“Face masks are an effective tool to reduce the spread of the virus” – Dr. Ori Tzvieli

“Wearing a well-fitting mask, such as an N95 or KN95 respirator, is a healthy choice indoors, particularly in public spaces or if around people with whom you do not live.” – Contra Costa Health

By Contra Costa Health

With evidence of increased COVID-19 infections throughout the Bay Area, Contra Costa Health (CCH) recommends masking in crowded indoor settings, particularly for those at high risk of serious illness if infected.

This recommendation is not a health order. It aligns with existing state requirements and recent advice issued in neighboring counties.

A particularly infectious strain of COVID-19, FLiRT, is currently spreading throughout the western U.S., and drives the current surge. Wastewater sampling from the county shows a steady increase in the presence of the virus.

From May 9 to July 9, for example, state lab testing of wastewater samples from the Central Contra Costa Sanitary District showed that concentrations of COVID-19 more than quadrupled. Recently, wastewater concentration has plateaued but still remain high.

Health agencies across the Bay Area jointly lifted most of their requirements and orders to mask indoors in February 2022, but strongly recommended use of masking, particularly for those who are high risk for serious illness, as a prevention measure whenever COVID-19 case rates grew high.

“Face masks are an effective tool to reduce the spread of the virus, particularly for those who are at risk for serious illness when there is evidence of elevated COVID-19 activity in the community,” said Dr. Ori Tzvieli, Contra Costa County’s health officer. “This is one of those times. Our health system is not seriously impacted by COVID currently, and our goal is to keep it that way.”

Wearing a well-fitting mask, such as an N95 or KN95 respirator, is a healthy choice indoors, particularly in public spaces or if around people with whom you do not live.

Contra Costa’s only standing COVID-related health order requires workers at healthcare facilities to mask seasonally, from Nov. 1 to April 30 each year, to reduce risk to patients from COVID-19, flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

However, workers and visitors to healthcare facilities, including skilled nursing and congregate care facilities, are strongly encouraged to mask now in those settings.

Health guidance for schools and community colleges remains unchanged. But with the school year beginning this month for most campuses in the county, CCH recommends encouraging students and faculty, particularly those who maybe at risk for serious infection, to mask within classrooms and providing masks to anyone who asks for them, when possible.

Other important ways to protect against COVID-19 are to remain up to date on vaccination, testing for COVID-19 whenever you have symptoms, and staying home from work or school whenever you feel ill. Additionally, treatments remain available for COVID 19 for those who may be at risk of serious illness.

Contact your healthcare provider for advice on vaccination, testing and treatment when you are ill. An updated vaccine to protect against COVID-19 infections is expected to be available in late summer or early fall.

Home test kits are available from healthcare providers and pharmacies throughout the county. Check with your healthcare provider or insurer about any cost or copay for testing or test kits.

For more information about COVID-19 in Contra Costa County, visit cchealth.org/covid19.

Following announcement of HQ move to Texas

“I’m disappointed, but not surprised” – Congressman Mark DeSaulnier who represents San Ramon. “Chevron’s actions and investments do not align with its stated commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”

Chevron responds

By Allen D. Payton

Washington, D.C. – On Friday, Aug. 2, 2024, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (D, CA-10) made the following statement on Chevron’s decision to move its headquarters from San Ramon, a city he represents in Congress, to Texas.

“I am disappointed, but not surprised, to see Chevron’s announcement that it will be leaving San Ramon. I have long been involved and advocated for California’s renewable portfolio standard and climate goals to protect both public health and the environment, and for years I have encouraged Chevron to be a diverse energy company investing in clean renewable sources of energy as we in California have been responsibly transitioning away from climate destroying energy and towards clean energy that protects the climate and public health. Unfortunately, these efforts have been much less successful than I had hoped and, in many ways, Chevron left California years ago. I hope as Chevron relocates their corporate facilities, they will keep California’s climate goals in mind. I’ve reached out to the city of San Ramon and I would be happy to work with Chevron, or any other company, in reaching these important energy goals and to continue to support its employees in Contra Costa County.” (See related article)

Alternative energy

However, according to Wikipedia, Chevron has been pursuing alternative energy sources. operations include geothermal solar, wind, biofuel, fuel cells, and hydrogen.^[145] In 2021 it significantly increased its use of biofuel from dairy farms, like biomethane.^[146]

Chevron has claimed to be the world’s largest producer of geothermal energy.^[51] The company’s primary geothermal operations were located in Southeast Asia, but these assets were sold in 2017.^{[147][148][149][150]}

Prior, Chevron operated geothermal wells in Indonesia providing power to Jakarta and the surrounding area. In the Philippines, Chevron also operated geothermal wells at Tiwi field in Albay province, the Makiling-Banahaw field in Laguna and Quezon provinces.^[151]

