Contra Costa Herald

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

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.

Pleasant Hill Chamber partnership expands HR resources for local businesses

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Graphic source: studyacademy.co.uk

HR Executive Compliance Council provides members with professional education, expanded workforce, resources while positioning Pleasant Hill as an East Bay hub for business education and networking

By Jeremy Carlson, Executive Director, Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce & Marci Trevino, Founder and President, HR Executive Compliance Council

PLEASANT HILL, Calif. – Small and mid-sized businesses throughout Pleasant Hill and the greater Bay Area will gain expanded access to professional human resources education, employment-law updates and compliance resources through a new partnership between the Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce and the HR Executive Compliance Council (HREXCC).

Under the partnership, Pleasant Hill Chamber members will receive one year of complimentary membership in the HR Executive Compliance Council, providing access to the Council’s educational programming, including expert-led webinars, legal and regulatory updates, leadership development and opportunities to connect with HR, legal and business professionals.

The partnership addresses a challenge faced by many small and mid-sized businesses: employers are expected to navigate an increasingly complex employment and regulatory environment without necessarily having the internal HR departments, legal resources or compliance teams available to larger organizations.

“Small businesses don’t get a different set of employment laws simply because they’re small,” said Jeremy Carlson, Executive Director of the Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce. “Too often, an HR or compliance issue doesn’t receive the attention it needs until it becomes a much larger and potentially costly problem. Our goal is to give our members access to high-level education and resources before they reach that point. This partnership is exactly what we mean when we talk about creating greater value from Chamber membership.”

The HR Executive Compliance Council is a California not for profit organization founded and led by President Marci Trevino. The organization provides practical employment and labor-law education, with particular emphasis on California’s rapidly changing regulatory environment, alongside leadership development and professional peer networking.

The Council’s programming serves executives, HR professionals, business owners and emerging leaders, with sessions led by attorneys and subject-matter experts.

“Our mission has always been about giving business and HR leaders practical knowledge they can actually use,” said Marci Trevino, Founder and President of the HR Executive Compliance Council. “Partnering with the Pleasant Hill Chamber allows us to bring that education to an even broader business community while creating a place where professionals can learn from experts and from one another. Jeremy and I both call Pleasant Hill home, and we see tremendous potential for this community to become a gathering point for business education, professional development and meaningful connections throughout the Greater Bay.”

Building a Regional Business and Education Hub

The partnership extends beyond providing HREXCC membership to Chamber members.

The two organizations will collaborate on Chamber initiatives involving internships, employment opportunities, workforce development, job search and talent connections, as well as future educational and networking programs.

Together, the organizations have a larger objective: to establish Pleasant Hill as a central hub for business education, professional resources and networking in the East Bay and greater Bay Area.

“Pleasant Hill is exceptionally well positioned for this,” Carlson said. “We’re at the center of an incredibly active business corridor, and we have an opportunity to create a place, both physically and virtually, where businesses from throughout the region can come to learn, make connections, find resources and develop their workforce. We don’t want every Chamber program to stop at the city limits. When we can bring businesses from throughout the Bay Area into Pleasant Hill while simultaneously giving our own members access to a larger professional network, everyone benefits.”

The partnership also supports the Chamber’s continuing effort to expand both membership and the value provided to existing members. The Pleasant Hill Chamber currently represents businesses and organizations, with continued membership growth among its priorities.

Rather than attempting to independently duplicate specialized professional resources, the Chamber is increasingly developing relationships with organizations that already possess deep expertise and making those resources more accessible to its members.

“Partnerships should create something tangible,” Carlson added. “This one does. A Pleasant Hill Chamber member isn’t simply joining another business organization. They’re gaining access to professional education and expertise that can help them operate a stronger, better-informed business. That’s the kind of value we want Chamber membership to represent.”

Source: HRECC

First Joint Program Set for January 2027

The organizations’ first major joint program will take place January 27, 2027, at National University in Pleasant Hill, with a California Legal Update focused on employment and workplace issues businesses should be preparing for in the new year.

The full-day program will bring together business owners, executives, HR professionals, managers and other organizational leaders for timely education surrounding California’s evolving employment and regulatory environment.

In addition to the primary legal update programming, the event will feature multiple breakout rooms offering focused educational and professional-development sessions, giving attendees opportunities to explore specific workplace, leadership, compliance and organizational topics in greater depth.

