Dear Editor:
For forty years I have dedicated my professional life to helping the mentally ill, the homeless, substance abuse addicts and low income families with children.
ACA – Affordable Care Act has saved thousands of lives. I know because many of those lives are my clients. Without ACA, those with drug addictions will be on the streets, trying to survive through stealing, breaking in to homes or stores, and other criminal acts that make our community unsafe. With ACA, my clients are in residential treatment programs and practicing full recovery. My homeless or mentally ill clients have full medical support, getting their prescriptions so they are not delusional or dangerous. Our clinics and hospitals need ACA to keep their doors open to our citizens, our families and the children. People will die without ACA.
Please contact your Congressman or Senator and urge them to vote to keep ACA or comparable health care for our citizens. You can contact Daily Action call 1-844-241-1141 (user friendly and free) and you will be directly connected with your Representative.
Jerri Curry, PhD Forensic Psychologist 27385, Licensed Family Therapist 19776, Certified Drug Addiction Specialist, Formerly with Contra Costa County
Benicia
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Former Congressman George Miller administers the oaths of office to new Contra Costa County Supervisor Diane Burgis, left, and re-elected Supervisors Federal Glover and Candace Andersen, Tuesday, January 10, 2017 as Supervisors Karen Mitchoff and John Gioia look on. photos by Jonathan Bash
By Veronica Hampton
Diane Burgis became a new member of the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, and re-elected Supervisor Federal Glover was voted in as Chair of the Board for this year, during the board meeting on Tuesday, January 10. During the procedures, Glover announced this will be his last term on the board.
The meeting began with the presentation of colors by veterans groups from Pittsburg and Martinez. Oakley veteran, Randy “Smitty” Smith, led the Pledge of Allegiance and county Senior Deputy Administrator Julie Enea led in the singing of the National Anthem. Re-elected District 2 Supervisor and out-going Chair for 2016, Candace Andersen opened with an inspirational thought for the day by Michelangelo.
“The greater danger for most of us isn’t that our aim is too high and miss it, but that it is too low and we reach it,” she said.
Former Congressman George Miller administered the oaths of office to both the new and returning Supervisors, Burgis for District 3 Supervisor, Andersen who was re-elected without opposition and Glover who began his fifth term as District 5 Supervisor.
Diane Burgis in her new seat on the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors.
Burgis, a long time resident of the county, was welcomed to the board and paid homage to her alma mater, saying “Go Bulldogs” and then thanked her family for their support. She expressed her eagerness to start working with the board and introduced members of her staff, stating she is confident with their help and support they can “help Contra Costa meets its full potential.”
Burgis recognized her predecessor, Mary Piepho, thanking her for her encouragement, saying they share the same goals for Contra Costa County.
“In my district, I want to grow our economy while protecting our natural resources, including our precious Delta, provide quality public service, [and] protect the most vulnerable amongst us, while practicing fiscal responsibility and prudence,” Burgis stated.
In her outgoing remarks as Chair, Andersen thanked the board, staff and family for their support and hard work during her term. She stated she is “grateful” to be reelected and welcomes collaborating with Glover, in his new role as chair, and with Burgis, as well as the other supervisors.
“I am looking forward to working with my colleagues, both new and old as we continue to serve Contra Costa County,” she said.
Anderson hopes that the county’s past accomplishments can continue to produce new accomplishments for 2017. Focus will continue on the research and resources for mental health for county inmates.
“Next Saturday, Board and County Members will travel to Sacramento to attend the Stepping Up Summit, to look at Best Practices on this issue,” Andersen shared. “With the reopening of Pittsburg Fire Station 87, focus will continue on reopening station 16 in Lafayette. The County will continue to further their alliance with AMR and continue to work on faster medical emergency response times.”
Anderson was presented a gift of appreciation by Glover and the board and he thanked her for “making a solid voice for Contra Costa and for handling difficult decisions with style and grace.”
County Clerk Joe Canciamilla swore Glover as the new Board Chair and District 4 Supervisor Karen Mitchoff as the new Vice Chair of the Board for 2017.
The new Board of Supervisors for 2017 with Federal Glover as Chair.
In his remarks, Glover announced “that this will be his last term, but it will be his best term.” He said he will continue to strive to make “one Contra Costa County,” and to maintain the county’s AAA bond rating from Standard and Poor’s. Focus will continue on developing employment opportunities.
Four years ago, Glover asked the Board to look into the revitalization of the northern waterfront in the county as a means of employment opportunities. He will continue to pursue that but also as a means of goods movement.
“Revitalizing the waterfront will not only continue to bring us opportunity for job development but also open up an infrastructure that hasn’t been used in our waterway that will go good for goods movement that will allow us to continue roadwork that is so important,” he stated.
Glover hopes that this will eventually lead to other routes created within the state and other opportunities surrounding the Byron Airport. He then thanked the board, county and his family for their support during his term.
Glover reflected on his past health issues and thanked the county and board for their support during that time. He also thanked Miller and Canciamilla as inspirations and mentors in Glover’s political career.
Both Mitchoff and District 1 Supervisor John Gioia welcomed back their fellow board members, and Burgis, offering well wishes to each other for the New Year. Both thanked their staff for their continued support.
