The Press 06.30.2023

Plan for ag center advances

City Council approves $2.24 million project

By Jake Menez Staff Writer

The seeds for a $2.24 million agricultural innovation center were sown at the June 27 Brentwood City Council meeting when the council unanimously agreed to move forward with the project by approving the funding.

“I can’t echo enough how excited I am about this whole entire thing,” Vice Mayor Susannah Meyer said following the presentation by members of Harvest Time, a Brentwood organization that promotes agriculture tourism and has spearheaded this

see Ag center page 15A

Brentwood celebrates Pride month, raises its flag

Cops warn: Light up fireworks, get fined

The city of Brentwood raised its Pride flag next to the American flag last Friday both at City Hall and in front of the Brentwood Community Center to celebrate Pride month.

2 groups to look at new office prospects

By Dawnmarie Fehr Correspondent

The Discovery Bay Community Services District (CSD) Board of Directors wants two committees to look at options for a new office. It also has paused negotiations with architecture firm AETypic for plans to build a $13 million office building on community center grounds.

The move was prompted when more than 100 residents packed the previous meeting on June 7 to show unity against the plan for a new office building at what they considered too high a cost.

To research other options for new office spaces for town staff, the board voted to create a new committee consisting of CSD Director Bryon Gutow and Board President Ashley Porter to see if the existing community center is a viable option for new office spaces. This committee will post agendas prior to regularly held

public meetings on the town’s website at www.todb.ca.gov

The schedule has not been announced.

Meanwhile, the existing water and wastewater committee – made up of Porter and longtime Director Kevin Graves – will look at all possible options for new offices, including renting space and con -

structing a new building.

“One committee is looking at future staff office options,” said Gutow. “The other committee is to look at the community center’s current condition and propose any necessary improvements which could include deferred maintenance and code upgrades. Regardless of whether the community center is chosen as a new office space location, any found building issues will still need to be taken care of … I think this is good for the community.”

Gutow noted the public can have an active voice in any

see Office page 15A

By Jake Menez Staff Writer

With the Fourth of July on the horizon, local and county fire and law enforcement agencies are warning East County residents of the consequences of setting off fireworks illegally, including fines up to $1,000.

“All fireworks, regardless of type or labeling, are illegal in Contra Costa County,” a June 26 advisory on the county website reads. “Remember, there are no ‘Safe & Sane’ fireworks. Regardless of labeling, they are all dangerous and uncontrollable. The fireworks ordinance Chapter 44-2 of the County Ordinance Code, and numerous city ordinances have strengthened enforcement abilities.”

The fine for fireworks in Contra Costa County ranges from $500 - $1,000 depending on severity of the offense, according to Brentwood Police Capt. Walter O’Grodnick. The county advisory encourages residents to report the use of fireworks to their local law enforcement agency’s non-emergency line.

Some cities, such as Oakley, are taking more proactive mea-

see Fine page 15A

Photo by Jeff Weisinger

“

We feel spending $13 million was wasteful. We believe they listened to us at the last meeting and came to the right decision.

Susie McAuliffe, Discovery Bay resident

EXPERIENCE A CLEANER CONCENTRATE

Pioneer Parents Club re-hoists vandalized

Pride Month banner at school event

By Rene De Amaral Staff Writer

“We stand shoulder to shoulder, united in our commitment in creating a world where everyone can love without fear,” Kacy Torres, the co-public relations chair for the Pioneer Parents Club, at the Pioneer Elementary School’s rehanging of their Pride Month banner after it was vandalized this month.

The Pride Month banner had been splattered with paint overnight between June 6-7, according to an email sent out to Pioneer Elementary School families from principal Casey McClure. It was reported to Brentwood police, who are still investigating the incident, according to police officials.

In response to the banner’s vandalism, the Pioneer Parents Club, a group of volunteer Pioneer Elementary School parents, invited everyone to the rehanging of the banner on June 26, LGBTQ Equality Day.

The event began with introductions from Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) co-chair Yanira Canizales Wandera and residents consisting of Pioneer Elementary School families and others who were there for support.

Volunteer parents from the Parents Club read inspirational LGBTQ poetry, Leisa Waldron, the parents club president,

expressed thanks to those who attended and for the money the parents club was able to raise to replace the banner, and how McClure was able to clean off the banner “We wanted to do something special, that reached out to our community that also reached out to other members of Brentwood,” Waldron said. “The other cool thing was that we raised almost $600 to replace our banner,

which Mr. McClure was able to clean off, so we were able to purchase a new banner and both will represent belonging and all the important efforts we put in our DEI.”

McClure then told the crowd of his anger, and the triumphant feeling when he removed the paint from the banner. “I remember feeling a gut-punch feeling and I took the banner down immediately,” McClure

said. “All day long ‘who would do something like this?’ and I was very angry. But I took it home and spread it out on the driveway and I hosed it down and I did some things that I thought would get the paint off, and I noticed right away that it started to come off. My anger in that moment started to dissipate and I had a real sort of triumphant feeling. I knew we weren’t gonna back down. We do believe in the motto that Pioneer is a place where everyone belongs and it’s about love.”

The original Pride banner, trumpeting “Pioneer Celebrates Pride” with a rainbow heart, was rehung, along with their new banner, depicting Pioneer’s mascot, a colt, their school motto “A place where everyone belongs,” and a quote from Harvey Milk, the first openly gay man to be elected into public office in California, “We can set examples so that others will follow.”

The event ended with an affirmation of the parents club’s mission from the Public Relations co-chair Jessica Stewart, who stated their goals were to make sure students at Pioneer can thrive academically, feel welcome and safe along with being able to live their most authentic selves.

For more information about the Pioneer Parents Club and their mission, visit https://bit.ly/3NNFnX.

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

Rerun my previous ad.

The Pioneer Parents Club celebrated LGBTQ Equality Day with the rehanging of their Pride Month banner.

Photo by Rene De Amaral

News iN Brief

Brentwood police arrest Antioch man on felony probation who was passed out in car

Brentwood police arrested a man last weekend who was passed out in his car on several charges.

Brentwood officers responded to a report on Saturday at about 9:30 a.m. about a man who was passed out in his car in the 1100 block of Arlington Way. Officers found Marcos Martinez Tovar, 29, of Antioch, passed out in the vehicle.

When Martinez Tovar woke up from the officers around him, Brentwood police say that he reached for something toward the side of his body. Officers discovered a loaded gun on him, along with a 30-round capacity magazine, several rounds of ammunition, a large sum of money, a small scale, a few cellphones, clear plastic Baggies, and several drugs including fentanyl.

Martinez Tovar is on felony probation and was placed under arrest on several charges, including being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, possession of drugs for sales transporting drugs, felony probation violation and several others.

He was taken to the Martinez Detention Facility for booking.

Feds give state $1.86 billion for faster internet service for everyone in state

Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a statement after the Biden-Harris Administration announced its allocation of funding to deploy high-speed Internet access to everyone in America. California will receive $1.86 billion from the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program as part of Biden’s 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. “This infusion of funding will help build on the work done in recent years with the Legislature to cut red tape around broadband infrastructure projects and get highspeed Internet access to more Californians, helping make the digital divide a thing of the past,” Newsom said.

This money nearly doubles the amount of available funding for “lastmile” (unserved) broadband infrastructure in California. In 2021, Newsom allocated $6 billion for achieving Broadband for All, including $2 billion for similar “last-mile” projects and $3.25 billion for the middle-mile network, and last year’s budget put an additional $550 million toward the project as it moves into construction.

Californians interested in seeing if they qualify for discounted high-speed internet services available now may learn more at the state’s Broadband for All website at https://broadbandforall.cdt. ca.gov/affordable-connectivity-program/.

