Contra Costa Herald

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

Four arrested during Pleasant Hill retail theft suppression

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One of the four retail theft suspects arrested on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. Photos: Pleasant Hill PD

Two adults from Concord; 17- and 18-year-olds from Oakland

By Pleasant Hill Police Department

On Tuesday evening, May 26, 2026, our Officers worked another successful Theft Supersession detail in the Crossroads Shopping Center off Monument Blvd. and Buskirk Avenue. While working directly with Loss Prevention for the major retailers throughout the shopping center, a number of individuals were arrested, and several other thefts were thwarted. As a result of their proactive work, the following people were arrested for numerous theft and narcotics related charges:

– Lloyd Canamore (18), Oakland

– 17-year-old juvenile, Oakland

– Annemarie Melena (30), Concord

– Joshua Daniel Almond (43), Concord

According to localcrimenews.com, Melena had previously been arrested in 2018 by Woodland CHP for DUI alcohol/drugs.

According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, as of May 27th at 7:36 PM, Almond was out of custody on his own recognizance.

As the summer begins to kick into high gear, plan to see our Officers working a few more of these details in the coming weeks!

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Brentwood’s Harvest Time celebrates 50th anniversary

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Photo: Harvest Time

In the U-Pick Capital of the Bay Area and World!

By Harvest Time

Since 1976, Harvest Time in Brentwood has connected families and visitors to the U-Pick Capital of the Bay Area, and now, of the World! This year we celebrate 50 years of supporting local farms, farm stands, and agritourism across East Contra Costa County.

Fifty Years of Roots and Resilience: Celebrating a Half-Century of Harvest Time in Brentwood

For five decades, the spirit of Brentwood has been defined by more than just our borders; it has been defined by our soil. As Harvest Time in Brentwood marks its 50th anniversary, we find ourselves looking back with immense pride and looking forward with even greater excitement.

What started as a shared vision to protect our agricultural heritage has blossomed into a legacy that defines our city’s soul. We are honored to serve as the bridge between our hardworking farmers and the community, ensuring that our local farms don’t just survive—they thrive. It is because of this enduring partnership that Brentwood is recognized globally as the “U-Pick Capital of the World.” We also champion our farms through the annual Farm Trail Map to help visitors discover, support, and return to our local growers, season after season. And through our social media channels, we share the unique farm experiences that make this region special, shining a light on the people, places, and traditions that continue to make our region stand out.

Photo: Harvest Time

The Heartbeat of Our Fields: A Century of Legacy

When you look across a cherry orchard or a field of summer corn, you aren’t just seeing crops; you are seeing the tireless dedication of local families. While Harvest Time is celebrating 50 years of service, the families behind these farms represent a legacy that stretches back over a century. Many of these families were stewards of this land long before Brentwood was even incorporated as a city, and their roots run deeper than the oldest trees in our valley.

The impact of these multi-generational families stretches far beyond the fence line of the farm:

Investing in our Future: They are the quiet benefactors of our schools, ensuring our children have the resources they need to grow alongside our crops.

Empowering our Youth: From sponsoring local sports teams to providing first jobs for our teenagers, our farmers invest in the character of the next generation.

Building the Community: They serve on our city boards, support our local small businesses, and have been the bedrock of our civic life since the very beginning.

These families have shaped the very identity of Brentwood. Their commitment to the land and each other is the reason so many people choose to move here. People come for the beauty, but they stay because of the values—the unique sense of place that only a deep-rooted agricultural community can provide.

Photo: Harvest Time

A Legacy We Share With You

Whether you are a neighbor who has lived here for forty years or a visitor traveling from across the globe to experience the magic of a Brentwood harvest, you are part of our story. To our residents: Thank you for your fierce pride and for choosing to shop local. You understand that when you support a Brentwood farm, you are supporting a neighbor’s dream.

To our visitors: Thank you for making Brentwood a destination. Your appreciation for the “U-Pick” experience helps ensure that this land remains green and productive for the next fifty years and beyond.

As we celebrate this golden milestone, Harvest Time remains committed to our mission. We are proud of where we’ve been, we are inspired by the families who lead us, and we are more ready than ever for the growth to come.

Here’s to 50 years of Harvest Time, and over a century of farming excellence.

Photo: Harvest Time

About Harvest Time

Harvest Time is a Non-Profit Organization, Mutual Benefit organized under the laws of the State of California, that is dedicated to educating the general public and “foodies” about farming and its products while improving Agri-tourism education in the Brentwood, California Region of East Contra Costa County. Each year, we produce an educational farm trail map that directs you to more than 65+ growers who sell direct to the consumer!

For more information visit https://harvestforyou.com/harvest-time-50th-anniversary/ or www.facebook.com/HarvestForYou/.

See the U-Pick farms’ Interactive Map – Harvest Time in Brentwood.

