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PLEASANT HILL, Calif. —  Contra Costa County Superintendent of Schools Lynn Mackey announced the finalists for the 2026–27 Contra Costa County Teachers of the Year Program during surprise classroom visits on Monday.…

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PLEASANT HILL, Calif. —  Contra Costa County Superintendent of Schools Lynn Mackey announced the finalists for the 2026–27 Contra Costa County Teachers of the Year Program during surprise classroom visits on Monday.

The finalists are:

“Surprising our Teacher of the Year finalists is something I look forward to each year,” Contra Costa County Superintendent of Schools Lynn Mackey said. “Seeing the joy on their faces and the pride of their administrators is a powerful reminder of why this work matters. Teaching is not easy, and inspiring students every day takes extraordinary effort. These educators bring a lasting spark and passion to their classrooms that reflects the very best of public education across Contra Costa County.”

The four educators were selected from 22 candidates nominated by their school districts, the Contra Costa County Office of Education, and the Contra Costa Community College District. Mackey, joined by principals, administrators, district superintendents, parent leaders, and the educators’ families and colleagues, visited Sado, Evers-Threatt, and St. Michel to share the news. Henderson, who was out of town, received a surprise phone call.

Two of the finalists will be named Contra Costa County Teachers of the Year at the 54th annual celebration on September 17 at the Concord Hilton.

Evette Evers-Threatt is an English Language Arts educator with more than 30 years of experience working with middle school students. She teaches grades 6–8 at Martin Luther King Jr. Junior High School in Pittsburg, providing culturally responsive instruction focused on reading, writing, and academic discourse. She has served as an Instructional Leadership Team member, Instructional Coach, and mentor teacher, supporting both student achievement and fellow educators.

Evers-Threatt earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from California State University, Hayward; a Clear Credential from the University of California, Berkeley; and a CLAD Certificate from the University of California, San Diego. She also holds an Associate of Arts degree from Los Medanos College and a Single Subject Credential in English. Her honors include being named Site Teacher of the Year at Central Junior High School in 2003.

“Teaching, for me, is both a passion and a profound privilege,” Evers-Threatt wrote in her application. “However, with the passion and privilege is a strong sense of urgency and responsibility because teaching is an act of social justice.” This perspective guides her work in creating inclusive classrooms that emphasize critical thinking, collaboration, and student voice.

Julee Henderson focuses on creating inclusive learning environments and supporting student success in mathematics. She leads professional development, develops curriculum aligned to state standards, and supports intervention programs for diverse learners. Her work emphasizes collaboration, data-informed instruction, and equitable access.

“School was my safe place when I was growing up,” Julee Henderson wrote. “My teachers gave me a nurturing haven to learn and just be me, and in turn instilled a great love of learning and working well with others.”

Henderson brings more than 33 years of experience in mathematics education, including 17 years at Acalanes High School in Lafayette. She holds a Bachelor of Science in mathematics with a minor in Spanish and a secondary teaching credential from California State University, Chico, and completed graduate coursework in pure mathematics at California State University, Hayward. She has taught courses from Algebra 1 to Advanced Placement Calculus AB and has served as an Algebra 1 team lead and teacher on special assignment.

Stephanie Sado is a Literacy Intervention Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) in the Orinda Union School District, supporting students in grades K–5. Over 21 years in education, she has taught multiple grade levels and now focuses on helping struggling readers build foundational skills and confidence. She helped establish a data-driven reading intervention program to provide timely, targeted support.

“My philosophy of teaching is grounded in the belief that all students can learn at high levels when given the right support,” Sado shared. “Students thrive when they know their teacher genuinely cares about them, understands their strengths, and fosters their growth.”

Sado holds a Master of Arts in Teaching Leadership from Saint Mary’s College of Education and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern California. Her leadership includes establishing Professional Learning Communities, facilitating data analysis and Multi-Tiered System of Supports professional development, and mentoring teachers through induction programs and partnerships with Saint Mary’s College. She has also supported curriculum training, contributed to reopening plans during the COVID-19 pandemic, and served in various leadership and representative roles.

Rebecca St. Michel has taught for 27 years in the Brentwood Union School District, serving grades three through five at Brentwood Elementary School. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in liberal arts and sciences from San Diego State University in 1998 and a teaching credential from California State University, East Bay in 1999. She has supported nine credential candidates as a cooperating teacher, served eight years as a Beginning Teacher Support and Assessment provider, and has been a member of the district’s Curriculum and Instruction Team since 2010.

St. Michel focuses on building relationships and trust to support student success. She emphasizes student ownership of learning, positive reinforcement, and goal setting to encourage growth. Her classroom promotes strong connections, high expectations, and persistence.

“Building relationships and trust is the foundation of my personal teaching philosophy,” St. Michel wrote.

