Sacramento, CA – Today, Assemblymember Jim Frazier (D – Oakley) introduced AB 63, legislation to reduce vehicle collisions and fatalities among teen drivers by strengthening California’s provisional driver’s license program.
“This bill will help significantly decrease accidents among newly licensed drivers,” stated Frazier. “Increasing the age for a provisional license will ensure that California’s most vulnerable motorists go through proper training to become safe, responsible drivers.”
AB 63 would increase the maximum age to receive a provisional license to 21 years old guaranteeing that less experienced drivers have appropriate protections during this crucial learning period, by amending Section 12814.6 of the California Vehicle Code.
According to the Legislative Counsel’s Digest, “The bill would expand the scope of the provisional licensing program by extending the applicable age range for the program to 16 to under 21 years of age. By expanding the scope of the provisional licensing program, the violation of which constitutes an infraction, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The bill would authorize a licensee who is 18, 19, or 20 years of age to keep in his or her possession a copy of his or her class schedule or work schedule as documentation to satisfy the exceptions for a school or school-authorized activity and employment necessity, respectively, and would provide that a signed statement by a parent or legal guardian is not required if reasonable transportation facilities are inadequate and the operation of a vehicle by a licensee who is 18, 19, or 20 years of age is necessary to transport the licensee or the licensee’s immediate family member. The bill would make other technical and conforming changes. The bill would also include specified findings and declarations.”
“We are thankful that Assemblymember Frazier has taken on this critically important issue,” said Doug Villars, President of the California Association of Highway Patrolmen. “Traffic collisions are the number one killer of young people in America. We are proud to be sponsors of this bill and look forward to working together toward a common goal—saving young drivers’ lives and making roadways safer for all of us.”
It is estimated that one in three drivers do not receive their license before the age of 18, making them ineligible to participate in the provisional license program. A recent report from the Governors Highway Safety Association discovered that improvement in fatal crash rates among 18- to 20-year-old drivers was far less than their 15- to 17-year-old counterparts.
Policy expanding this program is essential to building safe driving skills for this at risk population. “We applaud Assemblymember Frazier for introducing this vital legislation,” stated Cathy Barankin, Executive Director CA Coalition for Children’s Safety and Health. “First time teen drivers are 45 percent more likely to be involved in a vehicle crash. This bill will stop teens from prematurely losing their lives.”
To read the complete text and Legislative Counsel’s Digest of the bill, click here.
Read MoreCongressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-11) will continue his standing practice of meeting one-on-one with constituents during Mobile District Office Hours on Saturday, December 17th from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Kensington Community Center. Since being elected to Congress, DeSaulnier has hosted 30 Mobile District Office Hours and town hall meetings throughout Contra Costa County.
As our nation experiences an unprecedented transition, Congressman DeSaulnier is looking forward to meeting one-on-one with constituents and hearing first-hand about issues that impact their lives, families, and our community. Mark will be on site to share thoughts and answer questions and to assist with issues related to Social Security, Medicare, the Veteran’s Administration, or other federal agencies.
What: Congressman DeSaulnier’s Mobile District Office Hours
When: Saturday, December 17th from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Where: Kensington Community Center, 59 Arlington Avenue, Kensington
Details: First come, first served. No appointment necessary. This event is open to all residents of California’s 11th Congressional District.
For more information or to confirm you are a resident of the 11th Congressional District, please email CA11.RSVP@mail.house.gov or call (925) 933-2660.
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John Muir Health and Stanford Children’s Health are continuing to expand access to children’s specialty care services in Contra Costa County through an innovative partnership launched just a few years ago. Local families now have access to nearly 50 pediatric specialist physicians and nurse practitioners in 14 different specialties, including cardiology, gastroenterology, orthopedics and sports medicine, pulmonology, urology and more.
“We listened and responded to the requests from our community and general pediatricians to enhance and expand the availability of children’s specialty services in our community so families could access and receive the care they need close to home,” said Jane Willemsen, president and CAO of John Muir Health’s Walnut Creek medical center. “Our partnership is exceeding what we originally envisioned and continues to grow, all for the benefit of our community and young patients and their families.”
“Stanford Children’s Health has long been committed to successful community partnerships with Bay Area health care providers,” said Christopher G. Dawes, president and CEO of Stanford Children’s Health. “Our strong partnership with John Muir Health increases access and convenience to world-class pediatric specialty care and is a very successful example of how our combined strengths can benefit the community.”
The partnership includes outpatient, inpatient, neonatal and emergency care, which enables children with conditions ranging from allergies to more complex illnesses to see specialists locally through John Muir Health. In April 2015, John Muir Health and Stanford Children’s Health jointly opened a state-of-the art pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) at John Muir Medical Center, Walnut Creek — the only one of its kind in Contra Costa County. The PICU is complemented by a 16-bed child and adolescent unit and 35-bed Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) also at the Walnut Creek medical center.
In just 18 months, the PICU team of Stanford Children’s Health physicians and John Muir Health nurses and staff has cared for 450 critically ill children. The PICU offers leading-edge medical technology, and a broad complement of pediatric specialists, including pediatric-trained nursing staff, pediatric anesthesiologists, radiologists, neurologists, surgeons, gastroenterologists, orthopedists, oncologists, and hematologists, among others. John Muir Health and Stanford Children’s Health are also in the process of finalizing all necessary steps to have the PICU certified by California Children’s Services (CCS), a rigorous and exclusive certification program for the treatment of children with complex medical conditions.
“Pediatric specialists are rare. In partnership with Stanford Children’s Health, we have broadened our services so we can care for children and families close to home, right here in Contra Costa County,” said Budi Wiryawan, M.D. medical director, John Muir Health PICU, and clinical associate professor of pediatric critical care medicine at Stanford University School of Medicine. “It’s a privilege to work with a team of professionals so dedicated to working with children and families, a team that consistently goes above and beyond to deliver top quality care for children with critical needs.”
The need for PICU and other specialty services in Contra Costa County has been proven many times in the past few years. “My son had a near drowning experience last year, when he was four years old. We performed CPR on site and he was brought to John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek where he was treated by the team in the PICU. The doctor was concerned about the 24-48 hour window post resuscitation, as my son could have had a fatal injury to his brain and lungs,” said Sadie Hannah, parent of a former John Muir Health PICU patient.
