Connecting Antioch, Pittsburg, Brentwood and Oakley
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
The future of transportation is coming – on its own.
The Contra Costa Transportation Authority debuted their autonomous shuttles in the Rossmoor senior community in Walnut Creek last Thursday, and Executive Director Tim Hale said that there’s a project in place to bring the technology to East County.
“We actually have an autonomous vehicle project right now that we’re planning and developing in eastern Contra Costa county,” Hale said. “Our goal is to deploy these shuttles first and
last mile across the entire county and really to help support access to transportation and expand access to transportation and mobility for all.
“We’re developing an autonomous vehicle project that’s going to connect the cities of Antioch, Pittsburg, Brentwood, and Oakley together.”
There is no timeline yet for the project to be piloted in East Contra Costa county.
The CCTA, teamed up with Beep – an “Autonomous Mobility as a Service” provider that services public transit operators, communities, campuses, and airports, according to their website – to launch their PRESTO au-
The PRESTO autonomous shuttle made its debut in Walnut Creek’s Rossmoor senior community last week.
The Contra Costa Transportation Authority says that there’s plans in place to bring such technology to connect East County.
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
tonomous shuttles in the 55-andolder senior community in Walnut Creek Thursday morning, debuting them to the community along with Walnut Creek city officials and the media.
“I enjoyed it,” Rick Axe, a resident of the Rossmoor senior
see Connected page18
Popeyes divides Brentwood Planners
By Jake Menez Staff Writer
A new Popeyes fast-food restaurant will be coming to Brentwood Boulevard after it was narrowly approved by the Planning Commission during their Aug. 6 meeting. Following an hours-long discussion over the restaurant, the final decision was 3-2 in favor, with Commissioners Rod Flohr and Kristopher Brand dissenting.
“Right now, all we’re trying to do is pick and pick and pick. Trying to find a scab that we can find that will rip this thing open,” Commis-
sioner Gerald Johnson said during the discussion. “What we said the last time when we were here, except Commissioner Sparling, was this was a great design.”
Johnson’s comments refer to the Planning Commission’s April 16 meeting at which the commission voted 4-0 to delay a decision on
Popeyes due to concerns over the project. Vice Chairperson David Sparling was absent from that meeting, during which the commission expressed concern that there were too many fastfood restaurants on the same corridor as the
see Popeyes page 18
State weed tax ‘too
high’
for some sellers
By Connor Robles Correspondent
The sale of recreational marijuana has generated $1.2 billion in taxes in the first quarter of 2024 for the state since it was legalized in 2016 by the passage of Proposition 64, according to state records. So where does all that money go?
Since 2016, many large and small dispensary businesses have sprung up to cater to cannabis users across the state. From these sales, the state extracted $152.5 million in excise and $107.4 million in sales taxes.
According to California Department of Tax and Fee Administration spokesperson Yating Campbell, cannabis sales taxes are used for the same purpose as any other sales tax, deposited into the state’s General Fund for administrative costs that are not covered by any other fund or being distributed to cities, counties, and other localities as state funding.
Excise taxes, however, are directed to the California Cannabis Tax Fund (CCTF), the money from which is earmarked specifically for cannabis-related programs.
According to the Department of Health Care Services website, 60 percent of this fund is reserved for the Youth Educa-
see Cannabis page 18
Patriots Jet Team, Freedom once again launch into new school year with rockets
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Students at Freedom High School are launching themselves once again into the new school year the best way they know how – by launching rockets with the Patriots Jet Team Foundation.
While the engineering of the rockets is fairly simple, at least on paper, the project is focused a lot more on the students’ collaboration with one another and introducing them to aviation science.
“It’s a way to kick off the new school year,” Patriots Jet Team executive director and foundation board member Don Paiva said. “It’s really amazing what Freedom High School has done for their kids over a two-week period.”
The program, geared toward the freshmen science classes, has the students collaborating with one another to build paper air rockets that they will launch outside to see how high they can get it to go.
“We send them materials by which they can teach and share with the students on how to build these rockets, then when they come out, we’re going to launch the rockets,” Paiva explained. “We do a preand post-brief so they can learn how they may perform. Then after they perform
(they explain) why they did what they did, then they’ll take that back next week and rebuild these rockets.”
The students were equally excited about the project.
“The rocket project is one of the
very first projects we do with our freshman class,” said Renee McCormick, an instructional coach at Freedom. “We’ve been doing this for close to 13 years. It’s a really great way for our students to work together, building a rocket, trying to fig-
ure out how to build the best rocket that’s going to go the highest.”
“(The Patriots Jet Team Foundation) have been here, working with us since we started this project, and they work so well with our students, teaching them about building rockets, about math, engineering, about the science they do, and it’s very inspiring for them.”
Most of the groups that came out Tuesday morning saw their rockets fail to launch. However, some saw their rocket quickly hit the skies, including one group that saw theirs reach up to 70 feet.
“We just taped everything,” freshman Lilyana Burbank said.
“We reinforced it a lot,” said freshman Samuel Prado, one of the other group members. “The wings we tried taping up, we taped the bottom to be more stable and we made the base how (the instructions) told us to.”
The air rocket project at Freedom is funded by the money the foundation raises through its annual benefit gala. The 11th annual dinner is on Sept. 21 at the Byron Airport at 760 Osprey Court. Those interested in registering for the gala can do so on the Patriots Jet Team Foundation website at https://pjtf.org.
To view a video and a slideshow, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
Students prepare to launch one of their paper rockets at the Aug. 6 event. The project allows them to work on their math, science and teamwork skills.
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
REGIONAL & LOCAL
News iN Brief
Death in Antioch on Jan. 7 called a homicide
The death of an unidentified person in Antioch on Jan. 7, 2024 has been ruled a homicide by the county cororner’s office, according to an Antioch Police news release.
The Investigations Bureau is investigating all evidence in the hopes of identifying additional witnesses and leads. Based on the information, this appears to be an isolated incident, and there is no threat to the public, the release stated.
On Jan. 7 at 9:45 p.m., Antioch officers and Contra Costa County Fire responded to a report of an assault that just occurred on the 1900 block of D Street. Officers found the victim down and unconscious, so they rendered aid, then he victim was transported to a local hospital.
After speaking with several witnesses and obtaining video surveillance, it was discovered the victim was struck at least one time knocking him unconscious and causing him to fall to the ground. The victim was later pronounced dead at the hospital pending a coroner’s investigation.