Notes regarding eligible participants:

For more information on the Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year program or to donate, visit the Teachers of the Year program webpage. Follow CCCOE on social media at @cocoschools.

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The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff Coroner’s Division is requesting the public’s assistance in trying to identify an unknown person (Jane Doe). On February 16, 2026, a woman…

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The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff Coroner’s Division is requesting the public’s assistance in trying to identify an unknown person (Jane Doe).

On February 16, 2026, a woman was struck by a train in Port Costa. The incident was investigated by Amtrak Police and Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office. The person was pronounced deceased at the scene. The manner of death was later determined to be a suicide.

The Coroner’s Division took custody of the body and despite multiple efforts has not been able to identify the person, who did not have any identification.

She is described as:  White, adult female with brown colored hair and hazel eyes. She was 5’4”, and 171 pounds. She has a small broken heart tattoo on the inner left wrist (see photo). She was wearing a black colored pullover top, black and grey plaid pants, and red/white Nike athletic shoes.

Anyone with any information on the identity of the person (Jane Doe) is asked to contact the Coroner’s Division at (925) 313-2850.

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On this episode of Be Curious Contra Costa, a chat with Kish Rajan, CEO of Mt. Diablo Resource Recovery. Rajan shares the latest updates at MDRR including being awarded the…

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On this episode of Be Curious Contra Costa, a chat with Kish Rajan, CEO of Mt. Diablo Resource Recovery. Rajan shares the latest updates at MDRR including being awarded the Solid Waste Environmental Excellence Performance (SWEEP) Platinum Certification—the highest level of recognition offered by the SWEEP Standard.

We talk electric batteries and how to properly dispose of them – how they start fires – we get into garbage police and Artificial Intelligence and cameras. Properly sorting garbage and how it could lower rates later—sustainability/reuse programs will have a big impact. Mt. Diablo Resource Recovery will also open up their new location in the City of Oakley in June.

Rajan also talks about the challenges we may face in the future while also reacting to new laws that keep coming onto the books.

For more information: https://mdrr.com/

A rundown of previous episodes can be found on our website, click here

If you are a business, elected official or have a story in Contra Costa County and think you have a good story to tell, please email burk@contracosta.news so we can potentially schedule a date and time. Interviews are approx 30-70 minutes.

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Paid effort also working before June 6th deadline in 5 Bay Area counties By Allen D. Payton On Wednesday, April 22nd, volunteer transit advocates celebrated gathering 46,300 signatures for the regional transit sales tax funding measure to qualify it for the November ballot. “’As of today, we’ve surpassed 46,300,’ wrote advocate Cyrus Hall in a […]

The Contra Costa County Animal Services invites the community for a town hall on May 13 in the City of Martinez. Event Details: May 13, 2026 6:00 pm to 8:00…

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The Contra Costa County Animal Services invites the community for a town hall on May 13 in the City of Martinez.

Event Details:
May 13, 2026
6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
4800 Imhoff Place, Martinez CA
For more information, email asdweb@asd.cccounty.us

According to the county, this a great opportunity to learn and ask questions about the dynamic work our officers are doing in the community every day. You can participate in person or online.

May 17: FREE Vaccine and Microchip Clinic

Mark your calendar for Sunday, May 17! Contra Costa Animal Services, and the Bissell Pet Foundation are teaming up to support our community’s pets with a FREE Vaccine and Microchip Clinic for dogs and cats!

NOTE: Dogs need to be on leash and cats need to be in crates.

Event Details:

Animal Services will assist attendees on a first come, first served basis. All services will be provided while supplies last. These services are completely free and open to Contra Costa County residents. Whether you’re a longtime pet owner or just welcomed a new furry friend into your home, this is a great opportunity to give them the protection and peace of mind they deserve.

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By Professor B Media San Bruno, CA —The Los Medanos Mustangs won with a come-from-behind thriller in the opener of the 2026 California Community College Athletic Association (3C2A) playoffs at the Skyline Regional, Friday afternoon, May 1, 2026, on the campus of Skyline Community College, with a 7-4 win over the West Valley College Vikings […]

A 14-year-old Benicia teen has been questioned in connection with the death of a relative – believed to be the boy’s father – during an alleged domestic violence incident in the family’s London Circle home Thursday evening.

Police and Benicia Fire Department crews were dispatched to the residence in response to a report of a gunshot there shortly after 10pm.

First responders reportedly found a man mortally wounded by a single gunshot wound and attempted life-saving measures. The unidentified subject was eventually declared deceased at the scene.

Neighbors indicated that the shooting occurred during an alleged act of domestic violence by the deceased upon a female member of the multi-member family.

Initial reports were that the shooting may have been classified as an act of self-defense, though police issued no formal declaration of potential charges or arrest.