Mitchoff recognized the new library opening this year in Pleasant Hill. Gioia reiterated the county’s success with the AMR alliance and faster medical response times. The Board joined together to sing Happy Birthday to Gioia and wished him well. Mitchoff stressed the importance of encouraging people to run for office. Contra Costa County is one of the five counties, out of the 58 in the state, which have a female majority on their board.
“It is not a bad thing to put good people in office,” she stated.
During Public Comments, Marianna Moore, Director of the Ensuring Opportunity Campaign to End Poverty in Contra Costa thanked and congratulated members of the Board but also thanked Burgis for acknowledging her goal to protect the “most vulnerable amongst us.” Moore stressed the need to work together as the fear of the negative impact that will affect the county’s budgeting and programs, when the new federal administration takes over. She stressed the need to create a sense of safety throughout the county and to continue to work as one Contra Costa County.
Debbie Toth, CEO of Rehabilitation Services of Northern California, which operates the Mt. Diablo Center for Adult Day Health Care, spoke after Moore and “echoed her sentiments” citing her major concern for the increase in senior homelessness, “that is the greatest number in poverty” and will continue to increase.
Pest Detection Specialist for Contra Costa County Department of Agriculture, Lindsay Skidmore of Lafayette, requested that when the labor contract between Local 1 and the County is reviewed, the A-2 medial plan not be removed. Currently the new contract will not have this, leaving many without a subsidized health care plan, causing a negative impact on the income of many.
A motion was then passed to approve Glover’s nominations of Board Members to be appointed to various county committees and regional boards and commissions.
The meeting was adjourned in memory of former Danville Mayor Richard Waldo, and Richard “Brad” Nail, the former Director of Economic Development of Pittsburg.
Burgis in here new District Office in Brentwood, during a reception on Tuesday evening, January 10th. Photo by Allen Payton
Photos courtesy of C.C. Sheriff
A 40-foot tree fell onto a home on Alameda Diablo in the Diablo area this afternoon. The tree damaged the roof above the garage. Fortunately there were no injuries.
Rain is in the forecast the next few days. There are also some flood and high wind advisories. Please monitor local media for the latest updates on the weather.
For anyone needing sandbags, please visit: http://www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/5976/Sandbags
Here are some tips for the storms:
-Be careful of standing water, localized flooding, and fallen branches and trees.
-Do not drive through any flooded roadways.
-Never touch a downed power line. Treat them as if they are energized and dangerous.
-Call 911 for emergencies only.
-Please take extra time to get to your destination.
-When driving during a storm, please slow down and keep more distance between vehicles.
-Speeding and slippery roads are a dangerous combination.
-If your windshield wipers are on, your headlights must also be.
-Use your seatbelt and make sure children are properly buckled into their car seats.
Read More
On Tuesday, January 10, 2017 at about 8:58 am, Contra Costa CHP was advised of a three vehicle traffic collision at southbound I-680 at Contra Costa Blvd. Upon CHP and emergency personnel arrival, the driver (77 yr old male from Danville) was unconscious and unresponsive within his vehicle, a white Ford F-250.
In the initial investigation, it appears that the driver was traveling on southbound I-680 just south of Monument Blvd. For unknown reasons, the driver veered to the right across the lanes and struck two vehicles, a Ford Edge and a Hyundai Sonata. (Both of those drivers were uninjured and vehicles sustained minor damage) The white Ford truck continued to veer right and drove off the roadway and through a cyclone fence. The driver continued across Contra Costa Blvd and collided into an unoccupied house.
Emergency personnel on scene immediately began life-saving procedures and CPR and he was quickly transported to John Muir hospital in Walnut Creek for his life threatening condition.
While at the hospital, the maledriver was pronounced deceased. At this time it is unclear if the driver died from his injuries from the collision or a medical condition.
Alcohol or drugs do not appear to be a factor in this collision. This collision is still under investigation and if anyone witnessed this collision or the events leading up to it, please contact Contra Costa CHP at (925) 646-4980.
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Najee Harris with his Antioch High School varsity football coach John Lucido before Saturday’s U.S. Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio, Texas. Source: John Lucido’s Facebook page
By Luke Johnson
The number one high school football recruit in the country, Najee Harris of Antioch High in Antioch, California is sticking with his commitment to the University of Alabama and will not decommit and attend the University of Michigan.
According to his trainer Marcus Malu, owner of Malu Fitness, Harris arrived on campus Sunday and will enroll Monday as spring semester classes begin Wednesday. Harris graduated from Antioch High School Dec. 22 — a semester earlier than most students in the Class of 2017 — to get a head start on practicing with his college team during spring ball.
He committed to Alabama as a sophomore in April 2015, but kept his recruitment status open and strongly considered Michigan. Many people thought Harris would change his decision based on the rapport developed with head coach Jim Harbaugh, who visited Antioch three times last year — most notably at Antioch’s Homecoming Game on Oct. 23, where he announced the Homecoming Queen winner.
However, Alabama Head Coach Nick Saban also made a visit to Antioch to meet with Harris in mid-December, which might have helped solidify the five-star running back’s decision.
Harris rushed for the most career yards in Northern California history with 7,948 on top of scoring 99 touchdowns. But Harris has gone on record saying his proudest accomplishment was leading Antioch to its first league championship in 31 years in his junior year as the team finished the regular season undefeated (10-0).
He became the first Antioch student to participate in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl. He represented the West, whose offense struggled and only scored 10 points in a 27-17 defeat to the East in the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas. After the game Saturday, Harris told reporters he was still undecided. However, he was seen arriving at Birmingham International Airport in Alabama the next morning.
