Multi-agency Operation Cross Country conducts three efforts, investigating four other cases
By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office
Law enforcement partners with the Contra Costa Human Trafficking Task Force arrested two suspected human traffickers and recovered one juvenile victim in a nationwide effort to apprehend human traffickers and provide services to victims.
As part of Operation Cross Country, task force partners and local FBI personnel jointly conducted three separate anti-human trafficking operations throughout Contra Costa County from July 19th through 30th, 2023. These joint efforts led to the arrest of a 33-year-old male resident of Sacramento and a 24-year-old male resident of Oakland, and the identification of nine survivors of human trafficking – including one juvenile. Additionally, the FBI and task force partners are still investigating four other cases in Contra Costa County. All victims identified through these operations met with specialized human trafficking victim advocates immediately upon contact and were offered a range of services and support.
“These outcomes demonstrate the positive results that can be achieved from collaboration between law enforcement and community partners to address the harm caused by human trafficking and deliver justice to victims,” noted District Attorney Diana Becton.
The suspects were arrested or cited on one or more of the following human trafficking or human trafficking-related offenses: sex trafficking of a minor, supervising, aiding, or recruiting a prostitute, and violating a protective order [PC236.1(c), PC653.23, and PC166(a4]. The ongoing investigations in these cases center on these charges as well as pimping, pandering, and adult trafficking [PC266h, PC266i, and PC236.1(b)].
Task Force Co-chair and Executive Director of Community Violence Solutions, Cynthia Peterson, highlighted that “the partnership among Contra Costa’s task force members in combatting human trafficking ensures a coordinated, trauma-informed response focused on our shared goals of empowering and providing comprehensive services and support to victims.”
Participating agencies included, in alphabetical order:
- Community Violence Solutions
- Concord Police Department
- Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office (CCCDA)
- Contra Costa County Probation Department
- Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Department
- Federal Bureau of Investigations
- Hercules Police Department
- Homeland Security Investigations
- International Rescue Committee
- Northern California Regional Intelligence Center
- Pittsburg Police Department
- Pleasant Hill Police Department
- Richmond Police Department
The Contra Costa Human Trafficking Task Force is co-led by the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office and Community Violence Solutions, a community-based 24-hour service provider for survivors of sexual assault and human trafficking.
Founded in 2018, the Task Force envisions a community free of human trafficking where survivors thrive. It aims to achieve this by encouraging self-sufficiency and empowerment through the provision of survivor-centered, culturally responsive advocacy and services; striving for exploiter accountability through prosecution, education, civil remedies, and restorative practices; educating task force members and the community; and harnessing data to guide these efforts.
Anyone with information on suspected human trafficking (sex or labor) or related crimes is encouraged to make a report to your local law enforcement agency or the District Attorney’s Human Trafficking Tip Line (925) 957-8658.
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Residents Judy Watson and Katherine Himmelman enjoy spending time together. Photos: The Kensington at Walnut Creek
By Uniqua Williams
Friendship makes the world go round. At all ages, having the support and consistency of friends is important. In a senior living community, like The Kensington at Walnut Creek, having a friend not only makes life more fun but offers many health benefits. In honor of National Friendship Day, Sunday, August 6, 2023, The Kensington is highlighting one of the community’s most popular duos. Judy Watson (82) and Katherine Himmelman (73) instantly formed a lasting friendship when they both moved into the community in early 2020. Since their introduction, this inseparable pair have experienced improvements in both their mental health and social experiences.
Watson and Himmelman credit their friendship to resident physical therapist and ONR specialist, Gena McCormick, who saw the potential of a lasting connection and introduced the two residents to each other during one of Himmelman’s physical therapy sessions with McCormick. McCormick mentioned that there was a nice woman at the community she thought Himmelman would be great friends with. The nice woman in question was Watson, and the rest was history.
Since then, the duo have been inseparable. They have shared many special memories and tend to participate in activities within the community together. One of their favorite things to do and some of their best memories have come from their regular walks they used to take up and down The Kensington driveway.
“Walking along the community driveway is what really brought us closer together,” said Himmelman. “It allowed us a space to share our thoughts and feelings openly. Having someone to confide in has been so helpful for the both of us, offering support through life’s ups and downs.”
Although their daily walks are what aided in solidifying their unbreakable bond, the two also enjoy participating in other activities within the community together, including having breakfast together every morning, joining exercise classes and even attending Sunday Mass. Throughout their time together, their friendship flourished – transcending age and time. These simple walks and daily activities created a profound connection, making each day brighter and reminding them both that true friendship knows no bounds.
Nowadays, Himmelman’s physical limitations have hindered the pair from taking frequent walks, but they find no shortage of ways to interact with one another. Through these interactions, Watson and Himmelman offer each other their constant support.
“I never thought I’d find friendship at this age, but it’s been beautiful, with no stumbling blocks,” said Watson. “I’ve learned how to turn Katherine’s frown upside down, and we share a special bond that defies expectations. Age has brought wisdom, and our connection feels effortless. We are grateful for this unexpected and cherished friendship.”
Several studies have shown that finding friends that are compatible is beneficial to both mental and physical health as we age. The average person tends to be happier and healthier when participating in activities with friends they care about. Increased socialization can result in a sharper memory, low blood pressure, and boost motivation for daily activities. At any age, the aspect of friendship is vital to achieving happiness and longevity.
“Judy and I found trust and understanding that encouraged us to be more social, navigating health problems and aging together,” said Himmelman. “We assimilated into the whole group, supporting each other to participate in various activities happening in the community, fostering a sense of togetherness.”
Even now, the two are still in awe at how their friendship has grown and flourished over the years. Through their togetherness, they’ve been able to continue to encourage one another and rediscover the joy of connecting with someone who truly uplifts them. Two completely different people, from opposite sides of life, found a way to form an unbreakable bond at such a wise age. A bond that many from later generations still struggle to find. For those, no matter the age, still looking to cultivate relationships as strong as the Himmelman and Watson duo, can take the advice from these two who do it best.
“Most people that move into assisted care have a difficult time,” said Himmelman. “Judy and I were lucky enough to meet each other. It gave us something to hold on to. As you age, treasure friendships like Judy and mine. They become lifelines, supporting you through life’s challenges. True friends bring joy, understanding, and a sense of togetherness. Embrace these when you can. That is essential.”
“Finding a pair to honor during National Friendship Day was no struggle when you have witnessed the bond that Judy and Katherine have,” said Kayla Pierce, wellness director at The Kensington “They are constantly encouraging and supporting each other. Having a blossoming friendship is extremely important in senior living communities.”
“If Kayla could pick us out as two people who have a good friendship worth highlighting, we must be doing something right,” said Watson.
About the Kensington at Walnut Creek:
Life at The Kensington is vibrant, fulfilling and as active or carefree as you desire. The community offers Assisted Living and Memory Care in a friendly environment where our residents and associates enjoy being served and serving others. Our caring team of associates will customize a care program that is right for you while you continue to enjoy your friends, hobbies, and new opportunities at The Kensington, surrounded by mature redwood trees and filled with the comforts of a modern resort. The Kensington is an oasis in Walnut Creek, tucked away from the bustle of the city, but close enough you could walk. To learn more, visit our website or call 925-693-7784.
