The Press 11.25.2022

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Ways to get help, ways to give help

By Rene De Amaral Staff Writer

REGIONAL With the cost of living increasing, East County residents may find themselves without the necessary resources to fulfill their basic needs. Insti tutions throughout East County have stepped up to help their communities by providing food, clothing and other assistance to those in need, especially during the expensive holiday season.

One of those institutions is the H.O.P.E. House located in the Brentwood Community United Methodist Church. H.O.P.E. (Hope, Opportunity, Prayer and Encouragement) House opened in 2011 and distributes food and clothes

to individuals and families in Brentwood, Antioch, Oakley, Bethel Island, Discovery Bay and Knightsen, serving more than 1,300 people per month, according to their website.

For those who wish to pick up items from H.O.P.E. House, they are located on 218 Pine St. in downtown Brentwood, and their distribution days are Mon

day and Wednesday from 9 a.m.noon. For more information, visit http://bit.ly/3tOOjkd. Other food pantries through out East County are listed below.

Brentwood

• Family Worship Center 633 Village Drive. Open Tuesday from 4:30-5 p.m. 925-250-7941.

• Immaculate Heart of Mary Church

500 Fairview Avenue. Open Friday from 11 a.m.-noon. Serves Brentwood, Oakley, Bethel Island and Knightsen residents. ID is required. 925634-4154.

1 injured in two-alarm Brentwood fire

Runner RV building on the 400 block of Beatrice Court off of Elkins Way, but only one of the recreational vehicles sustained fire damage, fire officials said.

By Melissa van Ruiten Staff Writer

BRENTWOOD A two-alarm fire broke out in one of the repair bays at an RV repair business in Brentwood on Tuesday, Nov. 22, but no major damage was re ported.

Two RVs were located in the repair bay portion of the Road

At about 1 p.m., Contra Costa Fire Protection District crews were called for reports of an RV that had caught fire inside the business. As smoke billowed out from the repair bay doors, a second alarm was added to the call. Eight engines, two lad der trucks, two battalion chiefs, and multiple support personnel fought the blaze. But the volume of smoke hampered the firefight ing efforts and made it difficult

COVID-19 home tests offered by mail now

REGIONAL Contra Costa residents can now get free athome COVID test kits from Contra Costa Health through a new mail-order program.

There are two tests in each kit. The county will mail the kits directly to people’s homes within 5-7 business days. You must be a Contra Costa Coun ty resident to be eligible.

“We want these test kits to be a staple in people’s medi cine cabinets like aspirin or Band-aids,” said Dr. Sofe’ Me kuria, deputy health officer for the county. “Testing gives peo ple the information they need to make healthy choices and reduce the spread of COVID, especially during the winter holiday season when families and friends gather indoors.”

Health officials strongly recommend people get tested if they feel sick or if they’re planning to attend a large in door gathering. Anyone who tests positive for COVID, even if they don’t have symp toms, should isolate at home.

See COVID-19 Patients & Contacts page at coronavirus. cchealth.org for more infor mation about what to do if you test positive.

The county’s mail-order program will run through the holidays and perhaps longer depending on the supply of athome test kits.

Contra Costa residents also can pick up free at-home

Youth from Brentwood Community United Methodist Church lend a hand at H.O.P.E. House, packing meals for families who don’t have enough to eat.

Photo courtesy of Cheryl Breitenbucher

A 2-alarm commercial fire at an RV repair business on Beatrice Court in Brentwood left one person hospitalized for smoke inhalation on Tuesday, Nov. 22. The cause of the fire is still being investigated.

Photo by Melissa van Ruiten

State, Caltrans offer tips to drive safely during busy holiday season

Between holiday shopping, festive outings, and gathering with friends or family, there are several opportunities to Go Safely this season. With the holiday season upon us, the state Office of Traf fic Safety and Caltrans want to make sure you are prepared to travel safely.

Even as the days get cooler and shorter, calendars fill up quickly. To get it to all your holiday gatherings safely, plan ahead before you get behind the wheel. Drowsy, impaired, and distracted driving are deadly – but they are also preventable, according to the state Office of Traffic Safety and Caltrans.

The National Highway Traffic Safe ty Administration (NHTSA) estimates that in 2020, 633 people were killed be cause of drowsy driving. Studies have shown that drowsy driving can impair your ability to drive in the same way that drinking and driving does. The best way to prevent drowsy driving is to recognize the signs. Yawning, daydreaming, miss ing an exit, and drifting from a lane are all signs that you need to pull over safely and rest up.

Even a quick 30-minute nap can re fresh you before the next leg of your trip. It is important to get enough sleep, take a break every two hours or 100 miles, and avoid alcohol or medications that

can make you sleepy, the NHTSA says in a press release.

While you prepare for your celebra tions this season, remember to prepare your holiday safety plan as well. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a deadly choice, so plan accordingly, the press release states. Designate a sober

driver or schedule a rideshare to get you home safe. If you are hosting a party, don’t let your friends or family drive im paired. Ensure that all guests have a des ignated sober driver or alternative sober transportation to get them safely to their destinations. If you are driving and sus pect that another driver may be driving

impaired, call 911. You could save a life.

It can be easy to get caught up in busy holiday schedules, but make sure you limit your distractions while driv ing. Silence your cellphone and concen trate on the road as driving conditions (wind, rain) tend to worsen in the winter months. When texting behind the wheel, the amount of time your eyes are off the road averages five seconds. When driving at 55 mph, you could essentially cover the length of a football field, blind folded. The text can wait until you safely arrive at your destination – silence your phone and focus on the road.

Remember your safety plan:

• Rest up. Don’t drive drowsy and take short breaks from driving every two hours or 100 miles.

• If your celebrations include drink ing, designate a sober driver, and never let your friends or family drive under the influence. If you see a drunk driver on the road, call 911.

• Limit your distractions, silence your phone, and focus on getting to and from your destination safely.

• Drowsy, impaired, and distracted driving are all preventable so you canGo Safely this holiday season! For more safety tips, visit www.gos afelyca.org.

The California Housing Financing Agency (CalHFA) Forgivable Equity Builder loan program offers up to a 10% down payment of a new home’s sales price or appraised value (whichever is less)*. In addition, the loan itself will be forgiven if you occupy the home for more than five years. That translates to a loan YOU NEVER HAVE TO PAY BACK!

However, this program has a limited amount of funds to help buyers, and it may be about to run out. This program can make the difference in shopping for a home and OWNING one! *Income restrictions apply.

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Caltrans advises drivers to limit their distractions while driving by silencing cell phones in order to reduce the risk of accidents.

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

Downtown Brentwood shopping area looks to recover from pandemic

By Dane Dickerson Correspondent

During COVID-19 lockdown restric tions, cities across America urged citizens to shop locally more than ever while avoiding social contact. A flopped holiday season for retailers threatened closure for many busi nesses. But this year, Brentwood’s emphasis on shopping locally has helped retailers re cover from the pandemic and even exceed pre-pandemic numbers, local officials said.

Some areas of the local economy still need support, officials say , but events or ganized by the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Brentwood Co alition project a ‘strong’ holiday season for retailers, officials predicted.

Economic solidarity early in the pan demic kept old and new businesses alive, such as Josie Monaghan’s A Vintage Won derland, which was scheduled to open in March 2020. Monaghan recounts her tough opening with pride and looks for ward to a fruitful holiday season.

“It was devastating; it was a ghost town down here…The investment is huge, so then the gamble is huge also. But see, that’s me; I’m not the quitter. I always want to see how it plays out,’ says Monaghan. “Now I’m looking forward to a huge, crowded, very good, very productive end

of the season. I feel really good about it al ready, I have people that are already gaug ing what they want to get. The kids and the families will come in with their wives and their moms saying ‘Dad will like this for Christmas’ and then they come back and get it.”

The same small-town unity that kept businesses like Monaghan’s afloat is propel ling downtown commerce beyond pre-pan

demic levels in 2022. Amy Tilley, executive director of the DBC, says the numbers proj ect a better holiday season for commerce than seen in several years.

While the pandemic cost Brentwood sales tax revenue $40,000-$50,000 in its first year, recent statistics from the City of Brentwood show that it is up about $40,000 from the pre-pandemic levels of 2019. Ag gregate sales tax revenue is up 12.9%, and

specifically, downtown commerce is up 16.2%, the records show.

