Freedom principal says new phone policy ‘not a ban’
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Freedom High School has a chance to get students off of their phones — even if just for a few hours.
When the 2024-25 academic year starts on Monday in Brentwood and in Oakley, Freedom will be the first school in the Liberty Union High School District to restrict the use of cellphones in classrooms, during class.
The restriction, however, is not a ban on phones on campus, as explained by new superintendent Denise Rugani and Freedom principal Steve Amaro.
”Students will just be asked not to use them while in the classroom,” Rugani said. “They may have them in their possession and able to use them during lunch and breaks.”
Amaro reinforced Rugani’s statement that the new policy is not a ban, and that there’s more to the new restrictions than
just getting the students off of their phones.
”I think what it’s addressing is the challenge and the environment that our generation is in,” he said. “We’ve allowed social media companies to run rampant and there are no safeguards. It’s created a generation of students that are struggling with commu-
Freedom High School in Oakley is looking to restrict the way in which students use cell phones on campus in an effort to help their academic experience.
nicating with each other.”
”I can go into a classroom and be right next to somebody on their cell phone and they might not say a word to each other for 90 minutes. And it’s easier because the social media algorithms have designed it that way.”
According to a study by the Pew Re-
Brentwood Council discusses ethics in journalism and beyond
By Jake Menez Staff Writer
Members of the Brentwood City Council grappled with how to interact with news agencies as part of their July 23 meeting. The agenda item was brought forth by Councilmember Jovita Mendoza and Vice Mayor Susannah Meyer to discuss how the city shares information and
spends money advertising with news agencies based on whether or not they publicly adhere to a journalistic code of ethics before being expanded to include how the city spends money with other vendors.
“Freedom of speech – you can say whatever you want about me whenever you want to do it,”
Mendoza said. “But as a city I think we also have to look at what’s happening in other cities.”
Mendoza described a court case in Stockton earlier this year
in which a grand jury received complaints from city employees and city officials who said that “attacks” against them made on social media created a hostile work environment.
According to records from the San Joaquin County Superior Court, the attacks were made by an organization called 209 Times, which describes itself as “an independent community driven grassroots news source” on its website.
see Council page 19A
search Center last fall, 72 percent of U.S. high school teachers said that students being distracted by their phones is a major problem in their classroom. It’s the secondworst issue reported by teachers compared to students simply not being interested in learning.
California Senate Bill SB1283 allows for schools and districts within the state to adopt a policy that either limits or prohibits students’ use of social media while they are on school grounds or under the supervision of a school or district employee.
Assembly Bill AB3216, introduced last February, would require school districts throughout the state to adopt a policy on students’ use of cellphones while on school grounds or under the supervision of a school employee. The law would go into effect on July 1, 2026.
East County prepares for local elections
By Jake Menez Staff Writer
With local mayoral and council elections slated for Nov. 5, the nomination period for individuals to declare their candidacy for these roles opened on July 15. The nomination period does not end until Aug. 9 -– leaving time for more candidates to enter the race, but several candidates have already emerged in each city.
Oakley
Oakley will be hosting elections for council members to serve District 1, District 3 and
District 5. The November 2022 election was the first time that Oakley switched from an at-large election to a district-based one, according to city officials. During the 2022 election, District 2 and District 4 candidates were voted on. The 2024 election will complete the city’s transition to a district-based one, according to the city’s website. Due to the transitioning districts, there are no eligible incumbents for any of the council roles. Current councilmembers have pulled papers to run in the new district-based system.
Oakley appoints a member of its city council to be mayor in an annual rotational cycle and will not host a dedicated mayoral election as a result.
Press file photo
New principal to lead growing, ‘unique’ virtual school in Brentwood
By Dawnmarie Fehr Correspondent
Brentwood’s Harvest Grove Virtual Academy (HGVA) welcomed a new principal this year.
Angela Mullen comes to the school with more than 20 years of experience in education, and said she looks forward to this new chapter of her career.
“As Harvest Grove continues to grow, we look forward to building traditions and collaborating with families to create the best possible learning environment for our students,” said Mullen, adding that enrollment increases each year.
Mullen has been part of the Brentwood Union School District (BUSD) for four years as Marsh Creek Elementary’s principal. She said she thought Harvest Grove’s program was “interesting and unique.”
The K-8 school is conducted entirely online, with live meetings between classes and teachers, and optional in-person events. Founded in 2021, HGVA was the Brentwood district’s answer to parents who were not ready to send their children back to school when campuses reopened after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Now, the student body is composed of about 150 Brentwood youth who are
choosing an educational option that offers flexibility and individual learning opportunities.
“We are really unique because we are a free, online public school where we have credentialed teachers that work with students,” Mullen said. “But families still have the flexibility to do what they want during the day with their student, and have an interactive piece of their student’s education.”
That interactive piece comes from the parents’ role as “learning coaches.”
Mullen said the parents’ role is to provide a safe and engaging learning environment while supporting their students. By collaborating with their student’s credentialed teacher, parents can facilitate their children’s education at home on a flexible schedule. “Parents are a vital part of our program. The program will not work without them.”
HGVA parent Jen Peaslee, part of the school since its inception in 2021, said distance learning during the pandemic had gone well for her two children, and the family decided to continue the trend.
“We wanted to keep learning from home, but we didn’t want to fully homeschool,” Peaslee said. “This option of Harvest Grove came up and we decided to go for it. We have grown with the school
and had a really great experience.”
HGVA follows the same schedule as the Brentwood school district. Like the local public schools, it uses a predetermined, accredited curriculum, and students must meet with their teachers at set times each week, while also completing some work on their own. Though it is done from home, it is not traditional homeschooling in that parents do not choose the curriculum, and they do have the support of a credentialed teacher.
Peaslee said parents considering enrollment at Harvest Grove should do their homework and make sure they can handle the workload, along with their student.
“The teachers are great about monitoring and providing support, but it does fall to the parent to make sure the kids are staying on track,” she said.
One advantage to HGVA is the flexible schedule, Peaslee said. Her family takes advantage of that by finishing their work in the morning and filling their afternoons with extracurricular activities like theater, vocal lessons and karate. They also plan frequent field trips to bring their classes to life, like their recent trip to the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park as part of their California history studies.
Mullen said all students are provided with their textbooks, as well as a Chromebook to use for classes and live meetings. One-on-one intervention is available when needed for students struggling or behind. The optional, in-person activities are popular, and include a variety of interests from physical education to art board games. And just like the rest of the district’s schools, students can also take advantage of the free breakfast and lunch program, by going to their local campus to pick up meals each day.
For more information on HGVA, or to enroll, call 925-525-7845 or visit www. brentwood.k12.ca.us/o/hgva To comment, visit www.thepress.net
MULLEN
Liberty finishes $19 million structural renovations
New track, locker rooms at pool, modernized classrooms, shaded quad
By Sarah Capperauld Correspondent
Liberty High School’s classroom renovation and new wing opened in the fourth quarter of the last academic year.
The complete rebuild was a renovation to the more than 70-year-old B and C wings that feature 18 new classrooms in a two-story building. The students can also enjoy a new quad area with shade for students during the summer, an athletics field with a new track and swimming pool with a new locker room.
Students were able to enjoy some of the classrooms during the fourth quarter last semester even though the quad was not completely finished.
“I think the students will love them,” said Denise Rugani, the new superintendent of Liberty Union High School District. “There will be all different areas students can gather and places they can sit.”
The B and C wing was built during the 1950s, and the school had students in portables, so the construction of the classrooms “allowed for movement of learning closer to the center of campus” as well as addressed the need to be modernized, Rugani said. In the rooms that have been refurbished are for classes for such as math, English, science, and special ed.
“The reconstruction was for the B and C wing of the school and took out 15 portables that are now turned into two-story classrooms,” said Rugani. “There are also state-of-the-art math classes, science classes with mod-
by
“I think the students will love them,” Denise Rugani, the new superintendent of Liberty Union High School District said of recent renovations. “There will be all different areas students can gather and places they can sit.”
ern technology, and a beautiful quad area for students to enjoy.”
Rugani said the construction, with a budget of $19 million, was funded by the Measure U bond. “The classrooms are finished and we stayed within budget,” she said.
“It took us 5 1 ⁄ 2 years from, starting in 2018 until now, to finally finish the majority of the Measure
U project,” Rugani said. Now all that is left is for the color schemes of the full campus to be updated since the newer buildings are updated color-wise as well and also new roofing, and finishing up the last of the classrooms. There were no issues overall with the project as it progressed smoothly and hopefully will continue, Rugani said.
To comment, visit www.thepress.net
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Photo
Sarah Capperauld
Local Olympic gold medalist Don ‘Tarzan’ Bragg was true inspiration of his time
By Nicole Becchina Staff Writer
Don Bragg was an Olympic pole vaulter who won the gold medal in the 1960 Olympics in Rome, Italy. Originally from a small town in New Jersey, Don lived an extraordinary life that eventually led him to Oakley, Calif. Don’s wife of 60 years, Theresa Bragg, who often goes by Mama T, shares a glimpse into their incredible life and tells the story of her husband’s accomplishments in the 1960 Olympic games.
Don played football in high school when he decided to give pole vaulting a try, which was performed with a steel pole at the time, as opposed to the fiberglass poles used today. He found that he excelled at the pole vault in high school. After receiving a scholarship, he competed in college at Villanova University and was among the top athletes for pole vaulting.
“Don was awarded a scholarship to one of the best track & field colleges in the U.S. With the proper coaching and guidance he was trained, disciplined and gave it 100% of his time and energy. In 1956 he missed the Olympics due to a pulled muscle so he was determined to train for 1960,” said Mama T.
