Contra Costa Herald

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

Cal Berkeley women’s soccer team goalie from Danville is tops in nation

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Cal Berkeley Golden Bears’ goalie Angelina Anderson saves a shot. Photo: U.C. Berkeley Athletics

Helps team beat Stanford for first time in eight years

Cal Goalie Angelina Anderson. Photo: U.C. Berkeley Athletics

By Allen Payton

Angelina Anderson from Danville, is a sophomore at U.C. Berkeley and plays goalkeeper for the women’s soccer team, for which she’s been chosen captain. Not only did Anderson help the team in their big win over rival and reigning national champion Stanford, with her nine saves on Saturday, March 20, but she is the reigning National Freshman of the Year as named by TopDrawerSoccer in 2019.

Angie, as she is known by family and friends, is a homegrown protege.  Born and raised in Danville, she played for the Mustang Soccer club, which is part of the Elite Clubs National League program.  Anderson captained the U.S. World Cup National Under-17 team in Uruguay. In 2019 she was 2nd Team All American, First Team All-Pacific, First Team All-Region, and First Team All-Pac-12 and Cal women soccer’s MVP, also as a freshman. Angie is also the first player to win both PAC 12 Freshman of the Year and Goalkeeper of the Year in 2019.  (See video)

In high school, Anderson was the United Soccer Coaches’, TopDrawerSoccer, and USA TODAY All-American at Carondelet in Concord. She was First Team All-EBAL as a sophomore and junior and helped Carondelet win back-to-back EBAL Championships.

“She is an amazing local talent and role model,” shared dad, Sean Anderson, a cosmetic and neuromuscular dentist in San Ramon. “Yes, I’m a bit biased. She is a positive ambassador for all young women pursuing academic and athletic excellence.”

The 6’0” tall Angie is from a family of athletes. Sean played football at Iowa and Angie’s mother, Lisa, ran track at San Francisco State University.

Graphic: U.C. Berkeley Athletics

On her birthday, Monday, March 22 she was named the PAC-12 Goalie of the Week. It marked Anderson’s first player of the week nod of the season, and the first weekly honor for the Golden Bears this spring. Anderson was also featured in the TopDrawerSoccer Team of the Week for the week of March 15-21. The sophomore received keeper of the week honors three times in 2019.

“I’m very honored to receive Pac-12 Goalkeeper of the Week after an awesome victory over Stanford on Saturday,” Anderson said during the . “I’m proud of our performance as a team and I’m excited about getting a big result. It’s only up from here for this team! Go Bears!”

In Cal’s victory against the Cardinal, Anderson faced 20 shots, another season-high for the Danville native. On her thoughts before saving a late penalty kick versus No. 20 Stanford: “This is it. You got to make this save. This is big time,” Anderson said during a postgame interview.

“We are happy for Angelina,” said head coach Neil McGuire. “She, along with her teammates, played very well in the game versus Stanford.”

Graphic: U.C. Berkeley Athletics

Anderson entered this season on both the TopDrawerSoccer National Top 100 and the Watch List for the MAC Hermann Award, which is college soccer’s version of the Heisman Trophy.

“Everything Sean said is true and if I may add, the most humble person I have ever met, with the biggest heart I know. But when it comes to winning for her team, she brings it like no other,” said Angie’s aunt, Lana Battagello, a Danville Realtor and no stranger to sports, as owner of Lana’s Egg Whites used by body builders and other athletes. “Also, she has traveled to many countries for her sport at a young age. She loves to travel.”

“If I had to say anything else, it is of one fond memory of when Angelina would come to my house and spend the night. I would say ‘let’s head out to the movies, Angelina, there is a good one playing up at Blackhawk.’ She would look at me with that bright smile and say, ‘Oh, that sounds good, but I must complete my homework first.’ And that was on a Friday night!”

“I was always in awe of her as a little kid and still today. She brings incredible joy to our family,” Battagello added.

When reached for comment, Angelina said about her experience as the Cal Berkeley goalkeeper, “So far my experience at Cal has been incredible. I love Cal.”

“Something I’m super excited about is that I came in as a freshman and made an impact on the team. That’s what I wanted to be able to do no matter which school I attended,” she continued. “And to really get to know my teammates at a deep level. It’s super awesome. I love all the girls. It’s been a really great experience, so far.”

Asked for her thoughts on all the accolades she’s received Angelina said, “The honors and accolades, it’s pretty cool to receive those things. It makes me really humble and honored to play with some really talented players.”

Asked about and her plans for the future, if she would like to go pro, Angelina responded, “I’m just loving my college experience, right now. I’m trying to get through my studies. But yes, playing pro is something I’ve thought about and I’ll cross that bridge when I have to.”

The student athlete said she is studying psychology. Asked what she plans to do with her major, Angie said, “I’m not exactly sure, yet what route I want to take with psychology. I’ve just really enjoyed the classes.”

Mom, Lisa also shared some thoughts about her daughter.

“Angelina, she’s just a very grateful person. She’s always someone who gives credit to others,” her proud mother said. “There’s so much truth to that in her developing as an athlete, from Club Mustang, to high school at Carondolet to her coaches, and other great players. They have contributed so much to her success. Particularly her Coach Neil McGuire and her Goalie Coach Cori Alexander. When she was being recruited, that’s who she compared everyone else to. They’ve been exceptional people in her life, on and off the field.”