The Antioch police Investigations Bureau received the coroner’s report on July 30.
This is an active investigation, and no
further information will be released, the release said.
If you have any information regarding this crime, you are asked to contact Detective Becerra at abecerra@antiochca.gov or 925-779-6937.
Mountain House
incorporates as state’s 483rd city
Mountain House has California’s 483rd city. Cal Cities Executive Director Carolyn Coleman, along with city officials from at least six nearby cities, were among those rallying around their newest colleagues at the swearing-in ceremony last week.
Brentwood Vice-Mayor Susannah Meyer and City Councilmember Jovita Mendoza attened the ceremony.
“There are literally thousands of city officials from throughout the state rooting for you, rooting for your success as you go forward,” Coleman told Mayor Andy Su and four other newly minted city councilors: Bernice King Tingle, Ronna Green, Matt Disko, and Daniel Harrison.
Twenty years ago, Mountain House barely existed. Today, it is a thriving community with lots of new housing, treelined streets, and other amenities — including a public library.
“You’ve all worked very hard to get
to this point,” said Stockton Mayor Kevin Lincoln. “This is a historic moment and a huge achievement.”
San Joaquin County voters in March overwhelmingly elected to incorporate Mountain House. County Supervisor Robert Rickman reminded the standingroom-only crowd of family, friends, and city officials that this is all about local decision making.
“I am all about local control, and this is what you have given your city and your residents — greater local control over what you want your city to be.”
Mountain House now has more access to state and federal funding and will have more control over its land use, tax, and public safety decisions. The county will supply key essential services.
“We’ve come a long way since I moved here in 2004 and we had only about 1,000 people,” said Su. “Now we are a bustling community of nearly 30,000 people (about half of the population of Brentwood). I’ve been fortunate to be part of this growth.”
White Pony Express grand opening for new office in Concord on
Friday, Aug. 23
White Pony Express is celebrating the grand openings of its new headquarters in Concord on Aug. 23 at 2470 Bates Avenue from 3:30-5 p.m.
More than 20 elected officials (mayors, councilmembers, etc.), including six mayors and other councilmembers representing Antioch, Brentwood, Clayton, Concord), Lafayette, Moraga, Oakley, Pleasant Hill, Richmond, and Walnut Creek or their representatives will be at-
tending the celebration.
White Pony Express combats hunger and bring nutritious food to county residents in need.
County offers waste tire drop-off on Saturday, Aug. 24 in Knightsen
The county is hosting a waste tire drop-off on Aug. 24 from 8 a.m.-noon at 2030 Knightsen Ave. in Knightsen.
According to a county news release, here is what’s eligible: for county residents only, nine or fewer tires without hauling exemption letter, 10-20 tires with waste exemption letter; limit of 40 tires per resident and a maximum of 20 tires per trip.
This is for dropping off tires only; no other trash will be accepted, the county said.
For details, call 925-608-5500 or visit tinyurl.com/cchealth-tire.
Sheriff’s office accepting applications for fall Citizens Academy
The Contry Costa County Office of the Sheriff is accepting applications for the newest Citizens Academy where county residents will learn the ins and outs of how the sheriff’s office works.
It will be in Martinez starting on Sept. 11 for six weeks with one day devoted to the range in Clayton.
Classes meet on Wednesdays from 6-9 p.m. with one Saturday session on Oct. 5 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m..
The deadline to apply is Aug. 31. For details and an application, email csu@ so.cccounty.us.
Oakley chiropractor awarded fellowship
Dr. Mark Studin, the clinical director of the Fellowship in Primary Spine Care, announces that Dr. Rick Junnila from Oakley has been awarded a Fellowship in Primary Spine Care.
The Fellowship is certified in Joint Providership from the State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine, Office of Continuing Medical Education, Cleveland University Kansas City, College of Chiropractic, and the Academy of Chiropractic. It is the first joint providership program between medical and chiropractic academia.
The fellowship is a two-year intensive program on the spine and teaches the latest research findings in managing trauma cases and pain management, advanced imaging, collaboration with surgeons to help prevent surgery, and specializing in locating “before non-evident” causes of the pain. Studin said, “This program is long-overdue as it gives options to spinal pain sufferers to help locate and treat spinal pain without opiates or other drugs that manage the pain, but not the cause of the pain. They now have an option that has been proven in the scientific literature that realizes outstanding outcomes.”
Studin added, “This fellowship also bridges the gap
between chiropractic and medicine and allows for better collaboration between the professions offering their patients with spinal pain more options to realize better results.”
After practicing for 32 years, Dr. Junnila has continued his commitment to clinical excellence and is one of the first few doctors in the nation to be awarded the fellowship. With this fellowship, he hopes to continue advancing primary spine care research and treatment so that more people can be helped by avoiding surgery and unnecessary pain that sometimes persists for a lifetime.
Medical Universities as well as Hospitals are gradually seeing the benefits of chiropractic care and are now accepting chiropractors into their academic programs to become specialists.
Dr. Junnila is the only doctor of Chiropractic in California to have earned a fellowship and has become a “beacon of light” to those seeking solutions to the #1 cause of disability in the nation–back pain.
Prior to this fellowship he was one of the first, if not the first, chiropractor nationally to become a Chief of Staff for a major hospital.
For information on Dr. Rick Junnila DC, FPSC Fellow & Primary Spine Care specialist call 925-978-2225, visit www.oakleychiropractor.com or stop by the office at 5351 Neroly Road in Oakley.
RICK JUNNILA DC,
What
garbage every year in Brentwood?
by Sean Tongson Correspondent
Every week, the familiar sound of the early morning garbage truck makes its way to each and every neighborhood, up and down every street, hauling away each household’s weekly accumulation of municipal waste.
However, after lifting, dumping, and compacting each household’s waste into the truck as it drives away, where does all that waste go, and what happens to it?
“All garbage within the city limits, both residential and commercial, is collected by city staff and delivered to the Solid Waste Transfer Station on Elkins Way,” said Casey Wichert, Brentwood Director of Public Works. “From there, it is sorted into separate piles of yard waste, mixed recyclables, and mixed solid waste.”
According to Wichert, mixed solid waste and yard waste for residents of Brentwood are hauled away to Keller Canyon landfill in Pittsburg, while recyclables are collected and processed at the Newby Island Resource Recovery Park in Milpitas. Sarah Davis, Community Relations & Governmental Affairs Manager for Mt. Diablo Resource Recovery, says there are always concerns about landfills filling up, which is why the state adopted recycling laws.