In 2007, Chevron and the United States Department of Energy‘s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) started collaboration to develop and produce algae fuel, which could be converted into transportation fuels, such as jet fuel.^[152] In 2008, Chevron and Weyerhaeuser created Catchlight Energy LLC, which researches the conversion of cellulose-based biomass into biofuels.^[153] In 2013, the Catchlight plan was downsized due to competition with fossil fuel projects for funds.^[154]

Between 2006 and 2011, Chevron contributed up to $12 million to a strategic research alliance with the Georgia Institute of Technology to develop cellulosic biofuels and to create a process to convert biomass like wood or switchgrass into fuels. Additionally, Chevron holds a 22% stake in Galveston Bay Biodiesel LP, which produces up to 110 million US gallons (420,000 m³) of renewable biodiesel fuel a year.^[155][156]

In 2010, the Chevron announced a 740 kW photovoltaic demonstration project in Bakersfield, California, called Project Brightfield, for exploring possibilities to use solar power for powering Chevron’s facilities. It consists of technologies from seven companies, which Chevron is evaluating for large-scale use.^[157][158] In Fellows, California, Chevron has invested in the 500 kW Solarmine photovoltaic solar project, which supplies daytime power to the Midway-Sunset Oil Field.^[159] In Questa, Chevron has built a 1 MW concentrated photovoltaic plant that comprises 173 solar arrays, which use Fresnel lenses.^[160][161] In October 2011, Chevron launched a 29-MW thermal solar-to-steam facility in the Coalinga Field to produce the steam for enhanced oil recovery. As of 2012, the project is the largest of its kind in the world.^[162]

In 2014, Chevron began reducing its investment in renewable energy technologies, reducing headcount and selling alternative energy-related assets.^[163]

In 2015, the Shell Canada Quest Energy project was launched^[164] of which Chevron Canada Limited holds a 20% share.^[165] The project is based within the Athabasca Oil Sands Project near Fort McMurray, Alberta. It is the world’s first CCS project on a commercial-scale.^[164]

DeSaulnier Doubles Down

DeSaulnier was asked why he would make the comment about Chevron when the company has been pursuing and investing in alternative energy sources in multiple ventures since 2006 including geothermal, solar, wind, biofuel, fuel cells and hydrogen. He was also asked what else he wanted Chevron to do.

DeSaulnier’s office responded, “Congressman DeSaulnier believes Chevron’s actions and investments do not align with its stated commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions – moving out of California which has some of the most progressive climate and energy policies, to Texas, which is a heavy fossil fuel supporter, is evidence of that. Additionally, Chevron’s production hit a record 3.1 million barrels of oil-equivalent per day last year and it expects 2024 production to be even higher and a 2022 study found that Chevron does not match its investments to its pledges as it is still financially reliant on fossil fuels.”

Chevron Responds, Move is About Better Collaboration

Asked if the company had a response to DeSaulnier’s initial statement, Chevron spokesman Ross Allen provided the following statement:

“In addition to our release out Friday morning, our Chairman and CEO Mike Wirth spoke about our move on CNBC and BloombergTV. We also hosted our regularly scheduled Earnings Call, where the topic was addressed during both prepared remarks and the Q&A with investors — (an official transcript will be posted to the website early next week).

As you note, we have areas of disagreement with California policymakers about the shape and direction of energy policy. At Chevron, we support affordable, reliable and ever-cleaner energy – and we believe certain state policies threaten those goals. But our headquarters relocation is about better collaboration and engagement with executives, employees, and business partners.”

“Learn more about our extensive sustainability efforts and capital projects in our 2023 Corporate Sustainability Report — Chevron, which details the way we are achieving “lower carbon, higher returns,” Allen added.

Read the latest news on Chevron’s hydrogen and renewable fuels, like biodiesel, renewable natural gas and sustainable aviation fuel at Alternative Fuels Newsroom — Chevron.

By Patrick McCarran, Real Estate Broker

There is a major change coming in the real estate world that will completely reshape how buyers purchase their home. What will the settlement mean for homebuyers and homesellers?

Traditionally Owners have hired an agent to sell their property and negotiated a commission. By making it a percentage it gives the agent incentive to maximize the sales price, this is a very common practice with money management, talent agents, etc. The listing agent would then offer an offer of compensation from their commission to act as a finder’s fee and to broaden the scope and market of the property, this was the function of the MLS.

Starting in August 2024 this will no longer be allowed, due to a class action settlement with a private party and supported by the DOJ the selling agent will no longer be able to offer a finder’s fee on the MLS. The new system will shift agent compensation and place the Buyers on their own. This will give the Buyer the options of hiring a real estate agent, or a lawyer, or representing themselves.  A written agreement will be required for Realtor representation for both in-person and live virtual home tours. This currently only applies to Realtors but there is a state law in the legislature to apply to ALL real estate licensees. The Buyer will now be responsible for paying for their representation. There is as always no set price for representation and this will be up to the individual to negotiate.

