Public invited to mayoral, council candidates forums on Oct. 7 and 14
By Sean Tongson Correspondent
With voter registration deadlines quickly approaching, the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce is presenting a live forum to get to know the mayoral and City Council district candidates for the local elections on Nov. 5.
The forum, co-sponsored
by the Brentwood Union School District and The Press, will take place Monday, Oct. 14 at Bristow Middle School at the Emil J. Geddes Theater at 855 Minnesota Ave. in Brentwood. Residents are invited to attend to not only meet the candidates, but also to
educate themselves on how they can be an informed voter, officials said.
Registration deadlines statewide are as follows:
• In person during early voting : Oct. 7 - Nov. 4
• In-person at voting location
Three-year East Cypress Road expansion begins in Oakley
By Connor Robles Correspondent
Engineering Manager Billilee Saengchalern gave a presentation to the Oakley City Council at its Sept. 24 meeting on the recent progress made on the project to widen East Cypress Road between Knightsen Avenue and Bethel Island Road.
The road widening project consists of three phases. The first, begun in July and stretching to next September, will widen the road between Knightsen Avenue and the Contra Costa Canal, with the Canal being diverted beneath the new road. The second phase, beginning next February, and running until June 2027, will extend the widened road from the canal to east of Jersey Island Road. The third and
final phase, to be completed between next May and fall 2027, will reach Bethel Island Road.
According to Saengchalern, the 14-inch sewer force main line and 24-inch storm drain line are
both “95 percent complete” from Knightsen Avenue to the canal, and twin 48-inch storm drain pipes have been installed as an ex-
see Expansion page 22
on Election Day : Nov. 5
• Online : Oct. 21 by 11:59 p.m.
• By mail (postmarked by) : Oct. 21
The City of Oakley will hold a similar forum on Oct. 7 at the Oakley Recreation Center at 1250 O’Hara Ave. for their open District 5 seat. A meet-and-greet with the candidates is scheduled for 6 p.m., with the forum commencing at 6:30 p.m.
The list of candidates for
see Candidates page 22
Brentwood City Council reaffirms many policies
drive-throughs, alcohol sales and tobacco sales.
Public comments
By Jake Menez Staff Writer
The Brentwood City Council used their Sept. 24 meeting to revisit some previous topics and establish policies around them.
Among the topics was a discussion on how to handle public comments in city meetings as well as regulations around fast food
The council voted 4-1 to maintain their current policy around public comments at city meetings, with Councilmember Tony Oerlemans dissenting. The policy allows for participants to join via Zoom and offer general public comments at the start of the meeting, but only comments that are relevant to the discussion topic at hand are permitted during agenda items.
“The city is not required to offer virtual public participation via Zoom or any other virtual plat-
see Policies page 7
The widening of Cypress Road in Oakley will take place in three phases over the next three years.
Photo by Andrew Rulloda
New Beginnings Christian Center EVOLVES from an In-Person Sunday Worship Local Church into New Beginnings 1995 Legacy Church , an online 24 Hours a Day, 7 Days a Week Worldwide Church
NEW BEGINNINGS 1995 Legacy Church
New Beginnings Christian Center began as the first in person multi-racial Church in the cities of Antioch, Oakley and Brentwood, CA in 1995. The founding Pastor was Gregory N. Bell, who had previously served as an Associate Minister for various churches as well as Executive Director of Mario Murillo Ministries, a Televised Worldwide Evangelistic Ministry. In the 17 years that Bishop Bell led the Church at and under the direction of the Lord Jesus Christ the Church caused thousands of souls to accept Jesus Christ as their personal Savior.
Now, New Beginnings 1995 Legacy Church continues to Spread the Word of God, Win Souls and Bless the Saints of
God with a Digital Church featuring Audio and Videos from the Worship Services of New Beginnings Christian Center.
While many churches had building funds that sometimes lasted years asking members to donate funds for the growth of the church, New Beginnings never had a building fund. Instead, Bishop Bell asked members to give to different capital campaigns to fund the growth of the Church.
Listed below are all of the members, individuals and other Church’s that donated to New Beginnings Christian Center to fund our expansion and growth when we were an in person Church. Thank you and may God to continue to bless all of you for your generosity.
Lifting Jesus Higher
Brentwood science teacher’s goal: combine beauty and education
Singh wins Mrs. West Coast pageant, aims for Mrs. USA Universe in December
By Dawnmarie Fehr Correspondent
A Brentwood woman was crowned Mrs. West Coast Universe during an event in New York earlier this month. But she also has higher aspirations -- to combine beauty pageants and education, using her platform to save the planet.
Sumita Wahi Singh traveled to the East Coast for the event after being crowned Mrs. India California earlier this year. A recent competitor in the beauty pageant circuit, Singh said this is, nonetheless, a lifelong dream.
“I always wanted to go to pageantry, like Miss India, and modeling. But we were from a small town and my dad didn’t think it was the safest for me to go to the big city,” she said.
Singh grew up in India, later moving to Australia to earn her masters degree in education. Her interests in pageants and modeling were put on hold for more practical endeavors, and she began teaching high school science and math. During a visit to the United States with friends, she met her future husband, and eventually settled with him in the Bay Area.
As marriage, work and her family took center stage, Singh began to think about her old dreams of competing in a beauty pageant and modeling.
“I loved my family and kids, but I still didn’t feel a sense of fulfillment,” she said. “I would still think about my one regret
– that I didn’t pursue modeling and do pageants. I didn’t think at this phase of my life, in my late 30s, it would be possible.”
But thanks to her networking, opportunity came knocking with a trip to Paris Fashion Week. There, she networked with designers and received invitations to walk in runway shows in Los Angeles, Las Vegas and New York. She learned about the Mrs. India Beauty Pageant, also called Mrs. Bharat, and began preparing to compete.
During this time, Singh and her family moved from San Jose to Brentwood. Singh was able to quit her teaching job and serve as chief financial officer for her husband’s software company. She said the new flexibility in her schedule enabled
RUFF
her to balance her work and family life, while also fitting in training sessions for pageants. She worked out at least five days each week, and did research to prepare for interview questions on stage where she could discuss her passion.
“Being a science teacher, I am passionate about taking care of our environment,” she said. “In my daily life, I am always reminding my family and friends of small things we can do every day to reduce our carbon footprint.”
With the Mrs. West Coast crown in hand, Singh’s next step in the pageant circuit is competing in December for the Mrs. USA Universe crown. If successful, she would then move on as a contestant for Mrs. Universe 2025, in the spring or summer.
She continues to prepare for interview questions, staying abreast of social issues and ways to keep the planet healthy, as well as exercising and maintaining a strict diet. For this new level of competition, she said she’s increased her efforts with multiple workouts per day and eliminated sugar from her diet.
“This is a big change for me, but if I want to represent at the national stage, I have to be more disciplined,” she said.
Singh is optimistic about her chances in December, but winning a crown isn’t her only goal. She also hopes to inspire other mothers to pursue their dreams, and not lose themselves in the business of life.
“I was there for so many years after my marriage, just caught up in taking care of others,” she said. “I want to remind other moms to remember to take care of themselves and their passions, and in doing so, set a good example for our kids of chasing our dreams.”
For more information on Singh, follow her journey on Instagram @sumita_mrs.west.coast_universe.
MONDAY
OCTOBER, 7
Oakley Recreation Center 1250 O’Hara Avenue
MEET THE CANDIDATES TO BE AN INFORMED VOTER.
Please submit questions to editor@brentwoodpress com with the submject line “Oakley Candidates” by Oct. 4th.
6:00 p.m.
Doors open for meet- and-greet 6:30 p.m.
Forum star ts with all candidates
Livestreaming of forum on facebook.com/thepress.net .
Oleksii Chuiko Dr. George Fuller
Cristina Pena Langley
Brentwood resident Sumita Singh was crowned Mrs. West Coast Universe in a competition held across the country earlier this year.
Photo courtesy of Sumita Singh
Oakley pastor creates an online church
By Dawnmarie Fehr Correspondent
Bishop Gregory N. Bell has dedicated his life to lifting people up with the word of God.
Now enjoying his retirement, Bell has undertaken a new journey to spread the Gospel: an online church where video and audio recordings of his sermons are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
“I wanted something like an online church where people could go and get the word of God anytime they wanted, and not have to wait until Sunday,” Bell said.
His mission was partly inspired by a cancer diagnosis in 2017. The diagnosis forced him to think about what would happen to all his belongings when he died, especially the hundreds of cassette tapes, VHS tapes and CDs with recordings of his sermons and church services on them. He was also motivated when he saw church attendance around the country had declined in the years following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Bell had worked in marketing for the Stockton Ports, the Oakland A’s Minor League affiliate, and reached out to his friends there for help. He was able to set up a website and began uploading recordings immediately. His sermons there cover a wide range of topics from job loss to addiction to overcoming difficult situations.
“We’re not done yet,” Bell said of the website, noting fewer than half his recordings are posted. “But we will keep going.”
Bell began his preaching career in East County in 1988. Though members of his congregation asked him to serve as a pastor – a role with longer hours and more responsibilities than a preacher – he declined, and instead offered a bible study starting in 1995. It began with 11 members and quickly grew.
“The group said the bible study wasn’t enough, they said they wanted their own church with me as pastor,” he recalled. “So people showed up on my doorstep in Oakley with a microphone and speaker and said I was going to preach for them. So I did.”
The group had its first Sunday service in November of 1995 in Antioch. Within two years, they expanded to a space in a shop-
Bishop Gregory N. Bell stands by the New Beginnings Christian Center Wall of Faith.
had to move out of Brentwood,” Bell said. “I said I thought it was the Lord telling me it was time to retire and that’s what I did in 2009.”
