The Press 10.14.2022

Brentwood fire station demolished

New one being built downtown

by Jake Menez and Chris Campos Staff Writer

BRENTWOOD Demolition has begun on Station 54 in down town Brentwood to make room for a new two-story firehouse.

Aaron McAlister, depu ty chief for the Contra Costa Consolidated Fire District, said Wednesday that the new station will have an estimated final cost of $6-$8 million. The newest sta tion in the district, Station 86 in Bay Point which opened last Au gust, cost $14 million.

McAlister said that the county has selected an archi tect to design the new building, which they will announce soon. He said he hoped to have con

struction bids by summer 2023. The station will house a single crew of three firefighters and will be smaller than Station 86.

The deputy chief also noted that the district may attempt to bundle the design of the new Brentwood station with the planned new station on Empire Road in Oakley.

Station 54, which has been shuttered since 2014, stood at 739 First Street and was first constructed in 1957, according to the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District. A 2021 re port provided to the Contra Costa County Board of Super visors described the building as “functionally obsolete and un

Station 54, on the 700 block of First Street, is being torn down to make room for a new fire station. The station has been shuttered since 2014.

Oakley candidates forum set for Oct. 19

by Chris Campos Staff Writer

OAKLEY A City Council can didates public forum is sched uled for Wednesday, Oct. 19, at the Oakley Senior Center at 215 Second St.

safe for occupancy,” leading to the need for a new station in its place. The estimated cost of the new building is $11 million, ac cording to an agenda packet pro vided at the Nov. 16, 2021 meet ing of the Board of Supervisors, with the demolition costing $1

Ethics dominates council meeting again

by Jake Menez Staff Writer

BRENTWOOD The City Coun cil continued to struggle with its ethics policy Tuesday night.

The Oct. 11 meeting, like their previous meeting, includ ed discussion on reworking the city’s ethics policy that turned into council discussing, in vague terms, an unspecified potential ethics violation by one of its members.

The initial discussion was a continuation of one brought to the Sept. 27 council meeting by Councilmember Jovita Men doza in an effort to change the council’s ethics policy in a way

that would reduce the likeli hood of Brown Act violations when discussing potential ethics violations with another member of council. The Brown Act is a state law that requires the dis cussion of a local government’s business by a majority of its leg islative body to occur at a duly noticed public meeting.

“This is something that has

to be done,” a resident identified as Rod said during the public comment portion of the dis cussion. “[The Brown Act] is a flawed act. But I understand the purpose of it and so I have kind of a love/hate relationship with the Brown Act.”

Rod said that the current city policy, like the Brown Act, is well-intended but can impede

the council’s ability to hold each other accountable. His support of the policy amendment was echoed by another resident, Carolina Villaseca, who stressed the importance of “flexibility” when it comes to their options for navigating potential ethical violations.

Based on the council’s exist ing policy, a five-person council like Brentwood’s could not have two council members discuss a potential ethics violation of a third council member and then go to the mayor as the policy dictates because that would re sult in a majority of the council

Two City Council seats will be open on this year’s ballot. Shannon Shaw, a member of the Oakley Planning Commis sion, is running for the District 4 seat. Although Shaw will be the only candidate listed on the ballot, Adam Gerhart qualified to run as a write-in candidate in the race.

Hugh Henderson, also a current planning commissioner, and Rachelle “Shelly” Fitzger ald will face off for the open District 2 seat.

Current Mayor Randy Pope and councilmember Sue Higgins will end their terms in November. This will be the first district election held since the city moved from at-large repre sentation to districts in 2021.

The public is encouraged to submit their questions for the candidates by Monday, Oct. 17 by sending an email to edi tor@brentwoodpress.com with “Oakley Forum” in the subject line. Candidates will not be giv en any questions in advance.

The doors at the Oakley Senior Center will open for a “meet and greet” with the can didates at 6 p.m. the night of the forum. It will begin at about 6:20 p.m. and will run about 90

Photo by Greg Robinson

Timber Point school to host big-rig fundraiser

by Dawnmarie Fehr Correspondent

The Timber Point Elementary School Parent Teacher Association (PTA) is hosting a new fundraiser they hope will win big with local families.

Kids on Big Rigs will be the first pub lic event on campus since the COVID-19 pandemic began, and PTA President Kristy Febel said the event on Oct. 21 is sure to be a draw.

“This event will give attendees the opportunity to see cool vehicles up close,” Febel said. “Attendees will be able to see them, sit in (some of) them and take pic tures with them. Kids on Big Rigs is an event for all ages (and) 100 percent of proceeds goes right back to our PTA to help support our students, school and staff.”

Febel said the PTA reached out to many local businesses asking for them to donate their time and a vehicle kids could experience, and garnered a posi tive response. So far, they have 20 vehicles lined up, including a race car, limousine, mail truck, ambulance, police car, mon ster truck, fire truck, and a static MiG-17 brought by the Patriots Jet Team Founda tion (PJTF) in Byron.

“We’re excited to participate in this event,” said Don Paiva, PJTF executive director. “We recognize it takes a very supportive and community-based culture

to help make a difference for youth in our community – collaborating with parents, educators, and local businesses.”

One of the PJTF’s missions is to get students excited about aviation, space and

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) subjects and careers through their school outreach programs, learning center activities, mentorship and scholarships. It is an all-volunteer 501

(c)(3) non-profit organization that has served the community for a decade.

United Rentals is bringing a scissor lift and supplying water. There will be food trucks, bounce houses and a movie, and Febel is working on getting a craft donated as well. Kids on Big Rigs will re place the school’s annual Suessville event, a big, carnival-like fundraiser largely dependent on parent volunteer help. Be cause the event had been canceled in the past due to lack of volunteers, Febel said she was looking for something simpler, but still fun.

She hopes this event will fit the bill, and noted is has the support of Timber Point Principal Susan Evans.

“We are super excited to have a com munity event hosted at Timber Point once again,” Evans said. “This event isn’t just for Timber Point families. It’s for the en tire community to come out and enjoy.”

Kebel said she and the PTA board are encouraging people to purchase a ticket and take advantage of the opportu nity to engage with the community, local businesses and some cool vehicles.

Kids on Big Rigs will take place, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Timber Point Elemen tary School, 40 Newbury Lane, in Dis covery Bay. Student tickets are $10 and adult tickets are $15. For more informa tion, email timberpointptainfo@gmail. com. To purchase tickets, visit https://bit. ly/3Eu24v9.

Steve Torgeson

The Timber Point PTA’s Kids on Big Rigs fundraiser will enable children “to see cool vehicles up close” said PTA President Kristy Febel.

Photo by Kristy Febel

Oakley to move on delayed road extension

by Sean Tongson Correspondent

Another Laurel Road construc tion project is on the horizon in Oakley.

Months after the long-awaited comple tion of a crucial near-half mile gap on Lau rel Road linking Antioch and Oakley and providing a connection to Highway 4, Laurel Road is planned to have another extension farther east in Oakley to Sellers Avenue. The project, which has been on Oakley’s drawing board since 2002, still remains at a standstill, with no dates for construction or completion.

“There is no timetable to complete this extension now,” said Oakley City Manager Joshua McMurray. “City staff is currently working on this project, and the first step is to contract with a consultant to design the improvements. It is a project that is a prior ity and we are taking the first step at this next City Council meeting on Oct. 25 to award the contract for the survey work, right-of-way mapping, and acquisition process.”

According to McMurray, the project has been identified in Oakley’s General Plan since 2002 and in Oakley’s Traffic Impact Fee Pro gram since 2003. The project entails extend ing Laurel Road from its current terminus at Teton Road 2,500 linear feet (approximately one half mile) eastward to a signalized inter section with Sellers Avenue. The project, when completed, will provide another east-west ac cess to and from the eastern part of Oakley and Knightsen while reducing the burden of

traffic on other nearby roads and intersec tions, such as Cypress Road and Delta Road.

“The extension of Laurel Road from Teton Road to Sellers Avenue is a high prior ity project as it provides a secondary access to and from East Cypress Road corridor for the residents,” said Oakley Public Works Direc tor/City Engineer Kevin Rohani. “This road way extension will benefit the residents of far east Oakley and Knightsen to be able to have a solid access and direct connection to High way 4 and will complement the other Laurel Road improvements and widening that the City has done over past few years to improve access to this region and accommodate its growth in coming years.”

Since railroad tracks cross the area of the planned route, an overpass will need to be constructed over the railroads due to at-grade crossings no longer being allowed. BNSF Railway owns the right of way near the vi

cinity of the project. According to BNSF Railway Executive Director of Public Affairs Lena Kent, the City of Oakley is still in the initial phase of their project, and will coor dinate with BNSF on a preliminary scope review. Section 190 of California’s Streets and Highways Code requires Caltrans to al lot $15 million in each yearly budget for three or four projects aimed at eliminating at-grade railroad crossings on state highways and local city streets and roads in an effort to prevent collisions between trains and vehicles, and eliminating injuries and fatalities to improve safety. The entire project is estimated to cost $38 million, but funding remains an obstacle.

