COVID-19 The Next Phase 08.21.2020

JULY 24, 2020

Special Edition to

TH E PRESS

Supporting the Community Organizations stepping up and lending a hand

Education: The New Frontier

Social distancing, online learning in the new school year

Staying Healthy, Keeping Safe

Tips on navigating COVID-19 Photo by Tony Kukulich

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AUGUST 21, 2020

What’s on the other side of COVID-19?

Sometimes life hits you in the head with a brick. Don’t lose faith.

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– Steve Jobs

here is one thing for certain, this pandemic has proven that we are not promised tomorrow. The havoc that has rained

down upon every aspect of every person’s life is unimaginable. Who could, or would, have ever imagined that this was even a possibility in our lifetime? It is surreal; downright bizarre; like we are living in a sci-fi movie.

For many, the biggest fear caused by the pandemic is not the virus itself, but rather the impact on one’s finances.

And if you are a senior, even more so than most. As Steve Jobs said; don’t lose faith.

Whether you were working and got laid off or furloughed or counting on invested assets to carry you through each month, it seemed that everything shifted off its foundation literally overnight. And things continued to escalate over the next couple of months.

Initially we saw credit markets seize up. First mortgages were tightening-up underwriting guidelines faster than anyone could keep up. Jumbo investors stopped funding loans regardless of the status of the loan, many not honoring lock or funding commitments. Existing home equity lines of credit were closed, and banks stopped offering new ones.

Anyone trying to find a bank offering new home equity lines of credit, good luck. Chase pulled out; Wells is no longer offering HELOCs. Most all of the small banks who sold their HELOCs to the big banks are now part of the “affected class.” With no place to sell the loans, they can no longer offer them to their customers.

Everything we “knew” about our financial security just went up in smoke, overnight. Heads are spinning. What does all this mean for our future?

I think the first lesson is that becoming complacent puts us at personal risk. The second lesson I think, is assuming the world will continue to spin on the same axis tomorrow as it did today, puts us in jeopardy of becoming complacent.

If we are approaching our retirement years, or perhaps already enjoying them, we are all looking for financial security. We have climbed the corporate ladder, or built our own business, or invented something really cool, or worked at a great company for the last 30 or 40 years. The last thing we want to do is have to recover from financial devastation.

We have already done that once after the Great Recession of 2008-2013.

In retirement, if you lose some of your nest egg because the stock market collapses overnight, or interest rates drop through the floor, you do not necessarily have time to “make it up.” If you are working part-time, or full-time, and you lose your job, you are not likely to be the first called back or hired by another company. Seniors have experience, proven skill sets, life lessons, but they are more expensive and will most likely work for a limited number of years.

Businesses are just less likely to invest in re-hiring, or hiring, seniors, it is the truth. Not okay, but still the truth.

What this pandemic taught us is our finances are not secure. No matter how much money you have, no matter how much money you make, no matter how much stuff

you own, something totally and completely unexpected, and totally out of your control, can turn your finances, and therefore your security, upside down.

In times like this I hear people talking about home equity lines of credit to give themselves a sense of security against the unknown. We have already discussed that this is an unlikely option right now and, honestly in my humble opinion, home equity lines of credit are not built for seniors.

HELOCs were designed for people with increasing income because over time the payment goes up. The payment is enticingly low until two things happen.

You borrow against the line and then you have to make a payment, so the next month you borrow a little more so you have the money to make the payment, and then the next month you borrow a bit more so you have enough to make the payment. When you hit the credit limit you no longer have the option to borrow a bit more to make the payment, but, the payment is still due. I have seen it over and over again.

Then when you hit the 10-year anniversary mark the payment goes through the roof. You can no longer borrow any money from the line, even if you still had some available, and you now have to pay principal and interest on a 20 year loan. Your enticingly low payment was interest-only on a small amount, that ended up growing over time for any number of reasons, and then kapow! No more money is available, and you have to repay the whole thing with continuing interest charges, over a 20-year term. YIKES. We have worked hard, saved up as much as we could, we are ready to be settled, secure, retired from the rat race.

How do we do that? How can we create a better safety net? How can we avoid the fear that comes with this kind of calamity, the unforeseen, the unpredictable, the unimaginable?

If you are 60 years or older and have good equity position, we can use a flexible payment option reverse mortgage. We offer FHA reverse mortgages, and Jumbo reverse mortgages. Both offer the flexible payment option, and both offer fixed rate, adjustable rate and line of credit options.

A reverse mortgage can create a safety net for ourselves, increase our monthly cash flow, help a family member, tackle home improvement projects, or perhaps to pay for long-term care in the future.

A reverse mortgage line of credit can never be closed, reduced or frozen. If you qualify for the line of credit, it is yours forever, as long as you pay your property taxes, property insurance, live in your home and maintain your home. Forever! That is security!

A reverse mortgage can be used to eliminate your current mortgage payment allowing you to stay in your home even if there is an unexpected emergency that affects your income.

A reverse mortgage can be used to help shore up a business, or to help a family member who is suffering from an unexpected life event.

A reverse mortgage allows you the flexibility to make a payment, in any amount, all the time, sometimes or never.

Totally up to you.

I have a client who has three businesses. He was making a great living, owns his home outright with no mortgage. And then comes the pandemic. All three businesses closed overnight. He was trying to help to support his employees who were all unemployed overnight.

And he was sitting on a $3,000,000 goldmine. His only question was ‘how quickly can we close this loan?’

The point is, with this second example of how our

Beth Miller-Rowe has been in the mortgage industry for 38 years specializing in reverse mortgages for the past 12 years. Beth has degrees in economics and business administration. financial security can be ripped right out from under us without a moment’s notice, it is so important to prepare in advance.

Call us today. Let’s chat. Today is the day to prepare yourself, and your family, for whatever can/may come your way.

COVID has changed the way we operate but we are here for you. We can work over the phone, Facetime, or Zoom. Whatever works best for you.

Stay safe and stay well.

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Let’s take a look and see if we can Make Your Retirement Dreams Come True.