The land in Brentwood was sold, and Bell moved to Stockton. After a time, he returned to his work in marketing. He kept thinking about his boxes of sermons, unsure what to do with them. After his cancer diagnosis, he began initial treatments, but suffered so much from the side effects, he refused to continue. Despite doctors’ warnings he would likely die within two years, Bell is still here six years later and credits it all to God.
ping center, and Bell felt confident they would need to build a church. With that in mind, New Beginnings purchased five acres of land in Brentwood on Jeffery Way in 2000. They poured a concrete foundation and put up a temporary dome building and began holding services.
During these years, Bell recorded many of his sermons. Sometimes he would record the entire church service on video, and other times, just his sermons. He said he felt like he was helping people through his preaching and did not want to let go of that.
Things at New Beginnings were going well until the housing market crashed in 2007.
“We kept going. But with the crash, I
“I knew it was serious, but I prayed what’s called the Hezekiah prayer,” he said. “I said to the Lord, ‘I know what Man and medicine says, but I’m not ready to die. You can’t take me home because there’s too much work for me to do.’ And that’s the truth from here to heaven.”
With his online church up and running, Bell continues to work on uploading sermons, and hopes those in need of comfort or hope will find them. He especially hopes someone wrestling with demons in the middle of the night – when suicides reportedly are most common – and most churches aren’t open – will find his website and a reason to keep moving forward.
New Beginnings Christian Church is a nonprofit organization. For more information, visit www.nbcc1995legacychurch.org.
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
Photo courtesy Bishop Gregory Bell
12th annual Heart of Oakley Festival showcases residents’ creativity
By Connor Robles Correspondent
Oakley’s craftspeople, entertainers, and entrepreneurs came together on Sept. 21 at the 12th annual Heart of Oakley Festival at Civic Center Plaza.
The open-air market from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. featured numerous artisan goods for sale at stands, including shirts, buttons, leis, and water bottles; crocheted items were also available at multiple stands. Services such as face painting and even pet adoption were also available, the latter from Joybound People and Pets.
In addition to the small vendors, larger companies such as State Farm insurance were present, as well as fitness and educational establishments, including ASPIRE Christian Preschool and Diamond Hills Fitness and Spa, and nonprofits such as the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and the Friends of the Oakley Library.
Vice Mayor Shannon Shaw and Mayor Anissa Williams were there as well. Other attractions included a beer and wine garden bar tended by Williams, ax throwing for adults, and grape stomping for children.
Fremont band Patron Latin Rhythms
performed in the Plaza for much of the event. From noon to 1 p.m., the band ceded the stage to Brentwood Blaze Cheer, Stepz Dance Fitness Studio, the East County Performing Arts Center, and Vega Stars Elite gymnastics, who each
Tell your friends to...
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put on a short performance before Patron Latin Rhythms resumed playing.
Numerous catering services were present: Muz Knuckles Barbecue, Guadalajara Taqueria, and Bacon Dogge and More provided lunch, while Aloha Ice,
Moderate Level, Guided through the Eastern Hills of the Marsh Creek State Park with Ger Erickson
HIKE #2
Easy Level, Guided around the Marsh Creek Reservoir with County Flood Control Staff
Lunch catered by:
FILM SCREENING Dr. John Marsh: Yankee Pioneer
Crush It Lemonade, and Peke’s Ice Cream sold cold refreshments. The Diablo Water District set up a free water cooler for attendees near the stage seating.
To view a video and a slideshow, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
Photo by Steve Verduzco
The open-air market at the 12th annual Heart of Oakley Festival at Civic Center Plaza on Sept. 21 featured musical performers and numerous artisan goods for sale at stands, including shirts, buttons, leis, water bottles and crocheted items.
Photos by Connor Robles
Travel Tips
by Vera Martinez, Certified Travel Agent
How to Pack with Just a Carry-On
Packing light for a big trip may seem impossible, but it’s easier than it looks. Begin with the right carry-on bag. Choose a lightweight, sturdy carry-on with wheels or a backpack. Make sure your carry-on luggage meets the airline size limits. Here are some top tips to help you maximize space and style staples while traveling light:
• Roll your clothes or use packing cubes to fit more into a smaller suitcase.
• Pack seven pairs of underwear and socks.
• Bring a pair of black pants – a wardrobe staple that pairs with anything.
• Create several outfits from four pieces: a skirt, shirt, pants, and scarf. Choose classic colors, and mix and match.
• Accessories like a thin scarf, headband, or foldable hat add flair
without taking up much space.
• Leave the heels at home; choose black or brown shoes that complement your travel wardrobe.
• Favor solid colors over patterns to mix and match outfits easily and choose wrinkle-resistant, quick-drying fabrics.
• Dresses are versatile and perfect for day-to-night transitions with the right accessories.
• Wear your heaviest clothes on the plane (jacket, jeans, and shoes). You can use your personal item for electronics, documents, and essentials. With these tips, you’ll have extra room in your luggage for souvenirs and look your best while enjoying your favorite activity: Traveling the world.
To Book Your Dream Vacation call me at 925-639-9194 or go to www.vmartinez.dreamvacations.com.
– Advertorial
New historical documentary celebrates East County pioneer
CHILDREN West Delta Chapter ’s
the trust. “John Marsh was an extraordinary man, he didn’t get as much credit as he deserves for things that happened in the state of California,” trust treasurer Robert H. Jones said. “He wasn’t a real personable kind of guy.”
By Daniel Gruen Correspondent
The John Marsh Historic Trust is hosting an all-day event with guided tours of the surrounding trails, lunch, and the premiere of an original documentary about John Marsh, Saturday, Oct. 19 at the Marsh Creek State Historic Park at 21767 Marsh Creek Road in Brentwood.
The film was commissioned by the John Marsh Historic Trust, and directed by D.A. Anaya, a Bay Area filmmaker. The trust, formed in 1994, is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit and a cooperating association of the Marsh Creek State Park. Over the decades, the nonprofit has helped preserve and restore the historic Marsh Manor, built in 1856, and the surrounding Marsh Creek Park.
Marsh was the first Anglo-European to live in Contra Costa County, eventually settling in Brentwood, and the first to practice Western medicine in California, according to
Doctor John Marsh, Early Califonia Pioneer will screen outdoors adjacent to the Marsh Manor. Anaya will be in attendance. “He did this whole feature film about Dr. John Marsh, Yankee pioneer, sort of warts and all, but we thought everyone should get a chance to see this,” trust president Barry Margesson said.
In addition to the film screening, participants will have guided tours of hiking trails normally inaccessible to the public, as well as a peek inside the house through the open south door and a taco lunch. Attendees will not be able to physically enter the building due to safety issues but the open door will give them a chance to see the interior safely, according to Jones.
The Oct. 19 event begins with hiking tours at 9 a.m., then the film screening is at 12:30 p.m. at the same location. For more information and to purchase tickets visit https://www.eventbrite.com/o/the-johnmarsh-historic-trust-67461698243
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
Press file photo
form when public meetings are taking place,” Assistant City Manager Darin Gale told the council. “The City Council has carried that over [from the early days of the pandemic] as a courtesy. The majority of local governments across the state are not allowing virtual public comments at this time.”
Public comments first became a topic of discussion for the council following an incident during their meeting on Sept. 26, 2023 in which a number of speakers attended the meeting via Zoom and used the public comment portion of the meeting to express anti-Semitic rhetoric, including references to Adolf Hitler and calls for violence, leading the council to shut down Zoom comments for the remainder of that meeting.
Members of the public at the most recent meeting were split on whether or not the council should continue to allow public comments via Zoom, with some residents and members of council referring to it as an accessibility tool for those who are housebound or otherwise too busy with work or familial responsibilities to make it to the meetings.
“Zoom is all about accessibility,” Vice Mayor Susannah Meyer said. Meyer also pointed out that virtual participation can embolden residents who do not feel comfortable doing so in person if a topic is contentious, such as the discussion around a potential Popeyes drive-through at the last council meeting. “They were okay with speaking online. And these are people that have never spoken up before and I’ve never seen them in chambers, so I think it’s got a lot of value.”
Other residents, as well as Oerlemans, said that people who do not want to come in person can make their voices heard in other ways, such as writing to the council or calling them on the phone.
“If it’s important to you, these chambers are full,” Orelemans said. “No one’s trying to silence anyone by having public
comments in person.”
Oerlemans said that he felt that the risk of hate speech would be solved by limiting comments to in-person because the anonymity of a computer screen would no longer be a factor in what people say.
Drive-throughs
The council voted 5-0 to have staff look into creating more “focused” development standards around drive-through dining based on resident feedback.
In previous meetings, such as on Sept. 10, restaurants with a drive-through have been criticized by members of the public due to their oversaturation in certain parts of town – in particular the Brentwood Boulevard corridor. This update to the design standards is intended to minimize the potential harm of future drive-throughs earlier in the process, according to the staff report.
“I love drive-throughs,” Councilmember Jovita Mendoza said. “It’s not about me liking them or not liking them. It’s about what the people of Brentwood are saying and what they want to see in their city.”
Alcohol sales
The council voted to have staff write an ordinance that would regulate alcohol sales in the city in a number of ways. The vote was 4-0 with Councilmember Pa’tanisha Pierson recusing herself from the discussion for “personal reasons.”
The discussion stemmed from one had by the Planning Commission in May of last year in which the Commission granted Toro Viejo Taqueria on Brentwood Boulevard a permit that would allow them to serve beer and wine but not hard liquor. City staff said at that meeting that the city did not have its
Councilmember Jovita Mendoza
own set of guidelines separate from the laws imposed by Alcohol Beverage Control.
The direction given to staff by council at the Sept. 24 meeting would establish standards for alcohol sales in the city such as:
• Not allowing their sale at locations within 500 feet if a school zone, excluding certain areas of town
• Requiring a permit for bars and other establishments that want to stay open past 10 p.m.
• Creating a limit on how much signage promoting alcohol sales can be in the windows of an establishment.
