Contra Costa Herald

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

City of Oakley, rail agencies to hold groundbreaking ceremony for new Amtrak Station, October 14

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Oakley Amtrak Station rendering. Source: SJRRC

Construction to begin in early 2027, Gold Runner train service expected to begin by spring 2028

Antioch station still scheduled to close

By Ahdel Ahmed, Public Relations Manager, San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission

Oakley, CA – The San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA), the San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission (SJRRC), and the City of Oakley are proud to announce the next major milestone in the development of the new at-grade regional rail station that will bring Gold Runner trains into the heart of Contra Costa County. To commemorate this milestone, a groundbreaking ceremony will be held on Wednesday, October 14, at the site of the future station. The event will feature remarks from SJRRC and City leadership, as well as local, regional, state, and federal representatives.

What: Oakley Station Groundbreaking

When: Wednesday, October 14, 2026

Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Where: 3486 Main Street, Oakley

“The City Council and staff are thankful for our project partners, who are bringing a much-needed commuter transit option for the residents of Oakley,” said Oakley Mayor Hugh Henderson. “We are also excited about the station and rail service providing another opportunity for economic growth as passengers from outside the region will be able to comfortably travel to attend Oakley events, and eat, drink, and shop right in the downtown, as well as access bus and rideshare services to travel throughout the city.”

The future Oakley Station will bring Amtrak’s Gold Runner (formerly San Joaquins) intercity passenger rail service to one of Contra Costa County’s fastest-growing areas, creating a new transportation connection for Oakley, Brentwood and surrounding East Contra Costa County communities.

Gold Runner Rail & Thruway Bus Service from Oakley

Developed through a partnership between the SJJPA and the City of Oakley, the station will provide Gold Runner rail and Thruway Bus service to communities throughout Northern California, the Bay Area, the Central Valley and Southern California.

“Breaking ground on the Oakley Station is the next step toward bringing Gold Runner service to a high-growth area in the East Bay and is a long-term investment in intercity rail that will serve the community for years to come,” said Chris Orlando, CEO of the SJRRC and SJJPA. “We’ve worked closely with the City of Oakley for nearly a decade to plan this station, and their partnership and local investment are a big reason we’re taking this next step. Once complete, the station will give East County residents a modern, accessible and convenient way to travel by rail, whether they’re headed to Oakland, Santa Rosa, Eureka, Sacramento, the San Joaquin Valley, or Southern California.”

Key Construction Components

The project includes construction of a new at-grade station with a 720-foot-long, 13-foot-wide cast-in-place concrete side-loading passenger platform to safely and efficiently serve current and future rail operations. The station will feature ADA-compliant accessibility improvements, including tactile warning panels, a full-length underdrain system, and metal safety guardrails.

Architectural elements such as canopy shelters, lighting, signage, and wayfinding have been designed to complement the surrounding neighborhood while enhancing the passenger experience. The platform meets BNSF and Amtrak clearance standards and is sized to accommodate the Gold Runner’s current longest seven-car Venture trainset with a locomotive, while providing capacity for future expansion to an eight-car consist.

Major construction activities are anticipated to begin in early 2027, with trains serving the station by spring 2028.

Source: City of Oakley

Antioch-Pittsburg Station Will Close

The opening of the Oakley Station will be at the expense of the Antioch-Pittsburg Station in downtown Rivertown and it will close in spite of the improvements there and the formation of a working group last fall. (See related articles here, here, here, here and here).

To verify if that’s still the case, Ahdel Ahmed, Public Relations Manager for the San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission was asked if the Antioch-Pittsburg Station will close when the Oakley Station opens in spring 2028. He said, “Some of the timeline challenges have to do with getting a contractor on board for Oakley. As soon as Oakley opens the Antioch Station will have to be closed in the next 12 to 18 months.”

Asked if the board can change their vote, now that Antioch has cleaned up its station area and made it safer, Ahmed said, “Technically, the SJJPA board could change their vote. However, we’re at this point now where the contract will be awarded for construction of the Oakley station.”

“I think we had a clear line of communication with the City of Antioch,” he continued. “The leadership has done an outstanding job of communicating with us and the investment they made in that area won’t necessarily cause our board to have a reverse decision. We do appreciate their partnership on that. We’ve had some townhalls with the community with the City as a partner, but we haven’t had a change of direction.”

Asked if the issue was the distance between the stations Ahmed stated, “With the distance between the two stations, we’re simply not able to operate the train. These requirements are coming through the host railroad.”