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Burgis, Glover, Andersen to take oaths of office as Supervisors, Tuesday morning
Newly elected County Supervisor Diane Burgis will take her oath of office, along with re-elected Supervisors Federal Glover and Candace Andersen, at a ceremony during the regular meeting of the Board of Supervisors at 9:00 a.m. in Martinez, Tuesday, January 10, 2017.
Burgis will then hold a Community Reception and Open House later in the day.
“Thank you for electing me to represent you on the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors. I am incredibly honored to have this opportunity to fight for you and our local priorities,” Burgis said. “I hope you will be able to join me, my amazing staff and our neighbors in celebrating the new year at my first District 3 Community Reception and Open House this Tuesday, January 10, 2017 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
“I promise to have an inclusive and accessible office so that we can strengthen our community together. The first step is getting to know each other,” she added. “See you soon.”
The oath of office ceremony will be followed by a reorganization of the Board, with the election of the new Chair, which is expected to be Glover and Vice Chair, expected to be Karen Mitchoff. The Board will then vote on Glover’s nominations of the board members to various county committees and regional boards.
DETAILS:
Oath of Office Ceremony
Tuesday, January 10, 2017 at 9:00 am
Board Chambers, Room 107, Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Martinez
Burgis Community Reception & Open House
Tuesday, January 10, 2017
4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Office of Supervisor Diane Burgis, 3361 Walnut Blvd., Ste 140, Brentwood
RSVP appreciated at dist3@bos.cccounty.us.
District 3 includes most of Antioch, as well as Oakley, Brentwood, Discovery Bay, Bethel Island, Byron and Knightsen in East County, as well as Blackhawk and Camino Tassajara in the San Ramon Valley.
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Najee Harris during practice for Saturday’s U.S. Army All-American Bowl. Source: OregonLive.com
No. 1 by three different rankings, five-star running back won’t announce publicly; insiders say he’s flying to Alabama, Oakland on Sunday
By Allen Payton
According to national news reports including by NBCSports, which showed up on Yahoo! News, Antioch High running back Najee Harris will not announce his college of choice, publicly but will just show up on campus.
Najee Harris ranked #1 recruit in the nation. Source: 247Sports.com
Making national news as the nation’s number one high school football recruit, this year, Harris was in San Antonio, Texas at the second day of training, Tuesday for Saturday’s U.S. Army All-American Bowl. He was being watched by media from across the country, but wouldn’t give any interviews. He did however speak with 247Sports on Monday and said, although he’s committed to the University of Alabama, Harris is still “undecided” and considering the University of Michigan, as well as U.C. Berkeley.
The website reported that Antioch High Varsity Football Coach John Lucido said Harris will simply fly to his college of choice after the game to enroll in school early, without notifying the media. Only his “circle of trust” will know.
Both Alabama head coach Nick Saban and former offensive coach Lane Kiffin visited Harris in Antioch, this past year, as well as Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh, the former coach of the San Francisco 49ers.
Najee Harris at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl practice field. Source: AL.com
According to 247Sports Harris is “ranked by the industry-generated 247Sports Composite as the nation’s No. 1 prospect,” and that “the five-star Harris has been a verbal to Alabama since April of 2015, but Jim Harbaugh and Michigan have created doubt about the future for the ballyhooed recruit who took his official to Ann Arbor in mid-December and has been there a few times.” (Harris is also ranked the nation’s No. 1 high school football recruit by Scout and Rivals).
The article further stated that “Alabama quarterback commit Tua Tagovailoa has told BamaOnLine insider Hank South this week that he is planning to room with Harris in Tuscaloosa. Nick Saban and Alabama don’t generally lose recruits they want like Harris, but Harbaugh and Michigan have done all they can to make the West Coast talent think otherwise.”
According to MLive.com, “Harbaugh hosted a satellite camp at Antioch in June and even announced the homecoming queen while watching Harris play in October. Harris visited Michigan in August for the BBQ at the Big House annual recruiting event and took an official visit to Ann Arbor in December.”
According to AL.com, when Harris was “asked if he’d just duck interviews after the game and head to the airport and to his school of choice, he said that’s what he plans on doing. So, there will be no announcement.”
However, according to 247Sports, on Wednesday “Alabama quarterback commit Tua Tagovailoa told 247Sports that he would be on the same flight as…Najee Harris to Birmingham at the completion of the Army Bowl. That news seemed to indicate Harris’ intention to enroll at Alabama in January, effectively ending his recruitment.”
The article further states Tagovailoa has also said this week that Harris is also his scheduled roommate in Tuscaloosa. Tracked down for confirmation in the hallways of the Grand Hyatt hotel, Harris playfully said, “What flight? I don’t even know my flight.”
Yet, on Thursday, 247Sports reported they have “since learned from two sources that Harris’ departing flight from San Antonio actually has Oakland — his hometown (airport) — as its final destination.”
Then, a further report by 247Sports Thursday morning, has Harris heading to Alabma. “As part of the invitation to play in the Army Bowl, travel is paid for, with a departing flight from San Antonio to anywhere of the player’s choice. Those flights can be changed — and Thursday afternoon, after practice No. 3, Harris made use of the flexible nature of the Army Bowl’s travel capabilities. It is unclear, but assumed, that Harris’ travel request will be accommodated.
