Contra Costa Herald

News Of By and For The People of Contra Costa County, California

Faith leaders, community to meet with Pittsburg city manager about data center Wednesday

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AVAIO Digital data center rendering. Source: City of Pittsburg

To express concerns about environmental health and why the decision process did not include them.

“A data center raises issues about the moral implications of how we care for creation and our families.” – Oakland-based Faith in Action East Bay spokesperson

By Theresa Henson, Communications Manager, Faith in Action East Bay

PITTSBURG, CA – With concerns about a data center in their neighborhood, community members will meet with the City Manager, Darin Gale, at 7 p.m. Wednesday, October 28, at St. Peter Martyr Church, 740 Black Diamond Street, Pittsburg.

The data center was recently approved by the City of Pittsburg without community input. Through research meetings and presentations by Stanford experts, residents have learned about the environmental risks and respiratory health problems already affecting Pittsburg and how a possible data center would worsen environmental health.

In a formal meeting that will follow a prepared agenda, the community will seek answers to questions about the data center’s impact and why the decision was made without the input of the community.

The October 28 meeting will not be an open forum but a meeting following a prepared agenda that will uphold values of mutual respect of city officials and the sacred space in which the meeting will be held.

The meeting will begin promptly at 7 p.m. and will be conducted in Spanish, with English interpretation.

The meeting will be available on Zoom: https://bit.ly/Oct28Pittsburg

WHAT: Meeting about the recently approved data center in Pittsburg

WHO: Pittsburg residents and City of Pittsburgh Manager Darin Gale

WHEN: Wednesday, October 28, 2026 7 p.m.

WHERE: St. Peter Martyr Church, Parish Hall, 740 Black Diamond Street, Pittsburg

Asked why faith leaders would expect to be involved in such a City decision and what does a data center have to do with faith, Henson responded, “A data center raises issues about the moral implications of how we care for creation and our families. Faith in Action East Bay builds leaders who are motivated by their faith values to bring healthy changes to their communities — processes which often involve research and actions with civic officials.”

(See related articles here, here, here, here and here)

About Faith in Action East Bay [FIAEB]

Faith in Action East Bay is a multi-faith and multi-racial organizing network made up of more than 23 congregations and over 25,000 families. Since 1972, Oakland Community Organization (OCO), now Faith in Action East Bay, has empowered leaders to advance systemic change, racial justice, and economic equity in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report

Pittsburg Council to hold vote on 45-day data center moratorium Oct. 26

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AVAIO Digital data center rendering and Mayor Dionne Adams official photo. Source: City of Pittsburg

PITTSBURG, CA — Mayor Dionne Adams issued the following statement today, Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026:

On Monday, October 26, the Pittsburg City Council will consider a 45-day emergency moratorium on future data center development, including Phases II and III of the AVAIO project. This follows months of residents speaking up, asking questions and sharing concerns about what data centers mean for their families and neighborhoods.

Although my employer’s involvement has required me to recuse myself from recent project-related decisions, my responsibility to listen to residents and help ensure their questions are answered has remained central to my work as Mayor.

For the last few months, I directed the City Manager and staff to expand their outreach across the City, online and in-person, and called for a dedicated Council meeting focused entirely on data centers – where the creation of a community advisory council followed. More recently, I’ve routinely requested formal updates from the City Manager to the public, all of this ultimately leading to the upcoming moratorium vote.

The City’s advisory council is currently developing recommendations for future data center policies, and the Council’s upcoming moratorium vote will enable council to complete that work.

Pittsburg is my home, too. As our understanding of data centers and AI infrastructure evolves, we have a responsibility to keep learning and responding to the people whose lives and neighborhoods are affected. I won’t get every decision right, but I will always listen, take your concerns seriously, and do what I believe is in the best interests of Pittsburg and its residents, even when I cannot vote on every individual item.

To everyone who has taken the time to speak with me, attend a meeting or ask a difficult question: thank you. You deserve a City government that hears you and responds.

