Contra Costa Herald

The Day the Books Disappeared cover. Source: Amazon.com

For their “picture book…about banning books”; instructed not to speak about “books with queer representation”

Book bans deemed “hoax” by U.S. Dep’t of Ed regarding removals from school libraries

By Allen D. Payton

Two authors of a book about book “banning” did not conduct a presentation to 4- to 9-year-old students at Country Club Elementary School in the San Ramo Valley Unified School District, recently because “parts of the presentation were not suited to” the “youngest learners in TK to third grade” according to a letter dated Oct. 29, 2025, from Superintendent CJ Cammack. Both sides point fingers at the other for the event’s cancellation.

The authors, Joanna How and Caroline Kusin Pritchard, were going to speak about their picture book entitled, The Day the Books Disappeared about the banning of books. According to the description on Amazon.com, “This book about books celebrates themes of empathy, interconnectedness, and the value of diverse and differing perspectives.”

But that message, according to the superintendent’s letter, “was overshadowed by a presentation focused on book banning that extended beyond the developmental level of our youngest students.”

According to the authors, when they arrived, the principal met with them in an office and told them to “only talk about the book” and “not to speak about book bans or the types of books being banned, specifically books with queer representation.”

According to the superintendent, “district staff reached out to the organization we partner with on author visits to share concerns and request that the presentation be adjusted for a younger audience before the scheduled visit to Country Club.  When no response was received, staff respectfully made the same request to the authors when they arrived on campus. The authors declined to modify their presentation to align with our requests and chose to leave without presenting.”

However, the authors claim they “were not allowed to present.”

Superintendent’s Letter

Cammack’s letter reads:

Oct. 29, 2025

Dear Parents/Caregivers, Staff, and Community Members,

I would like to address a situation regarding a recent author visit for some of our TK-3rd grade classes in SRVUSD, which has garnered some media and social media attention. On behalf of the District, I’d like to offer some important context.

Recently, co-authors of the book, The Day the Books Disappeared, visited some SRVUSD elementary schools. Concerns were voiced by site principals that parts of the presentation were not suited to our youngest learners in TK to third grade (4 years old – 9 years old).  Specifically, the book’s message of kindness, empathy, and understanding was overshadowed by a presentation focused on book banning that extended beyond the developmental level of our youngest students.

Based on this feedback, district staff reached out to the organization we partner with on author visits to share concerns and request that the presentation be adjusted for a younger audience before the scheduled visit to Country Club.  When no response was received, staff respectfully made the same request to the authors when they arrived on campus. The authors declined to modify their presentation to align with our requests and chose to leave without presenting.

SRVUSD values and supports author visits as well as inclusion of diverse books, perspectives and dialogue as meaningful educational opportunities for our students. We support and believe in the strength of our richly diverse community. We remain committed to providing engaging, age-appropriate learning experiences in the classrooms and on our campuses that reflect the best academic and social-emotional interests of our students, aligned with their developmental levels.

Sincerely,

CJ Cammack

Superintendent

——————-

Source: Instagram

Authors Respond

In a message posted on their Instagram page on Wednesday the authors wrote:

“We are deeply saddened that we were prevented from meeting with young readers at Country Club Elementary in San Ramon, California during our tour for The Day the Books Disappeared, a picture book we wrote about book banning, illustrated by Dan Santat.

When we arrived, students were waiting for us in the library, but instead of taking us to meet them, the principal pulled us into an office and told us to ‘only talk about the book.’ When pressed, she told us not to speak about book bans or the types of books being banned, specifically books with queer representation. We responded that this would be out of our integrity, and that we would not change our presentation. Despite district approval for our visit, the principal informed us the directive came from above and excused herself to call her district supervisor. Forty minutes later, students were sent back to their classrooms, and we were not permitted to present.”

The two also wrote on Instagram, “Students of Country Club Elementary, we hope you know that your community is better because you are in it. We see you. We celebrate you.

A system of fear can only be fought by an even stronger ecosystem of courage, and we’ve witnessed the ripples created by remarkable acts of bravery across the country on behalf of students and learning. We can all choose to be part of an ecosystem of courage. Together we can fight for our freedom to read.

With love,

Joanna and Caroline”

————

Books Removed from School Libraries Labeled “Banned” Deemed “Hoax” by U.S. Dept of Education

Most of the books claimed to be banned in the U.S. have merely been removed from school libraries due to their content not being age-appropriate for students. According to Pen America, the effort “predominantly targets books about race and racism or books featuring individuals of color and LGBTQ+ people and topics, as well those for older readers that have sexual references or discuss sexual violence.”

