Senior Center’s future is uncertain
By Connor Robles Correspondent
Oakley Vice Mayor Hugh Henderson spoke at a monthly members’ meeting of the Oakley Senior Center on Jan. 19 about the upcoming end of the Center’s lease in their current building and the plans for moving them and their programs into the Oakley Recreational Center at 1250 O’Hara Ave.
Though he could not give
many concrete answers on the future of the Senior Center, as the City Council had yet to vote on a measure approving a new budget that includes their programs, he did give an overview
of the city and the Center’s past work together. He also gave his opinions on the Center as a private citizen and former firefighter who had worked near it.
Staff members such as proj-
Brentwood Planners approve pho restaurant
By Jake Menez Staff Writer
The Brentwood Planning Commission voted 5-0 at their Jan. 21 to approve a new pho restaurant on Lone Tree Way just south of the Antioch border.
“Brentwood is always looking for new and different restaurants,” Vice Chairperson David Sparling said following the vote.
Pho is a type of Vietnamese soup dish that consists of broth, noodles, meat and herbs. There are three other dedicated Vietnamese restaurants in Brentwood and some other Asian restaurants that offer Vietnamese cuisine, including pho, according to City
Manager Tim Ogden.
The new restaurant, to be located at 6471 Lone Tree Way directly next to Wing Stop, is called Pho You and would be open seven days a week from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. According to city staff, the applicant did not indicate an intent to sell beer, wine or other alcohol.
The written description for the restaurant, as presented to the Planning Commission, says that it will serve “a diverse menu with comfort
see Approve page 14A
Senior Center member Bill Carpenter expressed frustration at what he saw as a lack of communication and cooperation from the city.
cur-
ect manager Jim Fridas voiced their concerns that the city “could [not] care less” about the building’s history or the many charitable services the Center provides.
“They don’t tell us, they don’t communicate anymore,” he said. “They talked about us on Tuesday [Jan. 14], but we weren’t there.” In contrast to Carpenter and Fridas, Senior Center president Donna Baker was pleased with the partnership between the city and the Senior Center.
The Oakley City Council declared the Senior Center’s land at 215 2nd St. to be surplus property at their Jan. 14 meeting, and city authorities are looking for a new project to build on the
Local firefighters back from Los Angeles County
By Isaac Arriaga Correspondent
Contra Costa firefighters returned home last week after helping fight the Southern California wildfires.
When the many fires that are still burning throughout Los Angeles County started, L.A. County fire officials sought help from several fire departments in the state. On Jan. 9, the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District sent two fire engines and a water tender to help
fight the Eaton fire in Altadena. Ten firefighters from Contra Costa County fire departments, along with a dispatcher and the chairman of the Fire Commission for Contra Costa County Fire, Brian Oftedal, were sent as well.
The crews worked several positions, including dowsing home fires, clearing brushes in potential fire zones, and even aiding in the rescue of wildlife and forgotten pets.
As the Southern California winds have eased occasionally and firefighters have made progress in extinguishing the flames, the Contra Costa firefighters were sent home after eight days of providing aid to Los Angeles County fire
The
rent Oakley Senior Center.
Press file photo
“
Stop
the price hikes now, not later.
If you’re one of the PG&E customers struggling with higher energy bills, you’ve got every reason to be upset. Many of you have called us out, and we want you to know we are listening.
Fact is, rates have increased. And we know, because you’ve told us, that it doesn’t help to hear about how much safer and cleaner our energy system is. We get it. You’re not running the state; you’re running your household. You want to know our plan to fix it. So here goes. One big cost is vegetation management. We spend 1.8 billion dollars a year to cut back trees around powerlines, only to have them grow back, forcing us to do it all over again. Burying powerlines, as we’ve been doing in high fire risk and surrounding areas, is actually cheaper in the long run. Not only can we eliminate tree trimming, but lines underground require less maintenance.
Please understand not a day goes by that we’re not tackling the price issue. We’re working with customer advocates who scrutinize every dollar we spend, and we’d like to keep hearing directly from you as well. Our goal is to lessen the burden of your PG&E bill without sacrificing your safety, reliability, or peace of mind.
We’re keeping our lines of communication open. It’s your right to speak out. It’s our job to hear you.
pge.com/open-lines
PG&E customer, Craig, Oroville
Local youth mentorship opportunities highlight National Mentoring Month
By Sean Tongson Correspondent
January is National Mentoring Month, during which mentoring programs and affiliates unify and campaign to raise awareness about the importance of youth mentoring in the United States.
Established in 2002, National Mentoring Month was founded by the non-governmental organization MENTOR for the purpose of building and expanding a youth mentoring field and movement, according to its website. By advancing local field leadership, expansion by way of motivating civic leaders and employers to ensure young people have access to mentoring relationships, prioritizing quality, and influencing systems to create and guiding innovative solutions aimed at driving resources for mentoring structures, has resulted in an increase in structured mentored relationships ranging from hundreds of thousands to millions of young people.
The importance of youth mentoring is exemplified locally as well, as Rotary Club members and leaders in Brentwood and Oakley highlighted the importance of creating programs designed to help local youth progress, to help celebrate youth mentoring and the positive effect it can have on young
peoples’ lives and provide guidance and mentorship.
Brentwood-based Working Wonders is a nonprofit day program that assists adults with developmental disabilities. According to their website, Working Wonders provides an emphasis on work skills, career training, health and fitness, art, and programs for personal growth, independence, and social interaction provided in a fun, social environment. A new career center in downtown Brentwood at 654 Third St., right across from the library also just recently opened for Working Wonders clients who are seeking jobs, providing vocational training and
support.
Brentwoodbased Working Wonders is a local nonprofit program for adults with developmental disabilities and provides mentors and training for its clients.
a road map to a better life experience,” Schwab added. “They do great things and are terrific employees when given a chance.”
Karri Reiser, past president of the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce said, “As far as the Chamber goes, we are currently working in partnership with the City of Brentwood and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) to offer in-person business coaching in our Chamber office,” Reiser said. “We launched the program in September, and it has been very successful.”
“Since it’s an appointment-based program, I’m measuring success due to the fact that we’ve had appointments fully booked each month since it began,” she added.
“Mentoring plays an important role in our program,” said Working Wonders President Matt Schwab. “Many of our young adults are looking for guidance and direction. We bring them together and give them a chance to thrive, individually and collectively.”
Schwab added that there is a struggle with things such as job interviews and setting goals, with individuals often spending too much time at home alone with their computers and separated from real-world experiences.
“Some live in group homes and look to Working Wonders for perspective and
The Rotary Club of Brentwood established an internship program working with Heritage High School where it connects interested students with seasoned professionals in their desired line of work. Layered on top of Heritage High School‘s Academy Program, the Rotary Club connects students for a six-month internship during which the student can be immersed in that occupation for a “full, robust” real-life experience, said lead mentor Kevin Allen. The Rotary Club of Brentwood is also working on providing an opportunity to assist students with
see Mentorship page 13A
Press file photo
Cop logs
A case of an uncontrollable/truant juvenile was reported on Oxford Lane. It was a domestic dispute. December 30, 2:39 p.m
The following is a selection of recent law enforcement activity:
BRENTWOOD
December 29, 1:01 a.m. A case of vehicle tampering was reported on Balfour Road. A hole was drilled into the reporting party’s pickup truck.
December 29, 11:05 a.m. A case of vehicle theft was reported on Latham Court. The vehicle was a gray 2013 Hyundai Sonata.
December 29, 1:33 p.m. A verbal dispute was reported on Wintergreen Drive. This was a domestic dispute and an adult was arrested.
December 29, 5:48 p.m. A restraining/ court order violation was reported on Willowwood Court. An ex-husband violated a court order.
December 29, 6:55 p.m. A restraining/ court order violation was reported on Belmont Court. The reporting party’s exgirlfriend is texting the reporting party in violation of a restraining order.
December 29, 7:55 p.m. A hit-andrun with no injuries was reported at Brentwood Boulevard and Broderick Drive. A blue or gray Nissan 4-door se-
dan with tinted windows hit the reporting party’s vehicle, a silver Chevy Malibu, with her kids in the vehicle.