Tobacco sales
The council voted 5-0 to provide direction to staff for a “first come, first serve” ordinance for tobacco sales.
This item was first discussed during the council’s April 30 meeting when staff was requested to begin work on a new ordinance that would issue stricter controls on the ways in which tobacco is marketed and sold in the city. At that meeting, the vote had been 4-1 with Oerlemans dissenting over concerns for how it would affect small businesses. On Sept. 24, he brought up a senior-related concern when Community Development Director Alexis Morris
informed the council that there was only one grocery store in the city selling tobacco.
“Does it also have a pharmacy?” Oerlemans asked, to which staff replied they were not sure.
“My only hangup with taking the tobacco out of the pharmacy and the grocery store is our senior population,” he explained. “[They go] to the pharmacy to fill up prescriptions, some do their grocery store shopping and some of them smoke tobacco and would like to pick up their tobacco there.”
The grocery store in question does not have a pharmacy.
The council agreed that the goal of the ordinance was to keep tobacco out of the hands of children, with Pierson noting that tobacco was easy to get ahold of in Brentwood, as demonstrated by one of her own children. In response, one part of the proposed ordinance would prohibit the sale of tobacco products at establishments within 500 feet of youth-focused facilities. Existing retailers that fall within that limit would be given 12 months to phase out tobacco products.
The proposed ordinance would cap the number of tobacco licenses issued by the city at 42, the number of businesses currently selling tobacco in town, according to city staff. These would be issued on a firstcome, first-serve basis and the permit would be good for one year. The ordinance will be brought back to City Council to be finalized at a later meeting.
The full meeting can be watched online at https://bit ly/3zFyumc
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
Friday, September 27
Italian Catholic Federation 12th Annual Festa d’Italia Car Show and Pasta Dinner
This event will be from 4-8 p.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church Hall, 500 Fairview Avenue, Brentwood. Registration for the car show begins at 3 p.m. and is $35 and one dinner is included. Additional dinners will be $15. The pasta dinner will begin at 5 p.m. and is $15 per person. Trophy awards will begin at 7 p.m. For more information or to register, call (925) 634-4154.
Saturday, September 28
Brentwood Rotary Club
Craft Brew Festival
The Brentwood Rotary Club’s third annual Brewfest offers a diverse selection of craft beers, music, and local food vendors. The festival at City Park from 1-5 p.m. is a fundraiser for the club, supporting its various charitable projects. Attendees can sample beers from breweries and participate in activities. Tickets can be purchased at eventbrite for $60 https://bit.ly/3SZzXKz or at the event for $70.
Rhythms by the River Fall Festival and BBQ Cook-Off
This annual event is from 1-7 p.m. at downtown Antioch’s Rivertown District at Willow Park Mercantile, 205 G St. There will be live music by Baycoin Beats, The Purple Ones, Lando Davidson and Blind to Reason. There will be a cornhole tournament, free kids zone, artisan vendors, local wine and beer, food vendors and barbecue. This is a free, family-friendly event with free parking. For more information, visit http://celebrateantioch.org/. Cornhole Tournament Registration: https://www.eventbrite. com/e/953788215227?aff=oddtdtcreator. Artisan Vendor Registration: https://form. jotform.com/240698342501152
BBQ Cook-Off Competitor Registration: https:// form.jotform.com/242044583173151.
Emergency Preparedness Fair
This event will take place at 2350 Jeffery Way in Brentwood from 10 a.m.-noon. Topics will include fire safety and emergency planning, food and water storage, mental health resources and emotional resilience information, first aid, and emergency family planning advice. Brentwood police will be there. Attendees will receive a well-equipped 72-hour starter backpack for attending the event. For more information, visit www.ready.gov.
4th Annual Country Fest to Cure ALS
The event will take place at the Hannah Nicole Winery in Brentwood, 6700 Balfour Road from 2-10 p.m. There will be live country music with two local acts and three Nashville artists. Local country music favorites Toree McGee and the Carousel Cowboys will play at 3 p.m. Jennifer Grant will lead off the Nashville artists with her blend of country favorites and original songs. Then, Josh Melton and Jason Blaine will headline the festival. The VIP experience includes an indoor plated dinner, a live auction, special unplugged performances from the Nashville artists and premium table seating for the concert. The VIP ($149) dinner and general admission ($45) tickets, as well as sponsorship packages are available at https://paybee.io/@alscure@33 or alscure.org. All proceeds will be donated to the ALS Cure Project in honor of Gretchen Piscotty. For more information, email mikep@alscure.net.
On the Horizon
Friday and Saturday, October 4-5
Friends of Oakley Library Book Sale
The Friends of the Oakley Library will be hosting a two-day book sale inside the City of Oakley’s
council chambers at Oakley City Hall, 3231 Main St. from 5-9 p.m. There will be fiction for adults, teens, and children of all ages, children’s holiday books, and nonfiction books including cookbooks, books on crafting, parenting, history, and more. Prices are $1 for hardbacks and 50 cents for paperbacks.
Saturday, October 5
Pawstoberfest Party and Dog Parade
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 costume contest (small dogs at 1:30; large dogs at 2:30). Live music by Dawglips from 1-5 p.m. For details, visit ruffdayrescue.org.
Los Medanos College
50th Anniversary Party
LMC is kicking off its next 50 years with a free anniversary party at 11 a.m. at 2700 E. Leland Road, Pittsburg. The celebration includes a party with music hosted by FM Radio 102 Jams DJ Chuy Gomez, food, giveaways and more, followed by the first-ever homecoming football game. The Mustangs play De Anza College Lions at 1 p.m. For additional information about LMC’s 50th anniversary and upcoming events, visit www.losmedanos.edu/50th.
15th Annual Dutch Oven Cook-Off
The Dutch Oven Cook-Off will take place at Smith Family Farm, 4450 Sellers Avenue, Brentwood from noon-5 p.m. Food will be served at 1 p.m. There will be a $5 donation to sample food. All donations go to scholarship for 4H and FFA members. Everything from main dishes to desserts, all cooked in Dutch ovens, will be available. Beef and side dishes will be judged at 1 p.m. and desserts at 2 p.m. For more information, contact Lauralye Casipit at 925- 437-1725.
Tuesday, October 8
Shrek Night at the Delta Theatre Support Working Wonders, a nonprofit that serves adults with disabilities, and see the original Shrek movie at The Delta Theatre. Half of the proceeds will go to Working Wonders. The film will be played at 6 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. at 641 First St., Brentwood. Tickets are $4 and can be purchased at https://865963.formovietickets.com/.
Friday, October 11
Texas Hold ‘Em Inaugural Poker Tournament
The Rotary Club of Oakley will hold its Inaugural Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Tournament from 6-10 p.m. at the Oakley Recreation Center, 1250 O’Hara Ave. Tickets are $75 and include a buffet dinner, one drink ticket and tournament play. The event includes a no-host bar and raffle.. Participants must be at least 21 to play. Doors open at 6 p.m. for dinner. Tournament starts at 7 p.m. All proceeds will benefit the new Oakley Library and Community Center project. For tickets and sponsorships, contact Mike Hale at 213-359-9799 or Michael.Hale@scouting. org. For more information visit https://www. eventbrite.com/e/oakley-rotary-inaugural-texashold-em-poker-tournament-fundraiser-tickets971173816027?aff=ebdssbdestsearch.
Ronstadt Revolution-Umbrella of Hope Fundraiser
Ronstadt Revolution, a Bay Area tribute to Linda Ronstadt, will be playing at El Campanil theatre, 602 West 2nd St., in Antioch, on Oct. 11, at 7 p.m. This event is also a fundraiser for Umbrella of Hope Animal Rescue. Umbrella of Hope is based in Pittsburg and specializes in saving senior and special needs animals from local shelters. They also have programs like $5 senior adoptions and free adoptions for veterans. Tickets are $35 per person, and $3 of every ticket sold will go to the rescue center. Tickets can be purchased at
Look at the many local events on
https://us.patronbase.com/_ElCampanilTheatre/ Productions/R098/Performances.
Saturday October 12
Brentwood Oktoberfest
The Downtown Brentwood Coalition’s annual Oktoberfest is from 1-7 p.m. General admission is free. VIP passes will also be available. This year’s event will feature The Sierra Nevada Biergarten with special guest Four Legs Brewing, the bands Alpine Sound and Adam Aldama and the Aces, Fun Zone including games, a train, Lockeford Sausage plus a variety of food from local vendors and downtown restaurants, beer stein games, a weiner dog costume parade, local wine from Contra Costa Wine Growers, and an Oktoberfest Market.
Trunk or Treat Open House
The event will be at the Farmer’s Daughter, 23151 Marsh Creek Road in Brentwood, from 4-6:30 p.m. There will be free candy, a raffle, a cake walk, and a food truck. All proceeds will go to the Bay Area Crisis Nursery. Entry is free.
Wednesday, October 16
Liberty Adult Education Fall Job/ Resource Fair
The event at 929 Second St., in Brentwood is from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The fair aims to showcase a wide range of local professional opportunities, spanning industries from manufacturing, healthcare, IT, finance and beyond. A dedicated space will be made available to conduct interviews upon request. For more information, contact decesaren@luhsd.net. Space is limited. RSVP by Sept. 16 here: https://forms.office. com/r/8G12SthRd1.
Saturday, October 19
Digs ‘n’ Rigs
This event is an opportunity from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. that provides children of all ages the chance to explore vehicles of all types in this handson event sponsored by The Rotary Club of Brentwood and Los Medanos College. LMC will offer older children exposure to educational opportunities including public service, emergency services, utility, construction, landscaping, transportation and delivery industries at the Los Medanos College campus, 1351 Pioneer Square in Brentwood.