Sellers will be allowed to pay for the Buyer’s agent if they choose by offering concessions on the MLS. The buyer can then choose to distribute the money according to their needs towards closing costs or Realtor fees. While listing commission fees have always been negotiable with the changing dynamic the fee structure will most likely change. As a Seller it will be up to you to negotiate what you wish to pay to sell your home and what will be the most advantageous.  The Seller will decide if they wish to pay and how much to the Buyer’s agent. The Seller and their agent will need to work out if they are comfortable with their agent representing an unrepresented buyer and what the additional fee for the listing agent to represent the Buyer in that scenario.

While doing it yourself may sound like a great idea and instant savings, bypassing an agent’s services may not lead to direct savings, especially for first time buyers, the home buying process can get very complicated and having a great local agent to negotiate and guide you can give you a competitive advantage.

Consumers will still be able to view Open Houses without a written agreement and may tour with the listing agent if the listing agent business practices allow. Buyer will have option to sign exclusive agreements or open agreement which will be up to the consumer and their Realtor. The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) will continue to be supported through Realtor dues and thereby imparting vital information to the consumer.

As we move forward into this brave new world of real estate, it will be different but ultimately I am confident that Consumers and Realtors will work together so that all parties may benefit.

Patrick McCarran is a local Realtor and Broker He can be contact by phone or text at (925) 899-5536, pmccarran@yahoo.com or www.CallPatrick.com. An independently owned and operated office. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Police seek suspect, ask public’s help

By Lt. Desmond Bittner #3252, Antioch Police Investigations Bureau

On 01-07-2024, at 9:45pm, Antioch PD patrol officers in conjunction with Contra Costa County Fire responded to a report of an assault that just occurred on the 1900 block of D Street, Antioch. When officers arrived, they located the victim, a 39-year-old male, who was down and unconscious. Officers rendered aid, and the 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 deceased at the hospital pending a coroner’s investigation.

On 07-30-2024, the Antioch PD Investigations Bureau received the coroner’s report, which indicated the cause of death was ruled a homicide. The Investigations Bureau is investigating all evidence at this time in the hopes of identifying additional witnesses and leads. Based on the information obtained, this appears to be an isolated incident, and there is no threat to the public. This is an active investigation, and no further information will be released at this time.

If you have any information regarding this crime, please contact Detective Becerra at abecerra@antiochca.gov or (925) 779-6937.

Bail set at $250,000; has previous arrest record

By Lt. Bruce Jower, Walnut Creek Police Department

On July 30, 2024, around 11:00 a.m., an alert citizen called Walnut Creek Police to report a suspicious person entering their neighbor’s backyard. WCPD officers responded to the 1100 block of Flowerwood Place and found the suspect, Joshua Michael Spain-Cue, (34-year-old from Antioch, born 7/6/90) inside the residence.

WCPD officers took him into custody and linked him to another burglary in the 800 block of Bancroft Road. Spain-Cue was then booked at the Martinez Detention Facility on burglary charges of: PC 460(a)- First Degree Burglary (Residence) and ​​PC 460(b)- Second Degree Burglary (Commercial)

WCPD Detectives presented the case to the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office, which filed two counts of burglary against Spain-Cue. His bail is $250,000, and he remains in custody.

However, according to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, the is six-foot, two-inch tall, 175-pound and blonde-haired, blue-eyed Hispanic man is being held on no bail and his next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 13th in Superior Court.

According to localcrimenews.com, Spain-Cue was also arrested by Walnut Creek Police on March 22nd for resisting, obstructing, delaying a peace officer and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was also arrested by Martinez Police on July 19, 2021, on warrants or holds only.

If you have any information about this case, please contact the Walnut Creek Police Department at 925-943-5844 or the Anonymous Tip Line at (925) 943-5865.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

“This place has been dedicated, everything in and around this house. Everything we submit to the Lordship of Jesus Christ.” – Pastor Kirkland Smith

By Allen D. Payton

On Sunday, July 7, 2024, Grace Bible Fellowship Church of Antioch celebrated the Grand Opening of its new Grace Childcare Center, a project of the church’s Grace Arms non-profit organization.

The Grace Childcare Center is a state-of-the-art preschool situated in Antioch. Our center is committed to delivering exceptional childcare services, fostering interactive learning, and creating unforgettable childhood experiences. We are currently seeking highly motivated teachers who can inspire and contribute to our outstanding team. This presents an excellent opportunity to join a friendly, vibrant, and dynamic work environment.

During the ribbon cutting ceremony, Pastor Kirkland Smith read Psalm 127:1 saying, “Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards that stand watch are in vain. For every house is built by somebody but God is the builder.”

