People | Contra Costa Herald

East Bay Park District remembers Doug McConnell

January 16, 2026 By Publisher 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

January 3, 2026 By Publisher 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 NMDP^SM—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

December 1, 2025 By Publisher 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

November 12, 2025 By Publisher 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

November 10, 2025 By Publisher 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.

Off-duty Contra Costa AMR paramedic saves life at high school football game, earns national recognition

October 29, 2025 By Publisher Leave a Comment

AMR Paramedic Brannen Zilk will be honored with the Star of Life Award next week. Photo: AMR

Brannen Zilka to be honored as a Star of Life Award recipient in Washington, D.C.

October is Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month

By Amy Link, Senior Public Relations Specialist

CONCORD, CA — Seconds matter during a sudden cardiac arrest emergency, and for one spectator at a local high school football game last fall, seconds were all it took for off-duty American Medical Response (AMR) paramedic Brannen Zilka to come to their aid. Zilka witnessed this life-threatening emergency and, recognizing the severity of the situation, he immediately began CPR, retrieved an automated external defibrillator (AED) and delivered a life-saving shock. With Zilka’s quick action, the individual survived and was later discharged from the hospital without any lasting disabilities.

This year, Zilka, who lives in Benicia, stands among a select group of just 32 outstanding professionals—representing Global Medical Response’s 34,000 prehospital clinicians, dispatchers and support personnel—who have earned the distinguished Stars of Life award. Presented by the American Ambulance Association (AAA), this honor shines a light on individuals whose exceptional achievements exemplify the very best of the emergency medical services (EMS) profession and reflect the dedication and excellence shared throughout the entire workforce.

The Stars of Life program, founded by the AAA in 1996, shines a national spotlight on EMS professionals who demonstrate unwavering commitment and extraordinary impact. This year’s recipients will join peers from across the country at the AAA’s national celebration, November 2–5 in Washington, D.C.— an event dedicated to honoring the essential role of EMS in public health and safety.

“These individuals represent the highest standards of EMS, consistently exceeding expectations under pressure and making a profound difference where it matters most,” said Nick Loporcaro, president and CEO of GMR. “It’s an incredible honor to recognize these 32 caregivers for their heroic service.”

Each honoree is recognized for lifesaving interventions, innovative public health leadership, and heartfelt engagement with their communities. As part of the celebration, Stars of Life honorees will also meet with members of Congress to share the challenges and triumphs shaping today’s EMS landscape, advocating for continued support and investment in the field.

“I’m incredibly honored to receive the Stars of Life award,” said Zilka. “When I saw the cardiac arrest unfold at the football game, I didn’t hesitate—training and instinct kicked in. But it’s the strength of our EMS community and the support of my team that make moments like that possible. I’m proud to represent the lifesaving work we do every day, especially when every second counts.”

Zilka has been a dedicated team member with AMR, a Global Medical Response solution, since 2003, serving currently as a paramedic, field training officer and union shop steward. His commitment to both his team and community is evident through his involvement in specialized units, training programs and support for new hires. Outside of work, Zilka volunteers as a coach with Northern California Special Olympics and advocates for inclusive education, while also teaching lifesaving skills like CPR, Narcan administration, and Stop the Bleed to high school students—extending his impact well beyond his work as a first responder.

“Brannen’s quick thinking and decisive action during that emergency reflect the kind of leadership and compassion he brings to our team every day,” said Scott Newlin, operations manager at AMR. “His recognition as a Stars of Life honoree is well deserved, and we’re proud to have him representing our team.”

About American Ambulance Association

The American Ambulance Association represents ambulance services across the United States that participate in serving more than 75% of the U.S. population with emergency and non-emergency care and medical transportation. The AAA was formed in response to the need for improvements in medical transportation and emergency medical services. AAA views pre-hospital care not only as a public service, but also as an essential part of the total public health care system.

About American Medical Response (AMR) 

American Medical Response, Inc., America’s leading provider of emergency medical services, provides mobile healthcare in 40 states and the District of Columbia. More than 28,000 AMR paramedics, EMTs, RNs and other professionals work together to care for more than 4.8 million patients nationwide each year in critical, emergency and non-emergency situations. For more information about AMR, visit www.amr.net or on Facebook and LinkedIn.

