During “Run for Education Week” beginning Monday, September 21
Help us cross the $2 million mark!
By Martinez Education Foundation
Get ready to run, walk or roll through Downtown Martinez on Sunday, September 27, for the 24th Annual MRC-MEF Run for Education! This community event brings people together to raise money for the Martinez Education Foundation (MEF) and directly supports Martinez Unified School District (MUSD) schools. The Alhambra High School Marching Band and Color Guard kick off the morning with music and school spirit for hundreds of students, educators, families and community members. This year’s Run features a logo designed by Alhambra High student Nayelie Rodrigez, which will appear on participant t-shirts.
Since 2003, the Run for Education has raised more than $1.9 million to support programs and resources for MUSD students such as technology, reading, science, art, math, and music. With this year’s event, organizers expect the Run’s cumulative fundraising total to surpass $2 million for local education. Among the many grant recipients, Alhambra High School received calculators for their Science Department. Biology and AP Environmental Science Teacher, Emily Ferrairo says, “The calculators are used all the time in our classrooms, especially in chemistry, physics, and AP Environmental Science classes. The grant eased my teaching duties because now students don’t have to use their Chromebooks to calculate problems and can use the calculator which removes the barrier of students trying to plug it all into their computer. Students are very thankful for the calculators and ask to use them all the time!”
Photo: MEF
John Swett Elementary teacher, Katie Page, says her grant has made a positive impact on her students’ music experience, “I have more instruments and a whole set up for school concerts. I am so grateful! My students love the new drums and Ukuleles, and I am loving my new keyboard for whole class instruction.”
What’s been termed “Run for Education Week” starts on Monday, September 21 with the MRC-MEF Fairways Fore! Futures Golf Tournament. MRC underwrites the cost of the Run and Golf Tournament. The total amount of money raised for MEF will be revealed on Race Day by Refinery Manager, Bevan Lewis, who says, “Our refinery is proud to have supported education in Martinez for decades. The Run for Education is a special tradition, and we’re grateful to our Contract Partners for their generous sponsorship of the Run and golf tournament. Supporting education is one of the most important investments we make in our community.”
MEF President and Race Director, Jack Funk points out, “Every year I am overwhelmed with the joy and support that the Martinez community has for its schools and students. Our lead sponsor, The Martinez Refining Company, has taken that support to a whole new level with direct corporate donations to the Martinez Education Foundation and its extremely productive solicitation of the many businesses who donate to MEF through our Golf event as well as the Run itself. We have tremendous gratitude to our sponsors but also to the hundreds of participants and volunteers that make this the wonderful community event that it has become.”
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to have fun and support Martinez Unified schools.
MRC-MEF Run for Education – Sunday, September 27, 2026
- Start Time: 8:30 a.m. at Ward Street near Estudillo Street
- Registration: Online https://www.martinezedfoundation.org/run-for-education/or in-person on event day
- MUSD Students: Run free! (Discount is applied on the registration page automatically based on the entered date of birth.)
- Volunteers Needed: Sign up at ca_mccauley@comcast.net
- Student Volunteers: Sign up here.
- Participants and spectators are encouraged to share their experience using #mrcmefrun.
Thank you to our sponsors and community partners who support the Run:
Emerald Sponsors, $5,000+
Air Liquide, Air Products and Chemicals, Inc., Brand Safway, Cust-O-Fab, Global Scaffolding, Harder Mechanical, HPC Industrial Services, KAP Project Services, North Coast Carpenters, Nooter, Roux Associates, Schultz Industrial Services, Stronghold Companies, UA Local 342, USA DeBusk, Worley
Diamond Circle Sponsors $2,500+
Evergreen
Platinum Sponsors $1,000+
Delta Tech, EUV Tech, Mangan, Nuvision Credit Union, Overaa, Shell Western States Credit Union, Worley
Gold Sponsors $500+
1st Northern California Credit, Travis Clauson
In kind donations provided by: Bill’s Ace Hardware, Martinez Police Department, Martinez Public Works, Martinez CERT, Martinez Unified School District.
For more information about the Martinez Education Foundation visit www.martinezedfoundation.org.
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Photo: Swim Across America
More than 500 swimmers, volunteers and supporters expected
Over $7 million raised by Bay Area Swim to support pediatric cancer research and survivorship programs at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals
By Jenifer Howard, Swim Across America – San Francisco
Swim Across America, the national nonprofit organization that makes waves to fight cancer through charity swims across the U.S., will host the 21st annual Swim Across America – San Francisco Bay Area Open Water Swim on Saturday, September 12, 2026. The iconic 1.5-mile point-to-point swim starts at Little Marina Green, 3650 Yacht Road, in San Francisco, and finishes in Aquatic Park. Swimmers, volunteers and kayakers are invited to participate and help raise funds for pediatric cancer research and patient care supporting the swim’s beneficiary UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals in Oakland and San Francisco. Those who cannot participate in person can still make waves to fight cancer through SAA My Way, Swim Across America’s virtual option. To register, volunteer or donate, visit swimacrossamerica.org/sanfrancisco.
Established in 2006, Swim Across America – San Francisco Bay Area has granted more than $7 million to support the UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland Research Institute and the UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital San Francisco Survivors of Childhood Cancer Program. Each year, the charity swim brings together more than 500 swimmers, volunteers, spectators and supporters, along with Olympians and other special guests, for one of the Bay Area’s most memorable open water events.
“For 20 years, this community has shown what can happen when individuals take something they love — swimming — and turn it into a way to help families facing cancer,” said Laura Hovden, co-event director of Swim Across America – San Francisco Bay Area. “More than $7 million has gone directly to our local UCSF programs because swimmers, volunteers, kayakers, donors and teams keep showing up year after year. Our swim is about coming together, making waves and giving patients more hope and researchers more funds to make a difference.”
Few embody that commitment more than longtime swimmer, former San Francisco event director and three-time cancer survivor Susan Helmrich, captain of Team Susan Survives and one of this year’s leading fundraisers.
This year marks 49 years since Susan Helmrich’s first cancer diagnosis. She was just 21 years old when she was treated at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York. Her second cancer diagnosis came 28 years ago. In 2009, she faced cancer for a third time and underwent a 6½-hour Whipple procedure for neuroendocrine pancreatic cancer, followed by 23 days at Stanford Hospital.
Through it all, Susan has made raising money for cancer research a central part of her life. Throughout the years, Team Susan Survives has raised more than $1 million for local pediatric cancer research programs. As Susan approaches her 71st birthday, she has set an ambitious goal for this year: recruit 71 swimmers, kayakers, runners, cyclists, yogis, dancers, hikers, walkers and other supporters to Team Susan Survives and together raise $171,000 through the open water swim and SAA My Way.
“I am honored and proud to have survived cancer three times, and I want nothing more than to have anyone who ever gets a cancer diagnosis have the chance to live and survive as I have,” Susan said. “As the years go on, I realize that I am committed more than ever to raising money to help investigators, researchers, physicians and support services find a cure for cancer in our lifetime.”
Susan Helmrich is also swimming in memory of her mother, Edna Helmrich, who passed away in 2019 at age 92 and was herself a 53-year breast cancer survivor.
“She was my role model and my hero,” Susan said. “This year, I’m hoping that friends, old and new, from near and far will join me and Team Susan Survives to raise money for pediatric cancer research at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals in San Francisco and Oakland.”
