The Liberty Union High School District held its second fentanyl awareness event at Freedom High School on Nov. 21, that featured speakers from the Contra Costa County Meds Coalition, the federal Drug Enforcement Agency, and the Tobacco Use Prevention Education program, as well as Oakley Vice Mayor Shannon Shaw and a panel of five students from Freedom, Liberty, and Heritage, among others.Their full names were not disclosed because they are minors, officials said.
The first event in April was inspired
by the fact that high school students are in a high risk category for drug use, as well as her own experiences with students in her district overdosing on opioids like fentan-
Oakley police reveal new badges to honor anniversary
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
The Oakley police department will have a new look to them as part of the city’s 25th anniversary in the form of new badges that were revealed last week.
“We now have a desire to return to the longstanding tradition of most Northern California police departments, and we have chosen to do so this year as part of Oakley’s 25th anniversary celebration,” Oakley police said in a social media post.
“I am fortunate to be one
of the original members of the Oakley Police Department, having been hired here in 2016 as a detective when the City of Oakley broke away from the
Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office for its law-enforcement services,” Oakley police chief Paul Beard
see Badges page 19
LUHSD event highlights fentanyl crisis
Volunteers spoke about the wellness centers at all Liberty Union schools, which act as spaces for students to relax and de-stress for up to 15 minutes at a time.
Photo by Connor Robles
yl, according to District Nurse Christina Mashore. She called the discussion between parents, educators, and students “an important conversation to be had.”
The speakers covered diverse topics related to fentanyl and other drugs. After an introduction by Mashore and district Superintendent Denise Rugani, school safety resource officer Mike Rucker of the Brentwood Police told how he and his fellow officers have worked to recognize the signs of drug use on campus, though he did not specify what the signs were, and how fentanyl use is present in both impoverished and affluent populations.
Freedom counselor Isenia Rodriguez spoke about the wellness centers at all Liberty Union schools, which act as spaces for students to relax and de-stress for up to 15 minutes at a time, and shared numerous mental health resources, such as the Contra Costa Alcohol and Other Drugs Services’ Behavioral Access Line at (1-800846-1652) and the California Youth Crisis
Fentanyl page 19
Local agencies offer help with flood prevention
District 3 Supervisor Diane Burgis tells residents. “Avoid problems by preparing yourself and your property now.”
By Jake Menez Staff Writer
As the rainy season begins, city and county agencies have opened their annual self-service sandbag stations to help residents prevent potential flooding on their properties.
“Remember, it is your personal responsibility to help protect your property from flooding,” a news release from the office of
To this end, the county has compiled a resource that lets residents know where they can find self-service sandbag stations countywide, including Brentwood, Oakley, Antioch and Knightsen. The release notes that the sand and sandbags are free but that residents must provide their own shovel.
Residents in need of sandbags can get them at the following locations:
Knightsen Farm Bureau/
see Flood page 19
(From left) the old City of Oakley shield chief badge, the City of Oakley police uniform patch, and the new seven-pointed star City of Oakley chief badge.
Photo courtesy the City of Oakley
Liberty boys water polo players reflect on “phenomenal” 2024 season
By Sean Tongson Correspondent
Just last month, the Liberty High School boys water polo team was off to a strong 13-3 start, with eyes on earning a high seed ahead of hosting their first North Coast Section (NCS) water polo game. A month in a half later, the water polo team is celebrating what they are calling a “phenomenal” season and a Bay Valley Athletic League title.
With a 23-5 record; their best regular season record in school history, the team defeated Heritage for the second year in a row, 13-6, to win their second BVAL Championship. Senior captain Jace Cleghorn scored seven goals and two assists, had three five meters and an ejection drawn, while goalie Jack Lorenz had 10 saves and an assist. The championship win secured a sixth seed in Division 1 NCS playoffs, allowing Liberty to host their first NCS game versus 11th-seeded Castro Valley. In that game, Liberty beat Castro Valley 15-9, making that the team’s first NCS win.
“Winning the championship for the second year in a row was very special, especially at the Antioch pool where I played back in the ‘90s,” said head coach Rosy Ayers. “We also had two games, one being the California game, where they started down three goals, but the team never gave up and came back to win the games.”
Lorenz, who scored the game-winning goal against Marin Academy that enabled Liberty to reach the quarterfinals against Tamalpais, said he felt like the team worked as a unit.
“I feel like we worked together as a group and put the team above self,” Lorenz said. “Everyone fought hard until the very end and never gave up.”
Despite falling to Tamalpais in the quarterfinals, Ayers said that there were many memorable moments this past season. She emphasized the team working together as one unit on both offense and defense as a highlight of the season. Ayers said this mindset helped them go 3-1 at all three tournaments in the top platinum bracket, while placing second at the Vintage and Sierra Tournaments.
“Some of our key players on offense were Joal Ray, who led the team in ejections
against Freedom.
drawn. Qusai Drief, who won over 70 percent of his sprints, was able to score on key counter attacks, and Jace Cleghorn, who did everything he was asked including take all of our five-meter penalties,” Ayers said. “Junior Zach Pierce was able to help as the team’s hole defender while also contributing on offense. Sophomore Payton Nelson had some good minutes in his first NCS game and scored the first goal in the game versus Tamalpais.”
Pierce, who Ayers described as a key driver on offense, attributed their success to great team chemistry, adding that “a machine is greater than its parts and our team represented that this year.”
“My favorite memory of the 2024 season was winning our first match of NCS,” added Senior Captain Qusai Drief. “Everyone came out strong with a positive mentality and never slowed down when we were up a goal.”
Ayers, meanwhile, discussed the importance of the athletes staying mentally and physically prepared for the long grind of the season, with the athletes needing to stay focused, motivated, and humble, while putting in extra work in the pool and even staying late at times for optional extra shooting practice.
“I told the team at the beginning of the season to be confident, but don’t stay comfortable,” Ayers said. “The team was accountable to our captains; Jace, Qusai and Jack, and they called each other out when one of them was lacking. They knew it wasn’t going to be easy to play a tough schedule, but they were willing to put in the work mentally and physically to believe that they could win every game.”
Looking to 2025, Ayers there is a lot of excitement to look forward to, with the bar set high and expectations to win another championship and qualify for NCS.