“The landfills are operated by private companies, so we don’t have any input or concerns related to their sizing,” Wichert said. “Our concern is more related to making sure we have somewhere to safely dispose of the garbage removed from businesses and residents, and how that disposal affects the environment around us.”
Wichert says about 33,000 tons of mixed solid waste collected each year end up in landfills, while an additional estimated 11,000 tons of collected yard waste end up in landfills as well. About 4,200 tons of recycling is collected and processed every year in Milpitas.
Putting the 33,000 tons into perspective, 30,000 tons is enough to go across 175 football fields and 33,000 tons weighs more than 4,700 elephants.
An average football stadium the size of AT&T Stadium in suburban Dallas (home of the Dallas Cowboys) could hold about 433,333 tons of garbage when filled completely, according to Jon Carlson, Solid Waste Manager of Public Works/ Operations in Brentwood.
“Our recycling totals have been pretty steady in 2021-2023,” Wichert said. “2020 was an outlier year where the volume of recycling doubled because of the massive increase in online shopping associated with COVID stay-at-home mandates. Everything was delivered in a cardboard box.”
However, the biggest concern according to Wichert, is hazardous materials. While hazardous materials can’t be accepted, there are different options for residents to properly dispose of those materials, which also include annual dropoff events in Oakley, Discovery Bay, and Brentwood that are coordinated by Delta Diablo Sanitation District. Batteries, in particular, are a cause of concern for fires,
which can occur once or twice a year, according to Wichert.
“They start fires in the carts, trucks, and recycling center,” Davis said. “All ewaste; sharps, and hazardous waste can be taken to Delta Diablo Hazardous Waste Collection Facility located on 2550 Pittsburg-Antioch Highway.”
Wichert added that in recent years, the biggest push in regards to landfills hasn’t been an emphasis on recycling, but more of an effort to remove organic material from landfills. According to the CalRecycle website’s homepage, landfills represent the third-largest source of the emission of methane in California, a gas that is 84 times more potent than carbon dioxide. The goal is to reduce organic waste disposal, including food scraps, yard trimmings, paper, and cardboard from landfills by 75 percent by 2025 to combat climate change, while converting organic waste into renewable products and energy, such as compost, mulch, biofuel, and electricity.
“SB 1383 was landmark legislation requiring 75 percent of all organic material to be diverted to somewhere other than a landfill,” Wichert said. “The city has elected to construct digesters, capture the organic material, and convert it to renewable natural gas. This has the effect of preventing many tons of harmful greenhouse gas from being generated in a landfill.”
More information on Mt. Diablo Resource Recovery are at https://mdrr.com/ Further information and statistics on California’s recycling and organic waste program are at https://calrecycle.ca.gov/ To comment, visit www.thepress.net
Brentwood residents create about 33,000 tons of garbage every year.
Press file photo
For print, email your events to calendar@brentwoodpress.com one week prior to publication. For online, post your events for free on The Press Community Calendar www.thepress.net/calendar.
This Week’s Events
Friday, August 9-Sunday, August 11
Monty Python’s Spamalot by Ghostlight Theatre
The players present six performances of Spamalot, including the final three this weekend. Ripped from the film classic Monty Python and the Holy Grail, this musical has everything from flying cows to killer rabbits, British royalty to French taunters, dancing girls, catchy songs and The Lady of the Lake. This show is considered PG-13 and not recommended for children under the age of 13. Tickets are $25-$28. Showtimes at Edna Hill Middle School in Brentwood are Friday, Aug. 9 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 10 at 2 p.m. and Sunday, Aug. 11 at 2 p.m. For details or to get tickets, visit https://ghostlightte.org/.
Saturday, August 10
Free Water Polo Clinic
There will be a free clinic for kids ages 8-14 (8th grade and under) who are new to water polo to come and try it out. The clinic will be at Liberty High School from 10 a.m-noon. Participants must be able to swim unassisted and without needing to hold on to the sides or touch the bottom of the pool. For more information and to register, visit https://www. brentwoodseawolves.com/contact-us-2
Saturday, August 10 and
Sunday, August 11
2024 Quilt Show
The Delta Quilters Guild presents their annual show from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Aug. 10 and 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. on Aug. 11 at the Brentwood Community Center at 35 Oak St. There will be quilts, demonstrations, vendors, a boutique and raffles, plus lunch and shopping specials presented by downtown merchants. Entry fee is $12, good for both days. Those younger than 8 or older than 80 are admitted free.
Presentations of patriotic quilts (Quilted Hugs) to local veterans
On Saturday and Sunday at 1 p.m., the Delta Quilters Guild will present quilts to local veterans to honor and thank them for their bravery, sacrifice, and service. Brentwood VFW Post 10789 will perform a Color Guard ceremony. In addition to making quilts for local veterans, the Delta Quilters Guild donates: different size handmade quilts to a variety of community organizations, handmade small fidget quilts and adult bibs to local memory care units and assistedliving facilities, and pillowcases for children to take to summer camp sponsored by Brentwood Lions’ Club. Proceeds from the Quilt Show will help defray the cost of fabric, batting, and thread for these outreach donations.
Sunday, August 11
Pancakes and More Breakfast for Oakley Seniors
Pancakes and more will be served at the Oakley Park and Rec Center, 1250 O’Hara Ave., from 8 a.m. – noon. Tickets are $15 for adults, $5 for 5 years and younger. Tickets are available to purchase at the Senior Center or by calling 925-626-7223.
On the Horizon
Friday, August 16
“Let’s Build a New Oakley Library and Community Center” Fundraising Dinner
Tickets are $50 for the Hawai’an-inspired event from 6-9 p.m. at the Oakley Recreation Center, 1250 O’Hara Ave, in Oakley. Guest speakers include Jeff Palmquist, Superintendent of Schools for the Oakley Union Elementary School District. Kristin Connelly, Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder, former president and CEO of the East Bay Leadership Council and Executive Director of the Contra Costa Economic Council.Susan Hildreth, Former California State Librarian and Director of the National Institute of Museum and Library Services.For details and tickets, visit https://www.oakleylibrary.org/ new_fundraising_event.