Beth Miller-Rowe NMLS: 294774

Branch Manager and Reverse Mortgage Specialist

The Reverse Mortgage Group • A Division of American Pacific Mortgage Corp.

Office: 925-969-0380 Cell: 925-381-8264 Beth@YourReverse.com

3478 Buskirk Ave., Ste. 1000 Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

Your Retirement Dreams Can Come True!

A Division of American Pacific Mortgage Corporation NMLS 1850

DRE: 00950759/01215943 • NMLS: 294774/831612/1850 Licensed by the Dept of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act

*Reverse mortgages are loans offered to homeowners who are 62 or older who have equity in their homes. The loan programs allow borrowers to defer payment on the loans until they pass away, sell the home, or move out.

Homeowners, however, remain responsible for the payment of taxes, insurance, maintenance, and other items. Nonpayment of these items can lead to a default under the loan terms and ultimate loss of the home. FHA insured reverse mortgages have an up front and ongoing cost; ask your loan officer for details. These materials are not from, nor approved by HUD, FHA, or any governing agency. **American Pacific Mortgage Corporation is not financial service company or licensed tax advisors; the material provided is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, tax and/or mortgage advice. Although the material is deemed to be accurate and reliable, there is no guarantee it is without errors. We are not financial or tax advisors, please contact your financial professional for your personal financial situation.

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Community volunteers step up to help out

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DAWNMARIE FEHR ast County communities have suffered through shelter-inplace orders, rising COVID-19

cases and a slew of inconveniences since the pandemic took hold in March.

During that time, though reasons for complaint abound, residents have also seen the rise of a different kind – volunteer groups and individuals stepping up to help those most in need.

From food banks to donated personal protection equipment to those willing to risk public places for those who can’t, East County has risen up and come together to push forward through the tough times.

One such grassroots organization sprouted to help seniors who are staying

T ANNE VILLAG N I A

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ON THE COVER: Amy Wallace, principal at Ron Nunn School in Brentwood, masked up for a recent drivethru registration event. School districts, businesses and community organizations are all stepping up to help the collective good during the pandemic. Photo by Tony Kukulich.

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Photo by Tony Kukulich

Seams to Help organizer Sandy Grossman-Morris coordinated the delivery of cloth face coverings to city hall staff in Brentwood, Monday, Aug. 10. Seams to Help, is one of many local organizations assisting the community during the COVID-19 crisis. safe at home get the food and supplies they need. Seana Fippin of the Rotary Club of Brentwood, took a small idea and used her large network of associates to grow it into a successful volunteer network called Brentwood Strong.

Through their website, volunteers are paired with residents who can’t leave their

homes for health reasons. The volunteers connect with the community member in need, get a list, pick up the items and drop them off, avoiding contact as much as possible to protect everyone in the process. There is no fee for the service and the community member pays for their own groceries.

Fippin began Brentwood Strong in March, and is still pairing up shoppers with community members.

“We just had a couple seniors over the last week sign-up, it seems to be picking up a little momentum as of late,” Fippin said. “We also ended up doing some food donations, very organically at first, and in conjunction with the City of Brentwood, so thanks to them and their support we were feeding 500 families with the last food distribution.”

Fippin said she had collaborated with the US Food Bank to get boxes of food, and she and her volunteers added fresh necessities like milk and eggs. The donations happen roughly once a month and have helped many families in East County.

“We have a strong network of volunteers right now,” she said. “We aren’t turning anyone away ... There are so many people showing up and doing the work and sharing the good news and that just speaks volumes about the people in our community.”

Another group reaching out to help is Print For Lives, begun by members of the robotics club at Heritage High School.

These students are using their own and donated resources to 3D print and donate

St. Anne Village see Volunteers page 10B

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AUGUST 21, 2020

Life interrupted - parenting in tough times part 2

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ARENTING FOR ALL OF US HAS always brought challenges.

But the pandemic has taken parenting into unchartered territories. Prior to 2020, August and September meant a new school year, new classrooms, new teachers, and from approximately 8 o’clock to 3 o’clock you trusted your child was in a structured environment.

Each day’s schedule brought in patterns that parents trusted.

DALTON Enter COVID-19.

I interviewed several teachers from various schools to include both elementary and high schools with a goal of giving best advice for a successful school year. The teachers I chose are seasoned educators, many who are in leadership roles and a few have been chosen teachers of the year. Each teacher provided advice as if they were working with their own son or daughter.

I combined their ideas to capture best practices for a successful school year and also to manage distance learning.

First and foremost, schools will open up again. Be patient. Be patient with your child and with the schools. From parents, teachers, tech specialists, and district administrators, quite literally everyone will make mistakes. It is a new horizon and a new adventure and we are in it together. Communicate with the teachers and know what is expected of your child every day. The following are some helpful suggestions to set up a

successful learning environment for your child.

Adjust your child’s schedule so that they are going to bed at an early time to be able to be up in the morning and focus. Establish a routine immediately.

Provide your child a quiet work area away from siblings and other distractions. That work station should include everything they will need.

Depending on the age level of your child, it can be pencils, pens, and crayons, notebooks and calculators. (The phone should not be the calculator.). A strong Wi-Fi support for the teacher to communicate with your child is critical.

1. Help your child organize their material so they are within reach of their work area.

2. In an easy access area in a folder write down all the child’s login information and online meeting IDs with passwords.

3. In the morning, give them some snacks to access at their work area and water, just as if they were going to school and needed a packed lunch.

4. An adult in the house should be able to see the child to make sure they are not getting distracted or being disruptive.

5. If the child is older and there is not adult supervision, you can still do facetime check- in’s to monitor what the child has accomplished.

6. Structure is mandatory.

7. During their lunch break, encourage the child to do some kind of physical activity.

Another recommendation is to have your student create a schedule on Fridays for the following week. That schedule should include what time the Zoom sessions will be, what projects are due,

First and foremost, schools will open up again. Be patient.

Be patient with your child and with the schools. and what assessments are coming up.

