Contra Costa Herald

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

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 “A growing balance displayed on an investment platform does not necessarily mean that the money exists or can be withdrawn.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.

 

Former Pleasant Hill Tourism district V.P. faces felony grand theft embezzlement, bribery charges

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Viola Ncube. Source: LinkedIn

Following $55,000 loss, year-long investigation; worked remotely

By Pleasant Hill Police Department

After a year-long criminal investigation, felony charges have been filed against a former employee for the Pleasant Hill Tourism Improvement District, known as Visit Pleasant Hill, in connection with an embezzlement and bribery scheme.

In July 2025, the City of Pleasant Hill received a report from a contracted company regarding possible fraud involving former Tourism Improvement District Vice President of Sales and Marketing Sibongile Viola Ncube. The Pleasant Hill Police Department subsequently began an investigation.

The Pleasant Hill Police Department determined that Ncube overcharged invoices and bills paid by the Tourism Improvement District (PHTID) and received unauthorized monetary kickbacks. The fraudulent activity occurred between September 2022 and July 2025 and resulted in an estimated loss of approximately $55,000.

The Pleasant Hill Police Department requested assistance from the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office, including a forensic review of bank statements and related financial records. Following its review, on July 24, the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office filed two felony charges against Ncube, 641.3(a) PC – Commercial Bribery and 508 PC – Grand Theft Embezzlement.

Ncube is scheduled to be arraigned in court later this month.

The PHTID was formed by the City Council in January 2017. According to the Visit Pleasant Hill 2024-25 Annual Report the District assesses all lodging businesses available for public occupancy located within the boundaries of the City of Pleasant Hill. According to the organization’s LinkedIn profile, it is the “Destination marketing organization advancing Pleasant Hill’s visitor economy,” which, according to their Facebook page, “provides official visitor information and promotes local businesses, experiences, and events in Pleasant Hill, CA.”

According to her LinkedIn profile, Ncube worked in the position with Visit Pleasant Hill remotely from May 2023 to August 2025, after starting as Director of Sales & Marketing from April 2020 to April 2023. She has since worked remotely on a contract as Director – AI, Sales & Marketing for Aspire Hospitality from Aug. to Oct. 2025 and now works as Director of Sales & Marketing Omni Hotels & Resorts, full-time since Oct. 2025.

She earned a MBA in Hotel, Restaurant & Tourism Management from Oxford Brookes University in 2003 and an Associate’s degree in Hospitality, Restaurant & Tourism Management from City St George’s, University of London in 2000. Ncube also earned a credential in Advanced AI in Marketing from the Digital Marketing Institute in 2025 and a Diversity Equity and Inclusion Certified Professional from Destinations International Issued in 2022.

Her Facebook page shows Ncube’s last post was in June 2025. It also shows she lives in Los Angeles, is the Founder and CEO of My Black Beauty Box and The Black Book Consultant, still works for Visit Pleasant Hill, and references the Bible verse Isaiah 55:5.

According to an undated report by Black Meetings & Tourism, “Viola has held VP and Director roles specializing in the luxury hotel brands, holding key positions such as Regional Sales Manager with Accor Hotels (3200 hotels), then moving to Director of Sales with the prestigious hotel group Red Carnations (16 global hotels) before joining US based L.E. Hotels (400+hotels) as Director of Business Development – EMEA. Viola then joined the luxury Pineapple Hotels firm as Director of Corporate Sales before being head-hunted in 2011 to set-up Global Hospitality Services for a private investor, a hotel sales & marketing representation company, where she held the position of Vice President.

“Viola Ncube founded The Black Book Consultant in 2017, a boutique full-service management, sales & marketing consulting agency specializing in a curated selection of luxury hotels and DMO’s worldwide. The Black Book Consultant has since acquired several contracts within its first few years of operation, including managing the $300 million dollar opening of Svart.no and Melody Maker Cancun. Viola is currently contracted as VP of Sales & Marketing with Stay Pleasant Hill, the tourism district for the city of Pleasant Hill, CA.

“In 2012, Viola founded iROCK! UK, a social enterprise, an empowerment program, mentoring women into employment & business enterprise.”

