Brentwood to reduce hours at its popular pickleball courts
Residents express concerns over noise
By Jake Menez Staff Writer
The pickleball courts at Creekside Park in Brentwood will soon close at 7 p.m. instead of 9 p.m. after the City Council voted 5-0 to cut the hours as a way to reduce noise levels that are annoying those living near the facility.
According to the staff report for the meeting, noise concerns have been a recurring issue for residents living near pickleball courts nationwide, not just in Brentwood.
Parks Maintenance ManagerAaron Wanden initially presented the council with eight
different options to lessen the impact pickleball would have on nearby residents, such as building sound-dampening barriers or removing the courts entirely. Some of the options, such as
restricting what types of gear players could use or setting up a court reservation system, were deemed too difficult to enforce while the change in hours was presented as the most cost-effec-
tive option.
“The primary concern is the distinct ‘popping’ sound created when the paddle strikes the ball.
see Pickleball page 22
Oakley residents offer feedback on ideas to fight climate change
Town holds second action plan workshop
By Connor Robles Correspondent
The city of Oakley held its second public meeting on its Climate Action Plan so that residents could provide feedback on various parts of the plan before it is sent to the City Council for approval in May. Mayor Shannon Shaw, Councilmember George Fuller, and 16 residents joined climate consulting firm Cumming Group for the second of two public workshops to refine its Cli-
“ A lot of cities have had to go back on EV plans due to unavailability. ”
notes, some with short comments, on posters that listed the objectives, initiatives, and principles of the Climate Action Plan. A green note signified full support, a yellow note signified reservations or suggested edits, and a red note signified opposition to a point of the plan.
Funding delays don’t stop building
By Connor Robles Correspondent
The renovation of the Oakley Recreation Center’s Studio 55 into the new Oakley Senior Center will continue despite a lack of Measure X grant funding.
In place of the $250,000 grant, the city has identified up to $168,000 with which to carry out the renovation, according to administrative services director Jeri Tejeda’s report to the Oakley City Council on March 25.
Tejeda explained that the city had hoped to receive the grant funding sometime this month after applying for it in February. But its delivery was subsequently pushed back to July, with no guarantee that it would be received at all. Despite this, however, the renovation of the two rooms behind the Recreation Center, which the project staff are now calling Studio 55, is going well.
Spanias
Cumming Group associate director Louis
mate Action Plan in the City Council chambers at City Hall on March 20.
Like its predecessor, the workshop combined socialization and brainstorming. The main activity was the stoplight poll in which attendees would place sticky
“We want to know … what resonates with you, what you would tweak, what you would say ‘No, I don’t like that,” Cumming Group associate director Louis Spanias said.
The points were divided into four categories -- Adaptation and Resilience, Build-
see Feedback page 22
“The upgrades are well underway,” Tejeda said. “We’re utilizing the $153,000 that was allocated at the [Feb. 25] meeting, and we have tentatively scheduled our ribbon-cutting ceremony for April 28, with an anticipated opening date, where programs will actually start, of May 1.”
see Oakley page 22
The pickleball courts at Creekside Park will soon close earlier following noise complaints from residents.
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
“
Stop the price hikes now, not later.
If you’re one of the PG&E customers struggling with higher energy bills, you’ve got every reason to be upset. Many of you have called us out, and we want you to know we are listening.
Fact is, rates have increased. And we know, because you’ve told us, that it doesn’t help to hear about how much safer and cleaner our energy system is. We get it. You’re not running the state; you’re running your household. You want to know our plan to fix it. So here goes. One big cost is vegetation management. We spend 1.8 billion dollars a year to cut back trees around powerlines, only to have them grow back, forcing us to do it all over again. Burying powerlines, as we’ve been doing in high fire risk and surrounding areas, is actually cheaper in the long run. Not only can we eliminate tree trimming, but lines underground require less maintenance.
Please understand not a day goes by that we’re not tackling the price issue. We’re working with customer advocates who scrutinize every dollar we spend, and we’d like to keep hearing directly from you as well. Our goal is to lessen the burden of your PG&E bill without sacrificing your safety, reliability, or peace of mind.
We’re keeping our lines of communication open. It’s your right to speak out. It’s our job to hear you.
pge.com/open-lines
PG&E customer, Craig, Oroville
LMC student publication Experience wins 17 awards
By Taylor Shepherd Correspondent
The Los Medanos College student newspaper Experience won 17 awards in the 2025 Annual State Publication and On-the-Spot contests of the Journalism Association of Community Colleges.
Winners were announced March 8 at the annual Associated Collegiate Press Spring Media Conference held with the Journalism Association of Community Colleges in Long Beach. About 820 students attended from community colleges and universities throughout the nation.
“We are thrilled to announce our student news publication, Experience, has earned 17 state journalism awards from the Journalism Association of Community Colleges (JACC),” said Juliet Casey, director of marketing media design at LMC.
The publication won the Pacesetter Award, the highest JACC state award for the print edition. “As a staff, Experience earned the meritorious prize for General Excellence,” Casey said. “Additional awards included first place for front page layout, first place for news judgment, first place for audio and first place for feature photo.” Casey added that the student production offers news products from print and online to podcasts.
Experience started publication when the college opened in the fall of 1974. “Experience welcomes Letters to the Edi-
tor and Guest Columns,” according to lmcexperience.com. “All members of the LMC community — students, faculty and staff — are encouraged to write.”
“The staff is filled with dedicated, creative and passionate students,” said Cindy McGrath, journalism professor and publication adviser at LMC. “I am proud of the high-quality work they do every week to inform the college community.”
She added that the awards are a nice
way to acknowledge the students’ work and effort. “The real prize is the experience that will prepare them to transfer to four-year schools or for jobs such as print, online or broadcast journalists when they leave LMC.”
One student mentioned being surprised about winning anything as she rushed to write her story. Some of the awards given were for a spread on Women’s History Month from March 2024.
APRIL 5, 2025
LET’S HIKE TOGETHER
John Marsh Historic Trust invites you to join us for a 3-mile, moderately strenuous hike through (yet to be opened to the public) Marsh Creek State Park. Ger Erickson will be our trail guide, introducing the spectacular scenery and the wild things who call it home. The timing is perfect for viewing wildflowers and enjoying the amazing spring of Rancho Los Meganos.
All proceeds go toward the restoration and preservation of the John Marsh House.
Another was given for a story comparing two cookie businesses, and one award on de-stressing with therapy dogs at LMC, according to a press release.
“It’s one of our favorite sites for one of our best conferences — and a welcome destination in the spring,” according to the Associated Collegiate Press website. “This conference brings together collegiate journalists and advisers from across California and across the nation, with helpful sessions, critiques, advice and feedback.”
This award is not a first for Experience. According to the LMC website, the student publication “won 25 awards in the 2023 Northern Regional Publication and On-the-Spot contests of the Journalism Association of Community Colleges, announced at the annual Northern Regional Journalism Conference held Oct. 14 at San Francisco State University.”
For details on the awards and recipients, visit https://bit.ly/4l29dFW. To find out more about the ACP Spring National College Media Conference and other events, visit https://acpconference.org/.
We hope you enjoyed reading this article about your family and the great things they have accomplished. We now need YOUR support to continue to put out a free community newspaper. Please consider becoming a subscriber or donor at www.thepress.net/contribute. Thank you for supporting local journalism.
$20 PER HIKER
LIMITED NUMBER OF HIKERS
MEET AT 8:30AM, HIKE BEGINS AT 9AM
STARTS AT JOHN MARSH HOUSE-21789 MARSH RO AD,
NO CHILDREN UNDER 12 OR PETS. HIKERS UNDER 18 MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT.
Experience, the Los Medanos College student publication, won 17 awards in a statewide competition earlier this month.
Photo courtesy of Experience
Pittsburg author asks ‘Who is
By Connor Robles Correspondent
Pittsburg web producer and blogger Larena Baldazo released her first children’s book, “We Are Twins,” on March 20. The book, inspired by the story of her daughter, explores themes of friendship, special needs, and how very different people can not only be alike in some ways, but also become friends.
“We Are Twins” focuses on a pair of young friends — Luli, who has a hearing aid, and Valentina — with the story being told from the latter’s perspective. Valentina explains that, despite their differences in ability, personality, appearance, likes, and dislikes, she and Luli are as close as twins. The short book ends with a question for the young reader: “Who is your twin?”
The character of Luli is based on Baldazo’s daughter Liana, or Lili, who was diagnosed with a learning disability and 100 percent hearing loss in her left ear at age 3. The title of the book is a phrase that she often said when she noticed a similarity between herself and another person, according to the “About the Author” page in “We Are Twins.
Baldazo said that doctors brushed off earlier warnings of Liana’s conditions as “new mom anxiety,” and even after the diagnoses, school staff and faculty assured her that her daughter would not need extra assistance.
“I was told, ‘Oh, no, she doesn’t need that, Liana is at the pace she needs to be at, and even though our class is big, our teachers are great, they’ll work with her,’’” Baldazo recalled. “And while the teachers were great, and they did work with her, she still needed a lot of help. I had to go up to the district level, and have all of these meetings, and I definitely was the squeaky wheel, and I got her what she needed, which was speech therapy, occupational therapy…”
The trials and tribulations of getting her daughter into a better learning environment, and seeing Liana flourishing once she was in
Pittsburg author Larena Baldazo’s children’s book, “We Are Twins” is inspired by the story of her daughter, explores themes of friendship, special needs, and how different people can be alike in some ways, but also become friends.