Saturday August 17
Cruise Out Car Show
Liberty High School Auto Shop presents their car show at the Independence High parking lot at First and Pine streets (929 Second St.) in Brentwood from noon- 4 p.m. (cars start lining up at 11 a.m.). Entry fee is $30. For details, visit https://linktr.ee/libertyautoclub?utm_ source=linktree_profile_share<sid=eab5fe9061d4-445a-8d23-cac0c29fc4aa
Hot August Cruise Night
From 5-9 p.m., downtown Antioch restaurants and stores will be open. A lot of classic cars, music and food as part of the Celebrate Antioch Foundation and Rivertown Merchants Event. For details, visit www.celebrateantioch.org.
Saturday, August 17
Sunday, August 18
Bethel Island Boats & Berries Music Festival
Bethel Island’s Boats and Berries Music Festival is back, along with the “Car and Bike Show!” Join in on the free family fun and festivities including town opening parade, live music, talent show, catfish races, vendors, food trucks, duckie races, kids zone, bathtub races, and the car, bike, and boat show. The festival will take place from 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. each day at Bethel Island Community Park, 6190 Bethel Island Road, Bethel Island, CA, 94511.
www.thepress.net/ calendar
Tuesday, August 20
Oakley Senior Center Bus Trip to Hard Rock Casino
The bus will leave the senior center at 215 Second St. at 8 a.m. and return by 5 p.m. to allow for five hours of gambling and lunch. Tickets are $47. RSVP by Aug. 12 by calling Joyce or Allan at 925-626-7223.
Saturday, Aug. 24
County Waste Tire Drop-off
The county is hosting a waste tire drop-off on Aug. 24 from 8 a.m.-noon at 2030 Knightsen Ave. in Knightsen. Per a county news release, here is what’s eligible: for county residents only, nine or fewer tires without hauling exemption letter, 10-20 tires with waste exemption letter; limit of 40 tires per resident and a maximum of 20 tires per trip. This is for dropping off tires only; no other trash will be accepted. For more details, call 925-608-5500 or visit tinyurl.com/cchealth-tire
Saturday, September 7
La Gran Fiesta Hispanic Heritage Event
Presented by the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce, celebrate La Gran Fiesta from 2-8 p.m. at Brentwood City Park with live musical performances, a car show, a free kids zone and Hispanic food. For details, call 925-634-3344.
Rivertown Peddlers Faire
The faire, which runs from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at G and 2nd streets in Antioch’s Historic Rivertown Business District, features more than 70 vendors offer vintage goods, antiques, furniture, home decor, repurposed and upcycled items, home & garden, handmade items, arts and crafts, jewelry and gifts, live music, food , beer and wine, and shopping. Admission and parking are free. For details, visit: https://www.rivertownpeddlersfaire.com.
Sunday, September 8
ECHS community barbecue
The East Contra Costa Historical Society hosts its 36th annual community barbecue at the museum from 1-4 p.m.. The menu includes tri tip, corn, tomato salad, beans and dessert. Tickets are $35 for adults, $15 for children ages 6-12. Tickets go on sale Aug. 10. For details, visit www. eastcontracostahistory.org or call 925-634-4049.
Saturday, September 14
Banner Up! Live Auction
Art Guild of the Delta’s Banner Up! 2024 Live Auction is from 6-9 p.m. at the Brentwood Senior Center, 193 Griffith Lane, Brentwood. Proceeds support local artists and Adventure Therapy Foundation. Pick up your free banner guide at the community center. For more information, visit ArtGuildoftheDelta.org or call Rosie Grejsen at 925-698-2077.
Bob Mankin
AI-Powered Business Workshop Part 1 of 2
Discovery Bay Community Center 1601 Discovery Bay Blvd
Part 2 - September 12th, 2024
AFTER HOURS BUSINESS MIXER August 8th, 2024
Hosted by: All-in-One Limousine and Discovery Bay Tech Solutions
Tuesday, August 27th, | 5:30 - 7:30
Tess’ Community Farm Kitchen 8091 Balfour Rd, Brentwood CA
MUST REGISTER TO ATTEND
COMING EVENTS
Tri-Chamber Mega Mixer
Tuesday, September 24th
Hosted by: Discovery Bay Chamber
Sabbatical Farm Distillery Brentwood, Oakley, Discovery Bay 16021 CA-4, Holt CA
MUST Register for all events at: www.discoverybaychamber.org (925)240-4114 1355 Riverlake Rd Discovery Bay, CA 94505
Saturday, September 21
2024 PJTF 11th Annual Benefit Gala
The Patriots Jet Team Foundation’s 11th annual benefit gala from 5–10 p.m. at the Patriots Jet Team Center Byron Airport at 760 Osprey Court, Byron, features Champagne reception, dinner and live music. The cost is $225 per person until Aug. 15. For details, call 925-338-7583 or visit https://www.pjtf.org/.
Saturday, September 28
Brentwood Rotary Club Craft Brew Festival
The Brentwood Rotary Club’s third annual Brewfest brings the community together to enjoy a diverse selection of craft beers, live music, and local food vendors. The festival at City Park from 1-5 p.m. is a fundraiser for the club, supporting its various charitable projects and initiatives. Attendees can sample beers from breweries, participate in fun activities, and enjoy a lively atmosphere. Ticket information will be announced shortly.
New shop is ‘all about the outing’
Custom candle-making lounge to light up downtown Brentwood
By Nicole Becchina Staff Writer
Radiance Candle Lounge in Brentwood will host their grand opening weekend beginning on Friday, Aug. 9 from 5-9:30 p.m. Guests will be able to create custom candles in a relaxing environment.
The business at 857 Second St., Suite C, is family operated and is owned by Tyler Rost and his wife.
“Our family has always loved candles and have had the love and enjoyment of candle making,” Rost said. “After spending an exceptional amount of time experimenting with different types of wax used for pillar candles, we believe we have perfected this process and are excited to share this with the Brentwood community.”
Guests will be about to create their own custom candle following a special process. There is a variety of scents, wax colors and molds to choose from, as well as unique charms.
“The biggest thing about our candles is that they are non-toxic,” Rost said. “The scent, the color, everything. We’re excited that we can share our experience with this custom type of candle making.”
Rost said the candle lounge is a fun place to go for date night or out with friends. Brentwood needed another place guests can go and enjoy an experience other than dining and shopping, he said, adding that now it has a new activity for the community to enjoy in a comfortable environment.
“The spot is really cool,” Rost said. “We tried to make it really calm and cozy for people. It’ll be fun. Brentwood needs it. It’s all about the outing.”
