVC submitting and receiving a Hispanic Service Institution (HSI) designation allowing for additional grant proposals. LMC and CCC are existing HSI colleges in our District.
Working on partnerships with the East Bay Leadership Council, Contra Costa School Board Association, Dual Enrollment, Concurrent Enrollment and Non-profits continue to reap benefits.
Workforce Development: The Colleges offer unique leadership opportunities and continue to innovate in the area of workforce development for future jobs to support the growing needs of the county. Our new Learning Aligned Education Program (LAEP) offers for-profit employers 50% reimbursement and non-profits 90% reimbursement for the cost of internships if they invest in our students. Our advanced robotics program in which we partner with Tesla provides the skills for immediate employment.
Certifications for Firefighting, Process Power Technology, Nursing, Early Childhood Education and Police Services continue to provide valuable skills.
Graduates and Certificates: The most recent graduating class in 2023 conferred completions for 7,702 degrees and certificates, including 2,133 Associates in Science, 2,204 Associates of Arts and 3,365 Certifications across our District.
Enrollment: The efforts of the colleges to regain students as part of outreach and enrollment associated with the pandemic and economy continues to show results. Year to year enrollment has continued to increase FTE’s enrollment is up by 9.3% across the district prior year point in time.
Our work is not done. We need to keep our bar raised to improve enrollment and provide educational services for our communities to support our labor needs.
Financial Stability: The recent audit just completed showed strength in our finances and no issues with our Bond Oversight continuing to ensure that our expenditures are in alignment with policies and practices and align with the voters expectations as we invest in our facilities and as we review future needs.
Modernization: Bonds passed by our residents resulting in a new Science Building at Contra Costa College, a new Student Union and Kinesiology Building at Los Medanos College as well as modernizing facilities at Diablo Valley College. This investment will support the future needs of our students.
Advocacy: We continue to work with our legislators to aid in support and this resulted in a $1,000,000 grant by Congressman DeSaulner and Senator Padilla to the District for driving our Open Educational Resources program to reduce the cost of books for our students.
Thank you, again for support in my role
Fernando Sandoval
Ward 5 Trustee
Past President- Governing Board of Trustees
Contra Costa Community College District
Read More5,300 ballots remaining to be counted in the county
By Allen D. Payton
In the race for Contra Costa County District 5 Supervisor Antioch Councilman Mike Barbanica leads in votes over Pittsburg Councilwoman Shanelle Scales-Preston who placed a second in last Tuesday’s primary election. But she leads in campaign finances, having raised about $114,500 while Barbanica had raised close to $100,500.
In a distant third place is Pittsburg Vice Mayor Jelani Killings in both votes and campaign finances, having raised close to $18,000 and fourth-place finisher in both votes and finances is Iztaccuauhtli “White Eagle” Hector Gonzalez who raised almost $10,200 all in loans from himself.
As of the latest update from the Contra Costa Elections Office today, Wednesday, March 13 at 2:50 PM, Barbanica has 14,080 votes or 38.59% of the vote to 12,834 votes for Scales-Preston or 35.18%. Killings has 5,597 votes or 15.34% and Gonzalez has 3,973 votes or 10.89% of the vote.
On Monday, Barbanica posted a thank you message on his campaign Facebook page writing:
“Dear Friends and Supporters,
The results are in, and it’s official: we’re advancing through the primary elections for District 5 of the Board of Supervisors! With a grateful heart, I extend my deepest thanks to each and every one of you who cast your vote, shared your voice, and believed in our vision for a safer, stronger community.
Your support has been the driving force of this campaign. To the countless volunteers, the dedicated team members, and especially to the voters who took a stand for our shared values—thank you. This triumph is yours as much as it is ours.
A special acknowledgment to the elected officials who have endorsed our cause; your faith in our mission fortifies our resolve. I’m also incredibly thankful for the endorsements and unwavering support from esteemed organizations such as Thousand Friends of Martinez, PORAC, CCDSA, and the Police Officers Associations of Martinez, Richmond, Concord, Pittsburg, San Mateo County, and Clayton. The backing of the Local 326 United Steel Workers has been nothing short of inspiring.
As we gear up for the next phase of this journey, let’s remember that this is more than a campaign; it’s a collective effort to nurture the well-being and prosperity of Contra Costa County. We’re in this together, and together, we will make a difference.
