Brentwood earmarks grant funds for events
14 of 18 on city’s list get money
By Jake Menez Staff Writer
Brentwood residents may soon be able to look forward to a number of events, both returning favorites and new ones, following the Land Use and Development Committee meeting on May 19.
The committee — made up of Vice Mayor Pa’tanisha Pierson, Councilmember Jovita Mendoza and Planning Chairperson Rod Flohr — made a recommendation of how to award economic development grants to a number of applicants. The City Council will vote on the item next month.
Returning applicants included Brentwood on Ice, Oktoberfest and the Brentwood Business Expo while new applicants included a Father’s Day sports tournament and Novacon, a convention for anime fans.
“We received more than double the amount [of money] requested than what the city has available,” Economic Development manager Ricardo Noguera told the committee at the start of the discussion. “Eight of the 18 proposals are from new applicants…we have a very diverse mix of applications.”
The total requested funding for all the projects was $383,714 but the city has roughly $180,000 available, according to city staff. This is an increase from the roughly $140,000 the city awarded last year. The program was established in 2004 and gets its money from business licenses. Business owners are taxed annually by the city based on “business type and their gross receipts” as part of their licensing with 20% of that revenue set aside for the grant program.
As part of the decision-making process, the committee used a rubric to score each applicant based on a number of factors, including whether the program
see LUD page 22
Liberty High School hosts Special Olympics track and field event
Liberty High School hosted the track and field Special Olympics meet on May 20 when 550 special-needs students from 55 different classes ranging from kindergarten to transitional classes, up to age 21, competed in races, turbo javelin throws, softball throws, and standing long jumps. “All the kids like to do everything,” said Contra Costa County Special Olympics School Partnership Program Coordinator Sheri Roberti. “It’s a big day for them. A lot of times they don’t get to get out that much and this provides a lot of opportunity to learn about sports and meet your peers, and meet gen ed (general education) students.”Liberty High School students volunteered to help the competitors prepare for their events and pass out refreshments to those who competed.
Heritage junior joins anti-drug crusade
By Sean Tongson Correspondent
A Brentwood high school student is advocating against drug and tobacco use amongst youth by raising awareness about its dangers and side effects.
CourAGE is countywide, youth-led advocacy program as part of the Contra Costa Office of Education where students in grades 8-12 play a leadership role in special projects, including community-level advocacy, conference workshops, and countywide contests, while also working with other counties. Established in 2013, the goal of CourAGE is to help and address tobacco and other substance-related issues amongst youth, according to the Contra Costa Office of Education website.
“Today, youths are using drugs more often and it’s becoming a more common sight at many schools,” said Heritage junior and CourAGE peer educator
Larry Ly, one of two Heritage students, along with Gael Estrella Tanda involved in the program. “I can personally attest to this common sight as all of the bathrooms at my school would have students smoking in them most of the time. We provide education to our fellow students and children and work for the benefit
of those around us.”
While statistics from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that the use of any tobacco product decreased from 12.6 to 10.1 percent amongst high school students from 2023 to 2024, e-cigarettes remain the most commonly-used tobacco product amongst U.S. youths. According to Ly, the use of vapes and tobacco products are becoming more normal in youth culture, which he says is driving more people to use drugs because they see everyone else around them using them. Ly said there is a growing concern with many risks factors associated with smoking and drug use, such as early-age dependency, lung cancer, along with effects on the brain such as “impaired brain development as the brain is still developing until the mid 20s, Ly said. “Youth minds are more susceptible to the negative effects of smoking and drugs. Smoking and especially nicotine slow down the
see Courage page 22
Photo by Isaac Arriaga
GAEL TANDA AND LARRY LY
Hindu group honors Brentwood teachers
Their culture holds educators in high regard
By Isaac Arriaga Correspondent
Ten Brentwood educators from various schools were honored by the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh organization at Ronn Nunn Elementary School on May 18 as part of the second annual Guru Vandana (‘reverence for the teacher’) celebration.
The Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) is a Hindu-American non-profit organization focused on preserving and teaching Hindu culture within the United States. Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh translated to English is ‘Hindu Volunteer Organization.’
“(Our organization) is strengthening our Hindu culture here and gathering all our Hindu people so that they learn, they do not miss, the Hindu culture that we have in our country,” said HSS organizer Deepak Kumar.
Guru Vandana organizer Kumar Tripassuri explained the goal of the celebration. “This is very important in our culture, to make sure our kids understand the significance of their teachers and continue to build a relationship with them. Seek their guidance about the future and about their character, about who they are. That’s the
“This is one of the most beautiful experiences that I’ve had the chance to be a part of,” Cate Bernamonti told the HSS members.
tradition we are trying to pass along to our kids.”
The nine teachers and one principal honored were:
• Leonor Medina (Principal) - Edna Hill Middle School
• Lisette Sanchez - Garin Elementary School
• Courtney Simmons - Loma Vista Elementary School
• Jessica Ranger - Adams Middle School and R. Paul Krey Elementary School
• Flavia Aranda - Garin Elementary School
• Doug Feague - Garin Elementary School
• Cate Bernamonti - Edna Hill Middle School
• Briana Antonio - Adams MiddleSchool
• Carl Tucker - Marsh Creek Elementary School
• Karoline Braten - R. Paul Krey Elementary School
A traditional Hindu dance, a martial arts demonstration, and a Hindu music recital were presented in front of the Brentwood teachers to honor them. The teachers were then invited onto the stage to receive traditional praise from their students
by having a “Tilak” (a red vermilion mark) painted on their forehead, having their feet touched, and being given a gift bag.
For a few teachers, like Edna Hill Middle School teacher Cate Bernamonti, it was their second year being honored for the Guru Vandana. “This is one of the most beautiful experiences that I’ve had the chance to be a part of,” Bernamonti told the HSS members. “Thank you all so much for putting this on and honoring us as teachers. And also for raising the kids that you do, because they are the ones that make our job really worth it.”
Brentwood Mayor Susannah Meyer also thanked the Brentwood teachers and the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, for organizing the event. “I am particularly honored to be here today, I have a lot of teachers in my family, and I think every one of us here can probably remember back to someone very special…I think some of these lessons we learn as children are staying with us our entire lives and so it is truly an honor to be part of this ceremony that honors teachers in Brentwood.”
“I came to an event to honor teachers, but find myself being educated, and I love the opportunity for that. Brentwood is becoming more and more diverse and with that, is becoming more and more rich,” she added. “The culture that we are learning about today is really important to us.”
To view a video and a slideshow, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
Photo by Isaac Arriaga
Local nonprofit wants family caregivers know they deserve care, too
By Nicole Becchina Staff Writer
Family caregivers who want or need care of their own have a place to get that.
Caregiver OneCall, a 24/7 emotional support line, was built by caregivers for caregivers. It is designed to help family caregivers of seniors, people with disabilities, or chronic illnesses who are overwhelmed and need support, according to their website, caregiveronecall.org.
The 501 (c)(3) nonprofit offers a free 24/7 phone support line, emotional coaching and listening, resource navigation and referrals, and tips and tools for managing caregiver stress. They prioritize mental health, guidance, resources and community connection their mission statement says.
Caregiver OneCall will be hosting a free awareness event on June 13 from 4:30-7 p.m. at Trevista, 3950 Lone Tree Way in Antioch. The community can meet the team, hear real stories, enjoy refreshments, and enter a raffle. Donations are encouraged, and funds raised will support caregivers in need, Lopez said.
The service is open to family caregivers in California, especially those caring for aging adults, who are untrained and unpaid.
LOPEZ
firsthand with families that we work with. Also, leading support groups with different senior living communities I constantly get the same questions over and over. I thought, ‘What about those that are at home that can’t ask me these questions? Where are they going to get the help?’ Understanding and identifying the gap, that is how I came up with this idea.’ ”
Lopez said the organization wants the event to raise awareness. “I think when we
“ There is such a need.
”
Nikki Lopez, creator and board chairperson of Caregiver OneCall
“The premise behind it is that in California alone there’s almost 5 million unpaid family caregivers,” said Nikki Lopez, creator and board chairperson of Caregiver OneCall. “Some of 1them are juggling a fulltime job, some with kids, as well, and they’re not trained. They’re just kind of thrown into it. So wives or husbands looking after each other, kids looking after moms and dads. So the training isn’t there. They’re overwhelmed.”
Lopez said that one of the benefits of the nonprofit is helping caregivers with social isolation, among others. She wants family caregivers to know that they “have that safe space” with them.
“As a caregiver, you’re also now socially isolated because you can’t leave the home,” Lopez said. “So there are a lot of challenges and stress that come with that. We just want to be that listening ear for them.”
Lopez, also founder and CEO of senior care agency Caring Haven, said she created Caregiver OneCall because “there is such a need.”
“All of us at some point is a caregiver in one regard or the other,” Lopez said. “Because I do have the senior care agency, I realized there was a gap. There are gaps in care when we’re [trained caregivers] not there. That makes me think, ‘What about those that don’t have caregivers at all? How are they managing through this process? What kind of help or what kind of support can we give to help navigate that?’
“The first indicator was me seeing that
think of family caregivers or caregiving as a whole it’s very often overlooked. For some reason it doesn’t get the necessary attention that it deserves. So the first thing would just be people understanding how critical caregivers are. Period. Across the board. Secondly, we want to bridge the gap with the quality of care. We’re trying to reduce hospital visits, and we’re trying to reduce readmissions. We’re trying to reduce falls. In addition to that, for the caregivers themselves were just saying ‘we see you. We see you, you’re overlooked, nobody truly understands it. We get it. Reach out and talk to us, you won’t be judged. We’re here to give you advice and support however we can.’”
Those interested in attending Caregiver OneCall’s awareness event can RSVP at https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/awarenesslaunch. For more information on Caregiver OneCall and the services offered visit caregiveronecall.org.
“Were hoping that we’ll have significant impact in terms of what we’re doing.”
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How to have a fun, yet productive summer
The school year is about to end, which means an exciting summer filled with swimming, hanging out with friends, and endless shopping is coming up.
While all of this sounds picture-perfect, there’s one problem: you aren’t being productive. Now, many of you are wondering if you read that right. Be productive? It’s summer vacation, it’s not supposed to be productive.