The program will conclude with an evening networking mixer, providing attendees, presenters and participating organizations an opportunity to continue conversations and build professional connections following the day’s educational sessions. Lunch and admission to the evening mixer are included with event registration, with a no-host bar available during the mixer.

A limited number of complimentary registrations will be available for HR professionals, and early registration is encouraged due to limited availability. HREXCC members participating through the Pleasant Hill Chamber partnership will also receive complimentary admission to the event. General admission for non-members will be $100 per person, which includes the day’s educational programming, lunch and evening mixer.

The event will also feature a Strategic Partner Exhibition, connecting attendees with organizations and service providers offering resources, expertise and solutions relevant to employers, HR professionals and business leaders. A limited number of exhibition tables will be available, creating an opportunity for strategic partners to participate directly in the day’s program and engage with attendees throughout the event.

Hosting the program at National University in Pleasant Hill further advances the partnership’s broader goal of establishing Pleasant Hill as a regional destination for business education, workforce development and professional connection.

“This is exactly the kind of program we want to bring to Pleasant Hill,” Carlson said. “It goes beyond gathering people in a room for a presentation. We’re creating an environment where business owners, executives and HR professionals can learn from experts, explore subjects in greater depth, discover resources and build relationships with one another. Having National University serve as our host gives us the educational setting and space to bring all of those elements together.”

Additional educational programs, webinars, professional-development opportunities, cooperative networking events and workforce initiatives are expected to follow as the partnership develops.

Through the collaboration, the Chamber and HREXCC envision Pleasant Hill becoming an increasingly important destination for business owners, executives and HR professionals seeking education, resources and professional connections throughout the East Bay and greater Bay Area.

About the Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce

The Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce works to strengthen the local business community through advocacy, connections, professional development, community engagement, strategic partnerships and programs designed to create opportunities for businesses to grow and thrive. Through its members, Board of Directors and community partners, the Chamber works to connect business, government and community while supporting a strong and vibrant Pleasant Hill. For more information visit www.pleasanthillchamber.com.

About the HR Executive Compliance Council

The HR Executive Compliance Council is a California not for profit organization providing HR and business leaders with practical employment and labor-law education, leadership development, regulatory updates and professional networking. Its programming helps organizations navigate complex workplace challenges and evolving regulatory requirements while strengthening leadership and organizational decision-making. For more information visit www.higherresources.org.

Walnut Creek company forms strategic partnership to advance technology-driven athlete development

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Source: COPA Innovation Labs

COPA Innovation Laboratories, another Mark Hall venture, joins forces with Shoot 360

By COPA Innovation Laboratories

Walnut Creek, CA – Shoot 360, the leader in technology-powered basketball training, and COPA Innovation Laboratories, a sports innovation company operating at the intersection of athlete development, technology and human performance, today announced a strategic partnership designed to advance technology-driven athlete development and support the continued growth of both organizations.

As part of the partnership, COPA Innovation Laboratories, together with its investment subsidiary COPA Venture Capital, led a $7 million growth funding round in Shoot 360. The partnership of the two Walnut Creek-based companies brings together complementary expertise in sports technology, athlete assessment, performance analytics, franchising and business growth.

Founded in 2012 by Craig Moody, Shoot 360 combines immersive, technology-powered basketball training with performance-tracking software. The company has grown to more than 65 locations across the U.S. and internationally, including a location in Walnut Creek’s Shadelands, with a significant pipeline in development and partnerships with several NBA teams.

Source: Shoot 360

COPA Innovation Laboratories develops and operates a portfolio of sports, wellness and technology businesses, including COPA Soccer Training Centers, including a location in Walnut Creek at the Shadelands Sports Mall, and COPA Venture Capital. Its platforms combine objective athlete assessment, sports science, performance data, technology and real-world training environments to support athlete development.

“From day one, our mission has been to change the way kids and athletes experience the game. Shoot 360 makes training feel as engaging as the sports and video games they already love,” said Craig Moody, Founder and President of Shoot 360. “This investment gives us the resources to bring that experience to more communities, accelerate our technology, and give more athletes the ability to understand their progress in real time. COPA understands both the science of athlete development and the business of scaling it, making them an ideal partner for our next chapter.”

The COPA Soccer Training Center at the Shadelands Sports Mall in Walnut Creek. Photo source: CBC Steel Buildings.