In communicating with your child, focus on the objective. What is the purpose of each assignment? Then talk to your child about what they are learning. You can say, “How does what you are doing help you reach the learning goal?” The work your child is doing is not busy work. If parents ask open-ended questions, they are opening up their child to thinking and connecting what they are learning.

As a parent, you do not need to know all the answers. Your questions are demonstrating curiosity to open analytical thinking skills for your child.

Parents can be very supportive to their students’ learning if they help them refocus on the “why.” What am I practicing and why am I practicing this?

Keeping the objective in mind will help the focus be on success in developing lifelong learning skills.

Keep in mind that you as a parent are not alone. Reach out to your neighbors and other school-age children.

Remember that we are still a community even if we are in separate rooms.

Students may be of different ages but the needs can be very similar.

It is also OK to allow your child to struggle. Allowing the opportunity to

struggle, comes strength to develop troubleshooting skills and allows your child to develop resources, to empower their adulthood. Instead of providing your child the answer, continue to ask questions to push your child to develop problem-solving abilities.

What this time also brings is a rare opportunity for students to have appointments one on one with their teachers and use the new way of doing things to their advantage. Encourage your child to communicate.

The last piece of advice the educators understand is that parents are also frustrated about the situation.

But if you lose your temper, you need to apologize to your child. Show children how to deal with stress appropriately.

We don’t apologize enough to our children or students. We expect children to apologize but as parents and adults we don’t often admit fault to our children. The children need to know that as parents and teachers, we all mess up. We sometimes say or do things that are wrong and by recognizing and apologizing we are an example of how our children can deal with difficult times.

It is about courtesy and respect. The best way to teach important life skills is by modeling that type of behavior.

As an educator and a life coach, I want to add the importance of active listening, curiosity and using parental instincts of any frustration your child may feel. Your presence for your child is the most valuable resource your child can have. Being your best sage is powerful, and interrupting life sometimes brings out the best. The skills we practice now see Parenting page 11B

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COVID-19 Playbook

by Julie Ann Giammona of Ferber Law

Photo by Eric Morford

Eulalio Bazan, left, and his son, Alex Bazan, are the owners of Germ Busters, a sanitizing and disinfecting business created as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Busting germs in East County DAWNMARIE FEHR

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father-son team in Oakley is working to help small businesses stay safe and clean.

Eulalio Bazan and his son, Alex Bazan, are the owners of Germ Busters, a business venture born out of the COVID19 pandemic. Using specialized chemicals, ultraviolet light and a passion for their community, the Bazans are ready to make East County clean and safe.

“We sanitize and disinfect,” Eulalio said. “We are focused on commercial (businesses), so we are out trying to help small businesses, restaurants, nursing homes, grocery stores, hotels; any place that needs assistance sanitizing and disinfecting to get back where they need to be.”

Eulalio said he has taken training courses through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to ensure he is following all recommended guidelines.

His procedure is a three-step process that ensures clean surfaces for up to 90 days.

“I wipe all high-touch surface areas for step one, then I have two options for step two,” Eulalio said. “I can either use the disinfecting spray or use the ultraviolet light. Then, after the disinfectant procedure has been done, I apply the coating.”

The coating is an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registered antimicrobial coating and goes on all cleaned and disinfected areas. It will bond and leave a shield of protection that can help fight off and kill microbes for 30 to 90 days, depending on traffic.

“At Germ Busters, we have an advanced system,” said Alex, a senior

studying kinesiology at Cal State East Bay. “We use products that kill germs up to 90 days and fight against diseases like COVID, so I think that’s a really good thing. A lot of us are tired of being home, and we want to go out, but is it safe to go? We want to create that environment, so people feel safe.”

Eulalio was inspired by the idea of starting a cleaning company after talking to his wife, who works at a Kaiser hospital.

She told him how Kaiser began using ultraviolet light to disinfect patient rooms after the pandemic began and he thought it seemed like a smart, simple idea. “(At Kaiser), they use UV lighting, and call it burning the room,” he explained.

“They roll in the light and turn it on and leave it for 20 minutes ... When you disinfect an area manually, there are going to be areas you miss, but when you put this light on, it touches the whole room and disinfects the whole room, all those corners.”

When the Bazans have finished cleaning a business, they make sure to leave a stamp of approval behind.

“I have a sticker to leave, letting people know that business is taking extra measures to keep their facility clean and disinfected,” Eulalio said. “It has a date and my company name, so you can see the last time it was serviced. It’s something to give customers that peace of mind so they can see it’s clean.”

Eulalio is an East County native, and he and his wife live in Oakley with their three children.

For more information on Germ Busters, or the products they use, call 925-812-3103 or visit www. germbustersbayarea.com.

To view a video, visit www. thepress.net/multimedia

As COVID-19 cases increase in California, the state recently issued a playbook for employers intended to clarify the policies and procedures for a safe reopening. Apart from creating a worksite prevention plan in accordance with the industry guidlines, employers must have a plan in place for managing COVID-19 outbreaks in the workplace. This includes working with the local health department to manage outbreaks and following state and local quarantine and isolation measures. The playbook also centralizes additional government resources employers can refer to in making reopening plans. For more information, check out the Employer Playbook and specific industry guidance located at https://covid19. ca.gov/industry-guidance/#top.

California also requires all counties who are on the state monitoring list for three days to shut down indoor operations of dine-in restaurants, wineries and tasting rooms, movie theaters, family entertainment centers, zoos and museums, card rooms, gyms and fitness centers, places of worship and cultural ceremonies, nonessential offices, personal care services, shopping malls, and hair salons and barbershops. The state updated the

guidance for hair salons, barbershops and some personal services to allow for outdoor service.

Contra Costa County continues to be on the state-monitoring list, and thus is required to follow the state’s shutdown procedures. The County further extended the eviction moratorium through September 30, 2020. This means that business owners are protected from being evicted due to failure to pay rent if they can establish a loss of revenue that is related to COVID-19.

Additionally, Contra Costa County passed an ordinance that allows businesses that fail to comply with the health orders to be fined up to $1,000. Businesses may file a written appeal within 10 days of being fined.