Monday’s meeting agenda has not yet been published on the City’s website. Please check the Agendas and Minutes page, later, here: Pittsburg, CA – Agendas & Minutes.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Pittsburg High students plan walkout, march to protest data center project before Council meeting Monday

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Source: Stop Pittsburg Data Center Coalition

19 minutes before end of school day

Los estudiantes de Pittsburg High planean una huelga y una marcha para protestar contra el proyecto del centro de datos antes de la reunión del Concejo el lunes

19 minutos antes del fin de la jornada escolar

By Allen D. Payton

According to Marifer Miranda, East County Community Organizer for Concord-based Monument Impact’s Antioch office, the Stop Pittsburg Data Center Coalition, is holding a walkout by Pittsburg High School students Monday afternoon, Oct. 19, 2026, at 3:15 p.m. with a half-mile march to City Hall, before the Council meeting at 7:00 p.m. The walkout is scheduled to begin 19 minutes before school lets out after 6th Period which ends at 3:34 p.m. according to Pittsburg High’s Bell Schedule.

WHAT: Student Walkout, March and Evening City Council Meeting

WHEN: Monday, October 19 Walkout at 3:15 pm and City Council Meeting 7:00 pm

WHERE: Pittsburg High, 1750 Harbor Street, Pittsburg to City Hall, 65 Civic Avenue

The Stop Pittsburg Data Center Coalition is an intergenerational collective of families, educators, students, union members, and well-established residents residing in Pittsburg, that are fighting to stop data center development in our city and county. As of Friday, October 16, 2026, our initial petition has almost reached 30,000 signatures with the majority coming from Contra Costa Residents. We also uplift the voices of our neighbors who are mixed-status, disabled, and low-income workers who are the most vulnerable and deeply impacted by this city project.

The previous time the AVAIO Data Center Project was on the City Council agenda was during an explosive August 3rd meeting where City Council defended their decision to approve the data center project and asked for residents to “trust we [City Council] made the decision with the best interest of residents in mind.”

Rendering of proposed AVAIO Digital data center in Pittsburg. Source: City of Pittsburg

Join us for a day of action sparked by Pittsburg High School students where we will march from the front of Pittsburg High School and finish at Pittsburg City Hall. Later in the evening at 7:00 pm, the City Council meeting will review an update from the Community Advisory Committee and receive a recommendation for next steps. Coalition members will be present to give public comment and ensure our demands are heard and met.

Under Item. 4 on Monday night’s meeting agenda, a presentation will be provided to the Council entitled, “Data Center and the Advisory Committee on Data Center Update – An informational overview regarding the advisory committee’s objectives and process.”

Pittsburg residents reject that statement and demand:

1) Implement a legally binding 90-day Moratorium on ALL Phases of Data Center Projects in the City;

2) Ban on ALL Data Projects in the City; and

3) Increased transparency of City Budget & Public Process

Proposed data center in the Pittsburg Technology Park Specific Plan. Source: City of Pittsburg

How to Provide Public Comment

In-Person – Attend the meeting at the listed location. Complete a speaker card or follow the instructions announced at the meeting. When called, approach the podium and provide your comments.

Remote – Use the Zoom participation link for the meeting or call (669) 900-6833, ID: 898 0554 4017. When the item is open for public comment, use the “Raise Hand” feature. When called, unmute your microphone and provide your comments.

For more information about the Coalition email Pittsburgdatacenter@gmail.com and visit Stop Pittsburg Data Center.

Los jóvenes lideran la lucha local contra el projecto del centro de datos

Huelga estudiantil, protesta en el concejo municipal y seguimiento del Comité Asesor Comunitario

QUÉ: Huelga estudiantil, Marcha y Reunión del Concejo Municipal

CUANDO: Lunes 19 de octubre a las 3:15 (Huelga) y Reunión del Concejo Municipal a las 7PM

DÓNDE: 1750 Harbor St, Pittsburg, CA 94565 (Pittsburg High), 65 Civic Avenue (Concejo Municipal)

QUIÉN: para detener el centro de datos de Pittsburg

La Coalición Stop Pittsburg Data Center es un colectivo intergeneracional de familias, educadores, estudiantes, sindicalistas y residentes consolidados de Pittsburg, California, que luchan para detener la construcción de un centro de datos en nuestra ciudad y condado. Desde el viernes 16 de octubre de 2026, nuestra petición inicial había alcanzado casi 30,000 firmas, la mayoría siendo de residentes del condado de Contra Costa. También alzamos la voz de nuestros vecinos con estatus migratorio mixto, personas con discapacidad y trabajadores de bajos ingresos, quienes son los más vulnerables y se ven profundamente afectados por este proyecto municipal.