“What makes this partnership exciting is the complementary expertise each organization brings,” said Mark Hall, CEO and Founder of COPA Innovation Laboratories. “COPA has invested heavily in athlete assessment, performance data, and development, while Shoot 360 has built an impressive technology platform and proven franchise model. By bringing those strengths together, we see an opportunity to accelerate innovation, strengthen both platforms, and ultimately create better experiences for athletes.”

As youth sports increasingly embrace technology-driven training and measurable athlete development, Shoot 360 and COPA Innovation Laboratories will explore collaboration across technology, athlete assessment, performance analytics, franchising, and business expansion, while leveraging COPA’s broader sports and real estate ecosystem, including with COPA affiliate, National SportsMall Realty, to support future growth.

About Shoot 360

Shoot 360 is the world’s premier high-tech basketball training, competition, and entertainment platform. Combining machine vision, real-time analytics, and immersive gamification, Shoot 360 transforms how players train, compete, and connect. With more than 65 franchise locations across North America, Europe, Asia, and a rapidly growing global presence, Shoot 360 is reimagining the future of the game. To learn more about Shoot 360, visit www.shoot360.com. To learn more about franchise opportunities, visit https://shoot360franchise.com/.

About COPA Innovation Laboratories

COPA Innovation Laboratories is a sports innovation company building, operating, and investing in businesses at the intersection of sports, technology, and human performance. Through its portfolio of companies, COPA Innovation Laboratories combines expertise in athlete assessment, performance data and analytics, sports technology, training, business development, and investment to create and scale innovative platforms that advance athlete development. COPA Innovation Laboratories is a business founded and owned by California based entrepreneur, Mark D. Hall, and is affiliated with other Hall owned business ventures including Hall Equities Group, ZMC Hotels, and National SportsMall Realty among others. To learn more, visit www.copainnovationlabs.com.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

 

Nékter San Marco Juice Bar to celebrate Grand Opening in Pittsburg Sept. 19

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Enter to win 4 Weeks of FREE Nékter

By Riley Garner, The Zest Lab, on behalf of Nékter

Pittsburg, CA – Nékter Juice Bar is celebrating its new Pittsburg location with a Grand Opening Celebration on September 19 from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at 2261 W. Leland Road in Pittsburg, CA. The celebration will begin with an official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 11:00 AM, welcoming the community to experience Nékter’s fresh, handcrafted menu and commitment to healthy living.

Guests are invited to enjoy exclusive Grand Opening offers, enter to win wellness-focused prizes, and connect with local businesses and community members dedicated to helping Pittsburg live healthier, happier lives.

To celebrate the Grand Opening, guests can receive a FREE Protein Waffle with a $25 purchase and enter for the chance to win 4 Weeks of FREE Nékter – one smoothie per week for four weeks.

Nékter San Marco offers a variety of products. Sources: Nékter website and video screenshots, Nékter San Marco Instagram

The celebration will also showcase artwork created by local students as part of Nékter’s Student Art Challenge. Participating students will have their artwork displayed during the Grand Opening and receive a FREE Mini Iconic Smoothie when they attend the event.

Beyond the giveaways, the celebration is an opportunity for Nékter to connect with local businesses, community leaders, and residents around a shared commitment to health and wellness.

“After being part of this community for the past 12 years, opening a Nékter Juice Bar here feels incredibly special to us. We’ve had the privilege of getting to know so many people in this community, and we’re excited to bring something new that we hope will become a part of their everyday lives. We look forward to creating a welcoming place where people can enjoy fresh, healthy food and drinks, connect with friends and family, and feel at home. Most importantly, we’re grateful for the continued support of this community and excited for what’s ahead,” said Hena and Farukh Munir, owners of Nékter San Marco Juice Bar.

Nékter Sweet & Savory Waffles. Source: Nékter website

The new Pittsburg location will offer dine-in seating, free Wi-Fi, and online ordering through the Nékter app, providing a welcoming space for guests looking to incorporate more wellness into their daily routine.

Community members are encouraged to attend the Grand Opening celebration, meet the owners, experience Nékter’s menu, and help welcome one of Pittsburg’s newest local businesses.

For more information about the Grand Opening, visit https://locations.nekterjuicebar.com/ll/us/ca/pittsburg/2261-w-leland-rd/ or follow @NekterSanMarco and @NekterJuiceBar on social media.