Submitted photo
such an environment, taught Baldazo important lessons about the nature of disability and its impact on people’s lives.
“I focused on a lot of differences, when she was just your average kid, too,” Baldazo explained, her voice filled with emotion. “As she came on the other side of [her] development progress, she was talking; there was a point when the doctor said ‘Oh, she may not be able to walk,’ [but] now she runs, she sings. And even though she didn’t meet her milestones at the pace we know, she still met them. And when she came on the other side, I started to see that she’s still a little kid who loves Disney, who loves Halloween, who doesn’t really eat her vegetables, so she actually taught me.”
Baldazo said that the character of Luli’s friend Valentina was based on “all of [Liana’s] cousins that she plays with. While Lili is different, all the kids are different from one another, and they share similarities.”
The process of writing and publishing “We Are Twins” began over three years ago. Baldazo, a journalism major with a background in social media production and marketing, had never written a children’s book. And she described the process of publishing with a major publishing house as “over-
twin?’
whelming.” Eventually, however, she found a solution.
“I had reached out to other publishers, and I either didn’t get a response, or I would get ‘We don’t take submitted manuscripts,’” Baldazo said. “So time went by again, and I had joined a Facebook group for children’s authors and illustrators. In that Facebook group, Baldazo found both advice on selfpublishing and an illustrator for the book, Danica Publico. They worked together from August to December 2024, before Baldazo found a printer and reached out to Irene Ikurniawan, the manager at Pittsburg’s Railroad Book Depot, for distribution, which began on March 20. According to Edgar Tumbaga, an employee at Railroad Book Depot who helped with the sale of the $19.99 book, “at least 75” copies, out of 125, had been sold as of March 22.
Baldazo said that she hopes that parents or teachers reading her book to children encourage their audience to ask questions about certain aspects of the book.
“It’s a simple story with a big message,” Baldazo said. “When you’re reading this to a child, I want the adult to explain what a hearing aid is, because I know that when I read to my daughter, she asks questions — to see that picture and say, ‘what’s in her ear?’”
As the book says on its back cover, “‘We Are Twins’” recognizes differences while celebrating similarities, especially among children with unique learning styles and special needs … with a goal of bringing awareness to everyone’s needs and fostering inclusiveness.”
Currently, “We Are Twins” is available only through the Railroad Book Depot at 485 Railroad Ave. in Pittsburg, though Baldazo plans on listing the book on Amazon in the future. There will be a book launch party on May 4 at Dále Vino wine bar at 51 Marina Blvd. Unit C, Pittsburg.
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
Police substation coming to East Oakley?
An interview with Oakley Mayor Shannon Shaw and former Oakley mayor Anissa Williams
Editor’s note: This is part of a series of conversations with local mayors and former mayors as city councils change over this year. It has been edited for length and clarity.
By Nicole Becchina Staff Writer
What are some of the things in your time on City Council that you’ve helped accomplish that you are really proud of?
Shaw: We [Oakley] are growing. Whether it be residential or commercial, there are so many things that are coming. We’ve got a Safeway coming this year that we all have been working so hard on. East Cypress Road was one thing that I ran my campaign on, and that is the road going out to Bethel Island and to our residents out in Summer Lake. It was just a two-lane road and just so much traffic and congestion and concerns about fire and wanting to expand that. This year we have started that expansion. We are fully
funded in Phase 2 and within three phases and another year or two, it’s going to be a complete road all the way from Emerson, which is already complete, all the way out to Bethel Island Road for our Summer Lake residents. So it will not only benefit Oakley residents, but county residents as well. I think that is a huge thing. Our library is a project that has been on the minds of Oakley residents for years, and we are closer today than we ever have been with about 13 and a half million dollars worth of funding dedicated between city resources and the Friends of Oakley Library doing their fundraising. We’ve got
a design and we are going to be actually seeing the library come to our Civic Center Plaza, and that is one of the biggest accomplishments I think that our council has been able to be a part of.
Now that you are the mayor, what are some things that you are looking forward to?
Shaw: My two big pushes this year were bringing mental health resources to East Oakley, working with the county on doing that. My number one thing has been bringing a police substation to far East Oakley where those residents just have to come so far to come into town,
and that is something that I’ve been working with the city manager and the chief of police on.
What should people know about the Oakley mayorship? What are some ways Oakley approaches it differently than other cities?
Williams: We are a rotating mayor. It’s kind of split in Contra Costa. Right around us, obviously, both of our neighbors are elected mayors, but every place else in Contra Costa really is a rotating mayor. Previous to when we went to districts like the year I was elected, I was still at large. I was elected in 2020 and we were still at large. The way our rotation worked was it was the highest vote getter during your election and then it would have to trickle down. In essence, it kind of was like the residents were getting to vote for their mayor. I go back and forth, because as soon as your signature changes to mayor, all of the sudden you get those phone calls returned much quicker than previous to that. The reality of it is, even in our neighboring cities, Brentwood, Antioch, they’re just one of five still. So they don’t actually have any more power to that name. So I like the rotating, especially now that we’ve switched to districts because it gives each district a chance to be represented by a mayor.
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia. To view full interview go to https://youtu.be/i6aEH9xJiMU?si=0rs-
Oakley Mayor Shannon Shaw (left) and former mayor Anissa Williams (right) discuss accomplishments in their time on council as well as upcoming projects.
Press photo
Travel Tips
by Vera Martinez, Certified Travel Agent
Antarctica: Seeing the Edge of the World
Antarctica, located at the southern edge of the world, remains one of the last frontiers untouched by mankind’s influence.
Despite being entirely wild, it still manages to entice travelers to add it to their vacation bucket lists. If you’re looking to experience this untamed land in luxurious comfort, taking an expedition cruise is the ultimate way to do so.
Getting there is half the adventure - Following in the footsteps of Antarctic explorers like Shackleton, your cruise may depart from southern ports of South America, and cross the epic, eerie and magical Drake Passage.
The Antarctic sound - Your introduction to the barren continent - monochromatic landscapes that stretch beyond the horizon, with
imposing icebergs the size of islands venturing off from the whitewashed kingdom.
The Antarctic peninsula - Bluehued glaciers and blanched mountain peaks beckon from a distance, showcasing the scale of this land. Legions of Adélie penguins call this place home, and with no natural predators on land, they’re likely to pose for a photograph or two.
Are you ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? Step beyond the ordinary and witness the raw beauty of Antarctica. Book your expedition cruise today and see the edge of the world in ultimate comfort.
To Book Your Dream Vacation call me at 925-639-9194 or go to www.vmartinez.dreamvacations.com.
East County has a passion for dining out!
April 18,
for space reservation: April 4,
Anti-Trump protesters in a group called “Indivisible ReSisters” took to the Highway 4 overpass Saturday afternoon, March 22, to show their disappointment in the current administration.
Activists ‘advocate for democracy’
really a very disgraceful situation, and I have to do what I can to express my dissatisfaction in my alarm for what is happening to our country.”
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Those driving along Highway 4 near Costco may have noticed flags, signs, and a group of people on the Highway 4 overpass that were protesting the Trump administration on Saturday afternoon, March 22.
“We are demonstrating and getting our voices heard and our thoughts seen concerning our unhappiness with the way the current administration is governing,” said Kathy King, the protest organizer.
King is part of a group called “Indivisible ReSisters Contra Costa,” a progressive grassroots, nonpartisan activist group, according to its website. The group took to the overpass with anti-Trump signs in the cloudy and windy weather last Saturday, hoping to inspire others to also start to protest the Trump administration. Cars passing by on the freeway honked their horns in support of the group of about 30 people who were protesting.
“I got really motivated,” King explained. “All of these demonstrations were being organized in the central part of the county, so I came home and said that we ought to organize something out here. This is our first attempt at a demonstration.”
“This is a great expression of our dissatisfaction with this current administration and their attack, their assault on democracy and the balance of powers as being totally disrupted,” said Jack Klein, one of the protesters. “It’s
Protesters were holding signs up against the fence on the overpass promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) while other signs criticized the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and called this administration a “dictatorship.”
“I’m outraged,” said Kathy Sierra, another protester. “I love this great country and I’m a fan of history. What we’re seeing and what we’re reading in the headlines is nothing new. Power grabs have happened throughout written history, so this is no new trick. But, for a lot of people, they’re not so sure that this isn’t a trick, right? I want to help raise consciousness and have a conversation across the aisle because that’s where it’s at.”
“We are advocating for democracy,” said Savannah Sierra, a college student and recent Liberty High School graduate. “I think it’s great that everyone is out here standing up for what they believe in, what they love, what they need, and I think that we need more people out here as well to stand up. …I’m really glad to be out here. It’s unfortunate that I have to, but I’d rather advocate for the rightful America than for the demise of it.”
Savannah hopes that their message reached the passing vehicles.
“I hope that people passing by or taking videos and posting that on social media and they’re spreading the word and standing up,” she said. “They’re not afraid anymore because we’re out here. We’re little old Brentwood. If you don’t have a small town doing something grassroots, then where do you start?”