Another team entering the San Francisco Bay this year will be carrying the memory of someone deeply loved.
Team Batt Bunch, also known as KeckCrewSF, is captained by Mike Keck and will swim in honor and memory of Brian Batt, husband of Rene and father of swimmers Amelia and Sarah Batt. The team has participated in Swim Across America for many years, but its fight against cancer became profoundly personal when Brian was diagnosed with cancer.
Even while undergoing treatment, Brian remained determined to be there for his daughters. He scheduled his treatment so he could travel to England when Amelia and Sarah participated in an English Channel relay in 2022, where Amelia had the honor of touching France for the team, and again for their Loch Lomond swim in 2024. During treatment, Brian continued showing up at Aquatic Park to cheer the girls on during their training swims. Brian succumbed to cancer in the fall of 2025.
“Brian fought with strength, courage and dignity, and he kept showing up for his family through all of it,” Mike Keck said. “For years, we swam with Swim Across America to fight cancer. Then that fight became very real for our family and our team. Brian is missed terribly, but we will carry on just like he did, and we hope what we do can help spare other families from experiencing that same loss.”
The money raised by swimmers such as Helmrich, Keck and their teammates is already helping scientists at UCSF pursue promising new approaches to pediatric cancer.
Julie Saba, M.D., Ph.D., a UCSF pediatric oncologist, cancer researcher and director of the Swim Across America-supported research laboratory at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland, leads research examining the genetic and metabolic drivers of childhood cancers. Her research team has identified important genetic drivers of neuroblastoma, a childhood cancer, and has shown that disrupting the gene’s activity can prevent neuroblastoma cells from forming tumors. This research could ultimately offer a new avenue for targeting cancers in which the AF1q gene plays a role. Swim Across America funding helped support this work.
Saba also leads the UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland Swimmers, now in its eighth year participating in the San Francisco event.
“Without Swim Across America, I could not undertake the high-risk, high-reward studies that we believe hold benefit for the children and adults with cancer of tomorrow,” Saba said. “Nonprofit support of research is more important than ever.”
For Swim Across America – San Francisco Bay Area Co-Event Director Jackie NeJaime, the connection between the swimmers and researchers is what makes the event especially powerful.
“Our swimmers get to see exactly why their fundraising matters,” Jackie said. “Researchers like Dr. Saba are pursuing ideas that might otherwise struggle to get early funding, while our survivorship programs are helping young people long after their cancer treatment ends. When we swim from Little Marina Green to Aquatic Park, we know where the money is going and the impact this community is helping make.”
The event is also inspiring a new generation of swimmers to get involved.
Friends of Armada, captained by Julie Herson, returns for its third year with youth competitive swimmers from Albany Armada Aquatics Club. The team has already raised more than $17,000 during its involvement with Swim Across America and is working to raise even more this year for UCSF patients, physicians and researchers.
Also returning is UCSF Team Newborn, captained by Tom Shimotake, M.D., which will mark its 15th year participating in the San Francisco Bay swim. The team is made up of friends and supporters of the UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Intensive Care Nursery who share a commitment to fighting childhood cancer. Nearly one-quarter of pediatric malignancies are diagnosed during the first year of life, giving the team’s mission a particularly close connection to the patients its members serve.
Among the San Francisco community’s other leading fundraisers this year is Berkeley marathon swimmer Maya Merhige, who completed both the North Channel and Strait of Gibraltar this summer as part of her quest to complete the Oceans Seven. Merhige will be away at college on the day of the San Francisco swim but continues to raise funds for Swim Across America and its cancer research mission.
From cancer survivors to families swimming in memory of loved ones, young competitive swimmers and UCSF physicians and researchers, the September 12 swim will bring together hundreds with a shared goal: using the waters of San Francisco Bay to help create better outcomes for people facing cancer.
“Whether this is your first open water swim or you’ve been swimming in the Bay for decades, there is a place for you in this community,” Laura Hovden noted. “Swim, kayak, volunteer, create your own SAA My Way activity or support someone who is participating. Every person can help us make waves to fight cancer.”
Nationally, Swim Across America has raised more than $150 million for cancer research since its founding in 1987 and has helped fund clinical trials that contributed to the FDA-approved cancer immunotherapy medications Keytruda, Opdivo, Yervoy and Tecentriq. In the past year, Swim Across America funded a breakthrough clinical trial at Memorial Sloan Kettering that showed that immunotherapy alone could successfully treat certain types of cancer. The organization also recently awarded two first-of-its-kind gene editing innovation grants to the Alliance for Cancer Gene Therapy and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, advancing novel CRISPR gene and base editing techniques used in targeted therapies, immunotherapies and cellular therapies. Swim Across America supports more than 60 cancer research projects annually, has eight named Swim Across America labs, and supports work at many of the nation’s leading cancer institutions.
For more information, to join as a swimmer, volunteer or kayaker, or to participate virtually or donate to Swim Across America – San Francisco Bay Area, visit swimacrossamerica.org/sanfrancisco.
Swim Across America, Inc. (SAA) is dedicated to raising money and awareness for cancer research, prevention and treatment through swimming-related events. With open water and pool swims in 27 communities across the United States – from Nantucket to under the Golden Gate Bridge – Swim Across America, along with the help of thousands of swimmers and volunteers nationwide, and past and current Olympians, is helping find better treatments and a cure for cancer through athleticism, community outreach and direct service. To learn more, visit swimacrossamerica.org.
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By Chris Bollinger, Community Engagement Officer, Brentwood Police Department
This morning, Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026, at approximately 6:16 am, Brentwood Police officers responded to the area of Sand Creek Road and Shady Willow Lane regarding a collision involving a vehicle and an agricultural tractor.
Officers and medical personnel arrived on scene and located a 56-year-old female driver and sole occupant of the vehicle. Despite lifesaving efforts, she was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The cause of the collision remains under investigation. At this time, it is unknown weather drugs or alcohol were a factor in the collision.
The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
Anyone who witnessed the collision or has information regarding the incident is asked to contact the Brentwood Police Department at (925) 809-7911.
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Following mental health check, multi-agency effort
20-year veteran of the department
Second cop shot in county Thursday
By Lt. Donald Patchin, Richmond Police Department
RICHMOND, Calif. — At approximately 6:41 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 3, 2026, Contra Costa Health’s A3 Crisis Response was contacted regarding a request to conduct a mental health check on an individual in the 2200 block of Key Boulevard. A3 is Contra Costa County’s behavioral health crisis response program. When circumstances present a potential safety concern, A3 may request assistance from law enforcement. Due to the nature of the call, A3 requested that Richmond Police officers accompany them to the location.
When the first officer arrived at the residence, the officer was struck by gunfire. The officer was immediately transported to a local hospital for treatment and is in stable condition. The officer is expected to survive.
The suspect barricaded inside the residence and continued firing numerous rounds indiscriminately from within the home. Several rounds struck an RPD Patrol vehicle and neighboring residences, but fortunately, no residents or additional personnel were injured.
Screenshot of El Cerrito Police lockdown order on CWS showing the area near the incident. Source: John Gioia
On social media and the County Sheriff’s Community Warning System, Richmond Police issued a shelter-in-place order and El Cerrito Police issued a lockdown order for the nearby neighborhood. The public was informed, “As of 8:00 pm, there is recently law enforcement activity in Richmond near the El Cerrito border. People in the area near Canyon Trail Park and Key Boulevard are advised to LOCK DOWN IN THE NEAREST PLACE POSSIBLE. Go inside, lock all windows and doors. Stay off the phone and do not call 911 unless you need to report a life-threatening emergency. To report suspicious activity, contact El Cerrito Police. Stay indoors until you receive further instructions.” The order was later lifted.