About Nékter Juice Bar

Founded in 2010, Nékter Juice Bar is a leading lifestyle brand celebrated for its unwavering dedication to providing clean, fresh and truly healthy superfood smoothies, açaí bowls, cold-pressed juices, cleanses, and nourishing snacks, including its new line of protein waffles. The brand quickly emerged as a trailblazer in menu transparency and ingredient integrity, catering to America’s growing demand for plant-based and wholesome food options that align with diverse lifestyles and dietary needs.

At Nékter, “healthy” is not just a promise—it’s an experience that tastes great, is easily accessible, and inspires anyone seeking to add more wellness into their lives. Guests don’t just taste the difference—they love the way they feel knowing they’re enjoying food just as nature intended—but blended! For more information, visit www.NekterJuiceBar.com or follow @NekterJuiceBar on Instagram, Facebook and X, and @NekterJuiceBarOfficial on TikTok.

Meet Scoot™! Safeway NorCal’s furry new Ambassador for Savings and Goodwill

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Source: Safeway

Lovable new mascot will bring fun, fresh ideas and a helping hand to Safeway shoppers, stores and community events

By Kent Streeb, Director of Public Affairs & Communications, Safeway Northern California Division

PLEASANTON, Calif. – There’s a fuzzy new face zipping through Safeway aisles that shoppers will soon be seeing often. Safeway Northern California Market introduced Scoot™, the market’s lovable new mascot and goodwill ambassador. Fun, furry and always ready to help, Scoot will guide shoppers toward great savings, fresh finds and family-friendly fun at Safeway stores and community events throughout Northern California, Northern Nevada and Hawaii.

With bright red fur, a leafy green sprout, signature Safeway visor, and red sneakers, Scoot is easy to spot and hard to forget. Scoot loves kids, people and lending a helping hand. Scoot will appear at community events, support hunger-relief initiatives, champion charitable causes and create memorable experiences for children and families. Whether Scoot is pointing shoppers toward a can’t-miss deal, sharing a healthy fresh dinner idea, or greeting families at a neighborhood celebration, Scoot’s mission is simple: make shopping more helpful, more rewarding and a whole lot more fun.

“Scoot may be new, but what Scoot represents has been a part of Safeway for generations: helping people save money, serving neighborhoods and making quality, fresh food and products easier to find,” said Kelly Mullin, Regional President of Marketing and Merchandising for Albertsons Companies California Region. “Scoot brings that spirit to life in a joyful new way. We believe Scoot will quickly become a familiar and beloved friend to children, families and shoppers throughout the communities we serve.”

Your Shortcut to Savings & Fresh Finds

Scoot will serve as a friendly guide at Safeway, helping shoppers discover:

  • Special savings and featured promotions
  • Peak-season produce and fresh food favorites
  • Freshest dinner ideas
  • New products and unexpected finds
  • Opportunities to support local communities and important causes

Shoppers will encounter Scoot in Safeway advertising, on social media, at pop-ins to stores, and at special events.  Scoot will help point customers toward featured offers, digital coupons and some of Safeway’s biggest deals.

Showing Up for the Community

Like Safeway, Scoot’s role will extend well beyond the grocery aisle. In 2025, Safeway in Northern California donated $55 million in food and financial support to charitable organizations serving local communities. From food drives and charitable campaigns, to store celebrations and family events, Scoot will bring energy, smiles and a spirit of service to community appearances that will reinforce Safeway’s longstanding commitment to supporting local organizations and helping our neighbors in need. To celebrate Scoot’s arrival, Safeway will donate $5,000 to a local nonprofit.

Follow Scoot’s Adventures

Follow Scoot on Instagram and TikTok at @safewaysscoot for savings tips, fresh discoveries, community appearances and behind-the-scenes fun.

ScootTM word and design trademarks are owned by subsidiaries of Albertsons Companies, Inc.

About Safeway

Safeway is one of the most well-recognized grocery retail brands with a long-standing reputation for quality and service, proudly serving Northern California since 1926. Today, the company operates over 283 stores across Northern California, Nevada and Hawaii, under various banners, including Andronico’s, Safeway, and Pak N’ Save.

24th Annual MRC-MEF Run for Education in Martinez Sept. 27

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During “Run for Education Week” beginning Monday, September 21

Help us cross the $2 million mark!

