Brentwood police increase patrol as part of holiday safe-driving campaign
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
The Brentwood police department is increasing traffic patrols throughout the rest of the holidays in an effort to keep the roads safe for drivers.
Since last Thursday, Brentwood police added officers on patrol who are looking for drivers who are suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and drugs, an effort that’s also part of the national campaign “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.” The campaign and additional patrol end on New Year’s Day, according to local officials.
The added patrols come just after the department was awarded a $125,000 state grant before Thanksgiving to support traf-
fic safety throughout the holiday season.
“Our goal is to help everyone reach their destinations safely and enjoy a safe
A recent Brentwood police DUI checkpoint screened about 800 vehicles, issued 12 citations, arrested one driver on suspicion of DUI, and made two other arrests for other violations.
holiday season,” Brentwood police sergeant Mike Maanao said in a previous interview.
Local literacy programs benefit families with young readers
By Nicole Becchina Staff Writer
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, created by The Dollywood Foundation, is expanding to Northern California. The program, launched by Parton in 1995 in her home area of Sevier County, Tennessee, has since expanded to 21 locations throughout the U.S. It is also available in Canada, United Kingdom, Australia and the Republic of Ireland.
The program was launched to “foster an early love of reading and learning,” according to the Dollywood Foundation Imagination Library fact sheet.
The Imagination Library is one of two literacy programs in the county, the other being REading ADvantage, Inc., or READ.
Rachel King, Senior Regional Director of the Dollywood Foundation, is looking for local partners to help put all the pieces together to
King, senior regional director of the Dollywood Foundation, poses with a cutout of Dolly Parton.
launch the program in Contra Costa County. Once that is complete, regis-
“The grant funding from the State Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) supports efforts like these to enhance public safety. The main expectation tied to this funding is the demonstration of proactive measures, such as checkpoints and additional patrols, that directly contribute to reducing DUI incidents, traffic collisions, and related fatalities or injuries. We also submit regular reports to the OTS to ensure transparency and accountability for how the grant is utilized.”
Last Friday, Brentwood police held a DUI checkpoint at the intersection of Sand Creek Road and Highland Way. According to Maanao, the checkpoint screened approximately 800 vehicles,
see Safe-driving page 19A
New delivery schedule due to the holidays and city meetings
To our faithful Press subscribers, if you normally get your paper on Thursday, starting next week with the December 27 issue, and then again with the January 3 issue, the papers will be delivered on Friday afternoon.
Our e-editions will still be going live Thursday evening.
This is a permanent change so we can get more end-of-the-week news into the paper, and, more importantly, be able to do a better job following up on
news from City Council meetings because they happen on Tuesday evenings.
We apologize in advance for any inconvenience this may cause. We also want to thank you all for your continued support and readership!
Here’s wishing you all a very Merry Christmas, happy holidays and a healthy and prosperous new year.
Publisher & editor
Greg Robinson
Associate editor
Jake Menez
Photo courtesy Brentwood Police Department
Rachel
Photo by Nicole Becchina
Sutter Delta under new leadership
Brand wants to ensure access to healthcare for all
by Dawnmarie Fehr Correspondent
Health care management was not Trevor Brand’s initial career goal. As a college student, he was on the pre-medicine education track with plans to become an orthopedic surgeon, until one experience changed his mind.
“I watched a surgery and passed out,” Brand said. “So I switched tracks.” Now, he is the new CEO of Sutter Delta Medical Center in Antioch.
Brand stepped into his new role in late August, and said he hopes the public feels a changing of the guard.
“What I really want to do is provide an exceptional patient experience,” Brand said. “I want any patient that needs to use our services to get a wonderful experience and be taken care of to the best of our abilities.”
Brand came to East County from Atlanta to succeed former CEO Sherie Hickman, who retired earlier this year. He said he envisions highlighting the community aspect of his hospital by focusing on the needs of the community and how he
and his team can best serve the public.
“We are looking to expand our service offerings and grow in accordance with what our community needs the most,” Brand said. “I want Sutter Delta to be the place people think of first.”
Brand noted he doesn’t just want to offer world-class health care, but also wants to help the community “from an equity and quality standpoint” – he wants to ensure everyone has access to healthcare.
As CEO of Sutter Delta, Brand oversees operations for the company’s hospital in Antioch as well as its outpatient facilities in East County. Other healthcare options in the area include Kaiser and John Muir facilities, but Brand doesn’t see them as competition. Rather, he views them as partners in creating a healthy environment for all East County residents.
Brand comes to Sutter Health from City of Hope Atlanta, where he was chief operating officer. He managed operations across six states, oversaw $2 billion in annual revenue and increased hospital revenue by 13%. Brand focused on fostering a culture of trust, implementing “people plans” that enhanced employee retention and engagement and reduced turnover rates by 5% annually. He also initiated a capital planning process resulting in a $10 million equipment and facilities improvement plan. These accomplishments made him an attractive candidate for Sutter
Delta, according to the Sutter Delta press release about Brand
“Trevor Brand is an experienced and dynamic healthcare leader with a proven track record of excellence in hospital operations,” said Tosan Boyo, president of Sutter Health’s Greater East Bay Market. “I am thrilled to welcome him to Sutter Health to lead Sutter Delta Medical Center.”
Boyo said Brand will focus on strengthening and growing Sutter Delta’s community partnerships and physician relationships while ensuring the medical center continues to deliver the “highquality, connected and equitable patient
“ We are looking to expand our service offerings and grow in accordance with what our community needs the most. ”
Trevor Brand
care for which it is recognized.”
Experiences with family members who did not have access to high quality health care inspired him to work to work in hospital leadership and he obtained a master’s degree in healthcare administration from Georgia State University. He said the medical training he did receive before changing careers helps him partner with his provider team and understand the barriers they work against.
Brand settled his family in Brentwood last July, just in time for school to start. He lives with his wife and their two daughters and enjoys exploring East County with his family. They frequent local stores and enjoy breakfast at MJ’s Café in downtown Brentwood on the weekends. He is an avid sports fan – college basketball and football being his favorites – and said he looks forward to learning more about his new home.
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BRAND
New Brentwood Community Chorus conductor wants best performances from singers
By Nicole Becchina Staff Writer
Eli Souza has joined the Brentwood Community Chorus for his first season as the new director.
Souza is a teacher at Freedom High School, and has been the Choral Director at Freedom since 2001.
He also has filled many other roles at the school including the chairman of the Visual and Performing Arts Department, Vocal Director of musical productions, Performing Arts Theater Coordinator, and an Induction Mentor for new teachers.
He has been named Teacher of the year, all on top of designing and implementing Freedom’s piano lab and curriculum.
The Brentwood Community Chorus was previously conducted by Susan Stuart, who has retired. Accompanist Jennifer Krey served as the interim director until Souza joined the chorus.
Souza talked with the Press and shared insight into the Brentwood Community Chorus and his goals as he begins his first season as director.
What intrigued you about the position?
What intrigued me about the position was having an opportunity to work with singers of all ages. These people have joined the choir simply because they like to sing and enjoy performing for our community.
What is your top priority with the chorus?
My top priority with the chorus is to get the group to the highest level of performance that we are capable of, while making sure that everyone is having a great time doing it. The choir has been so fun to work with, and I’m sure that will continue into next season. What are you looking forward to?
I am truly looking forward to our concert on Saturday. The choir has been working very hard, and I can’t wait to walk out on stage with them to share their talents and spirit with our community. Beyond that, I am already looking ahead to next season! We have some ex-
“ We
want the group to be approachable to anyone that is interested in singing with us, and we welcome anyone that wants to come have a great time with a great group of people.
”
Eli Souza
citing new pieces to share, and I hope that many more singers will join us in January.
Did anyone in the choir give you advice on how to fill the retired director Susan Stuart’s shoes?
Conducting a choir that was formerly led by Sue Stuart is a daunting task. She is an icon not only in Brentwood, but in the choral community as a whole, and she built this choir into what it is today. She has always been supportive of me throughout my career, and I have learned much from her. I can only hope that the choir will continue to be something that our community is proud of, and our singers are proud to be a part of.
What do you like most about the position?
It always comes down to the people in the group. I joined the choir in the middle of the current season, and from Day 1 everyone has been nothing but welcoming, kind, and generous. They have been willing to try new things and are receptive to what I have to say, and they
see Chorus page 13A
SOUZA
Sparkling wines to make
The holidays are here, and with them come festive parties, family gatherings, and plenty of reasons to celebrate. What better way to mark these occasions than with a glass of sparkling wine?
With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Don’t worry, though—read on for some sparkling wine suggestions that will make your holiday toast truly sparkle. When it comes to sparkling wine, Champagne is the obvious choice.
True Champagne comes from the Champagne region of France and is made using the traditional method—secondary fermentation occurs in the bottle. While up to eight different grape varieties can be used in Champagne, the most common trio is a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier.
If you’re looking for something similar but perhaps more affordable, consider Crémant. These sparkling wines are made in other regions of France using the same traditional method. What sets Crémant apart is that the grape varieties reflect the unique terroir of each region. For example, you’ll find Cabernet Franc in Bordeaux, Gamay and Aligoté in Burgundy, and Chenin Blanc in Limoux.
Another crowd-pleasing option is Prosecco. Hailing from northeastern Italy, Prosecco is known for its light, fresh, and easy-drinking profile, making it a versatile companion to a variety of dishes. Made primarily from the Glera grape, Prosecco is best enjoyed from the steep hills of the Valdobbiadene and
Conegliano regions, where the wines are particularly vibrant.
For something with a bit more complexity, try a bottle of Franciacorta. This sparkling wine is made in Italy’s Lombardy region using the traditional method, and it carries an elegance that rivals Champagne. The primary grapes used are Chardonnay and Pinot Bianco, with occasional Pinot Noir.
Let’s not forget Spain, where you’ll find Cava, a sparkling wine made using the traditional method, just like Champagne. Cava is made with local grapes such as Macabeo, Xarel-lo, and Parellada. Cava is an affordable alternative to Champagne and makes for a festive addition to any celebration.
Sparkling wine, in its various forms, is a staple of celebrations this time of year.
Sparkling wines are made all over the world, and each region brings something unique to the table.
If you love Chenin Blanc, try a sparkling wine from South Africa. In Germany, look for Sekt made from Riesling. New Zealand produces delightful sparkling wines from Sauvignon Blanc.
No matter which sparkling wine you choose, you’re sure to make a lasting impression.There’s no need to overthink it — sparkling wines are perfect for kicking off any holiday gathering.
So, raise a glass and let the celebrations begin!
