Contra Costa Herald

News Of By and For The People of Contra Costa County, California

Danville Update: Operation LOVE today and tomorrow, Farmers Market re-opens April 11

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From Town of Danville

After being suspended in March due to the Shelter in Place Order, the Danville Farmers Market will be returning this Saturday, April 11, 2020 at the Railroad Avenue Parking Lot.

The Pacific Coast Farmers Market Association (PCFMA) and the Town of Danville have worked to create guidelines under which the farmers market could return to provide residents with fresh fruits and vegetables.  These guidelines include:

  1. Limitations on the number of vendors and booths with plenty of space in between
  2. No non-essential vendors or activities. This would include entertainment, hot food, and community booths (including the Town Council booth)
  3. No self-serve or sampling allowed
  4. A hand-washing station will be supplied at the information booth
  5. Restrooms will not be operational
  6. Customers may not touch any sale item prior to purchase
  7. Producers may not touch customers’ reusable bags
  8. Unpackaged food and cash may not be handled by the same person
  9. Customers are asked to wear masks, adhere to social distancing and follow any other regulations posted at the Farmers Market

Operation LOVE Friday & Saturday

On April 10 & 11, 2020 residents can bring needed medical supplies to the Village Theatre & Art Gallery, 233 Front Street as part of Operation LOVE. The donation drive will run from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. and residents will be able to drive up and drop items off.  A volunteer wearing safety attire will take the donation. Operation LOVE seeks to help out frontline medical workers in need of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).  Items being sought are: 1.  Masks; 2.  Goggles; 3.  Disinfectant wipes; 4.  Gloves; 5.  Gowns; 6.  Hand Sanitizers; 7.  Brown lunch bags (nurses store their masks in them)

SRVUSD Schools Closed for Rest of the Year

As a result of the coronavirus and the ongoing shelter order, the San Ramon Valley Unified School District has elected to suspend school through the remainder of the school year.  All school-related special events are cancelled. For more information on this closure, go to https://www.srvusd.net/coronavirus

Maintaining Good Social Distancing

One of the common concerns expressed to us has to do with children and teenagers not maintaining good social distancing and getting together in large groups in the parks, on the trails and in parking lots.  The shelter in place order prohibits group gatherings outside of the family unit (this includes sports practices, training, or social gatherings), and requires individuals to maintain the six-foot social distance. These guidelines are in place to help limit the spread of the coronavirus and help to flatten the curve.  Parents are asked to speak to their children about this serious issue and try to get everyone to work together to curb the spread.

Cancer Support Community reschedules 6th Annual Hope Walk due to COVID-19 shelter in place

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New Date is October 17, 2020

By Alexandra Rubin, Director of Communications, Cancer Support Community San Francisco Bay Area

WALNUT CREEK, April 6, 2020 – Cancer Support Community San Francisco Bay Area (CSC) has announced that their 6th annual Hope Walk, originally scheduled for May 16, has been rescheduled to October 17. The fun event, which is a major fundraiser for the organization, draws over 1,000 registered walkers and more than 70 exhibitors to Heather Farm Park each year.

“The Hope Walk is a way for our members, supporters, and the whole community to come out and celebrate the great work that Cancer Support Community does, which is helping people live longer and live better when faced with cancer,” said CSC’s Development Director and the event’s manager, Carol Louisell. “And, it’s just a really great time for families to get out and get some exercise along with music, entertainment, and a thousand friends!”

While the Hope Walk has had to be postponed due to the shelter-in-place order, CSC has been able to continue bringing support, hope, and healing to cancer patients and their caregivers without interruption. CSC started providing virtual support groups the same day the order was announced, on Monday, March 16. By the next week, CSC not only had very strong participation in support groups and individual counseling sessions – with their therapists and facilitators working from their homes – but also had moved many movement classes and some workshops online.

“This is exactly what our mission is,” said James Bouquin, CSC’s Chief Executive Officer. “We help people deal with the unexpected, dramatic crisis of cancer every day. It’s one of the most isolating of diseases, creating anxiety and fear. We are proud and profoundly grateful that we can continue to be a source of hope, community, and relief for our members.”

People can register for the walk and make donations at http://www.hopewalkbayarea.net/. All registrations for the May date will be transferred to the new date.

CSC’s gala, “An Evening of Hope and Healing,” is still scheduled for September 19. For information on either of these events, please contact Carol Louisell at clouisell@cancersupport.net.

About Cancer Support Community San Francisco Bay Area

Celebrating 30 years in the East Bay, Cancer Support Community provides comprehensive, integrative care—including counseling, support groups, nutrition training, exercise classes, and patient education programs—for people with cancer, their caregivers, and their families. Our evidence-based services enable cancer patients to partner with their medical teams to manage their treatment and recovery most effectively, increase their chances for survival, reduce their chances of recurrence, and provide for the highest possible quality of life. We never turn anyone away, and all of our services are always provided free of charge. With services provided at our Walnut Creek center, in local medical centers throughout the Bay Area, and now in Antioch, we serve more than 2,200 people annually.