By Martinez Education Foundation

Get ready to run, walk or roll through Downtown Martinez on Sunday, September 27, for the 24th Annual MRC-MEF Run for Education! This community event brings people together to raise money for the Martinez Education Foundation (MEF) and directly supports Martinez Unified School District (MUSD) schools. The Alhambra High School Marching Band and Color Guard kick off the morning with music and school spirit for hundreds of students, educators, families and community members. This year’s Run features a logo designed by Alhambra High student Nayelie Rodrigez, which will appear on participant t-shirts.

Since 2003, the Run for Education has raised more than $1.9 million to support programs and resources for MUSD students such as technology, reading, science, art, math, and music. With this year’s event, organizers expect the Run’s cumulative fundraising total to surpass $2 million for local education. Among the many grant recipients, Alhambra High School received calculators for their Science Department. Biology and AP Environmental Science Teacher, Emily Ferrairo says, “The calculators are used all the time in our classrooms, especially in chemistry, physics, and AP Environmental Science classes. The grant eased my teaching duties because now students don’t have to use their Chromebooks to calculate problems and can use the calculator which removes the barrier of students trying to plug it all into their computer. Students are very thankful for the calculators and ask to use them all the time!”

Photo: MEF

John Swett Elementary teacher, Katie Page, says her grant has made a positive impact on her students’ music experience, “I have more instruments and a whole set up for school concerts. I am so grateful! My students love the new drums and Ukuleles, and I am loving my new keyboard for whole class instruction.”

What’s been termed “Run for Education Week” starts on Monday, September 21 with the MRC-MEF Fairways Fore! Futures Golf Tournament. MRC underwrites the cost of the Run and Golf Tournament. The total amount of money raised for MEF will be revealed on Race Day by Refinery Manager, Bevan Lewis, who says, “Our refinery is proud to have supported education in Martinez for decades. The Run for Education is a special tradition, and we’re grateful to our Contract Partners for their generous sponsorship of the Run and golf tournament. Supporting education is one of the most important investments we make in our community.”

MEF President and Race Director, Jack Funk points out, “Every year I am overwhelmed with the joy and support that the Martinez community has for its schools and students.  Our lead sponsor, The Martinez Refining Company, has taken that support to a whole new level with direct corporate donations to the Martinez Education Foundation and its extremely productive solicitation of the many businesses who donate to MEF through our Golf event as well as the Run itself.  We have tremendous gratitude to our sponsors but also to the hundreds of participants and volunteers that make this the wonderful community event that it has become.”

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to have fun and support Martinez Unified schools.

MRC-MEF Run for Education – Sunday, September 27, 2026

  • Start Time: 8:30 a.m. at Ward Street near Estudillo Street
  • Registration: Online https://www.martinezedfoundation.org/run-for-education/or in-person on event day
  • MUSD Students: Run free! (Discount is applied on the registration page automatically based on the entered date of birth.)
  • Volunteers Needed: Sign up at ca_mccauley@comcast.net
  • Student Volunteers: Sign up here.
  • Participants and spectators are encouraged to share their experience using #mrcmefrun.

Thank you to our sponsors and community partners who support the Run:

Emerald Sponsors, $5,000+

Air Liquide, Air Products and Chemicals, Inc., Brand Safway, Cust-O-Fab, Global Scaffolding, Harder Mechanical, HPC Industrial Services, KAP Project Services, North Coast Carpenters, Nooter, Roux Associates, Schultz Industrial Services, Stronghold Companies, UA Local 342, USA DeBusk, Worley

Diamond Circle Sponsors $2,500+

Evergreen
Platinum Sponsors $1,000+

Delta Tech, EUV Tech, Mangan, Nuvision Credit Union, Overaa, Shell Western States Credit Union, Worley

Gold Sponsors $500+

1st Northern California Credit, Travis Clauson

In kind donations provided by: Bill’s Ace Hardware, Martinez Police Department, Martinez Public Works, Martinez CERT, Martinez Unified School District.

For more information about the Martinez Education Foundation visit www.martinezedfoundation.org.

Weekly farmers market returns to Pittsburg Sept. 2

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By Toni Baldazo, Community Engagement Officer, City of Pittsburg

Big things are happening in Pittsburg, and we would love for you to join us tomorrow as we kick off our weekly Pittsburg Farmers’ Market at the City Hall Lawn, starting Wednesday, September 2 from 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM.

The market will feature more than 20 vendors offering fresh produce, prepared foods, baked goods, coffee, flowers, local products and more. It’s another exciting opportunity to showcase the growth, activity and community connections happening throughout Pittsburg.