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Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
Uncorked: History by tHe Glass
Frank MaiUri
California to create highpaying career paths with and without four-year degrees
Effort helps veterans, state removes certain requirements for nearly 30,000 state jobs
Gov. Newsom says that traditional four-year degrees and non-college experiences both provide pathways to stable, wellpaid work. So he has introduced the final framework for the Master Plan for Career Education to strengthen career pathways, prioritize hands-on learning and real-life skills, and advance educational access and affordability. The plan will be supported by funding in the upcoming state budget, according to a press release from the governor’s office..
“Every Californian deserves the opportunity to build real-life skills and pursue a fulfilling career — including those that don’t require college degrees,” Newsom said in the press release. “California is working to ensure that every person has what they need to get a well-paying, long-lasting job so we can build an economy for the future that supports all families. We are proud to stand with our local partners in the north state to advance the Master Plan for Career Education, working collaboratively with our jobs-first economic blueprint, and create pathways toward new jobs while strengthening California’s regional economies to benefit local communities.”
The framework paves the way to help ensure that all Californians can navigate toward career-sustaining jobs. It stands as a testament to California’s commitment to equip all students and workers — regardless of background or circumstance — with the tools necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Career Passports
As part of the Master Plan, the state will establish Career Passports to help workers showcase their skills and experiences to potential employers. This tool is designed to make it easier for people, especially those without a four-year degree, to prove their qualifications and access good jobs.
The digital tool will combine traditional academic records, like college transcripts, with verified skills and credentials earned outside the classroom, such as military service, job training, or volunteer work. The concept provides a mechanism for workers to demonstrate knowledge and skills already learned. Employers will be able to use the Career Passport to see a clear, validated record of a person’s abilities, helping to shift hiring practices toward valuing skills over just degrees.
This builds on and supports the Governor’s efforts to create pathways to sustainable, well-paying careers across diverse sectors through earn and learn apprenticeships. Since 2019, over 190,000 Californians have completed state-registered apprenticeship programs, helping put the state on track to meet the Governor’s ambitious goal of
serving 500,000 earn and learn apprentices by 2029. To further this effort, California invested more than $221 million last fiscal year in apprenticeship initiatives designed to align workforce development with industry needs and expand apprenticeships into emerging, in-demand fields. By integrating apprenticeships and innovative tools like Career Passports, California is equipping workers with the credentials and skills they need to succeed while addressing workforce gaps and bolstering the economy.
By recognizing and validating prior learning, California is also efficiently closing workforce gaps, advance opportunity, support veterans, and strengthen the state’s economy.
College credit for veterans and workers
As part of a $100 million budget investment to implement key components of the Master Plan, including a Career Passport, Newsom is proposing scaling the state’s Credit for Prior Learning effort to make it easier for Californians — especially veterans and military members — to turn their real-world experience into college credit. For example, veterans could earn credit for skills learned during military training, or students who volunteered through a service corps could apply their experience toward their education once this effort is implemented.
New coordinating effort and strengthened local coordination
The framework also calls for the creation of a new statewide planning and coordinating collaborative to connect California’s education systems, workforce training providers, and employers while also strengthening regional partnerships. This body would evaluate economic changes and workforce needs, coordinate efforts to maximize funding and programs, and develop strategies to prepare students and workers for high-demand careers.
At the regional level, the plan emphasizes leveraging collaborative tables, engaging employers to identify critical skills, expanding work-based learning opportunities like paid internships, and simplifying funding processes to make resources more accessible. Together, these efforts aim to create seamless pathways from education to employment, ensuring Californians are equipped for stable, well-paying jobs and employers can find the skilled workers they need.
Removing barriers to state employment
Newsom also announced the state has now removed college degrees or other certain educational requirements for nearly 30,000 state jobs and a new goal to double that number next year.
The California Human Resources Department evaluates whether a college degree or other educational requirements are truly necessary for a position. The administration is proposing further simplifying civil service jobs by consolidating about 70 job classifications, modernizing descriptions, and removing restrictive qualifications.
MIKE’S ESTATE PLANNING MINUTE
By Michael J. Amthor, Esq.
FIVE REASONS TO PLAN YOUR ESTATE NOW
We can all come up with reasons to procrastinate and avoid doing what we should. However, there are many reasons to avoid procrastination when it comes to estate planning. Here are five of them:
1. Reduce estate tax and income tax Proper estate planning can reduce estate and income taxes for both you and your family. Depending on the size of your estate, proper planning could cut your taxes by half or more.
2. Name guardians for minor children In your absence, perhaps nothing is more important than who will watch over them. You can only nominate guardians for your minor children in a properly drawn Will.
3. Choose the timing and circumstances of distributions Deciding who should receive your assets is the easy part. Deciding how and when they should receive the assets is much more important and more challenging. Usually, leaving assets outright to your beneficiaries is not the best way. By holding the assets in trust, you can protect those assets from your beneficiaries’ creditors and future ex-spouses.
4. Make provisions for heirs with special needs Children and other loved ones with special needs require extra attention during life. Estate planning for them is no different. By planning effectively, you can help make sure your assets go for the use of the special needs beneficiary yet do not disqualify them from receiving government assistance such as Medicaid.
5. Choose who will make decisions for you if you are disabled.
People often think that estate planning only includes planning for what happens at your death. However, a major aspect of estate planning is addressing what is to happen in the event of your incapacity.
The reasons for doing estate planning are as numerous and as unique as we are as individuals. However, we all have one thing in common: we want to make sure that we and our families are taken care of in times of need. A qualified estate planning attorney can help you come up with a plan that achieves your goals, both personal and financial.
If you have questions on this or any other estate planning topic, call me at 925-516-4888. East County Family Law Group, 1181 Central Blvd., Suite A, Brentwood. www.eastcountyfamilylaw.com – Advertorial
County Animal Services reaches full capacity, expands its hours
Contra Costa Animal Services is expanding their hours by one day to help make visiting the animals there easier for potential adopters.
“We are completely full, and urgently need your help to find forever homes for the homeless animals of Contra Costa County,” the agency said in a press release. “To make this possible, we’re extending our hours this week. That makes our shelter open six days so our furry friends have even more chances to be adopted! You’re not just giving one pet a home; you’re helping us care for even more animals in need.”
Extended hours on Sunday from 10 a.m.- 1 p.m. at 1025 Escobar St. in Martinez are for adoptions only. No other services will be available, the release said.
Adoptions are free, but a $25 licensing fee may apply. All pets are microchipped, spay/neutered, and vaccinated before going home.
View all available pets at www.contracosta.ca.gov/2424/Available-Animals
For details about the dog foster program, visit www.contracosta.ca.gov/7846/ Dog-Foster-Program
For details about the cat/kitten fos-
ter program, visit www.contracosta. ca.gov/7848/CatKitten-Foster-Program
For more tips about pets, see our special section on page 1B
For print, email your events to calendar@brentwoodpress.com one week prior to publication. For online, post your events for free on The Press Community Calendar www.thepress.net/calendar.
This Week’s Events
Friday, December 20 and Saturday, December 21
Brentwood Regional Community Chest food giveaway
On Friday, from 4-9 p.m., food boxes will be packed in the Brentwood Elementary School cafeteria at 200 Griffith Lane. On Saturday from 7:30 a.m.-noon, food and toys will be distributed to families. Volunteers are needed for both days. There is no need to sign up ahead of time. Up to 500 families from Brentwood, Byron, Discovery Bay and Knightsen are presented with a full holiday dinner, canned food and age-appropriate presents for their children. The program is largely dependent on donations from individuals, families and businesses. For more detailed information about the entire event, visit http://www.brcchest.org/.
Friday, December 20 –
Sunday, December 22
The Nutcracker-The Ballet Company of East County
The Ballet Company of East County is celebrating 20 years of holiday tradition with its production of The Nutcracker at Liberty High School’s Allan E. Jones Performing Arts Theater, 850 Second St. in Brentwood, with five show times: Dec. 20 at 7 p.m.; Dec. 21 at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., and Dec. 22 at noon and 4 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at www.BrentwoodDance. com or by calling 925-240-5556.
On the Horizon
Sunday, December 29
Grand Chanukah Community Festival and Grand Menorah Lighting
Chabad of the Delta invites everyone to the Brentwood Community Center, at 35 Oak Street, at 4:30 p.m. There will be an LED light show, a giant menorah lighting with dignitaries, Chanukah music, Chanukah crafts, prizes, caricatures, and more. The first 50 children will receive a free fidget dreidel. RSVP for the event at jewishdelta.com/chanuka.
Friday, January 10 and Saturday, January 11
“Pippin” Musical at Heritage High School
Heritage High School’s senior theater students present the musical “Pippin,” both a humorous allegory about growing up and a dark tale of the danger of false appearances and empty promises. As told by a traveling troupe of actors led by the cunning and charming Leading Player, Pippin is the story of a young prince, heir to the throne, who is searching for his own “corner of the sky.” Pippin returns from university certain that he will find a fulfilling purpose in life. As encouraged by the Leading Player, Pippin dabbles in bloody battle, romantic entanglements, and savvy political maneuvers, only to discover that true happiness is more
complicated than he thought. Performances will be at Heritage High School, 101 American Avenue in Brentwood, at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10$14 and can be purchased at https://www. hhsrisingstars.net
Tuesday, January 21
Casino Bus Trip Presented by Oakley Senior Center
Roundtrip motorcoach transportation to the Hard Rock Casino, with water and snacks will be provided, and participants will play Bingo and 50/50 raffles on the bus en route to the casino. Tickets are $37 and include driver’s tip. Each person will receive a bonus of $25 case onto their players card, and Bingo players will receive an extra $10 bonus. Attendees must pay in advance to reserve a seat by Jan. 20. The bus will leave Oakley Senior Center around 8 a.m. and participants will spend five hours at the Hard Rock Casino to gamble and eat. The bus is expected to arrive home around 5:30 p.m. For details, call Allan at the Oakley Senior Center at 925-262-7223 or 925-265-3417.
Saturday, January 25
Discovery Bay State of the Town Gala
This year’s Gala will be a Kentucky Derby theme -- Talk Derby to Me. Guests are encouraged to dress up like they are going to the Derby. There will be music, dinner, horse races, and a live and silent auction from 5:30-10:30 p.m. at the Discovery Bay Golf and Country Club, 1475 Clubhouse Drive in Discovery Bay. Tickets will be available at www.discoverybaychamber.org. More details to be announced.
Sunday, February 2
Brentwood PAL King of the Grill
25th Anniversary
The barbecue competition will be from 12:30-3 p.m. on Chestnut Street in front of the Emporium in downtown Brentwood. Tickets can be purchased in advance for $50, or $60 at the door, and includes five tastes from five teams, plus salad, a roll and potato salad. Live music will follow.
