The Press 04.05.2024

Planning Commission approves new construction on Harvest Park in Brentwood

By Jake Menez

Brentwood may see new businesses pop up along Harvest Park Drive in the future following the 5-0 approval from the Planning Commission to allow construction of a 27,173-square-foot, two-story “shell building.”

No tenants are in mind for the project but may be automotive or recreational businesses based on the conditional use permits approved as part of the process.

“It’s hard to speculate exactly who is going to sign the lease at the end of the day,” Lance Crannell said in response to an inquiry from Commissioner Gerald Johnson. Crannell is the principal architect for the

Brentwood-based SDG Architects, the applicant for the project. “But the general feeling is that we want to keep it open to what’s conditionally allowed in that zone.”

Examples of automotive businesses

that could occupy the space included those that specialize in tune-ups, tire rotations and other “small automotive services,” according to Crannell.

Residents were in favor of the new

Search warrant yields one arrest at local drug lab

By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer

One man was arrested and police are seeking two Brentwood suspects after a search warrant was executed at Brentwood drug lab on Tuesday, March 26.

Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office detectives served the warrant just before 10 a.m. at a residence on the 800 block of Shasta Daisy Drive in Brentwood, behind the campus of Liberty High School,

according to a press release from the Sheriff’s Office.

During the search, they found a DMT (Dimethyltryptamine)-

manufacturing laboratory.

While processing the lab, a team from the Contra Costa Haz-

see Warrant page 18A

space during the public comment portion of the hearing, with local commercial real estate broker Matt Hagar commenting that Brentwood lacks the space for these kinds of automotive or recreational spaces. He says he receives calls from sports gyms as well as automotive businesses interested in coming

Oakley planners approve permits for housing project

By Hemananthani Sivanandam Correspondent

A new two-story commercial and multifamily residential facility will soon be in downtown Oakley, marking a significant step forward in the city’s ongoing efforts to revitalize its urban core.

The Oakley Planning Commission unanimously approved conditional use permits and de-

sign review applications for the proposed Delta Pointe Plaza during its meeting on Tuesday night (April 2) but placed certain conditions on the project. Commissioner Oleksii Chuiko was absent during the meeting.

The conditions include providing better safety fencing around the project due to the long-established train tracks for the future multi-modal train platform, expected to be operational by 2025. The second condition includes for the applicant, Joey Rojas of R&R Pacific Construction,

The 800 block of Shasta Daisy Drive is quiet a week after the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff executed a search warrant at a drug lab there.

Photo by Jeff Weisinger

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Discovery Bay Yacht Club Opening Day to feature more boats than in years past

Numbers slowly rise since 2020 cancellation because of COVID

By Dawnmarie Fehr Correspondent

The Discovery Bay Yacht Club will officially launch its 2024 cruising season with the Opening Day Boat Parade on Saturday, April 13 at noon with a big increase in the number of boats over last year. This year, almost three dozen boats have registered to participate, up from 19 last year, according to event organizers. That number has risen since parade was canceled in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, 10 boats signed up, then 14 the next year, organizers said.

The opening day parade tradition began in 1986 and continues year after year for club members and the public to welcome warmer weather to the Delta region.

An annual event, the parade cruises through the bays of Discovery Bay, with its crews waving at house parties as they pass by. This year’s parade theme is Honoring Our Heroes. Parade leader Carolyn Graham said though boat owners are encouraged to decorate their vessels accordingly, it is not required.

“We ask that people decorate their boats, if they choose to do so, honoring heroes, branches of service, or honoring teachers or nurses,” Graham said.

The East County Senior Coalition is celebrating 15 years of

A day of learning and connection for older adults of East Contra Costa County

Keynote Presentation by Spontaneous Mind

She noted the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Marine Patrol Unit will participate, along with Contra Costa County Fire Protection District’s fire boat. They will be joined by participants from the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Gold Star Families and

the Reclamation 800 District.

“We are thrilled we can give them a big ovation as they go by the houses and parties,” Graham said.

The parade is open to the public, not just yacht club members, and all power boats are welcome. Staff Commodore Mike Guzzardo said those with smaller boats are welcome to join as well.

“There’s a lot of people out there who have a ski boat who don’t think it’s for them,” he said. “But it’s for any boat, a ski boat, a pontoon boat. As long as your boat can keep up at five, six miles an hour, you’re in.”

Guzzardo said participating in the parade gives boaters an opportunity to see the town from the water as well as other boats. Parade participants also get to attend the after party at the DBYC club house, with a DJ and food and beverage available for purchase.

Decorated boats will be eligible for prizes in their size category.

“It’s going to be a fabulous family event, and we hope many people come out to watch,” Graham said.

The parade can be viewed from the Discovery Bay Marina, 5901 Marina Road.

For more information, or to register, visit www.dbyc.com, call 925-389-7072 or email paraderegistration@dbyc.com.

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The Discovery Bay Yacht Club is preparing for its Opening Day boat show on April 13. This year’s theme is Honoring Our Heroes.

The Press file photo

LMC students weigh in on TikTok troubles in U.S.

By Sarah Capperauld Correspondent

The U.S. House of Representatives was overwhelmingly on Wednesday, March 13 to remove TikTok from the American app store with 352 votes in favor and 65 against.

The app moves closer to its entire removal under The Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act. According to govinfo.gov, The Act is “To protect the national security of the United States from the threat posed by foreign adversary controlled applications, such as TikTok and any successor application or service and any other application or service developed or provided by ByteDance Ltd. or an entity under the control of ByteDance Ltd.”

Although, for TikTok the main concern of legislators is the idea that the Chinese government can access user data and being so influential as the app is can allow users to become addicted.

“Internal recordings reveal there’s a back door for China to access user data across the platform,” GOP Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers said. McMorris then quotes the employees of TikTok saying, “Everything is seen in China.”

Democratic Rep. Frank Pallone of New Jersey said, “While TikTok videos provide a new fun way for people to express their creativity and enjoy the videos of others, the platform also threatens the health, privacy and security of the American people.”

According to TikTok’s website, 170 million users are in the United States alone, 32% of whom are teenagers.

Shou Chew, the CEO of TikTok, said in his speech to the House of Representatives,“We have heard important concerns about the potential for unwanted foreign access to U.S. data and potential manipulation of the TikTok U.S. ecosystem. Our approach has never been to dismiss or trivialize any of these concerns. We have addressed them with real action now. That’s what we’ve been doing for the last two years, building what amounts to a firewall. The seals of protected U.S. user data stored on

American soil by an American company overseen by American personnel.”

TikTok spokeswoman Jodi Seth said after the House vote, “It’s a ban based on zero evidence. We are hopeful that the Senate will consider the facts, listen to their constituents and realize the impact of the economy, 7 million small businesses, and the 170 million Americans who use the service.”

Douyin is China’s version of the app, and was created by the Chinese company ByteDance and was launched in late 2016. Their first app was Toutiao, which would focus on algorithms similar to TikTok to allow users more personalized content. The same company then published their international version of Douyin known as TikTok. Although, according to Reuters.com both brands share the same logo and similar design aspects, they are called two different products.

Overall, what makes TikTok different from other social media platforms? For Los Medanos Community College students, it

doesn’t seem to be that impactful.

For second-year LMC student Sierra Kindred, TikTok “gives something to do with free time and to share with family and friends. It’s an easy way to find good information or even start finding things to research. Although, it can start a lot of drama. If it were to be banned in the U.S, I don’t really care. I like the convenience but there are other social media platforms.”

First-year LMC student Gabbie Munoz said the TikTok app had a lot of issues. “There was a lot of funny posts on it, but at the same time it’s just a cesspool of negativity. No matter what post it is, there’s going to be someone complaining. Not to mention the overload of political content. I don’t really want to go on social media to see all the stuff I already see on the news.”

Honeymiel Montecillo, second-year LMC student, believes that there is a way for them to possibly fix it. “I like how there’s varieties of music and dances that someone can listen to and recreate. However, I do not like how there isn’t an age restriction within the younger people because it’s inappropriate for them to discover such adult content.”

The U.S House of Representatives concluded on March 15 that the app will be given six months to find a new investor and have ByteDance fully divest or else they will be permanently banned from the American app store.

For LMC’s third-year student Jordan Suisala,“TikTok to me is where I go for a brain break. Regardless if TikTok gets banned or bought by another company the U.S. approves of, I find it concerning that Congress wants to limit what users are being exposed to. Why take this much effort to shut down an app that people are using to keep in the loop, especially on current events? It seems they are worried about the sway of public opinion and how much more of their faults are unveiled.”

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Brentwood students honored at 22nd annual art show

By Alex DeLuna Correspondent

The Brentwood Unified School District held its 22nd annual Student Art Show Reception and Award Ceremony at the Brentwood Community Center on Tuesday, April 2.

Each grade level had awards for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place that were given out to each student from various schools throughout the district. Two awards for Best In Show given to fourth grader Avery Churren from Krey Elementary and eighth grader Lily Helfenberger from Adams Middle School.

An art program throughout the Brentwood School District for grades TK-8th grade focuses on teaching, guiding and equipping students who are eager to learn and participate in art as they progress through school. With the help of parents who volunteered as their teachers, art students learned about art in different ways and are guided through hands-on art history lessons that culminate in their own works of art.

Each elementary school has an art docent program that is supported by the Brentwood Arts Society. For the past 23

years, parents have taught the program because there wasn’t enough money to support it, according to organizers.

“There is a need for a full-time dedicated art docent teacher within the program,” Lisa McLaughlin, lead art docent and coordinator, said.

“Seeing those students’ faces is why we do this every year,” Michael Bowen, Director of Curriculum and Instruction said. “It’s just exciting to be able to honor the winners or anybody participating.”

Lisa Slay, art teacher from Bristow Middle School, added: “For the little guys, seeing them come up here dressed in their best clothes with grins on their faces is just great to see.”

The art will be on display in the foyer at the community center until April 26. For details about the art program, visit https:// www brentwood k12.ca us/

The winners are:

TK

1st – Vera Gandenberger from Krey

2nd – Gianna (no last name given) from Pioneer

3rd – Ellie Huang from Pioneer

Kindergarten

1st – Avni Satapathy from Ron Nunn

THE POWER AND PURPOSE OF DESIGN PATENTS

by Punita Bhasin, Ph.D., JD.

Design patents stand as a beacon for innovation and creativity which focuses on a product’s ornamental or aesthetic features. Thus, a design patent protects the visual appearance of a product, encompassing its shape, configuration, surface ornamentation, and overall aesthetics. Wellknown examples of design patent protection for known brands include:

- the iconic design of the Coca-Cola bottle

- the distinctive shape of the iPhone

- the design of the computer mouse

- the zippered binder pocket

These design patents have played a pivotal role in shaping the identity and success of these brands, highlighting the importance of design innovation and protection in today’s competitive market.