That organization’s Banned Book List of 2025 claims the top books include, A Clockwork Orange in which “teen protagonist Alex creates mayhem before undergoing aversion therapy to curb his violent tendencies;” Sold which “tells the story of Lakshmi, a 13-year-old girl in Nepal who is sold into prostitution;” Last Night at the Telegraph Club “set in 1954…when 17-year-old Lily Hu visits a lesbian bar;” Forever, which the author says she “wrote it because her daughter wanted to read something where kids could have sex ‘without either of them having to die;’” and All Boys Aren’t Blue, a memoir by “prominent journalist and LGBTQIA+ activist George M. Johnson” which, according to Amazon, “delves into sensitive subjects such as consent, sexual abuse, and the complexities of growing up in a society that often marginalizes queer identities…aiming to provide both a voice for young queer individuals and a guide for allies. The title itself reflects the multifaceted nature of masculinity and the societal pressures surrounding it, with ‘blue’ symbolizing traditional masculinity and the violence often faced by queer Black individuals.”

A January 2025 press release entitled, “U.S. Department of Education Ends Biden’s Book Ban Hoax” announced a decision by its Office for Civil Rights that, “dismissed 11 complaints related to so-called ‘book bans.’ The complaints alleged that local school districts’ removal of age-inappropriate, sexually explicit, or obscene materials from their school libraries created a hostile environment for students – a meritless claim premised upon a dubious legal theory. Effective Jan. 24, 2025, OCR has rescinded all department guidance issued under the theory that a school district’s removal of age-inappropriate books from its libraries may violate civil rights laws.

“By dismissing these complaints and eliminating the position and authorities of a so-called ‘book ban coordinator,’ the department is beginning the process of restoring the fundamental rights of parents to direct their children’s education,” said Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Craig Trainor. “The department adheres to the deeply rooted American principle that local control over public education best allows parents and teachers alike to assess the educational needs of their children and communities. Parents and school boards have broad discretion to fulfill that important responsibility. These decisions will no longer be second-guessed by the Office for Civil Rights at the U.S. Department of Education.”

Questions for District Staff Go Unanswered

District communications staff were asked where the letter can be found on the district’s website because it’s not under Newsroom and Media in the Communications and Community Relations section, the name of the organization that they “partner with on author visits” as mentioned in the letter, and why the superintendent’s letter wasn’t sent to the media, as they issue press releases on a regular basis. But they did not respond prior to publication time.

Please check back for any updates.

SFGate.com and Mike Burkholder of ContraCosta.news were sources for this report.

Photo: CCC Public Law Library

Deadline: Nov 7; Virtual interview Nov. 24

By Julie DiMaggio Enea, Senior Deputy, Contra Costa County Administrator’s Office

(Martinez, CA) – The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors is seeking applicants for the Public Law Library Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees was established pursuant to State law and County Ordinance to maintain a law library in Martinez.

The Board of Trustees is the governing body for the Law Library with the authority to determine personnel, fiscal, and administrative policies to fulfill the legal information needs of the community. County residents who are members of the State Bar and have an interest in public policy and library administration are encouraged to apply for this non-paid volunteer opportunity. The County Board of Supervisors will appoint to fill one vacancy for a one-year term beginning Jan. 1, 2026, and ending on Dec. 31, 2026.   The Board of Trustees normally meets monthly in Martinez.

Application forms can be obtained from the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors by calling (925) 655-2000 or the application can be completed online by visiting the County website at  https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/3418.

Applications should be returned to the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors, County Administration Building, 1025 Escobar St., Martinez, CA  94553 no later than by 5 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 7, 2025.

Applicants should plan to be available for public interviews to be conducted virtually via Zoom on Monday, November 24, 2025.

More information about the Contra Costa Public Law Library can be obtained by calling Amreet Sandhu at (925) 655-4600 or director@ll.cccounty.us, or visiting the Law Library website at http://www.cccpllib.org.

5 Regional Early Voting Sites in Brentwood, Pittsburg, Richmond, San Ramon, Walnut Creek open today

Some polling places in Antioch, Bay Point, Lafayette, Pinole, Pittsburg, San Pablo and San Ramon have changed.