Tilley reports that new and high-quali ty shops such as Vibe Beauty and Boutique, California Gleamin, Salt & Fig Market place and The Dough House are “bringing new faces to downtown,’’ Tilley said. Exist ing establishments are using revenue to in crease their hours, buy more inventory, ex pand to new locations, and invest in entirely new businesses. Tilley said this growth is due to Brentwood’s ‘changing demograph ics, improved offerings and events that pro mote downtown shopping.’

“We’re just pulling out all of the stops,” Tilley added. “Anything we can do to try and get business for these guys. A lot of the feedback we got was, ‘this event was so cool because I saw so many shops I didn’t even know were here.’ They answer the call, you know. I think it’s because we all want the same thing. We don’t want, necessarily, the big-city life where everyone is a stranger. We want a tight-knit community and the things that come with it. You have safety, and you have support. When you’re down on your luck, people around here are going to come help you.”

A staple of downtown trade is the weekly Farmers Market, which is vital to

Local businesses, such as those hosting booths at the Brentwood Farmers Market, have seen an increase in the number of shoppers compared to recent years due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Photo by Dane Dickerson

holiday sales, officials said. Small boutique owners, like Randi Moser of Alluv Place clothing store on Oak Street, say Satur day markets bring customers to their small stores in droves, especially for holiday shop ping. Moser considers these markets and Tilley’s contributions as the lifeblood of sustainable business for her store and oth ers. She jokingly calls Saturdays “the day to make money.”

The Makers Boulevard, a slew of ar tisan craft booths, is another attraction for downtown shops. Officials consider it the core of local artistry, popping up on the third Saturday of each month conjoined at the edge of Farmers Market booths. Or ganizer Katie Rogina founded The Makers Boulevard at the onset of COVID-19 to help boost their local economy. Rogina is pleased to offer a space for local artists to sell goods and push holiday gift shopping locally.

Brentwood’s Chamber of Commerce is also a big player in boosting holiday rev enue. The Chamber champions business expos, the Holiday Tale Parade Christmas Tree Lighting, and Celebrating Brentwood awards, to name a few. Chamber president Tom Santamorena agrees that commerce is generally improving, but some areas still count on local support this season.

“Just anecdotally, from meeting people and going out and talking to them, it seems that in different pockets of Brentwood I’m getting different feedback. The Streets of Brentwood, they could use a little help there. Downtown is doing very well, and Balfour

could use a little bit more assistance. Lone Tree is doing well,” Santamorena said.

According to Santamorena, various revenue reports follow a pattern historically, as the same areas report struggles annually.

To homogenize commerce citywide, Santa morena and the Chamber are working to diversify their members geographically. They plan to have members in charge of each retail area of Brentwood to concen trate support and future events in the areas that need it the most.

The disparity in revenue may be linked to public events, but some shoppers say resi dents have also become more frugal in their holiday expenses. Jody Foster, frequent shopper of the Farmers Market and The Makers Boulevard, said that shopping lo cally has become a more conscious practice for many.

“I mean, who doesn’t like having the local, organic stuff, right along with sup porting the businesses of trinkets or clothes and all of that,” Foster said. “And people want to come together and make a change, so I think that is so good and amazing for this community. I think people are just be ing more mindful of what they are buying.”

To discover upcoming holiday events, visit the Chamber event page at https:// www.brentwoodchamber.com/events/cal endar/2022-08-01 or the DBC webpage at https://www.brentwooddowntown.com/ upcoming-events. Information for Saturday Farmers Market can be found at https:// www.pcfma.org/brentwood and The Mak er’s Boulevard at https://www.themakers boulevard.com.

by Joan Grimes, Esq.

If one of your beneficiaries is receiving governmental benefits, or may receive governmental benefits in the future, you may want to consider establishing a Special Needs Trust for their benefit.  Whether a Special Needs Trust is necessary is dependent on the TYPE of governmental benefits your beneficiary is receiving.  So what are the different types of governmental benefits?

First, there are governmental benefits that are received irrespective of one’s income or assets.  The biggest of these programs are Medicare and Social Security.  Both of these programs are run by the federal government and awarded based on the recipient’s contributions to the program.  You paid into the program.  Social Security benefits include benefits you receive when you retire as well as Social Security Disability (SSDI), which is available if a person who has a disability prior to the time of their full retirement age.  Medicare benefits are available to all people over the age of 65 who are eligible for Social Security and people younger than 65 who have received SSDI for at least 2 years.

Second,  there are governmental benefits that are “means” or “income” based.  The biggest of these programs is Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which provides income to low-income individuals who have a disability, are blind, or elderly.  The second program is Medi-Cal (referred to a Medicaid in other states), which is the state-run and partially federally funded health care program for people with low income and limited assets.

SSI and Medi-Cal are the central focus for

determining whether a Special Needs Trust is appropriate in a given situation.  Other programs through which individuals may be receiving benefits include Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (“TANF”), Section 8 Housing, welfare and vocational assistance programs.

The risk is this: If a person receives an inheritance outright while receiving benefits from a “means” tested program, they may lose their governmental benefits.  Furthermore, the government may demand repayment of benefits received.

In conclusion, the determination of whether a Special Needs Trust should be done is not always clear.  Therefore, it is critical that the Estate Plan provides maximum flexibility for the protection of governmental benefits at the time of the grantor’s death.  While we cannot see into the future, we can provide the Successor Trustee with the necessary tools for handling problems as they arise.

If you have a beneficiary who is currently receiving governmental benefits or may receive them in the future, I recommend you review the terms of your trust to confirm that the governmental benefits are protected.  If you would like me to review your Trust, I see people Monday-Friday for a FREE 30-minute consultation in Walnut Creek and Brentwood.

This article provides only general legal information, and not specific legal advice.  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; www. lawofficeofjoangrimes.com    © 2022 Joan Grimes

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.

Events

Saturday, Nov. 26

Holiday Parade

The Brentwood Chamber of Commerce is hosting their 40th annual lighted parade from 5-7 p.m. The event will feature over 60 entries and will precede the City of Brentwood’s annual Christmas tree lighting in City Park.

Annual Christmas Tree Lighting

The City of Brentwood is hosting their annual Christmas tree lighting in City Park from 7-8 p.m. The tree lighting will be led by Santa Claus and staff from the Parks & Recreation Department will read the Night Before Christmas to the crowd. The tree lighting will take place immediately after the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce Holiday parade.

Brentwood Turkey Trot for Schools

The annual Brentwood Turkey Trot for Schools 5K will be at The Streets of Brentwood at 8 a.m. Start and finish lines are next to the AMC Theaters. Registration is $35 for either the virtual or in-person race, and money raised supports athletics programs of both the BUSD and LUHSD schools. For details, visit http:// www.brentwoodturkeytrot.org/

Winter Wine Walk & Tasting Tour

The Downtown Brentwood Coalition is their annual Winter Wine Walk & Tasting Tour from noon-4 p.m. The event will feature20 wines from local vineyards and wineries, exclusive deals at featured shops and stops along with food pairings by downtown Brentwood res taurants. Tickets are $40 per person and $10 for designated drivers. For more information visit https://www.brentwooddowntown.com/

Friday, Dec. 2

Great Gatsby: A Place of Learning

Fundraiser

APOL is hosting their Great Gatsby-themed dinner and fundraiser from 6-10 p.m. at Caps Restaurant in downtown Brentwood. The event will feature raffle prizes and a silent auction that will benefit APOL’s free tutoring services to low-income students. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their best Roaring Twenties-themed attire. For more information visit http://bit.ly/3Bzcs2F

Saturday, Dec. 3

City of Oakley Tree Lighting

The City of Oakley is hosting its annual Christmas Tree Lighting starting at 4 p.m. in Civic Center Plaza, 3231 Main St. Civic Center Plaza will be adorned with lights and Christmas decorations. There will be free cookies and cocoa, arts and crafts, live entertainment and more. Santa Claus will also be making a special visit. The tree lighting will take place at 6 p.m. Admission and parking are free. For more information, call Alicia at (925) 625-7041 or email: oleary@ci.oakley. ca.us

Holiday Delites Celebration

The Celebrate Antioch Foundation is host ing their Holiday Delites Celebration, which features a Sip & Shop Craft Fair from 2-6 p.m. with 30 craft vendors, along with live music and local wines and beers. There will also be a lighted Christmas parade at 4:30 with the lighting of the city’s Christmas Tree and pictures with Santa Claus following after. For more information, visit http://bit.ly/3X75pHq

Oakley Trinkets & Treasures Flea Market

The Oakley Senior Center is hosting their annual Trinkets & Treasures Flea Market from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at 215 Second St. For more infor mation, contact James Fridas at 925-626-7223.