Newsom signs law that combat gas price gouging

California’s new law to combat price gouging at the pump takes effect today. Governor Gavin Newsom signed the firstin-the-nation law earlier this year after calling for a special session of the Legislature to hold Big Oil accountable for fleecing California families at the gas pump. California’s law is a model for the nation: a recent national poll found that 89% of Americans support efforts to crack down on gas price gouging.

Starting June 26, the new law:

Exposes price manipulation in real time by requiring daily reports on the market and imports

Helps prevent gas price spikes caused when refineries are not producing by requiring refineries to report maintenance schedules in advance and unplanned maintenance in real-time

Increases accountability by getting monthly reports on refiners’ profit margins

Establishes a new independent watchdog, the Division of Petroleum Market Oversight, within the California Energy Commission, to monitor the industry

“California is delivering on our promise to hold Big Oil accountable.” Newsom said. “These new transparency laws will help us track refiners’ profits and shine a light on price manipulation so Californians aren’t vulnerable to the greedy whims of Big Oil. And this is just the start – we’re standing up the nation’s first Big Oil watchdog to monitor the industry 24/7, rooting out illegal price gouging in real-time to help you keep money in your pocket.” Compared to 2022, California’s gas prices have been substantially lower and less volatile. The governor’s actions have helped lead to a decrease of $1.50 per gallon, year over year.

Working with Senator Nancy Skinner and the Legislature to pass the bill, this new law creates the Division of Petroleum Market Oversight, a dedicated state independent watchdog to root out price gouging by oil companies and authorizes the California Energy Commission to create a penalty to hold the industry accountable. The new division will closely monitor the industry on a daily basis to identify unethical or illegal behavior, and will refer any violation of law – including industry misconduct or market manipulation – to the Attorney General for prosecution.

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

Meet Redford Redford is a sweet love bug! Super playful and possibly part Maine Coon. Redford will need a male kitten to hang with. To meet Redford, email anangelrn@aol.com.

Farewell to a veteran

The late Stephen Paul Todd had a hero’s send-off on Saturday, June 24, when the VFW Post 10789 honored Past Commander Todd with a military memorial service. Todd’s body had a police escort from his home to the memorial service at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building where several hundred friends and family honored him. He also was honored by the Federal Protective Services Honor Guard, Marine Corps League detachment 1155, VFW Post 10789 Honor Guard, Department of Homeland Security, and the Brentwood Police Department. To view a video and a slideshow of the event, visit www. thepress.net/multimedia

4 MISCONCEPTIONS OF LIVING TRUSTS by Martin

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

Revocable Living Trusts are now commonly included in Estate Plans today, but there remain numerous misconceptions and myths surrounding Trusts that need to be clarified. While it’s impossible to address all the misunderstandings, here are the main ones.

First. Contrary to popular belief, a Trust serves a dual purpose beyond just avoiding probate. During your lifetime, the Trust is designed to assist you directly by ensuring that your trust assets are used for your benefit. If you become incapacitated, the Trust allows you to designate individuals who will manage your financial affairs and healthcare decisions, thus avoiding the need for a conservatorship. The second purpose of a Trust is to bypass probate after your passing.

Second. Having a Trust doesn’t mean your Successor Trustee has no responsibilities after your demise. On the contrary, a Trust necessitates a post-death Trust Administration performed by your Successor Trustee. Similar to probate, this administration involves three steps: Notice, Marshalling of Assets, and Distribution. Under California law, the legal notice to initiate the Trust Administration must be sent within 60 days after the Grantor’s death. Moreover, the change of Ownership for real property must be filed with the County Assessor within 150 days of the Grantor’s passing. Hence, if you’re appointed as the Successor Trustee, seeking legal assistance for the Trust Administration process is crucial.

Third. It is a misconception that the Trustee

has no duty to account to beneficiaries if the Grantor becomes incapacitated. In California, the Trustee is specifically required by law to provide notice and account to beneficiaries within 60 days of obtaining information that establishes the Grantor’s incompetence. This obligation arises whenever there is no Grantor with the power to modify or revoke the Trust. To avoid confusion regarding this requirement, the California legislature introduced amendments to Probate Code 15800 and added Probate Code Section 16069, effective Jan. 1, 2022, which outlines the formal requirements.

Fourth. While a Trust is a tax-neutral instrument, it allows for specific tax elections, such as the unlimited marital deduction and the establishment of Bypass Trusts within the Trust structure. Regarding creditor claims, you can incorporate spendthrift provisions in the Trust to safeguard assets distributed to your beneficiaries.

If you have any inquiries about Trusts or need assistance with reviewing your existing Trust, we provide free 30-minute consultations at our Walnut Creek office.

Note that this article offers general legal information and not personalized legal advice. It should not be considered a substitute for a personal consultation with an attorney. 360 ESTATE PLANNING INC, PHONE (925) 289-8837; 1600 S. Main St., Suite 100, Walnut Creek, CA  94596     © 2023 Martin Johnson

Photo by Christian Raitt

Fourth of July events in East County

By Jake Menez Staff Writer

Residents of Oakley, Brentwood and Antioch will have the freedom to choose from several events that celebrate Independence Day, with each city putting on its own festivities.

OAKLEY

The city of Oakley will not have any events on Tuesday, July 4, according to Assistant City Manager Danielle Navarro. The city instead will host its annual Oakley Summer Fest celebration on Saturday, July 1.

“This event is designed to be a celebration of summer and our Oakley community with a wide range of activities for attendees,” Recreation Director Lindsey Bruno said.

The festival will be held at Civic Center Plaza and on Main Street from O’Hara Avenue to Vintage Parkway from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. and includes live music on the main stage, axe throwing, a 5k fun run, a giant kids area, local artisan makers and food vendors, Bruno said. Admission to Summer Fest is free, but a wristband is required to participate in activities. Wristbands are $5 per person and can be purchased at the event.

For details, visit www.OakleySummerFest.com.

BRENTWOOD

Brentwood’s Independence Day celebration will take place on July 4, beginning with a parade through downtown at 9:30 a.m. and ending with a drone show at about 9:05 p.m. with several activities in between one being a concert at the city park.

The parade lineup will begin with the children’s parade, followed immediately by the main parade, according to Recreation Supervisor Amanda Chaney. Pre-registration is not required for the children’s parade and participating kids may dress up and use bicycles, roller skates, non-motorized scooter, wagons, small-battery motorized play vehicles and strollers. Both parades begin at First and Birch streets. The main parade will then turn right onto Oak Street and end in front of the Community Center.

The next leg of the celebration begins downtown at 4 p.m. with the Brentwood Lions Club’s Carnique presented by the city of Brentwood.

Carnique was originally a combination barbecue/carnival hosted by the Brentwood Lions Club for 35 years beginning in the late 1950s, Chaney said. The event was a fundraiser for the Lions Club that featured carnival games, barbecue dinner, dancing, music, swimming, and a fireworks display. The return of this event – minus fireworks – is part of the city’s yearlong 75th anniversary celebration.

Carnival games run from 4-7 p.m. along Oak Street between First and Second. Tickets are 50 cents each, or an unlimited play wristband can be purchased for $20. In the spirit of the original Carnique, which focused on fundraising, all proceeds from carnival game tickets sales will be donated to the non-profit groups

volunteering to run the games. There will also be corn shucking and corn eating contests sponsored by The Press at about 4:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. in front of the main stage.