Please contact Julie Ann Giammona of Ferber Law at 925.355.9800 or jgiammona@ ferberlaw.com. Julie Ann is a resident of Brentwood with 30 years of experience representing employers in labor and employment matters. She is a passionate and loyal advocate for business owners.

DISCLAIMER: BECAUSE OF THE GENERALITY OF THIS UPDATE, THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ABOVE SHOULD NOT BE ACTED UPON WITHOUT SPECIFIC LEGAL ADVICE.

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Supporting families during the pandemic

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s the coronavirus crisis continues, parents everywhere are struggling

to keep children healthy and occupied.

If you’re anxious about how to protect and nurture your kids through this — often juggling work obligations at the same time — you’re in good (virtual) company.

Here are tips from the Child Mind Institute’s clinicians to help calm fears, manage stress and keep the peace.

Keep routines in place The experts all agree that setting and sticking to a regular schedule is key, even when you’re all at home all day. But as the crisis continues and the days get warmer (and longer, sigh) that schedule will naturally become a bit looser. Still, keeping some structure is important. Whenever possible, try to make sure kids still have some structure — for example, getting up, eating and going to bed around the same time every day.

Consistency and structure are calming during times of stress. Kids, especially younger ones or those who are anxious, benefit from knowing what’s going to happen and when.

The schedule can mimic a school or day camp schedule, changing activities at predictable intervals and alternating periods of study and play.

It may help to print out a schedule and go over it as a family each morning. Setting a timer

will help kids know when activities are about to begin or end. Having regular reminders will help head off meltdowns when it’s time to transition from one thing to the next.

Be creative about new activities — and exercise Incorporate new activities into your routine, like doing a puzzle or having family game time in the evening. For example, my family is baking our way through a favorite dessert cookbook together with my daughter as sous chef.

Build in activities that help everyone get some exercise, safely, especially now that some restrictions are being relaxed. For example, going to the park without contact with other kids or things touched by other kids, like playground equipment. Take a daily family walk or bike ride or do yoga — great ways to let kids burn off energy and make sure everyone is staying active.

Manage your own anxiety It’s completely understandable to be anxious right now (how could we not be?) but how we manage that anxiety has a big impact on our kids. Keeping your worries in check will help your whole family navigate this uncertain situation as easily as possible.

“Watch out for catastrophic thinking,” said Mark Reinecke, Ph.D, a clinical psychologist with the Child Mind Institute.

“For example, assuming every cough is a sign you’ve been infected, or reading news stories that dwell on worst-case scenarios.

Keep a sense of perspective, engage in solution-focused thinking and balance this with mindful acceptance.”

For those moments when you do catch yourself feeling anxious, try to avoid talking about your concerns within earshot of children. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, step away and take a break. That could look like taking a shower or going outside or into another room and taking a few deep breaths.

Limit consumption of news Staying informed is important, but it’s a good idea to limit consumption of news and social media that has the potential to feed your anxiety, and that of your kids. Turn the TV off and mute or unfollow friends or co-workers who are prone to sharing panicinducing posts.

Take a social media hiatus or make a point of following accounts that share content that take your mind off the crisis, whether it’s about nature, art, baking or crafts.

Stay in touch virtually Keep your support network strong, even when you’re only able to call or text friends and family. Socializing plays an important role in regulating your mood and helping you stay grounded. And the same is true for your children.

Let kids use social media (within reason) and Skype or FaceTime to stay connected to peers even if they aren’t usually allowed to do so. Communication can help kids feel less alone and mitigate some of the stress that

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comes from being away from friends.

Technology can also help younger kids feel closer to relatives or friends they can’t see at the moment. My parents video chat with their granddaughter every night and read her a (digital) bedtime story. It’s not perfect, but it helps us all feel closer and less stressed.

Make plans In the face of events that are scary and largely out of our control, it’s important to be proactive about what you can control.

Making plans helps you visualize the near future. How can your kids have virtual play dates? What can your family do that would be fun outside? What are favorite foods you can cook during this time? If your area is starting to reopen, you could come up with safe ideas for family activities, like getting takeout from your favorite restaurant or going on a socially distant bike ride with friends. Seeing you problem-solve in response to this crisis can be instructive and reassuring for kids.

Even better, assign kids tasks, like picking the restaurant you’re going to order from, that will help them feel that they are part of the plan and making a valuable contribution to the family.

Keep kids in the loop — but keep it simple “Talking to children in a clear, reasonable way about what’s going on is the best way to help them understand,” says Rachel Busman, PsyD, a clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute. “But remember kids don’t need to know every little thing.” Unless kids ask specifically, there’s no reason to volunteer information that might worry them.

Check in with little kids Young children may be oblivious to the facts of the situation, but they may still feel unsettled by the changes in routine, or pick up on the fact that people around them are worried and upset. Plan to check in with younger children periodically and give them the chance to process any worries they may be having. Children who are tantruming more than usual, being defiant or acting out may actually be feeling anxious. Pick a calm, undistracted time and gently ask how they’re feeling and make sure to respond to outbursts in a calm, consistent, comforting way.

Sometimes the path of least resistance is the right path Remember to be reasonable and kind to yourself. We all want to be our best parenting selves as much as we can, but sometimes that best self is the one that says, “Go for it” when a kid asks for more time on the iPad. Accept and ask for help If you have a partner at home, agree that you’ll trade off when it comes to child care, especially if one or both of you are working from home and have younger children. That way everyone gets a break and some breathing room.

“Be creative and be flexible,” says Dr. Busman, “and try not to be hard on yourself.

You have to find a balance that works for your family. The goal should be to stay sane and stay safe.”

– Courtesy of Rae Jacobson, Child Mind Institute

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COVID-19 survivor shares journey

I was fine, and then, boom, I was just sick. I actually had a horrible sinus headache that was unbearable, I think that was the worst part, in the very beginning.

DAWNMARIE FEHR

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ith COVID-19 cases on the rise in California, the virus is uppermost

in the minds of many East County residents.

