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4th Annual Danville Veterans Day Mt. Diablo Beacon Lighting Ceremony Nov. 11

November 7, 2025 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Flyover of WWII aircraft by Valiant Effort Foundation

By Sean Gannon, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 75

The Beacon on Mount Diablo will be lit at sunset on Tuesday, November 11th, 2025, to honor the men and women who have served in the United States Military.

Join local veterans and the Mayor of Danville Renee Morgan at 4:40 pm by the Flagpole in front of the Veterans Memorial Building in Danville as they press the button at 5:00 pm to light the Beacon on Mount Diablo, followed by a flyover from WWII aircraft from Valiant Effort Foundation!

The Veterans Memorial Building will be open to the public from 5:00 to 7:00 pm. A proclamation was signed on February 25th, 2022, in the Veterans Memorial Building in Danville to light the Beacon on Mount Diablo not only on Pearl Harbor Day, but also on Memorial Day and Veterans’ Day.

The event is sponsored by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 75. Special Thanks to California State Parks, Save Mount Diablo and the Town of Danville for all their amazing support to honor veterans!

Filed Under: Community, Holiday, Military, San Ramon Valley, Veterans

From Pittsburg to the sea: A sailor’s path to a Navy warship

September 25, 2025 By Publisher Leave a Comment

USS Boxer (Photo & crest source: Facebook) and Chief Petty Officer Glyndale Cabrera. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kevin Tang, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West

Chief Petty Officer Glyndale Cabrera, a Hercules High grad, serves as aviation ordnanceman aboard amphibious assault ship USS Boxer

By Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist John Osborne, Navy Office of Community Outreach

SAN DIEGO – U.S. Navy sailors serve and protect from around the globe, and every sailor got their start somewhere. Chief Petty Officer Glyndale Cabrera, a native of Pittsburg, California, serves aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Boxer, currently operating out of San Diego, California.

Cabrera graduated from Hercules High School in 2008.

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Pittsburg.

“Growing up, I learned from my father that I cannot let anyone change me,” Cabrera said. “He also told me to be respectful and to recognize there is a time and a place for everything.”

Cabrera joined the Navy 15 years ago. Today, Cabrera serves as an aviation ordnanceman.

“I joined the Navy because I was tired of my hometown and I wanted to see and experience different things and finish up my college,” Cabrera said.

Source: U.S. Navy

Boxer, the sixth and current ship to be named for the original British gunbrig captured by the USS Enterprise in 1813, plays a crucial role in projecting power and maintaining presence for naval forces. It serves as the cornerstone of amphibious operations, capable of carrying Marines, their equipment, and aircraft to execute a wide range of missions, from humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to full-scale amphibious assaults. This ship enables forces to rapidly deploy and sustain operations in littoral (near-shore) environments, providing a versatile platform for achieving strategic objectives across the globe.

Resembling a small aircraft carrier, Boxer’s crew is made up of approximately 1,200 officers and enlisted personnel and can accommodate up to 1,800 Marines.

INDIAN OCEAN (Aug. 18, 2011) The amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) transits the Indian Ocean. Boxer is underway in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility during a western Pacific deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Trevor Welsh/Released)

Cabrera has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“My proudest accomplishments have been getting selected for chief petty officer and proving wrong the people who said I couldn’t do something,” Cabrera said. “We always hear a lot of ‘no’s,’ but I have been able to turn a lot of those into yeses through hard work and patience.”

Cabrera serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.

“At this point in my career, serving in the Navy means I can do anything I put my mind to,” Cabrera said. “I have a 13-year-old daughter, and it’s important she understands that.”

Cabrera is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“I want to thank my parents, Glynda and Ramon, and my brother, Ryndell Cabrera, for always being there for me,” Cabrera added. “They have always been so supportive. I also want to thank my daughter, Analisa, who has made me a better person and always puts a smile on my face.”

Source: USS Boxer Facebook page

U.S. Navy Celebrating 250th Birthday

The U.S. Navy is celebrating its 250th birthday this year.

According to Navy officials, “America is a maritime nation and for 250 years, America’s Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom.”

