The Press 02.24.2023

Local farmer wants to stir the pot

By Chris Campos Staff Writer

OAKLEY A local vineyard and farmer wants to bring a new crop to the city: Cannabis.

The Continente Ranch and their partner, Sky Grades, have submitted an application to the city to build and operate a “state-of-the-art, fully integrated cannabis production facility encompassing cultivation, extraction, manufacturing, packaging and distribution” at their property at 112 Sandy Lane. The facility, according to the application, is expected to be 56,000 square feet.

At last week’s City Council meeting, City Manager Josh McMurray said the application “was just submitted recently” and added that the project is still months away from being considered by the Planning Commission.

At that meeting, City Council member George Fuller asked that the application be brought directly to the Council and bypass the Planning Commission altogether. “It’s obviously going to stir up the community and cause debate,” he said. “We’re moving in a new direction in terms of sales and the image we put out to other communities.”

City Attorney Derek Cole advised Fuller that the project will come before the City Council after the Planning Commission conducts its re-

view in any case. He said if Fuller could draw a second vote from his colleagues, then the Council could bypass the Planning Commission.

Vice Mayor Anissa Williams interjected and said, “I would rather have more eyes on it, not less.” No second was offered, and the meeting ended without any formal action by the Council.

A representative of the Continente Ranch declined to comment on the application this week.

The cannabis industry in California has steadily grown in size and sales since recreational marijuana was legalized in 2016. According to

Owners of the Continente Ranch in Oakley are seeking city approval to build a cannabis manufacturing and production dispensary on Sandy Lane.

the state Department of Cannabis Control, Contra Costa County’s cannabis taxable sales grew from $5.3 million in the second quarter of 2018 to $27.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2022.

The city of Antioch reported cannabis fee receipts of $381,408 in 2020, $1,453,579 in 2021 and $1,770,621 in 2022.

Beginning Jan. 1, 2023, cannabis retailers became responsible for collecting and paying the cannabis excise tax to the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration. A 15% cannabis

see Pot page 22A

$7 million grant to help save open space

tember. The property is located at the mouth of Riggs Canyon off Finley Road at the western edge of Morgan Territory Regional Preserve and the southern edge of Mount Diablo State Park.

By Chris Campos Staff writer

REGIONAL Called the “keystone” to protecting open space on Mount Diablo, the East Bay Park District recently announced it will receive a $7 million grant from the California Coastal Conservancy for the purchase of the 768-acre Finley Road Ranch property. The district originally approved spending $11.4 million to purchase the property last Sep-

Event center discussed

By Jake Menez Staff Writer

“Acquisition of the Finley Road Ranch property will preserve forever one of the largest remaining pristine open spaces adjacent to Mount Diablo State Park,” said Park District Board President Dennis Waespi. “The California Coastal Conservancy grant provides vital funding toward the purchase of the property. Preserving the property is also a key step toward the state’s 30x30 initiative of conserving 30 percent of the state’s lands and coastal waters by 2030.”

Longtime Board member Beverly Lane announced the pact Sept. 10 at Save Mount Diablo’s 50th anniversary Moonlight on the Mountain gala.

“I’m retiring this fall after 28 years as an elected member of the East Bay Regional Park District board of directors,” Lane reflected last fall. “I do feel that it’s been an honor to be on this board. The Park District has really helped ensure that the natural beauty that we have all around us is protected. In a lot of ways this is my opportunity to say goodbye to the Park District with another great success.”

“The Coastal Conservancy is delighted to support acquisition of this 768-acre property and

further the state’s 30x30 goals by protecting this important conservation property while also providing greater access to existing parkland,” said California Coastal Conservancy Executive Director Amy Hutzel.

“We very much appreciate the California Coastal Conservancy for its leadership in preserving natural lands and shorelines throughout the state and providing this critical funding,” said Park District General Manager Sabrina Landreth. “We thank the state, our partners, and staff for their contribution toward the acquisition that supports our mission and the state’s 30x30 goals

see Space page 22A

BRENTWOOD

The Vineyards at Marsh Creek Amphitheater, a project that has been in development for years, may soon face the music as Brentwood officials plan to vote on the project’s merits following the completion of an environmental impact report.

The project was discussed during the Feb. 21 meeting of the Brentwood Planning Commission, with the final agenda item for the evening being labeled as a “scoping meeting” for the amphitheater. This scoping included an overview of the project and an explanation of the upcoming environmental report.

The report would attempt to determine the potential negative side effects of the amphitheater, including pollutants such as greenhouse gasses as well as noise and traffic concerns, according to Nick Pappani, who presented the topic to the commission. Pappani is the vice president of Raney Planning and Management, a contractor hired by the city to create the environmental report.

“We’re not preparing an entirely new analysis,” Pappani pointed out. There was a previous environmental report done in 2004 when the proposal for a 1,000-seat amphitheater was first brought before the city. According to Pappani, the goal of the new report is to use that report as a baseline and then examine any changes to the area and to the scope of the project that could affect the findings of that report.

see Event page 22A

Photo by Chris Campos

LMC lecture series details history of the Delta

By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer

BRENTWOOD A new lecture series at Los Medanos College’s Brentwood campus is educating those who are not only interested in Brentwood’s and the Delta’s history, but also to new residents.

“The New Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Heritage Area” series at LMC discusses the history of the Delta starting back in the 1800’s and everything about and around it. Registration for the lecture costs $19 per session and takes place once a month. It’s led by Carol Jensen, a local historian and Delta National Heritage Area (NHA) Committee member, and Blake Roberts, the NHA Commission Program Manager.

“This series is specifically designed to introduce the new people in the greater East County area – Oakley, Brentwood area – about their new home,” Jensen said. “The intention is to provide a little history and background education for those that are new to this community, let’s say less than seven years.”

The Delta features 57 reclaimed islands and tracts all surrounded by 1,100 miles of levees that border about 700 miles of waterways. It lies within Contra Costa, Sacramento and Yolo counties.

The series, and Tuesday’s lecture more specifically, has also been a way for Roberts and the NHA to spread the word about

.the National Heritage Area Commission, what it is and what they’re ultimately trying to accomplish.

“We’re still kind of going through the phases of finishing up the management plan and we still want to get word out there that we’re doing this and that we’re trying to get input,” Roberts explained. “On top of that, the other thing we’re trying to do is just get word about the national heritage. I think there’s a lot of people that just aren’t aware yet.”

The biggest difference between a national heritage area and a national park is in who controls it. The national parks are federal land while national heritage areas don’t

have any regulation or land ownership, allowing the committee to simply work with local organizations to tell its stories. The Delta National Heritage Area earned its label in 2019 and is the only national heritage in California, according to Roberts.

The lecture series about the Delta NHA has been fairly popular so far. Tuesday’s lecture attracted about 20 people, mainly senior citizens who are local to Brentwood and Antioch, however, Jensen mentioned that previous lectures in the series have had over 40 people in the classroom, making it standing room only. Jensen discusses the history by being informational on the history of the Delta.

LMC’s faculty members fill out proposals to host lectures on different topics, providing a variety that people like about the community education program.

“It’s lifelong learning,” said David Wahl, the community and contract education program coordinator at Los Medanos College, said.” “That’s really what it’s all about: no stress, no notes, no tests, just learning for the joy of learning.”

Jensen and Roberts go into detail about the history of the Delta itself and now the Delta NHA when it was officially titled as such in 2019. The lecture also mentions several highlights about the history of the Delta – the fact that milk and dairy was the biggest product coming out of the Delta, how the Delta had no unemployment because everyone, literally, had a job, that time when a riverboat on the Delta River served as the set for a few of Mark Twain’s movies, and how the army tank was, technically, invented in Brentwood.

“We may do the whole thing over again because there’s still lots of people that haven’t heard about the program yet,” Wahl added. “We’ll do one about Bethel Island and the East Delta and we certainly will wind up with people from Discovery Bay, Bethel Island that are interested in the Delta as a topic.”

The series runs through the end of the semester in May with the upcoming Bethel Island lecture coming on March 21 at 1 p.m. For more information, check out the community education section on Los Medanos College’s website.

The Delta is the subject of a new lecture series being offered by Los Medanos College’s Brentwood Campus. The series is designed to introduce new residents to the history of their home

Photo by Kevin Romick

The Give Back Garage does more than fix cars

By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer

BRENTWOOD From childhood, Mike Rucker always liked to fix stuff. Before he became a police officer, he worked as an airline mechanic. His father and brother taught him how to work on the family cars.

Even after United Airlines laid him off in late 2001, Rucker was, and still is to this day, a mechanic. Not only is he a mechanic, he’s his neighborhood’s favorite mechanic. So it’s no surprise that his garage, Give Back Garage in Brentwood has become the place where two of his passions come home: fixing cars and giving back to the community.

“Even when I was a cop I still liked working on things, so I became like my neighborhood mechanic,” Rucker said. “Fast-forward 18 years later, I’m still doing it, and finding more people in need.”

Give Back Garage’s roots come from Rucker’s early work as the neighborhood mechanic. He would trade auto repairs for basic things like dinner or just do it completely free out of his own pocket, pending on the situation. After a while, the cost of those free fixes started to catch up to Rucker and his wife, Sandy.

“I was at home one night watching TV and my wife’s like, ‘You know, I really appreciate everything you do for people and you have a good heart, but it’d be nice if you won’t spend our money,” Rucker

said. “So she got on our computer, went on some websites and got a 501 (c) (3) and she contacted the Bureau of Automotive Repair to apply for a license, got insurance, then I hit up a couple of my friends like ‘Hey, I’m starting this nonprofit.’”

Give Back Garage plays two roles. First, it’s an actual working garage where those who cannot afford regular car maintenance can fill out a form and, if approved, they’ll get their car fixed for free if not at a relatively low cost. Second, it is an after-school program for high school students who are interested in getting into the auto mechanics trade, separate from the auto shop club that Liberty High School has and also separate from the automotive courses that the Contra Costa Regional Occupational Program (ROP) offers.

“People going through struggles and single moms and people trying to get a leg up is almost like maintaining a car,” Rucker said. “If you don’t have the money, it’s almost designed to keep you in poverty.”

Give Back Garage is partnered with NAPA Auto Parts, which helps provide the necessary parts needed for the specific vehicle’s needed repair. Since Rucker and his fellow mechanics work full time, the repairs are done throughout the weekend. Monday is when the kids take over. On Monday nights, the garage turns into its own after-school program, where high school students who are interested in learning auto mechanics come to work at the garage.

“They’ve done a lot of stuff,” Rucker said. “They’ve done brakes and suspension, and they did a head gasket with us

once, so we’re kind of teaching them all sorts of things.”

Kira Westmoreland, a junior from Independence High School, is one of the young mechanics who continues to learn the trade at the garage every Monday night.

“(The last) couple of months have just been amazing,” she said. “It’s great. I honestly thought that I wasn’t going to be able to do it because I’m a girl, and I didn’t think (Rucker) was going to teach me as much as he has, but I’ve learned so much. I’m excited to go to college and become a mechanic because of this. I have opportunities now.”

Like Westmoreland, Ryder Kirkpatrick, also a junior at Independence High, spends his Monday nights at the garage.

“Rucker kind of took me under his wing and showed me stuff and from there it just kind of took off.”

Rucker and Give Back Garage is also producing a scholarship for kids who specifically want to go to trade schools after graduation.

“We need welders and pipefitters and plumbers and electricians,” Rucker said about the need for interest in trades. “I talked to a lot of kids in school, and I might know seven kids who want to go into the trades. There’s so much pride in it. When you get to solve a problem and fix it, there’s a lot of sense of accomplishment and pride that goes into that.”

For more: https://www.facebook.com/ givebackgarage/

Ryder Kirkpatrick (left) and Kira Westmoreland (right) work on a 1975 Datsun at the Give Back Garage.

Photo by Jeff Weisinger

Share your voice with the community. Welcome to the Brentwood Youth Press

By Aliyah Ramirez Correspondent

Writers have the ability to share their outlooks through storytelling. Yet, working as student journalists, writers can go beyond the surface and tell the stories they believe matter most to invoke change.

If you love interacting with your community and sharing their stories, the Brentwood Youth Press is the perfect place to start.

The Youth Press is a student-run organization under the Brentwood Press. The team is made up of volunteer high school and college writers who publish monthly

newsletters for the community.

They meet via Zoom to brainstorm and pitch ideas each month, in addition to possibly being featured on the Press’ website or print edition newspaper.

The team is full of creative minds from Heritage, Liberty, and Freedom high schools, who have all had their work published on the Youth Press website. They are routinely working with the Youth Press editorial team to improve their reporting skills for each month’s newsletter. Made up of three Los Medanos College students, Aliyah Ramirez is the managing editor, Muskaan Adeel is photography editor, and Alexis Ramirez is the graphic designer.

As a paper representative of the community’s youth, the Youth Press aspires to have young voices heard – covering community events, global issues, arts and entertainment, columns and more. However, writing is not the only way to tell a story. Those interested in joining can also compose visual media for articles with the photography editor, or help create design layouts with the graphic designer.

Have your work shared through social media, digital newsletters, publications, and more.

If you are interested in joining the Youth Press team, it takes only a few steps. Just contact the editorial team at youthpresseditors@gmail.com, give a brief introduction, and attach two of your best stories.

Behind the Chinese Culture Club’s New Year festival

Lunar New Year open for all to attend.

Heritage High School’s Chinese Culture Club was founded earlier this year by students with a vision: to help spread and share Chinese culture with others.

Starting from the ground up, the club fundraised, scheduled and organized a festival in honor of the

Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, started on Jan. 22, 2023, and is celebrated in China, South Korea, Vietnam and other countries with overseas Chinese populations. Marking the beginning of spring and the start of the lunar calendar, as the lunar calendar is different from the solar Gregorian calendar, commonly used in other places of the world.

President of the club, Karina Chen (11), described their mentality for their Lunar New Year Festival as “go hard or go home.” Starting as a new club, the members

had to fundraise for the event from scratch. To do so, the club participated in Food Faire at Heritage, an event where clubs sell food, hosted a spicy ramen-eating contest, and an event with TeaZenTea to earn money to put together the event.

Along with the fundraising, the coordination between the city, school district and Heritage High School’s leadership, the club’s officers and adviser all stated that the planning leading up to the event was stressful.

Nonetheless, the festival began on Feb. 4 in front of the Brentwood Library on Oak Street next to Brentwood’s weekly farmers market. The festival invited more than 10 vendors — small businesses and school clubs — to sell their items and promote. They included Euphoric Sun, Bukku’s Boutique, LV Creations, starrlightshop, Liberty High School’s Culture Shock, Heritage High School’s Korean Culture Club, Heritage’s Polynesian Culture Club, and Money Tree

Heritage High School’s Chinese Culture Club was founded earlier this year by students who want to and share Chinese culture with others.

Submitted photo

wishing. The festival even featured a lion’s dance in the morning — a form of traditional Chinese dance where dancers mimic a lion’s moves in costume — performed by Lung Sing Martial Arts.

Of the many small business vendors, Euphoric Sun’s CEO and owner Sun Li said the event enabled them to “try to go to more markets” and branch out from their online stores. For some vendors, like Elizabeth Khuu, Money Tree wishing’s owner, the festival was their first time attending an inperson event.

It was a beautiful celebration of Asian culture in Brentwood and a well-put-together event by a high school club that started only a year ago.

According to Chen, “the students did most of the work” to make the event outstanding. The officers of the club, David

see Club page 5A

How a Heritage group wants to celebrate new cultures

Seen with the Press in Georgia, Argentina

Club from page 4A

Shin, Joshua Luk Isabella Lee, and Cynthia Lu, were crucial organizers, helping get permits, performances, and more.

With an overwhelming consensus from the club’s officers, Chen hoped “that next year with these connections we’ve made, we continue to do everything.” The festival gave the Asian-American population of Brentwood, and even residents from neigh-

boring cities, a chance to get together and celebrate their shared culture.

Chen was told by many that “people have wanted this for a very long time” and “seeing the lion’s dance was their dream.” Even for the people who were not of Asian ethnicity or did not celebrate Lunar New Year, the event helped educate and share new cultures and traditions.

– By Alison Chiu

Jay McLaughlin and Peggy Ann Valley took The Press with them on two recent trips. The paper joined them in south Georgia to visit the grave of Antarctic explorer Ernest Shackleton as well as on their trip to the famous Cementerio de La Recoleta in Buenos Aires.

Photos courtesy of Peggy Valley

Tax & Financial Specialist Meet Your Local

Robert H. Jones, CPA, Marsh Creek Capital Management, Inc.

