Contra Costa Herald

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

Maya Cinemas offers free movie passes for donation to local food banks

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Nov. 22 – Dec. 23

Maya Cinemas, known for developing movie theatres in underserved communities with state-of-the-art presentation, first-class amenities and community involvement, is offering free movie passes for every $10 donation to a local food bank. Beginning on November 22nd and running through December 23rd, movie-goers can make a donation at any Maya Cinema and receive 2 free movie passes (valid 1/1/24 – 4/30/24) for every $10 they donate. Donations are made through the Maya Cinemas’ Maya Community Foundation.

The Maya Community Foundation is dedicated to the development and enrichment of the lives of people in the community in which Maya Cinemas’ theatres serve. The foundation is dedicated to fostering and supporting under-served, low-income communities through a variety of programs.

Donations can be made in-theatre at Maya’s Pittsburg locations at 4085 Century Boulevard.

“Supporting the communities we serve, is at the core of Maya Cinemas. We believe experiencing movies together helps develop stronger more empathetic communities, so we look for more ways to make movies more accessible to more people while giving back to those who need our support.” said Greg Heckmann, Director, Marketing at Maya Cinemas.

ABOUT MAYA CINEMAS

Maya Cinemas was chartered in 2000 with a mission to develop, build, own and operate modern, first-run, multi-plex movie theaters in underserved, family oriented, Latino-dominant communities. Maya Cinemas offers first-run Hollywood movies and unique content through its Canal Maya program in high-end theaters focused on quality of design, state-of-the-art film presentation technology, and providing first-rate entertainment with superior customer service. The Maya Community Foundation is dedicated to the development and enrichment of the lives of people in the community in which Maya Cinemas serve. ww.mayacinemas.com/

Join the annual Counties Care Holiday Food Fight Challenge

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Help Contra Costa beat Solano County to win the Big Apple trophy

By Contra Costa County District 3 Supervisor Diane Burgis

I would like to take a moment to wish you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving and invite you to participate in the annual Counties Care Holiday Food Fight to raise money for the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano.

Once again, in 2023 Contra Costa and Solano counties will compete to raise funds for the Food Bank. This friendly competition, spearheaded by individual county departments, has raised nearly $2.7 million since 2003. The county that raises the most funds per employee will win the Big Apple trophy. The trophy and bragging rights pass back and forth annually, but the real winners are the recipients of the funds you raise: those that go hungry in our communities. (See results from past years’ Food Fights)

Please help raise funds for the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano with a donation today. Every dollar donated provides enough food to make two meals. Of every dollar donated, 97 cents go toward food programs.

Counties Care Holiday Food Fight Challenge!

WHO: Contra Costa and Solano County Residents

WHAT: Counties Care Holiday Food Fight 2023

WHEN: Now through December 31, 2023

The Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano serves one in four residents and provides more than 3,400,000 meals monthly. While the Food Bank feeds our neighbors seven days a week, the need is felt even more around Thanksgiving, when a nourishing meal is the centerpiece of the day.

As you plan your Thanksgiving menu, I hope you’ll consider our neighbors and donate to make the 2023 Holiday Food Fight a success.

To donate, click the link below or mail a check to our office.

https://give.foodbankccs.org/team/326115

Please make checks payable to: Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano

Mail to: Office of Supervisor Diane Burgis,

Contra Costa County

3361 Walnut Blvd. Ste 140, Brentwood, CA 94513

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

SVdP Family Resource Center to host heartwarming Thanksgiving Celebration in Pittsburg

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Guests enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving Meal at the SVdP Family Resource Center in 2022. Source: SVdP

Members of Knights of Columbus at St. Ignatius Church in Antioch and other volunteers will be cooking and serving

By Steve Krank, St. Vincent de Paul of Contra Costa County

St. Vincent de Paul of Contra Costa County, (SVdP) is excited to announce a collaborative effort with Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa, the Knights of Columbus of St. Ignatius Church, and dedicated SVdP volunteers and their families to host a heartwarming free Thanksgiving luncheon and celebration on November 23, 2023.

Guests are invited to join us at the SVdP Family Resource Center, located at 1415 Simpson Court, Pittsburg, CA (Corner of Gladstone Drive). The highlight of the day will be a delectable, free, Thanksgiving meal served from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM, featuring all the traditional favorites that embody the true spirit of Thanksgiving, turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, salad, pumpkin pie and more. SVdP volunteers will also be handing out warm coats and jackets, generously donated by The Burlington Coat Factory, and serving delicious hot chocolate, to help everyone feel warm, safe, and in the Holiday Spirit!

Since 2010, SVdP volunteers have been providing a delicious Thanksgiving meal to the community and a warm gathering for neighbors in need and the homeless. This collaborative effort not only provides a delicious Thanksgiving feast but also gives an opportunity for community members to come together, connect with neighbors and guests, share stories, and create lasting memories.

