Contra Costa Herald

By Con Fire

Join us this Saturday for the Contra Costa Fire Open House and Pancake Breakfast!

Date: Saturday, October 11, 2025

Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Location: 2945 Treat Blvd, Concord

FREE Pancake Breakfast!

Join us for a fun and educational day featuring live demonstrations, including fire extinguisher training, drone operations, auto extrication, roof ventilation, and rappelling.

You’ll also have the chance to meet our firefighters, recruitment team, and dispatchers, and explore fire engines, trucks, ambulances, rescue boats, and more!

News from the East Bay Regional Park District

Photos: EBRPD

By Dave Mason, Public Information Supervisor, Public Affairs, East Bay Regional Park District

When Leaves Fall, Fire Risks Rise. Fall is peak fire season, due to dried-out vegetation from summer heat and offshore Diablo winds that historically occur September through November. Be aware of fire hazards, restrictions, and Red Flag Warnings. Wildfire safety remains one of the East Bay Regional Park District’s top priorities.

Photos: EBRPD

Fire Safety Tips

• Follow all fire safety rules.
• No smoking or vaping in parks.
• No fireworks.
• Report fire hazards and call 911 if you see an active fire.

Photos: EBRPD

667-Acre Fuels Reduction Project Complete. For the past three years, the East Bay Regional Park District has been thinning brush and hazardous trees on 667 acres at Anthony Chabot Regional Park to reduce fire risk. This groundbreaking effort — the first of its kind in California — included large-scale eucalyptus removal and the use of a climate-friendly carbonizer to dispose of debris with minimal emissions. Reducing fire fuels is essential to slowing wildfires and giving firefighters time to stop them before they grow out of control.

For more information see East Bay Parks use groundbreaking technology to reduce wildfire risks, Park District investing $10.9 million to reduce fire fuels in the East Bay, Park District completes 667-acre Fuels Reduction Project in East Bay Hills and visit ebparks.org/news.

Photos: EBRPD

Fall Is a Great Time for Birding. Fall and winter are prime seasons for birding in East Bay Regional Parks. From wetlands to woodlands, diverse habitats host migrating and nesting birds, as well as wintering waterfowl and shorebirds. It’s a perfect time to spot unique species and enjoy this beloved outdoor pastime.

The Park District offers birding programs for all experience levels, including hikes, kayak excursions, and community science events. Birdwatching is more accessible than ever with events like the Great Backyard Bird Count (Feb. 13-16, 2026) and apps like Merlin and eBird. For information, visit ebparks.org/calendar and search “Birding.”

Photos: EBRPD

Looking for Love. With the onset of cooler fall weather, male tarantulas leave their burrows to find females. They tap on the burrow entrance to signal a mate, and if she emerges, they mate. Life isn’t easy for male tarantulas. After mating, the female can sometimes kill the male, though this is infrequent. Even if he survives, he will soon die. Male tarantulas only live for seven to 10 years, while females can live as long as 30 years.

Tarantulas in the East Bay range from dark brown to light tan and are spotted most often in the late afternoon or early evening, after the day’s heat fades. Join a naturalist program or hike to learn more about these fuzzy friends — or possibly even see one. For more information, visit ebparks.org/calendar and search “Tarantulas.”

Photos: EBRPD

Celebrate Corn at Ardenwood’s Harvest Festival! The story of corn begins with a wild grass called teosinte, first cultivated in central Mexico around 9,000 years ago. Today, corn — also known as maize — nourishes communities around the globe. From popcorn and cornbread to polenta, hominy, cereal, and of course, corn on the cob, many popular foods trace back to this remarkable plant.

To learn more about corn, attend Ardenwood’s annual Harvest Festival on Oct. 11-12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., where visitors can walk through the cornfields and participate in the ancient autumn ritual of harvesting maize — and even take home a few ears of corn (one-bag-per-person limit). Enjoy seasonal activities, including cider pressing, live music, and historic crafts, and ride a narrow-gauge train. Free for participants ages 3 and under.

For more information, visit ebparks.org/calendar and search “Harvest Festival.”