Sunday, Dec. 4

Christmas on the Farm

The East Contra Costa Historical Society is hosting their annual free Christmas on the Farm from 11 a.m.-5 p.m., featuring a day of Christmas activities, including storytelling, a historical treasure hunt, cookie decorating and more. For more information, contact Mary Black at 925-206-5087.

Bethel Island Holiday Boutique

Bethel Island is hosting a Holiday Boutique at Scout Hall at 3090 Ranch Lane from 1-5 p.m. with a variety of vendors and free pictures with Santa Claus.

Monday, Dec. 5

California Highway Patrol Drive Class

The Oakley Senior Center is hosting their annual CHP Drive Class from 10-11 a.m. with CHP instructor C. Linberg and officer Adam Lane on 215 2nd St. For more information, call James Fridas at 925-626-7223.

Friday, Dec. 9

Veterans Awareness Event

The Oakley Senior Center is hosting a Veterans Awareness event from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on 215 2nd St. The event will include speakers Veteran Service Officer J. R. Wilson, Noga Welner-Kessler of Veteran Hospice and medi cal specialist Craig Turner. For more informa tion, contact James Fridas at 925-626-7223.

Saturday, Dec. 10

Annual Holiday Boutique

The Wi Cha Ka council #222 is hosting their annual Holiday Boutique from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Red Men Pocahontas Hall in Oakley on Main St. The event will feature wares from a variety of different sellers. There will also be a pancake breakfast with Santa from 10 a.m.noon, a raffle and Yellow Ribbon fundraiser for the Veterans Hospital in Martinez. For more information, contact Alicia at 925-625-1102.

Friday, Dec. 16, Saturday, Dec. 17

Brentwood Regional Community Chest

The Brentwood Regional Community Chest will be packing food boxes in the Brentwood Elementary Cafeteria from 4-9 p.m. on Dec. 16. Food and toys will be distributed to families on Saturday, Dec.17 from 7:30 a.m.-noon. Bins and barrels are located throughout East County for non-perishable items and new toy drop offs. For more information, visit http:// www.brcchest.org/

Sunday, Dec. 18

Grand Community Chanukah Festival

Chabad of the Delta is hosting their Grand Community Chanukah Festival at 4:30 p.m in Brentwood City Park and will Acro, Fire & Sword Performer Juliano Wade, along with Giant Menorah lighting with dignitaries, Chanukah doughnuts, latkes, chocolate gelt along with chanukah crafts. For more infor mation and to RSVP, visit JewishDelta.com/ Chanukah.

Ongoing Events

Hijas Del Campo Annual Coat Drive

Hijas del Campo previously donated 500 coats to campesinxs and their families last year. This year their goal is to double their impact and donate 1,000 coats to keep campesinxs and their families warm. New coats can be dropped off at community partners Chrome Coffee, Wanna Waffle or Estilo Checha until Dec. 4. For more information, email Hijas del Campo info@hijasdelcampo.org or call 925-384-2431.

Looking for more things to do?

Look at the many local events on

www.thepress.net /calendar

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.brentwood rotary94513.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://rotaryclubo foakley.com Antioch: The Antioch Rotary Club meets weekly on Thursday at noon at Lone Tree Golf Course & Event Center, 4800 Golf Course Road in Antioch. For more information, visit http://www.antiochrotaryclub.com/. The Rotary Club of the Delta meets weekly on Wednesday at 7:00 a.m. at Denny’s, 4823 Lone Tree Way in Antioch. For more information, visit https://www.rotaryclubofthedelta.org/.

East County Lions Club Meetings

Brentwood: The Brentwood Lions Club meets the first Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at 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://e-clubhouse. org/sites/brentwoodca/ Antioch: The Antioch Lions Club meets every second and fourth Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the Denny’s on Delta Fair Blvd. Discovery Bay: The Discovery Bay Lions Club meets the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Discovery Bay Yacht Club. For more information, visit:https:// discoverybaylions.com/who-we-are/meetings/ Byron: The Byron Delta Lions Club meets every first Friday of each month at 10:00 a.m. at St. Anne’s Church for more information https://e-clubhouse.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.

Oakley Senior Center Food Distribution

The Oakley Senior Center gives out free food every Thursday from 1-2:30 p.m. Community members are asked to bring their own grocery bags.

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.

Nonprofit offers Health Care Career Courses

The nonprofit Opportunity Junction is accept ing 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, handson 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 meeting 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 feature camaraderie, food, drink, con versation and updates on upcoming events. For more information, call 925-338-1775, email MCL1155@outlook.com or visit https://www.mcl1155.org/

Applications accepted for Adminis trative Careers Training

The nonprofit Opportunity Junction is accept ing applications for its administrative careers training 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 certif icate. For more information, visit https://www. opportunityjunction.org/program-application

Widow and Widower Grief Support Group

A widow and widower grief support group from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church meets every Thursday from 5 to 6:15 p.m. at the church library at 500 Fairview Ave. in Brentwood. The group focuses on finding a new normal as attendees walk the grief trail with others experiencing the same loss. For more information, contact Mary Ann Smith at 925-240-1706 or Sandy Heinisch at 925-513-3412.

Friday Night Al-Anon Meeting

Al-Anon meetings, which offer a supportive place for friends and families of alcoholics, are held every Friday from 8 to 9:15 p.m. at the Brentwood United Methodist Church at 809 Second St. in Brentwood. There is no need to register. For details, call Trisha at 510-910-1389.

Coffee with Carolyn

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

Community Resource Classes

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is hosting non-denominational community resource classes at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 2350 Jeffery Way in Brentwood. The free, 10-week courses will touch on personal finance, starting and growing your own business, emotional resilience, English as a second language, finding a better job and life skills. These are 10-week courses that meet once per week. To register or for more information, visit https://linktr.ee/antiochSR Oakley

4-H Club

The Oakley 4-H Club has monthly meetings the second Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. The club is open to boys and girls ages 5-19. For location information, email Amanda at oakley@contracosta.org.

Disney’s ‘Frozen: Kids!’ at El Campanil

Two children’s shows on Dec. 3

The El Campanil Theatre Academy will present Disney’s Frozen: Kids! on Dec. 3 for two 30-minute shows at 9 and 11 a.m.

These intimate showings will give viewers the chance to see the classic Dis ney film brought to life on stage.

When their kingdom becomes trapped in perpetual winter, fearless Anna joins forces with mountaineer Kristoff and his reindeer sidekick to find Anna’s sister, Snow Queen Elsa, and break her icy spell.

Although their epic journey leads them to encounters with mythical trolls, a comedic snowman, harsh conditions, and magic at every turn, Anna and Kristoff bravely push onward in a race to save their king dom from winter’s cold grip.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for se niors and $10 for youth

ECTA is also hosting a raffle of $800 in Frozen Toys. The toys were donated by Jakks Cares of Jakks Pacific (https:// www.jakks.com/), which manufactures toys for Disney.

Tickets are available through our website (www.elcampaniltheatre.com) or by calling the office at (925) 757-9500.

Disney’s ‘Frozen: Kids!’ will be at the El Campanil Theatre in Antioch on Dec. 3.

Oakley seeks submissions for 2023 coupon book

The City of Oakley is accepting coupon forms from local businesses to be included in our Shop Oakley Cou pon Book for 2023.

The city instituted a Shop Oakley program in 2016

in an effort to promote Oakley-based businesses by using a coupon booklet that includes promotions at businesses in Oakley to give residents an incentive to shop locally. There is no fee to participate.

The coupon booklet is free to consumers and is available at City Hall, the Oakley Recreation Center, participating businesses. It is distributed to residents and visitors at special events throughout the year.

Press photo

Planning. If you pass away intestate (without a will/ trust) the State of California has statutory provisions that will divide your estate, often these provisions are not aligned with your wishes. As you mature and acquire assets, don’t forget to plan for how those assets will be managed and divided upon your departure from this world.