Saturday, February 8
Third Annual Sweetheart Run/Walk Presented by the Rotary Club of Brentwood
Celebrate Valentine’s Day weekend with family and friends at Veterans Park, 3841 Balfour Road in Brentwood. From 9-11 a.m., rain or shine, enjoy a scenic 5K (3.1 miles) route and a festive atmosphere. Cross the finish line to a celebratory Champagne or sparkling cider toast. To register or for details, visit www.RunBrentwood. com. Registration is $39 per person. Packet pick-up location to be announced.
Ongoing Events
East County Rotary Club Meetings
Brentwood: The Brentwood Rotary Club meets weekly on Monday at noon at the Wedgewood Banquet Center at 100 Summerset Drive in Brentwood. For more information, visit https:// brentwoodrotaryclub.com/. Oakley: The Oakley
Rotary Club meets weekly on Thursday at 7:30 a.m. at Black Bear Diner, 3201 Main St. in Oakley. For more information, visit http:// rotaryclubofoakley.com. Antioch: The Antioch Rotary Club meets weekly on Thursday at noon at Lone Tree Golf Course & Event Center, 4800 Golf Course Road in Antioch. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/ antiochrotaryclub/. The Rotary Club of the Delta meets weekly on Wednesday at 7 a.m. at Denny’s, 4823 Lone Tree Way in Antioch. For more information, visit https://www.rotaryclubofthedelta.org/.
East County Lions Club Meetings
Brentwood: The Brentwood Lions Club meets the first Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St. in Brentwood. 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 a.m. at St. Anne’s Church for more information https://eclubhouse.org/sites/byron_delta/.
Oakley Senior Center
Food Distribution
The Oakley Senior Center at 215 Second St. gives out free food every Thursday from 1-2:30 p.m. Residents are asked to bring their own grocery bags. It also hosts a flea market, vendor fair, which includes trinkets, arts and crafts, collectibles and antiques, happens the first Saturday of every month from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Table space is $10 or 3 for $25. For details, call Jim Fridas at 925-813-1007 or the senior center at 925-626-7223. The center also offers bingo the every second Tuesday of the month. Doors open at noon and you must be 18 to play.
Hope House Food Distribution
The distributions are on Monday and Wednesdays from 9 a.m.-noon at 218 Pine St. in Brentwood.
IHMC Food Distribution
On the second and fourth Tuesdays of every month, the Contra Costa County Food Bank distributes fruits and vegetables from the parking lot at 500 Fairview Ave. from noon-1 p.m. St. Vincent de Paul also distributes food from the church hall every Friday from 9 a.m.-noon.
Soroptimists
Soroptimists is a global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment. We meet the first Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St. Marine Corps League, Delta Diablo Detachment 1155, monthly meeting
The Marine Corps League, Delta Diablo Detachment 1155, hosts its monthly meeting on the third Thursday of each month at 6:30
p.m. at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building, 757 First St., in Brentwood. The group is open to all active or retired U.S. Marines. Attendees are encouraged to bring a veteran friend, and spouses are always welcome. The meetings feature camaraderie, food, drink, conversation and updates on upcoming events. For more information, call 925-338-1775, email MCL1155@outlook.com or visit https://www. mcl1155.org/.
Delta Informal Gardeners
The group meets the fourth Monday of most months at the Brentwood Community Methodist Church at 809 Second St. at 7:30 p.m. On Monday, Aug. 26 Bonnie Dwyer from the UC Master Gardeners Program/Walnut Creek discusses preparing for and tending to fall gardens. For details, contact Roger Marman at 562-421-8036 or ramarman@gmail.com.
Widow and Widower Grief Support Group
A widow and widower grief support group from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church meets every Thursday from 5 to 6:15 p.m. at the church library at 500 Fairview Ave. in Brentwood. The group focuses on finding a new normal as attendees walk the grief trail with others experiencing the same loss. For more information, contact Mary Ann Smith at 925-240-1706 or Sandy Heinisch at 925-513-3412.
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 supported 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.
4-H Clubs
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. Knightsen: Knightsen 4H meets on the first Wednesday of each month from 5:30-7 p.m. at Knightsen Elementary School at 1923 Delta Road. Open to boys and girls ages 5-19 as well. For details, contact Rosa Sherwood or Maria Jehn at knightsen4h@ gmail.com. Brentwood: The club has monthly meetings the second Tuesday of each month with dinner at 6:30, and meeting at 7 p.m. The club is open to boys and girls ages 5-19. We meet at the Knightsen Farm Bureau Hall at 3020 2nd St. in Knightsen. For further details, email Angela at brentwood@contracosta4h.org.
REGIONAL & LOCAL
News iN Brief
Special shoulder patch to commemorate Sheriff’s office’s 175th birthday in 2025
Contra Costa County sheriff’s deputies will be wearing a special commemorative shoulder patch next year to celebrate thes 175th anniversary as a Sheriff’s Office.
The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff has nearly 1,200 sworn and professional employees who proudly provide a wide range public safety services to more than 1.1 million residents in the county and law enforcement agencies.
Contra Costa County has had 22 Sheriffs.
“ln recognition of our proud history as a law enforcement agency, I am authorizing uniformed staff to wear a special commemorative shoulder patch to recognize our 175 years of service,” said Sheriff David Livingston in a press release. “Not only do we continue deeply held traditions of the Office, but we also honor our long line of service and pay tribute to the many members of the Office who came before us.”
State approves $1.4 billion plan to build thousands more vehicle chargers, boost ZEV infrastructure
Thousands more electric vehicle chargers are coming to California.
The California Energy Commission has approved a $1.4 billion investment plan that accelerates progress on the state’s electric vehicle charging and hydrogen refueling goals. These investments will help deploy infrastructure for light, medium, and heavy-duty zero-emission vehicles across California, expanding the most extensive charging and hydrogen refueling network in the country, according to a press release from Gov. Newsom’s office.
The plan details how the commission’s Clean Transportation Program will
spend $1.4 billion over the next four years, with at least 50% targeted to benefit lowerincome areas. The funding is part of Newsom’s California Climate Commitment, which includes more than $10 billion for zero-emission vehicles and zero-emission vehicle infrastructure. The state has also received billions from the Biden-Harris administration for clean transportation.
Building zero-emission vehicle chargers is part of Newsom’s build more, faster agenda delivering infrastructure upgrades across the state, the press release states.
The funds will pay for nearly 17,000 new chargers for passenger vehicles statewide on top of the 152,000 public and shared private chargers. Combined with previous investment plans, funding from the federal government, electric utilities and other programs, the state expects to reach 250,000 chargers in the next few years.
In addition to the public network, the state estimates that more than 500,000 private home chargers are installed statewide.
The funds will become available over the next four years and distributed to projects through competitive grants. Projects include direct incentive and rebate programs for businesses, non-profit organizations, tribes and public agencies.
Newsom said this initiative matters for Californians because the Clean Transportation Program, created in 2007, is one of the first transportation-focused funding efforts established to help advance the state’s climate change policies. To date, $2.3 billion has been invested in projects supporting zero-emission vehicle infrastructure, alternative fuels and advanced vehicle technologies, providing the following benefits:
• Community benefits: 63% of funding awarded in low-income communities.
• Chargers installed: Nearly 34,700 electric vehicle chargers installed or planned.
• Hydrogen stations: 96 public hydrogen fueling stations installed or planned.
• Car charging incentives: Creation of the California Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Project to provide streamlined incentives for electric vehicle chargers.
• Truck and bus incentives: $100 million to 120 projects awarded for truck and bus charging and refueling through the Energy Infrastructure Incentives for Zero-Emission Commercial Vehicles Project.
• Zero-emission school buses: 2,300 clean school buses funded, with 1,100 zero-emission vehicle school buses on the road.
• Manufacturing: 40 zero-emission vehicle and zero-emission vehiclerelated manufacturing projects that support in-state economic growth.
• Job training: Workforce training for more than 32,000 trainees and trainers, helping prepare workers for the clean transportation economy.
To submit a news item for this page, send it to editor@brentwoodpress.com
Sacramento area to host X Games for the next 3 years, boost economy
California’s capitol region will welcome the 30th summer X Games in 2025, a competition in extreme sports that draws professional athletes from around the world.
What some consider the Olympics of extreme sports, the summer X Games features competitions in professional skateboarding, BMX, and Moto X. The games will host over 100 world-class athletes competing for more than $1 million in prize money, according to press release from Gov. Newsom’s office.
The games will take place at Sacramento’s Cal Expo from Aug. 22-24, 2025. The selection of California’s capital for the next three years of X Games will boost tourism in the Sacramento region, with an estimated 35,000 attendees anticipated daily.
California has the largest market share of tourism in the nation, the press release stated. Travel spending in the state reached an all-time high of $150.4 billion last year, surpassing the record $144.9 billion spent in 2019 – spending that is 3.8% higher than 2019 and 5.6% higher than 2022.
The new travel-spending record generated $12.7 billion in state and local tax revenue by visitors in 2023, marking a 3% increase over 2019. Tourism created 64,900 new jobs in 2023, bringing total industry employment to 1,155,000, the release stated.
State secures federal approval, support to help people with behavioral health problems
The Biden administration has approved California’s BH-CONNECT Initiative, which allows California to provide eligible people receiving behavioral health treatment up to 6 months of transitional rent to support their recovery, as well as initiates a new $1.9 billion behavioral health workforce initiative.
“Californians will soon have more support and more people providing support
thanks to the approval by the Biden-Harris administration of California’s innovative efforts to transform our state’s mental health system for better care and a more accountable system in every community,” Gov. Newsom said in a press release.
Mental illnesses are among the most common health conditions faced by Californians, with nearly 1 in 26 residents experiencing serious mental illnesses. In 2022, two-thirds of adults with mental illness did not receive treatment. These individuals have historically had problems when leaving treatment settings or while being homeless, and stand the most to gain in terms of recovery and finding housing by accessing services provided through BH-CONNECT, or Behavioral Health Community-Based Organized Networks of Equitable Care and Treatment. This initiative will help Medi-Cal members — of which there are more than 14 million Californians — with behavioral health needs, the release said.
BH-CONNECT represents a shift in how California addresses behavioral health care. In partnership with county behavioral health plans, BH-CONNECT strengthens California’s behavioral health workforce and fills critical service gaps to create a more equitable and effective system of care — including up to $5 billion in federal investments. Key features include:
• Workforce investments: Supports a $1.9 billion robust and diverse behavioral health workforce initiative that includes scholarships, loan repayment programs, recruitment incentives, residency and fellowship expansions, and professional development.