Food vendors will be set up along Second Street in front of City Park from 4-9 p.m., featuring barbecue, seafood and carnival favorites. There will also be international flavors to represent Brentwood residents’ diverse backgrounds as well as freshly roasted Brentwood corn provided by the Rotary Club of Brentwood. Portions of food sales will be donated to the Brentwood Lions Club as well as the Parks

and Recreation Youth Scholarship Fund. The Community Center will be open from 4-9 p.m. for those who want to cool off, learn about activities and facilities, buy a limited-edition retro Brentwood shirt or hat, or check out the Hometown Highlights videos in the Main Hall, featuring some familiar Brentwood faces and lots of history.

Concert in the Park is from 7-9 p.m. in City Park when the all-female RagDolls - The Ultimate Aerosmith Experience performs.

From 4-7 p.m., take a dip in the new Jack Ferrill Aquatic Center at Liberty High School. Space is limited and nonswimmers must stay in the shallow end. Only USCG-approved life jackets are permitted. Diving boards will be open.

Light Up the Night 4th of July Drone Show starts at 9:05 p.m. Presented by the Downtown Brentwood Coalition, the show runs for about 12 minutes and features patriotic and Brentwood-themed animations. There are several great viewing locations throughout the downtown area. The Liberty High School football field opens at 7:30 p.m. with, bleacher and turf seating. No chairs are allowed, but blankets are OK.

More information can be found at https://bit.ly/3NmZtqK

ANTIOCH

The city of Antioch’s Independence Day celebration on July 4 begins with a parade through downtown at 4 p.m., followed by food, activities and live entertainment, according to Parks and Recreation Director Brad Helfenberger.

The live entertainment includes a variety of performers, including musicians and magicians and the evening will be capped off with a fireworks show on the water at 9:15. The fireworks will be launched from a barge on the river, Helfenberger said.

The event schedule, which is subject to change, is as follows: a parade from 4-5 p.m., the Kids Zone from 4-9 p.m., That Math Magician from 5-5:15 p.m., entertainment from Tom Lindsay from 5-6:30 p.m., the announcement of parade winners at 7 p.m., live entertainment from Forever land from 7:15-9:15 p.m, immediately followed by a fireworks show at 9:15 p.m.

More information, including the parade route and a map of the celebration site, can be found at https://www.antiochca.gov/fourth-of-july-celebration/

Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

Seen with The Press

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 Weeks Events

Saturday, July 1 Summer Fest in Oakley

The city of Oakley is hosting their annual Summer Fest at Civic Center Plaza at 3231 Main St. from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. The festival will include a 5K road race in the morning at the Ironhouse Sanitary District with live music, a kids area, local artisans and food vendors. To register for the 5K, visit https://bit.ly/43kbTFG.

Oakley Senior Center Flea Market

The Oakley Senior Center at 215 2nd St. is hosting their monthly flea market from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Tables for vendors are $10 and 3 for $25. For more information, call (925) 626-7223.

East Bay Duke’s and The Knights of Columbus 8th Annual Car Show

Duke’s Car Club and the Knights of Columbus are hosting their annual car show at the Most Holy Rosary Catholic Church at 1313 A St. from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The event will feature food, drinks, raffle prizes and entertainment. Registration for cars and trucks is $30, lowrider bikes and pedal cars $20 and motorcycles are $25, and vehicle registration begins at 6 a.m. For more information, call Mike Solorzano at (925) 550-6265.

Tuesday, July 4

Fourth of July Parade and Carnique in Brentwood

Before the start of Carnique, Brentwood will have a Fourth of July Parade from 9:30-11 a.m. The parade will begin on First Street at Birch, turn right onto Oak Street and end in front of the Community Center at 35 Oak St. The city of Brentwood is celebrating its 75th anniversary with the return of the Carnique in City Park at 710 Second St. from 4-9 p.m. The event will feature food, carnival games, contests, swimming and live performances. Proceeds from the carnival games and food vendors will benefit local nonprofits. The event will also feature a drone sky show at 9:05 p.m., presented by the Downtown Brentwood Coalition, that will launch from Liberty High School. For more information, visit https://bit.ly/3NmZtqK.

Antioch Fourth of July Parade and Fireworks

The city of Antioch is hosting its annual fourth of July Celebration from 4-10 p.m. at Waldie Plaza in Downtown Antioch. The parade will start at 4 p.m. on W. 2nd and E streets and finish on W. 3rd Street at the corner of D Street. The event will also include a kids zone with a DJ and stage performances from Tony Lindsay and Foreverland, food trucks and local vendors. The fireworks show will take place from 9:30-9:50 p.m. For more information, visit https://bit.ly/3JBc9rU.

On the Horizon

Saturday, July 15

Pop-Up

Book Sale at the Library

The Friends of the Brentwood Library is hosting a book sale at the library at 104 Oak St. from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on the second floor. For more information, contact William Harms at wharms11@ gmail.com or (925) 390-2700.

Sunday, July 16

2023 Flor do Oakley Holy Ghost Festival

The Flor do Oakley Holy Ghost Society is hosting their annual festival at the Flor do Oakley Hall, at 520 Second St. at 8:30 a.m. The event will begin with a parade making its way to St. Anthony’s Catholic Church at 971 O’Hara Ave. at 8:30 a.m. followed by an hourlong mass at 10 a.m. The traditional Portuguese meal of “sopas” will be served to guests, followed by an auction and a tradi-

tional Portuguese Folklore dance performance by Rancho Folclorico “Saudades do Ribatejo.” For more information, visit https://bit.ly/3p5wWwP.

Tuesday, July 25

Seniors Bus Trip to Red Hawk Casino

The Oakley Senior Center is hosting a bus trip to Red Hawk Casino in Placerville. Participants will leave from the Oakley Senior Center at 215 Second St. at 8 a.m. and arrive back in Oakley at 6 p.m. The cost is $42.

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 Veteran Meetings

Brentwood: The American Legion Post 202 monthly meeting (on the second Wednesday of the month) is at 6:30 p.m. at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building at 757 First St. in Brentwood. The meeting is open to all U.S. Armed Services veterans. The organization encourages all veterans in East County to come and see what is available to them. For more information, visit https://www.aml202. org. Oakley: The Veterans of Oakley monthly meeting (on the first Wednesday of each month) is held at 5:30 p.m. at the Oakley Senior Center on 215 2nd St.. For more information, call 925-783-0818 or visit http://bit.ly/3mugBjv.

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 Second St. on the fourth Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m.

Coffee with Carolyn

Kaleidoscope Cancer Connection’s Coffee with Carolyn is a cancer support group for women, hosted by Carolyn George and financially supported by The Kaleidoscope Cancer Connection of Byron. The group meets on the fourth Tuesday of every month from noon to 1 p.m. The location is at the Kaleidoscope Sacred Garden behind the Byron United Methodist Church (14671 Byron Highway in Byron). For more information, contact Carolyn George at 925-577-3325.

East County 4-H Club Meetings

Oakley: The Oakley 4-H Club has monthly meetings the second Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. For more information, email Amanda at oakley@ contracosta.org. The Delta-Diablo 4-H Club has monthly meetings the second Thursday at 6:30 p.m at 3840 Brown Road in Oakley. For more information contact Megan and Tiffany at deltadiablo@ contracosta4h.org, Brentwood: The Brentwood 4-H Club has monthly meetings the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m at the Knightsen Farm Center located on 3020 2nd Street. For more information, contact Angela at brentwood@contracosta4h.org. Knightsen: The Knightsen 4-H Club has monthly meetings on the first Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m at Knightsen Elementary School located at 1923 Delta Road. 4-H members are girls and boys ages 5–19 years old.

Chris Zahnd of Brentwood was in France from June 1-14, spending five nights in Paris before going to the ‘world’s greatest car race’ at Le Mans. The 24 hours of Le Mans celebrated its 100th anniversary and Porsche’s 75th anniversary as a car brand. Zahnd is shown here at the Porsche hospitality tent at the Porsche Experience Center.