Source: Harvest Time

U-Pick Capital

U-Pick Capital, proudly presented by Harvest Time in Brentwood! We invite you to discover the incredible U-Pick experiences that make Brentwood the ultimate destination for fresh produce and cherished traditions.

Experience the vibrant tradition of Harvest Time in Brentwood, the U-Pick Capital that captivates hearts year-round! With over 65 farms offering a delightful array of U-Pick options, it is no wonder we’ve captivated the hearts of visitors near and far.

Join us as we share the magic of Brentwood with visitors seeking the freshest produce, vibrant farm experiences, and the abundance of our harvest. U-Pick isn’t just an experience; it’s a cherished tradition that farmers and visitors anticipate year after year.

For more information visit upickcapital.com.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

 

Martinez Chamber of Commerce to host 40th Anniversary ceremonial ribbon cutting for Contra Costa Cinema May 13

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Top Gun movie to be shown at retro rate during its 40th anniversary

By Rachael Baber, Martinez Chamber of Commerce

Martinez, CA —The Martinez Chamber of Commerce, alongside local dignitaries, business leaders, and community members, will host a ceremonial ribbon cutting celebrating the 40th anniversary of Contra Costa Cinema, a longtime cornerstone of entertainment in Martinez.

The celebration will take place on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at Contra Costa Cinema in Martinez.

Event Schedule

  • 5:30 PM – Anniversary celebration begins
  • 6:00 PM – Ceremonial ribbon cutting
  • 6:30 PM – Special screening of Top Gun 40th Anniversary presentation

To commemorate both the theater’s 40th anniversary and the 40th anniversary of the iconic 1986 film Top Gun, all Top Gun screenings that evening will be offered at a special retro admission price of $3.75. Tickets are available to purchase now. Guests can also enjoy classic concession pricing inspired by 1986, including:

  • Large Popcorn — $3.25
  • Large Beverage — $2.75

The event will feature a red-carpet entrance experience, a step-and-repeat backdrop for photos and testimonials, commemorative promotions, and community festivities honoring four decades of cinematic history in Contra Costa County.

Source: Contra Costa Cinema

Originally opened on June 27, 1986, as the Contra Costa Cinemas under Festival Enterprises Theatres, the theater has served generations of moviegoers through several ownership transitions, including operations by Mann Theatres, Signature Theatres, and Cinema West Theatres. Signature Theatres operated the venue until 2001, while Cinema West later expanded the complex from five screens to ten screens with upgraded stadium seating.

Notably, Top Gun was one of the original five films showing when the theater first opened in 1986, making the anniversary screening especially meaningful for longtime moviegoers and the Martinez community.

In December 2021, the theater became independently operated and today continues serving the community as Contra Costa Cinema under owner Kyle Conner, who also owns the Alameda Theatre & Cineplex. Conner has worked in the movie theater industry since the age of 15 and remains committed to preserving the community cinema experience.

“This anniversary is more than a celebration of a theater — it’s a celebration of community memories spanning four decades,” said Joe Fitzpatrick, General Manager of Contra Costa Cinema. “We’re excited to partner with the Martinez Chamber of Commerce to honor the theater’s legacy while creating new memories for movie fans of all ages.”

The Martinez Chamber of Commerce recognizes Contra Costa Cinema as an enduring part of the local business community and cultural landscape, continuing to bring entertainment, connection, and economic vitality to the city of Martinez.

Promotional support for the anniversary celebration will include social media campaigns across TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook, website and newsletter promotions, on-screen advertising, poster displays, menu board promotions, point-of-sale messaging, exterior marquee advertising, and outreach to regional news media.

The event is open to the public.

Initiative signature gathering begins for Senior Housing Transit Village near Walnut Creek BART

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Ygnacio Center is the location for the proposed Hall Equities Group’s Walnut Creek Senior Housing Transit Village with mixed-use retail project. Map source: Ygnacio Center CBRE Properties.

Initiative would update zoning to permit delivery of over 200 units and mixed-use retail

Learn more during community meeting 27th

By Adam Alberti, Singer Media

Walnut Creek, CA – Hall Equities Group, a Walnut Creek-based real estate investment company, today announced they’ve launched a signature gathering effort to qualify an initiative for the November 2026 ballot to allow for development of much needed senior housing and community-serving retail to Downtown Walnut Creek.

The Walnut Creek Senior Housing Transit Village Initiative aims to update zoning in Downtown Walnut Creek to facilitate delivery of over 200 units of senior housing and mixed-use retail to a 2.4-acre site located at the northeast corner of North California Boulevard and Ygnacio Valley Road, across the street from the Walnut Creek BART station.

“We’re excited about the opportunity to help address the clear and growing need for senior housing in Walnut Creek,” said Mark Hall, Chairman of the Hall Equities Group Board. “This initiative reflects our community’s evolving needs by giving seniors the option to remain close to friends, family, healthcare and cultural opportunities, while creating an accessible mixed-use center that serves both seniors and the broader Walnut Creek community.”