December 29, 9:19 p.m. A case of petty theft was reported on Prominent Drive. A suspect was taking mail out of all the mailboxes in the neighborhood. The suspect was a bald Black male with a large chain necklace, black checkered jacket with a hood, black pants and was in a red 4- door sedan with tinted windows.
December 30, 8:34 a.m. A case of petty theft occurred on Lone Tree Way. The reporting party had the suspect in custody.
December 30, 10:35 a.m. A verbal dispute was reported on Sycamore Avenue. An adult was arrested.
December 30, 10:44 a.m. A vehicle burglary was reported on Landover Court. Tools were stolen from a toolbox on a truck.
December 30, 12:24 p.m. A vehicle burglary was reported on Hampton Court. A work truck was broken into and items were taken.
December 30, 12:33 p.m. An accident was reported at Lone Tree Way and O’Hara Avenue. This was a three-vehicle accident with minor injuries.
December 30, 12:39 p.m. A suspicious person was reported on Sand Creek Road. There were two 19-year-old Black females in the store filling up bags. One had on a white patterned hoodie and black pants. The other one was wearing a black sweatshirt, black leggings and Timberland shoes. An adult was arrested.
December 30, 1:26 p.m. A case of identity theft was reported on Redhaven Street. The reporting party still has the physical bank card.
December 30, 1:46 p.m. A case of grand theft was reported on Lone Tree Way. More copper wire was taken from poles. December 30, 2:10 p.m. A vehicle theft recovery was reported on Sand Creek Road. An unoccupied, black Mazda has been there since Friday.
December 30, 2:39 p.m. A case of an uncontrollable/truant juvenile was reported on Oxford Lane. It was a domestic dispute.
December 30, 3:23 p.m. A non-injury accident was reported at Fairview Avenue and Lone Tree Way.
December 30, 3:52 p.m. A case of a missing adult was reported on Edgefield Place. The reporting party’s son is a Black male,
5-feet, 6-inches tall and less than 200 pounds. The reporting party advised that he is a transient and they last spoke to him in February.
December 30, 8:19 p.m. A case of a missing adult was reported on Chandler Drive. The reporting party reported their aunt missing. They have not heard from her since Dec. 19. The aunt is a Black female, 5 feet, 5 inches, and 140 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. She drives a dark gray 2014 Honda Accord. December 30, 8:35 p.m. A suspicious vehicle was reported at Pinegrove Way and Trinity Place. The vehicle was a silver, older Mitsubishi Eclipse that was possibly occupied by a person living out of it. A citation was issued.
Youth Press
The effects of TikTok on American youth
Just last weekend, TikTok, the Chinese short-form video hosting service, got banned across all mobile devices in all households in the United States. The ban had been in the making ever since 2020, when the app was banned on all government devices in the U.S and in Montana. Before the ban, TikTok was considered the most used and downloaded app in the world, and was once the most visited website, surpassing Google.
Many teens and adults used the app for various reasons, such as for recipes, news, entertainment, and more. The ban stopped the outflow of all this information, which resulted in frustration all around America. But luckily for users, the newly inaugurated President Donald Trump reversed the ban on the app, turning frowns upside down.
However, research shows that TikTok has many negative effects, such as decreased academic performance, physical performance, and worsened mental health problems, which makes reissuing the ban more attractive. It is due to these reasons that TikTok should be banned forever.
TikTok’s short-form video model is very, very addictive. According to studies like those in the European Child + Adolescent Psychiatry journal, some side effects
of a TikTok addiction are losing track of time, shorter attention span, and reduced social skills. All these side effects result in worse academic performance, and has resulted in a drop in grades across the country. If the ban were to continue, the attention span of children would return back to normal, as their main shortform videos would be gone.
Also, media outlets like the New York Post reported that TikTok has also led to negative effects on kids’ physical health. The teenage years are very crucial for kids, as the human body starts to learn and grow at that age. However, TikTok encourages a sedentary lifestyle, since its algorithm takes the user’s liked and favorite videos and shows only videos based off of those liked and favorited videos. In other words, the algorithm has created a “For You Page” for the user. This leads to adolescents being physically inactive, spending more time on their phones.
Last, but certainly not least, TikTok
can harm youths’ mental health. According to an article by the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, the chance of depression among middle and high school youth increases as TikTok use increases. It found that by using TikTok as it’s intended, to interact, you eliminate depression. You see a helpful cooking recipe, you share it with your mom. You see a cool soccer trick, share with your brother. So, you maintain healthy social relationships.
However, most people don’t use TikTok as intended, and they can easily fall into the dangerous habit known as “doom-
scrolling.” Users scroll for no specific reason, and that’s the big problem. Side effects of doom-scrolling include depression, lack of social interaction, and other mental health disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
To conclude, TikTok is harming our youth’s academics, physical health, and mental health. If TikTok were to continue running, these problems could be amplified, and be more harmful to our youth. People can resist this by not using TikTok, and by convincing others who are planning to download the app to change their mind. If kids across the nation could do this, the harmful effects associated with the app will be no more.
Nahar Grewal 8th Grader, Adams Middle School
Vera’s Travel Tips
by Vera Martinez, Certified Travel Agent
How to make travel less stressful in 2025
We all look forward to vacation and “getting away from it all,” but travel can be stressful. By staying organized, prepared, and adaptable, you can turn potential stressors into manageable moments.
Here are six ways to make travel less stressful in 2025:
1. Embrace technology: Use travel apps and assistants powered by artificial intelligence for real-time updates, local tips, and handling unexpected changes.
2. Pack light and smart: Opt for carry-on luggage to avoid delays, use packing cubes to stay organized, and bring essentials like a power bank, adapters, and a small first-aid kit.
3. Plan for flexibility: Book flexible tickets, choose accommodations with easy cancellation policies, and include buffer time for unforeseen delays.
4. Stay connected: Reliable internet access through eSIMs or portable WiFi is key for navigation, translations, and staying informed.
5. Prioritize self-care: Travel comfortably with noise-canceling headphones, a neck pillow, and hydration essentials. Schedule downtime to relax and recharge.
6. Use a travel agent: Travel agents bring expertise, exclusive deals, and peace of mind by handling logistics, offering tailored recommendations, and resolving issues on the go.
With smart planning and the right resources, travel in 2025 can be smoother and more enjoyable.
To Book Your Dream Vacation call me at 925-639-9194 or go to www.vmartinez.dreamvacations.com.
– Advertorial
Photos courtesy of City of Brentwood
REGIONAL &
News iN Brief
Antioch City Attorney resigns, then city appoints interim attorney
Antioch City Attorney Thomas Lloyd Smith resigned effective Jan. 17.
Derek Cole, of the law firm Cole Huber LLP, will serve as the interim City Attorney until a permanent City Attorney is appointed, according to a press release from the city.
Cole is also City Attorney in Oakley.
District Attorney Spring 2025 Community Academy accepting applications
The District Attorney’s Office wants to inform County residents about the office that seeks justice for victims of crime.
To achieve this, the DA’s Office has established the Community Academy — a free, 10week program designed specifically for adults residing or working in Contra Costa County, the DA’s Office said in a press release. This learning opportunity aims to foster stronger community relations and provide participants with an understanding of the criminal justice system. This includes understanding how cases are filed, exploring the various types of crimes we investigate and prosecute, and delving into our multifaceted role, which extends beyond prosecuting cases.
This 10-week journey willl expand the public’s knowledge and explore key components of the criminal justice system by hearing from the district attorney, the public defender, a judge, prosecutors, and police chiefs.
This spring’s sessions are held Wednesdays from 6-8:30 p.m., from March 12 to May 14.
In addition to weekly classroom sessions, the Community Academy offers experiences, including tours of the Martinez Detention Facility, and Superior Court, and participating in a mock trial. This approach allows participants to gain practical insights into the inner workings of the criminal justice system.
Interested individuals can apply for the Community Academy by completing an application and undergoing a background check.
Applications must be received by the end of February. For details and those who have questions, email DA-CommunityAcademy@contracostada.org.
Responses due Feb. 18 for Measure X money for youth center
The Contra Costa County Employment and Human Services Department said $3.2 million is available annually in Measure X Youth Center funding for organizations to deliver programs and services to youth ages 12-18 in supervisorial districts 3, 4 and 5.