With reports the virus was running rampant in the U.S. as early as November, many wonder if they can attribute that nagging cough over Christmas or the severe, flu-like symptoms they had in January to coronavirus. Antibody tests aren’t foolproof and medical experts cannot agree if having the virus once creates immunity.

One East County real estate agent has run the gauntlet, with a positive COVID-19 test and a month of aches, pains and stomach issues. Heidy Hurst and her husband, Todd, both fell victim to it at the end of June and lost the entire month of July to quarantine and recovery.

“The final week of July, I finally started to come together, to feel like I was going to be ok,” Hurst said. “I was fatigued and disoriented from the dehydration, and my body was exhausted. It took a long time, just trying to get your

COVID-19

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– Heidy Hurst, Brentwood resident Hurst decided to get tested, as well.

“I went Wednesday, and got my results on Friday, and they were negative,” Hurst recalled. “Then, Friday night, I was talking to my sister on the phone, late, and I thought I wasn’t going to get it, and I did, and I got it worse than my husband.”

After her phone conversation, Hurst said she felt a heaviness on her back.

Within minutes, she had the chills, fever and a sinus headache.

Photo by Tony Kukulich

Todd and Heidy Hurst both fell ill with the coronovirus in June. The Brentwood couple still don’t know where or how they contracted the virus. mind back to normal. And the weakness, it took a long time to get my body back to its normal strength.”

Hurst said Todd began to feel sick

at the end of June, on Father’s Day. She took him to get tested for COVID-19 on Monday, June 22, and received his results – positive – on Wednesday. At that point,

see Survivor page 11B

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• Maintaining six feet between tables.

• Allowing only six guests per table.

✦ Patio Seating ✦ Full Bar ✦ Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner ✦ Party Packs ✦ Takeout orders ✦ DoorDash & Grubhub delivery ✦ Alcohol available for purchase with food order and I.D. M-F 10am – 9pm Sat & Sun 8am – 9pm

Mexican Restaurant 642 First Street • 516-2233

Sorry no reservations, first come first serve.

www.lafuentebrentwood.com

Give Yourself Something To Look Forward To!

Having a travel advisor to guide you through the ever-changing information about travel and Covid-19 truly works to your advantage. Contact me to plan your travel for later and take advantage of my great travel specials! You can also stay up to date with Covid-19 and Travel Information on my website. Stay safe and healthy!

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AUGUST 21, 2020

Staying safe, healthy during the pandemic DAWNMARIE FEHR

Isis Morales, is a nurse at John Muir Medical Center in Brentwood.

Healthcare providers are working to get updated COVID-19 information out to residents throughout the county.

N

ews and internet sources are swirling with conflicting reports on how COVID-19

can affect everyone from children to the elderly.

The advice offered for people to stay safe and healthy can be just as confusing.

To help sift through fact and fiction, The Press sat down with three local health care professionals who offered tips for staying safe, getting tested for COVID-19 and how to keep masks clean.

Dr. Lisa Rood is a pediatrician at John Muir Health’s Brentwood Outpatient Center.

With more than a decade of experience in Brentwood, she has a range of experience to draw from and offered some practical advice on keeping yourself and your loved ones safe.

“The most important things to do to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 are to wear a face mask when you are around people outside of your household, wash your hands frequently using soap and water and stay at least six feet away from people outside of your household,” Rood said.

She added that face masks are most effective when they fit properly, cover the nose and mouth, and are used consistently.

“Everyone over the age of two should wear face masks, including people who have asthma, unless otherwise directed by your personal doctor,” Rood added.

Rood also noted that outdoor activities are an effective way to manage stress induced by the COVID-19 pandemic. She recommended keeping a mask on your person so it can be worn when coming into close contact with others during outdoor activities such as walking or hiking.

She further urged people to leave little ones at home while running errands and use contact-free pickup services when possible.

Dr. Robert Beer of Balfour Dermatology usually cautions his patients against sun exposure, but these days he often discusses viral preventative care, as well.

“I think you can’t be too safe,” Beer

Photo by Tony Kukulich

said. “Overall, the most important thing has always been handwashing. Handwashing is best with soap and water – it’s superior to antibacterial gel. When soap and water aren’t available . . . you can use the antibacterial gel, but handwashing is superior.”

Beer also noted masks should be worn by one person only – never shared – and cleaned on a regular basis.

“I think it’s important to think about mask cleanliness,” he said. “You might want to launder your masks daily depending on the type of mask you use.”

He suggested washing masks in the laundry with your regular detergent at the warmest water level you would normally wash with. If washing by hand, he recommended using a bleach solution made up of 1/3 cup household bleach – not color safe, as it won’t disinfect as well – to one gallon of water.

“You soak the mask in the solution for about five minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool or room temperature water,” said Beer. “Make sure you let it dry completely before wearing, because a wet mask is not going to work as well as a dry one.”

He also advised against passing judgment on those not wearing masks in public, as some people are unable to for a variety of medical reasons.

“There are some people who shouldn’t wear masks or don’t have to wear masks, some people who are deaf or hard of hearing,” he said. “Someone who is caring for a person who is deaf or hard of hearing, they need to read lips. Be considerate of others,

sometimes there is a reason people are not wearing masks.”

Dr. Ansony Kim is a pediatric dentist and proprietor of Hello Smiles in Oakley. He discussed the ties between oral health and overall systemic health.

“Oral health care is so important in terms of overall health care, we want to make sure to maintain seeing the dentists on a regular basis to catch anything that can lead to bigger issues for your overall health,” Kim said.

He added periodontal diseases can place patients at higher risk from COVID-19, so clean and healthy teeth are important. He recommended maintaining dental visits every six months, and helping kids remember to brush regularly.

“Dental care is still a priority, especially for kids who don’t have the routine of getting ready for school and brushing their teeth,” Kim said.

If you develop possible COVID-19 symptoms such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, diarrhea or acute loss of taste or smell – or if someone in your household develops these symptoms – call your doctor.

If you are interested in being tested for COVID-19, you can go through your doctor, or call the county for a test appointment.