“This project is large in scale and we will need to leverage many funding sources, including grants, to ultimately construct the improvements,” McMurray said. “This project is a priority of the City Council, al

though the magnitude of the project’s costs is substantial, and we need to find funding for it. We can use monies collected through our Traffic Impact Fee Program. No money has been budgeted for the construction, but we have allocated money for the design, and that item will be scheduled for the Oct. 25 City Council meeting.”

McMurray also reported at the Tuesday night City Council meeting about the diffi culties city staff has had in getting through to the appropriate BNSF officials. “We even tried their 1-800 phone number to get them to respond,” he said.

Mayor Randy Pope urged McMurray to get local congressional offices to help spur action from the railroad.

Knightsen resident Kristen Crithfield said this project is a step in the right direc tion, although she feels more work needs to be done to aid with potential traffic conges tion in the region.

“I’m sure it will help with the railroad track issues and traffic congestion in Oakley, but I don’t see how it will help Summer Lakes, or Bethel Island if it’s not extended further,” said Crithfield. “I know the City of Oakley is working hard to help alleviate issues. Hopeful ly the roads come in before the new houses.”

More information, including a list of future road projects and a project map can be found at https://bit.ly/3TeLZgP

Information on Section 190 regarding railroad grade separations can be found at https://bit.ly/3Cv0si8

To comment, visit www.thepress.net

Laurel Road’s current eastern terminus at Teton Road in Oakley. There is a proposal to extend Laurel Road east of this location to Sellers Avenue in the future.

Photo by Sean Tongson

Civility rules in council candidates forum

by Chris Campos Staff Writer

Six candidates running for the Brentwood City Council gathered for a public forum last Thursday night to answer residents’ questions and discuss city poli cies, and nary a drop of political vitriol was spilled.

Co-hosted by Press Publisher Greg Robinson and Tom Santamorena, president of the Brentwood Cham ber of Commerce, the event was held at the Heritage High School auditorium, and livestreamed on Facebook. Faye Maloney, a city resident and former council candi date, served as the moderator.

The public was encouraged to submit their ques tions for the candidates prior to the event by sending an email to the Press. Candidates were not given any ques tions in advance.

District 2 candidates Patanisha Davis Pierson, Mark Duke, Brayden Haena and Sinziana Todor as well as District 4 candidates Holley Bishop-Lopez and Tony Oerlemans attended the forum. District 4 candidate Ja cob Singh said he was on vacation in Hawaii and unable to attend, but did provide an audio clip that served as his opening statement.

Maloney first outlined the rules for the forum telling the candidates that they were being timed to allow each candidate an equal amount to address the same six ques tions. Each candidate was given time for opening and closing statements.

All the candidates issued calls for a more profession al and civil approach to the city council. Potential coun cil censures came up with Haena, a recent high school graduate, saying that “Censure isn’t a civil approach. We need to come together as a team,” recalling his football experience on the Heritage High School varsity team.

Duke, a local pastor, said “unity is the key. Let’s make Brentwood great again.”

Todor called the current council “a battlefield.”

Candidates were asked about their stances on Mea sure L, which was on the ballot in 2019. The measure, which would have expanded the city’s urban limit line and allowed the development of up to 2,400 homes on an 800-acre parcel, was overwhelmingly defeated. Opinions varied. Todor called it “a big no-no.” Oerlemans also opposed it and said its failure “shows that Brentwood is strong.” Duke said he voted in favor.

Public safety was also on the minds of the voters. Oerlemans emphasized his long career in local law en forcement and said he would insist on full staffing of the police department. He also called for an expansion of fire department stations. Pierson, a lawyer and pro-tem judge, called for new police substations and paramedic crews. Bishop-Lopez said she would seek more school resource

officers. Haena warned against any public safety cuts. “We don’t want to turn us into another Antioch,” he said.

All were asked about Measure Q, another openspace initiative on this year’s ballot. Measure Q would amend Brentwood’s General Plan, which is the frame work for city development, to establish a new “VoterProtected Open Space” land-use designation, also known as the Open Space Overlay.

Proposals to use land within the Overlay for uses other than open space, parks, agriculture, or recreation would require approval by a majority of Brentwood vot ers, subject to certain exceptions.

Oerlemans backs the measure. “We don’t want to live in a concrete jungle,” he noted. Bishop-Lopez said she opposed it, calling it “poor planning.” Duke also voiced his opposition and Haena called it “a tricky one.” Pierson and Todor expressed strong support for the ini tiative.

The forum lasted one hour and 15 minutes with no recrimination exchanged even though, as Todor said, “talking about yourself is one of the hardest things you can do.”

Among the final statements, Oerlemans said, “I think I can do the best job for our grandkids.”

Pierson reiterated her commitment to the city’s General Plan and said, “I’m tired of hearing about us as a commuter city ... I’m a better candidate for a better Brentwood.”

Haena finished by saying, “I’m not running for of fice. I’m running for a leadership role.”

Bishop-Lopez noted all the friendships she’s gained in her campaign and cited in particular her opponent Oer lemans. “It’s been an amazing experience.” Giving her fi nal statement, she added, “Now this is in God’s hands.”

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

The Brentwood Chamber of Commerce and ThePress held a forum at Heritage High School for city council candidates running in Districts 2 and 4, on Oct. 6.

Photo by Melissa van Ruiten

Mount Diablo State Park adds bike turnouts

There are 30 new bike turnouts at Mount Diablo State Park.

The completion of the new turnouts will allow bicyclists, who move at slower speeds as they pedal uphill, to pull out of the main traffic lane into their own lane so that vehicles can pass safely.

On Saturday, Oct. 15, an event to hail the recent road safety enhancements will be at 11 a.m. at Curry Point on Mount Diablo along South Gate Road. State Parks staff, local officials and several cycling groups will be available to answer questions.

This priority project was funded by Senate Bill 129, spearheaded by Sen. Steve Glazer (D-Orinda).

“The new bike turnout lanes on Mount Diablo will make it safer for cy clists and motorists to get up and down the mountain, making this precious resource more accessible to the region’s residents and to visitors,” Glazer said. “I was happy to help the Mount Diablo Cyclists and the Parks Department complete this impor tant project.”

Previous Improvements

To date, there have been 48 bike turn outs added on Mount Diablo. Along the South Gate Road there are 18 turnouts, 17 along North Gate Road and 13 along Summit Road.

The state budget allotted $1.5 million to pay for the Bike Turnout Project in the 2021/2022 fiscal year. That money added to the 17 existing turnouts on the 11-mile road leading up the mountain.

Public safety at this popular destina tion remains a priority for state parks, ac counting to a press release. That’s why over the past few years, safety enhancements such as double yellow line striping on the roads, designating passing areas, repaving portions of the road, improving safety sig nage and installing designated bike turn outs have been added.

Cyclists and drivers on Mount Diablo are encouraged to share the road. Here are some tips from the state parks department to keep your visit safe and enjoyable: All users

• Check the weather, bring water and

wear layers.

• Don’t forget sunscreen.

• Obey park rules.

• Park in designated areas.

• Tell someone where you are going and when you plan on returning.

• Help keep animals wild by viewing them from a safe distance. Do not touch or feed them.

Drivers and cyclists

• Observe posted speed limits.

• Stay in your lane on blind curves and do not cut corners.

• Do not pass on double-yellow lines until you have a clear view of oncoming traffic and it is safe to do so.

• Wearing headphones that cover both ears is illegal. Wear only one head phone if you have to.

Hikers

• Use the “buddy system” – hike with a friend or family member.

• Drink and carry plenty of water (a minimum of 1 quart every 2 hours).

• Wear sturdy, comfortable, closedtoed shoes to help prevent injury.

• Stay within designated trails. Do not walk off-trail or enter closed areas.

Equestrians

• Check the weather, bring water and know where to find water. Bring snacks for you and your horse.

• Know your level. Trails can be be ginner, intermediate or advanced.

• Groom and condition your horse before leaving the barn.

• Bring your own first aid kit and cell phone. Attach it to your body, not your horse or saddle.

• Ride with a buddy.

• Wear a helmet and protective clothing.

• Carry a compass and a trail map.

Although the rule is that cyclists and hikers yield to horses, be prepared for that not to happen.

• If your horse kicks, tie something red on its tail.

• Make sure to leave enough distance between horses. You should be able to see the hooves of the horse in front of you.

DO YOU NEED A WILL?

Mount Diablo State Park

Photo courtesy of California Department of Parks

The state has $1.1 million available in grant funding for floating restrooms for use on California’s lakes and reservoirs.

Photo courtesy of State of California

Restrooms where you’d least expect them

Grants available for more of state’s floating units

by Chris Campos Staff Writer

What do you do when you really HAVE to go while you’re swimming in the state’s beautiful lakes and reservoirs? You look for one of the state’s floating restrooms.

Shore-based restrooms may be too far or not available at all.

As part of its commitment to provide clean, safe, and enjoyable recreational boating, the state’s Department of Boat ing and Waterways (DBW) partners with local water body managers, as well as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Clean Vessel Act program, to provide and main tain floating restrooms for boater’s use on lakes and reservoirs to prevent sewage from entering the waterways.