Publication Date: July 14, 2023

Deadline for space reservation: July 3, 2023

Hometown SportS

Heritage hopes camp leads to NCS berth

By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer

Although the Heritage Patriots football team hasn’t been an NCS playoff team since 2017, they say they have what it takes to get back there this season.

Head coach Dave Fogelstrom stated clearly that in 2023, even though he doesn’t want to talk about wins and losses: “We’re going to be successful.”

“It’s going to be a little different this year,” senior wideout Brooks Davis said. “I think that it’s just going to make the guys who didn’t play last year have to work even harder to stay in there and win some games.”

The Patriots seemed to be on their way back into the postseason last year, starting 5-1 through the first six games including four straight blowouts to start the campaign. However, injuries at key positions plagued the team in the second half of the season and Heritage won just one of their final four games of the campaign, crashing out of postseason contention for the fourth straight full season (not including the shortened 2020-21 COVID spring season).

“Last year we were disappointed because we lost seven starters to injury,” Fogelstrom, entering his fourth year at the helm, said. “That was disappointing for our staff last year because we saw those kids as basically a seven, eight, nine-win group of guys competing for the league championship and then they all got hurt.”

The 2023 version of the Heritage Patriots seem to look a lot different.

Gone are 23 seniors including everybody on defensive and at numerous offensive positions, giving Fogelstrom and the rest of the Patriots staff a sort-of clean, albeit inexperienced, slate to work with.

“If they can show us what they can do, show us their commitment, they’re going to find a spot on the field,” Fogelstrom said. “We’re looking for competitors. We’re looking for guys who want to fight for a job.”

Although he knew that there’s work to be done, Fogelstrom realized the extent of his team’s inexperience entering camp this year heading to a recent 7-on-7 passing tournament at Sacramento State.

“I kind of knew where we were as a group and I asked ‘how many guys have ever been in a varsity passing tournament?’” Fogelstrom said. “It was like 15 percent of the team and then I asked ‘how many guys have started a varsity passing tournament?’ And there was really only one hand that went up and that was last year’s quarterback Austin Peters.”

Peters, a junior, returns under center for his second season. In 10 games last year, he threw for 949 yards, completed just over 50 percent of his passes with 12 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.

While he seems to be the leader for the job at the moment, fellow junior quarterback Phillip Babbitt, who is entering his first year on varsity, isn’t too far behind. With the junior varsity last year, Babbitt tossed for 1,313 yards with 17 touchdowns and 14 interceptions, including throwing for 305 yards on 21-of-40 passing with three touchdowns and three interceptions in a 30-26 loss to Whitney on Sept. 9.

Babbitt got a jumpstart on the competition during spring ball and in the Patriots’ first passing tournament, taking all of the reps while Peters was playing with the baseball team.

The competition between the two could go on through the early weeks of non-conference play as Fogelstrom said that both quarterbacks are expected to play in the team’s opener at Foothill on August 25.

“I’m going to give both of them their shots,” Fogelstrom said. “Both of them have been really positive. Both of them want the job but they also see stuff and help each other out. They’re team-first guys. We have a really good battle going on at quarterback which is just going to make both of them better.”

“They’re hard workers,” Davis said about both quarterbacks. “They’ve been working really hard and I can tell the difference from last year, especially with Austin. It’s been a great process with us both learning and trying to get better and helping each other out.”

Davis, who caught 18 balls for 428 yards with five touchdowns last year, enters his second overall season in football, and already leads what Fogelstrom projected to be an explosive Heritage receiving corps along with Jaxson Wilson and JJ Kinnaird. Tight end Charlie Blaise,

who’s continued to impress the staff, according to Fogelstrom, rounds out the potentially strong offense. The Patriots will also have three returning starters on the

offensive line, including Santana Roberts, who recently received an offer from Pacific University in Oregon, and Cody Wong, who just received a scholarship offer to the University of Puget Sound.

“We definitely have more experience on offense,” Fogelstrom said. “But guys are going to have to step up on defense and offense.”

Heritage will see a lot of time on the road this season with six of the 10 games away from campus. They’ll open with three of their first four games away from Brentwood before their only home stand at the end of September starting with their non-conference finale vs James Logan (Sept. 22) followed by their Bay Valley Athletic League opener against Antioch a week after (Sept. 29).

One of the biggest tests this season will come in the Brentwood Bowl at Liberty on Nov. 3. The Patriots have dropped six matchups against their Brentwood rivals, seeing their rally fall short last season 35-28.

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

Heritage fishing duo catches big scholarship

Junior quarterback Austin Peters (center) drops back during the Patriots’ offensive team session during summer camp on Monday.

Photo by Jeff Weisinger

Upcoming Heritage sophomores Tyler Peterson (left) and Noah Nguyen (right) hold their scholarship check for $160,000 after earning the title as the top California team at the High School Fishing World Finals in La Crosse, Wisconsin last week.

Photo by Jenny Nguyen

How to prepare pets for Fourth of July fireworks

Most East County residents love to hear the pop!, bang! and boom! of fireworks on the Fourth of July, but there also is a segment of society that cowers in fear at those same sounds – your furry family pets.

Animal control services often report an increase in lost animals between July 4 and July 6 because the excitement of the holiday puts pets out of their comfort zones.

While pet owners need not cancel their July 4th plans, they should take heed of the many ways to keep their pets safe during the festivities.

“The booming sound that can trigger all kinds of responses from barking, hiding, trembling, pacing,” said Sandra Lafferty, DVM, a veterinarian at and owner of the Oakley Veterinary Medical Center. “If they are left alone in a backyard, they may sense that the danger is immediately in their environment and they will try to escape the yard, not realizing that they may be running toward the fireworks.”

In addition, the loud noises caused by fireworks harm animals by causing fear and repeated exposure can cause phobias in many animals, which leads to stress, suffering and potentially-destructive behavior, said. Dr. Amanjayot Mangat, a veterinarian with Vetco Total Care on Lone Tree Way in Brentwood. Some commons signs to lookout for include the following: pacing or restlessness and salivation, he said.

For pets in areas where fireworks are actively being set off, “The risks not only include intense fear of the lights and sounds, they are at great risk of burns as they may run into the fireworks in their attempts to escape,” she said.

Some dogs and cats, however, are not affected at all. “I have one dog that could care less about the noise and one that reacts with extreme fear-based behavior to a point that I have her on mild tranquilizers when the sea-

son is active,” Lafferty said. “I don’t think there is really an answer as to ‘why’’, but we can compare it to human emotions and fears where some folks are terribly afraid of thunderstorms or flying and other people are not.”

Mangat said “It’s important to remember your pet will take off your energy and if you make a big deal out of them they may eventually develop anxiety about fireworks. So, try to keep your pet calm and remember to remain calm yourself.”

Lafferty said cats have “a great ability to find safe spaces where they can hide and feel safe but our dogs are much more ‘open’ about sharing those feelings of being afraid. Basically, I think cats run away from us to feel safe and our dogs run toward us to feel safe.”

Lafferty offered suggestions for what families can do to protect their pets from the bang of fireworks. “Close curtains, turn up televisions or soothing music, encourage your neighbors to not shoot fireworks near your very scared pets.”

Mangat suggested putting your pet in a room with their personal belongings, away from windows with blackening shades to help prevent sight of flashes associated with fireworks, also turning on the TV or a ceiling fan can be used to divert attention.

If you are considering medications, Mangat recommended consulting a veterinarian first, “There are many different medications which can help reduce the stress / anxiety and help your pet with more immediate relief,” he said.