 By Dawn Kruger Community and Media Relations Coordinator Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder-Elections Department

Regional Early Voting Sites open today, Friday, October 31st and polling places are open on Election Day, Tuesday, November 4th from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Voters can still return their ballots by mail, postmarked on or before Election Day – to ensure your mailed ballot is received on time, mail ballots before Election Day. Voters can drop their ballot off at one of the County’s 45 official drop boxes before 8:00 PM on Election Day, to ensure we receive your ballot on time.

“Voters have many opportunities to cast their ballot early,” said Kristin B. Connelly, the County’s Registrar of Voters. “The Contra Costa County Elections Office is here to ensure voters can cast their ballots safely, early, and conveniently to make sure their voices are heard.”

In-Person Voter Services

If you prefer to vote in-person or need in-person services to cast your ballot, Contra Costa County residents have early voting options at five Regional Early Voting sites throughout the county.

All Contra Costa registered voters will be able to vote at any of the Regional Early Voting locations, which will be open Friday, October 31st from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Saturday, November 1st from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM; and Monday, November 3rd from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Here are the locations of Contra Costa’s Regional Early Voting sites:

• Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak Street, Brentwood
• Pittsburg Library-Community Room, 80 Power Avenue, Pittsburg
• Richmond Memorial Auditorium, 403 Civic Center Plaza, Richmond
• San Ramon Valley United Methodist Church, 902 Danville Boulevard, Alamo
• Walnut Creek City Hall, 1666 North Main Street, Walnut Creek

Polling Places

Polling places will be open on Election Day, Tuesday, November 4th from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.  Please go to our website and check “My Voting Information.” to find your assigned polling place. Please note that some polling places in Antioch, Bay Point, Lafayette, Pinole, Pittsburg, San Pablo and San Ramon have changed.

Conditional Voter Registration

If you missed the voter registration deadline, you can still register and vote in-person using Conditional Voter Registration. It is a one-stop opportunity to register and cast your ballot and is available (1) at our office at 555 Escobar Street in Martinez, (2) at Regional Early Voting sites, and (3) at all polling places.

Accessible Voting Equipment and Additional Language Access

Official ballots and voting instructions are provided in English, Spanish, and Chinese. Additional language resources are available through ballot translation guides which are available online and at in-person voting locations. Ballot marking equipment with accessible features is available at every in-person voting location for voters with disabilities who may need assistance.

Be Prepared

If you vote in person, many voters find it helpful to come prepared. Make your choice ahead of time and bring your pre-marked Sample Ballot to the polls to help you save time. Copies of the Voter Information Guide are available at the polls and the information is also available online.

Leave the Campaign T-Shirts, Buttons, and Hats at Home

Please remember that voters have the right to cast a ballot free from intimidation or distraction. Under California law, electioneering is prohibited within 100 feet of any voting location.  Anyone wearing items promoting any position in this election will be asked to remove or cover them while they are at the voting location.  Please help our poll workers by refraining from electioneering and leave your campaign t-shirts, buttons and hats at home.

For more information on voting options for the Statewide Special Election, visit www.contracostavote.gov or call 925.335.7800.

Nicholas Brandon Moseby. Photo source: The Rob Harvey on Facebook

Allows a judge to impose longer sentence

Previously convicted of the same crimes, 41-year-old Nicholas Brandon Moseby also worked as cheerleader instructor in San Ramon

By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office

Martinez, California – A Contra Costa County jury today found that aggravating circumstances applied in the case of Nicholas Brandon Moseby, a former middle school teacher and cheerleading instructor previously convicted of sex crimes against minors.

The 41-year-old Concord man was found guilty on October 17th, 2025, following the first phase of his bifurcated trial. The convictions included one felony count of lewd acts upon a child, one felony count of distributing or showing pornography to a minor, and three misdemeanor counts involving child molestation and sexual battery. Jurors were unable to reach a verdict on one felony count of committing a lewd act upon a child, while Moseby was found not guilty on a separate charge of the same offense.

In the second phase of the trial today, the jury determined that the following aggravating factors applied to Moseby’s conviction:

• The victim was particularly vulnerable
• The crimes demonstrated planning and sophistication
• He exploited a position of trust to commit the offenses

The jury did not reach agreement on whether Moseby’s prior convictions showed a pattern of increasing seriousness, and Judge John W. Kennedy declared a mistrial on that specific factor.

These true findings by the jury will allow a judge to impose a longer sentence when Moseby appears for sentencing at 8:30 a.m. on December 19th at the A.F. Bray Courthouse in Martinez.