The Pleasant Hill Police Department extends its appreciation to the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office for its thorough forensic review and assistance throughout the investigation.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Stories in the Square – The Pittsburg Community Book Exchange Aug. 22

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By Dr. Sharifa Akila Trinay Parr, CEO, Revision Publishing, LLC

On Saturday, August 22, 2026, RP Books is partnering with the City of Pittsburg, the Pittsburg Library, H.A.L.O. Angel Ears, It’s Time to Read and the Children’s Book Project to host Stories in the Square—a massive, free community book exchange and literacy celebration. Our goal is to transform John Buckley Square into an outdoor reading hub where every book can find a new reader!

We would love your help spreading the word to the community so they can join in, pick up some free books, or donate to the exchange.

Event Highlights:

  • The Community Book Exchange: Attendees are encouraged to browse and take books home for free. The Children’s Book Project provided free books specifically for children (while supplies last).
  • In-Store Family Activities: Inside RP Books, we will have a packed schedule of free activities, including:
    • A reading confidence session facilitated by H.A.L.O. Angel Ears (reading assistance dogs) at 11:00 AM.
    • A special Story Time at 12:00 PM with guest author/illustrator ZaRinah T. Perry, reading her book If Elephants Had Wings.
    • An interactive reading of Too Much Glue hosted by Simone Delk, director of It’s Time to Read, at 1:00 PM, followed by a hands-on art activity for kids.
  • Outdoor Reading: Families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and picnic lunches to enjoy reading together in John Buckley Square.

How the Community Can Get Involved:

  • Attend & Pick Up Books: The event is completely free and open to the public from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. No donations are required to come and take books home!
  • Donate Books: We are inviting families, book clubs, and local organizations to bring new or gently used books to RP Books between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM on the day of the event. For those bringing large donations (20+ books), we ask that they register their donation in advance here to help us prepare.

Event Details at a Glance:

  • What: Stories in the Square – The Pittsburg Community Book Exchange hosted by RP Books
  • When: Saturday, August 22 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Where: RP Books – 485 Railroad Avenue, Pittsburg, adjacent John Buckley Square
  • Cost: Free

RP Books of Revision Publishing, LLC, is more than a bookstore; we are a community-focused cultural hub operating under Revision Publishing LLC in Old Town Pittsburg, CA. We are proud to carry forward the rich legacy of the former Railroad Book Depot, building upon its foundation to serve a new generation of readers and writers. We are black-owned, woman-owned and community-centered.

H.A.L.O. (Homeless Animals Lifeline Organization) Angel Ears Reading Education Assistance Dog (READ) teams volunteer in East Bay, CA county libraries and work with children to improve their reading confidence.

It’s Time To Read is a specialized reading program in Contra Costa County which guides children from TK through second grade on their journey to becoming confident, enthusiastic readers. Through personalized attention and proven techniques, we help young learners build the strong literacy foundations they need to succeed in school and beyond.

Children’s Book Project gives books or free to children from under-resourced communities who need them for literacy, learning and life and is committed to closing the opportunity gap and lifting up our community by raising readers and ultimately paving the way for lifelong learning and literacy.

The Contra Costa County Library Pittsburg branch is located at 80 Power Avenue, Pittsburg and is open Tuesdays through Saturdays.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Contra Costa businesses receive support from Alameda County Board of Supervisors for ultra-light rail freight and transit system, underground utility “SuperGrid”

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Renderings source: CyberTran International, Inc.

Richmond’s CyberTran International, Inc., EarthGrid, UC Berkeley’s PATH, San Ramon’s Manex announce major achievement signaling new era of freight rail innovation and development, East Bay job creation

Richmond, CA – The Alameda County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, officially and unanimously adopted a resolution in support of moving freight through the county using Richmond-based CyberTran International’s Ultra-Light Rail Freight and Transit (ULRF&T) system. The ULRF&T system is planned to operate from Oakland to the Central Valley via underground tunnels, and create a next-generation SuperGrid for underground utilities.

The development partnership includes CyberTran International, Richmond-based EarthGrid, U.C. Berkeley Partners in Advanced Transportation Technology (PATH), located at the Richmond Field Station, and the San Ramon-based Corporation for Manufacturing Excellence (Manex).