AMR is part of Global Medical Response, the largest air and ground emergency medical service provider in the United States. With nearly 33,000 team members, the organization reaches 60% of the U.S. population, providing emergency medical care to 5.5 million patients annually and performing a critical intervention every 93 seconds. Its family of solutions includes ambulance EMS provider American Medical Response (AMR), as well as multiple air EMS organizations including Air Evac Lifeteam, REACH Air Medical Services, Guardian Flight, Med-Trans Corporation, and AirMed International. For additional information, visit GMR at www.globalmedicalresponse.com, or on Facebook and LinkedIn.

About Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month

October is National Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) Awareness Month. It’s a call to action by the American Red Cross meant to raise awareness about sudden cardiac arrest signs and symptoms and illuminate how it affects people and what to do to help save lives. For more information visit Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month | Red Cross.

Oakland Assistant City Administrator selected as next Brentwood City Manager

October 15, 2025 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Photo: LinkedIn

Council to vote on appointment of G. Harold Duffey on Oct. 28

By Melissa Ballesteros, Executive Assistant, Brentwood City Manager’s Office / City Council Office

BRENTWOOD, CA — Mayor Susannah Meyer today announced the selection of G. Harold Duffey for consideration as the next City Manager for the City of Brentwood. In this role, Mr. Duffey would lead Brentwood’s executive team and staff in advancing the City Council’s vision to honor Brentwood’s heritage while maintaining and enhancing the community’s exceptional quality of life. The proposed employment agreement for Mr. Duffey is scheduled for City Council consideration on October 28, 2025.

“We are very pleased to announce the anticipated appointment of Harold to lead our executive team,” said Meyer. “After a national search conducted by Peckham & McKenney, and a comprehensive background review, the Council selected Mr. Duffey to move forward in the process. His deep experience in budgeting, economic development, capital improvements, solid waste and emergency operations will support strong collaboration and trust. His commitment to mentoring staff aligns with Brentwood’s goal of fostering meaningful public service careers.”

With more than 30 years in California local government, Mr. Duffey has served in leadership roles in cities and counties—most recently as Assistant City Administrator in Oakland—and previously as City Manager in Grand Terrace, Compton and Oroville.

“I’m honored and excited to join the City of Brentwood,” said Duffey. “As a professional city manager, my role is to provide policy makers with the leadership and expertise necessary to advance, maintain, and expand the quality of life for our residents, local businesses, and stakeholders. I take seriously the responsibility of serving both the community and its employees—the City’s most valuable asset.”

Mr. Duffey holds Bachelor of Arts degrees in Political Science and Sociology from the University of Redlands and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from UC San Bernardino.

According to Duffey’s LinkedIn profile, he previously worked as the City of Oakland’s Director of Public Works and in the Yolo County Planning and Public Works Department. He has experience, “Leading organizations with over 300 employees and $170,000,000.”

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

GoFundMe account set up for twin daughters of Walnut Creek double murder victim

October 14, 2025 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Linlin Guo (right) and her mother Beimin Cheng (left). Source: GoFundMe

Justice for Linlin Guo & Her Mother – Support Her Children’s Future

By Allen D. Payton

According to a GoFundMe account set up by Lucy Chen, “On September 18, 2025, our dear friend Linlin Guo and her mother Beimin Cheng were tragically murdered in their home in Walnut Creek, California. The suspect, Howard Wang, Linlin’s husband, has been arrested and charged with double homicide. (See related articles here, here and here)

Linlin leaves behind 8-year-old twin girls who are now without both their mother and grandmother. The family is reeling from unimaginable grief and urgently needs support.

This campaign has been started with the consent of Linlin’s family. All proceeds will go directly to:

– Funeral and memorial expenses for Linlin and her mother

– Legal costs related to custody of the children

– Ongoing living and educational support for the children

This is more than a tragedy. It’s a wake-up call to the silent epidemic of domestic violence. Linlin was a loving mother, daughter, and friend. Her story deserves to be heard, and her children deserve a secure future.

If you wish to read more about the case, here is a link to the news article, https://www.kron4.com/news/bay-area/walnut-creek-man-charged-with-murdering-wife-mother-in-law/. More information can be found here, https://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/local/accused-killers-mistress-faces-charges/3956455/.

Please consider donating or sharing this page. Every gift, no matter the size, brings comfort and hope to Linlin’s family.