Wine in The Bay
This event will take place from 1-5 p.m. at Community Life Center, 2800 Camino Diablo Road in Byron. This is the 20th anniversary of Wine in the Bay. There will be local wine samples, local artisans, hors d’oeuvres, live and silent auction, cork draw and wine cooler draw. Tickets are $60. Proceeds will benefit various non-profits, including the Food Pantry, John Muir Mobile, Blook Bank, youth, and senior citizens. This event is for adults age 21 and older. For more information visit http://anne.church.
VFW Casino Night
The event, hosted by American Legion Auxiliary, will take place from 6-10 p.m. at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building at 757 First St. There will be casino games, appetizers, beer, wine, music, dancing and more. Tickets are $125. For tickets or for more information, contact Dolores Long at (925) 584-6712.
Marsh Creek State Park Hike, Lunch and Film Screening
This event will take place from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Marsh Creek State Park. Lunch will be provided by Taquiza Limon, and there will be a short film on the life and times of John Marsh. Participants will learn about the upcoming and future plans for the interpretive center and house restoration. Limited to 60 people. Tickets are $50. Register at, https://www.eventbrite.com/e/an-event-celebrating-john-marsh-and-the-surrounding-marshcreek-state-park-tickets-1012420716617?aff=od dtdtcreator.
Friday, October 25
Oakley Senior Citizens Casino Day Bus Trip
Round-trip motorcoach transportation to Redhawk Casino is provided. Participants will meet at the Senior Center at 215 Second St. in Oakley and the bus will leave at 8 a.m. Reservations are $47 per person and must be paid by Monday, Oct. 21. To reserve a spot, call Joyce at 925- 626-7223 or Allan at 925-265-3417. The Streets of Brentwood-Treats at Streets
This free trick or treat event will be from 5-7 p.m. at 2455 Sand Creek Road in Brentwood. Trick or treat at the stores while supplies last. A free pumpkin with a $10 receipt from any The Streets of Brentwood retailer. One pumpkin per person per receipt while supplies last. One free treat per child while supplies last. For more information, visit https://shopstreetsofbrentwood.com/events.
Saturday, October 26
Hometown Halloween: Monster Mash Bash
The event will be from 4-8 p.m. in downtown Brentwood on Oak Street, First Street, and Brentwood Boulevard, from Third Street to Diablo Way and Chestnut to Maple. Trick-or-treating is free, and there will be booths from local merchants. For more information, visit http:// brentwoodchamber.com.
Sunday, October 27
Halloween Hoopla
The event will take place from 3-5 p.m. at Resurrection Ministries, 1275 Fairview Ave. in Brentwood. There will be trick or treating, candy, games, and piñatas. Guests are encouraged to come dressed up in costume. To help with the event, contact Kristenakocsis@gmail.com for more information.
Thursday, October 31
Halloween Parade
The Discovery Bay Chamber of Commerce will put on its Halloween Parade at 10 a.m. Students from Discovery Bay Elementary School will parade to the Riverlake Shopping Center. Treat bags will be provided to children to collect candy from businesses. To set up a table and provide candy for children, contact Cindy at (925) 513-4175.
Saturday, November 2
Holiday Boutique Charity Fundraiser
The event will take place from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Discovery Bay Yacht Club, 5871 Marina Blvd. There will be holiday gifts, decor, artisan vendors and treats. Lunch will be available for purchase from the Bay Grill. All proceeds will benefit Coyote Crossing and the Delta Food Bank. For more information, contact Cheryl Cados 408-768-7209.
Saturday, November 30
42nd Annual Brentwood Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting
Hosted by the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce and the City of Brentwood, this event will be from 5-7 p.m. in downtown Brentwood at a location to be determined. The theme this year is “Let it Glow!”
Saturday, December 7
Victorian Holiday Market
The Victorian Holiday Market will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Delta Community Presbyterian Church and adjoining school All God’s Children Elementary, 1900 Willow Lake Road, Discovery Bay. There will be crafts, boutique items, baked goods, a Christmas giving tree, a silent auction, hot beverages, picture taking with Santa and caroling. For more information or to make or donate gifts for the Holiday Market, contact Mary Anderson at mary. anderson43@gmail.com. All donations will benefit All God’s Children Elementary building fund.
REGIONAL & LOCAL
News iN Brief
Brentwood, Oakley police part of task force that arrests Pinole youth golf coach in child porn case
A multi-agency task force that includes Brentwood and Oakley police helped with the arrest of a 33-year-old Pinole man on a twocount felony complaint related to the possession of child pornography.
Jeffrey Tadashi Oda has been a golf coach at Pinole Valley High School and a youth golf coach at the Richmond Golf Course for several years. On Aug. 27, investigators from the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force served a warrant at Oda’s house in Pinole and collected numerous electronic items. Forensics examiners located images and videos of child pornography on his iPhone.
On Sept. 5, The Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office filed a complaint with the court charging Oda with possession of child or youth pornography and a related charge of possession of over 600 images of child or youth pornography. He made a voluntary court appearance on Sept. 19, entering a plea of not guilty and posting bail for $100,000. Oda’s next court appearance is scheduled on Oct. 23.
The Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office is asking the public to contact the ICAC Senior Inspector Darryl Holcombe at DHolcombe@contracostada.org with information that could assist the investigation into the charged offenses -- and any additional ones.
State boating agency announces 2024-2025 grant awards worth $5.8 million
California State Parks’ Division of Boating and Waterways has announced the 2024-2025 awards for three grant programs totaling $5.8 million. DBW’s Boating Safety and Enforcement Equipment, Surrendered and Abandoned Vessel Exchange, and Floating Restroom grant programs awarded funding to 51 California state and local agencies for projects that include removing and disposing of abandoned recreational vessels, floating restrooms to prevent sewage entering waterways, and search and rescue equipment.
The grant programs include:
• Boating Safety and Enforcement Equipment Grants: $1.3 million was awarded to 17 local law enforcement and fire district agencies that demonstrated a need for patrol boats, engines, personal watercraft, search and rescue equipment, and diving equipment. These grants augment existing local resources to support recreational boating safety in their waterways. The United States Coast Guard Recreational Boating Safety program provides funding for this grant program, which has awarded $34 million since 1996.
• Surrendered and Abandoned Vessel Exchange Grants: $2.75 million was awarded to 29 public agencies throughout the state to remove and
dispose of abandoned recreational vessels from both coastal and inland public waterways, and to accept and dispose of surrendered recreational vessels. Funding for this grant program, which has awarded approximately $32 million since 1999, comes from the Abandoned Watercraft.
• Floating Restroom Grants: $1.8 million was used to manufacture eight accessible floating restroom units awarded to five public agencies for lakes and reservoirs throughout the state (Laka Shasta, Lake Oroville, San Vicente Reservoir, Pyramid Lake and Folsom Lake). Floating restrooms help prevent boater sewage from entering our waterways and contribute to DBW’s commitment for providing safe, clean and enjoyable recreational boating in California. The program has awarded approximately $20 million since 1978, with funding from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service through the Clean Vessel Act grant program combined with 25% matching funds from the Harbors and Watercraft Revolving Fund.
• Among county recipients, the county sheriff’s office received $97,251 for an outdoor boat motor package.
For a detailed list of grantees and awards, visit DBW’s website.
Newsom signs bills to
crack down on sexually explicit deepfakes and require A.I. watermarking
Gov. Newsom has signed three significant pieces of legislation designed to address the ethical concerns surrounding artificial intelligence (A.I.) and to protect individuals from the misuse of digital content. The new laws impose new requirements on A.I. developers and social media platforms to ensure responsible technology use while safeguarding Californians from harm.
• Senate Bill 942 by Senator Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park) focuses on helping the public more reliably identify A.I.-generated content. It requires widely-used generative A.I. systems to include provenance disclosures in the content they generate. These disclosures, while invisible to humans, should be detectable by free tools offered together with these systems. Users can use these tools to identify A.I.-generated content. This new measure ensures transparency and accountability in the rapidly evolving world of digital content creation.
“Going forward it’s crucial that individuals know if content was created by A.I. or not. SB 942 is a significant advancement over anything that’s come before because it requires large Gen A.I. companies to both label A.I.-generated content and provide an A.I. detection capability,” Becker said. “By signing this bill, Governor Newsom is providing Californians with essential tools to navigate the evolving digital landscape and solidifying our position as a leader in enacting sensible AI regulations that protect consumers without stifling innovation.”
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• SB 926 by Dr. Aisha Wahab (D-Hayward) creates a new crime targeting A.I.-generated sexually explicit deepfake content. The bill makes it illegal to create and distribute sexually explicit images of a real person that appear authentic, when intended to cause that person serious emotional distress.
“Victims of digital sexual assault are forever traumatized by their perpetrators through damaged reputations that lead to a lack of workplace promotions, mental health deterioration, shame, and isolation,” Wahab said. “SB 926 gives these victims — who are predominantly women — and law enforcement the tools they need to ensure perpetrators are prosecuted to the full extent of the law.”
• SB 981, also by Wahab, addresses the issue of sexually explicit digital identity theft. It requires social media platforms to establish a mechanism for users to report sexually explicit deepfakes of themselves. Once reported, this content must be temporarily blocked while the platform investigates, and permanently removed if confirmed. This legislation empowers individuals to take swift action to protect their digital identity and privacy in cases where their likeness is misused.
“The everyday person doesn’t have the celebrity to have the internet scrubbed of digitized sexually explicit media in less than 24 hours,” Wahab said. “The digital divide is as much about power on the internet as it is about access to it, and SB 981 will rebalance that power by requiring platforms to be more proactive when they receive reports of sexually explicit digital identity theft.”
Governor signs bill requiring monthly rent payments to be included on credit scores
Assemblymember Matt Haney’s (DSan Francisco) AB 2747 has been signed by Gov. Newsom. This bill brings rent reporting up to standard practice by requiring landlords to give tenants the option to opt into reporting their on-time rent payments to a credit bureau agency.