With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber-optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.

More information is available here: https://www.navy.mil/navy-250/

Join the conversation with our social media: Facebook.com/NavyOutreach and Instagram: @Navy.Outreach

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Filed Under: East County, Military, News, West County

Air Force flyover during Community Day at Stand Down on the Delta Saturday, Sept. 13

September 11, 2025 By Publisher Leave a Comment

U.S. Air Force pilots assigned to the 560th Flying Training Squadron fly T-38 Talons in formation for the 45th Freedom Flyer Reunion over Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, March 22, 2018. The Freedom Flyer Reunion is an annual celebration recognizing the incredible service of Air Force Prisoners of War during the Vietnam War, their honorable return, and their connection with the 12th Flying Training Wing during Operation Homecoming. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman James R. Crow)

Tours of Coast Guard ship at the Smith’s Landing dock Sunday, Sept. 14

Local high school students to perform, volunteer

By Allen D. Payton

A unit from Beale Air Force Base near Sacramento has volunteered to support this year’s Stand Down on the Delta with a flyover of two T-38 fighter jets from the 1st Reconnaissance Squadron on Saturday, September 13. Pilots who fly the U-2 jets at the base train on the T-38’s.

The flyover will occur during Opening Ceremonies Saturday morning beginning at 10:00 A.M. at which the Deer Valley High Divine Voices will perform the National Anthem.

The four pilots from the 1st Reconnaissance Squadron participating in the flyover will be Lt. Colonel “Mako” Willard, Major “Dice” Dodds, Major “Merle” Paegelow and Captain “Blitz” Alexander.

On Friday, as veterans arrive to the Contra Costa Event Center (fairgrounds) the U.S. Air Force Band of the Golden West will perform.

Then on Sunday from 10:00 AM to Noon, tours will be offered on a Coast Guard ship at the Smith’s Landing dock at the foot of L Street..

Local High School Students Volunteer

This year members from the Heritage High School Air Force Junior ROTC and Antioch High Army Junior ROTC members will be volunteering during the weekend events.

De La Salle High School students are participating in a competition in which they’re working on a sock drive for veterans. That’s one of the items So far, they have collected 1,900 pairs but the effort continues until Thursday. The school has also donated 150 sweatshirts to be distributed during the weekend.

Stand Down on the Delta, presented by Delta Veterans Group, will again be held at the Contra Costa Event Park (fairgrounds), located at 1201 W. 10th Street in Antioch. For more information click, here.

#AFFlyover

Filed Under: Arts & Entertainment, Community, East County, Military, News, Veterans, Youth

Knife-wielding man killed in Richmond officer involved shooting

August 7, 2025 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Angel Montano. Source: GoFundMe

ID’d as a U.S. Marine reserve officer

By Allen D. Payton

The Richmond Police Department announced that on Monday, August 4, 2025, at approximately 5:00 p.m., Richmond Police responded to a 911 call about a man armed with knives threatening to kill people inside a home in the 400 block of 1st Street.

When officers arrived, they heard a disturbance inside. When officers announced their presence, they were confronted by a subject who came to the door armed with at least one edged weapon. During the confrontation, two officers discharged their firearms, and the subject, unfortunately, suffered fatal injuries at the scene.

According to a KRON4 TV news report, the man was identified as 27-year-old Angel Montano who “served in the U.S. Marines as a reserve officer “

Per protocol, the Law Enforcement Involved Fatal Incident Protocol has been activated. The Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office is leading the investigation into this incident.

Investigators are in the early stages of this investigation. The Richmond Police Department is committed to conducting a thorough and transparent investigation. Updates will be shared as new information becomes available on the Richmond Police Department’s website.

A GoFundMe page was set up by Liz Montaño to raise funds to cover funeral and burial expenses with the following message:

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the sudden and tragic passing of our beloved cousin, Angel Montano, at just 27 years old.

Angel was a proud U.S. Marine, a devoted son, brother, father and to many a loyal friend. Angel brought light and strength into every room he entered. His unexpected loss has left our family heartbroken, and we are doing everything we can to give him the memorial he deserves.