La última vez que el proyecto del centro de datos AVAIO estuvo en la agenda del Concejo Municipal fue durante una tensa reunión el 3 de agosto, donde la ciudad defendió su decisión de aprobar el proyecto del centro de datos y pidió a los residentes que “confíen en que [el Concejo Municipal] tomó la decisión pensando en el mejor interés de los residentes”. Los residentes de Pittsburg rechazan esa declaración y exigen:

1) Implementar una moratoria legalmente vinculante de 90 días sobre TODAS las fases de los proyectos de centros de datos en la ciudad;

2) Prohibir TODOS los proyectos de datos en la ciudad; y

3) Aumentar la transparencia del presupuesto municipal y del proceso público.

Únete a nosotros para un día de acción impulsado por Estudiantes de la secundaria de Pittsburg: marcharemos desde la entrada de la escuela hasta las puertas del Concejo Municipal de Pittsburg. Más tarde, a las 7PM, el Concejo Municipal revisará un informe del Comité Asesor Comunitario y recibirá recomendaciones sobre los próximos pasos. Miembros de la coalición estarán presentes para expresar sus inquietudes y asegurar que nuestras demandas sean escuchadas y atendidas.

Más información, aqui: StopPittsburgDataCenter.com y Pittsburgdatacenter@gmail.com.

Recent report finds public money subsidizing concert business including at Concord’s Toyota Pavilion, Shoreline Amphitheatre

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Photo: Vanderbilt Policy Accelerator for Political Economy and Regulation

“Sold Out: How state and local governments pay for Live Nation’s monopoly”

“A federal jury found that Live Nation monopolized the amphitheater market, which has led to higher prices and fewer choices for music fans across the country.” – Report Co-Author Brian Shearer

 “This is not a credible report. State and local governments invest in live entertainment because venues are economic engines…” – Live Nation spokesperson. Shares statements on jury verdict and DOJ settlement

By Vanderbilt Policy Accelerator, Vanderbilt University

Concord, CA–A recent analysis published by the Vanderbilt Policy Accelerator for Political Economy and Regulation (VPA) reveals that state and local governments own nearly half of Live Nation’s large outdoor amphitheaters and stadiums and have been subsidizing the company’s live events business to the tune of more than $420 million. The report raises questions about the propriety of local governments devoting significant public resources to a company as large and as powerful as Live Nation, particularly as nearly two-thirds of independent music venues struggle to turn a profit.

The report examines 64 large outdoor amphitheaters and stadiums operated by Live Nation across the country, including Toyota Pavilion at Concord in Concord, CA and Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, CA. VPA’s researchers found that in 30 of 64 instances, these venues are not owned by Live Nation or another private actor. Instead, Live Nation operates buildings owned by state or local governments.

The City of Concord owns the Pavilion, and the City of Mountain View owns Shoreline.

Sections of Live Nation’s venue chart. Source: VPA

These contracts are often never subject to competitive bidding, resulting in highly favorable terms for Live Nation, including cheap rent, the ability to generate revenue by selling naming rights to a government building, and even taxpayer support to build and maintain the properties from which Live Nation profits. Rarely, if ever, do these contracts insist on terms to advance the public interest, such as requirements to operate the venue as an “open room” for artists not promoted by Live Nation, limits on excessive fees, or street pricing for concessions.

In addition, Vanderbilt Policy Accelerator found that at least $420 million in taxpayer money went toward benefiting Live Nation, not including the value of below-market rent or profits from selling naming rights on government buildings.

“A federal jury found that Live Nation monopolized the amphitheater market, which has led to higher prices and fewer choices for music fans across the country,” said Brian Shearer, director of competition and regulatory policy at Vanderbilt Policy Accelerator and a co-author of the report. “But cities and states don’t need to wait for a court order to begin rectifying this problem. They can simply stop financing Live Nation’s venues and evict them from public-owned venues.”

The findings also highlight that government contracting could be a powerful lever for addressing Live Nation’s monopoly. To help local governments build a live music ecosystem that reinvests in local communities rather than enriching a powerful monopoly, the report proposes two potential solutions.