“Many renters spend a majority of their income on rent and prioritize their rent payments over all other expenses each month – but their on-time rent payments are never reflected on their credit scores, even when their missed rent payments are. This is an unfair practice that is further pushing millions of renters into cycles of debt and poor financial health,” Haney said in a press release.
Credit scores are designed to reflect the good and the bad of a person’s financial history. Usually, if a person misses a payment, their score will go down, and if they stay on top of their payments their score will increase. However, this is not happening when landlords report rent payments to a credit bureau agency. Millions of renters around the state are paying their rent on time yet they never see a positive impact on their credit scores. Unfairly, if they ever fall behind on their rent payment, that lowers their credit scores.
AB 2747 will require landlords to al-
low renters to opt into positive rent reporting for their credit scores. This bill will not impact small landlords since it applies only to buildings with more than 15 units. It also allows landlords to collect a fee of $10 or the actual cost of rent reporting, whichever is less, from the tenant.
Levee breach ends, restores 3,400 acres of habitat for sensitive fish species reduces flood risk
For the first time in 100 years, tidal waters are flowing to 3,400 acres of restored habitat that will support fish and wildlife species and provide new flood capacity in Solano County.
The Department of Water Resources and Ecosystem Investment Partners recently celebrated the completion of the Lookout Slough Tidal Habitat Restoration and Flood Improvement Project (Lookout Slough). This multi-benefit project restores tidal wetland habitat and produces food for Delta smelt and other fish species, while reducing overall flood risk in the Sacramento area.
At 3,400-acres, Lookout Slough is the largest single tidal wetland restoration project to date in the Delta. After breaking ground in June 2022, construction included building over 3-miles of a 25-foot-tall setback levee, which provides 100-year flood protection with allowances for future sea level rise, excavating 26 miles of open tidal channels, and restoring native habitat through grading, fill placement, and natural revegetation. Lookout Slough is part of the state’s bold effort to build more, faster through upgrades to critical infrastructure and other projects across California.
The breach removed 600 feet of dirt from the old levee and is the largest of the nine breaches.
CHP retail crime task force makes 1,000 arrests, recovers $7.8 million in stolen goods this year
California’s Organized Retail Crime Task Force, led by the California Highway Patrol, maintained high levels of enforcement in August and is well on its way to surpassing enforcement totals from 2023, Gov. Newsom has announced.
Last month, the task force helped make 171 arrests and recovered 26,415 items of stolen property worth about $547,000, according to a press release from the state. In August, the task force reached a total of 573 investigations conducted so far this year, exceeding the total number of investigations completed in the entirety of 2023.
Since January, the task force has facilitated 1,055 arrests, 573 investigations, and recovered $7.8 million worth of stolen goods. Since the inception of the task force in 2019, the CHP has been involved in nearly 3,000 investigations, leading to the arrest of more than 3,100 suspects and the recovery of over 878,000 stolen goods valued at nearly $46 million.
Liberty seeks to avenge last year’s playoff snub with win Friday night against Clayton Valley
By Juan Cebreiros Staff Writer
Coming off a 34-28 victory over Amador Valley, the Liberty Lions football team gears up for their last nonleague game of the season as they host Clayton Valley Charter this Friday night.
Liberty head football coach Mike Cable called the Lions’ victory over Amador Valley a “signature win” for the team. They trailed the Dons the entire game until the final five minutes when Liberty’s Benjamin Hill intercepted a pass and returned it for a touchdown to give the Lions their first lead.
“It was huge for us,” Cable said during Tuesday’s practice. “With everything that was going into it and the way the game was going, to be able to come out with a win against a good program was huge for us. That’s not easy to do.”
Cable said a big reason the Lions trailed most of the game was due to “shooting ourselves in the foot” with mistakes. However, he praised his team’s ability to not get rattled and battle back from the two-score deficit.
“We weren’t executing our plays and had inopportune penalties at terrible times so we didn’t help ourselves out,” Cable said of the team falling into a two-score deficit for most of the game. “But, we found a way in the second half to stick with the game plan and execute.”
As Cable and the Lions prepare for their battle this Friday night against Clayton Valley Charter, Cable said
Liberty quarterback Sage Robertson throws a pass during Tuesday’s practice.
teams that did make playoffs. Being successful against Amador Valley was Task 1. Now Task 2 is against Clayton Valley. For us, it was one of our goals to have redemption for last season.”
Liberty has trailed early in each of their first four contests on the season, which Cable admitted is an area of concern. While the Lions will gladly take the comeback win last Friday night, they understand it’s not sustainable to have to play from behind every week.
Cable said it’s especially crucial this week to not have to play from behind as Clayton Valley has a strong running game that makes it difficult to come from behind against.
“It’s something that we have to fix,” Cable said. “We know that when we play top-notch programs and you get behind, you will always be behind. We can’t do that, this week especially.”
To counter this, Cable said the goal is to take an early lead this week as he believes it will change the way the Ugly Eagles attack the Lions’ defense.
the 2022 playoff loss to the Ugly Eagles and being snubbed from the playoffs last year stick out in his mind.
With Liberty’s last two non-league games being against teams that qualified for North Coast Section Division 1 playoffs last season, there’s added motivation to this Lions team to beat the Ugly Eagles and go 2-0 against NCS playoff teams from last year.
“That’s why we wanted to go after (Amador and Clayton Valley),” Cable said. “We wanted to play the best
However, Cable did say the Lions’ slow starts have all stemmed from the team’s self-inflicted wounds.
“It’s 100% execution,” Cable said. “Everytime we come out slow, quite often it’s a missed assignment, missed progression, missed read or something that we did that was not correct on the play. Penalties are also a part of that so it’s something that we have to clean up.”
A win Friday night would have the Lions finish the non-league portion of their schedule 4-1, something Liberty has not done since the 2019 season.
Defense leads Patriots into big game at Livermore
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Heritage football found their running game once again in last week’s 56-0 win against Terra Linda. The Patriots ran for 196 yards and four touchdowns, highlighted by senior Mekhi Adanandus’s 58yard touchdown run on the third play of the game.
As much as the running game seemingly is back to where the Patriots want it to be in time for league play to start in two weeks, Heritage’s defense has actually been the one leading the way for the Patriots through their current three-game win streak.
“Both sides of the ball feed off of each other right now,” head coach Dave Fogelstrom said. “(Last Friday) we came out and Mekhi ripped off that touchdown run, and our defense was excited, then they went out and we had a big play on special teams and suddenly we’re up 14-0. The defense will get a pick, and the offense will rally. They’re feeding off of each other, which is what you want as a team.”
“Our defense has us hyped because they’re playing solid right now,” senior quarterback Phillip Babbitt said. “They’re shutting people out, they’re getting a ton
of picks right now, and it’s getting our offense riled up to get on the field and score for them because they’re playing so well out there.”
Since losing to Foothill 20-19 in the season opener on Aug. 30, the Patriots’ defense has allowed, in order, 25 points against Granada in a comeback effort, 13 points at Dublin trying to hold off a late Gaels rally, and they shut out Terra Linda in last Friday’s Homecoming game.
“We have a veteran secondary right now and they are flying to the ball,” Fogelstrom said. “They’re beneficiaries of our defensive line and our linebackers getting to the quarterback and putting some pres-
Heritage defensive back Aiden Donaville deflects a pass during drills in practice on Tuesday.
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
sure, so they’re working great as a unit right now and they’ve made the difference.”
“In the Dublin game, without them we’re in big trouble because offensively we struggled. So, they are getting better every single week.”
Senior Aidan Donaville’s 42-yard interception return for a touchdown against Dublin two weeks ago, one of five interceptions on the night, sealed the win for Heritage.
“(The pick-six at Dublin) boosted my confidence a lot lately,” Donaville said. “That was actually my first pick-six on varsity, ever.
“We’re having so much fun and, obvi-
ously, it’s exciting to have one of the most, if not the most, interceptions in the league right now. It’s pretty cool.”
Donaville was a part of Heritage’s new defensive lineup a year ago, a defense that replaced an entire starting 11 that graduated after the 2022 season.
“That experience alone helped us be better individually,” Donaville explained.
Friday’s game at Livermore (Sept. 27, 7 p.m.) presents a new opportunity for the Patriots. Not only is it a big game with potential playoff implications against a team that’s also 3-1 and has won three in a row like the Patriots, but should Heritage win, they would have won four games in a row in non-conference play for the first time in two years since starting 4-0 in 2022, per MaxPreps.
“They’re an outstanding team who’s geared up to try to get in the playoffs this year just like we are,” Fogelstrom said. “I’ve seen them physically and they’re like us. We look similar. So it’s going to boil down to who makes the fewest mistakes and then who makes the exceptional play.
Donaville, looking to continue his strong defensive trend, recognizes what’s at stake Friday night.
“This is a big game,” Donaville said. “This is going to basically see how we are as a team.”
Photo by Juan Cebreiros
Heritage flag football confident after non-conference play heading
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Despite falling 20-14 to Granada Monday night in Brentwood, Heritage’s flag football team remains confident for a strong playoff run once Bay Valley Athletic League play starts for the Patriots on Oct. 7.
Even with the loss, head coach Jessica Banchieri still sees the progress her team is making with one game left in non-conference play at Livermore on Thursday night.
“We played them better than last time,” Banchieri said. “Our defense made several goal-line stops and we’re super proud of them. We just had some plays not go our way.”
The team threw four interceptions in the loss as the offense struggled to drive downfield consistently. The Patriots did make big plays, however, from Eden Enoru, who had two long rushing touchdowns – a 60-yard score in Heritage’s opening drive of the second half and a 40-yard scamper for a touchdown at the end of the game.
“Those big plays are awesome when they work most of the time,” Banchieri said of Enoru’s big runs. “Really, on this team, we have 19 excellent athletes. But when she can get going, she’s hard to stop.”