Don graduated from college in 1957 and joined the United States Army.
“He graduated in 1957 and no longer had the availability for personal coaching,” Mama T said. “He kept himself in the training mode and then he got drafted in the U.S. Army. He wasn’t given the opportunity to train as he was on Army duty, but a fellow athlete who knew of his ability in pole vaulting went to the Colonel and requested he be given the chance to train.”
The request was honored and Don was sent to California to begin train ing six months prior to the Olympics.
“Lucky they allowed him to go to California and train at UCLA,” Mama T said. Their motive was that if he trained and competed in the Olym pics he would train under the Army banner.”
Prior to the Games, the Olym pic trials were held at Stanford Uni versity. During the trials, Don broke an 18-year-old world record for pole vaulting with a steel pole. The record was previously held by Cornelius Warmerdam, who cleared 15 feet, 8 1/4 inches with a bamboo pole, which was used prior to steel. Don was able to clear 15 feet, 9 1/2 inches.
Don was awarded the gold medal at the 1960 Olympics with a vault of 15 feet, 5 1/8 inches. He was given the nickname “Tarzan” because of his size
“As
“ As he received the gold medal in 1960 he left the podium with a Tarzan yell, so as he finished his address to the thousands, he gave his final Tarzan yell. The crowd went wild. They still talk about it.
for Boys called Kamp Olympik in New Jersey. One of his goals in life was to pay it forward.
“He still had the desire to do something that would pay it forward for children who never had the opportunity to participate, so he built and opened a Summer Camp for Boys, Kamp Olympik in the South Jersey Pine Barrens. For 12 years we had inner-city children from the area of New Jersey where there were no facilities or guidance. I’m proud that we made a difference in many lives,” said Mama T.
and strength.
he received the gold medal in 1960 he left the podium with a Tarzan
yell,” Mama T said.
After the Olympics, Don and Mama T opened the Summer Camp
”
Mama T
Don Bragg receives the gold medal for pole vault in the 1960 Olympics.
Photo courtesy of Theresa Bragg
Law Offices of Ruth Buzzard
Pittsburg Theatre Company to host benefit concert after fire
Ghostlight Theatre Company in Brentwood assists with recovery
By Nicole Becchina Staff Writer
The Pittsburg Theatre Company is set to “Rise from the Ashes” after its warehouse burned down in a fire last June 9. Costumes, props, set pieces, furniture and equipment that were used over the last 40 years, were among the items that were lost in the fire. Ghostlight Theatre Ensemble in Brentwood has been assisting with the recovery of Pittsburg Theatre Company.
“Their plans are to continue with every show they have had planned. Between the two companies several local volunteers have re-created and rebuilt sets that will be used for Ghostlight’s upcoming Monty Python’s Spamalot, as well as many future Pittsburg Theatre Company shows,” said Kathryn Lopez, Artistic Director of Ghostlight Theatre Ensemble.
There will be a reception in the courtyard behind the theater at 6 p.m., where guests will be able to meet the performers and see photos that were recovered in the fire. Hors d’oeuvres and drinks will be provided. Guests’ first drink will be provided with their ticket.
The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m., and will include performances from a variety of fan- favorite Pittsburg Theatre Company shows. To top off the evening, Tanika Baptiste and the Sisters of Sister Act to “Raise Your Voice” and spirit will perform.
Scheduled performers include:
The cast of Chicago (Pinole Community Players Youth); cast of Spamalot (Ghostlight Theatre Company), cast of Sister Act and the cast of Steel Magnolias (PTC).
Individual performances by PTC Youth Workshop and Daniel Adair, Keith Adair, Jasmine Alejo, Luke Cannon, Liam Cody, Jim Coniglio, Justin Daily, Brian Doolittle, Mark Flores, Adam Green, Sean Hoffman, Phillip Leyva, Amy Mark, Shelly McDowell, Clairesse Saam, Dianna Schepers, Jennifer Stark, Anita Viramontes and featuring Baptiste.
In an effort to help them recover, the Pittsburg Theatre Company will be hosting The Phoenix Project: A Benefit Concert on July 27, which will showcase performers from the theater’s past shows and give a glimpse into the future.
Tickets for the reception are $25, which includes food and first drink. For the concert, tickets are $50 general admission, with VIP table seating with service at $65.
Tickets may be purchased at https://bit. ly/4cTD6DR.
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, July 27
Alopecia family meet-and-greet picnic
Join us for an afternoon of pizza, fun, and support for the alopecia areata community at Veterans Park, 3841 Balfour Road, Brentwood from 1-4 p.m. Alopecia areata is a common skin disease that causes hair loss. Hear inspirational stories from individuals living with alopecia, get information and resources on alopecia and its impact, there will be networking opportunities, activities and discussions aimed at fostering understanding and empathy. For details, email alopeciash2020@yahoo.comhirt details.
Sunday, July 28
What happens to your trash after it’s picked up?
Did you ever wonder what happens to the trash after it’s picked up on collection day?
Come to this presentation from 2-4 p.m. and find out. It doesn’t all end up in a landfill. Presenters from Mount Diablo Resource Recovery will answer your questions and explain the whole process at Big Break Visitor Center (69 Big Break Road, Oakley. Light refreshments will be provided.
Thursday, August 1
“Tip A Star” fundraiser for Working Wonders
Zephyr Grill and Bar at 613 First St. #100 in McCauley Plaza hosts a fundraiser from 5-8 p.m. for Working Wonders, a Brentwood nonprofit for adults with disabilities. For reservations, call 925-418-4708.
On the Horizon
Friday, August 2-Sunday, August 11
Monty Python’s Spamalot at Ghostlight Theatre
The players present six performances of Spamalot. Ripped from the film classic, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, this musical has everything from flying cows to killer rabbits, British royalty to French taunters, dancing girls, catchy songs and The Lady of the Lake. This show is considered PG-13 and not recommended for children under the age of 13.
Tickets are $25-$28. Showtimes are Friday, Aug, 2 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 3 at 7:30 p.m., Sunday Aug. 4 at 2 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 9 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 10 at 2 p.m. and Sunday, Aug. 11 at 2 p.m. For details or to get tickets, visit https://ghostlightte.org/.
Saturday, August 10 and
Sunday, August 11
2024 Quilt Show
The Delta Quilters Guild presents their annual show from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Aug. 10 and 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. on Aug. 11 at the Brentwood Community Center at 35 Oak St. There will be quilts, demonstrations, vendors, a boutique and raffles, plus lunch and shopping specials presented by downtown merchants. Entry fee is $12, good for both days. Those younger than 8 or older than 80 are admitted free.
Sunday, August 11
Pancakes and More Breakfast for Oakley Seniors
Pancakes and more will be served at the Oakley Park and Rec Center, 1250 O’Hara Ave., from 8 a.m. – noon. Tickets are $15 for Adults, $5 for 5 years and younger. Tickets are available to purchase at the Senior Center or by calling 925-626-7223.
Friday, August 16
“Let’s Build a New Oakley Library and Community Center” Fundraising Dinner
Tickets are $50 for the Hawai’an-inspired event from 6-9 p.m. at the Oakley Recreation Center, 1250 O’Hara Ave, in Oakley. Guest speakers include Jeff Palmquist, Superintendent of Schools for the Oakley Union Elementary School District. Kristin Connelly, Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder, former president and CEO of the East Bay Leadership Council and Executive Director of the Contra Costa Economic Council.Susan Hildreth, Former California State Librarian and Director of the National Institute of Museum and Library Services.For details and tickets, visit https:// www.oakleylibrary.org/new_fundraising_event.
Saturday August 17
Cruise Out Car Show
Liberty High School Auto Shop presents their car show at the Independence High parking lot at First and Pine streets in Brentwood from noon- 4 p.m. (cars start lining up at 11 a.m.). Entry fee is $30.
Hot August Cruise Night
From 5-9 p.m., downtown Antioch restaurants and stores will be open. A lot of classic cars, music and food as part of the Celebrate Antioch Foundation and Rivertown Merchants Event. For details, visit www.celebrateantioch.org.
Tuesday, August 20
Oakley Senior Center Bus Trip to Hard Rock Casino
The bus will leave the senior center at 215 Second St. at 8 a.m. and return by 5 p.m. to allow for five hours of gambling and lunch. Tickets are $47. RSVP by Aug. 12 by calling Joyce or Allan at 925-626-7223.
Saturday, September 7
La Gran Fiesta Hispanic Heritage Event
Presented by the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce, celebrate La Gran Fiesta from 2-8 p.m. at Brentwood City Park with live musical performances, a car show, a free kids zone and authentic Hispanic food. For details, call 925-634-3344.
Rivertown Peddlers Faire!
From 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at G and 2nd streets in Antioch’s Historic Rivertown Business District, the faire features more than 70 vendors offer vintage goods, antiques, furniture, home decor, repurposed and upcycled items, home & garden, handmade items, arts and crafts, jewelry and gifts, live music, food , beer and wine, and shopping. Admission and parking are free. For details, visit: https://www.rivertownpeddlersfaire.com.
Sunday, September 8
ECHS community barbecue
The East Contra Costa Historical Society hosts its 36th annual community barbecue at the museum from 1-4 p.m.. The menu includes tri tip, corn, tomato salad, beans and dessert. Tickets are $35 for adults, $15 for children ages 6-12. Tickets go on sale Aug. 10. For details, visit www.eastcontracostahistory.org or call 925-634-4049.
Saturday, September 14
Banner Up! Live Auction
Art Guild of the Delta’s Banner Up! 2024 Live Auction is from 6-9 p.m. at the Brentwood Senior Center, 193 Griffith Lane, Brentwood. Proceeds support local artists and Adventure Therapy Foundation. Pick up your free banner guide at the community center. For more information, visit ArtGuildoftheDelta.org or call Rosie Grejsen at 925-698-2077.
