Central County | Contra Costa Herald

Fatal solo vehicle crash on Hwy 242 late Sunday night claims life of Pittsburg man

November 30, 2020 By Publisher Leave a Comment

By CHP – Contra Costa

Last night at about 11:33pm, Contra Costa CHP was advised of a solo vehicle crash on State Route 242 northbound, at Hwy 4. Upon emergency personnel and CHP arrival, it was determined that a solo, black 1994 Honda Civic had veered from the lanes of traffic of SR-242 northbound and collided into the concrete center divider. The driver then lost control of the vehicle as it tumbled over the center divider and down the center dirt embankment towards the southbound lanes of SR-242. The vehicle landed on its roof and came to rest within the southbound lanes of SR-242.

The driver, a 22-year-old male from Concord, was restrained and sustained only minor injuries. The male passenger, an adult male from Pittsburg, was not properly restrained and subsequently ejected from the vehicle and onto the roadway of SR-242 southbound and struck by a passing vehicle. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. The Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Coroner’s Office will be handling the release of the deceased passenger’s identity.

Alcohol or drugs are not considered a factor in this collision, but it is still under investigation. If anyone witnessed this collision or the events leading up to it and have not yet spoken with CHP, please contact Contra Costa CHP in Martinez, (925) 646-4980.

Pearl Harbor veterans to be honored in virtual “Eye of Diablo” Beacon-Lighting Ceremony December 7

November 28, 2020 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Mount Diablo Beacon. Photo by Stephen Joseph.

Commemorative Pictorial Postmark Announced

By Laura Kindsvater, Communications Manager, Save Mount Diablo

This December 7th, National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, three local survivors of World War II’s “Day of Infamy”—the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941—will share their stories as part of a virtual ceremony filmed primarily atop Mount Diablo.

Sponsors of the yearly event, including local land trust Save Mount Diablo, California State Parks, Sons and Daughters of Pearl Harbor Survivors Chapter 5, and California State University– East Bay, are proud to present a virtual celebration this year beginning at 4:30 p.m. Pacific Standard Time on Monday, December 7th.

In a 45-minute video, three local East Bay survivors of the Pearl Harbor attack will recount their experiences that fateful day. Speakers will then pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives and honor those yet living, “Lest We Forget” the tragedy that befell the country nearly six decades ago and the way we came together after the attack.

Three Pearl Harbor survivors and the crowd celebrating the Beacon being lit and looking up to the Summit of Mount Diablo from the California State University–East Bay Concord Campus on December 7, 2018. Photo by Richard Usinger.

“When that beacon light is turned on, that’s a tribute to those individuals who lost their lives at Pearl Harbor,” said Pearl Harbor survivor Earl “Chuck” Kohler from Concord.

Save Mount Diablo’s Executive Director Ted Clement noted, “This year it is especially important that we come together as a nation to honor National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day and those who served. Reflecting on that day and the aftermath reminds us of the strength of our nation when we come together even amidst great adversity. Our December 7th virtual event will enable more people to come together on this important day.”

Eddie Guaracha, California State Parks Diablo Range District Superintendent, stated, “As we reflect on this historic event, it is not only critical to remember the many lives that were lost, but also to remember the selfless acts undertaken by many on this fateful day. This is the spirit of our country in critical times. It is an honor to represent California State Parks on this momentous occasion, and I hope we can all remember to radiate kindness toward one another, as we remember those who gave all on this day.”

“As we pass through difficult, often divisive times ourselves, the sacrifices borne by the American people following that fateful morning some 79 years ago should give us all an enormous sense of pride, and most importantly, hope for the future. Cal State East Bay is honored to once again participate in this annual act of remembrance,” said Robert Phelps, Director of the California State University–East Bay (Concord Campus).

The U.S. Postal Service, in commemoration of this year’s National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, is issuing a special pictorial postmark. The postmark can be obtained by following the instructions here.

Those interested in witnessing this year’s virtual Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Ceremony can find the video link on Save Mount Diablo’s home page at 4:30 PM on December 7th at www.savemountdiablo.org.

Background

Every year since 1964, the Pearl Harbor survivors and their families have memorialized Pearl Harbor Day by relighting the historic Beacon atop Mount Diablo’s summit.

The Beacon was originally lit by Charles Lindbergh in 1928 to assist in the early days of commercial aviation. The Beacon shone from the summit of Mount Diablo each night until December 8, 1941, the day after the attack on Pearl Harbor.

