Contra Costa Herald

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

Los Medanos College to livestream homecoming football game Oct. 5

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Source: LMC

Feature 50th Anniversary Tribute Halftime Show

Pittsburg, Calif. – Los Medanos College (LMC) presents a special livestream production on CCTV of the Mustangs’ homecoming game against De Anza College Lions, 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 5 from the Pittsburg Campus, 2700 E. Leland Road.

The livestream includes a half-time show that debuts a special 50th Anniversary Tribute with historic images, musical score by the LMC Jazz Band, introduction by Contra Costa County Supervisor Ken Carlson, and commentary by former President Peter Garcia, President Pamela Ralston, author and art history professor Nick Nabas, and others.

“This tribute showcases the heart and soul of LMC that has endured from the first day we swung open the doors to students,” President Pamela Ralston said. “It captures the arc of our success through memories and stories of our alumni, dedicated faculty and staff, and students.”

Source: LMC

The tribute video, produced in partnership with Fallout Pictures, rounds out the homecoming game production, which includes a high-energy opener produced by CCTV’s Ronn Carter. The opener highlights the city of Pittsburg and its storied success as an economic driver for the East Bay. Gametime coverage also features announcing and color commentary by local sports broadcasters Tony Schultz and Dan Wall (an LMC alumnus), and contributions by LMC Experience student journalists Finn Atkin, Juan Cebreiros, and Lauren Gannod.

The homecoming game is Part II of a day of festivities that begins at the 11 a.m. party, hosted by legendary DJ Chuy Gomez of 102 Jams FM. The party will be held on the Pittsburg Campus in grassy area adjacent to Mustang Stadium.

For more information about LMC 50th Anniversary activities, visit www.losmedanos.edu/50th.

About Los Medanos College (LMC): LMC is one of three colleges in the Contra Costa Community College District, serving the East Contra Costa County community. Established in 1974, LMC has earned federal designations as a Minority-Serving and Hispanic-Serving institution. It offers award-winning transfer and career-technical programs, support services, and diverse academic opportunities in an inclusive learning environment. With exceptional educators, innovative curriculum, growing degree and certificate offerings, and state-of-the-art facilities, the college prepares students to succeed in their educational pursuits, in the workforce, and beyond. LMC’s Pittsburg Campus is located on 120 acres bordering Antioch, with an additional education center in Brentwood.

 

Faye Maloney runs again for Brentwood City Council District 1

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Brentwood District 1 City Council candidate Faye Maloney. Sources: Maloney campaign and City of Brentwood.

This time for open seat on a campaign of public safety, promoting ag, preserving history, supporting local business, smart growth and greater environmental considerations

By Allen D. Payton

In a repeat of the 2020 campaign, Law Enforcement Supervisor Faye Maloney is running again for the Brentwood City Council in District 1 in the upcoming November 2024 election to provide “Next Generation Leadership”. Last time she ran in a multi-candidate race and placed second behind current incumbent Jovita Mendoza but ahead of former Mayor Brian Swisher and then-Councilwoman Claudette Station. This time, following redistricting in 2022, Maloney is running for an open seat and faces only one opponent.

Maloney’s campaign issued the following announcement:

“With a commitment to support public safety, promote the agriculture community, preserving Brentwood history, support local businesses, smart growth and greater environmental considerations, Faye Maloney aims to bring unity and a thriving culture to Brentwood, CA.

Faye Maloney’s experience in public safety, advocacy, and empowerment has prepared her to tackle the challenges and represent her community. Faye Maloney believes in the power of collaborative problem-solving and fostering positive relationships within her city and regionally.

Faye Maloney’s campaign will aim to engage with the community through outreach efforts and events, ensuring that the voices of the community are heard and represented. Faye Maloney invites all community members to join her in this exciting chapter. For more information about the campaign and to get involved, please visit fayeforbrentwood.com or follow Fay Maloney on Facebook and/or Instagram.

