Contra Costa Herald

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

Kit Jory promoted to role of Concord Public Works Director

By Leave a Comment

Kit Jory is the new Public Works Director for the City of Concord.

By Colleen Awad, City of Concord Community Relations Manager

Concord, CA (February 10, 2026) – City Manager Valerie Barone announced today that Public Works Division Manager Kit Jory has been promoted to Public Works Director for the City of Concord, effective February 16, 2026. He replaces Director William Tarbox who served in the position since December 2021 according to his LinkedIn profile.

“Over the past several years, Kit Jory has demonstrated strong leadership and a deep understanding of the needs of our city’s residents. He has led numerous initiatives to effectively and efficiently deliver public works services to our community and to beautify our City; and I look forward to seeing the lasting impact of his leadership,” said Barone.

In this new role, Jory will be responsible for the City’s infrastructure maintenance (roads, trees, buildings, medians, sewer, stormwater, and parks) and will oversee a team of 94 skilled and dedicated public employees.

Since 2022, he has served as the Public Works Division Manager. In this role, he has led the City’s successful overhaul of maintenance operations across parks and made substantial advances in the City’s Urban Forestry Program.

Prior to joining the City of Concord, Jory served as Community Services Superintendent and City Arborist for the City of Fremont, and as an Operations and Management Crew Leader in Public Works for the City of Modesto. He brings over 20 years of experience in both private industry and public agencies. He holds a Master of Science Degree in Management and Leadership and a Master of Public Administration with an emphasis on organizational change.

On accepting the position, Jory said, “I am extremely grateful and excited for the opportunity to continue to serve such a diverse community, professional and collaborative City staff, and a forward-thinking City Council in this leadership role.”

For more information about the City of Concord Public Works Department visit Public Works | Concord, CA.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

 

 

Kaiser Permanente names new president of Northern California Region

By Leave a Comment

Mike Bowers has been named president of Kaiser Foundation Health Plan and Hospitals in Northern California. Photo: Kaiser Nor Cal

Mike Bowers served as interim leader since February 2025

By Elissa Harrington, Sr. Media Relations & PR Rep., Kaiser Permanente Northern California

OAKLAND, Calif.— Kaiser Permanente has named Mike Bowers as president of Kaiser Foundation Health Plan and Hospitals in Northern California.

Bowers has served as the region’s interim president since February 2025, overseeing operations for 21 hospitals and 203 medical offices, as well as the health care and coverage of 4.6 million Kaiser Permanente members.

Bowers joined Kaiser Permanente in 2022 as senior vice president for health plan and hospital operations in Northern California. Under his leadership, Northern California achieved significant improvements in care quality, patient safety, and affordability through an innovative care delivery redesign process. The region also earned national recognition, receiving seven prestigious Beacon Awards from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses recognizing exceptional patient care and a supportive work environment.

“Mike’s leadership has strengthened our operational performance, expanded our joint efforts with The Permanente Medical Group, and elevated the experience we provide to our members,” said Craig T. Albanese, MD, president, Integrated Care and Coverage, Kaiser Permanente. “His proven ability to deliver meaningful results positions our Northern California region for continued growth and long-term success.”

Bowers brings nearly three decades of health care leadership experience to this role. Before joining Kaiser Permanente, he served as regional chief operating officer for SSM Health’s St. Louis and Southern Illinois regions, following four years as president of SSM Health St. Joseph Hospitals in St. Louis. His career has included leadership roles at Dignity Health in California’s Central Valley, Community Hospital Corporation in Dallas, and Memorial Hermann in Houston.

Bowers is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and serves on multiple community boards. He holds both a Master of Health Administration and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Houston–Clear Lake, and a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from the University of Pittsburgh.

About Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America’s leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.6 million members in 9 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health. For more information, go to about.kp.org.

A Chapter Closes: Chief Brian Helmick reflects on 30 years of fire service

By Leave a Comment

Con Fire Deputy Chief and former East Contra Costa Fire Chief Brian Helmick says farewell after 30 years of service. Photos courtesy of Brian Helmick

Former East Contra Costa Fire Chief, Con Fire Deputy Chief retires

By Allen D. Payton

On Monday, Feb. 2nd, Contra Costa Fire Protection District (Con Fire) Deputy Chief Brian Helmick announced his retirement after 30 years of service.

To the Residents, Partners, and Servants of Eastern Contra Costa County:

As I prepare to retire from the fire service after 30 years, I do so with a full heart and deep gratitude for the privilege of serving this community.

In 2022, I wrote to you as I stepped away from the role of Fire Chief of the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District during a season of transition, as East Contra Costa Fire was annexed into Contra Costa County Fire. At that time, the work was unfinished, the future still unfolding, and my own calling to serve had not yet reached its final chapter.