SVdP encourages individuals to get involved by volunteering their time or making donations to contribute to the cost of food and decorations at svdp-cc.org, “DONATE NOW”. This year, SVdP is extremely grateful to the Knights of Columbus at St. Ignatius Church. KofC members, along with other caring volunteers, will be cooking and serving the Thanksgiving meal this year.

To confirm attendance or volunteer, please RSVP by November 20, 2023, via email to: Stephen Krank at s.krank@svdp-cc.org or call 925-439-5060 #28.

St. Vincent de Paul of Contra Costa County and our partners look forward to hosting this special Thanksgiving celebration on Thursday, November 23 for community members, all are invited to join! Together, we can make this Thanksgiving meaningful and joyous for all involved.

Contra Costa County seeks nominations for Humanitarians of the Year

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Due Oct. 23

Student and adult humanitarians to be recognized at 46th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Ceremony in January

Contra Costa County seeks nominations for Humanitarians of the Year to be recognized during the 46th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Ceremony.

The deadline to submit candidates for consideration is Monday, Oct. 23.

The event will commemorate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 16. In the spirit of Dr. King’s work, this year’s theme is “Beloved Community.”

The Board of Supervisors plans to recognize two individuals, (1) a community member and (2) a student leader, whose dedication to others embodies the spirit and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the January event.

Nominate a community member and/or student whose accomplishments and actions go above and beyond to positively impact Contra Costa County, its residents, and communities. Please nominate candidates who demonstrate leadership, commitment to the community, and personal integrity.

To submit online nominations and learn more about the County’s celebration, visit the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Ceremony website.

 

CHP to participate in tri-state Labor Day Maximum Enforcement effort

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California, Nevada and Arizona form partnership ahead of holiday travel

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – In a collaborative effort to help ensure the safety of all road users as they travel this Labor Day weekend, the California Highway Patrol (CHP), Nevada Highway Patrol (NHP), and Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) are joining forces for a Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP).  The tri-state enforcement initiative begins at 6:01 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 1, and continues through 11:59 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 4.

As Labor Day weekend approaches, marking the traditional end of summer celebrations, many people are gearing up for holiday gatherings and road trips.  The CHP, NHP, and Arizona DPS are dedicated to ensuring everyone reaches their destinations safely, especially given the surge in traffic that typically accompanies holiday weekends.

Throughout the holiday weekend, while law enforcement will be looking for traffic violations and assisting motorists, a special emphasis will be placed on identifying and apprehending those suspected of driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs and/or alcohol.

“Alcohol-and drug-impaired driving continues to be a leading cause of traffic fatalities and injuries.  An impaired driver behind the wheel puts themselves and everyone on the road in great danger,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee.  “The CHP, along with our partners in Nevada and Arizona are committed to proactive enforcement throughout the holiday weekend.  We will deploy all available personnel to ensure the highest level of safety for everyone traveling.”

Last year during the Labor Day MEP, CHP officers made more than 900 arrests for DUI, in addition to issuing nearly 5,700 speeding citations.  Sadly, 52 people were killed in crashes on California’s roads.

Avoid becoming a statistic and always designate a sober driver, utilize ride-share services, and always wear your seat belt.

The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.

 

Con Fire responds to 69 July 4th fires, 11 caused by fireworks 51 more believed to be

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Source: Con Fire

Limited response plan implementation ensures responses to exceptionally high volume of fireworks-caused fires

Antioch had most with 22 & worst structure fire destroying garage, damaging two homes in which four residents displaced, dog died

Martinez man loses part of hand holding an exploding firework

By Steve Hill, PIO, Contra Costa County Fire Protection District

July 6, 2023 – Contra Costa County Fire Protection District today made available details of the fire and EMS activity, much of it fireworks related, occurring across the district on the Independence Day holiday evening.

For the six-hour period from 8 p.m., July 4, to 2 a.m., July 5, the district dispatched crews to 69 fire incidents. This represents a more than 400 percent increase over other recent Tuesdays, which in June, averaged 20 fire dispatches for the entire day. Year-over-year, fire incidents were up nearly 60 percent.

The holiday evening’s 69 fire incidents point to the dangers of fireworks use in current heightened fire danger conditions. Eleven of these fires are known to have been caused, and another 51 suspected of having been caused by fireworks.

Source: Con Fire

While the cool weather was favorable and the midweek timing had the holiday falling on a work night, fires numbered some 60 percent more than 4th of July 2023’s 44 fire incidents for the same evening period.