By Pooja Nerkar An important milestone for Sutter East Bay Medical Group and Sutter East Bay Medical Foundation was marked on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, by the opening of Suite 100 at Sutter’s Brentwood Care Center, expanding access to primary care for patients across the East Bay. The expanded care center brings pediatrics, family medicine […]

A driver suspected of speeding south in the northbound lanes of I-680 at Oak Road triggered a lethal multi-car crash that left at least one person dead and several others seriously injured shortly before midnight Friday.

Reports of a black Dodge Charger traveling at high speed the wrong way on the freeway began to come in around 11:20 p.m., with motorists calling for help after a collision shortly after.

Police were checking road cameras to see if the suspect vehicle entered the freeway from Concord before driving south in the northbound lanes. The Charger and at least two other cars were reportedly involved in the initial collision with six cars ultimately reported involved in the crash.

The California Highway Patrol quickly closed the freeway to facilitate the evacuation of dead and injured as well as to conduct their investigation into the crash.

A passenger in one of the northbound vehicles was pronounced dead at the scene while four others – including the wrong-way driver – suffered major injuries. Three other motorists were treated for minor injuries.

The female driver of the Dodge Charger was later determined to have been driving while under the influence and arrested at the hospital. Charges against her were not specified.

All lanes of northbound I-680 remained closed until about 3:35 a.m.

News24/680 Photo

Committed second murder of man who paid his bail for the first murder Fled to Mexico; multi-agency effort Faces mandatory life without parole By Solano County District Attorney’s Office On April 21, 2026, in Department 23 of the Solano County Superior Court, before the Honorable John Ellis presiding, a Solano County jury found Defendant Richard […]

The following open letter was issued Friday by the Contra Costa County Fair Heritage Foundation Board who announced they will dissolve on July 31, 2026. Here is the letter: Dear…

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The following open letter was issued Friday by the Contra Costa County Fair Heritage Foundation Board who announced they will dissolve on July 31, 2026.

Here is the letter:

Dear Contra Costa County Fair Exhibitors and the Community of Contra Costa County:

It is with heavy hearts that the Contra Costa County Fair Heritage Foundation Board members announce that, effective July 31, 2026, the Heritage Foundation will formally dissolve.

The Heritage Foundation was founded in 2014 with the mission of maintaining a standard of excellence in the facilities and grounds of the Contra Costa County Fair by providing funds for capital improvements, educational opportunities, and scholarships. The Heritage Hog Scholarship and, in recent years, the Small Animal Scholarship were established through this effort. The vision of the Heritage Foundation has been to preserve and enrich the heritage of the Contra Costa County Fair by continuing to develop it into a premier destination.

Past and present Heritage Foundation Board members are proud of the success of the Foundation and the many contributions made to improve the fairgrounds. We were honored to support families during fair week, contribute to improvements such as the show ring and, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Foundation and its volunteers joined together to organize a livestock sale for exhibitors in 2020 and to host a Junior Livestock Show and Auction known as the Comeback Show in 2021. We are especially proud of all Heritage Hog and Small Animal Scholarship recipients.

In recent years, the Foundation has faced increasing challenges in recruiting new board officers and members, resulting in a growing reliance on a small group of dedicated volunteers to carry out its work. Despite their continued commitment and significant efforts, this level of responsibility has become unsustainable for the long-term operation of the organization. In addition, changes to the fair’s show schedule and overall timing have made it increasingly difficult to effectively host the Heritage Grove and to continue providing dinners for families on show nights—both of which have been important traditions of the Foundation’s presence at the fair. After careful and thoughtful consideration of these factors, the difficult decision was made to bring the Foundation’s operations to a close.

As this will be our final year, scholarship recipients will still be showing the Heritage Hog and Heritage Rabbits and going through the auction. Proceeds from these, along with our remaining funds, will be used to make improvements to the livestock area.

Although the Foundation will be dissolving, we remain deeply grateful for the years of partnership and the legacy we have built together. It has been an honor to serve the Contra Costa County community.

We wish Contra Costa County 4-H, FFA, Grange, and independent exhibitors and their families, along with the communities served by the Contra Costa County Fairgrounds, continued success and enjoyment of all the fairgrounds have to offer.

Sincerely,

The Contra Costa County Fair Heritage Board

About

The Heritage Foundation was founded in 2014 by volunteers who wanted to make our fair and fairgrounds better.   They also saw a need for a scholarship for 4-H and FFA kids.   The foundation received it’s 501(c)3 status in April of 2014 and at the fair that year, just 6 weeks later we had 100 members join!!   It has been growing ever since.   The Foundation cannot exist without volunteers who are willing to invest time, effort and money!   The Foundation Board needs the help of members who are willing to serve on committees, make connections for sponsors and help fulfill our mission. If you can help please message us or contact one of the board members.  

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We have a thing for street clocks… and public water features with ground level access for thirsty critters… and public art.We know, we know… we lean toward the archaic.