Today, nearly four years later, that chapter is closing.

When I look back on my career, I do not primarily see titles, ranks, or milestones. I see people. I see firefighters who stood the watch with courage and integrity. I see labor partners, board members, city and county leaders, chaplains, pastors, and public servants who carried responsibility faithfully, often behind the scenes. I see community members who trusted their firefighters, and me, during moments of crisis, uncertainty, and change.

No one completes a 30-year career in public service alone. Whatever good came from my years in the fire service was the result of shared sacrifice, collective leadership, and people willing to place service above self.

I entered this profession as a young man drawn by the mission and the camaraderie. What I learned over time is that the fire service is not simply a job. It is a calling. A calling that shapes your character, tests your resolve, and reminds you that leadership is not about position, but about stewardship, caring for people, making difficult decisions with humility, and honoring the trust placed in you.

To the firefighters I served alongside, past and present, thank you for your professionalism, your honesty, and your willingness to hold one another accountable. You taught me that leadership is forged in long nights, hard and courageous conversations, and shared responsibility. You also taught me that trust is earned daily.

To our labor leaders, agency partners, and elected officials, thank you for standing shoulder to shoulder during seasons that demanded perseverance, collaboration, and vision. The progress we achieved together was never about recognition. It was about doing what was right for the communities we serve.

We also pause with reverence for those who have gone before us. The fallen are never forgotten. Their sacrifice reminds us that this profession carries real cost, and that serving well means honoring the legacy they left behind.

Brian Helmick will now have more time to spend with his wife, Kristen and their three daughters.

While the sacrifices made in the line of duty weigh heavily, the foundation for my service has always been at home, even though the toll of this calling often kept me from being as present as I wish I had been. I want to thank my family. This career belonged to them as much as it did to me. My bride, Kristen, carried the unseen weight of this calling with strength and grace. My three daughters shared their dad with the fire service, and I hope they know that every long shift and late night was motivated by love. They are my greatest legacy, not what I accomplished over 30 years in the fire service, but the lives I was, and am, entrusted with for a lifetime.

I am also deeply grateful for my extended family, whose encouragement, prayers, and steady presence sustained us through the demands of this calling. Your support reminded us that we were never walking this road alone.

Above all, I give thanks to God. Through every season, success and failure, clarity and uncertainty, He has been faithful. I am especially thankful for my home church, Golden Hills Community Church and for the pastors, elders, men’s ministry and small groups who have prayed for me, encouraged my faith and faithfully walked with me and my family for decades. Their spiritual support and friendship have been a constant source of strength. Scripture reminds us, “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.” If anything I built endures, it is only because He was the builder.

While I am retiring from the fire service, the calling to serve does not retire. Although my watch as Fire Chief has passed, the mission continues, and I have complete confidence in those who remain, standing ready to answer the next call.

To the community of East Contra Costa County, thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving you. It has been an honor, one I will carry with gratitude for the rest of my life.

With sincere appreciation, respect, and for His glory,

Brian Helmick

Fire Chief Ret.

To God be the glory.

State Senator Tim Grayson, Supervisor Diane Burgis, Fire Chief Lewis Brousard and Firefighters union President Vince Wells spoke about Helmick and presented him with resolutions during his retirement ceremony on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026. Video screenshots

Retirement Ceremony

Con Fire held a retirement ceremony for Helmick at Golden Hills Community Church on Saturday, January 31st. State Senator Tim Grayson offered accolades and presented him with a framed resolution by the State Senate recognizing Helmick’s years of service. That was followed by remarks by Contra Costa County District 3 Supervisor Diane Burgis, who presented Helmick with a framed resolution from the Board of Supervisors and gave him a hug. Con Fire Chief Lewis Brousard spoke highly Helmick who presented him with another framed resolution, as did Vince Wells, President of the United Professional Firefighters of Contra Costa County, who were among those to also speak during the ceremony.  (See video)

Helmick’s retirement follows that of Brousard’s recent announcement of his own retirement effective March 30, 2026, leaving a leadership gap in the department.

Education and Leadership Experience

According to his LinkedIn profile, Helmick earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in 2014 followed by a Master’s degree in 2020, both in Organizational Leadership. Earlier in his career he served as Battalion Chief for East Contra Costa Fire for almost 11 years, then Fire Chief for a little over five years before the districts merged and he took on the role of Deputy Chief for Con Fire.

He will continue to serve as a member of the Board of Elders and as a Men’s Ministry Coordinator at Golden Hills.