However, if you think about it, you’ll realize that being productive during the summer will set you up for a better school year and will improve your daily life. The free time from summer vacation can allow for maximum productivity, which will benefit you in many ways. But productivity doesn’t have to be a boring slog.
Productivity can become fun and engaging. By accomplishing goals with rewards, staying consistent, and continuing to educate yourself by reading, you can transform yourself over the summer while enjoying your summer to the fullest.
One way to boost productivity over the summer is to reward yourself for every productive thing you do. For example, if you went to the gym and got a workout in, you could reward yourself with TV or gaming time at home. By using a reward system, you give yourself something to look forward to while doing your hard task, and your productivity charts will be through the roof.
According to a study by Cerasoli, Nicklin, and Ford at APA Psychnet, having a reward at the end of something hard can create motivation to do the difficult task, boosting productivity.
By triggering that reward system in your brain, you will train your brain to enjoy the struggle, all because you have a sweet reward waiting at the end for you. By using the reward method, you can boost productivity and make your summer all the more special.
Another way you can enjoy your summer while still being productive is by being consistent.
Specifically, repeating productive, healthy, and fulfilling habits helps make productivity part of your daily routine. Furthermore, because you are locked into your habit, you do the task faster, which leads to more time to have fun. By being inconsistent with your tasks, you reset that habit tracker,
and it makes doing your tasks much harder and time-consuming. If you are unable to complete a task and are scared that you’re going to repeat the same mistake, don’t fret – as long as you do the same task the next day, your brain will discover that the habit has been done consistently before, and can make continuing the habit less of a struggle, according to Graybiel at the Annual Review of Neuroscience.
By being consistent with your habits, you can make your summer all the more enjoyable, all while being productive. Last, but definitely not least, you can boost your productivity by reading. To some people, reading can feel boring, but according to a study at the National Institutes of Health, reading stimulates the mind and creates the feeling of pleasure and fun. Now, you most likely want to read comic books or novels, but I’m not talking about that. I’m talking
about non-fiction productive books. Reading these kinds of books not only increases your vocabulary but can aid you in your productivity journey. Some examples of books include Atomic Habits, Hidden Potential, The Power Of Habit, and more. If you have trouble reading because you don’t like it, try a nifty little trick I like to call substitution. Similar to how soccer players get substituted out for other players, substitution replaces a habit with something else.
This was further elaborated in the book The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg, in which he expounds about how ending bad habits can be done with substitution. By substituting social media with some sport or reading, you receive the same pleasure of dopamine, just in a better and more productive form. By reading, you can boost your productivity, but you can also enjoy the same fun of summer as well.
To conclude, having a fun, yet productive, summer is achievable. With a little bit of hard work, dedication, and the will to have fun, you can make this your best summer yet. I know summer is still not here, but start your productive habits now.
If you start these good habits now, doing them in the summer will be much easier and more manageable, so set those habits in mind.
Chase them like the wind, and I promise you this: you will be able to achieve your goals, no matter how hard it is.
Nahar Grewal 8th Grade, Adams Middle School
APPLY F OR SCHOOL BUS TRANSPORTATION FOR THE 2025/202 6 SCHOOL YEAR
Kindergarten through 8th Grade Applications Available Beginning June 9, 2025:
• Applications will be available online for Brentwood, Oakley and Byron School Districts
• STUDENT ID REQUIRED TO APPLY
• Precede the Student ID with the following 4 letter code for your district as follows: Brentwood = BUSD Byron = BYSD Oakley = OUSD example: BUSD1234567
• The email and home address you use on our application must match the one provided to the school in order to receive updates
• Students who are new to the district or who have recently moved will need to wait 72 hours after the school updates your address in their system to apply
• W e are only able to transport students to their home school based on the home address
• Students in grades K through 8 who live within a one mile radius from the school are not eligible for transport.
High School Applications Available Beginning July 14, 2025:
• Applications will be available online for Liberty Union High School District
• STUDENT ID REQUIRED TO APPLY
• Precede the Student ID with the following LUHD – example: LUHD 1234567
• The email and home address you use on our application must match the one provided to the school in order to receive updates
• Students who are new to the district or who have recently moved will need to wait 72 hours after the school updates your address in their system to apply.
• W e are only able to transport students to their home school based on the home address
• Students in grades 9-12 who live within a two-mile radius from the school are not eligible for transport
Adobe Stock photo
Youth writer
Oakley nonprofit to host school supplies and backpack giveaway
‘Every year it gets bigger and bigger’
By Nicole Becchina Staff Writer
Think Big Act Bigger, a nonprofit that supports Bay Area students, is collecting school supplies through June 30 for its backpack giveaway on July 26.
The backpack giveaway is free during which the nonprofit will hand out school supplies to students of all ages in the area from 8 a.m. to noon at Hairy Hounds, 4700 Main St. in Oakley.
Nina Orozco is the founder and CEO of Think Big Act Bigger, which “supports students of the Bay Area by providing school supplies and essentials, removing barriers to help with academic success and promoting inclusivity and equality in education,” according to their website, tbactbigger.org.
Students of all ages are welcome. There is a limit of one backpack per student while
supplies last. The giveaway will be on a first come first served basis and students must be present to collect school supplies. All donated school supplies will be given away to local students.
The nonprofit will be collecting a variety of new school supplies for the backpack giveaway, including backpacks, Crayola
The backpack giveaway is free during which the nonprofit will hand out school supplies to students of all ages in the area from 8 a.m. to noon at Hairy Hounds, 4700 Main St. in Oakley.
gets bigger and bigger.”
“Last year was our biggest,” Orozco said, adding that they gave out more backpacks to more students. “We handed out almost 200 backpacks.”
“The students are the best part,” Orozco said. “We offer students to pick out their own backpacks and I love to see how happy each student gets to find that perfect backpack. It makes the event totally worth it.” Orozco said the benefits of the event are for the students and their families.
“Going back to school is a financial strain for most families,” Orozco said. “We are here to hopefully help the students and their family with one less worry about going back to school.”
“There are plenty of ways to help,” Orozco said.
crayons, Crayola markers, Crayola colored pencils, binders, pencil cases, glue sticks, notebooks, filler paper, pocket folders, and highlighters. Donations can be dropped off at Hairy Hounds.
Orozco said they have been hosting the event for about five years and this is the second year as a nonprofit and “every year it
Walnut Blvd., Brentwood
In addition to the donation drop-off location, the nonprofit has an Amazon wishlist that can be found at www.tbactbigger.org/donate. Monetary donations can be made through PayPal (@Think Big Act Bigger or tbactbigger@gmail.com) and Venmo (@ThinkBigActBigger). Information on ways to donate can be found at tbactbigger. org or linktr.ee/thinkbigactbigger.
For more information on Think Big Act Bigger, visit tbactbigger.org.
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
Photo by Andrew Rulloda
The vast majority of people in countries where military service is not compulsory will never serve in the military. But that does not mean non-military personnel do not appreciate the sacrifices service members and their families make.
Press photo
The fight for veterans’ health care in California
From recognition to responsibility: National Military Appreciation Month in May
Throughout May, America celebrates National Military Appreciation Month, a time to reflect on the service, sacrifice, and resilience of U.S. military personnel and their families.
During this month, the parades, memorials, and other events offer visible gratitude to those who served their country and to active-duty members. However, it is important to remember that gratitude should be more than just celebratory and it should translate into something actionable.
Today, many veterans continue to face challenges in affordable health care for conditions caused by toxic exposure. For these people, as well as for those who continue to serve today, officials owe not just gratitude, but action to improve the health of those who suffered for their country.
Many veterans across the U.S. were exposed to toxic substances such as (perand poly-fluoroalkyl substances) and (volatile organic compounds) asbestos during militaryservice. The use of these harmful substances for decades paired with limited knowledge of health effects put thousands of exposed veterans at the risk of developing life-threatening diseases decades after service and qualifies them for compensation and benefits. Nevertheless, many conditions resulting from these toxic agents, and in some cases, the substances themselves, have yet to be formally acknowledged as qualifying grounds for compensation and benefits.
With the implementation of the PACT Act in 2022, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) processed over 1.5 million claims up to 2024. More than 70% of all benefits granted within these two years were provided through the Act. These claims totaled more than $6.8 billion in healthcare and benefits. However, many illnesses associated with those afflictions remain unrecognized under the Act, forcing veterans to navigate complex appeals to prove service- related causality and secure essential care.
Research demonstrates that when compared to the general public, those
who served in the military face significantly higher rates of chronic illness, mental health disorders, and premature mortality. By controlling for other potential causal factors, researchers can precisely determine that these health outcomes in veterans are, in fact, closely tied to environmental and occupational exposures and the physical demands of service. In this context, better healthcare and easier access to it are needed to ensure an equitable turn for veterans and active-duty service members.
Honoring service and addressing veterans’ needs in Contra Costa County is home to the largest veteran population in the U.S., with more than 1.8 million former service members. As of 2023, this state has about 161,000 active-duty military personnel stationed across more than 30 military installations. California is also home to about 53,000 reservists and National Guard members. In Contra Costa County, about 40,000 veterans live among a population of 1,155,025, making up about 4.2% of the county’s residents, including 3,072 veterans in Brentwood.
In recognition of the sacrifices made by these individuals, Contra Costa County has implemented initiatives for military staff and veterans, including the Measure X Housing Fund, totaling $258 million, to support affordable housing and related services across the county, as well as tax exemption laws.
Although local initiatives for veterans and servicemen do exist across the state, federal-level support mechanisms adjusted to the reality of military service are necessary. In the absence of these systems, veterans in Contra Costa County and across California continue to face long-term health complications stemming from toxic exposure, as well as the psychological toll of service. This National Military Appreciation Month, local and federal authorities should remember that true gratitude is translated into real effects, and policy action should be taken to recognize toxic agents as causal to many diseases veterans suffer from today.
Cristina Johnson is a Navy veteran advocate for Asbestos Ships Organization, a nonprofit whose primary mission is to raise awareness and educate veterans about the dangers of asbestos exposure on Navy ships and assist them in navigating the VA claims process.
by Vera Martinez, Certified Travel Agent
Summer Travel Tips 2025
As summer travel approaches, staying informed can feel overwhelming.