Photos: EBRPD

Step Back in Time at the Sunol Heritage Festival. Celebrate the rich heritage of the Sunol wilderness at a lively, family-friendly festival on Saturday, Oct. 18, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., filled with hands-on history, live music, crafts, Ohlone stories, and fun for all ages. Visitors can connect with the past through activities that highlight the history, traditions, and cultures of the region — from crafting miniature tule boats, to making traditional pine nut bracelets and learning about ranching brands while creating a “branded” bandana.

Families can also try their hands at old-time laundry, play Ohlone and Victorian-era games, meet Poppy the wooden milking cow, practice lasso skills, and more. Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic and enjoy the park’s natural setting while taking part in the festivities. Parking is $5.

For more information, visit www.ebparks.org/sunol-heritage-festival.

Photo: EBRPD

Ardenwood Halloween Festivities. Each year Ardenwood comes alive in October with the frightful Haunted Railroad and community pumpkin patch. Ardenwood offers nighttime train rides through its haunted forest. The ride is spooky — not scary — and is designed especially for children under 12. Tickets sell out fast! Registration required. For more information, visit spcrr.org.

Ardenwood’s annual pumpkin patch is operated by Dig Deep Farms, which also offers Halloween-themed arts, crafts, and games. Pumpkin patch admission does not include admission to Ardenwood Historic Farm.

For more information, visit ebparks.org/calendar and search “Pumpkin Patch”.

For more EBRPD events visit Calendar of Events | East Bay Parks

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

96% vote in favor of a strike, claim Sutter Health management refuses to bargain in good faith in order to fix working conditions and short staffing

“Sutter Health has been bargaining in good faith with SEIU–UHW since July and we remain committed to reaching a fair and sustainable agreement.” – Sutter Health

By Renée Saldaña, Press Secretary, SEUI – United Healthcare Workers West

OAKLAND, Calif. – Frontline healthcare workers from eight different Sutter Hospitals and Medical Centers across Northern California have voted to authorize a strike over unfair labor practices. The workers overwhelmingly approved the strike with a 96% vote in support, citing bad faith bargaining by Sutter executives. Workers have not yet chosen dates and will continue trying to bargain with Sutter executives at upcoming sessions on October 9 and 10.

In August and September, these same caregivers held a series of rolling pickets at the sites of the possible future strike, including a march and rally at Sutter Health’s Sacramento Medical Center that drew over 1,000 frontline healthcare workers calling for safer staffing, fair pay, and investment in underserved communities across the giant healthcare system.

“We don’t want to go on strike, but we feel like we have to,” said Nikki Moorer of Sutter Solano. “We need management to stop bargaining in bad faith and listen to us to fix working conditions and short staffing. Procedures get canceled, and patients are sent home because there aren’t enough staff to properly stock the equipment we need. That’s not care. That’s a crisis.”

Healthcare workers at Sutter Health facilities in Oakland, Santa Rosa, Roseville, Berkeley, Lakeport, Vallejo, Antioch, Castro Valley, and San Francisco say that despite their dedication to provide the best patient care, management refuses to invest in the staff who make that mission possible. Turnover has forced employees to take on multiple roles and work longer hours as experienced caregivers leave for higher-paying jobs. Staffing shortages are stretching the remaining workforce thin and putting patient care at risk. Despite this, Sutter executives refuse to listen to frontline healthcare workers to negotiate for a contract to help solve these problems.

At the same time, Sutter is paying its top executives millions each year, including Sutter Health CEO Warner Thomas, who earned over $11 million in 2023, while refusing to invest in staffing and patient care. The health system also plans to replace the aging Alta Bates Ashby campus with a smaller facility in Emeryville, leading to a loss of services in the communities that need them most.

The strike votes apply to a variety of job classes, including nursing assistants, respiratory therapists, licensed vocational nurses, environmental services, cooks, technicians, and more.

Sutter Health Responds

Sutter Health responded by issuing the following statement: “Sutter Health has been bargaining in good faith with SEIU–UHW since July and we remain committed to reaching a fair and sustainable agreement.