To obtain a design patent, applicants must submit a formal application to the relevant patent office, accompanied by detailed drawings or photographs illustrating the design, capturing every angle and unique feature. The key consideration for design patentability revolves around the uniqueness of the presentation or appearance of the functional item. Once granted, the design patent confers exclusive rights upon the holder to prevent others from

2nd – Emily Gargiulo from Ron Nunn

First Grade

1st – Sarah Munoz from Ron Nunn

2nd – Ethan Behring from Pioneer

3rd – Kaylee Nguyen from Marsh Creek

Second Grade

1st – Ashley Chuck from Krey

2nd – Mason Montez from Brentwood

Elementary

3rd – Kiaan Borgohain from Garin

Third Grade

1st – Patrick Hu from Mary Casey Black

2nd – Leanndra (no last name given) from Pioneer

3rd – Gavin Hoagland from Brentwood

Elementary

Fourth Grade

1st – Mayzie Binsol from Marsh Creek

2nd – Ishaan Kiranchang from Loma Vista

3rd – Emma Xu from Krey

making, using, or selling products that bear a similar or a substantially similar design. Effective May 23, 2015, U.S. design patents are granted a patent term of 15 years from the issue date.

The top five companies receiving the most issued design patents encompass diverse industries, according to Harrity Analytics-2024 Design patent 100 List.

1. Nike Inc.

2. Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

3. Apple Inc.

4. LG Corporation

5. The Swatch Group Ltd.

Thus, if you possess a unique design consider protecting it through a design patent and seek advice for a patent attorney wellversed in design patent law.

For Inquiries, contact: patent attorney

Punita Bhasin  at contact@bhasinlaw.com

Disclaimer: The information presented in this advertisement is provided for general informational purposes only. No reader of this advertisement should act or refrain from acting on the basis of any information included in, or accessible through, this advertisement without seeking the appropriate legal advice from a lawyer.

Fifth Grade

1st – Zaya Blanson from Brentwood Elementary

2nd – Kimberly Dennis from Krey

3rd – Arlene Lee from Pioneer

3rd – Dhyan Wilamuna from Marsh Creek

Sixth Grade

1st – Avery Scott from Bristow

2nd – Naksha Pavan from Adams

3rd – lya Annica from Adams

Seventh Grade

1st-- Gabrielle Hervey from Adams

2nd – Gia Cipollina from Bristow

3rd – Francheska Quinones from Adams

Eighth Grade

1st – Emi Crane from Edna Hill

2nd – Brooke Mason from Edna Hill

3rd – Melanie Yasar from Bristow

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

Photo by Alex DeLuna

The measles is back. How to avoid it

Editor’s note: Sheri Griffiths is a local registered nurse with 25 years of experience in her field.

Nurse’s CorNer

sheri Griffiths

This is the first in a series of monthly columns by her exploring medical topics from an educational perspective.

About 95% of Americans have been vaccinated for the measles, so it’s the other 5% we should be worried about. Before vaccinations,

the measles was responsible for serious illnesses like pneumonia, and even death. Important to note that most of the afflicted people are those who have not been vaccinated and have traveled to other countries where vaccination rates are low.

In 2000, the CDC declared measles eradicated. But as of March 28, a total of 97 measles cases were reported by 18 states, including four in California, the CDC said in a press release.

Of hospitalizations, those younger than 5 years old account for 68% (34 of 50); 27% (6 of 22) are age 5-19 years and 14-25 (56%) are 20 or older.

If you are vaccinated, you have life time protection, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t carry it to an unvaccinat ed person, infecting them.

The best defense is to get your vaccines. Secondly, do the basics: wash your hands, cough/sneeze in a tissue and throw it out or use your upper arm sleeve. In general, if you are having any respiratory symptoms, wear a medical-grade face mask.

For more information, turn to page 8A for a press release from Contra Costa Health about the measles.

Measles is highly contagious, quick ly spread by coughing, sneezing, and direct contact with secretions. Accord ing to the CDC, the virus can live in air space for up to 2 hours after an infect ed person leaves an area. Symptoms of the virus are coughing, sneezing, reddened eyes, runny nose, and a rash. The vulnerable are preg nant women, infants under 11 months, the elderly, and individuals that have compromised immune sys-

Delta Ranches – a leader in local real estate

through the listing and selling process.

Lori Abreu and the staff at Delta Ranches and Homes respect their business relationships, whether you are selling a single-family home, multi-family unit or a $10 million winery, you will always remain the priority as they guide you

How do we stay relevant in a changing real estate market when there are more agents than listings? By serving our repeat clients and all of their referrals, staying on top of the marketing edge for the most exposure of your listing, including recommendations on repairs and staging to get you the most money, having integrity that never waivers and always putting our

O pini O n

Letters to the editor

O’Hara Apartment project is needed in Brentwood

Editor: Regarding the O’Hara Apartment project, I am a local homeowner who welcomes more mixed-income housing. There is not enough housing in California, and that lack of housing is contributing to high rents, expensive mortgages, and homelessness.

The attitude of “I got mine and anyone who comes after me is out of luck” is no good for our communities. It’s the reason that our children are moving to other states to start their adult lives. They can’t afford to live in California.

Kevin Allen Brentwood

Brentwood needs to embrace affordable housing, not gentrification

Editor:

In regard to the article on the front page of The Press March 29, 2024 –‘Your City Council in Brentwood is pissed’ – I find it quite snobbish and elitist that the Brentwood City Council would have a problem with affordable housing being built on Lone Tree Way and O’Hara Avenue. Perhaps the City Council prefers that only mini mansions and large homes that are too expensive and require a lot of energy and money to maintain be the sole type of projects approved.

Most of the housing projects

are remote to services needed in their community. If Brentwood was really concerned about the quality of life of the residents, they would welcome apartments and smaller houses that are affordable and closer in walking distance to stores and services, and making sure that public transportation is easily accessible and inexpensive.

Look around at cities that allowed strip malls and shopping centers that require transportation to get to. Most of those businesses don’t survive. Maybe if there were some transparency on the count of businesses that did not make it financially in just Slatten Ranch and Streets of Brentwood over the last decade, the desire to build more retail and commercial would be reconsidered. We have had a turnover of retail outlets

that are now abandoned or empty.

There should be more transparency of the dollar amounts that are needlessly spent on projects that they have overpaid for and did not bring in the taxes and revenues that they projected would come into the city.

The very purpose of Assembly Bill 2011 was to thwart overzealous planners and city councils that are looking to serve only the privileged people who are high earners.

Brentwood is a sprawling community that has become unaffordable for most of the people who live here. Isn’t that a type of gentrification? How about making Brentwood a town that cares about people instead of tax revenue.

Teresa Helton-Behne Oakley

HOW TECHNOLOGY FUELS BUSINESS GROWTH

By Seana Fippin, Red Box Business Solutions

It’s essential for any industry in the modern market to know how technology improves business growth. From reaching new clients to streamlining operations, the benefits — and possibilities — are nearly endless.

The Unavoidable Relationship Between Technology and Growing Businesses

A century ago, technology consisted of the electric blender in the kitchen and a few traffic lights on the road. Now, people rely on technology for almost everything, from cleaning the house to making important purchases.Technology improves business growth in more ways than one, so with the right applications, entrepreneurs can take their businesses to new heights.

Creates More Efficient Operations

Every business owner wants to do what they can to streamline operations and increase overall efficiency. When it comes to scaling a business, efficiency is key. Thankfully, several types of technology can automate various tasks, so business owners can spend more time working on other crucial areas of the business.

Improves Customers’ Experiences

When learning how technology improves business growth, business owners will quickly realize that one of the most important benefits it brings is improving the customer experience. Regardless of industry, businesses need to keep their customers happy, and a crucial part of that is providing the best experience possible.

Reaches New Customers Faster and Finds New Markets

Keeping current clients happy is essential, but a business can’t grow if it doesn’t expand its customer base. Businesses can take advantage of this by maintaining a solid online presence. Being active on social media and having a welldesigned website makes it easier to reach new customers and introduce products or services to a significantly wider audience. Knowing how technology improves business growth and embracing its many benefits can help small businesses of any industry achieve their goals.

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County urges residents to protect themselves from local rise in measles cases

With measles on the rise nationally, and recent cases locally, Contra Costa Health has joined 12 Northern California and Bay Area health officials in urging everyone to be up to date on measles vaccinations and to watch for symptoms after travel or exposure.

The best protection against measles is two doses of the mea sles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, which protects you for life. This is particularly impor tant for anyone travelling interna tionally in the upcoming months, the official said in a joint press release on Friday, March 29.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that in 2024 there have been 64 confirmed cases of measles nationwide. More than 90 percent of those cases linked to international travel, as measles is circulating in many regions in the world, including popular tourist and business destinations. Most cases in the U.S. have been among children aged 12 months and older who had not received the MMR vaccine, the release stated.

Meet Curly and Mo

With three major airports, the Bay Area is a hub for international travel, increasing the potential for exposure to this highly contagious virus. For individuals or families that plan to travel internationally, anyone who is not vaccinated against measles is at increased risk of get-

Measles symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis (pink eye), followed 2-4 days later by a rash. The virus is transmitted through direct contact with infectious droplets or through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Infectious droplets can linger in indoor air for several hours.

Vaccination is highly effective at preventing measles. The MMR vaccine is recommended for children aged 12-15 months, with a second dose administered between ages 4 and 6. Infants 6-12 months of age can start vaccination early prior to international travel. Teenagers and adults with no evidence of immunity should be vaccinated right away.

Curly and Mo (brothers) are playful and need your love! Curly LOVES to be on your lap (mustache). Mo is a little reserved and loves to play with Curly as well as springs and strings. Please contact nancy.eccchalo@gmail.com to meet these wonderful cats!

Harry Roy Geddes

Resident of Brentwood

Sept. 27, 1937March 16, 2024

Harry

Roy Geddes of Brentwood died March 16, 2024 at the age of 86.

OBITUARY

Army in Korea.

Born on Sept. 27, 1937 in Stockton, California, Harry was raised in Brentwood. He attended schools in Byron and Liberty Union High School in Brentwood.

After his schooling, Harry married Carolyn Tanner in 1960, and then served in the United States

Harry joined Holt Brothers in Stockton where he worked for 46 years. Harry is preceded in death by his parents, Harry LeRoy and Bernice Johnson Geddes. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn, and two sons, Jeffrey and Roy Geddes. He has two grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren. He has two brothers, Emil and Matthew Geddes and two sisters, Roxy Madsen and Margaret Sudweeks.

Harry loved his family and many friends, his animals and working around his ranch. There are no services planned.

Brentwood Chamber welcomes new business to downtown

The Brentwood Chambe r of Commerce and the Downtown Brentwood Coalition welcome another new business downtown. California Gleamin opened its second location on Chestnut Street and celebrated its grand opening last Thursday surrounded by many friends, family and local businesses. California Gleamin is at 161 Chestnut St. in the old Health Hut location. But Health Hut did not close; it just moved across the street to 160 Chestnut St. inside the VIBE beauty and boutique store across the street.

The Brentwood Police Department welcomes three new officers: Community Service Officers Hunter Hammond, Tatiana Francischetti, and Kevin Boles. Hammond was a Brentwood Police Department Explorer. Francischetti joins a lateral Community Service Officer from Menlo Park police. Boles has a background as a Campus Supervisor for Liberty High School.