The candle lounge will offer experiences for adults
and for kids. Reservations are recommended, but walkins are welcome. The space can also be reserved for parties with a reservation.
Rost said in addition to candle making, they hope to pursue soap making in the near future. They will also have soy candles available for purchase at the beginning of September.
Radiance Candle Lounge will offer a 10% discount for their grand opening weekend. They will be open
Radiance Candle Lounge, a new Brentwoodbased business, gives customers a chance to make their own candles.
on Fridays from 5-9:30 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m.9:30 p.m., Sundays from 1-7 p.m. and Monday through Thursday by reservation only.
“I’m looking forward to building relationships and getting to know Brentwood more and more people around here,” Rost said. “It’s a fully custom candle. We’re super excited about it.”
For more information about Radiance Candle Lounge, visit https://radiancecandlelounge.com/.
Friends of the Oakley Library to host fundraiser
Aug. 16 dinner will help pay for new library
By Jake Menez Staff Writer
The Friends of the Oakley Library are no strangers to dealing with overdue books, but their upcoming fundraiser dinner is meant to address a different problem: an overdue building.
“The current Oakley Library has been housed within the Freedom High School Library for 25 years – 20 years longer than was originally planned,” the organization wrote in a press release. “ At 3,000 square feet, the library has long since outgrown the space at Freedom.”
According to the Friends of the Oakley Library, the city has “fully committed” to building a new library next to City Hall and has already set aside $9.5 million to pay for one. The new library will be roughly 9,500 square feet. The City Council has given various stakeholders until the end of 2024 to raise additional funds to pay for making the library bigger.
A fundraising dinner on Aug 16 is intended to help the organization raise more money to make the library bigger
and will be done in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Oakley.
The event is from 6-9 p.m. at the Oakley Recreation Center at 1250 O’Hara Ave., and will feature a buffet of Hawaiian-themed foods from Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, according to the press release. There will also be a Hawaiian dance performance, a no-host bar staffed by the Rotary Club, a raffle and residents who are guest speakers who are “passionate
about reading and libraries.” The list of speakers includes:
Jeff Palmquist, Superintendent of Schools for the Oakley Union Elementary School District.
Kristin Connelly, Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder, former president and CEO of the East Bay Leadership Council and Executive Director of the Contra Costa Economic Council.
Susan Hildreth, Former California
State Librarian and Director of the National Institute of Museum and Library Services.
“I’d love to see the community turn out for this event,” said Liz Fuller, treasurer for the Friends of the Oakley Library. “Not only will it raise funds for a bigger, better library, but it will also demonstrate that residents of Oakley prioritize libraries, literacy and having a community gathering place. Foundations and large donors really need to see that kind of support if they are going to invest in a project.”
Tickets are $50 and can be purchased at https://www.oakleylibrary.org/new_ fundraising_event
“I’m really excited to be in a room with folks who love libraries and what they represent. Our speakers will talk about how important libraries are, which warms my heart, of course,” Fuller said. “On a selfish note, I’m looking forward to seeing several of my former co-workers from Contra Costa County Library who are coming. It will be like a reunion with some of my favorite people.”
More information about the library project can be found on the Friends’ website at https://www.oakleylibrary.org/ and the City of Oakley’s website dedicated to the project at https://engage.oakleyca. gov/en/projects/oakley-library-and-community-center-1.
To comment, visit www.thepress.net
An artist’s rendering of the proposed Oakley Community Center that would include a library as well as other amenities.
Photo courtesy of Tyler Rost
William Weber March 13, 1963-Aug. 2, 2024
Commander William Weber lost his battle with stage 4 lung cancer on Aug. 2, 2024 in Antioch, Calif.
A long-time resident of Discovery Bay, Bill was born on March 13, 1963, and dedicated the last 22 years to investing in the Discovery Bay and Brentwood communities as his children grew up here.
Bill had a life-long passion for sports as a champion athlete himself, and deeply cared about the veterans in this country. In the local area, this manifested as him coaching various sports teams through Discovery Bay T-Ball All Stars, Junior Giants, Brentwood Pony and East County
OBITUARY
Little League, or serving as the Commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10789 and being a dedicated member of the Delta Diablo Det 1155 Marine Corps League and American Legion Post 202.
Bill was an ardent believer of honoring fallen soldiers and veterans whenever possible, and proudly supported the Joey Graves Foundation, Homes for Our Troops, and organized Poppy Drives every year.
Bill leaves behind his beloved wife (Tamara) , seven children – Zackary (Eunice), Elijah, Gabrielle, Chandlier Carr, Xenobia,
Oakley Police Chief Paul Beard stands with County Supervisor Diane Burgis as part of National Night Out.
Photo courtesy of Katy Kerling
National Night Out returns to East County
Dante, William – one grandchild (Benjamin) three brothers (John, Matt, Tom) and his loving mother (Barbara) in Michigan, as well as a life’s worth of service and connections.
His passing is an undoubted loss for everyone in our community, and he will be deeply missed by all who know him. In lieu of flowers, we ask that close family and friends donate to the Venmo account at right to help with the “Adopt a Senior Program” at the three Liberty Union High School Distric high schools to students who are going into the military, service academies or the ROTC program.
The family is inviting you to join them for Bill’s burial service at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery (5810 Midway Road in Dixon) on Tuesday, Aug. 20 at 1:30 p.m. and the funeral service at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building (757 1st St., Brentwood on Wednesday, Aug. 21 at 11 a.m. sharp.
All gave some, but some gave all. SCOUTS OUT!
Local philanthropist honored posthumously
A small ceremony was held on Aug 1 to commemorate the naming of Helen Myers Way in downtown Brentwood. The street, formerly known as Midway Alley, runs perpendicular to Oak Street and is near the former location of two businesses that were owned and operated by Myers. She died earlier this year at age 98. Myers was involved in numerous charitable organizations in Brentwood, such as the local Soroptimist International chapter and was described by city officials in the wake of her death as a pillar of the community.
courtesy of Peter Jacoway
HSS Brentwood group donates 70 backpacks to schoolchildren
TThe first National Night Out was held in 1984.
To view a video and a slideshow, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
Residents of Brentwood and Oakley invited local law enforcement to join them in games and activities on Aug. 6 as part of National Night Out, an annual event where residents host block parties in an effort to enhance the relationship between locals and law enforcement, according to the organizers of National Night Out.
he Hindu Swayam Sevak Sangha (HSS) Brentwood chapter has successfully completed its annual backpack drive, which we named #Vidyadaan (Vidya = Knowledge, Daan = Sharing). The group has donated 70 backpacks filled with essential school supplies.