The Patriots’ defense stopped Granada on fourth and goal inside their own five yard line on the Matadors’ first two offen-
sive drives, and one in the second half with Heritage looking for the go-ahead score. Lily Wilright also grabbed a crucial interception in the second half near midfield to try to set up the Patriots for another chance at a go-ahead score. But that drive ended two plays later on Gilmore’s third interception.
The loss against Granada is the first time this season that an opponent swept the Patriots. They played a two-game series against Mountain House earlier this month and swept the Mustangs 22-0 in the home opener, and 33-19 on the road just a
few days later.
Despite the Gilmore’s struggles in the passing game on Monday, Banchieri believes that Heritage still matches up well against the Matadors.
“I do not think they are better than we are. I think we are just as good as they are, but we made some mistakes,” Banchieri said. “Basically, whoever wins is the one who makes fewer mistakes.
“That’s really, truly how these flag games go. I do not think that they are better than we are. I think we’re just as good as they are, but we made some mistakes. It’s just how the game works. Basically whoever wins is the one who makes fewer mistakes.”
Despite Monday night’s loss, Heritage still carries momentum entering Thursday night’s non-conference finale. Heritage heads to Livermore winners of three of their last five games including the pair of shutouts in their hosted tournament on Sept. 14.
The Cowboys, on the other hand, have struggled this season, opening their campaign at 1-5, losing their first five games before defeating Dougherty Valley on Sept. 18.
What is Banchieri looking for from the team Thursday night? “To keep improving. That’s it.”
To view a slideshow, visit www.thepress. net/multimedia/slideshows
Heritage senior Eden Enoru breaks through for a 60-yard touchdown run in the Patriots’ loss to Granada on Monday night in Brentwood.
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
Freedom girls volleyball’s hot streak continues
Falcons prepare for final stretch of the regular season
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
For the third straight season, Freedom’s girls volleyball team will finish with at least 10 wins after the Falcons swept Deer Valley 3-0 (25-11, 25-20, 25-20) Tuesday night in Antioch.
The win marks their fourth in a row since dropping three of five at the East County Invitational at Northgate High School in Walnut Creek earlier this month. The win also marks the team’s fourth straight win via a 3-0 sweep, and their sixth sweep this year.
Freedom is also the second team to reach the 10-win mark this year trailing just Heritage who has 13 overall wins so far with six games left to go in the regular season.
Even with all of that, head coach Elizabeth Rivas says that the girls can play even better, especially after a seemingly lackluster performance against the Wolverines.
“We had some good rallies at times, but I don’t think that we were at our highest skill level today,” Rivas said.
After dominating the first set Tuesday night at Deer Valley, Freedom
looked worn down and Falcons mistakes throughout allowed the Wolverines to stay in the game through the last two sets, although in the end the Falcons were able to hold off several rally attempts by the Wolverines.
“I was just really off of my game,” senior captain Madison Perry said. “(Tuesday night’s win) was really based on the
rest of the team. They really pulled it together, and I know I could have definitely contributed more. But today was a rough game for us. Even though we won, it wasn’t a fulfilling win.”
Both Rivas and Perry say that the team’s current run is due to the team’s chemistry, and how it has grown during the season.
“As the season goes on, we start to mesh well together as a team,” Perry explained. “Earlier in the season, we had a lot of ups and downs and difficulties. But as we played more games together, especially after (the loss to) Heritage, we started to come together and mesh.”
Rivas added that the only way for the team to keep the streak going is for the girls to continue the hard work that they’ve been putting in this season.
“We have to keep working,” Rivas said. “Keep going back to basics, keep the girls motivated for that grand prize at the end. We still don’t have a guaranteed spot (in the playoffs) until the season is over, until our last weekend. We can’t relax. It’s time to push.”
Freedom plays Antioch on Thursday in search of their fifth straight win, and will host Heritage in what Rivas and Perry are calling the team’s “biggest contender” on Tuesday in Brentwood.
Heritage is the only BVAL team to defeat Freedom this season; the Patriots swept the Falcons 3-0 (25-21, 25-19, 2521) on Sept. 5.
“We can never underestimate our opponent,” Rivas said. “We have a big, big game coming up against Heritage, who is our biggest contender right now. But even with that, we can’t underestimate the rest of the teams.”
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
Freedom girls volleyball players celebrate together during the first set in the Falcons game at Deer Valley Tuesday night.
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
Summerset Singers prepare for 25th anniversary show
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Marilyn Miguel remembers the beginning of the Summerset Singers like it was yesterday.
”It was fabulous,” she said. “We and a song that we sang the very first year called “the Impossible Dream.” That’s what we kind of guided. We just felt our impossible dream was fulfilled because we lasted this long.”
The Summerset Singers, a choral group based in the Summerset retirement community in Brentwood and featuring its current residents throughout the four Summerset communities, are preparing to celebrate their 25th anniversary next year on Jan. 25. They are also preparing for their Christmas shows and a fundraiser show scheduled for Oct. 23.
The group sings a wide variety of songs from Broadway showtunes to Country-Western songs. The production committee picks the themes for the groups Christmas and summer shows every year.
For their upcoming Christmas event, they plan to sing traditional Christmas songs, both secular and sacred, along with a Jewish song, according to music director Anne Andrego.
The Christmas show titled “Songs and Sounds of the Season” starts on Dec. 8 and 9 at Summerset III at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., respectively, and shifts over to Summerset I on the 12th and 13th at 6 p.m.
The group features several members who have sung previously in organized choral groups throughout the country, have served as musical educators, and have joined the group to explore their love for music in their retirement.
“A group of residents decided they liked to sing,” said Mary Ann Smith, who joined the Summerset Singers two years after Miguel. “They formed a group, got a
by Jeff Weisinger
volunteer director, and started rehearsing. It got bigger and bigger, everybody was having fun, and we just kept expanding.”
Miguel, one of the original members, got her start with the group in a unique way.
”I was into Portuguese music,” she explained. “More so in fact, I was into Portuguese folklore, but when I moved out here to Somerset, I had to forfeit my dancing. I couldn’t do the dancing out here, so I came here and started singing. And that’s where I stayed and just learned a lot from everybody.”
The group also features a smaller group called the “Songsters” who go and sing at smaller events and venues like local assisted-living facilities and celebrations of life.
The Summerset Singers are now under the direction of the Liberty High School alumna Andrego who’s now in her second year with the group. Andrego is a music teacher by day, focusing on piano students and young singers and directs the Summerset Singers on Sundays.
“I’ve been in choir directing roles before with more like church, and have subbed for schools and stuff,” she explained. “But this is my first time as the director of an adult group and it’s been really fun. They’re actually so fun to work with. I thought it would be completely different than working with teenagers, but it’s exactly the same. We just have a lot of fun together, we learn together and we grow together. Whether they’re 16 years old or 76 years old, if they’re here, they love singing. And their goal is to make beautiful music.”
The Summerset Singers have a fundraiser coming up on Oct. 23 from 7-10 p.m. a wine tasting that they’re putting on and a concert after that that helps the group fund the following year.
“We’re expecting lots of members to come and also lots of people in the community,” Andrego said. “It’s really to honor the traditions and where the Summerset Singers have come in 25 years, and I think it’ll be a really great celebration.”
Smith, who is just as eager for the rest of the group for the upcoming performances, says that this is the first year that she has to pace herself before the upcoming shows.
“I have to pace myself a little because I usually go 100 miles an hour,” she explained. “Now I’m down to about 80 and it’s still very hard to accept for all of us because we used to do this, you know. So we’re like old cars and we just need a little more oil on our hinges and that’s about it.”
To view a video and a slideshow, visit www.thepress. net/multimedia
Anne Andrego plays the piano as the Summmerset Singers warm up their voices to start rehearsal.
Photo
American Legion Auxiliary to host Casino Night
Oct. 19 in Brentwood, among other events
By Nicole Becchina Staff Writer
Casino Night, hosted by American Legion Auxiliary (Post 202), will take place Saturday, Oct. 19 from 6-10 p.m. at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building at 757 First St. There will be casino games, appetizers, beer, wine, music, dancing and more with DJ Doug Daley providing the music.
Dolores Long, president of the American Legion Auxiliary (Post 202), is looking forward to the event.
“I’m most excited about bringing people together for a local fun night and having community fun,” Long said.
The cost will be $125, which will include $500 in chips, two drinks and appetizers, plus games craps, roulette, poker, and Texas Hold ‘Em. For tickets, contact Long at (925) 584-6712 or Phil Pezzella: (925) 516-2141.
About the American Legion Long said that the vision of the American Legion is to become the premier service organization and foundation of the community providing support for veterans by shaping a positive future in an atmosphere of fellowship, patriotism, peace, and security.
“Our purpose is also to award scholarships, promote quality education, and literacy,” Long said. “To award leadership op-
American Legion Auxiliary Post 202 will host Casino Night at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building at 757 First St. on Oct. 19.
portunities that uphold the ideals of freedom and democracy and encourage good citizenship and patriotism in government. To empower our membership to achieve personal fulfillment through service, not self.”
Some of the local programs the American Legion Auxiliary is involved with include ALA Girls State Scholarships at all three local high schools, Americanism Essay Contest, Operation Creekside, American Legions Crab Feed, Adopt-A-Senior,
Casino Night, and other events that either the American Legion, or the Auxiliary may sponsor. They hope to have Adopt-A-Senior at all three local high schools this year.
High school students can submit an application for ALA Girls State in January 2025 and the conference will be June 14-19 in Sacramento. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about veterans, and build a new network to inspire them.
Long said they are always looking for new members. Becoming a member of the American Legion Auxiliary enables people to bring fellowship, meet new friends, and get involved in the community.
“We are the only auxiliary in Contra Costa County at this time,” Long said. They will be hosting a veterans breakfast on Nov. 12 at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building. There will be no charge for veterans.
“It’s all about fellowship for them,” Long said.