Submitted photo

Photo courtesy of Brentwood Police Department

SportS

Liberty boys volleyball continues to build confidence as league play hits full swing

By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer

Following a sweep of Deer Valley in straight sets (25-17, 25-16, 25-20) Tuesday night, Liberty’s boys volleyball team is gaining confidence at the right time with BVAL play in full swing.

“We’ve just been working hard in practice and playing hard,” Liberty head volleyball coach Haylie Bustamante said. “I think we’ve got some things coming together that look good for us.”

Tuesday’s win marks the fourth in a row for Liberty and their third straight since the Lions started league play with wins against Antioch and Freedom. Liberty has yet to drop a set in Bay Valley Athletic League play, but the Lions did lose one set during the current four-game win streak -- the third set 23-25 at El Cerrito on March 28 with the Lions failing to close that set for the sweep.

“We’re more confident because we’ve come together as a team more in practice,” senior Xavier Cordova said. “We get to work on more stuff.”

As dominant as the Lions, now at 16-4 overall and 3-0 in league, have been throughout a majority of the season, they admit that their struggles at times to close sets and matches has been their weakness Bustamante and Cordova say they are addressing that with seven matches left in the regular season.

“We get a little bit too relaxed,” Bustamante explained. “They don’t necessarily go through their normal serving routine and take a deep breath that

they need. We’ll work on that.”

“It’s something that we’re working on, trying to be more consistent throughout the matches and take it seriously.”

Liberty’s current four-match win streak comes off last month’s Bishop O’Dowd tournament that saw the team lose three matches in a row after winning their opening match of the tournament against Berkeley on March 9. Liberty lost their next two matches of the three-match tournament with both going the distance

in the best-of-three series, then fell at Northgate High 3-1 in Walnut Creek.

“Before the O’Dowd tournament, we didn’t have our full lineup,” Cordova said. “We were just kind of pushing through, but (having) our full lineup helped us go on our streak.”

Through three matches of BVAL play, the Lions seem to be on a collision course with cross-town rival Heritage for the league title. Heritage swept Pittsburg on Tuesday as well and are also 9-0 in their

sets played. Liberty did defeat Heritage earlier in the season in the final of the East County tournament, adding a sense of confidence when both teams meet for the first time in league play next Tuesday, April 9.

“We expect that that will be some of our best competition in league,” Bustamante said. “We just gotta go into it playing our best.”

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

Freedom baseball’s win streak ends in loss to Pittsburg

By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer

Freedom High baseball head coach Ken Evanson described Tuesday’s 6-0 loss to Pittsburg at home in one sentence.

“(It’s) good to have a short-term memory,” he said.

Freedom’s lineup, coming off a hot trend that led the Falcons to four wins in the last five games, including three in a row highlighted by a two-game sweep of the Liberty Lions, was held to two hits in the loss off of a career day by Pirates starting pitcher Diego Deluna.

“Their pitcher did his job,” Evanson said. “He competed. It’s not that we were cold, he was just better than us today. He did a good job.”

Freedom’s two hits came off of a two-out single in the bottom of the first inning by Nico Fesinmeyer and a single to center by Caleb Emmons with one out in the bottom of the fourth. The Falcons also stranded eight baserunners as the lineup was unable to really get anything going.

Deluna also tossed six strikeouts in his first career complete game shutout, according to MaxPreps.

Freedom’s

out. We’ll take that any day of the week.”

Carmignani’s biggest blemish came in the first inning when he threw a wild pickoff attempt to first, allowing Cole Leschak to score from third with two out.

He would go on to hold off the Pirates’ lineup until the fifth inning after Leschak hit a two-RBI double to center off of him to extend the Pirates’ lead to 3-0. Leschak finished the day going 2-for-3 with two RBI and a run scored.

Carmignani allowed three runs (two earned) on four hits with three walks in 4 1/3 innings.

Falcons senior Cael Green took over with one out in the fifth to finish the game, allowing three more runs, all in the seventh inning, on two hits with two walks, a hit batter, and two strikeouts.

On the other side, his counterpart, Dylan Carmignani, had a solid start to the day until Pittsburg finally got to him in the fifth inning.

“He did a great job,” Evanson said. “He gave us a chance to win (allowing just) three runs when he came

Freedom (8-6 overall, 2-1 Bay Valley Athletic League) travels to Concord to take on De La Salle (73, 3-2 EBAL) for a non-conference matchup before going to Pittsburg for the second of the two-game series against the Pirates (11-3, 1-0 BVAL) on April 9. To view a slideshow, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia/ slideshows

Nico Fesinmeyer walks to the batters box during Freedom’s game against the Pittsburg Pirates Tuesday afternoon in Oakley.

Photo by Jeff Weisinger

Left photo: Liberty’s Mason Peddy (6) and Zachary Sisney (7) go up for a block from a hit by Deer Valley’s Rylan Cristobal (7) during Tuesday night’s match in Brentwood. Right photo: Liberty senior libero Dionisio Nava jumps for his serve in the Lions matchup against Deer Valley Tuesday night in Brentwood.

Photos by Jeff Weisinger

Heritage boys volleyball sets sights on BVAL title

Two consecutive sweeps leave Patriots unbeaten in league play

By Juan Cebreiros Correspondent

A Bay Valley Athletic League title has evaded the Heritage Patriots volleyball team each of the four seasons. However, their 3-0 (25-19, 25-19, 25-16) sweep over the visiting Deer Valley Wolverines last Thursday and Tuesday’s 3-0 sweep (25-18, 25-23, 25-20) keep them undefeated in league play as they remain tied atop the BVAL standings with cross-town rival Liberty.

However, Patriots head coach Janet Hannigan doesn’t want her team to get ahead of themselves after just the second game of league play.

“We just gotta take it one match at a time,” Hannigan said. “They’re not going to look the same, hopefully we look improved and stay healthy. I think it’s good to see each other so you know a little bit better of what’s coming.”

The Patriots’ defense shined in their sweep. Heritage combined for 49 digs and 10 blocks to prevent the Wolverines from scoring more than 20 points in any of the three sets.

“We’ve been working hard on some stuff and our blocking really came through,” Hannigan said. “We’ve been able to block in the past but we haven’t always played the defense behind it that we need to. It just feels like the defensive part is coming together nicely and that’s good to see.”

The Patriots have won their last 10 games, including going 4-0 in the Stockton Classic Tournament, after falling 2-1 to Liberty in the East County Tournament in early March. Hannigan said the tournaments has helped her and the team “get our feet wet.”

Winter

TIRE SALE

However, one area that’s constantly plagued the Patriots in those tournaments and overall this season is their errors when serving. Hannigan throughout the season has said her team has the ability to serve, but the serving mistakes are more mental. Hannigan called the Patriots 7 errors to just 3 aces “disappointing” against the Wolverines.

Many of her players, including Dede Basa, agreed. “Everyone in our team could ace anyone off the court,” Basa said. “Any

team in league and NCS, it’s all a mental thing. I think if you are 100% confident that you’re going to make your serve, you’re gonna make that serve.”

Hannigan added: “They know what they’re supposed to do, but sometimes we just get in our own way,” Hannigan said.

She said her team is “trying to make a perfect play happen. A kill is a kill.”

The Patriots hope this season can be the first time since 2019 they can bring home a BVAL title, after three straight seasons finishing in second place.

Left photo: Patriots #10 Christian Basa attempts to tip the ball over the net in the Patriots’ home sweep over Deer Valley. Right photo: No. 8 Markus Krepp tips the ball over the net and past Deer Valley’s blocker No. 14 Dominic Dolojan.

Photos by Juan Cebreiros

By Sean Tongson Correspondent

A sixth grader from Brentwood took home second-place honors in two events at the Pacific Swimming Age Group Championships a couple of weekends ago.

Andy Li, 11, of the Brentwood SeaWolves clocked in with a time of 27.07 seconds in the 50-yard freestyle and 59.04 seconds in the 100-yard freestyle – both personal bests – at the 2024 Spring Age Group Championships on March 15-17.

Formerly known as the Junior Olympics, the event was hosted by San Benito Aquatics at the Baler Aquatic Center in Hollister, with more than 700 swimmers ages 14 and under in a meet that consisted of all swimming strokes.

Andy also placed 5th in the 100-yard Individual Medley (IM) and 8th in the 200-yard IM, where swimmers perform all four of the competitive strokes - - butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke, and freestyle – on consecutive lengths of the race. With the tutelage of longtime head coach Pam Araujo and his parents rallying behind him, Andy’s two second-place finishes represented a culmination of hard work, discipline, and perseverance.

“In order to qualify, athletes had to reach previous time standards based off national averages provided by USA Swimming,” head coach Pam Araujo said. “We were excited to have sent two talented swimmers – Mariia Alekseeva and Andy Li. Mariia placed 10th in her 50-yard breaststroke. Andy swam his best times for the season. It is a big deal to qualify for this swim meet, and we could not be prouder of the athletes who attended.”

To prepare for competitions, Andy, who has been with the SeaWolves for six years, trains two hours a day, five days a week.

In addition to preparing his own food, Andy highlights the importance of getting enough sleep the night before competitions to ensure he is in “a good mood.” On competition days, Andy begins his day early to register and warm up, while always being accompanied by at least one of his parents cheer him on. Andy praises his parents for their support, but he also gives credit to Araujo for her influence and instilling the confidence and courage necessary for him to be successful and grow as a swimmer.

can gain first place in the next competition, and later, compete in the Olympics. While acknowledging German butterfly and freestyle swimmer Nils Rudolph as his favorite swimmer, Andy said that his role model is fellow swimmer Leo Byer of Palo Alto Stanford Aquatics, who won the 50-yard freestyle. Andy’s goal is to beat him.

“My future hopes, goals, and dreams are to get more first places and more (Junior Olympics) so I can improve better in my times,” Andy said. “My short-term goal is to train seriously under the guidance of the coach and strive to surpass the best results of 50 and 100 by Leo Byer, the winner of this competition.”

“With the help of Coach Pam’s effective guidance, Andy’s swimming skills have greatly improved,” said Andy’s mother Tao. “Andy worked very hard to overcome the fear of stage fright and began to excel. He not only strives to excel in swimming, but also wants to maintain his honor roll status at Adams Middle School.”

Down the road, Andy says he hopes he

Araujo added, “This was Andy’s first meet with high-caliber competition. I look forward to watching this young swimmer continue to develop. He has a bright future in swimming.”

More information on the Brentwood SeaWolves can be found at the following link at https://www.brentwoodseawolves. com/

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

Brentwood swimmer Andy Li of the Brentwood SeaWolves took home second-place honors in two Pacific Swimming Age Group Championship events in March.

Freedom baseball going to The Show

Falcons to play Clayton Valley Charter at Oracle Park next weekend

By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer

For a day next Saturday, Freedom’s baseball team will make the jump to The Show.

On April 13, the Falcons will take on Clayton Valley Charter at Oracle Park in San Francisco, home of the San Francisco Giants.

“It’s just a great opportunity,” Freedom head coach Ken Evanson said of Freedom’s first time playing at the Giants’

home field. “It’s a kind of once-in-a- lifetime for most of these guys.”