The Contra Costa County Employee and Human Services Department, Workforce Development Board Bureau announces the issuance of Request for Proposal 1215 seeking applicants to deliver programs and services in supervisorial districts 3, 4 and 5 to youth ages 12–18. Contracts for services are anticipated to be for the period of July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2027, with an option to extend for up to three additional years. Services to be funded include academic support, mental health and substance abuse services, mentoring, music/arts/cultural programs, sports and fitness programs, youth employment and job readiness services, and youth leadership development.
Requests for proposals are due Feb. 18. For details and the full RFP, visit the department website at https://ehsd.org/bids/ request-for-proposal-rfp-1215
Contra Costa Health expands notification system for hazardous materials alerts
Contra Costa Health and the Community Warning System are improving how it keeps residents informed about hazardous materials incidents that occur in the county.
As of Jan. 15, anyone can sign up with the system to receive community awareness text messages about Level 1 incidents at industrial facilities regulated by the county, including the county’s four oil refineries.
Level 1 alerts include non-emergency events such as minor hazardous materials releases, refinery flaring lasting over 20 minutes, visible plumes or noticeable odors that are not expected to harm anyone’s health off-site.
These alerts will notify residents that they may hear, see or smell signs related to the event, but no action is required.
Previously, text alerts were sent only for more serious Level 2 and Level 3 incidents, which will continue.
Residents must opt-in to receive these notifications by texting CCHEALTH to 21423. When signing up, it is also important to sign up for emergency messages through the CWS.
Notifications of all alert levels will be posted on CCH’s website.
White Pony Express launches gift card campaign for Los Angeles County wildfire victims
Nonprofit White Pony Express has launched a campaign to collect and distribute gift cards to the survivors of the Los Angeles County wildfires. Gift cards will offer recipients the flexibility to address their circumstances. Each gift card will be accompanied by a hand-written message of love and support, according to a press release.
While many supplies are being collected and offered to those impacted by the fires, meeting specific needs — such as correct clothing size/style or food appropriate to culture and dietary requirements — can be difficult. The gift card campaign provides an adaptive, customizable solution that addresses people’s unique needs and preferences.
“A gift card empowers individuals to make their own choices about what they truly need,” saids White Pony Express CEO Eve Birge.
This is not the first time White Pony Express has aided survivors of natural disasters. In 2018, at the urging of founder Dr. Carol Weyland Conner, the organization sent vans full of high-quality food and clothing, along with cash donations, to help the survivors of the Camp Fire. This continued for 10 months, as needs remained long after federal aid ran out.
Gift cards for those impacted by the Los Angeles County fires can be mailed to the attention of Eve Birge or dropped off at White Pony Express’s headquarters at 2470 Bates Ave., Suite D, Concord, CA 94520. Contact the volunteer coordinator to learn
about card-making opportunities and other volunteer projects at Volunteer@whiteponyexpress.org.
New fee schedule for East Bay parks for 2025
The East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors voted unanimously last month to approve an updated fee schedule for 2025 that simplifies parking fees and eliminates dog fees, among other changes. The updated fee schedule became effective Jan. 1. Park District fees are reviewed annually and updated as needed, the parks district said in a press release.
The new fee schedule includes a flat $5 parking fee at East Bay Regional Parks where kiosks are present. The flat fee makes it simpler and easier for the public to visit East Bay Regional Parks.
Previously, parking fees ranged from $3 to $6 depending on the specific park. The new fee does not apply to Del Valle Regional Park on weekends and holidays April through Labor Day, which has a flat $10 entrance fee on those peak days that covers parking and other fees.
Dog fees have also been eliminated for 2025. Dogs are required to be on leash in designated areas, including trailheads, parking lots, paved trails, and picnic areas. Dogs must also be on leash around horses and in parks where cattle are present. The dog fee was $2. Visit www.ebparks.org/dogs for more information.
A dog permit is still required to walk more than three dogs at a time. Professional dog walkers are required to obtain a permit regardless of how many dogs they walk at one time. Visit www.ebparks.org/permits for details.
The updated fee schedule for 2025 also includes changes to swimming fees, day camp fees, special event fees, concessionaire fees, parking citation penalties, and vehicle release fees.
East Bay Regional Parks fees help recover, in part, the costs of providing a service. The updated fee schedule streamlines pricing and better reflects the cost of services and impacts on the Park District.
To view the fee schedule for 2025, visit www.ebparks.org/sites/default/files/2025Fee-Schedule.pdf.
EDITORIALS, LETTERS & COMMENTARY
O pini O n
Have something to say? Post a comment or submit a letter to the editor at www.thepress.net/site/forms.
Here’s why veterans don’t want new fire station in downtown Brentwood
Dear members of the Board of Supervisors,
We write to you today as concerned veterans, taxpayers, and community members, deeply troubled by the planned construction of Fire Station 94 in downtown Brentwood on land that has historically and legally been dedicated to veterans’ use. Additionally, we are disheartened by the continued disregard of our concerns by County staff and Supervisor Diane Burgis.
The property in question was purchased using funds approved at the March 20, 1922, Board of Supervisors meeting. These funds, collected through a special tax under Section 4041f of the Political Code of the State of California (1921), were explicitly designated for the creation of veterans’ meeting places.
This commitment was made to honor the service of veterans and provide them with a dedicated space to gather and serve their community. All other uses of the property are strictly prohibited under the terms of this tax.
Oakley Senior Center manager laments imminent end to its services
Editor:
I would like to thank all the supporters of the Oakley Senior Center located at 215 Second St.
You are the champions for local seniors during multiple fundraisers in order to keep our membership dues at $20 a year.
Sadly, we will not be able to offer all the current services and resources to our community. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the center has worked with the food bank, White Pony Express and local stores in an effort to hand out free food to anyone in need. We have given office space to Meals on Wheels, which allows them to serve Oakley,
O’Neill
Associate Editor Jake Menez
Founder & Publisher Emeritus Jimmy Chamoures
The presence of a fire station on this land originated with the veterans, who established a volunteer fire station to serve the Brentwood community. Over time, the county through various districts assumed control of this station and began expanding its presence on the property, encroaching further on land funded solely for veterans’ use. Each subsequent expansion has violated the original intent and legal restrictions placed on this property.
The placement of a new fire station on this land, along with the transfer of title to the fire district, not only disregards the original purpose of the special tax but also wrongs taxpayers and veterans alike. The veterans of Brentwood have never abandoned this property, nor relinquished their rightful claim to its use.
We implore the Board of Supervisors to honor its commitment and uphold the law by returning this property to its rightful purpose. Additionally, we ask that the fire district conduct its due diligence and select a more suitable location for Fire Station 94 — one with adequate space for future expansion and better align-
Letters to the editor
Bethel Island and Knightsen.
Over the years, we have never charged rent to non-profits for use of our building such as Oakley 4-H and Veterans of Oakley. We have held one of the oldest continuous monthly flea markets in Oakley.
All of these services will come to and end in the coming months.
The City of Oakley has extended our lease until the end of April. The building (which was the old fire station) will be torn down in order to raise funds for the future library. There does not seem to be any remorse, urgency, or proper planning by the city.
Our non-profit has been run as a club with the mission to serve not only the seniors, but the entire community.
Many of the vital services and resources we provide to our members and community
LETTERS POLICY
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The Press reserves the right to edit submissions for length, clarity, potential libel and taste, or to not print letters we feel violate our standards of acceptance.
Opinions expressed in letters are not necessarily the opinions of The Press, whose opinions are contained in clearly marked editorials.
Send correspondence to The Press, 248 Oak St., Brentwood, California, 94513; or email editor@ brentwoodpress.com.
ment with the needs of Brentwood. There are ample properties nearby that can accommodate these requirements without violating the trust placed in the county by its taxpayers and veterans.
As veterans, we have fought to protect the freedoms and principles that make our nation great. We now ask the county to uphold those principles by rectifying this situation and honoring the commitments made to its veterans. Our voices deserve to be heard, and our sacrifices deserve respect.