The railroad company is Burlington Northern Santa Fe, known as BNSF, which has a rule requiring a six-mile distance between stations. The planned Oakley Amtrak station is less than that distance from the Antioch-Pittsburg Station which gave the SJJPA board another reason to close it.

Tri Delta Transit Bus Service to Oakley Station

Asked if there will bus service from the current Antioch-Pittsburg station location to the Oakley station once it opens, Leeann Loroño, Manager of Customer Service and Marketing for Tri Delta Transit said, “We are going to service Amtrak in Oakley with our regular route service, 373 and Tri My Ride and we are in talks with the SJJPA about serving the Antioch Amtrak Station. They are currently in discussions about that.”

Route 373 also connects to the Antioch BART Station, “from Brentwood, through Oakley to the Antioch BART Station,” she added.

About the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA)

Since July 2015, SJJPA has been responsible for the management and administration of Gold Runner, previously Amtrak San Joaquins. SJJPA is governed by Board Members representing each of the ten (10) Member Agencies along the 365-mile Gold Runner Corridor. For more information on SJJPA see www.sjjpa.com. Gold Runner is Amtrak’s 6th busiest route with 18 train stations throughout the Central Valley and Bay Area, providing a safe, comfortable and reliable way to travel throughout California. Gold Runner is currently running six daily round-trips. In addition to the train service, Gold Runner Thruway buses provide connecting service to 135 destinations in California and Nevada including Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, San Diego, Napa Valley, Las Vegas and Reno. For more information about SJJPA, visit www.sjjpa.com.

About the San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission (SJRRC)

The San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission (SJRRC) is a public agency focused on expanding and improving passenger rail service across the Central Valley and Northern California. As the operator of ACE and manager of the Valley Rail Program, SJRRC works to deliver safe, sustainable, and efficient transportation that connects communities, reduces traffic congestion, and supports regional growth. For more information about SJRRC, visit www.sjrrc.com.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

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

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Photo: Eggbred Brentwood

Breakfast and brunch restaurant

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About EggBred

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

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

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CEO running for Pittsburg City Council

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

By Allen D. Payton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Two suspects arrested following pursuit from Antioch to Bay Point, crash

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Throughout October, “The Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office and Deputy Sheriffs Association teamed up in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Uniformed staff can wear a special shoulder patch this month. This is our way of supporting a meaningful and important cause.” – Sheriff David Livingston. Photos by CCC Sheriff’s Office

Passenger had felony warrants; driver twice headed wrong way on Highway 4; helicopter assists

By Jimmy Lee, Director of Public Affairs, Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office

On Saturday, October 10, 2026, at about 6:01 PM, the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office specialized patrol unit J-Team, with the assistance of helicopter STARR 3, attempted a high-risk stop in Antioch on a Honda Civic. A person who was seen getting into the passenger seat of the vehicle was wanted for a post-release community supervision violation and multiple felony warrants.

The driver quickly reversed the vehicle narrowly missing a deputy sheriff and drove out of the parking lot at a high rate of speed.

The driver led deputies on a pursuit which traveled on surface streets in Antioch then onto Highway 4 at Loveridge Road where the Honda went the wrong way, heading eastbound in the westbound lanes. The deputies terminated the pursuit.

The Honda later corrected direction and drove westbound on Highway 4. The suspect vehicle exited Bailey Road in Bay Point and CHP successfully deployed spikes at Willow Pass Road and Alves Road.

The Honda continued to Highway 4 at San Marco Blvd. where the Honda entered eastbound Highway 4 going westbound on the shoulder. The pursuit was once again terminated.

The Honda continued westbound on the shoulder where it collided with a parked Sheriff’s Office vehicle. The suspect in the passenger seat fled on foot but was apprehended.

The Honda sped away in the wrong direction and collided with a vehicle on Highway 4. The driver of the suspect vehicle was arrested and was taken to the hospital for injuries sustained from the collision.

The suspect who was in the passenger seat and civilian driver were transported to the hospital as a precaution.

The two suspects will be booked later at the Martinez Detention Facility on multiple felony charges. They are not being identified at this time.

All Abilities Day at Big Break Regional Shoreline in Oakley Oct. 20

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Día para todos los niveles de habilidad

By East Bay Regional Park District

All Abilities Day is coming!

Join us Tuesday, October 20th from 10am-1pm at Big Break Regional Shoreline in Oakley for a day of exploring nature at your own pace and in your own way.