• Transitional rent assistance: Provides up to six months of rental support, through a member’s Managed Care Plan, for eligible Medi-Cal members transitioning from certain health care facilities, congregate settings, or homelessness. This housing support is crucial in stabilizing individuals during vulnerable periods, significantly reducing the risk of returning to institutional care or experiencing homelessness.
• Support for foster children and youth: Includes funding to improve access and outcomes for youth involved in the child welfare system who receive specialty mental health services.
• Incentives for counties: Supports a $1.9 billion access, reform, and outcomes incentive program to reward county behavioral health plans for improving access, reducing disparities, and strengthening behavioral health quality improvement.
• Community transition in-reach services: Supports members transitioning from long-term institutional stays to ensure continuity of care and successful reintegration into the community.
• Short-term inpatient psychiatric care: Provides new flexibility for federal Medi-Cal funding for short-term mental health care provided in inpatient and residential treatment settings that meet the federal institution for mental diseases criteria.
StoreLocal Self Storage donates $500 to local charity
Kim Ridgeway, manager of StoreLocal Self Storage (formerly Brentwood Self Storage), posed with board members from the Brentwood Regional Community Chest while dropping off a donation of $500 to help the organization in their efforts to assist the needy. The Brentwood Regional Community Chest is preparing to package toys and food for those in need to distribute this weekend at Brentwood Elementary School on Griffith Lane.
Pictured from left to right: BRCC board member Jane Rodriguez, Ridgeway, BRCC board members Dirk Zeigler, Dana Eaton and Lill Pierce.
Grand re-opening of Rancho Vintage Mall Co-op
The City of Oakley and the Oakley Chamber of Commerce celebrated the grand re-opening last week of the newly remodeled exterior of the Rancho Vintage Mall Co-op at 5685 Main St.
Enter to win The Press Holiday photo contests!
The deadline is Dec. 24. Winners will be chosen by The Press staff, and be revealed in The Press on Jan. 3, 2025
Naughty or Nice
While Santa Clause makes most kids happy, there are some who just don’t want any of it. Share your special photo for a chance to win a prize! The “nice” photos will go into the Nice List, and the “naughty” photos (crying, temper tantrums, etc.) will go into the Naughty List. Photos will appear in print and each category will have its own winner.
Submit photo(s) of your kids - or pets - with Santa to: www.thepress.net/site/forms/contest_forms/ scared_santa_photos_contest/scared_santa_photo_contest/
The City of Oakley contributed $50,000 to the almost $95,000 remodel through their façade grant program. For more information on Oakley’s business programs, visit www. opportunityoakley.com
Holiday Home Decorating
Do your neighbors need sunglasses? Does the inside look like Mrs. Clause lives there? If so, here’s your opportunity to share your photos for a chance to win a prize!
Submit photo(s) of your home - inside or out: www.thepress.net/site/forms/contest_forms/ christmas_home_decorating_contest/christmas_decorating_contest
Photo by Isaac Arriaga
Photo courtesy of Lill Pierce
From left to right: Anissa Williams, outgoing mayor; Vicky Smith, owner of Rancho Co-op; Shannon Shaw, new mayor; Cyndee Heer, Chamber board member; Oleksii Chuko, Chamber president.
‘The right one for me... right one for the program’
Heritage’s Fogelstrom explains his decision to leave football program
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Next fall, Dave Fogelstrom will do something that he hasn’t done in the last three decades – not be on the sideline, coaching a Heritage, or any, football team.
Both Fogelstrom and Heritage High School announced last Thursday that he will be stepping down as the program’s head coach after five seasons due to needing a hip replacement early next year.
”I just felt like there would be no way I could continue to put in the time and be fully present at workouts with this surgery and the physical therapy required post-surgery,” Fogelstrom said in the press release. “I cannot be the coach this school needs for the next year with my surgery.”
Fogelstrom explains that because of the surgery, he would not be able to work with the program the same way he has since he took over prior to the 2020 season.
“The Heritage football head coaching job requires 11 months out of the year and probably more than that,” he said. “At Heritage, we don’t get three or four star transfers each year, so we have to build competitive teams through the offseason.
“That off-season training demands a head coach who is there every single day and brings energy, and devotes a massive amount of time to players, both of which I will be in short supply of during my rehab and physical therapy post-surgery. If I can’t be ‘All in,’ which is our mantra, then I need to pass it to someone else who can be there for the kids.”
His decision to step down started back in October, as his current hip condition continued to worsen.
“I kept hoping I could find a resolution quickly to my hip issue,” he explained. “It became clear just after the season ended that this process was going to take many months and it was then that I started to evaluate my future.”
“Making this type of decision is always hard, but it is the right one for me and the right one for the program at this point.”
Fogelstrom led the Patriots to their second-straight North Coast Section semi-final in 2024, where the team lost at Acalanes, who went on to win the NCS Division 3 title against Campolindo the week after.
Heritage’s 7-5 overall record last season is the best the program has posted not only in the Fogelstrom era, but also since 2017, according to MaxPreps, and one win shy of the program’s best 8-4 record in 2016.
He had this year’s team on track to potentially tie the team’s record of eight wins in a single season. However, after the team won five in a row following an opening-week loss against Foothill, injuries and inconsistent play saw Heritage lose four in a row to end the regular season. Heritage also had chances to defeat Liberty in the Brentwood Bowl at home. But the Patriots were unable to find a game-tying score in a 14-7 defeat at home. The seven-point loss is the third time in his five years that Fogelstrom led the Patriots to within single
digits of the Lions in the Brentwood Bowl, a far cry from the blowouts that Heritage suffered before he took over the program.
“We came close several times to winning the Brentwood Bowl, but never closed the deal,” Fogelstrom explained. “I think the average loss was by 45 points or more in the two years prior to my getting the job. So in one sense, that game is now a true competitive rivalry. Anyone playing Heritage now has to prepare for a physical game and it is definitely not a game to just ‘check off’ as a win on the schedule.”
Since he took over in the 2020-21 COVID season, Fogelstrom led the Patriots to a 27-23 record with back-to-back playoff appearances in the 2023 and 2024 seasons. He led the team to its first home playoff win this season when the Patriots defeated the James Logan Colts.
He also helped some of the program’s top players prepare to play football at the college level, most notably wide receiver Brooks Davis, now at the University of Montana.
“We are going to miss coach Fogelstrom’s incredible leadership in our football program,” Heritage athletic director Nate Smith said in the press release. “HIs attention to detail has been second to none, his weekly communication in my office made each season a joy to be a part of, and the way in which he got the absolute best results out of his athletes is a testament to his ability as both a coach and a teacher.”
Fogelstrom said that he will continue to teach at Heritage and will continue to coach the boys golf team during his recovery due to the short golf season and his ability to coach from the golf cart if it comes to it.
He also isn’t ruling out a possible return to the sideline in the future. But for now, Fogelstrom is looking forward to one thing in his first season away from football – time with family.
“I never close any doors in life,” he explained. “Right now I am focused on my health in 2025 and spending a fall for the first time in 30 years of marriage where my wife and I can spend more time together. She has been by my side since 1994, and she’s earned a break from football for a year.”
“But you never know about 2026.”
Patriot boys back to .500 with win over Freedom
By Juan Cebreiros Correspondent
Heritage’s boys basketball team got back to .500 with their first win in Bay Valley Athletic League play, defeating the Freedom Falcons 67-56 at home Tuesday night.
Heritage improves to 3-3 while Freedom drops to 2-7.
“We played with energy and effort, which was great. It was exactly what we wanted to do,” Heritage head coach Jeff Carter said. “We wanted to get inside and play with a big man and play with energy and effort, and I think we did great at it.”
Patriots guard Brady Lockrem scored a team-high 19 points, 17 in the first half. Lockrem played all 32 minutes in the Heritage win, and played a big part in the Patriots building a 22-14 lead by the end of the first quarter with two three-point-play conversions.
“It was really big,” Carter said of Lockrem’s performance. “We need him in the game because he facilitates pretty well and
he’s a threat scoring-wise.”
Heritage played what Carter said was one of the better first quarters the team has had in the young season. However, in the second quarter Freedom went on a 12-6 run to pull within two points at 28-26.
Carter said he sees the team’s improvement from last season to this but adds the team still has some ways to go in terms of developing.
Heritage’s Nate Grube shoots a three-pointer during the Patriots boys basketball game against the Freedom Falcons Tuesday night in Brentwood.
Photo by Juan Cebreiros
“I would love to have all of them playing at a high level, but we’ve got four seniors and a bunch of juniors that have never been on this court at the varsity level,” Carter said. “They’re getting there. I’m happy that they’re playing that hard. They battle to the end, and that’s way better than we were last year.”
Heritage’s inexperience showed once again Tuesday night as they struggled to close out the win against the Falcons. A 50-39 Pa-
triot lead midway through the third quarter was trimmed to just two points at 53-51 during the final quarter.
The team made just four out of nine free throws in the final quarter, and Carter said those misses played a major part in Heritage struggling to secure the win.
“We’ve got to learn how to put teams away instead of letting them back in,” Carter said. “If we make a few free throws in the last three to four minutes, we’re fine and there’s no panic whatsoever.”
Heritage’s schedule gets tough for the rest of December as the team heads to Dublin High this Thursday for the Don Nelson Classic tournament. Then, the day after Christmas they head to Marin Catholic for the Don Bambauer Memorial Holiday Classic. Heritage will play three games in each tournament
“If we win two or three games, that’s a good tournament for us,” Carter said. “Those teams are top notch. I think we’ll pull out two, minimum. Maybe we squeeze a third, that’d be great.”
Heritage’s Dave Fogelstrom (right) stands with senior quarterback Austin Peters prior to a game during the regular season.
Photo by Jennifer Rhinebeck
Heritage girls soccer hopes win at Freedom sparks momentum for
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Heritage’s girls soccer team picked up a big win Tuesday night, defeating Freedom 3-1. It was not only their first Bay Valley Athletic League victory, but also their first win of the season following a three-match losing streak to open the new campaign.
The Patriots, and head coach Sienna Zabroski, are now looking to build off of this win heading into their final match before the holiday break, Friday night against Alhambra at home.
“I think we’re finally starting to trust each other,” Zabroski said. “Every year as a new team, especially our returners, they’re always hesitant of how the other players can play. I think with this fourth game under our belt, we started to trust each other and just play Heritage soccer.”
The slow and winless start by the Patriots entering Tuesday night followed a similar start by the team last year as they opened last season winless in their first five matches before a win against Livermore sparked an 11-match win streak for the rest of the season.
Much like then, Heritage has struggled through the beginning of the season, scoring only a pair of goals in their first three matches, while conceding seven.
Heritage’s 3-1 win was the first time this season that the Patriots scored multiple goals in a match, and they outscored their entire offensive output through the first three matches in the win, something that Zabroski explained sparked the confidence for the team.