“Adoption…demonstrates…support for continued exploration and development of the Ultra-Light Rail Freight and Transit system, associated underground infrastructure improvements, and the establishment of advanced manufacturing and Inland Port facilities that could provide long-term transportation, environmental, and economic benefits to the East Bay region.” – Supervisor Nate Miley

Alameda County Supervisor Nate Miley has been a leading advocate for this effort. According to his staff report for the agenda item, #46, “The proposed ULRF&T system is intended to provide a lower-cost, zero-carbon alternative to conventional freight and transit rail systems while reducing truck traffic along the heavily congested Interstate 580 corridor. EarthGrid’s proposed underground SuperGrid technology would provide tunnel infrastructure capable of supporting both freight transportation and modernized utility corridors, while PATH contributes expertise in autonomous vehicle technology. MANEX would assist CyberTran in establishing a manufacturing facility within Alameda County, creating local jobs and supporting advanced manufacturing in the East Bay. As part of this initiative, CyberTran and its partners are also proposing the development of an Inland Port in eastern Alameda County to facilitate the movement of goods between the Port of Oakland and California’s Central Valley.”

“Adoption of the attached resolution demonstrates the County’s support for continued exploration and development of the Ultra-Light Rail Freight and Transit system, associated underground infrastructure improvements, and the establishment of advanced manufacturing and Inland Port facilities that could provide long-term transportation, environmental, and economic benefits to the East Bay region,” the staff report concludes.

Miley made the motion to adopt the resolution, Board President David Haubert seconded the motion, and it passed on a vote of 5-0. (See AlCo BOS CyberTran Resolution 071426)

“Automobiles have evolved, aviation has evolved, aerospace has evolved, it’s time for rail to evolve. Plus, roving blackouts and wildfires along with tomorrow’s energy and water needs dictate that it’s time to upgrade our outdated utility grid,” said Dexter Vizinau, CEO of CyberTran International.

Key Highlights of the Resolution

  • The initiative seeks to establish a Public Private Partnership Pilot Project.
  • The project will focus on developing and deploying an innovative autonomous rail system designed to efficiently transport freight, reduce costs, and decrease travel times compared to traditional trucking methods.
  • The County’s resolution also supports UC Berkeley PATH’s work to research, develop, and implement an autonomous ULRF&T system.
  • EarthGrid’s plasma boring technology is endorsed for tunnel construction, which will form a SuperGrid for utilities and facilitate the ULRF&T transit network.
  • Manex is supported in creating a CyberTran factory in Alameda County to manufacture and distribute ULRF&T systems globally.
  • This initiative is expected to reduce traffic congestion, particularly along the Highway 580 Corridor.
  • Thousands of well-paying jobs are anticipated for Alameda County residents because of the project.
  • By lessening truck traffic and congestion, the county aims to reduce negative environmental impacts.

Commitment to East Bay Community

The companies and organizations involved have a long history of fostering innovation and supporting skilled individuals, organizations, and businesses. Their strong ties to Alameda and Contra Costa County demonstrate their dedication to quality, creativity and integrity. (See related articles here, here and here)

(See 2:01:30 mark of Board meeting video)

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Note: The publisher of the Herald has a financial interest in CyberTran International, Inc.

Two juveniles arrested for June robbery inside Sun Valley mall near Macy’s

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By Concord Police Department

As previously reported, on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at approximately 3:12 p.m., Concord Police Department officers responded to a report of a robbery at Sunvalley Shopping Center.

The incident occurred inside the mall near Macy’s Women’s store. Two masked male suspects approached the victim and grabbed his necklaces. A physical struggle occurred, and the suspects fled from the mall with the victim’s necklaces.

The victim sustained minor injuries as a result of the confrontation.

July 2, 2026 – Two suspects were identified in this case and arrested by the Concord Police Department. The suspects were juveniles and as such their names are not being released at this time.

The Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office filed felony charges against the two juveniles.

This incident is not related to the recent press release regarding the jewelry store robbery inside Sun Valley mall on June 28.

Five suspects from San Francisco arrested for San Valley mall jewelry store robbery

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Stolen jewelry and price tags recovered from suspects. Photos: Concord PD

By Concord Police Department

On June 28, 2026, at approximately 1:24 PM, the Concord Police Department Communications Center received multiple 9-1-1 calls reporting a robbery in progress at the Sun Valley Mall.

Officers arrived on scene and learned that at least four suspects had smashed display cases at the Banter jewelry kiosk and pepper sprayed a patron during the commission of the robbery.

The suspects fled the area prior to officers’ arrival.

Through investigative efforts and coordination with the San Francisco Police Department, the suspects were quickly identified and ultimately located in the City of Richmond. All five suspects were taken into custody on charges related to the robbery, as well as various additional offenses. Stolen jewelry from the business was recovered. Multiple firearms were located as well.

The swift identification and arrest of the suspects highlights the strong partnership between the Concord Police Department and the San Francisco Police Department. Continued collaboration and real-time intelligence sharing between agencies remain critical in investigating and disrupting organized retail crime throughout the Bay Area.