Contra Costa County test locations for East County are at the Senior Activity Center in Brentwood, the Antioch Fairgrounds and the Pittsburg Health Center. To schedule an appointment, call 844-421-0804 or visit https://www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/gettested. For more information, call the county’s Public Health Department at 925-313-6000.

The most important things to do to help prevent the spread of COVID19 are to wear a face mask when you are around people outside of your household, wash your hands frequently using soap and water and stay at least six feet away from people outside of your household.

– Dr. Lisa Rood, pediatrician at John Muir Health, Brentwood If you are with John Muir Health, tests are only done by a doctor’s order. For more information, contact your primary care physician or visit www.johnmuirhealth.com.

If you are with Kaiser, tests are only done by a doctor’s order. For more information, contact your primary care physician or the 24/7 advice line to schedule a test appointment. For more information, visit www. kp.org.

Hello Smiles pediatric dentistry is located at 2591 Main St. in Oakley. For more information, call 925-690-5437 or visit https://www. hellosmileskids.com/.

Balfour Dermatology is located at 2221 Balfour Road, Suite A, in Brentwood. For more information, call 925-240-9116 or visit https://skinquestion.com/.

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AUGUST 21, 2020

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Takeout food tips when dining at home

A

lthough takeout has long been a convenience enjoyed by people around the world,

in recent months takeout became a key way for many restaurants to stay afloat when the novel coronavirus COVID-19 forced many to close their facilities to customers.

Restaurants have been allowed to remain open, though they have been forced to change their business models.

In a matter of weeks, establishments that were not accustomed to offering takeout quickly re-imagined their operations to offer curbside pickup or delivery options. In turn, many communities promoted movements to help keep restaurants afloat, with some encouraging residents to participate in Takeout Thursdays to patronize struggling bars, restaurants and delis.

Takeout has always provided a respite from cooking meals at home, but it seems especially welcomed during the COVID-19 outbreak. Now more than ever, individuals and families could use a break from cooking three meals per day. When opting for takeout, consider these tasty tips. ♦ ♦ Support small businesses.

Independent restaurants could have a tougher time bouncing back from reduced sales and income than large restaurant chains. When seeking out food- and beverage-related businesses, lean heavily on mom-andpop restaurants, many of which are pillars in their communities. These are

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

When opting for takeout food these days, there are many items to consider such as hands free delivery service, curbside pickup and supporting small, community businesses. the businesses whose owners may have children in your local schools or those who sponsor local sports leagues. ♦ ♦ Investigate food safety.

Inquire about the safety measures restaurants are taking to ensure food safety. Most restaurants and delivery services are enacting even more safety measures than are required by law.

Keep in mind, however, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said, “There is no evidence to support

transmission of COVID-19 associated with food.” Simple handwashing after

Remember that promise you made to yourself, years ago?

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touching food packaging and your food or face may be sufficient. ♦ ♦ Learn new protocol.

Ask the business what their requirements are for ordering food.

Some restaurants will bring the order directly to your car through curbside pickup. Others may enable you to enter the establishment if you are wearing a mask. Delivery only might be the policy at another establishment. Follow all rules, as they have been implemented to keep you and the business employees safe. ♦♦ Pay by credit card.

When placing an order for takeout or curbside pickup, pay by credit card online or over the phone if that is an option. This limits how much you and restaurant employees have to handle cards or cash. ♦ ♦ Avoid direct handoffs.

Ask the counter server or delivery person to put down your order and step away before you grab it. This is an extra step to combat the spread of the virus.

Even as stay-at-home restrictions are being relaxed, takeout figures to remain popular. Certain tips can keep everyone well fed and safe and help bars and restaurants stay afloat.

– Courtesy Metro Creative

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Therapy with Julie

HELPING YOU MANAGE YOUR MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING DURING THE PANDEMIC I am a licensed marriage and family therapist, with a private practice in Brentwood where I help many people feel better emotionally and improve their relationships and their lives. I work with individuals, couples and families, providing telehealth therapy, which can be conducted from the comfort of your own home. I am currently holding sessions through video/ phone and supporting those impacted by Covid- 19 in California.

If you are feeling extra anxiety, depression or are struggling in your relationships, know that you are not alone.

Everyone is struggling in different ways. We are all grieving a variety of losses, including the loss of our daily normal routines, jobs, loss of loved ones, milestones and the list goes on. It’s ok not to be ok.

It can be helpful to put your energy towards the things you can control, such as taking care of your mental health. This can include being more present with your loved ones, exercising, eating well, laughter, spending time outside, connecting with others and limiting media time. Social media has become a news feed of more and more people ridiculing others who don’t have beliefs that are similar to their own. One example is that parents and teachers will not all share the same comfort level on returning to school and teaching online – and that is ok. This is a time when we should be lifting each other up. Effective communication seeks to understand one another. Everyone is doing the best they can with the tools they have to navigate these crazy times, so rather than choosing to be part of the divide,

choose to be kind and come together to support one another.

I work with many couples who often come to therapy, commonly when they feel a disconnection in their relationship and struggle with communicating and getting their needs met. During the pandemic, I understandably have had an increase in couples seeking therapy. Couples have had to adjust to spending more time together, while trying to manage their own fears and anxiety without their usual daily stress outlets available to them. One of the things I encourage my clients, both individual and couples, to do during this time is to schedule some time during each day for their own emotional space – to practice self care.

Parenting issues also often arise with couples and now more than ever, with online learning. I also have experience counseling teens and providing parenting support at Freedom and Liberty High schools.

Talking to a therapist is a great recourse during these times. If you feel like you need extra support, I am here for you. I am happy to provide a 10-minute free phone consultation and could talk to you about how therapy could be helpful for you.

I also provide some mental health tips on my Instagram account at juliegarcia_lmft.

Julie Garcia, MA, LMFT 1120 2nd St., Suite 120, Brentwood 925-482-6170 www.juliegarciatherapy.com Info@juliegarciatherapy.com Instagram juliegarcia_lmft – Advertisement

Volunteers from page 3B face shields to local schools, businesses and hospitals.