Organized by Pacific Coast Farmers Market Association, rain or shine, all year long, we are so excited to bring back our local farmers, artisans and business owners to this Farmers Market.

City Hall Lawn is located at 65 Civic Avenue.

For any questions, please contact info@communityfarmersadvocate.org.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

BBB warns Bay Area consumers about BG Wealth Sharing and DSJ Exchange investment operation

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Adults age 65 and older lost almost $70,000

By Alma Galvan, Regional Marketing & Communications Director, Better Business Bureau San Francisco Bay Area

SAN FRANCISCO, CA — Better Business Bureau (BBB) is warning consumers about an alleged cryptocurrency investment operation involving BG Wealth Sharing LTD and the DSJ Exchange platform.

Since May 2026 BBB has received several Scam Tracker reports from local Bay Area consumers who reported losing a combined $69,706.60. All reports were submitted by adults age 65 or older from Alameda and San Francisco counties.

According to the reports, consumers were introduced to the opportunity through relatives, friends, or local recruiters. Four consumers reported attending presentations at a Denny’s restaurant in Hayward, where participants were shown how to open and fund accounts and use trading “signals” or codes on the DSJ Exchange platform.

Consumers reported initially depositing between $2,000 and $5,000 through cash or cryptocurrency. Some said they gave cash to another participant or intermediary who converted it to cryptocurrency and funded their DSJ account.

The consumers described seeing their account balances increase as they copied and pasted trading codes provided through an online group. Some reported being promised daily returns, bonuses, or additional trading signals for recruiting new participants.

When consumers attempted to withdraw their earnings, however, they reported that withdrawals were frozen or unavailable. Several said they were instructed to pay an additional “tax” equal to 12% of the total balance displayed in their account before their funds could be released.

One consumer reported that a $5,000 initial deposit appeared to grow to more than $24,600. The consumer was then instructed to pay nearly $3,000 more before attempting a withdrawal. The consumer refused to pay and reported being unable to access the displayed balance.

“Consumers should never have to send additional money or cryptocurrency to pay a supposed tax before withdrawing their own funds,” said Alma Galvan, Regional Marketing and Communications Director for BBB SF Bay Area. “A growing balance displayed on an investment platform does not necessarily mean that the money exists or can be withdrawn. Be especially cautious when an opportunity relies on recruiting friends and family or promises unusually consistent returns.”

The reports received by BBB are consistent with concerns raised by securities regulators in several states. The Texas State Securities Board issued an emergency cease-and-desist order involving BG Wealth Sharing and DSJ Exchange, alleging an operation that used recruitment incentives, misleading account dashboards, withdrawal restrictions, and demands for an additional 12% “exit tax” or “compliance fee.”

The State of Hawaii also issued a preliminary cease-and-desist order alleging that BG Wealth Sharing and certain promoters solicited and offered unregistered securities. Securities regulators in Utah and Washington have issued investor warnings regarding BG Wealth Sharing and DSJ Exchange.

BBB cautions that this warning concerns BG Wealth Sharing LTD and the DSJ Exchange platform described in the reports and regulatory actions. It should not be confused with unrelated businesses that use similar names.

BBB recommends the following precautions:

  • Verify the investment and seller are properly registered.
  • Be skeptical of guaranteed or unusually consistent returns.
  • Research opportunities independently, even when recommended by someone you trust.
  • Avoid investments that reward recruitment.
  • Never give cash to someone to invest on your behalf.
  • Do not pay additional taxes or fees to withdraw funds.
  • Be cautious of unfamiliar platforms; displayed profits may be fabricated.

Consumers who believe they have lost money should immediately stop sending funds and contact their bank, cryptocurrency exchange, or payment provider. Preserve screenshots, messages, transaction records, wallet addresses, receipts, and information about anyone involved. BBB encourages consumers to submit scram reports to:

Victims should also be alert for recovery scams. Individuals claiming that they can hack a blockchain, retrieve cryptocurrency, or recover lost funds in exchange for an upfront payment may be attempting to victimize them a second time.

ABOUT BBB: Better Business Bureau‘s mission is to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust by setting standards for ethical business behavior, encouraging and supporting best practices, celebrating marketplace role models, calling out and addressing substandard marketplace behavior, and creating a community of trustworthy businesses and charities.