Archive for the ‘People’ Category

Sutter Health names new CEO for Sutter Delta Medical Center

Monday, August 12th, 2024
New Sutter Delta Medical Center CEO Trevor Brand. Photo: Sutter Health

Starts August 26th

By Monique Binkley Smith, Manager, Media Relations, Sutter Health

EMERYVILLE, Calif., Aug. 12, 2024 – Northern California-based not-for-profit Sutter Health has named Trevor D. Brand to be the next CEO of Sutter Delta Medical Center in Antioch.

Brand comes to Sutter Health from City of Hope Atlanta, where he was chief operating officer, managing operations across six states and overseeing $2 billion in annual revenue. Under his leadership, service line performance improved, increasing hospital revenue by 13%. At City of Hope Atlanta, Brand also focused on fostering a culture of trust, implementing “people plans” that enhanced employee retention and engagement and reduced turnover rates by 5% annually. He also initiated a capital planning process resulting in a $10 million equipment and facilities improvement plan.

“Trevor Brand is an experienced and dynamic healthcare leader with a proven track record of excellence in hospital operations,” said Tosan Boyo, president of Sutter Health’s Greater East Bay Market. “I am thrilled to welcome him to Sutter Health to lead Sutter Delta Medical Center. In his new role, Trevor will focus on strengthening and growing Sutter Delta’s community partnerships and physician relationships and ensure the medical center continues to the deliver high-quality, connected and equitable patient care for which it is recognized.”

Brand’s previous roles include chief operating officer/senior vice president of Operations at City of Hope Phoenix and chief of staff and vice president of Strategic Initiatives at City of Hope National. He also held leadership positions at Erlanger Health System in Tennessee and North Carolina.

Brand holds a master’s degree in healthcare administration from Georgia State University and a bachelor’s degree in healthcare management from Austin Peay State University. He is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Brand succeeds Sherie Hickman at the helm of Sutter Delta. Hickman retired earlier this year after a long and successful career at Sutter.

Brand starts at Sutter Delta Medical Center on Aug. 26.

Long-time Antioch Reserve Officer Frank Rupani passes

Wednesday, July 10th, 2024
Frank Rupani in a 2016 photo posted on his Facebook page and in his Antioch Police Reserve Officer uniform. Photo (right): APD

By Antioch Police Department

It is with a heavy heart that we inform you about the passing of Reserve Officer Frank Rupani. Frank was a dedicated member of the Antioch Police Department for over 26 years, serving our community with utmost commitment and professionalism.

He began his service on October 30, 1997, and has received numerous commendations and letters of appreciation from the public. In May 2014, Rupani was honored by then-Chief Allan Cantando as a Reserve Sergeant.

Prior to his retirement from the APD Reserve Unit in 2017, Rupani was assigned to assist the Parking Enforcement unit with a huge backlog of abandoned vehicles in the City. According to then-Police Chief Tammany Brooks, Rupani had been instrumental in getting the number down to a manageable level. He continued to serve the citizens of Antioch by transitioning to the Volunteers In Police Service (VIPS) program and could be seen at community events, including parades in downtown Rivertown, as well as Veterans Day and Memorial Day ceremonies.

Following his retirement Frank Rupani was honored with a plaque for his 20 years of service by then-Chief T Brooks as Captain Tony Morefield looks on during an Antioch Police Ceremony on May 17, 2018. Photos: APD

Officer Rupani’s unwavering dedication to his duty and his selfless service to the Antioch community will always be remembered. He was a true asset to our department, and his loss will be deeply felt by all of us.

During his time with us, Officer Rupani exemplified the values of integrity, compassion, and bravery. He was not only a respected colleague but also a trusted friend to many. His positive impact on our community and the lives he touched cannot be overstated.

As we mourn the loss of Officer Rupani, let us also remember and celebrate the incredible legacy he leaves behind. His contributions to public safety and his unwavering commitment to serving others will continue to inspire us all.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Officer Rupani’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. We extend our deepest condolences and offer our full support to those affected by this loss.