Currently, the group prints two kinds of shields – a medical grade model and a Protector One model, meant for businesses and schools. The medical model uses a design created by the National Institute of Health, and the Protector One model is their own design. They take 2-3 hours to print plus a 15-minute assembly time.

To date, the group has donated 315 masks, and are preparing to donate another 150 to Kaiser and other businesses.

“There is still a light at the end of the tunnel,” said Robotics Club Vice-President Aaron Wong. “A lot of people are doing great things in this time and we are making sure that we can keep people safe during this horrible pandemic.”

Seams to Help (StoH) is another group of community members who have banded together to lend a hand. While many individuals have gone into the business of making and selling masks, the ladies and gentlemen of StoH are mass producing and donating cloth masks. Sandy GrossmanMorris founded the group through Facebook when she saw a need she could fill with her skills.

“We have donated over 7,000 masks to date,” Grossman-Morris said. “We gave a mask to every single employee of the Brentwood school district ... and we also just donated 300 masks to city hall to get city employees covered.”

We Care every Day In every Way

Brentwood Press & Publishing is looking for curious, energetic, optimistic and creative professionals with experience in journalism.

WRITERS

Visiting Angels franchised homecare agencies have served hundreds of thousands of families in their homes across the nation. Visting Angels is the most recognized and respected name in senior home care. We are “America’s Choice In HomeCare!”

• Affordable Care/ Professional care • More than just senior care • We’re locally owned • Providing “Peace of Mind” Since 1998 across America As COVID-19 continues to spread, we at Visiting Angels want you to know we are fully committed to the health and well-being of our caregivers and families.

The safety of our clients and caregivers is our highest priority. Our caregivers are determined to do everything possible to help and protect your loved one.

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Grossman-Morris noted there are many jobs besides sewing – volunteers also sort, prep and cut fabric and make deliveries. Her assembly line system ensures that all volunteers are wearing masks and gloves while working and complying with all social distancing protocols.

“Our volunteers are phenomenal,” she added. “The donors have been incredible and very helpful, but there are more projects we want to do and we need more supplies and that is why we are becoming a 501(c)3. That will enable people to donate money to us so that we can purchase supplies wholesale and stretch those donor dollars.”

For more information on Brentwood Strong, to volunteer, request help or donate supplies, visit www. brentwoodstrong.com.

For more information on Print For Lives, follow them on Instagram at @ printforlives, visit their website at https:// www.printforlives.org/, or their GoFundMe account at https://gf.me/u/x94j3y Seams to Help is happy to accept donations of time or supplies but is unable to accept monetary donations, as it is not yet an official 501(c)3. Donations can be dropped off at the Postal Annex at 3130 Balfour Road, Suite D, in Brentwood, or mailed to 3130 Balfour Road, Suite D, #112, Brentwood CA 94513. Serious volunteers can request to join the group’s Facebook page by visiting https://www.facebook.com/ groups/3842877459063734/.

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Writers and photographers

America’s Choice in Homecare®

AUGUST 21, 2020

The ideal candidate will: • Source, write and publish unique stories assigned by our editor for the digital and print platforms of Brentwood Press & Publishing • Develop sources to help with the reporting of stories • Collaborate with the editor, on pitching stories Requirements: • 1+ year of professional experience in journalism or online media • Must be a consumer of news (variety of sources/outlets) • Ability to turn in error-free, compelling, active writing on extremely tight deadlines • Solid command of AP Style • Ability to write strong leads/hooks • Understanding of proper attribution and sourcing ethics • Must be available in an on-call capacity To apply: Send resume, relevant clips and a short one- to two-paragraph statement about how you can be an integral part of our team to: editor@brentwoodpress.com

Brentwood Press and Publishing is looking for a freelance photographer to work with our main photographer and editorial team.

The ideal candidate will: • Shoot and edit photos and videos on deadline for both print and online platforms • Work with reporters, editor and production staff and independently in the news-gathering process • Use editing software to modify and create images meeting defined style requirements; edit and enhance images; apply special effects and color correction as needed • Represent the company in a professional manner when covering events or interviews • Perform other duties as assigned Requirements: • Professional camera and tools to complete an assignment • News photo/video editing skills using Adobe Lightroom or other professional software • Ability to organize and manage multiple priorities and work under time pressure deadline • Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills • Ability to interface with internal company personnel • Requires adaptability, enthusiasm, initiative and a positive approach to problem solving To apply: Send resume, link to portfolio, and a short one- to two-paragraph statement about how you can be an integral part of our team to: editor@brentwoodpress.com

AUGUST 21, 2020

COVID-19 THE NEXT PHASE

Staying educated, entertained

D

ue to the temporary closure of many schools and child care providers, keeping your

child engaged and entertained while at home or locating an opening at a child care facility can be extremely difficult.

See the resources below for information on caring for children during the pandemic.

Virtual Tours Ride along on a live safari at Find a list of virtual trips you can take to zoos, museums and parks at https://bit.ly/ thepressnet_Tours.

Tour the San Diego Zoo at https://kids. sandiegozoo.org/videos.

Parenting from page 4B are skills that can continue when school reopens. Let’s make this life-interrupted a learning experience for all of us.

I want to thank the following educators for contributing to this article: Kevin Allen, Eileen Favalora, Dave Fogelstrom, Karin Rowland, Janet Hannigan, Marty Dodson, Darlene Hinojosa, Darlene Rodriguez, Laurie LaPrade, Tami Pennington, Julie Phillips, Danielle Silvas and Cari Othman.

Christina Dalton is a certified Life

Survivor from page 7B “I was fine, and then, boom, I was just sick,” said Hurst. “I actually had a horrible sinus headache that was unbearable, I think that was the worst part, in the very beginning. The aches were so bad, it was absolutely radiating through my body, even just touching my fingers hurt, everything hurt so badly.”

To this day, the Hursts still don’t know where or how they contracted the virus. Though her test on Wednesday was negative, the results could have been inaccurate, or she could have picked it up sometime after her test appointment and before Friday night. Hurst’s work, and her husband’s business as a plumber, brings them into contact with people often, and tracing the origin of their infection is difficult.