“I remember walking into the unit and seeing the kindness in the team’s eyes, as if they knew exactly how we felt and knew exactly what to do. I knew immediately we were in the right place for healing. The atmosphere was quiet and serene, it seemed we had 100 percent of the staff’s attention. We had caring, honest discussions with the medical team. We are grateful to John Muir Health for its quality care, good communication, quiet comfort, and its location close to home. Thankfully my son is fine. He returned to swim lessons five days after being in the PICU and started kindergarten this year.”
“It’s heartwarming to hear the stories of children who we have cared for and to meet their grateful parents,” said Willemsen. “We’ve always been here for our patients and the community, but now we can treat and care for children of all ages.”
For more information about the specialty services available at John Muir Health through the Stanford Children’s Health partnership, please visit www.johnmuirhealth.com/services/childrens-services.
About John Muir Health
John Muir Health is a nationally recognized, not-for-profit health care organization east of San Francisco serving patients in Contra Costa, eastern Alameda and southern Solano Counties. It includes a network of more than 1,000 primary care and specialty physicians, nearly 6,000 employees, medical centers in Concord and Walnut Creek, including Contra Costa County’s only trauma center, and a Behavioral Health Center. John Muir Health also has partnerships with Tenet Healthcare/San Ramon Regional Medical Center, UCSF Medical Center and Stanford Children’s Health to expand its capabilities, increase access to services and better serve patients. The health system offers a full-range of medical services, including primary care, outpatient and imaging services, and is widely recognized as a leader in many specialties – neurosciences, orthopedic, cancer, cardiovascular, trauma, emergency, pediatrics and high-risk obstetrics care.
Follow JMH: John Muir Health.com | Facebook.com/JMH | Twitter.com/JMH | YouTube.com/JMH
About Stanford Children’s Health
Stanford Children’s Health is the largest Bay Area health care enterprise exclusively dedicated to children and expectant mothers. At the heart of our network is the renowned Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford in Palo Alto. Together with our Stanford Medicine physicians, nurses, and staff, we can be accessed within 10 miles of most Bay Area homes through partnerships, collaborations, outreach, specialty clinics and primary care practices at more than 60 locations across Northern California and 100 locations in the U.S. western region. We are a leader in world-class, nurturing care and extraordinary outcomes in every pediatric and obstetric specialty, with care ranging from the routine to rare, regardless of a family’s ability to pay. As a non-profit, we are committed to supporting our community – from caring for uninsured or underinsured kids, homeless teens and pregnant moms, to helping re-establish school nurse positions in local schools. Learn more at stanfordchildrens.org and on our Healthier, Happy Lives blog. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube.
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Assemblywoman Baker takes oath of office for second term on Monday, December 5, 2016. Photo courtesy of Catharine Baker.
Will continue practice of declining state-issued vehicle and per diem perks
SACRAMENTO – Assemblywoman Catharine Baker (R-San Ramon) took the oath of office on Monday, December 5 and was sworn in as the representative for the 16th Assembly District in the California Legislature. This is Baker’s second term in office. Today she vowed to continue her independent and bipartisan approach to address the important issues before our State.
“It is an honor to continue to serve the 16th Assembly District in our Legislature and provide a strong voice for the needs of our community,” said Baker. “Over the next two years, I will continue the work I began in my first term, focusing on real results, not partisan bickering, to achieve solutions that will help improve the quality of life for all Californians. Our district expects no less.”
Baker added, “My very first act will be to continue the practice I adopted in my first term, of declining both the state-issued vehicle and per diem perks for Members. I want to start my term of service by giving back to the taxpayers and constituents who elected me to office.”
“Thank you, AD16, for this honor and for entrusting me with the responsibility of serving our community. I will work hard each and every day to deserve it,” she continued. “As we begin this new legislative session, I remain committed to working across the aisle — with a focus on real results, not partisan politics — to improve the quality of life for all Californians.”
On November 8, 2016, Catharine Baker was re-elected to represent the 16th Assembly District. Baker focuses her efforts on improving our education system, our transportation and water infrastructure, public safety and fiscal discipline, with an emphasis on bipartisan collaboration. In her first term she had nine bipartisan bills signed by the Governor in each of these areas.
The 16th Assembly District includes the communities of Alamo, Danville, Dublin, Lafayette, Livermore, Moraga, Orinda, Pleasanton, San Ramon, and Walnut Creek.
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By Bryan Scott
In a 1987 speech President Ronald Reagan said, “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall.” The speech was delivered at the Brandenburg Gate of the Berlin Wall, which has now vanished into history.
Today, the people of Brentwood say to Brentwood City Manager Gus Vina, “Mr. Vina, reallocate our taxes.”
Today a public safety crisis exists, a crisis that is well known to the elected leaders and municipal administrators paid to run the cities, special districts and schools within the 249-square mile territory of the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District (ECCFPD).
President Reagan made a bold statement; he issued a clear directive to the leader of the USSR. Even though the Berlin Wall was not in the USSR, everyone knew where policy decisions on the Berlin Wall were made.
A community-proposed solution to our local crisis includes the redistribution of 5.2% of future property taxes. Today about $165 million in property taxes are collected within the territory of the fire district, and in the most recent year property values within Brentwood and Oakley grew by over 8%.
By phasing-in this tax redistribution program over four years each government entity would receive 1.3% less in new property tax funding each year, cumulatively, while at the end of the program the ECCFPD would be funded at about the county average fire district rate, 12%. This would be a significant improvement over the current 7%.
City Manager Vina’s procedural steps are simple. The Brentwood City Council needs to hold a public hearing, pass a resolution, and then forward a property tax transfer agreement to Bob Campbell, Contra Costa County Controller. It is a simple and eloquent procedure, one used by the county to transfer property taxes just a month ago.
Oakley City Manager Bryan Montgomery, County Administrator David Twa and the other special districts of east county can follow the same procedures, outlined in the California Revenue and Taxation Code, Chapter 6, Section 99.02. School districts would transfer operating funds to the fire district to fulfill their obligation to assure the safety of their students, staff and faculty, using a memorandum-of-understanding method.