According to his Facebook page, Rupani is from Burgettstown, Pennsylvania and studied for his Bachelor’s of Science in Mechanical Engineering at The University of Akron.

Born on June 24, 1944, Rupani had just turned 80 and is survived by his wife Inelda who, according to family members, was by his side when he passed on July 10, 2024.

Please join us in honoring Officer Frank Rupani’s memory and the invaluable service he provided to our community.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Congressman Garamendi announces he has early stage, treatable blood cancer

Tuesday, July 9th, 2024
Rep. John Garamendi announces his cancer diagnosis in a video on his X feed on Monday, July 8, 2024 and his official photo.

By Office of Representative John Garamendi

WASHINGTON, DC—Congressman John Garamendi (CA-08) on Monday, July 8, 2024, released the following statement about his diagnosis of early stage, treatable blood cancer:

“My wife Patti, a leader in the Congressional Families Cancer Prevention Program, ensures I stay vigilant about preventative screenings and care. Freezing abnormal bumps is standard, but a call from my doctor changed everything: “When will you be back in California? You need to come in for a series of tests.” Thus began my journey with early-stage Multiple Myeloma, a form of treatable blood cancer. 

“Today, I started my path to remission with chemo-immunotherapy as an outpatient at Kaiser Oncology in Sacramento. With early detection, excellent doctors, and the love and support of Patti, our entire family, my extraordinary staff, and congressional colleagues, I know I’ll get through this while continuing to serve my constituents and advance American democracy. I’m grateful our President initiated the Cancer Moonshot and that California’s efforts in stem cell research and taxing cigarettes in the 1980s for cancer research have advanced therapies benefiting not only me, but every family dealing with cancer.

“Throughout my treatments, which my doctor expects will last a few months, I will continue working on my long list of projects and goals for my constituents in Contra Costa and Solano counties. However, alongside destroying cancer cells, chemotherapy weakens natural antibodies and the immune system. My doctors have cautioned me to minimize exposure to COVID-19, flu, and other viruses, so I will limit travel to Washington and public events during the treatment process.

“My thoughts and support are with families managing cancer or any health condition, and with the doctors, nurses, and medical personnel who offer comfort and hope. I am confident that the treatments will be effective, allowing me to continue serving impacted families and my constituents in Congress for years to come.”

In a video post on his X (formerly Twitter) feed on Monday, Garamendi read his statement and wrote, “Like 1.9 million Americans each year, I recently received the dreaded call from my doctor informing me that I had cancer. I am thankful to have caught this early, and we are confident that I will soon be in remission.”

The 79-year-old Garamendi represents the northern waterfront and western communities of Contra Costa County including the northern portion of Antioch in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Former Antioch Rotary leader joins board of Meals on Wheels Diablo Region

Tuesday, July 2nd, 2024
Lindy Maynes-Kolthoff. Photo: MOWDR

By Skylar Schaefer, Communications Specialist, Meals on Wheels Diablo Region

WALNUT CREEK, CA – Meals on Wheels Diablo Region (MOW Diablo Region) is pleased to announce that Lindy Maynes-Kolthoff has been elected to the organization’s Board of Directors. Maynes-Kolthoff has a close relationship with MOW Diablo Region as a volunteer for the Breakfast Bag Program.

Maynes-Kolthoff spent over 35 years serving students in higher education at both the university and community college levels. As the Executive Director of the Los Medanos College Foundation, she was active in her East Contra Costa County area as a member of the Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce, member of the Industrial Association of Contra Costa County, was presented with a Proclamation honoring her volunteer work in the City of Pittsburg and served 21 years on the Board of Directors for the Rotary Club of Antioch. Maynes-Kolthoff currently serves on the Board of Directors of Delta Advocacy Foundation as the Grants Chair.