Warm regards,
Mike Barbanica”
When reached for comment he said, “I’m absolutely honored for the support from our community and I look forward to continuing to move towards the general election and change coming to the District 5 office, later this year, in December. For the last 24 years this office has been represented by someone from Pittsburg and it would be nice to see change coming to the office, from someone such as myself who has Pittsburg connections, Antioch connections and connections to the rest of the district.”
“I spent 21 years as a Pittsburg Police officer, retiring as a lieutenant, and my wife was born and raised in Pittsburg. So, we have a lot of ties, there,” Barbanica added.
Attempts to reach Scales-Preston for a comment were unsuccessful prior to publication. However, on Saturday, she posted the following comment on her campaign Facebook page: “thank you for all your support! There are many votes left to count, but we remain in the top two and are confident we will advance to November. This is due to your support and all that you did to advance our campaign.”
Campaign Finance Comparison
According to the required campaign finance disclosure reports known as Forms 460 and 497 posted on the Contra Costa Elections Public Portal, as of March 6, 2024, Scales-Preston had raised $114,514 and as of Feb. 29 her campaign had spent $105,029.33, with $5,036.13 in outstanding debts and $8,596.22 cash on hand.
As of March 6, 2024, Barbanica’s reports show he had raised $100,452.65 and as of Feb. 29, his campaign had spent $93,384.62 with $58,817.66 in outstanding debts and $24,229.52 cash on hand.
As of Feb. 29, Killings’ reports show he had raised $17,773 and spent $19,769.39. He ended his campaign with $2,515.54 in outstanding debts and $3,185.26 cash on hand.
As of the same date, Gonzalez’s reports show he loaned his campaign $10,197.13, didn’t raise any other funds and spent $8,576.42. He ended his campaign with outstanding debts of $10,197.13 and 1,620.71 cash on hand.
Both Scales-Preston received $5,000 from the Building Industry Association of the Bay Area’s Build Jobs PAC and both she and Killings received contributions from former Antioch resident Keith Archuleta.
Scales-Preston Supported by PACS, Politicians & Unions
Scales-Preston received most of her campaign funds from union political action committees and local politicians. Her largest contributions were as follows:
$5,000 each from International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) 302 Community Candidates PAC of Martinez; IBEW PAC Educational Fund in Washington, DC; Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 104 Poltical Committee; United Association No. 159 Consumer Protection Fund Sponsored by Plumbers & Steamfitters Local 159 of Martinez; American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees Council 57 PAC, and International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders, Blacksmiths, Forgers and Helpers Local 549 PAC, and Build Jobs PAC, ID #761102 Sponsored by Building Industry Association of the Bay Area;
$2,500 each from Dignity CA SEIU Local 2015; Karen Grove Menlo Park, retired; former political consultant Melody Howe Weintraub of Lafayette, Progressive Era PAC (ID# 1449477) which, according to its website, “exists to elect governing majorities of leaders in California committed to building a progressive era for people of color”; homemaker Faye M. Stratus and a separate contribution from Sandor H. Stratus, retired, both of Lafayette; Victor Baker of Martinez, owner of Equitify a diversity, equity and inclusion consulting firm; Sikh Society of Central Contra Costa County; Lift Up Contra Costa Action which, according to its website, “fights against all forms of oppression, including anti-black racism, racism, anti-immigrant, anti-LBGTQ, environmental & healthcare injustice and the classist, anti-worker movements”, a Project of Tides Advocacy PAC, which, according to its website, is “deeply committed to advancing social justice”; District 1 Contra Costa County Supervisor John Gioia, Laborers International Union of North America Local No. 324, Northern California Carpenters Regional Council Small Contributor Committee, and Service Employees International Union Local 1021 Candidate PAC;
$2,000 from garbage company Republic Services Inc., and affiliated entities;
$1,400 from Kanwar Singh of Pittsburg, a Sequence Read Archive Explorer for the Joint Genome Institute;