We’re raising funds to help cover funeral and burial expenses, and to support his loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. Any donation, no matter the amount, is deeply appreciated. If you’re unable to give, sharing this page and keeping our family in your thoughts and prayers means just as much.

Thank you for honoring Angel’s memory with us. Your support brings us comfort and strength.

-The Montano Family

Con el corazón en la mano, compartimos la repentina y trágica pérdida de nuestro querido primo, Angel Montano, a tan solo 27 años de edad.

Angel fue un orgulloso miembro del U.S Marine, un hijo, hermano y padre devoto, y un amigo leal para muchos. Angel iluminaba cada cuarto donde entraba con su carisma y sonrisa. Su partida inesperada ha dejado a nuestra familia con el corazón destrozado, y estamos haciendo todo lo posible para darle el homenaje que se merece.

Estamos recaudando fondos para ayudar a cubrir los gastos del funeral y entierro, así como para apoyar a sus seres queridos en este momento tan difícil. Cualquier donación, sin importar la cantidad, es profundamente agradecida. Si no puedes donar, compartir esta página y mantener a nuestra familia en tus pensamientos y oraciones es igualmente agrdecido.

Gracias por honrar la memoria de Angel con nosotros. Su apoyo nos brinda consuelo y fortaleza.

La Familia Montano”

Filed Under: Military, News, Police, West County

Bay Area Military Appreciation BBQ in Martinez May 26

May 15, 2025 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Nuvision Credit Union Partners with VFW Post 1351 & American Legion Post 29

Bill Meyer, AVP, Communications, Nuvision Credit Union

May is Military Appreciation Month, and Nuvision Credit Union is proud to be honoring local veterans this Memorial Day.  Nuvision is privileged to partner with VFW Post 1351 and American Legion Post 29 for the credit union’s upcoming Memorial Day Military Appreciation BBQ in Martinez, California.

The event takes place on Monday, May 26th from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm at Veterans Memorial Building, 930 Ward Street in Martinez.

The BBQ is to honor and thank the men and women who serve our country, welcoming all veterans, active-duty military members, and the families that serve alongside them.  The BBQ is open and free to all who have served, as well as their families.

Baseball players from the Martinez Sturgeon, an independent professional baseball team, will be in attendance to honor our veterans and active military for their service and sacrifice, and will be serving lunch to attendees.

During the BBQ Nuvision will also be presenting $1,500 donations to two Bay Area veteran support organizations — Delta Veterans Group, and Diablo Valley Veterans Foundation – in support of their ongoing missions.

Active military and veterans interested in attending are invited to register for the free BBQ.

 Nuvision Credit Union Background:

Headquartered in Huntington Beach, California, Nuvision was founded in 1935. Today, the credit union has more than $3.8 billion in assets

  • Nuvision has 6 branches in the Bay Area, serving the communities of Berkeley, Martinez, Pleasanton, Walnut Creek, Brentwood and Hayward
  • Nuvision serves more than 200,000+ members in 5 states, including California, Alaska, Washington State, Wyoming, and Arizona.

Website: Nuvision Credit Union | Banking, Credit Cards & Loans (nuvisionfederal.com)

Filed Under: Business, Central County, Holiday, Military, Veterans

“Let’s Go Country” at the 2025 Contra Costa County Fair in Antioch May 15-18

May 8, 2025 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Miss Contra Costa County Fair to be chosen Thursday, May 17

Discounted Presale Tickets & Carnival Unlimited Ride Wristband pass on sale now

Fair Hours: 12:00 Noon-9:30pm Daily. (Gates Close at 9pm)

Midway of Fun Carnival Hours: Noon-10pm Daily except Saturday, Noon-11pm (Carnival will remain open after Fair Gates Close)

SPECIAL DAYS

Dollar Day – Thursday, May 15 at Noon – $1 Admission until 5pm Buy 1 Carnival Ride Wristband get 1 FREE until 6pm (Riders must be present at time of wristband purchase)

Senior Day – Friday, May 16 – $1 Admission for Seniors 62+.

Military & Law Enforcement Day – Saturday, May 17 – Military/Law Enforcement and their families with active ID will receive FREE Admission.