County announces sites for donating protective equipment and supplies for healthcare providers

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Donations will be accepted beginning Tuesday

By Kim McCarl, Communications Officer, Contra Costa Health Services

Contra Costa County announced, today the opening of three donation sites for protective medical supplies in West County, Central County and East County. The Regional Center of the East Bay, which serves developmentally disabled residents of Contra Costa and Alameda counties, will be distributing medical gloves donated by Facebook along with other medical equipment.
On Tuesday, March 24, Contra Costa Health Services will begin accepting donations of protective equipment and supplies for use by healthcare providers throughout the county.
Businesses and residents are encouraged to donate only the following types of protective medical supplies:

  • Eye protection, such as goggles and face shields
  • Antibacterial and disinfecting wipes, typically alcohol or bleach based (unopened). NO baby wipes.
  • N-95 and surgical masks (in unopened containers/boxes)
  • Medical gowns: Disposable gowns, as well as cloth surgical and hospital gowns in good condition

Donation centers will be open Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at:

  • West County: 151 Linus Pauling Drive, Hercules
  • Central County: 1750 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill
  • East County: 4545 Delta Fair Blvd., Antioch

Recognizing the urgent need all healthcare providers have for protective equipment, Facebook donated 350,000 medical gloves that will be distributed throughout Contra Costa County. Their donation is one example of the commitment organizations of all sizes have to support readiness efforts.
Please call the Contra Costa Health Services call center at 844-729-8410 with questions about what protective equipment will be accepted. Donation sites will be staffed by county employees.

White Pony Express continues food deliveries to families who use school food pantries

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Despite school closures

Due to the COVID-19 epidemic, almost all Contra Costa County schools are now closed for the protection of students. Despite this, White Pony Express (WPE), the food rescue nonprofit based in Pleasant Hill, will continue to deliver food to students and families being served by WPE’s “School Food Pantry Program.” Under this Program, WPE has been delivering fresh, surplus food to eleven free-lunch schools in the county. Since the schools are now closed, WPE will deliver the food to a nearby community center or church where families can still obtain it. Many of these families rely on this food to make ends meet.

Need for School Food Pantry Programs

Over 100,000 students in Contra Costa County, or 40%, qualify for the free lunch program. The goal of the School Pantry Program is to help eliminate hunger and increase students’ academic success so they can contribute more fully to the communities in which they live. Helen Jones, WPE’s Food Rescue Operations Manager says, “The families we serve through this program have

demanding challenges throughout the month. Many of the participants receive food stamps which only cover a portion of a month’s worth of food. The food that WPE provides to the schools we serve not only provides nutrition. It provides hope.”

Currently, WPE’s eleven school pantries are set up in schools located in Antioch, Bay Point, Martinez, Pittsburg, Richmond, and San Pablo. This year WPE’s school pantries will deliver in excess of 415,000 meals of quality, nutritious food. WPE plans to open new pantries in 2020, but

continuing the Program will depend on finding sustainable funding.

Institution of New Health Protocols

Based upon guidelines issued by the state and county, WPE will be incorporating new health guidelines to support state and local efforts to combat the COVID-19 outbreak. These protocols (hand washing, use of hand sanitizers, gloves, social distancing, etc.) will be made a part of all aspects of WPE’s food and clothing operations.

“It is important for the public and our volunteers to know that WPE will be implementing strict cleanliness standards so that our valuable programs can continue safely,” says Mary Brooks, WPE’s Executive Director. “And the families at the schools we are serving should know that WPE is preparing and delivering this surplus food in accordance with these high standards.”

ABOUT White Pony Express: WPE is a volunteer powered 501(c)3 organization headquartered in Pleasant Hill, CA, which helps people move from the margins to the mainstream by providing free food and clothing in a loving and respectful manner.

Dr. Carol Weyland Conner founded WPE in September 2013 when she was troubled that with such as an abundance of food, many thousands were going hungry, while at the same time food retailers were throwing out huge quantities of healthy, fresh food. Out of this insight, the Food Rescue program was born. In a little over 6 years, WPE has rescued and delivered more than 10.5 million pounds (equivalent to 8,750,000 meals) of fresh, nutritious food, free of charge, that would otherwise go to waste.

In 2014 the White Pony General Store was added to provide high quality clothing, toys, and books to the underserved in our communities – all free of charge. Since that time, the General Store has given away over 512,000 items to those in need.