The initiative prioritizes high-quality senior housing near BART, enabling residents to easily access regional destinations, connect to the Downtown Trolley system and walk to shopping, dining, entertainment and everyday services. By concentrating housing near public transit, the proposal supports mobility, independence, health and wellness for seniors while reducing vehicle traffic.

The initiative also paves the way for a vibrant, mixed-use center that supports community-serving shopping, dining, entertainment and other convenient services. The center will serve senior residents, downtown visitors, nearby businesses and future development proposed by the city, adding valuable evening and weekend activity that strengthens the local economy.

The Walnut Creek Senior Housing Transit Village aligns with the city’s goals to create a range of housing opportunities for seniors, mixed-use development, healthy community design and growth near transit, all while supporting a diverse downtown economy.

Signature gathering is now underway to place the initiative on the November 2026 ballot.

When asked for renderings of the project, Haley Murphy of Singer Associates, which is running the campaign responded, “The Proponents are still in the signature gathering process and developing plans for the site, so there are not yet renderings to share. The current 2.4-acre site is zoned for ‘office-only’, so the campaign committee is planning to go to the voters directly to establish a new zoning district called ‘Mixed Use – Residential Senior & Commercial,’ to allow for senior housing and retail to be built.”

She was also asked for the specific location and if it will be a conversion of existing space at the Ygnacio Center Office Complex which Hall Equities Group acquired last year or in an existing landscaped area on Northern California Blvd. Murphy shared that the location is the landscaped area “but also includes the office buildings on the corner.”

Asked why they chose the initiative process instead of submitting the project through the normal city approval process Murphy responded, “The initiative process allows us to ask the voters directly, which we are doing. The voters get to decide directly if they agree with the concept. If they do, we will prepare and submit a project application that will follow the normal City approval process for the site considering the base zoning.  We think this will be a more certain, efficient and quicker process.”

Community Meetings April 27

To learn more about the Walnut Creek Senior Housing Transit Village Initiative visit www.wcseniorhousing.com or attend a community meeting.

DATE: Monday, April 27, 2026

TIME: 10 AM–12 PM

LOCATION: Rossmoor – Hillside Clubhouse (Diablo Room) – Located at 3400 Golden Rain Road, Walnut Creek

The events are drop-in. Light bites and refreshments will be provided.

About Hall Equities Group

Hall Equities Group (HEG) is a private, full-service real estate investment, development, and property management company representing the interests of select private investors and company-sponsored group investment entities. Hall Equities Group is a portfolio company of Walnut Creek, California based entrepreneur, Mark D. Hall, who also owns and operates affiliated company’s including, ZMC Hotels, National SportsMall Realty and COPA Innovation Laboratories.

The company was founded by Hall’s father, former Walnut Creek City Councilman Merle Hall in 1962 as a real estate brokerage business. He then renamed it to Merle D. Hall Company in 1976 and refocused on investment brokerage and property management for private investors. Mark joined Merle in 1986 and purchased 50% of the company’s stock and assumed control of operations in 1992. In 1999 Mark acquired the remaining 50% ownership of the company and renamed it to Hall Equities Group.

Ad paid for by Friends of Walnut Creek Senior Housing; Ad committee’s top funder Hall Equities Group and Affiliated Entities

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Walgreens ordered to pay $6 million for business code violations including expired food, drugs

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By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office

Martinez, California – Contra Costa District Attorney Diana Becton and other District Attorneys in the State of California reached a settlement with Walgreen Co. for $6,000,000 for violations related to expired baby food, drugs, and overcharging customers.

The civil case and settlement centered on the company violating state law by charging their customers more than the lowest price posted or advertised price. The allegations that the company was in violation of these laws were based on inspections of scanners. Moreover, the civil lawsuit led to a resolution that Walgreens failed to comply with laws that prohibit the selling or offering to sell over-the-counter drugs, infant formula, and baby food products beyond the expiration date.

The court ordered Walgreen Co. to pay $5.4 million in civil penalties and $600,000 to reimburse state district attorney offices for the cost of investigations, attorneys’ fees, and other costs associated with enforcement. Contra Costa County will receive $612,000 of the civil settlement and $10,000 to cover the costs.

Walgreen Co. will also implement a three-year program to promote pricing accuracy and the removal of expired products from its store shelves. This program requires store managers to conduct monthly checks of all aisles and shelves of medication, baby food, and formula, and remove any expired items. Managers must also conduct weekly store walks and remove signage displaying inaccurate sales tag information and post signs informing customers of Walgreens’ Price Promise Guarantee. The Price Promise Guarantee means that if a customer notices a scanned price is higher than the advertised price, the customer will be charged the lower price.

District Attorney Diana Becton said, “Customers should have confidence that companies that sell food and formula to infants and children are doing so by being scrupulous about the safety of the products in their stores. The same goes for medications that are sold beyond their expiration dates. The work of my office and those of other district attorney offices in the state shows that when we work together to enforce laws, we not only ensure compliance – we’re also restoring trust and safety in our communities.”