While I always recommend working with a travel agent who keeps up with the latest updates, here are five tips to help ensure a smooth and memorable trip in 2025:
1. Check entry requirements early Travel rules continue to evolve, so confirm visa and electronic travel authorization needs like the EU’s European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). Monitor safety advisories, especially if you’re an LGBTQ+ traveler, as some regions may pose extra challenges.
2. Pack smart and light
Use packing cubes, vacuum bags, and roll your clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles. Store shoes in shower caps and include dryer sheets to keep luggage smelling fresh.
3. Use travel apps
Download offline maps, language translators, and currency converters before departure. Apps offering safety alerts and local tips can make navigating new places easier.
4. Plan for seasonal events and weather June is great for festivals like Portland’s Rose Festival (June 7) but also marks early hurricane season in the Southeast U.S. Pack and plan accordingly.
5. Explore lesser-known destinations Avoid crowds and save money by choosing alternatives to popular spots — like Milos instead of Santorini — for a quieter Greek island getaway.
To Book Your Dream Vacation call me at 925-639-9194 or go to www.vmartinez.dreamvacations.com.
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Editor:
EDITORIALS, LETTERS & COMMENTARY
Have something to say? Post a comment or submit a letter to the editor at www.thepress.net/site/forms.
Letters to the editor
Reader ‘spot-on’ with connection between voting and morals
Hallie Munoz was spot-on in her May 2 letter where she stated that who you vote for reflects your morals.
I voted to stop illegal immigration, unborn babies’ right to life, biological women in womens’ sports, stopping the abuse of children regarding their gender identity, fair trade agreements with the rest of the world and Christian values.
I voted to support the police and all veterans and I voted for fair labor practices based on merit and not just race. I voted my conscience and if that’s
Planning Commission applauded for ‘principled’ decision on downtown fire station
Editor:
I want to take a moment to applaud the Planning Commission for their decisive and principled stand in voting to deny the design review for Fire Station 94. Their decision was not only a defense of the veterans who use the memorial property—it was also a clear statement in support of the citizens and business owners in downtown Brentwood.
During that same meeting, Commissioner Johnson raised questions that inadvertently placed the city engineer in a difficult position and may have exposed concerns about the engineering department’s evaluation process going forward.
Specifically, Commissioner Johnson asked leading questions about whether Diablo Way—the alley behind the proposed fire station — can support the weight of fire apparatus. The engineer confirmed that Diablo Way is constructed to Caltrans Level 5 standards, which typically includes four inches of asphalt over eight inches of compacted base. This standard is designed for vehicles weighing between 16,000 and 19,000 pounds maximum gross vehicle weight.
The engineer also noted that weight is distributed across a vehicle’s axles, implying that this distribution would prevent damage. While this may be true for lighter vehicles or those with multiple axles, it does not hold for all fire equipment. The fire district has stated that the station will house a Type 1 fire truck, which weighs 42,500 pounds and has only two axles. That means each
axle carries roughly 21,250 pounds — more than one ton above the maximum load the alley was designed to handle. That’s a serious concern, especially when considering daily use, not just emergency response.
This is precisely why a full California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review is so vital. These are the kinds of impacts — on infrastructure, safety, and long-term cost to the city — that must be evaluated through a proper process.
Skipping these steps puts the city at risk for costly future repairs and compromises public trust.
To put this in perspective, in 2017, I was the Superintendent for a homebuilder in Brentwood. The Planning Department halted our plan review for weeks because they wanted more window grids on homes facing the main road. That level of attention to architectural detail was considered essential for consistency in the community’s visual design.
If that kind of diligence is required for window grids on residential homes, why aren’t we applying the same scrutiny to a fire station that will fundamentally alter the dynamics of downtown?
Looking ahead, we fully expect that the fire district and Supervisor Diane Burgis will appeal to the City Council to overturn the Planning Commission’s decision. When they do, I urge this Council to stand firm and demand a proper CEQA review. Brentwood’s Planning Department, Commission, and Council are here to represent the people — not to rubber-stamp projects simply because they come from the County.
Remind the County and the fire district – they are not above the law. Paul Radliff, Assistant Director, American Legion Riders, Chapter 202 Brentwood
LETTERS POLICY
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The Press reserves the right to edit submissions for length, clarity, potential libel and taste, or to not print letters we feel violate our standards of acceptance.
Opinions expressed in letters are not necessarily the opinions of The Press, whose opinions are contained in clearly marked editorials. Send correspondence to The Press, 248 Oak St., Brentwood, California, 94513; or email editor@ brentwoodpress.com.
anti WOKE, so be it.
Former President Biden was clearly the opposite and did nothing positive in any of the above areas. Mr. Cunningham is extremely biased and has no right to call me on my values (Kevin Cunningham, ‘Trump, Harris, and their voters have opposite morals’, The Press on May 9) .
He clearly has a different set of values to me. So yes, I voted my conscience.
Bernadette Buchanan Brentwood
Trust ConFire’s stance about the downtown Brentwood fire station
Last Sunday, a vehicle fire south of Brentwood grew quickly from half an acre into a 50-acre brushfire due to strong winds and dry vegetation. The response required both crews from the only station in Brentwood, as well as all our East County engines from Antioch, Oakley and Discovery Bay.
Guest comment
Contra Costa Fire responded with 50 personnel, six fire engines and Station 92’s truck, and CAL FIRE responded with an additional 70 personnel, five fire engines and aerial support.
The fire’s growth was stopped at 50 acres within a couple hours with no lives lost and no structures damaged, thanks to Contra Costa Fire’s professionalism up and down the chain of command.
The incident forced Contra Costa Fire to shift resources away from Concord, Martinez and Walnut Creek to cover any other incidents that might have occurred in East County at the same time. Fortunately, there were no other incidents that further stretched our fire protection district’s resources, and our CAL FIRE personnel were not busy fighting other fires, as often occurs this time of year.
The same folks who are responsible for making sure our fire protection systems operate efficiently and effectively, as they did last Sunday, tell us that we should rebuild a modern fire house at the site of the old downtown Brentwood station, which was closed a decade ago because of financial challenges. To best protect our community, we should listen to our firefighters — not to people who have chosen to oppose and sabotage efforts to build Station 94 on First Street.
If you break your arm, you go to a doctor. If you need legal advice, you consult an attorney. If you’re building a fire station, you ask firefighters where it belongs.
Unfortunately, a small, but vocal, group in Brentwood thinks we should disregard our firefighters who recommend this
location. Contra Costa Fire’s data show that the downtown Brentwood station would be in the exact middle of Brentwood’s densest demand for emergency response and some of the most vulnerable populations and properties. But opponents have chosen to further distract, delay and confuse people into thinking that a property at the end of Sand Creek Road is a better option.
That’s not how we should make decisions when lives and property are on the line. Contra Costa Fire (and other fire districts that have previously covered Brentwood) have rejected the Sand Creek property for multiple reasons. This location is not optimal for fire truck access to the community, is more expensive, and further delays a fire station at a time when it is needed now.
People have strong feelings on this issue, and for the past two years I have tried to address their concerns. But please don’t be misled as they grasp at straws to list new objections. The same people who object to Fire Station 94 being two blocks away from a high school have no problem suggesting a station be placed on the same block as an elementary school. And after renderings of the design have been public for more than a year, opponents declared only this month that they don’t want a fire station made of brick, which was what city staff recommended. The fire district is open to modifying the building appearance if given input.
The Brentwood City Council is scheduled to approve or deny the First Street location in their meeting on June 10. I encourage you, whether you live in Brentwood or in surrounding areas, to contact Mayor Susannah Meyer and members of the City Council before the meeting and in the Council Chambers that night. Let your elected officials know we trust our firefighters and support Station 94 being built on First Street.
Learn the facts about Station 94: contracosta.ca.gov/District3 and www.cccfpd. org/new-stations/.
Supervisor Diane Burgis Brentwood
Social Talk About Town...
The following comments were made on Facebook and Instagram in response to the stories “Brentwood planners deny fire station design” and “County to conduct study of Vasco Road safety problems.” Both were published in the May 9 issue of the Press.
“Brentwood planners deny fire station design”
“NO! This station does not belong downtown Brentwood for the reasons presented by residents, and downtown businesses for the last year or so. YES to the station, NO to the location!”
-Sinziana Todor, Facebook
“But they’ll approve more multi family housing with an already insufficient infrastructure. Build the fire station and stop building homes.”
-plant_haz_services_inc, Instagram
“Aesthetics > safety. Got it.”
-lucybon1, Instagram
“Good the veterans already had other plans for the land after the last station was torn down.”
-Jose Grajeda, Facebook
“At least the council is elected and accountable to the voters.”
-Edward Younger, Facebook
21.1% Eating with friends
5.3% Reading a book or doing puzzles
31.6% Going for a walk
31.6% A quiet meal by myself
10.5% Taking a nap
What is your favorite way to relax during your lunch break? Source:
“It only makes sense that it stays right where it is. Since we have the ladder truck currently across town, and a majority of the large buildings are right there downtown and it’s close to the largest high school around. Spent every Wed Night with Troop 93 at the Vets hall. It’s old, not very much used besides the guys who drink downstairs. The issue is that 5 ft of space between the buildings?”
-Chris Castro, Facebook
“Whatever the design, it needs to go to a different location please.”
-Kimberly Alberti, Facebook
“County to conduct study of Vasco Road safety problems”
“No need to conduct a study , everyone knows what needs to be done. Install concrete road barriers throughout the whole corridor first.”
-jaychaov, Instagram
“Concrete barrier dividing opposing directions, 4 lanes all the way through, pot holes, etc. It’s traveled like it’s a highway, why not make it as safe as one???”
-s4f36_hayden, Instagram
“Barries and speedometers would do the trick”
-_kvalentine, Instagram
“Post highway patrol and ticket the heck out of speeders , that would fix it , I remember when they used to set up in a lift with radar and nail numerous idiots daily. PS – Blame the road all you want it’s not the road it’s idiotic drivers 100%”
-Gene LaMar, Facebook
“Potholes need to be fixed, sure. But the issues are drivers and selfish people. Everyone’s in a hurry just to get to the county line and wait in single file. Passing over places they shouldn’t (shoulder double yellow etc). If CHP actually patrolled more often it would probably be better.”
-littlesaintthick, Instagram
“Drivers could be less reckless and fix the pot holes.”