The first, an “outsourcing with conditions” model, would open venue operating contracts to competitive bidding with strict conditions to advance the public interest and a preference for independent venue operators familiar with the unique needs of local communities. The second, a “public D.I.Y.” model, proposes that cities operate their properties through a specially chartered public nonprofit corporation. Both approaches would enable local governments to operate their large venues and advance important public-interest goals while avoiding siphoning taxpayer funds onto the balance sheets of an extractive monopoly.

Read about the report in VPA’s Substack and watch the YouTube video.

Live Nation Responds

In response to the report, a spokesperson for Live Nation wrote, “This is not a credible report. It is a poorly researched and one-sided advocacy piece backed by independent venues who don’t want to compete against new and renovated venues regardless of the benefits to fans and communities. State and local governments invest in live entertainment because venues are economic engines that bring artists, fans, jobs and spending to their communities. Our amphitheaters generate an estimated $5.8 billion in local economic activity and $800 million in municipal taxes each year, while supporting nearly 48,000 jobs. And over the last decade, we’ve invested more than $825 million of our own funds improving these venues.”

In addition, they provided the following facts:

  • $5.8B in estimated annual local economic activity generated outside our amphitheaters by concerts and fans
  • ~$800M annually in municipal taxes from taxable amphitheater revenue streams, including tickets, food & beverage and merchandise
  • 47,609 full- and part-time employees, representing approximately $225M in annual wages
  • $825M+ invested in renovations and improvements across the amphitheater portfolio over the last 10 years
  • ~$450M in rent paid to government landlords across 30 amphitheaters over the last 10 years
  • Public investment in major sports and entertainment venues is commonplace. Recent examples include:
    • Kansas City Chiefs — $1.8B new stadium
    • Tennessee Titans — $1.26B new stadium
    • Washington Commanders — $1.0B new stadium
    • Buffalo Bills — $850M new stadium
    • San Antonio Spurs — $800M new arena
    • Jacksonville Jaguars — $775M stadium renovation

When pressed further and asked about the federal jury findings, Live Nation shared the following statements on the settlement issued on March 9, 2026 and the jury verdict issued on April 15, 2026:

Live Nation Entertainment Reaches Settlement With U.S. Department of Justice

Live Nation Entertainment, Inc., the world’s leading live entertainment company, announced today (March 9, 2026) that the company has reached a settlement with the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) in the antitrust lawsuit brought by the DOJ. The company has consistently maintained that the DOJ’s allegations were without merit, and a portion of the original claims were dismissed by the court before trial began. This settlement will resolve all remaining matters with the DOJ, without any admission of wrongdoing, and the settlement will be reflected in a final proposed judgement that will be submitted to the court for approval.

-Live Nation Entertainment issued the following statement: 

We are pleased to have settled our lawsuit with the United States Department of Justice.

“Today marks a major step in improving the concert experience for artists and fans throughout the United States. Live Nation is proud to lead the way enhancing this experience with our amphitheaters, which will be open to all promoters, allowing these promoters to decide how best to distribute up to 50% of the tickets, and capping ticketing service fees at 15%. By giving artists greater flexibility in choosing their promotional partners and ticketing strategy while also keeping the cost of a concert more affordable for fans, we are putting more power where it should be – with artists and fans,” said Michael Rapino, President and CEO of Live Nation Entertainment.

In addition, Live Nation will be divesting its 13 exclusive booking agreements with amphitheaters nationwide. All owned and operated amphitheaters will continue to be operated by Live Nation as open venues, promoting competition and maximizing show volume.

In ticketing, Ticketmaster will be providing both exclusive and non-exclusive ticketing proposals to all major concert venues, which preserves the rights of venues to seek the type of contracts they preferred over the years while providing the government with restrictions to mitigate their concerns. At the same time, for venues that choose to do so, they may distribute some portion of their tickets through other primary ticketing marketplaces.

“We have never relied on exclusivity to drive our ticketing business, it has simply been the result of having the best products, services and people in the industry. We are happy to take greater steps to empower artists and venues in their ticketing decisions, and are confident we will continue to succeed on the quality of what we deliver,” continued Rapino.

This settlement will also include an eight-year extension of the company’s consent decree with the DOJ, including retaliation and conditioning terms, providing venues ongoing comfort the company does not condone such behavior.

There is no financial component to the settlement with the DOJ. This does not settle the claims of all plaintiffs in the lawsuit, and the company has created a $280 million settlement fund to address the states’ damages claims.