For tax preparation in Brentwood, you can count on Robert H. Jones, CPA, at Marsh Creek Capital Management Inc. He assists taxpayers and small businesses with taxes in Brentwood and the surrounding communities. Whether you are an individual or a local business, he has years of valuable experience handling income and estates tax matters. Contact Robert H. Jones, CPA, tax filing specialist, for help with your taxes.

Hindu event celebrates the coming of spring

From Staff Reports

An event celebrating an ancient Hindu tradition called Holi is scheduled at R. Paul Krey Elementary School at 190 Crawford Drive in Brentwood on March 11 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. There will be lots of music, dance, color splashing, food and more.

Holi is an ancient Hindu tradition that celebrates the love of the Radha Krishna God. Holi is also a day to celebrate love, laughter, and forgiveness.

It marks the beginning of spring symbolic of the triumph of good over evil. It is celebrated in March, corresponding to the Hindu calendar month of Phalguna. It also is a new beginning where people can release all

Milestones Milestones

their inhibitions and start fresh. Tickets for adults and children 8 years and older cost $8, and children under the age of 2 are admitted free. Tickets can be purchased at https:// united-indian.org/event/ holi-2023/. “We want to ensure that we are serving the needs of our community by creating an environment in which all people feel safe and welcome, regardless of race, religion, language or economic status,” according to a press release.

Holi embraces having fun by splashing your friends and family with colors!, according to the release. Each ticket purchased includes one packet of color and additional color packets can be purchased for $2.

To comment, visit www.thepress.net

Have you or someone you know recently reached a “milestone”? If so, we’d like to know about it!

Examples of a milestone: Achievements, Anniversaries, Births, Birthdays, Graduations, Quinceaneras, Special Occasions, Engagements and Weddings

I’m a Veteran–and a hospice volunteer.

New way to make more money

Nonprofits are asked to submit beer/wine selling proposal at events

Proposals should be submitted in PDF format, not exceed five pages and emailed before 6 p.m. March 14 to oleary@ci.oakley.ca.us. Proposals can also be submitted hand-delivered to Oakley City Hall. Proposals received after the deadline will not be considered and will be disqualified.

TRUST ADMINISTRATION:  THERE IS NO MAGIC WAND

by Martin C. Johnson, Attorney at Law, MBA,RMA®, EA

Trust Administration is a process most families must undergo after the death of a parent to administer the trust estate and distribute the assets. If you are currently the named Successor Trustee of a Trust or have been named to be the Successor Trustee in the future, here is what you need to know:

1. Trust Administration (TA) is a Process. TA has three parts: (1) Noticing, (2) Marshalling of Assets and (3) Distribution of Assets.

is in a position to make distributions. Assets should NEVER be distributed without a written agreement signed by all beneficiaries agreeing to the terms of the distribution and approving all expenses incurred to date. The cost for an attorney to prepare this agreement is peanuts in comparison to the cost of litigation after there is a dispute among beneficiaries.

OAKLEY

The city of Oakley is requesting proposals from local nonprofits to operate beer and wine concessions at upcoming city events.

This is an opportunity for local nonprofit organizations to get involved, publicize their organization and fundraise for the great causes that their organizations work on. In the past non-profit organizations hosting concession stands have fundraised between $3,000 and $6,000 per event, according to the City of Oakley newsletter.

To be considered, nonprofits must submit a proposal and include a cover letter, a proposal summary, a page outlining the organization’s background and experience, references and any additional information that may be relevant to the proposal submission. The proposal must include “Event Beverage Concession Services RFP.” in the document and subject line, according to a city press release..

City events in which chosen nonprofits can participate are the Oakley Summer Fest, the Heart of Oakley Festival and the Oaktober festival. For all three events, the nonprofit would be expected to provide a minimum of two craft beers and two wines, served in cups. Participating nonprofits must have a California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control Daily Beer and Wine license.

If chosen, the nonprofit is responsible for providing their own beer and wine, along with any staff, supplies and equipment necessary to participate in the event. Participants will also be required to meet an insurance minimum with the city and attend two planning meetings before the event.

Oakley city staff will review the proposals and provide comments and recommendations to the City Council, which will finalize all selections. For more information, email Alicia O’Leary at oleary@ ci.oakley.ca.us.

2. Noticing is the Step One in TA. Noticing requires legal notice to the beneficiaries and legal heirs in accordance with Probate Code Section 16061.7 within 60 days of the date of death. Until notice is given, and the time has expired, the beneficiaries and legal heirs can bring an action to contest the terms of the trust. It is important that this notice is properly served, and time has expired prior to any distribution of assets. If a beneficiary contests the terms of the trust, the Successor Trustee may use trust monies to defend the trust instrument.

3. Marshalling of Assets is Step Two. The Trustee’s job is to marshal or gather together all of the trust assets into new account(s) with a new Taxpayer Identification Number. If you are a Successor Trustee, you must keep thorough records either through QuickBooks (or similar software) or you should hire a bookkeeper. As a Successor Trustee, you have a fiduciary duty to the beneficiaries. That duty includes accounting for all monies in the estate. As the Successor Trustee, you must be able to account for every dollar.

4. Distribution of Assets is Step Three. After the notice period has expired, assuming there have been no objections and the assets have been marshalled together, then the Trustee

5. Premature Distribution of Assets. Soon after the death of a loved one, everyone is eager to receive their inheritance. Oftentimes, a crisis suddenly “appears” and a beneficiary starts demanding money. Succumbing to the pressure, the Successor Trustee tries to be the ‘good guy’ and distributes the assets before realizing there are more expenses. Successor Trustees should NOT distribute any assets until they have a complete understanding of the trust administration and all expenses. When in doubt, the Successor Trustee should hold back a sufficient reserve for final expenses.

Trust Administration is a process. There is no magic wand that allows distribution of assets without following the process. Failure to properly administer a trust opens the Successor Trustee up to tremendous personal liability. If you are in doubt as to whether you or your Successor Trustee is doing something correctly, seek legal counsel. If you have questions about trust administration, we offer free 30-minute consultations in our Walnut Creek office. This article provides only general legal information, and not specific legal advice. Information contained is not a substitute for a personal consultation with an attorney. 360 ESTATE PLANNING INC, PHONE (925) 289-8837 1600 S. Main Street, Suite 100, Walnut Creek, CA 94596     © 2023 Martin Johnson

For more information, email contacthalo@ yahoo.com or visit www.eccchalo.org

contact nancy. eccchalo@gmail.com to meet me!

Meet Gabe

Hi! My name is Gabe. I love to play with springs, strings, and other kittens. Please

Staff Reports

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

Friday, Feb. 24

Knights of Columbus Fish Fry

The St. Anne Council Knights of Columbus is hosting a Fish Fry dinner at the St. Anne Community Life Center located at 2800 Camino Diablo from 5-7:30 p.m. The dinner also features a raffle. The cost is $12 for adults and $9 for children 12 and under. For more information, contact Mike Stoiber at mjs2082@ aol.com or (925) 759-4669.

Saturday, Feb. 25

Lions Club of Brentwood Crab Feed

The Lions Club of Brentwood is hosting an all-you-can-eat crab feed from 6-10 p.m. at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building at 757 First St. The event will benefit the Lions Center for the Visually Impaired, and features a raffle and table decorating contest. Tickets are $80 and can be purchased at https://e-clubhouse. org/sites/brentwoodca/\

Liberty Lions 10th Annual Crab Feed

The Liberty Lions Band Boosters is hosting their 10th annual crab feed at the Brentwood Community Center on 35 Oak St., from 5:309:30 p.m. The event will also include auctions, prizes and cocktails. Tickets are $85, or $800 for a table of 10. For more information, and to purchase tickets, visit http://bit.ly/3XyoTVa

Saturday, March 4

Trinkets & Treasure Flea Market

The Oakley Senior Center is hosting a Trinkets & Treasures Flea Market from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at 215 Second St. They will also be hosting a silent auction at the event.

Saturday, March 11

Oakley Youth Employment Workshop and Job Fair

The Oakley Recreation Department is hosting a youth employment workshop and job fair at the Oakley Recreation Center at 1250 O’Hara Ave. from 10 a.m.-noon. The goal is

to provide local youth with the opportunity to learn job-seeking skills and connect with employers. For more information, visit https:// bit.ly/3YrG22L

Wednesday, March 15

Arts & Culture Visioning Session

The ad hoc City Council steering committee for Contra Costa County is hosting an information session at the Oakley Recreation Center, located at 1250 O’Hara Ave. at 5 p.m. For more information and to register for the event, visit https://bit.ly/40Qsxf9

Thursday, March 16

Lions of the North: a Pre-St. Patrick’s Day Celebration

The El Campanil Theatre at 602 W. 2nd St. in Antioch is hosting a Pre-St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at 2 p.m. It features the Irish band Lions of the North. Tickets are $32 for adults, $29 for seniors, and $15 for youths. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://bit.ly/3Y57rrw

Lions Red Cross Blood Drive

The Byron Delta Lions Club is sponsoring a blood drive for the Red Cross at St. Anne Catholic Church at 2800 Camino Diablo in Byron from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information or to make an appointment to donate, call 1(800) 733-2767 or sign up at redcrossblood. org with ZIP code 94514.

Monday, March 20

All God’s Children Annual Golf Tournament

All God’s Children Christian School is hosting their annual golf tournament at the Discovery Bay Country Club. The tournament will feature a continental breakfast, a driving range and putting contest and a barbecue buffet dinner with awards will take place after the tournament at 3:30 p.m. Registration begins at 8 a.m. The tournament is a shotgun start at 10 a.m. For more information, contact Kaitlyn Lillard at kaitlynlillard@gmail.com or 925-642-5674, or visit http://bit.ly/3YCWrSx

Brentwood Union School District

Transitional Kindergarten/ Kindergarten Registration

2023-2024 School Year

KINDERGARTEN – Eligible child must be five years old on or before September 1, 2023

TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN – Eligible child must be 5 years old between September 2, 2023 and April 2, 2024

TK/Kindergarten enrollment closes March 16, 2023 at 3pm and will reopen April 6, 2023 at 9am.

Information on how to start the enrollment process is located on the BUSD website: www.brentwood.k12.ca.us

Please email or call your resident school site https://www.brentwood.k12.ca.us/boundaries

Please be advised that because we are a growing community, enrollment is on a first come first serve basis. While we can assure placement within our school district, we cannot guarantee placement at your boundary school.

Saturday, March 25 and Sunday, March 26

Spring Craft Show and Yard Sale

The Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building at 757 First St. is hosting a craft show and yard sale from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Craft vendors will be located indoors and yard sale participants will be in the courtyard. For more information and to become a vendor, email sandmcraftemporium@gmail.com

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:// www.brentwoodrotary94513.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 http://www.antiochrotaryclub.com/ The Rotary Club of the Delta meets weekly on Wednesday 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 Straw Hat Pizza on Lone Tree Way. For more information, visit: https://e-clubhouse.org/sites/ brentwoodca/ Oakley: The Oakley Lions Club meets the fourth Wednesdays of every month at 7 p.m. at the Oakley Senior Center, 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/

Oakley Senior Center

Food Distribution

The Oakley Senior Center at 215 2nd St, gives out free food every Thursday from 1-2:30 p.m. Residents are asked to bring their own grocery bags.

Brentwood Community Chorus Rehearsals

The Brentwood Community Chorus meets on Tuesdays from 7- 9 p.m. at Brentwood Community United Methodist Church on 809 Second St. It is open to all ages and abilities as they prepare for their spring season.

Delta Informal Gardeners

Monthly Meetings

Delta Informal Gardeners encourages local residents to join them at their local meeting at the Brentwood Community United Methodist Church at 809 2nd St. on the 4th Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m.

ACA Women’s Group

The ACA (Adult Children of Alcoholics) Women’s Group meets every Wednesday at 5 p.m. at 809 Second St. in Brentwood. For more information, contact Cici at 530-306-7034.

Nonprofit offers Health Care

Career Courses

The nonprofit Opportunity Junction is accepting applications for its Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program at two locations including the Opportunity Junction Antioch office at 3102 Delta Fair Blvd. Classes began in September. The CNA program includes 12 weeks of training, life skills training, hands-on clinical experience, and job placement assistance. The first step in taking the course is to complete an application form online by visiting https://opportunityjunction. secure.force.com/apply/HCP

Discovery Bay Corvette Club

Meetings

The nonprofit Discovery Bay Corvette Club meets on the first Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Discovery Bay Yacht Club, 5871 Marina Road, Bilge Room. The club is dedicated to the enjoyment of owning and driving America’s sports car. For more information, drop by a meeting or contact the membership vice president at 925-341-9433. For more information on the club, visit www.discoverybaycorvetteclub.com

California Striped Bass Association

West Delta Chapter Meeting

The California Striped Bass Association meets on the second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. at Sportsmen Yacht Club, 3301 Wilbur Ave., Antioch. For more information, call Moe Adams five days before meeting at 916-529-1192. For more information, visit www.csbadeltachapter.org

Oakley 4-H Club

The Oakley 4-H Club has monthly meetings the second Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. The club is open to boys and girls ages 5-19. For location information, email Amanda at oakley@ contracosta.org.

Adult

Child

Angry Chickz hot for Brentwood as new location opens

By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer

BRENTWOOD The popular fried chicken restaurant Angry Chickz officially opened its doors to the public last Friday amidst fanfare and, for some, lack of sleep.

Fans of the Nashville spicy chicken restaurant wrapped around the store on 2500 Sand Creek Road in Brentwood with most showing up early in the morning to be one of the first to get a taste of the newest and literally hottest chicken in Brentwood.

Then there were some fans who showed up to the door Thursday night and camped out to make sure they were the first in line.

“We got here at 9 p.m.,” Betty Bias said. She and Crystal Barron were the first two customers to step into the new establishment when it officially opened to customers at 11 a.m. Friday, both of them braving the cold weather overnight.

“We put out our chairs, got our spot, sat for a little while, and then when it got really cold, we got in the car,” Bias explained.

A lot of the people in line started yelling “chicken” as the clock drew closer to the opening.

“I’ve been waiting for a long time. I’ve been following them since Hollywood,” Barron added. Barron, originally from Round Rock, Texas, has been a die-hard fan of Angry Chickz since she first had it at the Hollywood location. “We don’t have any other chicken spots other than KFC or Popeyes (in Brentwood),” Barron said.

Angry Chickz, a popular chain of fried chicken restaurants, opened a Brentwood location on Feb. 17. Some eager customers began lining up the day before so they could be among the first to order.

For those who’ve never heard of Angry Chickz before last Friday, it’s a hot chicken restaurant that serves chicken tenders that range from non-spicy, or country, to very spicy, or “angry,” in which you need to sign a waiver to order it. The “angry” chicken sliders feature a mixture of Carolina reapers and ghost peppers along with several other types of peppers to make it a spicy dish.

The Brentwood location is the 18th nationwide in the company with three oth-

ers in Sacramento, San Jose, and Stockton, according to Angry Chickz owner David Mkhitaryan and the Angry Chickz website.

Mkhitaryan, a spicy food fanatic and former restaurant cook, founded the restaurant in 2018 when he opened the first Angry Chickz in East Hollywood with the goal the same then as it is now -- serving the best hot chicken with the best customer service.

“Brentwood is an up-and-coming city with a great demographic,” Mkhitaryan said. “You have a lot of families, teenagers, and our biggest fans and demographic is the younger crowds, the teenagers, college kids and families with small children as well.”

Mkhitaryan arrived at the restaurant around 8 a.m. and immediately noticed the line wrapping around the building.

“It’s amazing,” he said. “It’s humbling, and it feels like the first time every time we do a grand opening. A lot of (the staff) are excited and a little anxious. It’s exciting.”

For more information: https://www. angrychickz.com/

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

Family-owned and operated with over 20 years of experience throughout the Bay Area, Chianti’s is excited to offer their Italian family recipes to all their guests. Their caring and committed staff ensures each visit is a perfect experience highlighted by fresh ingredients cooked to perfection. Stop in and have an order of their famous clams, pasta, meatballs, pizza or cioppino filled with fresh seafood in a homemade sauce.

3111 Balfour Road, Brentwood 925-516-1500

Photo by Jeff Weisinger

O pini O n

Let’s foster home-grown pot dispensaries

California voters overwhelmingly approved Proposition 64 in 2016, which legalized adult use of recreational cannabis. Ever since, only 56 percent of the state’s counties have licensed cannabis dispensaries. City politicians and officials in Oakley and Brentwood have steadfastly refused to allow any retail sales within their borders.

Editorial

A 2021 county application from Diablo Valley Farms owner Bob Nunn for a cultivation permit in unincorporated Brentwood drew strong opposition from some who said it was too close to the nearby Sunset Park Athletic Complex.