To view a video and a slideshow, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
“Tippin’ “ in jazz is a term used to describe when a band is playing in the grove or finding the right feel for the song and the setting. It’s not about trying too hard, but rather being in the zone and playing perfectly for the situation.
Welcome back. The album I cover this month is an album I have been waiting several years for.
Carl Allen is one the premier young drummers in the jazz world, and for this album he has put together a trio of musicians who are also young, according to Jazz World, and has made what I would say will be one of the top 10 albums in jazz for 2025.
This album is pure joy from three outstanding jazz musicians. Allen (the leader) calls on double bass player Christian McBride, and saxophonist Chris Potter to release an album that is a pure pleasure to listen to, one you can enjoy over and over while always discovering something new in the sound.
This is Allen’s first recording as a leader, and I guarantee it won’t be his last if he continues to assemble various artists of this caliber. Allen has recorded with such jazz pioneers as bassist Rodney Whittaker (I will review his new album soon).
Allen, aside from be an upcoming jazz artist, is also Director of Jazz studies at the University of Missouri in Kansas City, and the recipient of the 2025 Ellis Marsalis Jr. (jazz trumpet player’s Wynton Marsalis late father) jazz educator of the year award.
OK, let’s get into this album/music. As men -
tioned before, Allen cut his chops by playing with bassist Rodney Whittaker, which I feel is why bass player Chrisian McBride was his choice for the bass player. They have played together for many years on the road and in the studio (Allen is also drummer for McBride’s band Inside Straight).
Potter has recorded with he and McBride on an album with Renee Rosnes. Allen has said that Potter reminds him of Sonny Rollins (one the great jazz tenor players).
Tippin’ was recorded at Rudy Van Gelder Studio (the greatest jazz recording studio in world) it took five hours to record, according to interviews
(which is remarkable) you can hear that Tippin’ vibe as they exchange notes with one another. Everything just flows so naturally, and easily.
Of the album’s 12 tracks, two are originals by Allen – Roy’s Joy and Hidden Agenda. What’s interesting on the tune Hidden Agenda is that Potter plays bass clarinet (a la the great Eric Dolphy) which adds a bluesy tone to the song. McBride contributes one tune, Morning Story, while the rest of the tunes are pretty much standards.
This album was originally supposed to be chordless (without piano) but it appears that he decided to add pianist John Lee to play pianist Kenny Barron’s Song For Abdullah, which I feel was done to allow McBride to demonstrate how the bowing method can be used on double bass, as opposed to typical plucking.
And again, we get Potter playing fantastic bass clarinet (hopefully he will record an album using only bass clarinet in trio or quintet setting).
Other tunes that show how this trio can swing is on Freddie Hubbard’s Happy Times, and drummer Lenny White’s L’s Bop, the pace on this song is faster than original, and the bass sound is booming. Potter on Bird’s Parker Mood will definitely lead make you a believer that Bird Still Lives.
I could go on and on about the tunes and playing on this masterful trio album debut, but I strongly suggest you seek it out, and let your ears tell you what you feel.
So, until next time, remember:
“Making the simple complicated is commonplace; making the complicated simple, awesomely simple, that’s creativity.”
– Charles Mingus, legendary jazz bassist
tEd turnEr
Calendar
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.
This Week’s Events
Saturday, March 29
Cub Scout Pack 152
Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser
Join Cub Scout Pack 152 between 9:30-11:30
a.m. at Iron House Elementary School, 4801 Frank Hengel Way in Oakley. They will be selling pancake breakfasts for $10 per person to benefit the scouts of Pack 152. The meal will include pancakes, eggs, sausage, coffee and orange juice. For more information visit www.cubscoutspack152. com or call Robin Robertson at 925-785-9127.
Kiwanis Club of the Delta Romano Marchetti Memorial Dinner
In honor of past Distinguished Member Romano Marchetti, the Kiwanis Club of the Delta-Antioch hosts their annual tri-tip/chicken dinner at the Veterans of Foreign Wars, 815 Fulton Shipyard Road in Antioch. The social hour will begin at 5 p.m. with dinner at 6 p.m. Garlic butter tri-tip, roasted herb chicken, Bam beans made with no meat, fresh Bam Slaw, a fresh roll with butter, and an ice cream cup catered by Archie’s S and Q Smoked Meats will be served. Tickets are $40 per adult and $20 for children. Attendees can win prizes in the opportunity drawing, live auction and silent auction. All profits of the dinner, Opportunity Drawing, and Auction contribute to the support of the local Kiwanis community, youth charities, and local scholarships. Tickets can be purchased at: www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/romano-marchetti-memorial-tri-tip-chickendinner--2025
Wednesday, April 2
Introduction to Solar Energy at Liberty Adult Education
Join this class to learn more about solar energy systems, a battery for your home or are considering purchasing an electronic vehicle. Register for the next class, which will be from 6-9 p.m. Sign up at Liberty Adult Education, 929 Second St. in Brentwood, or call 925-634-2565.
On the Horizon
Saturday, April 5
Spring Hike in the Hills at the Marsh Creek State Park
John Marsh Historic Trust invites the public to join them for a 3-mile, moderately strenuous hike through March Creek State Park, which has yet to be opened to the public. Ger Erickson will be the trail guide and will introduce the scenery and the wild who call it home. Participants will be able to see wildflowers and enjoy the spring of Rancho Los Meganos. Admission is $20 per hiker with a limited number of spots available. The hike starts at the John Marsh House, 21789 Marsh Road, and participants will meet at 8:30 a.m. with the hike beginning at 9 a.m. No children under 12 and no pets. Hikers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. All proceeds go towards the restoration and preservation of the John Marsh House. Reservations can be made on Eventbrite here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/spring-hike-in-the-hills-at-the-marshcreek-state-park-tickets-1263061764739?aff=ebd ssbdestsearch
Opening Day at the East County Historical Museum
The East Contra Costa Historical Society Museum of local history will be open for free. Visit the Byer-Nail House, Eden Plains Schoolhouse, Homer’s Shed and old vehicles to bring back memories of yesteryear. A pancake breakfast hosted by Brentwood Lions Club and Rotary Club of Brentwood from 9 a.m.-noon is available for purchase. Tickets are $10 for adults, $25 per family (up to 2 adults and 3 children ages 2-16).
Tickets will be available at the gate. There will be a petting zoo, quilts, and games. Attendees will also be able to help crank homemade ice cream and butter at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Spring Fling Arts and Crafts Faire
The Brentwood Senior Activity Center at 193 Griffith Lane is hosting its annual Spring Fling Arts and Crafts Faire from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Attendees can do some gift shopping for Easter, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, graduation and more. Admission is free. The faire will be a day of creativity and community event that will feature a variety of handcrafted goods from local artisans. Visitors can browse a selection of unique items, including: handmade jewelry quilts, scarves, knitted goods, woodcrafts, home décor, seasonal and holiday decorations, painted ceramics, pottery, greeting cards, stationery, scented candles, soaps, baked goods, floral arrangements, wreaths, custom gifts and more. For more information, contact the Brentwood Senior Citizens Club at 925-732-8156.
Thursday, April 10
Discovery Bay Chamber of Commerce Business on the Bay
The Discovery Bay Chamber of Commerce Business on the Bay will host a free Zoom webinar from 3-4:30 p.m. Learn about Business Accounting 101 from Julie Healy, owner of Clear Cents Bookkeeping. Registration is required at www.discoverybaychamber.org.
Friday, April 11
2024 Celebrating Brentwood Gala
The Celebrating Brentwood Gala recognizes individuals and businesses who have devoted their time and efforts to enhance the well-being of Brentwood. This gala at the Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St. starts at 6:30 p.m. and expresses gratitude and celebrates their contributions. Guests should attend in formal attire. Tickets are $80 per person, and includes dinner. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit https://business.brentwoodchamber. com/events/details/2024-celebrating-brentwood-gala-15857?calendarMonth=2025-04-01 .
Saturday, April 12
Brentwood’s Community Day of Service
Brentwood’s second annual Community Day of Service will start at 9 a.m. at Veterans Park, 3841 Balfour Road, with most projects beginning at 9:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. More than 20 local nonprofits and service groups are involved. Attendees can meet city leaders, bring donated items, participate in a project, enjoy kids activities, and visit local nonprofit booths. For more information or to submit a project idea, visit https://www. brentwoodca.gov/government/city-manager/ community-day-of-service#ad-image-0.
Oakley’s Day of Service
Oakley’s first Day of Service will be from 8 a.m.noon at 1250 O’Hara Ave. Help maintain the beauty of Oakley through a variety of volunteer projects. All residents are invited. For more information or to register, visit https://secure. rec1.com/CA/oakley-ca/catalog.
SJYC Opening Day on the Delta Parade
The parade starts at noon at the San Joaquin Yacht Club docks, 550 Riverview Road in Bethel Island. The route will be from San Joaquin Yacht Club clockwise around Bethel Island and will last about two hours. Viewing locations include the Rusty Porthole, the Sugar Barge, and the San Joaquin Yacht Club. For more information or to enter your boat contact Andy Rowland at andy.h.rowland@gmail.com. Awards will be at 4:30 p.m. and will include the announcement of the Bethel Island Citizen of the Year Awards. All floating craft are welcome, including classics, small craft, personal water craft and dinghies.