Look at the many local events on
Saturday, September 21
2024 PJTF 11th Annual Benefit Gala
The Patriots Jet Team Foundation’s 11th annual benefit gala from 5–10 p.m. is Patriots Jet Team Center Byron Airport at 760 Osprey Court, Byron, features Champagne reception, dinner and live music. The cost is $225 per person until Aug. 15. For details, call (925) 338-7583 or visit https://www.pjtf.org/.
Saturday, September 28
Brentwood Rotary Club
Craft Brew Festival
The Brentwood Rotary Club’s third annual Brewfest is an annual event that brings the community together to enjoy a diverse selection of craft beers, live music, and local food vendors. The festival at City Park from 1-5 p.m. is a major fundraiser for the club, supporting its various charitable projects and initiatives. Attendees can sample beers from breweries, participate in fun activities, and enjoy a lively atmosphere. Ticket information will be announced shortly.
Saturday, October 5
Pawstoberfest
Ruff Day Rescue presents Pawstoberfest from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at Veterans Park at 3841 Balfour Road in Brentwood. There will be a beer garden, artisan and pet booths, food trucks, onsite adoptions and microchipping/vaccination, kids area, canine demonstrations, dog parade and costume contest (small dogs at 1:30; large dogs at 2:30) and live music by Dawglips from 1-5 p.m.. For details, visit ruffdayrescue.org.
Ongoing Events
East County Rotary Club Meetings
Brentwood: The Brentwood Rotary Club meets weekly on Monday at noon at the Wedgewood Banquet Center at 100 Summerset Drive in Brentwood. For more information, visit https:// brentwoodrotaryclub.com/. Oakley: The Oakley Rotary Club meets weekly on Thursday at 7:30 a.m. at Black Bear Diner, 3201 Main St. in Oakley. For more information, visit http://rotaryclubofoakley.com. Antioch: The Antioch Rotary Club meets weekly on Thursday at noon at Lone Tree Golf Course & Event Center, 4800 Golf Course Road in Antioch. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/antiochrotaryclub/. The Rotary Club of the Delta meets weekly on Wednesday at 7 a.m. at Denny’s, 4823 Lone Tree Way in Antioch. For more information, visit https://www.rotaryclubofthedelta.org/.
East County Lions Club Meetings
Brentwood: The Brentwood Lions Club meets the first Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at Westmont of Brentwood, 450 John Muir Parkway. For more information, visit: https://eclubhouse.org/sites/brentwoodca/. Antioch: The Antioch Lions Club meets every second and fourth Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the Denny’s on Delta Fair Blvd. Discovery Bay: The Discovery Bay Lions Club meets the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Discovery Bay Yacht Club. For more information, visit: https:// discoverybaylions.com/who-we-are/meetings/. Byron: The Byron Delta Lions Club meets every first Friday of each month at 10 a.m. at St. Anne’s Church for more information https://eclubhouse.org/sites/byron_delta/. Oakley Senior Center
Food Distribution
The Oakley Senior Center at 215 Second St. gives out free food every Thursday from 1-2:30 p.m. Residents are asked to bring their own grocery bags. It also hosts a flea market, vendor fair, which includes trinkets, arts and crafts, collectibles and antiques, happens the first
Saturday of every month from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Table space is $10 or 3 for $25. For details, call Jim Fridas at 925-813-1007 or the senior center at 925-626-7223. The center also offers bingo the every second Tuesday of the month. Doors open at noon and you must be 18 to play.
Hope House Food Distribution
The distributions are on Monday and Wednesdays from 9 a.m.-noon at 218 Pine St. in Brentwood.
IHMC Food Distribution
On the second and fourth Tuesdays of every month, the Contra Costa County Food Bank distributes fruits and vegetables from the parking lot at 500 Fairview Ave. from noon-1 p.m. St. Vincent de Paul also distributes food from the church hall every Friday from 9 a.m.-noon.
Golden Hills Community Church Food Distribution
The SENT (Serving and Engaging Neighbors Together) Ministry, in partnership with Team Jesus Outreach Ministries will be distributing food to anyone in need on these Saturdays — Aug. 10, Oct. 12 and Dec. 14 — from 12:30 -2:30 p.m. while supplies last. Everyone is welcome. The church is at 2401 Shady Willow Lane in Brentwood. For details, call (925) 516-0653 or visit https://goldenhills.org.
Soroptimists of the Delta Soroptimists is a global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment. We meet the first Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St. For details, contact president Sue Pretzer at spretzer303@yahoo.com at 760-583-3058.
ACA Women’s Group
The ACA Women’s Group meets every Wednesday at 5 p.m. at 809 Second St. in Brentwood. For more information, contact Cici at 530-306-7034.
Marine Corps League, Delta Diablo Detachment 1155, monthly meeting
The Marine Corps League, Delta Diablo Detachment 1155, hosts its monthly meeting on the third Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building, 757 First St., in Brentwood. The group is open to all active or retired U.S. Marines. Attendees are encouraged to bring a veteran friend, and spouses are always welcome. The meetings feature camaraderie, food, drink, conversation and updates on upcoming events. For more information, call 925-338-1775, email MCL1155@outlook.com or visit https://www.mcl1155.org/.
Soroptimists
Soroptimists is a global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment. We meet the first Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St. Delta Informal Gardeners
The group meets the fourth Monday of most months at the Brentwood Community Methodist Church at 809 Second St. at 7:30 p.m.. For details, contact Roger Marman at 562421-8036 or ramarman@gmail.com.
Widow and Widower Grief Support Group
A widow and widower grief support group from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church meets every Thursday from 5 to 6:15 p.m. at the church library at 500 Fairview Ave. in Brentwood. The group focuses on finding a new normal as attendees walk the grief trail with others experiencing the same loss. For more information, contact Mary Ann Smith at 925-240-1706 or Sandy Heinisch at 925-513-3412.
by Vera Martinez, Certified Travel Agent
It’s the middle of summer and you’re probably not giving a second thought to Christmas. But planning your Christmas vacation in July offers several advantages. You can take advantage of early booking discounts and secure better rates on flights and accommodations. Since popular destinations often fill up quickly during the holiday season, planning ahead means you have a wider selection of options to choose from.
Planning early also allows you to spread out the cost of your vacation over several months, making it more manageable financially. Here are some Christmas vacation ideas for your family:
1. Ski Resort Getaway: Head to a ski resort like Lake Tahoe or Aspen for a snowy Christmas experience. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and cozy evenings by the fireplace.
2. Theme Park Adventure: You can visit Orlando, home to Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, or Disneyland in Anaheim, where you can
enjoy festive decorations, parades, and themed attractions perfect for kids and adults alike.
3. Beach Retreat: Escape to a warm beach destination such as Hawaii, the Caribbean, or Florida Keys for a sunsoaked Christmas. Build sand castles, snorkel in clear waters, and enjoy a relaxed holiday vibe.
4. European Christmas Markets: Explore traditional Christmas markets in cities like Vienna, Prague, or Cologne. Kids will love the festive atmosphere, ice skating, and sampling local treats like gingerbread and hot chocolate.
5. Cruise Holiday: You can embark on a family cruise to destinations like the Caribbean or Mediterranean. Many cruises offer special Christmas activities, entertainment, and childcare options, allowing parents to relax while kids enjoy supervised activities.
To Book Your Dream Vacation call me at 925-639-9194 or go to www.vmartinez.dreamvacations.com.
– Advertorial
Rubiano’s owner in ICU, restaurant launches GoFundMe
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Rubiano’s restaurant in Brentwood has launched a GoFundMe page after its owner, Ruben Da Silva, suffered a heart attack and is in intensive Care Unit at an undisclosed hospital.
According to the GoFundMe page, Da Silva suffered a heart attack on July 2 and has been in the ICU ever since. There has been no update on his condition as of July 21.
His wife, Teresa, launched the GoFundMe page to help keep the restaurant open.
“With Ruben unable to work and mounting medical bills, we are struggling to keep the restaurant open,” Teresa said in the GoFundMe page.
“This is a place where Ruben’s passion for food and community come together, and it’s been our families livelihood for years.”
“Every day, he’s fighting for his life to make it back home to his family. But in the meantime, his family is struggling.
DA SILVA
Asking for help is not easy for us, but we desperately need support during this challenging time.”
As of July 22 the GoFundMe page has raised $4,625 of its $25,000 goal.
Rubiano’s had not responded to requests for comment at press time.
Those interested in helping out can go to the GoFundMe page at: https://gofund.me/6b4224ad.
To comment, visit www.thepress.net
George Rex Ditmars
July 8, 1934 - June 24, 2024
OBITUARIES
Born in Auburn, Indiana, to Faye and Floyd Ditmars (the first official Deputy Sheriff of Brentwood). The family moved to Brentwood, Calif. in 1936, and George went on to attend Brentwood Elementary and Liberty High School, graduating in 1952.
Just before graduation, George married the love of his life, Florence (Lopez) Ditmars of Byron in Reno, Nevada. They were married for 68 years.
George worked at Fiberboard Products in Antioch for 38 years, followed by Dow Chemical, until his retirement.
George was a modest mechanic and builder, accomplishing the build of two of his homes, the restoration of several classic cars, and projects (too many to name). In his spare time
Michael Wangeman
May 18, 1960-July 6, 2024
Michael Wangeman passed away on July 6, 2024.