It was not relit until December 7, 1964, when Fleet Admiral Chester Nimitz, Commander in Chief of Pacific Forces during World War II, attended a ceremony on Mount Diablo’s summit in commemoration of the survivors of Pearl Harbor. He suggested that the Beacon be lit every December 7th to honor those who served and sacrificed.

Save Mount Diablo, California State Parks, the Sons and Daughters of Pearl Harbor Survivors Chapter 5, California State University–East Bay (Concord Campus), and others organize the annual lighting ceremony of the Beacon every December 7^th in honor of the National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.

One of the bright lights provided to the San Francisco Bay Area during this pandemic is the Mount Diablo Beacon, which Save Mount Diablo staff and volunteers light every Sunday night after sunset so that the Beacon can shine brightly through the darkness until it is rested after sunrise on Monday.

Save Mount Diablo’s lighting of the Beacon every week is a way to thank our heroes in these troubling times, to help our communities come together, and to remind people to lift their eyes to the light and nature.

Save Mount Diablo began this weekly lighting of the Beacon on Sunday, April 12th, Easter Sunday. However, the Beacon will not be lit on Sunday, November 29th and Sunday, December 6th to build anticipation for and honor the coming National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. After the December 7th ceremonial lighting of the Beacon, Save Mount Diablo will resume the weekly lighting of the Beacon for as long as the pandemic rages here.

Commemorative Pictorial Postmark Announced

As a community service, the U.S. Postal Service™ offers pictorial postmarks to commemorate local events celebrated in communities throughout the nation.

Those who wish to obtain the postmark may submit a mail order request. Requests must be postmarked no later than 30 days following the requested pictorial postmark date.

All requests must include a stamped envelope or postcard bearing at least the minimum First-Class Mail^® postage. Items submitted for postmark may not include postage issued after the date of the requested postmark. Such items will be returned unserviced.

Customers wishing to obtain a postmark must affix stamps to any envelope or postcard of their choice, address the envelope or postcard to themselves or others, insert a card of postcard thickness in envelopes for sturdiness, and tuck in the flap. Place the envelope or postcard in a larger envelope and address it to: Pictorial Postmarks, followed by the Name of the Station, Address, City, State, ZIP+4^® Code, as listed next to the postmark.

Customers can also send stamped envelopes and postcards without addresses for postmark, as long as they supply a larger envelope with adequate postage and their return address. After applying the pictorial postmark, the Postal Service returns the items (with or without addresses) under addressed protective cover.

About Sons and Daughters of Pearl Harbor Survivors

It is the mission of the SDPHS to create programs that inspire youth and adults to learn and document the history of the beginning of WWII and the days that followed from people who experienced it and from their ancestors. Learn more at www.sdphs.org.

About Save Mount Diablo

SMD is a nationally accredited, nonprofit land trust founded in 1971 with a mission to preserve Mount Diablo’s peaks, surrounding foothills, and watersheds through land acquisition and preservation strategies designed to protect the mountain’s natural beauty, biological diversity, and historic and agricultural heritage; enhance our area’s quality of life; and provide recreational opportunities consistent with the protection of natural resources. Learn more at www.savemountdiablo.org.

About California State Parks

To provide for the health, inspiration, and education of the people of California by helping to preserve the state’s extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valued natural and cultural resources, and creating opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation. Learn more at www.parks.ca.gov.

About California State University–East Bay

Cal State East Bay welcomes and supports a diverse student body with academically rich, culturally relevant learning experiences that prepare students to apply their education to meaningful lifework, and to be socially responsible contributors to society. Through its educational programs and activities, the university strives to meet the educational needs and to contribute to the vitality of the East Bay, the state, the nation, and global communities. Learn more at www.csueastbay.edu.

County high school students explore new ways to connect with nature

November 23, 2020 By Publisher Leave a Comment

De La Salle students gather with Save Mount Diablo Executive Director Ted Clement at SMD’s Big Bend property east of Clayton to prepare for their solo experiences in nature. Photo by Al Johnson.