For members of the media interested in covering this story, email Uniqua Williams at uwilliams@piercom.com.
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DJ Johnson #33dj won his second Hunt Series Spec Sprint race of the season. Photo by Katrina Kniss
By Candice Martin, DCRR Racing Media
Antioch, CA…July 29…Taking the lead from previous Antioch winner Jacob Tuttle of Oakley, Stockton’s DJ Johnson won the 25 lap Hunt Wingless Spec Sprint Main Event Saturday night at Antioch Speedway. This was the second win on the tour for the two-time Antioch Speedway champion.
Tuttle has won three times in local Wingless Spec Sprint competition, and he had the outside front row for the feature race on this occasion. He bolted into the lead at the start ahead of Bradley Terrell of Sebastopol. Following a Lap 2 yellow flag, Terrell took the lead, but contact between he and Tuttle saw Terrell spin in the fourth turn for a yellow flag. Tuttle led Johnson and Blake Bower of Brentwood on the restart. There were multiple yellow flags on the challenging track. Johnson managed to slip past Tuttle for the lead on the ninth circuit, and Bower made an outside pass a lap later to take second from teammate Tuttle.
Bower committed to the outside grove and started presenting a challenge to Johnson with a yellow flag waving on Lap 20 for Brent Steck of Roseville, who had been running in fifth. Johnson maintained his advantage over Bower on the restart, and an inside pass in Turn 1 on Lap 23 gained Series point leader Nick Robfogel of Petaluma the third position. Unfortunately, Robfogel and Tanner Boul of Auberry got together in Turn 1 for the final yellow flag on Lap 24. Johnson was undeterred as he led the final restart and brought it home to a satisfying win. An inside pass in the first turn gained Tuttle second with Terrell making a charge all the way back to third by the time the checkered flag flew. Bower settled for fourth, followed by Brentwood’s Bob Newberry.
Andrew Pearce #28g collected his third IMCA Modified win. Photo by Katrina Kniss
Andrew Pearce of Oakley maintained championship contention with his third 25 lap IMCA Modified Main Event win. Pearce also leads the IMCA Modified National rookie race and the State point battle.
Pearce charged into the lead following a complete restart. Point leader Troy Foulger of Oakley was an early second ahead of Buddy Kniss of Oakley. They ran that way until Camarillo’s Trevor Fitz slipped past Kniss for third on Lap 12. Pearce built a decent lead over Foulger by the time to checkered flag waved as Fitz settled for third ahead of Kniss and Jeffrey Faulkner of Rohnert Park.
Grayson Baca #31b maintained his Hobby Stock point lead with his fourth victory. Photo by Katrina Kniss
Grayson Baca of Brentwood maintained the point lead with his fourth 20 lap Pacific Coast General Engineering Hobby Stock Main Event win. He was an early third as Ken John’s of Antioch led previous winner Jared Baugh of Pittsburgh at the start. Following a yellow flag for Corning’s William Fogle on Lap 3, Johns continued to lead Baugh on the restart. A high pass in Turn 4 of the fifth lap gained Baugh the lead as Baca went inside Johns in the same turn for second. An inside pass in the same turn a lap later gained Baca the lead from Baugh.
Johns and Baugh had a side-by-side battle for second until the yellow flag waved on Lap 7. Johns took second on the restart as Baca continued to lead the way. There was a four-car battle for the runner-up spot during the second half of the race with an inside pass in Turn 4 on Lap 12 putting Todd Gomez of Antioch into the position. Johns and Baugh both got past Gomez for second and third in Turn 4 of the 13th lap, but Gomez came back strong on the inside a lap later. This battle continued to be intense as they hit slower traffic, and Baugh got around Gomez on the front stretch on Lap 17 for second. They closed in on Baca, but he prevailed at the checkered flag. Baugh ended up second ahead of Gomez, Johns and Aidan Ponciano of Oakley.
DJ Keldsen #01 scored his third Figure 8 win of the season. Photo by Katrina Kniss
DJ Keldsen of Newman picked up his third 15 lap Figure 8 win of the season. Dakota Kelson of Watsonville took the early lead ahead of Bob Brown of Elko, Nevada. Following a yellow flag on Lap 2, Dakota Keldsen continued to lead the way. Contact as they entered the X sent Brown spinning as DJ Keldsen assumed second ahead of Trevor Clymens of Brentwood. Another yellow flag waved for Dennis Keldsen of Newman at the Turn 3 exit.
On the restart, DJ Keldsen charged past his brother Dakota for the lead, and IMCA Stock Car racer Terry DeCarlo Jr of Martinez settled into third. Another yellow flag on Lap seven bunched the field, and Dakota Keldsen briefly regained the lead from DJ as Brown settled into third again. Brown was again sent spinning, and contact between Dakota Keldsen and Jimmy Robbins of Concord ended the race for Robbins. DeCarlo took the lead on a Lap 9 restart with DJ Keldsen in close pursuit. Brown had again regained third by that point. Keldsen made a Turn 1 pass on DeCarlo to take the lead on Lap 11. From there, DJ Keldsen brought it home to victory ahead of DeCarlo, Brown, Wayne Reeder of Watsonville and Michaela Taylor of Oakley.
Troy Foulger #49 earned his seventh IMCA Stock Car Main Event win of the season. Photo by Katrina Kniss
Troy Foulger picked up his division leading seventh IMCA Stock Car 20 lap Main Event win in the Bowers Motorsports entry. Foulger currently leads both the track and State point battle.
Brentwood’s Fred Ryland returned and set the pace early on. A low pass in Turn 2 of the second lap gained Foulger second from Kenneth Robles of Rio Vista. Jarrod Mounce of Atwater moved into third. Following a yellow flag for Kenneth Robles on the fifth lap, Ryland continued to lead Foulger on the restart. They ran that way until Foulger found an opening on the outside on Lap 15 and slipped past Ryland to take command. Foulger went on to win the race with Ryland settling for second ahead of Mounce, previous winner Terry DeCarlo Jr of Martinez and Jason Robles of Rio Vista.
Drake Edwards #4m got his fourth WMR Midgets feature win. Photo by Katrina Kniss
Drake Edwards of Surprise, Arizona won his fourth WMR Midgets 20 lap Main Event. Series point leader Logan Mitchell of Santa Cruz led the opening lap before an inside pass on the back stretch gained Mitchell the lead. Championship contender Bryant Bell of Oakley made a Turn 4 pass on Lap 5 to take second from Mitchell. Edwards drove a flawless race and brought it home to a satisfying win ahead of Bell, Mitchell, Jerry Kobza of Folsom and reigning Series champion Blake Bower of Brentwood.