-Janene Francisco, Facebook
“Start with people slowing down”
-Mike Butler, Facebook
Milestones
Rudolph William Leyva
Sept. 29, 1945 - April 26, 2025
BIRTHS, ACHIEVEMENTS AND OBITUARIES
Rudolph William Leyva was born in Cass City, Michigan on Sept. 29, 1945 and passed away from complications of Parkinson’s Disease at the Veterans Hospital in Martinez in the early hours of April 26, 2025, with his beloved wife, Lucia, by his side. He was 79. After graduating from high school, Willie joined
OBITUARY
the United States Air Force and served in various capacities from 1963 to 1968. When he finished his time in the Air Force, he found work in his hometown installing drywall. He continued that for more than 40 years, eventually serving as foreman and being sent by his company to California.
He enjoyed hunting for deer and rabbits, enjoyed fishing very much, and was a car race enthusiast, supporting
Excelsior Middle School students win trophies at Great America Amphitheater
This favorite drivers by wearing their colors. He was known among his friends for his quick sense of humor, was honest, and had a high sense of integrity.
Willie is survived by his wife, Lucia Viramontes Leyva, from Brentwood, as well as his sisters Rosie Quinn and Rachel Lamoureaux and his brother, Joseph Leyva, Jr., all of whom are still living in Michigan.
Willie was laid to rest on May 9, 2025, at Byron-Brentwood-Knightsen Union Cemetery, 11545 Brentwood Blvd., Brentwood.
Brentwood man receives VFW Scout of the Year nomination
Evan Overzet, of Troop 93 in Brentwood, received the VFW nomination for Scout of the Year from the Brentwood VFW Post. Roy Thomas presented the award on Tuesday, May 13. Evan’s Eagle Project was restoring a covered wagon for the East Contra Costa Historical Society Museum in 2023. He also created a teaching board on wagon trains for the third graders who come every year on field trips to the museum. Evan started in Scouts as a Tiger Cub with Pack 1155 and has been a Den Chief for several years for Pack 21 in Brentwood. Evan is also a member of Venture Crew 23, and is going to Sea Base in June to scuba dive with other scouts. Evan said Scouting has been important in his life and has helped him learn valuable leadership skills.
he music students at Exelcisor Middle School recently performed at the Music in the Parks festival at Great America Amphitheater where they showcased their talent but also supported other schools. They came home with five trophies.
Heritage, Liberty baseball lose in NCS playoffs, Freedom baseball, softball teams win on the road
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
On a playoff opening day when Heritage and Liberty’s baseball teams had the spotlight on them entering the North Coast Section playoffs, it was Freedom’s baseball and softball teams, along with Heritage softball winning and advancing to quarterfinals.
Here’s a recap on Tuesday’s NCS playoff opening matchups: BASEBALL
College Park 4, Heritage 3 (Final/11 innings)
Heritage baseball was an out away from advancing to the NCS quarterfinals after a gritty performance at College Park. However, an error at second on weird hop on what would have been the final out of the 10th inning allowed the Falcons to tie the game, and then go on to win it an inning later as Patriots reliever Kalil Gray hit College Park’s left-handed hitter TJ Reinhart in the right arm with the bases loaded to walk home the game-winning run.
Following a strong start on the mound by starting pitcher Jace Bernard, junior Logan Nelson kept the Patriots in the game late and in extra innings, turning a double play with the bases loaded in the seventh inning to escape a jam, and keeping the Falcons off of the basepaths in the eighth and ninth innings.
Heritage took a 3-2 lead in the 10th on a sacrifice fly to left by JJ Kinnaird, but College Park rallied against Nelson in the bottom half with the error at second base.
Heritage finishes their season 19-6, a win shy of their 20win season from a year ago.
Foothill 8, Liberty 2
The third-seed Falcons made quick work of the new Bay Valley Athletic League champion Lions 8-2 in Brentwood on Tuesday. Foothill jumped out to a 4-0 lead in the second inning against Liberty starter Jake Farr and never looked back, adding a pair of runs in the third inning for a 6-0 lead to all but put the game away.
Farr struggled throughout his 12/3 on the mound, committing a throwing error with two outs in the second inning to give up the first run of the game, then he walked in a run and hit two more batters to add to Foothill’s lead.
The Liberty lineup that looked to be on fire entering the postseason was immediately cooled off by a Foothill pitching
SOFTBALL
Heritage 9, Dougherty Valley 2
Heritage softball is back in the NCS quarterfinals for the first time since 2023 after the Patriots defeated Dougherty Valley 9-2 on Tuesday in San Ramon.
The Patriots took a 1-0 lead in the second inning, added a pair of runs in the third and never looked back, even as the Wildcats clawed back to pull within a run 3-2 after the fourth inning. Heritage effectively put the game away in the seventh, scoring five runs in the final frame for the win.
Sophomore Meadow Wachtel went 3-for-4 at the plate with two RBI and two runs scored, junior Hailey Schultz went 2-for-4 with an RBI, and freshman Vivien Spomer went 3-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored in her NCS playoff debut.
Starting pitcher Kylie Garcia allowed two runs and struck out four batters in four innings in the circle, while freshman Malia Davis held the Wildcats to just one hit on three shutout innings of relief.
staff that kept the Lions in check with just five hits.
Junior Sean Kelly helped Liberty avoid the shutout with an RBI single in the sixth inning to put Liberty on the board 8-1 at the time. Stevie Wellens added one more run in the seventh inning to cut the deficit to 8-2.
The Lions end their season 17-8 overall, but more importantly, with their second BVAL title in the last three years.
Freedom 6, James Logan 3 (8 innings)
The 12th-seeded Falcons pulled the extra-innings upset of the fifth-seed James Logan Colts in Union City on Tuesday night. Freedom trailed 3-0 entering the seventh inning. Colton Vick’s RBI single cut the deficit to 3-1. Then with two out, following a single by Devin Carmignani, Landon Clenney’s RBI double tied the game at 3-3, scoring both Vick and Carmignani.
In extra innings, Isaiah Keys doubled to lead off, then Andrew Borrego bunted to get Keys to third, setting it up for senior Caleb Emmons, whose RBI single scored Keys to give Freedom a 4-3 lead. Dylan DeLauter’s home run to left, scoring him and Emmons helped Freedom put the game away at 6-3 in the eighth inning.
Vick pitched all eight innings in the win, allowing three runs (two earned) on eight hits with three strikeouts and two walks.
The playoff win is Freedom’s first since 2023, when they defeated Amador Valley on the road 2-0. The Falcons advance to the quarterfinals where they will travel to El Cerrito on Friday at 5 p.m.
The win also marked the 300th career win for head coach Ron Rivers, according to Heritage Athletics.
Heritage will travel north to Santa Rosa to take on Maria Carrillo on Friday at 5 p.m. in the NCS quarterfinals.
Freedom 14, American Canyon 3
Freedom’s playoff-opening win at American Canyon didn’t start perfectly, but it ended with a bang. The Falcons knocked the Wolves out of the playoffs 14-3 on Tuesday, powered by an 11-run seventh inning to ensure that they will advance to the quarterfinals.
Freedom trailed 2-0 after the first inning, but rallied to take the lead with three runs in the fourth inning and never looked back from there.
Freedom’s lineup was led by the new kids in Oakley as freshmen Riley Moon and Jaiden Proctor each homered in their NCS playoff debuts. Moon went 3-for-4 with four RBI and two runs scored, Proctor went 2-for-5 with three RBI and two runs scored as nearly the entire lineup had multi-hit days. Terralynn Delauter went 3-for-5 with two RBI, Delaney Zimmer went 2-for-3 with an RBI and two runs scored.
Moon also grabbed the complete-game win in the circle, allowing three runs on five hits with four strikeouts.
The victory sends Freedom all the way up north near the Oregon border to take on top-seed Del Norte in Crescent City Friday at 5 p.m.
Liberty softball to enjoy home field for NCS postseason
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Liberty’s softball team is no stranger to the North Coast Section playoffs, at least, since the Brandi Macias era started in 2023.
The Lady Lions’ third-straight postseason appearance since Macias’ arrival comes a little different this time around. For the second time in as many years, Liberty is home to start the postseason. But for the first time, they’ll stay home as the No. 1 seed in the NCS when they host San Marin on Friday evening.
“I’m thankful the NCS gave the team the respect that they’ve earned,” Macias said. Macias was also named Bay Valley Athletic League Coach of the Year this week.
“I was super excited to see we earned the first seed,” junior pitcher Kate Skinner said. “We have worked so hard this season and it shows what our team is capable of doing to be able to earn that.”
Liberty’s top-seed placement comes after the team won its second-straight BVAL
title this season after going undefeated in league play for a second consecutive year, and finished 20-4 for a second straight year. Last year, Liberty defeated Dublin at home 9-0 in the NCS playoff opener before defeating Vintage in Napa, before losing in the semifinals at College Park in Pleasant Hill.
Staying home for the entirety of bracket play in the NCS playoffs is a welcome change for the Lady Lions.
“There is nothing better than playing in front of our home crowd,” Macias said. “There is an energy about this team that is motivating when we are at home. We couldn’t be more excited to play in front of our friends, family, and incredible fans.”
“From a player’s perspective, not having to travel for the playoffs is huge,” junior catcher Bella Rice said. “It definitely gives us a boost going into the playoff season.”
Along with not having to travel until the championship game, which is at a neutral site should Liberty reach the NCS championship game next weekend, the Lady Lions actually
Liberty pitcher Kate Skinner prepares to pitch during the Lady Lions’ softball game against Heritage on May 13.
the Livermore Stampede tournament.
The top seed also gave the Lady Lions a first-round bye, which is why their playoff run starts on Friday while everyone else started on Tuesday, including San Marin, who defeated Vintage 4-3 to advance. Liberty has become accustomed the extended time in between games this season, with breaks in between games going as long as two weeks in the regular season due to weather or teams forfeiting games.
“The breaks and the first-round bye have been helpful in some ways,” Rice said. “They’ve given us time to rest, reset, and focus on specific areas in practice. It also gives us a chance to prepare for different game situations.”
have a true home-field advantage. Liberty’s lone loss at home this season came on opening day, 7-3 against Tracy in late February. The other three losses this season came away from Brentwood – against San Ramon Valley in extra innings in Danville, and back-toback losses to Whitney and Casa Grande in
“The good news is this won’t be any different than what we have been doing this season,” Macias added. “This gave us a chance to have a recovery day, then we got back to work in preparing for our next opponent.”