We urge you to do what is right. Return this property to its original and intended purpose: a place for Brentwood veterans to gather, support one another, and serve the community they love.
Respectfully,
Board members, Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building
Commander VFW Post 10789
Commander American legion Post 202 Commandant Marine Corps League Detachment 1155
are unavailable elsewhere. It appears the city could not care less about the Senior Center or providing food to those in need. I am upset and disappointed, as are many others, about the future of this vitally important entity and operation in Oakley. I have served as the project manager for the center for seven years.
I wish everyone a fond farewell as I will be moving on from here to new frontiers. Oakley Senior Center will have limited days and hours of operations, yet we hope you will continue to support us after our “temporary” move in April to Oakley Park and Rec, 250 O’Hara Avenue, Studio #2.
Jim Fridas
Oakley
Editor’s note: For more information about this story, see story on page 1A
Artwork’s importance to Brentwood residents questioned
Editor:
Reading the article in the Jan. 17 edition of the Brentwood Press on art work “Radiant Convergence” to be placed at intersection of Highway 4 and Sand Creek Road caused me to ask myself “How does this improve the quality of life for Brentwood residents?”
Write off the money already spent on this project, and use the additional cost of $55,000 to finish the project for something else.
Eugene Hammerson Brentwood
Lady Lions beat defending BVAL soccer champions Heritage, 2-1
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
The Liberty girls soccer team did something that not many outside of Liberty thought could be done – defeat Heritage.
The Lady Lions ended Heritage’s 13-match Bay Valley Athletic League winning streak dating back to last year by beating the Patriots 2-1 at Heritage on Tuesday night.
“It’s all about timing right now for us,” head coach Nikki Toeaina said. “They’ve had a lot of dangerous [players] themselves the past years where they’ve heard us and we had no answer for. This year, we’re on the other side of the coin. I think we’re the team now that has those [players].”
The win also puts Liberty into first place in the BVAL at 4-0-1 in league play, slightly ahead of Heritage at 4-1-0. Both teams play each other again at Liberty in the regularseason finale on Feb. 13. If both teams win out the rest of their league schedule, the regular-season finale will serve as the BVAL title match, according to Heritage athletic director Nate Smith.
The win by the Lady Lions is the program’s first against Heritage since sweeping them in a pair of games in the delayed 202021 COVID-19 season in late May 2021.
Liberty’s win is also the team’s secondstraight after the Lady Lions defeated Deer Valley 11-0 last week. The Lady Lions have yet to lose a match in the 2025 calendar year, extending their unbeaten streak to four matches now after starting the calendar year with a pair of draws to Freedom, 2-2 on Jan. 7, and Las Lomas, 0-0 on Jan. 9.
Liberty’s big win Tuesday night didn’t come easily, however.
Heritage’s Baylee Gregerson opened the scoring for the Patriots around the 20th minute to put Heritage up 1-0. The Lady Lions answered with a pair of goals by Sophie Henderson, in the 32nd minute, and then Jada Hart in the 36th minute.
Liberty’s girls soccer team runs towards their sidelines as the Lady Lions celebrate their first win over Heritage in nearly four years.
“We’ve been in that position (trailing in a match) way too many times already this season, so we know what it’s like,” Toeaina explained.
“We really hammered it into [the team] that we can’t deflate. When things happened like that, we got to play, we got to continue to battle out there and play our game.”
The Lady Lions had to fight through a furious Heritage rally attempt in the second half as goalkeeper Madeline Banchieri made several key saves to deny the Patriots an equalizing goal. One was in the 68th minute when she came out of her six-yard box to stop Gregerson’s chance on goal following a Heritage counter at the top of the 18-yard box.
Gregerson had another chance to pull the Patriots even roughly 10 minutes before that, but her free kick from about 25 yards away went just high and wide.
“These girls, the backline, have really taken pride and just took it upon themselves that if they win balls out of the air, then we have a good chance of keeping goals out of our net,” Toeaina said.
The Lady Lions had moments themselves when it looked as if they could put the match away with a third goal late in the second half, but they were also unable to find the back of the net.
Despite defeating their cross-town rival Heritage at Heritage for the first time in nearly four years, Toeaina and the Lady Lions are looking to continue to improve entering the home stretch of the season.
“There’s always something that we can be working on,” Toeaina said. “Even after this game there are definitely things that my coaching staff and I see that we need to definitely get better on.”
Liberty (5-2-2, 4-0-1 BVAL) travels to Pittsburg (2-7-0, 1-3-0 BVAL) Thursday night before hosting Diablo-Foothill league leaders Northgate (5-1-2, 1-0-0) Saturday in Brentwood at 6 p.m.
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
Heritage girls basketball survives battle with Liberty, keeps BVAL title hopes alive
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Heritage’s girls basketball team rallied in the second half and held off a late Liberty rally to defeat the Lady Lions 55-51 Tuesday night at Heritage.
The win keeps the Patriots in sole possession of second place in the Bay Valley Athletic League behind Freedom.
“We definitely had to fight through some adversity right there,” Heritage head coach Mark Hurtado said. “In the first quarter, they were hitting a lot of shots and we had a tough time scoring at first, but our girls grinded that one.”
Heritage sophomore guard Payton Ladrido recorded her second-straight doubledigit scoring game, scoring 11 points and adding five assists, while freshman center Kinzie Zuroff scored 10 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. Junior Lily Wilright recorded her fourth-straight double-digit rebound game, with 10 boards as well.
“I think we maybe underestimated them a little,” Wilright explained. “But com-
ing out tonight, we should have known that [the game] was going to be more complicated. It’s a rivalry game, and it’s going to be worth a lot more to them, and they just came out and played their best.”
Heritage started slowly, trailing Liberty 18-11 after the first quarter before outscoring the Lady Lions 18-14 in the second quarter to come back within three points of Liberty, 32-29 at halftime.
Heritage’s Riley Bayot takes a three-point shot during the Patriots’ girls basketball game against Liberty Tuesday night in Brentwood.
Heritage tied the game at 32-32 off of Riley Bayot’s three-pointer to open the second half. Both teams struggled to score for nearly the next three minutes after Bayot’s three-pointer before Zuroff’s layup with 4:40 left in the third quarter put Heritage up 34-32, their first lead of the game.
That lead, however, would be shortlived after Ava Ford’s three-pointer from the top of the key gave Liberty the lead right
back, 35-34 with 3:50 left in the third quarter. The Lions would hold off the Patriots rally to end the quarter up 42-40.
Much like they did to start the third quarter, Heritage began the fourth quarter by tying the game, this time as freshman Gabi Marte’s layup pulled Heritage even, 42-42.
After exchanging leads, Heritage went ahead for good with 2:25 left in the game off of a jumper by Marte, who put the Patriots up 50-49. Wilright’s layup two possessions later extended that lead to 52-49, and Heritage expanded that lead to 54-49 after a pair of late free throws by Ladrido in the final seconds.
Smith’s layup with 2.9 seconds cut the Heritage lead to 54-51, but a free throw after a foul by Nella Toeaina put the Patriots up by two scores late and clinched the win for Heritage.
“It was just about making shots and getting stops,” Hurtado said of the final quarter.
Heritage (12-8, 4-1 BVAL) travels to Windsor on Saturday before a pivotal matchup against BVAL-leading Freedom Tuesday, Jan. 28 at 6:30 p.m.
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
by Train Smarter + Harder
Brooklyn Pierce
A senior at Freedom High School, Brooklyn has excelled in athletics throughout her high school career. A four-year varsity soccer player and captain in both her junior and senior seasons, she earned First Team All-League honors from her freshman through junior years. Brooklyn also played on the varsity flag football team during her junior and senior years. She will continue her academic and athletic journey at California State University, Stanislaus, where she will play women’s soccer.
At Train Smarter + Harder, we believe success comes from effort, a can-do attitude, and consistent preparation. We’re proud to sponsor the Athlete of the Week, recognizing young athletes who embody these values. As part of this recognition, the athlete will receive three complimentary sports performance training sessions to help further their development.