Case No. 1-13-CV-239110 | The People of the State of California v. Walgreen Co., an Illinois Corporation

Eight public works projects in Contra Costa County, BART receive awards

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The Bollinger Canyon Road Bicycle and Pedestrian Overcrossing Project received three awards. Source: ACEC California

Iron Horse Trail Overcrossing in San Ramon named 2026 APWA Project of the Year, two more awards

County Public Works receives three project awards

By Allen D. Payton

Eight public works projects in Contra Costa County and BART received awards from the American Public Works Association (APWA) Northern California Chapter and American Council of Engineering Companies of California (ACEC).

APWA Nor Cal Chapter Awards

The Iron Horse Trail Bicycle and Pedestrian Overcrossing at Bollinger Canyon Road was named the 2026 Project of the Year Winner by the APWA Northern California Chapter. Other winners honored at the 2026 Project Awards Luncheon in Vallejo on March 5th include:

BART for the Next Generation Faire Gates;

Central Contra Costa Sanitary District for the Phase 1 Stream and Aeration Blower Systems Renovations;

City of Antioch for its Brackish Water Desalination Plant (see below);

City of Pleasant Hill for the Contra Costa Blvd. Complete Streets Improvements Projects;

City of Richmond for the Ferry to Bridge to Greenway project;

Contra Costa County Public Works for three projects including the County Administration Building B, Saranap Trash Capture Installation and the Wildcat Canyon Road Slope Failure Repair.

A total of 25 projects were nominated and 15 received an award. All winners will be moving on to the APWA National at Public Works Expo 2026 in Houston, TX in August for consideration.

The APWA Northern California Chapter is a dynamic and engaged community of professionals dedicated to advancing the goals and mission of our association at the local level. The chapter is an integral part of the larger APWA network, representing a vibrant community of professionals in Northern California. We are committed to fostering professional growth, facilitating meaningful connections, and promoting excellence within the industry.

Source: City of San Ramon

Bollinger Canyon Road Overcrossing Project Also Wins League of California Cities Award

The Bollinger Canyon Road Bicycle and Pedestrian Overcrossing Project also received the 2026 Outstanding Local Streets and Roads Project Award from the California State Association of Counties (CSAC), League of California Cities (Cal Cities), and County Engineers Association of California (CEAC). It is the highest award presented annually at the California League of Cities Public Works Officers Institute Spring Conference.

“Counties and cities across California lead in delivering sustainable and enduring transportation projects,” said Johannes Hoevertsz, President of CEAC and Sonoma County Public Infrastructure Director. “By applying innovative approaches, local governments are strengthening mobility while protecting the long-term performance of their streets and roads.”

Source: CA League of Cities

This year’s overall winner, the City of San Ramon, is recognized for its Iron Horse Trail Bicycle and Pedestrian Overcrossing at Bollinger Canyon Road, a transformative project that enhances safety and access for pedestrians and cyclists.

Overall Winner:
Iron Horse Trail Bicycle and Pedestrian Overcrossing at Bollinger Canyon Road, City of San Ramon

The $29M Iron Horse Trail Bicycle and Pedestrian Overcrossing at Bollinger Canyon Road is a 340-foot, cable-stayed bridge that provides a safe, grade-separated crossing over one of San Ramon’s busiest corridors.  Anchored by 900 feet of MSE wall approaches, it eliminates a previously signaled crossing and completes a link in the 30-mile regional Iron Horse Trail system. The project integrated context-sensitive landscaping with over 7,000 native and drought-tolerant plants and 80 trees along with community gathering spaces enhanced by architectural lighting.

“This project represents years of thoughtful planning and hard work from our Engineering team to improve safety and accessibility across one of the city’s busiest roadways,” a Facebook post on Thursday, March 12th reads. “Congratulations to our Engineering team for their dedication and hard work in bringing this important project to life!”

The overcrossing officially opened to the public on Saturday, July 19, 2025.

During the ACEC California awards ceremony on Feb. 19, 2026. Photo: ACEC California

ACEC California Awards

The Contra Costa Transportation Authority and City of San Ramon received an Honor Award from ACEC California, one of eight in the San Francisco Region, for the Iron Horse Trail Overcrossing at Bollinger Canyon Road. The project was submitted by the Oakland office of COWI North America, Inc., of the ACEC California Bay Bridge Chapter.

According to ACEC California, COWI was contracted by the Contra Costa Transportation Authority for the overcrossing project — a striking new pedestrian and cyclist bridge that provides a safe crossing across the busiest arterial corridor in the city and uninterrupted connectivity along the Iron Horse Trail. The City of San Ramon is the owner.

As Prime Consultant and Engineer of Record, COWI led the design, engineering, and design support during construction for the $21.6 million project. The result is a 340-foot, six-span cable-stayed bridge with 570 feet of retaining wall approaches, a central V-shaped steel pylon, and architecturally integrated lighting and railing systems.