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There is no registration fee. Dinner will be at 4:30 for $15, and will include hamburgers, macaroni salad, and a bag of chips. DJ Daniel Vega and dancing will be at 2:30 p.m. There will be cash prizes for decorated boats.
Discovery Bay Yacht Club Opening Day Boat Parade-“Living in Paradise”
The parade will begin at noon. Participants are encouraged to decorate their boats in tropical decorations. All boats are welcome. A “Living in Paradise” party will be held at the Discovery Bay Yacht Club after the parade with paradise cuisine, cocktails, music and awards. For questions, contact portcaptain@dbyc.com. To register your boat or view the parade route map visit https:// www.dbyc.com/event-5885144.
Tuesday, April 15
Helping One Woman Fundraiser
The Brentwood Rotary Club is helping to organize the Helping One Woman Dinner in honor of Shellie Seyer, who is battling cancer, to help assist with her immediate medical bills. Seyer is a Brentwood Rotarian. The event will take place at the Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak Street, from 5:30-8 p.m. To make a cash donation or to donate an item for the raffle, call Wendy Turner at 925-446-5963 or Jayne Oertwig at 925-219-2670. Any contributions, no matter the size, will make a difference. Tickets for the dinner, provided by Vin Alegro, are $26, and there will be a $10 minimum monetary donation at the door. To register (preregistration is required), visit mysosevent.com/ events/shellie-seyer. Seating is first come first serve. No walk-ins allowed. Each dollar raised at the dinner goes directly to Seyer.
Saturday, April 19
Banner Up! Community Art ProgramBanner Pickup
Local artists can pick up banners to paint for the upcoming Banner Up! 2025 program organized by Art Guild of the Delta. This free community art program is available to adult and high school artists. Completed banners will be hung in downtown Brentwood over the summer. Sale of the banners at the annual Banner Up! Gala on September 20th will benefit Adventure Therapy Foundation and the banner artists. Banners can be picked up at Starry Nite Studios, 2545 Sand Creek Road, #136 at The Streets of Brentwood, on April 19-20 between noon and 4 pm. For more information, contact Frank Littman at FrankLittmanArt@gmail.com.
Saturday, April 26
Friends of Brentwood Library Pop-Up Book Sale
Find bargains on children’s books at the Friends of the Brentwood Library Pop-Up Book Sale from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on the second floor of the Brentwood Library, 104 Oak St.. The sale will also feature a large selection of used books for all ages, puzzles, and more. All proceeds benefit the Brentwood Library. For more information visit www.friendsofthebrentwoodlibrary.org
The 2025 Liberty Union High School District Athletic Hall of Fame
The Induction-Enshrinement banquet will be held at the Ghiggeri Gym at Liberty, 850 Second St. in Brentwood. Social hour begins at 5 p.m. followed by dinner and the ceremony. The inductees are: Rich Barrios (Liberty) - coach; Ryan Barsanti (Heritage) - athlete, Jett Charvet (Heritage) - athlete; Darrell Daniels (Freedom) - athlete; Haley Rose Love (Heritage) - athlete; Kyle Quinn (Liberty) - athlete, Roman Runner (Freedom) - athlete, and the 2005 Liberty girls volleyball team coached by Linda “Gooch” Ghilarducci. This event is open to the public. Reservations are $60 and can be made by contacting Amy Sickenberger at luhsd.athletic. hof@gmail.com.
Monday, April 28
Patriots Parent’s Organization Golf Tournament
A day of fundraising and golfing will support the Heritage High School Patriot Parents first annual golf tournament. Hosted by the Heritage PPO, the event will take place at the Lone Tree Golf Course, 4800 Golf Course Road in Antioch. The funds raised will benefit the Heritage High School PPO. Registration (prices range from $50 for lunch only to $540) starts at 7 a.m., with a shotgun start at 8 a.m. A tri-tip lunch will be served at 1 p.m. and an awards ceremony will start at 2 p.m. Included in the price are 18 holes of golf, a golf cart, and lunch. There will also be raffles. To purchase tickets, visit www.successfund.com/jvgx6.
Tuesday, April 29
6th Annual East Bay Business Expo and Job Fair
The free East Bay Business Expo and Job Fair enables businesses and entrepreneurs to network and reach out to the general public in a professional setting, showcasing their businesses, meeting new customers, and hiring potential employees. There will be raffles, giveaways, food and wine and beer tastings from 5-7:30 p.m. at the Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St. For more information or to register as a vendor, call 925-634-3344 or visit https://business.brentwoodchamber. com/events/details/6th-annual-east-baybusiness-expo-job-fair-17546?calendarMonth=2025-04-01
Ongoing Events
East County Rotary Club Meetings
Brentwood: The Brentwood Rotary Club meets weekly on Monday at noon at the Club Los Meganos Event Center at 1700 Trilogy Parkway in Brentwood. For more information, visit www.brentwoodrotaryclub.com.
Oakley: The Oakley Rotary Club meets weekly on Thursday at 7:30 a.m. at Black Bear Diner, 3201 Main St. in Oakley. For more information, visit www.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 www. facebook.com/antiochrotaryclub.
The Rotary Club of the Delta: The Rotary Club of the Delta meets weekly on Wednesdays at 7 a.m. at Denny’s, 4823 Lone Tree Way in Antioch. For more information, visit www.rotaryclubofthedelta.org.
East County Lions Club Meetings
Brentwood: The Brentwood Lions Club meets the first Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St. in Brentwood. For more information, visit: www.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.
Attention commercial venues! The Press is excited to announce we are now allowing commercial venues, bars and for-profit events to list your events in The Press’s weekly printed community calendar. For only $25 per week, it will include 55-60 words or a 380-390 character count with bigger font and will be hotlinked to your website on the e-Press. To place your event, let us know by Friday at noon for the following Fridays publication at ads@brentwoodpress.com or call 925-634-1441.
The state of women’s health
This month, we celebrate women’s history month. We look back at all the awesome accomplishments we have achieved ever since the beginning time. Yes, I am biased. However, as much as women have achieved, there is always more that we must overcome, especially when it relates to our health.
“Before 1993, women were rarely included in clinical trials,” according to AAMC. org. Coincidently women are 50.42% of the American population, according to worldatlas.com, but women are significantly underrepresented in clinical trials especially women of color, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The reasons include historical biases, gender bias fearing that female hormones would make women difficult to study, according to Healthline.com. Policies that are designed to protect unborn children and financial costs, according to AAMC.org. Interestingly enough, funding for diseases affecting men is twice as high as those affecting women, according to NIH.gov.
There are diseases in women’s health that mainly affect women, especially in regards reproductive health that are not highlighted or researched enough. Here are a couple health disparities that we simply need more awareness of and research.
Endometriosis is a complex and often chronic issue affecting a women’s uterus, the problem is that tissues that normally line the uterus start to grow outside the uterus planting itself on mainly pelvic organs most commonly the ovaries, behind the uterus, bladder and rectum. This tissue then responds during
the menstrual cycle and bleeds the same way but there is no outlet, meaning blood gets trapped in the pelvis.
This can cause severe pain, inflammation, very heavy periods, bloating, scar tissue and infertility, according to CDC.gov. It is estimated that more than 11%, or 6.5 million American women, ages 15 to 44 have endometriosis, according to FDA.gov. Endometriosis can start at the onset of menstruation and last until menopause, according to WHI. int. It is usually diagnosed by health history pelvic exam and imaging of reproductive organs. Surgery called a laparoscopy is done to confirm, diagnose and treat. Treatment includes medications like anti-inflammatories or surgery or both.
Interstitial cystitis or painful bladder syndrome affects 4 million to 12 million people in the United States and 3 million to 8 million are thought to be women over the age of 30, according to ICA.org. Interstitial cystitis is considered a chronic bladder condition that is often difficult to diagnose, misdiagnosed and there is no cure, according to NIH.gov. Interstitial cystitis is characterized by severely painful urinary symptoms in the lower abdomen and pelvic area, pressure as the bladder fills and frequency, according to NIH.gov. Symptoms occur gradually and worsen over years as the bladder wall is damaged by inflammation. Quality of life can be affected negatively due to severe pain, frequently having to use the restroom, sleep disturbances, sexual dysfunction due to pain and discomfort. This is another disorder that affects mostly women and there is not a cure. This is just a fraction of women’s health issues that need attention. What can we do as individuals? Don’t be silent, speak up and share your experiences with your healthcare team and tell trusted family members or friends.
Come Live Your Best Life!