3341 Walnut Blvd., Brentwood • Call or Text: 925-306-0888 www.trainsmarterandharder.com
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All submissions can be sent to: ads@brentwoodpress.com Subject line: “Athlete of the Week”
Golf course’s first ace of 2025
Brian Tardell recorded the first hole in one of the year on Jan. 2 at Shadow Lakes Golf Course. Tardell used a 7 iron on the par 3 14th hole from the white tees, playing 142 yards. Tardell was joined on his round with his golfing buddy and president of the Rotary Club of Brentwood Oscar Peccorini, and they were paired up with a father-andson twosome from Brentwood. This is Tardell’s second career hole in one.
Submitted photo
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résumé writing and job interview skills. For further information or to sign up as a Business Mentor, contact Allen at (925) 516-6472.
Juniors at Heritage start making decisions about the Academy that they are interested in during the spring as they sign up for their senior-level classes. Then, when those students are seniors, they are matched up with a professional in the area of their interests. In the past Rotary has matched students with local tech companies, law offices, graphics companies and other local businesses, Allen said.
In the spring of their senior year, students will intern at their assigned business two or three afternoons a week, getting real work experience in their chosen field.
“The Rotarians are proud to support our program,” Allen said. “It fits in with our mission of service to our community. Most of the mentors are Rotarians with local businesses and are excited to pass along their knowledge of the chosen industry to a young person just starting out.”
“In the coming years we would love to expand the program to Liberty High School as well.”
Elsewhere, in Oakley, Rotary Club founding member Dave Wahl discussed the importance of the Girl’s Empowerment event, calling it “our most significant program related to mentoring young people.” The event, which is scheduled this spring, is aimed at helping girls discuss their expectations pertaining to high school as well as plans and career goals to enable them to start planning for their future.
Again this year, the Rotary Club of Oakley will partner with the Oakley Union Elementary School District and the City of Oakley to host the third annual Girls Empowerment Day. This event is for eighth grade middle school girls in Oakley with the goal to create an impactful program that will help young girls build confidence as they move into high school, set goals for their future careers by engaging with a panel of
into the business setting and understand how it all works in any
accomplished women from diverse professional backgrounds.
“We know when girls are encouraged to learn, lead, and speak up, they can achieve anything they dream of. Empowered girls create a better future for themselves and their communities by standing up for fairness, supporting one another, and never giving up on their potential,’ Wahl said.
The event will take place on March 6 at the Oakley Recreation Center.
For information on mentoring, visit www.mentoring.org/campaigns/nationalmentoring-month/ For details on Working Wonders, visit www.letsworkwonders. org. For information on the Oakley Rotary Club, visit www.rotaryclubofoakley. For information on the Brentwood Rotary Club, visit www.brentwoodrotaryclub.com.
To comment, visit www.thepress.net
Oakley Union Elementary School District
TK/KINDER ENROLLMENT PARENT INFO FAIR
Get an early start on preparing your student for the first day of school Tuesday, February 4, 2025 from 5:00-6:00pm at Iron House Elementary School Multipurpose room
Students whose 4th birthday falls on or before September 1, 2025 will be placed in TK. Students must be 5 on or before September 1, 2025 to attend Kinder for the 2025-26 school year.
To learn how to register your student for TK or Kinder, visit www.ouesd.k12.ca.us
Registration will be conducted by appointment only, please call your home school now to schedule an appointment. You can find your home school by clicking on Boundaries on the homepage of our website.
Enrollment in a particular school will be based on space availability. While resident students are guaranteed a spot in our District, they may be placed in a school other than their home school.
site that will fund the construction of the new Oakley Library. In the meantime, the Center’s lease has been extended to April 30. However, most services will end before that date, as the building needs to be “gutted” by then, according to former Senior Center president Allan Perry.
In a farewell letter thanking the Senior Center’s supporters, Fridas listed the numerous charities supported by the Center’s facilities.
“Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the center has worked with the food bank of Contra Costa & Solano, White Pony Express, and local stores in an effort to hand out free food to anyone in need. We have given office space to Meals on Wheels, which allows them to serve Oakley, Bethel Island and Knightsen,” he wrote. “Over the years, we have never charged rent to non-profits for use of our building, such as Oakley 4-H and Veterans of Oakley. We have held one of the oldest continuous monthly flea markets in Oakley. All of these services will come to an end in the coming months.”
The Senior Center holds free food distribution every Thursday, and has given out 802 meals in the first three weeks of 2025, according to their records. The building houses numerous refrigerators and a large pantry containing both fresh and preserved foods, including fruits, vegetables, meats, and baked goods, among others. Fridas described it as “the number one food pantry in the county,” and said that the Recreational Center did not have comparable facilities.
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food and familiar classics.”
The commissioners briefly discussed whether or not parking would be an issue before Chairperson Anita Roberts pointed out that the area in question did not have dedicated parking and that all spaces were first come, first served.
Housing
The Planning Commission also discussed the approval of eight new houses on St. James Court near Minnesota Avenue.
The eight single-family homes were approved 4-1, with Commissioner Kristopher Brand the dissenting vote.
“We want to avoid designing from the dais,” Brand said. “But I think, in this case, a paramount concern that we’re hearing is the impact of a second story.”
Brand’s concerns echoed those of the residents surrounding the new homes, who said that the new homes being made two stories tall could lead to privacy issues regarding the ability to look directly into
Firefighters
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departments.
However, for Oftedal, the devastation he witnessed reminded him of home. “What I saw down there, in the Eaton Fire … the Flatlands of Altadena reminded me of the Brentwood community. We could be in the same position as they are.”
Oftedal also said he was proud to help fight the fires instead of just sitting back in Contra Costa County, ‘feeling helpless.”
As the wildfires continue to burn in Southern California, and now as the Hughes fire has broken out north of Santa Clarita, the Contra Costa Fire Protec-
“We were hoping [the city] would find us a property where we could build our own building, but they don’t have anything for us,” he said.
Baker also lamented that the end of the Thursday food distributions would be “a huge loss for the entire community,” because she said more than 300 people per week attend it. The number was formerly much larger; during the COVID-19 pandemic, lines would stretch all the way down the block.
Any weekend activities will also have to be relocated, rescheduled, or canceled, as the Recreational Center is closed from Friday to Sunday, but Baker is hopeful that the Senior Center can remain open in its prefab studios behind the Recreational Center even during this time.
Despite these difficulties and misgivings, both Senior Center and city leadership are confident that many of the Center’s services can be preserved and even expanded at the new location.
“A subcommittee was set up regarding the Senior Center in July of last year, and met all the way through December, looking at ways to move senior programming over to the city, and finding them a place for their activities,” Henderson said. “The city staff have been working on reviewing the programs that they’re doing, and maybe even expanding some of these programs--the Wednesday lunch, we’re trying to extend that into the new fiscal year, and maybe even make it four days a week.”
This expansion depends on the City Council approving a budget that includes the Senior Center’s activities. This is likely to occur either on Feb. 11 or Feb. 25, at
one of the two council meetings for that month.
Baker confirmed that the weekly Wednesday lunches will continue, and starting in July, if the city approves, they will be held from Monday through Thursday; the existing partnership with Tri Delta Transit to give seniors transport to and from the lunches will be preserved as well. Also coming over to the Recreational Center are the Senior Center’s classes in exercise, square dancing, smartphone use, and cane-based self-defense.
The Senior Center has reached out to other nonprofits to see if they can continue the food pantry and distribution program and acquire the Center’s large freezers.
“We know they won’t allow the food program at the Rec Center, so we’re talking with St. Anthony’s Catholic Church to take it over,” Perry said. “The places I’ve talked to before don’t have the space to accommodate the freezers, so I’m talking to an agency that distributes food in Discovery Bay, Byron, and Bethel Island, and they can take them.”
Overall, Baker was pleased with the partnership between the city and the Senior Center.
“We knew that the plan was to destroy this building when we signed the lease,” she said. “City Hall sat down with us, they listened to us, there’s only a few things we can’t continue. Overall, they have really stepped up to the plate. It’s sort of like we’re going into a marriage here-some things will blossom and become much better, some things will have to be let go. Change is hard for everybody, but I’m excited that the city is helping us out, because we literally had nowhere to go.”