Four Residents Displaced, Dog Dies in Antioch Fire

In spite of more than 60 grass, vegetation and other exterior fires burning across the district on theevening of the Fourth, only four structure fires ensued. Of these, in three cases, fireworks could not be ruled out as the cause. In the worst structure fire of the evening, in the 2 a.m. hour in Antioch, a garage was destroyed, and two adjacent homes substantially damaged as a result of fireworks. In all, four residents were displaced, and a dog died, as a result of this unnecessary fire.

20% Increase in Emergency Medical Service Incidents 

Calls for emergency medical services were also up over normal, non-holiday periods with some of this increase likely attributable to fireworks activity. On the Fourth, 240 EMS incidents were dispatched with 64 of these occurring between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m. the next day. Total EMS responses represent about a 20% increase over more typical weekdays. On average, Con Fire responds to just over 200 EMS incidents daily.

In one particularly egregious case, a 66-year-old male in Martinez was gravely injured in the 10 p.m. hour when he lost part of a hand while holding an exploding firework.

Source: Con Fire

Considerable preparation across the district, including upstaffing of additional dispatchers; two hand crews and equipment; two fire dozers; and the district operations center, staffed by multiple chief officers; resulted in rapid and overwhelming responses, which served to limit fire spread, and resultant damage when fires did occur.

All 60-plus grass and exterior fires were kept small, limiting potential for structure damage as a result of rapid and overwhelming responses as well as early notifications to 911 by residents.

 

 

 

68 people killed in crashes, 9,700 speed citations issued during CHP’s Independence Day Max Enforcement Period

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Poor choices behind the wheel result in tragedy on California’s roadways

By Jaime Coffee, CHP Media Relations

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The results of the California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) recent Independence Day Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) are a sobering reminder of the consequences resulting from unsafe driving behaviors.

Sixty-eight people were killed in crashes throughout the state during the Independence Day MEP, which began at 6:01 p.m. on Friday, June 30, and concluded at 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, July 4.  Tragically, nearly half of the total number of vehicle occupants who died within CHP jurisdiction were not wearing a seat belt.

With unsafe speed being the number one contributor to crashes in California, the CHP placed a special emphasis on its enforcement during the recent MEP.  CHP officers issued more than 9,700 speed citations throughout the long Independence Day weekend.

Additionally, impaired drivers were removed from California’s roadways at an alarming rate during the holiday enforcement effort.  CHP officers made 1,224 arrests for driving under the influence, which is an average of one DUI arrest every five minutes.

“The results of this MEP are concerning and reinforce the need for responsible behavior behind the wheel,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee.  “All of these deaths were preventable, and the loved ones they leave behind will be forever impacted.  Traffic safety is everyone’s responsibility, and these statistics show us how much work there is still to be done.  The CHP is committed to making California’s roadways safer for all who use them.”

To help protect those who are traveling on California’s roadways during the holidays, the CHP implements six MEPs per year.  The next MEP is scheduled for Labor Day weekend.  Throughout the holiday weekend, all available uniformed members of the Department will be on patrol to enhance public safety, deter unsafe driving behavior, and, when necessary, take appropriate enforcement action.

Keep yourself and others who are on the road safe by buckling up, driving at a speed safe for conditions, avoid distractions behind the wheel, and always designating a sober driver.

The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.

East Bay Parks Independence Day Safety

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Enjoy parks safely and responsibly; no fireworks allowed in Regional Parks

The East Bay Regional Park District is urging Fourth of July visitors to enjoy parks safely and responsibly.

The Fourth of July holiday is typically one of the busiest days of the year for Regional Parks. Some of our more popular parks and swim areas are expected to reach capacity early in the day. Visitors are encouraged to carpool and arrive early. Parking lots may become full, though there are many Regional Park options to consider.

When visiting a Regional Park on the Fourth of July, visitors should know and follow these important tips and rules.

  • NO Fireworks – Fireworks are not allowed in Regional Parks.
  • Stay Cool and Hydrated – Plan ahead and bring plenty of water.
  • Beat the Heat – With hot weather, visit in the morning and early evening when it is cooler. If you do venture out, wear a hat and loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing.
  • Drink Responsibly – Drinking alcohol is only allowed at certain Regional Parks. Check www.ebparks.org/parks before you go.
  • Follow Water Safety Rules if Swimming – Free loaner life jackets are available at all East Bay Regional Park District swim facilities as an extra safeguard for anyone concerned about their swimming abilities or their children.
  • Be Fire Smart – Be aware of Red Flag warnings, fire danger levels, and fire safety rules. www.ebparks.org/public-safety/fire/fire-danger-levels-restrictions.

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,300 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives more than 25 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

No Independence Day events, fireworks in Pinole this year

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By City of Pinole

The City of Pinole will not be hosting fireworks this year.

We encourage residents to enjoy a safe and fun Fourth of July, celebrating the birth of our exceptional nation. Families and friends often gather to recognize this special day together.