In addition, District 1 Supervisor John Gioia posted on his Facebook page, “Since 8 pm tonight (Thursday) there has been a lockdown ordered for residents in Richmond near the Grocery Outlet due to law enforcement activity. Stay indoors and lock windows and doors if you live in the affected area shown in red below. Police were seen entering the Grocery Outlet. Don’t be curious and attempt to go outdoors. Be safe inside and police will release more info when they deem it appropriate.”
The Richmond Police Department SWAT Team responded with assistance from the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, East Bay Regional Park District Police Department, and El Cerrito Police Department. The RPD Crisis Negotiations Team responded and established contact with the suspect in an attempt to bring this incident to a peaceful resolution. Chemical agents were also deployed in an effort to gain the suspect’s compliance.
The suspect eventually exited the residence and was taken into custody without further incident. According to ABC7 News, the suspect was a woman who “was taken into custody after an hourslong standoff.”
We are extremely grateful that our officer is in stable condition and expected to survive. We are also thankful that no residents or assisting personnel were injured despite the significant danger created by the suspect’s indiscriminate gunfire.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, East Bay Regional Park District Police Department, and El Cerrito Police Department for their immediate response and assistance. Their collaboration helped bring this dangerous incident to a peaceful resolution without further injury or loss of life.
Screenshot of a portion PORAC’s post on X Friday, Sept. 4, 2026.
In a post on X (Twitter) Friday morning, PORAC (Peace Officers Research Association of California) wrote, “Thankfully, the 20-year veteran is in stable condition and expected to survive. Please join PORAC in keeping this officer, their loved ones, and the Richmond Police Department family in your thoughts and prayers for a full and speedy recovery.”
ABC7 News further reported the officer was “a 20-year veteran of the department.”
This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Additional information will be provided as investigators complete their work and further details become available for public release.
It was the second shooting of police officer in the county Thursday as a Pittsburg officer was shot by a detainee inside the Pittsburg Police Department earlier in the day. (See related article)
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
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Harshal R. Patil, M.D., Nivedha Rajan, M.D. and Jose Basora, M.D. have joined Springhill Medical Group. Photos: Springhill
Serving East Bay patients at offices in Pittsburg, Brentwood
Part of the Hill Physicians network
By Diane Barney, Director of Marketing and Communications, Hill Physicians Medical Group
The addition of three new physicians in the last year has rounded out the diverse multispecialty team at Springhill Medical Group, which has been serving patients in the East Bay since 1989, at medical offices in Pittsburg and Brentwood.
Nivedha Rajan, M.D., is the latest primary care physician to join the group. Dr. Rajan is board-certified in internal medicine and is accepting new patients, age 18 and up. She is skilled in managing acute and chronic conditions and coordinating multidisciplinary care.
She grew up in the East Bay and is pleased to serve patients from Contra Costa, Solano and southwestern Sacramento counties. She is fluent in English, as well as Telugu, Tamil and Kannada, primarily spoken in South India and across Southern Asia.
Dr. Rajan received her medical degree from Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences in Bangalore, India. She served her residency at St. Agnes Medical Center in Fresno.
“I’m happy to be back in the East Bay, providing care to patients close to their homes and my own,” said Dr. Rajan. “I strongly believe in patient-centered care, which means getting to know my patients and working closely with them as we decide how to best approach their treatment plans.”
Harshal R. Patil, M.D., is a cardiology specialist who joined the group in May. He is fluent in English, Hindi, Marathi and Gujarati.
Dr. Patil earned his medical degree in Government Medical College Dhule, Maharashtra, India and served his residency at St. Luke’s Hospital and Truman Medical Center, both in Kansas City. He makes his home in Walnut Creek. He completed fellowships in interventional cardiology, cardiovascular disease, nuclear cardiology and advanced cardiovascular imaging, and preventive cardiology.
Jose Facundo Basora-Rovira, M.D., came on board nearly a year ago. He is board-certified in pulmonary and critical care. He is fluent in English and Spanish. He earned his medical degree from New York Medical College and completed a residency at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New Jersey.
Dr. Basora has extensive experience in the diagnosis and management of a wide range of conditions, including asthma, COPD, interstitial lung disease, pulmonary infections and lung cancer. He makes his home in Walnut Creek.
With these additions, the team now includes three primary care physicians, one nurse practitioner, three pulmonary specialists, three cardiologists and one endocrinologist. They all offer patient appointments at both locations, as well as telehealth visits.
The variety of specialties is a real advantage for patients, explains Karthik Reddy, M.D., president of the Springhill Medical Group.
“This is especially beneficial for older patients, who often have multiple chronic conditions,” said Dr. Reddy. “Our primary care physicians can consult with colleagues just down the hall, which helps us get EKGs done quickly and address chronic care needs the same day. That level of efficiency and coordination makes a real difference for our patients.”
The practice was started 37 years ago by cardiology specialist Henry Gong, M.D., and internist and pulmonologist Gerald Del Rio, M.D., both who still work part time at the practice. Springhill Medical Group became part of the Hill Physicians network in 2008.
“We are delighted with the addition of these three professionals – all from the East Bay – who join our experienced team and allow us to continue to serve our growing community,” added Dr. Reddy.
Springhill Medical Group is located at 2220 Gladstone Drive, Suite 3 in Pittsburg and 2400 Balfour Road, Suite 306 in Brentwood.
To book an appointment to see Dr. Rajan, please call (925) 432-3318. For more information, including what insurance plans are accepted, visit Springhill Medical Group’s website at www.springhillmed.com.
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By Sara Bellafronte, Assistant to the Pittsburg City Manager
In response to the officer-involved shooting inside the Pittsburg Police Department Thursday afternoon, Sept. 3, 2026, in which both an officer and an in-custody suspect were shot, City leaders swiftly issued statements regarding the attack. (See related article)
“My heart is with our Police department, the injured Officer and their family,” said Mayor Dionne Adams. “This is an upsetting moment for our community. As a lifelong Pittsburg resident, I have seen firsthand the progress our Police Department has made through community-centered policing and strengthening relationships with those they serve. Violence like this is deeply troubling and has no place in our community. I want to thank our officers for their bravery and quick response.”
The Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office and the Pittsburg Police Investigations Division are actively investigating the incident, consistent with standard protocol. Because the investigation is active no additional information is being released.
“Our officers acted heroically today,” said Pittsburg Police Chief Phil Galer. “I am grateful to the Contra Costa County paramedics and fire fighters as well as the surrounding agencies who provided support to our Department in this time of crisis. I know I’m joined by the residents of Pittsburg in hoping for a full recovery for our Officer.”
“Our entire City staff is relieved to know our officer is in stable condition. I am thankful for the swift and skilled actions of our Police Department and other first responders to prevent this horrible incident from becoming an even worse tragedy,” said City Manager Darin Gale. “Pittsburg is a community that rejects violence and deeply respects the important work of our officers. Today’s attack is a reminder of the bravery and dangers our officers face every day. We are truly fortunate they have chosen to serve our community.”