A non-Bama bound player on the West squad told 247Sports on Thursday he had heard Harris would stick with his Alabama commitment, too. Classes start Jan. 11 at Alabama.”
So the mystery continues and we’ll have to just wait until after we watch Harris play in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl this Saturday, Jan. 7th at 10:00 AM on NBC. For more information about the game visit www.usarmyallamericanbowl.com. To learn more about Najee Harris and his high school career playing for the Antioch Panthers, visit his Wikipedia page, his page on MaxPreps, or search his name on www.AntiochHerald.com.
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By Harry Stoll
Are bank account opening bonuses for real?
Yes, but you will pass many dark dank alleys in a dicey neighborhood, so take care. Banks often have a third party do the pitch, such as Hustler Money, Money Crashers, and Nerd Wallet. They are very up- front about being paid by the banks. In many of them Chase is mentioned first. Being paid by the banks doesn’t make the offer phony. Often there is promotional code you must use. You can open the account online.
Two bits of advice: Always, always, print a copy of the offer and keep it at least until you have collected the money. And, always, RTFP (definition available in the Suburban Dictionary). I ignored my good advice in a recent deal with Wings Financial Credit Union; I read the fine print but didn’t print out a copy. When it came time to collect the puny $50 gift card, customer “service” said, “Ah, ah, ah, you have to agree to accepting paperless statements to earn the gift card.” I didn’t remember that but I was stuck.
Chase often puts pitches in that envelope of coupons including sewer repair and ridding your abode of rodents. I have taken several Chase offers. I like to open the account at a nearby branch. They always recognize me even though I enter the bank only to open an account; otherwise I go to the money wall.
I recently opened a Chase Business Account, depositing $1,500. The rep won’t be fussy about your business, E just wants to close the deal and rack up brownie points. Chase will deposit $300 to the account about 70 days after opening, when It will be available to withdraw. You must maintain a $1,000 minimum balance. To avoid a monthly fee keep at least $1,500 in the account That’s an annual percentage yield 40%. The fine print says if you close the account before 12 months, it will deduct the bonus. Well, nyah, nyah, nyah, what if I take the money and run before I close it? But they might not recognize me when I come in next year with the offer. It’s like guys on Hogs in black leather jackets with an eagle on the back; I don’t wish to incur their displeasure.
For an HSBC Bank: bonus of $350, initially deposit at least $25 dollars, pay two bills a month through them for three months and collect $350. No minimum payment is stated; I deposited $25 and for two months made two payments of $4. Account opening was arduous, I danced to their tune online and it took three weeks to open. They asked questions indicating they were seeking affluent depositors, but I have the account.
BMO Harris offered a $200 bonus and Tech CU a $150 bonus for opening an account and making a direct deposit of a paycheck or government check, such as Social Security. Residents of Northern California are eligible for membership in both institutions.
These offers appear and poof, all gone, but new offers will appear.
Read MoreSecond fatal car accident on Highway 4 last week
The Contra Costa CHP announced today, Wednesday, January 4, 2017, they have learned that the male driver from Martinez in the fatal collision on Friday, December 30th which took the life of his 74-year-old female passenger has also died. He was pronounced deceased at the hospital on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2017. This is still an ongoing investigation.
On Wednesday, December 30th, at about 9:57 am, Contra Costa CHP was advised of a solo vehicle traffic collision at eastbound SR-4 to the southbound I-680 connector. Upon CHP and emergency personnel arrival, the driver (79 year old male from Martinez) and his passenger (a 74 year old female also from Martinez) had both sustained major injuries.
In the initial investigation, it appears that the driver was traveling on eastbound SR-4 and transitioning to the connector ramp to I-680 southbound. For unknown reasons, the driver overshot the I-680 ramp and drove his Chrysler sedan off the roadway and down the dirt embankment and continued to drive until he collided with a concrete divider.
Both the driver and passenger were transported to John Muir hospital in Walnut Creek for major life threatening injuries. While at the hospital, the female passenger succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced deceased. The male driver was in critical condition.
Alcohol or drugs do not appear to be a factor in this collision. This collision is still under investigation and if anyone witnessed this collision or the events leading up to it, please contact Contra Costa CHP.
This was the second fatal accident on Highway 4 last week. The first one occurred on Wednesday, Dec. 28. At about 7:59 PM that night, Contra Costa CHP was advised of a two vehicle traffic collision at westbound SR-4 just east of Port Chicago Highway involving two vehicles with one party trapped inside her overturned vehicle. Upon CHP and emergency personnel arrival, Party 1 (a 60 yr old female from San Jose) was pronounced deceased on scene.
In the initial investigation, it appears that Party 1 was traveling at a high rate of speed westbound on SR-4, within the #3 lane, and approaching Party 2 (a 64 year old male from Pittsburg), also in the #3 lane at about 70mph. Party 1 veered into the #4 lane and attempted to pass Party 2 but lost control of her 2001 Toyota Camry and then veered back into the #3 lane and collided with the front of Party 2’s 2012 Toyota Corolla. Both vehicles continued toward the center divider and Party 1’s Camry collided with the center metal guard rail and overturned. Party 1 was partially ejected and subsequently crushed by her own overturned vehicle. Party 2 was uninjured.
It is unknown if alcohol or drugs are a factor in this collision. If anyone witnessed this collision or the events leading up to it, please contact Contra Costa CHP and investigating Officer N. Johnson.