B

Con Fire dispatch center recognized for excellence

By Melissa van Ruiten Staff Writer

Contra Costa Regional Fire Com munications Center has been recog nized by the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch for excellence in medical dispatching, according to a press release from the Contra Costa Fire Protection District.

“I am pleased to share the news that Con Fire is now the 311th dispatch cen ter to earn International Academy of Emergency (IAED) dispatch, Accred ited Center of Excellence (ACE) sta tus worldwide,” said Jeff Peter, Contra Costa County Fire Protection District assistant chief for communications, “This is a major accomplishment and puts the (center) and its amazing dis patchers among the most elite of com munications centers. Our new ACEcertified status would not be possible without the daily great performance and dedication of our dispatchers.”

Con Fire’s 911 dispatch center’s ac creditation certifies it is performing at or above the established standards for the industry. Accreditation is achieved by demonstrating strong local over sight, having rigorous quality process es, and displaying a commitment to da ta-driven continuous improvement. It’s the embodiment of dispatch done right, IAED stated in the press release.

“This is a tremendous accomplish ment for our communications division and, most especially its dispatchers, with far-reaching and positive impli cations for our residents,” said Lewis Broschard, the district’s fire chief. “Combined with our unique ambu lance-transport Alliance, accreditation sets the stage for additional improve ments to EMS that can further enhance service, and survivability, for our resi dents.”

Dispatchers are often the first

point of contact in an emergency, but are rarely recognized in the same way that fire and EMS crews are, according to the press release. Con Fire does over sight of all aspects of emergency medi cal response from initial call, through call screening and triage, to dispatch, response coordination, arrival at the patient’s side, delivery of on-scene care, and transport to an appropriate medi cal facility. Con Fire already provides industry-leading emergency medical services. But as a result of this accredi tation, they are now able to explore some non-traditional EMS delivery models such as implementing basic life-support ambulance for less serious calls. This would then free up paramed ic-staffed advanced life support appara tus for more serious calls, officials said.

“This process is undertaken by communications centers who desire to be the best of the best,” said Kim Rig den, associate director of accreditation at IAED. “Achieving ACE confirms it. Con Fire should be very proud of this achievement and the wonderful service they provide to the community and their emergency responders.”

Con Fire will be presented with an accreditation plaque that commemo rates their achievement. IAED accredi tation is the culmination of a lengthy, arduous process that includes the completion of a detailed evaluation of performance by industry experts, and a final review and ruling by IAED, ac cording to the press release.

“Accreditation is truly a pinnacle achievement,” said Christof Chwojka, accreditation board chair at IAED. “We applaud the dedicated call tak ers, dispatchers, and leadership team at Con Fire for their commitment to qual ity, and for meeting that high standard that few achieve. We know their com munity can count on these first, first responders to do an outstanding job.”

Con Fire

and C shift dispatchers take a brief break from 911 call center duties. They were recognized for excellence in medical dispatching.

Photo provided by Con Fire

BIRTHS,

Socorro Ortega Espindola

Dec. 4, 1965–Nov. 3, 2022

Longtime Oakley and Brentwood resident Socorro Ortega Espindola passed away, peacefully surrounded by all her loved ones, on Nov. 3, 2022. She was 56.

Socorro was born in Coalcoman, Michoacan, Mexico, on Dec. 4, 1965, to Miguel and Socorro Espindola.

She was an amazing, wonderful, beautiful, very happy, loving, humble, caring wife, mother, grandmother, sis ter, friend and co-worker. She loved to be surrounded by her family, and she loved to take care of her dogs.

She is survived by her husband, Sergio Ortega, three children – Ser gio Jr., Diego, and Yvette Ortega of Oakley – 2 grandchildren – Isaiah Angelo and Ariana Marie Ortega –

OBITUARIES

her siblings Margarita Sanchez of Brentwood, Catalina (Joel) Gutierrez of Knightsen, Miguel Espindola II, Ri cardo (Maria) Espindola, Luisa Yanes

Robert Reginald Chavez

July 8, 1951 - Oct. 10, 2022

Robert Reginald Chavez was born In Lodi, California and raised in Oakley. His parents were Regino Chavez and Ermelinda Rasey. He is survived by his son, Roberto, and daughter Ramona; siblings Rose, Amelia and Celia “Sally”. He lived for his grand kids Elizabeth and Sylvia. He will

Have you or someone you know reached a “milestone”? If so, we’d like to know about it! Email your information to editor@brentwoodpress.com.

and Lupe Espindola of Oakley, and Irene (Jorge) Juarez of Brentwood. She is also survived by uncles, aunts, cous ins and many nieces and nephews from California.

Socorro touched many hearts, she loved to help people in need. She proudly worked 32 years at The Superi or Court of California-County of Con tra Costa. She will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

The funeral services were held at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 500 Fairview Ave., Brentwood. Burial at Holy Cross Cemetery and Funeral Center 2200 E. 18th St., Antioch, CA 94509.

We have much gratitude to all the wonderful friends and family who sup ported us during this very difficult time. Descanse en Paz!

be remembered best for his love of baseball, sports, having a kind and big heart, Viva Santana, the San Francisco Giants and the San Francisco 49ers.

He will be forever missed.

Funeral is scheduled for Saint Anthony’s Church in Oakley on Dec. 2 at 11 a.m. followed by a graveside service at Holy Cross Cemetery in Antioch at 12:30 p.m.

Have

Examples of a milestone: Achievements, Anniversaries, Births, Birthdays, Graduations, Quinceaneras, Special Occasions, Engagements and Weddings

EDITORIALS, LETTERS & COMMENTARY

CPUC proposal will kill rooftop solar power

Editor:

The California Public Utilities Commission’s latest proposal on solar net metering will effectively kill rooftop solar solutions for families wishing to adopt renewable energy.

Net metering saves families money and provides security against rolling blackouts. The proposed 75% reduction in net metering credits will do great harm to California’s renewable energy policies and goals. It is a money grab by PG&E and other utilities.

It is critical that your readers are informed of this issue since all new home developments must now come with a solar solution.

Charles Arrindell Brentwood

Advertising 925-634-1441, ext. 115 Classifieds 925-634-1441, ext. 142

Editorial 925-634-1441, ext. 110

Have something to say? Post a comment or submit a letter to the editor at www.thepress.net/site/forms.

Big Tech uses journalism; Big

Editor:

Tech should pay for it

The powers that Google and Facebook have over economic and political power in society – especially over the news industry — has caught the attention of lawmakers in Washington, D.C. After a close election and many worries over the quality of public debate, many ask if social media have played a role in the misinformation that erodes our free press and plagues our democracy.

Nowhere is this power more daunting than in the social media giants’ use of news organizations’ reporting, which the platforms use without compensation to journalists. Google and Facebook have a duopoly of the distribution of digital news

content, which drives people to the social media platforms where the owners make money. The platforms hoard critical data and use clever tactics, like reframing stories in rich previews, to keep users on their sites – siphoning off the advertising revenue that small and local publishers need.

Every hour that goes by, Google and Facebook generate millions of dollars in U.S. advertising revenue. That amount could fund dozens of local journalists. But local newspapers in many communities that are funding the people who report on fair and free elections are struggling to meet payroll.

It is time for a change before we head into another brutal and divisive election season leading up to the 2024 elections. America needs real, factual and independent news reporting more

than ever. While national media may be treated with skepticism, research shows that local news media are generally trusted. But will they have the revenue to do the job?

Congress must take action to curb undue influence of Big Tech on the news media industry and make sure the work of local news gatherers is fairly compensated. The Journalism Competition and Preservation Act (JCPA) aims to do just that.

The JCPA is specifically designed to make sure Google and Facebook pay for what they use. The proposed legislation would provide a temporary, limited antitrust safe harbor for small and local news publishers to collectively negotiate with Facebook and Google for fair compensation for the use of journalists’ content. The policy also incentivizes and rewards publishers who invest in their journalists and newsroom personnel, awarding outlets with demonstrated investments in their staff a larger portion of the funds that result from the negotiations.

By addressing Google’s and Facebook’s monopoly power and ensuring more subscription and advertising dollars flow back to publishers, the JCPA not only protects and promotes quality news, but also encourages competition. Congress has made progress on this legislation. It should finish the job before the end of the year.

John Galer

The chair of National Newspaper Association

Enjoy reading Your Hometown Newspaper?

GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS

City of Brentwood

City Manager and City Council

City Hall

150 City Park Way Brentwood, CA 94513

Phone: 925-516-5440 www.brentwoodca.gov

City of Antioch City Manager and City Council City Hall 3rd and H streets

Antioch, CA 94509 Phone: 925-779-7000 www.ci.antioch.ca.us

City of Oakley City Manager and City Council City Hall

3231 Main St.

Oakley, CA 94561

Phone: 925-625-7000 www.ci.oakley.ca.us

Town of Discovery Bay Town Manager and Community Services District 1800 Willow Lake Road Discovery Bay, CA 94505

Phone: 925-634-1131 www.todb.ca.gov

County Supervisor, Dist. III Diane Burgis 3361 Walnut Blvd., Suite 140 Brentwood, CA 94513 Phone: 925-252-4500 Fax: 925-240-7261 dist3@bos.cccounty.us

County Supervisor, Dist. V

Federal D. Glover

190 E 4th St. Pittsburg, CA 94565

Phone: 925-608-4200 Fax: 925-427-8142 district5@bos.cccounty.us

State Sen. Steve Glazer

Seventh Senate District

Capitol Office: State Capitol, Room 4082 Sacramento, CA 95814 Phone: 916-651-4007

District Office: 420 West Third St. Antioch, CA 94509 Phone: 925-258-1176 Fax: 925-258-9982 Cell: 925-963-1611

http://sd07.senate.ca.gov

Assemblymember Jim Frazier

11th Assembly District

Capitol Office: P.O. Box 942849

Sacramento, CA 94249 Phone: 916-319-2011

District Office: 150 City Park Way Brentwood, CA 94513 Phone: 925-513-0411 Fax: 925-513-3511 www.asmdc.org/members/a11

Gov. Gavin Newsom State Capitol, Suite 1173 Sacramento, CA 95814 Phone: 916-445-2841 Fax: 916-558-3160 www.gov.ca.gov

o P inion

Nominations for town awards end Nov. 30

by Dawnmarie Fehr Correspondent

The Discovery Bay Chamber of Com merce nominations for Citizen, Business and Nonprofit of the Year are open until Nov. 30.

Those interested can nominate their fa vorite person or organization – some rules and restrictions do apply – on the chamber’s website.

“It’s that time of year,” said Chamber President Cindy Patterson and owner of All in One Limo.

“We do this every year. It gives us a chance to honor an outstanding business, citizen andnonprofit each year.”

Once nominations close, the top three candidates in each category will be in the run ning and the public can vote for their favorite until Jan. 8. Winners will be announced at the State of the Town Gala on Jan. 28. That eve ning, the Byron Union School District will also announce its teacher of the year, though that category will not be voted on. Tickets for the gala go on sale in December. It will take place at the Discovery Bay Country Club, and this year’s theme is Casino Royale.

“We want to honor someone who is outstanding in their community, and people working for the betterment of Discovery Bay and the surrounding area,” Patterson said. “They need to demonstrate outstand ing ethics, participate in humanitarian and

volunteer activities that make a difference in the Town of Discovery Bay or the commu nity at large.”

Nominees for Citizen of the Year must also serve as exceptional role models, support and demonstrate their collaborative spirit through creative partnerships with commu nity organizations, live in the 94505 ZIP code, and not have won in the past seven years, ac cording to the rules on the town website.

Business of the Year nominees must be Chamber members, locally owned, and work for the betterment of Discovery Bay and East County while demonstrating the highest standard of business ethics, the rules state. Nominees cannot have won in the past seven years.

Nonprofit of the Year nominees must be 501 (c) (3) or 501 (c) (6) based in Dis covery Bay, Bryon, Brentwood, Oakley or Bethel Island.

The organization must have accom plished significant results on behalf of the community and embody a spirit of vol unteerism, altruism and respect, the rules state. Nominees should also demonstrate a collaborative spirit through partnerships with other nonprofits, businesses and civic organizations. No nominee can have won in the past seven years.

For more information or to nominate a person or organization, visit www.discovery baychamber.org.

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

Meet Midnight

Midnight is a very sweet boy who loves having his head scratched. He also enjoys playing with strings and springs! Truly a sweetheart. To meet Midnight, email Vickie at vbarbs@gmail.com.

Claws Play Care

Professional Pet Care for your Fur Babies Paws & Claws Play Care provides personalized pet care, offering pet owners peace of mind knowing their pet is happy, safe and cared for in the comfort of their home. Paws & Claws has been open since 2021 and offers personalized pet care, including reliable and quick pet transportation, dog walking for busy owners, along with daily pet care updates. They are honest, trustworthy, reliable and take great joy in caring for your pets!

Hometown SportS

Liberty misses chance to win playoff game

Lions lose to Clayton Valley Charter, 21-13, in NCS semifinal

By Juan Cebreiros Correspondent

Liberty was eliminated from the NCS playoffs by Clayton Valley 21-13. The Li ons had a chance to tie the game late in the fourth quarter with the ball on the Ugly Eagles 27 yard line but late mistakes sealed their fate in the semifinal round of the North Coast Section Division 1 playoffs.

From the opening kick, the Lions were in control, scoring on their open ing drive to take a 7-0 lead and then sub sequently stopping the Ugly Eagles on fourth down at midfield. However, the Lions fumbled shortly thereafter and left the Ugly Eagles with excellent field posi tion.

“Credit to their offensive line and

blocking scheme,” said Lions head coach Mike Cable of Clayton Valley’s offense. “They ran the ball effectively and kept our offense off the field.”

Midway through the second quarter, Clayton Valley tied the game at 7-7 and got the ball back with about five minutes left in the first half. The Ugly Eagles managed the clock to near perfection as they drove down and scored to take a 14-7 lead at halftime.

The Ugly Eagles got the ball com ing out in the second half and contin ued to run the clock and keep the Lions’ offense off the field. Taking more than half of the third quar ter on one drive, the Ugly Eagles scored yet again to extend their lead to 21-7.

“They did a good job of changing their defense around, constantly moving

Liberty’s football season ends in NCS playoffs

By Michael Dixon Correspondent

With its win over Ama dor Valley in the first round of the North Coast Section Play offs on Friday, Nov. 11, Lib erty’s football team continued its season with a showdown against Clayton Valley Char ter on Friday, Nov. 18. The Li ons led early and stayed in the game throughout. Ultimately, though, they were on the short end of a 21-13 final.

The Lions scored both the first and last touchdowns of the game. In both cases, senior quarterback Nate Bell ran the ball in. He opened the scoring with a nine-yard run and closed it with a one-yard run. In be tween, though, Clayton Val ley did its damage. The Ugly Eagles scored two second quar ter touchdowns to open up a 14-7 halftime lead then added a third score to take a 21-7 lead into the fourth quarter. That was ultimately too much for the

Lions to overcome.

After Bell’s second touch down, Liberty did have enough time to mount a drive and even got into Ugly Eagles territory. But a fourth-down pass from Bell fell incomplete, ending the game and with it, the Lions’ season.

A victory would have given Liberty the opportunity to play for the Division 1 title against Pittsburg, who lost the Open Division final to De La Salle, 30-23.

The Lions finished the regular season at 8-4. They went 3-2 in preseason play, de feating Enochs (56-0), Wood (48-7) and Monte Vista (3713) and losing to Los Gatos (31-0) and San Ramon Valley (42-14). Liberty then went 4-1 in Bay Valley Athletic League play. The Lions defeated Free dom (50-18), Antioch (35-6), Deer Valley (72-0) and Heri tage (35-28).

from three defensive lineman and four throughout the game,” Cable said, as the Lions’ offense struggled to find consis tency on offense to try get back into the game.

The Lions did not see the ball again until midway through the third quar ter with about six minutes to play. After three quarters of struggling, the Lions offense was finally mov ing and quar terback Nate Bell ran in the touchdown him self from 15 yards out to make the score 21-13 after the PAT was blocked.

With two minutes left in the game, the Lions’ defense forced the Ugly Eagles to punt. The Lions would have to drive 60 yards to score a touchdown and a

two-point conversion to keep their season alive.

Liberty had managed to move the ball to the Ugly Eagles’ 30 yard line, but time was beginning to become a fac tor with less than 1 minute to play and the Lions still had a long way to go. On third down, a bad snap from the center forced Bell to abort the called play, and he scrambled to avoid disaster. But then it was fourth down.