“We have five juniors that played a good deal of minutes that will be back next season, and they are already excited to put in the work in the offseason because they know it’s not easy to win another championship,” Ayers said. “We have a good program with the JV boys also showing great improvement with coach Kaylee Olivarez, and they are excited for next year as well.”
For details, visit www.maxpreps.com/ca/ brentwood/liberty-lions/water-polo/.
Jack Lorenz blocks
Photos courtesy of Rosy Ayers
Expanding orthopedic care and pain management in Brentwood
By Andrew Rulloda Staff Writer
Golden State Orthopedics & Spine and the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 101 Sand Creek Road on Thursday, Nov. 21.
The ribbon cutting recognized Golden State Orthopedics & Spine for the Urgent Care and MRI services it has provided to Brentwood residents since earlier this year.
“We’re very grateful to the city of Brentwood, and the Chamber of Commerce who have been so great to work with on this ribbon cutting. We’re really excited to share our facility with the community” said Steve Hammarstrom, CEO of Golden State Orthopedics & Spine.
Launched on Jan. 1, 2022 by the joining of three orthopedic groups: Muir Orthopaedic Specialists, OrthoNorCal and Webster Orthopedics, Golden State Orthopedics & Spine holds one of the largest independent networks of orthopedic specialists covering Northern California from Brentwood to Capitola.
Since its creation the group has also been recognized and named number one in California for “Top Physician Practices” by Castle Connolly Accolades in Orthopedic Care for 2024, as well as “Best Orthopedic Surgery 2024” by Best of Silicon Valley, as well as Best Of East Bay.
A second phase expansion project was also announced during the event, unveiling a 23,000 square-foot construction project. Guests were invited to take a walk-through tour of the future facility. “We opened the first phase in March of this year and the second phase will be open by April of 2025,” said Katie Smith, Senior Director of Revenue Cycle Operations. With the completion date announced, the clinic will soon be able to
accommodate specialized patient care by adding 30 exam rooms, a simulated indoor turf field for sports medicine, as well as adding physicians, nurse practitioners, and physical therapists to the practice.
“We’ve just added a new spine doctor who started this year, and we also have another sports medicine doctor coming out to the area and a total joint specialist who’s coming out to the area” Hammarstrom said.
“In the last 12 months, Golden State Orthopedics & Spine did nearly 250,000 clinic visits as a group, 16,000 MRIs, 10,000 urgent care visits and 135,000 physical therapy visits. What we’re creating out here, we’re really excited about. Here in Brentwood, we have several orthopedic specialties available to our community, everything from foot and ankle, sports medicine, pain management, and total joints. I can’t emphasize enough just how incredible this facility is, not only for the city of Brentwood, and Eastern Contra Costa County, but for Golden State Orthopedics & Spine,” he added.
There is a the difference between a traditional urgent care, and an orthopedic urgent care. According to Hammarstron, “A traditional urgent care is wonderful if you’ve got the sniffles, you’ve got lacerations, things like that, and you need to be seen quickly, Perfect. An orthopedic urgent
Dr. Kronick M.D. along with staff does the honors of cutting the ribbon.
care is really focused on a musculoskeletal injury. You sprain an ankle; you’re concerned that you know something’s gone wrong. You’ve got a tremendous amount of pain in your back, your hip. But something that has to do with aches and pains in the body, the bones, the muscles, the joints, so orthopedic urgent care focuses on that intently. And we have specialized people and staff that can deal with all of that on a moment’s notice.”
Whether you are a teen recovering from a sports injury, or a senior in need of musculoskeletal pain management, the ben-
efits of having an orthopedic urgent care in Brentwood has proven to provide the needs and care for all its patients. Services at Golden State Orthopedics & Spine are available at 101 Sand Creek Road and are open during the construction phase of the new clinic from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday. For more information about Golden State Orthopedics & Spine and their mission to provide better mobility health to Brentwood visit goldenstateortho.com. – Advertorial
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
Photo by Andrew Rulloda
Youth Press
The importance of community inclusion in Brentwood
Heritage High hosts Diwali Indian culture event
Indian Americans in Brentwood recently celebrated Diwali as an immersion of Indian culture within the city. The event was hosted by the United Indian Association. Through an event was a collaboration of a nonprofits, UIA and organizers Manish Jain, Prashant Sharma, and Ashish Marwah, Indians of Brentwood gathered to celebrate the culturally and religiously significant event.
Youth Writer
Hosted at Heritage High School on Saturday, Oct. 26, performances were held and vendors sold jewelry along with other items. The result was a lively event that welcomed all to come and join the festivities.
Diwali, also known as the festival of lights, is a festival within Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism that represents the triumph of positivity over evil. It is primarily celebrated by the Indian diaspora within India or other countries. The day is usually marked with festivities, dancing,
and prayers, as well as ornate decorations and most notably, diyas, or oil lamps. It is the largest event of the year for the Indian community, and it encourages unity.
Mohana Nukala, a high school student who performed last year, described the importance of the performances within the event. “It’s a really good way to be a part of the community,” Nukala said about the dance performances. “I loved getting to see everyone’s dances.”
UIA board member Manish Jain, founder of the annual Diwali event, explained his original motivation for celebrating Diwali in Brentwood.
“One of our main goals is to bring Indians and Americans together,” Jain
Diwali, also known as the festival of lights, is a festival within Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism that represents the triumph of positivity over evil.
said. “We have been celebrating Diwali in isolation for so long, but it’s such a festival of joy and light that we shouldnt be keeping boundaries. We should share all of this with all the people of the world. That’s the whole goal of Diwali.”
Jain, Sharma, Marwah, and the UIA team have organized this event annually since 2019 with 2020 the only year it did not happen due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In an effort to increase diversity and promote inclusivity, the city of Brentwood has financially supported this event in the past among many other culturally significant festivals from different cultures as well. City Council members have also
attended the event in order to learn about Diwali and celebrate alongside the Indian community.
Vinoy Mereddy, who has regularly attended the event, referenced Brentwood Vice Mayor Susannah Meyer, who gave a proclamation on behalf of the city recognizing Diwali as a festival, and the importance of the city’s involvement in cultural events.
“I think the Indian community is very, very well received in Brentwood,” Mereddey said. “[Meyer] was very instrumental in proclaiming that all the residents should celebrate it,” As for cultural inclusivity of Brentwood as a whole, Jain commented on the relationship between the city and its residents.