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Dear Editor:
For forty years I have dedicated my professional life to helping the mentally ill, the homeless, substance abuse addicts and low income families with children.
ACA – Affordable Care Act has saved thousands of lives. I know because many of those lives are my clients. Without ACA, those with drug addictions will be on the streets, trying to survive through stealing, breaking in to homes or stores, and other criminal acts that make our community unsafe. With ACA, my clients are in residential treatment programs and practicing full recovery. My homeless or mentally ill clients have full medical support, getting their prescriptions so they are not delusional or dangerous. Our clinics and hospitals need ACA to keep their doors open to our citizens, our families and the children. People will die without ACA.
Please contact your Congressman or Senator and urge them to vote to keep ACA or comparable health care for our citizens. You can contact Daily Action call 1-844-241-1141 (user friendly and free) and you will be directly connected with your Representative.
Jerri Curry, PhD Forensic Psychologist 27385, Licensed Family Therapist 19776, Certified Drug Addiction Specialist, Formerly with Contra Costa County
Benicia
Read MoreFormer Congressman George Miller administers the oaths of office to new Contra Costa County Supervisor Diane Burgis, left, and re-elected Supervisors Federal Glover and Candace Andersen, Tuesday, January 10, 2017 as Supervisors Karen Mitchoff and John Gioia look on. photos by Jonathan Bash
By Veronica Hampton
Diane Burgis became a new member of the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, and re-elected Supervisor Federal Glover was voted in as Chair of the Board for this year, during the board meeting on Tuesday, January 10. During the procedures, Glover announced this will be his last term on the board.
The meeting began with the presentation of colors by veterans groups from Pittsburg and Martinez. Oakley veteran, Randy “Smitty” Smith, led the Pledge of Allegiance and county Senior Deputy Administrator Julie Enea led in the singing of the National Anthem. Re-elected District 2 Supervisor and out-going Chair for 2016, Candace Andersen opened with an inspirational thought for the day by Michelangelo.
“The greater danger for most of us isn’t that our aim is too high and miss it, but that it is too low and we reach it,” she said.
Former Congressman George Miller administered the oaths of office to both the new and returning Supervisors, Burgis for District 3 Supervisor, Andersen who was re-elected without opposition and Glover who began his fifth term as District 5 Supervisor.
Diane Burgis in her new seat on the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors.
Burgis, a long time resident of the county, was welcomed to the board and paid homage to her alma mater, saying “Go Bulldogs” and then thanked her family for their support. She expressed her eagerness to start working with the board and introduced members of her staff, stating she is confident with their help and support they can “help Contra Costa meets its full potential.”
Burgis recognized her predecessor, Mary Piepho, thanking her for her encouragement, saying they share the same goals for Contra Costa County.
“In my district, I want to grow our economy while protecting our natural resources, including our precious Delta, provide quality public service, [and] protect the most vulnerable amongst us, while practicing fiscal responsibility and prudence,” Burgis stated.
In her outgoing remarks as Chair, Andersen thanked the board, staff and family for their support and hard work during her term. She stated she is “grateful” to be reelected and welcomes collaborating with Glover, in his new role as chair, and with Burgis, as well as the other supervisors.
“I am looking forward to working with my colleagues, both new and old as we continue to serve Contra Costa County,” she said.
Anderson hopes that the county’s past accomplishments can continue to produce new accomplishments for 2017. Focus will continue on the research and resources for mental health for county inmates.
“Next Saturday, Board and County Members will travel to Sacramento to attend the Stepping Up Summit, to look at Best Practices on this issue,” Andersen shared. “With the reopening of Pittsburg Fire Station 87, focus will continue on reopening station 16 in Lafayette. The County will continue to further their alliance with AMR and continue to work on faster medical emergency response times.”
Anderson was presented a gift of appreciation by Glover and the board and he thanked her for “making a solid voice for Contra Costa and for handling difficult decisions with style and grace.”
County Clerk Joe Canciamilla swore Glover as the new Board Chair and District 4 Supervisor Karen Mitchoff as the new Vice Chair of the Board for 2017.
The new Board of Supervisors for 2017 with Federal Glover as Chair.
In his remarks, Glover announced “that this will be his last term, but it will be his best term.” He said he will continue to strive to make “one Contra Costa County,” and to maintain the county’s AAA bond rating from Standard and Poor’s. Focus will continue on developing employment opportunities.
Four years ago, Glover asked the Board to look into the revitalization of the northern waterfront in the county as a means of employment opportunities. He will continue to pursue that but also as a means of goods movement.
“Revitalizing the waterfront will not only continue to bring us opportunity for job development but also open up an infrastructure that hasn’t been used in our waterway that will go good for goods movement that will allow us to continue roadwork that is so important,” he stated.
Glover hopes that this will eventually lead to other routes created within the state and other opportunities surrounding the Byron Airport. He then thanked the board, county and his family for their support during his term.
Glover reflected on his past health issues and thanked the county and board for their support during that time. He also thanked Miller and Canciamilla as inspirations and mentors in Glover’s political career.
Both Mitchoff and District 1 Supervisor John Gioia welcomed back their fellow board members, and Burgis, offering well wishes to each other for the New Year. Both thanked their staff for their continued support.
Mitchoff recognized the new library opening this year in Pleasant Hill. Gioia reiterated the county’s success with the AMR alliance and faster medical response times. The Board joined together to sing Happy Birthday to Gioia and wished him well. Mitchoff stressed the importance of encouraging people to run for office. Contra Costa County is one of the five counties, out of the 58 in the state, which have a female majority on their board.