Fiesta Day – Sunday, May 18 – Hispanic Themed Stage and Grounds Entertainment.

See complete schedule of daily events.

SPECIAL EVENT

Miss Contra Costa County Fair Queen Pageant at 5PM – Estrella Pavilion Stage – Come watch and support these local girls competing for the title of Miss Contra Costa County Fair.

DAILY ATTRACTIONS

Barnyard Bash – Get ready to go Hog-Wild with this interactive music and dance, audience participation Hoe-Down stage show. Daily Performance 1:30pm, 3:30pm, & 5:30pm.

BC Characters – Keep your eye pealed for these fun and furry characters.

Camel Rides – Feeling a little adventurous, here is your chance to take a ride on a camel.

Chicken Rider – Be on the lookout for the Chicken Rider and his chicken, Salt & Pepper.

Cowgirl Tricks – Cowgirl Tricks is a tongue-in-cheek vaudeville-style comedic bonanza of trick roping, whip cracking, music, magic, audience participation and lots of kooky cowgirl shenanigans. Performing daily on the Estrella Pavilion State, 12:30pm, 2pm and 3:30pm, May 15 – 17.

Daily Parade – 5PM on the Midway

Fables of the West – Look out for these two just horsing around.

Little Rascals Kids Club – FREE interactive, hands-on kid’s activity zone, where parents can relax and let their kids be kids in this fun activity area.

Paradise Roller Skating Academy – Demonstrations Watch as some of these skaters show you their amazing Roller-Skating talents. Demonstrations Thursday, May 15th at 6pm, and Saturday, May 17th at 2pm in Paradise Skate Roller Rink.

Petting Zoo – Here is your opportunity to get up close and personable with all kinds of fun furry creatures.

Pony Rides – Be a Cowboy or Cowgirl and ride the ponies.

Roaming Railroad – Take a ride on this Fun Little Train.

Sarah Nep Cheese Carver – Watch as Sarah turns a block of cheese into a fabulous work of art. Daily demonstrations from 1pm to 6pm in the Arts Pavilion.

Wiener Dog Stampede – Come out and support local contestants and their Wiener Dogs compete for Grand Champion in the Wiener Dog Stampede. Saturday May 17th at 3pm.

Wooden Creations – Chainsaw Carving Demonstrations – Watch these chainsaw artists work their magic and turn a log into a work of art. Fairgoers will have the opportunity to purchase Chainsaw Carvings. Daily Demonstrations 2pm, 4pm, & 6pm.

Xtreme Sports Zone – A thrill for everyone young and old. Bungee, Rock Wall, Water Balls and more.

EXHIBITS

Agriculture Pavilion

Arts Pavilion

Fur & Feathers Pavilion

Livestock Pavilion (Closed Sunday, May 18th)

Home Arts, Fine Arts, Photography, Agriculture Exhibits, Floriculture, Horticulture, Ag Mechanics, Industrial Technology & Science. – Take a look at what the talented local community artists have created, from youth home arts to adult fine art and photography, as well as agriculture and horticulture exhibits and displays.

LIVESTOCK COMPETITIONS & AUCTIONS – Livestock Show Ring

Daily Goat Show followed by All Other Breeding Goat Show – 5:00PM

Boer Goat Show followed by Sheep Show – Friday, May 16, 4PM

Swine Show – Saturday, May 17, 8AM

Small Stock Master Showmanship – Saturday, May 17, 4PM

Large Livestock Showmanship – Saturday, May 17, 7PM

Junior Livestock Auction – Sunday, May 18, 9AM

LIVE MUSIC – Headliners

Gotcha Country is the band that can keep you “Boot Scootin” all night long! Daily shows are at 4pm, 6pm and 8pm – PG&E Midway Stage.

You Should Be Dancing – A Tribute to the Bee Gees – The San Francisco Bay Area’s premiere Bee Gees Tribute band. Experience non-stop dancing, soaring falsettos, and the most beautiful ballads of all time. Friday 7:30pm – Estrella Pavilion Stage.