$1,000 from David Bowlby of Danville, public affairs consultant of The David Bowlby Group; East Bay Regional Parks Director Colin Coffey of Hercules; Daniel Madigan of Walnut Creek, not employed; Debbie Toth of Fairfield, Director of the nonprofit Choice in Aging; DRIVE Committee (International Brotherhood of Teamsters. Democrat, Republican, Independent Voter Education) in Washington, DC; East Bay Trans, Inc. trucking company of Concord, Haver Trans, Inc. dump trucking company of Concord, Jasmine Tarkoff of Lafayette, retired; and Lupe Schoenberger of Alamo, listed as not employed but her LinkedIn profile shows she is Congressman Mark DeSaulnier’s political director and Principal of Acceso Government Relations, LLC described as “Facilitating cannabis business licensing and local government relations;” and Latika Malkani of
Orinda, Attorney for employment law firm Siegel LeWitter Malkani;
$700 from Leonard Ramirez of Concord, retired;
$600 each from Contra Costa DA Diana Becton; Paramjit Virk of Antioch, a Registered Nurse at the Contra Costa Regional Medical Center; Contra Costa County Democratic Central Committee Chair Katie Ricklefs of Lafayette, listed as retired, and Kathleen Petricca of Martinez, retired;
$500 each from Berkeley school teacher Cathy Campbell of El Cerrito; John Cumbers of Lafayette, Chief Executive Officer for SynBioBeta; Friends of Gina Daly for Board of Education Trustee Area 1 2024 in Oakland (former San Rafael school board member who resigned in December after the contribution was made); Carol Hatch of Martinez, retired; insurance broker Gregory Osorio of Pittsburg, consultant Keith Archuleta of Chapel Hill, NC (a former Antioch resident); Service Employees International Union United Healthcare Workers West PAC, Kathy Braun of Martinez, retired; G R Beverages, Inc. of Antioch, United Teachers of Richmond, Cynthia Miller of Martinez, Owner of George & Cynthia Miller Wellness Center (wife of former congressman), Willie Mims of Pittsburg, Mariana Moore of Benicia, Program Manager for Richmond Community Foundation, Leslie Shafton of Walnut Creek, Realtor, Dudum Real Estate Group, Teamsters Local Union No. 315,
$460 from Mt. Diablo Unified School Board Trustee Cherise Khaund of Walnut Creek, listed as a nonprofit manager;
$400 from Contra Costa County Superintendent of Schools Lynn Mackey;
$350 each from Jim Craft of Pittsburg, as an in-kind contribution for use of a venue for a fundraiser; and Caitlin E. Sly of Walnut Creek, Executive Director for Meals on Wheels Diablo Region;
$300 from former City of Antioch Public Information Officer Rolando Bonilla of San Jose; El Cerrito Councilman Gabriel Quinto, Susan Mautner of Orinda, not employed; Charles Glasper of Antioch, retired, who contributed on Jan. 11, 2024 and then served as the MC and asked the questions during the NAACP Candidates Night in Antioch on Feb. 22;
$260 from Mt. Diablo Unified School District Trustee Cherise Khaund of Walnut Creek;
$250 each from DLC Group Inc. of Pleasant Hill owned by a Dalton Chow, Walnut Creek Mayor Pro Tem Loella Haskew, Benjamin Miller of Arlington, VA, Principal, Kadesh & Associates a bipartisan federal advocacy firm; Patricia Reyes of San Ramon, Consultant for Strategic Prevention Solutions; Valerie Sloven of Pleasant Hill, Case Manager for Heluna Health, Carol Toms of Concord, Information Technology Professional for Albertsons; Contra Costa County School Board Trustee Sarah Butler of Orinda; Baljit Bhandal of Pittsburg, General Manager for The Wine Village, Inc.; Bombay Trading Company of Concord, Contra Costa County Public Defenders Association, State Farm Insurance agent Tim McGallian of Clayton, Tara Sanders of Pittsburg, Program Manager – Workforce & Economic Development for the Contra Costa Community College District; Tracy Brog of Lafayette, retired; Martinez City Councilman Jay Howard’s 2022 campaign committee, Mike McCoy of Danville, Billboard Developer for Mesa Outdoor, and Janitzia Rodriguez of Pittsburg, Mental Health Clinician for Contra Costa County.
Although not large contributions, Scales-Preston also received $200 from Adrienne Ursino of Martinez, Director of Stakeholder Engagement for the American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers and former Antioch School Board Trustee Debra Vinson, $150 from Pittsburg Mayor Juan Banales, Hercules City Councilwoman Christine Kelley, former Pittsburg Councilwoman Nancy L. Parent, and former Clayton Councilwoman Tuija Catalano, as well as $100 each from Concord Councilman Edi Birsan, former Orinda Councilwoman Amy Worth, former Walnut Creek Councilwoman Gail Murray, and the Marsh Creek Democratic Club.