The team was invited to play in the showcase at the stadium along with Clayton Valley Charter and two other unidentified teams that will play in the afternoon after the Freedom game.

With the Giants on the road that week, the field is open, and the Falcons will play against the Ugly Eagles at 11 a.m. The teams will use both dugouts on the Major League field.

The team is selling tickets for their

fundraiser to play at the ballpark with the goal of selling 500 before Saturday, April 13.The fundraiser with the Giants is selling Giants tickets at discounted prices, and those who buy tickets to a Giants game in April will get the pass to the FreedomClayton Valley Charter matchup.

Those interested can check out the link below and use the code “FREEDOM,” or by scanning the QR code in the picture.

https://mlb.tickets.com/schedule/? agency=MLB_MPV&orgid=2139#/ sales_group_code;salesGroupId=5942

photocopied, of the owners name predicated on the ‘Strawman’, Ens Legis/Trust Estate described as the debtor and all property is accepted for value and is Exempt from levy. Lien placed on debtor entities is for all outstanding property still owed but not yet returned to trust from entities such as municipalities, governments, and the like, not on trust entity itself. Trustee is not surety to any account by elicit reservation/indemnification.

The following property is hereby registered and liened in the same: All certificates of Birth Document #199434012284, SSN/ UCC Contract Trust Account-Prepaid Account Number:626-74-4816; Exemption Identification Number:626744816, is herein liened and claimed at a sum certain $100,000,000.00, also registered: Placer County Cause# FSB19000938, $5,000,000.00 Private Surety Bond, Security Agreement No. AKH-08111994-SA, Hold Harmless & Indemnity Agreement No. AKH-08111994-HHIA, Copyright under item no: AKH-08111994-CLC Adjustment of the filing is in accord with both public policy and the national Uniform Commercial Code. Trustee/Secured Party, Anthony-Keshaun: Harrison, is living flesh and blood sojourning upon the soil of the land known as California, and not within Fictional boundaries, territories nor jurisdiction of any fictional entity including fictional Federal geometric plane(s). Trespass by any agent(s) foreign or domestic, by such in any scheme or artifice to defraud. Full reverence by ALL AGENTS and CORPORATIONS is ambiguously demanded and required. Culpa est immiscere se rel ad se non pertienti. All property cur-

rently held or outstanding belongs to the Trust administered by Trust/Secured Party, Title 46 USC 31343 and Article 1 and 5 of the International Convention on Maritime Liens and Mortgages 1993, Held at the Palis Des Nations, Geneva, From April 19 to May 5, 1992, United Nations UN. This Maritime Lien is under safe harbor and sinking funds provisions through the prescription of Law necessity with Applicable Law, Cardinal Orders, Ordinal Orders, and Commercial Standards. All rights Retained and Reserved Direct Any Rebuttal to: Anthony-Keshaun: Harrison Trust, c/o 480 Alta Rd., San Diego, California, Without-U.S. [92179] Antioch Press No. 06-1617 Publish Dates: March 22, 29, April 5, 12, 19, 2024

PUBLIC NOTICE

I, J.B., of the family Blacks, a living-breathing man, Declare I am alive, and over the age of 18 years old, fully competent to handle my own Trust Estate without the United States. I am a U.S. National (Texas Republic), not a 14th Amendment Citizen of the United States. DO NOT WISH TO CONTRACT WITH ANY LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES, OR GOVERMENT AGENCIES. This is the collateral by Trustee/Secured Party on behalf of the Trust/Estate; J.B.: BLACK TRUST in the Commercial Chamber under the necessity to secure the rights, title (S), interest and value therefrom, in and of the Root of Title from inception, as well as property held in trust including but limiting to DNA, cDNA, cell lines, retna scans, fingerprints and all Debentures, Indentures, Accounts, Writ of Possession, Warrants, Complaints, Citations, Bonds, Applications, Notes, Chattel Paper, and all the pledges represented by the same included but not limited to the pignus, hypotheca, hereditaments, res, the energy and all products derived therefrom nunc pro tunc, contracts, agreements, and signatures and/or endorsements, facsimiles, printed, typed or photocopied, of the owners name predicated on the ‘Strawman’, Ens Legis/Trust Estate described as the debtor and all property is accepted for value and is Exempt from levy. Lien placed on debtor entities is for all outstanding property still owed but not yet returned to trust from entities such as municipalities, governments, and the like, not on trust entity itself. Trustee is not surety to any account by elicit reservation/indemnification. The following property is hereby registered and liened in the same: All certificates of Birth Document #100778-1968, SSN/UCC Contract Trust Account-Prepaid Account Number:465-41-1973; Exemption Identification Number:465411973, is herein liened and claimed at a sum certain $100,000,000.00, also registered: Parcel #134-885-0010001, Located at: 5810 Stratton Woods Dr., Spring, Texas [77389], Harris County

Cause#1629964, and #1723527, 2018 Chevy Corvette VIN#1G1YU3D62G5601357, 2015 Mercedes Benz G Wagon VIN#WDCYC7DF9FX229594, Harris County

Cause #1805055, $5,000,000.00 Private Surety Bond Recorded December, 2023, in Harris County, Security Agreement No. JBB07231968-SA, Hold Harmless & Indemnity Agreement No. JBB-07231968-HHIA, Copyright under item no: JBB-07231968-CLC Adjustment of the filing is in accord with both public policy and the national Uniform Commercial Code. Trustee/Secured Party, J.B.: Black, is living flesh and blood sojourning upon the soil of the land known as Texas, and not within Fictional boundaries, territories nor jurisdiction of any fictional entity including fictional Federal geometric plane(s). Trespass by any agent(s) foreign or domestic, by such in any scheme or artifice to defraud. Full reverence by ALL AGENTS and CORPORATIONS is ambiguously demanded and required. Culpa est immiscere se rel ad se non pertienti. All property currently held or outstanding belongs to the Trust administered by Trust/Secured Party, Title 46 USC 31343 and Article 1 and 5 of the International Convention on Maritime Liens and Mortgages 1993, Held at the Palis Des Nations, Geneva, From April 19 to May 5, 1992, United Nations UN. This Maritime Lien is under safe harbor and sinking funds provisions through the prescription of Law necessity with Applicable Law, Cardinal Orders, Ordinal Orders, and Commercial Standards. All rights Retained and Reserved Direct Any Rebuttal to: J.B.: Black Trust, c/o 5810 Stratton Woods Dr., Spring, Texas, Without-U.S. [77389]

Antioch Press No. 06-1617

Publish Dates: March 22, 29, April 5, 12, 2024

PUBLIC NOTICE

PETITION OF: Rahel Bekele Mengesha CASE NUMBER: N24-0512 TO ALL IN-

TERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner Rahel Bekele Mengesha filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present Name: a. Rahel Bekele Mengesha to Proposed Name: Mimi Mengesha Cinar. 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEAR-

ING a. Date: 6/10/2024 Time: 9:00 a.m. Dept.: 30 Room: 201 b. The address of the court is same as noted above.

3. a. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Brentwood Press Date: March 27, 2024 Judge of the Superior Court Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 92484 Publish Dates: April 5, 12, 19, 26, 2024.

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME PETITIONER OR ATTORNEY: Tiffany Bernardo SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF CONTRA COSTA, 725 Court Street Martinez, CA 94553 PETITION OF: Tiffany Bernardo CASE NUMBER: N24-0539 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS:

1. Petitioner Tiffany Bernardo filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present Name: a. Hunter Stephen Mantzouris

b. Makenzie Renee Mantzouris to Proposed Name: a. Hunter Stephen Bernardo

b. Makenzie Renee Bernardo

2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted.

Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF LIEN SALE

Notice is hereby given that pursuant to California Self Storage Facility Act of the Business and Professions Code 21700 ET seq., the undersigned, Oakley Self Storage, will sell by competitive bidding in an online auction on www.storagetreasures. com the personal property of: Gary Oakley

Roderick Alvernaz

Charlene Tidwell

Melissa Seals

Walter Harris (2 units) Property to be sold: boxes, furniture, tools, household goods, and other misc. items. Sale will end on Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at 9:30 A.M.

Goods must be paid in cash and removed at completion of sale. Sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. Oakley Self Storage 4700 Main St, Oakley, CA 94561 (925) 625-7867. Oakley Press No. 03-0477 92433 Publication Dates: March 29, April 5, 2024.

NOTICE OF HEARING a. Date: 6/21/2024

Time: 9:00 a.m. Dept.: 30

News iN Brief

County planning commissioners sought

The county Board of Supervisors is seeking an individual who is interested in serving on the county’s Planning Commission.

The commission:

• is responsible for hearing and deciding applications for proposed projects that generate more than 100 peak-hour trips, and all appeals from decisions of the zoning administrator.

• may initiate preparation of general plans, specific plans, regulations, programs, and legislation to implement the land use planning power of the county

• is generally responsible for advising the Board of Supervisors of matters relating to planning

• is the designated advisory agency for the purpose of passing on subdivisions

• hears and makes recommendations regarding proposed development agreements.

Meetings are on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at 6:30 p.m. in Martinez. Members receive $50 per meeting up to a monthly maximum of $300, plus mileage expense. The appointment will be for a full four-year term beginning July 1, 2024 and ending June 30, 2028.

Application forms can be obtained from the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors by calling 925-655-2000 or by visiting the County webpage at www contracosta ca gov. Applications should be returned to the Clerk of

the Board of Supervisors, County Administration Building, 1025 Escobar St., Martinez, CA 94553 by 5 p.m. on Friday, April 26. Applicants should plan to be available for public interviews to be held virtually via Zoom on Monday, May 13.

For more information about the County Planning Commission, contact Hiliana Li, Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development, at 925- 655-2860 or hiliana.li@dcd.cccounty.us.

County seeks applicants for advisory fire commission

The county Board of Supervisors seeks people to serve as an At Large or At Large Alternate member of the Fire Protection District’s Advisory Fire Commission.

The Commission is responsible for confirming cost of abatement reports; conducting weed abatement appeal hearings; approving surplus equipment declarations; and advising the fire chief on district service matters.

The Commission also serves as a liaison between the Board of Directors and the community and may be asked to perform other duties by the Board of Directors. Applicants must reside or work within the boundaries of the fire district to be considered for appointment.

Meetings are on the second Monday of even-numbered months at 7 p.m. in Concord. The appointments will be for four-year terms beginning on July 1, 2024 and ending

on June 30, 2028. Commissioners are not compensated.

Application forms can be obtained from the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors by calling (925) 655-2000 or by visiting the County webpage at www contracosta ca gov. Applications should be returned to the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors, County Administration Building, 1025 Escobar St., Martinez, CA 94553 by 5 p.m. on Friday, April 26. Applicants should plan to be available for public interviews in Martinez on Monday, May 13

For details, contact Latonia Ellingberg at lelli@cccfpd.org or (925) 941-3300 ext 1200 or at https://www cccfpd org/advisoryfire-commission

State adds key resource to help combat opioid crisis

The Naloxone Distribution Project, one of California’s critical harm reduction programs, is now offering fentanyl test strips as another tool to curb rising deaths from fentanyl contamination.