This inclusive program offers something for everyone! Travel along paved, accessible trails and discover hands-on stations where you can:

  • Touch and explore animal fur
  • Listen for birds
  • Draw wildlife or paint the view
  • Sit on a bench and scan the water
  • Connect with nature in whatever way feels right for you

What to expect:

  • Hands-on nature experiences
  • ASL and Spanish interpreters on site
  • Indoor and outdoor options
  • Wheelchair-accessible spaces and paved trails
  • No registration needed—just drop in and join us!

Tuesday, October 20

10am-1pm

Come explore, create, listen, touch, observe, and enjoy nature your way.

Big Break Regional Shoreline is located at 69 Big Break Rd, Oakley.

For more information visit www.ebparks.org/parks/big-break or www.facebook.com/BigBreakOakley, call (510) 544-3050 or email bigbreakvisit@ebparks.org.

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.

New Contra Costa County District 3 Youth Center to be built in Brentwood

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Rendering of the planned District 3 Youth Center in Brentwood. Source: CCCounty

A Space to Call Their Own: Investing in the Future of Our Youth Ages 12-18 in Brentwood, Oakley, Antioch, Bethel Island, Knightsen, Byron and Discovery Bay

For Creative Expression, Community & Connection, Holistic Wellness

By Diane Burgis, District 3 Supervisor, Contra Costa County

Across all neighborhoods in District 3, our youth have needed a space built specifically around their lived experiences, creative interests, and physical and mental health needs.

The project behind this long-held vision is officially underway with the support of Measure X funding. At the corner of Lone Tree Way and Windy Springs Lane in Brentwood, Contra Costa County is developing the District 3 Youth Center on a 4.68-acre County-owned parcel planned to also hold Fire Station 90.

This planned single-story, 15,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art flagship campus designed entirely for local youth ages 12 to 18 who live in the cities of Antioch, Brentwood and Oakley, and the unincorporated areas of Bethel Island, Byron, Discovery Bay and Knightsen and is scheduled to open in 2029. More than a standard municipal facility, the center’s preliminary blueprint reflects a home-like, collaborative atmosphere:

  • Creative Expression: Architectural plans feature a full music and media recording studio, instructional classrooms, and quiet study nooks designed for academic support and creative exploration.
  • Community & Connection: A central living room and lobby welcome visitors, anchored by multipurpose activity rooms, a community teaching kitchen, and open outdoor recreation areas.
  • Holistic Wellness: Recognizing the unique pressures facing teens today, the facility includes dedicated wellness zones and private consultation rooms for youth therapy, mental health guidance, and peer support.

Quick Facts

  • Estimated Construction Budget: $23,000,000
  • Anticipated Construction Start: Winter 2027
  • Estimated Project Completion: Summer 2029

As the Youth Center and Fire Station 90 are planned to be constructed by the same Design-Build team on the same parcel, the planning approval process of the Fire Station will ultimately affect the construction time for the Youth Center. It is currently on track for an opening in late Summer 2029.

Second of Three Youth Centers

The District 3 Youth Center is the second of three Youth Centers planned in the County. The District 4 Youth Center opened in 2025 at 2241 Galaxy Court in Concord. The District 5 Youth Center will be located in a new building to be constructed on the County-owned Los Medanos (former hospital) site in Pittsburg, which is currently home to a County-operated health clinic off Loveridge Road.

New Project Dashboard

The County has launched a new project dashboard where you can bring yourself up to speed on all of the current happenings at the site.

Follow the dashboard and messaging for exciting project updates and news for the District 3 Youth Center:  www.contracosta.ca.gov/10697/District-3-Youth-Center.

Programming for the District 3 Youth Center falls under the Employment and Human Services Department, Workforce Development Board. More information on the Youth Centers Initiative and interim services is available at their website: Youth Centers Initiative | Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

The Campaign for College Opportunity names Los Medanos College a 2026 Pathway Champion of Placement

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LMC Latino students excel

Online celebration Oct. 22

By Juliet V. Casey, Director of Marketing and Media Design, Los Medanos College and Loni Swain, Director of Communications, Campaign for College Opportunity

Pittsburg, Calif. – The Campaign for College Opportunity named Los Medanos College a 2026 Pathway Champion of Placement for its Latino Student Success in English. This award recognizes colleges where Latino students are completing transfer-level English at the highest rates, with particular attention to closing racial equity gaps.

“We commend your institution’s commitment to advancing equitable student success and strengthening California’s transfer pathway,” said Jessie Ryan, president of The Campaign for College Opportunity. “This achievement underscores the extraordinary efforts of your faculty and staff to ensure all students, especially those historically underrepresented, have the opportunity to succeed.”