Statement on Jury Verdict

The jury’s verdict is not the last word on this matter. Pending motions will determine whether the liability and damages rulings stand.

Live Nation will soon renew its motion for judgment as a matter of law, which the Court deferred until after the jury returned its verdict. That motion addresses all liability theories. The Court previously noted that Live Nation’s motion raises serious issues.

There is also a pending motion to strike the damages testimony on which the jury’s award was based. The Court deferred ruling on that motion as well, while noting significant concerns with the damages expert’s analysis.

Of course, Live Nation can and will appeal any unfavorable rulings on these motions.

The jury’s award of $1.72 per ticket applies to a limited number of tickets—those sold at 257 venues, which represent about 20% of total tickets—and only to purchases by fans (excluding brokers) in certain states over the past five years. Based on that scope, we believe the aggregate single damages figure would be below $150 million, which would be trebled.  In connection with the DOJ settlement, Live Nation has already accrued $280 million toward state damages and civil penalty claims.

Injunctive relief will be determined by the Court after the states make a remedy proposal, which we expect in the coming weeks. In the meantime, the Tunney Act proceedings regarding the DOJ settlement will continue. We remain confident that the ultimate outcome of the States’ case will not be materially different than what is envisioned by the DOJ settlement.

No Outside Funding for VPA Research, Report

VPA was asked who funded or helped develop their research and how much was contributed financially to the effort.

They responded, “VPA is an independent academic center at Vanderbilt University. There was no outside sponsor for this research, and VPA did not receive any external funding to compile this report.”

City of Concord Studying Report

In response to the report, Colleen Awad, City of Concord Community Relations Manager wrote, “We are now reviewing it, as it was just released, and do not have a comment at this time.”

City of Mountain View Responds

Also in response, Lenka Wright, the City of Mountain View’s Chief Communications Officer in the Communications and Outreach Division of the City Manager’s Office wrote, “Mountain View’s Shoreline Amphitheatre is a premier outdoor concert venue that is operated by Live Nation. Upon entering the initial lease with Live Nation, the City has not paid for any facility upgrades or expansions. Per the lease, these are Live Nation’s expenses and the City Council must approve any recommended facility improvements. The rent that Live Nation pays to the City for Shoreline Amphitheatre operations is also competitive. In addition, the City has retained the naming rights to the venue, unlike some other California jurisdictions named in the report.”

About Live Nation Entertainment

Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE: LYV) is the world’s leading live entertainment company comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts and Live Nation Media & Sponsorship. For additional information, visit www.livenationentertainment.com.

About VPA

The Vanderbilt Policy Accelerator for Political Economy and Regulation (VPA) focuses on cutting-edge topics in political economy and regulation to swiftly bring research, education, and policy proposals from infancy to maturity. To learn more about our work, visit vu.edu/vpa.

Please check back later for any updates.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Halloween Spooktacular at the Century Plaza Shopping Center in Pittsburg Oct. 24

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Free pumpkins and tickets to Maya Cinemas

By The Greater Pittsburg Area Chamber of Commerce

The Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce is bringing the community together for the Halloween Spooktacular at the Century Plaza Shopping Center on Saturday, October 24th, from 9AM to 1PM, and we’d love for your business to be part of it.

This free family event is packed with fun: free pumpkins, jumpies, costume contest, face painting, goody bags, prizes, trick-or-treating at participating businesses, and free Maya Cinemas movie showings for the first 300 guests.

With one free pumpkin going to each of the first 250 families, we expect a big crowd of local families, which makes it a great chance to connect with them face to face.

Sponsored by Sierra Pacific Properties, Inc.

For more information about the Chamber visit Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce.

EggBred unveils “eggstraordinary” culinary experience with Grand Opening in Brentwood Oct. 17

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Photo: Eggbred Brentwood

Breakfast and brunch restaurant

First 50 customers receive BOGO-free burritos or sandwiches, next 100 get a $10 EggBred gift card

By Brittany Satterfield, Director of Marketing, Eggbred International, Inc.

Brentwood, CA – EggBred, the renowned breakfast and brunch destination, is delighted to announce the grand opening of its newest location in the Brentwood community on Saturday, October 17th, 2026. The EggBred team is eager to bring their egg-centric delights and innovative culinary creations to the vibrant community of Brentwood.