The proposed non-cash facility was intended to be a microplant nursery, using two existing 10,000-square-foot greenhouses. The county zoning administrator approved the proposed Sellers Avenue facility, but the city of Brentwood appealed that decision to the county’s planning commission. That commission voted to halt the endeavor because it’s located just 170 feet east of the Brentwood park,

LETTERS POLICY

The Press invites your comments. Letters must be no longer than 325 words and include name, address and phone number for confirmation.

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.

but it was appealed to the county Board of Supervisors, which then voted unanimously for approval. The project has yet to move forward.

Now, another family-owned farm, this time in Oakley, is seeking approval to build and operate a cannabis production facility encompassing cultivation, extraction, manufacturing, packaging and distribution. The Continente Ranch has deep roots

in the community and runs a successful nuts and fruit farm and vineyard.

The multi-million dollar project would bring new jobs and sales taxes to a small city struggling to attract businesses and new economic development.

Meanwhile, the neighboring city of Antioch has two thriving cannabis dispensaries that are pouring tax revenues into the city’s budget.

Those same dispensaries are daily making legal cannabis deliveries throughout Oakley, Brentwood, Discovery Bay and Byron.

Residents of these communities have no shortage of liquor sales sites. Why force them to drive out of town to purchase their cannabis products? It’s about economic development and services to your residents. All of your residents.

Publisher Greg Robinson Controller Sandie McNulty

Editor Chris Campos

Interim Production Manager Eric Kinnaird

Ad Services Manager Connie O’Neill

Founder & Publisher Emeritus Jimmy Chamoures

Advertising 925-634-1441, ext. 115

Classifieds 925-634-1441, ext. 142

Editorial 925-634-1441, ext. 110

Delivery Questions 925-584-7773

Subscription Questions 925-634-1441

Editorial email editor@brentwoodpress.com

Owners of the Continente Ranch in Oakley are seeking city approval to build a cannabis manufacturing and production dispensary on Sandy Lane.

Photo by Chris Campos

Franklin Leon Griffith

Franklin Leon Griffith was born on Oct. 4, 1943 in Stockton, California. He was the second child of Fred and Mary Griffith. He was raised in the Bay Area with his older brother Fred and a younger sister Linda. Frank placed his faith in Christ as a young boy. He often said he was exposed to the gospel through his mother, Mary. She showed him what it meant to be a follower of Jesus through her faith, love, and willingness to serve others.

Johanna Ellis Davies

Jan. 21, 1934 – Feb. 19, 2023

Our dear mother, Johanna Davies, sadly passed away at the age of 89 on Feb. 19, 2023 at the University Retirement Community in Davis, Calif.

Johanna was born on Jan. 21, 1934, and grew up in New York, New York. She graduated from the University of California at Berkeley with a BA in Journalism and began work as a columnist at the Oakland Tribune.

In 1955, Johanna married the love of her life, Rulon Davies, and they had three children: Michael, Jeffrey, and

OBITUARIES

Frank graduated from West Coast Bible College in Clovis, Calif, in 1961. He went on to attend Western Bible College in El Cerrito, Calif, and graduated in June of 1963. He then attended Talbot Theological Seminary in Amerada, Calif, where he graduated in 1980 with Honors. In 1994, Frank began his doctorate program with Westminster Seminary.

Frank worked with his father at FM Motor sales in Berkeley, Calif., until he was ordained on May 18, 1980. He went on to serve at Valley Bible Church as an associate pastor (1981-1986), Grace Bible Fellowship as pastor (1986-1996), then founded Calvary Community Church as senior pastor (1997-2021). He also served as the dean of Grace School of Theology

Daryl. In the 1960s, Johanna went to work at the State Unemployment office in Oakland and in the ‘80s retired to travel the world with Rulon, a Bechtel engineer.

After years of travel, both settled down to live their life on the Delta waterfront in Discovery Bay, Calif. They loved boating on the Delta and spending time with family and their lifelong friends, Walter and Anita Ossenberg.

Johanna was predeceased by Rulon, who passed away in 2006, and son Daryl who died in 2011. She is survived by her sons Michael and Jeffrey, her daughters-in-law Peggy and Cindy, three grandchildren, and eight greatgrandchildren.

Her wit, elegance, and sense of humor will be greatly missed.

A thank-you note from the Winthrops

The Winthrop Family would like to thank all those who sent cards, plowers, spiritual bouquets, Masses, made phone calls, said rosaries, sent memorial gifts and visited during our husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather Bill’s illness and death.

He and we have appreciated and been comforted by your thoughtfulness and goodness. You will never be forgotten.

We would also like to thank those who cared for Bill during his last year at Desired Peace Home Care, Hospice and Kaiser hospital.

and then later served as its president.

Frank and Judy were married on March 2, 1963 in Chino, Calif., in the church in which Judy grew up. They had three children: Shawna, Franklin, and Katie. They were dedicated to raising their kids, serving the church, and to serving God in any way they were called to. Whether it was late-night fellowship after Sunday night service, hosting bible studies in his home, or disciplining young men at his kitchen table, Frank was always serving God.

Frank dedicated much of his life to understanding and sharing God’s love and wisdom. He was a kind, gentle, and compassionate man. He was a source of love and encouragement to those who

Donald E. Giacomini

Aug. 19, 1938 – Feb. 7, 2023

Donald E. Giacomini passed away on Feb. 7, 2023 in Brentwood, Calif. at the age of 84. Don was born on Aug. 19, 1938 to George and Mildred Giacomini in San Francisco, Calif. Don graduated from Bellarmine High School in 1956 and Santa Clara University in 1960. He earned an Executive MBA from Williams College, Williamstown, Mass. in 1980.

Don had a rewarding 34-year career with Bank of America from which he retired in 1994. He worked in multiple areas of the bank including Training, Administration and Private Wealth Management. His favorite role was in the branches where he worked in several locations throughout the greater Bay Area, including Tracy, San Leandro, Oakland and San Mateo. In addition to his work at the bank, Don taught a “Principles of Banking” class for more than 20 years at City College of San Francisco.

Don was always involved in the community in which he lived, and was a leader in a number of organizations, including San Mateo County’s “Private Industry Council” and “Summer Jobs for Youth.” He was a member of Rotary for more than 40 years, and served as chairman of the Board of Sutter Delta Medical from 2010–2012. He also served as a Grand Juror in San Mateo County.

found themselves struggling. He was wise and knowledgeable, and was always willing to share his wisdom with others. He loved his wife, his family, and his congregation. His greatest desire was for those around him to truly understand and experience God’s love. He was a true example of Christ and will be greatly missed.

Frank is survived by his wife Judy Griffith, Shawna and Randy Reffner, Franklin Griffith Jr. and Katie and Eric Johnston along with 10 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, brother Fredrick Griffith and sister Linda King.

A celebration of life service will be held on March 11 at 1 p.m. at Calvary Community Church in Knightsen at 3090 Curlew Connex.

Don was a member of the “Family Club” in San Francisco where he made many great friends sitting around the campfire at “The Farm” in Woodside.

Don was a proud third-generation San Franciscan, a lifelong fan of the Giants, Warriors and 30-year season ticket holder of the 49ers. He was always quick with a joke or a story and made friends easily with those he met. Don always had a youthful spirit, and that remained even in his later years. He enjoyed his Friday night poker games and became “one of the guys” with his son’s many friends. When his boys were growing up, he always found time to coach their baseball and basketball teams with more wins than losses.

Don was preceded in death by his wife Evelyn. Don was married to Geraldine (deceased in 2006), the mother of his three boys, from 1961–1981. Don is survived by his brother George, sons Kevin, John and Tim, stepdaughter Debra, stepson Gary, 10 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.

Don was a faithful Catholic and a parishioner of Immaculate Heart of Mary in Brentwood.

The family would like to thank the medical personnel at Sutter Delta for their great care, and in particular Dr. Matthew Lucero, his primary care physician for many years.

A funeral service will be held Feb. 27 at 10:30 a.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary in Brentwood.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the National Kidney Foundation, American Kidney Fund or a charity of your choice.

Hometown SportS

Late run not enough in Liberty Lions’ loss

By Juan Cebreiros Correspondent

The Liberty Lions lost 62-57 in their quarterfinal playoff match against the California Grizzlies in the North Coast Section boys basketball playoffs at California High School. What Liberty coach Jon Heinz labeled as a possibly questionable traveling call late in the fourth quarter might have cost the Lions a come-from-behind victory. But the loss ends the Lions’ playoff run as they finish their season 22-6.

“We came out flat, our rotations were awful in our press, we were missing layups and we just didn’t play well,” Heinz said on the Lions’ loss on Feb. 17.

The Lions scored just eight points in the first quarter and found themselves in a 19-8 hole after the opening quarter that they spent the entirety of the game trying to dig themselves out of it. Senior Grizzly guards Damarcus Collins and Amari Gray were a thorn in Liberty’s side all game long as the guard pair combined for 42 points

Heinz said it was frustrating to even have to play their game against the Grizzlies on the road. California holds a 19-10 record on the season while the Lions finished 3.5 games better but still received a lower seed.

“We shouldn’t be playing out here today; we should be playing in Brentwood. We did what we should’ve to have this game at home. It’s just frustrating,” Heinz said.

Liberty did not shoot the ball well throughout the game with the team going through several minutes without making a shot in some instances.

“We missed layup after layup, so many of our shots went in-and-out and they just were not dropping,” Heinz said about his offense’s struggle to score during some parts of the game.

Despite all of that, the Lions managed to go on a run to end the half and cut the California lead from 11 to six points. However, coming out of the halftime break, the Lions’ offense went cold again. The Grizzlies stormed out in the second half, extending their lead to 15 points at one point. Heinz called a timeout with about three minutes to play in the third quarter, and it was the break the Lions needed to get back in the game.

Liberty went on a 10-2 run to end the quarter and cut to the lead to 47-40 entering the final quarter. The Lions had eight minutes to overcome a seven-point deficit to keep their playoff run alive.

The Lions defense had managed to tighten up for the first time all game and managed to string together consecutive stops as the team continued to crawl their way back in the game. With under three minutes remaining, Liberty had cut the lead to just two – 54-52. Looking to tie the game, junior guard Tano Montez caught a pass while cutting to the basket but the referees called traveling, which ultimately killed the momentum the Lions were riding during their comeback.

Montez was called for traveling in two other instances earlier in the game. “I think one of the three were legit travels,” Heinz said.

East County girls 2-1 in first round of playoffs

By Matt Schwab Correspondent

East County girls soccer teams had a 2-1 record against East Bay Athletic League opponents in the first round of the North Coast Section Division I playoffs last week.

Heritage, seeded 14th, rallied to beat No. 3 Amador Valley 2-1 in Pleasanton, on goals from Leah Guerrero and Macie Jarquin as the Patriots earned a trip to the NCS quarterfinals for the third consecutive time.

Freedom, the unbeaten BVAL champion and No. 8 seed, played inspired soccer in a 2-1 win over visiting No. 9 Foothill on a goal by freshman defender Mariann Romero in sudden-death overtime.

Liberty, seeded 15th, received a tough draw and lost to No. 2 San Ramon Valley 3-0 in the first round in Danville. So, it was a heady opening night for East County squads.

“Hats off to Heritage and Freedom who both won (in the first round),” Liberty coach Nikki Toeaina said of the BVAL’s show of force. “… I think that’s great to see Freedom and Heritage go on to the quarterfinals.”

However, the Patriots and Falcons ran into tough opponents in Saturday’s NCS quarterfinals. No. 1 seed and defending champion Carondelet beat Freedom 5-0, and No. 6 California bested the Patriots 2-0, to end their seasons.

On Freedom’s winning goal against Foothill in the first overtime period, Romero launched a free kick of 20-25 yards over the keeper’s head into the net

to touch off a celebration.

“She just dropped it in far post … It was nice,” Freedom head coach Matt Oliveri recalled.

Oliveri was thrilled with the effort in an all-Falcons battle.

“The EBAL always gets a lot of respect, so it’s kind of good we beat a team from a top league like that,” he said. “Our little schools out here, people don’t always give us the credit, so it’s always good to beat a bigger school like that, especially in the playoffs and having a home game.”

Here’s a look at the local teams: FREEDOM (13-3-3, 8-0-2): The accomplishments came in bunches for the Falcons this season … first BVAL championship since 2012 … unbeaten in league (8-0-2) … first home playoff game since 2012 … first home playoff win since 2012 … back-toback wins over Liberty and Heritage.

What’s the secret sauce? Team unity has been key, the coach said..

“They spend a lot of time together, a lot of team dinners and stuff,” Oliveri says of his players. “They’re just really close, they’re really tight as a team and that helps our play on the field as well.”

Against Foothill, Freedom went up 1-0 on a goal by senior scoring leader Carly Singleton, but Freedom missed a penalty kick, and Foothill tied it to force overtime. That set the stage for Romero.

Singleton and freshman Eliana Lawrence led the offense in scoring overall, but the adage “defense wins championships”

fit with Freedom. The back line of Alexa Rodriguez, Romero, Brooklyn Pierce and Gabby Mendez, along with keeper Lauren Zamora, has been stout.

“Our defense really leads the way. They don’t really get the credit as the defenders because everybody looks at the midfielders and forwards as the goal scorers, but our back four with our goalie, they’ve come up big for us the whole year.”

HERITAGE (8-6-3, 7-1-2): The Patriots, who qualified for NCS for the 13th consecutive season, finished league play with a 1-0 win over rival Liberty. Jaelina Hernandez scored the game winner, and keeper Isabella Geloa posted a shutout. Next came the victory over Amador Valley, an opportunistic effort for the Patriots.

After playing a demanding non-league schedule, the Patriots really got rolling in the second half of the season, winning six in a row before the loss to California in the playoffs.

Jasmine Staples, Isabella Tognolini and Karlee Lywandowski were key scoring threats.

LIBERTY (8-8-3, 6-2-2): Second-year head coach Nikki Toeaina says the team had moments when it played “great soccer, but it just wasn’t enough.”

Toward the end of the season, Toeaina saw progress in key aspects of the Lions’ play.

Senior captain Jadynn King played a go-to role all season, including scoring a big late goal in a 1-0 non-league win over Berkeley, which helped secure an NCS berth.

“She’s just a great example through her work ethic in training, and in games she just goes all out every time she puts her feet to the field. She gets after it,” the coach said of King.

Junior striker Payton Hoover, who was lost to an ankle injury late in the season — a blow to Liberty’s chances against Heritage, Freedom, and San Ramon Valley — and speedy, versatile sophomore Selah Simms were standouts.

The Lions (8-8-3), two-time NCS Division I soccer champions, in 2015 and 2017, always challenge themselves against a schedule of winning teams.

“We go out there to play the best, we seek to play the best, and every team that was a non-league game, all of those teams made it to NCS,” the coach said. “… Nothing is easy. We never want to make it easy for our players.”

Toeaina is a former assistant at Liberty under successful head coach Tony Martins. She considers Martins a “great mentor as a coach. I learned a lot from him.”

But Martins remains connected to the program. His daughter, Karly, is a freshman on the Liberty team who fought off ankle and back injuries to contribute as a starter down the stretch.

The playoff season for the Liberty Lions came to a close on Feb. 17 after an NCS quarterfinal loss to the California Grizzlies.

Photo by Juan Cebreiros

An all-American grows in Brentwood

Heritage High senior Muse chosen to play for McDonald’s team

By Nate Smith Correspondent

BRENTWOOD Heritage High School girls basketball player Amanda Muse became a pioneer for the Liberty Union High School District recently, when she became the first district basketball player to get selected as a McDonald’s All-American.

Muse, a senior, was selected from more than 700 high school basketball players nominated across the country for the chance to suit up in the 2023 McDonald’s All American Games next month. The games have been in existence since 1977. Muse not only became the first player ever selected from the school district -- which is composed of Heritage, Liberty and Freedom -- but also the first player selected from the Bay Valley Athletic League since Deer Valley’s Marcus Lee was selected in 2013. Lee went on to play for the University of Kentucky; Muse is bound for UCLA.

Muse, who is averaging 15 points, 12 rebounds and four blocks per game, has also reached a few other career milestones during her senior season. Despite losing nearly all of her sophomore season and a half-dozen games of her junior season, she has topped the 1,000-point mark for her career, recently went over 250 blocks in her career and is closing in on 750 rebounds.

She also sits third in career scoring for the girls water polo program, having also topped the 100-goal mark for her career. Now, she will head to Houston in late March to compete as a member of the 12-person West team. Twenty-four girls were selected from across the country, and the

game is part of a doubleheader with the boys team, which also recognizes the top 24 seniors in the nation.

“I am beyond honored and grateful to be recognized as an All American, and I am proud of all the work I have put in to get here,” Muse said. “I could not have done it without my incredible support system, including my parents and siblings, coaches, teammates and teachers.”

