CONCORD
The East Bay Regional Park District applauds Gov. Gavin Newsom’s recent signing into law of Senate Bill 392, landmark legislation that strengthens conservation efforts and enhances climate resilience across the East Bay, as well as other areas throughout the state.
SB 392, authored by state Sen. Tim Grayson, D-Concord, and passed unanimously by the state Legislature, establishes the East Bay Hills Conservation Program, empowering the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) to better protect the ecological integrity of the East Bay hills while improving wildfire resilience and expanding public access to natural areas.
“This is a critical moment for regional parks and open space in California,” said Sabrina Landreth, the EBRPD’s general manager. “SB 392 will help preserve the East Bay hills’ incredible biodiversity, protect important wildlife corridors and ensure equitable access for future generations.”
Extreme weather and increasing wildfire risks are putting pressure on natural resources in the East Bay hills, which provide critical habitat and serve as an important wildlife corridor linking coastal ranges to inland foothills.
The East Bay Hills Conservation Program, enabled by SB 392, formalizes and supports conservation efforts, enhances public access to parks and trails, and promotes long-term ecological resilience. The program prioritizes sustainable recreation, wildfire mitigation and long-term climate adaptation.
The new East Bay Hills Conservation Program encompasses more than 30,000 acres in the East Bay Regional Park District, from Wildcat Canyon Regional Park in the north to Lake Chabot Regional Park in the south, and includes iconic parks like Charles Lee Tilden Regional Park, Dr. Aurelia Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve, and Anthony Chabot Regional Park.
“The East Bay hills are a regional treasure and a key part of California’s ecological fabric,” said Sen. Grayson. “This new conservation program will help protect these lands by preserving their biodiversity and making them more resilient in the face of a changing climate.”
— EBRPD
Food drive launched in response to loss of Calfresh benefits
White Pony Express (WPE) on Wednesday announced a large-scale county-wide food drive running effective immediately through Nov. 30 to support neighbors affected by the suspension starting Saturdayof benefits from CalFresh, California’s version of the U.S. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
As federal food assistance benefits are delayed during the ongoing U.S. government shutdown, WPE is already seeing longer lines at food distribution sites across Contra Costa County. Many of their nonprofit food recipient partners have already reached out requesting more food and more frequent deliveries.
The organization anticipates that most nonprofits they serve will need more food and resources, especially with the holidays approaching. WPE currently supplies food to 110 local nonprofits, and reports that 54 additional organizations are waiting to join its network — a clear sign of surging demand during a mounting food security crisis.
“Our community has always risen to meet moments of crisis with compassion,” said Eve Birge, WPE’s chief executive officer. “By donating now — especially protein-rich foods — you’ll help ensure access to nutritious groceries for thousands of households while benefits are withheld.”
A rapid community response will enable WPE to distribute more food, expand delivery routes, and reduce the nonprofit waitlist—ensuring no one goes hungry during this period of uncertainty. For more details, including what and where to donate, visit whiteponyexpress.org online.
— White Pony Express
Paramedic honored for saving spectator’s life at football game
Seconds matter during a sudden cardiac arrest emergency, and for one spectator at a local high school football game last fall, seconds were all it took for off-duty American Medical Response (AMR) paramedic Brannen Zilka to come to that spectator’s aid.
Zilka witnessed this life-threatening emergency and, recognizing the severity of the situation, immediately began CPR, retrieved an automated external defibrillator (AED) and delivered a life-saving shock. With Zilka’s quick action, the individual survived and was later discharged from a hospital without any lasting disabilities.
This year, Zilka stands among a select group of just 32 outstanding professionals — representing the 34,000 prehospital clinicians, dispatchers and support personnel of Global Medical Response — who have earned the distinguished Stars of Life award.
Presented by the American Ambulance Association (AAA), the Stars of Life award shines a light on individuals whose exceptional achievements exemplify the very best of the emergency medical services profession and reflect the dedication and excellence shared throughout the entire workforce.
This year’s Stars of Life award recipients will join peers from across the country at the AAA’s national celebration Nov. 2-5 in Washington, D.C. — an event dedicated to honoring the essential role of emergency medical services (EMS) in public health and safety.
“I’m incredibly honored to receive the Stars of Life award,” said Zilka. “When I saw the cardiac arrest unfold at the football game, I didn’t hesitate — training and instinct kicked in.
“But it’s the strength of our EMS community and the support of my team that make moments like that possible. I’m proud to represent the lifesaving work we do every day, especially when every second counts.”
Zilka since 2003 has been a dedicated team member with AMR, a Global Medical Response company, serving currently as a paramedic, field training officer and union shop steward. His commitment to his team and community is evident through his involvement in specialized units, training programs and support for new hires.
Outside of work, Zilka volunteers as a coach with Northern California Special Olympics and advocates for inclusive education, while also teaching lifesaving skills like CPR, Narcan administration, and Stop the Bleed to high school students — extending his impact well beyond his work as a first responder.
“Brannen’s quick thinking and decisive action during that emergency reflect the kind of leadership and compassion he brings to our team every day,” said Scott Newlin, operations manager at AMR. “His recognition as a Stars of Life honoree is well deserved, and we’re proud to have him representing our team.”