Supervisor Scales-Preston Issues Statement
In addition, Contra Costa County District 5 Supervisor Shanelle Scales Preston issued a statement about the incident. She wrote, “I am heartbroken and outraged to learn that one of our Pittsburg police officers has been shot this afternoon. Pittsburg is my home, and violence against law enforcement officers anywhere, is unacceptable.”
“I’m asking the entire Pittsburg community to hold this officer, their family, and the entire department in their prayers right now,” she added.
Autoridades municipales emiten declaraciones sobre un tiroteo en el que participó un agente dentro de la comisaría
Esta misma tarde, el Departamento de Policía de Pittsburg emitió el siguiente comunicado:
El jueves 3 de septiembre, agentes de Pittsburg detuvieron a un hombre de 31 años. Fue trasladado a la comisaría para realizar los trámites de registro y detención. Durante dicho proceso, se produjo un altercado físico entre el sospechoso y un agente que se encontraba solo; en el transcurso del mismo, se disparó un arma de fuego, hiriendo tanto al agente como al sospechoso. El agente fue trasladado a un hospital local y su estado se reporta como grave pero estable. El sospechoso también fue trasladado a un hospital local y se encuentra en condición estable. La Fiscalía del Condado de Contra Costa y la División de Investigaciones de la Policía de Pittsburg se encuentran en el lugar y están investigando activamente el incidente.
Por el momento no hay más información disponible.
Los líderes de la ciudad emitieron rápidamente declaraciones sobre el ataque.
“Mis pensamientos están con nuestro Departamento de Policía, con el agente herido y con su familia”, declaró la alcaldesa Dionne Adams. “Es un momento angustioso para nuestra comunidad. Como residente de Pittsburg de toda la vida, he sido testigo directo de los avances que ha logrado nuestro Departamento de Policía mediante un modelo policial centrado en la comunidad y el fortalecimiento de los vínculos con las personas a las que sirven. Una violencia de este tipo es profundamente preocupante y no tiene cabida en nuestra comunidad. Quiero agradecer a nuestros agentes su valentía y su rápida respuesta”.
La Fiscalía del Condado de Contra Costa y la División de Investigaciones de la Policía de Pittsburg están investigando activamente el incidente, siguiendo el protocolo habitual. Dado que la investigación está en curso, no se facilitará más información por el momento.
“Nuestros agentes actuaron hoy de forma heroica”, afirmó el jefe de policía de Pittsburg, Phil Galer. “Agradezco la labor de los paramédicos y bomberos del condado de Contra Costa, así como de las agencias vecinas que brindaron apoyo a nuestro departamento en este momento de crisis. Sé que los residentes de Pittsburg comparten conmigo el deseo de que nuestro agente se recupere plenamente”.
“Todo el personal de la ciudad se siente aliviado al saber que nuestro agente se encuentra en condición estable. Agradezco la rápida y eficaz actuación de nuestro Departamento de Policía y de los demás equipos de emergencia para evitar que este terrible incidente se convirtiera en una tragedia aún mayor”, declaró el administrador de la ciudad, Darin Gale. “Pittsburg es una comunidad que rechaza la violencia y respeta profundamente la importante labor de nuestros agentes. El ataque de hoy nos recuerda la valentía y los peligros a los que se enfrentan nuestros agentes a diario. Somos verdaderamente afortunados de que hayan elegido servir a nuestra comunidad”.
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
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Incident under investigation
La Policía de Pittsburg investiga un tiroteo en el que se vio involucrado un agente en la comisaría
By Sara Bellafronte, Assistant to the City Manager
On Thursday, September 3rd, 2026, Pittsburg Officers arrested a 31-year-old male. He was transported to the police department for booking. While in booking a physical altercation between the suspect and a solo officer occurred during which a firearm was discharged striking both the officer and suspect.
The officer was transported to a local hospital and is listed in serious but stable condition. The suspect was also transported to a local hospital and is listed in stable condition.
The Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office and Pittsburg Police Investigations Division are on scene and actively investigating the incident.
There is no additional information at this time.
La Policía de Pittsburg investiga un tiroteo en el que se vio involucrado un agente en la comisaría
El jueves 3 de septiembre, agentes de Pittsburg detuvieron a un hombre de 31 años. Fue trasladado a la comisaría para realizar los trámites de registro y detención. Durante dicho proceso, se produjo un altercado físico entre el sospechoso y un agente que se encontraba solo; en el transcurso del mismo, se disparó un arma de fuego, alcanzando tanto al agente como al sospechoso. El agente fue trasladado a un hospital local y su estado se reporta como grave pero estable. El sospechoso también fue trasladado a un hospital local y se encuentra en condición estable. La Fiscalía del Condado de Contra Costa y la División de Investigaciones de la Policía de Pittsburg se encuentran en el lugar y llevan a cabo una investigación activa del incidente.
Por el momento, no hay más información disponible.
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The Powerhouse Ladies performing at Cloverfield will be (L-R) Ruby Lee Hill, Rebecca Roudman of Dirty Cello and Nineteenth Operator. Photos: Not Loud Concerts
Includes Ruby Lee Hill, Dirty Cello and Nineteenth Operator
By Sehar Kahn, Publicist, Not Loud Concerts
Hidden in the hills of El Sobrante, is a beautiful organic farm that grows rare fruits and amazing flowers, and the Not Loud Concerts team is going to hold another concert here on Thursday, Sept 10.
For this edition of the Not Loud concerts, we’ll be featuring the Powerhouse Ladies. This is 3 female-fronted bands, on stage at the same time, taking turns playing songs before performing together. One hour of amazing music.
The ladies featured will be the band Dirty Cello performing as a duo with exuberant blues and rock, Ruby Lee Hill – beautiful songs with an old-timey Western-flavor, and Nineteenth Operator from Davis, CA presenting sweet harmonies and amazing originals.
There will be chairs for everyone. Bring a light jacket.
Feel free to arrive early and have a picnic or stroll the wild gardens, and pick produce that you can buy at the farm stand.
Not Loud Concerts focus on creating an experience that is casual and fun for both the musicians and the audience. The concerts are never too long, never too expensive and of course never too loud.
Not Loud Concerts presents…Powerhouse Ladies at Cloverfield Organic Farm 501 La Paloma Road, El Sobrante
Sept 10 at 7 pm. Tickets $20 at NotLoudConcerts.com
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Information & Resource Fair and Free Fishing Event
To learn more about the Delta Veterans Group visit deltaveteransgroup.org or follow them on www.facebook.com/DeltaVeteransGroup.
One flown by helicopter to hospital
By Chris Bollinger, Community Engagement Officer, Brentwood Police Department
On Sunday, August 31, 2026, at approximately 4:09 pm, Brentwood Police officers responded to a vehicle collision at Fairview Ave and Regent Drive involving a sedan and an SUV. When officers arrived on scene, preliminary information revealed the sedan was traveling northbound on Fairview Ave when the SUV pulled into traffic from Regent Drive causing the collision. As a result of the collision, the SUV overturned and came to a rest on its roof.
The four adult occupants of the SUV were transported to local hospitals for non-life-threatening injuries. One passenger of the SUV was flown by helicopter to a hospital as a precaution. The adult driver and solo occupant of the sedan was not injured. Drugs and alcohol were not a factor in the collision.
The roadway was closed for approximately two hours to allow for accident investigation and scene clearance.