Barbanica Backed by the Badge, Builders & Business
Barbanica’s largest contributions were from law enforcement, the building industry and local businesses. They include the following:
$10,000 from the Contra Costa County Deputy Sheriff’s Association PAC Small Contributor Committee with $5,000 for the primary and the other $5,000 for the general election;
$5,000 each from Bryan Benton of Antioch, owner of Da Nang Turang restaurant and Build Jobs PAC, ID #761102 Sponsored by Building Industry Association of the Bay Area;
$2,500 each from Peace Officers Research Association of California PAC (PORAC PAC) Small Contributor Committee, Sheriff David Livingston’s 2028 re-election committee and the Richmond Police Officers Association PAC;
$2,000 each from Kay Ku of Newport Beach, retired; Stacey Romero of Pittsburg, retired; Weston Law Group, PC of Danville; Fernandes Auto Wrecking and Towing of Pittsburg; and San Bernardino County Sheriff’s County Employees’ Benefit Association Local PAC;
$1,500 from Jim Moita of Clayton, owner of property management company JMI Properties Corporation;
$1,000 each from real estate investor Mike Cava of Oakley and Thousand Friends of Martinez;
$500 each from the Concord Police Association PAC; Dennis Costanza of Pittsburg, Director for home builder Lennar; former Pittsburg Mayor, City Clerk and Assistant City Manager Mary Erbez; Brentwood Councilman Tony Oerlemans; Sheila Stokley, of Stokley Properties in Pleasant Hill; and Christopher Thorsen of Walnut Creek, retired; and
$250 each from Assistant District Attorney Mary Knox, Mike McCoy of Danville, Billboard Developer for Mesa Outdoor and Susan Dragon Presser of Pittsburg, retired.
Killings’s Campaign Cash is from Kin, Cops & Others
$2,500 from Denise Killings of Pittsburg, retired;
$1,500 from Henry A. Killings, Pastor of Threshing Floor Tabernacle in Antioch; Leah L. Blackman of Brentwood, Pastor of Faith Worship Center, and William Posada of Antioch, listed as an Independent Distributor but is the Manager with Only Believe Distributor, LLC;
$1,000 from Pittsburg Police Officer’s Association, Efrem R. Finn of Oakland, Operator for Rydetrans bus service; consultant Keith Archuleta of Chapel Hill, NC (former Antioch resident), and a non-monetary, in-kind contribution for fundraising event expenses from Peter Nguyen of Pittsburg, Owner of Fisherman’s Catch;
$600 from Blayne Wittig of Martinez, Executive Director, Options Health;
$500 from Jerry Beverly of Alameda, listed as an Investor/Philanthropist, Losefa Lam Yuen of Pittsburg, who works in Logistics for the Department of Homeland Security, and Paul Loukianoff of San Leandro, who works in construction for Con-Quest Contractors, Inc.,
$450 from Daniel Patton of Oakley, Business Solutions Manager for WK Kellogg Company;
$250 from East County Glass & Window, Inc. in Pittsburg, and Kevin McGary of Hayward, President of Every Black Life Matters; and
$200 from Sarah Jean Killings of Pittsburg.
Ballot counting has continued as mail-in ballots postmarked by Election Day, March 5 could be received until yesterday, March 12 and the County Elections Office has 28 days to certify the election.
Asked if there are any remaining ballots to be counted and when the next results update will be, Assistant Registrar Helen Nolan said, “We have about 5,300 ballots left to process as of today” and added the next update will be Friday, March 15 at 4 p.m.
The top two candidates, Barbanica and Scales-Preston will face off in the November general election.
Please check back later for any updates to this report.
Read MoreWilson, Mitchoff concede, thank supporters after finishing third, fourth place
“there is no way I’m endorsing Anamarie because I don’t trust her.” – Karen Mitchoff
“Unity doesn’t mean endorsement.” – Anamarie Avila Farias
All 3 trail Republican Sonia Ledo
Avila Farias announces endorsement of Assembly Speaker Rivas
By Allen D. Payton
After placing third and fourth, respectively, in last Tuesday’s election for the 15th Assembly District race, Antioch Mayor Pro Tem Monica Wilson and former Contra Costa County Supervisor Karen Mitchoff offered concession messages and thanks to their supporters. But only Wilson offered support for second place finisher and fellow Democrat Contra Costa School Board Trustee Anamaria Avila Farias. Yet, she claimed the three “will move forward with unity.”