Muse has been a first-team All-BVAL selection in each of her high school seasons, and was also the 2022 BVAL MVP. In addition, she was a two-time first-team All-BVAL selection in water polo. So far this season, she has led the Patriots to a 20-4 overall record and an 8-0 mark in league play.

“Amanda is reaping the benefits of all her hard work and extra hours in the gym which she has put in,” added

Heritage coach Mark Hurtado. “I have known this young lady for the past 12 years, and it has been a pleasure being her coach. She is as solid as it gets both on and off the court. She will only continue to get better and I look forward to following her successes at the collegiate level.”

Muse’s totals could easily be more were it not for the one-sided scores of many league games this season. In eight league games, the Patriots have won six of them by 30 or more points, with the entire roster often contributing to the final score. Against the team’s best competition, Muse has put forth some of her best performances. That includes 24 points, 14 rebounds, five blocks against NorCal-ranked Pleasant Valley-Chico, 22 points 23 rebounds, and five blocks against statewide power Oakland Tech, and recently 19 points, 17 rebounds, and five blocks in a win over Maria Carrillo-Santa Rosa. Overall, she has 16 double-doubles and one triple-double this season. Her continued dominance and work ethic is not lost on her own family, which has its own history in the sport, as parents Doug and Amy both played collegiately, and older sister Abby just became the all-time leader in blocks at Boise State University.

“Being named a McDonald’s All American is a tremendous achievement and honor for Amanda, and our whole family could not be more proud. She has worked so hard to get to this point,” said Amanda’s mom, Amy. “The amazing coaches and teammates she has had the privilege to play for and with have definitely helped mold her into the player and person that she is, and her unmatched work ethic has pushed her to achieve her goals. We cannot wait to see what the future holds for her.”

The McDonald’s All American Games will be at the Toyota Center in Houston on March 28, just days before the NCAA Final Four. The girls game will air on ESPN2 at 3:30 p.m. PST.

Editor’s note: Nate Smith is athletic director at Heritage High School.

Freedom boys soccer gets financial boost

By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer

OAKLEY The Freedom High boys’ soccer program received a huge boost to the program off the field during their 5-0 Senior Night win over Antioch on Feb. 8.

During halftime, the Falcons were awarded the annual Hazyl Diaz Scholarship for the Arts from The We Get It Foundation for $8,200.

“We found out that they flyer in the special education department and ensure that special education kids are able to have the same opportunities as the general education kids, and we like that,” We Get It Foundation CEO Elizabeth LaVasse said.

“And then speaking a little bit with a couple of the players and families that happen to be friends of We Get It, we found out that every single player on that team is an A and B student. They’re just working incredibly hard to stay on this team and do something with their lives, so we thought that was really important to us.”

The Falcons’ boys soccer team will wear a small patch on their sleeve bearing Hazyl Diaz’s name for the rest of the season to commemorate receiving the scholarship.

“It was such an amazing surprise,” head coach Sal Acevedo said. “It was one of those things that was a little surreal. It feels like we won the lottery.”

Hazyl Diaz was a soccer fan and player throughout his childhood and high school. He was also a DJ and a mixed martial artist focused on jujitsu who was diagnosed with ADHD as a child. He died in October of 2021 at the age of 31. He would play on the field at Freedom from time to time.

The scholarship bearing his name awards grants to institutions that help students learn how to play musical instruments or disc jockey training, along

with helping the students purchase either instruments or DJ equipment, along with grants towards martial arts training and soccer teams.

Last year, the foundation awarded a $500 scholarship to Antioch’s Andre White for martial arts lessons and a $700 award to Riley Purcell for an electronic drum set along with eight weeks of lessons. However, last year they didn’t give an award to a soccer team, which led to Freedom getting the scholarship to start the year.

“(Diaz) believed that everyone should have opportunities everywhere,” LaVasse said.

For a soccer team specifically, the scholarship is used toward purchasing equipment or uniforms. The foundation provides the sleeve patches for the team to wear for the rest of the season, according to a press release.

“From time to time, we get a $50 donation, $100 here and there,” Acevedo explained. “Most of the funds that we have is because we have to do fundraisers, or our athletic department would allocate a little bit of money here and there.”

According to Acevedo, the Freedom High School athletic department donated $60 to the boys soccer program last year.

“In high school, the football teams bring in the most money because their games are full of fans and they bring in a lot of money. So fairly enough, they get a lot of money allocated to their program,” Acevedo said. “We get fans out to our games, but it doesn’t compare, so the athletic department will allocate a little money to the other programs, but it’s really a small amount.”

The We Get It Foundation has more awards planned to give out this year after Freedom’s big award.

The Freedom High boys soccer team was awarded the Hazyl Diaz scholarship by the Diaz family during halftime of their senior night game vs. Antioch on Feb. 8.

Photo courtesy of The We Get It Foundation

Hunter Cross of Discovery Bay advanced to 13th place, but didn’t qualify for the main event at the recent Supercross race in Oakland.

Submitted photo

Discovery Bay Supercross racer places at Oakland event

By Mike Subocz Correspondent

Round 2 of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Series at RingCentral Coliseum in Oakland took place on Feb. 18. This is one round of the 17 race AMA Supercross Championship series. Hunter Cross, a Discovery Bay Supercross racer, was eager to earn some championship points in the highly competitive 250SX West division.

Cross qualified 32nd out of 43 total 250SX racers and made it into the night’s program, which is respectable. The 40 riders were split into 2 separate heat races of 20 riders each.Cross was seeded into Heat 1.

Cross, who just turned 20, raced to a 19th position after the quick five-lap sprint to the finish on his KTM 250 SX-F machine.

Cross had the 20th gate pick out of 22

racers and was forced to gate on the outside, farthest away from the short start straight into the tight left turn. The backwards falling gate dropped and Cross got a good jump off the line accelerating fast towards the first turn. He was squeezed to the far outside of the turn and was forced to brake hard. Despite the less than stellar initial position, Cross worked his way up to 13th position and didn’t qualify for the main event; only the top four finishers made the main in the LCQ. The experience was vital to learn what he needs to work on, especially the super long whoop sections. This is Cross’s rookie season, and after four rounds, he has 4 points towards the 250SX West championship series. There are five rounds to go..

The top three finishers were: Jett Lawrence, Rj Hampshire, followed by Cameron Mcadoo.

Publication Date: March 10, 2023 Deadline for space reservation: Feb. 28, 2023

925-634-1441

Cop logs

A case of defrauding an innkeeper was reported on Balfour Road. The reporting party had a group of four diners who walked out on their bill.

BRENTWOOD – Feb. 4, 10:32 p.m

The following is a selection of recent law enforcement activity:

OAKLEY

Feb. 3, 2:17 a.m. A case of theft was reported at the 5000 block on Kelsey Lane.

Feb. 3, 9:11 a.m. A civil disturbance was reported at the 3800 block on Marsh Way.

Feb. 3, 10:31 a.m. An abandoned vehicle was reported on Lakespring Drive/Walnut Meadows Drive.

Feb. 3, 11:32 a.m. A civil disturbance was reported at the 500 block on Brownstone Road.

Feb. 3, 12:16 p.m. A civil disturbance was reported at the 700 block on Calico Way.

Feb. 3, 2:23 p.m. An abandoned vehicle was reported on Teakwood Drive/Main Street.

Feb. 3, 3:05 p.m. A case of identity theft was reported at the Oakley Police Department.

Feb. 3, 3:32 p.m. A welfare check was conducted at the 1700 block on Ponderosa Drive.

Feb. 3, 3:59 p.m. A civil disturbance was reported at the 1200 block on Sierra Trail Road.

Feb. 3, 4:06 p.m. An abandoned vehicle was reported at the 200 block on Robinwood Avenue.

Feb. 3, 4:19 p.m. A civil disturbance was reported at the Oakley Police Department.

Feb. 3, 5:31 p.m. A reckless driver was reported on Mammouth Lane/Big Bear Road.

Feb. 3, 7:20 p.m. A welfare check was conducted at the 4400 block on Fall Lane.

Feb. 3, 10:24 p.m. A traffic stop was conducted on Bethel Island Road/E. Cypress Road.

Feb. 3, 10:28 p.m. A traffic stop was conducted on Bethel Island Road/E. Cypress Road.

Feb. 4, 1:54 a.m. A misdemeanor DUI was reported on Empire Avenue/W. Cypress Road.

Feb. 4, 2:36 a.m. A trespasser was reported at the 1700 block on Ponderosa Drive.

Feb. 4, 7:29 a.m. A suspicious vehicle was reported on Jersey Island Bridge.

Feb. 4, 7:47 a.m. An arrest warrant was served at the Chevron Station in Oakley.

Feb. 4, 9:30 a.m. A case of vandalism was reported at the 100 block on Francisco Villa Drive.

Feb. 4, 9:39 a.m. A welfare check was conducted at the 4400 block on Fall Lane.

Feb. 4, 10:21 a.m. A civil disturbance was reported at the 400 block on Sonnett Court.

Feb. 4, 10:24 a.m. A petty theft was reported at Freedom High School.

Feb. 4, 11:47 a.m. A case of vandalism was reported at the 1000 block on Covered Wagon Drive.

Feb. 4, 12:52 p.m. A domestic disturbance was reported at the 1600 block on Pecan Lane.

Feb. 4, 1:09 a.m. A civil disturbance was reported at the 4400 block on Fall Lane.

Feb. 4, 2:26 p.m. A civil disturbance was reported at the 200 block on E. Cypress Road.

Feb. 4, 3:01 p.m. Suspicious circumstances were reported on Main Street/O’Hara Avenue.

Feb. 4, 3:16 p.m. A vehicle theft was reported at the 3800 block on Harvest Circle.

Feb. 4, 3:36 p.m. A civil disturbance was reported at the 200 block on E. Cypress Road.

Feb. 4, 4:17 p.m. A suspicious vehicle was stopped at the Grocery Outlet in Oakley.

Feb. 4, 4:55 p.m. A reckless driver was reported on Carpenter Drive/Simoni Ranch Road.

Feb. 4, 5:08 p.m. A case of vandalism was reported at the 100 block on Francisco Villa Drive.

Feb. 4, 5:56 p.m. A trespasser was reported at the 1700 block on Ponderosa Drive.

Feb. 4, 9:20 p.m. A case of vandalism was reported at the 800 block on Foremost Drive.

BRENTWOOD

Feb. 3, 3:03 a.m. A person brandishing a weapon was reported on Corte Vista Street. The reporting party states that three males were breaking into her vehicle. The reporting party’s neighbor went out to confront them and one of them pulled out a handgun and told her to go back inside her house.

Feb. 3, 8:04 a.m. An accident with major injuries was reported on Spruce Street. A vehicle crashed into the side of the house and a child was injured.

Feb. 3, 9:08 a.m. A case of forgery/fraud was reported on Shady Willow Lane. The reporting party’s EBT card was used in Sacramento, despite her still having the card.

Feb. 3, 10:37 a.m. A commercial burglary was reported on Balfour Road. The reporting party found deposits missing.

Please consider contributing to The Press. For just a few bucks, you can help us keep delivering the news.

Feb. 3, 11:23 a.m. A case of identity theft was reported on Camel Back Road. The reporting party says her EBT card was hacked and $440 was taken.

Feb. 3, 12:40 p.m. A case of disturbing the peace was reported on Balfour Road.

Feb. 3, 2:21 p.m. A juvenile complaint was reported on City Park Way.

Feb. 3, 2:35 p.m. A hit and run with no injuries was reported on Lone Tree Way. The reporting party says their cousin hit their truck and walked away from the incident.

Feb. 3, 2:40 p.m. A case of forgery/fraud was reported on La Fonte Drive. The reporting party says their debit card was used to purchase $199 worth of CBD oil.

Feb. 3, 3:18 p.m. A petty theft was reported on Lone Tree Way.

Feb. 3, 4:17 p.m. A harassment complaint was reported on Landover Court.

Feb. 3, 5:00 p.m. A petty theft was reported on Meadowgate Way. The front license plate was missing.

Feb. 3, 7:32 p.m. A case of forgery/fraud was reported on Lone Tree Way.

Feb. 3, 9:21 p.m. A case of petty theft was reported on Wexford Street.

Feb. 4, 7:21 a.m. A burglary from a vehicle was reported on Trinity Place.

Feb. 4, 7:29 a.m. A fire was reported on Brentwood Boulevard.

Feb. 4, 8:57 a.m. A threats complaint was reported on First Street. Threats were made by the reporting party’s ex-husband.

Feb. 4, 9:21 a.m. A verbal dispute was reported on Lynn Drive.

Feb. 4, 11:36 a.m. A burglary from a vehicle was reported on Mountain View Drive.

Feb. 4, 11:55 a.m. A case of forgery/fraud was reported on Downie Point Drive. The reporting party’s EBT card was used in San Mateo, where they had it on their person.

Feb. 4, 2:55 p.m. A fight was reported on City Park Way. Two juveniles were fighting.

Feb. 4, 3:14 p.m. An accident with minor injuries was reported on Sims Road/ Brentwood Boulevard. The reporting party was rear ended, was unable to move their vehicle and was bleeding from their head.

Feb. 4, 6:08 p.m. A verbal dispute was reported on Village Drive.

Feb. 4, 6:14 p.m. A petty theft was reported on Lone Tree Way.

Feb. 4, 10:32 p.m. A case of defrauding an innkeeper was reported on Balfour Road. The reporting party had a group of four diners who walked out on their bill.

ANTIOCH

Feb. 5, 2:21 a.m. A traffic accident with no injuries was reported at the 5600 block on Banteer Way.

Feb. 5, 8:24 a.m. A drunk driver was reported at the 2400 block on Taylor Way.

Feb. 5, 8:27 a.m. A commercial burglary was reported at the 4600 block on Golf Course Road.

Feb. 5, 9:50 a.m. A case of vandalism was reported at the 800 block on W. 4th Street.

Feb. 5, 9:54 a.m. A hit and run with no injuries was reported on Garrow Drive/ Mountaire Drive.

Feb. 5, 10:37 a.m. An unwanted guest was reported at the 500 block on E. 18th Street.

Feb. 5, 11:11 a.m. A trespasser was reported at the 5300 block on Fairside Way.

Feb. 5, 11:55 a.m. A commercial burglary was reported at the 4100 block on Lone Tree Way.

Feb. 5, 2:04 p.m. A petty theft was reported at the 4400 block on Lone Tree Way.

Feb. 5, 3:16 p.m. A simple assault was reported at the 2700 block on Lone Tree Way.

Feb. 5, 3:45 p.m. A petty theft was reported at the 5700 block on Lone Tree Way.

Feb. 5, 5:07 p.m. A weapons violation was reported at the 1400 block on Mellissa Circle.

Feb. 5, 5:34 p.m. A petty theft was reported at the 5700 block on Lone Tree Way.

Feb. 5, 6:02 p.m. A residential burglary was reported at the 2900 block on Rio Grande Drive.

Feb. 5, 8:17 p.m. A missing person was reported at the 1200 block on August Way.

Feb. 6, 12:30 a.m. An armed robbery was reported at the 3100 block on Milner Road.

Feb. 6, 12:48 a.m. An armed robbery was reported at the 700 block W 9th Street.

Feb. 6, 2:23 a.m. A welfare check was reported at the 2300 block on Whitetail Drive.

Feb. 6, 5:22 a.m. A simple assault was reported at the 200 block on Fulton Shipyard Road.

Feb. 6, 8:29 a.m. A vehicle theft was reported at the 0 block on Madrid Lane.

Feb. 6, 8:52 a.m. A suspicious vehicle was stopped at the 2100 block on Lindberg Street.

Feb. 6, 9:01 a.m. A petty theft was reported at the 4700 block on Matterhorn Court.

Feb. 6, 1:03 p.m. A case of fraud was reported at the 300 block on L Street.

Feb. 6, 1:41 p.m. A vehicle theft was reported at the 300 block on L Street.

Feb. 6, 3:33 p.m. A simple assault was reported on Deer Valley Road/Carpinteria Drive.

Feb. 6, 3:54 p.m. A collision with no injuries was reported at the 2700 block on W. Tregallas Road.

Feb. 6, 4:40 p.m. A simple assault was reported at the 2700 block on Dolores Street.

Feb. 6, 6:59 p.m. A missing person was reported at the 1000 block of Stonecrest Drive.

Feb. 6, 7:10 p.m. A traffic accident with injuries was reported on Delta Fair Boulevard/Buchanan Road

Feb. 6, 9:01 p.m. A simple assault was reported at the 3900 block on Lone Tree Way.

Quality service, competitive prices and reliability are just a few of the reasons customers of RB Handyman Services recommend the locally-owned company for all their home remodeling jobs – big or small. Just check out the reviews on Yelp and you’ll see that RB Handyman Services has a reputation for standing behind their work, providing a positive, experience and offering only topnotch quality products and craftsmanship. If you’ve got a residential or light industrial project in your future, RB Handyman Services is the company to call.