Using last year’s numbers as a guide this tax redistribution this would add $7.8 million to the fire district’s funding, allowing ECCFPD to permanently staff and operate a total of six fire stations, up from today’s three stations.
City Manager Vina, as well as his Oakley counterpart, City Manager Montgomery, and County Administrator Twa have all objected to the proposal. They’ve said there are other uses for the money, or that tight budgets make the funds unavailable.
Using last year’s numbers Brentwood’s contribution to this program would be $150,771 per year, $603,059 in total. Brentwood’s total budget is about $46 million. Oakley’s contribution would be $36,218 per year, $144,871 in total. The County’s contribution would be about $300,000 per year, $1.2 million in total, counting all county agencies. The county’s total budget is $1.470 billion.
The question has been raised, which services are to be cut? The answer is none. Government expenditures, and the services these expenditures provide, will simply grow at a slower rate for four years. They need not be cut.
The people of Brentwood and Oakley have said “no” to additional taxes for fire and emergency medical services that are provided to the rest of the county out of current property taxes. It is time to fund an adequate level of essential services using the current taxpayer burden.
“Mr. Vina, reallocate our taxes.”say the people of Brentwood.
Bryan Scott is a Brentwood resident and Co-Chair of East County Voters for Equal Protection, a non-partisan citizens action committee whose aim is to improve funding for the ECCFPD. He can be reached at scott.bryan@comcast.net, or 925-418-4428. The group’s Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/EastCountyVoters/.
Read MoreSenators Blumenthal, Booker applaud passage, introduce companion bill
Earlier this week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congressman Jerry McNerney’s (D, CA-09) bipartisan bill, H.R. 6394, the Improving Broadband Access for Veterans Act of 2016. Congressman Adam Kinzinger (D, IL-16) was the lead Republican co-sponsor. A companion bill has been introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ).
“Having broadband internet service is important for the more than 20 million veterans across our nation, with the highest population residing in California,” said McNerney. “A broadband internet connection helps veterans apply for jobs more easily, communicate with family and friends, keep up with current events, and obtain health care services. Veterans face many challenges when they return home; being without broadband access should not be one of those challenges. I commend my colleague Rep. Kinzinger for his efforts on this bill and the House for passing it with overwhelming support.”
Low-income veterans and veterans residing in rural areas are at a higher likelihood of not having broadband internet service. The U.S. Census Bureau and the Pew Research Center both report that broadband adoption rates are significantly lower among Americans who live at or below the federal poverty level. Analysis by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration at the U.S. Department of Commerce further finds that broadband adoption rates in rural areas of the country are lower than in urban areas
H.R. 6394 directs the Federal Communications Commission to produce a report examining the current state of broadband internet access for veterans and what can be done to increase access, with a focus on low-income veterans and veterans residing in rural areas. The report must include findings and recommendations for Congress and be completed within one year of the bill’s enactment.
“The findings and recommendations from this report will be key for paving the way to get more veterans connected and help close the digital divide,” McNerney added.
“I am proud to co-lead H.R. 6394, which aims to improve broadband access for our veterans – especially those in rural areas, or those unable to afford it. After serving tirelessly to protect our country, veterans face many challenges when they return home. This bill is the first step towards alleviating one piece of the transition back into civilian life through the benefits afforded by broadband access – from connecting with family and friends, applying for jobs, accessing information on benefits and health services, and much more. Thanks to Congressman Jerry McNerney for working with me to introduce this legislation.” said Rep. Kinzinger.
H.R. 6394 passed the House by 411-4. A companion bill, S. 3501, has been introduced by Senators Blumenthal and Booker.
“This important legislation will bring to light the key hurdles hindering veterans’ access to broadband, and pave the way for meaningful action to ensure veterans have the information and tools they need to successfully navigate the transition from the armed services to civilian employment. Access to broadband is essential to conduct daily activities, pursue job and housing opportunities, obtain quality health care services, and stay in touch with family members,” said Blumenthal.
“In the digital age, broadband access is not a luxury — it’s a necessity. The Improving Broadband Access for Veterans Act will help close the digital divide and will ensure that the men and women who have sacrificed so much for our country have access to tools for communication and future success,” said Booker.
McNerney represents California’s 9th Congressional District that includes most of Antioch and other portions of Contra Costa and Sacramento Counties, and most of San Joaquin County. For more information on Rep. McNerney’s work, follow him on Facebook and on Twitter @RepMcNerney.
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Mark Peterson, courtesy of CCCDA’s office.
Contra Costa County District Attorney Mark Peterson announced on Monday that he had reached an agreement with the Enforcement Division of the Fair Political Practices Commission regarding use of campaign funds during 2011-2015. The Enforcement Division will present the agreement to the Commission for its approval on December 15, 2016.
Following is his statement on the matter:
“I served as the treasurer of my own campaign committee from 2011 until 2015, after which I hired a professional paid treasurer. During that five-year period, I borrowed, in increments, a total of $66,373 from the Mark Peterson for District Attorney 2014 Committee. I used the funds to pay for day-to-day expenses, like meals, gas, cell phone bills, and other personal expenses. I considered the money a loan, kept track of those expenses at all times, made periodic repayments, and over time, repaid the Committee in full.
In 2015, the Franchise Tax Board (FTB) contacted me about a routine audit. In response, I hired a professional treasurer and immediately contacted the Enforcement Division of the FPPC to make them aware of the expenditures and my plan to address my error. I cooperated fully and provided my contemporaneous records regarding the expenditures and reimbursements for their review, as well as all of the underlying documents.
The FPPC Enforcement Division has noted: ‘To his credit, upon learning of the FTB audit Peterson contacted the Enforcement Division, admitted his violations and fully cooperated with the investigation.’
It is with disappointment and regret that I acknowledge the mistakes I made regarding my campaign financing account. As a result of these mistakes, I have agreed to pay the Fair Political Practices Commission a $45,000 administrative fine.
Although I have fully reimbursed the Committee for all of the personal expenditures, I make no excuses.
I am humbled and embarrassed by my mistakes, for which I take full responsibility, and I apologize for my regrettable errors.”