According to the Meet Faye page on her campaign website, Maloney was born in Chicago and offers a compelling life story having been abducted by her father at age six and kept from her mother until age eight. That led her to a career in law enforcement, beginning with the Sacramento Sheriff’s Department and later for an agency in Alameda County in 2009.  The second-time candidate says, she “has a background in policy, code enforcement and legislation, and acts as an advocate and voice for people who have none.”

Other Issues

According to information from Maloney’s Campaign Statement shared by KQED, she offers her positions on other issues facing the city including:

  • Infrastructure: “As a commuter, I understand the importance of ensuring our infrastructure is maintained and grows along with our city. I will work with others to reduce our commute times and support smart growth within our city limits.”
  • Education: “As a parent, I understand the significance of our children’s education and will support schools, students, and school leadership.”
  • Homelessness: “As a career law enforcement professional, I understand the urgency in solving our growing homelessness crisis and supporting our local public safety agencies.”

As part of infrastructure, Maloney says she also supports building Route 239, the planned four-lane freeway extension to Highway 4 from Brentwood to Tracy which will connect East County to I-5, 580 and 205.

Regarding the greater environmental concerns, she spoke of the homeless dumping things into the creeks and said, “The soil in our area where I live is toxic” as well as the soil “on Amber Lane near Empire Way,” and is concerned about the impacts on children and others who might locate there.

Community Service

Maloney was the Chairwoman for the Contra Costa County Commission on Women and Girls for two years and now serves as Treasurer. The commission was formed to educate the community and advise the Board of Supervisors on issues related to the changing social and economic conditions of women in the County, with particular emphasis on the economically disadvantaged.

Campaign Finances

According to the City of Brentwood’s campaign finance portal, Maloney began her 2024 campaign in August and. According to her Form 460 finance disclosure report, she has raised $3,460 as of Sept. 21st. In addition to $1,010 in loans from herself, the campaign has received $500 each from Carol Maloney, retired of Pine Grove, Maria McCauley of McCauley Olive Groves from Brentwood and Jeffrey Burns, a mortgage banker from Danville.

Maloney had spent $2,409.46 with $2,000 spent on campaign materials with Prizedimages in Tracy. That left her with an Ending Cash Balance of $1,050.54.

However, she raised more funds during an event on Sept. 26th, the candidate shared.

Endorsements

So far, Maloney shows she has been endorsed by the Brentwood Police Officers’ Association, District 3 Councilman Tony Oerlemans and several local business owners. Officer Aaron Peachman, BPOA President, stated, “Faye Maloney has extensive experience in public safety, and we look forward to working with her to improve the safety of Brentwood and shape Brentwood’s future.”

Peachman explained, “Faye Maloney has dedicated herself to public service and public safety and has long had an interest in bringing that experience home to the City of Brentwood. The Brentwood Police Officers’ Association believes that Faye Maloney brings a strong background of leadership, community engagement, and public service which make her an ideal candidate to step into the District 1 city council seat.”

Faye Maloney and her husband at an event in 2023. Photo: Maloney for Brentwood City Council campaign

Personal Life & Education

Maloney is “married and a proud stepmom to three kids.” She studied Criminal Justice at Sacramento City College and graduated from Kaplan University while working full-time as a 911 dispatcher. Maloney is currently earning a Master’s degree in Public Administration with an emphasis in Organizational Leadership and will be graduating in early 2025.

She “has simple goals: represent the people of District 1 using clear data, ensure an open-door policy for resident constituents and implement solutions to local problems.” On her campaign website’s Get Involved page, Maloney offers residents a survey to let her know their top priorities for the community.

To contact her campaign email vote@fayeforbrentwood.com or call (925) 392-1915.

Maloney faces current Brentwood Planning Commission Chair Anita Roberts. The election is November 5th.

In Memoriam: East, West County restaurateur Christopher Nazir passes at 51

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Christopher Nazir

June 20, 1973-September 25, 2024

Christopher Nazir, aged 51, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his loved ones on September 25, 2024, in Brentwood, California. Christopher remained strong in his faith and optimism throughout his three years of undergoing extensive chemotherapy.