Ryan added that LMC is leading the way, showing what is possible “when equity and excellence go hand in hand.”

LMC will be recognized during the Pathway Champions: Celebrating Colleges Building Seamless Paths to Student Success virtual celebration on Thursday, October 22, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., during National Transfer Week.

“Los Medanos College is a culturally rich institution, where more than 45% of the student population identifies as Latinx,” LMC President Ralston said. “We are honored and proud of this recognition.”

Ralston said that as a federally designated Hispanic-Serving Institution, LMC prioritizes improving transfer-level English completion for this population but has not done so in isolation. The college’s Student Equity Plan includes strategies designed to address shared and intersecting barriers to completion of all students, she said.

Morgan Lynn, chair of LMC’s English Department, faculty members have been making student-centered, holistic, and innovative changes to our programming and pedagogy.

“This award is a testament to all of our committed faculty, who have dedicated themselves to truly putting students first,” she said.

LMC Vice President of Instruction A’kilah Smith applauded the English Department for their notable work.

“I’m especially proud of our English faculty and colleagues who have embraced the opportunity to rethink how we support students, remove barriers, and create pathways to early success in college-level English,” Smith said.

Marisa Johnson, director of policy impact for The Campaign for College Opportunity, said LMC’s approach stands out. During the 2023-2024 academic year, LMC’s overall transfer-level English completion rate within one year of initial enrollment was 69.4% and 65.1% among Latino students, below the threshold to qualify for the award. After implementing its equity plan, which includes targeted initiatives, services, guidance and resources, LMC’s completion rate overall and for Latino students both rose to 72%.

“So, this award really represents closing the equity gap for last year’s English gateway courses,” Johnson said.

Rachel Anicetti, LMC dean of Liberal Arts and Sciences, said the award also reflects LMC’s commitment to equity.

“I am incredibly proud for our English faculty and their collaborative investment in professional development, learning communities, and equitable teaching practices,” she said.

Pathway Champion awards honor campuses advancing landmark reforms in equitable placement (AB 705 and 1705, Irwin), which maximize student success in transfer level-courses, and the Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT), which streamlines transfer between community colleges and CSUs. Since the passage of AB 705 and AB 1705 (Irwin), California Community Colleges have made historic progress in ensuring students are placed directly into transfer-level courses.

The Campaign for College Opportunity is recognizing 40 Pathway Champions this year.  The 40 honorees include California Community Colleges and CSU campuses.

Source: The Campaign for College Opportunity

About Los Medanos College (LMC): LMC is one of three colleges in the Contra Costa Community College District serving the East Contra Costa County community. Established in 1974, LMC has earned federal designations as a Minority-Serving and Hispanic-Serving institution. It offers award-winning transfer and career-technical programs, support services, and diverse academic opportunities in an inclusive learning environment. With exceptional educators, innovative curriculum, growing degree and certificate offerings, and state-of-the-art facilities, the college prepares students to succeed in their educational pursuits, in the workforce, and beyond. LMC’s Pittsburg Campus is located on 120 acres bordering Antioch, with an additional education center in Brentwood. For more information visit www.losmedanos.edu.

About the Campaign for College Opportunity: The Campaign for College Opportunity is a coalition representing business, labor, civil rights, religious groups and civic organizations working to ensure that California keeps the promise of college opportunity to California’s next generation of students. The coalition is dedicated to ensuring every Californian can attend and succeed in college, building a stronger future for California’s communities and the students who power them.

Majority of $10,000 in stolen tools from new Brentwood fire station construction site recovered

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Stolen tools from Brentwood Fire Station recovered. Photo: Brentwood PD

License plate reader identifies suspect vehicle

By Brentwood Police Department

On September 27, 2026, at approximately 11:30 a.m., two suspects forced entry into the Fire Station construction site in downtown Brentwood on First Street and stole more than $10,000 worth of tools from a secured electrician’s toolbox.

A BPD patrol officer conducted a very thorough investigation, quickly obtained surveillance footage, and a detailed list of the stolen property. While construction site cameras captured the suspect vehicle, no license plate was visible.

Using License Plate Reader (LPR) technology, a BPD detective was able to identify the suspect vehicle. Within hours of the theft being reported, our partners at the Fremont Police Department located and stopped the suspect vehicle and contacted BPD Investigations.

BPD detectives continued the investigation and, within just two days of the reported theft, recovered the majority of the stolen tools and returned them to their rightful owner.