“It definitely goes both ways,” Jain said. “The city has been sponsoring these events and helping us out, and I think it’s time for the Indian community to also come forward and start contributing to [Brentwood]. It’s kind of a partnership.”
“I request all the people of Brentwood to definitely come forward, learn about Indian culture and learn about what Diwali is all about.” Jain said.
Ishita Khanna, 10th grade, Heritage High school
Photo by Ishita Khanna
The following is a selection of recent law enforcement activity:
ANTIOCH
November 22, 5:38 a.m. An assault was reported at the 600 block of Wilbur Avenue.
November 22, 6:42 a.m. A case of vehicle theft was reported at the 3100 block of Terrace View Avenue.
November 22, 7:03 a.m. A case of vehicle theft was reported at the 5000 block of Carbondale Way.
November 22, 8:57 a.m. A case of vehicle theft recovery was reported at the 4700 block of Matterhorn Court.
November 22, 9:45 a.m. A case of vehicle theft was reported at the 5100 block of Goleta Court.
November 22, 10:06 a.m. A suspicious vehicle was reported at Deerfield Drive and Buckskin Drive.
November 22, 11:30 a.m. A case of vehicle theft was reported at the 4400 block of Hidden Glen Drive.
November 22, 12:44 p.m. A case of commercial burglary was reported at the 3900 block of Delta Fair Boulevard.
November 22, 1:07 p.m. A case of vehicle burglary was reported at the 900 block of Minaker Drive.
November 22, 1:55 p.m. A case of petty theft was reported at the 5700 block of Lone Tree Way.
November 22, 3:38 p.m. A case of vehicle theft was reported at the 2400 block of L Street.
November 22, 3:46 p.m. A case of petty theft was reported at the 900 block of Glade Court.
November 22, 4:10 p.m. A case of vehicle theft was reported at the 600 block of Wilbur Avenue.
November 22, 5:25 p.m. A case of brandishing was reported at the 2200 block of Sycamore Drive.
November 22, 7:32 p.m. A case of an unwanted guest was reported at the 900 block of Fitzuren Road. An arrest was made.
November 22, 10:03 p.m. A collision was reported at the 2500 block of A Street.
November 23, 12:16 a.m. A case of petty theft was reported at the 1900 block of Auto Center Drive.
November 23, 4:04 a.m. A collision was reported at the 2700 block of Vista Court. Unknown injuries.
November 23, 5:56 a.m. A collision was reported at the 2900 block of Lone Tree Way. Unknown injuries.
November 23, 6:02 a.m. A vehicle theft was reported at the 100 block of Pleasant Place.
November 23, 6:59 a.m. A case of an assault was reported at the 2200 block of Sycamore Drive.
November 23, 10:05 a.m. A collision was reported at Lone Tree Way and State Route 4. Unknown Injuries.
November 23, 11:26 a.m. A case of identity theft was reported at the 1000 block of Claudia Court.
November 23, 12:02 p.m. A case of petty theft was reported at the 3400 block of Clayburn Road.
November 23, 12:07 p.m. A vehicle theft
was reported at the 3500 block of Gentrytown Drive.
November 23, 12:22 p.m. A case of brandishing was reported at the 4600 block of Deer Meadow Way.
November 23, 2:38 p.m. A case of petty theft was reported at the 3400 block of Hudson Court.
November 23, 2:48 p.m. A case of petty
theft was reported at the 2700 block of Hillcrest Avenue.
November 23, 4:05 p.m. A case of petty theft was reported at the 3400 block of Hillcrest Avenue.
November 23, 6:26 p.m. A collision was reported at the 600 block of Wilbur Avenue.
November 23, 9:41 p.m. A fight was reported at the 4300 block of Vagari Court.
theft was reported at the 4200 block of Buckskin Drive.
November 23, 3:02 p.m. An investigation occurred at Slatten Ranch Road.
November 23, 3:33 p.m. burglary was reported at the 4500 block of Country Hills Drive.
November 23, 4:02 p.m.
November 23, 10:25 p.m. A verbal dispute was reported at the 3500 block of Markley Creek Road.
November 23, 11:25 p.m. A case of vehicle theft was reported at the 3600 block of
For print, email your events to calendar@brentwoodpress.com one week prior to publication. For online, post your events for free on The Press Community Calendar www.thepress.net/calendar.
This Week’s Events
Saturday, November 30
Holiday Sip and Shop in Byron
The 9th Annual Holiday Sip and Shop will have a DJ, food trucks, local vendors, prizes and wine. This is a free family-friendly event from noon-5 p.m. at 3501 Byer Road in Byron. Children must be attended by their parents or guardians at all times. No outside alcohol is permitted, and no pets. For more information, visit www.camposfamilyvineyards.com or call 925-308-7963.
42nd Annual Brentwood Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting
The parade and tree lighting, hosted by the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce and the City of Brentwood, will be from 5-7 p.m. in downtown Brentwood. The theme this year is “Let it Glow.” The parade route will start at First and Birch streets, turn right at Oak Street and end at Fourth Street. Attendees may bring unwrapped toys and canned goods to donate to the Brentwood Community Chest. For more information, visit www.brentwoodchamber.com.
Sunday, December 1
Celebration Ringers
Handbell Concert
Hear seasoned handbell ringers perform yuletide favorites played by bells and chimes. Enjoy this magical musical experience at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,
Brentwood Regional Community Chest ANNOUNCES
Final Registration, Sort & Pack Dates
2250 Jeffery Way in Brentwood, from 2-3 p.m. Entry is free.
Wednesday, December 4
Working Wonders Holiday Fundraiser
Working Wonders, a nonprofit serving adults with developmental disabilities, will have a fundraiser with the Liberty Singers, gift baskets, auctions for both a Beach Cruiser bike and wine tasting for six, and more at Brentwood Craft Beer and Cider, 234 Oak St. in Brentwood from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Tickets are $50 per person, and include two drinks on tap and one food item. To purchase tickets or donate, Venmo to @workingwondersbrentwood. Put “tickets” and your name in the note.
