YOUR HOMETOWN WEEKLY NEWSPAPER
Vol. 17, No. 39
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Proposal Feeling the draws heat mixed reviews O by Kyle Szymanski Staff Writer
What started as a local group’s idea to build a soccer field in Oakley may end up becoming a 14-acre project on the northwest corner of Oakley and Neroly roads that will include a senior housing facility, a gym, a temporary shelter, a full-time private school, an events hall and a mosque. “We thought we would start a soccer field. Then that grew into a gymnasium. Then we thought, if we are doing that, we might as well do some senior housing,” said
Beyond Brentwood
akley resident, Amadeus Castillo, cools off under the city’s downtown fountain during the Heart of Oakley Festival, Sept. 23. For additional photos, visit www.thepress. net/multimedia/ sideshows.
Adventures abound for day-trippers looking to explore beyond Brentwood. Page 15
Another Step Closer
Tunnels opponents score a victory when a major financial player backs out. Page 8
Photo by Tony Kukulich
see Proposal page 30
Historic building refreshed by Aly Brown Staff Writer
Oakley’s biggest little building on O’Hara Avenue recently underwent a face-lift to bring some life back into the historic structure that suffered a fire in recent years, and those traveling along the main strip are sure to notice the warm yellow hue of the chapel. Built in 1908 and moved from Pittsburg sometime later, the structure remains the city’s tallest building and still captures the charm of a simpler time with front steps leading to double doors that welcome the community inside. Different congregations have occupied the space over the years, but New Beginnings Christian Center (NBCC), led by founder
Photo courtesy of Gregory Bell
This little chapel on O’Hara Avenue in Oakley recently received a coat of paint. As one of Oakley’s oldest buildings, the community was happy to see it restored. Bishop Gregory Bell, entered the scene in 2005 and opened a day care center, Bright Begin-
nings Christian Preschool. The congregation began as a group of friends gathered for
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September 29, 2017
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a Bible study and prayer group at Sylvia’s Country Kitchen in Antioch in 1995. Bell was later ordained and installed as a pastor of NBCC on July 21, 1996. Bell’s pastorate ultimately led to the birth of four other churches, thus elevating him to Office of Bishop in 2004. And while the NBCC building suffered a devastating fire and water damage in 2009 – most of which impacted the multiuse room and the day care center – Bell recalled a journey of faith and strength. “It just goes to show that, even with everything we went through, we’re still standing,” he said. Painters put the finishing touches on the job last week – work that has already granted see Historic page 30
Communion Day
Homecoming Nail-Biter
Lions prevail in close 24-21 win over Tracy Bulldogs in Liberty Homecoming game. Page 21 Calendar................................31 Classifieds.............................26 Cop Logs................................29 Entertainment.....................10 Food........................................11 Health & Beauty..................12 Milestones............................13 Opinion..................................20 Pets...........................................9 Sports.....................................21
4-H Partners
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East County Shared Ministry to celebrate World Communion Day.
Tractor Supply Company partners with local 4-H clubs for instore fundraisers.