In addition to her volunteering for MOW Diablo Region, Maynes-Kolthoff has personal experience with the organization. Her father volunteered forty years ago and said that it was the best job he ever had. Ten years ago, when her father-in-law needed services, she says that the meal deliveries literally saved his life.

When reached for comment about her new position Maynes-Kolthoff said, “I’ve been volunteering for about two years, now and I deliver breakfast bags to clients in Antioch. Then I substitute, here in Pittsburg when they need a driver.”

“Board Chairman Tim Argenti (formerly of Republic Services) is the one who asked if I’d be willing to serve on the board and I said, ‘sure’,” she stated. “I enjoy volunteering because I think it’s important to support our seniors in our communities. I’m more than happy to, now serve on the board.”

“I’m very humbled to be a part of this amazing organization,” Maynes-Kolthoff added.

Meals on Wheels Diablo Region’s mission is to keep seniors nourished, safe, less isolated, and independent for as long as possible. MOW Diablo Region is the only Meals on Wheels that delivers both meals and supportive services to the entire county. In addition to home delivered meals, the organization provides breakfast bags, grocery bags, cultural cuisine, cafés, fall prevention, friendly visitors, callers, and helpers, case management, and exercise classes. All services are free of charge. To learn more about services, volunteering, or donating, visit mowdiabloregion.org.

About Meals on Wheels Diablo Region:

For more than 50 years, Meals on Wheels Diablo Region has improved the lives of vulnerable seniors in Contra Costa County by delivering nutritious meals and supportive services that allow seniors to remain in their homes safely and with dignity. Programs include home-delivered meals, Breakfast Bags, Grocery Bags, Fall Prevention, Cafés, Care Management, Friendly Visitors, Health and Wellness, and more.

About Meals on Wheels America

Meals on Wheels America is the leadership organization supporting the more than 5,000 community-based programs across the country that are dedicated to addressing senior hunger and isolation. Powered by a trusted volunteer workforce, this network delivers a comprehensive solution that begins with a meal and is proven to enable independence and well-being through the additional benefits of tailored nutrition, social connection, safety and much more. By providing funding, programming, education, research and advocacy, Meals on Wheels America empowers its local member programs to strengthen their communities, one senior at a time.

State Senator Glazer to honor first and only CA Supreme Court Chief Justice to be voted out of office

Monday, May 6th, 2024
Former California Supreme Court Chief Justice Rose Bird (Photo: CSCHS) and Senator Steve Glazer. (Official photo)

For reversing death sentences; plaques to be unveiled for Rose Bird at new plaza named for her in Capitol World Peace Rose Garden during Tuesday ceremony

Glazer was her spokesman during her failed 1986 retention campaign

SACRAMENTO – Former California Supreme Court Chief Justice Rose Elizabeth Bird will be recognized Tuesday, May 7, for her trailblazing work as a jurist – the first such public dedication in California.

Current Chief Justice of the California Supreme Court, Patricia Guerrero, and retired Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye, will lead the 10 a.m. unveiling of two plaques at the new Chief Justice Rose Elizabeth Bird Justice For All Plaza at the State Capitol World Peace Rose Garden 25 years after her death in 1999.

Speakers will also include Stephen Buehl, former Justice Bird’s chief of staff, Senator Nancy Skinner, D-Berkeley, the chair of the California Legislative Women’s Caucus, and Kathryn Meola, president of the Women Lawyers of Sacramento.

“Honoring Chief Justice Rose Elizabeth Bird is long overdue,” said Senator Steve Glazer, D-Contra Costa, who authored a resolution, SCR 47 (2023) to create her place of honor in the Capitol Rose Garden. Senator Glazer was Bird’s spokesman during her retention campaign in 1986. “We now have the benefit of time in recognizing her courage and integrity in upholding the Constitution and rule of law – especially in protecting the poor and oppressed.”

Justice Bird was the first woman Chief Justice of California; the first woman Chair of the Judicial Council; the first woman on a California Governor’s Cabinet and the first woman deputy public defender in Santa Clara County. She served as the Chief Justice under Governor Jerry Brown from 1977-1986.

