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by Rick Lemyre Staff Writer
Photo by Stacey Chance
ike and Grace Milne took home a pirate’s treasure – the coveted Commodore’s Cup award – at last weekend’s Discovery Bay Lighted Boat Parade. The Milnes’ pirate ship float blew away the competition … without sinking a single opposing vessel. For more on the spectacular soiree, see page 6A.
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The first in a series of public meetings aimed at informing residents of the need for a new tax for fire service drew a small but inquisitive crowd in Discovery Bay on Monday. About 30 district residents turned out to hear a presentation from the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District Chief Hugh Henderson, along with ECCFPD Board President Kevin Romick, board member Bob Kenny and Discovery Bay resident Bob Mankin. The session began with some sobering realities. Plummeting property values and a tax-sharing formula established in 1978 has
prevented the district from keeping up with the increased demand for services. Two of the district’s eight stations were closed last year, and funds were eliminated for replacement engines, fire station maintenance, weed abatement programs and other preventative operations. Nevertheless, the district spent $2.8 million more than it took in last year, making up the difference with reserves. Those reserves, however, are about to run out. If additional revenue is not found, next July the district will be forced to close three more stations and lay off half its 48 firefighters, leaving three stations (one each in Brentwood, Discovsee Fire page 17A
Vasco improvements moving along Staff Writer The first phase of improvements to one of East County’s most vital commuter routes has been completed, as local politicians recently celebrated the new safer drive on Vasco Road. Workers in November completed the installation of a concrete median barrier on a one-mile stretch of Vasco north of the Contra Costa County line. Work was also finished
Clarification An advertisement concerning a recall petition drive that was attached to the front page of last week’s Press should have indicated it was a paid political advertisement, and not sponsored by The Discovery Bay Press.
on the widened of southbound Vasco to provide a truck-climbing lane, eliminating the gap in existing truck climbing lanes along the road. Local officials feel that these improvements – one of three proposed stages of improvements on Vasco Road – will make for a safer commute between Brentwood and Livermore. According to a press release from the office of Contra Costa County Supervisor Mary Piepho, roughly 20,000 cars utilize Vasco Road every day. “Anything we can do to improve quality of life in a safety environment for East County is quite a tribute,” said Brentwood Mayor and Contra Costa Transportation Authority commissioner Bob Taylor. “That is such an important artery to many East County residents.” Taylor was one of many dignitaries on hand for a recent grand-opening ceremony. Also in attendance were Piepho, Pittsburg
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December 16, 2011
District begins Modifying the monikers fire tax meeting
Yo Ho Ho
by Justin Lafferty
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YOUR HOMETOWN WEEKLY NEWSPAPER
Vol. 9, No. 50
ward Winning News al A pa
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Voting ends Dec.18. Vote now! www.facebook.com/thepress.net
A new book traces how the names of East County towns and terrain have changed over the years. Page 1B
Furry friends find rescue Homeless Animals’ Lifeline Organization has set up shop in the former Oakley fire station on Second Street. Page 3A
Putting their game face on
A youth football league cofounder’s battle against cancer has become a classic team effort. Page 19A
Photo courtesy of Warren Lai
Workers have finished safety upgrades on a one-mile stretch of Vasco Road just north of the Contra Costa/Alameda County line. Mayor Ben Johnson and representatives from the offices of Congressman Jerry McNerney, Sen. Mark DeSaulnier, Assemblymember Joan Buchanan and Supervisor Federal Glover. “The installation of the concrete median barrier, in the section of road where the worst accidents
Lay of the land go to news/WebExtras!
A study of local ecology – with maps and photos – is now available for purchase.
have occurred, was a much needed addition to the roadway and I am thrilled it is finished,” Piepho wrote in a press release. “It is great that drivers are more aware of the need to drive defensively and pay attention on Vasco Road.” see Vasco page 17A
Cyber security
go to news/press releases Burglars can now monitor social media sites for signs you’re not at home.
Arts ....................................... 8A Calendar ............................ 15B Classifieds ........................... 9B Cop Logs ............................ 14B East County Life ................ 1B Entertainment ................... 5B Food ...................................... 6B Milestones .......................... 4B Opinion ..............................18A Sports .................................19A FOR MOVIE TIMES SEE PAGE 5A
Glittering glide go to multimedia/videos
The Bethel Island Lighted Boat Parade put serious dazzle into the Delta.