“Coming in young like that I was wondering what it would be like for the upper classmen,” Lisa continued. “But her ability to connect well with others shows initiative and it doesn’t surprise me she was chosen captain.
“Angelina is an only child, but always had a big white dog around as a brother,” said Lisa, who had the number 10 Great Pyrenees show dog in the country. Like her sister, Lana, Lisa is a Realtor and also has a big dog walking business, as well as cats and rides horses for clients.

“Everyone knows Angelina as this amazing soccer player. But she’s a diverse person,” her mom continued. “She loves to read. She’s a fantastic writer. English is her second choice for a major and she loves music. She has a play list like no other. She’s also an excellent skier and loves her ‘Black Crows’ skis.”

“She’s just a lovely gal. Very joyful,” Lisa added.

Dad, Sean offered one final comment. “I’m so proud of her, especially knowing how her life since seven years old has been 100% committed to this endeavor,” he shared. “The sacrifices and perseverance she has endured are impossible to explain.”

Keep up-to-date on the Angie and the Golden Bears women’s soccer team throughout the year by following them on Twitter (@CalWSoc), Instagram (@CalWSoc) and Facebook (Facebook.com/CalWSoc).

Antioch’s Markstein highlights successful women in leadership with SF Business Times rankings, 30-year work anniversary of female president 

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Laura Markstein. Photo: LinkedIn.

Woman-owned and operated, fourth-generation company with multiple women in leadership roles, Markstein represents successful example of diversity and inclusion for other companies to follow

ANTIOCH, Calif. – March 17th, 2021 – In honor of International Women’s Day this month, Markstein Sales Company, the largest woman-owned and operated wholesale beverage distributor in Northern California, today announced that it has been ranked by San Francisco Business Times as the 8th Largest Women-Owned Business in the Bay Area and the 5th Largest in the East Bay. This significant ranking highlights the long-term efforts and success of company President, Laura Markstein, who is celebrating her 30th work anniversary this month.

Markstein began working at the company in March 1991 as the Consumer Awareness and Education manager. After spending time in nearly every position at the company, she became President in 2001 and has focused on continuing the strong legacy of her family, while also creating new opportunities for women.

“Closing the gap on gender diversity is a critical issue on a global basis and must start from the top and migrate into every part of an organization, in every industry,” said Laura Markstein, President of Markstein Sales Co. “Women-owned businesses represent a tremendous opportunity to level the playing field, particularly in male-dominated industries such as the beer distribution business, where we’ve demonstrated continued success for generations. This recognition from the San Francisco Business Times reflects not only my role as company owner, but includes the female General Manager and female leads throughout the company who help spearhead our accomplishments.”

The San Francisco Business Times rankings are based on revenue from 2019 and with the requirement that the company be at least 51 percent woman-owned, something that Markstein Sales Co. is uniquely proud of as a fourth-generation, 102-year-old company.

Women-owned businesses represent a growing trend in many industries.  According to the National Association of Women Business Owners, there were more than 11.6 million firms owned by women, employing nearly 9 million people, and generating $1.7 trillion in sales as of 2017. In addition, women-owned firms accounted for 39 percent of all privately held firms and contributed 8 percent of employment and 4.2 percent of revenues.

Recognizing Laura Markstein’s commitment to helping women achieve success at all levels, she was recently appointed to the Diversity and Inclusion Committee for Constellation Brands.

“At Constellation Brands, our commitment to diversity and inclusion is part of our culture and is strongly reinforced by our CEO and executive team who have committed $100 million in women founded and owned business, increased representation on our board and at the executive levels, and committed to our own women through leadership development programs both for senior and mid-level women,” said Sarah Bettman at Constellation Brands, a leading international producer and marketer of beer, wine and spirits. “We believe that diversity, equity and inclusion have never been more important than they are today, which is why we take deep pride in our partnership with women-owned businesses such as Markstein Sales Company. Recognizing Laura Markstein’s leadership in the beer and beverage industry, and her proven commitment to helping women achieve success at all levels, she was recently appointed to the newly formed Social Equity Committee spearheaded by Constellation Brands. Through the Social Equity Committee, Constellation is partnering with a number of distributors across beer, wine and spirits to identify ways to work together to enhance social equity within their respective companies, the beverage alcohol industry and the local communities they serve.”

About Markstein Sales Company

Markstein Sales Company is a fourth-generation, woman-owned and operated wholesale beer and beverage distributor based in Antioch, Calif. Founded in 1919 with just a horse, a wagon and six cases of beer, Markstein is now in its 102nd year and distributing over four million cases annually. The company’s portfolio is composed of multiple world-class beers including those from the Anheuser-Busch InBev family, Constellation Beer Brands, Sierra Nevada as well as several high-quality craft beers and other beverages. Markstein is known for outstanding customer service, dedication to their employees and commitment to the community. The company continues to rank as best in class by retailers and is one of the top five largest Woman Owned Businesses in the Bay Area. More information can be found at https://www.marksteinsalescompany.com.