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
Heritage’s Kalil Gray walks off the field as College Park celebrates behind him after he hit a batter with the bases loaded to end the Patriots’ North Coast Section game at the Falcons Tuesday evening in Pleasant Hill.
Spring football showcase casts
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
It’s been a long time since there’s been a positive spotlight on Deer Valley’s football program.
The program’s glory days now feel like distant memories, buried in the faded pages of a history book (or, to be modern, deep within the unviewed archives of MaxPreps’ website). It was a time when the Wolverines were perennial North Coast Section playoff contenders in the mid-2000s and early 2010s, even beating current powerhouse Pittsburg, a feat that seems nearly impossible today.
Since then, the program has struggled — on the field with poor records and off the field with low roster numbers and issues with player retention often due to grades and injuries.
First-year head coach Marcus Malu is determined to change that narrative. Last week’s college spring football showcase, hosted by the Wolverines, marked a key step toward building a new foundation for the program.
That’s part of the vision behind his rebuilding process.
“I think to rebuild, you don’t really put things in perspective of ‘what’s the next move?’” Malu said. “The only thing we can do is push what we’ve been doing for the
kids, push what we’re doing for the community. We try our best to do right by the kids.”
The showcase featured Deer Valley, Heritage and Berkeley High School. In attendance were college coaches from junior colleges such as Laney College, College of San Mateo, and Contra Costa College, as well as Division I programs including Arizona, Oregon State, and Sacramento State.
Deer Valley faculty also attended, along with Antioch Mayor Ron Bernal, and football evaluator Brandon Huffman of 247Sports.
“This shows that there’s change occurring,” Bernal said. “It’s about leadership. It’s about the kids responding to it. It’s about building a new culture, a new foundation.”
“It means something when college coaches take time to come to Antioch and
watch these kids. It shows respect for the leadership here, and proves there’s actually something worth seeing. They wouldn’t be here otherwise, and that’s the excitement building around this.”
Each team held an hour-long workout, with Heritage starting the day, then Deer Valley in the middle, and Berkeley finishing the night. College coaches observed each session and spoke with standout players from each of the three schools.
“We got kind of nervous seeing all the college coaches — Brandon Huffman especially,” said Deer Valley quarterback Adrian Masanai. “I was definitely a little nervous, but tried to stay cool throughout.”
The one-day showcase was designed to introduce players to the college recruiting process, much like how major college football programs host pro days for NFL prospects.
“The biggest thing we try to teach them is that there are moments in life when you’ll have an interview,” Malu said. “This is practice for that — like a job interview. Now, they get to play not only in front of their parents, but also administrators, the district, and college coaches.”
“When we get to days like this, it’s just another practice. The only difference is, now, we have people watching.”
To view a video and a slideshow, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
New Deer Valley head football coach Marcus Malu (pointing) gives instructions during the Wolverines’ spring football showcase in Antioch as college coaches observe in the back.
Photo by Juan Cebreiros
New coach Wisely seeks to continue the success of Heritage football
By Juan Cebreiro Correspondent
Effort has been the talk of new Heritage head football coach Nick Wisely as he and his Patriots team begin their preparations for what’s going to be three months of training ahead of their Week 1 game against James Logan.
In mid-February, Wisely was named the program’s newest head coach after four-year head coach Dave Fogelstrom stepped down. As Wisely continues to settle into his role, he wants to keep in place what helped the program achieve back-to-back years of North Coast Section semifinals appearances.
“One of the biggest things you try not to do is fix what’s not broken,” Wisely said at the team’s May 15 college showcase practice at Deer Valley High School. “There’s a lot of great traditions and a lot of great things (Fogelstrom) did. We’re gonna try to keep pushing that forward and then putting my twist on it too.”
Despite it being just the team’s fourth practice together, Wisely said there is excitement about the team as they prepare for the 2025 season. As the players are buying into the ideology of the new coaching staff, Wisely continues to instill effort into his players.
“Make a mistake, we could fix those. But we can’t fix effort,” Wisely said. “They’re buying in and they’re committed. They’re ready to win, and they want to take that next step in the playoffs and get to the next level to get beyond the semifinals and into that championship game.”
However, this coming season’s team is going to be younger than in years past. Key players such as quarterbacks Philip Babbitt and Austin Peters are graduating this June, along-
side JJ Kinnaird, the team’s leading receiver in 2024, and leading rusher Mekhi Adanandus.
While the upcoming season’s roster may lack the varsity experience the program has enjoyed over the last three years, Wisely said it adds even more emphasis to the effort level from his players.
“Sometimes when you don’t have the experience, you don’t know any better, so you’re just gonna run through that wall no matter what,” Wisely said. “You’re not waiting for what’s on the other side. You’re just gonna go hard, and that’s what the kids have been doing from the get-go.”
Heritage has not won the Brentwood Bowl since the 2016 season. Despite this, Wisely said he’s excited to jump into Heritage’s local rivalries. However, as excited as he is for the cross-town rivalry, he reiterated “That’s Week 10. I gotta be worried about Week 1 right now.”
“These league games are tough, anybody in this league is tough,” Wisely said. “The kids know each other, the coaches know each other and it’s just always tough no matter what the records are. Throw the records out the windows and league’s a battle no matter who you play.”
While the opening week of the season is still three months away, Wisely anticipates his team will be able to continue the success the program has seen over the last two seasons.
Sponsored by Train Smarter + Harder
Kelsie Skaggs
Liberty softball junior Kelsie Skaggs came through in the clutch in the Lions’ series against Freedom last week. In Game 1 in Brentwood, her two-run home run in the seventh inning tied the game before Kylee McKinney’s game-winning hit an inning later. In Game 2 in Oakley on Thursday, Skaggs’ diving catch on an infield pop-up in the fifth inning preserved Kate Skinner’s no-hitter in Liberty’s 10-0 win. Heading into the regular-season finale against Heritage, she’s batted .431 with 14 RBI and four home runs this season.
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How to enjoy a safe Memorial Day weekend
California State Parks wants Californians and visitors from around the world to kick off Memorial Day weekend, the unofficial start of summer, safely and responsibly. With California’s diverse landscape, State Parks offers a wide variety of activities for adventurers of any skill level, from swimming, hiking, camping, boating to off-road vehicle recreation.
The Golden State’s 280 parks have something for everyone wanting to escape the hustle and bustle for some fun and relaxation in nature. But as you head out to your favorite destination, following simple safety precautions such as wearing a properly fitted life jacket or proper riding gear, avoiding alcohol, and knowing one’s limits while engaged in aquatic activities, can help save lives and ensure a memorable outing, according to a press release from the state.
There is no shortage of destinations to explore. To help ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend for all, State Parks reminds visitors of the following tips:
PLAN AHEAD
Know before you go: Check parks.ca.gov for conditions, hours and local guidelines.
Check the weather: Dress appropriately, stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Prepare an itinerary: No matter what type of recreational activity you are planning, leave an itinerary of your trip with a family member or friend with information such as the names and ages of all participants, your travel destination, and your expected return date. This will provide law enforcement personnel with essential information if an emergency response may be needed.
Learn the rules of recreating in boats and off-road vehicles: There are laws specific to operating off-road vehicles on public lands and boats on California’s waterways. For boating laws, visit BoatCalifornia.com. Off-road vehicles regulations are also available to review online.
BE WATER-WISE
Wear a life jacket: Water-related accidents can happen suddenly and rapidly. If you are going in or near the water, make sure you and everyone with you, especially children, wear prop-
didn’t choose the cute life the cute life chose her!
erly fitting, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets. Wearing a life jacket is the best way to increase your chances of survival during an incident. View locations where public agencies and private organizations offer to loan life jackets to the public.
Supervise children: Appoint a designated “water watcher,” taking turns with other adults. Never assume someone is watching your children.
Know your limits: Swimming in a lake, ocean or river is different from swimming in a pool. Waves, tides, strong rip currents and other water hazards can appear quickly and provide little time to act.
In an emergency: Seek help from a lifeguard or call 911.
Ocean rip currents: If you get caught in a rip current, stay calm and do not fight the current. Swim or float parallel to the shore until you are out of the current and then swim toward the shore.
Don’t drink alcohol
Operating a recreational vehicle, including a boat or an offroad vehicle, with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or more is against the law. Impaired boaters can be arrested even with a lower BAC if the conditions are not safe and your boat can be impounded.
Some parks do have alcohol bans. Check each specific park website to determine if there are local ordinances concerning alcohol.
Practice fire safety
Build an open campfire. Select a clear area away from fuels such as logs, brush or decaying leaves and needles.
Never leave a fire unattended, and fully extinguish it before leaving. Keep water and a shovel nearby.
Do not build the fire larger than necessary.
Respect the land and leave no trace
Pack it in, pack it out. Leave no trace behind by bringing a trash bag. Put food waste, napkins, single-use food wrappers, and other waste in the bags until it can be properly disposed of. For human waste, the use of waste alleviation gel bags or other portable toilet options is recommended.
Haul back large broken items, such as pop-up canopies, beach chairs, and coolers, and dispose of them properly at a local garbage site. Leaving these items on the beach or park or ‘near’ a trash bin can be considered illegal dumping.
Enhance your park experience
Download the what3words and OuterSpatial apps to help ensure safety and stay up to date on park happenings.
what3words: Visitors can now use the what3words tool, an innovative location technology app, that provides users with a simple way to communicate precise locations in emergency situations or provide directions to family and friends in any of the 280 state parks. what3words allows dispatchers with state-of-the-art technology to assist visitors in the event they become lost, stranded or who otherwise need help from emergency services.
OuterSpatial: Experience a safer outdoor adventure with the OuterSpatial app — your ultimate guide to California State Parks. Navigate through a user-friendly interactive map, receive accurate directions, and stay updated in real-time for secure park exploration.
Additional safety tips and information on backpacking, biking, camping, horseback trails, and laws are at parks.ca.gov/SafetyTips. To find a state park near you, visit parks.ca.gov.