Patton Leatha – Making Music that moves your mind body and Soul. Saturday 5:30pm & 7pm – Estrella Pavilion Stage.

Night Owls – Top 40 Cover Band, based out of San Francisco Saturday 8:30pm & 10pm – Estrella Pavilion Stage.

Sunday Hispanic Themed Entertainment to include: DJ Winners, Banda Katana, El Rifle, Komando De La Siera

MIDWAY OF FUN CARNIVAL

Brass Ring Amusements Midway of Fun is a family owned and operated carnival business which has served the California fair circuit since 1991. From the Ferris Wheel to the Zipper and the Merry Go Round to the Viper there is something for all ages to enjoy at the Midway of Fun Carnival. Don’t forget to try your luck at one of the fun carnival games.

ANTIOCH SPEEDWAY – Saturday Night Races

Get your adrenalin pumping as you prepare for racing action, Saturday, May 17th. Watch IMCA Modifieds, IMCA Sport Modifieds, IMCA Stock Cars, Pacific Coast Hobby Stocks, Mini Stocks & Figure 8. Gates open at 4pm. Racing starts at 5:30pm. Separate Ticket required for Races, visit www.antiochspeedway.com for details.

Tickets & More Info

Ticket Prices: Kids 5 and under FREE Youth 6 – 12, $9 at the Fair, $7 presale

Seniors 62 & Over, $9 at the Fair, $7 presale

Adults, $14 at the Fair, $10 presale

Youth Season Pass – $25

Adult Season Pass – $35

Unlimited Carnival Ride Wristbands at the Fair $40, presale $35 Daily

Parking – $10

Season Parking Pass Livestock Lot – $35

Livestock Exhibitor Carnival Wristband – $99

To buy tickets and for more information visit contracostafair.com or call (925) 757-4400.

Chaperone Policy

The safety of our guests is of the utmost importance to the Fair. To improve this safety the Contra Costa County Fair Board of Directors adopted and implemented a Chaperone Policy for the 2024 Fair and will continue the policy for the 2025 Fair.

All youth under the age of eighteen (18) are required to be accompanied by a parent/guardian (adult – age 25+) to be admitted into the Contra Costa County Fair. Any person entering may be asked to show a valid California Driver License or Identification Card or other government-issued ID. Each adult can only chaperone 4 youths at a time. Groups larger than 4 youths require an additional chaperone for every 4 youths. The chaperone (parent/adult) are required to remain on the facility with the youth during their time at the Fair. The youth must provide a telephone number of the attending parent/adult to a Fair Security representative upon request. Any and all misbehaving youth will be held and released to their chaperone (parent/adult). Any youth under the age of eighteen (18) not accompanied by an adult will not be admitted.

Location

The 2025 Contra Costa County Fair at the Contra Costa Event Park, 1201 W. 10th Street in Antioch. Parking off L Street and O Street entrances.

Source: CCCFair

Source: CCCFair

Filed Under: Agriculture, Animals & Pets, Arts & Entertainment, Children & Families, East County, Fairs & Festivals, Military, Police, Seniors, Sports, Veterans, Youth

Pittsburg native serves aboard U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer

February 28, 2025 By Publisher Leave a Comment

U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Hannah Fry.

As USS Ralph Johnson departs Sasebo, Japan

U.S. Navy sailors serve and protect from around the globe, and every sailor got their start somewhere.

By Ashley Craig Public Affairs Specialist Media Outreach Dept. Navy Office of Community Outreach

SASEBO, Japan (February 18, 2025) – Electronics Technician 3rd Class Gabriel Alas from Pittsburg, California, right, and Electronics Technician 3rd Class Zane Cunningham from Rusk, Texas, middle, stand along port side on the flight deck of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ralph Johnson (DDG 114) while getting underway from Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo, Feb. 18. Ralph Johnson is forward deployed and assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest DESRON and the U.S. 7th fleet’s principal surface force.

USS Ralph Johnson (DDG 114) pulls into Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo

U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jamaal Liddell

SASEBO, Japan (July 22, 2023) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ralph Johnson (DDG 114) pulls into Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo, July 22. Ralph Johnson is assigned to Commander, Task Force 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force.