De La Salle High School students team up with Save Mount Diablo to learn about nature while staying safe during the pandemic

By Laura Kindsvater, Communications Manager, Save Mount Diablo

De La Salle High School students, eager to get outdoors, leapt at the chance to be part of Save Mount Diablo’s newly revised, hands-on Conservation Collaboration Agreement program designed to connect young people to nature while keeping them safe during the pandemic. “Students are geniuses at adapting,” said Ted Clement, Executive Director of Save Mount Diablo (SMD). “When we had to change the way we deliver our experiential Conservation Collaboration Agreement (CCA) education program, they and their teachers took up the challenge and are making it work.”

Two De La Salle students breaking ground to plant some native coyote brush as part of restoring Save Mount Diablo’s Big Bend property during an environmental service project. Photo by Al Johnson.

De La Salle High School is not new to the CCA program. An earlier class took part in 2018, when the program’s traditional three-part format was in place. Then, students learned basic information during classroom presentations by SMD staff and, on a separate day in the field, completed a hands-on stewardship project along with a hike, a presentation by an environmental educator, and a solo journaling experience. The impact was powerful: Students’ knowledge and intentions to spend more time outdoors skyrocketed.

Now SMD has moved presentations to a Zoom platform, and outdoors activities take place with social distancing and masks. Plus, students can opt for self-directed outdoors projects under the guidance of SMD and their teacher instead of gathering with their classmates. The question is: Will the new format be as effective?

Save Mount Diablo Land Stewardship Manager Roxana Lucero pulls mulch out of a wheelbarrow as De La Salle students and Honors Biology Teacher Henriette Howett prepare to rake it around a newly planted native coyote brush shrub. Photo by Al Johnson.

So far, yes. This year’s class – a total of 54 Honors Biology students – is jumping right in to the new CCA format. After two initial Zoom presentations, the class spent a day outdoors – a group of 21 completed a restoration project on Save Mount Diablo’s Big Bend property, and 33 created their own hands-on nature service projects. Save Mount Diablo gave these 33 students a list of project ideas, such as creating art from trash, cleaning up their neighborhoods, planting native plants in their gardens, removing invasive weeds with landowners’ permission, and reducing energy usage in their homes.

Wearing masks and distancing themselves socially, the group of 21 worked hard to restore habitat at Save Mount Diablo’s Big Bend property, planting yarrow, coyote bush, Pacific blackberry, and California rose. They also potted up blue oak acorns for planting next year. The 33 students who completed the program as an independent study project will report on their experience in the class’s upcoming, and final, Zoom meetings today and tomorrow.

Two De La Salle students planting some native coyote brush on November 14 at Save Mount Diablo’s Big Bend property in the Marsh Creek watershed. Photo by Al Johnson.

“On Saturday, November 14th, 2020, I was fortunate to take 21 of my Honors Biology students on a field trip to work on a Conservation Collaboration Agreement with Save Mount Diablo. This is my second year doing a CCA and it was a wonderful experience. I’m currently teaching remotely, so this was the first time for me to see my students in person. As always, it was so nice to be out in nature, but more so now because of the pandemic. Many students are feeling isolated being home in front of the computer all day long for virtual meetings. I’ve been encouraging them to go out for hikes and to get some fresh air, but it was nice to have the experience together. My favorite part of the day was the solo in nature. I watched eagerly as 10 of my students walked up the oak-covered hillside and selected a tree to sit by. They reflected on their prompts about nature, as did I. In this busy time where all the days seem to drag together, day after day, it was a meaningful experience to sit and slow down. I’m so grateful to have had this opportunity with my students and the Save Mount Diablo staff,” stated Henriette Howett, De La Salle High School Honors Biology Teacher.

A De La Salle student contemplating nature amid a forest of blue oak trees during the solo part of the field experience. Photo by Al Johnson.

This enthusiasm is important because youth today, “spend less time outside than prison inmates, with the average child playing freely outside for just four to seven minutes a day,” according to a 2017 report commissioned by REI Co-op, The Path Ahead. This report notes that the average American now spends about 95 percent of their life indoors. It further reports that we are becoming an “indoor species,” which comes with consequences: “Our health and well-being may suffer. And the less we value our outdoor spaces, the less likely we are to protect them.”

Clement considers De La Salle one of the CCA program’s benchmark participants. “It’s clear that De La Salle students embrace new challenges, and their teachers support them every step of the way,” he noted. “Having this group use our new CCA format, so we can continue to connect kids to nature during the pandemic, is a privilege and will pave the way for other classes to be successful.” He continued, “Save Mount Diablo thanks De La Salle High School for its commitment to getting young people connected to the beautiful Mount Diablo natural areas through our Conservation Collaboration Agreement program. This type of leadership is directly addressing the disturbing trend of ‘nature deficit disorder’ in our modern culture.”