“It is not a bad thing to put good people in office,” she stated.
During Public Comments, Marianna Moore, Director of the Ensuring Opportunity Campaign to End Poverty in Contra Costa thanked and congratulated members of the Board but also thanked Burgis for acknowledging her goal to protect the “most vulnerable amongst us.” Moore stressed the need to work together as the fear of the negative impact that will affect the county’s budgeting and programs, when the new federal administration takes over. She stressed the need to create a sense of safety throughout the county and to continue to work as one Contra Costa County.
Debbie Toth, CEO of Rehabilitation Services of Northern California, which operates the Mt. Diablo Center for Adult Day Health Care, spoke after Moore and “echoed her sentiments” citing her major concern for the increase in senior homelessness, “that is the greatest number in poverty” and will continue to increase.
Pest Detection Specialist for Contra Costa County Department of Agriculture, Lindsay Skidmore of Lafayette, requested that when the labor contract between Local 1 and the County is reviewed, the A-2 medial plan not be removed. Currently the new contract will not have this, leaving many without a subsidized health care plan, causing a negative impact on the income of many.
A motion was then passed to approve Glover’s nominations of Board Members to be appointed to various county committees and regional boards and commissions.
The meeting was adjourned in memory of former Danville Mayor Richard Waldo, and Richard “Brad” Nail, the former Director of Economic Development of Pittsburg.
Burgis in here new District Office in Brentwood, during a reception on Tuesday evening, January 10th. Photo by Allen Payton
Photos courtesy of C.C. Sheriff
A 40-foot tree fell onto a home on Alameda Diablo in the Diablo area this afternoon. The tree damaged the roof above the garage. Fortunately there were no injuries.
Rain is in the forecast the next few days. There are also some flood and high wind advisories. Please monitor local media for the latest updates on the weather.
For anyone needing sandbags, please visit: http://www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/5976/Sandbags
Here are some tips for the storms:
-Be careful of standing water, localized flooding, and fallen branches and trees.
-Do not drive through any flooded roadways.
-Never touch a downed power line. Treat them as if they are energized and dangerous.
-Call 911 for emergencies only.
-Please take extra time to get to your destination.
-When driving during a storm, please slow down and keep more distance between vehicles.
-Speeding and slippery roads are a dangerous combination.
-If your windshield wipers are on, your headlights must also be.
-Use your seatbelt and make sure children are properly buckled into their car seats.
Read More
On Tuesday, January 10, 2017 at about 8:58 am, Contra Costa CHP was advised of a three vehicle traffic collision at southbound I-680 at Contra Costa Blvd. Upon CHP and emergency personnel arrival, the driver (77 yr old male from Danville) was unconscious and unresponsive within his vehicle, a white Ford F-250.
In the initial investigation, it appears that the driver was traveling on southbound I-680 just south of Monument Blvd. For unknown reasons, the driver veered to the right across the lanes and struck two vehicles, a Ford Edge and a Hyundai Sonata. (Both of those drivers were uninjured and vehicles sustained minor damage) The white Ford truck continued to veer right and drove off the roadway and through a cyclone fence. The driver continued across Contra Costa Blvd and collided into an unoccupied house.
Emergency personnel on scene immediately began life-saving procedures and CPR and he was quickly transported to John Muir hospital in Walnut Creek for his life threatening condition.
While at the hospital, the maledriver was pronounced deceased. At this time it is unclear if the driver died from his injuries from the collision or a medical condition.
Alcohol or drugs do not appear to be a factor in this collision. This collision is still under investigation and if anyone witnessed this collision or the events leading up to it, please contact Contra Costa CHP at (925) 646-4980.
Read MoreNajee Harris with his Antioch High School varsity football coach John Lucido before Saturday’s U.S. Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio, Texas. Source: John Lucido’s Facebook page
By Luke Johnson
The number one high school football recruit in the country, Najee Harris of Antioch High in Antioch, California is sticking with his commitment to the University of Alabama and will not decommit and attend the University of Michigan.
According to his trainer Marcus Malu, owner of Malu Fitness, Harris arrived on campus Sunday and will enroll Monday as spring semester classes begin Wednesday. Harris graduated from Antioch High School Dec. 22 — a semester earlier than most students in the Class of 2017 — to get a head start on practicing with his college team during spring ball.
He committed to Alabama as a sophomore in April 2015, but kept his recruitment status open and strongly considered Michigan. Many people thought Harris would change his decision based on the rapport developed with head coach Jim Harbaugh, who visited Antioch three times last year — most notably at Antioch’s Homecoming Game on Oct. 23, where he announced the Homecoming Queen winner.
However, Alabama Head Coach Nick Saban also made a visit to Antioch to meet with Harris in mid-December, which might have helped solidify the five-star running back’s decision.
Harris rushed for the most career yards in Northern California history with 7,948 on top of scoring 99 touchdowns. But Harris has gone on record saying his proudest accomplishment was leading Antioch to its first league championship in 31 years in his junior year as the team finished the regular season undefeated (10-0).
He became the first Antioch student to participate in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl. He represented the West, whose offense struggled and only scored 10 points in a 27-17 defeat to the East in the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas. After the game Saturday, Harris told reporters he was still undecided. However, he was seen arriving at Birmingham International Airport in Alabama the next morning.