Jobs Jobs

MULTIMEDIA SALES

PERSON

Can

Come help us sell multimedia advertising packages to local business owners! Work close to home in a fast-paced, deadlinedriven environment.

Sales experience a must! Must be very detail-oriented and have proven organizational skills. Salary plus commission, health benefits and 401K. Full time and part time positions available. Send resume to greg@ thepress.net

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT

File No. F- 2022-0007057 The name of the business(es): Richmond Pallet Company Located at: 146 South 1st Street In: Richmond CA 94804, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Florencio Perez Jr. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 07/02/2010.

Signature of registrant: Florencio Perez Jr, Owner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: December 27, 2022 by Deputy Clerk Expires 12/26/2027 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273

Publish Dates: February 3, 10, 17, 24, 2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT

File No. F-2023-0000690 The name of the business(es): Hire Hearts Located at: 3061 Browning Court In: Brentwood, CA, 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Jordan Morten. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Kristin B. Connelly, Contra Costa Clerk-Recorder. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 02/06/2023 by Deputy Clerk Expires 02/05/2028 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273

Publish Dates: February 17, 24, March 3, 10, 2023

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

PETITIONER OR ATTORNEY: Phillip Daniel Morillas SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF CONTRA COSTA, 725 Court Street Martinez, CA 94553 PETITION OF: Phillip Daniel Morillas, Phillip Daniel Morillas CASE NUMBER: N23-0131 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner Phillip Daniel Morillas, Phillip Daniel Morillas filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present Name: a. Phillip Daniel Morillas to Proposed Name: a. Ryan Daniel Hurtado. 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING a. Date: 04/17/2023 Time: 9:00 a.m.

Dept.: 30 b. The address of the court is same as noted above. 3. a. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Brentwood Press

Date: January 23 2023 Judge of the Superior Court Brentwood Press Brentwood Press 02-1273

Publish Dates: February 10, 17, 24, March 3, 2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2023-0000855

The name of the business(es): Coco Firearm Training LLC Located at: 174 Willowrun Way In: Oakley, CA 94561 is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Coco Firearm Training LLC. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company, State of Organizati on: CA. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Timothy Trickel, Managing Member. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 02/14/2023 by Deputy Clerk Expires 02/13/2028 Oakley Press No. 03-0477

Publish Dates: February 24, March 3, 10, 17, 2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2023-0000651 The name of the business: IPMS Mount Diablo Located at: 1393 Bynum Way In: Oakley, CA 94561, is hereby registered by the following owner: Stewart, Aaron. This business is conducted by: an Unincorporated Association Other Than a Partnership. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Aaron Stewart, Treasurer. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: February 3, 2023 by Deputy Clerk Expires 02/02/2028 Oakley Press No. 03-0477

Publish Dates: February 10, 17, 24, March 3, 2023

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: KATHLEEN MARIE KELLEY, deceased CASE NUMBER P23-00140

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: KATHLEEN MARIE KELLEY, deceased. A Petition for Probate has been filed by: MATTHEW KELLEY in the Superior Court of California, County of: CONTRA COSTA

The Petition for Probate requests that: MATTHEW KELLEY be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. The petition requests the decedent’s

will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: a.

Date: APRIL 27, 2023 Time: 9:00

AM Dept: 30. b. Address of court: 725 COURT STREET, ROOM 103, MARTINEZ, CALIFORNIA 94553. If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters a general personal representative as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner: Aaron B. Smith

*BRENTWOOD PRESS* 02-1273

Publish Dates: February 10, 17, 24, 2023

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: ROBERT EDWARD LIPTACK, deceased CASE NUMBER P22-01907

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: ROBERT EDWARD LIPTACK deceased. A Petition for Probate has been filed by: DENNIS

MCLAUGHLIN in the Superior Court of California, County of: CONTRA COSTA

The Petition for Probate requests that: DENNIS MCLAUGHLIN be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. The petition requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: a.

Date: MARCH 30 2023 Time: 9:00

AM Dept: DEPT 15. b. Address of court: 725 COURT STREET, MARTINEZ CA 94553

If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters a general personal representative as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner: Diana Lopez 1990 N. California Blvd. Suite 1020 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 925-644-7905

*ANTIOCH PRESS* 06-1617

Publish Dates: February 3, 10, 17, 24, 2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT

File No. F-2023-0000611 The name of the business: Goat Glass Located at: 3099 Hudson Dr. In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): John James Karmann. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: John Karmann, Owner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: February 1, 2023 by Deputy Clerk Expires 1/31/2028 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 89938 Publish dates: February 17, 24, March 3, 10, 2023.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT

File No. F-2023-000395 The name of the business(es): Brentwood Financial Organizers Located at: 1369 Stonehaven Dr. In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner: Perry Chicaine. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Perry Chicaine, Owner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: January 24, 2023 by Deputy Clerk Expires 01/23/2028 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 89851 Publish dates: February 3,10,17, 24, 2023.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the City Council of the City of Brentwood will hold a public hearing at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the normal course of business permits, on February 28, 2023, to consider the following matters:

A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Brentwood amending the 2022/23 Cost Allocation Plan and Schedule of City Fees to adopt, change and eliminate certain permitting fees; and finding that the proposed amendments do not constitute a project for the purposes of the California Environmental Quality Act

Further information or viewable copies of the draft plan and proposed new fees may be obtained from the City Clerk’s office at City Hall, 150 City Park Way, Brentwood, California 94513 (925) 5165400. If you challenge any City Council action in court regarding this matter, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City Council at, or prior to, the public hearing.

How to View and Participate

The public is invited to participate in the City Council meeting and offer comments of up to 3 minutes (or as may otherwise be determined by the Council) using any of the following methods:

1. In Person:

Members of the public can provide in-person comments in the Council Chambers. Members of the public are encouraged, but not required, to fill out a speaker card. The Council Chambers will have seating available for members of the public to attend in person up to full seating capacity.

2. Remote:

a. Zoom: www.brentwoodca.gov/vcc or Zoom Webinar ID: 760 1397 0037

b. Zoom Phone Numbers. Dial Toll Free: (833) 548-0276 or (833) 548-0282 or (877) 853-5247.

c. During the meeting, each period for public comment will be announced, and participants may use the “Raise Hand” feature on Zoom to request to speak. If calling in via Zoom use *9 to raise and lower your hand. The meeting host will call on you, by name, and enable your microphone when it is your turn to speak. In order to ensure the orderly administration of the meeting using this method, providing your name is encouraged, but is not required. (If you need instructions on how to use this feature, please contact the City Clerk by noon of the meeting date at cityclerk@ brentwoodca.gov or 925.516.5182.)

3. E-Mail

a. Public comments can also be submitted via e-mail to cityclerk@brentwoodca.gov. Any public comments received up until 3:00 p.m. of the meeting date

will be:

1. distributed to the Council via email before the meeting,

2. posted online for public inspection at https://www.brentwoodca.gov/councilmeetingonline, and 3. later summarized in the meeting minutes.

b. As e-mails containing public meeting comments are part of the official record, note that personal contact information may be published if it is included with your e-mail.

4. To Watch or Listen Only

The public may view the meeting via one-way video feed by selecting the video option at the City Council Agendas’ link on the City webpage at www. brentwoodca.gov or via the City’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube. com/c/cityofbrentwoodca

The City cannot guarantee that its network, website, and/or the virtual access system will be uninterrupted. To ensure the City Council receives your comments prior to taking action, you are strongly encouraged to submit them in advance of the meeting if you plan to participate remotely. As e-mails containing public meeting comments are part of the official record, note that personal contact information (potentially including email addresses) may be published if it is included with your e-mail. In addition, any other disclosable public records related to an agenda item for the open session of this meeting distributed to all or a majority of the City Council less than 72 hours before any meeting will be made available online shortly thereafter. Dated: February 17, 2023, February 24, 2023

Margaret Wimberly, City Clerk Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 90004

Publish Dates: February 17, 24, 2023.

ORDINANCE 1053

AMENDING SECTION 2.48.020 OF THE BRENTWOOD MUNICIPAL CODE PERTAINING TO THE APPOINTMENT PROCESS FOR ARTS COMMISSIONERS. THE FOREGOING ORDINANCE was introduced with the first reading waived at a regular meeting of the Brentwood City Council on the 24th day of January 2023, by the following vote:

AYES: Mendoza, Meyer, Oerlemans, Pierson, and Mayor Bryant

NOES: None

ABSENT: None

RECUSED: None

And was adopted at a regular meeting of the Brentwood City Council on the 14th of February, 2023 by the following vote:

AYES:Mendoza, Meyer, Oerlemans, Pierson, and Mayor Bryant

NOES: None ABSENT: None RECUSE: None

ATTEST: Margaret Wimberly, MMC City Clerk

The above is a summary of the major highlights of the ordinances; reading the ordinances in its entirety may be necessary to obtain a full understating of all changes. A copy of the full text of the ordinances is on file and may be read in the City Clerk’s office located at 150 City Park Way, Brentwood, and/or a copy may be obtained from that office based on the City’s actual cost for duplicating. Brentwood Press No. 021273 90040 Publish Dates: February 24, 2023.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2023-0000392 The name of the business(es): Dedicated Carpet

Cleaning Located at: 4433 Mare Ct. In: Antioch, CA 94531, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Mihret B. Yeshewas. This business is conducted by:

gent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: Michael W Wells, deceased. A Petition for Probate has been filed by: Edmond Sebra in the Superior Court of California, County of: CONTRA COSTA. The Petition for Probate requests that: Edmond Sebra be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. The petition requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: a. Date: 6/1/2023

Time: 9:00 a.m. Dept: 15. b. Address of court: 725 Court Street, Martinez, CA 94553. If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters a general personal representative as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Petitioner: Peter Cianchetta

3125 Dwight Road, Suite 300 Elk Grove, CA 95758 916-685-7878

Antioch Press No. 06-1617 90006

Publish Dates: February 17, 24, March 3, 2023.\cs2

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Self-storage unit contents of the following customers containing household and other goods will be sold for cash by CubeSmart to satisfy a lien on March 9, 2023 at approx. 01:00 PM at CubeSmart #5975, 1790 Vineyard Drive, Antioch CA 94509, (925) 5264580: Courtney Petersen, Darryl Crane, Dannan Cherry, Denzel Daniel, Elias Espinosa, Antonio Torrez, Eric Roy, Ciara Turner. Antioch Press No. 06-1617 90023 Publish Dates: February 24, March 3, 2023.

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

PETITIONER OR ATTORNEY: La Netta Davis SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF CONTRA COSTA, 725 Court Street Martinez, CA 94553 PETITION OF: Nye’Yuri Davis-Glaspie CASE

NUMBER: N23-0150 TO ALL IN-

TERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner La Netta Davis (mother) filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present Name: a. Nye’Yuri Ayume Dior Davis-Glaspie to Proposed Name: Nye’Yuri Ayume Dior Davis. 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING a. Date: 04/17/2023 Time: 9:00 a.m. Dept.: 30 b. The address of the court is same as noted above.

3. a. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in

the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Brentwood Press Date: 01/24/2023 Judge of the Superior Court Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 89855 Publish Dates: February 3,10, 17, 24, 2023.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2023-0000089 The name of the business: Meyer Business Solutions Located at: 3130 Balfour Rd, Suite D #133 In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner: Meyer Business Solutions LLC This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company, State of Organization: CA. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Raquel Meyer, CEO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: January 6, 2023 by Deputy Clerk. Expires 01/05/2028 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 89916 Publish dates: February 10, 17, 24, March 3, 2023.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT

File No. F-2023-0000235 The name of the business: City Smoke Shop Located at: 1185 2nd Street Suite H In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Wajdan Saleh Mohamed. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 01/01/2023.

Signature of registrant: Wajdan S Mohamed, Owner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: January 13, 2023 by Deputy Clerk Expires 01/12/2028 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 89856 Publish dates: February 3, 10, 17, 24, 2023.

NOTICE OF LIEN SALE

The following property 2015 TOYOTA VNKKTUD36FA032232 7YSE910 will be sold on 02/23/2023 at 3995 OAKLEY RD, ANTIOCH CA, 94509 at 10:00AM. Antioch Press No. 06-1617 89947 Publish Dates: February 10, 2023.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT

File No. F-2023-0000400 The name of the business: Fullysuited Kennels Located at: 528 Taylor Dr. In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owners: 1. Ron Stamper 2. Dan Sheppard. This business is conducted by: Copartners. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Ron Stamper, Co-owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: January 24, 2023 by Deputy Clerk Expires 01/23/2028 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 89937

Publish dates: February 17, 24, March 3, 10 , 2023.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT

File No. F-2023-0000450 The name of the business(es):

1. Byron Inn Storage Co

2. Byron Inn Cafe

3. Byron Inn Cafe - Original

4. Byron Cafe

5. Byron Properties

6. Venhaus & Assoc’s

istrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 01/01/2023.

Signature of registrant: David Gurman, Owner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: January 27, 2023 by Deputy Clerk Expires 01/26/2028 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 89922 Publish dates: February 10, 17, 24, March 3, 2023.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2023-0000517 The name of the business: Pink Leopard Stitch Studio Located at: 1203 Dainty Ave In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): 1. Lauren Nicole Regan 2. Kelly Ray Parker. This business is conducted by: Copartners. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: LAUREN NICOLE REGAN, PARTNER. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: January 27, 2023 by Deputy Clerk Expires 01/26/2028 Brentwood Press No. 021273 89921 Publish dates: February 10, 17, 24, March 3, 2023.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2023-0000700 The name of the business: Bridez & Groomz Masterpieces TM Located at: 801 W. 10th Street In: Antioch, CA 94509, is hereby registered by the following owner: Mark Richard Lemoslima. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 2/6/2023. Signature of registrant: Mark Lemoslima, Owner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: February 6, 2023 by Deputy Clerk Expires 2/5/2028 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 89939 Publish dates: February 17, 24, March 3, 10, 2023.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2023-0000750 The name of the business(es): High Vibe Logistics Located at: 4498 Treat Blvd, #1112 In: Concord, CA 94520, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Sharlita Martinez. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company, State of Organization: CA. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Sharlita Martinez, CEO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: February 8, 2023 by Deputy Clerk Expires 02/07/2028 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 89958 Publish dates: February 17, 24, March 3, 10, 2023.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NOTICE OF LIEN SALE SELF STORAGE AUCTION

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned intends to sell the liened personal property described below, pursuant to the provisions of the California Code of Civil Procedure and the provisions of the California Self-Storage Facilities Act, Business and Professions Code Sections 21700 et seq.

On the 8th day of March 2023, at 10:30 AM, the undersigned will sell the contents of liened storage units by public sale by competitive bidding on the premises where said property has been stored and which are located at Acorn II Self Storage LLC, at 6900 Lone Tree Way, Brentwood, California 94513, Tel. (925) 240-5000 Selfstorage liened units generally include miscellaneous household goods, office or business equipment, furniture, furnishings, clothing, and personal effects. In addition to those general contents, the pre-lien inventory revealed the following described goods:

Names:

Precious Bradford - Flat Screen TV, Appliances, Salon Equipment, Chairs, Clothing, Bed & Bed frame, Shelves, and Clothes

Kristin McBride - Tools, Storage Cabinets, Wood, Mattress & Bed Frame, Armoire, Hobby Equipment, Chairs, and Baby Carrier

Tommy Toy - Auto Parts only, Bikes, Ladders, Tables, Armoire, Office Chair, and Boxes

Martina Gomez - Bikes, Couches, PVC Pipes, Sports/Hobby Equipment, and Boxes

Michael Andrew Sanchez - Shoes, Clothes, and Boxes

John Meza - 11 Various Vending Machines

Bobby Parker - Golf Clubs, Yoga Ball, EZ Up Tent, and Boxes

Ray Hagler Jr.- Lawn Equipment, Drum Sets, Sofa, Pots & Pans, Tools, Hand Truck, Bookcase, and Shoes

Denise Wendt - Heater, Bedroom Furniture, Dresser, Chairs, and Clothes

John Meza - 10 Various Vending Machines

Purchases must be paid for at the time of purchase by cash only. All purchased items sold as-is, where-is, and must be removed at the time of sale. Sale subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. Call ahead to make sure sale is still scheduled. Contraband, or items subject to regulation or registration will not be transferred with the liened unit unless otherwise noted. Dates Published: 02/17/2023 and 02/24/2023 or Cal Storage Auctions, Inc., Bond #7900390179, Tel. (916) 604-9695 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 90003 Publish Dates: February 17, 24, 2023.