About Contra Costa County Fire Protection District

Con Fire provides fire and emergency medical services to more than one million residents and visitors in 13 cities and 12 unincorporated areas across our expanded 582 square-mile jurisdiction. The district comprises 35 fire stations and more than 670 firefighters and professional staff. Through our unique ambulance “Alliance,” the district delivers EMS and ambulance transport services to much of Contra Costa County. For more information about Con Fire visit cccfpd.org.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

 

Meet new Walnut Creek Police Chief Hibbs Feb. 4

By Leave a Comment

New Walnut Creek Chief of Police Ryan Hibbs was sworn in Jan. 13, 2026. Photo: WCPD

By Walnut Creek Police Department

The City of Walnut Creek is inviting residents to a “meet and greet” opportunity with new Chief Ryan Hibbs. The free event will be held on Wednesday, February 4, in the Rotunda at the Lesher Center for the Arts. Residents are welcome to drop by any time between 5:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

The event is sponsored by the City of Walnut Creek.

On January 13, 2026, the Walnut Creek Police Department proudly recognized nine well-earned promotions during an oath of office ceremony in the Council Chambers!

What a great day for our team!

Police Chief Ryan Hibbs and department leaders were officially sworn in to their new positions during a ceremony inside the Council Chambers Jan. 13, 2026. Photo: WCPD

Please join us in congratulating these outstanding individuals on their achievements:

  • Chief Ryan Hibbs
  • Captain Jeff Slater
  • Captain Holley Connors
  • Lieutenant Guy Ezard
  • Lieutenant Mike Watson
  • Lieutenant Andrew Ha
  • Sergeant Melinda Lomprey
  • Sergeant Nick Olson
  • Sergeant Rich Lopez

Thank you for your dedication to keeping Walnut Creek safe and for serving with integrity and professionalism. Congratulations!

About Chief Hibbs

Hibbs, a 23-year police veteran who has been with the Walnut Creek Police Department for 16 years, was selected in October 2025 by City Manager Dan Buckshi to serve as the City’s new Chief of Police. Earlier this month, Mayor Kevin Wilk announced that Hibbs had stepped into his new role which occurred on Dec. 31.

“I am deeply honored and humbled to be selected as the next Police Chief for the Walnut Creek Police Department. I want to extend my sincere gratitude to Chief Jamie Knox for his nearly five years of dedicated service to both the department and our community,” said Hibbs. “I am committed to upholding our department’s tradition of integrity and community partnership, strengthening trust with the residents, and supporting the women and men who keep Walnut Creek a safe, welcoming and vibrant place for everyone.”

He previously served as Captain of the Administration Services Division, overseeing Professional Standards, Investigations, Dispatch, Records and Department Administration.

Hibbs holds a B.S. degree in Criminal Justice from National University, an Administrative of Justice degree from Lassen Community College, and is completing a graduate degree at California State University, Dominguez Hill.  He is a graduate of the Drucker Executive Leadership Institute and the Peace Officer Standards and Training Executive Development Course and is an active member of several professional law enforcement organizations.

Replaces Retired Chief Jamie Knox

Retired Chief Jamie Knox. Photo: WCPD

Former Chief Jamie Knox, who retired at the end of 2025, led the Walnut Creek Police Department since 2021, capping a distinguished 30-year law enforcement career that began in Roseville in 1995. He previously held leadership roles in Novato and San Leandro and holds degrees in Emergency Management and Organizational Leadership, along with FBI National Academy credentials

As Chief, he oversaw historically low crime rates, expanded staffing, and spearheaded a recruitment campaign that brought in 68 new hires. He prioritized combating organized retail theft through targeted operations and regional partnerships, and championed initiatives like the 30×30 campaign for women in policing, Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology deployment, and revitalization of the Police Cadet Program.

His tenure also emphasized community engagement, officer wellness through the Active Bystandership for Law Enforcement (ABLE) program, and modernization efforts including drone deployment and updated branding.

“I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together,” Knox said, and that he was “grateful for the dedication of the men and women of this department and the support of our community.”

Thank you, Chief Knox for your leadership, dedication, and the example you have set! We wish you the best in your well-deserved retirement!

““I’m always happy when we can promote from within. Ryan…will be a strong leader as we go forward following Chief Knox’s retirement,” Buckshi said in October. “I am thankful to Chief Knox for his many contributions and leadership, and I look forward to working with Capt. Hibbs in his new role.”

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Fire Chief Broschard announces retirement from Contra Costa County Fire Protection District

By 1 Comment

Contra Costa County Fire Protection District Fire Chief Lewis Broschard to retire after 18 years of service. Photo: Con Fire

By Lauren Ono, PIO, Contra Costa County Fire Protection District

Concord, CA – Fire Chief Lewis Broschard has announced his retirement from the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District after more than 18 years of service. The announcement marks the conclusion of a distinguished career dedicated to public safety, leadership, and service to the residents of Contra Costa County and to the men and women of Contra Costa Fire.