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During “Run for Education Week” beginning Monday, September 21
Help us cross the $2 million mark!
By Martinez Education Foundation
Get ready to run, walk or roll through Downtown Martinez on Sunday, September 27, for the 24th Annual MRC-MEF Run for Education! This community event brings people together to raise money for the Martinez Education Foundation (MEF) and directly supports Martinez Unified School District (MUSD) schools. The Alhambra High School Marching Band and Color Guard kick off the morning with music and school spirit for hundreds of students, educators, families and community members. This year’s Run features a logo designed by Alhambra High student Nayelie Rodrigez, which will appear on participant t-shirts.
Since 2003, the Run for Education has raised more than $1.9 million to support programs and resources for MUSD students such as technology, reading, science, art, math, and music. With this year’s event, organizers expect the Run’s cumulative fundraising total to surpass $2 million for local education. Among the many grant recipients, Alhambra High School received calculators for their Science Department. Biology and AP Environmental Science Teacher, Emily Ferrairo says, “The calculators are used all the time in our classrooms, especially in chemistry, physics, and AP Environmental Science classes. The grant eased my teaching duties because now students don’t have to use their Chromebooks to calculate problems and can use the calculator which removes the barrier of students trying to plug it all into their computer. Students are very thankful for the calculators and ask to use them all the time!”
Photo: MEF
John Swett Elementary teacher, Katie Page, says her grant has made a positive impact on her students’ music experience, “I have more instruments and a whole set up for school concerts. I am so grateful! My students love the new drums and Ukuleles, and I am loving my new keyboard for whole class instruction.”
What’s been termed “Run for Education Week” starts on Monday, September 21 with the MRC-MEF Fairways Fore! Futures Golf Tournament. MRC underwrites the cost of the Run and Golf Tournament. The total amount of money raised for MEF will be revealed on Race Day by Refinery Manager, Bevan Lewis, who says, “Our refinery is proud to have supported education in Martinez for decades. The Run for Education is a special tradition, and we’re grateful to our Contract Partners for their generous sponsorship of the Run and golf tournament. Supporting education is one of the most important investments we make in our community.”
MEF President and Race Director, Jack Funk points out, “Every year I am overwhelmed with the joy and support that the Martinez community has for its schools and students. Our lead sponsor, The Martinez Refining Company, has taken that support to a whole new level with direct corporate donations to the Martinez Education Foundation and its extremely productive solicitation of the many businesses who donate to MEF through our Golf event as well as the Run itself. We have tremendous gratitude to our sponsors but also to the hundreds of participants and volunteers that make this the wonderful community event that it has become.”
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to have fun and support Martinez Unified schools.
MRC-MEF Run for Education – Sunday, September 27, 2026
- Start Time: 8:30 a.m. at Ward Street near Estudillo Street
- Registration: Online https://www.martinezedfoundation.org/run-for-education/or in-person on event day
- MUSD Students: Run free! (Discount is applied on the registration page automatically based on the entered date of birth.)
- Volunteers Needed: Sign up at ca_mccauley@comcast.net
- Student Volunteers: Sign up here.
- Participants and spectators are encouraged to share their experience using #mrcmefrun.
Thank you to our sponsors and community partners who support the Run:
Emerald Sponsors, $5,000+
Air Liquide, Air Products and Chemicals, Inc., Brand Safway, Cust-O-Fab, Global Scaffolding, Harder Mechanical, HPC Industrial Services, KAP Project Services, North Coast Carpenters, Nooter, Roux Associates, Schultz Industrial Services, Stronghold Companies, UA Local 342, USA DeBusk, Worley
Diamond Circle Sponsors $2,500+
Evergreen
Platinum Sponsors $1,000+
Delta Tech, EUV Tech, Mangan, Nuvision Credit Union, Overaa, Shell Western States Credit Union, Worley
Gold Sponsors $500+
1st Northern California Credit, Travis Clauson
In kind donations provided by: Bill’s Ace Hardware, Martinez Police Department, Martinez Public Works, Martinez CERT, Martinez Unified School District.
For more information about the Martinez Education Foundation visit www.martinezedfoundation.org.
Read MorePhoto: Swim Across America
More than 500 swimmers, volunteers and supporters expected
Over $7 million raised by Bay Area Swim to support pediatric cancer research and survivorship programs at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals
By Jenifer Howard, Swim Across America – San Francisco
Swim Across America, the national nonprofit organization that makes waves to fight cancer through charity swims across the U.S., will host the 21st annual Swim Across America – San Francisco Bay Area Open Water Swim on Saturday, September 12, 2026. The iconic 1.5-mile point-to-point swim starts at Little Marina Green, 3650 Yacht Road, in San Francisco, and finishes in Aquatic Park. Swimmers, volunteers and kayakers are invited to participate and help raise funds for pediatric cancer research and patient care supporting the swim’s beneficiary UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals in Oakland and San Francisco. Those who cannot participate in person can still make waves to fight cancer through SAA My Way, Swim Across America’s virtual option. To register, volunteer or donate, visit swimacrossamerica.org/sanfrancisco.
Established in 2006, Swim Across America – San Francisco Bay Area has granted more than $7 million to support the UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland Research Institute and the UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital San Francisco Survivors of Childhood Cancer Program. Each year, the charity swim brings together more than 500 swimmers, volunteers, spectators and supporters, along with Olympians and other special guests, for one of the Bay Area’s most memorable open water events.
“For 20 years, this community has shown what can happen when individuals take something they love — swimming — and turn it into a way to help families facing cancer,” said Laura Hovden, co-event director of Swim Across America – San Francisco Bay Area. “More than $7 million has gone directly to our local UCSF programs because swimmers, volunteers, kayakers, donors and teams keep showing up year after year. Our swim is about coming together, making waves and giving patients more hope and researchers more funds to make a difference.”
Few embody that commitment more than longtime swimmer, former San Francisco event director and three-time cancer survivor Susan Helmrich, captain of Team Susan Survives and one of this year’s leading fundraisers.
This year marks 49 years since Susan Helmrich’s first cancer diagnosis. She was just 21 years old when she was treated at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York. Her second cancer diagnosis came 28 years ago. In 2009, she faced cancer for a third time and underwent a 6½-hour Whipple procedure for neuroendocrine pancreatic cancer, followed by 23 days at Stanford Hospital.
Through it all, Susan has made raising money for cancer research a central part of her life. Throughout the years, Team Susan Survives has raised more than $1 million for local pediatric cancer research programs. As Susan approaches her 71st birthday, she has set an ambitious goal for this year: recruit 71 swimmers, kayakers, runners, cyclists, yogis, dancers, hikers, walkers and other supporters to Team Susan Survives and together raise $171,000 through the open water swim and SAA My Way.
“I am honored and proud to have survived cancer three times, and I want nothing more than to have anyone who ever gets a cancer diagnosis have the chance to live and survive as I have,” Susan said. “As the years go on, I realize that I am committed more than ever to raising money to help investigators, researchers, physicians and support services find a cure for cancer in our lifetime.”
Susan Helmrich is also swimming in memory of her mother, Edna Helmrich, who passed away in 2019 at age 92 and was herself a 53-year breast cancer survivor.
“She was my role model and my hero,” Susan said. “This year, I’m hoping that friends, old and new, from near and far will join me and Team Susan Survives to raise money for pediatric cancer research at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals in San Francisco and Oakland.”