Diane Alexander
Kevin Allen
Miriam Bell
Jerry &Mary Black*
Patricia Blumen*
Jamie Bolt*
Mark Branson
Marsha Brown
Vince Buchanan
Bethi Carver Gibb*
Gary Chambers
Janet Clarke*
Robert Conner
John Cooper
Kimberly Cope
Donna Corrigan
Denise Cosgrove* DF
Rosa Daley
Dominic DeBellis
Albert Del Grande
Debra Doherty*
John Dodson
Michael Echeverria*
Larry Fancey
Irene San Filippo
Timothy Finnigan
David Foster
Gloria Foster*
David Goodwin
Carol Grossman
Deena Gruver*
Carol Guadagni
April Guarascio
Rinaldo Hamade*
Bill Harms
Geraldine Hogan
Marianne Hughlett
Udo Jaquet
Nigel Jesson*
Martha Karamanougian
David Kerley
Elaine Kilpatrick
Lauren Kovaleff
Erin Lamb*
Pat & Mary Lamb
Cathy Little*
Carlee Lopez
Karen Mann
Janet McCarthy
Jay McLaughlin
Jamie McManus
Kryssie Mingst*
Lawrence Moglia*
Elizabeth Montgomery
Shani Moore*
D.V. Morales
Narmadha
Rick Nelson
Brian Oftedal
Ken Olson
Sharon Ouka
Gary Pollock
Sue Pretzer
Leonard Price
Gloria Rodda
Annette Rodrigues
Lourdes Rosado-Ford
Kitten Russell
Gary Sands
Irene San Filippo
Gwendolyn Schmid
Craig Schoenthale
Jorge Segovia
Tim & Cindy Shehorn
Donald Smith*
Darlene Souza
Wayne Steffen
Birgit Stephens*
Mike Suboez
Sue Swackhamer
Kiran Taunk
Zack Taylor
Linda Thuman*
Amy Tilley*
David Wahl
Larry Wallace
Julia Wantuck
Judi Weisenberg
David Wyatt
Ron Yarolimek
Carl Yost
Carolyn Young
Joseph Young
Larry Young
Mary Young
Nurse’s CorNer
sheri Griffiths
Youth Press
The anticipation of going to high school
As the third quarter comes to an end for area school districts, students are met with mixed opinions on their upcoming high school journey. On one hand, some students feel excited about high school. Some can hardly wait to meet all their new teachers, interact with students from other schools, and the new social opportunities.
On the other hand, some students aren’t thrilled about going to high school. These kids are scared of what’s to come in high school, but there is a bright side to all of this: you don’t have to worry about anything.
For the peers that I hear worrying about their upcoming high school experience, I have something to tell you: Embrace whatever high school gives you. You might be scared about your teachers, but don’t be, because they are there to help you.
You might be anxious about who all the new students are, but don’t be, because they want to be your friend.
You might also be nervous about socializing, but you don’t need to, since they are fun and exciting.
Worried students can let go of their fear by embracing the variety of opportunities they find in high school, such as their new teachers, students, and social opportunities.
One reason that kids can feel worried is their teachers. Many feel that teachers may be unapproachable and strict when it’s the opposite. Current high
schoolers say that freshman teachers are generally very nice and will answer any questions you have for them.
Freshman year is considered by many as one of the best years of high school, and this is partially due to the great teachers that guide students through the year.
Moreover, the freshman teachers are used to their students having high school stress and know what the appropriate steps are to be taken to make their lives easier. Furthermore, Liberty Union high schools offer both wellness and
college/career counseling for students. These counselors can advise you on what classes you should take based on your aspiring career path, and also help you relieve stress about high school.
Additionally, they can direct you to services like Wellness Centers and additional career exploration opportunities such as job fairs, summer programs, and workshops. By using resources, talking to your teachers, and asking for advice from counselors, you can make the most of your high school experience.
Another source of anxiety for
students may come from socializing. For some, it may be tempting to stick with their current friends-- but as many people say, high school is the place to make connections and to build your profile.
You can accomplish this by befriending new students. In the beginning of the school year, make sure to take advantage of freshmen orientation activities and presentations, where you get to meet peers and upperclassmen.
Building these connections enables you to meet more people and create lasting friendships.
Developing social skills helps you become more comfortable in different situations and better navigate relationships, which are crucial life skills.
Furthermore, don’t be scared to put yourself out there and attend socials like the Homecoming Dance, Winter Ball, and the spring Glow Dance. These socials will help you build more connections, something that can make all the difference in high school.
In conclusion, the anticipation of going to high school can be a nervewracking experience, but with the proper mindset and a bit of social mingling, your first year will feel as easy as a walk in the park.
You can make the entire high school experience, not just freshman year, a fun and memorable time, so keep all that excitement and joy as you come upon one of the best parts of your life, and remember, keep growing, keep learning, and keep being you.
– Nahar Grewal, 8th grade Adams Middle School
Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
Youth writer
Freedom baseball continues to stack wins
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Earlier this season, Freedom’s baseball team struggled to find their consistency at the plate.
Those struggles may be over following the team’s 4-1 win at College Park in Pleasant Hill on Tuesday afternoon. It was the team’s third win in a row.
“Part (of the recent success) is you have your early season problems hitting,” Freedom head coach Ken Evanson explained. “Guys not being on time, and they’re just starting to iron that out and coming up clutch in big moments, and that’s what you need.”
The Falcons’ clutch moment came in the top of the sixth inning off the bat of senior Landon Clenney, who hit a home run to left field to open the inning and put the Falcons up 4-1, just a two at-bats after College Park’s Vincent Vasell hit a solo home run to center field to put College Park on the board, 3-1.
“That was a huge momentum changer,” Evanson said. “That’s part of the things that we emphasize. If they score, we want to answer right back, and he did a great job, got a breaking ball out front and got it out of here.”
“I was feeling good,” Clenney said of the home run. …I felt good facing that pitcher, and the second one was there, hit it, it started running, then everyone started cheering loudly and I realized that it went out.”
Freedom’s Landon Clenney is surrounded by teammates while celebrating his home run in the top of the sixth inning in the Falcons’ game at College Park in Pleasant Hill Tuesday afternoon.
Along with Clenney’s big day, where he went 2-for-3 at the plate with a pair of RBI including the home run, the Falcons’ win was also carried by a strong performance on the mound by junior starter Colton Vick.
Vick tossed 6 ²/³ innings of one-run ball, allowing eight hits with two strikeouts. His lone blemish came in the bottom of the fifth inning on Vasell’s solo home run.
“Fastball was working, curveball was working, threw strikes and found the zone and let my defense work,” Vick said.
“I don’t think it gets any better,” Evanson added. “He did great, threw his tail off and left everything out there. He did a great job.”
Freedom is grabbing momentum at the right time with Bay Valley Athletic League
play coming in just over two weeks.
“Stacking wins is important,” Evanson said. “It’s important to win as a team, to learn how to win, to expect to win, and then just take that into the next game and chip away at the process.”
Following back-to-back losses to Foothill and at Campolindo, Freedom has won four of their last five games, including the current three-game win streak. They are outscoring opponents 25-8 on 37 hits, flipping their performance from their first three games of the season when they were outscored 14-17 with just 20 hits, most notably with an 11-1 loss against Foothill in the second game of the season.
“We’re trying to shake things up and make sure different guys are ready,” Evanson said.
Vick and Clenney credit the team’s high energy and practice work to the team’s success in non-league play.
“We were a bit quiet the first few games,” Vick explained. “We got louder in the dugout (as the season went on).”
“It’s just practice,” Clenney said. “We’re doing different things that cater towards what the next game would be, then the coach is great, changing up the lineups, switching people around, giving people different looks, and it just starts coming together when you really bond as a team too at practice and stuff.”
To view a video and a slideshow, visit www. thepress.net/multimedia
Liberty baseball finds their motivation in absent coach
Head coach on administrative leave for alleged financial misconduct
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
When Josh Kelleher took to the mound for Liberty baseball’s game at Castro Valley last week, there was only one thing on his mind: win and prove a lot of people wrong.
He led the team for the final four innings to do just that, capped and highlighted by Rane Miller’s three-RBI double with two outs in the sixth inning to secure the win.
Kelleher was on the mound one last time in the seventh inning, striking out the Trojans’ leadoff hitter looking, before eventually getting the final out on a pop-up to first base a few batters later.
“We knew this one was going to be a challenge,” Kelleher said. “(The win) was a big one, winning without our coach. A lot of people are probably thinking that we can’t do without our coach, so it’s just huge to be able to do that with our guys.”
Entering Friday’s game against Acalanes in Brentwood, and with Bay Valley Athletic League play shortly after, the Lions may have found their motivation
Liberty’s Josh Kelleher delivers a pitch in the Lions’ baseball game at Castro Valley last Thursday, March 20.
in playing for their head coach, Andrew Lonsdale, who’s on indefinite administrative leave by the district due to allegations from the district of financial misconduct, according to a letter from the Liberty Union High School district office.
School district superintendent Denise Rugani said that the district cannot comment on the situation as they are working on it with the district’s Human Resources department.
“They came out here for Coach Lonsdale (on Thursday),” interim head coach Billy Rhodes said. “Over the last several years, and especially this year, he’s got these boys ready (to play), and the way he’s made (this year’s team) over the last couple of months, they’re ready for
situations like this that happen.”
Friday’s home game against the Dons will be the Lions’ first without Lonsdale in the Liberty dugout since the COVID 19-shortened 2020 campaign.
Rhodes was named the interim head coach on March 20 in a letter sent out to the Liberty baseball parents by principal Efa Huckabee shortly after Lonsdale was put on leave.
“This program has been successful because of coach Lonsdale,” Rhodes said after Thursday’s win at Castro Valley. “Everything he’s done since he’s gotten here is taking this program to the next level. The reason why people want to come play at Liberty more than anywhere else in our whole city and around our area is because of coach Lonsdale. Everything he’s done for our facility, he takes care of all these guys. He’s put them all in a great situation and trains them better than anybody I’ve seen out there.”