Situated at 6740 Lone Tree Way, Unit 2, Brentwood, at the entrance to the WinCo shopping center, the new EggBred location promises to deliver a fresh and exciting dining experience for locals and visitors alike. With a dedication to freshness, every dish is made from scratch, cooked to perfection, and handcrafted with precision. EggBred prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients and cooking everything fresh and from scratch.

The Grand Opening celebration on October 17th kicks off at 7:00 AM with an exciting lineup of giveaways and specials! The first 50 customers will receive BOGO-free burritos or sandwiches, the next 100 customers will get a $10 EggBred gift card, and free coffee will be served all day. Plus, we’re giving away 13 Toastie backpacks, with 3 lucky winners receiving free EggBred for a year!

Guests can look forward to a warm and inviting atmosphere, where they can indulge in EggBred’s signature dishes such as the Chorizo Egg & Cheese Breakfast Burrito and crowd favorites, the Scramble Me Softly Breakfast Sandwich and the Truffle Crunch Burger. Guests can also look forward to sipping on freshly brewed coffee, indulging in cold-pressed juices, and savoring the classic taste of the Mixed Berry Cheesecake Waffle.

“We are thrilled to bring the EggBred experience to Brentwood. Our commitment to serving delicious, high-quality breakfast and brunch options with a creative twist has been the driving force behind our success,” said Albert Shim, CEO of EggBred. “We look forward to becoming an integral part of the Brentwood community and providing a welcoming space for friends and families to enjoy quality food and a memorable dining experience.”

EggBred invites the community to join in the celebration on October 17th and discover the eggstraordinary flavors that have made EggBred a culinary sensation. For more information about EggBred and its menu offerings, please visit EggBred.com/Brentwood or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

About EggBred

EggBred is a culinary destination that celebrates the versatility and deliciousness of eggs. With a commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, EggBred offers a unique and flavorful menu that caters to breakfast and brunch enthusiasts. Each dish is crafted with creativity and passion, ensuring a memorable dining experience for every guest. Learn more at EggBred.com.

Pittsburg Chamber finally pays Antioch security business for Seafood Festival work three years later

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CEO running for Pittsburg City Council

“Just took a little bit longer than expected. But it was paid 100 percent in full.” – Wolfgang Croskey

By Allen D. Payton

According to documents available on the Superior Court of California, Contra Costa County website, a private security company based in Antioch sued The Greater Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce and “Does 1-50” to get paid a little more than $15,000 for providing services to the Pittsburg Seafood Festival in 2023. The annual event was organized by the Chamber for which Wolfgang Croskey, a current Pittsburg City Council candidate, was and is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

While the organization’s new website offers no mention of him, on the page of Croskey’s campaign website entitled, “The Record” he lists, “Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce, CEO 2020 onward.”

In his role as CEO, Croskey signed the agreement with Strategic Threat Management, Inc. in August 2023 for the security services provided to the festival the following month. Yet, Croskey and the Chamber refused to pay, even after being sued and losing in court in 2024, until now.

While the contract total was for $26,561.60, the company sought $15,173.60 in their lawsuit, filed April 23, 2024, and the default judgment was issued and filed a little over a year later, on April 29, 2025. It required the Chamber to also pay the company pretrial interest at an annual rate of 10%, plus, attorneys fees and other costs for a total of $18,555.30.

Asked why the difference between the contract total and amount in the lawsuit, Strategic Threat Management’s president, Lawrence Treat explained, “He paid 50 percent as a deposit.” The additional amount sought in the lawsuit was to cover interest before it was filed. “He totally ghosted us. The judgment was by default. He completely ignored the court.”

On Monday, October 12, 2026, Treat shared with the Herald that Croskey had paid his attorney on Friday which was confirmed today. Asked what Croskey said to him, Treat said, “He didn’t say squat. No apology. It’s an absolute insult. It couldn’t have come at a better time. More important is the principle. You can’t do that to honest people. We’ve been in the community for a long time. It was absolutely uncalled for. It goes to his character. Heaven forbid he ends up in office. He’ll be in charge of city finances.”

“How timely was that?” Treat added asking rhetorically.

When asked why the Chamber didn’t pay Strategic Threat three years after their services were rendered and 18 months after the judgement was issued, Croskey said on Monday, “That’s been taken care of and paid.”