With gratitude,

Lucy Chen

(On behalf of Linlin’s family and cousin Jie Shao, who is the campaign’s beneficiary)

为郭琳琳和她母亲伸张正义——帮助两个孩子的未来

在2025年9月18日，我们亲爱的朋友郭琳琳和她的母亲程蓓敏在加州 Walnut Creek 家中惨遭杀害。凶嫌是琳琳的丈夫，Howard Wang，他已被警方逮捕并被控双重谋杀罪。

琳琳留下了一对8岁的双胞胎姐妹，现在孩子不仅失去了母亲，也失去了外婆。这个家庭正经历着巨大的悲痛与创伤，也急需社会的支持。

本次募款活动是经过琳琳家人的同意发起的，所有善款将直接用于以下用途：

– 支付琳琳与她母亲的丧葬费用

– 两位孩子的抚养权法律诉讼费用

– 两位孩子今后的生活与教育支出

这不仅是一场家庭悲剧，也让我们正视家庭暴力的可怕与沉默。琳琳是一位充满爱心的母亲、女儿和朋友，她的故事不应被遗忘，她的孩子更值得拥有一个安全的未来。

请伸出援手，捐款或转发此页面。无论金额大小，都是对这个家庭的关爱与希望。

衷心感谢，

Lucy Chen

（代表郭琳琳的家人及其表亲 Jie Shao 邵洁，也是本次募款的官方受益人）

Save Mount Diablo launches Advisory Council

October 10, 2025 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Wildflowers in the Panoche Valley and Hills, southern Diablo Range. Photo: Scott Hein

10-member, all-volunteer Council will further land conservation mission

By Laura Kindsvater, Senior Communications Manager, Save Mount Diablo

WALNUT CREEK, CA—Save Mount Diablo has created an Advisory Council to help further our organization’s land conservation mission for Mount Diablo and the mountain range it is a part of and sustained by, the Diablo Range.

Save Mount Diablo’s all-volunteer Advisory Council consists of distinguished individuals who are willing to contribute their expertise, guidance, connections, and support to further the organization’s mission.

The organization’s Board of Directors and staff will benefit from the knowledge and expertise of the Advisory Council members. Advisors will also act as ambassadors for Save Mount Diablo helping the organization positively connect with strategic peoples and communities.

There are multiple reasons why Save Mount Diablo created its Advisory Council. It gives the organization a way to honor and recognize individuals for their distinguished service to Save Mount Diablo.

It provides a way to involve people who are willing to give critical assistance but have limited time. It provides a way of involving people who would be good candidates for the Board of Directors, but who are unable, or may not be ready, to serve in that role right now.

It provides a way to keep important supporters closely connected to the organization. It creates a direct link to important professional and technical expertise. It elevates and empowers selected people to serve as ambassadors for the organization.

It is a way to assist in efforts to increase philanthropic support. It enlists various types of needed help from the Advisors and their networks.

The basic structure of Save Mount Diablo’s Advisory Council is as follows. The organization’s Board Governance and Nominating Committee reviews and recommends appropriate Advisory Council candidates to the Board of Directors for approval.

Advisors must be elected by the Board of Directors. Advisory Council members advise and assist the organization largely on an as-needed basis. The Advisory Council will be invited to meet at least once annually, typically as part of a Board of Directors meeting or event.

Organizational communications with the Advisory Council, as a group or individually, will typically come from the Executive Director or Board President. The Advisory Council has no governing function within the organization.

The Board of Directors will determine term lengths, if any, the total number of members for the Advisory Council, and other related details.

After careful consideration, the Board of Directors approved creating an Advisory Council at their January 2025 annual Strategic Plan retreat.

After that, Save Mount Diablo’s Board Governance and Nominating Committee worked on creating a list of talented people to invite to be part of the inaugural class of the Advisory Council.

This inaugural class for our Advisory Council, which was approved by the Board of Directors at their October 1, 2025, meeting, consists of the following people:

Stewart Beatty

Stewart Beatty is the Head Chef at Postino, where he specializes in creating farm-to-table dishes that highlight fresh, locally sourced ingredients. A lifelong resident of the Mount Diablo area and current Clayton resident, Stewart has a deep connection to the region and its community. He generously shares his culinary talents by providing meals for Save Mount Diablo’s Four Days Diablo and summit dinners, bringing people together to celebrate and support local land conservation efforts.

Joseph Belli

Joseph Belli has been a dedicated Save Mount Diablo donor since 2021 and is a conservation biologist and author, widely recognized as one of California’s leading experts on the Diablo Range.