The only Republican in the race, Realtor Sonia Ledo is in first place and will face Avila Farias in the general election in November.
While Wilson posted a message on her campaign Facebook page Monday, when asked if she had posted something on social media Mitchoff said, “I sent a letter out to my supporters. But I didn’t post anything.” As of Tuesday afternoon, her campaign Facebook page had been taken down.
Mitchoff Thanks Supporters But Offers No Support for Avila Farias
In her emailed letter sent last Friday, the former supervisor did not offer support for Avila Farias. She wrote, “Thank you from the bottom of my heart. While this isn’t the letter I had hoped to send out after the election, I truly appreciate all that you did to support me in my campaign for Assembly.
I don’t regret the decision to enter the race. I believe I brought to voters’ attention the need for independent thinking in Sacramento. With a Republican in the lead in a Democratic-dominated district, I may have succeeded a bit too much!
In all seriousness, I am at peace with the results. The most important message I want to impart to you is how much I appreciate your support, encouragement, and friendship during these last eight months. Anyone who has run for elected office knows these are important ingredients for any campaign, and I am blessed with an abundance of all three. I am indeed a very fortunate woman.
Thank you so much,
Karen Mitchoff”
Wilson Offers Support to Avila Farias
In a post on her campaign’s Facebook page on Monday, March 11, Wilson wrote, “Dear Neighbors:
I want to thank the voters of Assembly District 15 and each and every supporter for your encouragement, donations, and other support. Your help and generosity means more to me than words can ever express.
Last week’s voter turnout didn’t turn out as we had hoped, but it only shows that the work we must all do together to present a compelling vision for change, is needed more than ever. I’ll continue the fight to empower communities and ensure real community engagement in decision-making, including our collective goals of stronger voter participation at every level.
There is so much more work to do, and we need to do it together. Today, I am proud of the campaign we ran and look forward to supporting Ana Marie in her race. Please join me in reflecting on the work ahead, and sharing the hope in our hearts as we prepare for our critical national, state and regional races this fall.
Again, thank you!
Monica”
Avila Farias Falsely Claims Unity Among the 3 Democrat Candidates, Announces Endorsement of Assembly Speaker
Then Tuesday afternoon, Contra Costa County School Board Trustee Anamarie Avila Farias who placed second in the race behind Republican Realtor Sonia Ledo posted the following on her campaign Facebook page:
“Exciting News!
I am thrilled to share that, thanks to your unwavering support, I will be advancing to the General Election! My opponents, Karen Mitchoff and Monica Wilson, have gracefully acknowledged the outcome, and together we will move forward with unity to create positive change in Contra Costa County.
This achievement is a testament to the collective effort and support of individuals like you who believe in restoring the California Dream for those in our district and throughout the state. Additionally, I’m honored to have received the endorsement of Speaker of the California Assembly, Robert Rivas. His support further underscores the momentum and unity behind our campaign.
As we celebrate these milestones, I want to express my deepest gratitude for your support. Your belief in my candidacy, your time, and your contributions have been the driving force behind our campaign’s success.
Moving forward, let’s continue to stand together and restore the California Dream. With you, we can take this momentum even further and make a lasting impact on our community.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your support has made all the difference. Now, onto the General Election! ¡Adelante con Anamarie! ”
Mitchoff Not Endorsing Avila Farias, Says “I Don’t Trust Her”
However, Mitchoff said she hasn’t endorsed Avila Farias for the general election stating, “I have not spoken to her since the election. She must have seen or heard about my letter.”
About Avila Farias’ claim of moving forward with her in unity, the former supervisor said, “It isn’t that I’m not conceding, which I did in my letter. But there is no way I’m endorsing Anamarie because I don’t trust her. She hasn’t been honest with me about a number of issues, including how she got law enforcement support, specifically the PORAC endorsement.”