For more information, email ruffdayrescue@ gmail.com or call 408-892-6869
available for adoption through Ruff Day Rescue. To learn more about me, please visit www.ruffdayrescue.org or call 408-892-6869.
Photo by Adobe Stock
For print, email your events to calendar@brentwoodpress.com one week prior to publication. For online, post your events for free on The Press Community Calendar www.thepress.net/calendar.
This Week’s Events
Friday, May 23
Country Western Dance in Brentwood Supports Veterans
Support local veterans at the Country Western Dance at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building, 757 First St., from 7-11 p.m. Doors will open at 6 p.m. Tickets will be available at the door for $10. All ages are welcome. Drinks will be available, and DJ Dave will be playing tunes. No backpacks, beverages, or containers are allowed. For more information, call Phil at (925) 354-2868.
Saturday, May 24
Shadow Lakes Community CleanUp Day
Residents of Shadow Lakes and the public are invited to join in for a neighborhood clean-up. It starts at 8 a.m., and volunteers will meet at Willy’s Bagels at 390 W. Country Club Dr., Suite A, to collect supplies including gloves, trash bags, and loaner trash grabbers (while supplies last). Breakfast will be provided by Foundation Community Management, Inc. For details, contact: sara@foundationhoa.com or call 800-651-4350.
Grill and Gather-A Country Barbecue Fundraiser
per team, and Advanced/Competitive Division $100 per team. Participants can register as a 2-person team. Admission is free for spectators. No outside alcohol allowed. There will be beer tents and booths. Funds raised at the event will support preservation in historic downtown Brentwood. The event, produced by the California Cornhole Association and hosted and organized by the Downtown Brentwood Coalition, is scheduled to end around 5:30 p.m. For more information and to reserve a spot, visit https://www.eventbrite. com/e/2025-bags-and-brews-cornhole-tournament-in-downtown-brentwood-registration1314188385839?aff=oddtdtcreator.
Delta Community Band Concert
Delta Community Band will present a free patriotic concert for Memorial Day weekend from 12:15-1:30 p.m. at Hillside Church, 108 Hillside Road in Antioch. The event commemorates fallen service members and their sacrifices. The band will perform marches, ballads, and patriotic music. For more information, visit DeltaCommunityBand.org.
Tuesday, May 27
Brentwood Police Department
Blood Drive
Look at the many local events on
tion, to support the cause, or to become a sponsor of the event, contact Patricia Piquero at 925709-4333 or dnp.brentwood@gmail.com. Visit the Team Hulken Facebook page here: https://www. facebook.com/groups/1540008532941472
“The Music We Share” – A Joyful Celebration of Song
The Brentwood Community Chorus will present their spring concert “The Music We Share” at 2 p.m. at Bristow Middle School, 855 Minnesota Ave. in Brentwood. This season, they bring together timeless choral works and contemporary gems in a program featuring harmonies of Johannes Brahms and Sergei Rachmaninoff, the lyrics of Gerald Finzi, and the energy of Sydney Guillaume. Advanced general admission tickets $20 and $10 for students. At the door, admission will be $25 for general admission and $15 for students. Children ages 12 and under are admitted free. Raffle tickets and concessions will be for sale in the lobby. For more information, visit brentwoodcommunitychorus.com.
Silent Youth Disco in Brentwood
entertainment. General admission is free. For wine garden tickets (only for ages 21 and older) visit www.eventbrite.com/e/130606686 4149?aff=oddtdtcreator. For more information call 925-204-5182. The event is sponsored by Forward Economic Development Association and Kiwanis Northern California Literacy Club.
Friday, June 13
Caregiver OneCall Awareness Event
Caregiver OneCall invites everyone to their Awareness Event from 4:30–7 p.m. at TriVesta, 3950 Lone Tree Way in Antioch. Learn how they are changing the lives of caregivers, one call at a time. Meet the team, hear stories, enjoy refreshments, and enter a raffle sponsored by local businesses. Donations encouraged. Every dollar supports a caregiver in financial need. RSVP ast www.zeffy.com/ticketing/awarenesslaunch. For more information on Caregiver OneCall, visit www.caregiveronecall.org.
Thursday, June 19
Juneteenth Celebration in the Park
POSTPONED
The Catholic Daughters of the Americas #2714 are hosting a barbecue Western Theme Party at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church at 500 Fairview Ave. in Brentwood from 6-10 p.m.,.
A barbecue feast will be catered by The Holy Smoker including smoked brisket and smoked chicken, paired with macaroni salad, dirty beans with pork belly, and freshly baked rolls and butter. There will be cold beer, wine, line dancing, and tunes from a DJ. There will also be raffle baskets with Western-inspired prizes. All proceeds will go to Catholic Daughters of the Americas Charities, supporting work locally. Merrill Gardens Annual Car Show
Admire classic cars presented by Coffee & Clutches Car Club from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at Merrill Gardens, 2600 Balfour Road in Brentwood. This is a family-friendly event with live music by Ron Archer, free hot dogs, drinks, and treats. For more information, call 925-297-6841 or visit merrillgardensbrentwood.com.
Saturday, May 24 & Monday, May 26
Memorial Day Weekend Event in Antioch
On that Saturday, the Paul Scannell Annual Softball Tournament will be at the Worth Shaw Community Park, 801 James Donlan Blvd., in Antioch at 8 a.m. On Monday, Memorial Day, there will be a free pancake breakfast hosted by the Antioch Rivertown Veterans Lions Club at 8 a.m. at Oak View Memorial Park, 2500 East 18th St. in Antioch. The Memorial Day ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. There will be a barbecue lunch at noon at the Antioch VFW, 815 Fulton Shipyard Road. For more information, visit DeltaVeteransGroup.org.
Sunday, May 25
5th Annual Bags and Brews Cornhole Tournament in Downtown Brentwood
Enjoy good old-fashioned fun at this familyfriendly event. Check-in will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the corner of First and Oak streets, and the tournament will be held in the streets in this area. The Honor and Remember Ceremony to honor local heroes will be at noon. Bags fly and the Family Fun Zone opens at 1 p.m. There will be three divisions based on skill level: Registration for the Beginners/Novice Division $75 per team, Social/Backyard Division is $100
The Brentwood Police Department and the American Red Cross, will host a blood drive from 9 a.m-3 p.m at the Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St., Halls A and B. To sign up, visit brentwood.info/BPDBLOODDRIVE. Space is limited and appoint0ments are required. Donors will receive a $10 e-gift card and will be automatically entered for a chance to win a $7,000 gift card. Two winners will be selected.
On the Horizon
Friday, May 30
Heritage High School Improv Night
Kick off the weekend with the Heritage High School Improv Show at 7 p.m. at the school, 101 American Ave. in Brentwood. The Improv Team will make up the whole evening on the spot with characters, song lyrics, situations, and whole scenes to entertain guests. Tickets are $5 per person, and are available at https:// hhsrisingstars.seatyourself.biz. Online sales only, no cash at the door.
Saturday, May 31
Mess Fest 2025 in Brentwood
This festival will be at Veterans Park, 3841 Balfour Road in Brentwood, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Have fun at the messiest event of the year, packed with oobleck, slime, mud pies, and a Color Run. Last year, the event raised $4,000 for the Bay Area Crisis Nursery. Since 1981, the nursery has provided a safe haven and support to families in need, working to prevent child abuse and neglect. Kids should wear clothes that can get messy and bring a towel and a change of clothes. Tickets are $15 per child. To donate or to purchase tickets, visit https://givebutter.com/mDwKeX.
Farm Fest Fundraiser to Support
Local Cancer Patient Colten Guerra
The free family-friendly event will take place at Halo Farms, 18700 Marsh Creek Road in Brentwood, from noon-4 p.m. Attendees will be able to feed 57 different animals, enjoy games, attractions and photo opportunities. There will be vendors, food trucks and raffle prizes. All proceeds will go directly to the Guerra Family to help with 14-year-old Colten Guerra’s ongoing treatment and care. He has been battling neuroblastoma, a rare and aggressive form of childhood cancer for the past 10 years. For more informa-
The event will take place at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building, 757 First St., from 5-10 p.m. It will be an evening of dancing, music, and food. There will be two shows, the first is for families to enjoy the Silent Disco experience with their children from 5-7 p.m. There will be three music channels available for guests to listen to while wearing wireless headphones. Everyone must purchase an admission ticket, and children must be accompanied by an adult. The cost is $15 per headphones. The second show is for youth ages 13-18 from 8-10 p.m. This show includes two music channels and a live DJ playing today’s hits. The cost is $20 per headphone. High school identification is required, and a waiver must be signed by a parent. There are only 200 headphones available per show. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Ron Nunn Elementary School and Brentwood Police Activities League. For more information or for tickets, call 925-595-5736.
Oakley Rotary
6th Annual Gala
The gala will be held at La Grande Estates, 1799 Carpenter Drive in Oakley, from 5:30-9 p.m. Tickets are $75 per person for this event presented by the Rotary Club of Oakley. All proceeds benefit the local community and service projects, notably the Christmas Toy and Food Basket program. To purchase tickets, contact Brenda at 925-382-7057 or email oakleyrotary@gmail.com.
Saturday, June 7
Swing Fore a Cause Charity Golf Tournament
Soroptimist International of Antioch is having their annual Swing Fore a Cause Golf Tournament at Lone Tree Golf Course at 4800 Golf Course Road in Antioch, with a 8 a.m. shot gun start. The cost is $175 for an individual or $700 for a team of 4. Those interested in playing or sponsoring a team can email Debbie Miller at debbie@mobilenotary.net for information or call 925-584-2757. Donations are tax deductible. The event will support the Soroptimists, whose activities help women and girls locally and throughout the world. For more information, visit www.si-antioch.org.
2025 East Bay Annual Music, Food, Art and Wine Festival
The festival will take place from noon-5 p.m. at Williamson Ranch Park, Williamson Ranch Drive and Hillcrest Avenue. There will be soul food, baked potatoes, sweet treats, tacos, burgers, a wine garden with craft wine and sampling, local art and craft vendors and live
This free event presented by the City of Brentwood will take place from 4-8 p.m. at City Park at City Park Way. There will be live music, food trucks, kids activities, craft vendors, educational booths, and musical guest Digital Underground. For more information, visit www.brentwoodca.gov.