 

Glazer names Contra Costa County’s Lavonna Martin Woman of the Year

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Honored for her dedicated service to the homeless as Director of Health, Housing & Homeless Services for Contra Costa County

Lavonna Martin. From her LinkedIn profile.

SACRAMENTO – Sen. Steve Glazer, D-Contra Costa, announced Thursday that he has named Lavonna Martin as 2021 State Senate District 7 Woman of the Year. Martin is the Director of Health, Housing, & Homeless Services for Contra Costa County Health Services, in charge of providing services to those without a home to live in – a rising crisis during the Pandemic.

“Lavonna’s selfless leadership and passionate advocacy for those in need have been a lifeline to so many people who have suffered on the streets, especially during the Pandemic,” Senator Glazer said. “She is worthy of this award in every respect.”

Lavonna Martin has worked in homeless services for her entire career, beginning at the Homeless Prenatal Program in San Francisco and then, for the past 21 years, at Contra Costa Health Services.  She began her work with Contra Costa County as the Deputy Director of Homeless Services, eventually became the Chief and when the Health, Housing and Homeless Services Division was formed in 2016, was named Director.

As Director, Lavonna manages a homeless service delivery system that includes street outreach, respite and emergency shelters, independent living programs for transition-age youth, and permanent supportive housing for adults, youth, and families and received an annual compensation package including salary and benefits of over $244,000 in 2019, according to Transparent California.

During the last year in response to the COVID-19 crisis, Lavonna and her team procured 5 hotels (633 rooms) to provide non-congregate shelter options to persons experiencing homelessness at highest risk of COVID-19. Nearly 1702 individuals and families have been served in these hotels to date. More than half (54%) have had a positive exit to other housing or substance use disorder treatment programs.

Lavonna’s division has worked hard to improve the health and hygiene conditions of those living outside during this crisis. Under her leadership, hand-washing stations and porta-potties have been mobilized and stationed to better support persons living outside in the cities of Martinez, Antioch, Concord, Walnut Creek, San Pablo, Pittsburg and Richmond.

To support the basic needs for unsheltered persons, the Division’s CORE team has remained operational and has provided food packs, cloth and non-surgical masks, hand sanitizers, and solar battery chargers so that our unsheltered community could charge cell phones during Shelter In Place.

Previous winners of the Woman of the Year award for the 7th State Senate District were:

  • 2020 – Valerie Ariosto, 2020 Olympian Softball, Pleasanton
  • 2019 –  Margaret Liang, President Asian Pacific Islander American Public Affairs Tri Valley Chapter, Dublin
  • 2018 – Alissa Friedman, President/CEO Opportunity Junction, Antioch

Allen Payton contributed to this report.

Contra Costa DA Becton marries minister and preaches at their Richmond church

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Rev. Dr. Alvin Bernstine introduces his wife, Rev. Diana Becton who then preaches at their Richmond church on Sunday, Jan. 17, 2021. Video screenshots.

A fourth-generation preacher, Rev. Dr. Alvin C. Bernstine introduces her as his “fellow colleague in the ministry”, says she faces the “yeast of Americanism…white supremacy”; during her Martin Luther King Sunday sermon Rev. Diana Becton says attack on U.S. Capitol “fueled by the hate of white supremacists”; both teach theology at Oakland institute

By Allen Payton

Following news articles on Sunday that Contra Costa County District Attorney Diana Becton held her wedding and reception in the backyard of her El Sobrante home, last August, in violation of COVID-19 restrictions, a YouTube video revealed that her new husband is Rev. Dr. Alvin C. Bernstine, MDiv, DMin. He has been the pastor of Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church in Richmond since 2006.

According to his ministry website, he is a fourth-generation preacher, who has been preaching for over 40 years. Bernstine recently authored a book entitled, Hope Us, Lord. Among his previous publications are The Evening and The Morning Ministry, and In A Disaster Zone: The Seven Sayings of Jesus as Preached in an Urban African American Church.

He introduced Becton during a virtual service from their church on Sunday, Jan. 17 as “my incredible wife” and “my dear friend, and buddy, golf partner, book sharer reader, fellow colleague even in the ministry.”

“By the way, I have been married with her for 138 days…and I am grateful to God,” Bernstine added.

Becton can also be seen in a video on the church’s Facebook page introducing him during the service, this past Sunday, Feb. 7.

During Bernstine’s introduction of Becton on Jan. 17, which he labeled Martin Luther King Sunday, the day before the national holiday, he said, “One of the things we have to guard ourselves against is this whole notion of individualized salvation and individualized freedom. Because what is plaguing our nation, now is we got some folk, they are free, but they don’t want you to be free. And so, if I’m going to be free you need to be free, then we need to celebrate that we are free.”

“It is on that note that I want to do something special, today. The Lord laid it on my heart to invite the Rev. Diana Becton to speak to us,” Bernstine stated.

“Beware of the yeast of the Sadducees and the Pharisees…beware of their teaching,” he said. “Their teaching tends to be anthropocentric and ethnocentric. In other words, it’s so focused on who they were as people and who they were as a culture, that it literally displaced God. Whenever you do that, you’re in trouble. So, he said don’t focus, don’t give so much attention, don’t give so much of your life to their teaching.”