Even after splitting last weekend’s pair of games, Rhodes says that this team is battle tested to take on the rest of the season. That mentality, Rhodes adds, is a credit to Lonsdale.
“The way they’re reacting to the battle once again, that’s Lonsdale,” Rhodes explained. “I can’t take credit for that, and I don’t even think they could take credit. That’s Lonsdale getting them lined up and set up with them, the demeanor, the mindset of being ready.”
To view a slideshow, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia/ slideshows
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
Liberty used baseball to give back...
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Mike McCarthy remembers his return to Liberty High School vividly.
”Stepping in front of your old high school is an interesting experience,” he said. “To be able to come back and speak at the high school and to be a part of realizing there’s some kid in the audience that was in the same shows that I was, and knowing that Liberty had such a profound impact on my life and made me a better person.”
Two years ago, the former Liberty pitching ace and 2006 graduate returned to Brentwood to speak at a school assembly.
He didn’t lead off his speech like any other speaker, however. Instead, he opened his speech with his picture of him coaching with the then-Oakland Athletics and showed what it looked like to be a major league coach. Then he shocked the gym, and on the next slide he showed a picture of him as a player – a freshman at Liberty.
“I didn’t know what to expect,” McCarthy said. “It was my first time speaking at Liberty, and I thought I’d come back into a couple of classrooms, not speaking to about 400 kids.
“(Showing the freshman picture) broke the ice a little bit. The level of humility to come from a place of privilege or prestige or
hierarchy, then to say that ‘I’m one of you’. We had a blast.”
McCarthy’s baseball journey has taken him from Brentwood to the minor leagues, from the field to coaching — one he dreamt of ever since his days in Little League, taking in Athletics games at the Oakland Coliseum.
But there’s been one constant that’s been a part of his life, especially as he was trying to build his career and even now: giving back. He recently held one of his youth base-
ball camps in Brentwood, and held his first youth camp along with working with Liberty’s baseball team last month.
“I never knew this was possible,” McCarthy said. “For me, coming back is enough to say, like to the teachers and coaches and people that paid this forward to me that I want to continue the same and pay it back, pay it forward now, just as they did, and teach the next generation that baseball is a great opportunity to learn and grow and develop. But
also, the most important thing that we do is what we do in our lives and how we treat the world around us, the way we treat our family, our friends, and our community.”
His baseball journey has taken him from Brentwood to Massachusetts after he was drafted by the Boston Red Sox in 2011. It eventually took him to Japan, where he helped coach other professional players, to even as far as Norway and Kenya, where he his platform with the game to give back to those in need.
“Norway is one of those beautiful countries on Earth,” he explained. “Absolutely gorgeous … but then also going to Kenya and volunteering at an orphanage and working with over 100 kids that were so impoverished. It was also a battered women’s shelter for women that have been beaten, abused, and abandoned by their male partners, still a very patriarchal country in a lot of ways, and yet through that process, these are some of the happiest people I’ve ever met in my life.
”I’m just enthralled and amazed at the experiences I got to have around the world.”
You can listen to Mike McCarthy’s baseball journey on our recent podcast episode of The Press Talks Sports Live, available on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts.
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
Mike McCarthy gives a high five during his time as a pitching coach with the El Paso Chihuahuas, the Triple-A affiliate of the San Diego Padres.
Photo courtesy Mike McCarthy
Odyssey of the Mind fourth graders excel
Five fourth graders from Brentwood Elementary School finished fourth at an Odyssey of the Mind Tournament on March 8, but won’t advance further. They didn’t advance to World Finals, but did win the raffle and won a pin towel. The qualified for this tournament by placing third in the Odyssey of the Mind Regional Qualifying Tournament on Feb. 8 at Edna Hill Middle School.
Brooklyn Tuttle
Brooklyn, a standout wrestler at Heritage High School, had an impressive season, helping her team win the league title in the inaugural girls’ wrestling season and becoming a BVAL League Champion in the 155-pound weight class. She also earned second place at the USA Wrestling CA USAW Folkstyle State tournament, showcasing her skill and determination. Known for her leadership and positive attitude, Brooklyn continues to inspire her teammates and has a bright future in wrestling.
At Train Smarter + Harder, we believe success comes from effort, a can-do attitude, and consistent preparation. We’re proud to sponsor the Athlete of the Week, recognizing young athletes who embody these values. As part of this recognition, the athlete will receive three complimentary sports performance training sessions to help further their development.
3341 Walnut Blvd., Brentwood • Call or Text: 925-306-0888 www.trainsmarterandharder.com
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Photo courtesy of Jodie Hoagland
The art of pairing wine with food
Wine pairing is the practice of selecting a wine that complements the flavors of a dish, enhancing both the food and the beverage. The right pairing balances taste, acidity, tannins, and texture, creating a more enjoyable dining experience.
Understanding the basics can help elevate any meal.
The tradition of wine pairing dates to ancient Greece and Rome, where local wines were naturally matched with regional foods. In the Middle Ages, European monks refined these pairings, cultivating vineyards and studying how wine complemented different dishes. By the 19th and 20th centuries, chefs and sommeliers formalized these principles, and today, wine pairing blends historical wisdom with modern culinary innovation.
interact with the proteins and fats in meats, softening the texture and enhancing the dish’s complexity.
One of the fundamental principles of wine pairing is matching weight and intensity. Lighter wines pair well with lighter dishes, while bold wines stand up to richer, heavier foods. Acidity in wine can cut through fatty or creamy dishes, while tannins in red wine help soften proteins and fats in meat.
In general, red wines are best suited for heartier dishes due to their tannic structure and depth of flavor. The tannins in red wine
Meanwhile, white wines, which tend to have higher acidity and a lighter body, pair well with dishes that are more delicate, such as seafood and poultry because they can elevate freshness and balance flavors without overpowering the food.
Enjoying a seafood dish? A crisp and refreshing Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the delicate flavors of fish, with the latter’s zesty acidity pairing especially well with citrusy preparations, while the former’s buttery notes complement richer
seafood like salmon.
For shellfish lovers, a dry, mineral-driven Muscadet from France’s Loire Valley is a natural match for oysters or clams, enhancing their briny freshness.
If you’re indulging in a hearty steak or beef dish, a bold Cabernet Sauvignon or a Bordeaux blend provide the perfect companion. Its tannins help break down the richness of red meat, creating a satisfying balance.
Italian cuisine pairs beautifully with a glass of Chianti or Brunello di Montalcino. The high acidity and red fruit flavors of these wines make it an ideal match for tomatobased dishes like pizza, spaghetti, or lasagna.
For dessert, a glass of sweet, goldenhued Sauternes is the perfect finishing touch. It pairs beautifully with fruit tarts or crème brûlée, balancing sweetness with complexity. Alternatively, a rich, fortified Port works perfectly with chocolate desserts and aged cheeses, adding depth with its dark fruit and caramel notes.
Mastering wine pairings can elevate any meal, transforming simple dishes into gourmet experiences.
Experimenting with different combinations will help refine your palate and enhance your appreciation of both food and wine.
REGIONAL & LOCAL
News iN Brief
County, city staff tour East Bay youth centers for ideas about new East County center
The County is planning an approximately 15,000-square-foot youth center on Windy Springs Lane off Lone Tree Way near the borders of Brentwood, Antioch and Oakley.
To that end, last week, Contra Costa County staff, including Brentwood Councilmember Faye Maloney Brentwood Vice Mayor Pa’tanisha Pierson toured youth centers in Richmond and Oakland to learn about best practices for the new youth center, according to a press release from Supervisor Diane Burgis’s office.
The lessons the staff learned during their visit will be incorporated into the design of the future youth center, which is planned to open in late 2026 or early 2027.
For details about the County’s planned youth centers, visit: www.wdbccc. com/measure-x-youth-centers/ Supervisors to host annual Chávez Commemorative celebration Youth Hall of
Fame Awards presentation
The Board of Supervisors will host the 31st Annual César E. Chávez Commemorative Celebration at 11 a.m., Tuesday, April 1, in Board Chambers at 1025 Escobar St. in Martinez. The event will be broadcast live on Contra Costa Television channels and the County’s website.
The event will include presentation of the 2025 Youth Hall of Fame Awards to students who make outstanding community contributions, live performances by Salseros with Arthur Murray Dance Studios and remarks from the Board of Supervisors.
Seminar April 12 on how to live a better life after age 50
The East County Senior Coalition presents a seminar on how to live better after age 50 on April 12 from 8:45 a.m.4 p.m. at Black Diamond High School, 1131 Stoneman Ave. in Pittsburg.
Workshops include:
• tai chi and laughter yoga
• are your affairs in order?
• scams and fraud safety
• managing medications
• library services
• clutter reduction
• aging care decisions
• nutrition and oral care
• dancing and more Registration is $5, and includes breakfast, light lunch and raffle.
To register, call 925-473-2400 or visit pittsburgadult/asapconnected.com.
East Contra Costa Historical Society featured on CBS’s GoodDay Sacramento
The work of volunteers at East Contra Costa Historical Society in Knightsen was on display last week on KMAX Sacramento’s GoodDay Sacramento, according to a press release from Supervisor Diane Burgis’s office.