“It’s common for unions to take a strike authorization vote as part of the bargaining process, but SEIU–UHW has not called a strike.

“We look forward to being at the table next week to continue working toward a resolution that’s best for our employees, our patients and the communities we serve.”

Sutter Health’s spokesperson also provided the following link to additional information on the 2025 SEIU-UHW and Sutter Health Labor Negotiations: Get the Facts | Vitals.

About SEIU-UHW

SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West (SEIU-UHW) is a healthcare justice union of more than 120,000 healthcare workers, patients, and healthcare activists united to ensure affordable, accessible, high-quality care for all Californians provided by valued and respected healthcare workers. Learn more at www.seiu-uhw.org.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

By Lt. Christopher Peart, Brentwood Police Department

At approximately 6:49 a.m., on Friday, Oct. 3, 2025, Brentwood Police officers responded to a reported solo motorcycle collision on Sand Creek Trail near Old Sand Creek Road.

Upon arrival, officers determined that a 39-year-old adult male from Brentwood was riding an electric scooter and collided with a wooden stanchion. The impact ejected him from the electric scooter, causing him to strike the roadway. The rider sustained a serious head injury and was air lifted to a local hospital. He was not wearing a helmet.

The cause of the collision remains under investigation. However, there is no indication that alcohol and/or drugs were a factor in the collision.

Anyone who witnessed the collision is urged to contact the Brentwood Police Department Traffic Safety Unit at (925) 634-6911.

At the Senior Center

The City of Concord is proud to present the 10th Annual Health Expo, a free community event, on Thursday, October 9, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Concord Senior Center at 2727 Parkside Circle. This highly anticipated event is open to the public and offers valuable resources for seniors, families, and caregivers. No reservations are necessary.

The Health Expo will feature a wide variety of health and wellness services, including free haircuts and information on Medicare, transportation, assisted living, and more. Participants will have the opportunity to connect with local healthcare providers, nonprofits, and community organizations. These partners will share resources, tips, and strategies for healthy living, covering everything from nutrition and fitness to mental health and chronic condition management.

New this year is a free shuttle to and from the event for Concord residents age 65. For details, please contact the Senior Center Transportation Office at 925-671-3035.

The Health Expo is part of the City of Concord’s ongoing commitment to fostering a healthy and vibrant community. Whether you are seeking information on a healthy lifestyle, exploring options for elder care, or simply looking to improve your overall health, the Health Expo offers something for everyone.

For more information about the Health Expo, please visit www.cityofconcord.org/SCEvents, call 925-671-3320, or email concordsc@cityofconcord.org.

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

Contra Costa County—Registered voters in Contra Costa County will soon receive their Official Ballots for the upcoming November 4, 2025, Statewide Special Election. Ballots are at the post office as of Monday, Oct. 6 and should arrive in mailboxes beginning this week.  If you do not receive your ballot by October 13th, call our office at (925) 335-7800.

“The Statewide Special Election was not approved by the California State Legislature until late August, and I want to make sure that all registered Contra Costa County voters know what they can expect as we get closer to Election Day,” said Kristin B. Connelly, Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters. “Our office wants to ensure that every Contra Costa County Voter is fully informed about how to participate in this election.”

In the coming days and weeks, the Contra Costa Elections Division will be sharing important logistical information about this election with local residents at ContraCostaVote.gov and on our social media.

Under Proposition 50, five Republican-held congressional districts would shift to become more Democratic, based on presidential election results from 2024. Kamala Harris (D) would have won three—District 1, District 3, and District 41—with margins above 10%. District 48 would lean Democratic, with a margin of 3%. District 22 would have shifted four percentage points toward Democrats; however, Donald Trump (R) would have won the district with a margin of 2%. The table above provides additional information about these five districts. Source: Ballotpedia

Some key dates:

– State Voter Information Guide mailed out/online: by Sept 20

– County Voter Information Guide sent to Registered Voters: by September 25

-Vote-by-Mail ballots sent to registered voters: by Oct 6

– Contra Costa Elections Office opens for early voting: Oct 6

– Deadline for registering to vote online via RegisterToVote.ca.gov: Oct 20

– Regional Early Voting open: Oct 31

– Polling places open: Election Day, Nov 4 (7am to 8pm)

– Vote-by-Mail ballots must be postmarked on or before Nov 4

The Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder-Elections Department offers many ways for voters to cast their ballot early and ensure it is included in the first report on Election Night. Voters can send their ballot through the US Mail in their postage pre-paid ballot envelope. They can put it in one of 45 secure Contra Costa Dropboxes located throughout the County, or they can bring it to our office at 555 Escobar Street in Martinez between 8 am and 5 pm Monday through Friday. The Elections Division also offers Regional Early Voting sites for those who need to register and/or vote in person.

For more information about the November 4, 2025 Statewide Special Election visit Proposition 50 | Official Voter Information Guide | California Secretary of State, or go to the Contra Costa County Elections Office, your trusted source of nonpartisan election information, visit the website at www.contracostavote.gov, or call 925-335-7800 M-F 8 am to 5 pm.

To support suicide prevention

By Veiongo (Vei) Uesi, Walk Chair, Oakley Chapter & Board Member, Greater SF Bay Area Chapter, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

The 10th Annual Out of the Darkness Community Walk in Oakley, taking place this Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025. This year’s event is especially meaningful, not only because it marks a decade of our community standing together for suicide prevention, but also because we are honored to welcome a special guest: the Mayor of Oakley, Shannon Shaw, who will join us in showing support for this vital cause.

Sponsored by the Oakley Chapter of the American Foundation Suicide for Prevention (AFSP), the Out of the Darkness Walk is more than just a fundraiser, it’s a deeply moving event that brings together survivors, advocates, and families who have lost loved ones, creating a space for healing, connection, and hope. With mental health challenges and suicide affecting so many, particularly in recent years, this walk serves as a beacon to let people know they are not alone and that help is always available.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, October 11, 2025
Location: Civic Center Park, 3221 Main Street, Oakley
Time: 8:00 AM check-in, opening ceremony begins at 9:00 AM, and walk begins at 9:30 AM

Special Offerings:

• Morning refreshments including light snacks, coffee, and water
• Honor Bead ceremony
• Memorial garden

Our goal is to bring the Contra Costa community together and join more than 400 communities nationwide to raise awareness, reduce the stigma around mental health and raise crucial funds for AFSP to support research, education, advocacy, survivor support and strongly send the message that suicide can be prevented, and no one is alone.

For more information visit ttps://afsp.org.

Concord City Manager Valerie Barone. Photo: City of Concord

After more than 30 years; effective June 30, 2026

By Colleen Awad, Community Relations Manager, City of Concord 

Concord, CA — After more than three decades of dedicated public service, Concord City Manager Valerie Barone has announced her retirement, effective at the end of the fiscal year (June 2026).

Ms. Barone began her career as a Community Development Specialist with the U.S. Peace Corps, serving in the Philippines. Over the years, she has held key roles in local jurisdictions, including Community Development Director for the City of Walnut Creek and Director of Planning, Recreation, and Neighborhood Services for the City of Milpitas.

She joined the City of Concord in 2008 as Assistant City Manager and was appointed interim City Manager in February 2012 and then City Manager in April 2012. During her tenure, she guided Concord through the challenges of the State’s elimination of redevelopment, the Great Recession, and the COVID-19 pandemic, stabilizing the City’s General Fund Operating Budget and restoring reserves to 30%. Her leadership also drove infrastructure upgrades and economic development, including major roadway investments.

Ms. Barone also championed regional collaborations, positioning Concord as a leader in initiatives such as the Central County Family Justice Center, Contra Costa County’s A3 (Anyone, Anywhere, Anytime) Community Crisis Response (mental health), and the County’s CORE Program (outreach and support for the unhoused residents).

She oversaw the adoption and implementation of complex Council policy initiatives addressing a range of topics, including the development of housing policies, tenant protections, tobacco regulations, the creation of council districts, Concord Naval Weapons Station planning and development, and, most recently, food truck and sidewalk vending, to name a few. Her dedication to community enrichment fostered cultural growth in Concord, with public art installations and events like Creative Concord and preservation of the Music and Market concerts, enhancing the City’s cultural landscape.

On the economic front, highlights of her leadership include transforming the Toyota Pavilion at Concord from an expense into a revenue generator, establishing the tourism improvement district (Visit Concord), redeveloping vacant office space into The Veranda, and investing $27 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to support the City’s infrastructure, local businesses, and nonprofit organizations.

Reflecting on her career with Concord, Ms. Barone shared, “I am deeply grateful for the leadership of the Council and the dedication of our employees, whose hard work has made Concord a thriving community where families can grow, businesses can prosper, and residents can flourish. I want to thank all the residents, organizations, and employees I’ve had a chance to work with while serving the Concord community.”

Speaking on behalf of the Council, Mayor Obringer said, “The Council is deeply grateful to Ms. Barone for her years of dedicated service to our community. She has led Concord through challenges with care, integrity, and a deep commitment to our residents.” Mayor Obringer continued, “Under her leadership, she has built a strong and capable leadership team, which will ensure a smooth transition as we onboard a new City Manager. On behalf of the Council and the Concord community, we wish Valerie every happiness in her well-earned retirement.”

The City is initiating a search for Ms. Barone’s replacement. Additional details about the recruitment process will be available in the coming weeks.

The early announcement comes as Ms. Barone recently shared her intention to retire this December with the City Council. The City Council requested Ms. Barone stay through the end of the fiscal year to help the City prepare for the transition, and she has agreed to do so.

Photos: Amtrak San Joaquins and CA State Parks

Celebrating seven years of tradition, trains will once again bring visitors to honor site central to California’s African American history

Established in 1908, it was the state’s first self-governed Black township

By Harlo Pippenger, Consultant, Amtrak San Joaquins

(Stockton, CA) – Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park is holding its annual celebratory Rededication event on Saturday, October 11 from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. In partnership, Amtrak San Joaquins has scheduled a special stop at the park for multiple trains, bookable at exclusive half-price “Allensworth fares.”

Travelers from Northern California, the Bay Area, or the Central Valley are invited to experience a scenic day trip aboard the Amtrak San Joaquins, arriving directly at the gates of this historic landmark and celebration. Attendees are encouraged to book now to secure their seats and to enjoy further savings by combining discounts, as detailed on the Amtrak San Joaquins Deals webpage.

Hosted by California State Parks, the Annual Rededication of Col. Allensworth State Historic Park honors the park’s original dedication in 1976. The event will feature food trucks, arts and crafts, guided tours of historic buildings, performances of music and dance, interactive experiences with time-period docents, and remarks from descendants of Colonel Allen Allensworth.

This year’s special Rededication train marks the seventh anniversary of Amtrak San Joaquins’ service to the Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park Rededication Celebration. Since that first ride in 2018, ridership to the event has grown dramatically, from just 97 passengers to more than 300 in 2024 and over 500 individuals traveling by train to the most recent Juneteenth 2025 Festival. Each year, more Californians are discovering the ease and joy of traveling by train to celebrate this historic community and the lasting impact it has had on the state’s heritage. With direct service and exclusive discounted fares, Amtrak San Joaquins is making it easier than ever for riders from across the state to be part of this meaningful celebration.

Founded in 1908 by Colonel Allen Allensworth, a former enslaved man, the town was designed to be a self-sustaining community where African Americans could live, work, and thrive. Today, you can witness the legacy of this trailblazing community come alive with captivating re-enactments, storytelling, and tours of the lovingly restored and reconstructed early 20th century buildings. Step into the Colonel’s house, walk through the halls of the historic schoolhouse and explore the church and library for an inspiring journey through a pivotal moment in history.

“California State Parks is proud to celebrate seven years of partnership with Amtrak San Joaquins in bringing visitors directly to Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park,” said Lori Wear, California State Parks. “This special train service has helped thousands of Californians experience the rich history and enduring legacy of Colonel Allensworth in an accessible, affordable, and memorable way. We’re beyond excited for this year and continuing this progress into the future.”

The southbound trains running for the event include trains 702 (10:55am arrival), 710 (11:54am arrival), and 712 (2:54 arrival). Northbound trains include 713 (8:56am arrival), 715 (12:56pm arrival), 717 (2:56pm arrival). When purchasing train tickets, a discount will automatically be applied. If eligible, riders can then combine this reduced ticket with additional savings regularly available which include:

• Infants under 2 years of age ride for free
• Children 2-12 years old ride half-price every day
• Seniors (62+ years of age) receive 15% off
• Veterans & active military members receive 15% off
• Disabled riders save 15% off
• View deals

Visitors attending the Rededication Celebration via the Amtrak San Joaquins trains will arrive at the Allensworth station (CNL), which will serve as a special stop for this event. Upon arrival, a complimentary 35-passenger shuttle provided by Tulare County Area Transit will transport riders between the train platform and the historic schoolhouse. Typically, a whistle stop available only to pre-booked groups, the Allensworth station (CNL) will be fully activated for travelers on October 11, offering a rare and seamless opportunity to experience this historic park by rail.

Train tickets to Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park can be booked online at the Colonel Allensworth landing page or contact Carmen Setness, community outreach coordinator for San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission (SJRRC), at csetness@sjrrc.com.

About Allensworth State Historic Park

The town of Allensworth is located in the heart of the Central Valley, about 30 miles north of Bakersfield. Boasting a rich history that is of interest to students, families, history buffs, minority community organizations, and anyone else looking to spend a fun day exploring the historic community and its restored buildings. In 1908, Allensworth was established as a town founded, financed and governed by African Americans. There were a series of challenges impeding the town’s long-term survival, but it is celebrated as a key historical icon. In 1974 California State Parks purchased the land in order to maintain it as a site for visitors to learn and explore the Colonel’s house, historic schoolhouse, Baptist church, and library.

About the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA) Since July 2015, SJJPA has been responsible for the management and administration of Amtrak San Joaquins. SJJPA is governed by Board Members representing each of the ten (10) Member Agencies along the 365-mile San Joaquins Corridor. For more information on SJJPA see http://www.sjjpa.com.

Amtrak San Joaquins is Amtrak’s 6th busiest route with 18 train stations throughout the Central Valley and Bay Area, providing a safe, comfortable and reliable way to travel throughout California. Amtrak San Joaquins is currently running six daily round-trips. In addition to the train service, Amtrak San Joaquins Thruway buses provide connecting service to 135 destinations in California and Nevada including Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, San Diego, Napa Valley, Las Vegas and Reno.

Photo: Kaiser Permanente

 By Elissa Harrington, Sr. Media Relations & PR Rep, Kaiser Permanente Northern California

A mobile medical vehicle provides routine and urgent care for a community recovering from a flood.

A modern community food hub opens in a struggling neighborhood, so residents don’t go hungry.

And a high school wellness room offers teenagers a welcome respite from the stresses of daily life.

These are just three examples of programs that Kaiser Permanente recently supported as part of its mission to improve health in the communities it serves. The Kaiser Permanente Northern California Community Health Snapshot includes brief stories about these programs and much more.

In 2024, Kaiser Permanente invested $1.7 billion in Northern California communities and $89 million in the Diablo Service area, which includes Antioch and Walnut Creek, to support community health. A major part of that investment helped people access high-quality health care through Kaiser Permanente’s participation in Medi-Cal and its own Medical Financial Assistance program.

Kaiser Permanente also worked with many local organizations throughout Northern California to address the biggest factors that shape people’s health. The report is titled “Connection is Everything,” in recognition of the connections we make in the communities we serve to improve health.

“We partnered with community organizations to address deep-rooted barriers that keep people from being healthy, such as not having a safe place to live, enough food to eat, or money to cover life’s essentials,” said Yvette Radford, vice president, External and Community Affairs for Kaiser Permanente Northern California. “When we help keep people and communities healthy, the health care system works better for everyone.”

You can learn more about our work to improve health in your community by exploring Kaiser Permanente Northern California’s 11 local Community Health Snapshots. Go to our Northern California page and scroll down to the “Communities we serve” section.