Tom Davis #75 got his sixth Print Club Mini Stock win. Photo by Katrina Kniss
Point leader Tom Davis of Los Molinos picked up his sixth Print Club Mini Stock win of the season aboard the Delbert Rios owned car. Reigning champion Tom Brown of Santa Rosa put the Bob Davis owned Pinto into the lead at the start ahead of Tom Davis. Tony Quinonez of Corning spun in Turn 2 for the only yellow flag on Lap 2. Brown led Davis and Merced point leader Daniel Bond of Oakdale on the restart. They ran that way until Brown slipped up a bit in Turn 1 on Lap 10, allowing Davis to get by on the inside for the lead. Davis went on to victory from there with Brown settling for second ahead of Bond, Quinonez and Rick Barry of Modesto.
Racing continues this Saturday night with a special $5 Fan Appreciation Night. The IMCA Modifieds, Sport Modifieds and Stock Cars will be competing along with the Wingless Spec Sprints, USAC Western States Midgets and Print Club Mini Stocks. For further information, go to www.antiochspeedway.com.
Antioch Speedway Race Results – July 29, 2023
Hunt Wingless Spec Sprints
FT-Jacob Tuttle 14.104. Heat Winners (8 laps)–Tanner Boul, Bradley Terrell, DJ Johnson, Blake Bower. B Main (12 laps)-Bruno Bianchi, Jeff Scotto, James East. Main Event (25 laps)-DJ Johnson, Jacob Tuttle, Bradley Terrell, Blake Bower, Bob Newberry, Shawn Arriaga, Evan Goularte, Shawn Jones, Jarrett Soares, Dylan Newberry.
IMCA Modifieds
Heat Winners (8 laps)-Troy Foulger, Andrew Pearce. Main Event (25 laps)-Andrew Pearce, Troy Foulger, Trevor Fitz, Buddy Kniss, Jeffrey Faulkner, Marcus Frazier, Ryan DeForest, Paul Guglielmoni, Mickey Hill, Brian Lewis.
Hobby Stocks
Heat Winners (8 laps)-Grayson Baca, Misty Welborn, Ken Johns. Main Event (20 laps)-Grayson Baca, Jared Baugh, Todd Gomez, Ken Johns, Aidan Ponciano, Mike Walko, Misty Welborn, Jason Ryan Jr, Ken Winland, Trent Golden.
IMCA Stock Cars
Heat Winner (8 laps)-Jason Robles. Main Event (20 laps)-Troy Foulger, Fred Ryland, Jarrod Mounce, Terry DeCarlo Jr, Jason Robles, Kenneth Robles, Steve Stone DNS.
WMR Midgets
Heat Winners (8 laps)-Bryant Bell, Blake Bower. Main Event (20 laps)-Drake Edwards, Bryant Bell, Logan Mitchell, Jerry Kobza, Blake Bower, Anthony Bruno, Darin Horton, Adriana DeMartini, Rick Faeth, Adam Weisberg.
Print Club Mini Stocks
Heat Winner (8 laps)-Tom Davis. Main Event (20 laps)-Tom Davis, Tom Brown, Daniel Bond, Tony Quinonez, Ryder Greene, Rick Berry, Charles McElroy.
Figure 8 (unofficial)
Main Event (15 laps)-DJ Keldsen, Terry DeCarlo Jr, Bob Brown, Wayne Reeder, Michaela Taylor, David Rosa, Jimmy Robbins, Dakota Keldsen, Trevor Clymens, Dennis Keldsen.
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$57 million provided for projects during first round of grants, a part of Outdoors for All Initiative
Applications open for Round Two – $50 million more to be funded for nature-based outdoor programs
SACRAMENTO, Calif.— California State Parks today announced the second application period for the Outdoor Equity Grants Program (OEP), which offers $50 million in grant funding for nature-based outdoor programs. The funding helps establish hubs for local activities and trips to natural areas for underserved communities. The program also empowers youth and families with outdoor leadership education, career pathways, environmental justice engagement and access to nature. The application deadline for this competitive statewide program is Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023.
“The Outdoor Equity Grants Program increases the ability for youth, families and other community members in park-poor communities to improve their health and wellness by connecting them to natural areas throughout California,” said California State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “We are excited to continue developing California’s future environmental leaders.”
The grant program is part of the Newsom Administration’s Outdoors for All Initiative.
State Parks will host eight in-person workshops for potential applicants throughout California between Labor Day and the end of September. Additionally, there will be three virtual application workshops scheduled in October. All workshops will be from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. RSVP links to the workshops will be available on Department of Parks and Recreation’s Office of Grants and Local Services webpage at parks.ca.gov/oep.
The program funds transportation, program operations, staffing, supplies and equipment, and other costs that traditionally presented barriers for historically underserved urban and rural communities throughout California. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations with 501(c)3 status and all local, state and federal agencies. Examples include school districts and other public education agencies, cities and counties, joint powers authorities, open-space authorities, regional open-space districts, California Native American tribes, and other relevant public agencies.
For the first grant cycle of the program, State Parks evaluated 384 grant applications totaling $167.78 million in requests. A total of $57 million in grant funding was made available through general funds approved by the California Legislature and Governor Gavin Newsom in the 2020/21 and 2021/22 state budgets, and awarded on May 27, 2022.
One example of the projects that received funding during the first round of grants include:
Contra Costa County – City of Richmond: $700,000 was awarded to conduct the Youth Outdoors Richmond Program for residents near Nevin Community Center. This program will include approximately 99 activity days in the community for 12,000 participants and 36 trips to natural areas for 1,200 participants during three years of programming. Some of the activities in the community will include leadership and skill development and stewardship in local parks. A Calaveras Big Trees State Park Camping Trip, located about 158 miles east of Richmond in the counties of Calaveras and Tuolumne, is one of the trips that will be available to the community.
In 2019, the Outdoor Equity Grants Program was enacted when Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 209 which is now part of the Administration’s Outdoors for All Initiative. The concept for the grant program began with Proposition 68, which proposed to utilize bond funds for community access projects that included transportation, physical activity programming, resource interpretation, natural science, workforce development and career pathways, and education. Subsequently, the public expressed a desire to expand access to parks and outdoor programs for underserved communities and urban populations. These discussions became a catalyst for AB 209 and the development of the Outdoor Equity Grants Program. Californians shared a similar vision in 2017 during 30 focus groups with over 500 participants for the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan. Throughout the state, from heavily urbanized to rural areas, Californians emphasized a desire for multi-generational programs that bring families together, activate local parks and take residents with transportation challenges to natural areas outside their communities.
To learn more about this grant program and the application guide, sign up for email notices to access application workshop schedules, and for technical assistance, contacts are available at parks.ca.gov/oep.
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By Wolfgang Croskey, Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce
Sierra Pacific Properties extends a cordial invitation to you for the groundbreaking of Sprouts Farmers Market, Pittsburg’s latest grocery store.
This is Sprouts’ second location in East County with the first one at The Streets of Brentwood. Started in 2002 to make natural, fresh, organic food choices accessible to everyone, the Arizona-based Sprouts has since expanded to 380 stores. The new store will be part of a 3.69-acre development called the San Marco Commercial Center, at San Marco Boulevard and West Leland Road.