Another team entering the San Francisco Bay this year will be carrying the memory of someone deeply loved.
Team Batt Bunch, also known as KeckCrewSF, is captained by Mike Keck and will swim in honor and memory of Brian Batt, husband of Rene and father of swimmers Amelia and Sarah Batt. The team has participated in Swim Across America for many years, but its fight against cancer became profoundly personal when Brian was diagnosed with cancer.
Even while undergoing treatment, Brian remained determined to be there for his daughters. He scheduled his treatment so he could travel to England when Amelia and Sarah participated in an English Channel relay in 2022, where Amelia had the honor of touching France for the team, and again for their Loch Lomond swim in 2024. During treatment, Brian continued showing up at Aquatic Park to cheer the girls on during their training swims. Brian succumbed to cancer in the fall of 2025.
“Brian fought with strength, courage and dignity, and he kept showing up for his family through all of it,” Mike Keck said. “For years, we swam with Swim Across America to fight cancer. Then that fight became very real for our family and our team. Brian is missed terribly, but we will carry on just like he did, and we hope what we do can help spare other families from experiencing that same loss.”
The money raised by swimmers such as Helmrich, Keck and their teammates is already helping scientists at UCSF pursue promising new approaches to pediatric cancer.
Julie Saba, M.D., Ph.D., a UCSF pediatric oncologist, cancer researcher and director of the Swim Across America-supported research laboratory at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland, leads research examining the genetic and metabolic drivers of childhood cancers. Her research team has identified important genetic drivers of neuroblastoma, a childhood cancer, and has shown that disrupting the gene’s activity can prevent neuroblastoma cells from forming tumors. This research could ultimately offer a new avenue for targeting cancers in which the AF1q gene plays a role. Swim Across America funding helped support this work.
Saba also leads the UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland Swimmers, now in its eighth year participating in the San Francisco event.
“Without Swim Across America, I could not undertake the high-risk, high-reward studies that we believe hold benefit for the children and adults with cancer of tomorrow,” Saba said. “Nonprofit support of research is more important than ever.”
For Swim Across America – San Francisco Bay Area Co-Event Director Jackie NeJaime, the connection between the swimmers and researchers is what makes the event especially powerful.
“Our swimmers get to see exactly why their fundraising matters,” Jackie said. “Researchers like Dr. Saba are pursuing ideas that might otherwise struggle to get early funding, while our survivorship programs are helping young people long after their cancer treatment ends. When we swim from Little Marina Green to Aquatic Park, we know where the money is going and the impact this community is helping make.”
The event is also inspiring a new generation of swimmers to get involved.
Friends of Armada, captained by Julie Herson, returns for its third year with youth competitive swimmers from Albany Armada Aquatics Club. The team has already raised more than $17,000 during its involvement with Swim Across America and is working to raise even more this year for UCSF patients, physicians and researchers.
Also returning is UCSF Team Newborn, captained by Tom Shimotake, M.D., which will mark its 15th year participating in the San Francisco Bay swim. The team is made up of friends and supporters of the UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Intensive Care Nursery who share a commitment to fighting childhood cancer. Nearly one-quarter of pediatric malignancies are diagnosed during the first year of life, giving the team’s mission a particularly close connection to the patients its members serve.
Among the San Francisco community’s other leading fundraisers this year is Berkeley marathon swimmer Maya Merhige, who completed both the North Channel and Strait of Gibraltar this summer as part of her quest to complete the Oceans Seven. Merhige will be away at college on the day of the San Francisco swim but continues to raise funds for Swim Across America and its cancer research mission.
From cancer survivors to families swimming in memory of loved ones, young competitive swimmers and UCSF physicians and researchers, the September 12 swim will bring together hundreds with a shared goal: using the waters of San Francisco Bay to help create better outcomes for people facing cancer.
“Whether this is your first open water swim or you’ve been swimming in the Bay for decades, there is a place for you in this community,” Laura Hovden noted. “Swim, kayak, volunteer, create your own SAA My Way activity or support someone who is participating. Every person can help us make waves to fight cancer.”
Nationally, Swim Across America has raised more than $150 million for cancer research since its founding in 1987 and has helped fund clinical trials that contributed to the FDA-approved cancer immunotherapy medications Keytruda, Opdivo, Yervoy and Tecentriq. In the past year, Swim Across America funded a breakthrough clinical trial at Memorial Sloan Kettering that showed that immunotherapy alone could successfully treat certain types of cancer. The organization also recently awarded two first-of-its-kind gene editing innovation grants to the Alliance for Cancer Gene Therapy and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, advancing novel CRISPR gene and base editing techniques used in targeted therapies, immunotherapies and cellular therapies. Swim Across America supports more than 60 cancer research projects annually, has eight named Swim Across America labs, and supports work at many of the nation’s leading cancer institutions.
For more information, to join as a swimmer, volunteer or kayaker, or to participate virtually or donate to Swim Across America – San Francisco Bay Area, visit swimacrossamerica.org/sanfrancisco.
Swim Across America, Inc. (SAA) is dedicated to raising money and awareness for cancer research, prevention and treatment through swimming-related events. With open water and pool swims in 27 communities across the United States – from Nantucket to under the Golden Gate Bridge – Swim Across America, along with the help of thousands of swimmers and volunteers nationwide, and past and current Olympians, is helping find better treatments and a cure for cancer through athleticism, community outreach and direct service. To learn more, visit swimacrossamerica.org.
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By Chris Bollinger, Community Engagement Officer, Brentwood Police Department
This morning, Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026, at approximately 6:16 am, Brentwood Police officers responded to the area of Sand Creek Road and Shady Willow Lane regarding a collision involving a vehicle and an agricultural tractor.
Officers and medical personnel arrived on scene and located a 56-year-old female driver and sole occupant of the vehicle. Despite lifesaving efforts, she was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The cause of the collision remains under investigation. At this time, it is unknown weather drugs or alcohol were a factor in the collision.
The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
Anyone who witnessed the collision or has information regarding the incident is asked to contact the Brentwood Police Department at (925) 809-7911.
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Following mental health check, multi-agency effort
20-year veteran of the department
Second cop shot in county Thursday
By Lt. Donald Patchin, Richmond Police Department
RICHMOND, Calif. — At approximately 6:41 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 3, 2026, Contra Costa Health’s A3 Crisis Response was contacted regarding a request to conduct a mental health check on an individual in the 2200 block of Key Boulevard. A3 is Contra Costa County’s behavioral health crisis response program. When circumstances present a potential safety concern, A3 may request assistance from law enforcement. Due to the nature of the call, A3 requested that Richmond Police officers accompany them to the location.
When the first officer arrived at the residence, the officer was struck by gunfire. The officer was immediately transported to a local hospital for treatment and is in stable condition. The officer is expected to survive.
The suspect barricaded inside the residence and continued firing numerous rounds indiscriminately from within the home. Several rounds struck an RPD Patrol vehicle and neighboring residences, but fortunately, no residents or additional personnel were injured.
Screenshot of El Cerrito Police lockdown order on CWS showing the area near the incident. Source: John Gioia
On social media and the County Sheriff’s Community Warning System, Richmond Police issued a shelter-in-place order and El Cerrito Police issued a lockdown order for the nearby neighborhood. The public was informed, “As of 8:00 pm, there is recently law enforcement activity in Richmond near the El Cerrito border. People in the area near Canyon Trail Park and Key Boulevard are advised to LOCK DOWN IN THE NEAREST PLACE POSSIBLE. Go inside, lock all windows and doors. Stay off the phone and do not call 911 unless you need to report a life-threatening emergency. To report suspicious activity, contact El Cerrito Police. Stay indoors until you receive further instructions.” The order was later lifted.