Saturday, June 28
Oakley Summer Fest Parade
This year’s theme is “Past, Present and Unstoppable Future.” It will celebrate the rich history, vibrant present and bold future. The parade, presented by the Oakley Chamber of Commerce, will be a journey through time, honoring Oakley’s roots, celebrating today’s heartbeat and daring to dream big for tomorrow. Everyone is invited to show their spirit and enjoy parade floats of businesses, neighborhoods, clubs, and community groups. The parade will take place from 9-10 a.m., and will start at 3650-3660 Main St. in Oakley.
Oakley Summer Fest
Presented by Oakley Chamber of Commerce, Oakley Summer Fest will take place from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Civic Center Plaza in Oakley. Each year, residents celebrate Oakley’s incorporation at Summer Fest. The event kicks off with a parade down Main Street and continues in Civic Center Plaza with live music, performances from local dance groups, craft vendors, food trucks, carnival games, face painting and more. For more information, visit www.oakleyca.gov/369/Special-Events.
‘Cruisin’ Through History’ Car Show
The car show will take place from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at 3890 Sellers Ave. in Brentwood. The free event presented by the East Contra Costa Historical Society will feature raffles, food trucks, vendors and games. All proceeds will benefit East Contra Costa Historical Society. For more information, visit www.eastcontracostahistory.org.
Uncorked-Wine, Dine and Dance the Night Away Fundraiser
Raise a glass and make a difference by joining Soroptimist International of the Delta from 5-9 p.m. at DeLuna Ranch, 7540 Balfour Road in Brentwood. Toast to an evening of wine, friends and purpose. Tickets are $75, and include wine tasting, dinner, dessert and entertainment. There will be raffle prizes and a silent auction. Proceeds support the mission of Soroptimist International of the Delta to raise scholarship money to improve the lives of local women and girls. Purchase tickets at http://siofthedelta.com.
By Connor Robles Correspondent
Brentwood residents Jeffrey Schram Ph.D and Linda Schram published their first books through Amazon on April 30. Jeffrey’s book, a novel called “Cream of the Crop,” is a fictionalized telling of the career of a U.S. Marine Corps scout who fought at Iwo Jima, while Linda’s “Quick Guide For Radiant Skin At Any Age” offers tips on how to keep one’s skin healthy and reduce the toll of aging.
According to Jeffrey, “Cream of the Crop” follows scholarathlete Jake Green, who is handpicked to join the Marine Special Forces and carry out perilous reconnaissance operations in the Pacific during World War II. The book’s narrative traces his entire career, from his wartime service to the United States to his postwar adventures fighting for newly-independent Israel. Jeffrey said that the inspiration for Green’s character came from a lawyer he hired 50 years ago.
“We were having lunch, during a break, and I noticed that the other lawyers were very intimidated by the judge, and my lawyer was cool as a cucumber,” Jeffrey said. “I mentioned that to him, and I asked, ‘how do you develop such a nice trait?’ And he said, ‘I’m a killer … I was ashore two months before the Marines went in on Iwo Jima.’ He was the first singles player on the University of North
SCHRAM
Carolina’s tennis team, and in 1942, the Marines recruited him into a top-secret organization called the Special Forces.”
The lawyer said that the Corps brought in distinguished scholar-athletes from American universities to serve as scouts and intelligence gatherers, equipped with advanced radios, who would reconnoiter Japanese-held islands before an amphibious invasion. After Jeffrey retired and got an opportunity to publish a book, he decided to write about one of these men.
Linda’s “Quick Guide For Radiant Skin At Any Age” aims to provide the reader with advice on skin care, including personalized skin care routines, seeking the advice of experts such as estheticians and dermatologists, stress-reduction techniques like meditation, and even foot care and herbal remedies.
Linda said the book is meant to help explain what she has done over “50 years of her life” to keep her skin and health in good condition, since people often ask her about that subject. She also credited her esthetician, with whom she has worked for eight years, with assisting her in writing the guide.
“I found out that good skin, especially for women, is very important,” Linda explained. “If you have good skin and are in good health, you can do very well socially and professionally. I worked on that, and it worked very well for me.”
Jeffrey and Linda published their books through Amazon after gaining useful information from another website, Publishing. com. The two authors are planning to spread the word about their books at various clubs and organizations in the area.
“Cream of the Crop”can be found on Amazon at www.amazon. com/Cream-Crop-athletes-sacrificed-thousands/dp/B0F54FX1ZR; “Quick Guide For Radiant Skin At Any Age” at www.amazon.com/ Quick-Guide-Radiant-Skin-Hyperpigmentation/dp/B0F54DZZ62/ ref=pd_bxgy_d_sccl_1/142-2505317-0361606.
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C lassifieds & l egals
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2025-0002073 The name of the business(es): Cocoa and Ivory Bridal Couture Located at: 4832 Highlands Way In: Antioch, CA, 94531, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Julie Anne Carlson. This business is conducted by: An Individual.
The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A.
Signature of registrant: Julie Carlson, Individual. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 04/17/2025 by Deputy Clerk Expires 04/16/2030 Antioch Press No. 06-1617
Publish Dates: May 9, 16, 23, 30, 2025
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME
PETITIONER OR ATTORNEY: Sarah Lindahl SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF CONTRA COSTA, 725 Court Street Martinez, CA 94553 PETI-
TION OF: Sarah Joy Lindahl, Sarah Joy
Lindahl CASE NUMBER: N25-0843 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner
Sarah Joy Lindahl, Sarah Joy Lindahl filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:
Present Name:
a. Sarah Joy Lindahl
b. AKA Sarah Lindahl to Proposed Name:
Sarah Joy Lindahl, Sr. 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 HEARING a.
Date: 08/01/2025 Time: 9:00am
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: April 24 2025 Judge of the Superior Court Brentwood Press Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 Publish Dates: May 2, 9, 16, 23, 2025
NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: O C CROSBY, deceased CASE NUMBER P25-00705 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: O C CROSBY deceased. A Petition for Probate has been filed by: LADINA SIMS in the Superior Court of California, County of: CONTRA COSTA
The Petition for Probate requests that: LADINA SIMS be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: a. Date: JUNE 09 2025 Time: 9:00 AM Dept: #30. b. Address of court: 725 COURT ST., MARTINEZ CA 94553. If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the
court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters a general personal representative as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250.
A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner: Nick Hoban 1150 Ninth Street, Suite 1430 Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 575-5008
*BRENTWOOD PRESS* 02-1273 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: May 23, 30, June 6, 2025
NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: EMILIO OROZCO, deceased CASE NUMBER P25-00636 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: EMILIO OROZCO, deceased.
A Petition for Probate has been filed by: GILA FERNANDEZ in the Superior Court of California, County of: CONTRA COSTA The Petition for Probate requests that: GILA FERNANDEZ be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal
representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: a. Date: JUNE 09 2025 Time: 9:00 A.M. Dept: 30. b. Address of court: 725 COURT STREET, MARTINEZ, CA 94553. If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters a general personal representative as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner: William Broderick-Villa 1150
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GAMES & PUZZLES
Two local boxers will fight in upcoming Bay Area event
By Isaac Arriaga Correspondent
Two local boxers will enter the square ring on Saturday, May 24 at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton for “The Next Generation of Fighters” event.
Gabriel “El Asesino” Garcia (11-0-0) of Antioch will fight in the main event of the evening with Kumar “The Real One” Prescod (2-0-0), also from Antioch, fighting in the undercard.
Kumar Prescod
Prescod is the youngest of the two at 18, but has the experience of a seasoned professional. He was trained to box at 6 years old at The Kennel Boxing Gym in San Leandro and began boxing other kids just two years later. However at age 10, Prescod was invited to train at Virgil Hunter’s Gym in Hayward. Hunter has trained boxing champions such as Oakland native Andre Ward. Prescod was able to spar and train with some of Hunter’s other champs such as Amir Khan, Andre Berto, and Dominic Breazeale.
“It was a good learning experience,” Prescod said about his five years training at Hunter’s Gym. “Being in the gym with professionals like that every day, watching them spar and watching them train, you learn a lot. So, ever since I was younger, I had a pro style… Everybody knew I was going to be a good professional, because my style has always been a professional style.”
Prescod’s patience in the ring and powerful counter punches are attributed to his “professional style” during his amateur career. Prescod was even able to compete in the Junior Olympic Championship where he ranked #1 in the Heavyweight class. Prescod could have possibly fought for the USA team at the Olympics, but he would have to stay in the amateurs and wait until the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. Instead, Prescod decided to turn pro at 17 years old and made his debut on Oct. 4, 2024 in Houston against Skyler Mauller fighting in the Light Heavyweight (175 lbs.) class.
“I always wanted to go pro, and make money, and change my family’s life,” Prescod said about his decision to turn pro. “I never really had my mind set on going to the Olympics like other boxers.”
Prescod and his father, Kuma Presod, moved to Antioch two years ago. Rather than finding a new gym in the area, Prescod’s father built him a gym in their home. It allowed for the young fighter and his coach father to train
at any moment in the day. Prescod trains and stays in shape even when he doesn’t have a fight scheduled, but when he isn’t training, Prescod helps his mother who suffered from a stroke in 2023.
With two wins by knockout, his time training with champions, and his southpaw stance with right-handed power, Prescod said he is confident boxing fans will enjoy his fight against Ruben Johnson. “(It’s going to be) another spectacular performance,” he said. “Speed, power elusiveness, great defense. It’s going to be another good night. Another good night in the office.”
Gabriel “El Asesino” Garcia
Garcia, 22, is the most experienced of the two, but he said this upcoming fight will be his first time carded as the main event. Garcia began his career late, beginning his training at 13. Most boxers start at a young age, often 7-9 years old but Garcia was a fighter as a kid. He would fight to protect his cousins or fight with his friends for fun. Garcia’s father, Beto Garcia, boxed as a youth, but tried to keep his son from ever stepping in the ring.
“My dad didn’t want me to box, because he said it’s a rough sport; it’s a tough sport,” said Garcia about his decision to start boxing, “My mom was the first one who took me to the boxing gym… I chose boxing because it was something that I could let my stress out on.”
Garcia started his training at the Concord Community Youth Center. Garcia was a boxing fan as a kid, remembering watching Chavez and Mayweather fights.