We are excited to have you join us in celebrating the growth of the Pittsburg business community. The event will be held at 2311 W. Leland Road and parking will be at Ray Giacomelli Park. We hope to see you there.
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
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Carquinez Bridge toll plaza. Photo: Mark Jones
Payment plan for low-income customers, penalty waivers for all bridges, Express Lanes
The Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC)’s Bay Area Toll Authority (BATA) today launched a public information campaign to raise travelers’ awareness of two new programs available through the Bay Area FasTrak® customer service center to help people with overdue tolls, penalties and fees get out of debt.
Bay Area FasTrak® now offers a payment plan program for individuals with outstanding toll debt whose household income is no more than 200 percent of the federal poverty level (about $60,000 for a family of four). The Bay Area Toll Payment Plan is open to all who have received toll violations on Bay Area bridges or express lanes. For those who qualify, violation penalties will be waived and any remaining balance of at least $100 can be paid off over time in the payment plan.
This program is intended to provide a way for people with overdue tolls, fees and penalties to get out of debt, and it is not limited to Bay Area residents.
Eligible participants may apply at the program website at bayareatollpaymentplan.org or by mailing or faxing a paper application. Both the website and the paper application are available in English, Spanish, Chinese and Vietnamese.
To ensure those who are income eligible are aware of and have assistance applying for Bay Area Toll Payment Plan, BATA is conducting extensive outreach to social services and housing agencies, as well as to dozens of community-based organizations and other human services programs.
Photo: MTC.
BATA and partner toll agencies last month also began offering full or partial one-time violation penalty waivers that are available to all customers, regardless of income. BATA, the Golden Gate Bridge Highway & Transportation District and MTC’s Bay Area Infrastructure Financing Authority unit will waive all penalties associated with toll violations on their facilities on a one-time basis. The Alameda County Transportation Commission, the San Mateo County Express Lanes Joint Power Authority and the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) each will waive one penalty per customer for toll violations on their Express Lane facilities.
The one-time penalty waivers will be available to customers through September 2024. To obtain a waiver or to find out if you have overdue toll violations, customers must call the Bay Area FasTrak® Customer Service center at 877-BAY-TOLL (877-229-8655) and pay all outstanding tolls and any DMV fees owed. Eligible customers who choose to enter into a payment plan must make their first payment to receive the penalty waiver.
MTC is the regional transportation planning, financing and coordinating agency for the nine-county San Francisco Bay Area. BATA manages the Bay Area’s FasTrak electronic toll payment system and administers all toll revenue from the Bay Area’s seven state-owned toll bridges.
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To all bus stop pairs along Route 7
Riders traveling on Amtrak’s San Joaquins Route 7, the Thruway Bus route extending from the Martinez Amtrak Station to Arcata (Cal Poly Humboldt) and encompassing a total of 18 stops, can now purchase bus-only tickets for all city pairs along the route. This recent expansion of service significantly broadens the scope and connectivity of the bus top pairs previously available on Route 7.
This expansion along Route 7, which was approved by the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA) Board of Directors at the July 21 meeting, represents the latest step in Amtrak San Joaquins’ efforts to provide a comprehensive transportation alternative to travelers in communities throughout the state, beyond where the train can service.
Historically, travelers on all Thruway Bus routes were required to have a segment of train travel as part of their overall trip to travel on the Thruway Bus. However, state legislation, SB 742 authored by Senator Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica), was passed in 2019 to remove the requirement for intercity passenger rail/thruway bus services to sell companion rail tickets as a condition of the sale. As such, following extensive planning coordination, in 2021 after the impacts of the pandemic had eased, SJJPA opened parts of the Amtrak San Joaquins Route 7 as well as Routes 1c, 10, 18, and 19 for bus-only sales.
“We are pleased to now be at the point where we can expand connectivity along Route 7 to its fullest extent,” said Pat Hume, Chair for the SJJPA. “Fully opening Route 7 is a result of extensive collaboration with local stakeholders and regional transit providers and is a part of our ongoing effort to make Amtrak San Joaquins a comprehensive transportation solution for communities statewide.”
Snapshot of Amtrak San Joaquins Thruway Bus Route 7. Source: Amtrak
Making Amtrak’s Thruway bus routes available to non-rail riders brings several benefits including:
- Improved access to transit for priority and underserved communities.
- Reduction in greenhouse gas and air pollution emissions by diverting trips that would have previously been taken by an automobile.
- Reduced car trips on some of the state’s most congested freeways.
- Better utilization of current transit infrastructure.
Increased revenues for the state at virtually no additional cost.
The bus-only ticketing options and fares are now available in the following locations:
Route 7: Martinez – Napa – Santa Rosa – Humboldt State University – Arcata
Route 1C: Bakersfield – Van Nuys – West Los Angeles/UCLA – Santa Monica
Route 10: Santa Barbara – Bakersfield – Barstow – Las Vegas
Route 15: Merced – Yosemite & Fresno – Yosemite (seasonal)
Route 18: Hanford – Lemoore – San Luis Obispo – Santa Maria
Route 19: Bakersfield – Pasadena – Riverside – San Bernadino
Santa Rosa Bus Stop Relocation
Effective August 1, the Santa Rosa, CA, Thruway Bus stop currently located at 917 Edwards Avenue next to Dick’s Sporting Goods will move to:
Coddington Transit-Across from JC Penney – Santa Rosa, CA, 95401
Amtrak Santa Rosa Thruway Stop relocation map. Source: Amtrak
About the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA)
Since July 2015, SJJPA has been responsible for the management and administration of Amtrak San Joaquins. SJJPA is governed by Board Members representing each of the ten (10) Member Agencies along the 365-mile San Joaquins Corridor. For more information on SJJPA see www.sjjpa.com. Amtrak San Joaquins is Amtrak’s 6th busiest route with about 1 million annual riders and 18 stations providing a safe, comfortable and reliable way to travel throughout California. Prior to service modifications due to the COVID-19 crisis, Amtrak San Joaquins operated 7 daily train roundtrips and its Thruway buses provided connecting service to over 100 destinations in California and Nevada including Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, San Diego, Napa Valley, Las Vegas and Reno. To book your next trip, visit www.AmtrakSanJoaquins.com or call 1-800-USA-RAIL.
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To kick off official Halloween-Themed National Night Out on Tuesday, October 3rd
National Night Out is celebrated by millions of neighbors across thousands of communities and enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.
Tomorrow we will have our National Night Out Kick-off Caravan event to kick off our official Halloween-Themed National Night Out on Tuesday, October 3rd. Please stay tuned for more details regarding this event!
If you are a part of a Neighborhood Watch group and would like us to visit during our caravan, please reach out to our Community Outreach Unit at nvaldepena@ci.pinole.ca.us or 510.741.3892
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National Night Out is celebrated by millions of neighbors across thousands of communities and enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.
Join us in celebrating National Night Out on Tuesday, August 1st! See above for registered events in Oakley. We look forward to seeing you.