Photo
Photo courtesy of The Hindu Swayam Sevak Sangha Brentwood chapter
Hometown SportS
Liberty, Heritage ‘have an app for that’
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Liberty and Heritage high launched their respective sports team apps last week that allow both schools’ communities alike to keep up with everything happening with the two programs.
Yes, starting this year the Lions and Patriots, so far, have an app for that.
The roster includes team updates, team rosters, schedules, tickets, and administrative aspects such as registration for new student athletes, forms and guidelines, and team-specific links. It also features things like push notifications and targeted geofencing, which allows only those in attendance at Liberty games on Liberty grounds to get special in-game or in-event notifications like specials at the snack bar for halftime or raffles and the like.
“It’s an opportunity to take Liberty athletics to the next level,” Liberty athletic director and head boys basketball coach Jon Heinz said. “I just want to see our school have that notoriety for the students.”
Only Liberty and Heritage have the apps within the district’s high schools. Freedom, along with the two alternative high schools, Independence, and La Paloma, do not.
The app is powered by ‘FanX!’ and Snap! Mobile, a company that helps high school athletic programs nationally raise money.
It wasn’t free, however. According to Heinz, the app’s basic level cost is about $3,000. Liberty paid an extra $1,000, bringing the total to $4,000, for extra features like maps to Liberty’s home fields, specifically for golf and cross-country who do not have home fields specifically on campus.
The cost was covered by Liberty’s athletics boosters club, according to Heinz.
The app is just a week old, but the Lions have space on the app for 30 ads whose spots run for about $300 each. Liberty has yet to load any ads, something that Heinz hopes the booster club can figure out.
“That’s part of the boosters’ process,” he explained.” If we sold 30 ads at around $300, that’s $9,000 and the boosters just made $5,000 that they can disburse out to the team.”
Management for Liberty’s new team app is handled by Heinz’s sports management class, the first time in almost seven years that Liberty has had such a class in the curriculum. The class not only has the students managing the app and its features, but it also introduces them to the business side of sports.
“It’s cool to experience because, obviously, none of us have ever gotten to do that at school,” one of the students, Brooklyn Gamez, said. “I’ve never gotten to work on an app, so that’s different and I get to put my input on it.”
“It’s nice to learn about the behindthe-scenes of this kind of stuff,” another student, Bella Woods, said. “Most of us here are athletes, so we always see the parts on the field. With the parts off (of the field), it kind of gives us an insight of what we can do in our future.”
HOW TO DOWNLOAD THE APP:
Those interested in the apps for either Heritage or Liberty can download the apps on Apple’s App Store or Google Play for free by searching for the name of the school in the search bar and looking for the school’s specific team logo.
Nonprofit brings more than basketball to Brentwood
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
More than two weeks ago, most of Brentwood, if not all of it, probably never heard of the “World Famous Harlem Wizards.”
Within the past two weeks, the Wizards made their Brentwood debut at a local youth basketball camp, then at the Makers Market, then a week after that inside of the Roy J. Ghiggeri gym at Liberty High School.
Those in attendance for the Wizards’ “Family Night” show got to see a more localized version of what many have seen with the Wizards’ longtime rival, “The Original Harlem Globetrotters” – former collegiate and pro players performing basketball stunts and trick shots, oftentimes including the crowd in attendance onto the court as part of the show.
What wasn’t seen, however, was the build-up to the July 27th event – a pair of youth week-long basketball camps first in Livermore (July 15-19), then in Brentwood (July 22-26), that prepared the kids who participated in the show at Liberty on July 27.
This was all the vision of Sarena Simonin, the Founder and CEO of “My Wellness Game,” a new, local nonprofit launched in 2022 that Simonin said was created as a program to help provide guidance and mentorship, especially to teenagers.
“(The show) went great,” Simonin said.
Players from the Harlem Wizards take a picture with the Youth Leadership Group from My Wellness Game. From left to right, Cam Reece (special guest), Devon “Livewire” Curry, Rizzo M., (back) Lloyd “Loonatik” Clinton, (front) Elijah H., (back) Jaxson S. (front) Ki Coldcleugh, Leon “Spacejam” Sewell.
Photo courtesy Sarena Simonin
“What we were able to do through our camps is that we took our players and we built a dream team, so it was like Livermore versus Brentwood. It gave our children recognition for their hard work and we also pulled in other children that attended the camp into the game itself.”
This is the second year for the basketball camp, but the first time that it, along with the Wizards, came to Brentwood. The camp debuted in Livermore last year.
The kids who were involved in the pair of basketball camps did more than just camp drills and exercises to be able to participate in the game. Other kids, specifically the older, high-school aged ones, had the opportunity to learn to be assistant coaches and volunteer to help run the event in various ways.
“(The older kids) were able to improve their resume, develop their skills with communications, talking to people, customer service things like that,” Simonin explained. “Overall, for us, it was a success and the families are able to see now that when they send their kids to camp, who the actual coaches are and what they do. We were able to give them that performance.”
Each of the two camps cost $300 per child, $350 for the high school-aged kids. Scholarships are available.
“Seeing this all come together – how it went from a camp to a whole community, the 14- to17-year-olds wanting to volunteer into the youth empowerment program, creating those doors and opportunities and people just coming together, even local businesses
– that’s what we are definitely grateful for,” Simonin said. “That’s what I loved about it.”
According to its website, “My Wellness Game” is a holistic health and wellness nonprofit dedicated to empowering schools, communities, individuals and families with lifelong wellness tools and education.
According to Simonin, the event at Liberty raised just over $3,500, and she added that they sold just over 200 tickets to the show and gave another 141 tickets away for free at her local church, homeschool groups, and to families in need. Even with the free tickets accounted for, the event, and the camps, were a success.
“We were able to raise enough money to have a fund for next year to sponsor three kids (for the camps) without us coming out of pocket,” Simonin said.
Simonin says that she and “My Wellness Game” plan to host the Wizards again next year and that the nonprofit is planning to add more types of events in the near future.
Those interested in “My Wellness Game” and its future events can go to its website, https://mywellnessgame.com, and follow it on Instagram at “mywellnessgame_ official.”
Learn more about Sarena’s journey and My Wellness Game in this week’s episode of The Press Talks Sports Live podcast, available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and on The Press’s official YouTube channel.