She was also the first and only chief justice in state history to be voted out of office. Bird and three other justices voted to reverse murderers’ sentences, and she, two of her colleagues, Reynoso and Grodin, were subsequently voted off the state supreme court. Bird was overwhelmingly removed in the November 4, 1986, election by a margin of 67% to 33%.

What: The Unveiling of the Chief Justice Rose Elizabeth Bird Justice For All Plaza

When: May 7, 2024, 10 a.m.

Where: State Capitol World Peace Rose Garden

Speakers: Senator Steve Glazer; Patricia Guerrero, Chief Justice of California; Tani Cantil-Sakauye, retired Chief Justice of California; Stephen Buehl, chief of staff to Chief Justice Rose  Bird, Senator Nancy Skinner, D-Berkeley, the chair of the California Legislative Women’s Caucus, and Kathryn Meola, president of the Women Lawyers of Sacramento.

Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yaE6NUxkuv0

https://sd07.senate.ca.gov/video/honoring-chief-justice-rose-elizabeth-bird

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report

JR Wilson, Mary Rocha named Antioch’s 2023 Citizens of the Year

Sunday, March 3rd, 2024
Antioch 2023 Citizens of the Year – Most Impact Gerald JR Wilson (Antioch Herald file photo) and Lifetime Achievement Mary Rocha. Photo source: AUSD

In the Antioch Chamber of Commerce’s annual awards; to be honored along with Businesses, Youth and Non-Profit of the Year during March 22 Gala

By Allen D. Payton

The Antioch Chamber of Commerce has announced the winners of the annual awards, and local veterans leader Gerald “JR” Wilson was named the 2023 Citizen of the Year for Most Impact and Antioch School Board Trustee and former Mayor of Antioch Mary Rocha was named Citizen of the Year for Lifetime Achievement.

In addition, Service Pros Plumbers was named Small Business of the Year, Drill Tech Drilling & Shoring was named Large Business of the Year and Soroptimist International of Antioch was named Non-Profit of the Year. As previously reported, Antioch High School junior, Fifita Grewe was named Youth of the Year.

Citizen of the year – Most Impact Gerald “JR” Wilson 

With a background in the US Army, Gerald “JR” Wilson has been a strong presence in Antioch, advocating for the well-being of local residents. His dedication shines through in his work with veterans, helping them access the benefits they deserve. Through his organization, DVG, he has made a significant impact on the community, improving the lives of many individuals. Stand Down on the Delta organized by JR Wilson’s unwavering commitment to serving others is truly commendable.

Citizen of the Year – Lifetime Achievement Mary Rocha

Mary, a resident of Antioch for many years, has dedicated over 50 years to serving the public. She made history as the first Latina Mayor of Antioch and currently serves on the school board. Mary is deeply committed to improving the lives of children and frequently volunteers to read to first graders. Additionally, she holds a special place in her heart for honoring veterans. She is one of the founding members for the Luminary Lighting project honoring members who have passed in active duty from East Contra Costa County. Friends describe Mary as Shakespeare quoted, “Some people are born great, some achieve great, and some have greatness thrust upon them”, this is Mary in all three situations. Mary has a deep wealth of political experience but at her core, she is all about serving our community. 

Each of the winners will be honored at the Chamber’s annual Gala on Friday, March 22, 2024, at the Lone Tree Golf & Event Center. Tickets are $80 each or $640 for a reserved table of eight, and can be purchased on the Chamber’s website at www.antiochchamber.com.

Antioch mayor to present Keys to the City during Black History Month Closing Celebration Thursday night

Thursday, February 29th, 2024
Key to the City of Antioch recipients on Feb. 29, 2024 (top row L-R) Frances Green, Shamawn Wright, Supervisor Federal Glover, Willie Mims, and (bottom row L-R) the late Antioch Councilman Reggie Moore and Dietra King. Source: Antioch Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe

To two former Antioch residents posthumously, three Pittsburg residents and one Oakland resident

By Allen D. Payton

During Antioch’s Black History Month Closing Celebration, this evening, Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024, Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe will present a Key to the City to each of “six deserving individuals who have significantly impacted our community,” according to the Eventbrite invitation. “This prestigious honor recognizes their outstanding achievements and dedication.”