England captivated us with its penchant for ornate market fountains – each equipped with staggered levels for the local animals: cats, dogs, horses. We found the Jardin du Luxembourg on an early trip to France, saw why the Luftwaffe command leadership took it over as their headquarters during the war, and we returned to picnic on its grounds.

Though we’ve never made it there we understand Moscow has some unique public squares featuring vertical art planted to display the Russian love of flowers. Perhaps we’ll visit one day – hopefully after they stop invading other countries.

America had public features of its own for many years, though the street clocks eventually fell into disrepair and disappeared, the fountains were cut off to save water, and public statuary intended to honor local military heroes were scrapped after getting a modern reading of their past.

You may have heard that they’re tearing out the much-maligned but landmark Vaillancourt Fountain in The City’s (can we still refer to it as “The City” or have those days passed?) Embarcadero Plaza and we were there when Bono tagged it back in, Good God, 1987. We won’t miss it but we haven’t been impressed by the replacement art going up in public spaces lately.

Some of the cast bronze reminders of our glorious past are still around, perhaps hidden away by overgrown landscaping or covered to prevent vandalism by soul-less Visigoths who couldn’t care less about their history or who sculpted them.

Know of any local examples? Something hidden away in a garden or park? Send us a note, but don’t give away the location…

A car and driver witnesses described as “really moving” turned the intersection of N. Main Street and Parkside in Walnut Creek into a demolition derby and UFC cage fight Thursday but – miraculously – resulted in no major injuries.

The incident was first reported by Flashers and others in the area at 11:54 a.m. when a red car with Arizona plates traveling south on N. Main Street veered out of control, careened through the intersection, struck at least two other vehicles before launching off a landscaping berm and pancaking in the middle of a Chevron gas station undergoing renovation at 2329 N. Main Street.

Two people – one of them the driver of the involved car – were injured but apparently not so severely that the driver of the offending car wasn’t able to escape from paramedics with protective neck collar in place and engage police in a contentious struggle in the middle of the crash scene.

News24/680 Photo

The unidentified driver was eventually restrained by several officers and handcuffed. What charges, if any, await him remain unknown for now. We believe he was taken to a nearby hospital for precautionary examination.

“I don’t know how fast he was going for sure but he was definitely moving,” reader Michael Hough told News24/680. “He glanced off a couple of cars on N. Main and set their airbags off before crashing into Chevron.”

Area businesses reported having captured events on their surveillance systems and offered video to police.

News24/680 Photo

MOUNT DIABLO, CA — To secure extra protections for Curry Canyon Ranch, including advancing the eventual conveyance of some of its lands to Mount Diablo State Park, and generate resources…

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MOUNT DIABLO, CA — To secure extra protections for Curry Canyon Ranch, including advancing the eventual conveyance of some of its lands to Mount Diablo State Park, and generate resources to further its Diablo Range work, Save Mount Diablo recently conveyed 160 acres in fee simple title to the East Contra Costa Habitat Conservancy plus a contiguous 155-acre perpetual conservation easement, in exchange for $2.15 million to Save Mount Diablo.

The California Wildlife Conservation Board approved the state and federal grant funding used for the purchase of the land and permanent conservation easement at its February 26, 2026 meeting.

Ted Clement, Save Mount Diablo’s Executive Director, stated, “On behalf of Save Mount Diablo, I want to thank our valued partners, the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy and the California Wildlife Conservation Board, for their good work and support of our Curry Canyon Ranch project. Our partnership on this project has ensured that important lands rich in conservation values are protected in perpetuity for the benefit of the public and wildlife—while also moving a step closer to eventually getting some of these lands added to Mount Diablo State Park. The grant funds provided for this project will help fuel more of Save Mount Diablo’s conservation work within Mount Diablo’s Diablo Range.”

“We are celebrating this milestone in the continued efforts to conserve the natural and cultural resources around Mount Diablo. Through Save Mount Diablo’s long-standing partnerships in the region, with financial support from the community, the Habitat Conservancy as well as state and federal funding programs, we have ensured that the ranch will be protected forever,” said Abigail Fateman, Executive Director of the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy.

“Protecting Curry Canyon Ranch is a huge win for California’s 30×30 goals and the many species that call this landscape home,” said Jennifer Norris, Executive Director of the California Wildlife Conservation Board. “Securing this link between Mount Diablo State Park and neighboring open space ensures that the interconnected habitats species need to survive and thrive will remain intact forever.”

Supporting Conservation up and down the Diablo Range

These funds will provide vital support to Save Mount Diablo’s mission of conserving lands throughout the Diablo Range.

Still mostly unprotected, the 205-mile-long mountain range sustains Mount Diablo’s biodiversity and serves as a source for recovery of endangered species like California condor and San Joaquin kit fox.