You can watch the recording at CBS News’ website, and you can learn more about the East Contra Costa Historical Society and plan your visit (admission is free) at EastContraCostaHistory.org or https://youtu.be/8S9khoiHOMs.
California seizes over 650,000 fentanyl pills so far in 2025
In January and February, the California National Guard (CalGuard) seized 1,045 pounds and more than 650,000 pills containing fentanyl, with a street value of more than $6.8 million. This effort continues an enhanced focus in 2025 to combat illegal fentanyl trafficking, Gov. Newsom’s office said in a press release.
Through their Counter Drug Task Force operations, the Cal Guard Task Force members have been deployed statewide, including at ports of entry, to combat transnational criminal organizations and trafficking illegal narcotics like fentanyl, in support of federal, state, and local law enforcement partners.
In addition, Cal Guard service members have transformed drug prevention in elementary, middle, and high schools statewide through the Task Force’s Drug Demand Reduction Outreach program. Since October 2024, servicemembers visited 112 schools across the state and talking to 57,442 students.
East Bay Regional Park District hires new assistant general manager
Jessica Romeo is the new East Bay Regional Park District assistant general manager of Human Resources, Parks District General Manager Sabrina Landreth said in a press release.
Romeo joins the district from the City of Alameda, where she served nearly nine years, most recently as Human Resources Director. Romeo starts on April 21.
Romeo has a demonstrated history of working in government administration, Landreth said in a press release. She is a seasoned human resources professional with extensive experience in public sector leadership, labor relations, and workforce development. She holds a Juris Doctor from the University of San Francisco School of Law and a Bachelor’s degree from UC Santa Cruz, providing her with a strong foundation in policy, governance, and organizational strategy.
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Romeo will focus on fostering collaborative relationships, improving workforce planning, and creating inclusive environments where employees can succeed, the release stated.
A lifelong East Bay resident, Romeo grew up in Clayton and has spent her life exploring and enjoying East Bay Regional Parks. Her connection to the area has shaped her dedication to public service.
Newsom announces record $76 million to safeguard local faith communities and nonprofits
Safeguarding Californians from hate-motivated incidents that have surged nationally, Gov. Gavin Newsom has announced $76 million in grants, made in partnership with the state Legislature, to 347 community groups across the state to protect nonprofits and houses of worship from violence – the most that’s ever been awarded.
“Despite facing significant budget challenges, the California Legislature will continue to stand firm in our commitment to supporting vulnerable communities targeted by hate,” said Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino) and Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), the Budget Chairman of the California Legislature.
Of the 347 awardees, 269 are ideology and spiritually-based organizations. More than 1,600 organizations applied during this round of funding, totaling over $325 million in requested support.
The state Office of Emergency Services (administers these funds that directly support physical security measures such as reinforced doors, gates, high-intensity lighting, access control systems, development and enhancement of security plans and protocols.
California launches satellite project to detect and reduce dangerous methane leaks
In his first action since being named co-chairman of the subnational climate coalition America Is All In, Gov. Newsom has announced a state effort to cut methane pollution with the help of satellite technology because the Environmental Protection Agency has reduced protections.
The new initiative comes as the Trump administration’s EPA works to dismantle decades of clean air and clean water protections. Specifically, the EPA is reconsidering the “endangerment finding,” which is the basis for federal actions to curb planet-warming emissions of greenhouse gases including carbon dioxide and methane, according to a press release from Newsom’s office.
The technology involves satellitemounted methane sensors that send data to enable the state to locate and monitor large emissions of methane that could
otherwise go undetected. This new data will allow state and local agencies to work together with industry to stop the leaks and protect public health, the release stated.
Methane is a clear, odorless gas released from landfills, oil and gas operations, livestock facilities, as well as natural sources such as wetlands. It is a major pollutant that is 80 times more potent than carbon dioxide for near-term warming of the planet. Methane emissions are responsible for about a quarter of global carbon pollution, the press release said. Controlling methane leaks helps speed up the state’s efforts to protect the environment.
The satellite project and the data acquired by it is made possible by a $100 million investment from the state’s Cap-andTrade program. Already, one satellite has been launched with up to seven more to be deployed.
The state will maintain a database and web portal to coordinate and document efforts to reduce the amount of methane gas in the atmosphere, the press release said. While California does not own these satellites, state agencies will be able to select specific regions for observation. This data will also be available to communities to view methane reduction efforts, education, and for outreach.
California applies to join initiative to expand access to lifesaving gene therapies for sickle cell disease
Gov. Newsom has announced that the Department of Health Care Services submitted an application to the federal Center for Medicaid and Medicaid Innovation at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to participate in the groundbreaking Cell and Gene Therapy Access Model. If approved, this multiyear initiative will expand Medi-Cal members’ access to lifesaving gene therapies for sickle cell disease, a severe genetic blood disorder that disproportionately affects people of African descent, the governor’s office said in a press release.
More than 50 percent of individuals with sickle cell disease are covered by Medicaid in the United States. By participating in the Cell and Gene Therapy Access Model, California will:
• Expand access to gene therapies for Medi-Cal members with sickle cell disease.
• Streamline coverage by transitioning sickle cell disease gene therapies to the Medi-Cal fee-for-service pharmacy benefit, ensuing a more predictable and sustainable reimbursement process
• Advance health equity by increasing treatment opportunities for historically low-income people.
• Enhance financial predictability for the Medi-Cal program through federal negotiated rebates.
Cop logs
A verbal dispute was reported on Pelican Street. A 20-year-old was extremely intoxicated. An adult was arrested.
March 17, 5:35 p.m.
The following is a selection of recent law enforcement activity:
BRENTWOOD
March 14, 12:38 a.m. A suspicious person was reported on Lone Tree Way. A white female wearing an all pink sweatsuit was concealing items and switching price tags. She was with two other males. An adult was arrested.
March 14, 9:28 a.m. Property was found at Pippo Avenue and Balfour Road. The reporting party dropped off a found wallet in the police department lobby.
March 14, 9:35 a.m. A hit and run with no injuries was reported on Jacaranda Street. The incident occurred the day prior. The reporting party has surveillance footage of the incident.
March 14, 12:00 p.m. A suspicious circumstance was reported on Smith Road.
March 14, 12:44 p.m. A case of a suspect wanted on a warrant was reported on Vista Grande Drive at Cross Pointe Apartments in Antioch. An adult was arrested.
March 14, 2:23 p.m. A restraining/court order violation was reported on First Street. It was a custody order violation.
March 14, 3:41 p.m. An accident was reported at Brentwood Boulevard and Balfour Road involving three vehicles.
March 14, 4:03 p.m. A case of forgery/ fraud was reported on Lone Tree Way.
March 14, 9:02 p.m. A case of disturbing the peace was reported on Cashew Court.
March 15, 1:32 p.m. A suspicious vehicle was reported at Sand Creek Road and Highway 4. An adult was arrested.
March 15, 5:40 p.m. A case of grand theft was reported on Sand Creek Road. Police allege two Black females took 57 items during a “grab and run.”
March 15, 7:47 p.m. A case of a hit and run with no injuries was reported on Lone Oak Road. A white Ford F150 truck drove through a fence onto the reporting party’s property. He lost control doing a doughnut and then drove away north on Lone Oak towards Grant. The license plate was unknown. March 15, 9:26 p.m. A domestic verbal dispute was reported on Homecoming Way.
March 16, 4:11 a.m. A suspicious circumstance was reported on Caddie Court. A black truck rammed into the reporting party’s parked silver Infinity.
Brentwood police located a vehicle the afternoon of March 15 that was stolen four days earlier, parked in a parking lot in a Brentwood apartment complex. The driver of the vehicle, Gustavo MontanoRazo, 35, from Concord, ran from the vehicle but after a short foot pursuit the officer apprehended him safely. A search of MontanoRazo, who was also on post-release-community supervision, revealed suspected narcotics on his person, according to a police press release. Stolen mail, including tax documents from a different apartment complex in Brentwood, were also found in the vehicle. MontanoRazo was then booked into jail. Especially during tax season, criminals are often looking for confidential and personal information that they can use to steal someone’s identity. So police remind residents to keep an eye out for anyone suspicious or loitering around mailboxes.
March 16, 8:40 a.m. A case of petty theft was reported on Pescara Boulevard. The side of the driveway fence was down and a pool sweeper with an estimated cost of $900 was stolen. The incident occurred sometime in the last 2 weeks.
March 16, 9:13 a.m. A vehicle theft was reported on Business Center Drive. The vehicle was parked outside of the gate of the apartments. The reporting party had the keys.
March 16, 12:21 p.m. A case of petty theft was reported on Sand Creek Road. The suspect was a Black female who was 5-feet, 10-inches tall with braids wearing a gray hoodie with light blue jeans with black leggings under black socks and black slides. She had a large gray Marc Jacobs bag. She left in a silver fourdoor Infinity eastbound on Sand Creek.
About $250 was taken.
March 16, 3:23 p.m. A case of forgery/ fraud was reported on Crocket Drive. The reporting party believes her information was taken by a door-to-door salesman who sent her a link via email. She clicked on the link and has since had fraud attempts on her account. Her cardholder has blocked all the charges and there was no loss at the time. The reporting party has video footage of the possible suspect.