His deep knowledge and passion for the region have made him an invaluable contributor to Save Mount Diablo’s mission. Joseph has participated in our BioBlitz events and Mary Bowerman Science and Research program, and served as the opening speaker for our first annual Diablo Range Convening in June 2025. In July 2025, he was also featured as a speaker for Save Mount Diablo’s Executive Director Speaker Series, sharing his insights on the unique ecology and conservation challenges of the Diablo Range.

Tom Dowd

Tom has a passion for helping organizations and individuals and transforming people’s lives. He was the founder and CEO of a chemical distribution company (Dowd and Guild, Inc.); he serves on the John Muir Health Foundation Board of Directors as well as on the Advisory Board of Heritage Bank of Commerce. Tom founded Keiretsu Forum Charitable Foundation, a nonprofit organization that raised $1 million for more than 100 charities. After selling Dowd and Guild, Inc., Tom has shifted to full-time charitable work.

Robert E. Doyle

Robert E. Doyle, General Manager Emeritus, East Bay Regional Park District, worked for 47 years as a park professional at the East Bay Regional Park District in Oakland, California. Bob was a founding Board member of Save Mount Diablo, working with California State Parks to expand one of the original “Olmsted State Parks.” He was also a founding Board member of the East Bay Conservation Corps. Bob currently serves as Board member and Advocacy Co-Chair of the Washington, DC–based City Parks Alliance. He has served as a Board member for the National Association of Olmsted Parks and is a member of the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration, where he was awarded the prestigious Cornelius Pugsley Medal. In 2024, Bob joined the San Francisco–based Save the Redwoods League Board of Councilors. Bob has received a Save Mount Diablo Mountain Star award for his good work.

Peter Frazier

Peter Frazier, a retired investment professional, has been a Save Mount Diablo supporter for over 40 years, demonstrating a strong commitment to land conservation and environmental education. As a dedicated contributor, Peter helps support programs that inspire and educate future generations about the importance of protecting the Diablo Range and its natural resources. Peter has also helped make possible other important projects for Save Mount Diablo, like the organization’s 50th anniversary oral history project with the Bancroft Library at the University of California, Berkeley.

John Kiefer

John Kiefer is a retired systems applications specialist at Pacific Bell, inventor of the Kiefer Sustainable Chicken Coop, and a longtime supporter of Save Mount Diablo since 1975! He has remained deeply involved through leadership, advocacy, and community building. He is especially supportive of Save Mount Diablo’s environmental education programs and efforts to connect more people to nature and each other. Over the years, John has led hikes on Mount Diablo and has supported Save Mount Diablo in many ways, from hosting events at his home to funding community breakfasts and other events. His passion for trails and open space led to his service on the Lafayette Parks, Trails, and Recreation Commission (1986–1994), where he worked hands-on to maintain trails, collaborated with landowners to create public access, and later served as the city’s field representative for trails. In recognition of his contributions, the John Kiefer Trail was dedicated in his honor in 2014.

Beverly Lane

Beverly Lane has been a dedicated Save Mount Diablo supporter since 1988 and is a respected local historian, published author, and curator of the Museum of the San Ramon Valley. She helped found the Contra Costa History Alliance and the Tri-Valley History Council, fostering the preservation of regional history. Beverly served as Mayor of Danville and represented central Contra Costa County as a Director for the East Bay Regional Park District from 1994 to 2022. She is also an active member of the Anza Trail Foundation, which promotes the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail, and Friends of San Ramon Creek, reflecting her lifelong commitment to conservation, history, and community.

Doug McConnell

Doug McConnell is a long-time Save Mount Diablo supporter and renowned television host and storyteller with a passion for exploring and protecting the natural world. He hosted NBC Bay Area’s OpenRoad with Doug McConnell beginning in 2009 and served as host and editor of the beloved series Bay Area Backroads from 1993 to 2008. Doug is the founder of Convergence Media Productions, creating content that highlights conservation and outdoor adventure. In addition to his media work, he serves as an Advisory Board member for San Francisco Baykeeper, advocating for the protection and preservation of the Bay Area’s natural resources. Doug has received a Save Mount Diablo Mountain Star Award for this good work.

Jeff Stone

Jeff Stone is the CEO of Diamond Construction and co-founder of Enkasa Homes, bringing extensive expertise in environmentally sensitive building and development to his work. A dedicated supporter of land conservation, Jeff served as a Save Mount Diablo Board member (2016–2025). He continues to contribute his leadership, expertise, and passion to support Save Mount Diablo’s land conservation work.