Born on June 20, 1973, in Karachi, Pakistan, Christopher was a beacon of positivity and selflessness, widely recognized as a pillar of his community. A successful entrepreneur, Christopher owned and operated three thriving restaurants; Mehran Restaurant in Pittsburg, Bawarchi’s Restaurant and Bar in Antioch and Zaiqa in Hercules.

His charisma and unwavering work ethic were instrumental in his professional success, earning him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and customers alike. Christopher’s passion to live life extended beyond his professional endeavors. He was a sports fan, particularly of the San Francisco 49ers and Golden State Warriors. He enjoyed going for drives with his family and traveling the world. Known for his culinary skills, he loved cooking and often hosted parties that brought together his extensive circle of family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife, Anita Nazir; his sons, Nathan, Ryan and Brandon Nazir; his mother, Irshad Nazir; his father, Nazir Masih; his four siblings; Christina Shakeel, Matthew Nazir, Edith Albert, and Sabrina Cullup; and his Father in-law, William Kashu. Christopher’s legacy of kindness, generosity, and dedication to his family and community will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Senate District 3 Candidate Forum sponsored by League of Women Voters Oct. 3

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In Woodland but can be viewed live via YouTube 

District includes Contra Costa County cities of Oakley and Brentwood, and communities of Discovery Bay, Bethel Island, Byron and Knightsen

The League of Women Voters of Woodland and League of Women Voters Davis Area will be sponsoring a forum on October 3 for the candidates for California State Senate, District 3 in advance of the November 5 presidential election.

Senate District 3 includes portions of Contra Costa County that include the cities of Oakley and Brentwood, and the communities of Discovery Bay, Bethel Island, Byron and Knightsen.

The forum will be held on Thursday, Oct. 3, at the Woodland Community Center, 2001 East Street, Woodland, CA 95776.  It will begin at 6:30 p.m.

Residents in Contra Costa County are invited to attend the forum in person or watch the livestream on the Woodland TV YouTube page at https://youtube.com/live/PnRXRZkPJM0. The recording of the event will be available at the same link through election day on November 5. The link to the video and recording will also be available on the League of Women Voters of Woodland website at https://my.lwv.org/california/woodland. The video of the forum will also be available on Contra Costa Television.

Questions for the candidates will be prepared by League representatives and written questions will be accepted from the audience, but no voice questions or statements will be taken. No campaign literature or paraphernalia such as signs, T-shirts, hats, buttons, etc. will be allowed inside the meeting room.

The two candidates for State Senate, District 3 are Thom Bogue and Christopher Cabaldon.

  • Thom Bogue owns an automative repair shop in Dixon, where he lives. He has served on the Dixon City Council and as the Dixon City Mayor. Through these roles he provides assistance to young individuals struggling with drug addiction, as well as individuals facing financial challenges.
  • Christopher Cabaldon has degrees in Environmental Economics from UC Berkeley and Public Policy and Administration from CSU Sacramento. He was West Sacramento’s longest-serving mayor, chaired the Yolo County Health Commission and was appointed to serve as California’s representative on the Western Interstate Commission on Higher Education. He currently serves as the Hazel Cramer Endowed Chair and Professor of Public Policy and Administration for CSU Sacramento.

For more information con: Lorna Carriveau (530) 867-1395

The League of Women Voters is a non-partisan, grassroots, national organization, dedicated to local voter education and empowering citizens to shape better communities for more than 100 years. The views of the candidates do not necessarily reflect the views of the League of Women Voters.