“Serving as Fire Chief for the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District has been the greatest honor of my career,” said Chief Broschard. “I am incredibly proud of the members of this organization and grateful for the trust and support of the community, our Board of Supervisors, and the County Administrator’s Office. I leave knowing the District is positioned for continued success.”

Under Chief Broschard’s tenure, the Fire District has experienced significant organizational and operational advancements, including the annexation of East Contra Costa Fire Protection District and the Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District, and entered into a contract for service with the City of Pinole. The District established a firefighting hand crew program, launched a seasonal aerial firefighting helicopter program, implemented an apparatus replacement program, increased staffing in operations and fire prevention, and undertook the rebuilding of several fire stations. Additionally, the regional fire dispatch center was expanded and modernized, 911 dispatcher staffing levels were increased, emergency ambulance operations were strengthened and expanded, and numerous health and wellness initiatives were introduced for our members. Significant wildfire mitigation projects were funded and completed across the county and over 40 new Firewise communities were formed in the District. The District also achieved a substantial improvement in its Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating, advancing from a combined 3/8B and 4/9 to a uniform Class 2/2Y rating across the district.

“Chief Broschard has led the Fire District through complex operational challenges, historic wildfire seasons, and significant organizational growth, all while maintaining a focus on the safety of residents and fire personnel. We are deeply grateful for his decades of service and wish him a long and fulfilling retirement.” Board Chair Diane Burgis, District 3 Chair.

Chief Broschard’s retirement will be effective March 30, 2026. Information regarding the process for selecting the next Fire Chief will be announced separately.

The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District extends its sincere appreciation to Fire Chief Lewis Broschard for his years of distinguished service and congratulates him on a well-earned retirement.

About Contra Costa County Fire Protection District – Con Fire provides fire and emergency medical services to more than one million residents and visitors in 13 cities and 12 unincorporated areas across our expanded 582 square-mile jurisdiction. The district comprises 35 fire stations and more than 670 firefighters and professional staff. Through our unique ambulance “Alliance,” the district delivers EMS and ambulance transport services to much of Contra Costa County. For more information about Con Fire visit cccfpd.org.

East Bay Park District remembers Doug McConnell

By Leave a Comment

Doug McConnell. Source: EBRPD

Honoring Bay Area journalist’s legacy of connecting people to Nature

By EBRPD Public Affairs

East Bay Regional Park District staff are deeply saddened by the passing of Doug McConnell, beloved longtime host of OpenRoad with Doug McConnell on NBC. Doug’s storytelling helped raise public awareness of the value of parks, trails, and community conservation efforts across Northern California and beyond, making outdoor exploration accessible and meaningful to a wider audience.

Source: OpenRoad Facebook page

A post on the OpenRoad with Doug McConnell Facebook page on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026, shares more details about his passing. It reads, “It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that we share the news that Doug McConnell peacefully passed on the night of January 13th, 2026. Since his stroke in the fall of 2023 he had bravely struggled to regain his health, but a string of setbacks finally caught up with him. Doug was our friend, mentor, and a guiding light along our own life journeys. We will miss him dearly and wish his family peace in this difficult time.

Doug dedicated much of his life to telling stories about the world’s beautiful natural places and encouraged everyone to enjoy them and especially to protect them. He made friends wherever he went. He was the best road trip companion you could have, the biggest optimist we ever met, a human GPS with a steel trap memory, friendly to a fault, knowledgeable about most any subject, and filled the world with enthusiastic positivity. We affectionately described him as the human golden retriever.

No words in a social media post can adequately convey what Doug has meant to us. If he meant something to you. If his TV shows resonated with you. If you have a story about him you’d like to tell, please feel free to tell it here. We’d love to hear from you about what Doug meant to you.

We loved Doug and will miss him dearly.”

The Park District worked with Doug McConnell and his crew many times over the past three decades to showcase East Bay Regional Parks, first on Bay Area Backroads and followed by his most recent show, OpenRoad. Together, we helped educate viewers about the importance of spending time in nature and the role conservation plays in ensuring future generations have the same opportunity. He was a thoughtful journalist whose commitment to community, collaboration, and public service left a lasting impact on the East Bay. We are grateful for his dedication and the positive spirit he brought to his work.

Doug first began working with the Park District in 1993, and this creative collaboration has continued through present day. Through this work, he became an integral part of the Park District’s history, working closely with District staff on many projects. Doug was master of ceremonies at the District’s 65th and 75th anniversary events, Regional Parks Foundation signature events, and the Healthy Parks, Healthy People festival.