The overcrossing enhances safety and connectivity for tens of thousands of San Ramon residents and trail users along the region’s most popular trail. While the project utilized its full budget, COWI’s innovative design and accelerated construction strategies generated substantial indirect savings by minimizing traffic disruption, shortening construction duration, and reducing environmental and community impacts.

“This bridge is a celebration of safe, sustainable design and community placemaking,” said Matt Baughman, Associate Project Director at COWI. “From concept to completion, COWI’s team worked closely with our client and stakeholders to deliver a truly iconic project.”

Source: City of Antioch

There were two other local ACEC California winners including the City of Antioch which received a Merit Award for its Brackish Water Desalination Plant, submitted for consideration by Carollo Engineers’ Walnut Creek office of the East Bay Chapter. The plant was inaugurated on September 15, 2025. According to the City of Antioch, this facility strengthens Antioch’s water supply by using a combination of existing and new infrastructure to increase reliability and provide greater operational flexibility. This facility is a landmark investment in the City’s future, ensuring a more resilient water supply for the community.

The City of Martinez received a Commendation Award from ACEC California for the Alhambra Avenue Downtown Improvements, submitted by LCC Engineering & Surveying, Inc. of Martinez, also of the ACEC California East Bay Chapter.

According to LCC, the company was hired by the City of Martinez in Winter of 2022 to provide land survey and civil design services for this Complete Street Improvement Project which included one mile of mill and fills, base-failure repairs, crack-sealing and micro-surfacing, re-striping to include Class 2 buffered bike lanes, new ADA compliant curb ramps and crosswalks.  The project was a federally funded project which triggered extensive environmental studies due to the proximity to significant historical buildings.  LCC teamed with HDR for the extensive environmental studies required.  However, LCC performed all of the right of way and utility coordination to obtain the Right of Way Certification for the Project. Construction was completed in spring 2025.

LCC has provided civil engineering and land surveying services to the City of Martinez since the firm was established in 1954.

The ACEC California’s annual Engineering Excellence Awards competition recognizes outstanding achievements in engineering and land surveying projects completed by California firms. Entries are accepted into one of 12 project categories: studies, research and consulting engineering services; building/technology systems; structural systems; surveying and mapping technology; environmental; waste and storm water; water resources; transportation; special projects; small projects; energy; and industrial and manufacturing processes and facilities.

Projects were recognized for demonstrating an exceptional degree of innovation, complexity, achievement, and value. Twenty projects earned the prestigious Honor Award distinction, twenty-seven were recognized with Merit Awards, and fifteen Commendation Awards were granted.

“We are proud to recognize these ACEC California firms for delivering an exceptional degree of value and technical excellence to our communities,” said Tyler Munzing, Executive Director of ACEC California. “Quality infrastructure—from dependable drinking water to safe, efficient roadways and structurally sound public spaces—is essential to our state’s success. These award-winning projects showcase how our engineering and land surveying firms are passionately building a more resilient and connected California.”

The awards were announced at the Engineering Excellence Awards Banquet at the Disneyland Hotel on February 19, 2026. Themed “Dream Builders: Engineering the Magic of Tomorrow”, the conference highlighted how engineers and land surveyors can influence the future through innovation, imagination and impact. The annual celebration was also a fundraiser for the ACEC California Scholarship Foundation 501(c)3, which provides scholarship awards to graduate and undergraduate students who are recognized for their notable and outstanding academic achievements.

Learn more about the awards:

2026 Projects of the Year Award – APWA Northern California Chapter

2026 Engineering Excellence Award Winners – American Council of Engineering Companies of California

Richmond based technology companies announce strategic collaboration

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EarthGrid’s plasma boring technology will benefit CyberTran’s innovative rail transit system

Richmond, CA – EarthGrid and CyberTran, two Richmond, California-based technology companies, have entered into a collaborative agreement to address critical global infrastructure challenges. The partnership brings together complementary technologies to support the development of next-generation underground “SuperGrid” systems capable of efficiently transporting renewable energy, data, communications, water and freight.

Technology Overview

EarthGrid has developed a patented plasma boring system that uses thermal spallation to disintegrate hard rock, including granite. This zero-contact approach uses only air and electricity, enabling tunneling and trenching at up to 10x the speed and a fraction of the cost of conventional boring methods.

CyberTran provides an ultra-light rail freight and transit system designed to operate within EarthGrid’s tunnels. Originally developed by the U.S. Department of Energy, the system has been built and tested and is engineered to move freight and passengers by distributing smaller loads along a guideway at high speeds, increasing efficiency and throughput.

Utility and Transit Applications

Aging utility infrastructure increasingly contributes to reliability failures, safety hazards, and wildfire risk. Existing systems are struggling to meet surging demand driven by renewable energy integration, AI and data center growth, EV charging, and advanced communications networks.