A total of 266 floating restrooms have been placed on lakes and reservoirs through this grant program since 1972, with 119 restrooms currently deployed.

“The use of floating restrooms is another way to help reduce pollution on California’s waterways,” said DBW’s Deputy Director Ramona Fernandez.

The units cost $190,000 to build, ac cording to Adeline Yee, an information officer with California State Parks.

A total of $1.104 million in federal and state funding is available this year

for the purchase and deployment of six state-designed and -developed Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant floating restrooms. Grants are also available to offset the ongoing operation and mainte nance costs of these units through a sew age management equipment operations and maintenance grant. To be eligible for funding, grant applicants must operate a California lake or reservoir.

These floating restrooms are funded by the California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Clean Vessel Act program and main tained by local waterbody managers.

In Northern California, floating re strooms can be found at Lake Berryessa, Camanche Reservoir and Lake Natoma.

The state also regulates and helps fund boat pumpouts throughout Contra Cos ta County including: Antioch Marina, Antioch; Bethel Harbor, Bethel Island; Discovery Bay Yacht Harbor, Discovery Bay; Driftwood Marina, Oakley; Holland Riverside Marina, Brentwood; Lauritzen Yacht Harbor, Oakley; Marina Bay Yacht Harbor, Richmond; Martinez Marina, Martine; Pittsburg Marina, Pittsburg and Sugar Barge Marina, Bethel Island.

DBW is accepting grant applications from public government agencies for the purchase and deployment of floating re strooms on California waterways with limited landside access. Interested appli cants are encouraged to review the grant guidelines and submit a grant application to DBW by 5 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 10.

Application information is at dbw.parks. ca.gov/FloatingRestroomGrants.

THE TROUBLES WITH A WILL AND THEY START WITH “P”

by Joan Grimes, Esq.

For our parents, the common estate plan was a Will, a Power of Attorney and Healthcare Directive.  If you were wealthy, you would have a Trust.  But for most of our parents, there was going to be little in the way of assets left after their death, so a Will was going to be fine. However, we are now living in a new world.

Unlike our parents, it is estimated that we will be transferring between $30 trillion and $40 trillion in wealth to our children and beneficiaries.  A standard Will is not going to work for this kind of transfer of wealth.

Here are just a few of the problems with Wills:

1. Where there is a Will, there is a Probate.  Unless the total value of your assets that need to be probated is less than $184,500 effective April 1, 2022 and you have no real property, you will need a probate.

2. Probates are expensive and time consuming.  The average probate in California takes over 1 year.  The statutory fees are 4% of the first $100,000 of the estate, 3% of the next $100,000, 2% of the next $800,000.  Fees are not on equity in property, but rather the fair market value.  To make matters worse, these fees are paid to the attorney and the person who is the executor.  This means that if you have an estate valued at $1 million at the time of your death, $46,000 will be paid to the attorney and your executor to probate your estate.

3. If you become incapacitated prior to your death, a Will is not going to help you because a Will is only effective after you die.  Without a Trust, there is not a mechanism for you to

appoint someone to be in charge of you and your finances.

4. A Will cannot hold assets for the benefit of a third party.  If you have a beneficiary who is receiving government benefits, may receive government benefits in the future or needs a third party to control distribution of assets, a Will is not going to be able to do this without a court establishing a separate trust and providing for control of the trust after you die.

5. Real Property cannot be transferred by Will without court approval.  If you have real property, it is still going to be cheaper and faster to have the property in a trust than going through the probate process.

A Will is not a substitute for a Trust.  Even if you do not own real property, most people need to have a trust in order to avoid a conservatorship if they become incapitated prior to death.  It is much better for you to select your people who will be in charge of you and your finances versus the court making that determination at your expense.

If you have questions about estate planning or need help reviewing your Trust, we offer FREE 30-minute consultations in our Walnut Creek and Brentwood offices.  This article provides only general legal information and not specific legal advice.  The information contained is not a substitute for a personal consultation with an attorney.  LAW OFFICE OF JOAN GRIMES, Phone (925) 939-1680.  1600 S. Main Street, Suite 100, Walnut Creek, CA  94596  © 2022 Joan Grimes

STAY

Brentwood ushers in Oktoberfest with a grin

Downtown Brentwood hosted its 15th Oktoberfest event at City Park following a two year break. The event featured a weiner dog costume parade, beer stein obstacle races and live music by the German band Alpine Sound and DoubleDown, a local act. Additionally, Brentwood’s Oktoberfest celebration offered a wide variety of food vendors in Food Court Alley, many featuring authentic German food, including Lockeford Sausage and Pure Grain Bakery.

Photos by Melissa van Ruiten

Balfour Road, Brentwood

R ISTORANTE

Indoor & Outdoor Dining!

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Letters to the editor

Replying to Mr. Hollenback from Pennsylvania

Editor:

Let’s talk about the Republicans. The majority of them voted ‘no’ on all of the following:

• Ending formula shortages

• Lowering gas prices

• Providing healthcare for sick veterans

• The CHIP bill having more good-paying jobs in the USA

• Improving infrastructure

• Protecting women’s rights/marriage equality

• Lowering insurance costs

• Ending human trafficking

• Lowering the cost of insulin for everyone

So what exactly are Republicans for?

I know giving the rich and super rich tax breaks so there is a wider gap between the wealth of the rich and everyone else. (The top three richest people in the U.S. have more wealth than the bottom 50% of the people).

They also think that politicians should be able to tell women what they can or can’t do with their own bodies.

Republicans are trying very hard to keep “certain” people from voting.

Republicans would love to turn this country into an autocracy.

Hopefully the American people vote this November to keep us a democracy.

Joe Trebino Brentwood

Correction

A recent story on Bill Brandt Ford incorrectly stated that the dealership is the oldest continuously owned dealership in Contra Costa County due to incorrect informa tion from a source. In fact, Lehmer’s GMC in Concord is the oldest. Bill Brandt Ford is the third oldest.

BrentwOOd press

Company disputes information in algae story

Editor:

The Sept. 22 article “Algae experiment fizzles along with algae” by Dawnmarie Fehr contains false information. In the reporting of this story, BlueGreen Water Technologies was not contacted for a comment. Our team of water scientists began treating Willow Lake on May 23 and succeeded in keeping the lake clean for several weeks.

Unfortunately, unbeknownst to BlueGreen, around June 14, Discovery Bay project leaders began pumping massive amounts of cyanobacteria infested water (10,000 m3/day) into Willow Lake. This contaminated water continued to flow into the treatment area without our knowledge. Although our product, Lake Guard Oxy, performed as expected, the contamination compromised the treatment process. Once we were made aware of this development, we made the difficult decision to conclude the experiment.

Contrary to Mr. Mattison’s statement in your article, there were no supply issues whatsoever. In fact, BlueGreen deployed 10 times the amount of product originally committed. The entire project was a limitedscope demonstration of efficacy, which BlueGreen accomplished, and it was done pro bono.

During the entire time BlueGreen was on site, toxin levels were below or near detection levels in Willow Lake, while in water bodies next to the lake, toxins skyrocketed to up to 100 times the permitted levels.

Had your reporter bothered to reach out for BlueGreen’s side of the story, she would have had all of the facts.

BlueGreen has successfully treated hundreds of water bodies on multiple continents. Our mission is to restore, safeguard and optimize the health and safety of water bodies worldwide. That’s what we are doing and have done – from Roodeplaat Dam in South Africa to Lake Minneola in Florida to Chippewa Lake in Ohio and, until the project was compromised, Willow Lake in Discovery Bay.

Eyal Harel

CEO, BlueGreen Water Technologies

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Press must apologize to BlueGreen Water Technologies for our reporting on this story. In fact, the Press did not contact the company prior to publication. This was a serious oversight on our part. However, we do not accept the firm’s claim that we reported any “false information.” The other source in the story, Mr. Mattison, still stands by his statements in the story, and his email records buttress his report. Finally, this company was not even named in the original story.

Brent Aasen

Heat wave tough for delivery workers

Recent warm spell exposes oppressive working conditions for drivers

school

During COVID-19, the American people honored delivery workers with a new title- essential workers. Their services are integral to the country, yet the recent heat waves proves that working condi tions and needs continue to be severely neglected.

This September brought one of the most severe heat waves in history to Cali fornia. News outlets reported on delivery workers passing out, experiencing heatrelated illnesses and strokes. News outlets even listed names of individuals who have been found dead in their trucks due to the heat. Instagram users shared a video that was recorded from a doorbell camera of a delivery worker sitting down taking shade

on a porch, exhausted from the heat.

Delivery workers across the board report an increase of 10 to 15 degrees inside the truck, meaning if the temperature for that day reads 105, inside the truck the temperature will read 115-120 degrees. UPS and the U.S. Postal Service delivery workers drive in temperatures with no air conditioning systems installed. Surveys report staggering percentages of trucks that lack any A/C and many even lack fans. This highlights the issue of working standards in trucks as this issue extends to truck workers as well, many who endure the same bleak working conditions. Many workers call to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSH), which falls under the U.S. Department of Labor, to establish better standards. OSHA’s job is to create better regulations for companies like FedEx and UPS to maintain for their workers.