In a Jan. 14 statement issued by the OpenRoad team, his colleagues said, “Doug was grateful that his legacy continues, a legacy of joyfully encouraging everyone to explore and appreciate the beauty and diversity of our natural lands, and to celebrate the work so many of you are doing to restore and protect these natural places.” The Park District is honored to be included in Doug’s work and legacy.

Notable episodes featuring the Park District include:

Regional Parks Foundation Legacy on OpenRoad (2018)

East Bay Regional Parks For All (2019)

The East Bay Regional Parks Respond to COVID-19 (2020)

This special episode filmed during the COVID-19 pandemic showed how the Park District responded to the crisis and how parks provided an essential service for physical health and mental well-being.

Additional COVID-related collaborations with Doug included Park District public service announcements, local public health agency messages, and Parks Are Essential multi-agency messaging to promote spending time in nature.

Exploring the Rebirth of East Bay Regional Parks (2021)

The Legacy of the East Bay Regional Parks District (2022)

The Most Visited Park District in California (2023)

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Contra Costa Supervisor’s son undergoes successful bone marrow stem cell transplant for aplastic anemia

By 2 Comments

Contra Costa County Supervisor John Gioia with his son, Chris at past Coastal Cleanup in Richmond, and with Chris’ mother Maria “Charo” Gioia at the Stanford Medical Center housing. Photos courtesy of John Gioia

Family members share of Chris Gioia’s health journey, call for donors

By Allen D. Payton

Last summer, Chris Gioia, the 33-year-old son of Contra Costa County District 1 Supervisor John Gioia, underwent a bone marrow stem cell transplant for his aplastic anemia and Gioia, Chris’s mother, Maria “Charo” Gioia, and her husband, Marc Joffe recently shared about his experience. Spanish-language television channel, Telemundo first reported about Chris’ health challenges and journey on Friday, Nov. 28, 2025.

In a Facebook post later that day, Supervisor Gioia wrote, “During Thanksgiving, I give thanks and express gratitude for the positive things in my life.

This year I am especially thankful for my son Chris’ health after his successful bone marrow stem cell transplant at Stanford Hospital to cure his rare life threatening autoimmune disease – Aplastic Anemia.

Thanks to Pilar Nino and Telemundo 48’s great TV story about my son’s recovery and publicizing the need for more stem cell donors. They interviewed Chris, his mom, me and a Contra Costa Health Doctor.

If you’re under 36 you can register to be a stem cell donor at nmdp.org and help save a life.”

Chris Gioia in hospital bed preparing for the transplant.

About Aplastic Anemia

According to the Mayo Clinic, “Aplastic anemia is a condition that happens when your bone marrow stops making enough new blood cells. The condition leaves you tired and more prone to infections and uncontrolled bleeding.

“A rare and serious condition, aplastic anemia can develop at any age. It can happen suddenly, or it can come on slowly and worsen over time. It can be mild or severe.

“Treatment for aplastic anemia might include medicines, blood transfusions or a stem cell transplant, also known as a bone marrow transplant.

Mom Shares Details of Successful Transplant

In an interview with the Herald, Charo Gioia shared more details about her son’s experience.

“The whole process began in early April, this year. Marc and I were in Europe, in Croatia. Chris was with his dad, John who called me and told me what happened,” she shared.

“He was diagnosed in April, and he was hospitalized at Kaiser in Oakland. He was there for almost two months,” Charo continued. “He stopped working, and basically all activities. He was receiving daily transfusions. Once his numbers related to platelets became higher than 10, the doctors felt he could go home until the bone marrow transplant. Chris went to his dad’s home.”

“In late July, Stanford Hospital called and said they were ready for the transplant. Chris was hospitalized again to receive chemo, radiation and other treatments to prepare for the transplant,” she explained. “He was in the hospital for about one month before and after the bone marrow transplant. The actual transplant was on August 5.”

“We were very lucky because then the doctors at Stanford wanted him to stay close to the hospital for two months and we were provided an apartment by Stanford across from the hospital,” Charo said. “I stayed with Christopher and my sister helped out.”

“His autoimmune system was down, he had to be isolated and have his meals prepared by someone else,” she shared. “Chris’s autoimmune system improved immediately after the transplant. He then stayed with me and Marc at our house for about a month. His numbers improved. His platelet count was at like 10. Right now, they’re at 140. So, it’s a huge jump.”

Donor from Germany, Amazing News

“He received new stem cells from a donor in Germany. She’s 24 and that’s all we know,” Charo stated.

But first, Chris received some amazing news.