The Press graphic
West Coast Girls Soccer falls in NPL national semi-finals
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
The West Coast 07 Kryptonite Girls soccer team was one match away from playing in the U.S. Club National Premier Leagues national final. However, Fever United of North Texas had other plans.
Despite a strong run in the NPL finals tournament last month, West Coast fell 1-0 to Fever United in the national semifinals at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colo., home of the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer.
West Coast which includes girls from Brentwood had a dominant run heading into nationals, defeating Wheaton Unit-
ed from Illinois 5-2, Charlottesville, Va. 5-0, and Tupelo, Miss. 2-0 to sweep their group stage matches with a plus-10 goal differential (12 goals scored, two goals conceded) and claim the top seed of the four-team knockout stages.
“The team had a great tournament and experience in Colorado and had the chances to move on, but it just didn’t go their way,” the club said on their Instagram account. “Many lessons learned and, for sure, the team will grow and be stronger for the next one.”
West Coast 07 Kryptonite Girls soccer qualified for the NPL finals after a successful campaign all year within their respective NPL league.
Photo courtesy of Adaurie Dayak, West Coast Soccer Club
ETHICAL WILLS
By Todd W. Moeller, Moeller Estate Law
As California residents, we can communicate a lot of our values in the way that we set up our estate plan. For example, we could leave a portion of our assets to a charity or set up a trust that only makes distributions when beneficiaries graduate from college. While a lot can be addressed with a standard Will or Trust, those of us who want to send a message with their estate plan may also want to create an ethical will.
An Ethical Will is an informal estate planning document that is becoming increasingly popular even though it is not legally binding. Ethical Wills often take more time to prepare than financial wills. An Ethical Will is used to share your values to the people who mean the most to you. You may explain how you want loved ones to use their inheritance, or you may simply write down some of the most important lessons that you have learned in your lifetime.
There is no set format for an ethical
will, no word limit and no limitation on the subject matters that are expressed. You should simply think about what your core values are and write down some of the most important thoughts and ideas that you would like to express to your family members. Writing an ethical will can be a challenging process, but it can provide your family members with something that is both meaningful and comforting.
If you have questions concerning the above, your existing estate plan or setting up an estate plan, please contact Todd W. Moeller at (925) 301-8840 or www.Todd@ MoellerEstateLaw.com.
Disclaimer: The information presented in this advertorial is provided for general information only. Todd W. Moeller is licensed to practice law in the State of California only, and any information contained in this advertisement is based on general principles of California law. The information presented should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of an attorney-client relationship.
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Here are tips to help kids prepare emotionally, mentally for school year
It’s that time of year when families are busy checking off those back-to-school lists, including making sure your student has the right pencils, notebooks, and backpack. But even more important than school supplies may be making sure your child is feeling emotionally and mentally ready to start the school year.
Here are four steps to help reduce stress and help support a healthy start of the school year for students.
Create or re-establish routines: What time does the family sit down for dinner? When is homework time? What is the limit for screen time? When is “lights out” at night? What time do alarm clocks ring? The answers are important. Sticking to schedules can create consistency at home that may help your child feel more confident, secure, and stable.
Schedule a well-child visit: It’s always a good idea to make sure children 3 years and of age and older see their doctor or pediatrician once a year for an annual routine well-child visit, even if they don’t feel sick. Pediatricians can assess your child’s physical and emotional health before school starts, setting them up for success for the rest of the year. It’s also a great time to complete their school’s physical forms, check their growth and development to help find and prevent
any problems, and give them any needed immunizations. Ask your child’s doctor about what’s driving their physical development, such as diet, exercise, and sleeping habits.
Discuss mental health: Bringing up mental health can show your child that it’s okay to start those conversations and that they always have a support network they can rely on. If they do talk about being scared or nervous, validate their feelings. Help them feel secure and let them know it’s possible to feel better. These can be sensitive topics for your child, so empathy, openness, and patience can go a long way in helping them feel heard and optimistic that they’ll be OK. Focus on your child’s overall disposition — not just what they’re saying — and watch for warning signs of issues, such as persistent sadness, sudden mood changes, or sleep problems.
Help develop independence at home: For younger kids entering preschool or kindergarten, encourage your child to dress themselves, use the bathroom without assistance, wash their hands, and put on their shoes. Your child should know how to wipe their face after lunch and blow their nose without assistance. They should also be comfortable asking an adult for help when needed.
Archana Dubey, MD, Chief Medical Officer, UnitedHealthcare
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Delta Quilters Guild’s show this weekend
The Delta Quilters Guild presents their annual show this weekend
Saturday 10 am - 4 pm, Sunday 10 am - 3 pm at the Brentwood Community Center at 35 Oak St. There will be quilts, demonstrations, vendors, a boutique and raffles, plus lunch and shopping specials presented by downtown merchants.
Entry fee is $12, good for both days. Those younger than 8 or older than 80 are admitted free.
There will be a presentation of the patriotic quilts (Quilted Hugs) to local veterans. On Saturday and Sunday at 1 p.m., the Delta Quilters Guild will present quilts to local veterans to honor and thank them for their brav-
ery, sacrifice, and service. Brentwood VFW Post 10789 will perform a color guard ceremony.
In addition to making quilts for local veterans, the Delta Quilters Guild donates:
• different size handmade quilts to a variety of community organizations,
• handmade small fidget quilts and adult bibs to local memory care units and assisted-living facilities
• pillowcases for children to take to summer camp sponsored by Brentwood Lions’ Club.
Proceeds from the Quilt Show will help defray the cost of fabric, batting, and thread for these outreach donations.
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community, said. “The more things like this that are available, the better off I’m going to be.”
The shuttles in Rossmoor, which are designed like bigger, more elaborate and modernized golf carts, can hold a maximum of seven passengers at a time, plus the shuttle’s attendant and can reach speeds of up to 12 miles per hour, although Rossmoor’s speed limit is 25 miles per hour.
The CCTA has not responded to questions regarding the shuttles running at half of the community’s speed limit.
The autonomous shuttles don’t have drivers, pedals, or a steering wheel, but there is an attendant on board to ensure the riders’ safety by overseeing the shuttle’s operation through a panel inside of it, and to assist those passengers who are in wheelchairs.
The main operation by the shuttle that the attendant operates is giving it the clearance to cross intersections once the attendant deems it clear of people crossing. The shuttles automatically stop at intersections.