He was preceded in death by his stepmother, Anne Wangeman; his nephew, George Vochatzer; and his great-nephew, Nick Verner. Michael leaves behind his father, Jim Wangeman; his mother and stepfather, Sharon and Ardell McCombs; and his four sisters and brothers-in-law: Lori Swehla (Lary), Carrie Reginato (Lance), Mary Becerra (Ray), and Heidi Halleran (Dave). He is also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends.
Michael had a unique gift for making everyone feel special, as if each person was his favorite. He graduated from San Jose State University and began his career in the financial indus-
he enjoyed playing, watching, and coaching sports. He was involved in youth baseball for 17 years, making many friends along the way.
George also enjoyed duck hunting, camping, and most of all, “The Annual Trip to the Trinity River” with his wife to catch salmon and steelhead.
George is survived by his grandson Dillon Ditmars and wife Kimberly of Brentwood, grandson Dustin Ditmars of Antioch, and grandson Shay Ditmars of Brentwood. George was preceded in death by his wife Florence, son George Michell, son Kenneth (Kenny) Ditmars, son Kevin Ditmars, brother Keith (Lowell) Ditmars.
George was a Brentwood treasure. There was a time when he knew everyone in the entire town by name, and he will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
George and Florence will be laid to rest together in Brentwood Union Cemetery on a date to be announced.
try before transitioning to web design, where he was celebrated for his creativity and talent.
For nearly 40 years, Michael lived in San Francisco, actively contributing to various charitable organizations and efforts to clean up the Haight-Ashbury District. He raised significant funds for the San Francisco AIDS Foundation by participating in the AIDS/ LifeCycle ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles five times. Michael was a proud gay man who embraced his identity with courage and strength. His authenticity and kindness touched the lives of all who knew him, and his memory will forever live in their hearts. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the San Francisco AIDS Foundation.
Michael will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Rest in peace, Michael. Your light will continue to shine brightly in our hearts forever.
The Press goes to The Great Wall
The Helvey family of Brentwood – Marc, Lili, Carena (Brentwood Youth Commissioner) and Cameron – took The Press with them to the Great Wall of China late last month. It was the first time visiting the wall for the kids, the second time for mom and third time for dad. This was part of a five-week trip to Japan and China, which included three Disneylands, The Forbidden City, Shanghai and visiting family in Central China.
Worship Services
Photo courtesy of Marc Helvey
Local football programs scramble from heat
Preparation for season continues
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
The heat doesn’t stop the grind. Well, not completely at least.
Local football and flag football teams throughout the Bay Valley Athletic League continue to prepare for their respective upcoming seasons despite East County’s recent rash of heat waves – including this week’s scorcher.
Coaches throughout the league have had to manage the players and practices throughout the heat, especially this week with temperatures around 100 degrees throughout.
“The safety of our athletes is our highest priority,” Liberty head football coach Mike Cable said. “We’re used to it in Brentwood, this happens every year and doesn’t necessarily have a negative impact on us, quite frankly, compared to a lot of other teams. I think that it has a lot to do with the way that we prepare ourselves physically and at home with hydration and nutrition.”
Liberty continued their summer practices this week with extra resources in place both on the sidelines with a water tank next to the
usual Gatorade cooler on the bench, and with water bottles laying throughout the field for players to grab whenever they need to.
Cable added that the team also spaced out their drills and overall practice day to manage the players with the heat. The team lifted weights in the morning with an extended break before getting onto the field late in the afternoon.
“We do modify our activity (with extreme heat),” Cable said. “It’s a bit slow pace, and that’s intentional. Lesser intensity in the afternoon considering the heat and we’re very mindful of watching them. We’re all heat illness certified (trained in knowing the differ-
Extra water and cooling sources are on the sidelines during Liberty’s practice Tuesday afternoon.
sions, then all of a sudden we were made aware of it. There was concern and changes in policy and structure to protect our kids and rightfully so. Heat illness is along those lines as well.”
Liberty, as the rest of the BVAL teams, has yet to practice in pads, although Cable and the Lions have plans in place in case a heat wave comes while the team is in a padded practice.
“There are other protocols like removing shoulder pads and helmets if we were in season,” Cable said.
Flag football
ence and recognizing heat exhaustion and heat stroke) and we make sure to take the proper precautions to make sure that they’re safe.”
Coaches throughout the state are all required to take heat illness certification courses, amongst several other required certifications each year. The courses educate the coaches on things to look for when it comes to heat illness, and coaches are required to pass tests to complete the course.
“I think with more education comes more awareness,” Cable said. “We saw that a lot with concussions when a lot of people didn’t know about the severity of concus-
Similar precautions are being made with the girls flag football teams preparing to start their camps in preparation for their upcoming seasons.
“Just always got to be smart (when it comes to managing heat),” Antioch assistant coach Nick Wisely said after Antioch hosted their one-day, all-BVAL girls flag football camp on Tuesday.
Much like at Liberty, water bottles were scattered throughout the field and the players had water breaks under a tent on the sideline that provided shade from the sun.
“We always tell the girls to hydrate prior, not just on the day of, and we allow many different opportunities (for the players) to get breaks and get water,” Wisely added.
BVAL teams prepare for second season of girls flag football
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
The boys aren’t the only ones working through the summer heat in preparation for the upcoming football season.
Girls flag football teams from the BVAL schools are starting to gear up for tryouts and for a new season ahead as the sport enters its second season in the BVAL and the North Coast Section.
Antioch High School hosted a one-day BVAL flag football camp on Tuesday to help the girls prepare for the upcoming season. Players from Deer Valley, Antioch, Freedom, and Heritage all attended the joint camp practice, going over individual drills before playing a pair of half-field, short scrimmages against one another in mixed groups.
Players from the defending inaugural BVAL champion Liberty or Pittsburg were not in attendance.
“We’re just trying to get the girls together over the summer,” Antioch assistant coach Nick Wisely said. “Just trying to get the girls to compete against one another and build some camaraderie throughout the league. With the sport and how fast it’s growing, it’s great to just get the girls out here, finding that it’s fun and towards the end of the summer, it’s like a celebration camp with good times.”
“It’s great to see the girls get to meet new friends, who are supposedly their rivals, and a great way for us to spread our football
knowledge,” Freedom head coach Kevin Hartwig said. “It shows the girls that we’re all in this together, making flag football better.”
For teams like Freedom and Heritage, the one-day camp was some of the first action that the two teams have taken a part of this summer.
Antioch recently started their open-field practice for interested players prior to Tuesday’s camp, and Deer Valley has had summer workouts since late June. Freedom started their open-field workouts on Monday.
“It’s exciting to have a lot of the returners just excited to come back and wanting to get better at their craft,” Deer Valley head coach Gozie Obunse said.
“We’re all going through the same things,” Deer Valley junior Isabella Lacy added. “We might not all have the same skills, but we all want (to win). We all want the same thing, so there’s respect for each other.”
Freedom posted on their social media channels that they started open-field workouts this week with tryouts set for Aug. 12.
Heritage, who had their own pre-season training back in the spring, also posted on their own social media channels that they’re starting open field on Aug. 5 with tryouts set for the week after.
The school year for the LUHSD schools starts Monday. The AUSD schools start on Aug. 8.
“Knowing we’ll have our people there, it just feels like I hold my chest up higher than it already is,” Lacy said about the upcoming home games. “It’s just home now and we got to make it home.”
This season, teams will play a weekly back-to-back, home-and-home schedule, with games set on Mondays and Wednesdays. Teams will play traditional non-conference teams to open the campaign, along with various tournaments for the first month of the season before league play kicks off towards the end of September into early October.
According to the BVAL website, league play starts on Monday, Sept. 30 when Antioch travels to Liberty. Both teams will complete their weekly series two days later on Oct. 2 at Antioch.
The week after, starting on Oct. 7, Heritage, Deer Valley, Pittsburg, and Freedom will begin league play, and all six teams will be in action altogether on Oct. 14. Junior varsity teams play at 6:15 p.m. and varsity games are at 7:30 p.m.
To view a video and a slideshow, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
One of the girls flag football players runs a play during Antioch’s BVAL girls flag football camp Tuesday.
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
Pittsburg confident as training camp opens
Pirates’ goal –win it all
Editor’s note: This is one in a series of stories about Bay Valley Athletic League high school football teams’ summer camps.
By Juan Cebreiros Correspondent
With most of their core players returning to the team this 100th football season, the Pittsburg Pirates football team is poised to achieve something that has eluded the program in recent history despite their success – a state championship.
Pittsburg has made the Northern California Championship Bowl Game each of the past three seasons and reached the state championship once. However, head coach Charlie Ramirez said he believes their returning players will be a key part of their state title run this year.
“The matchups that we have had in those big games, it’s just been one of those things where we got the short end of the stick,” Ramirez said. “We’re losing to the top of the top, so this is a matter of having the matchups in our favor. Hopefully we’ll be able to have that this year.”
In recent years, Pittsburg has loaded
their preseason schedule with some of the most notable playoff schools up and down the state. However, on Sept. 20 the Pirates will head south and battle national football powerhouse St. John Bosco. Ramirez said one of the things he took into consideration when scheduling this game was to get his players accustomed to traveling long distances so they are prepared come playoff time.
“Bosco, they’re elite; they’re a national powerhouse,” Ramirez said. “That’s where we’re trying to get but also you need everything that comes along with it, which is a competition and traveling experience.”
“ The Pirates have dominated their Bay Valley Athletic League opponents over the last five seasons. ” Pittsburg football players work on tackling form during the Pirates’ practice Monday afternoon.
Ramirez added that originally, the Pirates were trying to schedule a game against Kahuku High School in Hawaii. But both districts had difficulties with the planning. Thus opened the opportunity for Pittsburg to play St. John Bosco.