Filed Under: East County, Military, News, People

Opinion – The National Mesothelioma Registry: Addressing misdiagnosis and its impact on California’s veterans

February 11, 2025 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Source: Asbestos.com

In Contra Costa County 1,198 asbestos-related deaths were reported from 1999 and 2017 at a rate of 63 deaths per year.

By Jonathan Sharp, Environmental Litigation Group, P.C.

Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer triggered by exposure to asbestos. Each year, around 3,000 diagnoses are made in America, from which 900 are discovered in veteran populations. Exposure in this population occurred while serving in the army, as the military used asbestos across facilities as an insulator and fireproof material. Other cases similarly link directly to professional exposure because asbestos was used for decades in many industries, from the 1960s up until the 1990s, when its harmful effects were fully documented.

As the condition is rare, research progress to improve diagnosis and treatment is slow. It has been estimated that errors in diagnosing mesothelioma span between 14% and over 80%, where this condition is confused with other lung cancers or pneumonia. As a result, there are substantial delays in treatment, and mesothelioma is allowed to spread.

To address the high rates of misdiagnosis for mesothelioma, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) proposed in 2019 the development of a shared database for all identified cases. This database is the National Mesothelioma Registry, and among its proposals is the use of a case-finding methodology, where populations at risk would receive periodic screening. The national registry would also function as a common database where researchers could get early access to diagnosed patients, expanding the available population pool for clinical trials that could improve current treatments and diagnosis procedures.

How Misdiagnosis Can Impact Claims
Over 80% of all mesothelioma cases can be traced back to professional exposure, while only around 12% can be attributed to a genetic mutation. Subsequently, the vast majority of people developing mesothelioma are entitled to claims, either from the government or from companies that did not offer sufficient protection to their workers while handling asbestos.

However, getting these claims can be a real struggle. The condition has a high mortality rate and short survival period, not only due to the aggressiveness of this cancer but also because of significantly high rates of misdiagnosis.

To date, claims are granted for veterans under the PACT Act following evaluation by a health commission. The commission’s analysis process can take up to four and a half months. Survival rates for pleural mesothelioma, which is the most aggressive and common form of this cancer, rarely expand past the one-year mark. For veterans, this means that accessing the healthcare benefits they need to improve care and their quality of life may come too late. For other professional categories, lengthy lawsuits can mean the same thing: healthcare and financial support that comes in too late.

Mesothelioma Epidemiology in Contra Costa County, California
California has one of the highest rates of mesothelioma and asbestos-related deaths in the country. As a natural material, asbestos was intensely mined across the state, hence resulting in an increased risk for local populations. Veterans were impacted the most, especially in coastal states, such as California, where the U.S. Navy used asbestos extensively for shipbuilding and insulation. These jobs were performed by soldiers with little to no protective equipment, albeit at the time, there was sufficient data the Navy was aware of to indicate that asbestos had a strong carcinogenic potential.

Data on asbestos mortality rates in the state indicate that between 1999 and 2017, a total of 27,080 asbestos-related deaths were recorded, of which 5,100 occurred due to mesothelioma. More recent data indicates that between 2015 and 2019, 317 died because of mesothelioma in California. In Contra Costa County, 1,198 asbestos-related deaths were reported, at a rate of 63 deaths per year.

With such high mortality rates, asbestos is considered an important public health issue in California. This state banned paintings and interior materials containing asbestos as early as 1977. Other asbestos products were banned, and asbestos mines were closed in 2002. However, since mesothelioma emerges decades after exposure, cases are very likely to continue being identified across the state.

Improving Diagnosis and Access to Claims for Veterans
Veterans can file for benefits under the PACT Act and have their documents analyzed by a health commission. Notably, this analysis can take a significantly long time. With a late diagnosis, waiting so long may not be an option for many. Nonetheless, the National Mesothelioma Registry has the potential to change this.

With more research and development on mesothelioma, veterans may be able to receive a diagnosis much sooner and initiate the benefits claim faster. This will not only speed up access to medical resources but would also ensure that each veteran would get a chance at an extended life expectancy resulting from an early diagnosis and intervention.