Since the reports, many UPS rep resentatives have given statements with regard to the issues presented.

KCRA-3 reported that UPS “air con ditioning would be ineffective since drivers make hundreds of stops a day.” However, “UPS said [they support their] drivers by

providing additional water, ice, electrolyte replacement beverages and fruits with high water content…[ and] distributing 260,000 new uniforms with wicking DriFit shirts and performance fabric shorts, 125,000 cooling towels and accelerating the installation of fans in UPS vehicles across the country.”

The New York Times reported, “UPS has also trained employees to ‘work safely throughout the year,’ it said, and, during the day, says it has sent reminders to ‘stay hydrated and to take their rest breaks.’”

UPS’ statements provide no real longterm solutions for workers as delivery workers continue to fall victim to the heat at atrocious rates.

“Last month, Tony Cárdenas, a Democratic United States representa tive in California, introduced a bill that would require the Postal Service to install air-conditioning in all of its vehicles,” reported the New York Times.

GreenWire also reports on Represen tative Judy Chu of California stating “This kind of tragic death is completely prevent able.” KCRA-3 also reported “The UPS contract expires next summer and nego

tiations will start at the beginning of the year.” In conclusion, UPS plans to imple ment short-term solutions and a California representative introduced a bill that would force OSHA to improve their regulations for delivery workers if passed.

While the main priority remains to get air conditioning for all delivery workers, listed below are some things we all can do in the meantime: Many people leave water bottles, Gatorades, and sodas outside in coolers with signs that encour age delivery workers to take refreshments and thank them for their work. Others also leave chips or some sort of snack. We encourage the residents of Brentwood to partake in these acts of kindness!

Another thing is to ask the delivery workers how their day was and more about their working conditions. After hearing more accounts, it increases knowl edge and further implements the severity of the situation. Lately, make sure to call or email UPS, the U.S. Postal Service, OSHA, local government officials, State representatives and demand better work ing conditions for the essential workers.

– Sara Naveed Shafi

You’re watching Heritage Homecoming

For Heritage High School students, Homecoming was a night to remember. Taking place on Sept. 17, Heri tage hosted its annual homecoming dance in the stadium.

The week prior to the dance was full of Disney Channel themed activities; float decorating, Disney music playing during lunchtime, a celebratory 41-0 football win against Vintage Napa on Friday, and finally, the Homecoming rally. The Homecoming rally showcased all of the floats that

the different grades got to create. For freshmen, High School Musical; for sophomores, Hannah Montana; for juniors, Camp Rock, and for seniors, Teen Beach Movie.

Homecoming was full of music, laughter, fun memories, and food. While entering the dance students were greeted by wonderful staff making sure the dance remained a safe, fun environment. Justin Rodriguez (12th grade) had fond memories.

“I had a fun time hanging out with my friends. I really liked taking pictures at the photo booth and then

after I went to get hot chocolate at Sip & Scoop. The hot chocolate completed my night because it was freez ing out and that warmed me up,” said Rodriguez.

By the entrance, students got to take photo booth pictures with either their dates, or a group of their clos est friends. Alongside the photobooth was a gaming truck enticing the best dancers at Heritage to test out their moves in a friendly game of Just Dance. While entering the football field, students were greeted by dancing and energetic music.

– Sophia Schiemann

Hometown SportS

Pittsburg ekes out 31-29 victory over Liberty

First-quarter brawl sets tone for game

by Juan Cebreiros Correspondent

The Liberty Lions traveled to the home turf of the rival Pittsburg Pirates on their homecoming in their first of five league games. Lions Head Coach Mike Cable called it “the most intimidating and harsh environments.”

However, the Lions were having none of it late in the first quarter with the Pirates driving down the field looking to take a 14-0 lead. Pirates quarterback Jaden Rashada threw a pass, and as his receiver was going out of bounds, a Liberty defensive back tack led the receiver out of bounds. The defensive back was penalized 15 yards for the late hit. The Pirates receiver did not take this lightly as he immediately hopped up, made a dash for the same Lions defender, and returned the blow. He also was ejected for retaliation. Soon after, a brawl broke out as there was now a dogpile inside Liberty’s 5 yard line.

Cable said, “We weren’t gonna put up with any of it and that was proof that we can hang with these guys,” as the 31-29 Pittsburg victory indicated.

The Pirates went on to take a com manding 28-6 lead. However the game felt much closer than the 22-point deficit the

scoreboard was showing. Liberty went into half trailing 28-12 but momentum was on their side as they had scored a last-second touchdown before time ran out in the half.

Out the gates in the second half Lib erty had taken complete control of the game and marched down the field almost at will to score a touchdown and bring them within nine points, 28-19.

At this point in the game, the Pirates sideline and stands were almost silent, and the Liberty side was energized as all momen

tum was now on their side and seemingly nothing could stop them. The Pirates got the ball back only for Liberty’s Frankie Cruz to intercept a pass and put the Lions offense in prime scoring position at Pittsburg’s 21 yard line. Liberty capitalized immediately after quarterback Nate Bell hit running back Ja mar Searcy for a 21-yard touchdown pass to bring the game within 2 points at 28-26 going into the fourth quarter.

Liberty’s defense had forced their fourth consecutive stop against the high-powered

Pirates’ offense, and now the Lions had an opportunity to take their first lead of the game. The Lions slowly moved down the field converting multiple third downs to keep the drive alive.

On a third-and-five play just past mid field, the Lions needed a field goal to take the lead. They gave the ball to power running back Giancarlo Olveda, and five Pirates de fenders swarmed to him but that didn’t stop him as he carried all five on him to pick up the five yards he needed to keep his team’s drive alive.

The Lions pushed the ball all the way down to the 3 yard line where they decided to kick a field goal and take the lead rather than gamble going for a touchdown. Af ter being down 22 points, the Lions had scratched and clawed their way back into the game and had their first lead of the game., 29-28.

However, Pittsburg’s offense was able to click back on and moved down the field at will and kicked a field goal themselves to take a 31-29 lead. The Lions didn’t have time to put together a drive and that’s where the game ended with Pittsburg taking home a wild league win over Liberty.

However, Cable said, “That was the best loss I ever had as a coach and the players don’t feel like they lost”.

On Oct. 14, the Lions, now 3-3, wel come in the Freedom Falcons in another rival league match as Liberty looks to end their two-game losing streak. Pittsburgh, 5-1, plays at Deer Valley.

Heritage volleyball hits lofty plateau

by Rene De Amaral Staff Writer

Heritage High School’s girls varsity volleyball team has become the second varsity program in the school’s his tory to reach 300 wins. The program’s current overall record is 300-197.

This season’s record is 14-8 after back-to-back wins against Liberty Ranch High School and Chico High School during the 14th annual Stockton Classic tournament on Oct. 8. Heritage won their first match against Liberty Ranch 2-0 by scores of 25-21 and 25-17.

Heritage began their second match with a 25-16 vic tory in their first set against Chico High School. But their 25-21 loss during the second set would lead them to a tiebreaker, ultimately winning 15-12 during their third set.

Heritage maintained their spot as Bay Valley Ath letic League leaders with a win, 3-0, Tuesday, Oct. 11, in a game at Antioch High School. Their first set ended 2510. Antioch was able to catch up a little during the second set, but ultimately Heritage pulled ahead at 25-18. Heritage won the third set 25-15.

Head coach Janet Hannigan has led the varsity pro

gram to eight Bay Valley Ath letic League Championships and the CIF-North Coast Section playoffs for 13 con secutive seasons. The varsity program has also previously played in the NCS quarterfi nals, semifinals and finals dur ing Hannigan’s tenure. The team qualified for the NCS tournament during its second year as a varsity program, and Hannigan has a good feeling they’ll make it again.

The program’s overall success stems partly from Hanni gan, who has been the head coach of the varsity program since 2006, taking over after Heritage’s first year as a junior varsity program. Hannigan said that the program’s success comes from her previous coaching experience at Clayton Valley Charter High School and West High School in Tracy, and the support of her athletic directors at Heritage.

“Having prior knowledge of what works and doesn’t work and having total support from both the athletic direc tor who hired me and the one we have now has led to our program doing really well,” she said.

Hannigan also attributes the team’s success to the atti tudes and hard work put in by the players. “The players are the ones setting the tone,” she said. “We all practice togeth er, so the younger kids are seeing what the older kids are

Janet Hannigan, second from right, and her assistant coaches attribute their program’s success to hard work and the players’ positive attitudes.

Photo courtesy of Janet Hannigan

doing, and working hard together. We have to keep working on our strengths and our weaknesses as a team.”

The team’s success also comes from the coaches’ and play ers’ energy. “This is so fun. I’m having fun with it and I hope the girls are having fun too,” Hannigan said. “At the end of the day, it all comes from the players buying into it and under standing what it takes. With the teams working hard together, and my assistant coaches Becky Packard and Ami Hartman being with me for so long, this feels like a complete program.”