An overview of the lot that will house Pho You. (in yellow)
their backyards. Brand also pointed out that the issue applied to three of the eight homes and that the small number poten-
tion District said it has stayed prepared to send help again if needed. By studying the season, regional conditions, and personnel availability, the fire district stays fully staffed while also being able to send help throughout the state.
“We want people to be aware and prepared for something like what is happening in Los Angeles,” Oftedal said, urging the precautions Brentwood residents should take.
The National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) Firewise Program helps local residents prepare for a fire emergency. To learn more, visit at nfpa.org.
To view a slideshow, visit www.thepress. net/multimedia/slideshows
tially meant a different solution than the sort of “blanket” one the Commission might come up with if it were something
bigger, like a 60-house subdivision.
“These are semi-custom homes; there might have to be a semi-custom solution,” he said. “I wouldn’t want to put a blanket approach to all three homes.”
Earlier in the meeting, Sparling had also addressed the residents’ concerns.
“I wish I had the power to make them build a single-story house for you, but we don’t. It’s zoned for it. That’s the bad news,” he said. “The good news is you have a very accommodating builder.”
To this end, the builder agreed to a number of conditions that were set forth by the Planning Commission in order to better increase the privacy between the new homes and the existing homes, such as trees that will act as a barrier between the old and new homes and which must be maintained by the builder of the eight new houses or delegated to the associated Homeowner’s Association.
The full meeting can be watched at https://bit ly/4gf12lQ
Image courtesy of City of Brentwood
A firefighter putting out hot spots at the Eaton Fire.
Photo courtesy of Brian Oftedal
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.
Events
Saturday, January 25
Sunshine House Preschool Open House-Oakley Campus
Explore Sunshine House Preschool’s school environment and expansive yard. Enjoy a cooking project, bounce in the inflatable, and make new friends. From 10 a.m.-noon, meet the teachers, ask questions, and take advantage of free registration. The Oakley campus is at 875 W. Cypress Road.
Brentwood Dolphin Swim Club –Crab Feast Fundraiser
The Brentwood Dolphin Swim Club hosts their second annual Crab and Tri-Tip Dinner Fundraiser from 5-9 p.m. at the Knightsen Elementary School gymnasium, 1923 Delta Road in Knighsen. The Crab Feast fundraiser dinner supporting their 2025 swim season includes fresh crab, tri-tip, salad, bread, pasta, dessert, soda, and water. Tickets are $85 per person and can be purchased at bit ly/4j0cMuX
Discovery Bay State of the Town Gala
This year’s Gala will be a Kentucky Derby theme -- Talk Derby to Me. Guests are encouraged to dress up like they are going to the Derby. There will be music, dinner, horse races, and a live and silent auction from 5:30-10:30 p.m. at the Discovery Bay Golf and Country Club, 1475 Clubhouse Drive. Tickets are $145 each or table of 8 for $1,095. Tickets and dinner details are at www discoverybaychamber org
Thursday, January 30
Brentwood Town Hall Meeting on Organized Retail Theft
The Brentwood Police Department is holding a town hall meeting on organized retail theft and Proposition 36 from 6-7:30 at Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St.. The meeting will focus on how to prevent organized retail theft and provide insights into local trends and prevention efforts. For more information, contact Officer Laughridge at 925-809-7778 or llaughridge@brentwoodca gov
On the Horizon
Saturday, February 1
Vendor and and Craft Fair in Oakley
A free vendor and craft fair is from 10 a.m-3 p.m. at Redmen & Pocahontas Hall, 1403 Main St. in Oakley. The fair is hosted by Wi Cha Ka Council, and there will be a raffle fundraiser for the VA Hospital in Martinez. Local crafters, small businesses and independent sellers will be selling their wares. The event will take place place rain or shine.
Downtown Brentwood Coalition’s Crab Feed
This fundraiser will be at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building at 757 First St. with cocktails at 5 p.m. and dinner of crab, Caesar salad, cheesy bread, pasta bolognese and chocolate decadence at 6 p.m. This fundraiser assists the Downtown Brentwood
Coalition’s “efforts to enhance the economic growth and vitality of downtown Brentwood.”
Tickets are $85 per person, which includes two drink tickets. For details, visit http://tinyurl com/dbccrabfeed
Sunday, February 2
Brentwood PAL King of the Grill 25th Anniversary
The barbecue competition will be from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Bowlero, 5000 Balfour Road in Brentwood. Tickets can be purchased in advance for $50, and they include three tastes of chicken ribs or tri tip, plus salad, a roll and potato salad. Live music by Funk Shui.
Saturday, February 8
Third Annual Sweetheart Run/Walk Presented by the Rotary Club of Brentwood
The 5K route starts at 9 a.m., rain or shine, from Veterans Park, 3841 Balfour Road in Brentwood. To register or for details, visit www RunBrentwood com. Registration is $39.50 for adults and $28.45 for kids 10 to 18 years old..
Food Distribution at Golden Hills Community Church
Golden Hills Community Church at 2401 Shady Willow Lane in Brentwood is hosting a food distribution from 12:30-2:30 p.m. that is open to anyone while supplies last. More food distributions are scheduled for the following Saturdays: April 12, June 14, Aug. 9, Oct. 11 and Dec. 13. Lions Club Crab Feed in Brentwood
The crab feed will take place at VFW 10789, 757 First St. in Brentwood. There will be cocktails at 6 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m., which includes all-you-can-eat crab, salad, pasta, and bread. There will be a raffle and table decorating contest. The table decorating contest begins at 11 a.m. Tickets are $80 per person. Only 300 tickets will be sold. No tickets will be sold at the door. The event will benefit the Lions Center for the Visually Impaired. For details, visit http:// www lcobw com Thursday, February 13
Galentines Day Fundraiser Luncheon
Presented by GFWC Brentwood Women’s Club, the luncheon will be at Zephyr Grill and Bar, 613 First St., Suite #100 in Brentwood, from 11:30 a.m.-1:45 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to wear red or pink. The event will feature guest speaker Suzanne Osborn, owner of Art of Makeup and Skincare by Suzanne, raffles, and a silent auction. Tickets are $40 per person and will benefit GFWC Brentwood Women’s Club and their selected charities. For more information and to purchase tickets, call Sally at 916425-0155. The registration deadline is Feb. 10.
Soroptimist International of the Delta ‘Share the Love of Bunco’ Fundraiser
Soroptimist International of the Delta will hold its annual Share the Love Bunco fundraiser at the Brentwood Senior Center, 193 Griffith Lane. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and Bunco starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $35, and include Bunco and dinner catered by Sticky Chicken. Funds raised are used for educational scholarships for local girls and women. Tickets are available from any Soroptimist member or at Gursky
Ranch. There will be cash prizes, raffle baskets, and door prizes. Donate a pair of new women’s socks to receive an extra door prize ticket. More information is available at SIoftheDelta. com, or contact Laurie at Lnardinelli@gmail. com, or 925-420-5367.
Friday, February 14
Sixth Annual Knights of Columbus Crab Feed
This event is a fundraiser at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building at 757 First St. for local organizations and student scholarships. It features salad, pasta, bread and dessert, a raffle and door prizes. Tickets are $70 each. For details or to buy tickets, call Chris at 925-6428782 or John at 925-698-6362.
Friday, February 21
Brentwood FFA Boosters
Surf and Turf Dinner
Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. at Contra Costa County Fairgrounds, 1201 W. 10th St. in Antioch, and dinner will be served at 7 p.m. with dessert and auction to follow. Tickets are $65 per person, and will be available to purchase through a Brentwood FFA student. The meal will include New York steak, prawns, baked potato, salad and bread. There will be a DJ and a no-host wine and beer bar. Purchase of large table groups is available. For more information about buying tickets, contact johnstons@luhsd.net.