The Diablo Range is also home to Native American cultural sites, rare wildflowers, spectacular canyons, tule elk, and other imperiled wonders.

Curry Canyon Ranch: A Critical Piece of Mount Diablo

Save Mount Diablo has long hoped to secure additional protections for its 1,080-acre Curry Canyon Ranch, including helping some of these lands be added to Mount Diablo State Park, which shares borders with the ranch.

California State Parks supported Save Mount Diablo’s collaboration with the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy and the California Wildlife Conservation Board on this project because it was understood as a step in the direction of eventually getting some of the Curry Canyon Ranch lands added to Mount Diablo State Park and securing more protections for this ranch, which is rich in natural and cultural resources.

Curry Canyon Ranch has 30 special-status species, blue oak and live oak woodland, grassland and oak savanna, chaparral, critical riparian habitat, endemic flowers, and golden eagles. It is difficult to overstate the importance of this land, which is surrounded on three sides by Mount Diablo State Park, to the park’s ecosystem health.

Recent Progress in Adding Lands to State Parks

Luckily, recently passed California State Senate Bill 630 is now poised to facilitate more additions to state parks.

Last year, the working group of leading land trusts and conservation organizations that Save Mount Diablo established in 2024 to help advance California State Parks’ acquisition program assisted in passing the new law, which took effect in January 2026.

This law allows lands that do not have an acquisition cost over $1 million to be added to existing state parks through a streamlined approval process.

In the past, a complicated multi-agency approval process prevented expansion of Mount Diablo State Park, despite numerous land acquisition opportunities, for almost 20 years.

Now, things are moving again.

The Knobcone Point Trail is already publicly accessible under Save Mount Diablo’s ownership, and the official transfer of 160 acres to the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy, a government agency that implements the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan and Natural Community Conservation Plan, brings this important part of Curry Canyon Ranch a step closer to joining Mount Diablo State Park.

The East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy plans to transfer the land to California State Parks in the future.

Save Mount Diablo to Continue Connecting People to Nature at Curry Canyon Ranch

Save Mount Diablo will remain the owner of the 155 acres protected by a perpetual conservation easement held by the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy, including the ranch house area, and other lands at Curry Canyon Ranch that are managed for stewardship, education, and other programs and events.

A perpetual conservation easement simply guarantees no development or harm impacts the protected land, regardless of ownership. Save Mount Diablo’s ownership and access rights will remain in effect.

Programs and events at Curry Canyon Ranch are essential to the organization’s work of building community and a love of nature in the Mount Diablo area.

Many students, for instance, grow up learning about biology in a classroom but rarely have hands-on experiences in a wild place.

With limited understanding of how nature relates to their lives, people risk growing up without any connection to the ecosystems that we all rely on.

By providing such hands-on experiences, Save Mount Diablo fosters curiosity and appreciation for the natural world. Our education programs are rooted in the idea that people who love nature will want to protect it.

With great help from the California Wildlife Conservation Board and the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy, Curry Canyon Ranch will continue to advance our shared conservation mission of saving Mount Diablo and the Diablo Range for future generations.

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An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) caught fire and burned behind a home in the 400 block of Roberta Avenue in Pleasant Hill early Wednesday, the fire causing heavy damage but no reported injuries.

Initial calls for assistance began to come in around 3:17am with the first firefighters on the scene met by heavy smoke and fire from the burning unit and a firefighting scenario complicated by the presence of downed electrical wires.

All occupants were ultimately accounted for with no reports of injuries or extension of fire into the primary dwelling.

There was no immediate word on cause or estimate of damage given.

13 Northern California hospitals named by Newsweek magazine as “America’s Best Maternity Hospitals” By Elissa Harrington, Sr. Media Relations & PR Representative, Kaiser Permanente Northern California OAKLAND, Calif. – With a commitment to providing safe, high-quality maternity care to parents and newborns, 13 Kaiser Permanente Northern California hospitals are being recognized by Newsweek magazine as among […]

On this episode of Be Curious Contra Costa, a chat with Dana Eaton, Superintendent of the Brentwood Union School District who is now running for County Superintendent of Schools in…

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On this episode of Be Curious Contra Costa, a chat with Dana Eaton, Superintendent of the Brentwood Union School District who is now running for County Superintendent of Schools in Contra Costa County.

If elected, he would replace Lynn Mackey who opted not to seek re-election.

Eaton has 30 years in education from teacher to principal to superintendent. We talk about a variety of issues from the state budget, special needs, impact of cell phone bans on campus, dealing with mental health and anxiety of students, homelessness and more. We also get into technology, AI, and assisting students who just are not interested in school material. Eaton also highlights how they are currently in a time where education is seeing the most issues at one time he has ever seen. Still, those in education, he advocates that you impact students daily and find ways to relate to students and find ways to give each student an opportunity because you never know if that one opportunity changes a persons life trajectory.