As for what families shouldn’t do, Lafferty said people should not light illegal fireworks. “The mistakes they tend to make are to think that their pet is not bothered by the noise and leave them unsupervised in the backyard while owners go out to celebrate,” she said. “Or, in an effort to be overly cautious, they may give a higher-than-recommended dose of their tranquilizer and then leave them alone without knowing exactly how they will respond.”

Update identification

Be sure prior to any July 4th events that pets are wearing collars with current identification information. If an address or phone number has changed since the last time you updated microchip records, be sure to check the account is current.

Be careful with alcoholic drinks

Party hosts typically serve beer, wine and cocktails. Alcoholic beverages have the potential to poison pets, says the ASPCA. Animals can become very intoxicated, severely depressed or go into comas if they drink alcohol. Keep spirited drinks well out of reach.

Check with the veterinarian

Many pets are prone to anxiety from loud noises, such as thunderstorms and fireworks, and lots of commotion - something that occurs in spades come July 4th. Some veterinarians recommend a small course of anti-anxiety medication or a sedative to help pets cope with the stimuli.

– Metro Creative contributed to this report.

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

Cop logs

Brentwood, June 11, 4:30 p.m.

was reported at the 10 block on Morning Glory Court

June 17, 9:15 p.m. A suspicious person was reported at the 2600 block on Main Street.

June 17, 9:25 p.m. A case of computer fraud was reported at the 2100 block on Connie Lane.

June 17, 9:38 p.m. A suspicious vehicle was stopped at Creekside Park.

June 18, 4:53 p.m. A suspicious vehicle was reported at the 1500 block on Quail Valley Run.

June 18, 7:06 p.m. A civil disturbance was reported at the 500 block on Norcross Lane.

June 18, 10:05 p.m. A misdemeanor DUI was reported on Main Street/2nd Street.

BRENTWOOD

The following is a sample of recent law enforcement agencies

OAKLEY

June 17, 2:41 a.m. An arrest warrant was served on Wilbur Avenue/Maritime Way.

June 17, 3:43 a.m. A burglary was reported at the Rite Aid in Oakley.

June 17, 6:43 a.m. A traffic hazard was reported on Laurel Road/Live Oak Avenue.

June 17, 8:31 a.m. An access card theft was reported at the 800 block on Diamante Way.

June 17, 10:48 a.m. A traffic hazard was reported on Empire Avenue/Sauterne Way.

June 17, 11:40 a.m. Suspicious circumstances were reported at the 1700 block on Pecan Lane.

June 17, 12:19 p.m. A petty theft was reported at the 1500 block on Ashwood Drive.

June 17, 1:13 p.m. An unwanted guest was reported at Grocery Outlet.

June 17, 1:50 p.m. A case of arson was reported at the 100 block on Delta Road.

June 17, 3:50 p.m. A case of credit card fraud was reported at the 5000 block on

Martin Street.

June 17, 4:25 p.m. A juvenile disturbance was reported on Mellowood Drive/Hazelnut Drive.

June 17, 4:38 p.m. A juvenile disturbance was reported on Creekside Park.

June 17, 4:41 p.m. Suspicious circumstances were reported at the 300 block on E. Home Street.

June 17, 4:51 p.m. Terrorist threats were reported at the Raleys in Oakley.

June 17, 5:54 p.m. A suspicious person was reported at the 2500 block on Main Street.

June 17, 6:22 p.m. A domestic disturbance was reported at the 1500 block on Thistle Court

June 17, 6:44 p.m. A juvenile disturbance was reported at the 200 block on Heartwood Drive.

June 17, 6:56 p.m. A welfare check was conducted on E. Cypress Road/Sellers Avenue.

June 17, 7:30 p.m. A suspicious person was reported on Live Oak Avenue/Sutter Street.

June 17, 8:26 p.m. A petty theft was reported at the 5200 block on Neroly Road.

June 17, 8:43 p.m. A domestic violation

June 17, 9:43 p.m. A suspicious vehicle was stopped on Main Street/O’Hara Avenue.

June 17, 10:17 p.m. A public nuisance was reported at the 4500 block on Orchard Oaks Court.

June 17, 11:01 p.m. A traffic hazard was reported on Carrington Drive/La Vista Drive.

June 18, 12:37 a.m. A domestic disturbance was reported at the 4800 block on Snowy Egret Way.

June 18, 1:15 a.m. Suspicious circumstances were reported at the 1200 block on Sierra Trail Road.

June 18, 9:49 a.m. A welfare check was conducted at the 1500 block on Gamay Circle.

June 18, 12:11 p.m. A traffic hazard was reported at the 4800 block on Carrington Drive.

June 18, 1:03 p.m. A grand theft was reported at the 4000 block on Wilbur Avenue.

June 18, 2:22 p.m. A civil disturbance was reported at the 1200 block on Kay Lane.

June 18, 4:20 p.m. A case of fraud under false pretenses was reported at the 2100 block on Connie Lane.

June 11, 4:30 p.m. A grand theft was reported on Sand Creek Road. Four people took $1,911 and left in a black Mercedes SUV.

June 11, 7:22 p.m. A missing adult was reported on Coconut Place. A female left the house after an argument.

June 12, 3:42 a.m. Suspicious circumstances were reported on Baird Circle.

June 12, 4:45 a.m. A case of disturbing the peace was reported on Barrel Court.

June 12, 9:11 a.m. A petty theft was reported on Oxford Lane. Someone stole something from the reporting party’s garage.

June 12,11:35 a.m. A strong arm robbery was reported on Balfour Road.

June 12, 3:27 p.m. A grand theft was reported on Sand Creek Road. More than $1,000 was taken.

June 12, 4:14 p.m. A hit and run with no injuries was reported on Sand Creek Road.

June 12, 9:11 p.m. A vehicle burglary was reported on Second Street.

June 12, 9:31 p.m. A petty theft was reported on Balfour Road. The vehicle was unlocked and a laptop was taken.

June 12, 10:50 p.m. A vehicle theft was reported on Lone Tree Way.

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6-23-2023

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Gerald “Mooch” Zamora

Jan. 12, 1955-June 10, 2023

Gerald “Mooch” Zamora, passed away peacefully, with family by his side after an 11-year fight against cancer on June 10, 2023. He was 68 years old.

Gerald Michael Zamora was born in Pittsburg, Calif. to his parents, Trinidad Zamora and Mary Zamora, on Jan. 12, 1955. He was raised in Brentwood, Calif. and graduated from Liberty High School in 1973, where he excelled in sports.

During his adult life he lived in Oakley, Calif. and had two children, Lauren and Steven.

Gerald retired from Antioch High School as an electrician. He spent over

Margareta Carpenter

Oct. 17, 1937 - June 15, 2023

Margareta Carpenter, born Kappeler, passed into god’s hands at her home, after a pro-tracted illness, on the morning of June 15, 2023. She was born Octber 17, 1937 in Burgberg, Germany. She loved America, and obtained her citizenship on Jan. 6, 1987. She was such a loving person. As much as I was rough and crass, she was gentle and forgiving. She was the yin to my yang. She provided a balance in life that saw us through the good times and the rough ones. She could not see any living thing suffer. No matter what it was, her philosophy was that all living things want to live and survive. She did everything to this end. She was the best friend anyone could

OBITUARIES

40 years in the electrical trades.

He is survived by his mother, Mary, daughter Lauren (Royce), son Steven (Tascha) and three grandchildren – Alexis, Miles, and Maverick – three brothers – George (Victoria), Vince (Kathy) and Michael (Renee) – and several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Hope Hospice Home Care for their caring service.

Services will be held at Holy Cross Funeral Chapel in Antioch, Calif., first on Thursday, July 6, with visitation from 5-7 p.m., then a rosary at 7 p.m.. On Friday, July 7, visitation is from 9-11 a.m. with the funeral Mass at 11 a.m.