Thursday, December 5
Oakley Christmas Tree Lighting
The City of Oakley is hosting its annual Christmas tree lighting starting at 5 p.m. at Civic Center Plaza, 3231 Main St. to kick off the holiday season with this family-friendly event held rain or shine. Admission and parking are free. Civic Center Plaza will be adorned with lights and decorations. There will be free cookies and cocoa, arts and crafts for children, live entertainment and more. Santa Claus will also be making a special visit. Entertainment will include performances by local organizations. The live tree is near the veterans memorial, and the lights will be turned on at about 6:45 p.m. For more information, call Alicia at 925-625-7041 or email oleary@ci.oakley.ca.us.
The last two registration dates are: December 6th from 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm & December 10th from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm
All registrations are held at the Brentwood Senior Center, 193 Griffith Lane Open to all Residents from Brentwood, Byron, Knightsen and Discovery Bay. ID and proof of residency (phone or water bill, vehicle registration) are required. BRCC Barrel Locations for non-perishable food (no glass please) and new unwrapped toys for ages 0 to 18 years old are at these fine businesses:
On the Horizon
Friday, December 6
Deer Valley High Choir Holiday Boutique
Presented by the Deer Valley High School Choir Club, the choir is hosting a performance and walk-about boutique with booths and wares by the school’s various clubs and programs. The night will include Christmas and holiday songs, hot cocoa, and handmade ornaments and works of art for sale. Tickets are $5 per person and includes a hot cocoa bar. Everything is cash only and will be at the north gym, 4700 Lone Tree Way in Antioch, from 6-8 p.m.
Friday, December 6 and
Tuesday, December 10
Brentwood Regional Community Chest Holiday Food and Toy Basket Registration
To register for a holiday food and toy basket, visit the Brentwood Senior Activity Center at 193 Griffith Lane in Brentwood during one of the following registration times: Dec. 6 from 2:30-3:30 p.m. or Dec. 10 from 5-6 p.m. Identification and proof of residency in Brentwood, Byron, Discovery Bay or Knightsen is required. Up to 500 families will be presented with a full holiday dinner, canned food and age-appropriate gifts for their children. For more information, visit www.brcchest.org.
Saturday, December 7
Breakfast with Santa Annual Fundraiser Enjoy a pancake breakfast and raffles at the Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St., while listening to performances by the Heritage High School Band. This annual fundraiser supports the music program at Heritage and includes performances by student musicians, including the Heritage High School Jazz Band and Drumline students. The seating times are 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Tickets are $18 per person. All ticket purchases are specific to a seating time. Children under 3 are admitted free with the purchase of an adult ticket. Reserved tables are available with the purchase of 10 tickets. Raffle drawings will be at the end of each time slot. This event is sponsored by Heritage Instrumental Music Boosters, the City of Brentwood, and the Rotary Club of Brentwood. Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/breakfast-withsanta-featuring-performances-by-heritage-highschool-band-tickets-1014926631877?aff=oddtd tcreator.
Victorian Holiday Market
The market will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Delta Community Presbyterian Church and adjoining school All God’s Children Elementary, 1900 Willow Lake Road, Discovery Bay. There will be crafts, boutique items, baked goods, a Christmas giving tree, a silent auction, hot beverages, picture taking with Santa and caroling. For more information or to make or donate gifts, contact Mary Anderson at mary. anderson43@gmail.com. All donations will benefit the All God’s Children Elementary building fund.
REGIONAL & LOCAL
News iN Brief
County seeks nominations for Youth Hall of Fame
The county Board of Supervisors is now accepting nominations for the 2025 Contra Costa County Youth Hall of Fame Awards. These awards are presented annually to outstanding Contra Costa County residents between 12 and 18 years old. Students will be recognized at the 31st Annual César E. Chávez Commemorative Celebration on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at 11 a.m. in Board chamber at 1025 Escobar St. in Martinez.
Residents can also join the event live on Contra Costa Television channels and the County’s website.
Nominees should demonstrate exemplary behavior in one of six categories:
• Good Samaritan: Goes out of their way to do for others without seeking recognition
• Volunteerism: Lends a helping hand for the good of the community; Gives their time and energy to a worthy cause or organization
• Teamwork: Works unselfishly for the good of the team
• Leadership and Civic Engagement: A natural leader who inspires others and works to make a difference in school and the community
• Perseverance: Has worked hard to overcome obstacles and achieve success
• Innovation and Empowerment: Lifts others up and inspires change through creative solutions For more information and the application form to nominate youth, https:// www.contracosta.ca.gov/FormCenter/ Contra-Costa-County-Cesar-E-ChavezYouth-42/2025-Contra-Costa-CountyYouth-Hall-of-F-380
Submit your nomination by completing the form and uploading it to the County website or emailing the application and your letter of recommendation to Lia Bristol at YouthNomination@dcd.cccounty.us.
Nominations must be received or postmarked by Feb. 25, 2025. Recipients will be recognized at the April 1, 2025, Supervisors’ César E. Chávez celebration.
Contra Costa Transportation Authority receives $1.6 million to improve road safety, prevent deaths, injuries
The Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) has been awarded $1.6 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All grant program to support safety enhancements for bicyclists and pedestrians through speed reduction, and safe system demonstration projects.
This is an initiative designed to enhance road safety and reduce serious injuries and fatalities across key high-risk areas, with a special focus on underserved communities, according to a press release.
The money will enable CCTA and grant partner cities — Richmond, San Pablo, Martinez, Pinole, San Ramon, and Orinda — to implement safety corridor plans, conduct speed reduction and traffic-controlling studies, and develop materials and method safety improvements to address critical traffic risks.
“We are honored to receive this grant, which allows CCTA to continue making strides towards safer, more equitable streets throughout Contra Costa County,” said CCTA Chairperson Newell Arnerich. “We are committed to maximizing its impact by focusing on critical safety improvements for our residents, and everyone who visits Contra Costa County. This effort represents a key step forward in our Vision Zero goal of eliminating traffic fatalities and serious injuries.”
“As the countywide health department, Contra Costa Health (CCH) applauds CCTA for their Safe Streets and Roads for All award,” said Dr. Ori Tzvieli, County Health Officer for Contra Costa County. “This project will prevent fatal and severe injuries in vulnerable communities, particularly among bicyclists and pedestrians. CCH looks forward to the project outcomes of enhanced mobility, health, and quality-of-life across the communities the project will touch.”