The case originated in September 2022 when a minor victim reported incidents to authorities. Following an investigation by the Contra Costa County Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, additional victims came forward. Moseby was arrested on September 14, 2022, and charged two days later, after he reportedly sent a girl videos on Snapchat showing himself masturbating and the parents of his victim reported to police.  Deputy District Attorney Jessica Murad prosecuted the case.

At the time of his arrest, Moseby was employed as a biology teacher at Diablo Vista Middle School in Danville and as a cheerleading instructor at Nor Cal Elites in San Ramon. (See related article)

“The victims have traveled a long road to justice,” said District Attorney Diana Becton. “This jury’s verdict opens a path toward healing from the trauma — not only for the victims, but for the

broader community as well.”

Case Number: 01-22-01583 | The People of the State of California v. Nicholas Brandon Moseby

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

AMR Paramedic Brannen Zilk will be honored with the Star of Life Award next week. Photo: AMR

Brannen Zilka to be honored as a Star of Life Award recipient in Washington, D.C. 

October is Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month

By Amy Link, Senior Public Relations Specialist

CONCORD, CA — Seconds matter during a sudden cardiac arrest emergency, and for one spectator at a local high school football game last fall, seconds were all it took for off-duty American Medical Response (AMR) paramedic Brannen Zilka to come to their aid. Zilka witnessed this life-threatening emergency and, recognizing the severity of the situation, he immediately began CPR, retrieved an automated external defibrillator (AED) and delivered a life-saving shock. With Zilka’s quick action, the individual survived and was later discharged from the hospital without any lasting disabilities.

This year, Zilka, who lives in Benicia, stands among a select group of just 32 outstanding professionals—representing Global Medical Response’s 34,000 prehospital clinicians, dispatchers and support personnel—who have earned the distinguished Stars of Life award. Presented by the American Ambulance Association (AAA), this honor shines a light on individuals whose exceptional achievements exemplify the very best of the emergency medical services (EMS) profession and reflect the dedication and excellence shared throughout the entire workforce.

The Stars of Life program, founded by the AAA in 1996, shines a national spotlight on EMS professionals who demonstrate unwavering commitment and extraordinary impact. This year’s recipients will join peers from across the country at the AAA’s national celebration, November 2–5 in Washington, D.C.— an event dedicated to honoring the essential role of EMS in public health and safety.

“These individuals represent the highest standards of EMS, consistently exceeding expectations under pressure and making a profound difference where it matters most,” said Nick Loporcaro, president and CEO of GMR. “It’s an incredible honor to recognize these 32 caregivers for their heroic service.”

Each honoree is recognized for lifesaving interventions, innovative public health leadership, and heartfelt engagement with their communities. As part of the celebration, Stars of Life honorees will also meet with members of Congress to share the challenges and triumphs shaping today’s EMS landscape, advocating for continued support and investment in the field.

“I’m incredibly honored to receive the Stars of Life award,” said Zilka. “When I saw the cardiac arrest unfold at the football game, I didn’t hesitate—training and instinct kicked in. But it’s the strength of our EMS community and the support of my team that make moments like that possible. I’m proud to represent the lifesaving work we do every day, especially when every second counts.”

Zilka has been a dedicated team member with AMR, a Global Medical Response solution, since 2003, serving currently as a paramedic, field training officer and union shop steward. His commitment to both his team and community is evident through his involvement in specialized units, training programs and support for new hires. Outside of work, Zilka volunteers as a coach with Northern California Special Olympics and advocates for inclusive education, while also teaching lifesaving skills like CPR, Narcan administration, and Stop the Bleed to high school students—extending his impact well beyond his work as a first responder.

“Brannen’s quick thinking and decisive action during that emergency reflect the kind of leadership and compassion he brings to our team every day,” said Scott Newlin, operations manager at AMR. “His recognition as a Stars of Life honoree is well deserved, and we’re proud to have him representing our team.”

About American Ambulance Association

The American Ambulance Association represents ambulance services across the United States that participate in serving more than 75% of the U.S. population with emergency and non-emergency care and medical transportation. The AAA was formed in response to the need for improvements in medical transportation and emergency medical services. AAA views pre-hospital care not only as a public service, but also as an essential part of the total public health care system.

About American Medical Response (AMR) 

American Medical Response, Inc., America’s leading provider of emergency medical services, provides mobile healthcare in 40 states and the District of Columbia. More than 28,000 AMR paramedics, EMTs, RNs and other professionals work together to care for more than 4.8 million patients nationwide each year in critical, emergency and non-emergency situations. For more information about AMR, visit www.amr.net or on Facebook and LinkedIn.