The recipients include two former Antioch residents who have passed away, Antioch’s first African American councilmember, the late Hon. Reginald “Reggie” Moore and the late Dietra King, co-owner of Dad’s BBQ and owner, broker of Hearts Realty. In addition, three Pittsburg residents, Board of Supervisors Chair Federal Glover, local civil rights and community activist Willie Mims and NAACP East County Branch leader and Building Black Political Power PAC President Frances Green will also receive a Key to the City.

Finally, a sixth Key to the City will be presented to Oakland resident Shamawn Wright, Founder of the non-profit Bridge Builders to the New Generation which has an office inside the East Family Justice Center in Antioch and serves Antioch youth.

The mayor chose each of the recipients and has said in the past that it doesn’t require council approval.

The event will be held at Delta Bay Community Church, 1020 E. Tregallas Road in Antioch. Doors open at 6:30 PM, and the program begins promptly at 7:00 pm. A special reception with music and hors-d’oeuvres will follow the program.

Retired Pittsburg Chief Addington appointed Antioch Interim Chief of Police

Tuesday, February 20th, 2024
Retired Pittsburg Police Chief Brian Addington has been appointed as Antioch’s interim police chief. Photo: Pittsburg PD

Starts Monday, February 26, 2024

“We’re very lucky to have him as our chief.” – Councilman & retired Pittsburg Lt. Mike Barbanica

Police Officers Association “excited to learn” of appointment

Antioch, CA: Acting Antioch City Manager Kwame Reed has selected retired Pittsburg Police Chief William Brian Addington to serve as Interim Chief of Police until a permanent chief is appointed. Chief Addington brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of East Contra Costa County law enforcement to this leadership role. He has a proven track record of leadership and dedication to public safety that are essential to guiding the department during this transitional period. Chief Addington’s first day in the office will be Monday, February 26, 2024.

Chief Addington, who retired in July 2022, understands the challenges and opportunities facing law enforcement in our community. With over a decade of experience as the Police Chief in neighboring Pittsburg, he has demonstrated his commitment to serving the residents of East Contra Costa County with integrity and professionalism.

“We are confident that Chief Addington’s leadership will enhance the safety and security of our community,” Reed said. “His extensive knowledge of local policing issues and his strong ties with the East County community make him the perfect choice to lead the Antioch Police Department during this interim period.”

“Retired Chief Addington will come to Antioch with a strong ability to make tough decisions under difficult circumstances,” said Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe.  “Until the hiring of a permanent chief of police, he’ll work with City Hall to continue to rebuild police staffing levels and decrease 911 response times.”

Addington expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve as Interim Chief of Police, stating, “I am honored to join the dedicated men and women of the Antioch Police Department. We will work tirelessly – with a renewed focus on serving our community – and upholding the department’s mission of protecting and serving the residents of Antioch with integrity, compassion, and professionalism.”

UPDATE: According to City of Antioch Human Resources Director Ana Cortez, “Interim Police Chief Addington’s compensation will be $128.14 per hour.” That amounts to about $5,125 per week for 40-hours or work.

Councilman & Retired Pittsburg Lt. Barbanica Supports Appointment

When reached for comment District 2 Councilman and retired Pittsburg Police Lt. Mike Barbanica said, “I’m very supportive of Chief Addington. He’s a great addition to the APD. We’re very lucky to have him as our chief. I worked with him for many years at the PPD. In fact, he worked for me when. When I was a Bureau Commander and I had the pick of the list, Brian Addington was my first choice. He was my right-hand person. He’s an outstanding administrator. He’s the right choice.”