This case was jointly investigated by the San Francisco Police Department and the Concord Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit. The case was presented to the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office for charging consideration on the following arrested individuals, who were charged:

  • Cameron Haynes, 21-year-old, San Francsico
  • Terry Franklin, 29-year-old, San Francisco / Daly City
  • Lavar Kent, 18-year-old, San Francisco
  • Eric Howard, 18-year-old, San Francisco
  • Teric Howard, 20-year-old, San Francisco

No further information is being released at this time.

This robbery is in addition to the robbery on June 23rd inside the mall near Macy’s Women’s store.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

 

Pittsburg coalition demands City honor written promise on data center agenda item

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Source: Stop Pittsburg Data Center

Not happy with City holding virtual community workshop

By Stop Pittsburg Data Center

Stop Pittsburg Data Center is a coalition of Pittsburg parents, children, teachers, and longtime residents. We are issuing this statement because the city has broken a written promise, and because the decisions that matter most are now happening where residents are not looking.

On June 16, 2026, the City of Pittsburg promised in writing that the data center would return to a regular City Council meeting with public participation and Council direction. Instead, it scheduled a staff-run Zoom webinar on July 30 with emailed questions, no noticed agenda item, no live public comment, and no Council action. The city promised residents a seat at the table. We got a webinar instead. (See related article)

We have deep concerns about bias in the decisions that remain. Among the last approvals standing before construction is BAAQMD air permits for 37 diesel generators near a middle school and sports courts on West Leland Road. Mayor Adams sits on the BAAQMD Board and its Stationary Source Committee, which oversees these permits. And in February, the state Fair Political Practices Commission found that the Mayor, a 24-year PG&E employee, has a legally disqualifying financial interest in the Pittsburg Power Company-PG&E agreement this project depends on. The state ordered her to recuse fully and leave the room, roughly 15 months after the Council’s unanimous approval. These are not suspicions. They are the state’s own findings.

The health numbers deserve scrutiny too. The developer’s own modeling submitted to the California Energy Commission showed a cancer risk of up to 17 in a million, above BAAQMD’s 10-in-a-million threshold (AVAIO Response to Data Request AQ-8, Table 1C, CEC Docket 24-SPPE-01, TN 259481, Oct. 8, 2024). Before issuing any permit, BAAQMD must explain publicly what changed and why the final number should be trusted.

Residents were never given a choice about this land. On August 1, 2017, while the Delta View Golf Course was still open, the city signed an exclusive negotiating agreement with Energy Delivery Solutions LLC for a technology park that, in the city’s own words, “would include one or more data centers.” Nine months later, residents were told the course was closing for economic opportunity. The opportunity had already been chosen. By the time the city announced the results of its resident poll on June 4, 2018, the exclusive agreement had already been in place for ten months. Public input came after the city’s decision to pursue a data center project. In the nine years since, the city never once asked publicly whether this land could generate $2 million a year without this risk, and its own budget shows why: the General Fund is projected to end FY 26/27 with a balance of $3,796. A city this broke cannot drive a hard bargain.

We are asking for three things, and the first two cannot wait. Permits can issue and agreements can be signed at any moment, and every week of silence closes the window residents were promised.

  1. The real, noticed Council agenda item the city promised in writing, held before any further approvals or agreements are signed.
  2. That BAAQMD evaluate all 37 generators as a single pollution source, with a full health risk assessment and a public comment period, before issuing any permit.
  3. An urgency moratorium on new data center applications and approvals, including future phases of the Technology Park, until the city adopts a data center ordinance written with public input. Residents asked for a moratorium on June 15 and have received no answer.

More than 23,000 people have signed a petition opposing this project. We also speak for neighbors who cannot attend daytime meetings, don’t speak English, or lack internet access. They deserve the process the city promised. So does everyone else.

Learn more at StopPittsburgDataCenter.com.

Join us at StopPittsburgDataCenter on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

City of Pittsburg to hold Data Centers Virtual Community Workshop July 30

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

By Toni Baldazo, Community Engagement Officer, City of Pittsburg

Pittsburg City staff are hosting a virtual community engagement workshop about data center development. Residents are encouraged to participate in the workshop and to submit their questions ahead of time to ensure all resident inquiries are addressed during the meeting.