“This is very important. Stanford has a worldwide bank of donors. They go all over the world,” she explained. “Chris received a letter telling him that his match was his own stem cells from a donation he made 10 years ago while in college. But they wouldn’t work. I was not a match, his dad was not a match, nor his sister.”

“The donor from Germany, a young lady took a lot of tests to make sure that she’s very healthy inside and out,” Charo continued. “They took the mother cells from her bone marrow. They have to be taken from Germany all the way to Stanford within 48 hours after they’re extracted. The blood had to be fresh.”

“After a year, the hospital can contact her and ask her if she wants contact with us to say, ‘thank you’ and have an exchange. She can either accept or decline,” Charo stated. “She does not get any compensation as it’s against the law. But she gets her expenses covered.”

Chris with dad, John after the transplant and standing next to his list of treatments two weeks after the procedure.

Greater Need for Donations from African Americans, Asians and Latinos

“The donors, if you are white, you have a much higher percent of finding a match,” she said. “But if you’re African American, Asian or Latino the numbers go down because people don’t donate. Either they’re not aware or don’t donate enough. So, they’re pushing for people in those communities to donate.”

“Doctors mentioned a possible fear,” as the reason for the lack of donations, Charo explained. “But nothing is going to be cut from your body. This is not an organ donation. It’s a blood donation.”

“For Chris’ aplastic anemia, which is not cancer but a blood disease, the lady had to go through total anesthesia. They had to inject a needle into her bone to extract the bone marrow. There was some pain after,” she shared. “For other cancers, the donor doesn’t have to go through that. It would be a regular blood donation. The donor can always say, ‘no’. It’s all voluntary, of course.”

“We are forever thankful to that young woman, because she’s a total stranger. An angel,” Charo exclaimed. “For aplastic anemia, if Chris chose not to have the transplant, he would have had to stay in doors for the rest of his life and go have transfusions.”

“Eleanor Roosevelt died of the same disease. This one is a miracle story,” she added

Chris with dad, John and sister, Emilia Gioia in San Francisco for Father’s Day 2024.

Stepdad Shares

Joffe posted on Facebook a link to the Telemundo report on Nov. 29 and wrote, “My stepson Chris is recovering nicely from a bone marrow transplant he received in August. In this Spanish language news story he and my wife Maria Iberico Gioia discuss the experience and thank the as-yet anonymous donor. She’ll have the option of making herself known to us one year after the transplant.

Earlier this year, Chris’ blood counts suddenly fell to near zero due to a case of aplastic anemia, a rare condition in which the patient’s bone marrow stops producing platelets as well as red and white blood cells.

He got great care at Stanford Medical Center and benefited from the advocacy and support provided by his mom, aunt, and his dad, John Gioia who arranged for this story to appear on Telemundo.

If you’re between 18 and 35 and want the chance to be someone else’s hero, please join the bone marrow donor registry: https://www.nmdp.org/get-involved/join-the-registry

County Health Now Partners with NMDP

“The Contra Costa County Health Department has now formed a partnership with NMDP and is hosting events to get donors,” Supervisor Gioia added.

About NMDP, formerly National Marrow Donor Program

NMDP is a global nonprofit leader in cell therapy, helping find cures and save lives for patients with blood cancers and disorders. Since our founding in 1987, the world has evolved—and so have we. Throughout the years, we’ve been known by many names, including the National Marrow Donor Program® and Be The Match®. In early 2024, we changed our name to NMDPSM—a single, modernized brand that’s flexible enough to meet our ambitious future.

East County man issued “Cease and Desist” notice from State Bar for unauthorized practice of law

By 2 Comments

The California State Bar issued a Cease and Desist Notice to Shannon O. Murphy for the unauthorized practice of law. Photo source: Yelp

Says “no one” at his company “practices law” and is a “victim of assault, harassment and slander by The State Bar”

Previously sued Antioch PD, IRS Taxpayer Advocate, U.S. District Court Eastern District of California Office of the Clerk and O’Reilly Auto Parts who labeled him a “vexatious litigant”

By Allen D. Payton

In a post on their X account on Nov. 25, 2025, the State Bar of California announced, “In September, the State Bar of California issued the (below) Cease and Desist Notices for the unauthorized practice of law in Contra Costa, Marin, Orange, Sacramento and San Bernardino Counties. Included in the list of Nonattorney Actions was Shannon O. Murphy, Sr., dba Sheetmetal and Associates and Counsel Legal Advisory Division (C-LAD) of Antioch: UPL Cease and Desist Notice sent 09/25/2025.