To submit a news item for this page, send it to editor@brentwoodpress.com
The initiative will emphasize a datadriven approach to identify high-risk areas and prioritize improvements. CCTA and its partners will use community engagement and technical studies to develop actionable plans that reduce trafficrelated injuries and promote safer travel for all, the press release stated.
“This grant represents a significant step forward in our mission to create a safer, more accessible transportation network for everyone in Contra Costa County,” said Tim Haile, Executive Director of CCTA. “By using data to analyze high-risk areas and underserved communities, we can make impactful changes that not only save lives but also enhance the quality of life for all residents. We are proud to lead this collaborative effort and remain committed to achieving our Vision Zero goals.”
Applications accepted for the State Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program
The California State Parks’ Office of Historic Preservation will begin accepting applications for the State Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program at 8 a.m. on Jan. 6, 2025.
Property owners can apply for the credit to rehabilitate and maintain their historical buildings and qualified residences, retaining Californians’ link to the past while keeping historic buildings and homes relevant in the present and beyond, according to a press release.
The tax credit program provides a 20% credit for qualified rehabilitation expenditures (or 25% credit if the structure meets specified criteria) for rehabilitation of a certified historic structure or a qualified residence, as provided, within the state to be allocated on a first-come-firstserved basis by the California Tax Credit Allocation Committee.
A total of $50 million is available.
In preparation for this program, the office is holding a virtual informational session on eligibility qualifications, completing the application and documentation requirements, with time allotted for questions and answers. The sessions will
be held on Tuesday, Dec. 3, from 5-6 p.m. Register at https://events.gcc.teams. microsoft.com/event/7d0e33d1-46164660-8611-fae6c0300521@06fd3d246564-4801-8226-b407c4d26b68?utm_ medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery Application instructions, forms, frequently asked questions and program regulations can be found on the Office of Historic Preservation’s State Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit website. Potential applicants are recommended to read the program information in advance of the informational sessions. For information about the tax credit program, contact Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer Jody L. Brown at Jody.L.Brown@parks.ca.gov.
Public input sought on Tri Delta Transit’s changing service
Tri Delta Transit’s service is changing, and they want public feedback and input on how to improve it.
There will be an in-person public meeting on the changes on Dec. 3 at Los Medanos College at 2700 E. Leland Road in the library, room L109, at 6:30 p.m.
Two different service alternatives have been developed that change bus routes, frequencies, and service hours –and public feedback on these alternatives will directly impact what Tri Delta Transit’s service will look like in the future.
Spanish interpretation will be available. Participation in the meeting will automatically enter you into an opportunity drawing for a $100 Home Depot gift card, and the first 20 attendees will receive a free tote bag.
Revitalize Tri Delta Transit is a comprehensive analysis of Tri Delta Transit’s bus service, taking an in-depth look at the existing transit system in East County to improve it for those who rely on it most.
If you are unable to make the public meeting, take this short survey at https:// www.research.net/r/RevitalizeTriDeltaTransitAlternatives by Dec. 8 to share your input and tell us what you think of the two alternatives. More information about the project is available on the project webpage at https://www.revitalizetridelta.com/.
Brentwood Lions announces winners in the International Peace Poster Contest
Coleane Fielle Pepito (Adams Middle School), Avery Scott (Bristow Middle School), Zoe Lobo (Edna Hill Middle School, and Sam Morris (Golden Hills Christian School) have taken the first step to become an internationally recognized artist by winning the local competition sponsored by the Brentwood Lions Club.
These posters are among more than 600,000 entries submitted worldwide in the annual Lions International Peace Poster Contest. Lions Clubs International is sponsoring the program to emphasize the importance of world peace to young people everywhere. This year’s contest theme is “Peace Without Limits.”
One international grand prize winner and 23 merit award winners will be selected. The grand prize includes a cash award of $5,000 and will be recognized at a special awards ceremony at Lions Day with the United Nations. The 23 merit award winners will each receive a certificate and a
cash award of $500. The judging was on Oct. 29 at the Brentwood Community Center. The judges were Rosalinda Grejsen, co-founder of Art Guild of the Delta, City of Brentwood Arts Commissioner, Nora TeStruth (member of the Livermore Art Association), and Mary Lamb of the Art Guild of the Delta.
Along with the other two judges, Grejsen said, “Thank you so much for the opportunity to view the Lions Club posters created by our vibrant youth! ... Your poster contest is so important to much of our youth who are focused on standards and academia sometimes without the balance amongst their peers for those with a screaming creative brain! Op-
Liberty High auto shop students show off vintage fire truck at Las Vegas show
Liberty High School Auto Shop took their 1961 American LaFrance fire truck to the Automotive Aftermarket Trade Show (SEMA) on Nov. 4-8 in Las Vegas to be displayed in an outdoor booth sponsored by Hot Shot’s Secret Oil Company.
The show featured vehicles and companies from around the world showing off their products and skills in the aftermarket automotive industry.
Mr. Dorr was able to take three students who helped work on the fire truck in
their Auto Shop classes to the event.
Mr. Dorr and the students spent the four days of the event talking with automotive industry representatives and meeting with business executives for mock interviews.
The students gained knowledge from the other vehicle owners, talking with them about their projects and seeing what it took to get to the place they are at in the automotive industry as either business owners or just auto enthusiasts.
portunities like these even up the playing field for those students...I would like express my delight and congratulations to each and every student who participated in this contest. The artwork displayed was dedicated to the spirit of its theme, Peace without Limits. It made our job of choosing the top 3 (at each school) difficult. The choices we made as judges,
do not discredit the work accomplished by any of the students. It was obvious there was a significant amount of hard work in the concept of the theme, portrayed so thoughtfully in all the posters presented. Thank you.”
For additional information about Lions Clubs International Peace Poster Contest, visit www. lionsclubs.org/peaceposter.
Left to right: 1st place-Coleane Fielle Pepito, Adams Middle School; 1st place-Avery Scott, Bristow Middle School; 1st place-Zoe Lobo, Edna Hills; 1st place-Sam Morris, Golden Hills.
Shopping local ‘benefits everyone’
Small Business Saturday, an annual day to support small businesses across the country, is on Nov. 30 this year, and local business-minded organizations have highlighted its importance to the community.