Hurst stayed home and suffered in bed for almost two weeks. On Wednesday morning, June 10, a video appointment with her doctor ended with a recommendation she go into the emergency room.

“I told my doctor I felt terrible, and could barely breathe and was weak,” Hurst said. “He said he wanted me to go to the ER, and I hate going to the hospital, but Todd looked at me and said, you really need to go in, things aren’t going good for you, so he brought me in and they tested me again, and it was positive.”

At this point, the virus had morphed

Take a virtual tour of Yellowstone National Park at https://bit.ly/ thepressnet_yellowstone.

Virtually visit over 500 museums and art galleries around the world at https://bit. ly/thepressnet_arts.

Live stream of different aquarium exhibits at https://www. montereybayaquarium.org/animals/ live-cams.

Google’s partnership with the National Park Service quite literally brings the outdoors inside at https://artsandculture. withgoogle.com/en-us/.

Virtually visit exhibits in the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C. at https://naturalhistory.si.edu/visit/ virtual-tour.

– Courtesy of PG&E

Coach who has recently retired as the Lead Counselor at Heritage High School.

Previously, she has served as the math department chair at Liberty High School and was a member of the lead team to open Deer Valley High. Prior to her educational career, she was a marriage and family counselor. She brings these opportunities into empowering her clients through life coaching. She is the owner of Expanding Your Horizons (Coaching for Life). She may be reached at: EYHLifeCoach.com.

into pneumonia, filling Hurst’s lungs with fluid and making it difficult to breathe.

Though her sinus headache had abated thanks to an antibiotic prescription, she had a constant sensation of cotton in her lungs, stomach cramps and a persistent case of diarrhea, causing dehydration and exhaustion.

“It never ends with this virus,” Hurst explained. “It hits you so hard with the fever, the chills, everything you can imagine. I didn’t have a cough, but I had this heaviness on my back, which Todd didn’t, and then that turned into pneumonia.”

Hurst spent one full day in the hospital, then returned home, where she spent another two weeks in bed before the virus began to let up. Initially a healthconscious person who worked out five days a week, by the time coronavirus finished with her, Hurst said she could barely walk around her house. It was August before she felt up to some light exercise.

As she and Todd ease into their new normal after recovery, Hurst said one big change for her is her willingness to order things online and skip the store, a personal experience she took great pleasure in previously.

“I’m so afraid of getting it again,” admitted Hurst. “I ask my doctors and nurses if there is proof I can’t get it again, and they told me it’s unlikely, but it’s not to say you can’t. This was probably the worst month of my life.”

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STAYING SAFE, HAPPY AND HEALTHY AT TREVISTA

As an assisted living provider, TreVista in Antioch is focused on ensuring residents of our community live safely, happily and feel part of a supportive family. During COVID-19, this focus hasn’t changed, though it has been amplified because ensuring the health and safety of those in our care has proven more important than ever before. TreVista Senior Living and Memory Care, along with parent company Agemark Senior Living, made it a top priority to ensure the health, safety and happiness of nearly 100 residents by taking strong precautionary measures and proactive steps throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

TreVista and Agemark were early adapters to the changes COVID-19 brought to senior care. Once it was identified that seniors were particularly vulnerable to this disease, new procedures to maximize infection control were immediately implemented. These policies aligned with recommendations issued from the CDC, CMS, the ACHA and CALA. In addition to quickly securing more personal protective equipment for staff, we began screening all who entered our community by taking temperatures and asking about symptoms and potential exposure. As guidelines changed, we stayed nimble, quickly

adapting to new recommendations, including limiting visits inside the community.

Agemark was quick to realize that testing was key, and through the efforts of our company principals, we were one of the first to secure testing capability. We tested all in our community in early May and have been regularly testing all employees since that time. By doing this, we were able to identify asymptomatic cases and stop spread of infection to others.

Equally important to ensuring good health is addressing mental health as it relates to overall well-being. As an assisted living community, our job is to make sure residents’ days are filled with happiness, joy and human interaction. Social distancing does not have to mean social isolation!

We’ve held hallway exercise classes, bingo games and dance parties; delivered door-todoor happy hour drinks and snacks; introduced residents to TikTok and celebrated holidays with special menus and activities. Like many in America, residents have developed a new appreciation for the great outdoors and are spending a lot of time in our recently remodeled courtyard which features a covered patio, waterfall, beautiful gardens and walking path.

Stopping in-person visits with family members was difficult for all, but we quickly found creative ways to keep residents connected with their loved ones through window visits, increased phone calls, and even video calls using FaceTime, Zoom and Skype. We are excited to now welcome family members back to our community for scheduled fresh-air “garden visits” where they can personally connect with their loved ones by taking precautions such as maintaining social distance and wearing masks.

A positive result of a tough situation has been seeing our staff rise to the challenge put in front of them during a very stressful time. The TreVista team has truly showed dedication and love for all in our community and we are so grateful.

At TreVista, we know that many seniors are safer in our care than they are living on their own in isolation, and that’s true now more than ever.

We’re fortunate that by taking early precautions and gaining access to testing, we were able to safely welcome new members to our family.

We look forward to having more join us in the months to come. If you or someone you know is a senior in need of help, support and loving care, please contact TreVista.

MAKE TREVISTA YOUR NEW HOME

Offer Extended!

We know that staying at home may no longer be an option for some. If you or someone you love values independence but needs a little more help, call us today.

LIVING AT TREVISTA INCLUDES: • Customized, compassionate care, available 24/7.

• Homemade meals and anytime dining.

• Free local transportation.

• Programming geared to ensure physical, social, spiritual and intellectual wellness.

• Housekeeping, laundry services and Cable TV all included.

TreVista provides in-house COVID 19 testing for new residents with limited quarantine. Team members regularly tested for safety and peace of mind.

No move in fee and third month free!

Offer expires September 1, 2020. Limited availability, please call for details

Call to learn more and take a virtual tour:

(925) 470-3395 info@trevista-antioch.com

TreVista is part of the Agemark family of senior living communities.

TreVistaSeniorLiving.com

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