“(The result) was really good for us,” Zabroski said. “The girls’ momentum going forward is going to be the same as it was tonight. They’re all excited about it, and they even spoke up after the game saying that this is the first game that they truly felt connected (on the field).”
“It helps us gain our confidence,” senior Baylee Gregerson said. “We needed to bring this energy today since it’s been a little
Heritage’s girls soccer team surrounds senior Isabella Tognolini after her brace helps the Patriots defeat Freedom Tuesday night in Oakley.
low the last couple of games, and this definitely helped us feel more confident.”
Heritage battled Freedom throughout the first half, but missed out on scoring the opening goal on a few occasions. Junior Chantal Esquivas had chances to put Heritage ahead early in the 16th minute, but that shot went wide. Then her chance just seven minutes later was saved by Falcons senior goalkeeper Lauren Zamora, who made a diving stop to keep the match scoreless.
Heritage created several more opportunities in the final minutes of the first half, but none could find the back of the net.
Freedom, on the other hand, pulled ahead to open the second half. Freshman Mya Morales scored on a header off of
a corner kick by fellow freshman Mikala Dominguez in the 47th minute, giving the Falcons a 1-0 lead.
Heritage’s Isabella Tognolini almost pulled the Patriots right back in the 49th minute, but her shot on goal went just wide. She made up for the miss in the 55th minute, finding the back of the net on a shot at Zamora’s left post to tie the match at 1-1.
The Patriots took over from there. Tognolini put Heritage ahead 2-1 in the 73rd minute, beating Zamora at her near right post on a low shot into the back of the net, then the reigning BVAL MVP Gregerson put the match away in the 78th minute, finishing on a shot right in front of goal.
Gregerson said that the team’s adjustment at halftime of getting attackers forward sparked the Patriots’ three-goal half.
“We were focusing on getting forward, getting the ball to our (striker) and then off to the attacking midfielders, which seemed to help,” she said. It gave us the two goals that we got, and it definitely helped us get more people in the box.”
Heritage (1-3-0, 1-0 BVAL) hosts Alhambra (2-1-0) Friday at 7 p.m. in the team’s final non-league match of the season and the team’s final match before the holiday break.
To view slideshow, visit www.thepress. net/multimedia
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
Coaches can highlight their star player
The Press, in collaboration with Train Smarter + Harder gym, kicked off a new Athlete of the Week series in the Dec. 13 edition.
The new bi-weekly series is an opportunity to highlight local athletes and their accomplishments. The Press is inviting coaches, athletic directors and trainers to let us know about local athletes who they feel deserve recognition.
To be eligible to be featured in our Athlete of the Week series, the athlete must be high school age, but they may be a participant in either a high school sport or a recreational league. Those who submit a potential candidate should tell us their relationship with the athlete – coach, trainer, former coach, etc. – and provide a short explanation (three or four sentences) as to why they have chosen to nominate their athlete.
A photo must also be provided; action shots are preferred. All submissions can be sent to ads@brentwoodpress com with the subject line “Athlete of the Week.” Featured athletes will receive three compli-
mentary sports performance training sessions, courtesy of Train Smarter + Harder.
Train Smarter + Harder is a family-owned gym at 3341 Walnut Blvd. in Brentwood that delivers “lifechanging results to our members by helping them gain more energy, move better, lose weight, or live a healthier life,” as described on their website. Each training session is led by a qualified coach who gives athletes personal coaching from start to finish to ensure they remain safe and motivated while training. For more information, visit www trainsmarterandharder com
Brentwood Barnes & Noble opening delayed to Jan. 29
By Jake Menez Staff Writer
The Barnes & Noble bookstore in the Streets of Brentwood shopping center has been pushed back again due to construction delays. The new grand opening is scheduled for Jan. 29, 2025.
“In order to make sure we have the best store to better serve our East Bay community, we have delayed our Grand Opening to late January,” a post on the store’s Facebook page reads. “Rest assured our other locations will be ready to help serve you for all your Holiday shopping needs.”
According to the post, the staff of the Brentwood store, formerly at the now-closed Slatten Ranch location in Antioch, are working at other Barnes & Noble stores as the Brentwood one is under construction. The new location was originally intended to open in November before previous construction delays pushed it back to December.
In response to a comment asking why there were so many delays, the bookseller replied that construction can be “unpredictable,” and that they wanted to be sure the store was perfect before reopening to the public.
Community
even laugh at some of my jokes! They truly have been a joy to work with, and I’m looking forward to doing that more in the future.
Is there a difference between teaching singers with the most experience and the least experience? If so, what is that difference?
A community choir is fun because of the range of singing experience our members have. We have singers that are classically trained, and we have others that have never sung in a choir before and that’s great! Having that wide spectrum of experience is what makes our group
special, and we all learn from each other. Taking those varied individual voice types and making them into a single, unified choral sound is what makes being a choir director fun.
How would you encourage people interested in joining the Community Chorus to join?
One of my goals for next season is to grow the choir. We want the group to be approachable to anyone that is interested in singing with us, and we welcome anyone that wants to come have a great time with a great group of people. I know that anyone who decides to join us will have the same experience that I have had. Hav-
ing the opportunity to perform with such a loving group of people, all while doing some good for the community is a great thing.
The Brentwood Community Chorus meets for rehearsals every Tuesday from 7-9 p.m at Brentwood Community United Methodist Church at 809 Second St. A musical background is not required to join, as the chorus consists of members from a wide range of ages and backgrounds. To learn more about joining the Brentwood Community Chorus, visit www.brentwoodcommunitychorus.com. To comment, visit www.thepress.net
Sparrow is expanding its presence in the Bay Area. Founded by Bastian Barsoe, Sparrow is a student-exclusive platform designed to connect high school and college students with local families and small businesses for flexible, community-sourced work opportunities. With more than 2,000 students already signed up, the platform supports students who seek financial independence as well as local families or businesses in need of reliable assistance.
Local families and small businesses can now easily connect with students for a range of tasks, from babysitting, tutoring, and pet sitting to finding skilled help for business operations. This innovative approach strengthens community ties while providing valuable opportunities for students.
Our goal is to help students succeed academically while giving them the tools to thrive financially and professionally. By connecting students with local families and small businesses, we ensure they have access to flexible, meaningful work opportunities that fit their busy schedules.”
Sparrow’s mission is to empower students by enabling them to earn money and gain valuable work experience without compromising their studies.
To learn more about Findsparrow or to sign up and connect with your local students, visit findsparrow.com.
Bastian
Barsoe Founder of Sparrow
Chorus from page 3A
Submitted photo
The Brentwood
Chorus performs at the Winter in Flight concert on Dec. 14 at Bristow Middle School.
This is the interior of the new Barnes & Noble bookstore at the Streets of Brentwood. The opening has been delayed to Jan. 29.
Photo courtesy of Barnes & Noble
Diane Alexander
Kevin Allen
Miriam Bell
Jerry &Mary Black*
Patricia Blumen*
Jamie Bolt*
Mark Branson
Marsha Brown
Vince Buchanan
Bethi Carver Gibb*
Gary Chambers
Janet Clarke*
Robert Conner
John Cooper
Kimberly Cope
Donna Corrigan
Denise Cosgrove* DF
Rosa Daley
Albert Del Grande
Debra Doherty*
John Dodson
Michael Echeverria*
Larry Fancey
Irene San Filippo
Timothy Finnigan
David Foster
Gloria Foster*
Jack Gaughn*
David Goodwin
Carol Grossman
Deena Gruver*
Carol Guadagni
April Guarascio
Rinaldo Hamade*
Bill Harms
Geraldine Hogan
Marianne Hughlett
Udo Jaquet
Nigel Jesson*
Martha
Karamanougian
David Kerley
Jess Kerlin*
Elaine Kilpatrick
Lauren Kovaleff
Erin Lamb*
Pat & Mary Lamb
Cathy Little*
Carlee Lopez
Karen Mann
Janet McCarthy
Jay McLaughlin
Jamie McManus
Kryssie Mingst*
Lawrence Moglia*
Elizabeth Montgomery
Shani Moore*
Rick Nelson
Brian Oftedal
Ken Olson
Sharon Ouka
Gary Pollock
Sue Pretzer
Leonard Price
Gloria Rodda
Annette Rodrigues
Lourdes Rosado-Ford
Kitten Russell
Gary Sands
Irene San Filippo
Gwendolyn Schmid
Craig Schoenthale
Jorge Segovia
Tim & Cindy Shehorn
Donald Smith*
Wayne Steffen
Birgit Stephens*
Mike Suboez
Sue Swackhamer
Kiran Taunk
Zack Taylor
Linda Thuman*
Amy Tilley*
David Wahl
Larry Wallace
Julia Wantuck
Judi Weisenberg
David Wyatt
Carl Yost
Carolyn Young
Joseph Young
Larry Young
Mary Young
Letters to the editor
The emotional scars from wars in Israel, Ukraine on women, children
Editor:
War is tearing apart Palestine, with Israel and Hamas continuing to harm Palestinian civilians.
While this conflict overtakes the news, the war in Ukraine has faded from the spotlight.
However, the violence in Ukraine is ongoing, causing suffering for many people. While we recognize Ukraine’s pain, we must also consider how war affects the most vulnerable groups, women and children.
Women are at a higher risk of sexual violence and abuse during war. In Ukraine, displacement and the presence of armed forces make women more likely to face sexual assault, trafficking, and
other forms of abuse. The trauma from such violence can last a lifetime.
Children are suffering as well. Many have lost parents, been injured, or traumatized by the conflict.
Displacement, the loss of education, and the destruction of their communities and society leave them exposed to dangers like recruitment by armed groups or human trafficking.
The emotional scars from war can affect their futures for many years.
As we focus on the current crises, we must remember to prioritize the protection of women and children. The international community must not only push for peace but also take action to safeguard those most at risk from the horrors of war..