Asked if there was a dispute, he said, “No dispute at all. Just a revenue issue. The last couple of festivals have taken out of the Chamber. We’ve lost the steel mill and Corteva. We’ve lost some major sponsors. It’s been hard. We’ve never disputed the item or their services. The Chamber doesn’t get any money from the City and hasn’t for the past two years.”

The 2024 festival was the final year of the annual event that was first held in 1984.

Asked why the Chamber did not respond to the lawsuit in 2024 Croskey said, “There was nothing to dispute. Just took a little bit longer than expected. But it was paid 100 percent in full.”

See Judgment filed 4-29-25 re Strategic.Pittsburg.

Croskey faces nine other candidates for three council seats in the November election.

53-year-old Florida man arrested for stabbing in Brentwood

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Screenshot from the Brentwood PD CitizenRIMS Crime map. Source: Brentwood PD.

At brewhouse that issued statement they’re “heartbroken by the incident”

Suspect charged with attempted murder, faces up to 9 years in state prison

By Chris Bollinger, Community Engagement Officer, Brentwood Police Department

On Friday, October 2, 2026, at approximately 7:58PM, Brentwood officers were dispatched to the 2000 block of Elkins Way for a report of a stabbing. The address is the location of Four Leg Brewing which issued a statement about the incident Saturday morning.

When officers arrived, they quickly located the suspect, an adult male, 53 years old out of Tallahassee, Florida still on scene.  The suspect was taken into custody without incident.  They also located an adult male victim with several stab wounds to his lower torso.  Officers immediately began to provide medical aid to the victim until medical personnel arrived on scene.  The victim was then transported to a local hospital for further treatment.

The male, who is being treated, is expected to survive. All evidence indicates this was an isolated incident.

This investigation is ongoing and we will not be releasing any further information at this time. If you have any additional information regarding this incident, you can call the Brentwood Police Department Dispatch line at (925) 809-7911.

Four Legs Brewing Issues Statement

Statement by Four Legs Brewing posted on their Facebook page Saturday morning, Oct. 3, 2026.

In a post on their Facebook page Saturday morning, Oct. 3rd, Four Legs Brewing issued the following statement: “Our Four Leggs family is heartbroken by the incident that took place here last night. Our thoughts are with the victim and his loved ones, and we wish him a full and speedy recovery. Brentwood Police have confirmed that this was an isolated incident and that the involved is in custody.

“Our staff is safe, but understandably shaken by what happened. We are incredibly grateful to Brentwood PD for their quick response and to the brave patrons who stepped in to help prevent further harm.

“To everyone who has reached out, checked in on our team, and shown us much love and support, thank you. In difficult moments like these, we are reminded of how much our community means to us. Four Legs has always been about bringing people together, building friendships, and creating a place where everyone feels welcome. We are truly grateful for the kindness and support surrounding us.

“Please take care of one another and always lead with kindness.

“With love, The Four Legs Family.”

The brewhouse also changed their hours for Saturday in a later Facebook post which reads, “Due to the incident that occurred last night we are open today 12pm-6pm. Thank you for understanding” and “We apologize for any inconveniences this may cause, but thank you for your understanding.”

The department’s CitizenRIMS Crime map shows the incident is listed as an assault and felony second degree attempted murder. However, the website’s list of arrests has not yet been updated since Thursday, Oct. 1st and the website’s Media Bulletins have not been updated since Sept. 29th.

The suspect is charged with 664/187(A) PC, attempted second-degree murder which is punishable by 5, 7 or 9 years in state prison, and  417(A)(1) PC, described as, “Every person who, except in self-defense, in the presence of any other person, draws or exhibits any deadly weapon whatsoever, other than a firearm, in a rude, angry, or threatening manner, or who in any manner, unlawfully uses a deadly weapon other than a firearm in any fight or quarrel is guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment in a county jail for not less than 30 days.” Case Number: 2604025 Incident Number: 2610020104

Bollinger was asked for information about the victim and reiterated, “He is a male.” But that is all he could share at this time, pending notification of family.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Cielo Supermarket chooses Pittsburg for their second location

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Owners Fabiola (with scissors) and Hector Gomez are joined by family, employees and representatives of the Pittsburg City Council and Chamber of Commerce to cut the ribbon and officially open their new store on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026. Screenshot of Chamber video.