Mark Peterson, Contra Costa County District Attorney
In a further comment on the issue he said, “This matter is still under consideration by the FPPC, so this is the only public comment I am making on the matter.”
Read MoreOn Monday, Assemblymember Jim Frazier (D – Oakley) introduced AB1 a bill to fund transportation improvements in California. He calls it “a sensible and realistic approach to tackling California’s crumbling transportation infrastructure,” which is similar to the transportation funding bill he co-sponsored, earlier this year.
“My commitment to passing a comprehensive funding plan that addresses California’s failing transportation system will not waiver,” stated Frazier, who is the Chairman of the Assembly Transportation Committee. “This proposal dedicates billions to road and highway repairs that our state so desperately needs while also creating tens of thousands of good paying jobs.”
According to the bill’s text, “This bill would create the Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Program to address deferred maintenance on the state highway system and the local street and road system. The bill would require the California Transportation Commission to adopt performance criteria, consistent with a specified asset management plan, to ensure efficient use of certain funds available for the program. The bill would provide for the deposit of various funds for the program in the Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account, which the bill would create in the State Transportation Fund, including revenues attributable to a $0.012 per gallon increase in the motor vehicle fuel (gasoline) tax imposed by the bill with an inflation adjustment, as provided, an increase of $38 in the annual vehicle registration fee with an inflation adjustment, as provided, a new $165 annual vehicle registration fee with an inflation adjustment, as provided, applicable to zero-emission motor vehicles, as defined, and certain miscellaneous revenues.”
Frazier claims that AB1 represents an adult-in-the-room approach to meeting the vital, long-term needs of California’s transportation system. The proposal if approved will raise an additional $6 billion in annual funding to repair state and local roads, improve trade corridors and support public transit. Also included are measures related to accountability and streamlining of project delivery
“The transportation crisis in California affects each and every part of our state. If we don’t step up and solve it, our economy will decline and the people we represent will suffer,” said Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Paramount). “Transportation funding has traditionally been a bipartisan issue and our goal is to work across the aisle to come to a comprehensive solution.”
“We have been working closely with Assemblyman Frazier for more than two years on a variety of concepts to provide the resources local governments need to fix our roads and bridges,” said Kiana Valentine, Legislative Advocate for the California State Association of Counties. “It’s no secret that our vital infrastructure is crumbling and we’re at a tipping point. We urge the Governor and Legislative Leadership to keep their promise to advance this vital legislation early in the 2017 session.”
Once the 2017-18 Legislative Session begins, AB1 will be referred and heard in policy committee.
Frazier represents the 11th Assembly District, which includes the communities of Antioch, Bethel Island, Birds Landing, Brentwood, Byron, Collinsville, Discovery Bay, Fairfield, Isleton, Knightsen, Locke, Oakley, Pittsburg (partial), Rio Vista, Suisun City, Travis AFB, Vacaville and Walnut Grove.
Allen Payton contributed to this report.
Read MoreCounty Honors Residents Who Embody the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Do you know someone whose work and presence in the community exemplifies the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.? Now is the time to submit your candidates for consideration as the Contra Costa County Humanitarian and Student Humanitarian of the Year. The deadline to have your candidate considered has been extended. County residents are encouraged to submit online nominations of community and student leaders no later than midnight on Wednesday, December 14, 2016.
Each January, the Board of Supervisors recognizes a community member as well as a student leader whose dedication to others embodies the essence and spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Those selected as winners will be presented with their awards during the County’s Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Ceremony on Tuesday, January 17, 2017. The public is invited to the ceremony and commemoration, which takes place in the Board of Supervisors Chamber at 651 Pine Street in Martinez. The event begins at 11:00 a.m., followed by a complimentary buffet lunch. Contra Costa Superior Court Judge Diana Becton will be the keynote speaker, speaking on the concept of civil rights work that still needs to be done in our country.
The 2016 Humanitarian of the Year was Terri Porter, known for advocacy on behalf of underserved youth. The student pick was Davis Bullock, then a senior at Cal High, who not only battled cancer himself, but took on the cause of helping others also fighting the disease. We encourage you to share the stories of those in your community who have inspired you, and whose efforts embody the legacy of Dr. King.
For more information, a look back at previous celebration videos or to submit a nomination, visit the County’s website at www.ContraCosta.CA.gov.
Read MoreVolunteers and Donations Needed for this Holiday Effort to Help Those in Need
A small issue like last minute renovations at New Hope International Church, the location that Christmas for Everyone has called home for the past 30 years, didn’t stop founder Mary Perez from working around the clock to make sure everyone still received the warmth of Christmas.
The event on December 25, 2016 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. will be held at the new location at 701 Escobar St, Martinez, CA 94553 (former Bowrack building).
A non-profit organization, Christmas for Everyone helps serve people in need during the holiday season in Contra Costa County. The goal of Christmas for Everyone is that no one spends Christmas holidays alone or in need. For the last three decades the organization has provided thousands of Bay Area residents with free meals, groceries, haircuts, gifts, clothing and entertainment. Transportation is also provided to the host location, along with meals delivered to the homebound.
“It’s truly a blessing to be able to help others during the holidays year after year. I would like to thank building owner Al Turnbaugh owner of the building and current leasee Ian Bremner for donating the use of the Escobar location to us. Without it we may not have been able to make it to our 31st consecutive year,” said Mary Perez.
Perez added, “Not only do we need many volunteers on Christmas Day, but from December 2- 24, we will also need volunteers at the 701 Escobar location to help make phone calls (can do from home), hang posters, sort clothes and decorate.”
Additionally, donations of clothing and new presents can be dropped off until December 20 at:
701 Escobar, Martinez, CA
Monday – Friday 11am – 7pm
Saturday 11am – 5pm
Sunday 12pm – 5pm
US Bank, 659 Main St, Martinez, CA
Monday –Thursday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Friday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Additional information, anyone wishing to submit monetary donations or sign-up as a volunteer may do so via ChristmasforEveryone.com.