Annalise Miesen Brentwood
C lassifieds & l egals
NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE
T.S. No. 114451-CA APN: 033-271-005-2
NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE IMPORTANT NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST, DATED 8/26/2016. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER On 1/22/2025 at 1:30 PM, CLEAR RECON CORP, as duly appointed trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust recorded 8/31/2016 as Instrument No. 2016-0176635-00 the subject Deed of Trust was modified by Loan Modification recorded on 05/11/2022 as Instrument 2022-0080827 of Official Records in the office of the County Recorder of Contra Costa County, State of CALIFORNIA executed by:
GARY WATSON, AN UNMARRIED MAN WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH, CASHIER’S CHECK DRAWN ON A STATE OR NATIONAL BANK, A CHECK DRAWN BY A STATE OR FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, OR A CHECK DRAWN BY A STATE OR FEDERAL SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATION, SAVINGS ASSOCIATION, OR SAVINGS BANK SPECIFIED IN SECTION 5102 OF THE FINANCIAL CODE AND AUTHORIZED TO DO BUSINESS IN THIS STATE; AT THE NORTH SIDE OF THE PITTSBURG CIVIC CENTER OUTSIDE NEAR THE GRASS LOCATED AT 65 CIVIC AVENUE, PITTSBURG, CA 94565 all right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property situated in said County and State described as: MORE ACCURATELY DESCRIBED IN SAID DEED OF TRUST. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 20 SPARROW HAWK CT, OAKLEY, CA 94561 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be held, but without covenant or warranty, express or implied, regarding title, possession, condition, or encumbrances, including fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust, to pay the remaining principal sums of the note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale is: $397,654.07 If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee, and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. The beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The undersigned or its predecessor caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property is located. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (855) 313-3319 or visit this Internet website www. clearreconcorp.com, using the file number assigned to this case 114451-CA. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on
the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TENANT: Effective January 1, 2021, you may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call (855) 313-3319, or visit this internet website www.clearreconcorp.com, using the file number assigned to this case 114451-CA to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. FOR SALES INFORMATION: (855) 313-3319 CLEAR RECON CORP 3333 Camino Del Rio South, Suite 225 San Diego, California 92108. Oakley Press No. 03-0477 93968 Publish Dates: December 13, 20, 27, 2024.
NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION Date December 17, 2024
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN the Diablo Water District (Lead Agency) has prepared a Draft Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration for the project listed below pursuant to the State of California Public Resources Code Article 7 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), as amended. Under CEQA, the Diablo Water District identified no significant impacts and proposes to adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration.
Project Title: Sandmound Boulevard Water Systems Consolidation Project
Project Location:
The project site is within the City of Oakley and unincorporated Contra Costa County. The project site spans the existing Sandmound Boulevard roadway from its intersection with Bethel Island Road east and then south to approximately 0.37 miles south of East Cypress Road. The project site also includes roadways within the Willow Park Marina and East Cypress Road between East Summer Lake Drive and Sandmound Boulevard. Most of the related construction staging activities would occur within existing rights-of-way.
Description of Project:
The proposed project would consolidate four independent drinking water systems, including M-27 Willow Park Marina (consisting of Willow Park Marina and Mariner Estates), Sandy Point Mobile Home Park, Delta Mutual Water Company, and Oakley Municipal Water Company, with Diablo Water District. Three of the four water systems received compliance orders from the Contra Costa County Environmental Health Program for exceeding state water quality standards for arsenic. The four waters systems are within the sphere of influence for Diablo Water District. The proposed project would install a new water main pipeline, install and replace service pipelines, valves, and new fire hydrants within existing paved roadways to provide water service connections to the customers of the four small water systems.
Environmental Determination:
Pursuant to the requirements of CEQA, an Initial Study was prepared, which describes the environmental impacts of the project and concludes the project will not generate a significant adverse impact on the environment. Based on this assessment, a Mitigated Negative Declaration has been prepared. Public Comments/Review:
The Draft Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration is available for public review for 30-days from December 17, 2024 to January 16, 2025 and may be viewed on the Diablo Water District website at: https://diablowater.org/your-water/ consolidation/sandmound/, or at the Diablo Water District office (87 Carol Lane, Oakley, CA 94561) during normal business hours. Please call (925) 625-3798 for other viewing locations or for questions. Written comments must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m. on January 16, 2025 to: Attention: Sandmound Consolidation Diablo Water District P.O. Box 127 87 Carol Lane Oakley, CA 94561 Comments may also be emailed to: consolidations@diablowater.org The Diablo Water District Board of Directors may consider adoption of the Mitigated Negative Declaration at the February 2025 Board meeting. Oakley Press No. 03-0477 93997 Publish Date: December 20, 2024.
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2024-0006401 The name of the business(es): Essential Immunity Located at: 5102 Furlong Way In: Antioch, CA 94531, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Byron Lamont Adams. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 02/01/2024. Signature of registrant: Byron Lamont Adams, Individual. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 12/04/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 12/03/2029 Antioch Press No. 06-1617 Publish Dates: December 20, 27, 2024, January 3, 10, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2024-0006085 The name of the business(es): BUILDBODY3638 Located at: 4504 Magi Ct In: Antioch CA 94509, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Steve Washington. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Steve Washington, Individual. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 11/18/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 11/17/2029 Antioch Press No. 06-1617
Publish Dates: December 20, 27, 2024, January 3, 10, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2024-0006202 The name of the business(es): InnerEssence Health Located at: 3375 Port Chicago Hwy Suite 15 Unit #1150 In: Concord, CA 94520, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): TRUESSENCE HEALTH. This business is conducted by: A Corporation, State of Incorporation: N/A. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 11/25/2024. Signature of registrant: Jalaina Coakley, CFO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: November 25, 2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 11/24/2029
Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: December 13, 20, 27, 2024, January 3, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2004-0005924 The name of the business(es): Hecate’s Hollow Located at: 5995 BRIONES VALLEY RD. In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Melanie Shea McCormick. This business is conducted by: an Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Melanie McCormick, Owner/Individual. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: November 6, 2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 11/05/2029 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 Publish Dates: December 13, 20, 27, 2024, January 3, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2024-0005692 The name of the business(es): Brentwood Dental Excellence Located at: 5491 Lone Tree Way, Suite U4 In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Vishnu Shankar. This business is conducted by: an Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A Signature of registrant: Vishnu Shankar, Individual. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 10/23/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 10/22/2029 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: November 29, December 6, 13, 20, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2024-0006414 The name of the business(es): Anu’s Beautique Located at: 500 Bollinger Canyon Way A6 In: San Ramon CA 94582, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Anu’s Beautique, LLC. This business is conducted by: a Limited Liability Company, State of Organization: CA. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Anuradha Velagala, Managing Member. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 12/04/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 12/03/2029
Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: December 13, 20, 27, 2024, January 3, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2024-0006323 The name of the business(es): FlashPoint Financials Located at: 6660 Lone Tree Way #401 In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Thor & Company LLC. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company, State of Organization: CA. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Brandon Thor, President. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 11/27/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 11/26/2029
Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: December 6, 13, 20, 27, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2024-0006058 The name of the business(es):
1. Costco Pharmacy #1662
2. Costco Wholesale #1662 Located at: 5151 Heidorn Ranch Rd Brentwood, CA 94513 In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Costco Wholesale Corporation. This business is conducted by: a Corporation, State of Incorporation: WA. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Gail E. Tsuboi, Vice President / Assistant Secretary. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 11/15/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 11/14/2029 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: December 6, 13, 20, 27, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2024-0005790 The name of the business(es): Creative Clothing Wear Located at: P.O. Box 696 In: Oakley CA 94561, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): 1. Nestor Vladimir Palacios 2. Ana Nelly Palacios. This business is conducted by: a Married Couple. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on . Signature of registrant: Nestor Vladimir Palacios, Party of Marriage. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of
above
N/A. Signature of registrant: Victor Oisaghie, Owner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 10/18/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 10/17/2029 Oakley Press No. 03-0477 Publish Dates: November 29, December 6, 13, 20, 2024
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2024-0005886 The name of the business(es): All Star Window Cleaning Located at: 1572 Autumn Valley Way In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Gavin Ferenc Alvarado. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Gavin Ferenc Alvarado, Individual. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 11/05/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 11/04/2029
Publish Dates: November 29, December 6, 13, 20, 2024
NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: ANNA MARIE MAGALONG CASTRO, deceased CASE NUMBER P24-01089 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: ANNA MARIE MAGALONG CASTRO deceased. A Petition for Probate has been filed by: JO-ANNE MAGALONG CASTRO in the Superior Court of California, County of: CONTRA COSTA The Petition for Probate requests that: JO-ANNE MAGALONG CASTRO be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on
the petition will be held in this court as follows: a. Date: DECEMBER 24, 2024 Time: 09:00 AM Dept: #30. Room: 201 b. Address of court: 725 COURT STREET, MARTINEZ, CA 94553. If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters a general personal representative as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Petitioner: JO-ANNE MAGALONG CASTRO 215 Davisco Drive, Oakley, CA 94561 OAKLEY PRESS NO. 03-0477 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 Publish Dates: December 6, 13, 20, 2024 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2024-0006105 The name of the business(es): J and C Estate Sales Located at: 1530 Quail Valley Run In: Oakley, CA 94561, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): J AND C ESTATE SALES LLC. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company, State of Organization: CA. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Tylene St. Arnault, CEO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: November 19, 2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 11/18/2029 Publish Dates: November 29, December 6, 13, 20, 2024
Safe-driving from page 1A
issued 12 citations, arrested one driver on suspicion of DUI, and made two other arrests for other violations – one for driving with a suspended license for DUI, and the other for delaying and, or, obstructing a police officer.
“The checkpoints have consistently been effective tools in reducing impaired driving and increasing public awareness,” Maanao said.
Maanao said they are at an undisclosed location, adding that “not announcing the specific locations does contribute to the success, as it encourages safer driving behaviors across the community rather than in isolated areas.”
Brentwood, along with the City of Oakley, has seen an increase of police presence when it comes to traffic safety as of late. Last week, Brentwood police announced that they were working with the Oakley, Antioch, and Richmond police departments, aimed at enforcing traffic laws between the cities. Brentwood police announced last week that officers issued 83 citations, impounded two vehicles, and made a pair of arrests as a result of the operation.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1,062 people were killed in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes in the U.S. in December of 2022.
With a few big holidays coming up in the next two weeks, Brentwood police suggest on their website that people stay in for the night, or have a “go safely” plan by either scheduling a ride or designating a sober driver if you plan to drink.
Oakley police and CalTrans are asking that people make responsible decisions behind the wheel, like never driving under the influence and to also be wary of those who may be working on the roads.
Literacy
from page 1A
tration will be available.
How to drive safely in dense fog
It has been cold the past couple of mornings. With the chill in the air, fog is forming because the air temperature is dropping down to the dew point, saturating the air and forming the fog.
The past mornings have been extraordinarily foggy in East County, and not all motorists were driving with their headlights on. One of the keys to driving in the fog is to understand your ability to be seen by other people and motorists is significantly compromised. It has always been considered a safe driving practice to drive with your headlights on in the fog, not to see through the fog, but to give yourself an edge and a chance of being seen so other people have the chance to react to you quicker. It follows the same principle as why motorcycles run their headlights at all times; they are a smaller vehicle and the ability to readily see them and recognize them is compromised. Running the headlights gives them an edge to be seen.