AMR is part of Global Medical Response, the largest air and ground emergency medical service provider in the United States. With nearly 33,000 team members, the organization reaches 60% of the U.S. population, providing emergency medical care to 5.5 million patients annually and performing a critical intervention every 93 seconds. Its family of solutions includes ambulance EMS provider American Medical Response (AMR), as well as multiple air EMS organizations including Air Evac Lifeteam, REACH Air Medical Services, Guardian Flight, Med-Trans Corporation, and AirMed International. For additional information, visit GMR at www.globalmedicalresponse.com, or on Facebook and LinkedIn.

About Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month

October is National Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) Awareness Month. It’s a call to action by the American Red Cross meant to raise awareness about sudden cardiac arrest signs and symptoms and illuminate how it affects people and what to do to help save lives. For more information visit Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month | Red Cross.

Photos: Bay Area Christian Church

By Olivia Brunell

This past Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025, Bay Area Christian Church hosted a free Trunk or Treat event in Pleasant Hill designed to be inclusive of kids and families with special needs.

Children with disabilities often experience higher loneliness and barriers to participating in community activities. This event was inspired by the church’s commitment to inclusion and creating experiences where children of all abilities can enjoy the fun of trick-or-treating.

Each location featured decorated trunks, costumes, candy, games and community connection — all in a safe environment offering sensory-friendly spaces, trained volunteers, and accessible layouts so everyone can participate.

Overall turnout across the five locations was more than 1,300, with 336 people coming to the Pleasant Hill Location.

Bay Area Christian Church is located at 320 Civic Drive in Pleasant Hill. For more information visit https://bacc.cc/location/pleasant-hill/.

CHiPPER says don’t drink and drive on Halloween or ever! Photo: CHP

All available Officers deployed statewide to keep roads safe during 12-hour operation

6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31 – 6 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 1

By Jaime Coffee, CHP Director of Communications, Office of Media Relations

SACRAMENTO—The California Highway Patrol (CHP) will launch a 12-hour Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) from 6 p.m. Friday, October 31, through 6 a.m. Saturday, November 1, to protect motorists and prevent impaired driving. During the operation, all available CHP officers will be on patrol statewide, focusing on identifying and arresting impaired drivers before they cause harm.

“Impaired driving destroys lives, and even one life lost is one too many. This Halloween, we’re asking everyone to do their part before the festivities begin, arrange a sober ride and help us keep California’s roads safe for everyone who uses them.” – CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee

Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs or a combination of both can have deadly consequences. On average, more than 800 fatal crashes involving impaired drivers claim over 900 lives each year in California, reinforcing the CHP’s commitment to removing impaired drivers from the road.

Impairment is not limited to alcohol. Prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs and cannabis products can all affect a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.

Penalties for Impaired Driving

Drivers arrested for driving under the influence face serious penalties, including:

• Driver’s license suspension
• Fines
• Mandatory DUI education programs
• Jail time

During last year’s 12-hour Halloween MEP, officers investigated nearly 500 crashes statewide. About 90 of those involved impaired drivers, resulting in two deaths and more than 60 injuries. CHP officers also made nearly 120 DUI arrests during that period.

For more information about DUI penalties, visit the California Department of Motor Vehicles website.

Make the Right Choice

To help ensure everyone reaches their destination safely, the CHP urges motorists to:

• Designate a sober driver.
• Use ride-sharing services, taxis or public transit.
• Never drive impaired or ride with someone who is.

If you see someone who appears to be driving impaired, call 9-1-1 immediately.

“Whether it’s Halloween or any night of the year, the decision to drive sober can save a life,” Commissioner Duryee added. “Together, we can make our roads safer and prevent tragedies before they happen.”

The CHP reminds all drivers to make responsible choices behind the wheel — never drive under the influence, always wear your seat belt and follow the speed limit.

The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.

Victim Brian Utt from a post on his Facebook page May 20, 2025, and his suspect wife Libelyn Taculod “Jingjing” Utt from a post on her Facebook page Sept. 22, 2017.

64-year-old Brian Lee Utt stabbed to death by wife known as Jingjing Utt

By Allen D. Payton

According to Jimmy Lee, Director of Public Affairs for the Contra Costa Sheriff-Coroner, thev victim in the stabbing death on Thursday morning, Oct. 23, 2025, was identified as “Brian Lee Utt, 64 years old, out of Bay Point.”