Jeanne Thomas

Jeanne Thomas has been a Save Mount Diablo donor since 1989 and is a proud member of the Diablo Legacy Circle. A retired employee of Kaiser Industries, Jeanne has been a steadfast supporter of Save Mount Diablo for decades, serving on the Development Committee from 2006 to 2014. She has played a vital role in supporting events, acting as a liaison to the Rossmoor retirement community, and was honored with the Mountain Star Award for her dedication. An avid nature enthusiast, Jeanne has spent countless hours hiking Mount Diablo and photographing its wildflowers, reflecting her deep love for the land she helps protect.

We are very grateful that this talented and special group of people answered the call to serve on Save Mount Diablo’s Advisory Council!

With the creation of our Advisory Council, made up of such terrific people, Save Mount Diablo has successfully and strategically expanded our team to help further our land conservation work for Mount Diablo and its Diablo Range.

About Save Mount Diablo

Save Mount Diablo has been preserving lands on and around Mount Diablo and educating the public to the mountain’s natural values since 1971. We are biologists, conservationists, hikers, bikers, equestrians, bird watchers, and people who just love to look at the mountain. Save Mount Diablo is a tax-exempt nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization (tax ID 94-2681735). For more information visit savemountdiablo.org.

Longtime Concord City Manager Valerie Barone to retire

October 7, 2025 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Concord City Manager Valerie Barone. Photo: City of Concord

After more than 30 years; effective June 30, 2026

By Colleen Awad, Community Relations Manager, City of Concord

Concord, CA — After more than three decades of dedicated public service, Concord City Manager Valerie Barone has announced her retirement, effective at the end of the fiscal year (June 2026).

Ms. Barone began her career as a Community Development Specialist with the U.S. Peace Corps, serving in the Philippines. Over the years, she has held key roles in local jurisdictions, including Community Development Director for the City of Walnut Creek and Director of Planning, Recreation, and Neighborhood Services for the City of Milpitas.

She joined the City of Concord in 2008 as Assistant City Manager and was appointed interim City Manager in February 2012 and then City Manager in April 2012. During her tenure, she guided Concord through the challenges of the State’s elimination of redevelopment, the Great Recession, and the COVID-19 pandemic, stabilizing the City’s General Fund Operating Budget and restoring reserves to 30%. Her leadership also drove infrastructure upgrades and economic development, including major roadway investments.

Ms. Barone also championed regional collaborations, positioning Concord as a leader in initiatives such as the Central County Family Justice Center, Contra Costa County’s A3 (Anyone, Anywhere, Anytime) Community Crisis Response (mental health), and the County’s CORE Program (outreach and support for the unhoused residents).

She oversaw the adoption and implementation of complex Council policy initiatives addressing a range of topics, including the development of housing policies, tenant protections, tobacco regulations, the creation of council districts, Concord Naval Weapons Station planning and development, and, most recently, food truck and sidewalk vending, to name a few. Her dedication to community enrichment fostered cultural growth in Concord, with public art installations and events like Creative Concord and preservation of the Music and Market concerts, enhancing the City’s cultural landscape.

On the economic front, highlights of her leadership include transforming the Toyota Pavilion at Concord from an expense into a revenue generator, establishing the tourism improvement district (Visit Concord), redeveloping vacant office space into The Veranda, and investing $27 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to support the City’s infrastructure, local businesses, and nonprofit organizations.

Reflecting on her career with Concord, Ms. Barone shared, “I am deeply grateful for the leadership of the Council and the dedication of our employees, whose hard work has made Concord a thriving community where families can grow, businesses can prosper, and residents can flourish. I want to thank all the residents, organizations, and employees I’ve had a chance to work with while serving the Concord community.”

Speaking on behalf of the Council, Mayor Obringer said, “The Council is deeply grateful to Ms. Barone for her years of dedicated service to our community. She has led Concord through challenges with care, integrity, and a deep commitment to our residents.” Mayor Obringer continued, “Under her leadership, she has built a strong and capable leadership team, which will ensure a smooth transition as we onboard a new City Manager. On behalf of the Council and the Concord community, we wish Valerie every happiness in her well-earned retirement.”

The City is initiating a search for Ms. Barone’s replacement. Additional details about the recruitment process will be available in the coming weeks.

The early announcement comes as Ms. Barone recently shared her intention to retire this December with the City Council. The City Council requested Ms. Barone stay through the end of the fiscal year to help the City prepare for the transition, and she has agreed to do so.