In addition, District 1 Supervisor John Gioia posted on his Facebook page, “Since 8 pm tonight (Thursday) there has been a lockdown ordered for residents in Richmond near the Grocery Outlet due to law enforcement activity. Stay indoors and lock windows and doors if you live in the affected area shown in red below. Police were seen entering the Grocery Outlet. Don’t be curious and attempt to go outdoors. Be safe inside and police will release more info when they deem it appropriate.”
The Richmond Police Department SWAT Team responded with assistance from the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, East Bay Regional Park District Police Department, and El Cerrito Police Department. The RPD Crisis Negotiations Team responded and established contact with the suspect in an attempt to bring this incident to a peaceful resolution. Chemical agents were also deployed in an effort to gain the suspect’s compliance.
The suspect eventually exited the residence and was taken into custody without further incident. According to ABC7 News, the suspect was a woman who “was taken into custody after an hourslong standoff.”
We are extremely grateful that our officer is in stable condition and expected to survive. We are also thankful that no residents or assisting personnel were injured despite the significant danger created by the suspect’s indiscriminate gunfire.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, East Bay Regional Park District Police Department, and El Cerrito Police Department for their immediate response and assistance. Their collaboration helped bring this dangerous incident to a peaceful resolution without further injury or loss of life.
Screenshot of a portion PORAC’s post on X Friday, Sept. 4, 2026.
In a post on X (Twitter) Friday morning, PORAC (Peace Officers Research Association of California) wrote, “Thankfully, the 20-year veteran is in stable condition and expected to survive. Please join PORAC in keeping this officer, their loved ones, and the Richmond Police Department family in your thoughts and prayers for a full and speedy recovery.”
ABC7 News further reported the officer was “a 20-year veteran of the department.”
This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Additional information will be provided as investigators complete their work and further details become available for public release.
It was the second shooting of police officer in the county Thursday as a Pittsburg officer was shot by a detainee inside the Pittsburg Police Department earlier in the day. (See related article)
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
Read MoreHarshal R. Patil, M.D., Nivedha Rajan, M.D. and Jose Basora, M.D. have joined Springhill Medical Group. Photos: Springhill
Serving East Bay patients at offices in Pittsburg, Brentwood
Part of the Hill Physicians network
By Diane Barney, Director of Marketing and Communications, Hill Physicians Medical Group
The addition of three new physicians in the last year has rounded out the diverse multispecialty team at Springhill Medical Group, which has been serving patients in the East Bay since 1989, at medical offices in Pittsburg and Brentwood.
Nivedha Rajan, M.D., is the latest primary care physician to join the group. Dr. Rajan is board-certified in internal medicine and is accepting new patients, age 18 and up. She is skilled in managing acute and chronic conditions and coordinating multidisciplinary care.
She grew up in the East Bay and is pleased to serve patients from Contra Costa, Solano and southwestern Sacramento counties. She is fluent in English, as well as Telugu, Tamil and Kannada, primarily spoken in South India and across Southern Asia.
Dr. Rajan received her medical degree from Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences in Bangalore, India. She served her residency at St. Agnes Medical Center in Fresno.
“I’m happy to be back in the East Bay, providing care to patients close to their homes and my own,” said Dr. Rajan. “I strongly believe in patient-centered care, which means getting to know my patients and working closely with them as we decide how to best approach their treatment plans.”
Harshal R. Patil, M.D., is a cardiology specialist who joined the group in May. He is fluent in English, Hindi, Marathi and Gujarati.
Dr. Patil earned his medical degree in Government Medical College Dhule, Maharashtra, India and served his residency at St. Luke’s Hospital and Truman Medical Center, both in Kansas City. He makes his home in Walnut Creek. He completed fellowships in interventional cardiology, cardiovascular disease, nuclear cardiology and advanced cardiovascular imaging, and preventive cardiology.
Jose Facundo Basora-Rovira, M.D., came on board nearly a year ago. He is board-certified in pulmonary and critical care. He is fluent in English and Spanish. He earned his medical degree from New York Medical College and completed a residency at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New Jersey.
Dr. Basora has extensive experience in the diagnosis and management of a wide range of conditions, including asthma, COPD, interstitial lung disease, pulmonary infections and lung cancer. He makes his home in Walnut Creek.
With these additions, the team now includes three primary care physicians, one nurse practitioner, three pulmonary specialists, three cardiologists and one endocrinologist. They all offer patient appointments at both locations, as well as telehealth visits.
The variety of specialties is a real advantage for patients, explains Karthik Reddy, M.D., president of the Springhill Medical Group.
“This is especially beneficial for older patients, who often have multiple chronic conditions,” said Dr. Reddy. “Our primary care physicians can consult with colleagues just down the hall, which helps us get EKGs done quickly and address chronic care needs the same day. That level of efficiency and coordination makes a real difference for our patients.”
The practice was started 37 years ago by cardiology specialist Henry Gong, M.D., and internist and pulmonologist Gerald Del Rio, M.D., both who still work part time at the practice. Springhill Medical Group became part of the Hill Physicians network in 2008.
“We are delighted with the addition of these three professionals – all from the East Bay – who join our experienced team and allow us to continue to serve our growing community,” added Dr. Reddy.
Springhill Medical Group is located at 2220 Gladstone Drive, Suite 3 in Pittsburg and 2400 Balfour Road, Suite 306 in Brentwood.
To book an appointment to see Dr. Rajan, please call (925) 432-3318. For more information, including what insurance plans are accepted, visit Springhill Medical Group’s website at www.springhillmed.com.
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By Sara Bellafronte, Assistant to the Pittsburg City Manager
In response to the officer-involved shooting inside the Pittsburg Police Department Thursday afternoon, Sept. 3, 2026, in which both an officer and an in-custody suspect were shot, City leaders swiftly issued statements regarding the attack. (See related article)
“My heart is with our Police department, the injured Officer and their family,” said Mayor Dionne Adams. “This is an upsetting moment for our community. As a lifelong Pittsburg resident, I have seen firsthand the progress our Police Department has made through community-centered policing and strengthening relationships with those they serve. Violence like this is deeply troubling and has no place in our community. I want to thank our officers for their bravery and quick response.”
The Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office and the Pittsburg Police Investigations Division are actively investigating the incident, consistent with standard protocol. Because the investigation is active no additional information is being released.
“Our officers acted heroically today,” said Pittsburg Police Chief Phil Galer. “I am grateful to the Contra Costa County paramedics and fire fighters as well as the surrounding agencies who provided support to our Department in this time of crisis. I know I’m joined by the residents of Pittsburg in hoping for a full recovery for our Officer.”
“Our entire City staff is relieved to know our officer is in stable condition. I am thankful for the swift and skilled actions of our Police Department and other first responders to prevent this horrible incident from becoming an even worse tragedy,” said City Manager Darin Gale. “Pittsburg is a community that rejects violence and deeply respects the important work of our officers. Today’s attack is a reminder of the bravery and dangers our officers face every day. We are truly fortunate they have chosen to serve our community.”