NOTICE OF LIEN SALE

SELF STORAGE AUCTION

Frame, Artwork, 10+ Boxes & Bags.

Ana Valadez- Suitcases, Stroller, Headboard, Storage Cabinets, 3+ Boxes Purchases must be paid for at the time of purchase by cash only. All purchased items sold as-is, where-is, and must be removed at the time of sale. Sale subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. Call ahead to make sure sale is still scheduled. Contraband, or items subject to regulation or registration will not be transferred with the liened unit unless otherwise noted.

Dates Published 02/17/2023 and on 02/24/2023 Nor Cal Storage Auctions, Inc., Bond #7900390179, Tel. (916) 604-9695 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 89997

Publish Dates: February 17, 24, 2023.

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: Carlos Clyde Martinez, deceased CASE NUMBER P22-01665

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: Carlos Clyde Martinez, deceased. A Petition for Probate has been filed by: Eugenio Martinez in the Superior Court of California, County of: CONTRA COSTA. The Petition for Probate requests that: Eugenio Martinez be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: a. Date: April 14, 2023

Time: 9:00 a.m. Dept: 30. b. Address of court: 725 Court Street, Martinez, CA 94553. If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned intends to sell the liened personal property described below, pursuant to the provisions of the California Code of Civil Procedure and the provisions of the California Self-Storage Facilities Act, Business and Professions Code Sections 21700 et seq..

7. JC Speciality Auto-Yatchs-Boats Located at: 16141 Byron Hwy In: Byron, CA 94514, is hereby registered by the following owner(s):

1. JC Jim Venhaus

2. Winke Venhaus. This business is conducted by: A Married Couple. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 5/22/2012.

Signature of registrant: JC Jim Venhaus, CEO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: January 25, 2023 by Deputy Clerk Expires 1/24/2028 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 89946 Publish dates: February 10, 17, 24, March 3, 2023.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2023-0000506 The name of the business: Gurman Property Management Located at: 1805 Sauternes Ct. In: Brentwood CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): David Alan Gurman. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The reg-

NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2023-0000767 The name of the business(es): Namo Indian Cuisine Located at: 1740 Monument In: Concord, CA 94520, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): SOALTEE INC This business is conducted by: A Corporation, State of Incorporation: CA The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Milan Adhikari, Secretary. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: February 9, 2023 by Deputy Clerk Expires 02/08/2028 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 89979 Publish dates: February 17, 24, March 3 ,10, 2023.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2023-000614 The name of the business(es): 1. Sha’s 307 Organizing 2. D’Organizer Located at: 2110 San Simeon Ct. In: Antioch, CA 94509, is hereby registered by the following owner: Marsha Pieternelle.

This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 03/09/2018. Signature of registrant: Marsha Pieternelle, Owner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: February 1, 2023 by Deputy Clerk Expires 01/31/2028 Antioch Press No. 06-1617 89919 Publish dates: February 10,17, 24, March 3, 2023.

On the 8th day of March, 2023, at 11:45 A.M., the undersigned will sell the contents of liened storage units by public sale by competitive bidding on the premises where said property has been stored and which are located at Acorn Self Storage LLC, at 5205 Railroad Avenue, Pittsburg, California 94565, Tel. (925) 432-3200

Self-storage liened units generally include miscellaneous household goods, office or business equipment, furniture, furnishings, clothing and personal effects. In addition to those general contents, the pre-lien inventory revealed the following described goods:

Customer Name:

Darwin Alexander- Freezer, Suitcases, Armoire, clothing, fans, 6+ Boxes & Bags.

Celeste Wright- Shelves, Suitcases, DVD’s, Speakers, Clothing, Shoes, Desk, Misc. Table & Chairs, 25+ Boxes & Bags

Kevin Sullivan- Recliner, Cat Tree, Pans, Dresser, Desk, Fans.

Teresa Zamora- Dishes, Pictures, Paintings, Artwork, 20+ Boxes & Bags, Fishing Poles, Vase, Christmas Decorations.

Lelani Williams- Coffee Table, End Table, Lamps, Head Board, Foot Board,

(1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters a general personal representative as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner: Edward Younger 420 Beatrice Court, G1 Brentwood, CA 94513 925-420-4111 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 89967

Publish Dates: February 17, 24, March 3, 2023.

We can help you with all your legal publication needs!

925-634-1441

excise tax will be applied to gross receipts of cannabis or cannabis products in a retail sale. The state significantly overhauled its cannabis tax structure last year, including entirely eliminating a tax on growers, in an effort to boost a struggling legal industry begging for relief. The changes, part of a broader state budget agreement, will also create tax credits for some cannabis businesses, expand labor rights within the industry and switch collection of a state excise tax from distributors to retailers.

According to a July 2022 CalMatters report, “Growers complained that the tax, a flat $10.08 per ounce for flowers, was making it difficult to keep operating as prices tumbled from a glut of weed and not enough dispensaries to sell it. Wholesale prices have dropped by as much as 50% over the past year, particularly squeezing farmers whose outdoor crops sell for less and forcing many smaller operations to close down.”

The state reported last May that 44 percent of cities and counties allow the licensing of at least one cannabis business type, while 56 percent of cities and counties prohibit the licensing of all cannabis business types.

According to their website, “the Continente Family established residency in Oakley, in the early 1900s, the

Space from page 1A

to conserve nature for future generations.”

The Park District was also recently awarded a $300,000 grant from the California State Parks Habitat Conservation Fund for acquisition of the property. Save Mount Diablo also supported the acquisition with a $50,000 contribution toward the initial purchase option.

The original option to purchase the land was due to expire in March. The latest contributions will leave the Park District still $4.4 million short of the total purchase price, Reeves said..

Michael Reeves, the district’s chief of land acquisition, said Tuesday that the district “was very pleased” by the grant award. Reeves added that staff will make a proposal to the district’s Board of Directors at their March 3 meeting to allocate remaining funds from Measure WW to the outstanding purchase price. He noted that available funds from the 2008 Measure WW are sufficient to cover the remaining purchase cost as well as “safety and security” expenses of finalizing absorption into the park district. Measure WW, approved by voters, provided $500 million in bonds to enable the Park District to meet the increasing demand of protecting open space for recreation and wildlife habitat.

The Finley Road Ranch property includes a flat,

Event from page 1A

No action was required of the Planning Commission following Pappani’s presentation, but the commissioners encouraged residents to offer their opinions.

“Tonight’s meeting is just for the purpose of scoping the environmental document,” the assistant city attorney clarified before opening public comments. “We are hoping to hear input from the public on what environmental issues they believe should be included in the document,” adding that it will be considered and on the agenda for another meeting.

A common concern among residents was whether there would be ample parking at the 1,000-seat venue when only 250 parking spots were listed in the plans. Other concerns included trash left behind by attendees and how the noise from concerts would affect nearby neighborhoods

A remote speaker identified only as Kevin, a resident of the Vista Dorado subdivision and the president

same location where we are headquartered today. Our company’s involvement in the food industry traces back to Italy, prior to our ancestors immigrating to the United States. As in Italy, we have been involved in farming and producing various fruits, vegetables and nut products. Over time, we found that we could service our consumer best by specializing in two arenas: the walnut industry as Continente Nut LLC and grapes for the table wine market. The family-run limited partnership of Continente Ranch LP farms 25 acres of grape(s) for its exclusive vendor, Bogle Vineyards.”

The cannabis proposal envisions employing people in the following areas:

• Cultivation: 40

• Processing packaging: 50

• General operations and logistics: 10

• Compliance: 2

• Human resources: 1

• Accounting: 2

• Facility maintenance: 3

• Sales: 20

For more information: https://www.continentecountrystore.com/ To comment, visit www.thepress.net

accessible area that provides the opportunity for a staging area at the entrance to Riggs Canyon, which would significantly improve public access to the property, Morgan Territory Regional Preserve, and adjacent Mount Diablo State Park.

The Finley Road Ranch property includes a flat, accessible area that provides the opportunity for a staging area at the entrance to Riggs Canyon, which would significantly improve public access to the property, Morgan Territory Regional Preserve, and adjacent Mount Diablo State Park.

Seth Adams, the land conservation director at Save Mount Diablo, called the Finley Road Ranch land a “keystone and a top priority for 20 years because it’s the missing piece, a limited opportunity to acquire land buffering the two parks with an ideal location for a new, low elevation staging area. It’s the key to opening the canyon.”

Adams added, “It’s the most important land acquisition in the Mount Diablo area since 2013 when Save Mount Diablo signed its 1,080-acre Curry Canyon Ranch at the heart of Mount Diablo State Park and the East Bay Regional Park District optioned the 1,185-acre Roddy Ranch to create the new Deer Valley Regional Preserve.”

To comment, visit www.thepress.net

of its homeowner’s association, requested that the impact report also look into whether the amphitheater could face out toward Marsh Creek rather than into his neighborhood.

“It might be nice to go attend a concert,” he said. “But I don’t want to listen to every single one every single night.”

Once the environmental report is complete, the public can comment on the report for 45 days, according to Pappani. Then there will be a public hearing to determine the project’s future.

Other topics discussed at the Feb. 21 meeting included a design review on Inez Estates, a 4.08-acre project to be located on Lone Tree Way, and a recommendation that the City Council discuss municipal code regulations for accessory buildings on properties.

The full meeting can be watched online at https:// bit.ly/41k9Kc9

To comment, visit www.thepress.net

CORRECTION An incorrect version of the story about Anna Perales, Bristow Middle School’s new principal, ran in the Feb. 10 edition of the Press due to an editorial error. The corrected version can be read online at https://bit.ly/3Y9ZdxL. We regret the error.

Antioch the only place to get pot in East County

If you are looking to purchase cannabis products in East Contra Costa, you’ll have to drive to Antioch, which boasts two of the largest dispensaries in the county:

• CoCo Farms Dispensary: 3400 Wilbur Lane, Antioch. According to their website, this company has operations in “Rio Vista, Vallejo, Antioch, Del Rey Oaks, Salinas, Santa Cruz, Union City and Concord. They offer in-house brands, along with trusted local brands to bring you quality cannabis at affordable rates. Choose from concentrates, tinctures, infused flower, carts, and more.” For more see: https://enjoythefarm. com/

• Delta Dispensary: 2101 W. 10th St., Suite J, Antioch. According to their website, the company is family owned and operated and it states, “We are proudly the first legal dispensary in Antioch. We offer an extensive inventory at fair prices. If you want top shelf, to the most bang-for-your-buck, we’ve got what you need. Edibles and pre-packed flower, to CBD for your pets, cannabis drinks, topicals, and more.” For more see https://www.deltadispensary.net/ Brentwood is one of many California cities that prohibits the cannabis industry within city limits, recreational or medical.

According to a 2022 Santa Cruz Sentinel article, Brentwood Police Lt. Walter O’Grodnick said the city had seen upwards of 15 grow houses in the past 18 months, with larger homes, especially with three-car ga-

rages, being attractive for such operations. This degree of illegal cannabis cultivation poses significant health and safety risks to residents and is likely part of larger criminal networks, the city’s press release stated.

Although cannabis product deliveries can be ordered in Brentwood, Oakley and unincorporated areas of East Contra Costa, the legality of deliveries remain murky.

A proposal to allow cannabis vaping products to be delivered in unincorporated areas was recently proposed by Supervisor Diane Burgis and approved by the county Board of Supervisors.

Currently, 56 percent of California cities and counties have opted out of allowing any form of cannabis business from operating, according to the state Department of Cannabis Control. An even greater fraction, 62 percent, don’t permit retailers specifically, which would theoretically increase demand for unlicensed sales for people unwilling or unable to travel to a different part of the state for marijuana.

State Sen. Scott Wiener (DSan Francisco) sponsored legislation (Senate Bill 1186) that would allow for medical marijuana delivery services for qualified patients anywhere in the state, regardless of local policy. That bill cleared the Senate in May 2022 and was approved by the Assembly on Aug. 30, 2022.

However, despite strong opposition from Cal Cities and other local government partners, the governor signed SB 1186, which will require all jurisdictions to change their ordinances to allow for the delivery of medicinal cannabis.

Photo by Chris Campos

How to make new friends after age 50

The early years of midlife are a hectic time for many people. Around the time many people reach their late 30s and early 40s, they’re balancing the responsibilities of a career and a family. But as people enter their 50s or later, some of those responsibilities tend to be less significant, leaving more time for recreational pursuits.

Hobbies and other pursuits outside of work are often more fun when enjoyed with friends. People older than 50 undoubtedly recognize that it’s not always so easy to make new friends, even though it’s undeniably beneficial to have supportive relationships into your golden years. A 2017 study from researchers at Michigan State University found that valuing friendships was a stronger predictor of health and happiness among older adults than valuing family. Those results align with an earlier Australian study that found Australians aged 70 or older tended to live significantly longer if they had more strong friendships.

Making friends after 50 might not be as simple as it was during your school days,

but these strategies can help men and women in midlife build new friendships.

Identify your interests.

Fifty-somethings who have spent the last couple of decades building a career and raising a family can give some serious thought to their interests outside of work or passions they hope to pursue now that they have more time to commit to such

pursuits. The more interested you are in a given activity, the more likely you are to stick with it. And the longer you stick with something, the more likely you are to meet like-minded individuals (e.g., future friends) willing to make similar commitments.

Use social media.

In years past, men and women over 50 may not have had any readily available tools

to connect with new people. Social media has made it much easier to build such connections. Even the most obscure passions likely have a social media group of locals devoted to them, and these groups can be great ways to meet new people. A local runners’ club may have its own social media accounts, and local governments and community groups often share information about sports leagues and other groups via social media.

Sign up for group outings.

Communities often sponsor group outings to museums, the theater, sporting events, and other day trips. Signing up for a bus trip to a local museum presents a great opportunity to meet people who share your interests, providing the potential to build lasting friendships built on a foundation of shared interests.

Broaden your horizons.

Just because you’re in your 50s or older doesn’t mean your friends have to be. Don’t hesitate to invite younger or older acquaintances and colleagues over for dinner or on weekend excursions. Friends come in all shapes, sizes and ages, so you could be missing out if you’re not willing to extend a hand in friendship to people of different ages and backgrounds.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

Making friends after 50 can be challenging. However, various strategies can help men and women over 50 connect with new people.

Help at Home - A Proper Assessment is the key to an effective Care Plan

y name is Jenny Lind and, I’ve been working in the home care industry for 14 years.  We’ve recently implemented the Senior Helpers Life Profile assessment tool in partnership with Performance Based Healthcare Solutions (PBHS) out of Galveston, Texas.  I’m excited to share our new approach to home care and how it can reduce the risk of hospitalization.

We can now categorize and quantify the 13 key areas in which a person must have their needs met in order to successfully age in place. Using our Autonomy Profile Score, we can help reduce the risk of a senior going to the hospital in the next six months from 80% to less than 10%.

We have found that over 3.5 million potentially preventable adult hospitalizations occur each year in the United States.

This study was verified by AHRQthe Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ.gov).  In this statistic, hospitalizations are three-night stays where the person is admitted, and does not include short trips to the ER, which is significantly more often.

Let’s take for example, a senior who has a fall in the shower. This senior has arthritis and has difficulty standing for long periods of time. The fall could have been easily prevented with the addition of a tub bench. EMS takes the senior to the hospital where they are diagnosed with a hip fracture. The hospital does a hip replacement and discharges this senior to skilled nursing where they receive therapy. The skilled nursing then discharges them home with home health where they complete therapy and then are discharged from therapy. No one ever identifies the root cause of the fall, missing a tub bench. We now have a senior who is weaker after going through the healthcare continuum and the root cause of their fall was never addressed, or maybe it was - after the incident occurred!

communities, hospices, and physicians, and with over 75,000 participants.

Results of the study showed:

1. Improved outcomes - reduced hospitalizations and increased ability to age in place

2. Improved care modelsbetter support across the healthcare continuum

Life Profile gives us the ability to “scan” a senior’s living situation and determine their risk of hospitalization in the next six months.

We assess 144 safety risks around the home including medication management and with a focus and priority on quality of life, including leisure interests and social interactions in terms of weekly and monthly activity plans.

These are the 13 key areas that a senior must have their needs met, in order to be able to age in place successfully. The first 10 include:

1. Hydration/nutrition

2. Bills paid

3. Getting groceries/supplies

4. Getting help

5. Laundry

6. Garbage removed

why seniors fail and go to the hospital. Because of this, Medical Condition Management is triple weighted on the scoring system.

After the assessment and scoring is completed, we immediately work on ways to reduce the score, which will result in a lower likelihood of hospitalization.

Once the Life Profile assessment is complete, we can suggest improvements for their living situation; and a care plan can be put together. A care plan that will lead to better outcomes.