Some of his priorities as County Superintendent include Advance early literacy and early learning, ensure safe schools, promote fiscal responsibility, support mental health, and prepare students for college, career and life. He also wants a better plan for recruiting, developing and retaining educators.

For more on Eaton, visit him on his campaign website: Click Here

A rundown of previous episodes can be found on our website, click here

If you are a business, elected official or have a story in Contra Costa County and think you have a good story to tell, please email burk@contracosta.news so we can potentially schedule a date and time. Interviews are approx 30-70 minutes.

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Hosted by Contra Costa County Bar Association & League of Women Voters of the Diablo Valley Meet Judge Jesse Hsieh and Stanislaus County Deputy District Attorney Valery Polyakov  By Jody Iorns, Executive Director, Contra Costa County Bar Association PLEASANT HILL, CA — The Contra Costa County Bar Association (CCCBA) and the League of Women Voters of […]

Veteran readers know we scramble when the sirens start to whoop and the whirlybirds take to the air around here, knowing your inquiries won’t be far behind.

And you didn’t let us down as our Flash and Facebook systems started spitting out the usual “Hey, what’s with all the sirens on X street?” by the dozen as a twisty police pursuit wended its way into a normally quiet Concord neighborhood.

We’re not sure of all the background details because a.) police aren’t big on keeping us filled in and b.) the handcuffs for a man stopped and arrested on Criquet (we like that name) Court aren’t even warm, yet.

Anyway, we Flashed what we knew as a man in an Impala led officers from several agencies on a merry chase eventually joined by the sheriff’s helicopter – a factor that usually works to double the number of inquiries to this newsroom.

News24/680 Photo

The driver was allegedly driving evasively, attracting even more attention until he and his car was eventually located and officers closed in. No injuries reported and the driver allegedly kicked things off when he attempted to avoid a police stop.

Quote of the evening goes to one of the more manly members of our photographic crew who landed photos of the arrest and etched his name in our incident log with: “I could really go for a quality piece of cake right now.”

All that adrenaline has to go somewhere.

From the City of Lafayette:

On Monday night, non-profit developers, Sunflower Hill and Satellite Affordable Housing Associates (SAHA) were given unanimous approval to build a new four-story, 48 unit building for adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD).

The site in downtown Lafayette is a City-owned parking lot at 949 Moraga Road, and the City is contributing the land as part of its commitment toward facilitating more affordable housing in Lafayette.

“The City Council welcomes Sunflower Hill to Lafayette and is very excited to see this much-needed development come to our community. The project is perfectly located for residents to walk to grocery stores, restaurants, the Lafayette BART station, the library and all the other amenities that our vibrant downtown offers,” said Mayor Carl Anduri.

The development includes 27 one-bedroom and 20 two-bedroom below-market-rate (BMR) units and one (1) three-bedroom moderate-rate unit reserved for the on-site manager. It also includes a fitness area, teaching kitchen, bike storage, laundry room, resident lounges, and outdoor courtyards.

The project has been designed specifically for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), including autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and other chromosomal abnormalities. As part of their joint development agreement, SAHA will serve as the on-site property manager and Sunflower Hill will provide activities and resident services. The project team includes Pyatok, an architectural firm with extensive design experience for the I/DD population as well as Sunseri Construction, which specializes in affordable multi-family housing.

“I am thrilled that Sunflower Hill has chosen to build supportive housing in Lafayette and we look forward to working with them and the other project partners to build much needed affordable homes,” said City Manager Niroop Srivatsa.

“Sunflower Hill first approached the City in 2024 about a project to provide affordable, supportive housing for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. I am proud of this partnership and that Lafayette can help to fill this urgent need,” said Anduri.

Sunflower Hill has received $19.5 million towards construction and support services through California’s Multifamily Finance Super NOFA program; and Congressman Mark DeSaulnier recently advanced a request for $2 million in federal appropriations funding. Additional funds have been requested through Contra Costa County’s Measure X program and Sunflower Hill and SAHA intend to apply for Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) in Summer 2026.

“The City of Lafayette has made a strong commitment to embrace the needs of individuals with I/DD who need affordable housing and residential support. The contribution of the land was critical to the success of the project. Sunflower Hill is thrilled to bring our vision to Contra Costa County,” said Rosemary Kirbach, Sunflower Hill Board Member.

To stay informed on the project and hear about housing opportunities with Sunflower Hill in Lafayette, people are encouraged to sign up for Sunflower Hill’s newsletter at https://sunflowerhill.org/newsletters.

Scheduled to begin Sunday, May 3, 2026, through Thursday May 21, 2026 Sunday through Thursday, 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM (nightly) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY — Caltrans will commence a paving…

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Scheduled to begin Sunday, May 3, 2026, through Thursday May 21, 2026 Sunday through Thursday, 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM (nightly)

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY — Caltrans will commence a paving project on SR-4, extending from Hillcrest Avenue to Byron Highway within Contra Costa County.