Source: The State Bar of California

However, according to his LinkedIn profile, Murphy is Chief Executive Officer at paralegal company at Sheetmetal and Associates in Pittsburg and according to Yelp, his office is located in the Marina Heights Apartments at 2 Marina Blvd. in Pittsburg.

The description on Yelp reads, “Sheetmetal & Associates the coordinate ‘INLC.’ is enable invented by Mr. Shannon Murphy Esq. Sr.; CEO. We at Sheetmetal & Associates, strive to support the legal business community, public, commercial industry, with there / their at Superior Courts of California legal form(s), correspond variety court’s clerk appointment. We also assist, to advocate, there for IN PRO SE. / IN PRO PER. participations court case, the proceedings. We provide service of documents to court clerk, for filing(s; minimal “FILING” suggest, as attorneys welcome.

The Yelp post continues, “History – Established in 2006. Sheetmetal & Associates (A Legal Company), began it’s address to public legal concern, 2006, after attending, at owner Shannon Murphy Sr. a Superior Court small claims case, Alameda, Ca. Since then, Richmond, Ca. and Pittsburg, Ca., Sheetmetal & Associates has based our home.”

Multiple Lawsuits Filed

According to Justia, in 2023 he sued the Antioch Police Department for civil rights violations, in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California and last year, Murphy sued that court’s Office of the Clerk. According to Trellis, in 2021, he sued O’Reilly Auto Parts who, in response, filed a motion to declare Murphy a vexatious litigant. Also, in 2021, according to casemine.com, he sued the I.R.S. Taxpayer Advocate.

State Bar UPL Complaints

According to the State Bar, “Complaints of the unauthorized practice of law (UPL) are reviewed by the State Bar’s Office of Chief Trial Counsel (OCTC).

Complaints from outside parties and matters that the State Bar initiates itself that allege UPL by a nonattorney are then investigated by the State Bar’s dedicated UPL team.

Where the investigation uncovers an isolated instance of UPL, OCTC sends a “Cease and Desist” (CND) letter. Recent CND letters appear in this section. The CND letter serves as a warning and puts the respondent on notice that certain services/actions may violate the law and constitute the unauthorized practice of law.

Complaints raising repeated or multiple violations do not receive a CND letter but may result in the State Bar taking action in Superior Court to obtain an order to shut down the unlawful law practice.

Murphy Responds, Claims He’s “Victim of Assault, Harassment and Slander by The State Bar”

In response to a voicemail message left for Murphy, he responded via email on Sunday, Nov. 30 with the following statement:

Dear Sirs, Allen, Others, Antioch Herald Agents,

I am here comply mine jurisdiction, as I still remain, owner and operator of the sole proprietorship, legal
advisory and document company, name Sheetmetal & Associates, an INLC., originate Pt. Richmond, Ca.
I do answer your phone call message, Mr. Allen T. [sic], left for me yesterday, 11/29/2025, respectively you say you wish to provide me chance to here [sic] my side, of the rudely placed “Cease Business” by State Bar, inappropriate concerns law…”

Please do find, review, the attached array of legal documents included, that to explain more about how, my “legal company”, has been continuously victim of assault, harassment and slander by The State Bar Of California, over 10 years; Sirs, ladies and gentlemen, Sheetmetal & Associates, an INLC., is by U.S. law, authorized to operate as does, perform it’s own representation attends courts in at U.S., Sheetmetal & Associates, an INLC., is not a corporation, although, a sole proprietorship has advantage, options,
“represent itself”, instead of having to find, hire corporate ttorney jurisdiction, only, since would be of corporation.

Sirs, besides that way, we at Sheetmetal & Associates, an INLC., as I have repeatedly informed the rude, choice of State Bar officials who have continue theirs of ignorance to just understanding, and by any evidence is concern, that “no one of Sheetmetal & Associates, an INLC. practices law”; “We do not, and have not, “ever”, represent anyone, for that to be theirs attorney, lawyer, at any jurisdiction, court of law”.

…”Please sirs, take that check to the bank, cash it, and bring me back my change!”. For yours cordial, information, people, agents available, Antioch Herald,…”Sheetmetal & Associates, an INLC., has already warned, and provide notice to State Bar, that they are apt become, and soon, defendants at court of law,
we will soon apply a class-action lawsuit against the State Bar”, cause of action includes, 1) Assault, with intent commit serious illness, or even murder, 2) Tort Negligence, 3) Injury, Illness, 4) Harassment, 5) Defamation of Character, and possibly other.

Note, Antioch Herald, that Sheetmetal & Associates, is currently seeking a better professional attorney, and is announcing public, that there is apply now a $5,000 reward for to anyone who has knowledge of a preferred, good, class act professional attorney, “who can resume Sheetmetal & Associates’, actions to courts”.