If you’d like to contribute to WPE’s School Food Pantry Program or its other programs, you can do so by visiting WPE’s website at www.whiteponyexpress.org/donate-funds. Those who wish to volunteer can sign up at www.whiteponyexpress.org/volunteer.

For more on WPE, visit www.whiteponyexpress.org.

Parent leaders to host Census Family Fairs focused on complete count of all kids in Contra Costa

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Two parent advocacy groups—the East County Regional Group and the Central County Regional Group, both sponsored by First 5 Contra Costa— are hosting Census Family Fair events focused on a complete count of all children to secure needed federal funding and accurate representation for children and families across Contra Costa.

An undercount in the 2020 Census could cost Contra Costa County between $500 million and $1.1 billion over 10 years in federal programs, including programs for kids such as education, childcare, medical care, food assistance, housing, and public transportation.

“It is critical that everyone in underrepresented neighborhoods are counted for the 2020 Census. Being counted means more money into our communities for needed programs, as well as more equitable political representation for low-income families and families of color”, said Rhea Elina Laughlin, Program Officer with First 5 Contra Costa.

The well-being of all families in Contra Costa County is dependent upon a complete count. These fun, family-friendly events will raise awareness on the impact of an accurate count and address misinformation, fearmongering, and actions targeting underrepresented communities, especially immigrant families and families of color⁠.

With a focus on undercounted communities and to address some of the challenges in responding to the Census (including internet access and privacy concerns), there will be census experts, community resources, and trusted community partners available to answer any questions and to assist with the process.

“A lot of people don’t know about the census or worry how their information will be used. We’re holding this event to help our community understand how important it is we are all counted”, said Chipo Washington, Chair of the East County Regional Group.

There will be two events in Contra Costa County and all services are available at no cost—kids activities will include face painting, arts and crafts, as well as music and dance.

Saturday, March 14, 2020 (11am – 1pm) Anuta Park, 2485 Willow Pass Rd., Bay Point

Saturday, March 28, 2020 (11am – 1pm) Ellis Lake Park, 1760 Clayton Rd., Concord

Regional Groups are parent advocacy groups of residents working to make communities healthier, safer, and more equitable for young children and families. Three groups exist in Contra Costa County and work in partnership with the First 5 Contra Costa Community Engagement and Advocacy Program: East County Regional Group (ECRG), West County Regional Group (WCRG), and Central County Regional Group (CCRG).

First 5 Contra Costa helps young children start school healthy, nurtured and ready to learn by investing in programs and activities focused on children during their first five years—the most important time in children’s development. Learn more: http://www.first5coco.org/funded-programs/regional-groupsparent-advocacy/

RotaCare Pittsburg Free Medical Clinic at St. Vincent de Paul celebrates 9th anniversary Monday

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Zenaida and Yazmin in front of the St. Vincent de Paul and RotaCare Pittsburg signs. Photos by SVDP.

Launching initiative to implement electronic medical records

While celebrating the 9th Anniversary of serving uninsured residents of Contra Costa County, on Monday, Feb. 10th, RotaCare Pittsburg Free Medical Clinic at St. Vincent de Paul announces a major initiative – to update the clinic’s medical record keeping system. A successful implementation of an electronic medical record system (EMR) will allow the clinic to provide more efficient health care to the uninsured patients served, and more effectively track patients referred for surgical or specialty care. The Free Medical Clinic, located at St. Vincent de Paul’s (SVdP) Family Resource Center, 2210 Gladstone Dr. in Pittsburg, is one of the busiest Rotacare free clinics in the Bay Area, and provides no-questions asked healthcare to Contra Costa County’s most vulnerable, uninsured residents. The program serves adults with no medical insurance, providing exams, pharmaceuticals, lab tests, diagnostics, referrals, nutritional and healthy cooking classes – all at no charge.

The clinic is managed through a joint effort by SVdP and Rotacare Bay Area. Medical services are provided by volunteer doctors, nurses, interpreters, and other medical professionals. It is open every Wednesday from 4-8 PM and on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays from 8-11 AM. Since the clinic’s opening in 2011, over 13,000 patient visits have been provided to residents without insurance. Bi-lingual translation in Spanish is provided.

“What makes the clinic unique is that it is solely for the uninsured,” said longtime Medical Director Dr. Hamid Khonsari, “These are people who have no other place to go for medical care.”

A volunteer nurse serves a patient with a translator at the RotaCare Pittsburg clinic.

“We are one of the largest Rotacare Clinics in the Bay Area – and the benefits of switching to an EMR system is tremendous. One of the benefits will be the ability to share records with other Rotacare Clinics in the area using the same system, as well as giving us a better insight into our impact on our community,” Khonsari continued, “It really helps us pinpoint what we can improve on.” This information is difficult to access using paper charts.