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Multi-agency Operation Cross Country conducts three efforts, investigating four other cases
By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office
Law enforcement partners with the Contra Costa Human Trafficking Task Force arrested two suspected human traffickers and recovered one juvenile victim in a nationwide effort to apprehend human traffickers and provide services to victims.
As part of Operation Cross Country, task force partners and local FBI personnel jointly conducted three separate anti-human trafficking operations throughout Contra Costa County from July 19th through 30th, 2023. These joint efforts led to the arrest of a 33-year-old male resident of Sacramento and a 24-year-old male resident of Oakland, and the identification of nine survivors of human trafficking – including one juvenile. Additionally, the FBI and task force partners are still investigating four other cases in Contra Costa County. All victims identified through these operations met with specialized human trafficking victim advocates immediately upon contact and were offered a range of services and support.
“These outcomes demonstrate the positive results that can be achieved from collaboration between law enforcement and community partners to address the harm caused by human trafficking and deliver justice to victims,” noted District Attorney Diana Becton.
The suspects were arrested or cited on one or more of the following human trafficking or human trafficking-related offenses: sex trafficking of a minor, supervising, aiding, or recruiting a prostitute, and violating a protective order [PC236.1(c), PC653.23, and PC166(a4]. The ongoing investigations in these cases center on these charges as well as pimping, pandering, and adult trafficking [PC266h, PC266i, and PC236.1(b)].
Task Force Co-chair and Executive Director of Community Violence Solutions, Cynthia Peterson, highlighted that “the partnership among Contra Costa’s task force members in combatting human trafficking ensures a coordinated, trauma-informed response focused on our shared goals of empowering and providing comprehensive services and support to victims.”
Participating agencies included, in alphabetical order:
- Community Violence Solutions
- Concord Police Department
- Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office (CCCDA)
- Contra Costa County Probation Department
- Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Department
- Federal Bureau of Investigations
- Hercules Police Department
- Homeland Security Investigations
- International Rescue Committee
- Northern California Regional Intelligence Center
- Pittsburg Police Department
- Pleasant Hill Police Department
- Richmond Police Department
The Contra Costa Human Trafficking Task Force is co-led by the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office and Community Violence Solutions, a community-based 24-hour service provider for survivors of sexual assault and human trafficking.
Founded in 2018, the Task Force envisions a community free of human trafficking where survivors thrive. It aims to achieve this by encouraging self-sufficiency and empowerment through the provision of survivor-centered, culturally responsive advocacy and services; striving for exploiter accountability through prosecution, education, civil remedies, and restorative practices; educating task force members and the community; and harnessing data to guide these efforts.
Anyone with information on suspected human trafficking (sex or labor) or related crimes is encouraged to make a report to your local law enforcement agency or the District Attorney’s Human Trafficking Tip Line (925) 957-8658.
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Residents Judy Watson and Katherine Himmelman enjoy spending time together. Photos: The Kensington at Walnut Creek
By Uniqua Williams
Friendship makes the world go round. At all ages, having the support and consistency of friends is important. In a senior living community, like The Kensington at Walnut Creek, having a friend not only makes life more fun but offers many health benefits. In honor of National Friendship Day, Sunday, August 6, 2023, The Kensington is highlighting one of the community’s most popular duos. Judy Watson (82) and Katherine Himmelman (73) instantly formed a lasting friendship when they both moved into the community in early 2020. Since their introduction, this inseparable pair have experienced improvements in both their mental health and social experiences.
Watson and Himmelman credit their friendship to resident physical therapist and ONR specialist, Gena McCormick, who saw the potential of a lasting connection and introduced the two residents to each other during one of Himmelman’s physical therapy sessions with McCormick. McCormick mentioned that there was a nice woman at the community she thought Himmelman would be great friends with. The nice woman in question was Watson, and the rest was history.
Since then, the duo have been inseparable. They have shared many special memories and tend to participate in activities within the community together. One of their favorite things to do and some of their best memories have come from their regular walks they used to take up and down The Kensington driveway.
“Walking along the community driveway is what really brought us closer together,” said Himmelman. “It allowed us a space to share our thoughts and feelings openly. Having someone to confide in has been so helpful for the both of us, offering support through life’s ups and downs.”
Although their daily walks are what aided in solidifying their unbreakable bond, the two also enjoy participating in other activities within the community together, including having breakfast together every morning, joining exercise classes and even attending Sunday Mass. Throughout their time together, their friendship flourished – transcending age and time. These simple walks and daily activities created a profound connection, making each day brighter and reminding them both that true friendship knows no bounds.
Nowadays, Himmelman’s physical limitations have hindered the pair from taking frequent walks, but they find no shortage of ways to interact with one another. Through these interactions, Watson and Himmelman offer each other their constant support.
“I never thought I’d find friendship at this age, but it’s been beautiful, with no stumbling blocks,” said Watson. “I’ve learned how to turn Katherine’s frown upside down, and we share a special bond that defies expectations. Age has brought wisdom, and our connection feels effortless. We are grateful for this unexpected and cherished friendship.”
Several studies have shown that finding friends that are compatible is beneficial to both mental and physical health as we age. The average person tends to be happier and healthier when participating in activities with friends they care about. Increased socialization can result in a sharper memory, low blood pressure, and boost motivation for daily activities. At any age, the aspect of friendship is vital to achieving happiness and longevity.
“Judy and I found trust and understanding that encouraged us to be more social, navigating health problems and aging together,” said Himmelman. “We assimilated into the whole group, supporting each other to participate in various activities happening in the community, fostering a sense of togetherness.”
Even now, the two are still in awe at how their friendship has grown and flourished over the years. Through their togetherness, they’ve been able to continue to encourage one another and rediscover the joy of connecting with someone who truly uplifts them. Two completely different people, from opposite sides of life, found a way to form an unbreakable bond at such a wise age. A bond that many from later generations still struggle to find. For those, no matter the age, still looking to cultivate relationships as strong as the Himmelman and Watson duo, can take the advice from these two who do it best.
“Most people that move into assisted care have a difficult time,” said Himmelman. “Judy and I were lucky enough to meet each other. It gave us something to hold on to. As you age, treasure friendships like Judy and mine. They become lifelines, supporting you through life’s challenges. True friends bring joy, understanding, and a sense of togetherness. Embrace these when you can. That is essential.”
“Finding a pair to honor during National Friendship Day was no struggle when you have witnessed the bond that Judy and Katherine have,” said Kayla Pierce, wellness director at The Kensington “They are constantly encouraging and supporting each other. Having a blossoming friendship is extremely important in senior living communities.”
“If Kayla could pick us out as two people who have a good friendship worth highlighting, we must be doing something right,” said Watson.
About the Kensington at Walnut Creek:
Life at The Kensington is vibrant, fulfilling and as active or carefree as you desire. The community offers Assisted Living and Memory Care in a friendly environment where our residents and associates enjoy being served and serving others. Our caring team of associates will customize a care program that is right for you while you continue to enjoy your friends, hobbies, and new opportunities at The Kensington, surrounded by mature redwood trees and filled with the comforts of a modern resort. The Kensington is an oasis in Walnut Creek, tucked away from the bustle of the city, but close enough you could walk. To learn more, visit our website or call 925-693-7784.