“We have the opportunity to make it to NCS,” she said. “We want to win our third league championship in a row, and so far we have made it through the league season with out losing a single set.”.

Their next league match is at Pittsburg High School on Tuesday, Oct. 18, and their final match is at Liberty High School on Thursday, Oct. 20.

The Liberty Lions rallied in the second half of their game at Pittsburg, but came up short 31-29.

Photo courtesy of Liberty High School

A collision course at Antioch Speedway

The return of the Figure 8 and Dean Cline Classic

The Pacific Coast General Engineering Hobby Stocks will be running the first Dean “The Blinker” Cline Classic on Saturday at Antioch Speedway. It pays tribute to a Hall of Fame driver.

The track will also be hosting its first Figure 8 race in 20 years, and it’s offering $1,000 to win based on 15 cars. The IMCA Modifieds and IMCA Sport Modifieds are also part of the show in a non-point event.

Figure 8 racing is a different discipline. Instead of running in an oval, the drivers run around a course that features an intersection in the infield, popularly referred to as the X, to form a figure 8. For however many times the drivers run a lap, they have to go through that intersection twice as many times. Hence, a 15-lap race means 30 times through the X. Here’s where it gets interesting.

Traffic will get heavy in the X as the race unfolds, and the leaders will have to work their way through without getting hit by the slower cars. This can lead to some harrowing moments during the race, and the leaders have no time to hesitate. If you stop in the wrong place, you could get hit. If a driver hesitates or doesn’t judge the X properly, they’ll end up having a collision

with another car, and their race is likely over.

Through the years, fans across the country have enjoyed this type of racing. Some re fer to it as part Destruction Derby and part race, but it’s all entertainment.

The better drivers even know how to judge the X so they can get through just in time.

The late Burt Moreland, who was track general manager, added the Figure 8 race 35 years ago. His reasoning: He had done this at his other track in Watsonville, and it led to an attendance increase. He was looking for the same sort of bump at Antioch Speed way, and that’s what he got.

John Keldsen is referred to as perhaps the greatest Figure 8 driver in the area of all time. At Antioch, he won the champion ship from 1987 to 1989 with 22 wins. He had more than 100 victories and more champi onships at Watsonville.

Bob Brown, who is coming back from

Jimmy Robbins (X) leads the pack in a Figure 8 Race in 2002.

Trucks, Stock Cars and Street Stocks. He intentionally bailed out on two points races that he was leading, though he did win the 1979 championship in the Stock Car class.

Photo by Mike McCormack

Idaho to participate, came within a whisker of beating Keldsen in 1989 as he lost the championship on the final night.

The last champion 20 years ago, Jimmy Robbins, will also be there. Other drivers from that original roster, including Brian Holden, Mike Conley Jr and Henry Leyenberger, have indicated that they will be participating as well.

Hobby Stock

The Hobby Stock race will be a tribute to Hall of Fame racer Dean “The Blinker” Cline. Dean won 49 Main Events in his time at the track in various classes, and made it into the Hall of Fame on the first ballot. Cline was one of the more popular racers in the field. When the red light on his roof was lit, that meant he had his foot all the way on the gas.

Cline did not chase points, though he won Main Events through the years in Sportsman cars, Hobby Stocks, Mini

This race is being geared towards the local stars, while the Big Jim Pettit Pacific Coast Hobby Stock Nationals on Nov. 4-5 will see drivers coming in from all over Cali fornia. Frontrunners such as Misty Welborn, Jared Baugh, Michaela Taylor, Jewel Cran dall and Taylor DeCarlo are anticipated this week. Welborn is this year’s champion.

IMCA Modifieds and Sport Modifieds

As with the Hobby Stocks, the IMCA Modifieds and Sport Modifieds are also running for cash prizes but not points. The battle between Nick DeCarlo and Kellen Chadwick for the IMCA Modified title is still under the review of the sanctioning body. The closeness of the race triggered an automatic point audit.

Fred Ryland topped the IMCA Sport Modifieds for the third time in his career, winning a close battle with Andrew Pearce this season as third-ranked Jacob Mallet Jr. was the State title winner.

The gates will open at 4 p.m. with the first race starting at 6 p.m..

Adult tickets are $20, Seniors/mili tary, $15, Kids (5-12) are $15 and kids 4 and younger are admitted free.

For further information, go to www. antochspeedway.com

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

WHAT HAPPENS TO YOUR ASSETS IF YOU DON’T SET UP AN ESTATE PLAN?

By Todd W. Moeller, Moeller Estate Law

What happens to your assets if you do not have an estate plan? Well, California has one for you, but you may not like it. The following provides the intestate succession order in California if you die without a will:

A decedent’s (the person who died) “heir at law” is determined by California’s intestacy laws and is based on rules of descent and distribution. If the deceased person is married at the time of death, then his or her husband/wife is legally entitled to receive the assets and property.

If the deceased person is not married, the order of intestate succession in California is as follows:

• Son/Daughter

• Mother/Father

• Siblings

• Grandfather/Grandmother

• Issue of the grandparents — Uncles, Aunts, Nieces, Nephews, Cousins Community property will pass to the surviving spouse unless the deceased

person is legally separated at the time of his or her death. The deceased person’s separate property also passes to the surviving spouse unless children are involved. In that case, they will receive a portion of the separate property to be allocated equally.

Please keep in mind that even with a will, your estate will likely be subject to probate when you die. To avoid intestate succession scenarios and probate, you should consider setting up a Living Trust.

If you have questions concerning your existing estate plan or setting up an estate plan, please contact Todd W. Moeller at (925) 301-8840 or www.MoellerEstateLaw.com.

Disclaimer: The information presented in this advertisement is provided for general information only. Todd W. Moeller is licensed to practice law in the State of California only, and any information contained in this advertisement is based on general principles of California law. The information presented should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of an attorney-client relationship

Staff delay draws councilman’s ire at Oakley Council meeting

by Chris Campos Staff Writer

OAKLEY No major votes were taken at Tuesday night’s City Council meeting, but council frustrations with city staff sprout ed into public view.

Before a vote could be taken on a normally routine zoning amendment, council member George Fuller com plained that he was getting tired of staff requests for more time to complete coun cil’s requests. Through City Manager Joshua McMurray, planning staffers had asked the council for more time to rewrite a zoning item dealing with drive-through restaurant regulations. Fuller said he and colleague Anissa Williams had repeat edly asked for an expedited return of the rewritten amendment, and he was con cerned that the item would be delayed until after the new year.

He said he was so frustrated that he was willing to seek a moratorium on all

drive-through restaurant approvals until a revised amendment was produced by the staff. “If the community will have to wait, then maybe the developers should wait,” Fuller said. Later, Fuller said he would even support a moratorium on all con struction permits until he was satisfied.

City Attorney Derek Cole jumped into the discussion to warn the council on the legal problems of adding a mor atorium to the night’s agenda without proper public notice. “Maybe you need to give your staff the proper amount of time they need to complete their work,” Cole pleaded. McMurray said staff hoped to have the amendment ready for a Novem ber council meeting.

Fuller, though, failed to draw any support for a moratorium from his three other council colleagues. Council member Sue Higgins was absent.

Williams proposed to delay the zon ing amendment to Jan. 24. The proposal passed 3-1 with Fuller objecting.

Andy Amyx brings magic to El Campanil’s Lobby Series

ANTIOCH Andy Amyx will perform his magic show to the El Campanil Theatre’s Lobby Series on Oct. 19 at 7:30 p.m.

Amyx’s peers, such as Lance Burton, applaud his technique and style, which has fascinated many for years. His excep tional reputation in the magic industry has enabled his success.

After many years of performing for

family, friends, schools, and local organiza tions, Amyx began studying at the Chavez College of Magic in La Verne, California. There, he earned the Chavez Certificate of Prestidigitation. Amyx continued to perfect his magic by creating his own style of music, manipulation, and original costume.

Tickets are available at www.elcampa niltheatre.com or by calling (925) 757-9500.

Police seek leads in fatal Antioch shooting

by Jake Menez Staff Writer

ANTIOCH Police are investigat ing the Oct. 8 shooting death of an 18-year-old man at a condominium complex on the 2600 block of Belmont Lane.

Police responded to a report of gunshots just before midnight on Oct. 8, accord ing to a police press release. After arriving at the reported loca tion, officers found the victim in the parking lot of the condo buildings suf fering from “at least one gunshot wound,” and police administered

first aid before the victim died at the scene.

Police do not know the num ber of suspects involved and have not contacted anyone in connection with the shooting, according to the press release. Police would not comment further about the victim or poten tial suspects because the incident is still being investigated.

Police ask anyone with information regard ing the incident to call the Antioch Police De partment non-emergen cy line at (925) 778-2441 or Detec tive Duffy at 925-779-6884.

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Brought

October

Pets Frolic Inn

Meet Penelope!

a Husky/ German Shepherd mix who loves belly scritches and time at the dog park. True to her breed, Penelope

has some thing to say.