The Pirates have dominated their Bay Valley Athletic League opponents over the last five seasons, winning league titles each year and not losing a league game since 2018 against Liberty’s state championship team.
While Ramirez acknowledges his team’s success against league opponents, his way of keeping players motivated
during those games has been a big part of the Pirates’ success.
“Our expectation is that when we start subbing guys in blowouts, there shouldn’t be any drop off,” Ramirez said. “We got to make sure everyone’s trying to compete, and it really starts in practice, how we carry ourselves and how we’re competing week to week.”
Returning as starting quarterback is Marley Alcantara, who threw for 2675 yards and 37 touchdowns last season and won BVAL Offensive Player of the Year last year during Pittsburg’s undefeated regular season.
“He’s always had that knack that elite quarterbacks have to push themselves and everyone around,” Ramirez said. “Having that level of humility he has is infectious.”
Ramirez’s expectations has for Pittsburg are high this season, and he believes this can be the season his team can make the jump from reaching the state title game to winning it.
To comment, visit www.thepress.net
Photo by Juan Cebreiros
In addition to this, Don became the first athletic director of Stockton College in New Jersey.
“He built it from the ground up,” Mama T said.
Mama T has various talents in the special event industry and turned it into a career when they began an event planning company.
“Using my talents in the Special Event Industry we started our company and did major events for the Atlantic City casinos.”
Today, she runs La Grande Estates-Weddings & Fine Events Venue with family and is well loved by the community.
The year 2010 marked 50 years since the 1960 Olympics in Rome and the Italian Olympic Association held a major event for the occasion in Rome.
“They invited athletes who competed in the Games to come and celebrate,” Mama T said. “Don was asked to be the spokesperson for the Athletes of the World. Six months prior he had a stroke and we were not sure if he could handle it, but what made him a great athlete made him a great man and he accepted the challenge. When he got on stage, he went back to himself. He placed his prepared written speech aside on the podium and just began speaking.”
Don was a motivational speaker throughout his life after the Olympics and he knew just what to say.
Theresa Bragg
“As he received the gold medal in 1960 he left the podium with a Tarzan yell, so as he finished his address to the thousands, he gave his final Tarzan yell,” said Mama T. “The crowd went wild. They still talk about it.”
Don was a dedicated husband and father to four children. He passed
away in February 2019 at the age of 83. He was an inspiration to many and Mama T is proud to share the accomplishments of her husband, whom she has been with since she was 15 years old.
“Don’s motto was ‘Faith and Determination’. He lived his whole life
with those two words. Faith in God and in himself and determination to do the best he could be in whatever life had in store for him. He challenged himself to the end,” she said. “He was a champion of his time.”
To view a video, visit www.thepress. net / multimedia
Photos courtesy of Theresa Bragg
REGIONAL & LOCAL
News iN Brief
Brentwood author to discuss new book on Aug. 25 in Martinez
The Contra Costa County Historical Society Author in the Archives Series presents In the Shadow of Diablo: Beneath the Tangled Vines by Dan Hanel.
Hanel, a Brentwood resident, presents an illustrated talk about his newest release Beneath the Tangled Vines on Sunday, Aug. 25 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the William Welch Wines Tasting Room, 837 Main St. in downtown Martinez
Hanel has been an educator for over 35 years as an award-winning science teacher receiving the Eukel Teacher Trust award for outstanding teachers of Contra Costa County and was named the Distinguished High School Science Teacher for the State of California; as an award winning school administrator serving at the high school, district, and county office levels.
Admission is free for CCCHS members; $10 for non-members. Downtown parking is free on Sundays. RSVP is requested. Call (925) 229-1042 or send an email to mkting@cocohistory.org
California feeds more than 3.2 million kids through SUN Bucks during summer break
About 3.2 million low-income children and their families have received food assistance during summer break, through SUN Bucks, a new federal food program, Gov. Newsom has announced.
More than $162 million in food purchases have already been made by families across the state, and over five million total cards are expected to be distributed across California in the coming months, keeping kids fed and supporting local economies.
SUN Bucks is a new grocery benefit available across most of the U.S. families with eligible school-aged children can get $120 per child to buy groceries
“Through California’s SUN Bucks, we’re working to ensure summer break
entails adventure, growth AND nourishment for all California children,” said first partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom. “In partnership with the BidenHarris administration, we’re addressing food insecurity and ensuring families have the necessary resources to continue to feed their children while school is on hiatus. This is in stark contrast to the Republican-led states that have made the bewildering decision to refuse these federal dollars that benefit the families who call their states home.”
Most families did not and will not need to take action to receive SUN Bucks. Children who qualify for free or reduced-price school meals through a school meal application or an alternative income form, or who receive CalFresh, CalWORKs, or Medi-Cal, were automatically enrolled. Eligible families are receiving SUN Bucks electronic benefits transfer (EBT) cards, which can be used just like CalFresh benefits to purchase groceries. SUN Bucks is providing $120 per child, which is equivalent to $40 per month for the three months schools are typically closed during the summer.
This new program was implemented by the Calfornia Department of Social Services (CDSS) and the California Department of Education. In addition to SUN Bucks, Summer Meal Programs provide opportunities for children in need to access meals during the summer. Families can locate summer meal sites locally using the CA Meals for Kids app or by visiting the Summer Meal Service Sites webpage at https://www.cde. ca.gov/ds/sh/sn/summersites.asp.
Children not automatically enrolled must apply for free or reducedprice school meals by completing and submitting a school meal application or alternative income form by August 31, 2024, or they will not receive SUN Bucks benefits for summer 2024. Families may obtain the free or reducedprice school meal application from their school or school administrator’s office.
The SUN Bucks helpline is available at (877) 328-9677 to support cardholders who have questions about their
specific SUN Bucks card. The helpline provides automated support 24 hours a day, seven days per week. Live agents are available Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. – 8 p.m. People with general SUN Bucks questions are encouraged to visit the CDSS website for information. Receiving SUN Bucks will have no bearing on eligibility for CalFresh or any other state public benefit program.
Park District receives notable AAA Rating from Moody’s and Standard and Poor’s
Moody’s Rating Service and Standard and Poor’s (S&P) Global Ratings have awarded the East Bay Regional Park District with AAA ratings, with a stable outlook, for its history of responsible fiscal management and strong financial position. The AAA ratings allow for lower debt service rates, which creates cost savings that can go toward essential services such as park operations, maintenance, and police and fire protection services.
The district consists of 73 regional parks spread over 126,000 acres in Alameda and Contra Costa counties.
“The AAA rating is very rare for government agencies and shows that
taxpayer funds are being spent wisely and efficiently,” said Park District General Manager Sabrina Landreth. “The ratings recognize the Park District’s long history of strong fiscal management, solid funding base, and robust financial reporting and transparency.”
According to Moody’s, “The rating incorporates the district’s very strong balance sheet reserves, supported by sound fiscal policies and a multi-year trend of surplus operations. The district’s debt, pension, and other post-employment benefits burdens are modest.” Moody’s also says the Park District is in a “very strong fiscal position.”
According to S&P, their AAA rating reflects the Park District’s “Highquality management policies and practices, including the maintenance of a five-year forecasting model and adherence to a minimum reserve policy of 32 percent of annual revenue,” and “Available reserves that are far above our very strong threshold.”
“Maintaining our AAA rating is very important,” said Park District Assistant General Manager for Finance and Management Services Deborah Spaulding. “It allows the Park District to obtain better financing terms, so we have more funding for improving parks, fire protection, and protecting habitat.”
Brentwood breaks ground for new Costco
The City of Brentwood broke ground on Tuesday, July 23 for the new Costco store that is expected to open in early 2025.
The retailer with stores in Antioch and Tracy has eyed the City of Brentwood for some time.
“Residents of Brentwood have excitedly awaited the arrival of Costco for far too long,” Mayor Joel Bryant said. “We are delighted to welcome this retailer to our town which will undoubtedly reduce the trips for area residents and generate much needed revenues for our city.”
City Manager Tim Ogden said: “Costco will represent one of our largest employers and tax generators in town. The City strategically prepared for its arrival by extending Sand Creek Road from Highway 4 to Heidorn Ranch Road in an effort to alleviate traffic generated along Lone Tree Way. It will also represent one of the first non-residential developments in the City’s
Innovation Center.
“We welcome the arrival of Costco with more good things to come,” said Assistant City Manager Darin Gale..
Costco’s arrival in Brentwood means that the 66,000 local residents as well as thousands more from Antioch and Oakley, Discovery Bay and Bethel Island will no longer have to travel more than 10 miles east and west to stores in Antioch and Tracy.
The store will also serve as a catalyst to attract more national retailers to the remaining four acres adjacent to the store and continue to strengthen Brentwood’s role as a leader in the East Contra Costa County shopping experience, Gale said in an email.
The new store will also help foster a planned mixed-use development just south of the new Costco along Heidorn Ranch Road as part of the Innovation Center.
Contra Costa Animal Services seeks adopters, fosters to reduce overcrowded shelter
Contra Costa Animal Services and Bissell Pet Foundation are providing free adoptions this month as the shelter reaches capacity.
All animals at Contra Costa Animal Services (CCAS) will be free to adopt during July in an effort to clear kennel space with the county shelter reaching capacity. CCAS is also seeking qualified foster homes – specifically those that can accommodate large dog breeds – to help alleviate the current shelter population.
“We’ve reached a fever pitch,” said Ben Winkleblack, CCAS director. “With an already crowded shelter and an average daily intake of nearly 20 animals each day, we’re asking for the community’s help in getting as many pets out of the shelter as we possibly can
through adoption and foster.”