We want to work toward having the senior person safe, confident, supported, and enjoying a fulfilled life with the maximum independence possible.

My agency, Senior Helpers, provides licensed non-medical home care and is proud to be working out of Brentwood, Oakley, Antioch and Discovery Bay for 15 years.  If you are interested in finding out more, please call me at my office at 925-240-0001.

These occurrences are most often related to medical condition management. How often are these hospitalizations related to someone not properly managing their hypertension or diabetes and they get dizzy and have a fall because their medical condition was not being managed?

In the healthcare continuum, rarely is there someone assigned the responsibility to look for the root cause of what led a senior to the hospital.

Life Profile gives Senior Helpers the ability to identify these risk factors and reduce the risk factors for going to the hospital.

Life Profile

Life Profile is built from a national research collaborative, which has assembled over 20 years of research, 300 organizations across the healthcare continuum including: private duty, hospitals, skilled nursing, senior living

7. Cleaning and managing their house

8. Transportation and using the phone.

9. Mobility (walking, transferring)

10. Activities of daily living (dressing, hygiene, etc.) present a higher risk of going to the hospital and are double weighted.

Not having their medical condition managed is the number one reason

Hope Hospice offers classes and support

Hike for Hospice fundraiser on May 6 in Livermore at Del Valle Regional Park

DAWNMARIE FEHR

Dealing with the loss of a loved one can cause overwhelming grief to those left behind.

Hope Hospice and Health Services has opened its virtual doors to anyone in need of grief support, including those who do not have someone in the organization’s hospice services.

In addition to grief support, Hope Hospice is also offering its virtual family caregiver classes to anyone who needs them. These classes and support groups are all free and open to the public, thanks to grants and donations made to the organization.

One way they raise money to operate is through events such as the upcoming Hike for Hope on May 6 at Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore.

“Many family caregivers find themselves in the role unexpectedly, and they feel overwhelmed, unprepared, and at a loss of what to do,” said Debbie Emerson, Community Health Educator. “Our education

series provides a wealth of resources and tips to help such individuals navigate a sensitive time and to feel empowered to care for their loved ones.”

Live Family Caregiver classes are offered via Zoom once monthly, year-round. Recorded versions are available online, but attending live classes offer the opportunity to ask questions. The Family Caregiver Education Series, which includes several classes on dementia-related topics, is overseen by

Emerson. She invites guest speakers to accompany Hope’s certified educators in senior care and dementia.

Hope also offers support groups for individuals who care for a loved one living with dementia. These are offered in 10-week sessions, and dates are determined by sign-ups. Sessions offer a combination of dementia education and support.

Grief support groups are offered once per quarter over Zoom for individuals who

have lost someone.

“Hope’s bereavement program has been an important community resource since our founding in 1980,” said Arlene Baldwin, director of Grief Support Services . “We are here to support people grieving the loss of a dear one, to help them process their feelings and to learn how to move forward while still honoring their connection to those who have passed on.”

Hope Hospice spokesperson Kendra Strey said Hope’s grief team helps adults and youth learn to process feelings and find ways to move forward in a positive direction. She noted many people find it helpful to meet others with a shared experience, and Hope offers different groups to help people connect with others who have the same type of loss, whether of a spouse, a child or a general loss.

“We also offer a single-day workshop in the fall called Handling the Holidays to help the bereaved prepare for the approaching holiday season,” said Strey.

While classes and support groups are currently conducted over Zoom, small groups or clubs can request a private, in-person seminar for their group. Strey said while dementia is the most commonly requested topic, other topics related to senior care and

see HOPE page 6B

Photo courtesy of Hope Hospice

The Hike for Hope is an annual memorial hike and fundraiser that generates support for Hope Hospice.

hospice education are available.

Hope Hospice was founded in 1980 by a group of concerned local residents who wanted to help families care for their dying loved ones in the comfort of home with as little financial worry as possible. Initially, Hope operated with an all-volunteer workforce, from the nurses to the office team. Though the nonprofit has grown in numbers and service area, its commitment to care has never wavered.

Hope Hospice and Health Services is located in Dublin, but serves both Alameda and Contra Costa counties. Those interested in grief support groups must call to register. Caregiver classes require online registration.

To register, donate, or for more information, call 925-829-8770 or visit https://www. hopehospice.com/

Upcoming support groups

♦ General Grief

May 8-June 26, Mondays, 6-7:30 p.m.

♦ Loss of A Child

May 8-June 26, Mondays, 6-7:30 p.m

♦ Teens group (call 925-829-8770 for dates)

♦ Spousal/Partner loss (Option 1)

May 9-June 27, Tuesdays 6-7:30 p.m.

♦ Option 2

May 17-July 5, Wednesdays, 1:30- 3 p.m.

HOPE from page 4B

Why it pays for seniors to maintain good credit

The importance of a strong credit rating is often emphasized to young people. However, a strong credit rating can be equally beneficial for seniors.

The benefits of maintaining good credit include looking more reliable in the eyes of prospective employers and securing lower mortgage interest rates when buying a home. Those rewards can benefit anyone, but they’re especially enticing to young people. But what about seniors? Do individuals stand to benefit significantly from maintaining good credit into their golden years?

According to the credit reporting agency Experian, senior citizens tend to have the best credit scores of any consumer demographic. That could be a byproduct of years of financial discipline, and there are many benefits to maintaining that discipline into retirement.

♦ Home buying and borrowing: Buying a home is often considered a big financial step forward for young people, but that doesn’t mean aging men and women are completely out of the real estate market.

In its 2020 “State of the Nation’s Housing” report, the Joint Center for Housing Studies (JCHS) of Harvard University reported

that the share of homeowners age 65 and over with housing debt doubled to 42 percent between 1989 and 2019. In addition, 27 percent of homeowners age 80 and over were carrying mortgage debt in 2019. Maintaining strong credit after retire-

ment can help homeowners who still have mortgage debt get better terms if they choose to refinance their mortgages. Even seniors who have paid off their mortgages can benefit from maintaining good credit if they decide to switch to a smaller home

but cannot afford to simply buy the new home outright.

♦ Rewards: Retirement is often associated with travel, recreation and leisure. Such pursuits can be more affordable when seniors utilize rewards-based credit cards that help them finance vacations, weekend getaways and other expenses associated with traveling. Seniors who maintain strong credit ratings into their golden years may have more access to the best travelbased rewards cards than those whose credit scores dip in retirement.

♦ Unforeseen expenses: No one knows what’s around the corner, but savvy seniors recognize the importance of planning for the unknown. The COVID-19 pandemic seemingly came out of nowhere, and among its many ripple effects was the sudden job loss by seniors. The JCHS report found that 21 percent of homeowners age 65 and over had reported loss of employment income related to the pandemic. Unforeseen medical expenses also can compromise seniors’ financial freedom. Maintaining a strong credit rating into older adulthood can help seniors navigate such financial uncertainty more smoothly. Such a strategy can help seniors secure low-interest loans or credit cards that can help them pay down sudden, unforeseen expenses without getting into significant debt.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

There are many benefits to maintaining good credit into retirement.

A guide to where seniors can go and play

Older people called ‘an underserved group’; centers offer various services

SEAN TONGSON

With people caught up in their everyday lives of work, school and raising families, the unintentional result could lead to the senior population feeling like they are a burden or a hindrance due to physical limitations or increasing needs for basic care and help.

Many people may not be ready to face the thought of an aging family member or friend, but the Brentwood/Oakley/Antioch area has a few senior centers. Below is what they offer.

“The senior population is an underserved group,” said Alberto Maldonado, Executive Director of TreVista Antioch, an assisted living and memory care facility. “Senior Living facilities play a major role in the continuum of life for seniors. Oftentimes, our senior population does not get the respect and reward they deserve. Senior living facilities allow for our seniors to have a place they can call home. It allows them to once again engage in a meaningful life.”

According to the National Council on Aging, senior centers are vital in assisting America’s older adults, helping to connect 1 million older adults to vital community services, with more than 10,000 senior centers working in partnership with community agencies, organizations, and businesses to help

This new year, live

older adults stay healthy, active and independent. Many senior centers today offer a variety of activities, from nutrition and wellness programs to social and recreational activities.

“Our activities range from musical presentations, arts and crafts, games, social discussions, and much more,” added Maldonado.

“Many of our programs are geared toward bringing residents together as a family.”

TreVista Antioch

At TreVista Antioch, services and amenities include professional staff on hand 24/7 with nurse oversight, healthcare supervision and medication administration, bathing and dressing assistance, chef-prepared meals and restaurant-style dining, and family events and support programs. Community amenities include multiple dining options, a coffee bar, theater room, salon, and spa, in addition to van and Towncar shuttles allowing for residents with wheelchair needs. Additionally, TreVista in Antioch was named Agemark’s “Rising Star Community” in 2021 and 2022.

“The team here in Antioch really works hard to ensure a family-like environment and serve as an extension of a resident’s already-established family,” said Agemark Senior Living Vice President of Marketing and Communications Ashley GloysteinKlatt. “There are several things that really make TreVista in Antioch special. The first is our overall Wellness philosophy. We really work to focus on ensuring great physical, social, intellectual and spiritual health for all

see Facilities page 12B

Photo by Jeff Weisinger

The Brentwood senior center is just one of many resources available to the local population of senior citizens.

residents. A great way to address this is our Life Enrichment offerings. Our “Seasons” curriculum includes both group and individual activities that address all areas of wellness. Our entire staff contributes to life enrichment and treating residents like family – this is huge for Agemark communities.”

Antioch Senior Center

The Antioch Senior Center provides many activities, including a lunch program, physical fitness and dance classes, specialinterest classes like ukulele, knitting, and resources for seniors who need assistance with Medicare information and legal services.

Open since 1988, the Antioch Senior Center was built as an addition to the Nick Rodriguez Community Center, and through a partnership with Tri-Delta and Contra Costa County, provides transportation to and from the senior center if one participates in the daily lunch program.

“Our senior center is an important asset to the Antioch community because it provides a space and opportunities for seniors to connect with others, get physical exercise and opportunities to learn new things,” said Hilda Pacheco, Recreation Programs Coordinator for the Antioch Senior Center. “These opportunities are beneficial to seniors because it gets them involved in the community and adds to their longevity of life and improves their quality of life. We also do our best to connect our seniors to the resources that help them with what they need.”

Merrill Gardens

Merrill Gardens in Brentwood offers many amenities, including a library, theater, heated swimming pool, beauty salon, restaurant-style dining, as well as in-house home care with nurses 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Merrill Gardens also provides transportation for weekly shopping, happy hour, and special occasions like ice cream socials for Valentine’s Day and veterans group dinners, where other veterans from Antioch and Oakley are also invited to attend.

“It’s easy for seniors to become isolated, and that’s dangerous not only from a social and emotional standpoint but also from a safety standpoint,” said Jennifer Birkland, Community Relations Director at Merrill Gardens. “Senior living communities, like Merrill Gardens at Brentwood, offer a vibrant social program for residents to connect with peers and to get back in touch with hobbies and activities they once enjoyed. It’s also a great opportunity to develop new skills and interests. When seniors no longer need to cook, clean or maintain their home and property, it gives them so much more time and energy to do the things they love and live a more fulfilling life.”

Oakley Senior Center

In nearby Oakley, in addition to senior citizens, their senior center also has served anyone in town who is in need for the past seven years.

“Anyone in need is given resources to help or suggestions of where to get help,” said Oakley Senior Citizen Group Member

Donna Baker. “We have developed strong connections with each other and the community. We have become an extended family that looks out for each other; for better or worse.”

Every Thursday from 1-2:30 p.m. since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, fresh, canned and frozen food from the Food Bank, White Pony Express, McDonald’s, Safeway, WinCo, and Raley’s are handed out to anyone in need. Volunteers pick up most of the food and distribute it at the center, according to Baker.

“Our numbers have been slowly dropping as we now feed only about 150 families weekly,” said Baker. “We maintain a food pantry for anyone in need. “

Meals on Wheels has an office in the building and distributes their meals Wednesdays and Fridays. Costa Cafe serves lunches every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. at a coast of $6 for those younger than 60 years old and $3 for those older than 60, or $15 for a five-day frozen meal plan. Lunch must be ordered in advance.

Additionally, the center offers exercise classes on Tuesday and Fridays from 9:1510 a.m., a fiber arts class including sewing, quilting and all crafts on Wednesdays from 10 a.m-3 p.m., and a Cane Defense and Square Dancing for a fee to instructors. Both the exercise classes and fiber arts classes are free with membership. Additional activities also include a monthly potluck luncheon and meeting for our membership, a monthly flea market the first Saturday of every month from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., as well as birthday cards,

sympathy cards, and get-well cards for each member. Since Oakley’s Senior Center is not part of the city and is a nonprofit club, they must pay for all of their own expenses and utilities. As a result, Baker says that they are requesting help and donations.

“We need all the help with the following; advertising for upcoming fundraisers, tax-deductible monetary donations, flooring for a small kitchen without seams, donations for our upcoming spaghetti feed on March 25, including frozen meatballs, pasta, salad, salad dressing, bread, beverages, items and gift cards to raffle, and sewing and fabric supplies, and a defibrillator-with training.”

Birkland meanwhile, reiterated the importance of creating an environment and community for seniors to where they can feel safe and live their happiest life possible.

“Senior living isn’t a fountain of youth,” said Birkland. “Our goal is to provide seniors with a more fulfilling life to where they can live their best life possible, and provide a sense of security for their families, and have peace of mind knowing that they are taken care of 24/7.”

Further information on the senior centers for respective cities can be found at the following links:

♦ Antioch https://bit.ly/3XHYROp

♦ Brentwood https://bit.ly/3InjmdQ

♦ Oakley https://bit.ly/3KvzvAe

♦ Information for Merrill Gardens can be found here https://bit.ly/3kb7p2z

♦ TreVista Antioch can be found here https:// bit.ly/41bKUer

Considerations for seniors looking to go back to school

The picture of a traditional college student is one in his or her late teens or early 20s. However, a deeper look may reveal that college student demographics are more diverse than one might imagine. In fact, senior citizens can rest assured that if they plan to return to the classroom, they’re likely to find students around their age.

According to the senior citizen resource Elder Guru, about 0.3 percent of university students are older than 65. Even though that is a low number in the grand scheme of things, it is an indication that seniors have a presence on college campuses. And that number is expected to rise, experts say. Universities are increasing efforts to include seniors as important parts of their student bodies. Here are some things seniors considering going back to school may want to know.

♦ Incentives are available. Many schools are looking to expand their elder student body populations by making it easier for them to go to school. That means seniors may be able to attend for little to no cost through tuition

waivers and discounts. Speak with an admissions officer about your options.

♦ Lay the foundation for a new career.

A survey from the Rand Corporation found that 39 percent of workers age 65 and older who were currently employed had previously retired at some point. Going back to school may provide a foundation for new skills that can make it easier to advance in a second career. Heading back to classes also can help people stay competitive in a current job.

♦ Engage and socialize. Going back to school provides seniors with an opportunity to engage with their peers and younger students. Returning to school may expose older adults to new experiences, technologies and customs they may otherwise never have enjoyed.

♦ Embrace the excitement of a new environment and its challenges. Heading back to college can be challenging, which is something seniors looking for mental stimulation may enjoy. Senior Finance Advisor reports that heading back to school and lifelong learning has been linked to better health, improved financial situations and even a reduced risk of dementia.

♦ Staying informed. Going back to school can enable seniors to stay technologically informed and learn about movements and other factors that are helping to shape the modern world.

– Courtesy of Metro Cretive

Diet can combat age-related bodily changes

The human body is a marvel. How the body transforms over the course of an individual’s life is one of its more remarkable qualities, and those changes never cease, even as individuals near retirement age.

The changes associated with aging include physical transformations but also more subtle shifts the naked eye cannot see. For example, metabolism slows as individuals grow older, and aging also can lead to a decrease in bone density and muscle mass. These changes affect how men and women at or nearing retirement age should approach their diets in recognition of the various ways their nutritional needs change at this point in their lives. Any modifications to a diet should first be discussed with a physician, but the following are some ways aging adults can use diet to combat agerelated changes to their bodies.

Prioritize protein

The authors of a 2010 study published in the journal Current Opinion in Nutrition and Metabolic Care recommended that older adults consume between 25 and 30 grams of protein with each meal. The research-

ers behind the study concluded that such consumption could limit inactivity-mediated losses of muscle mass and function.

Overcome reduced production of vitamin D

WebMD notes that people over 65 typically experience a decrease in natural production of vitamin D. Vitamin D is not naturally found in many foods, so aging men and women may need to rely on

supplementation to ensure their bodies get enough of it. Vitamin D helps with antiinflammation, immune system support and muscle function, among other benefits. So it’s vital that aging men and women find ways to get sufficient vitamin D.

