A letter to our community

In the wake of this moment, no one can stand silent. Let us be clear and direct about where the City of Pleasanton stands: the death of Tyre Nichols is inexcusable. With others, we grieve for Tyre Nichols, for his family and friends, and for the Memphis community.

The Pleasanton Police Department joins departments across the country in being angered by and in condemning the reprehensible actions of the officers involved. The video shows those officers betraying their code to protect and serve. We strive, on each and every call, to always model excellence; we remain steadfast in our commitment to serve as guardians with compassion, empathy and respect in each opportunity we have to serve. We will continue to engage in constructive dialogue and collective work to ensure that we reflect the community we strive to be.

To those in Memphis and all affected by this needless tragedy: the City of Pleasanton and our police department stand with you.

--Pleasanton Mayor and City Council

--Pleasanton City Manager

--Pleasanton Police Chief

--Pleasanton Police Officers Association

High school speech contest

The Pleasanton chapter of Lions Clubs International, the largest service club organization in the world, is hosting a Student Speakers Contest in February. The annual competitive speech contest, which was paused during the pandemic, is open to all Pleasanton high school students.

The Student Speakers Contest is designed to raise awareness of public speaking as an important life skill. Each participating student will give a five to 10-minute speech on a subject of vital interest to the community. This year's topic: "Social Media: Connects Us or Isolates Us?"

These contests are held statewide. Every finalist uses the same speech at each level. At the Pleasanton level, the winner receives a cash award of $100. Winning students have the chance to earn scholarships of $4,500 and $6,500 as they advance, with the statewide winner receiving $10,000 in scholarship monies, making a total of $21,000 scholarships available.

Contestants must enter soon, and the contest will take place on Feb. 21. For information on how to enter, visit www.pleasantonlionsclub.org.

--Jill Miller