Despite trying to keep his son away from boxing, Beto Garcia decided to train his son, often butting heads with him. But Garcia’s talent shined through the tough times at the gym, with professionals stressing to Beto to keep his son active in the sport.
skills were able to get the attention of Robert Garcia, Ring Magazine’s Trainer of the Year winner. Garcia joined Robert Garcia’s training and even sparred with Robert Garcia’s brother, multi-divisional champion Mikey Garcia.
With Robert Garcia in his corner, Garcia would face Joshua Montoya in the undercard for the Top Rank/ESPN+ fight between Efe Ajagba and Joe Goodall. The fight took place at the Tahoe Blue Event Center in Stateline, Nev. on Nov. 4, 2023. Former champion Timothy Bradley commented over Garcia’s fight, which put some pressure on Garia.
“Me and my dad would get home and he would be like ‘Son, te quiero mucho. No se te olvide (Son, I love you a lot. Don’t forget that.)’,” said Garcia about training with his father. “Boxing ain’t going to break our father-son duo… Every time we had a bad day in sparring or a bad day where my body didn’t respond, or something, after all that, he would tell me he loved me and stuff. It’s more than boxing.”
Garcia’s first match was when he was 16. During his amateur career, Garcia became a father at 17. After 16 fights, Garcia turned pro at 18 years old, looking for more challenging opponents. Due to his youth, though, it was hard to find fights in the U.S.. Being the son of Mexican immigrants, Garcia was able to get dual citizenship, and with the help of boxing promoter Jose Maria “El Chema” Delgado, Garcia found fights in Mexico. His first eight fights were all in Sinaloa, the same state where Julio Cesar Chavez began his professional career.
“I’m still learning on the job,” said Garcia about moving from amateur to pro. “I feel like I’m just getting better as a fighter, better as a boxer. I can brawl, I can box, I can move. It’s better now because I can go more rounds.”
Delgado’s connections allowed for Garcia to fight his first U.S. match in the preliminaries for the Showtime-televised match between Sebastian Fundora and Brian Mendoza on April 8, 2023 at Dignity Sports Health Park in Carson, California. That night, Garcia won by split decision.
“Every time I walk into the ring, I just lock in,” Garcia said about being featured in a big televised event. “It was a different type of ring walk, it was a different crowd, it was a different experience… I felt like I was kind of in a movie.”
Garcia’s talent and Delgado’s promoting
“I know Timothy Bradley won’t talk good about you if you don’t do good, ” said Garcia about the pressure he felt in that fight. “I better not have an off night this night, because Timothy Bradley is going to be broadcasting… I just have to whoop this boy’s butt. (But) in between the rounds when I would get hit, I would be like… ‘I know they said something about that’.”
Despite the pressure, Garcia overpowered Montoya, often looking like his boxing hero, Julio Cesar Chavez. With a wide stance, powerful combinations, and lunging left hooks, Garcia reminded fans of Chavez and came out victorious with a unanimous decision after six rounds.
Garcia went to the Lion’s Den Gym in Pittsburg to train with former champion James Page for his next fight against Giovanni Gutierrez on Aug. 31, 2024 in Oakland. Again, Garcia won with a unanimous decision after six rounds.
Garcia is still training at the Lion’s Den with Page, focusing on being a more defensive and slicker fighter. However, Garcia’s father still stays close to his son and even trains young fighters at the Lion’s Den Gym.
Being a classic brawler with a lot of experience, Garcia said he is confident in his ability to put on a show on May 24.
“Expect fireworks for sure,” Garcia said confidently about his main event match. “It’s been a long camp since last year that I’ve just been itching to fight… Hopefully, thank God, we’re going to come out victorious. Hopefully we get the job done early.”
Tickets to “The Next Generation of Fighters” boxing event are available at eventbrite.com/e/elite-underdog-promotions-thenext-generation-of-fighters-tickets- or be available at the door. Doors will open at 5 p.m. with the first fight at 6 p.m.
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
GABRIEL “EL ASESINO” GARCIA KUMAR PRESCOD
Ballot Closes Monday, May 27 at 5:00 p.m.
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CERTIFICATE TO just by taking the time to fill out and submit a ballot. We will be awarding three lucky voters who submit their ballots by Tuesday, May 27 at 5 p.m.
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White Pony Express launches fundraiser as police find their stolen refrigerated food van
White Pony Express, the food recovery group that serves Contra Costa County, had one of its refrigerated vans recently stolen from its parking lot But police found it later. But the stolen van is part of a bigger problem for the organization, which wants to raise $350,000 by the end of May as part of its ‘Nourish to Flourish’ campaign because of big cuts in federal money, CEO Eve Birge said in a press release.
“The theft couldn’t have come at a worse time. WPE is seriously impacted by federal funding cuts and freezes,” Birge said. “We are trying to figure out how to make up for this shortfall. On top of this, now we’re facing vehicle repairs and insurance increases.”
LUD from page 1
will support small business development, tourism and shopping in Brentwood and whether the proposed project has a “well-planned budget” according to the rubric sheet. Pierson recused herself from the portion of the discussion pertaining to Brentwood on Ice, citing a “business relationship” with the applicant.
Of the 18 applications that were discussed at the meeting, the LUD committee recommended that 14 of them get money. The four that were passed over were:
• Bow Bow Fest
• Brentwood Security Job Placement Program
• Dream Team After School
• Merchandise Tailored
Three of these were categorized by city staff as focused on economic development while the fourth, Dream Team After School, was considered educational. Other applications that did receive funding were largely designated as focused on art, culture, recreation and education. This was considered a “healthy cross section” of interests by staff, according to the agenda packet.
Eight of the applicants were given a portion of the money they requested while the other six received the full requested amount.
The full list of applicants can be seen at right:
The full meeting can be watched at https://bit.ly/3ZqZ8ce
Courage from page 1
process of brain development and can lead to problems in memory, attention, decision making and emotional regulation.”
Publisher & Editor Greg Robinson
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“Our community’s safety net is in jeopardy and hunger is on the rise,” Birge added. To help make up for those federal funding cuts, White Pony Express wants to raise $350,000 by the end of May.
The van, valued at $50,000, is one of 13 refrigerated vehicles that White Pony Express uses daily to collect fresh produce and other perishable foods from 80 food donors.
The organization delivers this food to 105 nonprofit organizations throughout the county that feed the hungry, according to a press release.
The theft occurred around 4 a.m. on May 12. After the incident, Bay Area TV stations were notified and began
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
1.La Gran Fiesta (Cultural)
2.Banner Up (Arts)
broadcasting news segments about the stolen van and requesting the public’s help to recover it.
Nearly two days later, Concord police found the van abandoned in Concord with its license plates removed and significant damage sustained. No one was in the vehicle when it was discovered.
This is not the first time White Pony Express has had a vehicle stolen. In 2017, one of its large box trucks was stolen and later recovered after someone saw the story on TV and provided a tip.
To donate to WPE’s campaign, visit donorbox.org/ whiteponyexpress.org.
3.Bow Bow Fest (Business & Economic Development) N/A
4 Brentwood On Ice (Recreation)
5 Brentwood Security Job Placement Program (Economic Development)
6 Brentwood Turkey Trot (Educational)
7 Chinese Lunar New Year (Cultural)
8 Community Impact Through Inclusive Events (Educational)
9 Delta Quilters Guild (Arts)
10 Dia de los Muertos (Cultural)
11.Dream Team After School Program (Educational) N/A
12.Exceptional Day (Educational) * N/A $5,000
13 Festival 4 0 (Arts)*
(Cultural)
16 Merchandise Tailored (Business & Economic Development)*
17 Brentwood Business EXPO & Job Fair (Business & Economic Development)
18 Annual Father’s Day Tournament & Festival (Recreation)*
* New events for 2025/2026
“It can also lead to an increased risk of addiction,” he added. “Young brains are more sensitive to addictive substances and an early use of drugs or nicotine increases the potential for addiction. The long-term dependency makes it harder to quit later in life and lowers a persons life expectancy.”
“The physical effects of drugs are actually amplified in youths as their bodies are still growing and have not fully matured,” Ly said. “The brain, one of the most important neurological organs in our body, takes on huge effects from these drugs as mental cognition can slow down. Many addictions start at a young age, and users become dependent on these drugs for the rest of their lives.”
According to Ly, some of the past projects from CourAGE include annual Teens Tackle Tobacco (TTT) conferences held at UC Berkeley, where presentations provide information about drugs harm the body to middle and high school students, along with annual media contests, allowing students to create their own form of posters, videos, or physical items that advocate against the use of drugs in youth. Ly added that they have partnered with Friday Night Live, a youth system
that trains high school students to be leaders in their communities and to have a powerful voice.
“They sponsored a trip in which a couple of members, myself included, were brought out to Anaheim for a youth health summit,” Ly said. “There, my group and I attended multiple different workshops over the two-day span that gave us information and techniques to help us advocate against the use of drugs in our youth. We made our own mini PSA animation that could be shown to youths to teach them about the bad effects of drugs.”
Ly said schools have been teaching more health classes to educate students about the increased risk of drugs, highlighting that Tobacco Use Prevention Education (TUPE) is now prevalent in many schools. Through TUPE, students can learn about the dangers of drugs and give presentations to middle schoolers and teach them the bad effects of drugs.
“During my freshman year at Heritage High School, I took the health class, a class that taught students of the body and the effects that drugs can have on it,” Ly said. “I joined this program during my eighth-grade year at Bristow and
gave presentations to our sixth graders. It was actually through TUPE that I had found CourAGE.”
Ly said if there are any youths who might be struggling with drug addiction, to talk to a responsible adult for help. Youths are also encouraged to talk to counselors at school, as everything they say will remain confidential. Ly said the biggest thing for youths is reaching out, because silence kills most youths before help can reach them.
“You can also call 988, the suicide and crisis lifeline,” Ly said. “When you call 988, you can expect immediate help and support for anyone who is experiencing mental crisis, depression, or substance abuse issues. lt’s a more accessible way to reach out for help. You’ll meet a trained crisis counseler to listen and provide support and help you navigate your situation without judgment.”
For details, visit www.cccoe.k12.ca.us/ Departments--Schools/Departments/Student-Programs/Tobacco-Use-PreventionEducation-TUPE/Youth-Led-Advocacy/ index.html
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