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

Meet Squeakers

Do you need a lap cat? Squeakers is your gal!! Born on April 11, she enjoys being petted and held – and she purrs loudly. Squeakers is fine with dogs and other cats. For more information, please contact our foster mom at youngreka@ gmail.com

Pets Frolic Inn

Frolic Inn... A Place for Pets! All kinds of pets - dogs, cats, birds, and more! We hope you will take a good look around and discover that we are so much more than a boarding kennel. Our farm-style kennel offers a wide range of services. Our bed & breakfast has spacious accommodations for your pets. We also have a state-of-the-art doggie daycare, and bath and spa services to pamper your pets. Don’t forget our Hitch-a-Ride Pet Pickup Service!

By Michael J. Amthor,

HAVE YOU TALKED WITH YOUR FAMILY ABOUT MONEY? YOU SHOULD. HERE’S WHY.

I have discussed the importance of estate planning many times in these articles. Saving money, peace of mind and making things easier for those you leave behind are just a few of the benefits. However, with estate planning typically comes difficult conversations with family members that does not come natural. Subjects such as who you want to be in charge of your estate after death, who should receive your assets and end of life issues are just the beginning. Nine out of 10 Americans consider it important to have a financial plan but almost half have difficulty discussing finances with loved ones. There are three reasons for this: It can be overwhelming, it can be awkward and talking about a future plan is difficult when you don’t have one in place. The statistics tell an interesting story. 38% of people do not even talk to their spouse or partner about the other’s financial situation before getting married. 55% of those without a financial plan say they are not confident in their retirement and a full 86% of us do not feel they have saved enough for retirement. It starts with a conversation and

sometimes we just need a little help to take that first step. When I talk to clients about estate planning, I do so without making them feel guilty or being ashamed. The most important step you take is talking with someone. I reassure my clients that it is never too late nor too early to start talking about finances after death. Most of my clients have a very real sense of accomplishment and relief because many have been putting it off for years. I cannot emphasize enough the peace of mind my clients walk away with when we complete their estate plan and they know this important issue has been handled. Make a commitment to yourself and talk to your family today about these issues. Keep it light and do not take it too seriously. Your next call should be to my office and we will put your plans into action.

If you have questions on this or any other estate planning topic, call me at (925) 5164888. East County

1181

HAVE YOU HEARD?

Liberty Adult Education Community Center is hosting a free job fair featuring a variety of local, state and national employers.

Liberty Adult Education presents one-stop job fair

The Liberty Adult Education Com munity Education Center will be hosting a free fall job fair Oct. 27 at 929 Second St. from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Local gov ernments, corporations, and a variety of other organizations will have representa tives available.

The event is expected to have 25 employment representatives from a va riety of employers, including the City of Brentwood, Bay Area Rapid Tran sit, Liberty Union High School District, the Brentwood Police Department, Mt. Diablo Resources Recovery, Lowe’s, the Antioch Police Department and Safe way. Additionally, the job fair will have 10 community resources available, such as the Department of Child Support Ser vices, the Employment Development De partment, and Opportunity Junction.

Sarah Steen, Liberty Adult Educa tion’s Program Coordinator, encourages locals to attend because resources and representatives are all in one place.

“Job fairs like this are very beneficial for the community,” she said. “The em ployers and the community members are

all local and actively looking for the same thing. This creates an opportunity to connect face to face, and it can eliminate common barriers around online postings or other challenges during a job search. Liberty Adult Education has an amazing Career Center open to the public. Adults can visit and get help with their resume and interview skills before the Job Fair. We are hoping people utilize this.”

Steen said that the job fair will help attendees and employment representa tives find a good job match, along with in-person information they may not be able to find elsewhere.

“I really feel like there will be some thing for everyone who attends,” she said. “We have actually just started turning em ployers away today because we reached our capacity. It just shows how many jobs are out there and the need to get the right people for the jobs available.”

Attendees are encouraged to dress professionally and bring copies of their resume to give to employment representa tives. For more information, call 925-6342565 ext. 1039.

Brentwood Orthodontics

Creating

patient,

the

of

of traditional or Invisalign treatment.

Photo courtesy of Liberty Adult Education

Cop logs

OAKLEY

OAKLEY

Sept. 18, 3:11 a.m. A suspicious vehicle was stopped at the 4800 block on Car rington Drive.

Sept. 18, 4:51 a.m. A neighbor dispute was reported at the 1300 block on Tu olumne Drive.

Sept. 18, 7:36 a.m. A suspicious person was stopped at the 1000 block on Laurel Road. Sept. 18, 9:11 a.m. A civil disturbance was reported at the 4400 block on Fall Lane. Sept. 18, 10:01 a.m. A hit and run misde meanor was reported at E. Cypress Road/ Bethel Island Road.

Sept. 18, 11:17 a.m. A case of petty theft was reported at the 1800 block on W Cy press Road.

Sept. 18, 4:11 p.m. A civil disturbance was reported at the 300 block on Yellow Rose Circle.

Sept. 18, 8:35 p.m. A domestic disturbance was reported at the 100 block on E. Ruby St. Sept. 18, 8:57 a.m. A suspicious person was reported at the 60 block on Prescott Circle. Sept. 19, 1:27 a.m. A vehicle theft was re ported on Main St./Delta Road. Sept. 19, 5:27 a.m. A patrol request was con ducted on Main St./Bridgehead Road. Sept. 19, 7:02 a.m. A trespasser was reported at the 3600 block on Main St. Sept. 19, 8:03 a.m. A suspicious person was reported on E. Cypress Road/Frank Hengel Way.

Sept. 19, 8:33 a.m. An abandoned vehicle was reported at the 4800 block on Chablis Court.

Sept. 19, 10 a.m. A case of grand theft oc curred at the Lucky in Oakley.

Sept. 19, 12:10 p.m. A suspicious person was reported at the 100 block on Raye Ave. Sept. 19, 1:21 p.m. A suspicious person was reported on Salvador Lane./Amador Court. Sept. 19, 2:50 p.m. A verbal dispute was re ported at the 2000 block on Main St.

September 18, 10:01 a.m.

Sept. 19, 4:03 p.m. A case of vandalism was reported at the 4400 block on Fall Lane. Sept. 19, 5:20 p.m. An abandoned vehicle was reported on Woodglen Dr./Woodmead ow Place.

Sept. 19, 6:12 p.m. A verbal dispute was re ported at the 400 block on Avanti Way. Sept. 19, 6:26 p.m. An accident with injuries was reported at Live Oak Ave./Neroly Road. Sept. 20, 1:12 a.m. A traffic hazard was re ported at Grocery Outlet in Oakley. Sept. 20, 10:58 a.m. An arrest warrant was served at O’Reilly Auto Parts in Oakley. Sept. 20, 11:20 a.m. A public nuisance was reported at the 1000 block on Warhol Way. Sept. 20, 12:40 p.m. An arrest warrant was served at Laurel Rd./Hampton Way. Sept. 20, 1 p.m. A burglary was reported at the 4700 block on Main St. Sept. 20, 2:21 p.m. A case of shoplifting was reported at the ACE Hardware in Oakley Sept. 20, 2:37 p.m. A domestic disturbance was reported on E. Ruby St./Third St. Sept. 20, 3:05 p.m. A reckless driver was re ported on O’Hara Ave./W. Cypress Road. Sept. 20, 4:23 p.m. A restraining order viola tion was reported at the 800 block on Oak wood Way. Sept. 20, 4:41 p.m. A trespasser was reported at the ACE Hardware in Oakley. Sept. 20, 5:42 p.m. A case of animal cruelty was reported at the 90 block on Cunha Court. Sept. 20, 11:43 p.m. A civil disturbance was reported at the 1800 block on Santa Fe St.

BRENTWOOD

Sept. 18, 12:59 a.m. A verbal dispute was re ported on Anderson Ave. Sept. 18, 3:08 p.m. An accident with minor injuries was reported on Balfour Road./ Mountain View Drive. Sept. 18, 3:21 p.m. A case of petty theft oc curred on Second St. Sept. 18, 3:49 p.m. An accident with un known injuries was reported on Minne sota Ave./Balfour Road. A vehicle crashed into a wall.

Sept. 18, 3:56 p.m. An accident with minor injuries was reported on Grant St./Mediter raneo Way. Vehicle crashed into a fence and was blocking lanes. Sept. 18, 10:26 p.m. A commercial bur glary was reported on San Jose/Santa Margherita Way. Sept. 19, 7:08 a.m. An accident with major injuries was on Balfour Road/Walnut Blvd. Sept. 19, 7:51 a.m. A burglary from a vehicle was reported on Amber Lane. Sept. 19, 9:27 a.m. A case of vandalism was re ported on Helena Way. Window was smashed and the inside of the car was damaged. Sept. 19, 10:28 a.m. A vehicle theft was re ported on Brentwood Blvd. Sept. 19, 11:29 a.m. A verbal dispute was re ported on Nicholas Court. Reporting party was advising her husband to turn off the electricity with a hammer. Sept. 19, 2:12 p.m. A case of grand theft was reported on Sand Creek Rd. Suspect stole Gucci glasses and fled in a gray Toyota Camry. Sept. 19, 2:42 p.m. A case of grand theft was reported on Sand Creek Road. Suspects fled in a white Mercedes sedan. Sept. 19, 2:59 p.m. A residential burglary was reported on Heartland Circle. Suspect broke into the reporting party’s garage. Car keys were taken and a dark blue Dodge Ram lent to her by a friend. Sept. 19, 3:05 p.m. A hit and run with no in juries was reported. A black sedan hit the re porting party’s vehicle and then fled towards the freeway. Sept. 19, 4:42 p.m. A hit and run with no in juries was reported on Balfour Road./Guth rie Lane.