Consume ample dietary fiber for healthy digestion

The National Resource Center on Nutrition & Aging notes that fiber plays

an important role in the health of older adults. Fiber has been linked with heart health, healthy digestion, feeling full, and preventing constipation, which the online medical resource Healthline notes is a common health problem among the elderly. Though the NRCNA notes that older adults need slightly less fiber than their younger counterparts, it’s still a vital component of a nutritious diet. The feeling of fullness that fiber consumption can provide also is significant, as it can ensure adults who aren’t burning as many calories as they used to aren’t overeating in order to feel satisfied. That can make it easier for such adults to maintain a healthy weight.

Monitor intake of vitamin B12

The National Resource Center on Nutrition & Aging notes that vitamin B12 is involved in a host of important functions in the body, including nerve function and the formation of red blood cells. Vitamin B12 is most easily found in animal products, which many aging men and women must largely avoid due to other health concerns. In such instances, men and women can discuss supplementation with their physicians as well as alternative food sources of B12, such as fortified cereals, salmon and other items. – Courtesy of Metro Creative

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative Bodily changes related to aging increase the likelihood that men and women will need to alter their diets in order to maintain their overall health.

5 ways to show seniors they’re appreciated

People are living longer than ever. And as individuals age, the demand for senior services continues to grow – as does the need to be patient and respect the elderly. There are many ways to show seniors just how much they’re appreciated.

1. Help with chores.

Lend a hand with chores around the house that may have grown difficult for seniors. This can include mowing the lawn, weeding garden beds, shoveling snow, raking leaves, or even taking the garbage pails in and out on collection days.

2. Visit more often.

Frequent visits are one of the simplest ways to show seniors you care. Whether seniors live in a private home or managed care facility, visitors brighten their days, especially if they no longer get out and about as frequently as they once did. Spending time together and sharing stories can bring smiles to the faces of older adults.

3. Plan activities with seniors in mind.

When organizing parties and special events, consider the needs of seniors on the guest list. Add music from their era to playlists or DJ requests. Seat seniors with mobility issues near exits and restrooms. Make sure to arrange for photos with the guest of honor to keep family history alive.

4. Thank seniors.

Find any reason to thank a senior. Perhaps someone served in the military or volunteered their time with children. Celebrate accomplishments big and small with a simple “thank you.”

5. Prepare a meal.

Invite a special senior over for a homecooked meal with the family. Make it a regular occurrence on the calendar. If he or she cannot get out easily, bring a hot meal over to his or her place, instead.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

Dog Boarding & Day Camp

How to avoid growing bored in retirement

From the moment young men and women first walk into the office for their first day as a working professional until the day they officially retire, the notion of planning for retirement is never far from their minds. But when the day to hang up the briefcase and donate all those business suits arrives, some retirees wonder what to do next. Some retirees know exactly how they will spend their days when they no longer have to work, while others who decide to play it by ear may find themselves battling boredom.

For those among the latter group, it’s important to understand that many retirees find themselves bored once they no longer have to focus on a career. Jobs keep men and women busy and provide a sense of purpose in their lives, so it’s understandable that retirees feel bored once those jobs are no longer a part of their lives. But just because you no longer have an office to go to every day does not mean life cannot be as fulfilling or even more fulfilling than it was when you were still working. You just need to find something to avoid succumbing to retirement boredom.

♦ Work part-time. Though it might seem odd to start working right after you retire, a part-time job can provide the type of structure you have grown accustomed to without all of the responsibility that comes with a full-time career. Part-time jobs can range from consultancy work that makes use of your professional experience to something entirely different like landscape maintenance at a nearby golf course that gets you out of the house and enjoying the warmer seasons. Whichever you choose, make sure it’s something you find fun and interesting.

♦ Embrace a new hobby. Working professionals often say they wish they had time to pursue a hobby. Now that you are retired, you have all the time in the world to do just that. Wheth- er it’s perfecting your golf game, writing that novel, learning to cook like a gourmet chef or whatever else you might have always wanted to do, retirement is a great time to do it.

♦ Get in shape. If retirement boredom has started to negatively affect your mood, one great way to conquer your boredom and improve your mood at the same time is to start exercising. Exercise is a natural mood enhancer. When the body exercises, it releases chemicals knowns as endorphins, which trigger positive feelings in the body. In addition, regular exercise has been shown to reduce stress, boost self-esteem and improve sleep. Working out at a gym also is a great way to meet fellow retirees in your community, and the energy you have after exercising may give you the boost you need to pursue other hobbies.

♦ Volunteer. If a part-time job is not up your alley, then consider volunteering in your community. Volunteers are always in demand, and volunteering with a local charity can provide a sense of purpose and provide opportunities to meet likeminded fellow retirees, all while helping to quell your boredom. Retirees who love to travel can combine their passion for volunteering with their love of travel by signing up to work with an international relief organization that travels abroad to help the less fortunate.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

Effort to save Oakley Senior Center

The city could soon be losing one of its vital services aimed at assisting senior citizens and other local residents in need.

The Oakley Senior Center, located off of Second Street near downtown, is in danger of closing permanently due to financial problems. In addition to serving and assisting seniors, the Oakley Senior Center also helps other local residents, providing and distributing food to anyone in need as well as providing other services.

City Manager Josh McMurray told the City Council on Feb. 14 that the center “is in dire straits and in need of financial help.” He added that without more money, the center may be forced to close in two months. Vice Mayor Anissa Williams asked McMurray for a staff report to outline what options the city could find to help the center.

Donna Baker, the Oakley Senior Center’s first vice president, said she is asking for a one-time grant of $20,000: $1,700 average monthly expenses for 12 months, except for summer months when water bill increases from $100 month to about $400 because the center pays for watering the park as it’s on the center’s water main.

“For 7 years, we were able to handle bills and do all maintenance on the property,” she said. After closing because of COVID-19 and increased expenses, “we just couldn’t keep up,” she said. “We hope to use the funds as a backup for expenses and continue.”

Baker also said she will try to get the center on the City Council agenda for its meeting on March 14 for more discussion, adding that most cities have senior centers on their park and recreation budgets. Oakley is one of the few cities in the Bay Area where its senior center is not part of the city, she said.

“For the better part of four years, the

Oakley Senior Center has been the go-to place to get free groceries of all categories; produce, fruits, dairy, bakery, and meats,” said Allan Perry, president of the Oakley Senior Center. “We serve everyone of any age or residence. The hundreds of local residents have been dependent on every Thursday from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. to get their weekly grocery needs. The closing of the center will halt this valuable service we provide and cause untold financial hardship to the public that rely on this service, not to mention all the other services the center provides.”

The Oakley Senior Center has paid 242 members. Eighteen of them are “golden”

members (ages 90 or above), and thus have free membership, which otherwise costs $15 for annual memberships. Prior to signing a lease with the city to rent the former fire house on 215 Second St. seven years ago, a group of seniors who met on a regular basis called themselves “Oakley Seniors” for several years according to board member Judy Holt.

Per the agreement and rent with the city, the Oakley Senior Center would pay for watering the adjacent park and improve and maintain the building and grounds.

Unlike senior centers in nearby Antioch and Brentwood, Oakley’s Senior Center operates as a non-profit “club,” and therefore is not funded by or owned by the city. As a result, the Oakley Senior Center has been forced to pay for all of their own expenses and utilities to remain operational, including building improvements, which has been paid for in part by membership, grants, and other non-profits.

According to Baker, impact from the COVID-19 pandemic, including reduced membership amongst seniors still not willing or able to be around large gatherings or attend meetings, less participation in classes and activities, and mounting costs have caused the Oakley Senior Center to lose money, and struggling to stay open.

see Center page 18B

SEAN TONGSON

Photo by Chris Campos

City Manager Josh McMurray told the City Council that the center needs financial help. Without more money, he said the center may be forced to close in two months.

“We don’t just serve the needs of our seniors, but the entire community,” Baker said. “Anyone in need is given resources to help or suggestions of where to get help. In order to help our community, we opened our doors once a week to distribute food from the Food Bank, White Pony Express, McDonald’s and several grocery stores to feed anyone in need. According to our treasurer, Barbara Sparks, this program alone costs more than $6,000 a year to run the freezers. We had individuals and families that stood in line around the building and down the block waiting their turn to get food. Now, we are down to only about 150 families every Thursday. We still are a food pantry to help anyone who comes to our doors. As a result, our expenses went up due to operational expenses.”

Baker added, “In the past, our largest income was casino trips, which we were not able to continue. The casinos would help pay for the bus, but that is no longer the case.”

Additionally, in the last few months, the center has had a new roof installed paid for by the city, removal and replacement of old kitchen cabinets after receiving a grant from the food bank for new appliances, as well as repair work on the heater and swamp cooler, which was also paid for by the city. To reduce costs and to generate money, three domestic freezers have been sold, and items such as an antique desk, metal cabinet, and massage chair have been donated or put up for sale. Still, according to Baker, more improvements are needed.

“It is my belief that the City of Oakley did not realize what was going on at our center, which was our fault as we tried to take care of everything ourselves,” said Baker. “However, we know the city plans to tear the building down in the next few years. All of us are grateful because when the city became aware of our building needs they listened and gave us help. We believe that the city understands how hard we are working to continue to contribute to seniors and the entire community. In my heart, I know the City of Oakley does not want us to close or go bankrupt.”

According to Baker, all services, classes and support for seniors and the community will stop with the senior center closing and going bankrupt. Costa Café, which provides hot meals and/or a weekly supply of frozen meals, will no longer be able to provide those meals every Wednesday to those in need.

The Oakley Veterans, Lions Club, 4-H, and Meals on Wheels will all have to find a new home, as the senior center offers use of the building free of charge. The Food Bank would have to find another group of volunteers and location, and the front yard from the Rotary Club of Oakley will no longer be maintained by the Oakley Garden Club. Classes and programs such as cane defense, exercise, and fiber arts would also come to a close, as well as the monthly flea market. The adjacent park and grass will be neglected unless the City of Oakley agrees to pay for the watering.

And a receptionist and custodian whose salary is from the Senior Community

Service Employment Program (SCSEP) would also be out of work. In the meantime, Baker and Perry have been continually meeting with city officials to discuss ideas to generate funds or solutions going forward, including asking if the Oakley Senior Center can be part of the city. Fundraising efforts have been put forth in the coming weeks and months to generate funds aimed at keeping the senior center open, as well as requesting assistance and advertising from the city.

Upcoming fundraising events for the Oakley Senior Center include:

♦ A spaghetti feed on Saturday, March 25, featuring pasta, salad, bread, and nonalcoholic beverage for $20. Guests may pre-order eat-in or take-out. According to Baker, a request has been put to the city to allow free use of the Recreational Building on O’Hara Avenue with the added bonus of seating for more people and parking. The Fiber Arts group is making 50 placemats with donated fabric for the first 50 people who attend the spaghetti feed to take home as a ‘thank you’. Individuals and businesses are asked to sponsor a placemat for $20 each. Their name or business card will be attached to every placemat.

♦ A flea market will be held on every first Saturday of every month for $10 a table.

♦ A bus trip to Sky River Casino with Bingo in route on will run Wednesday March 22, for $40 per person paid in advance with the casino giving back $20 to each person on the bus and another $20 for first-time visitors.

♦ A car show on Saturday, May 6, for $20

per car entry.

Residents are encouraged to sign up for their annual membership for $15. Individuals younger than 60 years old are welcome, but will not be able to vote. Residents 90 years old and over are admitted free.

According to Baker, there are enough funds to keep their doors open until May or June, so any or all help is appreciated and welcome. Meanwhile, concerned residents are additionally encouraged to help prevent the Oakley Senior Center from closing by going online and writing in the “Area of Concern” category, or by attending City Council meetings, most notably during the next council meeting on Feb. 28 at 6:30 p.m.

Residents are also strongly encouraged to write letters expressing their concern, as Baker noted that written letters are “taken to heart.” The mailing address is P.O. Box 268, Oakley, CA, 94561. The street address: 215 Second St.. The phone number is 925-626-7223.

“Please let the City of Oakley know that you want Oakley Senior Center to survive by either writing the City Council or attending the next council meeting,” she added. “Over the last seven years, we have developed strong connections with each other and the community. We have become an extended family that looks out for each other; for better or worse. I cannot say enough about all of these wonderful people who look out for each other. We must save our senior center.”

For more information, visit https://bit. ly/3KnSGfj

How to protect your cognitive health

MIKE’S ESTATE PLANNING MINUTE 20 2021 1 BRENTWOOD

By Michael J. Amthor, Esq.

Cognitive

health is not something to take for granted.

Although a certain level of memory loss can be expected as people age, when the ability to clearly think, learn and remember is compromised, those changes can affect an individual’s ability to perform daily activities and should serve as a cause for concern.

Brain health should be a priority for everyone. The National Institute on Aging says brain health is an umbrella term that encompasses a host of factors, including:

♦ cognitive health, which is how well you think, learn and remember

♦ motor function, or how you make and control movements

♦ tactile function, which is how you feel sensations; and

♦ emotional function, or how emotions are interpreted and responded to.

Individuals can safeguard brain health - particularly cognitive health - by taking these steps.

Be more health-conscious

Working with doctors, individuals can put their health first. This includes getting routine screenings, managing chronic health problems, limiting or avoiding alcohol and nicotine products, and getting the recommended amount of sleep each night.

Manage high blood pressure

All chronic conditions cause longterm repercussions, but the NIA indicates that observational studies show having

high blood pressure in mid-life increases the risk of cognitive decline later in life. Lowering blood pressure lowers the risk for mild cognitive impairment and possibly dementia.

Challenge your brain

Harvard Medical School says nurturing social contacts, engaging in stimulating mental activities like reading and doing puzzles, seeing new places, and learning new things can help keep the brain in top form.

Manage stress

Stress can take its toll on the body, and there is reason to believe that it may adversely affect cognitive health as well. Make every stride to reduce stress, whether that involves taking vacations, meditating, laughing with friends and family, or engaging in relaxing activities that relieve stress.

Get enough vitamin D

Vitamin D is linked to a host health benefits, including its potential to promote a healthy brain. Individuals can get more time outdoors to get vitamin D naturally from the sun and eat foods rich in vitamin D. If doctors find that vitamin D levels are exceptionally low, supplementation can help. Pay attention to hearing loss

Certain hearing loss has been linked to cognitive decline, says Healthline. Researchers in Italy concluded that people with central hearing loss had a higher risk of mild cognitive impairment than those with no hearing loss or peripheral hearing loss. Individuals with central hearing loss are urged to speak to their physicians to determine if they can take preventive action to stave off further decline.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

Law Office of Ruth N. Buzzard

Your Local Attorney & Counselor at Law

WE CAN HELP!

Our office takes a comprehensive approach to Estate Planning. If you pass away intestate (without a will/ trust) the State of California has statutory provisions that will divide your estate, often these provisions are not aligned with your wishes. As you mature and acquire assets, don’t forget to plan for how those assets will be managed and divided upon your departure from this world.

Trust Administration: After your loved one has passed and you have been left in charge of handling their affairs, the task can be daunting. Let our office guide you through this process effectively and minimize the stress you are already going through due to your loss. 729 First Street, Suite D Brentwood • 925-516-7459

Estate planning documents cover the distribution of assets after death but do not always provide the details you may want those you leave behind to have. This is partly because these types of details and information typically change often. Changes to a will or trust require certain formalities (i.e. must be in writing, signed by you, etc.) This is where a letter instruction can be helpful.

Although the letter is not binding, it can be very helpful in identifying final wishes you may have, such as social media posts, financial information, a list of assets and even desired distributions of personal property to assist those appointed to make those distributions. The letter can include account numbers, location of important documents, a list of professionals you use, website passwords, etc. Obviously, it is important to make sure the letter is updated on a regular basis to make sure the information is current.

On the issue of personal property, another option is the use of a separate letter to make a binding distribution of personal property items such as vehicles, jewelry,

furniture, family heirlooms, etc. To use a letter in this context, your will must state that you are authorizing the distribution of personal property in a separate writing, the separate writing must be dated and be either in your handwriting or signed by you. The benefit here is that you can change this letter at any time and add and subtract property as you see fit. Changes do not require you to amend your will or even contact an attorney, etc.

In short, this method provides you flexibility in the distribution of personal property. If your will does not already include a reference to the use of such a letter, make sure you revise your will ASAP and have the necessary language added.

We can certainly assist you with this and all other estate planning needs you may have. Every person is different, and we have many suggestions and options available to address your unique situation.

If you have questions on this or any other estate planning topic, call me at (925) 5164888. East County Family Law Group, 1181 Central Blvd., Brentwood www.eastcountyfamilylaw.com – Advertisement