“Because one of the things that kind of teaching can do, because that’s what it has done in America, it can make you think you’re something you’re not. And the yeast of America is this, you all,” Bernstine continued, then getting political. “The yeast is a bad teaching because it will have you doing crazy things like storming the Capitol or have you doing crazy things by plotting to storm the capitols of fifty states. Because it got you thinking you’re something that you are not. I wish I can make it plain. Amen?”

“So, the yeast of Americanism is white supremacy, where white people, they believe they’re superior and then it makes black people inferior,” he said. “Beware of any yeast that makes you think that you are inferior. I wish I could make this plain, and that some other folk are superior.”

“So, it’s on that note that I want to introduce our preacher, for today,” said Bernstine. “She’s been experiencing the yeast, because as an attorney, she experienced the yeast. As one of the first judges in our county she experienced the yeast. And Lord knows she’s been experiencing the yeast as the first woman and the first person of color to be elected as District Attorney of Contra Costa County. The yeast is still out there, ya’ll.”

“But we are excited that in the midst of all that, as an attorney, a retired judge, District Attorney,” he shared. “But we celebrate her, here. But she wears that tag…of the First Lady of the Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church.”

“She’s my first lady, my only lady because I don’t have no firsts and seconds. Amen,” Bernstine continued. “My mama was my first, but she’s gone. So, she’s my first…my only.”

Becton then preached a sermon entitled “A Maladjusted Jesus” and opened in prayer, thanking God for the life and example of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (See the 37:38 mark of the video) Her message was from Matthew 9:36-38 and she spoke of “the full-blown insurrection, that attempted coup that took place in our capitol…the violence, the crazy madness fueled by the hatred of white supremacists and even the words of the President of the United States. That stuff is not normal. What we see is a national tragedy, and in this abnormal moment, I share the words of Dr. Martin Luther King. ‘God grant that we be so maladjusted that we will never be able to go out and feel that all of this is normal.’”

Becton then quoted from a speech by Dr. King, that “he argues that there are some things in this world, in our society to which we ought to never become adjusted” including “the viciousness of a mob rule…the evils of segregation and the crippling effects of discrimination…the inequalities of an economic system that takes the necessities of the masses to give luxuries to the classes.”

“We have adjusted to what is truly abnormal,” she said.

Becton then brought her sermon back to the text, “because that’s where we find Jesus. He is seeing those who are sick, blind, stressed, grieving, with souls that are uncared for. And what Jesus saw broke his heart. Take note because you just walked into the space with a maladjusted Jesus. He’s a compassionate Jesus who demonstrates that He never intended to accept the inequalities of this world. Jesus was maladjusted.”

She then exhorted listeners to be like Jesus, to see the need, feel compassion, and be troubled by their pain.

“We are just not moved anymore. We have adjusted, accepting the things that are just not normal. Things that would have broken the heart of Jesus,” Becton said. “We have to shake off our lethargy, stop walking past human brokenness in our communities. We have to feel compassion for the people. We’ve got to stop normalizing these painful circumstances. For surely anything that broke the heart of Jesus should break our hearts, too.”

She shared a quote from Rev. Raphael Warnock, the new U.S. Senator from Georgia, and then encouraged people to help others with “basic things like food and they still need to feel safe. So, we can think about ways to fulfill those needs.”

“The hallmark of Jesus’ ministry was compassion,” Becton shared. “Jesus saw the need. Jesus felt the need and Jesus was moved to meet the need. So, if we’re going to be like Jesus, we too have to see, we have to feel and then we have to be moved by compassion to do something.”

She concluded with quotes by Dr. King.

“In the spirit of Martin Luther King, today, let us remember some of the words that were spoken by a man who changed the world. ‘I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great of a burden to bear.’” Becton said. “In the words of Martin Luther King I call upon all of you to be maladjusted, today. God grant that we will go. That we will be so maladjusted that we will be able to go out and change the world. See, feel, move and be maladjusted.”

Becton, Bernstine Also Teach Theology

As previously reported by the Herald, Becton earned a Master of Divinity degree from the Pacific School of Religion.  The school’s website includes the following description: “Vision: Living a Radically Welcoming Gospel – Whether ministering to the local homeless community or participating in our MultiFaith Transgender Summit, PSR students embody a message of radical inclusivity. Our two centers, Ignite Institute @ PSR and Center for LGBTQ and Gender Studies in Religion, share an expansive, hopeful message of spiritual and social transformation.”

The school is a member of the Graduate Theological Union (GTU), an interreligious consortium of seminaries and institutes in the Bay Area. That includes the Berkeley School of Theology affiliated with the American Baptist Churches USA, of which Allen Temple Baptist Church in Oakland is a member.

Both Becton and Bernstine teach at the Leadership Institute at Allen Temple in Oakland. She is Professor of Theological Studies and he is Professor of Homelitics/Preaching and Christian Ministry Cohort Leader.

Walnut Creek resident, Ombudsman Services Executive Director named Woman of the Year by Congressman Garamendi

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Nicole Howell, Executive Director of Ombudsman Services of Contra Costa, Solano and Alameda. Photo & logo courtesy of OSCCSA.