The combined EarthGrid-CyberTran solution offers a scalable underground alternative to deliver power, water, fiber and transit capacity across the United States and beyond.

Economic Development

The collaboration has the potential to support significant economic growth through infrastructure development, manufacturing, real estate investment, and logistics-related employment. The companies are currently engaged in discussions regarding major California-based projects that could benefit from their integrated technologies.

About EarthGrid

EarthGrid is pioneering Solid State Plasma Boring technology to reshape America’s underground infrastructure. The company’s patented plasma tech disintegrates hard rock using thermal spallation with no contact, no chemicals, and no mechanical cutters. EarthGrid has filed 162 patent claims, holds CPCNs (Certificates of Public Convenience and Necessity) across 46 states covering 97% of the U.S. population, and has raised $50M to date. EarthGrid is boring through a $2 trillion grid infrastructure market.  (See related article)

About CyberTran

CyberTran International, Inc. is a Richmond, California-based company providing ultra-light rail freight and transit systems designed to reduce environmental impact and improve urban transit efficiency. Originally developed by the U.S. Department of Energy, CyberTran’s technology is engineered to move freight and passengers at high speeds with lower cost and greater operational efficiency than traditional transit systems. (See related article)

Note: The publisher of the Contra Costa Herald has a financial interest in CyberTran International.

Grocery Outlet’s six stores in Contra Costa County not included in list of 36 closing so far

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The Grocery Outlet store on Buchanan Road in Antioch and the stores in Oakley and Brentwood will remain open. Photo by Allen D. Payton

Company announced this week underperforming stores will close this year

By Allen D. Payton

Emeryville-based Grocery Outlet announced this week that they plan to close 36 of their 536 stores across the United States this year, including nine in California. However, it was learned Friday, that the Antioch store is not on the list. In addition, according to a news report about a list from a commercial real estate company that has locations for lease, so far, the other five stores in Contra Costa County are also not on the list of closures. Those include stores in Brentwood, Oakley, Pinole, Richmond and San Pablo.

Included in the Grocery Outlet Holding Corp.’s Fourth Quarter and Fiscal 2025 Financial Results, the Company announced on Tuesday, March 4, 2026, “a business optimization plan (the ‘Optimization Plan’) to improve operational execution, strengthen long-term profitability and increase cash flow generation.”

Net sales for the year increased by 7.3% to $4.69 billion, gross profit increased 7.4% versus 2024 to $1.42 billion and gross margin was 30.3% compared to 30.2% in 2024. But the company’s operating loss was $221.7 million and net loss was $224.9 million compared to net income of $39.5 million, in 2024. Adjusted net income was $75.2 million compared to $76.3 million the previous year.

“We made progress on our strategic priorities in 2025; however, our fourth-quarter results made clear that we have more work to do, and we’re moving quickly,” said Jason Potter, President and CEO of Grocery Outlet. “Consumer pressure intensified, federally funded benefits were delayed, and competition grew more promotional in the fourth quarter. In response, we have begun to sharpen our focus on what matters most: delivering clearer value and a better in-store experience. We’re intensely focused on restoring the opportunistic mix to rebuild value perception with the customer and advancing our store refresh program, and we’re already seeing early, measurable improvements. At the same time, we’re closing underperforming stores, reshaping our new store growth strategy and reallocating resources to strengthen operating results and returns on capital. We are confident that we have identified the core challenges and now have the right plans in place and the right team to execute them.”

Optimization Plan and Restructuring Plan

As a result, the company announced those plans as follows:

“To strengthen long-term profitability and cash flow generation, improve operational execution, optimize our existing store footprint and align with our disciplined new store growth strategy, in the first quarter of fiscal 2026 we conducted a strategic, financial and operational analysis of our store fleet. Following that review, on March 2, 2026, our Board of Directors adopted the Optimization Plan that provides for the closure of 36 financially underperforming stores, including the termination or sublease of the applicable store leases, the termination or sublease of a lease for a distribution center facility that we are no longer utilizing, and the termination of operator agreements with independent operators (‘IOs’) for the applicable store locations as well as certain other store locations. These actions under the Optimization Plan are expected to be substantially completed during fiscal 2026.”

Grocery Outlet Partners with Independent Owner/Operators

According to the company’s website, “Since 1973, Grocery Outlet has partnered with retail leaders to operate their expanding locations. Our Independent Operators have considerable local-decision making autonomy over store operations including hiring, merchandising, marketing and more. You hire, train, and lead your team, doing what you do best, and then we share the profits of your retail store according to our commission structure. We each assume different risks but share the rewards.

“We support our Independent Operators with training, mentorship, marketing, finance and accounting professionals to assist with any questions or issues that come up.”

Contra Costa County Stores Not Closing

Kyle Noble, Grocery Outlet’s Senior Director of Marketing was asked if it is correct that stores in California are closing and if so, whether or not Antioch is included.