The shuttles operate only within Rossmoor and won’t go outside of the commu-
Popeyes from page 1
nity. Its route is set to loop through Tice Creek Drive, from the Gateway Clubhouse to the Tice Creek Fitness center, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and run on 20-minute loops.
Beep, the overall shuttle operator, remotely monitors the shuttles while in operation. Outside of having an attendant oversee the shuttle, it works very
The launch in Walnut Creek is CCTA’s second of four launches. Last year, they launched the first autonomous shuttle program pilot at San Ramon’s Bishop Ranch business park. According to the CCTA, to date that program has safely transported more than 1,600 passengers. The CCTA is expected to introduce their third of four launches in Martinez this summer.
proposed Popeyes and that a potential drive-through could lead to traffic congestion.
““We kind of just saw what we feel like is a slightly alarming number of fast-food restaurants in this corridor,” Amy Tilley said during the public comment portion of the April meeting. Tilley is the executive director of the Downtown Brentwood Coalition, a local organization made up of small business owners and other stakeholders that seeks to boost economic growth downtown. “We look forward to supporting any businesses that come into this area. We just feel that it’s important for this commission to consider that it is a valuable area. When you’re looking at this application or any that are similar in the future, please consider that we have faith – we believe that this area is worthy of being transformed.”
The proposed Popeyes is to be located on Brentwood Boulevard, bordered on the north by two other fast-food restaurants: Taco Bell and KFC. The same stretch of road contains another 11 fast-food restaurants, such as Jack in the Box, according to city staff.
tion Prevention, Early Intervention and Treatment (YEPEITA) account to be invested in local youth organizations that help combat youth drug use in areas and
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The project was funded by a $7.5 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration, according to Hale, which is meant for three projects, Rossmoor and the upcoming Martinez projects being two of them.
Hale added that the autonomous vehicle projects being piloted implemented in Contra Costa county are government led, compared to Waymo and Cruise in San Francisco which are privately owned and led projects.
“This is the public sector leading these projects,” Hale said. “This is a project that’s being led by a government agency, CCTA, and we’re really looking at how we can leverage this technology to benefit our public transportation system.”
“All I hear day in and day out from people with young families is they are tired of fast-food restaurants,” Brand said at the August meeting. “I can’t in good conscience say let’s just put another one there.”
Concerns over traffic congestion were brought up again at the Aug. 6 meeting, with Planning commissioners suggesting that the restaurant could function without a drive-throughl. Chairperson Anita Roberts pointed out that many Popeyes across the nation do “quite well” without a drive-through lane. Christie Crowl, special legal counsel for the project, advised that choosing to move forward without a drive-through would constitute denying the project and sending it back to the drawing board because the project was proposed with one in mind.
Sparling took no issue with the drive-through element of the design, explaining that the drive-throughs in Brentwood are “awfully busy” and that the area was zoned correctly for the type of establishment that was being proposed. He also pointed out that the Popeyes would provide jobs and tax revenue for the city.
Ultimately, the planners moved forward with the project
As the project continues to grow, so does the number of shuttles. Hale said that the Martinez project will “serve the entire downtown area of Martinez” and “be served by eight autonomous shuttles.”
He added that “each deployment is actually looking at different technologies.”
“(Rossmoor) is using a shared autonomous vehicle,” Hale explained.
“In Martinez, we’re actually working with a company called Main Mobility, which will have a different shuttle and a different type of technology. In East Contra Costa County, we’re working with a company called Glide Ways, and that’s a different type of technology, which will bring a different type of shuttle compared to the one in Rossmoor and the incoming one in Martinez.
“What we’re trying to do is test different technologies to learn and understand how we can scale because our goal is to not just focus on one technology, but make sure that we’ve got the right technology in the right places to really have a fully-connected multimodal transportation system.”
To view a video and a slideshow, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
with the stipulation that the drive-through would be shortened to make room for more aesthetic features, such as greenery and tables, in a “community area” as part of the design.
The other topic discussed at the meeting was the 5-0 approval of a Dutch Bros Coffee location in the Streets of Brentwood shopping center. The coffee shop will be located between Sprouts and Black Angus Steakhouse. That establishment was proposed with a drive-through as part of its design due to being an “auto-oriented business,” according to the staff report. The interior of the building is not accessible to customers.
According to the applicant, the drive-through will be two lanes and built to accommodate 27 vehicles to not congest the roadways for the neighboring businesses since the anticipated number of vehicles during peak business hours is expected to be 21 vehicles. The project proposal states that the average time for customers to be at the order window is between 30 and 45 seconds, assuring that the drive-through queue is also fast-moving.
The full meeting can be watched at https://bit ly/3YvgW6u
“ They keep prices up, and that means that the black market can still compete.
Derek Baker, employee at the One Plant Dispensary
among demographics that are harmed by the ongoing war on drugs. There is no indication in state records that the Brentwood area receives any YEPEITA money.
The remaining 40 percent of the CCTF is used for a variety of purposes, such as equity payments for communities harmed by cannabis criminalization and funding for California Highway Patrol studies concerning cannabis-impaired driving. Some of that money also goes to the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development, which promotes economic growth in California. Locally, opinions of the various state and local
taxes on cannabis vary. In Antioch, the only city in East Contra Costa County that has legalized recreational cannabis dispensaries, the general sales tax is 9.75 percent in addition to the 15 percent state excise tax.
Derek Baker, a “budtender” or senior salesman at One Plant Dispensary, said the current tax regime hurts his business.
“The taxes are way too high and restrictive, and make it difficult to even survive in this business,” Baker said. “They keep prices up, and that means that the black market can still compete, even though the whole point of [cannabis] legalization was to eliminate the black market.”
In addition to monetary taxes, Baker also cited what he called over-regulation and seed-to-sale tracking as yet more “taxes” that cannabis businesses have to pay.”
“In seed-to-sale tracking, a cannabis plant is given a serial number and batch number before being planted, and every product made from that plant is tracked as it’s processed into cannabis products,” he explained. “It’s software-intensive, staff-intensive, and it drives prices up even further, which promotes more black market activity.”
Employees of other Antioch dispensaries are more sanguine about cannabis taxes and their uses. Delta Dispensary manager Sierra Edens stressed the importance of the democratic process in approving new taxation.
“We all voted on them,” Edens said, “and the majority of the taxes go towards the betterment of the city of Antioch. I think they’re beneficial to the community.”
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