Brentwood Planning Commissioner, former Chamber president Gerald Johnson runs for mayor

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Source: Johnson Mayor campaign

On campaign of THRIVE: Togetherness, Housing, Recreation, Inclusion, Volunteerism and the Economy

Will use business background to attract employers and high-paying jobs to city; will work to add 5th police beat, eliminate homelessness

By Allen D. Payton

Gerald Johnson, current City of Brentwood Planning Commissioner, former two-time president of the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce, local business owner and 22-year resident of Brentwood is running for Mayor of Brentwood. With a vision for a thriving community rooted in unity, sustainable growth and economic vitality, Johnson says he is prepared to bring fresh leadership to the city he calls home.

“As a Planning Commissioner, I’ve been privileged to help shape Brentwood’s future by ensuring our city grows responsibly while preserving its unique character,” said Johnson. “My experience as President of the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce has deepened my commitment to strengthening our local economy and supporting the businesses that are the backbone of our community.”

Johnson serves on the Brentwood Planning Commission. Photo: Johnson for Mayor campaign

Johnson’s campaign is centered on the principles of THRIVE: Togetherness, Housing, Recreation, Inclusion, Volunteerism and the Economy. His platform focuses on developing attainable housing for young families and professionals, enhancing cultural and recreational opportunities, promoting inclusivity, encouraging volunteerism, driving economic growth through strategic public-private partnerships, and expanding Brentwood’s agritourism sector so he can balance the budget.

He will also work to increase public safety by adding and staffing the long-planned fifth beat to the police department and push for policies to eliminate homelessness in the city. Johnson also aims to leverage the talents and knowledge of Brentwood’s senior community to enrich local initiatives and programs that benefit them.

Johnson recognizes housing growth is inevitable since it’s required by state law under the Regional Housing Needs Analysis mandates, but said he and the council need to work with developers to get the most and best amenities for the city as possible and offset any impacts to the community.

Endorsements

Johnson’s campaign is already gaining momentum with endorsements from several prominent individuals and organizations, including Brentwood Councilman Tony Oerlemans, former Brentwood Mayor Brian Swisher; former Brentwood Vice Mayor Johnny Rodriguez, Contra Costa, County Board of Education Area 3 Trustee Anamarie Avila Farias, the Contra Costa United Professional Firefighters, Contra Costa Labor Council, AFL-CIO and the Contra Costa Building & Construction Trades.

“I am running for Mayor because I believe Brentwood’s best days are ahead of us. I aim to create a community where everyone can thrive – where we unite to solve our challenges, support our local businesses, and ensure that Brentwood remains a wonderful place to live and work,” Johnson added.

Business Background

The Principal of Sabacon Consulting, a management consulting firm, since 2006, Johnson has an extensive business background working for and with Fortune 500 companies. According to his LinkedIn profile, they include Northern California Regional Manager for ConocoPhillips and Area Manager for Mobil Oil over 15 years. He also has served as President of the Northern ​California Chapter of the Institute of Management Consultants USA and since January Johnson is serving as Chair of the Minority Business Enterprise Input Committee which is the leadership group of the Certified Minority Business Enterprises Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council, an affiliate of the National Minority Supplier Development Council.

He says he will use his business experience and contacts to attract employers to Brentwood with high-paying jobs for the residents, so they can get out of the commute and spend more time with their families.

Education

The first-time candidate for public office has earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science ​from Brooklyn College and ​pursued a Minority Executive Program Certificate from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College, as well as ​becoming a Certified Management Consultant.

Gerald & Audrey Johnson and family. Source: Johnson for Mayor campaign.

Personal

He is married to Audrey and they have two sons who attended Brentwood schools. It was that experience driving them to school that helped shape Johnson’s thinking about the need for better traffic flow in the community, especially around Heritage High and Adams Middle School.

Johnson’s candidacy combines a fresh perspective with seasoned experience. He is committed to listening to the community’s needs and working collaboratively to build a stronger, more vibrant Brentwood.

He faces one opponent, current Vice Mayor and District 3 Councilwoman Susannah Meyer in the November election.

For more information about Johnson’s campaign, call (925) 515-7900, email info@GeraldCJohnson.com or visit www.GeraldCJohnson.com.