De La Salle students work with Save Mount Diablo Land Stewardship Manager Roxana Lucero to gather mulch for native planting sites. Photo by Al Johnson.

In the final portion of the CCA program, designed to engage students in educational and participatory philanthropy, the class will work to raise funds to become members of SMD through SMD’s discounted youth membership program.

About Save Mount Diablo

DeLaSalle students with Save Mt. Diablo Executive Director Ted Clement. Photo by Floyd McCluhan.

About De La Salle High School

De La Salle High School is a private Roman Catholic school for boys in Concord, California. The school was founded in 1965. De La Salle currently enrolls 1,039 students, and roughly 99 percent of each graduating class goes on to attend a university or college. Learn more at www.dlshs.org.

For other photos, please credit photographer in image file name. For video files, please credit Floyd McCluhan.

Coroner’s Jury finds 2019 police shooting death of Concord man attacking his parents with knife to be an accident

November 19, 2020 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Screenshot of body worn camera video of Donald James Eversen attacking his mother just before Concord Police Officer fatally shot him on Dec. 1, 2019.

By Jimmy Lee, Public Information Officer, Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff-Coroner

Sheriff-Coroner David Livingston announces that a Coroner’s Jury reached a finding in the December 1, 2019 death of 60-year-old Donald James Eversen of Concord. The finding of the jury is that the death is an accident.

The Coroner’s Jury yesterday reached a 10-0 verdict after hearing the testimony of witnesses called by the hearing officer, Matthew Guichard.

Eversen was shot and killed by Concord Police while he was attacking his elderly parents with a knife. (See Concord Police Department video of incident. Warning: contains disturbing images.)

Screenhot of still image showing Eversen with knife just as he’s shot by police. From Concord PD.

A Coroner’s Inquest, which Sheriff-Coroner David Livingston convenes in fatal incidents involving peace officers, is a public hearing during which a jury rules on the manner of a person’s death. Jury members can choose from the following four options when making their finding: accident, suicide, natural causes, or at the hands of another person, other than by accident.

Herald Addition: Asked why the jury chose “an accident” instead of “at the hands of another person, other than by accident” and if they offered any details for their decisions, Lee responded, “That was the jury’s decision. No details were provided.”

Allen Payton contributed to this report.

Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office investigates death of El Sobrante attempted murder suspect from fight at Martinez jail

November 19, 2020 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Following and awaiting results of test for COVID-19

By Jimmy Lee, Public Information Officer, Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff

The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff and the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office continue to investigate an in-custody death at the Martinez Detention Facility per the officer-involved fatal incident protocol.

On Monday, November 16, 2020, at 5:07 PM, inmate Ezekiel McCoy sustained injuries during a fight with other inmates at the West County Detention Facility. He was transported by ambulance to the Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (CCRMC) in Martinez at 6:30 PM.

On Tuesday, November 17, 2020, at about 12:15 AM, McCoy arrived at the Martinez Detention Facility after being treated and cleared by medical staff at CCRMC.

McCoy was placed in a negative air flow room at MDF pending the result of a COVID-19 test. He was checked on throughout the day and last checked at 4:23 PM. About nine minutes later, deputies found McCoy unresponsive. Deputies and medical staff provided life-saving measures. The fire department was at MDF on an unrelated incident, and they responded immediately. McCoy was later pronounced deceased at the scene.

30-year-old McCoy of El Sobrante was originally arrested by the Pinole Police Depart-ment and booked into MDF on July 28, 2020. McCoy was being held on numerous charges that include attempted murder, child endangerment, burglary, having a concealed weapon in his car, domestic violence, making criminal threats, and probation violation. McCoy was being held in lieu of $1,480,000 bail.

Anyone with any information on this incident is asked to contact the Investigation Divi-sion at (925) 313-2600 or through Sheriff’s Office dispatch at (925) 646-2441. For any tips, email: tips@so.cccounty.us or call (866) 846-3592 to leave an anonymous voice message.

Reporters who have inquiries on McCoy’s medical treatment should contact the Contra Costa Health Services Public Information Officer at (925) 608-5463 or at DOC.PIO@cchealth.org.