He was also asked since no list has apparently yet been publicly provided, when it will be, how long will the current owner/operators be given to prepare for their closures or if they have already been informed. Noble did not respond before publication time.

However, a store employee who chose not to be identified, informed the Herald the Antioch store located on Buchanan Road will not be closing.

Open since Nov. 12, 2015, the current owner/operators are Fadi Fayad and Kelly Talaie.

A report on Patch provided the list of the nine California stores to close which doesn’t include the six locations in Contra Costa County. The stores to close are in Azusa, Brawley, El Cajon, Kerman (near San Jose), La Habra, Ontario, Patterson, Poway and Ridgecrest.

The other two stores in East County include: Brentwood, located at 7610 Brentwood Blvd., has been open since October 6, 2021, and the current owner/operators are Greg and Lori Pitts. The Oakley store, located at 3110 Main Street, which has been open since March 26, 2015, and the current owner/operators are Matt and Karen Amaro.

In West County: the Pinole store, located at 1460 Fitzgerald Drive, has been open since June 10, 2010, and the current owner/operators are Sam and Asifa Ahmad. The Richmond store, located at 12010 San Pablo Avenue, has been open since May 23, 2013, and the current owner/operators are Sopheap and Sokna Yin. The San Pablo store is located at 2079 23rd Street, has been open since January 2, 1989, and the current owner/operators are Chivy Thath and Sophal Sok.

24 Stores to Close on East Coast

According to a KRON4 news report, “While no announcement has been made as to which stores will close…According to a report in the grocery industry trade publication, Grocery Drive, 24 of the stores set to close are on the East Coast.”

The company “currently operates around 17 stores in the Bay Area” and “more than half of Grocery Outlet stores are in California,” according to the report.

About Grocery Outlet:

Based in Emeryville, California, Grocery Outlet is a growth-oriented extreme value retailer of quality, name-brand consumables and fresh products sold primarily through a network of independently operated stores. Grocery Outlet and its subsidiaries have more than 560 stores in California, Washington, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Idaho, Nevada, Maryland, Ohio, New Jersey, North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Delaware, Kentucky and Virginia.

Please check back later for any updates to this report.

Raley’s Food For Families marks 40 years of hunger relief

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The Raley’s Food For Families and Feeding America Food Bank. Photo: Raley’s

Launches new 2026 infrastructure grant cycle to strengthen food access in communities it serves

New grant-funding round supports critical infrastructure needs at food banks and partner agencies throughout California and Nevada

By Carol Barsotti, Chief Communications Officer, The Raley’s Companies

WEST SACRAMENTO, CA – For 40 years, Raley’s Food For Families has been a steadfast partner in the fight against hunger. Since 1986, the organization has donated more than 81 million dollars and 70 million pounds of wholesome, nutritious food to its existing network of 12 Feeding America food bank partners and their subsequent network of more than 2,400 agencies.

Now, as Raley’s Food For Families marks this significant anniversary, the organization is demonstrating its long-term dedication with the launch of its renewed 2026 Infrastructure Grant Program. The grant initiative builds on immediate hunger relief efforts by investing in infrastructure that enables sustained, meaningful impact for years to come.

“For four decades, Food For Families has been privileged to donate millions of pounds of food and to provide support to hungry families across our communities. This milestone is a moment to celebrate that impact and recommit to the long-term work of food security,” said Julie Teel, President of Food For Families Board of Directors. “By focusing on infrastructure, we’re strategically making funds available so these vital community partners can strengthen their ability to get food to those who need it most.”

Building on a Year of Impact

The new grant cycle builds on the success of the inaugural 2025 Infrastructure Grant Program, which distributed just over $340,000 to support critical needs identified by food banks and their partner agencies. The first funding round made a significant impact, including funds for refrigeration units, box trucks, forklifts, and pallet jacks, along with many smaller infrastructure items, such as shelving units.

“These investments directly translate to increased food access for families by allowing food bank staff and volunteers to work more efficiently, ultimately serving more people with the same resources. For example, a single pallet jack can save 76 manual trips per truckload,” said Teel. “The grant funding is a tangible example of the profound commitment Raley’s has made to the communities it serves.”

2026 Infrastructure Grant Cycle Details and Guidelines

The 2026 Infrastructure Grant Program will prioritize grants that directly increase food access rather than focus on food education. Eligible applicants include partner agencies, food pantries and closets affiliated with Raley’s Food For Families’ Feeding America food bank partners:

  • Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano
  • Alameda County Community Food Bank
  • Central California Food Bank
  • Food Bank for Monterey County
  • Food Bank of Northern Nevada
  • Feeding the Foothills
  • Redwood Empire Food Bank
  • Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services
  • Second Harvest Silicon Valley
  • Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County
  • Second Harvest of The Greater Valley
  • Yolo Food Bank

As a way to celebrate and recognize its long-term food bank partner network, Raley’s will also highlight the work of one partner food bank each month throughout 2026. For more information about the 2026 Infrastructure Grant Program food bank partners should reach out to their Feeding America food bank partner.