“Shopping local is so important as, it supports the local economy by keeping money within the community,” Brentwood Chamber of Commerce President Karri Reiser said. “This help to generate jobs and fosters economic growth. Small businesses also reinvest their earnings locally, which create a positive feedback loop that benefits everyone. Local businesses also tend to have closer relationships with their customers, offering a more personalized service. In short, shopping local strengthens the fabric of our community.”
Taking place the Saturday after Thanksgiving, Small Business Saturday was founded by American Express in 2010 and has been officially cosponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) since 2011, according to the latter’s website.
According to the SBA, consumers nationwide spent roughly $17 billion at
local businesses on Small Business Saturday in 2023. Since its inception, the annual event has led to people spending more than $200 billion at small businesses, the organization said.
“Shopping locally means investing back in our community,” Oakley Chamber of Commerce President Oleskii Chuiko said. “Every purchase supports jobs and ultimately our neighbors, boosts the local economy, and strengthens the unique character of Oakley. Small businesses are the heartbeat of the Delta. When they thrive, we all thrive!”
Locally, many small businesses are gearing up for Small Business Saturday.
“Local businesses typically experience a measurable uptick in traffic,” Reiser said. “Small Business Saturday has grown in popularity over the years, and many businesses offer special promotions, discounts, or events to attract customers, resulting in increased foot traffic and sales.”
Amy Tilley, the former executive director of the Downtown Business Coalition and currently a consultant with the organzation, said her group used to promote the day but instead chose to promote the
Taking place the Saturday after Thanksgiving, Small Business Saturday was founded by American Express in 2010 and has been cosponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) since 2011.
holiday season as opposed to just one day because ‘there was a lot going on on that one day (Small Business Saturday) with the Holiday Parade, Farmers Market and the tree lighting.”
This year’s Wine Walk on Saturday, Nov. 23, was part of the national Small Business Saturday promotions, even though it’s not on the actual day, Tilley said.
Starting a few years ago, the DBC promoted ‘Shop Small’ to last year-round and not just on one day, Tilley said. “It’s on our minds every day.”
She added that the small businesses downtown said the Small Business Saturday and associated promotions were “very effective. Those efforts do translate into sales for the businesses.”
How does Tilley know that? “They tell me,” she said.
For more information on Small Business Saturday, visit https://bit.ly/4eI1aJI
For more information about local businesses, visit https://www.brentwooddowntown.com/ www.brentwoodchamber. com, www.discoverybaychamber.com, and www.oakleychamber.org.
JAKE MENEZ
Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
How local shops can make the most of Small Business Saturday on Nov. 30
Sales and consumer holidays compete for shoppers’ attentions every year between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. Such events save consumers billions of dollars every year, but small business owners know it’s no small feat getting holiday shoppers to part with their hard-earned money.
Competing for holiday shoppers is hard work, but those efforts can provide a big payoff. If small business owners are concerned they can’t compete on Black Friday, they can always look to Small Business Saturday, which encourages holiday shoppers to patronize brick -and-mortar businesses that are small and local. Competition can still be steep on Small Business Saturday, but the following are some strategies business owners can employ to make the most of this unique day on the holiday season calendar.
Small business owners can embrace various strategies to make the most of Small Business Saturday.
Update your website.
The Small Business Administration recommends that small business owners consider a digital makeover for their websites. Even though Small Business Saturday encourages individuals to shop in person, modern consumers typically peruse online offerings first. Updating an outdated website or simply reviewing all
information, including product details, on the website to ensure it’s up to date can help small businesses make a strong first impression with holiday shoppers.
Promote Small
Business Saturday.
Though it’s been around for more than a decade, Small Business Saturday is not yet
the household name that Black Friday has become. Small business owners can drum up interest in Small Business Saturday by promoting the day on their social media channels. The SBA recommends business owners encourage shoppers to snap selfies and tag their businesses on their own social medial accounts, which can increase engagement and potentially attract new customers.
Sell and promote gift cards.
Gift cards help national retailers generate substantial revenue each year, and there’s no reason why small businesses can’t get their piece of the gift card pie. Gift cards remain wildly popular, as a recent survey from the National Retail Federation found that 54 percent of participants identified gift cards as the most-wanted gift of the 2022 holiday season. Small businesses can offer discounted gift cards on Small Business Saturday and promote those efforts on their websites and via social media.
Open early and close late.
Small Business Saturday, which occurs on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, is a great opportunity for small businesses to start the potentially lucrative holiday season off on the right foot. The SBA urges small businesses to open early and close late on Small Business Saturday so they can capitalize as much as possible on this popular retail holiday. – Courtesy of Metro Creative
Heritage basketball looks to ‘punch’ back
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Heritage head boys basketball coach Jeff Carter has a saying that he tells his team, specifically at halftime.
“You can either get punched in the face, or do the punching,” he says.
His line relates to the team’s philosophy in the first three minutes of the second half of games in terms of the Patriots setting the tone for the rest of a game. That philosophy seems to characterize this team entering the 2024-25 season.
The Patriots are looking to punch back, throw the first punch and, in short, punch often.
The team gave a preview of that philosophy in Tuesday night’s 68-32 win over Arroyo in the North Coast Section Foundation game, the team’s final preseason game before the regular-season on tip-off Monday in Walnut Creek at Northgate High.
Heritage rallied quickly after Arroyo opened the game on a 5-1 run in the opening minutes and outscored the Dons 26-5 in the second half, including shutting them out in the fourth quarter.
“We do our best to just make the first three minutes of the third quarter to just go off,” Carter explained. “This is your chance to either put them away or you can let them hang around, and they’ve gotten used to it.”
“We weren’t really used to winning last year,” said senior Jace Bernard, who scored a game-high 12 points in the win over Ar-
royo Tuesday night. “Coming back, we obviously have something to prove. “This thing is always that the first three minutes of the third quarter is what determines games. So, come out in those first three minutes, punch them in the face, and take it from there.”
That attitude was in Carter’s pocket, and was given to the team in small doses last year, although the players didn’t immediately respond to it. This year, it’s something that this team is taking to heart.
“I probably should have been a little more direct with the kids that I inherited last year,” Carter said about his return to the sidelines last year. “I didn’t want to be that coach, and just kind of let stuff happen their way. I didn’t think it would go over
well. And now that, after the fact, I should have tried to put that responsibility like ‘this is how it’s gonna work’ and you guys accept the responsibility. I did it this year.”