— Global Medical Response
SAN RAMON
Nov. 15 drive to benefit Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano
The Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley (Kiwanis SRV) is teaming up with NBC Bay Area, Safeway and the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano to support the 16th annual Nourishing Neighbors Food Drive, running through 2025.
As part of the campaign, NBC Bay Area and Safeway will conduct a one-day food drive Nov. 15, when volunteers will stand outside Safeway stores throughout the Bay Area, encouraging shoppers to donate at the check-out counter to help combat food insecurity among our neighbors in need.
Kiwanis SRV is leading a team of more than 30 volunteers, who will be outside four San Ramon Valley Safeway stores, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., engaging shoppers and encouraging them to donate $10 toward the campaign at the check-out counter.
Shoppers ask the cashier to scan a bar code before items from the cart or basket are totaled, and donations toward the food drive are added to receipts. Safeway will then deliver donated funds as Safeway gift cards to the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano, a long-time partner of Kiwanis SRV.
— Kiwanis SRV
OAKLEY/BETHEL ISLAND
Ironhouse Sanitary District celebrates 80th anniversary
Residents of Oakley and Bethel Island joined the Ironhouse Sanitary District (ISD) on Oct. 18 to celebrate 80 years of protecting public health, preserving the environment and supporting the region’s growth.
The milestone event honored the people and partnerships that have made ISD’s reliable wastewater service and environmental stewardship possible since 1945.
Jean-Marc Petit, the ISD’s general manager led the celebration, recognizing the district’s Board of Directors and the many past and present employees who have served the community over the decades.
“This milestone reflects 80 years of hard work and dedication by our staff, board and community,” Petit said. “Their commitment ensures reliable service, clean waterways and a healthier region for generations to come.”
Held at ISD headquarters in Oakley, the event drew more than 100 guests, including residents, regional partners and local officials. Representatives from the offices of state and county leaders presented proclamations recognizing ISD’s eight decades of contributions to public health, sustainability and community progress.
Guests enjoyed lunch from OG Taco, Kona Ice treats, and hands-on activities showcasing ISD’s Water Recycling Facility, environmental initiatives, and water education programs. Educational displays and family-friendly demonstrations highlighted how the District’s work benefits both Oakley and Bethel Island.
— ISD
PLEASANT HILL
Diablo Valley College breaks ground on new tech building
Diablo Valley College (DVC) hosted a ceremonial groundbreaking on Oct. 15 to kick off the construction of its new, 32,500-square-foot Engineering Technology Building on the Pleasant Hill campus.
DVC students, faculty, classified professionals and administrators joined with Contra Costa Community College District (4CD) trustees and staff as well as industry partners and community leaders to celebrate this milestone with the official turning of the soil. The $56.8 million state-of-the-art facility is funded through the remainder of 4CD’s 2014 Measure E general obligation bond.
The facility will house programs such as construction, engineering and engineering technology, architecture, electronics/electrical technology, industrial design and energy systems, which are already paving the way for careers in industrial automation, robotics, and clean energy, including electric vehicles.
Demolition of the previous building, which was built in 1971, began over the summer. The new project is expected to be completed by fall 2027. For more details online, visit bit.ly/49rxz8w.
— 4CD
WALNUT CREEK
Garden club to hear about sweet peas at next meeting Nov. 10
The Walnut Creek Garden Club will hold its free monthly meeting Nov. 10 in Walnut Creek’s Elks Lodge at 1475 Creekside Drive. Registration will start at 9:15 a.m., followed by a brief meeting, a break at 10:15 a.m. with complimentary tea, coffee and snacks, then an educational program.
November’s educational program will be “Glenys Johnson: Sweet Pea Maven.” Lnown as Sonoma County’s sweet pea maven, Johnson has grown the old-fashioned annuals for more than 30 years. Each fall she harvests their seeds from her spent vines and ships them to gardeners all over the United States and Canada.
Johnson will describe her methods for success and bring seeds and growing materials for sale. The Walnut Creek Garden Club (WCGC) welcomes the public to visit their meeting and join their group (one need not be a gardener to do so). For more information, visit walnutcreekgardenclub.org online.
— WCGC
ANTIOCH
2025 championship season concludes Oct. 25 at speedway
D.J. Johnson of Stockton won the 25 lap Wingless Spec Sprint Main Event on Oct. 25 at the Antioch Speedway. This was the fourth appearance for the Hunt Wingless Sprint Series and final race of the season at the track. A two-time Hunt Series champion, Johnson became the sixth different winner in the 12 races held for the series so far.
During the intermission, the drivers interacted with the fans and handed out candy and other goodies. Prior to the running of the Main Event, several drivers ran a Memorial Lap in memory of Petaluma racer Shawn McCoy, who died in a wreck at Marysville Raceway a week before. Super Stock champion Mike Learn of Petaluma changed his number to 60 in memory of McCoy as he led the lap.
Phil Wilkins won the 20 lap Pacific Coast Hobby Stock Main Event. The newcomer from Roseville withstood a serious lake race challenge from Oakley’s Hunter Hammett to earn the thrilling victory. The day concluded the 2025 championship season. For more details online, visit raceantiochspeedway.com/press/article/183149.
— Candace Martin