“We’re honored to mark 40 years of food security leadership and real-world impact,” said Teel. “Raley’s Food For Families has remained committed in its mission to alleviate hunger by providing nutritious food to those in need. The organization’s longevity reflects a deep-rooted belief that food security is foundational to community health and opportunity.”

About Raley’s Food For Families

Raley’s Food For Families is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit, which provides food to Feeding America Food Bank Members and their network of more than 2,400 partner agencies. The organization serves the communities of Northern and Central California and Northern and Central Nevada through Raley’s, Raley’s O-N-E Markets, Bel Air Markets and Nob Hill Foods stores. Since 1986, the organization has donated over 81 million dollars and 70 million pounds of fresh, wholesome food to its partners. With a long commitment to local communities, Raley’s Food For Families continues to grow and thrive as an organization dedicated to alleviating hunger by providing nutritious food to those who need it most. For more information and to learn how to donate, visit www.foodforfamilies.org. Raley’s Food For Families tax ID is 68-0195082.

About Raley’s

Raley’s is a family-operated customer experience grocery company. Founded in 1935, Raley’s stores are the destination for the best fresh products, affordable offerings and personalized service. The company’s commitment to infusing life with health and happiness by changing the way the world eats, one plate at a time, has made it a trusted source for food, nutrition, and wellness. Raley’s strives to enhance transparency and education in the food system in order to help customers make more informed, healthy food choices. Raley’s operates 119 stores under four banners: Raley’s, Bel Air Markets, Nob Hill Foods and Raley’s O-N-E Market. Making healthier offerings accessible to everyone, Raley’s has expanded beyond the store to operate grocery curbside pick-up and delivery in their nearby communities. Please visit at www.raleys.com for more information. Raley’s is a division of The Raley’s Companies.

Breakfast Never Looked Better: Enjoy a FREE Chick-fil-A Chicken Biscuit for breakfast until Feb. 28

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Nationwide breakfast giveaway available exclusively to all Chick-fil-A One Members

(ATLANTA) – Chick-fil-A® is rolling out a nationwide giveaway guaranteed to make cold, winter mornings a little brighter. From now through Saturday, Feb. 28 during breakfast hours, Chick-fil-A One® Members can claim a FREE Chick-fil-A® Chicken Biscuit* through the Chick-fil-A App, no purchase necessary.

“We love finding ways to surprise and delight our guests, especially during this years’ ‘Newstalgia’ celebration in honor of 80 years,” said Khalilah Cooper, vice president of brand strategy, advertising & media. “What better way to celebrate than by giving a breakfast classic to our Chick-fil-A One® Members? It’s our small way of thanking guests for being part of our story, then and now.”

The Chick-fil-A Chicken Biscuit is a breakfast classic, featuring a boneless breast of chicken, seasoned to perfection, hand-breaded and served on a buttermilk biscuit baked fresh daily at each restaurant. The breakfast entreé debuted in 1986, coinciding with the launch of the brand’s first ever standalone restaurant.

For nearly four decades, Chick-fil-A has offered Guests a variety of delicious ways to start their morning. From the classic Chick-fil-A Chicken Biscuit to lighter options like the Egg White Grill and heartier favorites like the Hash Brown Scramble Burrito with Jalapeño Salsa, breakfast remains a favorite time of day for Guests of all ages.

Throughout 2026 Chick-fil-A is delivering a year of ‘Newstalgia’, celebrating its 80-year heritage of quality, service and care. The campaign serves up beloved classics and fresh new twists, fun Guest experiences and moments of surprise and delight, from the new Frosted Sodas and Floats to Classic Cups and all-new, retro packaging.

Guests can download the Chick-fil-A App through their phone’s App Store or by visiting
Chick-fil-A.com/one. For more on our menu and information about Chick-fil-A’s food, people and Guests across the country, visit chick-fil-a.com.

*The breakfast reward can be redeemed during breakfast hours, from restaurant open until 10:30 a.m., while supplies last, and is limited to one reward per person, per Chick-fil-A One® account.

About Chick-fil-A, Inc.

Chick-fil-A, Inc. is the third largest quick-service restaurant company in the United States, known for its freshly-prepared food, signature hospitality and unique franchise model. More than 200,000 Team Members are employed by local Owner-Operators in more than 3,000 restaurants across the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, the United Kingdom and Singapore.

Chick-fil-A local Owner-Operators live and work in the communities their restaurants serve, each supporting local efforts and making a positive impact. Chick-fil-A gives back through programs including the Chick-fil-A Shared Table® Program, True Inspiration Awards and Scholarships. The family-owned and privately held company got its start in 1946, founded by S. Truett Cathy. More information on Chick-fil-A is available at  www.chick-fil-a.com  and  Chick-fil-A Press Room.