The Lions’ entire season came down to this one play to send the game to over time. Liberty opted to go for the end zone instead of just the first-down yardage. Bell threw a deep pass up to receiver Ryan McKendry but it was incomplete and the Lions’ magical run of a season ended.

“We were underdogs for most of the season,” Cable said. “We were picked to finish fourth in league, predicted to lose to Amador Valley last week. The Pittsburg game was really a catalyst for our season and showed that this team was special.”

The Lions finished the season with an overall record of 8-4, and 4-1 in Bay Valley Athletic League play, good for sec ond place.

08G Blue State Premier-North Fall League champions

EC Revolution 08G Blue team are State Premier-North Fall League champions. Congratulations to our 08G Blue U-15 Girls Team Coached by Mike Rainsford for winning the State Premier-North Fall League. The team got off to a slow start at the beginning of the season, but with determination, hard work and a team effort they were able to recover and end up champions in a tough group (Walnut Creek Surf, Pleasanton Rage, Newark, Diablo Valley Wolves, Santa Rosa and Bay Oaks).

Top Row: Kimberly Reedy, Mariann Romero, Eliana Villasenor, Jada Hart, Mia Moniz, Nohealani Dillon, Sydnee Camel and Jaelyn Kinnaird

Bottom Row: Delilah Torres, Genesis Jauregui, Chantal Esquivias, Dulce Ardiano, Olivia Haggarty, Hayden Fuller, Kimberly Santoyo, Mia Colmenares and Alyssa Clinkenbeard

Coach: Mike Rainsford, Assistant Coach: Jorge Villasenor and Team Manager: Eddie Colmenares

Photo by Christina Ardiano

Liberty’s lone league loss came in the BVAL opener against the Pirates. Pittsburg defeated the Lions 31-29, which was easily the closest game the Pirates had in an oth erwise dominant run through the league. None of the other BVAL teams were closer than 27 points against Pittsburg.

Looking forward to the 2023 season, the Lions will have to replace some key play ers. The most notable among them is Bell, the BVAL MVP for 2022. Bell threw for 1,660 yards with 19 touchdowns and four interceptions on the season. He also led Lib erty in both rushing yards and touchdowns, with 733 and 12, respectively.

Defensively, Liberty looks to be a lit tle more certain heading into next season. The Lions will lose Ty Ternes, who led the team with 93 tackles. But Jackson Moore and Zaire Calhoun, who topped Liberty’s pass rush with 5.5 and 4 sacks, will both come back, with Calhoun on track for two more seasons.

Jamar Searcy, who recorded six inter ceptions as a sophomore in 2022 to lead the Lions, will also be back in Liberty’s defensive backfield. Searcy is also set to be his team’s leading returning rusher on offense. He ran for 657 yards with 10 touchdowns.

Another notable departure will be Deuce Carr, Bell’s leading receiver whose 386 receiving yards and seven touchdown receptions were both tops on Liberty’s team. But the Lions’ next three leading receivers in 2022 -- Ryder Steen, Searcy and Kyle Cook -- all return.

Pittsburg has won the last four BVAL titles and is a perennial powerhouse in not only the league, but all of Northern Cali fornia. But the Pirates will be losing a lot of talent, headlined by Florida- bound quarterback Jaden Rashada. Pittsburg will also be replacing Vic Galli, who’s coached the program since 2002. De throning the Pirates will not be easy. But with talent coming back, the Lions figure to have a good chance to do that in 2023.

Team SWAT wins title

Team SWAT (Soccer with Attitude) U15 girls Delta Youth Soccer League finished in first place in the standings during league play and won the championship on Nov. 6. They finished the season with a 10-2-0 record, scoring 59 goals and giving up 19. They are, from left to right, back row: Coach Juan Torres, Mckeyla Feliciano, Kailani Torres, Grace Norskog, Lily Wilright, Isabel Gomez, Amor Loa, Kendall Talens, Coach Vanessa Wilright, Coach Jeremiah Young. Front row, left to right, Isabella Bonilla, Kaniah Herron, Chloe Salazar, Rosalyn Zermeno, Allison Stefani, Selena Hernandez.

Photo by Delta Youth Soccer League

Press photo

Turkey giveaway

Photos by Christian Raitt

By Melissa van Ruiten Staff Writer

After serving six months as interim police chief in Antioch, Steven Ford, Ed.D. has officially been named to the position permanently, according to a press release from the Antioch Police Department, Thursday, Nov. 17.

His salary and benefits were not avail able at press time.

Ford comes to the position with 32 years of experience with the San Francisco Police Department. He was instrumental in leading major law enforcement reform efforts during his time with the former department. Ford served in several assignments in Operations, Investigations, Administration, Special Oper ations-Homeland Security, and Professional Standards-Strategic Management bureaus, according to the Antioch police website.

He is also on the faculty of San Fran cisco City College and San Francisco State University where he instructs administra tion of justice courses and course work in the Master of Public Administration program, a professional degree specifically designed for leadership development in the

Suspect in Highway 4 shooting arrested

By Rene De Amaral Staff Writer

The California Highway Patrol arrest ed a suspect in connection with a shooting on Monday, Sept. 12 on Highway 4, east of Hillcrest Avenue.

Christian Sneed, 29, of Bethel Island, was arrested in Fresno on Nov. 13 on an arrest warrant related to an investigation of possible attempted murder in that incident in addition to charges from the Fresno Police Depart ment, according to a CHP press release.

The CHP recommended charges of at tempted murder, shooting at an occupied ve hicle, assault with a deadly weapon and pos session of a firearm by a prohibited person to

the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office on Nov. 17. Sneed is awaiting transfer from Fresno County to Contra Costa County for arraignment, the release stated.

The incident began on Sept. 12 at 5:30 a.m. when CHP officers were notified of a freeway shooting on westbound Highway 4. Officers located the victims, whose vehicle had sustained multiple bullet strikes, on the freeway. One victim sustained moderate in juries but survived while the other victim was unharmed.

The incident is under investigation. Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact the CHP Investigation ti pline at (707) 917-4491. To comment, visit www.thepress.net

public and nonprofit sectors.

The Antioch police website describes Ford as “a highly accomplished, knowledge able and hands-on law enforcement leader and academic administrator with extensive formal education, exceptional administra tive/communication skills and extensive uni versity administrative experience.”

In his six months with the Antioch po lice, Ford has instituted several initiatives to bring the department to the forefront of po licing in the region and has prioritized con tinuing education and wellness for all staff, according to the press release.

Ford said his main focus is building on existing ties with the Antioch commu

nity and mending those that have become frayed. He said he looks forward to devel oping ‘thoughtful’ community policing strategies that emphasize partnerships, im proving community trust, supporting the development and well-being of Antioch’s police, while delivering the ‘highest-quality service that exemplifies industry best prac tices,’ according to the press release.

Ford said he seeks to be a contemporary leader, describing tenets of his leadership and professional philosophy as valuing the history of the profession, focusing on cur rent challenges, and having a vision for the future of policing, according to the website. To comment, visit www.thepress.net

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FORD

A physical fight was reported on Ghiggeri Drive. Students got into a fight with 40 students watching.

Brentwood - November 2, 9:22 a.m.

The following is a selection of recent law enforcement activity

BRENTWOOD

Nov. 2, 8:53 a.m. An accident with no in juries was reported on Glenwillow Drive/ Canyonwood Drive.

Nov. 2, 9:22 a.m. A physical fight was re ported on Ghiggeri Drive. Students got into a fight with 40 students watching. Nov. 2, 10:30 a.m. A restraining order vio lation was reported on Oak Street. Hus band took the reporting party’s name off bank account.

Nov. 2, 10:53 a.m. A case of vandalism was reported on Mojave Drive. The front door was spray painted.

Nov. 2, 10:55 a.m. A case of vandalism was reported at the Streets of Brentwood. Nov. 2, 11:25 a.m. A hit and run with no injuries occurred at O’Hara Ave./Sand Creek Road. Injuries are unknown but the reporting party’s neck hurts.

Nov. 2, 12:12 p.m. A case of forgery and fraud was reported on Andalucia Lane. A phone scam regarding discounts on phone service. Asked for a prepaid Target card. Nov. 2, 3:09 p.m. A case of petty theft was reported on Brentwood Boulevard. Nov. 2, 5:32 p.m. A harassment complaint was made on Armstrong Way. The report ing party was being followed by an associ ate whom she used to train but no longer works for the company.