Thanks For The Opportunity Much Love,

Shannon O. Murphy Esq. Sr.

Sheetmetal & Associates, an INLC., CEO.

———

Murphy also provided copies of several legal documents which can be seen, below.

Complaints about the unauthorized practice of law? Let the State Bar know here. Visit the California State Bar’s website to view Cease and Desist Notices by county: www.calbar.ca.gov/Public/Discipline/Nonattorney-Actions.”

Following resignation former East Bay parks GM to seek legal counsel against District Board

By Leave a Comment

Former EBRPD GM Sabrina Landreth to seek counsel for possible legal action against the District’s Board. Photo: EBRPD

Controversy at EBRPD: General Manager didn’t jump, she was pushed out by Board, seeks legal action

Sabrina Landreth said she was “constructively terminated” and “could not perform…job under a Board of Directors which was not exercising appropriate governance and operates without adequate checks and balances.”

By Sam Singer, President, Singer Associates Public Relations

Oakland – Former East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) General Manager Sabrina Landreth on Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025, announced she is seeking legal counsel and evaluating potential legal action related to her departure from the district last week and the conduct of the EBRPD Board of Directors.

Landreth resigned from her position as EBRPD General Manager this week but said she was “constructively terminated” by the Board which demanded she take actions–which she refused—that would have violated open government and personnel laws, and harmed her professional and personal reputation.

Landreth said she “could not perform my job under a Board of Directors which was not exercising appropriate governance and operates without adequate checks and balances.”

“The Board was demanding that I compromise my integrity and values. I would not do that,’ she said. “I stand by my values and my reputation as a professional administrator for the past twenty-five years.”

“I am proud of my accomplishments during my EBRPD tenure,” Landreth added.  “There were many projects I had started and am disappointed not to complete because my time was cut short by the Board.”

Landreth was hired in March 2021 and has served for almost the past five years as General Manager of EBRPD, the largest regional park system in the country. Her contract was renewed in 2024 for an additional five years.  She was the first woman to serve as General Manager in the District’s 91-year history. Previously, she held top executive leadership positions managing the cities of Oakland and Emeryville.

Prior to the EBRPD, Landreth served as City Administrator in Oakland from 2015- 2020, where she is credited with strong fiscal management and developing a capital improvement program that included community equity goals and has become a model program for local governments around the country.

Previously, Landreth served as City Manager of Emeryville and as staff in the California State Assembly advancing state and local legislative initiatives.

She serves on the UC Berkeley Goldman School of Public Policy Board of Advisors and a number of community organizations.

When reached for comment on Landreth’s claims, EBRPD Communications and Outreach Manager Kendra Strey responded, “The East Bay Regional Park District has not received a legal claim and cannot comment on pending or threatened litigation.”

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

GM’s resignation triggers leadership transition at East Bay Regional Park District

By 3 Comments

Former EBRPD General Manager Sabrina Landreth (Source: EBRPD) and Acting GM Max Korten. (Source: LinkedIn)

Sabrina Landreth leaves post after less than five years; Deputy General Manager Max Korten appointed Acting GM

By Kendra Strey, Communications Manager, EBRPD

OAKLAND, CA — Sabrina Landreth resigned from her position as General Manager of the East Bay Regional Park District on November 6, 2025. Following a closed session on Saturday, Nov. 8, the EBRPD Board of Directors voted unanimously to appoint current Deputy General Manager Max Korten as the Acting General Manager.

Landreth served as General Manager since March 2021, coming into the position during the pandemic and immediately working tirelessly to improve the Regional Parks, make key acquisitions including Pt. Molate in Richmond, and ensure parks are accessible and welcoming to all members of the community. Under Landreth, the Park District modernized and strengthened the agency’s leadership infrastructure, assembling talent across all Divisions to ensure the agency is well positioned for a bright future.

“The Board of Directors is incredibly thankful for Ms. Landreth’s service and her numerous substantial contributions to the operations of the Park District,” Board President John Mercurio said. Next steps on the hiring process are yet to be determined.

According to a Sept. 11, 2024, EBRPD press release, Korten joined the Executive Leadership Team after 10 years with Marin County Parks.

Beginning as a parks and open space superintendent in 2014, he served as director and general manager from 2016-24, responsible for 34 open space preserves, 45 parks, and 150 employees. Prior to that he worked as the natural resources program director for Conservation Corps North Bay and as a backcountry ranger and trail crew supervisor for the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service. Korten graduated from the University of California, Santa Cruz with a degree in Environmental Studies, and went on to obtain a Master of Science in Natural Resources from Humboldt State University. He also enjoys volunteering as a coach for his son’s soccer team and as a board member for Together Bay Area.

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.