For members of the media interested in covering this story, email Uniqua Williams at uwilliams@piercom.com.
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DJ Johnson #33dj won his second Hunt Series Spec Sprint race of the season. Photo by Katrina Kniss
By Candice Martin, DCRR Racing Media
Antioch, CA…July 29…Taking the lead from previous Antioch winner Jacob Tuttle of Oakley, Stockton’s DJ Johnson won the 25 lap Hunt Wingless Spec Sprint Main Event Saturday night at Antioch Speedway. This was the second win on the tour for the two-time Antioch Speedway champion.
Tuttle has won three times in local Wingless Spec Sprint competition, and he had the outside front row for the feature race on this occasion. He bolted into the lead at the start ahead of Bradley Terrell of Sebastopol. Following a Lap 2 yellow flag, Terrell took the lead, but contact between he and Tuttle saw Terrell spin in the fourth turn for a yellow flag. Tuttle led Johnson and Blake Bower of Brentwood on the restart. There were multiple yellow flags on the challenging track. Johnson managed to slip past Tuttle for the lead on the ninth circuit, and Bower made an outside pass a lap later to take second from teammate Tuttle.
Bower committed to the outside grove and started presenting a challenge to Johnson with a yellow flag waving on Lap 20 for Brent Steck of Roseville, who had been running in fifth. Johnson maintained his advantage over Bower on the restart, and an inside pass in Turn 1 on Lap 23 gained Series point leader Nick Robfogel of Petaluma the third position. Unfortunately, Robfogel and Tanner Boul of Auberry got together in Turn 1 for the final yellow flag on Lap 24. Johnson was undeterred as he led the final restart and brought it home to a satisfying win. An inside pass in the first turn gained Tuttle second with Terrell making a charge all the way back to third by the time the checkered flag flew. Bower settled for fourth, followed by Brentwood’s Bob Newberry.
Andrew Pearce #28g collected his third IMCA Modified win. Photo by Katrina Kniss
Andrew Pearce of Oakley maintained championship contention with his third 25 lap IMCA Modified Main Event win. Pearce also leads the IMCA Modified National rookie race and the State point battle.
Pearce charged into the lead following a complete restart. Point leader Troy Foulger of Oakley was an early second ahead of Buddy Kniss of Oakley. They ran that way until Camarillo’s Trevor Fitz slipped past Kniss for third on Lap 12. Pearce built a decent lead over Foulger by the time to checkered flag waved as Fitz settled for third ahead of Kniss and Jeffrey Faulkner of Rohnert Park.
Grayson Baca #31b maintained his Hobby Stock point lead with his fourth victory. Photo by Katrina Kniss
Grayson Baca of Brentwood maintained the point lead with his fourth 20 lap Pacific Coast General Engineering Hobby Stock Main Event win. He was an early third as Ken John’s of Antioch led previous winner Jared Baugh of Pittsburgh at the start. Following a yellow flag for Corning’s William Fogle on Lap 3, Johns continued to lead Baugh on the restart. A high pass in Turn 4 of the fifth lap gained Baugh the lead as Baca went inside Johns in the same turn for second. An inside pass in the same turn a lap later gained Baca the lead from Baugh.
Johns and Baugh had a side-by-side battle for second until the yellow flag waved on Lap 7. Johns took second on the restart as Baca continued to lead the way. There was a four-car battle for the runner-up spot during the second half of the race with an inside pass in Turn 4 on Lap 12 putting Todd Gomez of Antioch into the position. Johns and Baugh both got past Gomez for second and third in Turn 4 of the 13th lap, but Gomez came back strong on the inside a lap later. This battle continued to be intense as they hit slower traffic, and Baugh got around Gomez on the front stretch on Lap 17 for second. They closed in on Baca, but he prevailed at the checkered flag. Baugh ended up second ahead of Gomez, Johns and Aidan Ponciano of Oakley.
DJ Keldsen #01 scored his third Figure 8 win of the season. Photo by Katrina Kniss
DJ Keldsen of Newman picked up his third 15 lap Figure 8 win of the season. Dakota Kelson of Watsonville took the early lead ahead of Bob Brown of Elko, Nevada. Following a yellow flag on Lap 2, Dakota Keldsen continued to lead the way. Contact as they entered the X sent Brown spinning as DJ Keldsen assumed second ahead of Trevor Clymens of Brentwood. Another yellow flag waved for Dennis Keldsen of Newman at the Turn 3 exit.
On the restart, DJ Keldsen charged past his brother Dakota for the lead, and IMCA Stock Car racer Terry DeCarlo Jr of Martinez settled into third. Another yellow flag on Lap seven bunched the field, and Dakota Keldsen briefly regained the lead from DJ as Brown settled into third again. Brown was again sent spinning, and contact between Dakota Keldsen and Jimmy Robbins of Concord ended the race for Robbins. DeCarlo took the lead on a Lap 9 restart with DJ Keldsen in close pursuit. Brown had again regained third by that point. Keldsen made a Turn 1 pass on DeCarlo to take the lead on Lap 11. From there, DJ Keldsen brought it home to victory ahead of DeCarlo, Brown, Wayne Reeder of Watsonville and Michaela Taylor of Oakley.
Troy Foulger #49 earned his seventh IMCA Stock Car Main Event win of the season. Photo by Katrina Kniss
Troy Foulger picked up his division leading seventh IMCA Stock Car 20 lap Main Event win in the Bowers Motorsports entry. Foulger currently leads both the track and State point battle.
Brentwood’s Fred Ryland returned and set the pace early on. A low pass in Turn 2 of the second lap gained Foulger second from Kenneth Robles of Rio Vista. Jarrod Mounce of Atwater moved into third. Following a yellow flag for Kenneth Robles on the fifth lap, Ryland continued to lead Foulger on the restart. They ran that way until Foulger found an opening on the outside on Lap 15 and slipped past Ryland to take command. Foulger went on to win the race with Ryland settling for second ahead of Mounce, previous winner Terry DeCarlo Jr of Martinez and Jason Robles of Rio Vista.
Drake Edwards #4m got his fourth WMR Midgets feature win. Photo by Katrina Kniss
Drake Edwards of Surprise, Arizona won his fourth WMR Midgets 20 lap Main Event. Series point leader Logan Mitchell of Santa Cruz led the opening lap before an inside pass on the back stretch gained Mitchell the lead. Championship contender Bryant Bell of Oakley made a Turn 4 pass on Lap 5 to take second from Mitchell. Edwards drove a flawless race and brought it home to a satisfying win ahead of Bell, Mitchell, Jerry Kobza of Folsom and reigning Series champion Blake Bower of Brentwood.