Nov. 2, 7:37 p.m. A physical fight was re ported on Sand Creek Road.

Nov. 2, 9:17 p.m. A verbal dispute was re ported on Walnut Boulevard.

Nov. 3, 12:18 a.m. A case of suspicious circumstances was reported on Minne sota Avenue.

Nov. 3, 4:56 p.m. A case of petty theft was reported on Brentwood Boulevard. The reporting party says he has a suspect, and called him, who then admitted to being at the store. But when the reporting party asked if the person would come back to pay for items, the person hung up on him. About $100 worth of product was stolen. Nov. 3, 5:56 p.m. A person brandished a weapon on Balfour Road.

Nov. 3, 8:36 a.m. A case of Vandalism was reported on Alta Street. Someone kicked the reporting party’s door and cracked it. Nov. 4, 12:18 p.m. A physical fight was re ported on City Park Way. A male and fe male were in a physical fight near the City of Brentwood fountain.

Nov. 4, 2:34 p.m. A case of grand theft was reported on Sand Creek Road.

OAKLEY

Nov. 2, 8:46 a.m. An abandoned vehicle was reported at the 800 block Stonegate Circle.

Nov. 2, 9:00 a.m. Property damage was reported on Empire Avenue/W. Cypress Road.

Nov. 2, 10:24 a.m. A welfare check was re

ported at the 400 block Beaulieu Lane. Nov. 2, 10:42 a.m. A civil disturbance was reported at the 1500 block Camelia Court. Nov. 2, 12:55 p.m. An accident was report ed on a property on Main St./O’Hara Ave. Nov. 2, 1:09 p.m. A civil dis turbance was reported at the 1500 block Camelia Court.

Nov. 2, 1:52 p.m. An ac cident was reported on a property at the 2200 block on Oakley Road.

Nov. 2, 3:00 p.m. A reckless driver was re ported on E. Cy press Road/ Sum mer Lake Drive.

Nov. 2, 4:16 p.m. assault with a deadly weapon was reported at the 5700 block on Main Street.

Nov. 2, 4:22 p.m. A case of credit card fraud was reported at the 20 block on Puffin Circle.

Nov. 2, 5:01 p.m. An accident was reported on a property on W. Cypress Place/Empire Avenue.

Nov. 2, 5:45 p.m. A reckless driver was report ed on E. Cypress Road/Bethel Island Road.

Nov. 2, 5:50 p.m. An accident with injuries was reported on Live Oak Avenue/Laurel Road.

Nov. 2, 6:52 p.m. A welfare check was con ducted at the 2500 block on Talaria Drive. Nov. 2, 8:00 p.m. A civil disturbance was reported at the 800 block on Dunmore Street.

Nov. 2, 8:52 p.m. A case of disturbing the peace was reported at the Oakley Police Department.

Nov. 2, 10:17 p.m. A case of suspicious circumstances at the 2000 block on Main Street.

Nov. 2, 10:20 p.m. A case of suspicious cir cumstances at the 2000 block Rubens Way. Nov. 2, 11:28 p.m. An unwanted guest was reported at the 300 block on Rutherford Lane.

Nov. 3, 5:04 a.m. An auto burglary at the 3800 block on Oak Grove Court.

Nov. 3, 7:18 a.m. A commercial burglary was reported on Wilbur Avenue/Bridge head Road.

Nov. 3, 12:35 p.m. A case of disturbing the peace was reported at the Black Bear Diner in Oakley.

Nov. 3, 12:47 p.m. A civil disturbance was reported at Delta Vista Middle School.

Nov. 3, 3:22 p.m. A restraining order vio lation was reported at the 1300 block on Rutherford Lane.

Nov. 3, 3:57 p.m. A case of identity theft was reported at the 200 block on Yellow Rose Circle.

Nov. 3, 4:04 p.m. A case of identity theft was reported at the 4600 block Burgundy Drive.

Nov. 3, 5:30 p.m. A suspicious vehicle was reported at the 600 block on Miller Drive. Nov. 3, 6:07 p.m. A verbal dis pute was reported at the 1200 block on Kay Lane.

Nov. 3, 10:10 p.m. A suspi cious vehicle was stopped at the Laurel Baseball Fields. Nov. 4, 5:36 a.m. A case of suspicious cir cumstances at the Shell gas sta tion in Oakley. Nov. 4, 6:53 a.m. A restraining order vio lation was reported at the 1300 block on Ruth

Nov. 4, 9:23 a.m. A trespasser was reported at the 1200 block on Fetzer Lane.

Nov. 4, 10:26 a.m. An abandoned vehicle was reported on Rubens Way/Michelan gelo Drive.

Nov. 4, 12:33 p.m. A case of suspicious cir cumstances was reported at Freedom High School.

Nov. 4, 1:28 p.m. An arrest warrant was served at the 5300 block on Sunrise Mead ows Lane.

Nov. 4, 1:28 p.m. A suspicious person was reported at the 50 block on Carol Lane. Nov. 4, 2:20 p.m. A welfare check was con ducted at the 3600 block on Holmes Road. Nov. 4, 5:20 p.m. A neighbor dispute was reported at the 3800 block on Longhorn Lane.

Nov. 4, 8:27 p.m. A reckless driver was re ported on Main Street.

ANTIOCH

Nov. 13, 12:03 a.m. An aggravated assault was reported at the 3700 block on Lone Tree Way.

Nov. 13, 4:37 a.m. An armed robbery was reported at the 2300 block on Buchanan Road.

Nov. 13, 4:37 a.m. A suspicious vehicle was stopped at the Target in Antioch.

Nov. 13, 5:29 a.m. A verbal dispute was reported on W. 2nd Street/F Street.

Nov. 13, 8:23 a.m. A case of vandalism was reported on Peppertree Way/Syca more Drive.

Nov. 13, 11:05 a.m. A hit and run with no injuries was reported at the 100 block on Terranova Drive.

Nov. 13, 11:09 a.m. A case of vandalism was reported at the 900 block Fitzuren Road.

Nov. 13, 1:54 p.m. A suspicious vehicle was stopped on Walton Lane/Rossi Avenue.

Nov. 13, 2:27 p.m. A case of vandalism was reported at the 1300 block on San Jose Drive.

Nov. 13, 2:54 p.m. A case of vandalism was reported on Cavallo Road/Highway 4. Nov. 13, 4:08 p.m. An assault with a dead ly weapon was reported at the 5000 block on Perry Way.

Nov. 13, 4:38 p.m. A hit and run with no injuries was reported on Somersville Road/Delta Fair Boulevard.

Nov. 13, 5:43 p.m. A welfare check was conducted at the 2800 block Bluecurl Court.

Nov. 13, 7:00 p.m. An armed robbery was reported at the 3400 block on Deer Valley Road.

Nov. 13, 7:18 p.m. A commercial bur glary was reported at the 2500 block Somersville Road.

Nov. 14, 1:17 a.m. A welfare check was conducted on G Street/Milner Road.

Nov. 14, 6:22 a.m. A vehicle theft was re ported at the 4500 block on Sand Creek Road.

Nov. 14, 6:37 a.m. A vehicle theft was re ported at the 4800 block on Golf Course Road.

Nov. 14, 7:52 a.m. A collision with un known injuries on Garrow Drive/E Tre gallas Road.

Nov. 14, 7:57 a.m. An unwanted guest was reported at the 1800 block on Buck Mountain Court.

Nov. 14, 8:46 a.m. A collision with un known injuries was reported at the 4800 block Lone Tree Way.

Nov. 14, 9:20 a.m. A vehicle theft was report ed at the 5000 block on Union Mine Drive.

Nov. 14, 10:07 a.m. A vehicle theft was reported at the 2200 block on Manzanita Way.

Nov. 14, 11:19 a.m. A residential burglary was reported at the 1900 block on Deodar Avenue.

Nov. 14, 1:26 p.m. A trespasser was re ported at the 4700 block on Lone Tree Way.

Nov. 14, 1:32 p.m. A traffic hazard on James Donlon Boulevard/Contra Loma Boulevard.

Nov. 14, 2:23 p.m. A simple assault was reported at the 4700 block on Lone Tree Way.