In response to the needs of the community, the clinic evolved from its original launch as an urgent care clinic. With the continued help of their dedicated team of volunteers, the RotaCare Pittsburg Free Medical Clinic at St. Vincent de Paul added days, added volunteer providers, developed a hypertension clinic, and established asthma and diabetic follow up care. A special grant from Rotary International and local Rotary Clubs has provided funding for a pilot program, The Transitional Care Clinic, which provides intensive, on-going care for a small subset of diabetes & hypertension patients in an effort to impact their health outcomes. Now the clinic is ready to take the next step in their record keeping as well.

Financial support for the free clinic is provided from Kaiser Permanente, Los Medanos Community Healthcare District, Sutter Health, John Muir Health, City of Pittsburg/CDBG, Contra Costa County/CDBG, Keller Canyon Mitigation Fund, area Catholic Churches, local Rotary Clubs, St. Vincent de Paul and many generous individuals.

SVdP’s Family Resource Center in Pittsburg, also provides additional safety-net services. Assistance is also available through SVdP’s 29 branches throughout the county.

To learn more, visit www.svdp-cc.org, or call (925) 439-5060 or send an email to info@svdp-cc.org.

Los Medanos College seeks nominations for annual César Chávez Awards

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Los Medanos College (LMC) is preparing to host its annual César Chávez Celebration on Friday, March 27, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. A reception will begin at 6:00 p.m., followed by the awards and recognition ceremony at 7:00 p.m. LMC is located at 2700 East Leland Road in Pittsburg.  The public is welcome to attend, and the event is free.

Los Medanos College hosts this event each year to honor the life of César Chávez and to recognize East Contra Costa County community leaders who continue his great tradition of service and social activism. A true American hero, César Chávez exemplifies service to community and non-violent social change.

The college is now seeking nominations for three recognition awards, which will be presented at the event.  The LMC César Chávez Award for Exemplary Community Service, established in 1995, is awarded to local residents who have demonstrated a long-standing commitment to service and who represent the core values established by César Chávez: Service to Others, Sacrifice, Help the Most Needy, Determination, Non-Violence, Acceptance of All People, Respect for Life and the Environment, Celebrating Community, Knowledge, and Innovation.  The East County Educator Award honors members of the educational community who demonstrate the above values and a commitment to student success and equity, particularly for low-income students and students of color.  The Chávez Spirit Award recognizes student/emerging leaders who are making an impact on East Contra Costa County in the areas of advocacy and social justice.

To submit nominations for the César Chávez awards, visit: www.losmedanos.edu/chavez/nominate/.  The deadline for nominations is February 29, 2020.

Details about other LMC activities celebrating the life and legacy of César Chávez can be viewed at: www.losmedanos.edu/chavez/event.

Kiwanis Club of Brentwood energized by new president Alan Iannaccone

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Alan Iannaccone (center) with his family and Kiwanis Club members following his installation as the Brentwood Club’s new president on Friday, Jan. 10, 2020. Photos courtesy of Kiwanis Club of Brentwood.

Alan Iannaccone given oath of office as club president for 2020 by Angel Luevano as Argentina Dávila-Luévano looks on.

By Argentina Dávila-Luévano, Immediate Past Lt. Gov, Division 26

The Kiwanis Club of Brentwood has a new, dynamic and superb leader in President Alan Iannaccone. Alan represents the future of Kiwanis to bring invigorating and energetic Professionalism into its member ranks.

He was installed for the 2020 year during a ceremony on Friday, January 10 and received special recognition from U.S. Congressman Jerry McNerney and State Assembly Member Jim Frazier.

Alan works as a Station Design Engineer and earned a bachelor degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Portland, Oregon. Alan attended Holy Rosary Catholic School in Antioch and De La Salle High School. Among his many achievements, Alan was head coach of Springwood Swim Club and enjoys his hobbies in Golf, Hiking, and Water Polo. Alan brings ten years of community service to the Club.

He is the son of Brentwood chiropractor Dr. Alan and Elizabeth Iannacone of Brentwood and grandson of Monte and Lucia Albers, also of Brentwood.

Alan (center) with members of the Key Club, the service program of Kiwanis International for high school students.

Alan is already planning our Kiwanis Brentwood Club’s first Golf Tournament and Restaurant Tour. Come and Join us in welcoming Alan Iannaccone as the new president of the Kiwanis Club of Brentwood.

Our club meets once a month on the second Tuesday of the month from 6:30-8:00 p.m at Jalisco Restaurant in Brentwood.

Kiwanis International is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world, one child and one community at a time.

Kiwanis is for men and women who want personal involvement in the leadership and improvement of their communities.

Our club is a snapshot of the community and made up of individuals who are unified in their belief that children and their community’s benefit from the efforts of a proficient group of caring and involved people.