As previously reported, t 11:26 a.m. that day, Muir Station deputy sheriffs were dispatched to a medical-police call at a residence on Solano Court in Bay Point.

Deputies entered the home finding a man bleeding from stab wounds. They provided first aid until the fire department and an ambulance arrived on scene. The man was transported to a local hospital where he was later pronounced deceased.

The suspect, believed to be the victim’s wife, was arrested at the scene and booked into the Martinez Detention Facility. She is identified as 57-year-old Libelyn Taculod Utt of Bay Point. She was booked on a murder charge and is being held without bail.

According to a member of Golden Hills Community Church in Brentwood, the Utts attended the church and Mr. Utt helped lead a men’s Bible Study there and Libelyn’s nickname is Jingjing.

Anyone with any information on this incident is asked to contact the Investigation Division at (925) 313-2600. For any tips, email: tips@so.cccounty.us or call (866) 846-3592 to leave an anonymous voice message.

Photo: U.S. Postal Service

Starting salary: $63,658 and $71,056; hiring fairs Oct. 30 & Nov. 13

ALAMEDA, CA – The U.S. Postal Service requires skilled automotive technicians to keep the largest fleet of vehicles among federal agencies, on the road. If you know your way around a vehicle (or know someone who does), you can diagnose and complete complex repairs & maintenance, then applying for our driver and automotive positions could be your start to a new career with the Postal Service.

In-person hiring fairs will continue to fill much-needed vacancies; a specialist will be available to answer questions about the application process and help candidates build a profile to apply for positions.

As part of its innovative 10-year transformation and modernization plan, the Postal Service aims to build a more stable and empowered workforce. Postal employees are our greatest asset, and we are investing in our new employees by providing robust training and on-the-job support.

Starting annual salary for automotive technicians is $63,658; starting salary for lead automotive technicians is $71,056; both paid bi-weekly.

The Postal Service offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, dental, and vision as well as the ability to accrue vacation and sick leave; see online job announcements for full details.

Each position requires examination requirements depending on the position, review job announcements for full details.

At the time of appointment, applicants must have a valid driver’s license from the state in which they live.

Applicants must also demonstrate and maintain a safe driving record. Applicants selected under this qualification standard must successfully complete the required Vehicle Familiarization and Safe Operation training, including demonstration of the ability to safely drive a vehicle of the type used on the job.

Qualified applicants must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening to meet the U.S. Postal Service’s requirement to be drug free. Applicants must also be a U.S. citizen or have permanent resident alien status.

For additional information on how to apply for positions, visit us online at How to Apply for a Postal Service Jobs.

Please Note: The United States Postal Service is an independent federal establishment, mandated to be self-financing and to serve every American community through the affordable, reliable and secure delivery of mail and packages to 169 million addresses six and often seven days a week. Overseen by a bipartisan Board of Governors, the Postal Service is implementing a 10-year transformation plan, Delivering for America, to modernize the postal network, restore long-term financial sustainability, dramatically improve service across all mail and shipping categories, and maintain the organization as one of America’s most valued and trusted brands.

The Postal Service generally receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

Un-serialized loaded gun found near the suspect’s vehicle and seized during arrest. Photo: Brentwood PD

43-year-old Veronica Angelica-Maria Greenhouse held on $100,000 bail; celebrating her birthday in jail

By Brentwood Police Department

On Tuesday, October 21, 2025, Brentwood officers were dispatched to the 5900 block of Lone Tree Way in response to a report of a suspicious circumstance. The reporting party stated they heard gunshots in a commercial parking lot and associated the sounds with a parked vehicle.

Upon arrival, officers detained three subjects near the vehicle in question. During the investigation, officers located an un-serialized loaded firearm and a spent casing near the vehicle. A large quantity of drugs and paraphernalia commonly associated with narcotics sales were also found.

43-year-old Veronica Angelica-Maria Greenhouse of Antioch (born 10/28/82) was arrested for multiple firearm-related offenses, including being a felon in possession of a firearm, as well as possession of narcotics for sale. She was transported to the Martinez Detention Facility.

According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, the five-foot tall, 125-pound Greenhouse is Hispanic, is being held in the West County Detention Facility on $100,000 bail. Her next court appearance is scheduled for Superior Court in Martinez on Nov. 5, 2025, at 8:30 a.m.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.