Family-owned grocer expands from Antioch

Will bring fresh food and new activity to a neighborhood shopping center that has lacked a supermarket for nearly seven years.

By Toni Baldazo, Community Engagement Officer, City of Pittsburg

PITTSBURG, CA – Cielo Supermarket opened its new Pittsburg location in the Highlands Square Shopping Center on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, with a public ribbon cutting event hosted by the Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce, returning a full-service grocery store to a site that has been vacant since 2019.

The family-owned supermarket occupies approximately 25,000 square feet of the former 58,000-square-foot anchor space, which was previously home to Raley’s and later Food Source. The new store will offer fresh produce, a full-service meat department, deli, bakery, juice bar, tortillería, and a taqueria with indoor seating.

“For several years, residents have consistently shared that they wanted a grocery store back in this neighborhood,” said Pittsburg Mayor Dionne Adams. “The City and property owner continued working to find the right fit, and we are pleased to welcome a family-owned business willing to invest in Pittsburg. Cielo’s opening will bring fresh food options, new activity and greater convenience to the community. This is a meaningful win for the neighborhood and our entire city.”

Food Source closed in 2019, leaving the large anchor space without a tenant. In the years that followed, the City and property owner Sierra Pacific Properties continued working to recruit another grocery operator. Community members added their voices through sustained advocacy, including a rally organized to show grocery chains the demand and support waiting for them in Pittsburg.

Those efforts gained momentum when discussions with Cielo began in 2024. In October 2025, the Pittsburg City Council unanimously approved a targeted $120,000 economic development incentive to help move the project forward. The package included a $77,500 building permit fee credit and a performance-based rebate equal to 50% of the City’s quarterly sales-tax receipts from the store, capped at $42,500.

Source: Cielo Supermarket

Cielo Supermarket is owned and operated by the Gomez-Ayala family, which has more than 30 years of experience serving Contra Costa County’s grocery customers. Hector and Fabiola Gomez founded Cielo in 2021, opening the company’s first location in Antioch that year. The Pittsburg store will be Cielo’s second location, and its flagship.

“We have heard from Pittsburg residents how much they have missed having a grocery store in this location, and our family is honored to be part of bringing it back,” said Fabiola Gomez, co-founder of Cielo Supermarket. “We are grateful for the welcome we have received from the community, the City and Sierra Pacific Properties. Our team can’t wait to open the doors, meet our new neighbors, and serve Pittsburg with fresh food, authentic flavors and the family atmosphere that defines Cielo.”

The opening of Cielo Supermarket will be the second full-service grocery store to open in Pittsburg in the past 14 months, following on the heels of Sprouts Farmer’s Market, which opened in June 2025.

See video of grand opening and ribbon cutting.

Cielo Supermarket’s Pittsburg location is open at 1375 Buchanan Road. Additional information about Cielo is available at www.cielosupermarket.com or visit www.facebook.com/cielosupermarket.

 

 

Good Roots Psychotherapy celebrates third location with Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting Sept. 24

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PLEASANT HILL, CA – The Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce will celebrate the opening of Good Roots Psychotherapy’s third location with a ribbon cutting on Thursday, September 24, at 4:30 p.m. The event will take place at 395 Taylor Blvd., Suite 205 in Pleasant Hill.

Owned by Dina Castrillo, Good Roots Psychotherapy is a collective group of Marriage and Family Therapists, Ph. Ds, Clinical Social Workers, and Associate Interns working in their own private practices within the leasing cloud of Good Roots Psychotherapy offices, providing mental health services for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. The practice brings together a team of mental health professionals with a variety of specialties and approaches.

The new location marks an exciting expansion for Good Roots Psychotherapy and its growing presence in the local community, adding to their existing location in Pleasant Hill and another in Walnut Creek. The ribbon cutting will also celebrate the practice’s new membership with the Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber members, local businesses, community leaders, friends, and residents are invited to attend and help welcome Dina Castrillo and the Good Roots Psychotherapy team to the Chamber. Guests will have an opportunity to celebrate the growing business, connect with fellow community members, and show their support for a growing local business.

For more information about Good Roots Psychotherapy, visit goodrootspsychotherapy.com.

The Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce is proud to welcome Good Roots Psychotherapy to its membership and celebrate the continued growth of local businesses in our community.

For more information about the Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce visit www.pleasanthillchamber.com.