Nov. 14, 7:37 p.m. A robbery was reported at the 200 block on Texas Street.

Nov. 14, 8:00 p.m. A welfare check was conducted at the 2300 block Spanos Street.

Nov. 14, 8:17 p.m. A vehicle theft was re ported at the 100 block on Russell Drive.

Nov. 14, 9:30 p.m. A simple assault was reported at the 2700 block Adobe Court.

R&D Lighting special izes in LED light replace ment, offering an array of lights and fixtures for any project. With com petitive prices, five-year warranties for prod ucts and services and supreme safety practices, the team aims to be the premiere electrical contractor for the Brentwood area.

“Our intent is to provide optimal customer satisfaction,” said Richard Bertel, owner. “No job is too big or too small.”

– R&D Lighting Team

NOTICE TO READERS

Informed

C lassifieds & l egals

Legal Deadline: Monday at 1 p.m. Classified Deadline: Monday at 3 p.m. Call: 925-634-1441 x142 E-MAIL: classifieds@brentwoodpress.com Place your classified ad today and reach 100,000 East County readers!

Jobs Jobs

MULTIMEDIA SALES CONSULTANT

Brentwood Press & Publishing is looking for an experienced Multimedia Sales Consultant to complete our team!

If you enjoy working in a fun, friendly environment and helping local business owners, then this job is for you! As our Multimedia Sales Consultant, you will establish longterm relationships with business owners and help them design their custom marketing programs using

The Press newspaper, digital and social media platforms. You will meet with clients to customize their marketing needs while offering programs to fit their budgets. You will be out conducting face-to-face meetings with potential and existing customers.

Ideal candidate has: 3 years outside sales experience, excellent communication skills, computer knowledge, a strong work ethic and enjoys working in a fast paced environment.

This job is located in Brentwood, Northern California. Salary is Base + Commission and we offer Health Ins. and 401K program.

To apply: Send your resume, cover letter about how you can be an integral part of our team to grobinson@ brentwoodpress.com.

ANNOUNCEMENT

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GAMES & PUZZLES

• Power for Living Ministries Drive-through. 6830 Lone Tree Way

Opens Friday at noon and stays open until all food and supplies are given out. 510-406-1091.

• Seed of Faith Church 605 Harvest Park Drive

Open Wednesday from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and the second and fourth Saturday of each month from 10 a.m.-noon. 925-513-2970.

• Support Life Foundation: Brentwood Drive-through. 7701 Lone Tree Way.

Open Friday from 10:30 a.m.-11:15 a.m. 510-541-6293.

Oakley

• Oakley Senior Center 215 2nd St.

Open Thursday from 1:30-3 p.m. 925-626-7223.

• St. Anthony’s Catholic Church 971 O’Hara Ave.

Open every second and fourth Saturday of each month from 9-10 a.m. 925-325-7424.

Antioch

• Agape International Church & Ministries 605 W. Madill St.

Open Thursday from 4-5 p.m. 925-709-4424.

• AMF Food Closet 2507 San Jose Drive

Open Wednesday and Thursday from 9 a.m.-noon. Antioch residents only with proof of address. 925-757-1672.

• En Su Habitación Drive-through 2808 Harbour Drive.

Open Thursday from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 925-709-4424.

• First Family Church Drive-through 3195 Contra Loma Blvd.

Open Saturday from 9:30-10:30 a.m. 925-706-1238.

• Genesis Church Drive-through. 1800 Woodland Drive Open Saturday from 9-10 a.m. 925-418-4735.

• Grace Closet 3415 Oakley Road

Wednesday 4-6 p.m. Open Saturday from noon-2 p.m. Clothing is also distributed at this location. 925-522-2017.

Fire from page 1

to discern where in the building crews were located, according to Con Fire Bat talion Chief Craig Auzenne.

Con Fire engine crews went inside to fight the fire, while personnel from two truck companies went to the roof to ven tilate the ceiling. The firefighters were able to contain the fire to a single RV inside the structure. However, there was heavy smoke damage to the business offices on the first

• Grace Temple COGIC Drive-through 1001 Fitzuren Road

Open Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from noon-1 p.m. 925-759-8049.

• Kings Chapel Drive-through 320 Worrel Road

Open every second Monday from 4:30- 6 p.m. 925-756-7315.

• Light Ministries Pantry 415 W. 6th St.

Open Saturday from 11 a.m.-noon. 925-778-1639.

• My Angel’s Inc. 505 W. 2nd St. Delivery only. 925-726-9375.

• Parents & Providers Partnering 915 W. 4th St.

Open Friday from 10 a.m.-noon 925-848-4860.

• Showers of Blessings 2220 A St.

Open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6-7 p.m. 510-736-8477.

• Support Life Foundation: Antioch Drive-through 2001 W. 10th St.

Open Fridays from 11 a.m.-noon. Attendees must register before attending distribution. Register at https://supportlives.org/get-yana

• The Landing Place Drive-through 620 E. Tregallas Road Open Wednesday from 10-11 a.m. 925-513-5180.

• The Most Holy Rosary Church 21 E. 15th St.

Open Tuesday-Thursday from 9-10 a.m. Proof of address required along with ID. 925-757-0941.

Brentwood

The last day to register for food and clothing as sistance for the upcoming holiday is Monday, Dec. 5, from 3-4 p.m. at the Brentwood Senior Activity Cen ter at 193 Griffith Lane.

Identification and proof of residency, as well as

• Visions Christian Center 330 Worrel Road.

Open Thursday from 11 a.m.-noon. 925-777-0290.

Charities and drives

For those wanting to give back this holiday season, East County has a variety of food and clothing drives available that are taking donations for low-income peo ple and families.

One local drive is run by the Brentwood-based nonprofit organization Hijas del Campo, which helps migrant farmworkers. Their current drive is focused on collecting new coats to donate to farm workers and their families. Hijas del Campo was able to donate 500 coats in 2021, and has raised their goal to 1,000 news coats for the holiday season.

Coat drives are important because many farmwork ers are out of work, according to Hijas del Campo ex ecutive director and co-founder of Marivel MendozaMatheu, “due to the low season, the funds are little to zero to allocate for new or used coats to purchase,” she said. With the help of local East Contra Costa County members and the Community at large, we are requesting support to meet this goal for 2022.”

Donations can be made by texting GIVE or DONATE to 925-396-7992 or by dropping off new coats at Chrome Coffee, Wanna Waffle or Estilo Checha until Dec. 4.

Another drive is the Brentwood Regional Commu nity Chest, which serves families from Brentwood, By ron, Discovery Bay and Knightsen. “Up to 500 families from Brentwood, Byron, Discovery Bay, and Knightsen are presented with a full holiday dinner, non-perishable food and age-appropriate presents for their children,” the Community Chest website says. “The program is largely dependent on the generosity and support of individuals, families and businesses in our community.”

Donation barrels and bins are located throughout East County for donations of nonperishable food and new toys, the organization’s website says.

Food boxes will be packed Friday, Dec. 16 from 4-9 p.m. in the Brentwood Elementary School cafeteria. Food and toys will be distributed to families on Saturday, Dec. 17 from 7:30 a.m.-noon at the Brentwood Senior Activity Center. Volunteers are needed and do not have to register. For more information, visit http://www.brcchest.org/

deadline Dec. 5

face masks, are required for registration. Registration is limited to 500, and is open to families and indi viduals who are residents of Brentwood, Knightsen, Byron or Discovery Bay.

For more information, visit www.brcchest.org

COVID

from page 1

and second floors of the building. It took crews 45 minutes to put out the fire.

One occupant of the business was transported to a local hospital with smoke inhalation, and one other occu pant was evaluated and released at the scene. No fire personnel were reported injured.

Investigators determined that the fire was accidental, are not sure what caused it and that it originated in the RV that was

undergoing repairs. Officials were unsure of the extent of the RV work that is per formed in the building, whether it was limited to interior and body work, or if engine repair was also included.

“The sprinkler system did activate,” Auzenne said. “I’m not sure when it did, but crews were reporting that the sprin klers were holding [the fire] at bay.”

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

test kits at county libraries. People can also get free test kits through their doctors. For more information, visit the Home Tests pag e at coronavirus. cchealth.org.

People can order up to four free athome test kits per household by filling out an online form or by calling 833829-2626.

To comment, visit www.thepress.net