UPDATE: Police arrest 18-year-old female suspect in Thursday night shooting of man in Brentwood

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Felony charges to include assault with a deadly weapon, attempted murder; held on $820,000 bail

By Lt. Christopher Peart, Brentwood Police Department

Brentwood, CA – On September 19, 2024 at approximately 8:44 p.m., Brentwood officers responded to the area of Sand Creek Road near Stony Creek Drive for a reported shooting. When officers arrived, they located an adult male victim who had been shot one time in the abdomen. The victim was transported to an area hospital for treatment and is expected to survive.

After speaking to the victim and witnesses in the area, a suspect was identified, and multiple people were detained as part of the investigation. This was an isolated incident with no apparent threat to public safety and the motive for the shooting is still under investigation.

3:46 PM 9/20/24 UPDATE: Further investigation revealed the shooting occurred on Sand Creek Road east of Stoney Creek Drive. Following the shooting, individuals fled to a home in the 100 block of Brush Creek Drive. There, Officers detained six people related to the incident, recovered a firearm and arrested the shooter, identified as 18-year-old female Ty’Jae Dukes (born 3/15/2006) from Brentwood. Dukes was booked into the Contra Costa County Jail on a number of felony charges to include Assault with a Deadly Weapon and Attempted Murder.

The shooting victim remains hospitalized and is expected to recover.

According to the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office, the five-feet, nine-inch tall, 120-pound Dukes is being held on $820,000 bail.

This remains an ongoing investigation, and no additional information is being released at this time. Anyone with information or witnesses that have yet to be interviewed by Law Enforcement are encouraged to contact Detective Goold at (925) 809-7911. Callers may remain anonymous.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Supervisor Glover to host UpliftED 2024 Youth Empowerment Conference Sept. 21

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¡El Supervisor Federal Glover lo invita a la Conferencia de Empoderamiento Juvenil UpliftED 2024!

Contra Costa County District 5 Supervisor Federal Glover is thrilled to invite you to the UpliftED 2024 Youth Empowerment Conference – a transformative, day-long event dedicated to empowering our youth and shaping the leaders of tomorrow. With a deep commitment to our community’s future, Supervisor Glover has put together an incredible experience designed to equip young people with the tools, resources, and inspiration they need to succeed.

This year’s conference is more than just an event – it’s a call to action. Through powerful keynote speeches, dynamic workshops, and interactive sessions, young attendees will explore vital topics such as career development, mental health, digital wellness, and social justice, all within a framework of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access (DEIA). The event features industry leaders and experts who are eager to share their insights and help guide our youth toward meaningful and impactful futures.

But it’s not just about learning – it’s about connection, community, and fun! With networking opportunities, engaging activities, a live DJ, and an array of food trucks, the UpliftED 2024 Youth Empowerment Conference promises to be an unforgettable experience. Whether your child is passionate about technology, the arts, activism, or simply discovering new possibilities, this event is designed to ignite their potential and empower them to make a difference.

Supervisor Glover, who is deeply dedicated to the well-being and success of our youth, personally invites all parents to bring their children and for all young people to attend this impactful conference. Don’t miss this chance to be part of an event that will inspire, educate, and uplift our community’s future leaders.

This is a free event sponsored by Supervisor Federal Glover, District 5. We can’t wait to see you there!

Download event flyer here for more details. Ticket Registration Site: https://bit.ly/4cIFfBa

En Español

El Supervisor Federal Glover se complace en invitarlo a la Conferencia de Empoderamiento Juvenil UpliftED 2024, un evento transformador de un día de duración dedicado a empoderar a nuestros jóvenes y formar a los líderes del mañana. Con un profundo compromiso con el futuro de nuestra comunidad, el Supervisor Glover ha reunido una experiencia increíble diseñada para equipar a los jóvenes con las herramientas, los recursos y la inspiración que necesitan para tener éxito.