Glazer names Walnut Creek-based Trinity Center 7th Senate District 2020 Nonprofit of the Year

November 13, 2020 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Trinity Center’s new home, part of the St. Paul’s Commons Community in Walnut Creek, California. Photo: Trinity Center website.

State Senator to honor group for its work welcoming vulnerable populations during COVID-19 on Wed., Nov. 18

Senator Steve Glazer, (D-7, Orinda), has chosen Walnut Creek-based Trinity Center as the 2020 California Nonprofit of the Year for his Senate district. Senator Glazer will recognize the nonprofit group in a livestream presentation on Wednesday, November 18.

The livestream will take place on Senator Glazer’s website: https://sd07.senate.ca.gov/ at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, November 18.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Trinity Center has provided a welcoming space for homeless and very low-income individuals at a level not seen before: It served 970 unique individuals and provided more than 56,000 services in 2019-2020.

Trinity Center, located at 1888 Trinity Avenue in Walnut Creek, is a place where vulnerable people can feel physically and emotionally safe, supported in their recovery, and part of a caring group that is focused on helping them escape the challenges of poverty. Trinity Center operates during the day and offers services such as: meals, showers, laundry, clothing, and mail & telephone access, coupled with case management for benefits, housing, employment, and substance use counseling.

“I am proud to honor Trinity Center for its vital work in keeping people safe and providing them with much needed services during this trying time of the Coronavirus pandemic,” said Glazer. “Trinity Center’s work is a lifeline for people who otherwise might not make it. Nonprofit organizations like Trinity are doing heroic work that cannot be undervalued.”

As a contracted Coordinated Assessment Referral and Engagement (CARE) Center since 2018, Trinity Center is an integral part of Contra Costa’s system of care for persons experiencing or at-risk of homelessness, providing for basic, immediate needs, and linking people with resources to regain stability and housing.

This is the fifth year of the California Nonprofit of the Year initiative, and with nonprofits doing more than ever to help their communities weather this COVID-19 crisis, their work should rightfully be celebrated.

“Nonprofits are often hidden in plain sight,” said Jan Masaoka, CEO of the California Association of Nonprofits (CalNonprofits). “With one in every 14 California jobs being at a nonprofit, honoring a California Nonprofit of the Year shows that elected officials recognize and celebrate the good work they see nonprofits doing in their districts. We urge everyone to appreciate the collective impact of nonprofits in our communities.”

About Trinity Center

Trinity Center is a non-residential program serving homeless and working poor adult men and women in Walnut Creek and Central Contra Costa County. We are a membership community that offers hope and support. We invite everyone to participate in our mission. For more information or to volunteer visit https://trinitycenterwc.org or call (925) 949-8712.

Walnut Creek resident, Ombudsman Services Executive Director named Woman of the Year by Congressman Garamendi

November 13, 2020 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Nicole Howell, Executive Director of Ombudsman Services of Contra Costa, Solano and Alameda. Photo & logo courtesy of OSCCSA.

Pleasant Hill, CA – Ombudsman Services of Contra Costa, Solano and Alameda is pleased to announce that Executive Director Nicole Howell has been selected as a 2020 Woman of the Year by Congressman John Garamendi.

In an effort to recognize outstanding women serving in California’s Third Congressional District, the Congressman annually invites individuals and organizations to submit nominations of those who have shown a commitment to improving quality of life through leadership and public service.

“Every year I have the honor of recognizing the achievements and service of these distinguished women, Garamendi said. “These leaders come from a variety of backgrounds, but every one of them has made a real difference to their communities and the people around them. It’s a privilege to be able to honor them.”

“As the COVID-19 pandemic has rippled through our nation, each of these women have worked tirelessly to serve their communities and help vulnerable populations weather this storm. Their service is deserving of recognition, and by receiving this award, their work will be commemorated and chronicled at the Library of Congress in Washington, DC,” Garamendi added.

“This is a tremendous honor,” Howell said during the awards ceremony. “I would like to thank Jennalee Dawson for nominating me and, of course, Congressman Garamendi for selecting me.”

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Howell, and the Ombudsman team took to the front lines to distribute personal protective equipment to over 15,000 residents in long-term care. She also participated in efforts for residents’ rights by collaborating with local media and testifying on behalf of a movement of residents and their families at the House Ways and Means Health Subcommittee hearing “Examining the COVID-19 Nursing Home Crisis” on June 25. During the height of COVID-19, OSCCSA completed nearly 300 facility consultations and close to 200 individual consultations, providing vital information and resources throughout Alameda County.