Press file photo
Business Profile
C lassifieds & l egals
NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: NARESH KUMAR GALLA, deceased CASE NUMBER P24-01442
To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: NARESH KUMAR GALLA, deceased. A Petition for Probate has been filed by: ANURADHA CHALLA in the Superior Court of California, County of: CONTRA COSTA The Petition for Probate requests that: ANURADHA CHALLA be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. The petition requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: a. Date: OCTOBER 02 2024
Time: 9:00 A.M. Dept: 30. b. Address of court: 725 COURT STREET, MARTINEZ, CA 94553. If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters a general personal representative as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner: Michael J Amthor 181687 1181 Central Blvd. Suite A Brentwood, CA 94513. 925-516-4888
*BRENTWOOD PRESS* 02-1273
Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: September 13, 20, 27, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2024-0005051 The name of the business(es): Intelligent Investing Located at: 6200 Center Street Suite 240 In: Clayton, CA 94517, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Rory C Vander Heyden. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 09/30/2014. Signature of registrant: Rory Vander Heyden, Individual. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 09/17/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 09/16/2029 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: September 27, October 4, 11, 18, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. 2024-0004579 The name of the business(es): Dar Elegance USA
Located at: 2157 Prato St In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Ibtissam Salem Hedada. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 04/01/2024. Signature of registrant: Ibtissam Salem Hedada. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 08/26/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 08/25/2029 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: September 20, 27, October 4, 11, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2024-0004885 The name of the business(es): Calpro Roofing Located at: 451 Payne Ave In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Hadley Eric Hoff. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 09/01/2014. Signature of registrant: Hadley Hoff . This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 09/09/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 09/08/2029
Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: September 20, 27, October 4, 11, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2024-0004695 The name of the business(es): COLDSTONE CREAMERY Located at: 2710 Reddington WayIn: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): MADDORANI INC. This business is conducted by: A Corporation, State of Incorporation: CA. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Mansoor Shaikh, CEO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: August 29, 2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 8/28/2029 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: September 6, 13, 20, 27, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2024-0005012 The name of the business(es): Clark’s Haul & Go Located at: 617 Topaz CT. In: Discovery Bay, CA 94505, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): BC Clark 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: Brandon Clark, CEO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 09/16/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 09/15/2029 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: September 27, October 4, 11, 18, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2024-0004845 The name of the business(es): STEPHANIE’S AUTO CLEARANCE Located at: 101 EAST ST In: KNIGHTSEN, CA 94548, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): STEPHANIE E. YURKOVICH. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 04/02/1982. Signature of registrant: STEPHANIE YURKOVICH, OWNER. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 09/06/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 09/05/2029 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: September 27, October 4, 11, 18, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2024-0004839 The name of the business(es): Busy Mom Bookkeeping Located at: 239 Whitman Ct In: Discovery Bay, CA 94505, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Taylor Polcar. This business is conducted by: an Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 08/26/2024. Signature of registrant: Taylor Polcar, Owner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 09/05/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 09/04/2029 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: September 27, October 4, 11, 18, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT
File No. F2024-0004493 The name of the business(es): Wild Will Tattoo Located at: 921 Orchid Dr In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): William G Simpson. 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: William Simpson, Owner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 08/21/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 08/20/2029
Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: September 13, 20, 27, October 4, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2024-0004457 The name of the business(es): Not Too Shabby Located at: 1520 Discovery Bay Blvd, Suite 200 In: Discovery Bay CA 94505, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Francine Marie Fiebig. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 06/01/2024. Signature of registrant: Francine Fiebig, Individual. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 08/19/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 08/18/2024 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: September 6, 13, 20, 27, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2024-0004523 The name of the business(es): PORT OF SUBS Located at: 4431 Balfour Road, Suite E In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Calpaninofoods, Inc. This business is conducted by: a Corporation, State of Incorporation: CA. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Laura Schiff, Secretary. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 08/22/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 08/21/2029 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: September 13, 20, 27, October 4, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2024-0004700 The name of the business(es):
1. Mind Merge
2. Mynd Merge Located at: 421 Lassen Drive In: Martinez, CA 94553, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Matthew Michaelsen. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 08/01/2024. Signature of registrant: Matthew Michaelsen, Individual. This statement was filed with
the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 08/29/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 08/28/2029
Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: September 13, 20, 27, October 4, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2024-0004520 The name of the business(es):
1. Discovery Bay BnB
2. Discovery Bay B&B
3. Bethel Island BnB
4. Bethel Island B&B
Located at: 2176 Sand Point Rd In: Discovery Bay, CA 94505, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Juliette Miller Bradley. 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: Juliette Miller Bradley, Individual. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 08/22/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 08/21/2029 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: September 6, 13, 20, 27, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2024-0004792 The name of the business(es): Spikenard Solutions, TLM Located at: 1174 Fetzer Ln In: Oakley, CA 94561, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): J. Scott McDonald. 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: J. Scott McDonald, Individual . This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 09/04/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 09/03/2029 Publish Dates: September 13, 20, 27, October 4, 2024
large 2nd bedroom. New appliances, water heater and more. Ready to move in! Call David Weed, 925-360-1222
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Must be very detail-oriented and have proven organizational skills. Salary plus commission, health
and 401K. Full time and part time positions available. Send resume to greg@thepress.net
Cop logs
The following is a selection of recent law enforcement activity:
BRENTWOOD
September 6, 7:25 a.m. A case of vehicle burglary was reported on Amber Lane. Multiple items were taken from the reporting party’s 2023 gray Honda Accord.
September 6, 7:43 a.m. A case of petty theft was reported on Lone Tree Way. Beer and food were taken.
September 6, 9:21 a.m. A suspicious person was reported on Lone Tree Way. The suspect was stuffing a backpack with shoes and Nike clothes.
September 6, 10:08 a.m. A case of petty theft was reported on Lone Tree Way. Two suspects were caught stealing by employees.
September 6, 11:06 a.m. A case of petty theft was reported on Walnut Boulevard. Suspect took items and left on a blue bike towards the bus stop.
September 6, 11:39 a.m. A verbal dispute was reported on Hudson Drive.
September 6, 3:05 p.m. A case of petty
theft was reported on Lone Tree Way. Suspect took two pairs of shoes and left on foot.
September 6, 4:11 p.m. A suspicious person was reported on Sand Creek Road.
Two people inside a store were seen holding a black handgun.
September 6, 4:17 p.m. A case of petty theft was reported on Griffith Lane. The reporting party’s car keys were stolen.
September 6, 5:14 p.m. A case of petty theft was reported on Sand Creek Road. The front license plate was missing from the reporting party’s 2014 Ford F150.
September 6, 9:17 p.m. An accident occurred at Sand Creek Road/O’Hara Avenue. No injuries were reported.
September 6, 10:33 p.m. A case of petty theft was reported on Second Street. Suspects were loading up shrimp into shopping carts.
September 7, 7:51 a.m. A case of reckless driving was reported on Third Street. The vehicle had major damage and was doing doughnuts. An adult was arrested.
September 7, 2:22 p.m. A case of forgery/
fraud was reported on Centennial Place.
September 7, 4:06 p.m. A suspicious circumstance was reported at Kayten Place.
September 7, 4:36 p.m. A hit and run was reported on Sand Creek Road. No injuries were reported.
September 7, 5:06 p.m. A case of petty theft was reported on Lone Tree Way. Suspect took three or four fishing reels in a red or black reusable bag.
September 7, 6:47 p.m. A case of petty theft was reported on Lone Tree Way. Two suspects stole several boxes of shoes and fled in a gray Toyota X35.
September 7, 6:55 p.m. A case of petty theft was reported on Lone Tree Way. Two suspects stole some tools and vehicle cleaners.
September 7, 7:36 p.m. A case of petty theft was reported on Lone Tree Way. Suspect took items and ran out to a blue SUV.
September 7, 8:55 p.m. A physical fight was reported on Oak Street. Ten males were in a physical fight at the car show.
September 7, 9:25 p.m. An accident was reported at the Sand Creek Road/High -
HELLO
way 4 intersection. No injuries were reported.
September 7, 11:32 p.m. A verbal dispute was reported on Grovewood Loop.
OAKLEY
September 6, 7:37 a.m. A case of reckless driving was reported at Lauren Road/Neroly Road.
September 6, 10:01 a.m. A suspicious circumstance was reported at Lavender Way/Brown Road.
September 6, 10:19 a.m. A case of grand theft was reported at the 1400 block of Walnut Meadows Drive.
September 6, 10:20 a.m. A hit and run was reported at East Cypress Road/Emerson Ranch Way.
September 6, 10:51 a.m. A case of grand theft was reported at the 30 block of Applegate Lane.
September 6, 10:54 a.m. A case of elder abuse was reported on the 900 block of Almaden Circle.
September 6, 12:54 p.m. A hit and run was reported at the 5100 block of Live Oak Avenue.
BIRTHS, ACHIEVEMENTS AND
Milestones
OBITUARY
Margaret Ann “Marge” Vannucci
Nov. 12, 1937-Sept. 20, 2024
It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Margaret Ann Vannucci, 86, on Sept. 20, 2024 at home surrounded by her family.
Margaret was the oldest of six children to Eugene and Catherine Ballerine born Nov. 12, 1937 in Spring Valley, Illinois. From an early age Marge enjoyed playing piano, reading, playing with her siblings and her school studies. Marge was a proud graduate of Hall high school and attended nursing school in South Bend, Indiana.
los elementary schools.
As an arts patron, Marge loved attending both the San Francisco Opera and Symphony. She was active outdoors with Neil, enjoying tennis, water skiing and, most of all, boating on the Delta and San Francisco Bay. Marge was a member of the San Joaquin Yacht Club for many years, and after retirement, decided to make Bethel Island her permanent home.
Marge counts her travels with Neil to Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and Africa as a highlight of her life.
sports fan watching the Giants, 49ers and Warriors on television with Neil.