In many vehicles, headlights will not automatically come on in the fog with the auto-setting and you may need to manually turn on your headlights, law enforcement officials say.
The National Weather Service and Caltrans offer these suggestions for how to stay safe while driving in the fog:
• Slow down. Allow extra time to reach your destination.
• Make your vehicle visible to others ahead of and behind you by using your low-beam headlights since this means your tail lights will also be on. Use fog lights if you have them.
• Drive with your low-beam headlines on. But never use high-beam lights as they cause glare, making it more difficult for you to see what’s ahead of you on the road. And never drive with just your parking lots or fog lights on.
• Leave plenty of distance between you and the vehicle in front of you to account for sudden stops or changes in
“I get to work with these amazing people who have huge hearts for this program and have a passion for literacy,” King said. “I get to work with them every day so that we can develop and grow these programs in their communities. Our goal is to get in each county it open to every single zero to five-year-old, and that’s our goal in Contra Costa County right now.”
One benefit of the program, she said, “is early literacy intervention. We want to get reading into the homes as soon as possible, so that children can hear the words, see the books, feel the books and experience literacy.”
For those who enroll, the literacy program mails free, age-appropriate books to children ages 5 and under each month. Each child receives one book per month. If a child is enrolled in the program at birth, they will have received 60 books by the time they graduate from The Imagination Library program at age 5.
“The books are always free to the family,” King said. “This is a gift to the family.”
According to the fact sheet, the Dollywood Foundation “covers overhead costs and negotiates wholesale pricing for the books, while local community partners fundraise to cover the cost of mailing and decided-upon wholesale book prices.”
More than 247 million free books have been provided to children since the Imagination Library was established, including braille and bilingual books in the U.S. The publisher for the program is Penguin Random House.
REading ADvantage, Inc.
the traffic pattern.
• Use extra caution when crossing traffic or busy intersections, especially in dense fog.
• Follow the lines on the road with your eyes.
• In extremely dense fog where visibility is near zero, pull into a safe location such as a local business’ parking lot and stop.
• If there is no safe place to pull into, pull your vehicle off to the side of the road as far as possible. Once you come to a stop, turn off all lights except your hazard flashing lights, set the emergency brake, and take your foot off of the brake pedal so that other drivers don’t mistakenly run into you.
• Use roadside highway reflectors as guides
• Use wipers and defroster
• Turn off Cruise Control.
portance of reading to children for at least 20 minutes daily, a habit proven to significantly impact their success in school and life. Alongside this message, we distribute free children’s books and provide 100 bilingual English/Spanish “Read Me a Story” packets monthly to parents of newborns at the Contra Costa Regional Medical Center. These packets include a knitted baby cap, socks, and information on reading’s critical role in early brain development (ages 0-5) as well as library resources. Finally, we have a program that allows incarcerated parents to create a recorded reading and provide the book to their child, allowing them to read to their children even though they can’t be with them in person.”
READ wants to expand the program locally. “Our future vision is to build a network of parents and educators to extend these services to every local school, ensuring all parents receive our message about the transformative power of early literacy,” Bibby said. “Achieving this dream will require expanded funding and volunteerism. We are deeply grateful to organizations such as The Lesher Foundation and Contra Costa County’s Keller Canyon Fund for their ongoing support.” Participating in Reading Advantage “fosters lifelong learning habits for both parents and children,” Bibby said. “Improved reading proficiency translates to better academic performance, higher test scores, and a solid foundation for future success in school and beyond.”
“The best thing about Reading Advantage is that all our services are free, making vital resources accessible to every parent and child across the county,” said Steven Bibby, treasurer for REading ADvantage. “We emphasize the im-
REading ADvantage, Inc. (READ) is a 10-year-old local literacy program that provides parents with practical resources to nurture their children’s language development from birth. It distributes new and used books to local schools and community organizations throughout the county, officials said.
For more information on Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, visit imaginationlibrary com/usa/
To learn more about REading ADvantage, Inc., visit www reading-advantage org/index html
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
REading ADvantage provides books to families with early readers in Contra Costa County.
Photo courtesy of REading ADvantage
Keeping your pets calm through the holiday hustle
For many, the holidays are often filled with togetherness, happiness, and warmth, as friends and family gather at one’s home in celebration of the season of giving.
For pets, however, this time can be distinctly different, with disruptions to familiar routines, new and unfamiliar people in the house, and on days like New Year’s Eve, loud and frightening fireworks. There are numerous ways for pet owners to keep their animals calm and safe during this chaotic time of the year, experts say.
To keep pets calm, an owner must recognize when they are out of sorts. PetMD’s Dr. Wailani Sung lists numerous signs of stress and anxiety in dogs and cats in her article “How to Keep Your Pet Calm During Social Gatherings.”
Sometimes, a pet may need help from a veterinarian to alleviate their anxiety, according to Dr. Megan Beaumont of Brentwood Veterinary Hospital.
“If a family’s concerned that their pet will need medicine, or a supplement, or some training techniques to keep calm, reaching out to a vet is a good idea,” Beaumont said. “They should do it well beforehand as well, so that they can be well-prepared.”
Anxiety symptoms in dogs include excessive licking, panting, and vocalization; pinning back of the ears; feigning of sleep; and refusal of food. Cats may become more vocal, hide, or refuse to use the litter box when they need to relieve themselves, instead doing so in inappropriate locations. If you have a pet with severe anxiety symptoms, such as a history of long-term stress vomiting or colitis (bowel inflammation), Sung recommends reconsidering hosting an event entirely.
“If your pet shows these signs, then having people over at your house may be too much for your pet,” Sung says.
If hosting a holiday event is necessary, or you believe that your pet can weather such a storm, then create a safe space for your animal. This is a separate, enclosed area of the house that serves as a temporary living space
and refuge for your pet away from where your visitors are gathering. Within this space, your pet should be able to enjoy a comfortable bed, soothing tunes and white noise, pheromone emitters, and toys to play with, according to the O’Neal Lane Pet Hospital in Baton Rouge, La. Pets should be familiarized with safe spaces in the weeks leading up to an event; encouraging them to take refuge there with treats is a good strategy, according to Sung.
When fitted with blackout curtains, these spaces can also serve your pet well during firework-heavy holidays-the curtains block out the sudden flashes of the fireworks, while the music and white noise help to dampen the deafening sound.
There are also preventive measures you can take to burn off your pet’s stress before an event. Sung and the O’Neal Lane Pet Hospital recommend exercising, playing with, or training your pet in the time leading up to the event. Sung specifically recommends 30 minutes of exercise for dogs, 15-20 minutes of play for cats, and 5-10 minutes of training for either.
The holiday season can be a stressful time for pets. Here are some tips to help keep them calm.
For more information, contact these local veterinarians:
♦ Brentwood Family Pet Care Daniel Howland 925-240-7387 daniel.howland@nva.com
♦ Lone Tree Animal Care Kristina L’Amoreaux / Mandeep Sandhu 925-450-3800 lonetreeanimalcare@gmail.com, dr_mandeepsandhu@hotmail.com
♦ Oakley Veterinary Medical Center Sandra & Dave Lafferty 925-625-3722
davefrank69@yahoo.com, sllafferty@sbcglobal.net
♦ Brentwood Veterinary Hospital Staci Woods 925-634-1177
brentwoodvh@brentwoodvet.net, staci.woods@ brentwoodvet.net
CONNOR ROBLES
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
elta Dog Camp opened its doors in 2009 and has been providing happiness to canine campers ever since.
With an owner who has over 30 years of experience with dogs, the camp offers overnight boarding, daycare, baths and nail trims.
Kerry Dorn, owner and operator of Delta Dog Camp, has always had a passion for dogs. She spent many years training, showing and breeding dogs. She left her career of 19 years in the corporate world after her employer closed, and decided to make her passion her profession.
“Working with animals is very fulfilling to me,” Dorn said.
After about six months of searching for a location, Delta Dog Camp became a reality when its flagship location opened in Oakley. The business expanded in 2013, when Dorn opened a second location, this one in Antioch at 2400 Devpar Court. Delta Dog Camp was the first facility of its
kind to open in both cities.
“It’s more of a camp atmosphere because the dogs get to play during the day,” Dorn said. “We have six outdoor play yards, so whether it’s raining outside, or if it’s hot, we get to play all day. In the summertime, we have pools in all of our yards so that the dogs can go swimming, and we do enrichment activities.”
Two out of the six yards are partially indoor so the dogs have options for where they want to spend their time. There are also play structures throughout the yards.
Dorn, Owner and Operator of Delta Dog Camp in Antioch
Dorn said she believes the “at-home” atmosphere is what sets them apart. She said the best part of owning the camp, other than it being personally fulfilling and caring for the animals, is the response they get from the community.
“We try to keep everything as homelike as possible for the dogs as far as their daily routine, just like they do at home,” Dorn said.
If you ask the dogs, Dorn said the human interaction is their favorite part of being a camper — and belly rubs.
“Our staff is very hands-on,” Dorn said. “Everybody thinks it’s about the dogs playing with each other, but the dogs really enjoy the one-on-one contact with the staff.”
To join Delta Dog Camp, each dog must meet certain requirements before they can register, such as having their vaccinations and being on flea and tick prevention. A list of requirements for new clients can be found at www.deltadogcamp.com.
“I think it’s important that dogs, once they hit the age of receiving all their vaccinations, get to do socialization, not just with other dogs, but with other people,” Dorn said. “It helps them be very well rounded when they are able to be taken care of by multiple different people, so that’s what is really important for us and why we do evaluations. The dogs come in and have personal contact with us, and they don’t think that every time that they go someplace with their parents it’s going to be the groomer or the vet.”
The Oakley location closed in 2021, but the Antioch location is still thriving, Dorn said. For more information on Delta Dog Camp, visit www deltadogcamp com or call 925-757-2600.
NICOLE BECCHINA
Photo courtesy of Delta Dog Camp
Kerry
Establishing kids’ roles in caring
Children and pets living together can make for a boisterous, but happy, household. Having pets is an ideal opportunity to introduce children to some measure of responsibility, and it may encourage youngsters to become advocates for animal welfare.
Pets require all sorts of care and companionship. Introducing children to age-appropriate pet-related tasks can set the groundwork for a lifetime of loving and caring for companion animals. Children shouldn’t be given all of the responsibilities of caring for pets, but there are some notable roles they can play.
Teach gentle interactions
Toddlers and even kindergarteners may be unaware of how rough they are being. Therefore, they will need a lot of supervision and reinforcement to learn how to be gentle when petting or engaging with companion animals. Young children also may think that pets are toys and that there are no consequences when animals
are handled roughly. Parents and other caregivers may need to spend a lot of time emphasizing gentle play with pets.