The project delivers millions of naloxone kits that have resulted in more than 247,000 reported opioid overdose reversals. The test strips detect the presence of fentanyl, offering another tool to prevent overdoses, the state said in a press release.

The addition of test strips to that toolkit will work to prevent overdoses in the first place – and add another opportunity to connect people with recovery support and treatment.

Within its first week, the project delivered more than 550,000 fentanyl test strips, the release stated.

Brentwood accepting applications for the Economic Development Grant Program for 2024-2025

The City of Brentwood is accepting applications from organizations through the Economic Development Grant Program that provides funding for projects that support small businesses, enhance marketing efforts, boost local tourism, sponsor communitybased promotional events, or benefit Brentwood’s economy.

The grant period covers projects occurring between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m., Friday, April 12.

Economic Development Grant Program information, guidelines, and application form can be found at: https://www brentwoodca gov/business/economic-development/grants-and-incentives

The Economic Development team will be available to answer any questions and provide further assistance throughout the application process. Organizations interested in participating in the grant program may contact the City of Brentwood Economic Development Division at economicdevelopment@brentwoodca.gov or call 925-516-5440.

Meyer witnesses Meals on Wheels initiative’s impact

Brentwood vice mayor joins drive to help seniors

Brentwood Vice Mayor Susannah Meyer saw the impact Meals on Wheels Diablo Region has on Brentwood’s older residents when she participated in the #SaveLunch initiative last week. Led by Meals on Wheels America, this nationwide initiative is designed to rally communities around our senior neighbors and protect the essential services that enable so many to remain healthy and independent at home.

Across the country, Meals on Wheels (MOW) programs enlisted elected officials and other prominent figures to deliver meals, speak out for seniors, and raise awareness for the power of Meals on Wheels. Meyer helped deliver nutritious meals to homebound seniors around Brentwood.

“Last year, MOW Diablo Region delivered over 700,000 meals,” said Sherry Nadworny, MOW Diablo Region Director of Development & Community Relations. “That is a 100% increase since before the pandemic, and we are on track to deliver even more this year. This is an important time for our elected officials to see the impact of our work as federal COVID-stimulus funding will end in September. MOW Diablo Region is committed to keeping our seniors nourished and more connected to our community through this challenging time and beyond.”

Meyer said she “was eager to learn more about how the agency has adapted to meet the needs of the aging Brentwood community. The volunteer and the staff member I rode with shared information about how the meal delivery program has changed and now can additionally deliver grocery bags and breakfast bags to help supplement the regular delivery for those who without the extra help would only have one meal available to them each day.”

Meyer’s connection to Meals on Wheels Diablo Region goes back to 2009 when she was a volunteer visitor for a senior living in Brentwood through the agency’s Friendly Visitors Program, and she filled various roles over the next 10 years.

“Because of this history, and likely because of my continued work with the aging community both on council and in my primary career, I was invited to take part in the annual awareness campaign,” she said via email.

Meyer said one thing can be done to improve the effort. “As with all nonprofits offering social service resources, awareness is always key to bringing in support from the communities served.”

She said the next step in the initiative isn’t really a ‘next step.’ “This awareness campaign takes place annually but MOWDR has to continually adapt to rising needs on a regular basis. I hope to take part again next year and learn more about what the agency is doing to support Brentwood seniors.”

As a full-service organization, Meals on Wheels Diablo Region is dedicated to addressing all the needs of the seniors it serves. In addition to meal delivery, it provides exercise and fall prevention classes, home safety modifications, elder abuse prevention, and much more. MOW Diablo Region is the only Meals on Wheels that delivers both meals and services to seniors in Contra Costa County.

National #SaveLunch efforts last month commemorated the historic day in March of 1972 when the Older Americans Act was amended to include a nutrition program for Americans 60 years and older. More than 50 years later,

12 million older Americans are still threatened by or experience hunger, and one in three seniors feels lonely, statistics show. That is why Meals on Wheels programs from across the country are joining forces to raise awareness and support to ensure it can continue to address the problem of seniors not knowing where their next meal will come from and malnutrition, combat social isolation, enable independence, and improve health for decades to come.

“We commend all of our 2024 Community Champions for stepping up to ensure that Meals on Wheels is there for all of our senior neighbors in need,” said Ellie Hollander, President and CEO of Meals on Wheels America. “In the face of soaring demand and costs that surpass our current resources, we need to come together as communities to bridge the gaps. We can’t do it alone – it takes all of us to save lunch for our seniors.”

For more information on how you can volunteer, contribute, or speak out for the seniors in Brentwood and around Contra Costa County this March, visit mowdiabloregion.org.

About Meals on Wheels Diablo Region:

For more than 50 years, Meals on Wheels Diablo Region has improved the lives of vulnerable seniors in Contra Costa County by delivering nutritious meals and supportive services that allow seniors to remain in their homes safely and with dignity. Programs include home-delivered meals, Breakfast Bags, Grocery Bags, Fall Prevention, Cafés, Care Management, Friendly Visitors, Health and Wellness, and more.

MEYER

Traffic stop leads to drug and firearms bust in Brentwood nearly a month later

By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer

What started as a traffic stop by a Brentwood police officer a month ago turned into a drug-related arrest that involved three people, according to Brentwood police.

As posted on their social media accounts, Oakland resident James Coleman Jr., 48, was arrested along with two others following the traffic stop after police discovered that he had an outstanding arrest warrant out of the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff.

Coleman also allegedly had a large amount of narcotics for sale including a significant amount of suspected fentanyl and was booked into the Martinez Detention Facility where he remained in custody on the charges from his arrest warrant.

Harvest Park from page 1A

to Brentwood.

“There’s no space for this sort of thing,” he said. “It’s great – we need it. There’s a lot of businesses that want to come to this city and just cannot do so because there’s just no room for them.”

Other residents were also in favor of the project, but expressed concern that the type of business going into the building being unknown could result in a situation where a business that residents were uninterested in having in the city could rent the space from the landlord.

Vice Chairperson David Sparling noted that there have been situations in the past where residents were unhappy after not being notified what type of business was renting space right behind their homes due to the way the process works. The parcel on Har-

Warrant from page 1A

Information was obtained following the traffic stop that Coleman had additional narcotics and firearms that he was prohibited from having due to his prior felony convictions..

On March 26, the Brentwood SWAT team followed up on the outstanding arrest warrant and executed a search warrant on the 100 block of Applewood Common and recovered four firearms along with a large amount of suspected fentanyl. Two of the residents there were briefly detained, but no arrests were made.

Brentwood police say that there is no threat to public safety and that the investigation is ongoing.

They encourage anyone with any information to call the non-emergency dispatch at 925-809-7911.

vest Park Drive has residential property just behind it.

“How can we make sure we’re protecting them?” Sparling said, referring to the homeowners near the property.

Crannell pointed out that the city requires an eight-foot masonry wall behind the property that would separate it from the homes and be a sound barrier to lessen the noise that residents would be subjected to.

Ultimately, it was decided that the Planning Commission must be made aware of any changes in the tenants that would occupy the property. Chairperson Anita Roberts referred to this as a “guard rail” to help diminish any potential conflicts. The agreement also stipulates that the Planning Commission is to be looped in to hold a public hearing for any noise, traffic or other complaints residents might have against the tenants.

ardous Materials Program also found a possible explosive compound stored in three containers. The Walnut Creek Police Department Bomb Squad responded to the location.

Officers suspected the compound was TATP (Triacetone Triperoxide), a highly volatile explosive compound. It was determined that two of the containers could be moved to another location for detonation, while one needed to be detonated in place. Nearby residents were

Housing from page 1A

to work with city staff on some art projects to use and showcase local talents.

The one-acre triangular site sits on the east of Ace Hardware and north of Main Street, near the newly developed commercial building at 3350 Main St. The first floor of the project would consist of seven commercial spaces ranging from 800 to 1,400 square feet, or 6,800 square feet in total, and one Americans with Disabilities Actcompliant apartment.

The second floor would include seven 950-square-foot, one-bedroom apartments that come with a balcony. The exterior material includes stucco, faux-brick cement fiberboard, and metal awnings. There is also an outdoor seating area and 37 on-site

“I’m liking this,” Commissioner Rod Flohr said as the commissioners finalized the text of the agreement.

Other topics discussed by the Commission included:

• The 5-0 denial of a design review exception for two new single-family homes on Kayla Place. The exception was a request for reduced setbacks on the front and side yards of both properties. A setback is the minimum distance which a building or other structure must be set back from a street. The request for the reduced setback was made by the applicant due to the lots both being smaller than the surrounding ones and of irregular shape. The commissioners did not agree that strict adherence to zoning regulations would create an “unnecessary hardship” for the applicant.

evacuated, the press release stated.

The three containers were later detonated without incident.

Jonathan McCarthy, 29, whose residence was not disclosed, was booked into the Martinez Detention Facility for an outstanding arrest warrant for parolee at large.

The Sheriff’s Office is still looking for two suspects from Brentwood: Maxwell Hayworth, 44, and Danielle Kumerow, 42. Both are wanted for suspected burglary, narcotics viola-

parking spaces.

The Planning Commission and developers did not say what the start and completion dates would be and what the sale price is.

Commissioner Jimmy Ramirez had expressed concerns about the train tracks that were close to the site, and the brick materials used for the project.

“I was wondering if there is any opportunity to use local artisans for the project,” he said.

Julio J. Tinajero, a representative from Milestone Associates Engineering Inc. said if the City has some approved list of local artists, then the applicant may consider it.

“Art is expensive, another big-ticket item that will affect the project,” he said.

Brentwood police recovered this assault rifle along with three other guns after executing a search warrant on a house on the 100 block of Applewood Common last week.

• A future agenda item request further exploring the impact of Measure Q, approved by voters in 2022 and designates some open spaces as protected areas that can only be used “for open space, parks, agricultural, and recreational uses,” according to the city of Brentwood’s website.

• A future agenda item request from Sparling regarding traffic issues in the vicinity of Grant Street and Adams Lane. Sparling expressed concern over safety issues along the stretch of road involving speeding and other hazards. Discussion of the topic at a future meeting would potentially result in the Planning Commission recommending the City Council take action on the issue. The full meeting can be watched online at https://bit.ly/440EEIF.

tions, possession of an explosive device, and child endangerment. The press release did not elaborate on any of the charges.

At press time, the investigation is ongoing and the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office has not responded to requests for updates regarding the other two suspects.

Anyone with any information on this incident or the location of the suspects is asked to contact the Investigation Division at (925) 313-2600. For any tips, email tips@so.cccounty.us or call (866) 846-3592 to leave an anonymous voice message.

“But if it’s something feasible I’m sure the applicant will consider that.”

Tinajero also said that safety is top priority for the developer, and having fencing or any form of restriction to access the railroad will be part of the project.

“We are going to put up some kind of barrier to ensure that some kid does not walk across (the tracks). It is definitely going to be taken into account,” he said.

He also explained that the materials for the building have to be cost-effective for the developer, adding that the finishing look proposed is something that is commonly used nationwide.

“The materials and products we are proposing have a longer life, the finish on that does not get damaged easily because it’s

a lot more solid and sturdy,” Tinajero added.

The Planning Commission also approved an application requesting the approval of a vesting tentative map to subdivide 16.5 acres into 89 single-family residential lots.

Additionally, the tentative map includes provisions for the East Cypress Corridor Specific Plan levee, as well as dedication and enhancement of Bethel Island Road frontage.

Furthermore, it encompasses dedication and improvement of “Street X,” facilitating access to the project from Bethel Island Road and linking it to developments west of the project site. It is situated on the west side of Bethel Island Road 0.8 miles north of East Cypress Road.

Photo courtesy of Brentwood Police Department

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. Calendar

This Week’s Events

Friday, April 5

Oakley Science Week comes to Ironhouse Sanitary District

Oakley Science Week at Ironhouse Sanitary District starts on Saturday, March 30, when visitors can take a hayride tour and learn how Ironhouse Sanitary District turns dirty water into sustainable, clean recycled water ready for reuse. Get up close and personal with the amazing bats that fly through the sky at dusk. There will also be a chance to see the big trucks Ironhouse uses to keep our sewers clean and learn how to help conserve water and learn about how bats benefit the environment.. This year, Oakley Science Week takes place through April 5. The district will be providing four hayride tours of the Water Recycling Facility at 10:15 a.m. After the hayride, visitors can look at some of the District’s big trucks and equipment to ensure the underground pipes and pumps stay free of debris and keep the environment in Oakley, Bethel Island, and the Delta safe and healthy. The events will be held at the district offices at 450 Walnut Meadows Drive in Oakley. For more information on other Oakley Science Week programs or to register for an Oakley Science Week event, see the city’s website at www.oakleyinfo.com.

For more details on Ironhouse Sanitary District, see www.ironhousesanitarydistrict.com or email isdoutreach@isd.us.com.

No Limit Texas Hold ‘Em poker tournament

The Rotary Club of Brentwood presents its 14th annual No Limit Texas Hold ‘Em poker tournament at the Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St.. Doors open at 6 p.m. for dinner, then the tournament starts at 7. Cost is $75 per player, which includes buffet dinner, drink ticket and tournament play. Proceeds benefit the Brentwood Rotary Charitable Fund. First-place prize is $500, second place is $300, third place is $200 and fourth place is $100. For more information, call Steve Gursky at 925-584-8708 or email sgursky@sbcglobal.net.

Honoring Cesar Chavez award winners

The Pittsburg campus of Los Medanos College will honor Cesar Chavez Day – Honoring a Legacy – at the Student Union Conference Center, 2700 E. Leland Road, with a reception at 5 p.m. and the ceremony at 6 p.m. Admission is free.

Winners are César Chávez Award for Exemplary Community Service, Concepcion James, –Chairman, United Latino Voices of Contra Costa County; César Chávez East County Educator Award: Rosa Armendáriz – Dean of Equity & Inclusion (interim), Los Medanos College; Jessica Linares Boyle – Puente Counselor, Los Medanos College; César Chávez Spirit Award: Teyoltlahui Gonzalez – Student Leader, Pittsburg High School; Gabriel Perez-Cano – Student Leader, Los Medanos College.

Saturday, April 6

Child wellness Fair and marketplace

The fair and marketplace at 3901 Walnut Blvd., Suite C, in Brentwood from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. focuses on child wellness with tools, resources, and guest speakers. Admission is free. For details, visit brentwooddance.com.

Historical Museum Opening Day

East Contra Costa Historical Museum, 3890 Sellers Avenue in Brentwood/Knightsen, has its opening day from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. A free family-oriented day of old-fashioned fun with outdoor games of the 1800s, museum tours, petting zoo and quilts. Take a lesson in the one-room schoolhouse, and sit on the fire engine. The Brentwood Lions and Rotary Club will host a pancake breakfast. Tickets are $10 for adults and $25 per family, with proceeds benefiting the museum. For details, visit http:// www.eastcontracostahistory.org or contact Mary Black at ecchs@eastcontracostahistory.org or 925-206-5087.

Sunday, April 7

Brentwood Holi 2023

Enjoy the Holi - Festival Of Color from 11 a.m. –3 p.m. at Krey Elementary School, 190 Crawford Drive. Experience a kaleidoscope of vibrant hues, delectable food, refreshing drinks, and lively music.Tickets are $8; children younger than 5 are admitted free. Free color with each purchased ticket. For details, visit https://united-indian.org/ event/holi-2024/

Thursday, April 11

Storytime at the Streets

Stories with Sparkles. Free children’s story time with activities and entertainment at The Streets of Brentwood, 2455 Sand Creek Road, at the Playhouse near the Children’s Play Area every Thursday (April 4-May 30) from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Follow them on social media for updates or visit https://shopstreetsofbrentwood.com/events.

On the Horizon

Friday, April 12-Sunday, April 14

Ghostlight Theatre Presents Festival 10

A festival of 10-minute plays is presented at 7 p.m. Shows on April 12 and 14 are at 7 p.m. each day, and shows on April 13-14 at 2 p.m. each day at Brentwood Community Center, 150 City Park Way. There’s something for everyone in these 20 shows -- drama, comedy, romance, sci-fi. Performances will be at the Brentwood Community Center on April 12th-14th. You can purchase a single show ticket to see 10 plays, or a double header option for just $10 more to see all 20 plays.Tickets are $22 -$32. For details and to order tickets, visit https://ghostlightte.org.

Saturday, April 13

DBYC Opening Day of Boating Season Parade

The Discovery Bay Yacht Club at 5871 Marina Road hosts its free annual boating season parade from noon-4 p.m. It starts just off Newport Lane at Kellogg Creek. To register your boat or for details, visit http://DBYC.com or call 925-634-1210.

Multicultural Faire in Brentwood

The Brentwood Youth Commission presents its second annual multicultural faire at City Park in Brentwood for live music, food trucks, live performances, booths and a fashion show that showcases the culture of local youth from 2-5 p.m. For details, email ospishock@brentwoodca.gov.

Spring Rummage Sale

Looking to sell some items and support local veterans? This free event is from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building at 757 First St. For details, contact the hall manager at brentwoodveteransbuilding@gmail.com.

Grand Collaborations and Prosperous Voyage

For its final concert of the 2023-2024 season, the Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra, led by Geoffrey Gallegos, Music Director, joins forces with the San Ramon Valley Chorale, with director Bruce Koliha in a program titled Grand Collaboration and Prosperous Voyage. The program features choral masterworks by Schubert, Mozart and Beethoven, including his Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage, Op. 112. The orchestra will transport the audience to Scotland with Mendelssohn’s grand and picturesque Symphony No. 3 in A minor, Op. 56 (“Scottish”) inspired by his many voyages and sojourns to the highland countryside. The program is from 2-3:30 p.m. at the El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. 2nd St., in Antioch. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors, $7 youth. For details, call 925-757-9500 or visit http://www.elcampaniltheatre.com

Saturday, April 13 and Sunday, April 14

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints regional conference April 13-14

The Antioch Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will be hosting their semiannual conference April 13-14. The Antioch Stake includes congregations from Antioch, Oakley, Pittsburg and Brentwood, and the public is invited. Bishop L. Todd Budge will be the visiting general authority for the conference. Bishop Budge is originally from Pittsburg and has worked in various capacities in Japan and the U.S. Since his retirement in 2011, he has served in numerous church responsibilities including President of the Tokyo Japan Mission. In 2019, he was invited to serve in the Presiding Bishopric for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints where he manages humanitarian aid, welfare programs, and physical facilities. He also travels frequently to support various philanthropic organizations and to minister to individuals. All conference sessions will be at 2350 Jeffery Way in Brentwood. On Saturday there will be a youth meeting from 5-6:30 p.m.. Following this, an adult session will be held from 7-9 p.m. The Sunday morning general meeting will be from 10 a.m.-noon.

Sunday, April 14

Volunteers sought for Mount Diablo State Park Dig Days April 14, May 4

The Mount Diablo Trails Alliance seeks volunteers for its Dig Days scheduled for April 14 and May 4. The event is from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and the focus of the March 24 effort will be the Upper

Summit Trail above Green Ranch Road junction. On April 14, it will be above the Devil’s Elbow/ North Peak Trail junction. On May 4, it will be on the Lower Summit Trail on the Upper Dan Cook SIngletrack near South Gate Road. Volunteers will help maintain and improve trails on the mountain using proven techniques with a focus on safety, preservation and equitable access. For details, visit mountdiablotrailsalliance.org/ dig-days.

Wednesday, April 17

Free Job Fair

A free community job fair is scheduled for 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Shadow Lakes Golf & Event Center, 401 W. Country Club Drive, Brentwood. The fair is focused on connecting local job seekers with local employers. Register to attend at www.ImagineJobFairs.com. For more information, send an email to Info@ImagineJobFair. com.

Saturday, April 20

4th Annual Luncheon and Fashion Show

Catholic Daughters of the Americas Immaculate Heart of Mary Court #2714 presents the 4th annual luncheon and Fashion Show from 11:30 a.m.- 2 p.m. Tickets are $35 for adults and $15 for children 12 and under. Day of event tickets are $40 for adults and $20 for 12 and under. Wear your favorite spring hat because there will be a prize for the best hat, plus basket raffles and more. For details, email Marina Khayat ihmcda2714@gmail.com.

Living Better After 50

A day of learning with worshops on Tai Chi, laughter yoga, safe driving, scams and fraud safety, preventing falls, mindfulness, aging care decisions, fitness and nutrition and brain health. Workshops are $5 and are from 8:45 a.m.-4 p.m. at Black Diamond High School, 1131 Stoneman Ave., in Pittsburg. Light breakfast, lunch and a raffle are included. For details, call the Pittsburg Adult Education Center at 925-473-2400.

Tuesday, April 23

Oakley Senior Center Hard Rock Casino bus trip

Round-trip motorcoach transportation with water and snacks playing Bingo on the bus and have a 50/50 raffle. Tickets are $47, which includes the driver’s tip. Veterans get a free coffee and doughnut. Make your reservations and pay in advance by April 22. Bus will leave the Oakley Senior Center, 215 Second St. at 8 a.m. and will be back by 5:30 p.m. after five hours at Hard Rock Casino to gamble and eat. For details, call Joyce or Allan at the Oakley Senior Center at 925-626-7223 or 925-265-3417.

Nick

NRL Electric at 2419 Imperial Court in Discovery Bay wants to make every day for you a little brighter. How do these licensed and bonded contractors do that? By taking care of your electric needs, including ceiling fans, landscape lighting relighting, LED lighting and energyefficient system for the past 60 years, and, more recently, installling chargers for electric vehicles. When you contact them, they will call you back the same day.

Their reputation is built on customers’ trust. If there are any problems after the job is done, Nick Luoma wants to hear from you so they can make it right. NFL Electric is open Monday-Friday from 7 a.m.-5 p.m., weekends by appointment only.

Office: 925-813-2255 Instagram at @nrlelectric

Photo by Jeff Weisinger

Family-owned Alliance Bath Reglazing asks “Why replace? REGLAZE!”