Tom Davis #75 got his sixth Print Club Mini Stock win. Photo by Katrina Kniss
Point leader Tom Davis of Los Molinos picked up his sixth Print Club Mini Stock win of the season aboard the Delbert Rios owned car. Reigning champion Tom Brown of Santa Rosa put the Bob Davis owned Pinto into the lead at the start ahead of Tom Davis. Tony Quinonez of Corning spun in Turn 2 for the only yellow flag on Lap 2. Brown led Davis and Merced point leader Daniel Bond of Oakdale on the restart. They ran that way until Brown slipped up a bit in Turn 1 on Lap 10, allowing Davis to get by on the inside for the lead. Davis went on to victory from there with Brown settling for second ahead of Bond, Quinonez and Rick Barry of Modesto.
Racing continues this Saturday night with a special $5 Fan Appreciation Night. The IMCA Modifieds, Sport Modifieds and Stock Cars will be competing along with the Wingless Spec Sprints, USAC Western States Midgets and Print Club Mini Stocks. For further information, go to www.antiochspeedway.com.
Antioch Speedway Race Results – July 29, 2023
Hunt Wingless Spec Sprints
FT-Jacob Tuttle 14.104. Heat Winners (8 laps)–Tanner Boul, Bradley Terrell, DJ Johnson, Blake Bower. B Main (12 laps)-Bruno Bianchi, Jeff Scotto, James East. Main Event (25 laps)-DJ Johnson, Jacob Tuttle, Bradley Terrell, Blake Bower, Bob Newberry, Shawn Arriaga, Evan Goularte, Shawn Jones, Jarrett Soares, Dylan Newberry.
IMCA Modifieds
Heat Winners (8 laps)-Troy Foulger, Andrew Pearce. Main Event (25 laps)-Andrew Pearce, Troy Foulger, Trevor Fitz, Buddy Kniss, Jeffrey Faulkner, Marcus Frazier, Ryan DeForest, Paul Guglielmoni, Mickey Hill, Brian Lewis.
Hobby Stocks
Heat Winners (8 laps)-Grayson Baca, Misty Welborn, Ken Johns. Main Event (20 laps)-Grayson Baca, Jared Baugh, Todd Gomez, Ken Johns, Aidan Ponciano, Mike Walko, Misty Welborn, Jason Ryan Jr, Ken Winland, Trent Golden.
IMCA Stock Cars
Heat Winner (8 laps)-Jason Robles. Main Event (20 laps)-Troy Foulger, Fred Ryland, Jarrod Mounce, Terry DeCarlo Jr, Jason Robles, Kenneth Robles, Steve Stone DNS.
WMR Midgets
Heat Winners (8 laps)-Bryant Bell, Blake Bower. Main Event (20 laps)-Drake Edwards, Bryant Bell, Logan Mitchell, Jerry Kobza, Blake Bower, Anthony Bruno, Darin Horton, Adriana DeMartini, Rick Faeth, Adam Weisberg.
Print Club Mini Stocks
Heat Winner (8 laps)-Tom Davis. Main Event (20 laps)-Tom Davis, Tom Brown, Daniel Bond, Tony Quinonez, Ryder Greene, Rick Berry, Charles McElroy.
Figure 8 (unofficial)
Main Event (15 laps)-DJ Keldsen, Terry DeCarlo Jr, Bob Brown, Wayne Reeder, Michaela Taylor, David Rosa, Jimmy Robbins, Dakota Keldsen, Trevor Clymens, Dennis Keldsen.
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$57 million provided for projects during first round of grants, a part of Outdoors for All Initiative
Applications open for Round Two – $50 million more to be funded for nature-based outdoor programs
SACRAMENTO, Calif.— California State Parks today announced the second application period for the Outdoor Equity Grants Program (OEP), which offers $50 million in grant funding for nature-based outdoor programs. The funding helps establish hubs for local activities and trips to natural areas for underserved communities. The program also empowers youth and families with outdoor leadership education, career pathways, environmental justice engagement and access to nature. The application deadline for this competitive statewide program is Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023.
“The Outdoor Equity Grants Program increases the ability for youth, families and other community members in park-poor communities to improve their health and wellness by connecting them to natural areas throughout California,” said California State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “We are excited to continue developing California’s future environmental leaders.”
The grant program is part of the Newsom Administration’s Outdoors for All Initiative.
State Parks will host eight in-person workshops for potential applicants throughout California between Labor Day and the end of September. Additionally, there will be three virtual application workshops scheduled in October. All workshops will be from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. RSVP links to the workshops will be available on Department of Parks and Recreation’s Office of Grants and Local Services webpage at parks.ca.gov/oep.
The program funds transportation, program operations, staffing, supplies and equipment, and other costs that traditionally presented barriers for historically underserved urban and rural communities throughout California. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations with 501(c)3 status and all local, state and federal agencies. Examples include school districts and other public education agencies, cities and counties, joint powers authorities, open-space authorities, regional open-space districts, California Native American tribes, and other relevant public agencies.
For the first grant cycle of the program, State Parks evaluated 384 grant applications totaling $167.78 million in requests. A total of $57 million in grant funding was made available through general funds approved by the California Legislature and Governor Gavin Newsom in the 2020/21 and 2021/22 state budgets, and awarded on May 27, 2022.
One example of the projects that received funding during the first round of grants include:
Contra Costa County – City of Richmond: $700,000 was awarded to conduct the Youth Outdoors Richmond Program for residents near Nevin Community Center. This program will include approximately 99 activity days in the community for 12,000 participants and 36 trips to natural areas for 1,200 participants during three years of programming. Some of the activities in the community will include leadership and skill development and stewardship in local parks. A Calaveras Big Trees State Park Camping Trip, located about 158 miles east of Richmond in the counties of Calaveras and Tuolumne, is one of the trips that will be available to the community.
In 2019, the Outdoor Equity Grants Program was enacted when Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 209 which is now part of the Administration’s Outdoors for All Initiative. The concept for the grant program began with Proposition 68, which proposed to utilize bond funds for community access projects that included transportation, physical activity programming, resource interpretation, natural science, workforce development and career pathways, and education. Subsequently, the public expressed a desire to expand access to parks and outdoor programs for underserved communities and urban populations. These discussions became a catalyst for AB 209 and the development of the Outdoor Equity Grants Program. Californians shared a similar vision in 2017 during 30 focus groups with over 500 participants for the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan. Throughout the state, from heavily urbanized to rural areas, Californians emphasized a desire for multi-generational programs that bring families together, activate local parks and take residents with transportation challenges to natural areas outside their communities.
To learn more about this grant program and the application guide, sign up for email notices to access application workshop schedules, and for technical assistance, contacts are available at parks.ca.gov/oep.
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By Wolfgang Croskey, Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce
Sierra Pacific Properties extends a cordial invitation to you for the groundbreaking of Sprouts Farmers Market, Pittsburg’s latest grocery store.
This is Sprouts’ second location in East County with the first one at The Streets of Brentwood. Started in 2002 to make natural, fresh, organic food choices accessible to everyone, the Arizona-based Sprouts has since expanded to 380 stores. The new store will be part of a 3.69-acre development called the San Marco Commercial Center, at San Marco Boulevard and West Leland Road.