La conferencia de este año es más que un evento, es un llamado a la acción. A través de poderosos discursos de apertura, talleres dinámicos y sesiones interactivas, los jóvenes asistentes explorarán temas vitales como el desarrollo profesional, la salud mental, el bienestar digital y la justicia social, todo dentro de un marco de Diversidad, Equidad, Inclusión y Acceso (DEIA). El evento cuenta con líderes y expertos de la industria que están ansiosos por compartir sus conocimientos y ayudar a guiar a nuestros jóvenes hacia futuros significativos e impactantes.

Pero no se trata solo de aprender, ¡se trata de conexión, comunidad y diversión! Con oportunidades para establecer contactos, actividades atractivas, un DJ en vivo y una variedad de camiones de comida, la Conferencia de Empoderamiento Juvenil UpliftED 2024 promete ser una experiencia inolvidable. Ya sea que a su hijo le apasione la tecnología, las artes, el activismo o simplemente descubra nuevas posibilidades, este evento está diseñado para encender su potencial y empoderarlo para marcar la diferencia.

La Supervisora Glover, quien está profundamente dedicada al bienestar y éxito de nuestra juventud, invita personalmente a todos los padres a traer a sus hijos y a todos los jóvenes a asistir a esta impactante conferencia. No se pierda esta oportunidad de ser parte de un evento que inspirará, educará y elevará a los futuros líderes de nuestra comunidad.

Este es un evento gratuito patrocinado por el Supervisor Federal Glover, Distrito 5. ¡No podemos esperar a verte allí!

Descargue el folleto del evento aquí para obtener más detalles. Sitio de registro de entradas:  https://bit.ly/4cIFfBa

 

 

In Memoriam: Brentwood resident, former butcher Michael J. “Big Mike” Fischer passes at 77

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Michael J. Fischer

January 31, 1947 – August 16, 2024

Celebration of life September 14th at Golden Hills Community Church

We bid farewell for now to Michael J. Fischer, a husband, father, and grandfather, who was a true friend. If you had the opportunity to meet him, you had a friend for life.  Michael “Big Mike” Fischer, 77, of Brentwood, California passed away peacefully on Friday, August 16, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and faith. Born in Oakland, California to Louis and Ruth Fischer on January 31, 1947, as one of 12 children.  Mike was preceded in death by his baby brother Douglas, father Louis, mother Ruth, sister Corinne and brother Jim.

Mike served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1966 – 1968 in Viet Nam.  Upon return from service, he met the love of his life, Janice Carvahal. Together they shared a full life of 55 years married and 56 years of love in total. They had Jason (Stephanie) Fischer and Heather (Bill) Cannan. Mike’s pride and joy was his 8 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, and dogs Sampson and Vito.

Mike and Jan did everything together and were an excellent model of how to be loving to your mate. A relationship built in Christ Jesus. They enjoyed projects, no project was too tough and each one was sure to always reinforce their bond of patience, kindness, gentleness and self control.  They took joy in projects that created a beautiful sanctuary and home to enjoy for their family.  They enjoyed long walks on the beach on their many trips to Pajaro Dunes, collecting shells in what seemed to be the equivalent number of stars God told Abraham he’d have as descendants.

Mike was a butcher by trade who would do whatever it took to make sure his family was protected and provided for. During his career, he also served 14 years as Butcher Union Agent and then 13 years in his own Loss Prevention business, finally ending his career back behind the counter as a Butcher and serving on the executive board for 3 years.  Those that really knew Mike would have assumed he may have also been an untrained clown by sheer natural ability.  Mike made everyone feel welcome and seen, he would take special time to encourage and talk with anyone that was struggling for however long it would take. Mike enjoyed singing in the Golden Hills Choir and participating in the many plays during holidays.  He was a bright light wherever he went and for whomever he met.

To commemorate his remarkable life and the memories we cherish, a service will be held at Golden Hills Church 2401 Shady Willow Lane, Brentwood, CA 94513, Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.  We welcome all who knew him to celebrate the life of a man who was loved deeply and will be missed.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to one of Mike’s favorite ministries, Shepherd’s Gate.