To ensure the safety of personnel, SR-4 Marsh Creek Road between Vasco Road and Sellers Avenue will be fully closed nightly, Sunday through Thursday, pending weather conditions. These closures are scheduled to begin on Sunday, May 3, 2026, and conclude on Thursday, May 21, 2026, occurring each night from 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM

State Route 4 Detour Information:

Please follow posted signs and detour routes during the closure periods. Motorists are advised to expect delays and allow extra time

For other District 4 projects, click here

Previous Caltrans Stories:

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MARTINEZ, Calif.  – Contra Costa County Employment & Human Services Department (EHSD) published its 2025 Annual Report, focusing on the communities it serves. The department delivers quality services to ensure…

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MARTINEZ, Calif.  – Contra Costa County Employment & Human Services Department (EHSD) published its 2025 Annual Report, focusing on the communities it serves. The department delivers quality services to ensure individuals and families have access to resources that support, protect, and empower them to achieve self-sufficiency.

“The EHSD 2025 Annual Report outlines our public-facing programs that serve our residents through the lifespan, from birth to death, most who are living with low incomes and below the federal poverty rate,” explained Dr. Marla Stuart, Director. “Last year, we served 37 percent of Contra Costa County’s population, made possible through the unwavering dedication of our staff and the collaboration with our community partners.”

EHSD 2025 Annual Report highlights:

The 2025 Annual Report provides specific information for each Supervisorial District, such as service locations, cash issuances, and number of individuals served by the various programs.

EHSD programs and services include early childhood education and care; child welfare; financial safety-net programs such as CalFresh, (food assistance), Medi-Cal (health support), CalWORKs (wrap-around services for parents and care for children), and Welfare-to-Work (employment and training); job seeker and employer support services; and programs to support older adults and those with disabilities such as In-Home Supportive Services, Adult Protective Services, General Assistance and the Public Administrator.  Learn more at ehsd.org.

View and download the EHSD 2025 Annual Report.

Related

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For more than 14 years, Peter Karumbi has proudly served the people of Contra Costa County through his work in the Auditor‑Controller’s Office. His career began as an entry‑level Accountant…

The post Peter Karumbi Announces Run for Contra Costa Auditor Controller appeared first on Contra Costa News.

For more than 14 years, Peter Karumbi has proudly served the people of Contra Costa County through his work in the Auditor‑Controller’s Office.

His career began as an entry‑level Accountant I, and through hard work, integrity and a deep commitment to public service, Karumbi advanced to his current role as Assistant Auditor‑Controller.

With current Auditor-Controller Joanne Bohren not running for election after being appointed to the position last year, Karumbi is seeking the position with her support.

He is committed to:

Karumbi is also endorsed by retired Contra Costa County Auditor-Controller Robert Campbell, Retired Assistant County Auditor-Controller Harjit Nahal and California State Treasurer Fiona Ma.

His journey reflects not only professional growth but also a genuine dedication to strengthening the financial foundation of our county.

“I understand the responsibility that comes with managing public resources, and I have devoted my career to ensuring accuracy, transparency and accountability in county financial operations,” Karumbi said.  “I understand the responsibilities of this office because I’ve spent my career performing them.”

He also has experience in the private sector having worked for four-and-a-half years in Accounts Payable for Ross Stores, Inc. in Pleasanton.

Karumbi earned the designation of Certified Public Accountant in 2015 and earned a Master’s of Business Administration in 2013 from Cal State East Bay’s School of Business & Economics.

The first-time candidate for public office is married to Margaret Ng’ang’a and they have four daughters.

For more information about Karumbi and his campaign visit www.karumbiforauditor.com. The election is Tuesday, June 2nd.

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The dedicated public servant and CPA with an MBA offers 14 years of experienced financial leadership, integrity By Allen D. Payton For more than 14 years, Peter Karumbi has proudly served the people of Contra Costa County through his work in the Auditor‑Controller’s Office. His career began as an entry‑level Accountant I, and through hard […]

Walnut Creek police searched neighborhoods surrounding the 7Eleven on N. Main Street this afternoon following a strong-arm robbery during which a lone suspect reportedly made off with a victim’s watch.

Neighbors and Flashers reported police in their area following the crime, with a police drone overhead and armed officers searching a specific area on Casa Way after the suspect was reportedly spotted nearby.

Despite the police presence and technology, the suspect apparently managed to elude the cordon.

News24/680 Photo

Lafayette’s Ware Designs store on Mount Diablo Boulevard was entered by two thieves who smashed a window to gain access – smashing display cases once inside.