Sept. 19, 6:39 p.m. A case of grand theft was reported on Sand Creek Road. Sept. 19, 8:04 p.m. A burglary from a vehicle was reported on Alexia Lane. Sept. 19, 11:43 p.m. An accident with no injuries was reported on Lone Tree Way/ Empire Ave. Sept. 20, 12:26 a.m. A restraining order vio lation was reported on Kayla Place. Sept. 20, 5:12 a.m. A vehicle theft was re ported on Heartland Circle.

Sept. 20, 7:13 a.m. A case of vandalism was reported on Primrose Court. A can of black paint was thrown on the reporting party’s garage and words were written in red and a piece of gutter.

Sept. 20, 4:13 p.m. A case of vandalism was reported on Sand Creek Road. Sept. 20, 4:33 p.m. An accident with minor injuries was reported on Brentwood Blvd. Sept. 21, 7:06 a.m. A restraining order vio lation was reported on Shady Willow Lane Sept. 21, 8:14 a.m. A burglary from a vehicle was reported on Baird Circle. Sept. 21, 8:35 a.m. A vehicle theft was report ed on Baird Circle. A red Toyota Matrix and white Honda Clarity were taken from the reporting party’s driveway during the night. Sept. 21, 10:48 a.m. A case of disturbing the peace was reported on Havenwood Ave. Sept. 21, 4:16 p.m. A case of grand theft was reported on Sand Creek Road. Sept. 21, 4:38 a.m. A case of disturbing the peace was reported on Second St. A tran sient was yelling at people, going up to ve hicles and yelling in people’s faces. Sept. 21, 7:33 p.m. A burglary from a vehicle was reported on Sand Creek Road. The ve hicle’s right passenger window was broken. The vehicle’s stereo, speakers, and work ma terials were taken.

ANTIOCH

Sept. 25, 12:10 a.m. An armed robbery was re ported at the 2300 block on Buchanan Road. Sept. 25, 2:06 a.m. A carjacking was report ed at the 200 block on Somersville Road. Sept. 25, 10:18 a.m. A simple assault was re ported at the 3200 block on St. James Place. Sept. 25, 11 a.m. A case of petty theft was re ported at the 1600 block on Auto Center Drive. Sept. 25, 11:13 a.m. A weapons violation was reported at the 3300 block on Deer Valley Road.

Sept. 25, 11:28 a.m. A traffic injury with no injuries was reported at the 3500 block on Markley Creek. Sept. 25, 12:27 p.m. A simple assault was reported at the 1900 block on Mount Stakes Court.

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Seen with The Press

During fall school break, the van Ruiten family spent time in the Eastern Sierra, including a trip out to Bodie State Historic Park. Bodie is considered a “ghost town” now, but in its heyday it had 7,000-10,000 residents who were seeking fortune during California’s gold rush.

Fire Station from page 1

million and the design and construction of the new station estimated at $10 mil lion.

An additional $1.2 million in for

Council from page 1

Station 54 approved at the same meeting allowed for the purchase of Type 1 and Type 3 fire engines to equip the new sta tion. The Type 1 engine is used for most fire and emergency calls, while the Type

(three out of five) having met outside of a scheduled meeting, according to the agenda for the Oct. 11 meet ing. In a situation like the one alluded to during the meeting in which two members of council bore witness to the same alleged ethics violation, they would be un able to bring it to the mayor without creating a majority and violating the Brown Act.

The proposed amendment to the policy would al low a councilmember to reach out to the city manager instead of the mayor to add an agenda item regard ing an alleged violation, according to City Attorney Damien Brower when presenting the amendment.

The motion to amend the policy carried unani mously, but not before the importance of the amend ment could be highlighted.

“I heard some people in the public at the last meet ing say I had violated city policy,” Councilmember Kar en Rarey said, referring to the fact that she had discussed a potential ethics violation with another member of council and could not then bring it to the mayor. This example was the catalyst that began the discussion of the ethics policy as part of the September meeting. “We are trying to bring to light a serious matter. I stopped due to a procedural error, not a city policy violation.”

Forum from page 1

minutes.

The forum will be co-sponsored by The Brentwood Press, the Friends of Oakley and the Oakley Senior Cen

Grants available for minority-owned small businesses

Area small businesses owned by women and people of color are encour aged to apply for a grant from the Com cast Rise program that would provide marketing, creative, technology and me dia help with their businesses.

The deadline to apply is Oct. 16.

According to a press release, eligible businesses must meet these criteria:

• be at least 51 percent owned by wom en or people of color.

• be independently owned and oper ated (not a franchise business).

• be registered to do business in the U.S.

• been operating for at least one year.

• be within the Comcast Business or Effectv service area.

Small businesses have been coping with the impact of COVID-19 and social unrest, among other problems. Such busi nesses owned by women and people of color have been hardest hit, according to a Comcast Rise press release. From Feb ruary-April 2020, the National Bureau of Economic Research says that the num ber of Black-owned businesses declined by 41%, the number Latinx-owned busi

nesses dropped by 32% and Asian-owned businesses by 25% compared to 21% by the general population. Comcast Rise was created to invest in the success of these businesses, the press release states.

Women own 42% of the businesses in the U.S., according to a study by the National Association of Women Business Owners. But that same study said that business is growing at only half the rate of those by men because women struggle to gain access to needed capital.

Businesses that win grants will re ceive the following:

• help with advertising and marketing in growing the business.

• help with media exposure for 90 days.

• computer equipment, internet, voice and cybersecurity services for 1 year.

• a monetary grant.

To date, Comcast Rise has awarded $16 million to 1,600 businesses in select metropolitan areas. Each company re ceived $10,000 to invest in its growth.

For more information and to apply, visit https://www.comcastrise.com/riseapply/

3 is designed to fight wild fires and can travel offroad.

Funding for the project was provided by Measure X, a 0.5% sales tax collected on the gross receipts on the sale of per

Rarey alluded once again to the unspecified viola tion that had ignited the discussion, saying she and an other council member had taken a “very troubling con cern” to the city attorney and noting that current policy had barred them from taking the matter to the mayor.

Following the adoption of the policy amendment, the council turned to future agenda items, which includ ed a potential overhaul of the City Council Ethics and Conduct Policy, as requested by Mendoza.

“I don’t want to sit next to someone who I think broke the law and act like nothing happened,” Mendo za said while requesting staff to look into holding each other accountable for Brown Act violations. “I think we need to discuss those things and our city needs to hear.”

At this point, Mendoza again alluded to the al leged violation by a council member that has become the elephant in the room at recent meetings.

“If you’re telling me to call the police, that’s prob ably something we should talk about at a council meet ing,” she said. The nature of the violation Mendoza was referring to has not been made public, but this comment follows a movement by Mendoza at the Sept. 13 council meeting to censure Vice Mayor Johnny Rodriguez after allegedly receiving phone calls regarding his behavior.

“Censure is a formal statement of the City Coun

ter. Jon Elam, former city manager of Brentwood, has agreed to serve as a vol unteer moderator for the free forum.

“We are excited to partner with the Oakley Senior Center and the Friends

sonal property across the county. The bal lot measure was passed by voters in No vember 2020, with collection of the tax beginning in April of the following year. To comment, visit www.thepress.net

cil officially reprimanding one of its members. It is a punitive action, which serves as a penalty imposed for wrongdoing,” the council’s ethics policy states. “Cen sure should be used for cases in which the City Council determines the policy violation is a serious offense.”

Following further discussion by council members at the Oct. 11 meeting, council unanimously agreed that staff would look into reworking parts of the ethics pol icy, particularly those regarding Brown Act violations, and would establish a community forum to allow the public to be a part of the process as well. No set sched ule was established for the forum.

Other topics discussed by the council included:

The unanimous decision to earmark the former Women’s Club building at 648 Second St. as surplus that the city may look into selling.

Directing staff to look into ways to increase the number of city-sponsored activities for youths and teens.

The second reading of an ordinance adopted by the council on Sept. 27 that increased council’s monthly salaries from $939.26 to $1,150.59.

The full council meeting can be viewed online at https://bit.ly/3RWGNNu

To comment, visit www.thepress.net

Of Oakley to put on this Oakley candi date forum to help inform the residents of Oakley so they can make an educated decision to help move forward the dem ocratic process,” Press Publisher Greg

Robinson said Tuesday. “Come meet the candidates in person, and most impor tantly, we encourage everyone to get out and vote on Nov 8.”

