East Contra Costa County, California Quote of the Day: "Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful." - Albert Schweitzer

In East Contra Costa County, California, what town was known for its annual corn festival, attracting thousands of visitors each year?

In the News...

Mt. Diablo Resource Recovery has teamed up with Colgate-Palmolive and Glacier to boost plastic squeeze tube recycling in Pittsburg, CA.

Colgate-Palmolive’s innovative recyclable toothpaste tubes, crafted from HDPE plastic, have helped push the industry towards more sustainable packaging, now widely adopted across brands.

New AI-powered cameras from Glacier will monitor recycling rates for these tubes, covering products like toothpaste, lotions, and shampoos.

Effective immediately, residents can recycle #2 plastic squeeze tubes—such as those for sunscreen and cosmetics—in their blue bins.

Tubes should be plastic, mostly empty, with caps on, and placed loose in the cart for proper sorting.

This expanded program aims to keep more household items out of landfills, supporting greener Contra Costa, Napa, and Solano communities.

A student was arrested Tuesday morning after bringing a firearm onto the campus of Adams Middle School in Brentwood, just before the start of classes.

School administrators, together with the Brentwood Police Department, responded immediately after receiving a tip, quickly locating the student and confirming the presence of the weapon.

The student was promptly taken into custody without incident and transported to Juvenile Hall.

The school stressed the serious consequences of bringing weapons on campus and thanked vigilant students for reporting their concerns, reinforcing the community’s role in maintaining safety.

Authorities believe this to be an isolated event and assured families there is no ongoing threat.

Counseling support is being offered to students affected by the incident, while parents are encouraged to talk with their children and reinforce open communication.

Recent local incidents highlight the importance of vigilance and working together to keep schools safe.

Check out the farmers' markets in Brentwood and Antioch for fresh produce and unique finds!

Events

Rhythms by the River Fall Festival returns to Antioch on Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, creating a festive atmosphere at West 2nd Street and G Street.

The downtown riverfront will come alive with live Bay Area music, showcasing local bands on the main stage.

Attendees can join an exciting cornhole tournament or browse through artisan goods from local vendors, making it a perfect spot to find unique treasures.

Food lovers will enjoy a diverse selection of food trucks, offering everything from gourmet tacos to ice cream, while the beer and wine garden features local pours for adults to savor.

Families will appreciate a vibrant kids’ zone brimming with games and activities, ensuring fun for all ages.

Admission is free, and ample parking is available.

Celebrate fall with Antioch’s community spirit along the scenic waterfront.

Sean Ireland and Pierre Goudie have been appointed to Oakley’s Planning Commission, joining returning member Leonard Price for four-year terms starting October 12, 2025.

This follows the upcoming departure of Chair Diego Verduzco and Commissioner Oleksii Chuiko, whose terms expire soon.

Earlier in the year, Yared Oliveros and Kerry Harvey were named to two-year terms, creating a commission with four new faces and one veteran.

The Planning Commission is central to guiding Oakley’s growth, handling land use, design approvals, and shaping community development.

The city is also moving forward with a $128 million, 55-acre regional park and a new Amtrak station set to open by August 2025—projects aimed at boosting recreation and transit.

Residents are urged to attend monthly commission meetings and stay engaged in Oakley’s ambitious planning efforts.

Business Spotlight

Visit the Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve in Antioch for stunning views of the area and a chance to explore old mines.

Events

The Friends of the Oakley Library are hosting a book sale to support the new Oakley Library and Community Center.

The sale takes place Friday, October 3, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and Saturday, October 4, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Oakley City Hall Council Chambers, 3231 Main Street.

Bargain hunters can browse an extensive selection of gently used books for all ages and interests.

Most are just $1, with special finds a bit more.

On Saturday, fill a bag of books from noon until 1:00 PM for only $10.

Cash is preferred, but credit cards are welcome.

Fundraising is ongoing, with $550,000 already raised by October 2024, following a $250,000 pledge from Supervisor Diane Burgis.

The city is working toward a $28 million goal to build a 28,000-square-foot facility and has set a December 31, 2024 fundraising deadline.

Everyone is encouraged to join and make a difference for Oakley’s future.

Antioch’s creative community is gearing up for the Artisan Market on Sunday, October 12, 2025, a highlight for local makers and art lovers alike.

From 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, West 2nd Street at G Street will come alive, offering a vibrant showcase of handmade artistry right alongside the beloved Antioch Farmers Market.

Visitors can explore unique, juried works from area artisans, all set against the backdrop of Downtown Rivertown’s waterfront charm.

Spaces for vendors are in high demand, so those interested should apply soon for a coveted spot in this lively gathering.

This event is a not-to-miss opportunity to support local talent and discover one-of-a-kind pieces while connecting with neighbors and friends.

Celebrate creativity and take home something special at Antioch’s Artisan Market this fall.