CCAS has more than 200 pets seeking permanent or temporary homes, including more than 170 dogs. Interested adopters and fosters can view CCAS’s available pets at www. ccasd.org, or come to meet them at the CCAS adoption center in Martinez. A $25 licensing fee may apply for pet adoptions. The aoption center is at 4800 Imhoff Place in Martinez. Hours are Tuesday -Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m., and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
View animals available for adoption at www.contracosta.ca.gov/2424/ Available-Animals
Foster information is at www. contracosta.ca.gov/6730/Animal-Foster-Programs.
EDITORIALS, LETTERS & COMMENTARY
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El Campanil Theatre wants public’s help to reach its fundraising goal of $50,000
Dear East County patrons,
If you are reading this, we most likely share a deep appreciation for live entertainment. From concerts to children’s programming, El Campanil Theatre continues to bring quality entertainment that is close to home.
Guest comment
For 96 years, El Campanil Theatre has stood in the heart of Antioch’s historic Rivertown District as a haven for live entertainment to our community. If you have attended an event at this venue, you are aware of how enchanting and memorable the experience can be.
The theatre has been beautifully restored to provide comfort and host a range of exciting entertainment, just as it did back in 1928. If you’ve received our annual appeal before, and have contributed we want to thank you again. We are grateful for any donation you can make, no matter how big or small, to help us reach our goal of $50,000 for the 2024 Individual Donor Campaign. As a 501 (c) (3) corporation, your contribution will go a long way in supporting our efforts, and every dollar you give is fully tax-deductible. Much of these funds will be used to assist grammar school children to be able to attend a live
Social Talk about town...
The following social media comments are in regards to The Press’s stories:
“The Brentwood Planning Commission stayed late into the night on Tuesday, July 16 to discuss the hotly-debated Bridle Gate subdivision project...”
“They need to fix the traffic situations along Lone Tree and Balfour before they do anything.”
– @ladystylz via Instagram
“I would like to see homes with 1/4 or 1/2 acre lots AT LEAST. Space and land.”
– @mamaoverzet via Instagram
“We don’t need more homes. Leave Brentwood the way that it is. Create more hiking trails or just keep it natural. We need more grass and trees and open spaces...”
– @kaycee.noelani.b via Instagram
“There is no infrastructure to get people to work Highway 4 and Vasco Road cannot handle
the traffic. Great move to deny the SUBDIVISION..”
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“Good! STOP building in Brentwood!”
– @434chevyii via Instagram
“Great. Stop the spread of homes in Brentwoood”
– @k9cwby via Instagram
“sooo this means new homes in that area orrr ruin it with more plazas and hotels”
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“So the road connecting sand creek in brentwood to antioch isnt happening then?”
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theatre field trip – many for the first time. To date, we have received $34,789. from individuals and businesses.
Over the past 10 years, we have presented over 1,000 performances, including classical music, tribute bands, and heartwrenching dramas. We have welcomed more than 30,000 school children to performances, including symphonic concerts, live theater, and school-related educational entertainment. We have also served thousands of seniors through specifically tailored programs that have been presented as midweek and weekend matinees. During the past year, we welcomed 25,000 patrons from Antioch, Pittsburg, Brentwood,
Oakley, and surrounding areas. Our programming serves individuals of all ages.
Your contribution can help us create a brighter future and continue to offer a diverse catalog of top-quality and affordable entertainment to Antioch for years to come. Thank you for participating in our journey; we hope to see you at El Campanil Theatre.
Donations can be made conveniently online at: https://us.patronbase.com/_ElCampanilTheatre/Products/Donate.
Kathie Campbell President, El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation
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Send correspondence to The Press, 248 Oak St., Brentwood, California, 94513; or email editor@ brentwoodpress.com.
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STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME
The following person(s) has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name Discovery Locks & More at 1441 Marlin Pl, Discovery Bay, CA 94505. The fictitious business name referred to above was filed in Contra Costa County on 10/23/2019 under File No. F-2019-0006559 (*1) B&B Lovell 1441 Marlin Pl, Discovery Bay, CA 94505 (**) This business was conducted by: A Corporation, State of Incorporation: CA. Signature: Danielle Lovell, Secretary. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: June 21, 2024 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 93016 Publish dates: July 12, 19, 26, August 2, 2024.
SUMMONS (Family Law)
CITACIÓN (Derecho familiar) NOTICE TO RESPONDENT (AVISO AL DEMANDADO): Shulin Chen You are being sued Read the information below. Lo estά n demandado. Lea la informaciό n a continuaciό n y en la pά gina siguiente. Petitioner’s name is (Nombre del demandante): Shaohua He CASE NUMBER (NÚ MERO DE CASO): D24-02157 You have 30 calendar days after this Summons and Petition are served on you to file a Response (form FL120 ) at the court and have a copy served on the petitioner. A letter,phone call or court appearance will not protect you. If you do not file your Response on time, the court may make orders affecting your marriage or domestic partnership, your property, and custody of your children. You may be ordered to pay support and attorney fees and costs. For Legal advice, contact a lawyer immediately. Get help finding a lawyer at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courts. ca.gov/selfhelp), at the California Legal Services website (www.lawhelpca.org), or by contacting your local county bar association. Tiene 30 dias de calendario despué s de haber recibido la entrega legal de esta Citaciό n y Peticiό n para presentar una Respuesta (formulario FL-120) ante la corte y efectuar la entrega legal de una copia al demandante. Una carta o llamada telefό nica o una audiencia de la corte no basta para protegerlo. Si no presenta su Respuesta a tiempo, la corte puede dar ό rdenes que afecten su matrimonio o pareja de hecho, sus bienes y la custodia de sus hijos. La corte tambié n le puede ordenar que pague manutenciό n, y honorarios y costos legales. Para asesoramiento legal, pό ngase en contacto de inmediato con un abogado. Puede obtener informaciό n para encontrar a un abogado en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www.sucorte.ca.gov), en el sitio web de los Servicios Legales de California (www. lawhelpca .org) o ponié ndose en contacto con el colegio de abogados de su condado. NOTICE: The restraining orders are on Page 2: These restraining orders are effective against both spouses or domestic partners until the petition is dismissed, a judgment is entered, or the court makes further orders. They are enforceable anywhere in California by any law enforcement officer who has received or seen a copy of them. AVISO - LAS Ó RDENES DE RESTRICCIΌN SE ENCUENTRAN EN LA PÁ GINA 2: Las ό rdenes de restricciό n estά n en vigencia en cuanto a ambos cό nyuges o miembros de la pareja de hecho hasta que se despida la peticiό n, se emita un fallo o la corte dé otras ό rdenes. Cualquier agencia del orden pύ blico que haya recibido o visto una copia de estas ό rdenes puede hacerlas acatar en cualquier lugar de California. FEE WAIVER: If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the clerk for a fee waiver form. The court may order you to pay back all of part of the fee and costs that the court waived for you or the other party. EXENCIÓ N DE CUOTAS: Si no puere pagar la cuota de presentaciό n pida al secretario un formulario de exenciό n de cuotas. La corte puede ordenar que usted pague, ya sea en parte o por completo, las cuotas y costos de la corte previamente exentos a peticiό n de usted o de la otra parte. 1. The name and address of the court are: (El nombre y direcciό n de la corte son): Superior Court of California
– County Contra Costa, 751 PINE STREET, MARTINEZ, CA 94553 2. The name, address, and telephone number of petitioner’s attorney, or the petitioner without an attorney, are: (El nombre, direcciό n y nύ mero de telé fono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante si no tiene abogado, son): Shaohua He 50 Baird Circle, Brentwood, CA 94513 510-345-7932
Date (Fecha): June 14, 2024 Clerk, by: (Secretario,por) A. Ahern Deputy (Asistente) Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 92944 Publish Dates: July 5, 12, 19, 26, 2024.
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2024-0003762 The name of the business(es): East Bay Permanent Jewelry Located at: 857 Chianti Way In: Oakley, CA 94561, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Yadira Berenice Martinez. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 4/3/2024. Signature of registrant: Yadira Martinez, Individual. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: July 15, 2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 7/14/2029 Oakley Press No. 030477 93076 Publish dates: July 19, 26, August 2, 9, 2024.
LIVE OAK STORAGE
Live Oak Storage,1315 Main Street Oakley, CA 94561, has possessory lien on all of the goods stored in the prospective units below. #210 Victoria Neely, #3027 Michael Brown, #927 Malinda Lowry, #995 John Parnell, #989 Vincent Tully, #3059 & #3060 Anthony Glenn, #052 Charles Fuller, #29 Amie Beville, #109 Sunny Jacobson, #900 & #913 Cassie Cavanaugh, #966 Gerardo Hernadez, #7020 Rose Gray. The goods are described as furniture, tools and miscellaneous personal property items being sold pursuant to the assertion of the lien on August 1st, 2024 at 11:00am. In order to collect the amounts due from you. The sale will take place at 1315 Main Street, Oakley, CA 94561 County of Contra Costa state of California. This lien sale is pursuant to Chapter 10 Section 21700-21716 of the California Self Service Storage Facility Act. Auction is to be held by Jason Whitt ms#199016. Owner reserves the right to bid at the sale. Purchase must be in cash only paid at the time of the sale. Sale is subject to prior cancellation, in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. Oakley Press No. 03-0477 93069 Publish Dates: July 19, 26, 2024.
NOTICE OF LIEN SALE
The following persons are in lien at Oakley Gateway Self Storage, 2101 Laurel Rd., Oakley, CA 94561: Geri Lira Joseph Mendoza Maurice Villatoro Jr. Lisa Littrell
The items to be sold include: Household Items, Boxes, Totes, etc. All bids must be placed prior to Auction posted end time The date of the sale will be 8/07/24 @ 12:00 pm. The location of the sale will be: Online at www.storagetreasures.com Oakley Press No. 03-0477 93108 Publish Dates: July 26, August 2, 2024.
STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME
The following person(s) has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: Indoor Eden at 5783 Woodland Ct., Discovery Bay, CA 94505. The fictitious business name referred to above was filed in Contra Costa County on 04/19/2021 under File No. F-2021-0002104 by Deborah A Gatt, 5783 Woodland Ct., Discovery Bay, CA 94505. This business was conducted by: An Individual. Signature: Deborah A Gatt. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 06/14/2024. Brentwood Press No. 021273 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: July 26, August 2, 9, 16, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2024-0003670 The name of the business(es): 1. Triple Crown Car Wash 2. Pinkys Klassy Car Wash Located at: 300 E. 18th Street In: Antioch, CA 94509, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Watt Petroleum, LLC. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company, State of Organization: CA. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 07/09/2024. Signature of registrant: Ranvir Singh, Managing Member. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 07/09/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 07/08/2029 Antioch Press No. 06-1617
Publish Dates: July 26, August 2, 9, 16, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2024-0003280 The name of the business(es): GKJ Engineers Located at: 214 G Street In: Antioch, CA 94531, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Joseph Oakley. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Joseph Oakley, Individual. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 06/17/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 06/16/2029 Publish Dates: July 19, 26, August 2, 9, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2024-0003708 The name of the business(es): Heavens Best Carpet Cleaning Located at: 4932 Waterford Way In: Antioch, CA 94531, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): J.B. Walton LLC. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company, State of Organization: CA. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 9/2/2022. Signature of registrant: Jonathan Walton, Jonathan G Walton, CEO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 07/10/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 07/09/2029 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 Publish Dates: July 26, August 2, 9, 16, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2024-0003267 The name of the business(es): DARK MATTER PUBLISHING Located at: 650 Mission Fields Lane In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Carl Anthony Chambers. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Carl Chambers, Individual. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 06/17/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 06/16/2029 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: July 5, 12, 19, 26, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2024-0003671 The name of the business(es): 1. Triple Crown Car Wash 2. Somersville Car Wash Located at: 3103 Delta Fair Blvd In: Antioch, CA 94509, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): DELTA VIEW INC. This business is conducted by: A Corporation, State of Incorporation: CA. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 07/09/2024. Signature of registrant: Ranvir Singh, Managing Member. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 07/09/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 07/08/2029 Antioch Press No. 06-1617 Brentwood Press No.
to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Brentwood Press Date: July 15 2024 Judge of the Superior Court Brentwood Press Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 Publish Dates: July 26, August 2, 9, 16, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2024-0003143 The name of the business(es): Voyavie Located at: 400 Del Antico Ave #982 In: Oakley, CA 94561, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Jacks & Co LLC. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company, State of Organization: CA. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Jaqueline De Guzman, CEO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 06/07/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 06/06/2029 Publish Dates: July 12, 19, 26, August 2, 2024
FICTITIOUS
Business Profile
THIS
& Air
and ductless minisplit installation, along with repair and maintenance for central heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems. Plus, we provide ductwork and indoor air quality services. We also offer free estimates for HVAC system replacement and new installation. In addition to being a Lennox Premier Dealer, a Daikin Comfort Pro, & a WellAir Elite dealer, Perfect Star is Diamond Certified with an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and has been voted the Best Heating & Air Company and the Most CommunityMinded Company by readers of The Press in Brentwood, Calif. for the last two years in a row. For more information, visit, www.perfectstarhvac.com.
Cell phone restrictions and bans are becoming more prevalent nationwide.
For example, the Los Angeles Unified School District set a plan to ban cellphones all day on its school campuses, according to the Los Angeles Times. The ban would take effect in January and includes enforcement of the cellphone ban throughout the whole day including lunches and breaks.
Other states reportedly have added their own cell phone regulations in their schools. Schools in Missouri, South Carolina, Florida, Kentucky, New York, Delaware, and Washington, for example, have also placed some type of cellphone restrictions and bans on students in those states. One school in Kansas City, Mo., reported that it had positive results from the ban, especially when it came to stu-
Council from page 1A
dents interacting with one another and a better teaching environment.
Amaro says that reigniting those face-
The grand jury’s findings, according to a document read by Mendoza at the meeting, were that the city government should stop enabling 209 Times from “interfering with effective city government through their continued association and/or support of individuals associated” with the platform.
“That’s what I read and that’s why I brought it,” Mendoza said. “I’m all about freedom of speech…but we need to make sure that the information we send out is correct. And I do think that there are social media platforms that sometimes write things to put the city in a bad light.”
One suggestion from Mendoza included adding a “landing page” to the city’s website that would display press releases, allowing both residents and media sources equal access to information. Mendoza rationalized that the average resident is who most of the information sent out by the city is intended to serve, so it would make more sense for information to be made available directly to them rather than sent to “the chosen few,” meaning news outlets.
Residents who spoke during the public comment portion of the meeting were largely in favor of a policy that would limit what organizations would receive ad revenue from the city, with people expressing concern that their tax dollars could potentially be used to advertise with news organizations that are inflammatory or enable racism.
“You need look no further than the assertion that this is some kind of censorship – it is not,” Rod Flohr said during the public comment portion of the meeting. “It’s just a matter of choosing your associations wisely. I’ll echo what another person said: I don’t want my tax money appearing in publications that are objectionable to the public, that contain racist commentary – even in the comments –
Elections from page 1A
As of July 24, the following residents have pulled papers with the intent to run for Oakley City Council:
• Aaron Meadows (District 1)
• Anissa Williams (District 3)
• George Fuller (District 5)
• Cristina Pena Langley (District 5)
• Oleksii Chuiko (District 5)
As of press time, only Chuiko has filed the necessary documents to qualify to be on the ballot.
Brentwood
Brentwood will be hosting elections for District 1 and District 3 as well as a mayoral election in November. Those seeking election to the city council must live in the district they intend to represent, but the mayoral election is city-wide, according to the city’s website.
Mayor Joel Bryant confirmed on July 24 that he does not intend to seek reelection. Due to the incumbent not seeking reelection, the nomination period for the mayoral race will be extended to Aug. 14.
As of July 24, the following residents have pulled papers with the intent to run for Brentwood City Council,
We’ve allowed social media companies to run rampant and there are no safeguards. It’s created a generation of students that are struggling with communicating with each other.
” Principal Steve Amaro
to-face student interactions at Freedom is his goal.
”We need to create leaders, students that are going to be able to have social skills with each other,” he said. “Part of this is going to be if enough students recognize and understand that they can turn on “Do Not Disturb” for six hours or until class is over.”
Amaro added that Freedom’s parents
or opinions that are just so far from the norm. Please don’t advertise in Playboy either, you know?”
Councilmember Pa’tanisha Pierson suggested the city take the ethics discussion one step further and create a blanket policy that would go beyond just how the city interacts with news organizations, suggesting instead that the city create an internal ethics policy that could also give them leeway to limit the way they interact with other vendors, using the recent Juneteenth event as an example.
“I think there’s a bigger conversation we need to have here about ethics and not just at media level,” Pierson said. She went on to describe challenges she has faced since being elected to the council, such as people accusing her of falling asleep during meetings and violating the Brown Act.
“I saw statements being made at Juneteenth. I saw even more nasty comments about race, ethnicity,” she said. “During Juneteenth I discovered when we select vendors, if someone was a Klansmember or if someone was a Nazi, we don’t have a lot of parameters to reject if they want to be a vendor. We do not have that ability as a city.”
Pierson suggested that, with this knowledge, it was worth looking into creating a broader ethics policy that would allow the city the ability to have more control over what sort of third-party vendors they align themselves with in general, not just when it comes to media.
Councilmember Tony Oerlemans expressed concerns that dictating which outlets the city advertises with could lead to a perception that the city was trying to control outlets by punishing those whose coverage they disagreed with. Mayor Joel Bryant expressed similar concerns.
“I have some concerns when it comes to limiting what can be said or what should be said,” Bryant explained.
of which the mayor is a member:
• Susannah Meyer (Mayor)
• Gerald Johnson (Mayor)
• Jovita Mendoza (District 3)
• Brian Oftedal (District 3)
As of press time, no candidate has filed the paperwork to appear on the ballot and no resident has pulled paperwork to run for office in District 1. However, City Clerk Margaret Wimberly said the city anticipates there to be candidates, as she has heard from “interested parties.”
Antioch
Antioch will hold at-large elections for mayor, city clerk and city treasurer in November as well as districtbased city council elections for District 2 and District 3. Current Antioch mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe pulled the necessary paperwork to seek reelection on July 23, according to city staff, but this information is not yet reflected on the city’s election page.
As of July 24, the following residents have pulled papers with the intent to run for office in Antioch:
• Rakesh Kumar Christian (Mayor)
• Rowland ‘Ron’ Bernal Jr. (Mayor)
have also come out in support of the new restrictions and that students will be allowed to use their phones in case of a real emergency while on campus.
”We’re not taking away the cell phone,” Amaro said. “What we’re saying is that they can’t use it during these times.”
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
“How we enforce it really is something that’s beyond what we have the authority as a council to do. I think that getting the information out that we need to get out as quickly as we can to as many people– I think that’s our goal.”
Ultimately, Mendoza withdrew the request from future council discussion following suggestions that it could instead be further discussed by the Diversity, Equity, Belonging and Inclusion (DEBI) Committee, an ad-hoc committee spearheaded by Meyer and Pierson.