The burglary occurred early Friday morning and came to light when the store manager furnished internal security video to a local television station.

No one was injured and the store’s manager was quoted as saying the thieves managed to make off with relatively inexpensive pieces.

Police in Lafayette have not released any details of the break-in.

Laurie Vega Stephens was kind enough to share this photo snapped during a police action at Monument and Nursery Lane in Concord Saturday night. An accompanying helicopter eventually moved off but it was noisy out there for a bit and our Tip Line began to heat up.

We’re not immediately certain that this response was tied to a similar police turnout at the Veranda a bit later in the evening. Our Flashers report PD, some with long guns, turning out there for an apparent retail theft.

A quick review of official sites and alert systems returned no immediate word on what was happening but interest in our Flash Alert system took off as people on the street began to question what they saw going on in front of them. Remember, we began to strengthen our Flash System when agencies began to cut off access to information people counted on to keep them in the know and it has been growing ever since.

Sometimes, you just have to come up with your own solution to a local problem.

Emilio Alberto Esperanza-Pacheco receives 120 years to life, plus life without possibility of parole By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office Martinez, California – A Contra Costa County judge has sentenced a former Richmond pastor — convicted on multiple counts of child sexual assault — to 120 years to life, plus an additional term of […]

Rezoned 10 parcels for five development sites By Colleen Awad, City of Concord Community Relations Manager Concord, CA – On Tuesday, March 10, 2026, the Concord City Council approved the City’s Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) Program, a key initiative designed to expand equitable housing opportunities and support Concord’s long-term housing strategy. The AFFH Program […]

PLEASANT HILL, CALIF. — The Contra Costa County Office of Education (CCCOE) will recognize 45 outstanding high school juniors and seniors during the 2026 Students of Excellence Awards, honoring exceptional achievement in…

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PLEASANT HILL, CALIF. — The Contra Costa County Office of Education (CCCOE) will recognize 45 outstanding high school juniors and seniors during the 2026 Students of Excellence Awards, honoring exceptional achievement in Career Technical Education (CTE) and Regional Occupational Program (ROP) pathways.

Students represent 10 Contra Costa County school districts and 17 high schools. The ceremony will also recognize five students who completed the Early Childhood Educator Apprentice program, representing two school districts. More than 150 guests are expected to attend.

The event is on April 28 from 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm at the Pleasant Hill Community Center (320 Civic Center Drive).

Acalanes Union HSD:

Albany USD:

Antioch USD:

Clayton Valley Charter HS:

Contra Costa COE:

John Swett USD:

Liberty Union HSD:

Pittsburg USD:

San Ramon Valley USD:

West Contra Costa USD:

Early Childhood Educator Apprentice Program

About Contra Costa County Office of Education 

One of 58 counties in California, Contra Costa County has the 11th largest public-school student population in the state (approximately 169,394 students). Officially established in 1932, CCCOE has a long history of providing direct services to some of our county’s most vulnerable students, including young people who are incarcerated, homeless, or in foster care, as well as students who have severe physical or emotional challenges. 

CCCOE also provides support services to schools and school districts in Contra Costa County; services that can be handled most effectively and economically on a regional basis rather than by each of the county’s 286 schools or 18 school districts. These services range from budget approval and fiscal support to technology infrastructure, communication support, and high-level professional development opportunities for educators. CCCOE maintains a website at www.cocoschools.org. 

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Harvest Time in Brentwood announced Thursday that cherries have finally arrived for cherry U-pick season at local farms. This weekend, a handful of Cherry orchards are opening to combine with…

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Harvest Time in Brentwood announced Thursday that cherries have finally arrived for cherry U-pick season at local farms.

This weekend, a handful of Cherry orchards are opening to combine with opportunities with strawberries and mulberries.   Cherry season will be approximently 2-months and according to Harvest Time.

Current variety available:

Next Varieties to Expect:

How? It’s all about variety. Our local farming families, some rooted here for over a century, have thoughtfully planted dozens of cherry varieties that ripen in stages, one after another, week after week. By the time one variety reaches its peak, another is just beginning.

Every variety has its own personality. Some are bright and firm with a crisp, snappy bite. Others are tender and rich with a deep, berry-citrus note. Some lean sweet, others offer a subtle tang. There is no best cherry, only the one that is perfect for you.

View farm details at https://harvestforyou.com/farm-status/

Note – the following map below is as of Thursday, April 23. 2026 with many farms opening for cherry u-pick.

Outside of cherry u-pick, for more events around Contra Costa County, visit our events calendar.

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Initiative would update zoning to permit delivery of over 200 units and mixed-use retail Learn more during community meeting 27th By Adam Alberti, Singer Media Walnut Creek, CA – Hall Equities Group, a Walnut Creek-based real estate investment company, today announced they’ve launched a signature gathering effort to qualify an initiative for the November 2026 […]