We are excited to have you join us in celebrating the growth of the Pittsburg business community. The event will be held at 2311 W. Leland Road and parking will be at Ray Giacomelli Park. We hope to see you there.
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
Read MoreCarquinez Bridge toll plaza. Photo: Mark Jones
Payment plan for low-income customers, penalty waivers for all bridges, Express Lanes
The Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC)’s Bay Area Toll Authority (BATA) today launched a public information campaign to raise travelers’ awareness of two new programs available through the Bay Area FasTrak® customer service center to help people with overdue tolls, penalties and fees get out of debt.
Bay Area FasTrak® now offers a payment plan program for individuals with outstanding toll debt whose household income is no more than 200 percent of the federal poverty level (about $60,000 for a family of four). The Bay Area Toll Payment Plan is open to all who have received toll violations on Bay Area bridges or express lanes. For those who qualify, violation penalties will be waived and any remaining balance of at least $100 can be paid off over time in the payment plan.
This program is intended to provide a way for people with overdue tolls, fees and penalties to get out of debt, and it is not limited to Bay Area residents.
Eligible participants may apply at the program website at bayareatollpaymentplan.org or by mailing or faxing a paper application. Both the website and the paper application are available in English, Spanish, Chinese and Vietnamese.
To ensure those who are income eligible are aware of and have assistance applying for Bay Area Toll Payment Plan, BATA is conducting extensive outreach to social services and housing agencies, as well as to dozens of community-based organizations and other human services programs.
Photo: MTC.
BATA and partner toll agencies last month also began offering full or partial one-time violation penalty waivers that are available to all customers, regardless of income. BATA, the Golden Gate Bridge Highway & Transportation District and MTC’s Bay Area Infrastructure Financing Authority unit will waive all penalties associated with toll violations on their facilities on a one-time basis. The Alameda County Transportation Commission, the San Mateo County Express Lanes Joint Power Authority and the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) each will waive one penalty per customer for toll violations on their Express Lane facilities.
The one-time penalty waivers will be available to customers through September 2024. To obtain a waiver or to find out if you have overdue toll violations, customers must call the Bay Area FasTrak® Customer Service center at 877-BAY-TOLL (877-229-8655) and pay all outstanding tolls and any DMV fees owed. Eligible customers who choose to enter into a payment plan must make their first payment to receive the penalty waiver.
MTC is the regional transportation planning, financing and coordinating agency for the nine-county San Francisco Bay Area. BATA manages the Bay Area’s FasTrak electronic toll payment system and administers all toll revenue from the Bay Area’s seven state-owned toll bridges.
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To all bus stop pairs along Route 7
Riders traveling on Amtrak’s San Joaquins Route 7, the Thruway Bus route extending from the Martinez Amtrak Station to Arcata (Cal Poly Humboldt) and encompassing a total of 18 stops, can now purchase bus-only tickets for all city pairs along the route. This recent expansion of service significantly broadens the scope and connectivity of the bus top pairs previously available on Route 7.
This expansion along Route 7, which was approved by the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA) Board of Directors at the July 21 meeting, represents the latest step in Amtrak San Joaquins’ efforts to provide a comprehensive transportation alternative to travelers in communities throughout the state, beyond where the train can service.
Historically, travelers on all Thruway Bus routes were required to have a segment of train travel as part of their overall trip to travel on the Thruway Bus. However, state legislation, SB 742 authored by Senator Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica), was passed in 2019 to remove the requirement for intercity passenger rail/thruway bus services to sell companion rail tickets as a condition of the sale. As such, following extensive planning coordination, in 2021 after the impacts of the pandemic had eased, SJJPA opened parts of the Amtrak San Joaquins Route 7 as well as Routes 1c, 10, 18, and 19 for bus-only sales.
“We are pleased to now be at the point where we can expand connectivity along Route 7 to its fullest extent,” said Pat Hume, Chair for the SJJPA. “Fully opening Route 7 is a result of extensive collaboration with local stakeholders and regional transit providers and is a part of our ongoing effort to make Amtrak San Joaquins a comprehensive transportation solution for communities statewide.”
Snapshot of Amtrak San Joaquins Thruway Bus Route 7. Source: Amtrak
Making Amtrak’s Thruway bus routes available to non-rail riders brings several benefits including:
- Improved access to transit for priority and underserved communities.
- Reduction in greenhouse gas and air pollution emissions by diverting trips that would have previously been taken by an automobile.
- Reduced car trips on some of the state’s most congested freeways.
- Better utilization of current transit infrastructure.
Increased revenues for the state at virtually no additional cost.
The bus-only ticketing options and fares are now available in the following locations:
Route 7: Martinez – Napa – Santa Rosa – Humboldt State University – Arcata
Route 1C: Bakersfield – Van Nuys – West Los Angeles/UCLA – Santa Monica
Route 10: Santa Barbara – Bakersfield – Barstow – Las Vegas
Route 15: Merced – Yosemite & Fresno – Yosemite (seasonal)
Route 18: Hanford – Lemoore – San Luis Obispo – Santa Maria
Route 19: Bakersfield – Pasadena – Riverside – San Bernadino
Santa Rosa Bus Stop Relocation
Effective August 1, the Santa Rosa, CA, Thruway Bus stop currently located at 917 Edwards Avenue next to Dick’s Sporting Goods will move to:
Coddington Transit-Across from JC Penney – Santa Rosa, CA, 95401
Amtrak Santa Rosa Thruway Stop relocation map. Source: Amtrak
About the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA)
Since July 2015, SJJPA has been responsible for the management and administration of Amtrak San Joaquins. SJJPA is governed by Board Members representing each of the ten (10) Member Agencies along the 365-mile San Joaquins Corridor. For more information on SJJPA see www.sjjpa.com. Amtrak San Joaquins is Amtrak’s 6th busiest route with about 1 million annual riders and 18 stations providing a safe, comfortable and reliable way to travel throughout California. Prior to service modifications due to the COVID-19 crisis, Amtrak San Joaquins operated 7 daily train roundtrips and its Thruway buses provided connecting service to over 100 destinations in California and Nevada including Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, San Diego, Napa Valley, Las Vegas and Reno. To book your next trip, visit www.AmtrakSanJoaquins.com or call 1-800-USA-RAIL.
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To kick off official Halloween-Themed National Night Out on Tuesday, October 3rd
National Night Out is celebrated by millions of neighbors across thousands of communities and enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.
Tomorrow we will have our National Night Out Kick-off Caravan event to kick off our official Halloween-Themed National Night Out on Tuesday, October 3rd. Please stay tuned for more details regarding this event!
If you are a part of a Neighborhood Watch group and would like us to visit during our caravan, please reach out to our Community Outreach Unit at nvaldepena@ci.pinole.ca.us or 510.741.3892
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National Night Out is celebrated by millions of neighbors across thousands of communities and enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.
Join us in celebrating National Night Out on Tuesday, August 1st! See above for registered events in Oakley. We look forward to seeing you.
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