About the Author
Jonathan Sharp is the CFO of the Environmental Litigation Group, P.C., conducting asset oversight, financial analysis, and case evaluations for victims of toxic exposure.

 

Filed Under: Health, Military, News, Veterans

Antique unexploded military munitions found in Pleasant Hill home

January 23, 2025 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Walnut Creek PD Bomb Squad, Air Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal team assist

By Pleasant Hill Police Department

On Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at about 1:27 p.m., Pleasant Hill Police officers were called to a residence in the 1700 block of Shirley Drive, after a person reported finding a box containing antique unexploded military ordnance and immediately notified police.

The Walnut Creek Police Department’s Bomb Squad and personnel from the U.S. Air Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal team from Travis AFB responded to assess and assist in the safe removal and disposal of the materials. Con Fire personnel were also on site.

There was no threat to the general public.

As of 6:00 p.m. all explosives were removed, and the scene was cleared. There is no active criminal investigation associated with this matter.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Filed Under: Central County, Military, News, Police

The Raley’s Companies honor veterans, first responders with new discount program

August 10, 2024 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Military & First Responder Discount Days: 10% Off Your Groceries

Regional, family-owned grocery retailer offers 10% off the first Tuesday of each month and designated holidays throughout the year for service members and first responders

WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif., Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — As part of its long-standing commitment to give back to the communities it serves, The Raley’s Companies announces a new 10% discount program for retired and active-duty military, first responders, and their families. Starting today, the discount is available for in-store and on-line purchases the first Tuesday of each month, as well as on Memorial Day, July 4th and Veterans Day.

Military & First Responder Discount Days: 10% Off Your Groceries – First Tuesday of Every Month, Memorial Day, 4th of July & Veterans Day

“We are truly humbled by the dedication of our nation’s military and first responders,” said Keith Knopf, President & Chief Executive Officer for The Raley’s Companies. “While we could never repay the selfless work of these brave and patriotic individuals, we wish to honor their service and share our gratitude for all they do — and have done.”

Growing from a single store opening in 1935, The Raley’s Companies now includes brick and mortar locations under Raley’s and Bashas’ family of brands, including: Raley’s, Bel Air, Nob Hill, Raley’s ONE Market, Bashas,’ Food City, AJ’s Fine Foods, and Bashas’ Diné Markets. The new discount program is available at all brand stores.

The military discount applies to active-duty military, retired military, veterans, and their household family members. The first responders discount applies to active firefighters and wildland firefighters including California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, New Mexico Forestry Division, U.S. Forest Services, National Park Services, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, police officers, sheriffs, paramedics, EMTs and their household family members. Members of these groups need to show their military ID or Veterans identification card. If the individual is a member of Something Extra or the Bashas’ Thank You Program, the discount will activate once the military member enters their loyalty number (after the first time).

In addition to the military and first responders new discount program, The Raley’s Companies are deeply committed to giving back by addressing local hunger needs, advocating for good, and focusing on child welfare, the environment and sustainability, food access, food system education, and total wellness. Between 2022 and 2023, the organization donated more than $3 million to local and regional non-profits.

For more information about the program, please visit raleys.com/discountdays to learn more.

About The Raley’s Companies

The Raley’s Companies is a private, family-owned and purpose-driven retail company headquartered in West Sacramento, CA. Since our founding in 1935, our store operations have grown to include more than 235 locations across eight states and four Tribal Nations under 10 well-known banners: Raley’s, Bel Air, Nob Hill Foods, Raley’s O-N-E Market, Bashas’, Bashas’ Diné, Food City, AJ’s Fine Foods, Full Circle, and Farm Fresh To You. In addition, The Raley’s Companies bridges the divide between the physical and digital retail experiences through the operation of Apium Logistics, Fieldera and fieldTRUE. Built on a higher purpose, the organization and our more than 21,000 employees are committed to quality offerings, exceptional service and doing right by our team members, communities and planet. To learn more, visit theraleyscompanies.com.

 

Filed Under: Business, Food, Military, News, Veterans

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