“It’s so different, night and day, for me as a coach, which is helpful to me to coach better and be more direct and get on them and they know it’s just me coaching them hard, and they like to be coached hard where, before, it wasn’t really like that.”
Heritage struggled last year to just nine wins, the first time in program history that the team finished with a single-digit win total, according to MaxPreps. However, despite struggling to win nine games, Heritage did find a thread of momentum to end the season, winning three of their last five games.
“We fought for everything we had last year,” Carter said .”Those nine victories were not easy. We fought tooth and nail just to get nine, because that’s just the team we had. I don’t think that’ll happen now at all.”
Aside from the more aggressive team philosophy, Heritage is now in its second year under Carter’s offensive system, something that has players like Bernard and fellow senior Lucas Daniel more confident and comfortable on the court. Carter’s philosophy is something that both seniors were familiar with under Carter when they played under him as freshmen.
“Last year was (Carter’s) first year back, so it was kind of new,” Bernard explained. “This year, we trust him more and just follow what he says.”
“I have more trust in the system. It’s like muscle memory,” Daniel said. (Last year), sometimes we went and did our own thing. This year, we got to listen to the coach more.”
Tuesday night’s win against the Dons has the Patriots confident entering Monday night’s season opener. However, Carter is making sure that the team keeps focused entering their first handful of games.
“I’m excited, but don’t want to overdo it,” Carter said. “I know what’s coming. It’s not going to be easy, but (Tuesday night’s win) builds confidence for us and for the players.”
“Who we’re playing is not a light team, so we’re going to find out really quick how much more we need to practice.”
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
Heritage football’s 2024 season and playoff form proof that ‘hard work pays off’
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Heritage head coach Dave Fogelstrom is taking one crucial lesson from last Friday’s North Coast Section semifinal loss at Acalanes and the 2024 season as a whole.
“Hard work pays off,” Fogelstrom said. “The lesson from this year is one that just reinforces what we have been preaching for the last five years. A team has to earn wins during the season by getting into the weight room starting in the offseason. You don’t get to just show up and be competitive in this league. You earn everything before the first kickoff takes place.”
“I want all of our players to be proud of getting back to the semifinals and elevating the team to a seven-win season. They set the standard again for the returning players.”
Heritage’s offseason work paid off for the program. The Patriots’ 7-5 record tied for their best overall record since 2017 despite finishing 2-3 in Bay Valley Athletic League play for the fourth straight year. But it’s worth noting that the 2017 and 2016 teams that went 8-4 overall also finished with losing records in league play.
Heritage started the season hot after losing their opener against Foothill and responded by winning five in a row before injuries struck the team. Senior quarterback Phillip Babbitt’s injury against Deer Valley in the BVAL
Heritage senior running back Mekhi Adanandus evades an Acalanes defender during the Patriots’ NCS playoff game at the Dons last Friday night in Lafayette.
league opener put a sudden halt to Heritage’s offense in the regular season, along with another injury to tight end Charlie Blaise. The Patriots went from averaging 34 points per game in the first six games to struggling to averaging just under a third of that (10.25 points per game) in the final four games of the regular season.
Losing Babbitt and senior JJ Kinnaird to injuries in the semifinals hurt Heritage as well.
”When you lose your starting quarterback in the second quarter, and then you lose a kid who’s one of the best players on the team when he gets knocked out, those are big losses,” Fogelstrom said after the game.
As the team struggled offensively, that opened the door for the defense to grab the spotlight, specifically in the secondary. Heritage’s secondary, led by senior Aidan Donaville, Chiemezie Nomeh, and Kinnaird were ball hawks all season, grabbing 22 interceptions – doubling their 2023 total.
Together, the team clinched their first home playoff game, and victory, since 2017.
“This team fought through lots of adversity and injuries to come out the other side closer to each other and fighting together to get a home playoff win in front of our student body, which hasn’t happened around here in a long time,” Fogelstrom said.
The Patriots will have a newer look to them across the board in 2025, especially after graduating 26 seniors –about half of the team. However, according to Fogelstrom, the 2024 campaign is a big step for the program going into next year.
“We are definitely building on the last five years, and the future is bright for Heritage football,” he said. “I know our guys will be ready to roll in 2025.”
Photo courtesy Jason Weed/MaxPreps
Heritage’s Jace Bernard drives by his defender in the Patriots boys basketball game against the Arroyo Dons in the North Coast Section Foundation game Tuesday night in Brentwood.
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
Heritage’s Samantha Buttitta finishes in 13th place at last weekend’s NCS Division 2 championship meet at Hayward High School.
Heritage’s Buttitta is school’s first female runner at State meet
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
For the first time in school history, Heritage’s cross-country team will have a female runner in the upcoming CIF State Championship meet.
Senior Samantha Buttitta’s 13thplace finish at last weekend’s North Coast Section Division 2 Championships at Hayward High School in Hayward not only helped propel the Patriots to a fifthplace finish, it also sent her to the CIF Championship this weekend, Nov. 30, at
Woodward Park in Fresno. Buttitta finished the 3-mile run with a time of 19:06.90, according to MileSplit and Diablo Timing. Her closest teammate, sophomore Brynn Faulkner, finished with a time of 20:48.50, placing her 35th out of 124 total runners. Junior Isabella Rinaldo finished at 21:08.20, sophomore Scarlett Jenkins-Rock finished in 21:11.60, freshman Akshitha Bathula finished in 21:31.60, sophomore Mylee McElmurry finished in 21:39.70, and senior Elliana Alderete rounded out the Patriots’ lineup in 22:27.30.
Photo courtesy of Heritage Athletics.
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“If your student is struggling, that could be a sign of something bigger that’s going on,” Rodriguez said.
Emily Justice, the Contra Costa Office of Education’s Tobacco Use Prevention Education coordinator, discussed the importance of vaping issues in schools, the large amounts of nicotine in even a single vaping canister, and the tobacco-free school policy, which offers students alternatives to suspension so that they can keep in contact with school-based support systems. She also outlined the Tobacco Use Prevention Education program’s pillars, including youth development, intervention and cessation of tobacco use, and family and community engagement.