“I want to accept this award on behalf of all those people who are fighting the fight for seniors right now, particularly those in long-term care,” Howell said. “Thank you so much. This is beyond what I could have dreamed.”

Driven by a calling, the Walnut Creek resident dedicates her career to the memories and experiences of her grandma – a Native American facing struggles as a low-income person whose second language is English.

In her grandma’s legacy, a decade-long career began in the nonprofit and then aging communities to fill a void by building programs, teams, and infrastructures and providing resources to educate and combat the ageism fighting against old adults. Nicole has helped cultivate change through the belief that there is both power and equity in shared leadership. She believes that powerful leadership is met with equal parts enthusiasm, engagement, and connection to the team and those you are working with.

As the Executive Director for Ombudsman Services of Contra Costa, Solano, and Alameda (OSCCSA), Howell is responsible for ensuring that the nearly 29,000 long-term care residents and their families have access to the highest level of care and respect and, above all, can live free of abuse and neglect.

“I’ve always had a passion for the nonprofit community, but when I became part of the Ombudsman Services in my prior role as the Director of Operations for Ombudsman Services of San Mateo County, something just clicked,” she said. “It reignited a connection and those experiences I saw my grandma facing. I quickly became a fierce advocate for seniors and dependent adults and was driven to immerse myself in culture-changing initiatives and person-centered care philosophies. It’s a true honor to use my voice for all of those in long-term care – residents, their families, and those who have passed. Really, it’s not just a community. It’s a movement of people.”

Since becoming Executive Director, Howell has grown OSCCSA’s budget by nearly 600%, lowered the use of anti-psychotics in Contra Costa County by 10%, and increased facility coverage by unearthing the problems and issues that are being overlooked. She has helped spearhead many new programs in Ombudsman Services and beyond, including the Elder Justice Program Solano, Telephone Reassurance, and Friendly Visiting in Solano County, as well as Healthcare Career Pathways and Residents’ Rights in Contra Costa.

About Nicole Howell

A Las Vegas native, Nicole Howell holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Nevada, Reno. As an avid speaker on all topics on elder advocacy and elder justice, she is honored to serve and be a part of the Solano Partners Against Violence as a Solano County appointed board member, a Chair of Legislative Policy for California Elder Justice Coalition, a member of the Rotary Club of Walnut Creek Sunrise, a member of the Core Project Team for the Alliance to End Abuse, a member of the Council for Age-Friendly Communities–Alameda County, a board member for the Trinity Center–Contra Costa County, and 2020 Walnut Creek Chair for Wine, Women, and Shoes.

About Ombudsman Services of Contra Costa, Solano and Alameda

Based in Pleasant Hill, with offices in Fairfield and Oakland, Ombudsman Services is the only organization mandated by law to make unannounced visits to long-term care facilities to ensure that residents are free from abuse and are receiving quality care. We have been aiding the community for more than 40 years, and all services are free of charge. We serve Contra Costa, Solano and Alameda counties with our team of highly trained Ombudsman staff and volunteers. For more information, visit www.ccombudsman.org.

About U.S. Congressman, John Garamendi

John Garamendi joined the U.S. House of Representatives on November 5, 2009. He brings nearly four decades of public service to the House Armed Services and Transportation & Infrastructure committees.

He has been a tireless proponent of job creation, quality and affordable health care, education, environmental protection, and scientific research, while always working to ensure the stability and success of the state he has always called home. Garamendi was raised on his family’s cattle ranch in Mokelumne Hill. He graduated with a BA in business from UC Berkeley and an MBA from Harvard Business School.

As California’s 46th Lieutenant Governor, Garamendi was Chair of the Commission for Economic Development, where he transformed this important body into a powerhouse to advocate for workforce development, vocational education, and research. As a Regent of the University of California and Trustee for the California State University System, Garamendi fought to hold the line on student fee increases and excessive administrator salaries. As Chair of the California State Lands Commission, he led the fight against new offshore oil drilling. For more information, visit https://garamendi.house.gov/.