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Burgis, Glover, Andersen to take oaths of office as Supervisors, Tuesday morning
Newly elected County Supervisor Diane Burgis will take her oath of office, along with re-elected Supervisors Federal Glover and Candace Andersen, at a ceremony during the regular meeting of the Board of Supervisors at 9:00 a.m. in Martinez, Tuesday, January 10, 2017.
Burgis will then hold a Community Reception and Open House later in the day.
“Thank you for electing me to represent you on the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors. I am incredibly honored to have this opportunity to fight for you and our local priorities,” Burgis said. “I hope you will be able to join me, my amazing staff and our neighbors in celebrating the new year at my first District 3 Community Reception and Open House this Tuesday, January 10, 2017 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
“I promise to have an inclusive and accessible office so that we can strengthen our community together. The first step is getting to know each other,” she added. “See you soon.”
The oath of office ceremony will be followed by a reorganization of the Board, with the election of the new Chair, which is expected to be Glover and Vice Chair, expected to be Karen Mitchoff. The Board will then vote on Glover’s nominations of the board members to various county committees and regional boards.
DETAILS:
Oath of Office Ceremony
Tuesday, January 10, 2017 at 9:00 am
Board Chambers, Room 107, Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Martinez
Burgis Community Reception & Open House
Tuesday, January 10, 2017
4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Office of Supervisor Diane Burgis, 3361 Walnut Blvd., Ste 140, Brentwood
RSVP appreciated at dist3@bos.cccounty.us.
District 3 includes most of Antioch, as well as Oakley, Brentwood, Discovery Bay, Bethel Island, Byron and Knightsen in East County, as well as Blackhawk and Camino Tassajara in the San Ramon Valley.
Read MoreNajee Harris during practice for Saturday’s U.S. Army All-American Bowl. Source: OregonLive.com
No. 1 by three different rankings, five-star running back won’t announce publicly; insiders say he’s flying to Alabama, Oakland on Sunday
By Allen Payton
According to national news reports including by NBCSports, which showed up on Yahoo! News, Antioch High running back Najee Harris will not announce his college of choice, publicly but will just show up on campus.
Najee Harris ranked #1 recruit in the nation. Source: 247Sports.com
Making national news as the nation’s number one high school football recruit, this year, Harris was in San Antonio, Texas at the second day of training, Tuesday for Saturday’s U.S. Army All-American Bowl. He was being watched by media from across the country, but wouldn’t give any interviews. He did however speak with 247Sports on Monday and said, although he’s committed to the University of Alabama, Harris is still “undecided” and considering the University of Michigan, as well as U.C. Berkeley.
The website reported that Antioch High Varsity Football Coach John Lucido said Harris will simply fly to his college of choice after the game to enroll in school early, without notifying the media. Only his “circle of trust” will know.
Both Alabama head coach Nick Saban and former offensive coach Lane Kiffin visited Harris in Antioch, this past year, as well as Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh, the former coach of the San Francisco 49ers.
Najee Harris at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl practice field. Source: AL.com
According to 247Sports Harris is “ranked by the industry-generated 247Sports Composite as the nation’s No. 1 prospect,” and that “the five-star Harris has been a verbal to Alabama since April of 2015, but Jim Harbaugh and Michigan have created doubt about the future for the ballyhooed recruit who took his official to Ann Arbor in mid-December and has been there a few times.” (Harris is also ranked the nation’s No. 1 high school football recruit by Scout and Rivals).
The article further stated that “Alabama quarterback commit Tua Tagovailoa has told BamaOnLine insider Hank South this week that he is planning to room with Harris in Tuscaloosa. Nick Saban and Alabama don’t generally lose recruits they want like Harris, but Harbaugh and Michigan have done all they can to make the West Coast talent think otherwise.”
According to MLive.com, “Harbaugh hosted a satellite camp at Antioch in June and even announced the homecoming queen while watching Harris play in October. Harris visited Michigan in August for the BBQ at the Big House annual recruiting event and took an official visit to Ann Arbor in December.”
According to AL.com, when Harris was “asked if he’d just duck interviews after the game and head to the airport and to his school of choice, he said that’s what he plans on doing. So, there will be no announcement.”
However, according to 247Sports, on Wednesday “Alabama quarterback commit Tua Tagovailoa told 247Sports that he would be on the same flight as…Najee Harris to Birmingham at the completion of the Army Bowl. That news seemed to indicate Harris’ intention to enroll at Alabama in January, effectively ending his recruitment.”
The article further states Tagovailoa has also said this week that Harris is also his scheduled roommate in Tuscaloosa. Tracked down for confirmation in the hallways of the Grand Hyatt hotel, Harris playfully said, “What flight? I don’t even know my flight.”
Yet, on Thursday, 247Sports reported they have “since learned from two sources that Harris’ departing flight from San Antonio actually has Oakland — his hometown (airport) — as its final destination.”
Then, a further report by 247Sports Thursday morning, has Harris heading to Alabma. “As part of the invitation to play in the Army Bowl, travel is paid for, with a departing flight from San Antonio to anywhere of the player’s choice. Those flights can be changed — and Thursday afternoon, after practice No. 3, Harris made use of the flexible nature of the Army Bowl’s travel capabilities. It is unclear, but assumed, that Harris’ travel request will be accommodated.