Other topics discussed at the meeting include:
• The 5-0 approval to make two of the city’s ad-hoc committees into standing committees: the DEBI Committee and the Age and Disabilities Friendly Communities Committee. Both committees are spearheaded by Meyer and Pierson and were set to be dissolved on Jan.1. 2025. Dedicated days and times for the committees to meet will be determined at a later date.
• The 5-0 approval to make a change to the design of the Fields of Time monument to be erected on Brentwood Boulevard in front of the police station. The change in the design would reflect broader diversity by including a female silhouette among the male ones in the piece. The cost of the change is estimated at about $8,000, according to city staff, due to the fact that the artwork was already completed and ready for installation. According to the agenda packet, the art is “intended to showcase the overall identity of Brentwood” for years to come. The council members were unanimous in their expressed belief that representation is important.
The full meeting can be watched online at https://bit. ly/3yboQqM
• Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe (Mayor)
• Jose Aceves-Guzman (District 2)
• Donald Freitas (District 3)
• Antwon Webster (District 3)
• Addison Peterson (District 3)
• Melissa Rhodes (City Clerk)
As of press time, none of the candidates have filed the paperwork to appear on the ballot and no resident has pulled papers to run for city treasurer.
Discovery Bay
Per the town’s online election page:
“The governing body of the Town of Discovery Bay is a Board of Directors comprised of five (5) members elected by the registered voters of the District to serve four (4) year staggered terms. During the elections every two (2) years, either two (2) or three (3) Directors are elected to serve the District for the next four (4) years.
Currently, there are two terms that will expire in December, 2024 and three terms that will expire in December, 2026.”
No further information was available as of press time.
AMARO
Tracy Nelson Team collaborates
Bay small businesses for
Realtor and entrepreneur
Tracy Nelson of Brentwood is on a mission with her Tracy Nelson Team to showcase small businesses around East County and the quality of life they bring for residents.
“I’ve been in this industry for about 20 years now, and the Tracy Nelson Team is on a mission to uphold integrity and foster collaboration within our community,” Nelson explained.
In doing so, you can find Nelson on programs such as The Best of Living in East County, a television show that focuses on profiling small businesses around the nation showcasing entrepreneurs and their dream to bring success in their lives and in the community.
“Being able to truly share with people the background story of these small business owners and entrepreneurs in our community, getting their brand out for thousands to see, as well as developing that meaningful relationship, and helping
each other out and make our community great to live in” she added.
As a Realtor with offices in Brentwood and Antioch, Tracy Nelson is committed
to being transparent with her clients. She offers consistent and honest insights of the current housing market, and provides the proper steps to take to prepare clients
when making the big decisions on home selling and buying.
“In the East Bay Area, we saw a bit of a shift in 2023 and 2024,” Nelson said. “Primarily it has to do with the increase in interest rates, and inflation that we all feel, yet a crucial factor keeping the market strong is that there has been a lack of inventory for many years throughout California.”
“There are more buyers out there than homes, keeping us mostly in a sellers market,” she said. “Each city and neighborhood varies. It’s important to contact a professional Realtor for current data and in-depth analysis.”
“If it’s the right time for you family to own a home, it really comes back to the first steps of being preapproved with our lender, making sure everything lines up and is comfortable for you,” Nelson added. “And if it is not, our team is ready to help. We want to put you on a plan to be able to buy or sell in the near future that is exactly what we do.”
To learn more about Nelson, and the Tracy Nelson Team, visit TracyNelsonTeam. com, on social media @EastBayAreaRealtor, or call 925-872-0400.
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
ANDREW RULLODA
Submitted photo
Tracy Nelson, right, with Enzo Rosano, the owner of Locanda Capri, on The Best of Living in East County.
SUCCESS STORIES ARE WRITTEN
Which homes are in style?
When remodeling a home with the ultimate goal of making it more attractive to prospective buyers, homeowners can benefit from taking stock of current trends, including the style of home that’s most popular. According to a 2020 Homes.com survey of more than 5,000 adults across the United States, modern farmhouse is the most favored house style. The survey asked participants to choose from a selection of styles, including mid-century modern ranch, Spanish colonial/southwest, bohemian craftsman, Italianate, French chateau, and Tudor. The modern farmhouse style was the most popular choice in 42 of the 50 states, proving that home style preference is not beholden to geography. Respondents gave a host of reasons for favoring the modern farmhouse look, including that the style is “aesthetically appealing but not boring” and that it looks “simple, cozy, and not too busy.”
All-electric homes more popular now
A 2015 study by the U.S. Energy Information Administration found that the number of all-electric homes had increased over the previous decade. The EIA study found that 25 percent of homes in the United States used only electricity. All-electric homes are generally considered more environmentally friendly because they lessen homeowners’ carbon footprint by reducing their need for fossil fuels like natural gas. Electric heat pumps, induction stoves and electric fireplaces are just some of the technologies that can be found in all-electric homes.
Though the design style of all-electric homes needn’t be modern, the growing popularity of such homes makes them an option for homeowners with modern sensibilities.
– Courtesy of Metro Creative
What buyers can do to get the best mortgage rate
Mortgage interest rates have been headlining financial news segments for several years running. Much of that news has been met with less than open arms, as rates have risen dramatically in recent years, an increase that is related to the ripple effect of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mortgage interest rates did not immediately spike after the World Health Organization declared a global pandemic in March 2020. Data from the lender Freddie Mac indicates mortgage rates were still well below 4 percent on January 1, 2022. However, those rates hovered around 7 percent by the end of that year, and were still around that level at the start of 2024.
With such high interest rates, prospective home buyers can feel helpless. However, there’s much buyers can do to help themselves as they seek to secure the lowest mortgage interest rate possible.
♦ Read your credit report and improve your score, if necessary. Many prospective home buyers save up for years in anticipation of the day when they will purchase their own home.
During this period, buyers can read their credit reports and address any discrepancies while taking steps to improve their credit scores. Lenders consider a host of variables to determine an applicant’s credit worthiness, and credit history and credit scores bear significant influence. The higher an applicant’s credit score, the more favorable mortgage rate he or she is likely to get.
♦ Take control of your debt-to-income ratio. Debt-to-income ratio refers to
what you owe in relation to how much you earn. The lower your debt-toincome ratio , the better you look to lenders. According to Bankrate, lenders typically want to avoid issuing mortgages to individuals if the monthly payment will exceed 28 percent of their gross monthly income, and people who may be near that threshold for a given home may be denied a mortgage if their debtto-income ratio is high. Prospective home buyers currently carrying signifi-
cant debt, including consumer debt like credit cards and/or student loan debts, should make a concerted effort to pay down that debt prior to applying for a mortgage.
♦ Maintain a strong employment record. Steady employment and consistent earnings make mortgage applicants more attractive in the eyes of lenders. If you are currently shopping for a home or about to make an offer, now might not be the best time to switch jobs. Self-employed individuals and freelancers working multiple jobs can still qualify for a good mortgage rate, but they may need to provide more extensive documentation that indicates their earnings going back several years. Individuals who have been working full-time for the same company for years may only need to provide W-2 forms from the two most recent tax years.
♦ Shop around for rates. Rates may not fluctuate much between lenders, but it’s still worth shopping around for mortgage rates. A study from Freddie Mac found that the benefits of shopping around for a mortgage rate were especially notable in 2022 compared to the decade prior, saving borrowers who took the time to shop for rates substantial sums of money.
– Courtesy of Metro Creative
Photo by Metro Creative
Buying rural or urban?
The decision to move is a personal choice that is typically reached after considering a number of variables.
Career opportunities, a better climate, superior schools, or a desire to be closer to family compel millions of people to move each year, and those factors underscore how unique each individual move can be.
Steinway Moving & Storage contends that the average American moves 11.7
times, while the Canadian Association of Movers says Canadians move an average of five to six times. No move is a small undertaking, and when such a move involves relocating to an entirely new setting, there are some things buyers should know. Here are some differences between purchasing a home in a rural or urban location.
Urban
A vibrant lifestyle and proximity to employment draws many people to urban living. Home prices tend to be higher in cities than in other areas, and the cost of living in
urban areas tends to be more expensive due to the conveniences associated with city life. Buyers may expect to pay more for contractors, food and transportation. Property taxes are another consideration for urban buyers. Taxes tend to be higher in urban neighborhoods than rural locales.
Proximity to nightlife and restaurants attracts many people to live in cities. Urban buyers need to expect more congestion in cities than in rural areas. Having a car in the city may be a luxury instead of a necessity. In fact, many urban dwellers opt for public transportation rather than paying for parking or trying to find spots.
Noise may be another thing to think about. More people living closer together brings more noise and artifical light. Nature lovers may have to sacrifice proximity to wildlife and access to star-filled skies if they choose to live in cities.
Rural
Being able to spread out and enjoy private property is a major advantage of living in the country. Rural living comes with much larger homes at more affordable prices.
The Real Estate Council of Ontario says that potential buyers will need to account for distance to jobs and stores when living in rural areas. Commute times can eat into fuel budgets. Those who work from home may
need to investigate if there is reliable internet service where a home is located, as some rural locales still have spotty mobile phone service and internet coverage.
Additional things to think about involve the maintenance on the home and utilities. Some rural homes are not connected to municipal water systems. That requires usage of well water and having to do one’s own water testing. It’s also key to have a septic system tested to ensure it is in good working order. Rural residents may need to grow accustomed to slower repair times should electricity go out, so a backup generator might be necessary.
Nature and vast starry skies draw some to live in rural areas. Sitting outdoors enjoying the sounds and smells of nature can be intoxicating. But homeowners must consider that insects and animals may be frequent companions in these areas. Those accustomed to urban living may be unacquainted with animals living so close to their homes. – Courtesy of Metro Creative