Avila Farias Says “Unity Doesn’t Mean Endorsement”
When informed that Mitchoff isn’t endorsing her Avila Farias responded, “Unity doesn’t mean endorsement.” Asked what it does mean, she responded, “Unity of our community.” When informed that Mitchoff said she hasn’t spoken to her since the election and that her comment, “together we will move forward with unit” is in the same sentence in which she mentions the other two Democratic candidates, Avila Farias reiterated her statement.
“Saying we are optimistic about everyone moving forward together in unity that does not mean or imply that I have been endorsed by anyone,” she wrote.
About Mitchoff’s claim of dishonesty and the law enforcement endorsement, Avila Farias responded, “I don’t understand her comment about PORAC. We all went for an interview, and you get a thumbs up or a thumbs down.”
Election Results
According to the California Secretary of State’s website, the unofficial election results with 393 of 393 precincts partially reporting as of March 12, 2024 at 4:25 p.m., Ledo has 24,743 votes or 32.2% of the vote followed by Avila Farias with 23,237 or 30.2%, they’re followed by Wilson with 19,229 votes or 25.0% and Mitchoff is in fourth with 9,662 votes or 12.6% of the vote.
Mail-in ballots postmarked by election day could still be received by the County Elections Office through today and the state website shows, “Results will be certified by April 12, 2024.”
The top two candidates, Ledo and Avila Farias, will face off in the general election on November 5.
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Hosted by Contra Costa Commission for Women and Girls
(Martinez, CA) – The Contra Costa Commission for Women and Girls is partnering with hosting Making Herstory 2024: Inspiring Women in Nontraditional Jobs and Professions on March 23.
The panel will feature women who have navigated careers seen as ‘non-traditional’, trailblazing in STEM (science, technology, engineering, math), public safety, skilled trades and beyond. The Commission encourages participation of women, supporters, and especially young women and girls.
Keynote Speaker: California State Treasurer Fiona Ma
Youth Speaker: Krisha Singhani, Entrepreneur and creator of FEmale, menstruation-induced anemia detection non-invasive device
Panelists:
Sabina Zafar, Founder and CEO of AI Cloud Consulting and former Fortune 100 Executive
Swati Mohan, Aerospace Engineer for NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Shawnay Tarquinio, Firefighter, San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District
Eva Allen, Founder-CEO and Executive Chef of Full Belly Bakery
Faye Maloney, Police Sergeant and Chair, Contra Costa Commission on the Status of Women and Girls
Rachel Shoemake, Electrician, IBEW Local Union 302
Date and Location:
Saturday, March 23 – 11 am to 12:30 pm
Virtual event via Zoom
Register here: bit.ly/Herstory2024
For further information about the Making Herstory 2024 panel and the Contra Costa Commission for Women and Girls, please email cccwomenscommission@gmail.com.
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Working smoke alarms reduce risk of home fire deaths in half
En Español abajo
Daylight saving time begins on March 10 and the American Red Cross encourages everyone to test their smoke alarms as they turn their clocks forward to make sure the devices are working.
“Working smoke alarms reduce the risk of dying in a home fire in half as you only have about two minutes to get out,” said Hanna Malak, Regional Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Northern California Coastal Region. “Every second counts when there’s a home fire and the sooner an alarm alerts you to a fire, the sooner you can get to a safer place. When you turn your clocks forward this weekend, test your smoke alarms too to help prevent a tragedy in your home.”
Since July 1, 2023, local Red Cross volunteers responded to help 2,645 people in the Northern California Coastal Region affected by 472 home fire events, which account for most of the about 65,000 disasters that the Red Cross responds to annually across the country.
SMOKE ALARMS When turning your clocks forward this weekend, test your smoke alarms and replace the batteries if needed. Visit redcross.org/fire for more information, including an escape plan to create and practice with your family, or download the free Red Cross Emergency app by searching “American Red Cross” in app stores.
- Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including inside and outside bedrooms and sleeping areas.
- Replace smoke alarms that are 10 years or older. Components such as sensors can become less sensitive over time. Follow your alarm’s manufacturer instructions.
- Practice your two-minute home fire escape plan. Make sure everyone in your household can get out in less than two minutes — the amount of time you may have to escape a burning home before it’s too late.
- Include at least two ways to get out of every room and select a meeting spot at a safe distance away from your home, such as your neighbor’s home or landmark like a specific tree in your front yard, where everyone can meet.
HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN SAVES LIVES Most of us don’t realize we have just two minutes to escape a home fire — which is the nation’s most frequent disaster. Since October 2014, the American Red Cross Home Fire Campaign, working with community partners, has saved at least 2,030 lives by meeting one-on-one with families in at-risk communities to share home fire safety information, help families create escape plans, and install free smoke alarms. If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help. To request an appointment for a free smoke alarm installation or to get involved in an installation event, visit soundthealarm.org/nccr.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or follow us on social media.
La Cruz Roja le pide que PRUEBE sus alarmas de humo mientras ADELANTA sus relojes este fin de semana
Las alarmas de humo en funcionamiento reducen a la mitad el riesgo de muertes por incendios domésticos
El horario de verano comienza el 10 de marzo y la Cruz Roja Americana alienta a todos a probar sus alarmas de humo mientras adelantan sus relojes para asegurarse que los dispositivos funcionen.
“Las alarmas de humo en funcionamiento reducen a la mitad el riesgo de morir en un incendio doméstico, ya que sólo se dispone de unos dos minutos para salir,” dijo Hanna Malak, CEO Regional de la Cruz Roja en la Región de la Costa Norte de California. “Cada segundo cuenta cuando hay un incendio doméstico y cuanto antes le avise una alarma de humo, antes podrá llegar a un lugar más seguro. Cuando adelante sus relojes este fin de semana, pruebe también sus alarmas de humo para ayudar a prevenir una tragedia en su hogar.”
Desde el 1 de Julio de 2023, los voluntarios locales de la Cruz Roja respondieron para ayudar a 2,645 personas en la Región de la Costa Norte de California, que fue afectada por 472 incendios domésticos, que representan la mayoría de los cerca de 65,000 desastres a los que la Cruz Roja responde anualmente en todo el país.
ALARMAS DE HUMO Cuando adelante los relojes este fin de semana, pruebe sus alarmas de humo y cambie las baterías si es necesario. Visite CruzRojaAmericana.org/incendios para más información, incluyendo un plan de escape para crear y practicar con su familia, o descargue la aplicación gratuita Emergencia de la Cruz Roja buscando “Cruz Roja Americana” en las tiendas de aplicaciones.
- Instale alarmas de humo en todos los niveles de su casa, incluidos los dormitorios interiores y exteriores y las áreas para dormir.
- Reemplace las alarmas de humo que tengan 10 años o más. Los componentes, como los sensores, pueden volverse menos sensibles con el tiempo. Siga las instrucciones del fabricante de la alarma.
- Practique su plan de escape en caso de incendio doméstico de dos minutos. Asegúrese de que todos los miembros de su hogar puedan salir en menos de dos minutos, la cantidad de tiempo que puede tener para escapar de una casa en llamas antes de que sea demasiado tarde.
- Incluya al menos dos formas de salir de cada habitación y seleccione un lugar de reunión a una distancia segura de su casa, como la casa de su vecino o un punto de referencia como un árbol específico en su patio delantero, donde todos puedan reunirse.
LA CAMPAÑA DE PREVENCIÓN DE INCENDIOS EN EL HOGAR SALVA VIDAS Desde octubre de 2014, la Campaña de Prevención de Incendios en el Hogar de la Cruz Roja, en colaboración con socios comunitarios, ha salvado al menos 2,030 vidas educando a las familias sobre la seguridad contra incendios, ayudándoles a crear planes de escape e instalando alarmas de humo gratuitas en zonas de alto riesgo de todo el país. Para obtener más información sobre la campaña y cómo puede participar, visite CruzRojaAmericana.org/incendiosdomesticos.
Sobre la Cruz Roja Americana:
La Cruz Roja Americana alberga, alimenta y ofrece alivio a las víctimas de desastres; suministra alrededor del 40% de la sangre en el país; enseña habilidades que salvan vidas; distribuye ayuda humanitaria internacional; y apoya a los veteranos, a los miembros de las fuerzas armadas y a sus familias. La Cruz Roja es una
organización sin fines de lucro que depende de los voluntarios y de la generosidad del público estadounidense para cumplir su misión. Para obtener más información, visite redcross.org o CruzRojaAmericana.org, o síganos en las redes sociales.
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District 5 residents who want to get involved in improving their communities
Applications due March 29
Supervisor Federal Glover announced opportunities for District 5 residents to make decisions affecting their communities. “A lot of policies begin in these county commissions and boards,” said Glover. Commissions are appointed by the Board of Supervisors based on his recommendation. Interested individuals may apply online at: https://contra-costa.granicus.com/boards/forms/321/apply/ or they can contact Supervisor Glover’s office at (925) 608-4200. Completed applications must be received in Supervisor Glover’s office by close of business Friday, March 29, 2023.
Crockett-Carquinez Fire Protection District Fire Advisory Commission: reviews and advises on annual operations and capital budgets; reviews Fire District expenditures; advises the Fire Chief on district service matters; and serves as a liaison between the Board of Supervisors and the community served by the fire district. The seats that are open are: 1 Regular Seat (Appointee 2). Meetings are held on the third Thursday of the month at 7:00 p.m. at 746 Loring Avenue, Crockett, CA 94525. The current seat opening has a term ending December 31, 2024. For information call Dean Colombo at (925) 787-0790.
Emergency Medical Care Committee: Role is to review the County’s ambulance and other emergency services as required in State law; and serves in an advisory capacity to the County Board of Supervisors, and to the County EMS Agency, on matters relating to emergency medical services as directed by the Board. The Committee meets at the Contra Costa County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Administrative Office, 777 Arnold Drive, Martinez, CA, from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The current vacancy is for District V – Consumer Representative with a term ending September 30, 2024. For information, call Rachel Morris (925) 608-5454. Rachel.Morris@cchealth.org
Measure X Community Advisory Board: The Measure X Community Advisory Board was established by the Board of Supervisors on February 2, 2021 to advise the Board of Supervisors on the use of Measure X transactions and use tax funds. The current vacancy is for the District 5 Seat – Alternate seat with a term ending March 31, 2025. The meetings are normally scheduled for Wednesday’s at 5:00 p.m. For information call Adam Nguyen at (925) 655-2048. Adam.Nguyen@cao.cccounty.us
Measure X Community Fiscal Oversight Committee: The Measure X Community Fiscal Oversight Committee was established by the Board of Supervisors earlier this year to advise the Board of Supervisors on financial audits of Measure X tax funds. The current vacancy is for the District 5 Seat with a term ending December 31, 2024. The meeting dates and times are to be determined. For information call Adam Nguyen at (925) 655-2048. Adam.Nguyen@cao.cccounty.us
Mental Health Commission: The Mental Health Commission was established to review and assess the community’s mental health needs, services, facilities, and special problems, in order to advise the Board of Supervisors concerning local mental health services and programs. The current vacancies are for the District 5 Seat 3 with a term ending June 30, 2027. The Mental Health Commission meets the first Wednesday of each month from 4:30-6:30 p.m. For information call Angela Beck at (925) 313-9553. Angela.Beck@cchealth.org
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Coordinated effort by Concord & Oakley PD, CHP Thursday night funded by grant from CA Office of Traffic Safety
Pursuit of one vehicle ends in Fairfield
By Concord Police Department
The Concord Police Department partnered with the Oakley Police Department and the California Highway Patrol to conduct a joint enforcement operation throughout the City last night, Thursday, March 7, 2024. The enforcement focus was on reckless driving, illegal side-show activity suppression and enforcement. During the operation, Officers wrote 32 citations, made two arrests and seized three vehicles.
Vehicles seized for reckless driving, or evading law enforcement, are subject to a 30-day hold. Owners can incur costs of nearly $3,000 to have the vehicles released. Simply put, it’s not worth it!
During the operation, a California Highway Patrol Officer attempted a traffic stop for a vehicle driving recklessly. The vehicle fled from the Officers and a pursuit was initiated, ultimately leading to the capture and arrest of the driver in Fairfield.
During a “side show” in the City of Pleasant Hill, thousands of dollars of damage was done to a private parking lot from vehicle’s driving recklessly. This type of driving behavior is not tolerated, and the Concord Police Department is committed to dedicating the patrol and investigative resources needed to apprehend those violators. Even after a side show event, Investigators are tasked with identifying vehicles in violation, conducting relevant follow up investigation, to include vehicle seizure warrants, to seize those vehicles.
These operations are made possible with a grant through the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and in response to a large amount of citizen complaints regarding this type of driving behavior in our City.
The City of Concord has a lot to offer! Please come, visit and enjoy our wonderful City, but do it safely. Multiple operations are planned in the future to curtail unsafe driving behaviors.
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