Margaret’s Catholic, family-centered upbringing was the center of her being. Attending out-of-state family reunions, cooking for holidays and celebrating milestones in her family’s lives brought her much joy.
Margaret left the Midwest and moved to San Francisco where she worked as a nurse at St Mary’s Hospital. This is where she would meet her husband of 62 years, Neil J. Vannucci. Marge and Neil grew their family in South San Francisco and then San Carlos. During this time, she earned her Bachelor of Nursing degree at Notre Dame de Namur University and proudly worked at Sequoia Hospital in their mental health department.
Milestones Milestones
Have you or someone you know reached a “milestone”? If so, we’d like to know about it!
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Margaret highly valued education as evidenced by encouraging her children through their school years, was an active member of American Association of University Women and she started the first Right-to-Read program in San Car-
Marge enjoyed a variety of hobbies, including quilting, sewing and needlework to attending music concerts and dancing with her husband. The Circle Star Theater and Monterey Jazz Festival were her favorite venues. Puzzles, crosswords and bridge were her favorite hobbies. Seeing Marge with a pencil behind her ear was a familiar sight. Her bridge friends became the foundation of her life in San Carlos and formed life-long bonds.
Later in life, Marge was a dedicated
The Press goes to Alaska
Margaret is survived by her husband Neil J. Vannucci of Bethel Island, children Neil F. Vannucci (Vicky Poole) of Sacramento, Mark Vannucci of Discovery Bay, Suzanne Vannucci (Richard Harvey) of Denver and Carla Vannucci (Jon Myers) of Bethel Island, five grandchildren (Trevor, Bella, Anthony, Chiara and Dominic) and two great grandchildren.
Funeral services will be Friday, Sept. 27 at 9:30 a.m. at Pittsburg Funeral Chapel, with burial to follow at Oak View Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation made in Margaret’s name to Meals on Wheels Diablo Region or The Alzheimer’s Association in particular caregiver support.
Worship Services
The Bachs, The Hayses, The Kleins and The Rochas took along their local Brentwood Press to Alaska to see Glacier Bay aboard the Norwegian Encore.
Photo courtesy of Bob Bach
Antioch mayor ‘angry’ over recent shootings
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
“Everybody has a deep level of hurt and disappointment in what we’re seeing, and of course, a lot of anger,” Antioch Maryor Lamar Thorpe-Hernandez said at a press conference Wednesday at City Hall that lamented the recent rash of violence in his city. “I’m angry. Residents are angry and residents are demanding answers.”
Hernandez-Thorpe expressed his frustrations with what has happened in the city, particularly near Sycamore Square, this month. Antioch has had 15 shootings since Labor Day, according to Hernandez-Thorpe, highlighted by the shooting death of Elijah Scales near a strip mall on Sycamore Drive and L Street on Sept. 2. As of Wednesday morning, it has been 72 hours since the last shooting.
Candidates from page 1
Acting police Chief Joe Vigil added that three of the shootings are not connected with the bigger number that the city has experienced. He added that the department believes the shootings are, mostly, “related between two groups of people who are intermingled between the city and the rest of Contra Costa County.”
Oakley are Oakley Chamber of Commerce President Oleksii Chuiko, Oakley City Councilmember George Fuller, and classroom teacher Cristina Pena Langley. Districts 1 and 3 have incumbent members of the City Council running unopposed, resulting in the City determining that incumbents would be appointed to their roles as opposed to going through an election for those districts.
At the Brentwood forum, “Attendees can expect to hear responses to questions and positions on policies from the candidates as they make their case for getting elected,” said Brentwood City Manager Tim Ogden. “Informed voters are better for our democracy, so attendance should be considered.”
According to Ogden, there is one seat open for mayor and two City Council positions; one for District 1 and one for District 3. The mayoral candidates for Brentwood include Vice Mayor Susannah Meyer and Planning Commissioner Gerald Johnson, with incumbent Joel Bryant’s four-year term ending in November. District 1 candidates include law enforcement supervisor Faye Maloney and Planning Commission Chairperson Anita Roberts. Dis-
tension of the existing underground culvert at East Cypress and Knightsen. Work has also begun on vegetation and root removal for the upcoming Contra Costa Canal undergrounding project, which will allow the canal to flow beneath the new road; this project will be bid on in October, and work on the northern side of the canal is expected
Publisher & Editor Greg Robinson Controller Sandie McNulty
Production Manager Eric Kinnaird
Ad Services Manager Connie O’Neill
Associate Editor Jake Menez
Founder & Publisher Emeritus Jimmy Chamoures
Part of Hernandez-Thorpe’s plan is to provide a daily social media and email briefing to give the public updates on the current situation. Another plan is to propose a fund over $100,000 for additional overtime for other agencies that have been helping out the Antioch police department, particularly patrolling the Sycamore corridor. So far, Hernandez-Thorpe says that one agency has taken the city on that offer, although he wouldn’t reveal who as the details are still being finalized.
The California Highway Patrol has helped with law enforcement in Antioch as recently as last May. The Antioch police department is still understaffed following last year’s racist text messaging scandal and the current investigation into the department. Vigil added that the staffing levels with the department are rising as there are about 25 officers who are either in training or in the academy and are
trict 3 candidates include current District 1 Councilmember Jovita Mendoza and ConFire commissioner Capt. Brian Oftedal. Ogden broke down the differences between an open mayoral seat and an open district seat.
“The Mayor gets elected from anyone registered to vote in the Brentwood city limits, and the candidates for the two districts will get elected from the registered voters in those districts only,” Ogden said. “All three open seats are for four year terms.”
Brentwood Union School District Superintendent Dana Eaton said that the district is supporting the event by allowing use of the theater at Bristow Middle School.
to begin in spring of 2025, with work on the southern side continuing until 2026.
After work on the canal’s northern side is completed, Saengchalern said, the most complex part of the road widening project will begin: putting utility lines underground.
“We’re not talking small utilities,” she explained. “This is by far the largest utilities I’ve seen in our city; I want to say every utility we have in our city is here in this tiny intersection [between East Cypress and Jersey Island Road].”
Utilities to be relocated underground include 20- and 24-inch water mains, a 14inch sewer force main, an 8-inch PG&E gas main, a storm drain pipe, and a joint trench for wires from AT&T, Comcast, and PG&E, as well as the 10-foot Contra Costa Canal beneath all of them.
“There’s a lot of discussions happening with the utilities, and trying to get all the schedules to align,” Saengchalern said.
Despite all of the complicated work, northbound and southbound traffic from Jersey Island Road to East Cypress Road will still be open with a temporary detour to be constructed between the roads during phase 2 of the project. This detour will be integrated later into a new intersection be-
heading to Antioch. The department has about 75 officers, still shy of the 115 goal set by Hernandez-Thorpe.
“Currently we have seven officers in field training, another 12 officers in the police academy, and six more starting the academy in two weeks,” Vigil said.
Thorpe added that, while it’s not part of his plan, that he’s also not afraid to take more extreme measures should the violence in the city continue, whether that starts with city-wide curfews or even calling in the National Guard.
“Everything is on the table,” he said. “If we can’t curb the violence, we have to take every measure necessary to protect people’s lives,” Hernandez-Thorpe said. “It’s about protecting people’s lives. From my perspective, every tool, every option, should be on the table.”
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
He added that while the district was happy to support the Chamber of Commerce by hosting the event, also discussed the importance of young people to experience the power of democracy as early as possible.
“We hope that people of all ages will come out, listen to the candidates and be an informed participant in the democratic process,” Eaton said. “Democracy is one of the most fundamental pillars we should be teaching our students.”
Doors for a meet-and-greet will open at 6 p.m., with the live forum with all candidates beginning at 6:30 p.m.. A live stream of the event can be found at www facebook com/thepress net. Additionally, questions for the candidates may be submitted by email to editor@brentwoodpress.com with “Candidate Forum” put in the subject line no later than Friday, Oct. 4.
More information, including a candidate guide, council district map, and instructions on registering to vote online are at https://www brentwoodca gov/government/city-council/elections
tween East Cypress and Jersey Island Roads, located slightly to the northeast of the old one. Phase 3 will also see a reworking of the intersection between East Cypress and Bethel Island Roads, featuring more dedicated turn lanes and a connection to the future southern extension to Bethel Island Road.
The result of the project will be a new four-lane road to the north of the old East Cypress Road, which will become a frontage road for the existing residential area there.
After Saengchalern’s presentation concluded, Councilmember George Fuller asked whether traffic noise on Brinwood Way would be reduced, and whether the project’s builders would work on Sundays. Saengchalern replied that, while newly-built homes would receive sound walls, the existing homes would not; however, they would still benefit from a decrease in noise due to the repositioning of the road and lessening of traffic on the old East Cypress Road. Lee also said that work would not occur on Sundays since “no one’s wanted to work on Sundays.”
Vice Mayor Shannon Shaw said that while there have been complaints about the road work, “[residents] want the safety more than they don’t want the construction,” leading to an easier time in resolving complaints.
In other Council news:
• The Oaks Apartments is preparing for the first meeting of its new tenant council, made up of members of two existing tenant groups. Oke Johnson, executive vice president of WinnResidential, which owns the apartments, said that they are aiming to hold the first council meeting next January, once the bylaws and procedures are in place. Johnson also reported that the maintenance situation has improved, and previous mechanical problems with a trash compactor were promptly fixed.
• The Laurel Road widening project will be finished by fall 2025, according to City Engineer Kevin Rohani. The project, previously stalled due to a right of way dispute with a family that owned land near the project site, will see Laurel Road improved from Highway 4 to Main Street with two full through lanes. O’Hara Avenue will also be widened to two lanes, and the new Safeway supermarket which recently broke ground will be completed by next fall, around the time that Laurel Road will be fully improved.
FULLER CHUIKO LANGLEY
HERNANDEZ-THORPE