Contributions in his memory can be sent to Hope Hospice of Dublin, Calif., or Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Brentwood.

have. If you were in need, she would try her best to fulfill that need. She was generous to a fault. She would scoop spiders up and put them outside instead of killing them. She often helped friends and relatives with whatever she had that could make their lives a little better.

Margareta is survived by her husband, William A. Carpenter of Oakley, Calif., son Larry T. Carpenter of Hughson, Calif., niece Anita Gomm of Oberstaufen, Germany, niece Ingrid Dammköhler of BadHindelang Germany and Brigitte Kitzinger of Ottobeuren Germany.

A private Visitation and Catholic Service was held at the Higgins Chapel at 1310 A St. in Antioch, Calif., on Wednesday, June 28, 2023 at 11 a.m. Margareta was laid to rest at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, Calif. on Friday, June 30.

it! Email your information to editor@brentwoodpress.com.

William Alan Doheney

Feb. 26, 1950 - June 16, 2023

William (Bill) Alan Doheney, 73, lately of Prescott, Ariz., died Friday, June 16, 2023.

Bill’s life was distinguished by his ability to make friends, devotion to his family, and by service to his community.

As a teenager, Bill played the drums in a garage band called The Grapes of Wrath. As a young father, he served in the United States Air Force as a Fire Protection Specialist at Vandenberg AFB and overseas in Stuttgart, Germany. Throughout his 30-year career in Defense and Space Electronics, Bill worked on fascinating projects, including his work with the Planetary Defense Team

Shirley Thelma (Peterson) Mara

Oct. 20, 1934 - June 2, 2023

Shirley Thelma (Peterson) Maraj was born Oct. 20, 1934 to Thelma and Walter Peterson in Camden, N.J. Early on in Shirley’s life, the family moved to Glendale, Calif. After attending Glendale College, she worked as a secretary in Los Angeles for several years. Shirley met her future husband of 66 years, Donald Maraj, at the Hollywood Palladium. The Palladium was known for hosting big-name bands and for its large ballroom for dancing, which Shirley loved to do.

In 1957, after Don left the Navy, they were married and raised a family in La-Canada Flintridge, Calif. They had a family-run printing business, and Shirley was in charge of the accounting. Be-

and NASA to deter inbound asteroids.

He became a City Council Member in Brentwood, Calif., and was often at the local Brentwood Cafe drinking coffee and chatting with his constituents. “Teacher Bill” and his wife, Pamela, taught Sunday school at Golden Hills Community Church. Later in life, Bill was passionate about his garden and amateur radio (73 from AA6GI).

Bill is survived by his wife, Pamela; son, Shaun; two daughters, Erin and Kelly; brother, Clyde; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, William and Mary.

A celebration of life service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 8, at Westside Christian Church in Prescott, Ariz.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Northern Arizona VA Health Care System in Bill’s memory.

sides raising a family and working, her favorite pastimes were gardening, reading, playing bridge, and dancing. Dancing became her way of staying fit and she referred to it as her fun workout.

Gardening led to joining the Valley Beautiful Club, and she eventually became its president. Shirley also joined the Thursday Club, a social club that also provided many services to the community, and she became its President as well. Shirley helped La Canada receive its title of “Tree City”, as it was known as the gateway to the Angeles National Forest.

After Don retired, they moved to Brentwood, Calif. to be near their son, Mark, and his family. She joined the local Red Hats and was active until her illness. Shirley Maraj passed during the early morning on the 2nd of June in the company of her husband. Her memory lives on as she is survived by her husband of 66 years, Don, their son Mark, daughter-in-law, Angeline, and grandchildren, Joseph, Camille and Anneliese.

proposed building design changes at the community center. He said he thought having two parallel committees optimizes the timeline to get a new office.

Porter explained the board’s overall goal is to explore all options in a public forum to determine the best solution for the location of new town offices.

“This is going to be a long project and one that we want the public’s input on,” she said, adding she hopes the public will attend both the regular board meetings, the water and wastewater committee meetings and the new committee’s meetings. “I think this will give insight into how the process works and what we can and cannot do as a government agency. My goal is transparency and thorough, thought-out decisions. I think we are on the right path for that.”

AETypic’s plan for the new office building was first presented at the CSD’s regular meeting in May. When word spread the board had voted at that meeting to spend $884,000 on design plans for a building that would cost $13 million, residents gathered at the June 7 meeting to voice their displeasure.

Town staff was initially asked to

Ag center from page 1A

project. “It’s been amazing.”

begin the process of getting quotes for a new building to be built next to the community center last June because of staff and equipment safety concerns.

The town’s water engineering consultant, Luhdorff & Scalmanini, completed a Risk and Resilience Assessment Report, noting the district office’s location adjacent to one of the town’s water treatment facilities. The report found allowing public access to those town facilities increased the risk of accidental or malevolent acts and posed a relatively high vulnerability to the water system and liability for the town.

Because the public legally must have access to the office, the report recom-

Funding will come from the Agricultural Mitigation Fund rather than the General Fund, according to Treasurer Kerry Breen. Assistant City Manager Darin Gale clarified that the approval of the money was just “the first step” in the funding process and that the city would work with Harvest Time to create an agreement that would stipulate how the funds would be allocated for the project.

The proposed Agricultural Innovation Center would be built on a seven-acre parcel of land at 3900 Sellers Ave. known as the Nail Property purchased by the city in 2007. The project was previously brought before the Agricultural Enterprise Committee in April before being presented to the City Council. The committee – which consists of Meyer and Mayor Joel Bryant – unanimously approved the proposal to be brought before the City Council.

Features of the proposed innovation center include a community garden, indoor and outdoor event spaces, a historic farmhouse that would be converted into conference room spaces and 4H livestock pens that could be rented out to children in the program who would not otherwise have the space to raise livestock.

“I am a huge, huge, huge, excited fan of this idea,”

Fine from page 1A

sures in combating illegal displays..

“We are continuing our educational component of warning our residents of the hazards associated with fireworks,” Chief Paul Beard said via email on June 22 in which he noted that the awareness campaign will shift to one of enforcement starting on June 30.

The educational campaign included distribution of a flyer reminding residents that setting off fireworks in Oakley will result in a $1,000 fine, according to the Oakley municipal code, and that officers will be “diligently enforcing” violations.

“Historically, fireworks have been very disruptive in the City of Oakley,” the flyer reads in part. “Personal injuries and fires

mended options be considered to move it to a different site to reduce the possibility of accidental or intentional harm to the water treatment facility.

At the end of the meeting, residents appeared satisfied with the results. Susie McAuliffe and her husband attended the meeting together. They wanted to hear firsthand what the board decided to do after pausing their plan for the $13 million building.

“Today we were hoping for a confirmation that the board was not moving ahead with the AETypic contract to build a new city office building,” McAuliffe said. “We feel spending $13 million was wasteful. We believe they listened to

us at the last meeting and came to the right decision.”

McAuliffe said she thought the office space could be found in the Discovery Bay Shopping Center across from the community center at the corner of Discovery Bay Boulevard and Riverlake Road, or the community center could be remodeled to include space.

“There are people in the community with very good ideas, and we hope the board considers some of our suggestions moving forward,” she said.

For information on when CSD meetings are held, call 925-634-1131 or visit www.todb.ca.gov

To comment, visit www.thepress.net

the hard work that’s gone into this,” she said. “I’m also proud of the council for seeing and believing in our vision.”

Other topics at the meeting included:

• A discussion of policy changes for events at City Park and the core downtown area

• Changes to standards for future residential housing. New homes would be required to have tile roofs rather than asphalt shingles, among other changes.

Bryant said at the June 27 meeting.