Media outlets are welcomed and Mary Perez is available for interviews beforehand. Please contact Gina Zagotta at 415-786-8900, ginazagotta@cariboupr.com
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Sacramento, CA – Today, Assemblymember Jim Frazier (D – Oakley) introduced AB 63, legislation to reduce vehicle collisions and fatalities among teen drivers by strengthening California’s provisional driver’s license program.
“This bill will help significantly decrease accidents among newly licensed drivers,” stated Frazier. “Increasing the age for a provisional license will ensure that California’s most vulnerable motorists go through proper training to become safe, responsible drivers.”
AB 63 would increase the maximum age to receive a provisional license to 21 years old guaranteeing that less experienced drivers have appropriate protections during this crucial learning period, by amending Section 12814.6 of the California Vehicle Code.
According to the Legislative Counsel’s Digest, “The bill would expand the scope of the provisional licensing program by extending the applicable age range for the program to 16 to under 21 years of age. By expanding the scope of the provisional licensing program, the violation of which constitutes an infraction, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The bill would authorize a licensee who is 18, 19, or 20 years of age to keep in his or her possession a copy of his or her class schedule or work schedule as documentation to satisfy the exceptions for a school or school-authorized activity and employment necessity, respectively, and would provide that a signed statement by a parent or legal guardian is not required if reasonable transportation facilities are inadequate and the operation of a vehicle by a licensee who is 18, 19, or 20 years of age is necessary to transport the licensee or the licensee’s immediate family member. The bill would make other technical and conforming changes. The bill would also include specified findings and declarations.”
“We are thankful that Assemblymember Frazier has taken on this critically important issue,” said Doug Villars, President of the California Association of Highway Patrolmen. “Traffic collisions are the number one killer of young people in America. We are proud to be sponsors of this bill and look forward to working together toward a common goal—saving young drivers’ lives and making roadways safer for all of us.”
It is estimated that one in three drivers do not receive their license before the age of 18, making them ineligible to participate in the provisional license program. A recent report from the Governors Highway Safety Association discovered that improvement in fatal crash rates among 18- to 20-year-old drivers was far less than their 15- to 17-year-old counterparts.
Policy expanding this program is essential to building safe driving skills for this at risk population. “We applaud Assemblymember Frazier for introducing this vital legislation,” stated Cathy Barankin, Executive Director CA Coalition for Children’s Safety and Health. “First time teen drivers are 45 percent more likely to be involved in a vehicle crash. This bill will stop teens from prematurely losing their lives.”
To read the complete text and Legislative Counsel’s Digest of the bill, click here.
Read MoreCongressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-11) will continue his standing practice of meeting one-on-one with constituents during Mobile District Office Hours on Saturday, December 17th from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Kensington Community Center. Since being elected to Congress, DeSaulnier has hosted 30 Mobile District Office Hours and town hall meetings throughout Contra Costa County.
As our nation experiences an unprecedented transition, Congressman DeSaulnier is looking forward to meeting one-on-one with constituents and hearing first-hand about issues that impact their lives, families, and our community. Mark will be on site to share thoughts and answer questions and to assist with issues related to Social Security, Medicare, the Veteran’s Administration, or other federal agencies.
What: Congressman DeSaulnier’s Mobile District Office Hours
When: Saturday, December 17th from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Where: Kensington Community Center, 59 Arlington Avenue, Kensington
Details: First come, first served. No appointment necessary. This event is open to all residents of California’s 11th Congressional District.
For more information or to confirm you are a resident of the 11th Congressional District, please email CA11.RSVP@mail.house.gov or call (925) 933-2660.
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John Muir Health and Stanford Children’s Health are continuing to expand access to children’s specialty care services in Contra Costa County through an innovative partnership launched just a few years ago. Local families now have access to nearly 50 pediatric specialist physicians and nurse practitioners in 14 different specialties, including cardiology, gastroenterology, orthopedics and sports medicine, pulmonology, urology and more.
“We listened and responded to the requests from our community and general pediatricians to enhance and expand the availability of children’s specialty services in our community so families could access and receive the care they need close to home,” said Jane Willemsen, president and CAO of John Muir Health’s Walnut Creek medical center. “Our partnership is exceeding what we originally envisioned and continues to grow, all for the benefit of our community and young patients and their families.”
“Stanford Children’s Health has long been committed to successful community partnerships with Bay Area health care providers,” said Christopher G. Dawes, president and CEO of Stanford Children’s Health. “Our strong partnership with John Muir Health increases access and convenience to world-class pediatric specialty care and is a very successful example of how our combined strengths can benefit the community.”
The partnership includes outpatient, inpatient, neonatal and emergency care, which enables children with conditions ranging from allergies to more complex illnesses to see specialists locally through John Muir Health. In April 2015, John Muir Health and Stanford Children’s Health jointly opened a state-of-the art pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) at John Muir Medical Center, Walnut Creek — the only one of its kind in Contra Costa County. The PICU is complemented by a 16-bed child and adolescent unit and 35-bed Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) also at the Walnut Creek medical center.
In just 18 months, the PICU team of Stanford Children’s Health physicians and John Muir Health nurses and staff has cared for 450 critically ill children. The PICU offers leading-edge medical technology, and a broad complement of pediatric specialists, including pediatric-trained nursing staff, pediatric anesthesiologists, radiologists, neurologists, surgeons, gastroenterologists, orthopedists, oncologists, and hematologists, among others. John Muir Health and Stanford Children’s Health are also in the process of finalizing all necessary steps to have the PICU certified by California Children’s Services (CCS), a rigorous and exclusive certification program for the treatment of children with complex medical conditions.
“Pediatric specialists are rare. In partnership with Stanford Children’s Health, we have broadened our services so we can care for children and families close to home, right here in Contra Costa County,” said Budi Wiryawan, M.D. medical director, John Muir Health PICU, and clinical associate professor of pediatric critical care medicine at Stanford University School of Medicine. “It’s a privilege to work with a team of professionals so dedicated to working with children and families, a team that consistently goes above and beyond to deliver top quality care for children with critical needs.”
The need for PICU and other specialty services in Contra Costa County has been proven many times in the past few years. “My son had a near drowning experience last year, when he was four years old. We performed CPR on site and he was brought to John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek where he was treated by the team in the PICU. The doctor was concerned about the 24-48 hour window post resuscitation, as my son could have had a fatal injury to his brain and lungs,” said Sadie Hannah, parent of a former John Muir Health PICU patient.