“Addington and I worked together ridding the department of corruption, investigating officers who were falsifying arrest reports and we ended up removing the officer from the police department,” the councilman added.

Police Officers Association “Excited to Learn” of Appointment

Antioch Police Officers Association Vice President Sgt. Loren Bledsoe was asked for comment about Addington’s appointment. He responded, “The APOA was excited to learn that Chief Addington was selected for the position of Interim Chief of Police. APD has always shared a strong working relationship with the Pittsburg Police Department, and we look forward to the opportunity to support the mission and vision of Chief Addington here, at APD.”

About Brian Addington

According to a press release from the Pittsburg Police Department when Addington retired, “In 1994, Officer Brian Addington made, what we think, was the best decision of his career. He joined the Pittsburg Police Department after having served for a year and a half with the Suisun City Police Department. That decision left a lasting mark on our department and our Pittsburg community as he rose through the ranks to become our Police Chief serving in that role for the last decade.

Chief Addington started as an officer in patrol on the Strategic Enforcement Team (SET) where he served for several years focused on reducing street-level crimes. From there, he became an undercover detective in the Narcotics Unit. In 1998, he was promoted to Sergeant where he trained and mentored officers in a wide variety of assignments. Chief Addington’s rise through the ranks included a promotion to Lieutenant in 2004 and then Captain in 2010.

He served as our Public Information Officer as well as duties in patrol, training, narcotics, criminal and administrative investigations and so much more.

As Police Chief, he focused on transparency and breaking down barriers between police and the community we’re sworn to serve. His modern approach to law enforcement strategies resulted in both a 10% decrease in crime and more than a 100% increase in diversity among the ranks of the Pittsburg Police Department. These are achievements that will last for decades to come.

Chief Addington brought respect and a broader footprint for the Pittsburg Police Department through his service and leadership in many roles including membership with the FBI National Academy Associates, California Police Chiefs Association, and the International Association of Police Chiefs.”

See a brief video of Addington’s farewell posted on the Pittsburg PD’s Facebook page.

Currently, the City of Antioch is conducting a nationwide search for a permanent city manager, which began Jan. 30. Once hired, the city manager will hire a permanent police chief.

Addington’s Business, Education and Personal Background

According to his LinkedIn profile, since retiring, Addington founded WBA Consulting and Investigations, LLC and is Chief Operations Officer for Vacaville-based Cole Pro Media.

When reached for comment Addington said, “I work part-time for Cole Pro Media which works with law enforcement agencies on communications strategy.”

His profile on the WBA website offers more about his experience and knowledge. “His expertise covers the full range of policing disciplines based on his experiences in a law enforcement agency in California.

Brian provides expert advice on best practices in policing, leadership development, organizational assessments, training, independent investigations, and community engagement and media relations.

Brian has also served as an advisor and consultant to various law enforcement agencies and executives in developing strategies and best practices to address the ever-changing demands placed on law enforcement professionals.”

He was able to retire at age 50 under the previous compensation package for many law enforcement agencies in the state, including the CHP and Antioch Police Department. Addington said he will be 52 in March.

“My intent was always to work after I retired,” he stated.

Addington is married, and together with his wife they have a total of eight children “in a blended family.”

He earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in organizational leadership, both from Chapman University. In addition, Addington graduated from the FBI National Academy in 2012 and the California POST (Police Officer Standards and Training program) Command College in 2011.

He’s been a board member with the Pittsburg Police Activities League since 2014.

Asked why he goes by Brian, Addington shared, “My dad was William Calvin Addington, and I’m William Brian. My mom called me Brian. So, I just go by my middle name.”

Addington said he was born in San Gabriel in the L.A. area and his family moved to Concord when he was three years old.

“We then moved when I was eight to Fairfield. So, I grew up in Solano County,” he added.

While he officially starts Monday, Reed was asked if Addington will be sworn in that day or during next Tuesday’s council meeting. He responded, “for the Oath of Office we are planning that now with it being tentatively set some time Tuesday afternoon.”

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.