Pleasant Hill, CA – Ombudsman Services of Contra Costa, Solano and Alameda is pleased to announce that Executive Director Nicole Howell has been selected as a 2020 Woman of the Year by Congressman John Garamendi.

In an effort to recognize outstanding women serving in California’s Third Congressional District, the Congressman annually invites individuals and organizations to submit nominations of those who have shown a commitment to improving quality of life through leadership and public service.

“Every year I have the honor of recognizing the achievements and service of these distinguished women, Garamendi said. “These leaders come from a variety of backgrounds, but every one of them has made a real difference to their communities and the people around them. It’s a privilege to be able to honor them.”

“As the COVID-19 pandemic has rippled through our nation, each of these women have worked tirelessly to serve their communities and help vulnerable populations weather this storm. Their service is deserving of recognition, and by receiving this award, their work will be commemorated and chronicled at the Library of Congress in Washington, DC,” Garamendi added.

“This is a tremendous honor,” Howell said during the awards ceremony. “I would like to thank Jennalee Dawson for nominating me and, of course, Congressman Garamendi for selecting me.”

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Howell, and the Ombudsman team took to the front lines to distribute personal protective equipment to over 15,000 residents in long-term care. She also participated in efforts for residents’ rights by collaborating with local media and testifying on behalf of a movement of residents and their families at the House Ways and Means Health Subcommittee hearing “Examining the COVID-19 Nursing Home Crisis” on June 25. During the height of COVID-19, OSCCSA completed nearly 300 facility consultations and close to 200 individual consultations, providing vital information and resources throughout Alameda County.

“I want to accept this award on behalf of all those people who are fighting the fight for seniors right now, particularly those in long-term care,” Howell said. “Thank you so much. This is beyond what I could have dreamed.”

Driven by a calling, the Walnut Creek resident dedicates her career to the memories and experiences of her grandma – a Native American facing struggles as a low-income person whose second language is English.

In her grandma’s legacy, a decade-long career began in the nonprofit and then aging communities to fill a void by building programs, teams, and infrastructures and providing resources to educate and combat the ageism fighting against old adults. Nicole has helped cultivate change through the belief that there is both power and equity in shared leadership. She believes that powerful leadership is met with equal parts enthusiasm, engagement, and connection to the team and those you are working with.

As the Executive Director for Ombudsman Services of Contra Costa, Solano, and Alameda (OSCCSA), Howell is responsible for ensuring that the nearly 29,000 long-term care residents and their families have access to the highest level of care and respect and, above all, can live free of abuse and neglect.

“I’ve always had a passion for the nonprofit community, but when I became part of the Ombudsman Services in my prior role as the Director of Operations for Ombudsman Services of San Mateo County, something just clicked,” she said. “It reignited a connection and those experiences I saw my grandma facing. I quickly became a fierce advocate for seniors and dependent adults and was driven to immerse myself in culture-changing initiatives and person-centered care philosophies. It’s a true honor to use my voice for all of those in long-term care – residents, their families, and those who have passed. Really, it’s not just a community. It’s a movement of people.”

Since becoming Executive Director, Howell has grown OSCCSA’s budget by nearly 600%, lowered the use of anti-psychotics in Contra Costa County by 10%, and increased facility coverage by unearthing the problems and issues that are being overlooked. She has helped spearhead many new programs in Ombudsman Services and beyond, including the Elder Justice Program Solano, Telephone Reassurance, and Friendly Visiting in Solano County, as well as Healthcare Career Pathways and Residents’ Rights in Contra Costa.

About Nicole Howell

A Las Vegas native, Nicole Howell holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Nevada, Reno. As an avid speaker on all topics on elder advocacy and elder justice, she is honored to serve and be a part of the Solano Partners Against Violence as a Solano County appointed board member, a Chair of Legislative Policy for California Elder Justice Coalition, a member of the Rotary Club of Walnut Creek Sunrise, a member of the Core Project Team for the Alliance to End Abuse, a member of the Council for Age-Friendly Communities–Alameda County, a board member for the Trinity Center–Contra Costa County, and 2020 Walnut Creek Chair for Wine, Women, and Shoes.

About Ombudsman Services of Contra Costa, Solano and Alameda

Based in Pleasant Hill, with offices in Fairfield and Oakland, Ombudsman Services is the only organization mandated by law to make unannounced visits to long-term care facilities to ensure that residents are free from abuse and are receiving quality care. We have been aiding the community for more than 40 years, and all services are free of charge. We serve Contra Costa, Solano and Alameda counties with our team of highly trained Ombudsman staff and volunteers. For more information, visit www.ccombudsman.org.

About U.S. Congressman, John Garamendi

John Garamendi joined the U.S. House of Representatives on November 5, 2009. He brings nearly four decades of public service to the House Armed Services and Transportation & Infrastructure committees.

He has been a tireless proponent of job creation, quality and affordable health care, education, environmental protection, and scientific research, while always working to ensure the stability and success of the state he has always called home. Garamendi was raised on his family’s cattle ranch in Mokelumne Hill. He graduated with a BA in business from UC Berkeley and an MBA from Harvard Business School.

As California’s 46th Lieutenant Governor, Garamendi was Chair of the Commission for Economic Development, where he transformed this important body into a powerhouse to advocate for workforce development, vocational education, and research. As a Regent of the University of California and Trustee for the California State University System, Garamendi fought to hold the line on student fee increases and excessive administrator salaries. As Chair of the California State Lands Commission, he led the fight against new offshore oil drilling. For more information, visit https://garamendi.house.gov/.

State’s oldest restaurant San Francisco’s Tadich Grill owned by Contra Costa resident reopening postponed

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Tadich Grill at 240 California Street in San Francisco. CFO Melissa Buich with her father, owner Mike Buich. Photos: TadichGrillSF.com and screenshot of KTVU Fox2 news report 4/9/20.

UPDATE: With the new health orders announced on Friday Oct. 30 by San Francisco Mayor London Breed that “San Francisco will temporarily pause most planned reopening efforts previously scheduled to resume on Tuesday, November 3rd”, reducing maximum capacity for indoor dining to 25%, Tadich Grill, for now, will not be reopening for indoor dining as was planned for Nov. 9th. In response to the new health order, the owners and management posted the following message on the restaurant’s website: “We are currently closed and will re-open when the Mayor of San Francisco allows a minimum of 50% indoor seating capacity. Thank you for hanging in there with us. We are eager to get back to serving you!” 

By Allen Payton

The oldest restaurant in California and west of the Mississippi, and the third oldest in the nation, Tadich Grill, first opened in San Francisco in 1849, the year of the Gold Rush. It was continuously run until forced to temporarily close, earlier this year due to the COVID-19 shelter-in-place orders. But the good news is according to owner and Alamo resident Mike Buich, the iconic eatery will be reopening on Monday, November 9.

That’s due to San Francisco being designated to be in the state’s health equity metric yellow, Minimal Tier 4 for community transmission of the virus, the least restrictive tier, as of October 20, according to the City and County of San Francisco Public Health Officer order.

“After seven months of forced closures, we are thrilled to be reopening our doors on Monday, November 9th,” Buich said. “While the pandemic has been devastating and challenging on many levels – for our customers, our employees, our business and our industry at large – we are excited to reconnect with our loyal following and help restore some life into downtown San Francisco.”

Tadich Grill’s Seafood Cioppino, Cosmopolitan Salad and Mesquite Broiled Salmon are just a few of the items offered at the historic restaurant. From TadichGrillSF.com.

Located, rather appropriately on California Street, the restaurant is widely known as San Francisco’s best seafood restaurant, with a broad selection of non-seafood offerings, such as steaks, soups (clam chowder, of course) and salads, as well. Their specialties include cioppino, monza, thermidor and branzino and fish entrees include salmon, petrale sole, sand dabs, halibut, swordfish and Chilean sea bass.

The historic restaurant, which features both table dining and a long bar counter, will be open Monday through Friday 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Saturdays 5:00-9:00 p.m. and Sundays for private parties only, and will now offer reservations.

“We’ve taken the downtime to explore and launch reservations for the first time in 171 years, as well as adopt other safety precautions to ensure the ongoing safety and well-being of all those who visit us at 240 California St.,” Buich shared about the restaurant that’s been in his family since 1928.

Tadich Grill offers table dining and a long bar counter, as well. Photos: TadichGrillSF.com and Instagram.com/TadichGrill.

Mike and his daughter, Melissa, the restaurant’s CFO, refused  to layoff any of their 35 employees for several months, according to a KTVU Fox2 interview they gave earlier this year. That was due to “the support from the Tadich community,” using a GoFundMe page to make up the lost wages, and through a loan from the PPP program, according to Melissa Buich.

However, in a July post on the restaurant’s Instagram page, the owners wrote, “It’s been over four months since we were first ordered to close our doors due to COVID-19. Since that time, we have been immensely grateful for the response of our loyal customers who have ordered takeout and nationwide delivery, purchased gift cards and merchandise online and donated through our Go Fund Me page to help us ride the wave as we chased the date for re-opening.”

“As you’re aware, that date continued to change and today we have no visibility into when that day will come. In parallel, the temporary relief from our PPP loan has dried up and without additional government aid, we’ve made the difficult decision to temporarily hit pause. Following the close of business this Friday, July 31st, we will temporarily suspend operations until we are able to re-open for indoor dining.”

Tadich’s owners committed to reopen once indoor dining was allowed.

“When that time finally comes, we will be eager to serve you your long-time favorites in a dining room optimized for your health and safety,” the owners posted. “We deeply appreciate your loyalty and support. Because of you, we have been able (to) navigate these unprecedented times until now, and because of you, we will come back stronger than ever to continue our 171 year run.”

Tadich Grill is located along one of San Francisco’s iconic cable car routes. Photo: TadichGrillSF.com

That time has finally arrived.

“We are sincerely appreciative of our customers who have supported us throughout this long journey and can’t wait to welcome each of you back with socially-distanced, open arms, a classic cocktail and a hearty meal,” said Mike Buich. “Though reduced capacity and a more selective menu may be new to all of us, we are committed to the same gold-standard quality and great time we’ve been providing for generations.”

To make your reservations via Tock for lunch or dinner at Tadich Grill click, here. To learn more about the restaurant, it’s food, staff and history, visit tadichgrillsf.com or once they’ve reopened, call (415) 391-1849.

Contra Costa Transportation Authority Executive Director Randy Iwasaki to retire in December

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Search begins for his replacement

Randy Iwasaki. From LinkedIn.

Randell H. Iwasaki, the Executive Director of the Contra Costa Transportation Authority announced recently, his intention to retire from the agency.  Following is a statement from the Board Chair Julie Pierce.

“It is with a range of mixed emotions that I announce Randell Iwasaki’s (Randy) retirement from his successful and accomplished career at the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA). I am sad Randy will retire as CCTA’s Executive Director effective December 26, 2020; yet, I am immensely proud of the goals, recognition and innovations CCTA achieved in the ten years Randy has been at the helm of the Authority, and extremely grateful for the leadership Randy has demonstrated while managing this agency. His vision, as well as his ability to create, guide and inspire a remarkable workforce resulted in a small but mighty team who has made significant advances to improve mobility in Contra Costa County.

Randy and his staff have delivered on our promise to the public by completing major infrastructure improvements such as Highway 4 and the Caldecott Fourth Bore projects, while simultaneously pursuing innovative ways to improve mobility in the future. During Randy’s tenure, CCTA has become a leader in advancing new technology to solve real challenges faced by our residents. Notable achievements include establishing the nation’s largest secure, connected and automated vehicle proving grounds, securing legislation to pilot the first low-speed, multi-passenger, shared autonomous vehicles that are not equipped with a steering wheel, brake pedal, accelerator or operator on public roads in California, and more recently winning two nationally competitive grants to deploy innovative transportation technology from the United States Department of Transportation.

Throughout his tenure as Executive Director, Randy has ensured CCTA remains a responsible and prudent steward of public funds. For eight years in a row the agency’s management of sales tax dollars has been recognized with the coveted “Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting” from the Government Finance Officers Association. Last year, the Contra Costa Taxpayers Association also honored CCTA with a Silver Medal Award for Good Government.

On behalf of the CCTA Board, I’d like to express our gratitude for Randy’s extraordinary role in delivering so many projects aimed to strengthen the economy, protect the environment and enhance Contra Costa County’s transportation system. In the ten years he has served as Executive Director, he has accomplished much to improve the quality of life for our residents. We thank Randy for his dedication to this agency, and wish him all the best in his new adventures.”

The CCTA Board has appointed a sub-committee of the Board to lead the search for the agency’s next Executive Director.”

Iwasaki is the former Executive Director of CalTrans, the state Department of Transportation, said he plans to work in the private sector following his retirement in December.

 

Bette Boatmun to close out 46 years on CCWD Board of Directors

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Bette Boatmun. From CCWD website.

Concord – During the Contra Costa Water District’s (CCWD’s) Board meeting Wednesday night, Director Bette Boatmun shared publicly that she has decided not to seek re-election for the seat she has represented for over 46 years.

Director Boatmun was appointed to the CCWD Board in July 1974 and has served in that seat representing Division 4 for over 46 years. In her tenure, she has made countless contributions to CCWD, the community and beyond.

“I initially decided to apply for this position in the interest of bringing more women into the water industry and have been honored to represent our community on many important decisions,” said Director Boatmun. “This Board works together constructively and collaboratively and CCWD’s workforce is strong – I know that our community will continue to be well represented and served.”

A trailblazer for women in leadership in the community, water agencies and special districts, Director Boatmun served as President of CCWD from 1990-1992, President of the Association of California Water Agencies from 2002-2004 and Chair of the Contra Costa Special Districts Association.

Under her leadership, CCWD has implemented many significant projects and programs including: building Randall-Bold Water Treatment Plant; fencing the Contra Costa Canal; constructing Los Vaqueros Reservoir; providing a conservation program and demonstration garden; upgrading Bollman Water Treatment Plant; providing a low-income assistance program; building the Multi-Purpose Pipeline; building two new Delta intakes; and expanding Los Vaqueros Reservoir, just to name a few.

Director Boatmun always has had an eagle-eye on CCWD’s finances to ensure fiscal responsibility and transparency for customers.

“Bette has been a relentless advocate for customers by supporting water education, water use efficiency, financial responsibility and giving back to the community,” said CCWD Board President, Lisa Borba. “We will greatly miss her wit and wisdom at our Board meetings, but we expect that she will check in as a customer from time to time.”

Selection of the new Division 4 Director will be on the November 3, 2020 ballot. Division 4 covers parts of Concord, Pittsburg and Antioch.

 

San Ramon native returns from 7-month deployment aboard floating city at sea

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Dougherty Valley High grad

By Kayla Turnbow, Navy Office of Community Outreach

Lt. j.g. Andrew Zhao. Photo by U.S. Navy.

NORFOLK, Va.- A 2013 Dougherty Valley High school graduate and San Ramon, California, native returned home June 16, marking the end of a seven-month deployment aboard USS Harry S. Truman. Since departing its homeport of Norfolk, Virginia in November 2019, the aircraft carrier sailed in the Arabian Gulf, Red Sea, Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean.

Lt. j.g. Andrew Zhao is an electrical division officer aboard the carrier. As an electrical division officer, Zhao is responsible for ship-driving and supervising electricians.

“The best part about my job is seeing the professional and personal progress of the electricians as they learn their trade, gain leadership skills, and sailor-ize,” said Zhao.

Following a scheduled return from deployment in March, after operating in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operations, Truman remained underway in the Western Atlantic as a certified and ready carrier force ready for tasking. As the COVID-19 pandemic spread across the globe, the Truman continued to conduct operations underway, minimizing the potential spread of the virus aboard the ships, in order to maintain maritime stability and security and ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

151226-N-AO823-031
STRAIGHT OF HORMUZ (Dec. 26, 2015) — Aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) transits the Straight of Hormuz. Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is deployed supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class M. J. Lieberknecht/Released)

Truman sailed more than 56,000 nautical miles, deploying dynamically to support dual-carrier operations, air defense exercises, anti-submarine warfare exercises, and interoperability with joint services and with allies and partners. The ship also completed multiple strait and choke point transits, to include the Strait of Gibraltar, the Suez Canal and the Bab-el Mandeb Strait, while operating under three Combatant Commanders – U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM), U.S. European Command (EUCOM), and U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM).

“During deployment, my proudest accomplishment was being able to go every day on a multiple-extension deployment with a smile and be encouraging to fellow officers in the wardroom and be a light in the division as well,” said Zhao.

Truman demonstrated the Navy’s continuing regional commitment to EUCOM and CENTCOM areas of responsibility by hosting 80 embarked guests, including political and military leaders from eight ally and partner nations. These embarks directly supported U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet theater security objectives and greatly enhanced U.S. relationships and partnerships with multiple NATO ally and partner nations and Gulf Cooperation Council members.

“I’m so very proud of all our sailors!” said Capt. Kavon Hakimzadeh, commanding officer of Truman, “Their resilience, perseverance, and utter dedication to mission has been nothing short of exemplary. It has been my greatest honor to serve as Truman’s commanding officer this deployment!”

According to Navy officials, maintaining maritime superiority is a vital part of a Navy that is present today and prepared for tomorrow. The impact affects Americans and their interests around the world, as more than 70 percent of the Earth is covered by water and 90 percent of all trade travels by sea.

The foundation of the Navy the nation needs includes a focus on warfighting, warfighters and the future of the fighting force.

Sailors’ jobs are highly varied aboard Truman. More than 6,000 men and women serve aboard the ship during deployment keeping all parts of the ship running smoothly. Each crewmember performs a number of tasks outside of their traditional job or rating.

“As an electrical division officer, I am in an administrative and supervisory role for the electricians onboard the Truman,” said Zhao.

Throughout the deployment, Truman performed numerous training exercises to develop tactical competencies. From carrier strike force operations as the flagship of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, to exercises with partner navies and forces, the ship developed key skillsets to maintain readiness and interoperability. While conducting stability operations in the CENTCOM area of responsibility, the strike group was called upon during an international crisis to assert American commitment to the region and act as a primary de-escalatory catalyst.

As a member of the U.S. Navy, Zhao, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.

“I joined the Navy to serve the country since I came from an immigrant background and our family was thankful for the opportunities here,” added Zhao.

 

Pittsburg resident earns nursing degree from WGU

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By Doug Smeath, WGU Communications

SALT LAKE CITY (Grassroots Newswire) May 13, 2020 – David Kang of Pittsburg, California has earned a Bachelor of Science, Nursing degree from Western Governors University (WGU). The online, nonprofit university has graduated over 178,000 students from across the country since its inception in 1997.

Since January 2, 2020, WGU has awarded 6,313 undergraduate and 4,975 graduate degrees. Graduates’ areas of study include business, K-12 education, information technology, and health professions, including nursing. The average time to graduation for those earning a bachelor’s degree was two years, three months, while the average time for graduate programs was one year, six months. The average age of those who graduated is 38 years old.

WGU pioneered competency-based education, which measures learning rather than time spent in class. Designed to meet the needs of working adults, courses allow students to study and learn on their own schedules with individualized, one-to-one faculty support. They complete courses as soon as they demonstrate that they have mastered the subject matter, allowing them to move quickly through material they already know so they can allocate time for what they still need to learn. As a result, many WGU students are able to accelerate their studies, saving both time and money.

About WGU

Established in 1997 by 19 U.S. governors with a mission to expand access to high-quality, affordable higher education, online, nonprofit WGU now serves more than 121,000 students nationwide and has more than 178,000 graduates in all 50 states. Driving innovation as the nation’s leading competency-based university, WGU has been recognized by the White House, state leaders, employers, and students as a model that works in postsecondary education. In just 23 years, the university has become a leading influence in changing the lives of individuals and families, and preparing the workforce needed in today’s rapidly evolving economy. WGU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, has been named one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies, and was featured on NPR, NBC Nightly News, CNN, and in The New York Times. Learn more at www.wgu.edu.