Supervisor Scales-Preston Issues Statement
In addition, Contra Costa County District 5 Supervisor Shanelle Scales Preston issued a statement about the incident. She wrote, “I am heartbroken and outraged to learn that one of our Pittsburg police officers has been shot this afternoon. Pittsburg is my home, and violence against law enforcement officers anywhere, is unacceptable.”
“I’m asking the entire Pittsburg community to hold this officer, their family, and the entire department in their prayers right now,” she added.
Autoridades municipales emiten declaraciones sobre un tiroteo en el que participó un agente dentro de la comisaría
Esta misma tarde, el Departamento de Policía de Pittsburg emitió el siguiente comunicado:
El jueves 3 de septiembre, agentes de Pittsburg detuvieron a un hombre de 31 años. Fue trasladado a la comisaría para realizar los trámites de registro y detención. Durante dicho proceso, se produjo un altercado físico entre el sospechoso y un agente que se encontraba solo; en el transcurso del mismo, se disparó un arma de fuego, hiriendo tanto al agente como al sospechoso. El agente fue trasladado a un hospital local y su estado se reporta como grave pero estable. El sospechoso también fue trasladado a un hospital local y se encuentra en condición estable. La Fiscalía del Condado de Contra Costa y la División de Investigaciones de la Policía de Pittsburg se encuentran en el lugar y están investigando activamente el incidente.
Por el momento no hay más información disponible.
Los líderes de la ciudad emitieron rápidamente declaraciones sobre el ataque.
“Mis pensamientos están con nuestro Departamento de Policía, con el agente herido y con su familia”, declaró la alcaldesa Dionne Adams. “Es un momento angustioso para nuestra comunidad. Como residente de Pittsburg de toda la vida, he sido testigo directo de los avances que ha logrado nuestro Departamento de Policía mediante un modelo policial centrado en la comunidad y el fortalecimiento de los vínculos con las personas a las que sirven. Una violencia de este tipo es profundamente preocupante y no tiene cabida en nuestra comunidad. Quiero agradecer a nuestros agentes su valentía y su rápida respuesta”.
La Fiscalía del Condado de Contra Costa y la División de Investigaciones de la Policía de Pittsburg están investigando activamente el incidente, siguiendo el protocolo habitual. Dado que la investigación está en curso, no se facilitará más información por el momento.
“Nuestros agentes actuaron hoy de forma heroica”, afirmó el jefe de policía de Pittsburg, Phil Galer. “Agradezco la labor de los paramédicos y bomberos del condado de Contra Costa, así como de las agencias vecinas que brindaron apoyo a nuestro departamento en este momento de crisis. Sé que los residentes de Pittsburg comparten conmigo el deseo de que nuestro agente se recupere plenamente”.
“Todo el personal de la ciudad se siente aliviado al saber que nuestro agente se encuentra en condición estable. Agradezco la rápida y eficaz actuación de nuestro Departamento de Policía y de los demás equipos de emergencia para evitar que este terrible incidente se convirtiera en una tragedia aún mayor”, declaró el administrador de la ciudad, Darin Gale. “Pittsburg es una comunidad que rechaza la violencia y respeta profundamente la importante labor de nuestros agentes. El ataque de hoy nos recuerda la valentía y los peligros a los que se enfrentan nuestros agentes a diario. Somos verdaderamente afortunados de que hayan elegido servir a nuestra comunidad”.
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
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Incident under investigation
La Policía de Pittsburg investiga un tiroteo en el que se vio involucrado un agente en la comisaría
By Sara Bellafronte, Assistant to the City Manager
On Thursday, September 3rd, 2026, Pittsburg Officers arrested a 31-year-old male. He was transported to the police department for booking. While in booking a physical altercation between the suspect and a solo officer occurred during which a firearm was discharged striking both the officer and suspect.
The officer was transported to a local hospital and is listed in serious but stable condition. The suspect was also transported to a local hospital and is listed in stable condition.
The Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office and Pittsburg Police Investigations Division are on scene and actively investigating the incident.
There is no additional information at this time.
La Policía de Pittsburg investiga un tiroteo en el que se vio involucrado un agente en la comisaría
El jueves 3 de septiembre, agentes de Pittsburg detuvieron a un hombre de 31 años. Fue trasladado a la comisaría para realizar los trámites de registro y detención. Durante dicho proceso, se produjo un altercado físico entre el sospechoso y un agente que se encontraba solo; en el transcurso del mismo, se disparó un arma de fuego, alcanzando tanto al agente como al sospechoso. El agente fue trasladado a un hospital local y su estado se reporta como grave pero estable. El sospechoso también fue trasladado a un hospital local y se encuentra en condición estable. La Fiscalía del Condado de Contra Costa y la División de Investigaciones de la Policía de Pittsburg se encuentran en el lugar y llevan a cabo una investigación activa del incidente.
Por el momento, no hay más información disponible.
Read MoreThe Powerhouse Ladies performing at Cloverfield will be (L-R) Ruby Lee Hill, Rebecca Roudman of Dirty Cello and Nineteenth Operator. Photos: Not Loud Concerts
Includes Ruby Lee Hill, Dirty Cello and Nineteenth Operator
By Sehar Kahn, Publicist, Not Loud Concerts
Hidden in the hills of El Sobrante, is a beautiful organic farm that grows rare fruits and amazing flowers, and the Not Loud Concerts team is going to hold another concert here on Thursday, Sept 10.
For this edition of the Not Loud concerts, we’ll be featuring the Powerhouse Ladies. This is 3 female-fronted bands, on stage at the same time, taking turns playing songs before performing together. One hour of amazing music.
The ladies featured will be the band Dirty Cello performing as a duo with exuberant blues and rock, Ruby Lee Hill – beautiful songs with an old-timey Western-flavor, and Nineteenth Operator from Davis, CA presenting sweet harmonies and amazing originals.
There will be chairs for everyone. Bring a light jacket.
Feel free to arrive early and have a picnic or stroll the wild gardens, and pick produce that you can buy at the farm stand.
Not Loud Concerts focus on creating an experience that is casual and fun for both the musicians and the audience. The concerts are never too long, never too expensive and of course never too loud.
Not Loud Concerts presents…Powerhouse Ladies at Cloverfield Organic Farm 501 La Paloma Road, El Sobrante
Sept 10 at 7 pm. Tickets $20 at NotLoudConcerts.com
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Information & Resource Fair and Free Fishing Event
To learn more about the Delta Veterans Group visit deltaveteransgroup.org or follow them on www.facebook.com/DeltaVeteransGroup.
One flown by helicopter to hospital
By Chris Bollinger, Community Engagement Officer, Brentwood Police Department
On Sunday, August 31, 2026, at approximately 4:09 pm, Brentwood Police officers responded to a vehicle collision at Fairview Ave and Regent Drive involving a sedan and an SUV. When officers arrived on scene, preliminary information revealed the sedan was traveling northbound on Fairview Ave when the SUV pulled into traffic from Regent Drive causing the collision. As a result of the collision, the SUV overturned and came to a rest on its roof.
The four adult occupants of the SUV were transported to local hospitals for non-life-threatening injuries. One passenger of the SUV was flown by helicopter to a hospital as a precaution. The adult driver and solo occupant of the sedan was not injured. Drugs and alcohol were not a factor in the collision.
The roadway was closed for approximately two hours to allow for accident investigation and scene clearance.
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