A non-Bama bound player on the West squad told 247Sports on Thursday he had heard Harris would stick with his Alabama commitment, too. Classes start Jan. 11 at Alabama.”
So the mystery continues and we’ll have to just wait until after we watch Harris play in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl this Saturday, Jan. 7th at 10:00 AM on NBC. For more information about the game visit www.usarmyallamericanbowl.com. To learn more about Najee Harris and his high school career playing for the Antioch Panthers, visit his Wikipedia page, his page on MaxPreps, or search his name on www.AntiochHerald.com.
Read MoreBy Harry Stoll
Are bank account opening bonuses for real?
Yes, but you will pass many dark dank alleys in a dicey neighborhood, so take care. Banks often have a third party do the pitch, such as Hustler Money, Money Crashers, and Nerd Wallet. They are very up- front about being paid by the banks. In many of them Chase is mentioned first. Being paid by the banks doesn’t make the offer phony. Often there is promotional code you must use. You can open the account online.
Two bits of advice: Always, always, print a copy of the offer and keep it at least until you have collected the money. And, always, RTFP (definition available in the Suburban Dictionary). I ignored my good advice in a recent deal with Wings Financial Credit Union; I read the fine print but didn’t print out a copy. When it came time to collect the puny $50 gift card, customer “service” said, “Ah, ah, ah, you have to agree to accepting paperless statements to earn the gift card.” I didn’t remember that but I was stuck.
Chase often puts pitches in that envelope of coupons including sewer repair and ridding your abode of rodents. I have taken several Chase offers. I like to open the account at a nearby branch. They always recognize me even though I enter the bank only to open an account; otherwise I go to the money wall.
I recently opened a Chase Business Account, depositing $1,500. The rep won’t be fussy about your business, E just wants to close the deal and rack up brownie points. Chase will deposit $300 to the account about 70 days after opening, when It will be available to withdraw. You must maintain a $1,000 minimum balance. To avoid a monthly fee keep at least $1,500 in the account That’s an annual percentage yield 40%. The fine print says if you close the account before 12 months, it will deduct the bonus. Well, nyah, nyah, nyah, what if I take the money and run before I close it? But they might not recognize me when I come in next year with the offer. It’s like guys on Hogs in black leather jackets with an eagle on the back; I don’t wish to incur their displeasure.
For an HSBC Bank: bonus of $350, initially deposit at least $25 dollars, pay two bills a month through them for three months and collect $350. No minimum payment is stated; I deposited $25 and for two months made two payments of $4. Account opening was arduous, I danced to their tune online and it took three weeks to open. They asked questions indicating they were seeking affluent depositors, but I have the account.
BMO Harris offered a $200 bonus and Tech CU a $150 bonus for opening an account and making a direct deposit of a paycheck or government check, such as Social Security. Residents of Northern California are eligible for membership in both institutions.
These offers appear and poof, all gone, but new offers will appear.
Read MoreSecond fatal car accident on Highway 4 last week
The Contra Costa CHP announced today, Wednesday, January 4, 2017, they have learned that the male driver from Martinez in the fatal collision on Friday, December 30th which took the life of his 74-year-old female passenger has also died. He was pronounced deceased at the hospital on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2017. This is still an ongoing investigation.
On Wednesday, December 30th, at about 9:57 am, Contra Costa CHP was advised of a solo vehicle traffic collision at eastbound SR-4 to the southbound I-680 connector. Upon CHP and emergency personnel arrival, the driver (79 year old male from Martinez) and his passenger (a 74 year old female also from Martinez) had both sustained major injuries.
In the initial investigation, it appears that the driver was traveling on eastbound SR-4 and transitioning to the connector ramp to I-680 southbound. For unknown reasons, the driver overshot the I-680 ramp and drove his Chrysler sedan off the roadway and down the dirt embankment and continued to drive until he collided with a concrete divider.
Both the driver and passenger were transported to John Muir hospital in Walnut Creek for major life threatening injuries. While at the hospital, the female passenger succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced deceased. The male driver was in critical condition.
Alcohol or drugs do not appear to be a factor in this collision. This collision is still under investigation and if anyone witnessed this collision or the events leading up to it, please contact Contra Costa CHP.
This was the second fatal accident on Highway 4 last week. The first one occurred on Wednesday, Dec. 28. At about 7:59 PM that night, Contra Costa CHP was advised of a two vehicle traffic collision at westbound SR-4 just east of Port Chicago Highway involving two vehicles with one party trapped inside her overturned vehicle. Upon CHP and emergency personnel arrival, Party 1 (a 60 yr old female from San Jose) was pronounced deceased on scene.
In the initial investigation, it appears that Party 1 was traveling at a high rate of speed westbound on SR-4, within the #3 lane, and approaching Party 2 (a 64 year old male from Pittsburg), also in the #3 lane at about 70mph. Party 1 veered into the #4 lane and attempted to pass Party 2 but lost control of her 2001 Toyota Camry and then veered back into the #3 lane and collided with the front of Party 2’s 2012 Toyota Corolla. Both vehicles continued toward the center divider and Party 1’s Camry collided with the center metal guard rail and overturned. Party 1 was partially ejected and subsequently crushed by her own overturned vehicle. Party 2 was uninjured.
It is unknown if alcohol or drugs are a factor in this collision. If anyone witnessed this collision or the events leading up to it, please contact Contra Costa CHP and investigating Officer N. Johnson.
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