“I remember walking into the unit and seeing the kindness in the team’s eyes, as if they knew exactly how we felt and knew exactly what to do. I knew immediately we were in the right place for healing. The atmosphere was quiet and serene, it seemed we had 100 percent of the staff’s attention. We had caring, honest discussions with the medical team. We are grateful to John Muir Health for its quality care, good communication, quiet comfort, and its location close to home. Thankfully my son is fine. He returned to swim lessons five days after being in the PICU and started kindergarten this year.”
“It’s heartwarming to hear the stories of children who we have cared for and to meet their grateful parents,” said Willemsen. “We’ve always been here for our patients and the community, but now we can treat and care for children of all ages.”
For more information about the specialty services available at John Muir Health through the Stanford Children’s Health partnership, please visit www.johnmuirhealth.com/services/childrens-services.
About John Muir Health
John Muir Health is a nationally recognized, not-for-profit health care organization east of San Francisco serving patients in Contra Costa, eastern Alameda and southern Solano Counties. It includes a network of more than 1,000 primary care and specialty physicians, nearly 6,000 employees, medical centers in Concord and Walnut Creek, including Contra Costa County’s only trauma center, and a Behavioral Health Center. John Muir Health also has partnerships with Tenet Healthcare/San Ramon Regional Medical Center, UCSF Medical Center and Stanford Children’s Health to expand its capabilities, increase access to services and better serve patients. The health system offers a full-range of medical services, including primary care, outpatient and imaging services, and is widely recognized as a leader in many specialties – neurosciences, orthopedic, cancer, cardiovascular, trauma, emergency, pediatrics and high-risk obstetrics care.
Follow JMH: John Muir Health.com | Facebook.com/JMH | Twitter.com/JMH | YouTube.com/JMH
About Stanford Children’s Health
Stanford Children’s Health is the largest Bay Area health care enterprise exclusively dedicated to children and expectant mothers. At the heart of our network is the renowned Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford in Palo Alto. Together with our Stanford Medicine physicians, nurses, and staff, we can be accessed within 10 miles of most Bay Area homes through partnerships, collaborations, outreach, specialty clinics and primary care practices at more than 60 locations across Northern California and 100 locations in the U.S. western region. We are a leader in world-class, nurturing care and extraordinary outcomes in every pediatric and obstetric specialty, with care ranging from the routine to rare, regardless of a family’s ability to pay. As a non-profit, we are committed to supporting our community – from caring for uninsured or underinsured kids, homeless teens and pregnant moms, to helping re-establish school nurse positions in local schools. Learn more at stanfordchildrens.org and on our Healthier, Happy Lives blog. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube.
Read MoreAssemblywoman Baker takes oath of office for second term on Monday, December 5, 2016. Photo courtesy of Catharine Baker.
Will continue practice of declining state-issued vehicle and per diem perks
SACRAMENTO – Assemblywoman Catharine Baker (R-San Ramon) took the oath of office on Monday, December 5 and was sworn in as the representative for the 16th Assembly District in the California Legislature. This is Baker’s second term in office. Today she vowed to continue her independent and bipartisan approach to address the important issues before our State.
“It is an honor to continue to serve the 16th Assembly District in our Legislature and provide a strong voice for the needs of our community,” said Baker. “Over the next two years, I will continue the work I began in my first term, focusing on real results, not partisan bickering, to achieve solutions that will help improve the quality of life for all Californians. Our district expects no less.”
Baker added, “My very first act will be to continue the practice I adopted in my first term, of declining both the state-issued vehicle and per diem perks for Members. I want to start my term of service by giving back to the taxpayers and constituents who elected me to office.”
“Thank you, AD16, for this honor and for entrusting me with the responsibility of serving our community. I will work hard each and every day to deserve it,” she continued. “As we begin this new legislative session, I remain committed to working across the aisle — with a focus on real results, not partisan politics — to improve the quality of life for all Californians.”
On November 8, 2016, Catharine Baker was re-elected to represent the 16th Assembly District. Baker focuses her efforts on improving our education system, our transportation and water infrastructure, public safety and fiscal discipline, with an emphasis on bipartisan collaboration. In her first term she had nine bipartisan bills signed by the Governor in each of these areas.
The 16th Assembly District includes the communities of Alamo, Danville, Dublin, Lafayette, Livermore, Moraga, Orinda, Pleasanton, San Ramon, and Walnut Creek.
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By Bryan Scott
In a 1987 speech President Ronald Reagan said, “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall.” The speech was delivered at the Brandenburg Gate of the Berlin Wall, which has now vanished into history.
Today, the people of Brentwood say to Brentwood City Manager Gus Vina, “Mr. Vina, reallocate our taxes.”
Today a public safety crisis exists, a crisis that is well known to the elected leaders and municipal administrators paid to run the cities, special districts and schools within the 249-square mile territory of the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District (ECCFPD).
President Reagan made a bold statement; he issued a clear directive to the leader of the USSR. Even though the Berlin Wall was not in the USSR, everyone knew where policy decisions on the Berlin Wall were made.
A community-proposed solution to our local crisis includes the redistribution of 5.2% of future property taxes. Today about $165 million in property taxes are collected within the territory of the fire district, and in the most recent year property values within Brentwood and Oakley grew by over 8%.
By phasing-in this tax redistribution program over four years each government entity would receive 1.3% less in new property tax funding each year, cumulatively, while at the end of the program the ECCFPD would be funded at about the county average fire district rate, 12%. This would be a significant improvement over the current 7%.
City Manager Vina’s procedural steps are simple. The Brentwood City Council needs to hold a public hearing, pass a resolution, and then forward a property tax transfer agreement to Bob Campbell, Contra Costa County Controller. It is a simple and eloquent procedure, one used by the county to transfer property taxes just a month ago.
Oakley City Manager Bryan Montgomery, County Administrator David Twa and the other special districts of east county can follow the same procedures, outlined in the California Revenue and Taxation Code, Chapter 6, Section 99.02. School districts would transfer operating funds to the fire district to fulfill their obligation to assure the safety of their students, staff and faculty, using a memorandum-of-understanding method.
Using last year’s numbers as a guide this tax redistribution this would add $7.8 million to the fire district’s funding, allowing ECCFPD to permanently staff and operate a total of six fire stations, up from today’s three stations.
City Manager Vina, as well as his Oakley counterpart, City Manager Montgomery, and County Administrator Twa have all objected to the proposal. They’ve said there are other uses for the money, or that tight budgets make the funds unavailable.
Using last year’s numbers Brentwood’s contribution to this program would be $150,771 per year, $603,059 in total. Brentwood’s total budget is about $46 million. Oakley’s contribution would be $36,218 per year, $144,871 in total. The County’s contribution would be about $300,000 per year, $1.2 million in total, counting all county agencies. The county’s total budget is $1.470 billion.
The question has been raised, which services are to be cut? The answer is none. Government expenditures, and the services these expenditures provide, will simply grow at a slower rate for four years. They need not be cut.
The people of Brentwood and Oakley have said “no” to additional taxes for fire and emergency medical services that are provided to the rest of the county out of current property taxes. It is time to fund an adequate level of essential services using the current taxpayer burden.
“Mr. Vina, reallocate our taxes.”say the people of Brentwood.
Bryan Scott is a Brentwood resident and Co-Chair of East County Voters for Equal Protection, a non-partisan citizens action committee whose aim is to improve funding for the ECCFPD. He can be reached at scott.bryan@comcast.net, or 925-418-4428. The group’s Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/EastCountyVoters/.
Read MoreSenators Blumenthal, Booker applaud passage, introduce companion bill
Earlier this week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congressman Jerry McNerney’s (D, CA-09) bipartisan bill, H.R. 6394, the Improving Broadband Access for Veterans Act of 2016. Congressman Adam Kinzinger (D, IL-16) was the lead Republican co-sponsor. A companion bill has been introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ).
“Having broadband internet service is important for the more than 20 million veterans across our nation, with the highest population residing in California,” said McNerney. “A broadband internet connection helps veterans apply for jobs more easily, communicate with family and friends, keep up with current events, and obtain health care services. Veterans face many challenges when they return home; being without broadband access should not be one of those challenges. I commend my colleague Rep. Kinzinger for his efforts on this bill and the House for passing it with overwhelming support.”
Low-income veterans and veterans residing in rural areas are at a higher likelihood of not having broadband internet service. The U.S. Census Bureau and the Pew Research Center both report that broadband adoption rates are significantly lower among Americans who live at or below the federal poverty level. Analysis by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration at the U.S. Department of Commerce further finds that broadband adoption rates in rural areas of the country are lower than in urban areas
H.R. 6394 directs the Federal Communications Commission to produce a report examining the current state of broadband internet access for veterans and what can be done to increase access, with a focus on low-income veterans and veterans residing in rural areas. The report must include findings and recommendations for Congress and be completed within one year of the bill’s enactment.
“The findings and recommendations from this report will be key for paving the way to get more veterans connected and help close the digital divide,” McNerney added.
“I am proud to co-lead H.R. 6394, which aims to improve broadband access for our veterans – especially those in rural areas, or those unable to afford it. After serving tirelessly to protect our country, veterans face many challenges when they return home. This bill is the first step towards alleviating one piece of the transition back into civilian life through the benefits afforded by broadband access – from connecting with family and friends, applying for jobs, accessing information on benefits and health services, and much more. Thanks to Congressman Jerry McNerney for working with me to introduce this legislation.” said Rep. Kinzinger.
H.R. 6394 passed the House by 411-4. A companion bill, S. 3501, has been introduced by Senators Blumenthal and Booker.
“This important legislation will bring to light the key hurdles hindering veterans’ access to broadband, and pave the way for meaningful action to ensure veterans have the information and tools they need to successfully navigate the transition from the armed services to civilian employment. Access to broadband is essential to conduct daily activities, pursue job and housing opportunities, obtain quality health care services, and stay in touch with family members,” said Blumenthal.
“In the digital age, broadband access is not a luxury — it’s a necessity. The Improving Broadband Access for Veterans Act will help close the digital divide and will ensure that the men and women who have sacrificed so much for our country have access to tools for communication and future success,” said Booker.
McNerney represents California’s 9th Congressional District that includes most of Antioch and other portions of Contra Costa and Sacramento Counties, and most of San Joaquin County. For more information on Rep. McNerney’s work, follow him on Facebook and on Twitter @RepMcNerney.
Read MoreMark Peterson, courtesy of CCCDA’s office.
Contra Costa County District Attorney Mark Peterson announced on Monday that he had reached an agreement with the Enforcement Division of the Fair Political Practices Commission regarding use of campaign funds during 2011-2015. The Enforcement Division will present the agreement to the Commission for its approval on December 15, 2016.
Following is his statement on the matter:
“I served as the treasurer of my own campaign committee from 2011 until 2015, after which I hired a professional paid treasurer. During that five-year period, I borrowed, in increments, a total of $66,373 from the Mark Peterson for District Attorney 2014 Committee. I used the funds to pay for day-to-day expenses, like meals, gas, cell phone bills, and other personal expenses. I considered the money a loan, kept track of those expenses at all times, made periodic repayments, and over time, repaid the Committee in full.
In 2015, the Franchise Tax Board (FTB) contacted me about a routine audit. In response, I hired a professional treasurer and immediately contacted the Enforcement Division of the FPPC to make them aware of the expenditures and my plan to address my error. I cooperated fully and provided my contemporaneous records regarding the expenditures and reimbursements for their review, as well as all of the underlying documents.
The FPPC Enforcement Division has noted: ‘To his credit, upon learning of the FTB audit Peterson contacted the Enforcement Division, admitted his violations and fully cooperated with the investigation.’
It is with disappointment and regret that I acknowledge the mistakes I made regarding my campaign financing account. As a result of these mistakes, I have agreed to pay the Fair Political Practices Commission a $45,000 administrative fine.
Although I have fully reimbursed the Committee for all of the personal expenditures, I make no excuses.
I am humbled and embarrassed by my mistakes, for which I take full responsibility, and I apologize for my regrettable errors.”