For a number of years, until 2010, the City hosted a fireworks display at Bayfront Park on Fourth of July. The City had been hoping to again host fireworks on Fourth of July in 2023. After collaborating with partner agencies to assess Bayfront Park and other sites, it was determined that there is no safe and accessible site in Pinole from which to launch fireworks. Since Pinole last held fireworks, fireworks safety standards and practices have evolved and concern about wildfires has increased substantially.

For those who would like to see fireworks, below is a list of events in Pinole’s neighboring cities.

3rd of July Fireworks

Richmond: Richmond Marina Bay Park, fireworks begin at 9:15 p.m.

Fourth of July Fireworks

Antioch: Fireworks in downtown Antioch over the San Joaquin River, start at after dusk

Concord: Mt. Diablo High School, at around 9 p.m.

Hercules: Bayfront Blvd, the show will start once it’s dark

Pleasant Hill: College Park High School fields, fireworks around 8:45 p.m.

 

Pleasant Hill to celebrate Independence Day with Firecracker 5K Run & Walk, parade, Party in the Park, fireworks!

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The Pleasant Hill Independence Day Celebration on Tuesday, July 4th begins with a 5K Run and Walk and Kids 100-Yard Dash, downtown parade, Party in the Park with live music, food and fun for the kids in Pleasant Hill Park and fireworks.

The 2023 19th Annual Firecracker 5K Run and Walk is a fundraising benefit for Pleasant Hill schools. The run has raised over $200,000 and continues to grow each year.  Prizes for the top finishers. So, gather up the family, dress-up in your best patriotic gear, and come out for a run!

7:45am – 100-Yard Dash

100 Yard Dash will be run on Crescent Drive. FREE (7 years and younger – DOES NOT INCLUDE RACE T-SHIRT)

8:00 am – 5K Race

5K – $40 Per Person + Firecracker T-Shirt ($50 after June 23rd)

Be sure to arrive early!  Race starts at 8am sharp!

It’s 3 laps around Downtown Pleasant Hill. To ensure that it is an official 5K, the starting line is on Gregory Lane next to Bed, Bath, & Beyond. $100 gift certificates will be awarded to the top male and female 5K runners.

9:30–10:30am – Downtown Parade

Come to Downtown Pleasant Hill and see the World Famous Pleasant Hill Parade! Bring your friends and family to enjoy an old fashioned parade through Downtown featuring, music, local organizations, and community leaders.

10:30am–1:30pm – Party in the Park 147 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill

After the parade ends, walk over to Pleasant Hill Park for live music by the New Frantics, food, and fun for the kids including 2 slides and 3 inflatable houses.

11:30am – National Anthem

8:45pm – Fireworks

Viewing party at College Park High School this year. $4 or MORE (per person) is the suggested donation. Fields open at 6:30pm. CASH OR VENMO ACCEPTED

NO ONE MAY LEAVE THE CPHS FIELDS DURING THE FIREWORKS SHOW

VIKING DRIVE NEXT TO CPHS WILL BE SHUT DOWN TO ALL TRAFFIC!

Come to College Park High School to view the best fireworks show in the Bay Area! The fireworks show is presented by Pyro Spectacular!

From Pleasant Hill Police Department

This coming Tuesday, the City of Pleasant Hill will be celebrating the 4th of July with a parade in the morning and a fireworks display in the evening. Another post will be coming soon to discuss the parade route in detail, but today – let us talk about the FIREWORKS DISPLAY!

To accommodate our fireworks event, the Pleasant Hill Police Department will be conducting road closures, detours, and lane changes around the fireworks launch site. As the fireworks event will be held at College Park High School, Viking Drive will be closed to traffic between Norse Dr and Ruth Dr prior to and after the display.

Other areas that will be subject to detours/lane changes include: Taylor Blvd at Civic Dr, Taylor Blvd at Norse Dr, Taylor Blvd at Mercury Way, Norse Dr at Civic Dr, Norse Dr at Viking Dr, Viking Dr at Morello Ave, and Viking Dr at Ruth Dr. An image showing these cross-sections is included, to give you a visual idea about the impacted areas. Keep in mind, if you are entering or driving through this part of Pleasant Hill on the night of July 4th (especially between 8pm – 11pm); expect heavier traffic, detours and delays.

The fireworks display will begin at approximately 9:15pm. Road closures/detours can be expected at least 30 minutes prior to and 30 minutes after the display. Spectators and vehicles will be withheld from entering the surrounding areas immediately following the show until the Fire Inspector has cleared the area. Spectators on foot may not be able to exit the event the same way they entered (through the fallout zone) until cleared by the Fire Inspector – but there will be alternate exits available. It is anticipated that traffic should return to normal near 11:00pm.

Thank you everyone!

For more information visit Pleasant Hill 4th of July (phjuly4.com).