The AVAIO Perseus Data Center is a proposed data center project within the Pittsburg Technology Park approved by the City Council in 2024. The project is intended to support advanced technology infrastructure, create long-term economic development opportunities and help activate strategically planned employment-generating land in Pittsburg. For more information visit Pittsburg Technology Park | City of Pittsburg.

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

The Technology Park Specific Plan envisions redevelopment of the eastern half of the former municipal Delta View Golf Course, on Golf Club Road off W. Leland Road, which is closed and currently vacant.

“After hearing from many concerned residents, it is clear we need to have a deeper conversation with our community about data center development in Pittsburg,” said Council Member Killings. “City Council has asked the City Manager and Staff to host a workshop educating residents on the City’s data center development policies, procedures and projects, and providing an opportunity for our community to receive answers to their questions.”

Pittsburg Technology Park Site Plan Concept with location of proposed data center. Source: City of Pittsburg

Pittsburg Data Centers Virtual Community Workshop

Date: Thursday, July 30

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81157292257

Submit Questions: datacenters@pittsburgca.gov

In addition to the Workshop, the City has updated the Data Center project webpage and is considering ongoing community engagement to ensure the public is informed on data center projects and impacts in Pittsburg. There will be an update to the City Council during the regular City Council meeting on Monday, August 3.

“Residents have raised thoughtful questions about water, energy, noise, and long-term neighborhood impacts, and the City takes them seriously,” said City Manager Darin Gale. “I appreciate the Council’s direction and look forward to supporting this engagement effort on behalf of the Council and our community.”

For those unable to attend the virtual workshop, the meeting will be recorded and posted to the City’s website for later viewing. For workshop questions, please contact datacenters@pittsburgca.gov.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.         

 

Police warn of large gathering at Streets of Brentwood July 9th

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By Brentwood Police Department

The Brentwood Police Department has become aware of online posts encouraging a large gathering at the Streets of Brentwood on the evening of Thursday, July 9th.

At this time, there is no known or credible threat associated with the event. However, because higher-than-normal attendance is possible, additional officers will be in the area to provide a visible presence and help keep the community safe.

Residents, visitors, and local businesses should anticipate increased activity and traffic throughout the evening. Disruptive behavior or evidence of illegal activities will not be tolerated, and officers will take appropriate enforcement action when necessary.

We encourage everyone to stay alert, be mindful of their surroundings, and report any suspicious or concerning behavior to the Brentwood Police Department. In the event of an emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately.

We appreciate our community’s cooperation as we work together to ensure the Streets of Brentwood remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone.

Celebrate America’s 250th Independence Day at “Freedom Over Crockett” with fireworks and more

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Honoring America’s Independence • California Heritage • Community Pride

Includes historical walk, live big band music, car show, food and family friendly fun

By Crockett Chamber of Commerce and the Historical Society & Crockett Museum

Get ready for an unforgettable Independence Day celebration in the historic waterfront town of Crockett — a full day of live music, local history, patriotic spirit, community gathering, food, family fun, and hometown pride along the beautiful Carquinez Strait.

This exciting community celebration combines history, entertainment, and small-town Americana into one incredible event designed for residents, visitors, families, and history lovers of all ages.

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A HISTORIC YEAR OF CELEBRATION

This year’s celebration proudly commemorates the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the 250th Anniversary of the Juan Bautista de Anza Expedition, one of the most significant historic journeys in California history.

On July 4, 1776 — the exact same day the Declaration of Independence was being signed in Philadelphia — the Anza Expedition reached its final destination in what would later become San Francisco.

Along their historic journey through California, the expedition passed directly through Crockett, forever connecting our town to one of the most important migrations and exploration routes in the state’s history.

This Fourth of July, the community will honor that incredible legacy by inviting guests to literally walk in the footsteps of history during a guided historical walk experience through Crockett.

The celebration also honors another important milestone in Crockett history — the legacy of the iconic C&H Sugar refinery.

Officially beginning operations in 1906, the refinery now celebrates nearly 120 years of industrial and community history in Crockett.

Today, the refinery continues producing approximately 14% of the nation’s cane sugar, making it one of the most historically important and recognizable landmarks in California industry.

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EVENT INFORMATION

Saturday, July 4, 2026

Event Location: Rithet Park – intersection of Rolph & Loring Avenues, Crockett

FREE ADMISSION

ALL AGES WELCOME

FAMILY-FRIENDLY COMMUNITY EVENT

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POWERFUL HISTORICAL WALK ON THE ANZA EXPEDITION TRAIL

Walk in the Footsteps of History

Step back in time and experience a living piece of California history right here in Crockett.