March 16, 3:42 p.m. A case of grand theft was reported on Sand Creek Road. There was a loss of $1,800 worth of product. Video footage was available.
March 16, 6:19 p.m. A restraining/ court order violation was reported on Century Oaks Drive.
March 16, 7:09 p.m. A case of reckless
driving was reported at Balfour Road and Guise Way. There was a silver Ford Explorer with tinted windows driving on the sidewalk. The vehicle had two occupants. An adult was arrested.
March 17, 12:22 a.m. A case of vehicle theft recovery was reported on Central Boulevard.
March 17, 2:54 a.m. A suspicious person was reported on Lone Tree Way. There was a known alcohol shoplifter who was trespassing a few months ago who was currently inside the store in the freezer aisle. The suspect was a Hispanic male last seen wearing a face mask, a black hoodie, and blue jeans. The suspect’s name was unknown, and no weapons were seen. An adult was arrested.
March 17, 7:03 a.m. A case of a hit and run with no injuries was reported at Balfour Road and Mcviking Way. The reporting party was at a light and her light was green. Another driver in a dark-colored vehicle was coming out of Safeway to go westbound on Balfour and hit the reporting party, then continued on.
March 17, 9:38 a.m. A case of vandalism was reported on Lone Tree Way.
March 17, 11:51 a.m. A case of vandalism was reported on Harvest Park Drive. There was mail taken and damage to the mailbox. The reporting party was also concerned because the suspect attempted to open the door to the business.
March 17, 2:55 p.m. An accident involving two vehicles with unknown injuries was reported at Balfour Road and Fairview Avenue. The reporting party requested an ambulance and did not feel well. She hit their head. The car was pulled to the side.
March 17, 5:35 p.m. A verbal dispute was reported on Pelican Street. A 20-yearold was extremely intoxicated. An adult was arrested.
March 17, 6:54 p.m. A case of vehicle theft recovery was reported at O’Hara Avenue and Atherton Boulevard. A charcoal gray Nissan Altima was stalled with the lights flashing in a white zone on O’Hara Avenue. An adult was arrested.
March 17, 7:03 p.m. A restraining/court order violation was reported on Pasco Drive. The suspect outside had a bat, but it was unknown where it was at the time. The reporting party had a restraining order. An adult was arrested.
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Pickleball
This sound is high-pitched, narrowband, and short in duration,” the report reads, in part. “Traditional noise studies measure average sound levels over time, often underestimating the disruptive nature of this repetitive noise, even when within acceptable limits under local noise standards.”
Residents living near the courts said they are used consistently throughout their hours of operation.
“It’s a great community; they’re all having fun,” one of the nearby residents said during the meeting. “But they don’t realize how many people use that area… it’s busy from seven in the morning until … nine o’clock at night.”
While residents living near the courts cited the noise generated not just by the sport itself but by the players as one of
Feedback from page 1
their main concerns, pickleball players who used the courts suggested that noise complaints were not justified.
“We don’t have control of the environment around us and it’s unrealistic to think that we do,” one player said. “I’m a block from Lone Tree Way – I hear auto traffic… but I don’t come here and say ‘You gotta stop traffic on Lone Tree Way.’”
Players pointed out that Creekside Park is the “only place in Brentwood where residents can play pickleball” without having to pay a fee. While Creekside Park is the only one with dedicated courts for pickleball, other parks, such as Pioneer Park on Miwok Avenue, can also be used to play the sport on their multiuse courts.
The council members ultimately suggested the reduced hours as a compromise that would allow players to still enjoy the
ings and Energy, Governance and Leadership, and Transportation and Land Use — with a fifth board also available for miscellaneous comments. The various ideas had equally diverse sources, according to Spanias. They came from not only city planners and experts, but also from the community, though they had to be vetted by the Planning Commission and City Council, among others.
• The Adaptation and Resilience category included such points as the hardening of infrastructure against climate change effects, the creation of carbon sinks to remove greenhouse gases from the air, and the protection of historical and ecological sites.
• Buildings and Energy included the complete cessation of carbon emissions in Oakley, municipal, residential, and commercial, by 2040.
• Governance and Leadership included the prioritization of climate action and sustainability in the budget and collaboration with nearby communities.
• Transportation and Land Use included the encouragement of active (e.g. bikes), shared (e.g. carpooling or school buses), and public transportation and the pursuit of a “15-minute city,” where all residents can access amenities within a 15-minute walk or bike ride.
In the discussions that followed the stoplight poll, Fuller asked when information on federal money would arrive, and whether the EPA would change environmental requirements to “something less than we ought [to have].” Spanias replied that he “wouldn’t expect too much from them,” and that “funding on the order of
Oakley from page 1
The Senior Center project managers are also continuing to work with Meals on Wheels and Cafe Costa to ensure that the Center’s weekly meal programs transition smoothly to the new site. Cafe Costa is currently providing one meal per week on Wednesdays.
But that will change to four per week after July 1, when the city will pick up cafe management duties. Meals on Wheels will begin providing a week’s worth of meals for those who are unable to attend the Senior Center lunches on May 2.
Tejeda met with instructors who were interested in leading Senior Center programs on March 26 to set up their contracts, and will host a meeting for all Oakley residents older than 55 on April 3 at 11:30 a.m. at the rec center to answer any questions they may have about the
courts while giving residents a break from the noise.
“The guidelines for the Pickleball Association say that a court should be 200 to 300 feet from a house,” Councilmember Jovita Mendoza explained, saying that the approval of the pickleball courts predates her time on council. “At the end of the day, this is their home. While I understand a car here or there might be loud…I don’t know what it would be like to live around something that was 24/7 like this.”
Mendoza stressed that the city was not interested in getting rid of the pickleball courts outright due to their popularity, which Councilmember Tony Oerlemans agreed with while making his own point about considering the residents.
“Those pickleball courts weren’t there when they bought the house,” he
This is the board on which residents evaluated ideas on how to fight climate change.
billions of dollars” from the Biden era is now likely “stuck somewhere” between the federal government and the municipal environmental initiatives it was intended for.
Another unnamed attendee pointed out that there is still “a big chunk of change” being doled out by the state for green programs, and that this will likely be the main source of the plan’s finances. Cumming Group project manager Cassidy Wallerstein said that the un-
new Senior Center. The meeting will also feature pre-registration for Senior Center membership so that members will already be entered into the records come opening day on May 1.
In other council news:
• The City Council approved a sign program and sign exception permit for the new Safeway shopping center at Laurel Fields. The former will govern how the shopping center’s signs are designed, placed, and maintained, while the latter will allow for a larger sign on the Safeway building and other businesses so that they can more easily be identified from the road.
• Contra Costa Library Commissioner Kevin Armonio delivered a report and recommendations to the City Council concerning the funding of the Contra Costa County library system. The report
said. “We introduced those pickleball courts later on, so I think we owe it to the residents to try to mitigate some of that.”
According to city staff, the city will notify residents via social media when the updated hours take effect.
Other discussion topics included:
• The 4-1 decision to add four stop signs along Vineyard Parkway in the Trilogy subdivision. Councilmember Tony Oerlemans was the dissenting vote. The installation of the stop signs is intended to slow down vehicles that speed down the long stretch of road. A Trilogy resident was killed in October 2023 when she was hit by a speeding vehicle, prompting the city to do traffic studies and seek out potential solutions.
The full meeting can be watched at https://bit.ly/4iRAklp
certain situation at the federal level makes local action like Oakley’s Climate Action Plan even more important.
Fuller was also concerned about the potential for further tax increases on local residents due to the creation of new regional tax areas to pay for the Climate Action Plan in collaboration with nearby cities.
He worried that the other cities in the tax area would vote for increased taxes and drown out Oakley’s residents if they voted against, as had happened in the past.
Other attendees spoke up about the city transitioning its vehicle fleet to electric vehicles, saying that there needed to be a more concrete schedule for doing so. Shaw explained that the process is not always linear, with cities sometimes finding that there are not enough electric vehicles available to meet their demand, forcing them to return to gasoline power.
“A lot of cities have had to go back on EV plans due to unavailability, we’ve been watching larger cities do this,” Spanias said.
Spanias gave San Diego as an example. They had looked into converting bus and freight lines to electric, but found the existing vehicles unsuitable for these purposes. One possible alternative they came up with is hydrogen fuel cell technology, which is also very low emission, but the environmental impact of creating the fuel cells has yet to be fully studied, they said.
The public draft of the Oakley Climate Action Plan is at www.oakleyca.gov/232/Environmental-Programs, and public comments can be sent to ClimateAction@ ci.oakley.ca.us.
stated that, while the system is of good quality, it also has the lowest funding per capita among counties with similar incomes and library systems in the Bay Area, specifically Alameda, Marin, Napa, and Solano.
The reason for this is that Contra Costa County does not have any source of funding for its libraries except for 1.5% of its 1% property tax, while other counties have other taxes to help fund their libraries. The Contra Costa Library Commission recommended that the Oakley City Council: recognize the libraries’ limited funding endorse a goal of 56 hours of opening time per week at all full-service libraries and at least four hours of Sunday service at 6 or more “equitablydistributed” locations. It should also continue supporting the Oakley Library and all other libraries in Contra Costa.
Photo by Connor Robles
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