Saturday, February 22
Liberty Lions Band Boosters 12th Annual Crab Feed
Liberty Lions Band Boosters and the City of Brentwood will host their 12th Annual Crab Feed at the Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St. Cocktails begin at 5:30 p.m. Dinner and a no-host bar begin at 6:30 p.m. Early-bird tickets are $70 per person or $750 for a table of 10, plus two bottles of wine. For details, visit https://www successfund com/qw493
Rock and Roll for Wishes –An Elderly Wish Foundation Benefit Dress to impress in your ‘50s best. Doors open at 5 p.m. at Lone Tree Golf & Event Center, 4800 Golf Club Road in Antioch. Tickets are $80 per person. Reserve seats by Feb. 10. For more information, visit www elderlywish org American Legion Annual Crab Feed
The American Legion Post 202 is having its annual crab feed at 5 p.m. at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building, 757 First St. Doors open at 5 p.m. and dinner starts at 6. Dinner includes crab, pasta, salad and bread. Tickets are $75 per person and are non-refundable. To purchase tickets call Phil at 925-516-2141 or Mike at 925-787-8087.
Friday, February 28
IHMC CYO Crab Feed
This fundraiser for the CYO team is at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building at 757 First St. with doors opening at 6 p.m. and dinner at 7. The event includes no-host bar, raffle tickets, music and door prizes. Tickets are $65. For details or to buy tickets, call Shana Ortega at 510-559-0655 or Jasmine Pacheco at 925-2121-9222.
Saturday, March 1
Tea Party at PETALS for Mental Health Awareness
PETALS, 2535 Sand Creek Road, Suite 128, in Brentwood, is hosting a tea party for mental health awareness from noon-3 p.m. It will feature guest speaker Karina Martinez, and there will be a welcome drink, assortments of scones, bites, treats and a selection of organic teas. Tickets are $65 per person. A portion of the proceeds will go to Village Community Resource Center. For more information, visit https://petalsoakley com/upcoming- events
Saturday, March 8
The Network of Care’s 19th Annual Crab Feed
The crab feed will take place at Grand Shepherd’s Parish Hall, 3200 Harbor St. in Pittsburg. All proceeds benefit The Network of Care, feeding families of children in hospitals. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with dinner at 7. Attendees must contact Janet Frazier in advance to RSVP and for seating arrangements by calling 925584-4086 or emailing janetfraz123@gmail. com. Tickets can be purchased on EventBrite at https://bit ly/4gLKAKV. Attendees should bring their Eventbrite ticket with them for admission.
Ongoing Events
East County Rotary Club Meetings
Brentwood: The Brentwood Rotary Club meets weekly on Monday at noon at the Wedgewood Banquet Center at 100 Summerset Drive in Brentwood. For more information, visit https://brentwoodrotaryclub com/
Oakley: The Oakley Rotary Club meets weekly on Thursday at 7:30 a.m. at Black Bear Diner, 3201 Main St. in Oakley. For more information, visit http://rotaryclubofoakley com
Antioch: The Antioch Rotary Club meets weekly on Thursday at noon at Lone Tree Golf Course & Event Center, 4800 Golf Course Road in Antioch. For more information, visit https:// www facebook com/antiochrotaryclub/ The Rotary Club of the Delta meets weekly on Wednesdays at 7 a.m. at Denny’s, 4823 Lone Tree Way in Antioch. For more information, visit https://www.rotaryclubofthedelta.org/.
East County Lions Club Meetings
Brentwood: The Brentwood Lions Club meets the first Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St. in Brentwood. For more information, visit: https://e - clubhouse org/sites/brentwoodca/ Antioch: The Antioch Lions Club meets every second and fourth Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the Denny’s on Delta Fair Blvd.
Discovery Bay: The Discovery Bay Lions Club meets the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Discovery Bay Yacht Club. For more information, visit: https://discoverybaylions com/who-we -are/meetings/ Byron: The Byron Delta Lions Club meets every first Friday of each month at 10 a.m. at St. Anne’s Church for more information https://e - clubhouse org/sites/byron delta/
Money Matter$
Tips on how to save when inflation is high
Consumers likely need no reminder that inflation has taken a notable toll on their finances in recent years. The cost of products and services has seemingly skyrocketed in recent years, leaving consumers with little recourse other than to scale back and find ways to save.
The online financial resource Investopedia notes that the inflation rate is the percentage change in the price of products and services from one year to the next. Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates the inflation rate reached 8 percent in 2022, or four times the 2 percent rate of inflation the Federal Reserve aims to maintain through its various monetary policies. Though the U.S. Inflation Calculator indicates the inflation rate cooled to 2.5 percent by the end of summer 2024, that may not comfort consumers who are still confronting high prices on various items, including housing.
Indeed, inflation continues to affect people from all walks of life. However, consumers can consider various strategies to save even when inflation is keeping costs up.
♦ Use rewards to your advantage. Consumers now have an array of ways to pay for products and services at their disposal. Conventional wisdom has long suggested credit cards should be used only in emergencies, but consumers who are confident they can pay off balances in full each month can consider using rewards-based credit cards to their advantage. Such
ceries and gas. Of course, this only benefits consumers if they pay off their balances in full each month. If not, the interest charges on credit cards will almost certainly exceed the 1 to 2 percent cash back consumers earn.
Statistics show that
inflation cooled considerably
in
2024. But the cost of many items remains high, forcing consumers to rely on various ways to save money.
♦ Open a high-yield savings account. The days of earning significant interest on savings accounts may seem like a distant memory, but high-yield savings accounts are still available at many financial institutions. Consumers intent on building their savings in the face of a higher cost of living can look into high-yield savings account options at their own bank or another financial institution. High-yield savings accounts typically mandate account holders maintain a minimum balance that is considerably higher than the minimum balances on accounts with lower interest rates, so this might not be an option for everyone. But consumers who have already squirreled away a significant sum in their savings accounts may be able to grow their money, and thus overcome inflation rates, by transferring the balance to a high-yield savings account.
cards return a certain percentage of each purchase (typically around 1 to 2 percent) to consumers, and they can be used to purchase everyday items like gro -
♦ Examine your spending. Perhaps the simplest way to save when inflation is high is to periodically assess your spending habits and make tweaks designed to save money. Such assessments can include everything from identifying ways to save at the grocery store to determining if entertainment subscriptions are worth the investment. Many consumers have lamented the high cost of groceries since 2022, and it’s possible a membership to a wholesale retailer like Costco can help reduce expenditures on various items, including paper products, that tend to be expensive at more traditional grocery stores.
– Metro Creative.
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
Brentwood Chamber of Commerce sets 2025 dates for business mentorships
The Brentwood Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the city of Brentwood and the Small Business Development Center, has announced more dates for their business coaching program. The next sessions will be held on Feb. 12.
The program, launched in September of last year, has been a success, according to Karri Reiser, a past Chamber
president.
“Since it’s an appointment based program, I’m measuring success due to the fact that we’ve had appointments fully booked each month since it began,” she said.
Funded by the city of Brentwood and the Chamber, the coaching program provides no-cost, in-person advising sessions at the Chamber building at 35 Oak St. from noon to 4 p.m. every other Wednesday. Each session is 30 minutes.
According to Reiser, who invited the East Bay SBDC to
hold the sessions during her tenure as Chamber president, all Brentwood small businesses, as well as members of the Chamber of Commerce not located in the city, may schedule a session. Anyone who schedules a session is entered into the SBDC database and made eligible for the center’s other programs. She said that the advising program was inspired by her own experiences starting a business more than 10 years ago when she was unsure of
see Chamber page 6B
CA 94513 925-240-7257
Surprising hidden costs of home ownership
Ahome is the most expensive purchase many people ever make. Buyers understand that certain costs come with home ownership. However, some of the costs associated with home ownership can catch even the most savvy savers off-guard. And in recent years, those extra costs have been surging.
The following are some of the unexpected expenses that come with living the homeowner dream.
Property taxes: Depending on where you live, property taxes can comprise a large portion of monthly expenses. Some people pay their property taxes separate from their mortgage payments. Others wrap the tax burden into their mortgage bill. Either way, Business Insider reports that New Jersey currently has the highest effective property tax rate in the United States, with a median Garden State property tax bill at $9,000 annually. The lowest property tax rate is found in Hawaii, and the average homeowner there pays only $2,000 in property taxes annually. Zoocasa reports that annual property taxes in Canada can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $10,000 depending on the province’s property tax rate and average cost of homes.
ownership can be costly. Buyers would be wise to familiarize themselves with some of the hidden costs of owning a home prior to purchasing one of their own.
ers to take out mortgage insurance, also called PMI, to offset their risk. Credit Karma says PMI depends on factors such as down payment and borrowers’ credit scores, but typically it’s around 0.2 to 2 percent of the loan amount per year. You can remove PMI from your monthly payment once you have 20 percent equity in your home.