Concord man jumps to his death off Hwy 242 overpass while fleeing from Sheriff’s Deputies

October 9, 2020 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Officer involved fatal incident under investigation, suspect identified

By Jimmy Lee, Director of Public Affairs, Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff

On Wednesday, October 7, 2020, at about 8:31 PM, Muir Station Deputy Sheriffs responded to a report of a hit and run collision in Bay Point. Deputies were assisting CHP attempting to locate the hit and run vehicle when a deputy saw a Toyota Prius driving erratically away from them. The deputy believed the Prius might be involved in the hit and run and attempted to conduct a traffic stop in the area of Willow Pass Road and Weldon Street in Bay Point.

The vehicle did not yield and fled at a high rate of speed, leading deputies on a pursuit that went westbound on Highway 4, Highway 242, and surface streets in the city of Concord.

The suspect later collided into a guardrail at the interchange between Highway 242 and westbound Highway 4. The suspect then fled on foot on the freeway. While running on the overpass to westbound Highway 4, the suspect jumped off the overpass.

Deputies found the suspect on the ground and immediately performed CPR on him with the assistance of Concord PD. An ambulance and the fire department responded to the scene to continue life-saving measures.

The suspect was later pronounced deceased at the scene. He is identified as 31-year-old Kentreal Irving of Concord.

Per the countywide law enforcement involved fatal incident protocol, this incident is being investigated by the Contra Costa County D.A.’s Office, Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff, and the California Highway Patrol.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Investigation Division at (925) 313-2600 or through Sheriff’s Office dispatch at (925) 646-2441. For any tips, email: tips@so.cccounty.us or call (866) 846-3592 to leave an anonymous voice message.

Contra Costa Transportation Authority partners with Minnesota DOT to expand autonomous vehicle testing opportunities

October 8, 2020 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Local Motors Shared Autonomous Vehicle preparing for a test run at GoMentum Station. Photo: CCTA

By Linsey Willis, Director of External Affairs, CCTA

The Contra Costa Transportation Authority proudly announces a new partnership with the Minnesota Department of Transportation– an agency dedicated to advancing transportation technology research – to share knowledge and testing facilities in an effort to advance safer, smarter, more efficient transportation networks that not only benefit both California and Minnesota, but can inform transportation technology implementation across the United States.

MnDOT’s Connected and Automated Vehicle team is actively working to advance research and deployment of Intelligent Transportation Systems, Connected Vehicle applications and Autonomous Vehicle technologies with the help of MnROAD–the state’s cold weather pavement testing facility. MnROAD has over 50 unique test sections on several roadways, including two 3.5-mile, high-speed corridors on Interstate 94 and a 2.5-mile, low-speed, closed access road. MnDOT also partners with Camp Ripley, a military and civilian training facility operated by the Minnesota National Guard, which has a 4.3-mile emergency vehicle operations course. With some of the most extreme weather conditions in the nation, Minnesota offers testing simulations that cannot be replicated elsewhere, which provides unique opportunities to test the safety features of CV and AV technologies.

Through this partnership, CCTA will have access to MnROAD facilities and likewise, MnDOT will have access to GoMentum Station in Concord, California – one of the largest secure connected and automated vehicle proving grounds in the country. GoMentum Station augments MnDOT’s testing with varied terrain, and real-life infrastructure including roads, bridges, tunnels, intersections and parking lots provide the environment needed to accelerate testing of the first and last mile applications, and the ability to safely test technology to its limits. CCTA also has many long-standing research and manufacturing partnerships that offer coordination opportunities for MnDOT.
“With this new collaboration, we’ll be able to test in conditions that just can’t be replicated here in Contra Costa,” stated Randy Iwasaki, Executive Director of CCTA. “Our partnership with a state agency like MnDOT will open new doors to shared research opportunities for a small agency like ours, and it’s exciting to be partnering with an agency that has similar goals in the arena of connected and automated vehicle technology.”

“Minnesota is excited to partner with one of the nation’s leading institutions in this work as we explore innovations in smart mobility, connected and automated vehicles and how advancing technologies are impacting communities,” said Kristin White, MnDOT CAV-X Executive Director. “Through collaboration and information sharing, we’re committing to learning from CCTA, sharing best practices and together advancing research that supports our regions and national goals. We believe this partnership can be a model for other regions to advance smart mobility.”

About the Contra Costa Transportation Authority

The Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) is a public agency formed by Contra Costa voters in 1988 to manage the county’s transportation sales tax program and oversee countywide transportation planning efforts. With a staff of twenty people managing a multi-billion-dollar suite of projects and programs, CCTA is responsible for planning, funding and delivering critical transportation infrastructure projects and programs that connect our communities, foster a strong economy, increase sustainability, and safely and efficiently get people where they need to go. CCTA also serves as the county’s designated Congestion Management Agency, responsible for putting programs in place to keep traffic levels manageable. More information about CCTA is available at ccta.net.
Background on MnDOT CAV Program

MnDOT’s Connected and Automated Vehicle Office (CAV-X) was launched in 2018 and is now one of the nation’s leading tech startups and idea incubators within state government. Building off its strong history in Intelligent Transportation Systems research, CAV-X advances research, policy, planning and strategy to help the Midwest prepare for the changes that advancing technologies will bring. This multi-disciplinary team combines the fields of law, policy, engineering, planning, and communications to develop strategic partnerships that advance the state’s goals to build a safe, equitable, accessible, healthy, and sustainable transportation system. CAV-X oversees over 100 projects in research, deployment and development with more information found at mndot.gov/automated.

About GoMentum Station

GoMentum Station in Concord, California is owned and operated by AAA, and it is the autonomous vehicle testing facility where the Contra Costa Transportation Authority leads and facilitates collaborative partnerships among multiple automobile manufacturers; original equipment manufacturers and Tier 1 suppliers; communications suppliers; technology companies; researchers and academia; public agencies and other partners. At GoMentum Station, technology, innovation and commercialization will converge to define the next generation of transportation network infrastructure. More information about GoMentum Station is available at gomentumstation.net.

CUTLINE: Local Motors Shared Autonomous Vehicle preparing for a test run at GoMentum Station

Jury convicts Martinez man, youth soccer coach for attempting to meet minor for sex

September 29, 2020 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Former Lamorinda Soccer Club coach actually set up meeting with undercover cop

By Scott Alonso, Public Information Officer, Office of the District Attorney, Contra Costa County

On September 28, 2020, after a three-day trial, a jury in Contra Costa County convicted 29-year-old Martinez resident Alejandro Sanchez for attempting to meet who he thought was an underage girl for sex. The jury found Sanchez guilty of three felonies including arranging to meet a minor for a lewd purpose, communicating with a minor for a sexual purpose and attempted lewd acts with a child.

Immediately following the reading of the verdicts, Sanchez was remanded into the custody of the Contra Costa County Sheriff to await sentencing, which is scheduled for November 6, in front of the Honorable Rebecca Hardie. Deputy District Attorney Jessica Murad prosecuted the case on behalf of our Office. DDA Murad is assigned to the Sexual Assault Unit.

Sanchez faces a maximum penalty of four years in state prison, fines and sex offender registration. Sanchez is a former youth soccer coach for the Lamorinda Soccer Club.

The investigation started in January 2019, when Sanchez used a social media app to contact a female. The female told Sanchez she was only 14-year-old and a freshman in high school. After the pair chatted for one day, they agreed to meet in-person. On January 4, 2019, Investigators with the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force went to a local park in Martinez that was the agreed upon meeting location and arrested Sanchez. Sanchez was arrested after he arrived at the location.

During the conversation with the minor, Sanchez complimented the minor and stated that “we need to cuddle then” and “you have a nice body” to her. During the course of the conversation, Sanchez made repeated remarks about the undercover officer’s physical appearance and expressed a desire to engage in sexual acts at his home alone with the underage girl.

The evidence presented at trial overwhelmingly showed Sanchez should have reasonably known that he was communicating with a minor and as a soccer coach and mandated reporter, he had sufficient facts to believe the person he was talking to was a minor.

The investigation was conducted by a multi-agency Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, which is managed by the San Jose Police Department. In Contra Costa County, detectives and investigators from the Walnut Creek, Martinez, San Ramon, Concord and Moraga Police Departments, the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, United States Secret Service, Homeland Security Investigations, the Contra Costa County Probation Department, and Inspectors from the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office participate in the task force.

Parents are encouraged to discuss online safety with their children and can visit the website www.kidsmartz.org or our website for further information.

The charges against Sanchez are as follows:

Count 1, Contact with Minor for Sexual Offense, Felony
Count 2, Meeting with a Minor for Lewd Purposes, Felony
Count 3, Attempted Lewd Act Upon a Child, Felony

Case information: People v. Alejandro Sanchez, Docket Number 05-191927-3