Screenshot of surveillance video of suspect’s car leaving the new downtown Brentwood fire station construction site and the car located with the help of Fremont Police. Photos: Brentwood PD

For the victim, a female engineer working here in our community, the recovery of her tools meant much more than simply getting back stolen property. These are essential tools that support her work and career, and returning them helps her continue pursuing her success while working on projects right here in our city. She expressed her overwhelming appreciation for the officers and detectives who worked quickly to recover what she had lost.

This case is a great example of how good police work, technology, and strong partnerships between law enforcement agencies can quickly make a difference for our community.

Thank you to our patrol officers, BPD Investigations team, and our friends at the Fremont Police Department for their assistance in getting these stolen items back where they belong.

The Big Bounce America at the Contra Costa Fair & Event Park in Antioch Oct. 17-18 & 24-25

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World’s largest bounce house with over 50,000 square feet of fun offers action-packed, all-ages experience featuring live DJs, food trucks, gift shops & more — tickets on sale now!

By Greg Wiley, Public Relations Manager, The Big Bounce America

Contra Costa, CA (September 21, 2026) – The Big Bounce America, home to the world’s largest bounce house, extending its high-energy experience in the Bay Area for two weekends, October 17-18 and Oct 24-25. Featuring more than 50,000 square feet of inflatable attractions, the event transforms the Contra Costa Fair and Event Park into a fully immersive playground filled with live music, laughter, and unforgettable fun for ALL!

Designed for all ages, The Big Bounce America features dedicated sessions for younger children, bigger kids, and adults — so everyone can JUMP IN and join the fun.

“This isn’t just an event, it’s a full-blown, larger-than-life experience,” said David Taube, Tour Director of The Big Bounce America. “We’re talking about the biggest bounce house on the planet, live DJs, a 900-foot-long obstacle course, and nonstop energy from the moment you walk in. We’re bringing a festival-level atmosphere where kids, parents, teens, and adults can jump, dance, and lose themselves in the fun. It’s truly an unforgettable experience for everyone.”

The event features seven massive inflatable attractions, including:

The World’s Largest Bounce House

Covering over 24,000 square feet and standing 32 feet tall, this record-breaking inflatable is a full-blown party zone. Inside, guests will find giant slides, ball pits, climbing towers, basketball hoops, and colorful interactive elements. A live DJ keeps the energy high with music, games, and competitions tailored to each age group—turning every session into a dance party in the sky.

The Giant

At over 900 feet long, this epic obstacle course is built for thrill-seekers of all skill levels. With more than 50 challenges and a massive finale slide, it’s perfect for friendly competition—or just bouncing your way through a wildly fun adventure.

Sport Slam

Get ready to bring your A-game! Sport Slam is a high-energy, action-packed arena where bouncing meets friendly competition. Packed with hoops, goals, climbing challenges, and fast-paced games, this inflatable playground lets you dunk, kick, race, and battle your way to bragging rights. Challenge your friends, take on your family, or jump into the chaos with new competitors—every corner is built for non-stop movement and big-time fun. Whether you’re channeling your inner all-star or just looking to let loose, Sport Slam keeps the adrenaline pumping from start to finish.

airSPACE

Step into an immersive, space-themed world filled with aliens, moon craters, and intergalactic fun. Featuring a towering inflatable alien, multi-lane slides, and endless ball pits, airSPACE delivers an out-of-this-world experience for explorers of all ages.

Other on-site Activities

Additional on-site attractions include food trucks, shaded rest areas, and family-friendly entertainment. Guests can bring their own food and drinks or purchase from on-site vendors.

Note: Attractions subject to change.

TICKETS: All-Access tickets are available now and include a three-hour pass to the event, featuring a timed session in The World’s Largest Bounce House plus unlimited access to all other attractions. Advanced purchase is strongly encouraged, as sessions frequently sell out. Tickets start at $35. Buy tickets at https://TheBigBounceAmerica.com/Tour-Dates/.

LOCATION: Contra Costa Fair and Event Park (1201 W 10th St, Antioch, CA 94509)

DAYS/TIMES: Saturday, October 17th: 9a-9p; Sunday, October 18th: 9a-6p; Saturday, October 24 9a-9p; Sunday, October 25 9a-6p.

Follow the fun on social media:

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TheBigBounceAmerica/

Instagram: @TheBigBounceAmerica

Twitter: @TheBigBounceUSA

ABOUT THE BIG BOUNCE AMERICA:

The Big Bounce America is the world’s largest traveling bounce house experience, welcoming thousands of guests in countries around the world since 2007. Learn more at www.thebigbounceamerica.com.