Maintenance: Even a brand new home will require some measure of maintenance and routine upkeep. Bankrate indicates one of the biggest costs of owning a home is maintenance, coming in at roughly $3,018 a year and an additional $3,300 for improvements. Lawn care, home cleaning, pest prevention, replacing smoke alarms and batteries, roof repair, and clearing rain gutters are some of those costs.
Home insurance: CNN Business reports that home insurance premiums have surged in recent years, in large part due to extreme weather. In the U.S., insurance rates jumped 11.3 percent nationally last year, according to S&P Global. Severe storms, including hurricanes and wildfires, cost homeowners insurance agencies nearly $101.3 billion last year, and those losses have been passed on to policy holders through higher prices.
Mortgage insurance: Many people do not have the standard 20 percent down payment necessary to buy a home. To circumvent this, lenders will require borrow-
HOA and CDD fees: Some communities impose homeowners association fees on those who live within the neighborhood. Such fees cover items like maintenance in and around the community and snow removal. A Community Development District Fee is imposed by the developer of a neighborhood or subdivision to finance the cost of amenities in a neighborhood. Homeowners should be aware of these fees before buying in an HOA community. Apart from these expenses, annual utility payments can be quite expensive. Utilizing utility plans that offer a fixed cost per month can help homeowners budget for utility expenses more readily.
- Metro Creative
Photo by Metro Creative
Home
Protecting your assets –how to get proper insurance coverage
The recent wildfires in Los Angeles County and environs highlight the importance of protecting your assets, whether you own a home or rent an apartment. But how do you ensure you’re properly covered?
In risk management, you have two main options: self-insurance, where you retain the risk yourself, or transferring the risk to an insurance company through a policy.
Large corporations often selfinsure because they have the financial resources to manage and invest their own funds. For most individuals, transferring risk through insurance is the more practical option, especially when paying premiums is a more manageable solution.
You can work with insurance companies that have captive agents, who represent a specific company and
can guide you through coverage options, premiums, and payment plans.
Alternatively, you can use an independent agent, who works with multiple carriers and offers more choices. However, keep in mind that some insurers may not be as financially stable. Always choose a company with strong ratings from agencies like A.M. Best, Mood’s, or Standard & Poor’s.
When shopping for coverage, make sure you’re comparing ‘apples to apples.’
Many people focus on the lowest premiums, but it’s crucial to first determine the coverage limits you need.
Ensure that you’re fully protected for the risks you face. It’s a good idea to compare at least three quotes to find the best fit for your needs.
While shopping for insurance can feel overwhelming, with some research and careful comparison, it’s manageable — and essential. For a quote from an East County agent call Jayne Oertwig at 925-937-3520.
FRANK MAIURI
Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
Having the right insurance can help make sure your home and property are properly covered after an earthquake or a fire.
Anita Ledesma Founder
Law Office of Ruth N. Buzzard
what to do before following her mother’s advice and going to the Antioch Chamber of Commerce.
“It just so happened that, on that day, there was a gentleman who was a volunteer at the office, who would do business coaching,” Reiser said. “I met with him and walked out of that meeting with a roadmap of what I needed to do to start a business. It was great!”
According to Reiser, the sessions are similar to a job interview. The adviser asks questions to ascertain the entrepreneur’s needs and those of their business, and then discusses what form of assistance would be best for them. Each advising day is overseen by one of four advisers who specialize in one field but can provide advice on numerous subjects, including finance, marketing, and business planning. If the in-person adviser cannot provide advice on a subject, they will notify East Bay SBDC, which will connect business owners with another adviser who can answer their questions.
When the project came together in September, Abraham Salinas said money for the project came from the Brentwood Economic Development Grant Program, which is funded by business permit fees. Salinas is the senior analyst at the
Brentwood Economic Development Division.
According to Nancy Mangold, executive director of the East Bay SDBC, the organization is part of the Northern California Network of the national board of Small Business Development Centers, is funded by the federal Small Business Administration, and serves Contra Costa and Alameda counties.
“We’ve had quite a bit of success,” she said. “In 2024 alone, we helped [East Bay] businesses raise $62 million in funding, helped 47 businesses start out, helped create almost 500 new jobs, and helped businesses increase sales by $18 million. In total, we’ve served about 1,400 small businesses this year.”
The other advice session dates for this year include:
Feb. 12, 26; March 12, 26; April 9, 23; May 14, 28; June 11, 25.
To get on a waitlist, email ebinfo@ eastbaysbdc.org with your preferred dates. If a cancellation occurs, the group will contact you.
Appointments can be made on the SBDC Northern California Network’s website at https://www.eastbaysbdc.org/ in-person-advising-brentwood/. There is a waiting list for new appointments.
For more information about the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce, visit https://www brentwoodchamber com/
Jennifer C Hamilton
Advisor
Chamber from page 3B
Press photo
What distinguishes three popular retirement accounts from one another
Financial security in retirement is a goal worth pursuing, but it’s one that a significant percentage of individuals feel is out of reach. According to a February 2024 report from the National Institute on Retirement Security, 55 percent of Americans are concerned they cannot achieve financial security in retirement.
Saving for retirement is an integral component of securing long-term financial security. There are many ways to save for retirement, and individual retirement accounts (IRAs) and employer-sponsored 401(k) plans are among the more popular ways investors build a nest egg for their golden years. IRAs and 401(k) plans differ in some notable ways, and recognition of what distinguishes these types of accounts can help people choose the right vehicle for them. Contribution limits can change from year to year, so individuals can expect to increase their contributions in future years if they hope to maximize the allowable amounts. The following breakdown, courtesy of US Bank®, notes some key differences
between a traditional IRA, a Roth IRA and a 401(k).
Traditional IRA
Eligibility: Anyone with earned income is eligible to open a traditional IRA.
Funding: A traditional IRA can be funded with after-tax dollars or as tax-deductible contributions.
Contribution limits: $7,000 annual limit in 2024, though individuals age 50 or older can contribute an additional $1,000 if they choose to do so.
Employer match: None.
Investment selection: Account holders can choose their own investments.
401(k)
Anyone who aspires to create financial security in retirement should consider investing via a 401(k) or a traditional or Roth IRA.
Eligibility: Individuals aspiring to open a Roth IRA are urged to speak with a financial planner or accountant, as certain contribution criteria and tax filing requirements must be fulfilled.
Funding: A Roth IRA is funded with after-tax dollars.
Contribution limits: $7,000 annual limit in 2024, though individuals age 50 or older can contribute an additional $1,000 if they choose to do so.
Employer match: None.
Investment selection: Account holders can choose their own investments.
Eligibility: Individuals are urged to speak with human resources professionals at their place of employment, as US Banks notes most employers have certain qualifications their workers must meet in order for them to participate in these plans. Those qualifications can vary between firms.
Funding: A 401(k) is funded with pretax dollars deducted directly from participants’ paychecks.
Contribution limits: The annual limit for 2024 is $23,000, though participants age 50 and older can contribute an additional $7,500.
Employer match: Some employers match employee contributions up to a certain percentage. Investopedia notes the average match was 4.5 percent in 2023.
Investment selection: Various portfolios may be offered, but those available are generally chosen by employers.
For more details on these and more similar accounts, contact local advisors:
–Tony Aguilar / Edward Jones Financial, at tony aguilar@edwardjones com or call 925-642-6038
–Jennifer C Hamilton / Edward Jones Financial, call 925-516-1821
–Jennifer Houts / Financial Services Professional, at jjhouts@ft.newyorklife.com
Roth IRA
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For second-generation framer Chris Ramos, it’s all in the family. CR Framing serves local artists and residents at wholesale prices, with excellent quality and quick turnaround. They offer an array of services, including custom framing, shipping, shrink wrapping, matting, and framing. The business is located at 700 Harvest Park Drive, Unit I, in Brentwood, and hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays. For more information, call 925-634-7742 email crframing@aol.com or visit crframing.webs.com.