Led by Madeline of Hatch Services, this immersive guided historical walk will bring the past to life through engaging storytelling, local historical insight, and a meaningful community experience along the trail route connected to the historic Juan Bautista de Anza Expedition.

Historical Walk Activities Begin at 11:00 AM

Guests will gather at Scouts Hall for refreshments and snacks before beginning the historic walking experience.

Participants will walk to and from the bridge while hearing fascinating stories and historical information about:
• The Juan Bautista de Anza Expedition

  • The settlement and exploration of early California
  • Crockett’s industrial and waterfront heritage
  • The development of the Carquinez Strait region
  • The history and legacy of the C&H Sugar refinery
  • Historic migration routes and local landmarks

The importance of Crockett in California history

This powerful historical experience is designed to educate, inspire, and connect the community through storytelling, patriotism, and cultural heritage.

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LIVE BIG BAND MUSIC

Following the historical walk, guests will return to Rithet Park for an exciting afternoon of live music and celebration featuring:

  • Steve Snyder’s Big Band
  • LIVE from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Enjoy a vibrant Independence Day soundtrack featuring:
  • Classic Big Band Favorites
  • Patriotic American Standards
  • Timeless Jazz Classics
  • Swing & Dance Favorites
  • Community Celebration Music

Bring your lawn chairs, relax with family and friends, and enjoy an authentic hometown Fourth of July atmosphere filled with live entertainment and community spirit.

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FOOD • CARS • FAMILY FUN • COMMUNITY

The celebration will feature an exciting lineup of activities and attractions throughout the day including:

  • Delicious Food Trucks & Local Favorites
  • Community Car Show Featuring Classic & Specialty Vehicles
  • Pie Eating Contest – $150 GRAND PRIZE for the Pie Eating Contest Winner-sign up @ crockettchamber@aol.com
  • Tons of Family-Friendly Activities & Festivities, Bocce court
  • Beautiful Waterfront & Carquinez Strait Views
  • Great Photo Opportunities Throughout the Event
  • Patriotic Community Gathering Areas

Visitors are encouraged to spend the entire day enjoying the festivities, music, food, shopping, and community celebration.

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SHOP AROUND TOWN

Support local businesses during the celebration!

Shops and businesses throughout Crockett will be OPEN and offering SPECIALS during the event.

Guests are encouraged to explore Crockett’s charming downtown businesses, restaurants, local shops, and historic areas while enjoying the Fourth of July festivities.

This celebration is designed not only to honor history and community spirit, but also to help support local businesses and encourage visitors to experience everything Crockett has to offer.

Stop by the Historical Society & Crockett Museum to join in on a time capsule, bring an item and to view the C&H exhibit.

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IMPORTANT EVENT INFORMATION

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NO ALCOHOL WILL BE SERVED AT THIS EVENT

Guests are encouraged to BRING THEIR OWN COOLERS with beverages and refreshments.

Please BRING YOUR OWN LAWN CHAIRS and picnic seating for comfort during the live music performances and festivities.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for those participating in the historical walk experience.

Sunscreen, hats, and bottled water are also encouraged for daytime activities.

This is a FREE, FAMILY-FRIENDLY, ALL-AGES EVENT welcoming residents and visitors from throughout Contra Costa County, the East Bay and beyond.

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A TRUE HOMETOWN AMERICA CELEBRATION

“Freedom Over Crockett” continues the proud tradition of bringing the community together through music, history, patriotism, local culture, and hometown pride.

Historically supported by the Crockett Chamber of Commerce and the Historical Society and Crockett Museum, this annual celebration reflects the heart and spirit of Crockett while honoring:

  • America’s enduring spirit of freedom
  • The 250th Anniversary of the Juan Bautista de Anza Expedition
  • California’s rich historical and cultural heritage
  • Crockett’s industrial and waterfront legacy
  • Community traditions, live music, and family celebration
  • Community unity, local pride, and historical preservation

Whether you are a long-time resident, a returning visitor or experiencing Crockett for the very first time, this unforgettable Fourth of July celebration promises a full day of history, entertainment, family fun, music, food, and patriotic spirit in one of the East Bay’s most unique and historic waterfront communities.

Celebrate Freedom • Celebrate History • Celebrate Crockett

We would like to also thank our Sponsors Phillips 66 and C&H Sugar, celebrating 120 years making sugar in Crockett.