To comment, visit www.thepress.net

Photo by Melissa van Ruiten

Calendar

For

Events

Saturday, Oct. 15

Health and Resource Fair

A free health and resource fair will be from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at St. Anthony’s Church, 971 O’Hara Avenue, in Oakley. Organizations expected to attend include BART, City of Oakley, Oakley Police Dept., Oakley Recreation, Oakley Seniors, Oakley Veterans, Rotary of Oakley, East Bay Park District, CAL Fresh, Columbiettes of St. Anthony’s, Liberty Adult Education, Oakley Library, Oakley Delta Lions, ConFire, Tri Delta Transit, Contra Costa County Health, Diablo Water District, Iron House Sanitary District, Delta Veterans Group, California Department of Insurance and more. A blood drive and vaccine clinic are also planned. For more information, call 925-813-9069 or email rsnmhig@yahoo.com.

Sunday, Oct. 16

Brentwood Diwali Mela

The United Indian Association is hosting Brentwood Diwali Mela in Brentwood City Park from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Celebrated on the autum nal new moon, usually in October or early November, Diwali is a traditional Indian festival of thanksgiving that celebrates the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, hope over despair, and good over evil. Diwali is a homecoming, with family and friends gathering to light lamps, exchange gifts, and share meals. The event will include cultural music and dance performances, raffles, food vendors, and a traditional Rangoli display, art and craft booths.The Diwali festivities include a wonderful feast of food, music, and dance, including a traditional Rangoli display, art and craft booths. Early bird tickets are $3. For more information, visit https://united-indian.org/ event/diwali-event/

10th Anniversary Celebration of the Big Break Visitor Center

The East Bay Regional Park District is hosting a 10th anniversary celebration of the Big Break Visitor Center Oct. 16 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The event will feature old and new exhibits, along with behind-the-scenes documents on display. For more information, visit https://www. ebparks.org/parks/big-break

Tuesday, Oct. 18

The Squeeze on Citrus

Molly Wendt and Sierra Higgins, UC Master Gardeners, are hosting a class on how to choose and buy citrus trees for climate as well as the best way to water, feed and prune your tree for years of great citrus crops. The class is at the Contra Costa County fairgrounds from 7-8 p.m.

Wednesday, Oct. 19

Unity Day Park & Play

The City of Brentwood’s Park & Play Mobile Recreation staff and the Brentwood Police Department are co-hosting Unity Day in City Park, starting at 4 p.m.. Unity Day supports anti-bullying and is united for kindness, accep tance and inclusion. For more information, visit www.brentwoodca.gov/government/ parks-recreation/recreation/mobile-rec.

Saturday, Oct. 22

Oaktober Harvest Festival

The 14th Oaktober Harvest Festival is sched uled for Saturday, Oct. 22, from noon-4 p.m. in Civic Center Plaza in Oakley. This year’s Oaktober has been revamped to include beer and wine, a family-friendly costume parade, the return of the canine parade, a pumpkin decorating contest, and more.

Brentwood Peace Community Garden Potluck

The Brentwood Peace Community Garden Potluck will take place 5 p.m. on Maple Street. The event will include a tabletop Scarecrow contest, sing-a-long, music and prizes. Cider and Pumpkin Pie will be provided. For more information, text Cici at 530-306-7034.

Thursday, Oct. 27

Trunk or Treat Tailgate

Delta Valley Health Club is hosting a free Trunk or Treat Tailgate from 4-8 p.m. The community event will include face painting, food trucks, cornhole, jump houses, and more. Attendees do not need to be members of Delta Valley Health Club. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/deltavalleyhc

Liberty Adult Education Fall Job Fair

Liberty Adult Education is hosting a job fair from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at the Liberty Adult Community Education Center. There will be employment representatives from BART, the Antioch Police Department, the Brentwood Police Department, Bay Area Community Resources, the City of Brentwood and many more. The event is free and open to the public, and participants are encouraged to bring their resume and dress professionally. For more information, visit https://libertyadulted.org/.

Saturday, Oct. 29

Hometown Halloween

Brentwood Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Hometown Halloween, free trick-or-treating from 5-8 p.m. in downtown Brentwood. There will also be a free showing of the film Hotel Transylvania in the park afterwards.

Hot Rods 4 Paws

Benefit Car & Bike Show

Hot Rods 4 Paws is hosting a Car & Bike Show from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. in downtown Antioch. The event includes a trunk-or-treat, pinup contest, pet costume contest, kids costume contest, music and vendors. For more information, call 925-4812294 or visit https://bit.ly/3RU4aY6

Ongoing Events

East County Rotary Club Meetings

Brentwood: The Brentwood Rotary Club meets weekly on Monday at noon at the Wedgewood Banquet Center at 100 Summerset Drive in Brentwood. For more information, visit https:// www.brentwoodrotary94513.com. Oakley: The Oakley Rotary Club meets weekly on Thursday at 7:30 a.m. at Black Bear Diner, 3201 Main St. in Oakley. For more information, visit http://rotary clubofoakley.com Antioch: The Antioch Rotary Club meets weekly on Thursday at noon at Lone Tree Golf Course & Event Center, 4800 Golf Course Road in Antioch. For more information, visit http://

Looking for more things to do?

Look at the many local events on

www.thepress.net /calendar

www.antiochrotaryclub.com/. The Rotary Club of the Delta meets weekly on Wednesday at 7:00 a.m. at Denny’s, 4823 Lone Tree Way in Antioch. For more information, visit https://www.rotary clubofthedelta.org/.

East County Lions Club Meetings

Brentwood: The Brentwood Lions Club meets the first Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at Straw Hat Pizza on Lone Tree Way. For more information, visit: https://e-clubhouse.org/sites/brentwoodca/ Oakley: The Oakley Lions Club meets the fourth Wednesdays of every month at 7 p.m. at the Oakley Senior Center, for more information, visit https://eclubhouse.org/sites/brentwoodca/ Antioch: The Antioch Lions Club meets every second and fourth Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the Denny’s on Delta Fair Blvd. Discovery Bay: The Discovery Bay Lions Club meets the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Discovery Bay Yacht Club. For more informa tion, visit:https://discoverybaylions.com/who-weare/meetings/ Byron: The Byron Delta Lions Club meets every first Friday of each month at 10:00 a.m. at St. Anne’s Church for more information https://eclubhouse.org/sites/byron_delta/

Brentwood Community Chorus

The Brentwood Community Chorus meets every Tuesday from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Brentwood Community United Methodist Church (809 Second St.) in Brentwood to rehearse for their holiday concerts. All are welcome.

Delta Gallery Art Show

Delta Gallery Community Art Center in Brentwood is hosting two art shows. These include the Delta Quilters Guild Art Show and features workshops from Oct. 6 to Nov. 4. The second show features the Art Guild of the Delta and includes fine art, cards, gifts and jewelry. The gallery is at 2485 Sand Creek Road, Suite 128. A reception for both shows is on Oct.15 6-8 p.m.The gallery is open ThursdaySunday from 1-5 p.m. For more information, visit https://www.deltagallery.com/

Life and Times of John Marsh Art Show

Opens at the Delta Gallery

The Delta Gallery in association with the John Marsh Historic Trust, is hosting The Life and Times of John Marsh an art show consisting of artwork featuring the John Marsh property, Rancho Los Meganos or pastoral views of Contra Costa County as it would have been in the 1850s. The free show is being displayed at the Delta Gallery at 2485 Sand Creek Road, Suite 128, in Brentwood. The gallery is open Thursday-Sunday from 1-5 p.m. For more information, visit https://www.deltagallery.com/

ACA Women’s Group

The ACA Women’s Group meets every wednesday at 5 p.m. at 809 Second St. in Brentwood. For more information, contact Cici at 530-306-7034.

Great Holiday Shopping!

Nonprofit offers Health Care Career Courses

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

Discovery Bay Corvette Club Meetings

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

California Striped Bass Association

West Delta Chapter Meeting

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

Marine Corps League, Delta Diablo Detachment 1155, monthly meeting

The Marine Corps League, Delta Diablo Detachment 1155, hosts its monthly meeting on the third Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building, 757 First St., in Brentwood. The group is open to all active or retired U.S. Marines. Attendees are encouraged to bring a veteran friend, and spouses are always welcome. The meetings fea ture camaraderie, food, drink, conversation and updates on upcoming events. For more informa tion, call 925-338-1775, email MCL1155@outlook. com or visit https://www.mcl1155.org/ Applications accepted for Administrative Careers Training

The nonprofit Opportunity Junction is accepting applications for its administrative careers train ing program. Classes are taught via Zoom. The intensive training is 12 weeks, followed by up to four months of paid internship. Participants will learn life and business skills, and can earn their Microsoft Office Skills certificate. For more infor mation, visit https://www.opportunityjunction. org/program-application

FREE to the Public!

Saturday, Oct. 15 • 10:30am - 3:00pm

VFW Hall, 815 Fulton Shipyard Rd, Antioch

Your one-stop shop for all your Holiday shopping. Fun Raffles, too!

Soroptimist International is a non-profit organization that helps women and girls in the community. All proceeds go toward local programs and scholarships.

For more info email

Laura Dickerson: laura7V@comcast.net

Jackie Buccellato: ja_buccellato@comcast.net www.si-antioch.org

ZEHNDER