JEFF WEISINGER

Ever since Michelle Garcia was a little girl, she was always fascinated with bathrooms.

Fast-forward years later, she, as the operations manager of her family’s company, Alliance Bath Reglazing, is helping customers do the same.

“It’s an industry that we fell into,” she said. “I’ve loved bathrooms since I was a little girl. It’s funny that I ended up in this industry.”

She, her husband, Daniel, and her sister, Krystal, and her husband Richard, have been helping commercial customers, (mainly the apartment industry), and residential customerπs save money by reglazing their bathtubs, vanities, and tiles instead of replacing them since 2017 after leaving a similar company they all worked for previously.

“We took a leap of faith,” Daniel Garcia, the president of the company, said. “We believed in ourselves. Now we have a thriving business, we have over 10 technicians and two women in the office helping us service the whole Bay Area from San Francisco down to San Jose, all the way out to Contra Costa County. We’re thriving.”

Alliance, owned by the Garcias and

Perez families, all started in a single house in Brentwood in 2017 with the tools coming out of a shed in the backyard. A year later, they were able to get the office space and warehouse that they have today on Harvest Park Drive. Their Office Manager, Natalie Ganda, was with the company from the beginning, originally working in the kitchen.

“It’s just something that we became passionate about,” Michelle Garcia said. “We like doing it, dealing with customers. It was just something that grew with us.”

Alliance started focusing on more residential work locally in Brentwood just two years ago and have become a staple – it was part of last year’s Holiday Parade

and several other community events – and was named the Business of the Year by the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce in February.

“The last few years, getting that connection with the community, they’re more aware of us,” Daniel Garcia said.

Alliance focuses strictly on reglazing, specifically kitchen countertops, bathroom countertops, and bathtubs instead of having to deal with the hassle and expense of replacing those, avoiding the mess of debris that projects like that often come with, taking what some would consider a week or weeks-long process to be done in just around two days.

After the work is done on the first day, the team returns to the project on Day 2 to perform quality control, making sure that the bathroom is up to their standard and cleaned up for the customer.

“Instead of pulling out your tub and replacing it, we bring it back to life,” Daniel Garcia explained. “When (potential customers) think their tub is damaged, they’re thinking automatically to rip it out and put in a new one, but it’s so expensive to do that. Once we tell them what we can do, and the amount of money that they can save, they come over here and we get it done.”

According to Michelle Garcia, Alliance’s services cost about $1,000, depending on the work that needs to be done.

According to Badeloft.com, a website that deals with bathroom replacements, the average cost to replace a bathtub in California is $6,000-$8,000 with the costs including removal, installation, disposal, and preparation.

“It’s like an everyday practice,” Krystal Mendez, Alliance’s vice president, said. ”You can’t just pull out a tub in a unit or a counter and be cost-effective.”

For details, call Alliance’s office at 925-679-7532, email work@alliancebath.com or go on social media @ alliancebathreglazing.

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

Photo courtesy of Alliance

3 factors to consider before converting an attic

At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, many homeowners suddenly found themselves in need of more usable square footage in their homes. Required to work from home due to social distancing recommendations, millions of working professionals suddenly found themselves setting up shop at kitchen tables or islands, in alcoves, garages, or even walk-in closets. Those makeshift offices were never supposed to be permanent, but as companies loosen workplace policies and embrace full remote or hybrid working arrangements, professionals are seeking more permanent home office solutions.

Home additions are a possibility for homeowners who need more usable square footage, but add-ons may not be the right option for everyone. If adding on won’t work, homeowners may want to look up ... at their attics.

Attics with ample space can make for

ideal home offices, as they’re away from the hustle and bustle of a home’s main floor. That can make it easier to concentrate when everyone is in the house and reduce the likelihood that video calls with colleagues and clients will be interrupted by kids and pets.

Attic conversions are not always possible, and the following are three important factors homeowners may need to consider before they can go forward with such projects.

1. Dimensions: Renovation experts at This Old House and the real estate experts at UpNest indicate that at least half of a finished attic must be a minimum of seven feet high and seven feet wide and 70 square

feet. Requirements may differ depending on where homeowners live, but that 7-7-70 guideline is generally the minimum requirement. An attic that fails to meet such requirements won’t necessarily be a lost cause, but it might be costly to make adjustments that ultimately align with local codes.

2. Access: Access is another aspect that must adhere to local safety guidelines. Many attics are accessible only through pulldown ladders, but that will have to change if homeowners repurpose their attic spaces. A staircase that complies with local laws will need to be installed, and contractors can work with homeowners to build that and estimate the cost. Homeowners who simply want

to put desks in their attics without going with full-fledged conversions are urged to adhere to local access requirements anyway, as they’re intended to ensure residents can safely escape attics in the case of a fire or another emergency.

3. Climate control: Attics are converted to provide residents with more livable space. Converted space is only livable if the climate within the attic can be controlled so it’s cool in the summer and warm in the winter. An existing heating, ventilation and air-conditioning unit needs to efficiently heat and cool an extra room. If it can’t, bills might spike because the rest of the home likely won’t be as comfortable, forcing homeowners to adjust thermostats to offset that discomfort. That also could affect the unit’s life expectancy. Before going forward with an attic renovation, homeowners should contact heating, ventilation and air-conditioning professionals to determine if attic spaces can be serviced with the existing units and ductwork, or if an alternative arrangement must be worked out to make the spaces livable.

Attic conversions can be great ways to make existing spaces more livable. Homeowners considering such projects should pay attention to three important variables as they try to determine if attic conversions will work for them.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

Kso much time spent in the kitchen, it’s easy to see how homeowners might grow a little bored by these rooms. The cost of a kitchen remodel won’t be cheap, as the home improvement resource Angi.com notes that the typical cost of such a project in the United States is between $13,000 and $38,000. Angi.com estimates even indicate that a high-end remodel could cost homeowners as much as $61,000. That’s beyond many homeowners’ budgets. But the good

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative Installing uplighting beneath

How to properly maintain your pool

The peak of spring (and subsequent warmer weather) is fast approaching. And with higher temperatures comes more time in your swimming pool.

However, owning and maintaining a pool comes with a list of dos and don’ts that pool owners should adhere to ensure their pools are good to go not just for the spring and summer months ahead, but year-round as well, experts say.

According to Frank Marshall, owner-operator of Your Family Pool Service in Brentwood, cleaning one’s pool weekly is the best approach to keeping it in good shape as playing catch-up can be difficult when dealing with thousands of gallons of water. Pool filters are essential to clearing dirt and other pollutants from

the water, such as bacteria contaminants or residues from shampoos, perfumes, and hair products. However, filters must be cleaned and inspected many times, so they must be replaced every three to four years.

“The best thing you can do for your pool to assure a great swim season is being regular about cleaning the filtration system,” Marshall said. “I would recommend a minimum of at least once, or ideally twice, a year, depending on your filter size and bather load. The ideal situation would be a spring and fall cleaning.”

According to the Swim University website on A Beginner’s Guide to Pool Maintenance, proper pool circulation is key to providing cleaner, clearer, and safer water ideal for healthy swimming so that common issues associated with poor pool circulation such as cloudy water and algae buildup rarely

occur. As a result, they recommend running a pool filter at least 10 to 12 hours a day, if not 24 hours a day, although Swim University acknowledges that this might cost too much for families on a tight maintenance budget.

Marshall added that a common mistake pool owners make is not consistently checking the pH and chlorine levels of the pool. He emphasized that routine, adding that drop test kits are his preferred method over the quick and easy dip strips because they are less expensive and more accurate. Local home improvement stores such as Ace Hardware stock pool maintenance tools and equipment, along with along retailers such as Amazon.

“It really is important to be testing chlorine and pH every week,” Marshall said. “The biggest benefit to maintaining proper chemistry is checking the pool every week, being consistent, and adding small doses of acid or chlorine to make the corrections. And shocking the pool (adding the necessary chemicals to eliminate contaminants such as algae, chloramines, and bacteria) once or twice a month or after a big party or event or after lots of swimmers are in the pool.”

While leaves and other debris will end up in pools, Marshall suggested that a pool cover is necessary unless one has an automatic pool cover that’s built directly into the pool deck. According to Marshall, the “bubble”

Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

Delta Quilters to show their skills April 13

Delta Quilters Guild is hosting its third Sewing Room Tour on Saturday, April 13 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. that will feature the sewing rooms of five local quilters.

sewing techniques and offer displays of popular 3-yard quilts. Then attendees can enjoy refreshments and local vendors at an outdoor reception from 2-4 p.m. All sewing rooms are in the Brentwood/ Oakley area, with specific locations identified when tickets are purchased.

Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 the day of the event if available. Purchase tickets at www.deltaquilters.org or call 925-852-4600.

Guild members will demonstrate

Photo courtesy of Mary Casey Black Residents will have the opportunity on April 13 to see the sewing rooms of five local quilters and learn more about their craft.

Perez Nursery examines gardening trends

Owner offers tips for vibrant spring plants

ANDREW RULLODA

Spring has sprung, and whether you are an experienced gardener with a green thumb or are getting into all things plants and gardens for the first time, here are some trends and tips from Perez Nursery. Sitting on 10 acres off Walnut Boulevard in Brentwood, Perez Nursery specializes in multi-plant species, and offers one-on-one consultations between customers and employees to promote an experience that is personable and informative.

When you arrive at the nursery, you see rows of plants of all shapes, sizes, and colors. The nursery provides a stimulating plant environment. People who are new to gardening may find it intimidating, but it’s not long before an employee asks if they can help you find or know anything about a certain plant.

“Perez Nursery is a family owned business that has been in business for over 30 years,” said owner Irma Perez. “We are a landscape company and retail nursery. We grew up here in Brentwood, and we know the environment and soil conditions of the area and therefore are able to guide our clients on making better plant selections. We special-

ize in carrying a large selection of shade trees, shrubs and perennials that you don’t find in box store nurseries. When people shop at Perez Nursery they like the feeling of being at a plant nursery; they especially like the personal service we give our clients, guiding them on making the right plant selection.”

Gardening can be therapeutic for those who love to see their hard work and plants thrive; it can bring a sense of accomplishment as well as results that can make any neighbor jealous. To better prepare yourself for your garden project, here are three tips from Perez:

♦ Know the layout of your garden area. What parts are in the shade, and in the sun? This can help you determine what plants will thrive in either or both conditions.

♦ Know the type of soil in your garden. Clay, or sandy soil can determine how much water the soil can hold. Depending on the plant species you are looking to plant, it may also require you to replace the soil as each plant will have its watering requirements.

♦ Take your time, enjoy the process, and ask questions.

Store owner Irma Perez stands with newly arrived flowers ready to be planted.

see Perez page 9B

Photo by Andrew Rulloda

If you are unsure of the condition of your soil, or if it’s the right time to buy or seed a certain type of plant, ask for help, The nursery will help clarify and explain in detail the steps you should take to prepare your garden for success. Visit the nursery and look at different plants just to see what you are attracted to. Ask the nursery professionals to guide you and just enjoy the process.

A popular gardening trend this season is “wellness gardens’’. Many gardeners are choosing to model their outdoor gardens and indoor plants to help boost mood by producing certain scents and colors.

“Planting drought-tolerant and lowmaintenance plants, shoppers are looking to turn their outdoor space into a place they can relax and feel happy,” Perez said. “Lavender, gardenias, rosemary, thyme, jasmine. Pollinator plants are very popular; lavender, rosemary, gaillardia, bee balm, milkweed, sunflower, zinnias, fescue and many more.”

Perez Nursery is at 2601 Walnut Boulevard, and is open Mondays through Saturdays from 8 a.m. -4 p.m. Their phone number is 925-516-1052.

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

Perez from page 8B

Photo by Andrew Rulloda

The Perez Nursery is off Walnut Boulevard.

Kitchen from page 5B

news is that there are many quick and easy, not to mention less expensive, ways to give a kitchen a new look.

♦ Repaint and restyle the cabinets. Cabinet space is an undeniably precious commodity in a kitchen, especially as more and more homeowners embrace their inner chef and cook more complicated meals at home. After all, the more expansive a home chef’s culinary repertoire, the more space that person needs to store all the tools of the cook ing trade. A full cabinet replacement is unneces sary if the cabinets are still functional and not overcrowded, so repaint ing them can be a great way to give the kitchen a new look while keeping costs reasonable. During the painting proj ect, homeowners can install new cabinet knobs and/ or drawer pulls to freshen up the style of the cabinets even further.

ers don’t want to have their overhead lights on but still want to be able to navigate the kitchen safely. During meal prep, under-cabinet lighting can illuminate counters so it’s easier to chop, peel and perform other tasks.

♦ Replace existing backsplash. Replacing backsplash is another simple, inexpensive and effective way to give a kitchen a new feel. Homeowners can opt for something neutral that won’t upset their existing decor or go with a more bold backsplash that immediately draws the attention of anyone who enters the room. This simple job can be done by the average do-ityourselfer, and the cost of new backsplash won’t break the bank.

♦ Install under-cabinet lighting. This is another inexpensive way to give a kitchen a new look. Under-cabinet lighting serves both an aesthetic and practical purpose. From a purely aesthetic standpoint, under-cabinet lighting can make a kitchen feel more warm and keep the kitchen illuminated when meals aren’t being prepared and homeown-

♦ Replace existing seating. Whether you have an island countertop with bar stools or a breakfast nook with cushioned seats, replacing the seating is a budgetfriendly job that can create a new look when entering the room. Countertop bar stools come in many styles, so giving this area of the kitchen a new feel can be as simple as shifting from classic, high-back stools to more modern swivel stools with a chrome base. For the breakfast nook, replacing a light-colored bench cushion with a bolder alternative can instantly transform the look of the space.

Maintain from page 6B

type covers work great for helping eliminate evaporation and holding chemicals and heat in the water, but they do nothing to help keep the pool clean.

“I would recommend an adjustable pool pole, an 18-inch nylon brush, and a pool net,” Marshall said. “Try to keep the rake and the brush out of direction. It should last for a long time. I would recommend brushing down the whole pool each week.”

Marshall said that failing to maintain a swimming pool properly could result in necessary services or repairs, which could include potential dumping of the water, acid or chlorine washing the pool, or replacing the pool filters that could cost customers about

$1,000. Even when people leave to go on vacation, especially during the heavy travel months in the spring and summer, Marshall suggests that pool owners have someone check on their pools regularly, particularly the skimmer baskets and chlorine levels.

“Don’t put off maintenance to the last minute,” he advised. “It’s something that should be handled on a weekly basis, even in the winter.”

For more information, visit Your Family Pool Service at 3130 Balfour Road in Brentwood, call 925-240-8954, or email yourfamilypoolservice@gmail.com, For details on pool maintenance, including more specific instructions on pool care, visit https://www. swimuniversity.com/pool-maintenance/

Shower Doors and much more including:

Spring is a great time for homeowners in various regions to reseed or replant their lawns. With the right approach, homeowners can enjoy a full and lush lawn throughout summer.

Spring marks the return of flowering plants and warm weather. And homeowners know that spring also ushers in the return of the home renovation season.

Homeowners undoubtedly have an extensive list of projects on their to-do list this spring, and that may include helping their lawns and gardens recover after a long winter. Unpredictable weather, which can

include drought and excessive rainfall and everything in between, can take its toll on a lawn. In certain instances, the best solution may be planting new grass. But homeowners can consider these tips before they begin the process of reseeding or replanting their lawns.

Scarify the lawn

Scarifying a lawn (using a tool to clear matted grass and moss from the surface of your lawn and lightly opening up the ground to add air and improve growth) can help

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

arages may rank below kitchens and bathrooms in the home renovation pecking order, but these unsung heroes of suburban dwellings deserve their day in the sun.

It’s easy for garages to become convenient, if crowded and disorganized, storage spaces, but scores of homeowners are embracing the idea that renovated garages can serve a more functional purposel.

Prior to beginning a garage renovation, homeowners can consider a host of factors that will guide the direction of the project and ultimately produce a more functional space.

Appeal:

Though many homeowners understandably want to ensure their homes are amenable to their own lifestyles without worrying about the effects a given project might have on resale value, it’s best that they do not completely ignore the latter variable. A 2019 analysis from the National Association of Home Builders found that 65 percent of newly constructed homes included two-car garages. That suggests a traditional two-car garage remains widely appealing. However, it’s worth noting

that the NAHB analysis was conducted prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, when fewer people were working from home. Now that more people work from home, some may see a garage converted into a home office space as more functional. Homeowners can speak with a local real estate agent to learn more about local buyers’ preferences before beginning a garage renovation project.

Function of the space:

It’s important to consider why you want to renovate the garage. Is it to build a designated home office space? A fully outfitted home gym? A home theater? An extra bedroom? An in-laws suite? Each of these options are popular reasons to renovate a garage, and each may require a different approach during the project. The desired function also may affect the cost, so it’s best to identify precisely what the room will be used for post-renovation.

The existing space:

When mulling a garage renovation, contact a local garage conversion expert to audit the space. Such a professional can assess the existing space and determine what will need to be done beyond the design of the room. Will additional electri-

cal outlets need to be installed? Will the room require additional ventilation? Will a new doorway need to be created to allow for easier access? These are questions a qualified expert can answer. Some may estimate the cost as well, but it’s likely the garage expert will defer estimates regarding electric and ventilation to contractors who specialize in those areas.

Storage:

The home renovation experts at Angi estimate that the average garage remodel costs around $18,000. That’s considerably

less than a home addition project, which can easily exceed six figures. So a garage remodel might be more budget-friendly than a room addition. However, homeowners should consider what’s currently in their garages and where those items will end up if the room is repurposed. If it’s primarily lawn care items and kids’ toys, a new shed with ample storage space might work. But if the garage currently holds more items than can reasonably fit in a shed, homeowners should determine where those items can be stored once the garage is repurposed.

Lawn from page 12B

to create a clean slate, but the timing must be right. Various lawn and garden experts, including those at BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine, recommend scarifying in spring or early autumn. But don’t jump the gun when scarifying in spring by doing so before the lawn has started to grow after a dormant winter. Scarify when the soil is a little wet and the grass is once again actively growing. Scarifying can remove any lingering weeds from last season and also pull up any moss that might have taken hold over the winter. Without weeds and moss to contend with, freshly planted seeds are in a better position to thrive.

Work with a landscaping professional

Homeowners with manageable lawns can likely scarify their own lawns with a relatively inexpensive plug-in scarifier. However, scarifying can be a strenuous physical activity, particularly for homeowners with large lawns. In such instances, homeowners can benefit from working with a qualified landscaping professional. Such a professional can scarify the lawn and subsequently reseed or replant new grass. The latter task is not so simple, as the lawn care experts at Scotts note that choosing the correct seed is a vital part of reseeding or replanting a lawn. Choosing seed may sound simple, but it’s a potentially complex decision that requires knowledge of the existing grass,

including when to plant it. Certain grasses are best planted in spring or early fall, while others are best planted in summer. A qualified landscaping professional can identify the existing grass and plan the seeding or planting around this important detail.

Prepare to water the lawn

Watering is vital to the long-term success and health of freshly planted grass seed. Scotts urges homeowners to keep the top inch of soil consistently moist, but not soggy. That requires a daily commitment, and setting a multi-function hose nozzle or sprinkler to “mist” once per day or more if it’s hot outside can increase the chances grass will grow in thick and strong. Scotts recommends keeping the top two inches of the soil moist until the new grass reaches a mowing height of roughly three inches. Once that benchmark has been reached, watering frequency can be cut back to about twice per week, but now the soil should be deeply soaked instead of misted. The soaking will help roots grow deep into the soil.

How to fertilize your lawn the correct way

Spring marks the return of lawn and garden season. Lawns often bear the brunt of winter’s wrath, so spring is a great time to nurse them back to health, and fertilizing can be an essential component of that process.

Fertilizing a lawn can be intimidating. An array of fertilizers, with each seemingly designed to address a different issue, can make homeowners’ heads spin when visiting their local lawn and garden center. However, fertilizing is a very simple task that any homeowner can tackle. In fact, fears about fertilizing are often unfounded and can be overcome with some basic knowledge of the process.

♦ Identify which type of grass is in the yard. The home improvement experts at HGTV note that turfgrass is divided into

two categories: cool-season grass and warm-season grass. A local lawn and garden center can help homeowners identify

which type of grass is in the yard, and this often depends on location. Fescue, bluegrass and perennial ryegrass are some examples of cool-season grasses, while Bermuda, bahia, St. Augustine, and zoysia are considered warm-season grasses. Identifying which type of grass is in the lawn is important because that will indicate when to fertilize. Cool-season grasses are typically best fertilized in early spring, while warm-season lawns can benefit from an application just before especially warm temperatures arrive.

♦ Survey the lawn to identify which spreader to use. A small yard or a thriving lawn with only a few bald or unsightly patches may not need a full application of fertilizer. In such instances, a hand spreader can suffice. For larger lawns and areas, a broadcast spreader is the ideal option.

Spreaders have multiple settings, and the fertilizer package will indicate which setting to utilize when using the product.

♦ Test the soil prior to purchasing fertilizer. The lawn experts at Pennington note that a simple soil test can reveal soil pH and phosphorous and potassium levels. Soil tests can be purchased at most home improvement stores and lawn and garden centers, and they can help homeowners determine which fertilizer will most benefit their lawns.

♦ Water the lawn prior to fertilizing. The experts at Scotts recommend a good watering a few days prior to fertilizing a lawn. Such an approach ensures the soil is ready to accept the fertilizer once it’s applied.

♦ Follow the instructions carefully. Detailed instructions are typically provided on fertilizer product packaging. Once homeowners have identified and purchased the product they need, they can simply follow the instructions on the packaging, including how and when to water after application, which can make fertilizing less intimidating.

Photo courtesy Metro Creative

Fertilizing in spring can help a lawn recover from the previous summer and winter, ensuring that it’s lush and green when summer entertaining season arrives.