Start off with some play sessions
Playing together is a great way for kids and pets to bond and get some exercise. Purina behaviorist Dr. Annie Valuska suggests games like high-five, rolling over, finding treats in hidden places, and practicing tricks or commands. Children also may be able to do short training sessions with pets, like helping them get acclimated to
Pet owners must remember to ensure young children and animals are never together without adult supervision.
a new pet carrier, wearing a leash, or even moving the vacuum cleaner nearby so the animal overcomes its fear of it.
Family vet visits
Children can learn a lot about pet health and care at the vet’s office. Bring youngsters along to help out and see what is involved in routine veterinary visits. Kids can soothe and distract the pet during the adminstration of vaccines and watch how a vet assesses an animal’s overall health. Watching a pet go through a physical examination also may help a child become more brave in relation to his or her own medical check-ups.
Participate in feeding and bathing
Children can be responsible for putting pre-measured scoops of food in the bowl for feeding and help refill the water. Kids also may be able to offer treats to pets who are able to take them gently out of hand. When it comes time to groom a pet, children can assist with scrub downs in the tub or at a grooming station in a nearby retail store. More hands available can help wrangle a wet and slippery animal, after all. Kids may find it soothing to brush pets, but they must do so gently.
Teach about quiet time
Pets need opportunities to rest, and children should understand that quiet time means the pet should be left alone. Kids can help set up a cozy napping spot where a dog or cat can retreat when they need some rest.
Children can be taught responsible pet care when their parents feel they’re ready. With trial and error, family members can see where kids’ strengths lie in caring for pets and gauge the animals’s tolerance for interaction with youngsters.
– Courtesy of Metro Creative
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
Should you gift a pet? Only with the proper preparation, humane societies say
Pets of all kinds can bring immeasurable joy into a person’s life, so it may seem like a good idea to surprise someone you love with an animal as a holiday gift.
The ASPCA, citing studies from 1996, 1999, and 2000, says that “pets given as gifts are less likely to be relinquished than pets acquired by the individual [owner].” According to the ASPCA and the Animal Humane Society, however, giving a pet should not be a surprise, but a process in which the giver and the recipient work to prepare to welcome an animal into the latter’s life.
The Animal Humane Society says that the most important question to ask is “does the person want a pet?”
The ASPCA, similarly, “recommends the giving of pets as gifts only to people who have expressed a sustained interest in owning one, and the ability to care for it responsibly.”
A recent ASPCA study found that pets received as gifts generally have a low return rate. According to the survey, 96 percent of the people who received pets as gifts thought it either increased or had no impact on their love or attachment to that pet. The survey also revealed no difference in attachment based on the gift being a surprise or being known in advance.
Another possibility is to pay for the adoption fees. You can visit a shelter and preemptively pay the adoption fees if you know that a person will be adopting a pet soon. This way you can make the gift a surprise and enable the recipient to choose the right timing to go pick out a pet.
One suggestion is to offer supplies instead. Another pet-related gift idea
is to offer a gift card to a nearby pet retailer so that the person will be able to stock up on supplies when the time comes to get a pet.
Some important factors in determining whether to gift a pet are time, space, resources, and lifestyle, according to the Animal Humane Society. Is the intended recipient often busy, leaving little time for a pet that may need play and exercise? Is their living space too cramped for an animal to properly roam in? Do they have the money for veterinary bills, food, toys, training, and all the other essentials for a healthy pet? Are they allergic to many common pets? Do they already own a pet that may not get along with the one you are planning to give them?
Instead of an unexpected gift of a pet itself, the Animal Humane Society suggests surprising the recipient with the experience of selecting a pet together. This way, the recipient can choose a pet that they feel is right for them, and whose personality and needs fit their lifestyle and resources.
“All pets have unique needs and personalities, and the selection process can be a rewarding and fun experience,” the Animal Humane Society says.
from trusted sources, including “animal shelters, rescue organizations, friends, family, or responsible breeders – not from places where the source of the animal is unknown or untrusted.”
If you choose to give a pet as a gift, you should keep in mind that what you are actually giving is the responsibility of caring for a living creature, with all the lifelong investment that such a responsibility entails. Is the intended recipient willing and able to shoulder this responsibility? If not, perhaps you should reconsider, both groups say.
The ASPCA additionally recommends that pets should be acquired
For more information about rescuing a pet and possibly giving it as a gift, contact Chris Johnson at Ruff Day Rescue in Brentwood at 408-892-6869 or at ruffdayrescue@gmail.com.
CONNOR ROBLES
Protect pets both inside and outside the home
Newly adopted pets waste little time becoming beloved members of a household. But much like young children, pets are a significant responsibility, and they rely on their human caretakers to ensure their safety.
Pets are susceptible to illness and injury just like their human companions. The Pet Poison Hotline reported a 51 percent increase in the volume of calls between 2020 and 2021. Banfield Pet Hospitals also saw about half a million more pet visits in 2020 than in 2019. Furthermore, Dogster reports that 47 percent of pet owners had to deal with a serious medical issue or took their pets to emergency care in 2021.
Keeping cherished pets safe in and around a home is no small task. But with some diligence, it is possible to ensure health and happiness for companion animals. Follow these tips, courtesy of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Old Farm Veterinary Hospital and Security.org.
Consider an indoor and outdoor security camera system
Having eyes on pets while you’re away from home enables a quick response should something happen.
Avoid leaving pet food outdoors overnight
Dog and cat foods can attract other animals, such as bears, raccoons, foxes, and opossums, depending on where you live. Wild animals grow accustomed to receiving easy meals and this could decrease their trepidation about being around a home or yard. Run-ins between your pets and
including pesticides and weed killers, as well as any cleaning products used indoors. Pets can ingest or inhale these products and get sick.
Pick up potential choking hazards
String, small pieces of toys, rawhide bone fragments, and other items can be choking hazards to pets. Be diligent about removing these items from the floor so that pets will not swallow them.
Tap on your car hood
Families who allow their cats outdoor access should thump on the car hood when it is cold outside, as sometimes cats take shelter near a warm engine block. Cats can become injured if you start the car while they are under the hood.
Stay up-to-date on vaccinations
Whether pets never step outdoors or have free rein, always vaccinate companion animals against common parasites and other pests.
Microchip your pets
wild animals should be avoided at all costs.
Skip the retractable leash
Walking a pet on a non-retractable leash allows better control of the pet in the event of an encounter with a person or another animal.
Be cautious with chemicals
Carefully consider any chemicals you use in your yard,
Microchips not only protect pets should they get lost, but they also can help track down animals that may have been stolen. Remember to keep microchip data current to ensure a swift recovery.
Keep foods and medicines out of reach
Many human foods can be toxic to pets, as can medications that are kept in a home. Pets can be curious and easy access to these items may make them quite ill.
Welcoming a new pet into a family can be an exciting time. Pets are wonderful companions and can even be beneficial to their owners’ overall health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises that pets may create increased opportunities for exercise. In addition, studies have shown that relationships with pets may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol and reduce triglyceride levels, feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and other ailments.
A new pet requires owners to make various changes to help both humans and companion animals. It can take a period of transition for everyone involved to determine their new roles. Here are some strategies to help pets and people acclimate to new living situations.
♦ Create a safe place. Any person who has moved understands that relocating can be stressful. Pets may be on edge when moving into a new home because they don’t have the capacity to process why a move is taking place - even if the eventual result will be something positive. Establish a quiet spot that is away from high-traffic areas so the new pet can grow accustomed to the sounds, smells and routine of its new environment. Then he or she can retreat there when necessary.
♦ Retain some of the pet’s items. Owners may want to buy their pets new toys and supplies, but they should utilize some of the pet’s original and familiar items to make it easier for the animal to adjust.This familiarity can be comforting for the animals.
♦ Consider the 3-3-3 rule. Animal rescue and training organizations, such as Alpha and Omega Dog Training, say the general rule is that pet owners can expect three days of a new dog feeling overwhelmed and nervous; three weeks of settling in; and three months of building trust and bonding with new owners. New pet owners should not feel disappointed if it takes some time for a pet to settle in. Cats and other animals may acclimate differently.
♦ Be patient with behavior. Pets who have moved to new places may temporarily forget their training. This means engaging in undesirable behavior, such as having indoor accidents (or those outside a litter box), jumping up on people, howling, barking or meowing, and more. It will take some time for pets to feel safe, so reinforce training with patience.
♦ Stick to a routine. Animals prefer knowing what is coming next and are creatures of habit, says the American Kennel Club. Individuals should establish and stick to daily routines where feedings, play time, walks, and other activities occur at roughly the same time. This will help pets feel more relaxed.
– Courtesy of Metro Creative
How to spot pet hazards around the house
Pets brought into a household changes life for the better. When a pet joins the family, members now have a companion to enthusiastically greet them when they return home from work or school.
Pets require attention and routine veterinarian visits to stay healthy. Homeowners may need to assess their living areas to ensure that the spaces are as safe as possible for new pets, as there are many potential hazards around the typical home. Unfortunately, those hazards may not be obvious to new pet owners. The following are just a handful of potential pet hazards in a typical home.
Food hazards
Kitchens can be tricky spaces for pets. Cleaners that contain chemicals tend to be stored in kitchens, where hot appliances are periodically on as well. The kitchen also is where people prepare food, including some that could be unsafe for pets. Many foods that are safe for people are not safe for pets, and these include:
♦ Alcoholic beverages
♦ Avocado
♦ Caffeine
♦ Chocolate
♦ Fatty foods
♦ Garlic
♦ Grapes and raisins
♦ Onions
♦ Xylitol (a sweetener)
Chemical products
Chemical products may be unsafe to use around pets.
It’s important to read labels and use products accordingly.
♦ Bleach
♦ Phenols
♦ Cleaning products (use all with caution)
♦ Antifreeze
♦ Lawn fertilizers
♦ Ice melt
♦ Mothballs
♦ Liquid potpourri
♦ Paints and solvents
♦ Fabric softener sheets
♦ Pest baits
♦ Swimming pool chemicals
Plants and flowers
While they may be natural and beautiful, plants and flowers can potentially prove hazardous to pets. The level of toxicity may vary depending on the animal that consumes the plant.
♦ Almond, apricot, cherry, nectarine, peach, and plum trees
♦ Aloe vera
♦ Chrysanthemum
♦ Cyclamen
♦ English ivy
♦ Foxglove
♦ Hibiscus
♦ Hydrangea
♦ Oleander
♦ Poinsettia
Other hazards
♦ Ovens, gas or electric burners
♦ Corded appliances
♦ Candles
♦ Ornaments and glass items
♦ Laundry (ingested socks or other items can cause obstructions)
♦ Small toys
– Courtesy of Metro Creative