Public comments were also positive, with one resident saying the project could potentially make Brentwood “the Jewel of East Contra Costa.”

Following the meeting, Harvest Time President Jessica Enos said that both the organization and the city are “eager” to get the project underway and that next steps soon would include meeting with city staff to finalize design elements before presenting to council again.

“I’m really excited and proud of the board and all

have occurred because of them. The explosive nature of fireworks also frightens pets and livestock animals. The Contra Costa County Animal Control Department gets challenged by an influx of calls each year because animals dig or jump out of yards and enclosures. Some animals are never reunited with their owners and some are injured, or worse. The Oakley Police Department, Oakley City Man agement and the City of Oakley City Council have all adopted a zero-tolerance stance regarding fireworks.”

Oakley’s Fourth of July enforcement

• The review of a conditional use permit that would allow Toro Viejo Taqueria to serve beer and wine. Due to concerns over the proximity to Garin Elementary School and Kiddie Academy, the council voted to modify the hours during which the restaurant could serve alcohol. Monday through Friday, they may serve from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. and from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. on weekends.

At roughly 1 a.m. – six hours after the public part of the meeting started – the council voted to postpone undiscussed topics, such as an agreement with local school districts for a joint use of facilities, to the next council meeting. The full council meeting can be watched at https://bit.ly/3Xt5RAe

To comment, visit www.thepress.net

strategy includes four officers dedicated to fireworks enforcement, according to Beard. These officers will be staffed on overtime during peak firework hours and will focus on issuing citations for that $1,000 amount to anyone observed setting off fireworks.

Residents are also encouraged to report any fireworks violations to the police department by calling 911 if it is an emergency (an injured person or an active fire), or 925-625-8060 for a non-emergency, Beard said.

To comment, visit www.thepress.net

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Dr. Shreya Khatri

BOARD-CERTIFIED FAMILY MEDICINE PHYSICIAN

Dr. Khatri provides a patient centric environment focused on families and their medical needs.

Specialty Outpatient Procedures

Joint injections

Immunizations

Incision and Drainage

Breathing Treatments

Lipoma/ Cyst Removals

Women’s Health Procedures

Intrauterine

Device Placements

Nexplanon Insertions

Pap Smears

Hormone Replacements

Same-Day Appointments

AT BRENTWOOD PRIMARY CARE

6600 Lone Tree Way Brentwood, CA 94513

Ph: (925) 240-2841

www.brentwoodprimarycare.com

Dr. Usha Vallamdas

BOARD CERTIFIED PEDIATRICIAN

Dr. Vallamdas has built a thriving pediatric practice by building close relationships with the parents of her patients.

Services

Newborn Care

Wellcare Visits

for Ages 0-18

Vaccinations

Adolescent Care

Sick Visits

School/Sports

Camp Physicals

Suture/Staple Removals

Wart Cryotherapy

Ear Wax Removal

BASS FELICITY PEDIATRICS

2400 Balfour Rd. Ste 302

Brentwood, CA 94513

Ph: (925) 684-7443

www.felicitypediatrics.com

Alameda Pediatric Dentistry promotes child – and even infant – oral care

JEFF WEISINGER

Dr. Leila Zokaei remembers an emergency case she had at about 10 p.m. on a Sunday – a young boy who had a tooth knocked out after his brother shoved an iPad at his mouth.

Nonetheless, even at that late hour on a weekend night, she took care of the boy.

Along with loving what she does and helping people, Zokaei said she just enjoys working with kids.

“It’s so fun working with them,” Zokaei said. “I always tell my husband that becoming a pediatric dentist is the best decision I’ve ever made.”

Zokaei has worked in pediatric dentistry for the last nine years, but for the last year she’s worked with Alameda Pediatric Dentistry in the John Muir Medical Center in Brentwood at 2400 Balfour Road Suite 309. She has worked with numerous children for their dental needs – from as basic as a routine cleaning to serious emergency cases, like when a boy shoves an iPad at his brother’s mouth.

Since 1971, Alameda Pediatric Dentistry has specialized in pediatric dentistry, along with orthodontics, infant oral care, and treating kids with special needs. They have four locations throughout the East Bay: Alameda, Oakland, Pleasanton, and in Brentwood. They see patients from infancy up to 21 years old.

Zokaei stresses the importance of bringing the children to the dentist office early in their lives.

“About 21 percent of American kids get cavities between the ages of two to five if they don’t see the dentist,” Zokaei said. “So I think it’s very important to have dental appointments to prevent cavities.”

Zokaei adds that poor oral care and cavities can affect children more than some may think.

“Cavities can grow worse and become infected,” she said. “It can affect their sleeping or their learning because they’re going to miss some school days due to the pain. If you have an infection in your mouth, it means you have an infection in your body.”

Zokaei added “if you need extraction (of a baby tooth) sooner than it’s supposed to fall out, it can cause problems with the eruption pattern of the permanent teeth.”

The team is trained to keep the patients calm, providing dark sunglasses so they won’t see the tools being used,

and there are TVs above the dental chair to keep them occupied while being seen.

As Alameda Pediatric Dentistry prepares to offer a complimentary first visit at their Brentwood office starting July 1 for babies up to 24 months, Zokaei also talked about the importance of infant oral care and getting children into good oral care habits as early as six months.

“The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAP) and the American Dental Association (ADA) say the first dental visit (should be) within the first six months of the first eruption of the primary tooth and no later than the first birthday of the child,” Zokaei said. “It’s very important because they can come into the office and feel more comfortable with us. We can help them and educate the parents on the teething, the oral habits, pacifiers, injuries, oral hygiene and nutrition.”

Zokaei says that the first teeth should start to come in at about six to seven months. Signs to look for are if they’re drooling a lot along with the common sign of pain and lack of sleep.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 510-521-5437 or visit http://alamedapediatricdentistry.com.

– Advertorial

Photo by Jeff Weisinger

The team at Alameda Pediatric Dentistry poses in front of their giraffe wall with Dr. Leila Zokaei (in blue).

The Centers for

Hydrating is key in summer heat in East County

Summer is a season to enjoy some fun in the sun, but East County residents must remember to take steps to reduce their risk for heat illness. Those measures should include efforts to hydrate and remain hydrated throughout the day.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that water will almost always help people remain hydrated even when they’re working in the heat.

But food also plays a vital role in preventing heat illness, as the CDC notes eating regular meals can help to replace the salt lost through sweat. It’s also important that individuals avoid energy drinks and alcohol when spending time in the hot summer sun.

Many energy drinks contain more caffeine than standard servings of coffee, tea and soft drinks, and excessive caffeine consumption can contribute to dehydration.

The same can be said for alcohol, and the CDC reports that consuming alcohol within 24 hours of working in the heat can increase the risk of heat illness.

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

Disease Control and Prevention report that water will almost always help people remain hydrated even when they’re working inside or outside.

Visiting Angels allows your loved ones to live where they are the most comfortable—in their own home.

How to detect, protect against skin cancer

health – damage to your skin and skin cancer.

The arrival of summer often means warmer weather, barbecues, beach trips, camping and more time in the sun. But with that extra time in the sun comes a potential threat to a person’s

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and that 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, with

see Skin Cancer page 6B

"My family and I are passionate about sharing the gift of hospice. Most people don't know our services are FREE to Seniors that are appropriate for hospice and have Medicare Part-A."

RENE DE AMARAL

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

an estimated 9,500 people being diagnosed with skin cancer every day.

The AADA recommends regular skin self-exams, especially those who are at a higher risk of skin cancer. But an official diagnosis, testing and recommendations for treatment should come from a dermatologist.