“May every person who enters this property know they’re entering on holy ground,” he continued. “This place has been dedicated, everything in and around this house. Everything we submit to the Lordship of Jesus Christ.”

“So, it’s a privilege, it’s an honor as we embark upon another new chapter and endeavor for us,” Smith stated. He and Program Director Beate Bell then cut the red ribbon on the outside of the entrance doors.

“We’re ready to open. We’re ready for business,” the pastor added.

Grace Childcare Center’s mission is to provide a safe learning environment for children ages 24 months through five years old.

The focus is to equip each child with a stimulating early childcare experience focused on promoting strong cognitive and emotional development in order to build up community, civic and socially-minded individuals. This will be done through creative and hands on learning, with parental involvement, to build a firm and enduring foundation in the early formative years.

Operating hours are from 7am – 6pm, Monday through Friday. The facility holds 20 children in three fun and creative animal themed rooms, Duckie, Panda and Tiger where the children will engage in a play-based curriculum including yoga, arts and music.

If you would like to enroll your child in the Grace Childcare Center, located at 3415 Oakley Road in Antioch, please call (925) 522-2017 or email Program Director Beate Bell at bbell@gracearmsofantioch.org. 

To learn more visit www.gracearmsofantioch.org/childcare.

See ribbon cutting video.

Free museums – Free transportation to get there!

Contra Costa County Library is once again offering free Clipper cards for use with Discover & Go reservations from August 1 while supplies last. The offer is good for select Discover & Go attractions. County residents, who are 18 or older, can submit a request for Clipper cards by clicking on the banner ad on their Discover & Go pass starting August 1.

To sign-up for Clipper cards, view your August – December 2024 reservation on your Discover & Go account:

1. Click the “Print/Download” button
2. Click on the “Free transit passes” banner on your Discover & Go pass to request your Clipper cards. The banner will look like this: 

Clipper cards will be mailed to cardholders’ homes approximately five business days prior to their museum visit. The offer is limited to one request per household (for up to two $20 Clipper cards) and is available while supplies last. This promotion is a partnership between 511 Contra Costa and the Library and is intended to encourage the use of public transportation to visit museums.

“There is no better way to enjoy cultural venues, museums and fun attractions around the Bay Area than Discover & Go,” said County Librarian Alison McKee. “Thanks to 511 Contra Costa you can use public transportation to get there.”

Since its inception in 2011, Discover & Go has met Contra Costa County Library’s goal of providing access to culture inside and outside the library by partnering with over 100 California cultural destinations, and making over 1,000,000 visits possible for library cardholders.

511 Contra Costa is a comprehensive Transportation Demand Management (TDM) program that promotes transportation alternatives to the single occupant vehicle and encourages “green commutes”.  For more information, visit 511contracosta.org.

The following attractions qualify as destinations for this Clipper card promotion.

Ardenwood Historic Farm                  Pacific Pinball Museum

Asian Art Museum                              Peralta Hacienda Museum

Bay Area Discovery Museum             Richmond Museum of History

Beat Museum                                      Ruth Bancroft Garden

Bedford Gallery                                  San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

California Academy of Sciences        San Francisco Symphony

Cartoon Art Museum                          San Jose Museum of Art

Contemporary Jewish Museum          San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles  

de Young Museum                              Shadelands Ranch

Exploratorium                                     Smuin Modern Ballet (San Francisco)

Freight & Salvage (Berkeley)             UC Berkeley Art Museum & Pacific Film Archive

Legion of Honor                                 UC Berkeley Botanical Gardens

Lindsay Wildlife Experience              The Tech Interactive

Oakland Museum of California          Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum

For additional information about this promotion, you can contactthe Contra Costa County Library at ccclib.org/contact-us.   

Before new ordinance banning organizers, advertisers and spectators, goes into effect at end of August

By Antioch Police Department

Reckless Driving Arrest and 30-Day Impound

On Wednesday night, July 31, 2024, Officers Mayorga and Tanguma took decisive action against dangerous sideshow activity in our community. They observed a vehicle doing donuts and driving on the wrong side of the road at East 18th Street and Evergreen Drive, putting everyone at risk. The driver was promptly stopped on Sunset Drive near Hillcrest Avenue, arrested for reckless driving, and the vehicle has been impounded for 30 days.

We are committed to keeping our streets safe and free from illegal activities that endanger lives. Reckless driving is not only illegal but can have serious consequences.

Thank you to Officers Tanguma and Mayorga for their swift response and dedication to public safety! Together, we can make Antioch safer for all!

The new ordinance adopted by the Antioch City Council last month which also bans organizers, advertisers and spectators, will go into effect at the end of August giving police another tool to prevent them in Antioch. (See related articles here and here)

#AntiochPD #TrafficSafety #CommunityFirst #SaferStreets

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.