Mark Peterson, Contra Costa County District Attorney
In a further comment on the issue he said, “This matter is still under consideration by the FPPC, so this is the only public comment I am making on the matter.”
Read MoreOn Monday, Assemblymember Jim Frazier (D – Oakley) introduced AB1 a bill to fund transportation improvements in California. He calls it “a sensible and realistic approach to tackling California’s crumbling transportation infrastructure,” which is similar to the transportation funding bill he co-sponsored, earlier this year.
“My commitment to passing a comprehensive funding plan that addresses California’s failing transportation system will not waiver,” stated Frazier, who is the Chairman of the Assembly Transportation Committee. “This proposal dedicates billions to road and highway repairs that our state so desperately needs while also creating tens of thousands of good paying jobs.”
According to the bill’s text, “This bill would create the Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Program to address deferred maintenance on the state highway system and the local street and road system. The bill would require the California Transportation Commission to adopt performance criteria, consistent with a specified asset management plan, to ensure efficient use of certain funds available for the program. The bill would provide for the deposit of various funds for the program in the Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account, which the bill would create in the State Transportation Fund, including revenues attributable to a $0.012 per gallon increase in the motor vehicle fuel (gasoline) tax imposed by the bill with an inflation adjustment, as provided, an increase of $38 in the annual vehicle registration fee with an inflation adjustment, as provided, a new $165 annual vehicle registration fee with an inflation adjustment, as provided, applicable to zero-emission motor vehicles, as defined, and certain miscellaneous revenues.”
Frazier claims that AB1 represents an adult-in-the-room approach to meeting the vital, long-term needs of California’s transportation system. The proposal if approved will raise an additional $6 billion in annual funding to repair state and local roads, improve trade corridors and support public transit. Also included are measures related to accountability and streamlining of project delivery
“The transportation crisis in California affects each and every part of our state. If we don’t step up and solve it, our economy will decline and the people we represent will suffer,” said Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Paramount). “Transportation funding has traditionally been a bipartisan issue and our goal is to work across the aisle to come to a comprehensive solution.”
“We have been working closely with Assemblyman Frazier for more than two years on a variety of concepts to provide the resources local governments need to fix our roads and bridges,” said Kiana Valentine, Legislative Advocate for the California State Association of Counties. “It’s no secret that our vital infrastructure is crumbling and we’re at a tipping point. We urge the Governor and Legislative Leadership to keep their promise to advance this vital legislation early in the 2017 session.”
Once the 2017-18 Legislative Session begins, AB1 will be referred and heard in policy committee.
Frazier represents the 11th Assembly District, which includes the communities of Antioch, Bethel Island, Birds Landing, Brentwood, Byron, Collinsville, Discovery Bay, Fairfield, Isleton, Knightsen, Locke, Oakley, Pittsburg (partial), Rio Vista, Suisun City, Travis AFB, Vacaville and Walnut Grove.
Allen Payton contributed to this report.
Read MoreCounty Honors Residents Who Embody the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Do you know someone whose work and presence in the community exemplifies the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.? Now is the time to submit your candidates for consideration as the Contra Costa County Humanitarian and Student Humanitarian of the Year. The deadline to have your candidate considered has been extended. County residents are encouraged to submit online nominations of community and student leaders no later than midnight on Wednesday, December 14, 2016.
Each January, the Board of Supervisors recognizes a community member as well as a student leader whose dedication to others embodies the essence and spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Those selected as winners will be presented with their awards during the County’s Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Ceremony on Tuesday, January 17, 2017. The public is invited to the ceremony and commemoration, which takes place in the Board of Supervisors Chamber at 651 Pine Street in Martinez. The event begins at 11:00 a.m., followed by a complimentary buffet lunch. Contra Costa Superior Court Judge Diana Becton will be the keynote speaker, speaking on the concept of civil rights work that still needs to be done in our country.
The 2016 Humanitarian of the Year was Terri Porter, known for advocacy on behalf of underserved youth. The student pick was Davis Bullock, then a senior at Cal High, who not only battled cancer himself, but took on the cause of helping others also fighting the disease. We encourage you to share the stories of those in your community who have inspired you, and whose efforts embody the legacy of Dr. King.
For more information, a look back at previous celebration videos or to submit a nomination, visit the County’s website at www.ContraCosta.CA.gov.
Read MoreVolunteers and Donations Needed for this Holiday Effort to Help Those in Need
A small issue like last minute renovations at New Hope International Church, the location that Christmas for Everyone has called home for the past 30 years, didn’t stop founder Mary Perez from working around the clock to make sure everyone still received the warmth of Christmas.
The event on December 25, 2016 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. will be held at the new location at 701 Escobar St, Martinez, CA 94553 (former Bowrack building).
A non-profit organization, Christmas for Everyone helps serve people in need during the holiday season in Contra Costa County. The goal of Christmas for Everyone is that no one spends Christmas holidays alone or in need. For the last three decades the organization has provided thousands of Bay Area residents with free meals, groceries, haircuts, gifts, clothing and entertainment. Transportation is also provided to the host location, along with meals delivered to the homebound.
“It’s truly a blessing to be able to help others during the holidays year after year. I would like to thank building owner Al Turnbaugh owner of the building and current leasee Ian Bremner for donating the use of the Escobar location to us. Without it we may not have been able to make it to our 31st consecutive year,” said Mary Perez.
Perez added, “Not only do we need many volunteers on Christmas Day, but from December 2- 24, we will also need volunteers at the 701 Escobar location to help make phone calls (can do from home), hang posters, sort clothes and decorate.”
Additionally, donations of clothing and new presents can be dropped off until December 20 at:
701 Escobar, Martinez, CA
Monday – Friday 11am – 7pm
Saturday 11am – 5pm
Sunday 12pm – 5pm
US Bank, 659 Main St, Martinez, CA
Monday –Thursday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Friday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Additional information, anyone wishing to submit monetary donations or sign-up as a volunteer may do so via ChristmasforEveryone.com.
Media outlets are welcomed and Mary Perez is available for interviews beforehand. Please contact Gina Zagotta at 415-786-8900, ginazagotta@cariboupr.com
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