“This is still an issue, even though we were on our way to a nicotine-free generation before vaping happened,” Justice said.
DEA community outreach specialist Akilah Johnson presented statistics on fentanyl’s overdose count and lethal dose, the quantity seized by the DEA, and its origins in Chinese raw materials smuggled into Mexico by cartels, who then sell the final product in the United States. There were more than 96,000 drug overdose deaths in the United States this year, with 67% of these being from fentanyl, which has a lethal dose of only two milligrams. The quantity seized by the DEA in 2023 –77,000 pills and 12,000 pounds of fentanyl
Badges
from page 1
powder – is “enough to kill every single American,” according to Johnson. The drug has its origins in Chinese raw materials smuggled into Mexico by cartels, who then sell the final product in the United States.
She explained that many of those who overdose do not know that they have taken fentanyl, usually being killed by counterfeit prescription medication laced with the deadly drug, the origin of the DEA antifentanyl slogan “One Pill Can Kill.”
The Contra Costa Meds Coalition’s Mariella Sanding spoke about the prevalence of fentanyl in Contra Costa County (usage is highest in Oakley, Antioch, Concord, San Pablo, and Richmond), risk factors for addiction (including family history, early first use, and peer pressure), and
said. “We all knew changing the uniforms was important to represent the fact we were no longer part of the sheriff’s office, but at that time there were literally so many other things that Chief Thorsen (our first chief) had to focus on to get us up and running the change of appearance simply did not land high enough on the priority list. As time would go on we knew changing our appearance had to happen at some point.”
from page 1
County Agricultural Extension at 3020 Second St. Bags and sand are at the north end of the parking lot next to the building. This station is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Byron Airport at 500 Eagle Court. Bags are in front of the pump house near the flagpole. This station is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Bethel Island Municipal Improvement District (BIMID):
• 7300 Bethel Island Road (entrance to BIMID Mitigation Site)
• 7235 Piper Road (entrance to BIMID Mitigation Site)
• 3085 Stone Road (behind Scout Hall)
• Locations have an orange traffic cone marking the locations. If there aren’t any sandbags, residents are encouraged to call the BIMID office at 925-6842210 and the locations will be restocked.
Brentwood: 2251 Elkins Way, Brentwood, next to the city’s Recycled Water Fill Station. Up to 10 free sandbags per resident. This station is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Antioch: 1201 W 4th Street, Antioch. Enter on N Street. Up to 20 free sandbags per resident.
A slide from the presentation shows the symptoms of a drug overdose.
how to recognize and treat an overdose with Narcan, It is administered nasally by pushing a pin on the spray device, with the person who has overdosed lying flat on their back and with their head tilted back to open their airway. Sanding then advised that the person caring for the one who has overdosed should call 911, administer CPR if they are trained, give a second Narcan dose if needed, and ensure that the person who has overdosed is in a rescue position: on their side with their knee bent and their hand supporting their head. Once the person is in the hospital, they need to be monitored for several hours.
Shaw gave a tearful personal testimony of how she lost two important people in her life, her younger brother Brian and her friend’s son Kai, to accidental fentanyl
The new Oakley police badges, new uniforms and vehicle remarking, which cost $33,885 from the city’s General Fund, see the department return to the seven-pointed star, designed in concert with the Ed Jones Badge Company in Berkeley. The silver badge features the letters “OPD” in the center. The badge refreshes the department’s uniforms, getting away from the yellow tones in the stripes and patches with the more traditional silver-based theme, the post said. “The totality of the new look of our uniform looks
overdoses. Neither of the two was addicted, and Kai did not even know that he had taken the drug, which was present in the counterfeit pill he purchased. Shaw expressed her regret that she had not done more to warn them of the dangers of fentanyl after she lost her brother, and resolved to spread the word by telling her story.
“I’m telling my story now, and if I can help just one family not feel what my family felt, it’s worth it,” Shaw said. “Don’t avoid difficult conversations with the people in your life, especially young people, and don’t wait until it’s too late.”
Finally, five high school students from Liberty Union schools answered questions about their experiences with drugs on campus. They mentioned that many students at their schools used drugs such as vapes in bathrooms, and that peer pressure was a major factor in students choosing use drugs.
After the speeches and presentations, 77 free Narcan kits were distributed to the 90 attendees, out of the 100 prepared for the event.
The Liberty Union High School District is considering holding a human trafficking awareness event at Freedom in spring 2025, Mashore said.
Oakley City Hall has also been asked by the Contra Costa Alcohol and Other Drugs Program chief to hold a fentanyl awareness event on Dec. 18 at 3231 Main St. The time is not yet determined.
more professional,” Oakley police said in their social media post. “That trait is reflective of our values and our commitment to the community of Oakley.”
“In short, the changing of our badge addresses two issues,” Beard explained. “The first one being establishing an identity that is unique from our contract city days as an extension of the Sheriff’s Office. The second one being if we were going to make a change we wanted to make it a move back towards tradition.”
The sandbag fill station located on Elkins Way in Brentwood is just one of several local stations allowing residents to try to prevent flooding of their property.
Way. Both are part of the Municipal Service Center that also includes the recycled water fill station and cardboard drop-off station.
Back in October, the county held a seminar on how residents can prepare their properties for the winter, including tips on how to properly clean gutters and ensure drainage that will reduce risk of flooding. The slide deck for the presentation can be found at https://bit.ly/4g4GPQ2
“Sandbags are an effective way to prevent or reduce flood water damage,’ the news release says. “Properly filled and placed sandbags can act as a barrier to divert moving water around, rather than through, buildings.”
Although residents are encouraged to use the sandbags as needed to prevent flooding on their own properties, local Public Works departments say they do not anticipate major flooding.
“We’re fortunate that we don’t have
Oakley: 450 Walnut Meadows Dr, Oakley, at the Ironhouse Sanitation District.
many concerns related to chronic flooding citywide, so we don’t anticipate needing them unless there is a major storm,” Brentwood’s Director of Public Works Casey Wichert said.
Wichert also said that while the city does not have specific guidelines for residents to follow if they are concerned about flooding, residents are welcome to come to the Municipal Service Center on Elkins Way and they will be “happy to assist” with any questions or needed help. The Public Works Department is at 2201 Elkins Way, while the sandbag station is at 2251 Elkins