Dr. Robert E. Beer, founder of Balfour Dermatology, says one of the most important things in maintaining the health of your skin is prevention, “The most important thing that we can do besides sunscreen, is wearing hats, protective clothing and seeking shade,” he said. “Wearing hats and sun-protective clothing is a very important part of safety in the sun. But remember that sun protective clothing has an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating that is only good for a certain amount of washes. So if you’ve been wearing the same sun-protective clothing for two years, it’s probably time for some new protective clothes.”

Beer also recommends that everyone, whether they have a fairer or deeper skin tones, should wear sunscreen and do regular body exams. “People of all skin tones should wear sunscreen because people of all skin tones are at risk of skin cancer,” he said. “I think it’s important for everyone to have their skin checked and evaluate what their risks are and what areas to look at. Everyone has birthmarks, it’s important to figure out how often they need to be watched. If skin cancer runs in the family, it’s important to do body exams for yourself and also your relatives.”

Knowing what to look for in these body exams can save lives and being on the look out for irregularities or changes on the person’s skin is important to being diagnosed, according to Beer.

For people who have moles or skin damage and wonder when they should be concerned, they can follow the “ABCD” rule outlined on Balfour Dermatology’s website,

♦ “A” stands for asymmetry: a mole that does not appear to be identical on both halves, up/down or side/side.

♦ “B” is for borders: a mole that has borders that are hazy, red or a lighter color than the skin surrounding the mole, or a wavy/irregular border.

♦ “C” is for color: a mole that has two or more colors. Many people think that bad moles are dark. Color change is the most important factor. Melanomas can be red, pink or colorless. A biopsy is the gold standard in deciding if your mole should be examined more thoroughly.

♦ “D” is for diameter: a mole with a diameter equal to or greater than the diameter of a pencil eraser.

Another aspect of skin cancer prevention and treatment also comes from education. Golden State Dermatology, an independent dermatology network with more than 20 locations in California, provides their patents with skin cancer awareness education and encourages prevention to reduce sun damage and improve skin care. They recommend using sunscreen daily and minimizing exposure to the sun through wearing protective clothing and staying in the shade.

While prevention and diagnosis is important when dealing with skin care, the next step after diagnosis is treatment, experts said. Local dermatology offices like Balfour Dermatology and Golden State Dermatology offer their patients both surgical and non-surgical options in skin cancer treatment and removal.

They said they are also one of the few offices that offers MOHS Micrographic Surgery in East County, a specialized surgery that requires dermatology surgeons to complete dermatology residencies and specialized fellowship programs.

Other treatment options include the non-surgical options of Superficial Radiotherapy and Photodynamic Therapy, which focuses on the prevention of skin cancer through the use of a topical medication applied to a targeted area, with a light used to activate the medication. There is also the option of patients using creams that treat precancerous cells and topical gels.

For more information about Balfour Dermatology and other services they offer, visit https://bit.ly/3vPqVUy. Their offices are at 2221 Balfour Road in Brentwood, and their phone number is 925-240-9116

Golden State Dermatology is at 1200 Central Blvd. Unit D, in Brentwood. Their phone number is 925-308-9510 and their website is https://www.goldenstatedermatology.com/brentwood.

Jack Sharkey, PA-C Lam Le, PA-C

Jay Zimmerman, MD

Skin Cancer from page 5B

outine exercise does a body good. While it may not require a degree from medical school to know that exercise can be a great way to lose weight and reduce risk for various illnesses, there are even more beneficial side effects of regular exercise that might surprise even the most ardent fitness enthusiasts.

♦ Exercise produces positive psychological benefits. WebMD notes that there are several psychological benefits of routine exercise. Those benefits occur because exercise triggers the release of endorphins, which are

hormones that interact with receptors in the brain that reduce a person’s perception of pain. Some additional psychological benefits of exercise include stress reduction and prevention of anxiety and depression.

♦ Exercise can improve your social life.

Many people feel a significant sense of accomplishment by the end of a vigorous workout. Such feelings could grow even more profound when individuals recognize the many lesser known benefits of breaking a sweat.

WebMD also notes that routine exercise can improve self-esteem, which can make it easier for people to connect with others. A 2017 study published in the Journal of Sports Economics concluded that playing sports can help you make new friends for adults and

children alike.

♦ Regular exercise can benefit your career.

Lesser known health benefits of sweating R

A 2012 study published in the Journal of Labor Research linked regular exercise with an annual wage increase between 6 and 10 percent. Researchers found that moderate exercise yields a positive earnings effect, but individuals who exercised frequently had even higher wage increases.

♦ Exercise can benefit long-term cognitive health. Though the reasons remain unclear, there seems to be a link between regular physical activity and long-term cognitive health. A 2017 study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that regular exercise can benefit cognitive ability, reduce the rate of cognitive aging and lower the risk for certain dementias, including Alzheimer’s disease.

Charred foods can harm your health. Here’s how

Individuals from all walks of life enjoy grilling and eating grilled foods.

Grilling is a staple of summertime, and over the course of a typical summer the average individual may attend a number of backyard barbecues where the main entrees are staples like grilled hamburgers and hot dogs. Though grillmasters set out to create the perfect grilled foods, nearly everyone who has manned a grill at one point or another has allowed some food to char. Charred foods may appeal to some and not look too appetizing to others. The appearance of charred foods is perhaps one reason why so many people assume they’re unhealthy. Such assumptions are not necessarily false nor are they entirely accurate, which is why anyone can benefit from gaining a greater under-

standing of charred foods.

What is a charred food?

Though there are no criteria to define if a food is charred or not, the term ‘charred foods’ typically refers to foods cooked on a grill or over an open flame that are extra crispy and might have turned dark black during cooking. Vegetables, meat and hot dogs can char somewhat easily on a grill if temperatures are not controlled or if cooks don’t keep a close eye on their grills.

What causes charring?

Charring occurs when foods are exposed to heat for long periods of time. According to Science X, an online network that covers science, technology and medical news, when foods are exposed to heat for a long time on a grill, non-carbon atoms in the food break down, and the result is that distinct black appearance and crispy flavor that people identify with charred foods.

Does consuming charred foods increase cancer risk?

Many people are familiar with the notion that consuming charred foods can increase cancer risk. That notion is not entirely accurate, but it’s not something that’s been made up, either. The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) notes that charred foods have been linked to cancer in animal studies. That link is due to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heterocyclic amines (HCAs), which are two chemicals that develop naturally when cooking meat. The fat and juice that drips into a grill’s drip pat when cooking meats produces smoke and flames that contain PAHs that ultimately coat the meat as it cooks. HCAs are naturally produced when cooking meat at high temperatures. The ASCO notes that animal studies have found that rodents fed diets with high doses of PAHs and HCAs developed various types

of cancer, including breast cancer and colon cancer, among others.

Though studies have found a link between charred foods and cancer risk in animals, the ASCO reports that studies in humans have found no such connection. However, the ASCO warns that this research is ongoing and that any potential link between charred foods and cancer risk could be determined by how individuals’ bodies metabolize PAHs and HCAs. So there may be no right answer to the question asking if there’s a link between charred food consumption and cancer risk in humans.

Charred foods have a unique flavor that some people love and others loathe. Though there’s not yet definitive evidence to suggest charred foods cause cancer, individuals are still urged to exercise caution and avoid overconsumption of foods with a crispy, charred exterior.

It’s the perfect season for a little bit of tree climbing, and Ben had to show his family how it’s done.

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Rose & Sons

Are you looking to fix up your home? Rose & Sons will provide professional glass services, including frameless shower door installment, glass replacement and glass tabletop repair at a reasonable price.

Since 1979, the Rose & Sons family has been providing fair, friendly and professional service to the East Bay Area. Their office in downtown Brentwood, at 230 Chestnut St., is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays.