Easy as A-B-C
The ABCs of Gift Giving
Ideas for everyone on your list
Gift ideas from A to Z
Spread Cheer, Not Germs
An Antioch Tradition Continues
Tips to avoid getting sick this holiday season
Theater group prepares for annual holiday show
Home for Holidaysthe
Pets as Holiday Gifts
Fun and festive ways to decorate your house
The pros and cons of a furry present
The ‘Humbug’ tradition continues this month at Antioch Community Center when the Antioch Community Theater presents a show of the same name.
A Bay Area tradition returns for its 49th year with Joe Ballesteros as the character of Ebenezer Scrooge in “Humbug,” as an injury prevents his father, Frank Ballesteros, from performing, according to a press release.
“Humbug” is an adaptation of Charles Dickens’ 1843 novella titled, “A Christmas Carol.”
Presented at the Paulette Taylor Studio at 307 G. St., show times are: Dec. 19 at 7 p.m.; Dec. 20 at 7 p.m.; Dec. 21 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Dec. 22 and Dec. 23 at 7 p.m.; and Christmas Eve at 11 a.m.
“Humbug” mirrors the traditional story of Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol,’ similar to the 1954 classic movie and the 1980s version played by George C. Scott. The production includes one spirit (Jacob Marley) and three ghosts that represent Scrooge’s past, present, and future, with each embodying a different theme.
However, there are a few minor modifications. While Frank Ballesteros’ adaptation of the classic Christmas carol finds Scrooge understanding that true fulfillment comes
from compassion, generosity, and human connection, he also accepts Christ in his heart.
“It’s the same message of Christmas, one of the most iconic and beloved Christmas stories of all time,” Joe Ballesteros said. “The message is especially important today. Plays like ‘A Christmas Carol’ are central to many people’s holiday experience because it continues to embody the season’s spirit.”
“This play evokes a sense of tradition. Many families in Antioch have made attending
Zoey Siino; Edward-John Hilton; Tiny Tim-Nello Siino; Frederick Holywell-Christien Green; Mrs. Cooper-Patti Blevins; The Collector-Suzanne Pamphile; Jacob Marley-Christian Nance; Ghost of Christmas Past-Jenna Riley; Ghost of Christmas Present-Adriana Arceo; Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come-Anthony Chaves; Belle-Jessica Miller Drum; Ebenezer-Jaime Aragon Jr.; Mr.Fezziwig-Robert Sisk; Mrs. Fezziwig-Deborah Misquez; Dick WilliamsElijah Enriquez; Young Ebenezer-Ruhaan Kumar; Fan- Marisa Misquez; Stern Man-David Calvo; Georgina–Olivia Dukes; Alice-Chole Coon; Jane-Paisley Greenlaw; Ignorance-Odin Slaughter; Want-Genevieve Slaughter.
The play is sponsored by the Rotary Club of the Delta and Jim Lanter State Farm Insurance. The play is produced by Lanter and directed by Joe Ballesteros, Curtis Moore, and Kelly Halvorson.
this holiday play a cherished annual tradition. The play brings a room of strangers together, providing a shared cultural touchstone, uniting families and communities through storytelling,” Jim Lanter, show producer said.
Presented by the Madd Hatter Players, the actors, besides Scrooge, include: Bob CratchitCurtis Moore; Anne Cratchit-Kelly Halvorson; Peter Cratchit-John Hilton; Belinda CratchitVivienne Riley; Martha Cratchit-Tori Gregory; Elizabeth Cratchit- Avery Simmons; Edwina-
The doors will open 45 minutes before show time. The audience is urged to arrive early as tickets will be sold only at the door. Tickets for adults are $20, seniors 55 and older $15, and children up to age 18 are $8.
Parking is at the Nick Rodriguez Community Center at 213 F St., Antioch City Hall at 200 H St. and Pantell’s Music Box parking lot at 407 G St.
For more information, email jim.lanter. b8jq@statefarm.com or call 925-584-9265. To view a slideshow, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia/slideshows
Exchanging gifts between coworkers can strengthen professional relationships, build camaraderie and show appreciation while on the job.
A well-chosen gift can leave a lasting impression, whether it’s given for a birthday, promotion or the holiday season. According to a 2019 survey from Office Depot, 70 percent of employees said their workplace had a holiday gift-giving tradition like Secret Santa or White Elephant. It is important to balance thoughtfulness with professional decorum when selecting gifts. These guidelines can help anyone navigate workplace giving.
♦ Consider company culture. One of the first aspects of gift giving among coworkers is understanding the culture of the company. In some businesses, gift exchanges are commonplace and encouraged during team celebrations or the holiday season. In others, they may be rare or even frowned upon. It is always a good idea to check with human resources before choosing a gift, particularly for those who are new to the company.
♦ Avoid personal gifts. Consider thoughtful items that are not too personal. These can include desk organizers, coffee mugs, plants, notebooks, photo frames, or even gift cards to nearby restaurants.
♦ Be mindful of food and beverages. When choosing to give a gift of food, be aware of any dietary restrictions and allergies the gift
recipients may have. Also, while a gift of wine or another bottle of alcohol may seem fitting, one never knows if a person is abstaining from drinking, so it’s best to avoid such gifts in the workplace.
♦ Consider personalized gifts for close colleagues. Giving personalized gifts to close coworkers can be a great way to show appreciation when one knows the recipient well enough. For example, if he or she can’t survive without coffee each morning, then a gift of an engraved insulated coffee tumbler can be perfect. If the coworker mentions being part of a book club, a specialized bookmark or gift card to a bookstore will be fitting.
♦ Be careful with humor. When giving a funny present, avoid anything that can be misinterpreted or considered offensive. It’s best to avoid any political humor. For those unsure about whether a gift might be taken the wrong way, skip that gift and choose another option.
♦ Limit the cost. Some coworkers may be friends, but it is best to keep all gifts inexpensive and of the same value if the plan is to gift everyone in the department. According to the Office Depot survey, 27 percent of respondents felt meeting a spending limit is important. The general range of gift prices at the workplace is between $20 and $30.
One of the best ideas for company gifting is to see who might want to participate in a gift exchange, and then everyone brings a grab bag gift. Then there isn’t pressure on any one person, and gifts are distributed randomly.
– Courtesy of Metro Creative
was the night before Christmas and all through the house nobody could move ‘cause the space just ran out.
The bedrooms were crammed full of furniture and kids. The kitchen was filled with pots, pans and lids.
The phone was picked up and a voice did share hopes that the Carey Bros. soon would be there.
With smiles on their faces, the brothers arrived with ideas, inspiration, and plans they devised.
All night they hammered and they built a frame... and when they were done the house wasn’t the same!
The bedrooms were spacious, the kitchen was clean. The family was delighted with this Christmas scene.
So if you want your house to be looking so fine, then get a free estimate, layout and design ...at no obligation, and if you call today The Careys will really adore you, they say.
All in One Limousine has the best transportation for all your travel needs, including airports, winery tours, weddings, dinners and holiday parties. Ask about our Silver Service for Seniors. Gift certificates are available. Our fleet includes stretch limos, sedans, SUVs, party buses and passenger vans. Call Cindy at 925-513-4175 or visit www.allinonelimos.com (TCP# 24869)
Dancing builds confidence and fosters community, creating magical moments for every child. From beginners taking their first steps to teens exploring dance for the first time — or advanced dancers perfecting their craft — we offer a place to grow, thrive, and shine. Try a class today! Text 925-701-9889 or visit www. Brentwoodddance.com.
We offer Manual Lymph Drainage, chiropractic care, permanent hair removal, facials, massage therapy, and red light therapy. Restore, heal, and feel your best with our certified teams. Visit www.balancedwellnessandbeauty.com to schedule a visit.
Continente Country Store prides itself on its rich family history, longstanding roots in the East Bay and is committed to offering their customers quality products at a fair price. They offer a variety of baking goods, nuts and candy, including gift packs that are great gifts for loved ones. Continente Country Store is the perfect place to pick up any snacks or specialty items for the holiday season. Located at 112 Sandy Lane, Oakley. Open 8a - 5p. Call 925-625-2355 or visit www. continentecountrystore.com
Find a great collection of fruit, nut and gourmet food gift baskets at Gursky Ranch. Give a unique, handcrafted gift basket themed for the holiday season this year. All baskets are handprocessed in the Gursky Ranch store, located at 1921 Apricot Way, in Brentwood. The store is open daily through Dec. 24, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 925-6344913 with any questions.
Whether you need a prescription or want fashionable frames, eye glasses can make a unique gift. At Vision Optix Optometry, they will help with all of your vision needs, including eye exams, glasses and contact lenses. Located at 3840 Balfour Road in Brentwood. Call 925-513-0323 or visit www.visionoptix.com
Give the gift of Flowers this holiday. PETALS flower shop is dedicated to creating the perfect floral arrangements to spread love, support, and holiday cheer. To brighten up the holidays for the loved ones in your life, visit PETALS, located at The Streets of Brentwood. 2535 Sand Creek Road Beautiful rental space available. Book your holiday parties at PETALS. Call 925-4360991 or visit www.petalsoakley. com. Mon-Sat 9AM-3PM.
Proud to be one of Brentwood’s best, Digger’s Diner is the place to go for a mouthwatering burger. Snag a gift card and give the gift of a juicy, all-American burger at Digger’s Diner, now with two locations! Visit them at 2261 Balfour Road in Brentwood, call 925-240-8958 or 2453 Discovery Bay Blvd. in Discovery Bay, call 925-420-3942.
Coo Moo Jams is a local artisanal jams business that currently has three delicious flavors available: Apricot Habanero, Peachy Mango Madness and Triple Berry Moogarita! They also feature a spicy Worcestershire sauce “Wooster Sauce”. All flavors come with a warning of “may become addicting.“ All the jams are available at Alluv Place, Brentwood Craft Beer and Cider, Gursky Ranch, McCauleys Olive Oil Store, and Urban Edge Farms. Visit www.coomoojams. com for details or to place your order. They are available to ship anywhere in the United States.
Family-owned and -operated, Sip and Scoop California is at 234 Oak St in Brentwood. This cute downtown business is a great place to meet up with friends and get a delicious hot coffee or ice beverage, a scoop of ice cream, yummy bubble waffle, toast, or breakfast sandwich. Mention this ad to get $1 off your order of $10 or more. You can follow Sip and Scoop on Facebook and Instagram.
Like being the star of the show? Come on down to 311 Oak St Pub on Tuesday nights where they have karaoke with DJ Lisa from 8 p.m. till midnight. They offer several drink specials and Taco Tuesday deals including $3.50 carne asada, pork or chorizo tacos served with cilantro, onions, and their homemade salsa roja, with the kitchen staying open till 9:00 PM. So grab your friends and head down to 311 Oak St. in downtown Brentwood. Check them out on Facebook or call 925-626-5547
Sensational Mexican food, featuring rich flavors that have taken generations to perfect.
Mexican Restaurant
The ambiance makes you feel you’re in Mexico enjoying a meal with family and friends. Enjoy that meal with a full salad bar and, in the winter, a savory and comforting bowl of soup! 642 First Street, Brentwood. 925-5162233, www.lafuentebrentwood. com
For all of you last-minute shoppers, The Press has you covered with some great gift ideas and fun things to do. Below, you will find local selections from A to Z, to complete your shopping list!
Give the joy of music to fill the holiday season. Geddes Music specializes in new and used instruments, guitars, drums, digital pianos, lessons, piano tuning and instrument repairs. Geddes Music can be found at 625 First St. downtown Brentwood. Call 925-634-6684, or visit www. geddesmusicstore.com.
kennel offers individual outdoor runs and climate-controlled indoor kennels. They also have a Doggie Day Care Park that will provide your dogs with lots of exercise and socializing. They offer one free Day-Care day for new customers. Gift certificates are available. Contact them at 925-634-4431 or visit www.petsfrolicinn.com.
the bottle or case for those lastminute holiday gifts. Located at 1600 Chestnut Street. Call today for hours 925-477-0572 or visit www.serendipitycellars.com
A heartwarming tale of bravery, magic, and holiday joy. Join us December 19 - 21 at Liberty High School for five showtimes the whole family will love. Step into Clara’s magical world as her beloved Nutcracker comes to life whisking her away on a dreamlike journey. Don’t miss the magic! Visit www.BrentwoodDance. com or call 925-240-5556 for tickets.
Convenience is a gift in itself, and QuikStop offers many convenient options for holiday shopping. Pick up a gift card, or lottery tickets to stuff in a stocking or put under the tree. Grab some snacks or gas up for holiday travel. Located at 3940-A Walnut Blvd. in Brentwood, 925-634-0369 and open 24 hours.
Give the gift of a healthy smile! Located in Brentwood, Alameda Pediatric Dentistry offers a complimentary orthodontic consultation when you mention Brentwood Press. Call 925-5164107 or visit www.APDsmile. com to make an appointment.
Give the gift of wellness this holiday season—whether treating yourself or someone you love. Wellness on Wheelz brings soothing, stress-relieving mobile massage straight to you, turning “oww” into “WOWZ” daily from 11am–7pm across East Contra Costa County. Call or text for details 925-435-4966
This holiday season, let’s show our community spirit and unite with our neighbors and show a little understanding. God bless and Happy Holidays!
Oakley On Ice is more than merry to celebrate their first Christmas in town. Enjoy ice skating with your loved ones during a sunny California afternoon. When the sun goes down, Christmas decorations light up the ice. Come ice skating at Oakley On Ice! Bring one can of food and each skater gets $1 off. Visit www. oakleyonice.com for hours and information or call 925-516-7664. Located behind 3350 Main St., Oakley.
Pets Frolic Inn stands out with its on-site owner providing attentive, round-theclock support. Their boarding
Rose & Sons Glass has been in business for almost 50 years. Located in downtown Brentwood, the third generation of the Rose family continues to serve Brentwood, installing shower doors, windows, glass cabinets, and more. For experts in glass, pick Brentwood’s Rose & Sons Glass. Located at 230 Chestnut St. in Brentwood. Call 634-5609 or visit www.rosensonsglass.com
Serendipity Cellars is located minutes from downtown Brentwood. It’s a beautiful one-of-akind unique boutique winery that demonstrates their passion for the artistry that goes into wine making. Head out for some tastings or pick up some wine by
Curious-ity is your one-stop shopping solution for thoughtful vintage and holiday gift giving. Whether you are looking for vinyl records, crystals, artwork, vintage collectibles, signed sports memorabilia or artisan originals, Curious-ity has something for everyone on your gift list. Visit us and browse through our eclectic selections of holiday décor and gifts. You never know what treasures await you. From everyone at Curious-ity, have a Safe and Happy Holiday Season. Located at 629 First Street, Brentwood, 925-6847941, www.curious-ity.com.
At Lucky Strike, we like to take a break from the ordinary. From game-day to date night, there’s no shortage of exciting attractions or delicious bites to elevate your experience. Roll in and get lucky. Lucky Strike Brentwood is a local attraction that should not be missed. Located at 5000 Balfour Road Brentwood, 925-5161221 www.luckystrikeent.com/ location/lucky-strike-brentwood.
A family friendly outdoor restaurant where you can get the vastest smash burgers, chicken sandwiches and crinkle cut french fries. Located in downtown Brentwood across from City Park. Dogs are always welcome and there are plenty of games for the kids to enjoy.
Treat your friends and family to a gourmet dining experience at Zephyr Grill & Bar at 613 First St, in Brentwood. Zephyr gift cards make great presents! For every $100 in gift cards purchased, receive a $20 bonus card. Now open 7 days a week. For more information call 925-4184708 or visit https://www. zephyrgrillbrentwood.com.
said Michele Kuslits, President of
Animal Services, a support group for Antioch Animal Services.
Giving pets as gifts, whether a puppy or kitten, has been a decision for many during the holidays. Whether or not this is the best option for the recipient or the pet itself has been up for debate.
“The ASPCA recommends the giving of pets as gifts only to people who have expressed a sustained interest in owning one, and the ability to care for it responsibly,” according to their website.
Contra Costa Animal Services Public Information Officer Steve Burdo said they don’t recommend giving a pet as a gift if the person receiving the gift is unaware they will be receiving a pet. “Our recommendation for people who want to give a pet as a gift would be to give the recipient a card that states they will gift them the pet of their choice, ideally from a local shelter or rescue organization,” Burdo said. “That way ensures the recipient wants a pet, understands the responsibility that is involved with owning the pet (like walks for dogs, litter box maintenance for cats, etc.), and understands and is able to
accommodate the financial commitment of owning a pet (pet food, toys, bedding, and veterinary care).”
Burdo added that there are many important aspects of bringing a pet into your home, “with chemistry being a big factor.”
Michele Kuslits, president of Antioch Friends of Animal Services, a support group for Antioch Animal Services, said “Selecting a pet is a “personal choice and we discourage giving pets as a gift.”
“A pet is a lifetime commitment and compatibility between the pet and owner or family is imperative to ensure the lifetime commitment,” Kuslits added. “We highly encourage potential pet owners to meet potential furry family members in person, with the entire family present (including other pets). This ensures compatibility of all involved, including the potential pet.”
Kuslits said their local shelter is ‘overflowing’ with friendly, well-mannered dogs who have been failed. “We strive to ensure their adoptions are solid and they spend the remainder of their lives in their home,” she said.
Kuslits encouraged adopting a pet rather than gifting it to someone and listed the benefits to adopting:
♦ The animals are vetted
♦ The animals are immunized and already spayed/neutered
♦ Most dogs are socialized to people because they interact with others regularly
♦ The dogs are trained to be on a leash as they are walked by staff and volunteers regularly and they are easily transitioned to crate training, which is important in case of emergencies such as a fire, flood, earthquake or travel.
Adoption is great for giving a dog or cat a safe space to call their own while they adjust and decompress after being in a shelter, experts said.
“Adoption fees continue to be waived, as we try to find homes for the animals and keep euthanasia numbers down,” Kuslits said. “We get far too many owner-surrenders from people who were given a pet as a gift and it did not work out. Gifting pets is a practice we, and other animal advocates, highly discourage.”
Robin Ryder, president of No Paws Left Behind Kitty Rescue, a non-profit organization in Oakley, noted the importance of understanding that a pet is a long-term commitment. “Kittens are cute. But remember, they grow up,” Ryder said. “Far too often, once the cuteness wears off, so does the excitement of having a kitty.”
Ryder noted a few things to keep in mind when considering giving a pet as a gift:
♦ Make sure the person(s) actually wants a cat and has the financial resources to care for them. We often have people wanting to
“surprise” someone with a kitty because that person’s cat recently passed away
♦ Make sure that they are allowed to have pets where they are living. Most renters are required to pay a pet deposit
♦ Is the home a safe environment? If they have dog(s) are they cat friendly?
♦ Does anyone in the house have allergies to cats?
♦ Are they willing to keep the cat as an indoor-only cat?
♦ Would they be okay with two kittens? Kittens younger than five months are still learning to be kitties. They learn best from one another.
“There are many factors involved,”
Ryder added. “We tell interested people to come to our adoption events with the people they are thinking about gifting kitties to. It is essential to see who they bond with. Contact us ahead of time to let us know your coming and we can help meet the cats without letting anyone know we’re talking. We do offer local Christmas deliveries.”
For more details, visit:
♦ The ASPCA’s statement on pets as gifts https://www.aspca.org/about-us/ aspca-policy-and-position-statements/ position-statement-pets-gifts
♦ Contra Costa Animal Services https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/9974/ Animal-Services
♦ Antioch Friends of Animal Services https://antiochfriendsofanimalservices.org/ adoption/
♦ No Paws Left Behind Kitty Rescue https://www.nopawsleftbehindkittyrescue. com/contact
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