Maggie Fusek Avants is an award-winning copy editor and journalist whose experience in the news business goes back to when she had a paper route in sixth grade. She went on to earn a degree in journalism as well as the title of "Distinguished Journalist of the Year" for the campus newspaper.
Since 2009, she has served as a local news editor for online and print publications. A member of the Society of Professional Journalists, Fusek Avants has been invited back to her alma mater to mentor new journalists.
She is now the Patch editor for Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Cotati, Healdsburg, Napa Valley, Benicia, Pinole, Hercules, Martinez and Concord.
Fun Fact: She shares a birthday with William Shakespeare
Reach her at maggie.fusek@patch.com with news tips and story ideas.
This shooting star show produces fireballs that blaze across the sky, leaving dust trails for several seconds. Here's when to look up.
The family-friendly events are planned for May: one in Downtown Napa and the other at Napa Valley College Upper Valley Campus in St. Helena.
The money was used for a new audio/visual system which was put to use with the school's spring production of Disney's "Aladdin" musical.
Residents can bring their unused or unwanted prescription drugs for safe, anonymous disposal.
More than 4,000 law enforcement partners across the country are taking part in the DEA's 24th National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day.
Residents can drop off old or unused prescription drugs at any of seven sites across Contra Costa County.
More than 4,000 law enforcement partners across the country are taking part in the DEA's 24th National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day.
The Healdsburg Fire Department is expected to burn piles in the Parkland Farms area.
The Contra Costa Office of the Sheriff is taking part in the 24th DEA's National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.
Residents can drop off old or unused prescription drugs at the Lafayette Police Department or the Orinda Police Department.
City Council also rescinded the Local Drought Emergency Proclamation and the City’s Water Shortage Contingency Plan.
Road closures will be in effect on Plaza Street and Center Street to accommodate the city's inaugural Earth Day Climate Fest.
Caution: The reports below contain words and images described as explicit, hurtful, offensive and inflammatory.
The community engagement meeting is planned for Monday, April 24
A collision with at least one fatality was reported on eastbound state Highway 37 right before state Highway 29/Sonoma Boulevard.
An attempted assault is under investigation in Rohnert Park and police are seeking the community's help in identifying the suspect.
The earthquake was reported just after 8:30 p.m. — Did YOU feel it?
A man suspected of breaking into a mailbox and stealing mail from multiple people was caught thanks to the help of a concerned citizen.
The ceremony celebrated the completion of one component of the Downtown Creeks Preservation, Restoration and Development Plan.
The city is in a strong financial position and will continue to prioritize key areas while ensuring budget sustainability and transparency.
