The Brentwood Planning Commission voted 5-0 during their May 5 meeting to approve designs and permits for The Grove at Brentwood, a proposed public market to be built downtown on the corner of Oak Street and Walnut Boulevard. The City Council has 10 days from approval of the project to determine if it needs further review. The council meets next on May 12.
“This is probably the most impressive project I’ve seen to date – it’s quite something,” Chairperson Kristopher Brand said during the discussion. “This is like a heart transplant for Brentwood, in such a beautiful way. It links everything that our residents want in addition to a respect for the
heritage of where we’ve come [from] and an outward look to where the city is going. I have just so many wonderful things to say about this.”
The Grove is a two-story public market complete with an outdoor seating area and
The Grove at Brentwood, a new public market to be built downtown, was unanimously approved by the Planning Commission.
Hagar had underscored the importance of bringing a project like this to the downtown area to help bolster it as a destination for both residents and those from out of town while still honoring Brentwood’s hometown feel.
“This project hit me like a lightning bolt,” Hagar had explained in the weeks leading up to the meeting with the Planning Commission. “I spend a lot of time downtown — I go out to dinner just like everybody else and I’ve seen it grow over the last several years. It used to be very sleepy 10, 15 years ago and it’s come alive and it’s vibrant. It’s where people want to be.”
proposed community theatre, according to the agenda packet for the meeting. The developer, Matt Hagar, had previously used Oxbow Public Market in Napa as a point of comparison when describing the project.
As a fourth-generation Brentwood resident,
Cities face weed reduction deadline next week
By Sean Tongson Correspondent
Homeowners in East County cities have to reduce the amount of weeds by May 15, or they face fines of up to $500.
With warmer temperatures on the horizon and vegetation throughout the county losing its moisture and being more susceptible to burns, the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District has established weed reduction standards for all land within the fire district.
According to the District’s website, the County’s weed reduction program aims to eliminate possible hazards caused by exterior fires, such as cured grass, weeds, and shrubs, along with combustible debris such as paper, cardboard, and plastics, It also reduced the severity of fires where they cannot be completely eliminated.
“Because of their compactness and reduced moisture content, they significantly contribute to fire spread,” said fire district Capt. Joe Ottolini.
“It is a seasonal requirement and is mandatory throughout Contra Costa County.” Ottolini said that the mandate includes the county from Willow Pass Road in Bay Point to the eastern boundary of the fire district near Discovery Bay, Orwood, and Bethel Island. The standard for properties within the fire district’s jurisdiction is:
• Properties of five acres or less must cut all weeds and grasses to three inches or less and remove all cuttings from the property
• Properties greater than five acres must provide a fuel break around their perimeter. and cross breaks if the property is larger than 10 acres. The width of the breaks is 30 feet when disced and 60 feet when mowed. Discing (or disking) is a common agricultural tillage practice that uses a disc harrow — a series of concave metal blades — to break up, turn over, and smooth soil to a depth of about four inches. It is used when site and soil con-
see Cities page 22
The 18,366-square-foot first floor would feature multiple small tenant spaces focusing on artisanal and boutique products, as well as service uses such as barbers or beauty shops, according to the agenda
see Brentwood page 22
Antioch City Manager on leave of absence
Following closed session of the Antioch City Council, the city reported that effective Wednesday, May 6, 2026, City Manager
Bessie Marie Scott is on a leave of absence from work. Compensation and benefits will continue without disruption during this period. The City Council appointed Human Resources and Risk Management
Director Ana Cortez to serve as Acting City Manager effective immediately during the City Manager’s absence. City operations and services will continue without disruption. As this matter pertains to a confidential personnel issue, the City is not at liberty to provide additional information at this time.
Image courtesy of The Grove at Brentwood
SCOTT
OW
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Freedom High student wins UN Association community service award
By Connor Robles Correspondent
A Freedom High junior is being recognized nationally for service to her community.
Vivien Wittstruck was one of 2,793 Ambassador-level awardees in the United Nations Association of the U.S.A. and InnerView’s eighth annual Community Service Impact Awards, for dedicating over 100 hours to community service through at least 12 such activities during the school year.
Wittstruck is the founder of Teens Education and Awareness of Community Health (TEACH), an initiative to promote teen education and equity with a focus on health, she said.
I did as a bodyboarder, and also community clean-ups. I actually went to the second annual [Oakley] Day of Service, too. I also tutored younger students in math, and I’m Red Cross certified for opioid overdoses. At the recent Falcon Fest, we paired up to do naloxone demonstrations.”
TEACH has several members other than Wittstruck, but none of them are students at Freedom. She expressed her hope that more Freedom students would join initiatives like hers and use platforms like InnerView to track their community service,
“Through my initiative, my goal is to help the community,” Wittstruck said. “My principal, Dr. [Steve] Amaro, always says ‘change the world,’ so using that motto, I wanted to further reinforce my goal of thinking globally but acting locally.”
Wittstruck was inspired to commit herself to community health due to her own chronic health problems in the last year, she said. Her focuses with the TEACH initiative were the goals of
The United Nations Association of the U.S.A. is a 20,000-strong movement in America dedicated to supporting the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations, such as gender equality, quality education, and no one going hungry, according to their website. InnerView describes itself as an online platform that can show student volunteers how their actions impact progress toward the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. The tracking period for the Community Service Impact Awards runs from June 1 of one year to April 15 of the next.
quality education and good health and well-being.
“I used this United Nations program, using InnerView technology, to log the activities of our initiative,” Wittstruck said. “That included, for example, teaching water safety to the youth, which
As with Freedom students, in the future, Wittstruck hopes to get more people to participate in her initiative and found new chapters in other areas and cities, she said.
For details about The United Nations Association of the USA, visit https://unausa.org/mission/. InnerView can be found at https://innerview.org. To comment, visit www.thepress.net
High school philanthropist Vivien Wittstruck poses with Freedom Principal Steve Amaro.
Photo by Connor Robles
By Sean Tongson Correspondent
Aspiring students looking to pursue a career in music may now have an additional boost thanks to a new accreditation.
Virtuous Voices Academy, a singing academy in Brentwood and Antioch that offers music lessons, in-person classes, and online classes, now meets the criteria for initial accreditation from The Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACS WASC). As a result of this accreditation, which lasts through June 30, 2029, Virtuous Voices Academy and features 20 students, is now eligible for college transferable credits.
“This is a huge deal for my program,” said founder and owner Tiffany Stewart. “It means I can provide more support to our students by providing college transferable credits for fine arts.”
Stewart said this accreditation will help students looking to pursue a future in music or musical theatre, including students looking for music scholarships with a secondary major or minor, or if students are just interested in passing the Advanced Placement (AP) music exam.
Stewart founded Virtuous Voices Academy in 2008 after graduating from college, then created the business plan shortly after. Since then, Stewart, known in her community as “Coach Tea”, said she has done all she could do to nurture the dream that was planted, to grow a community of family-friendly music.
“As a singer, I teach other voices to sing one note at a time via solfege sight reading,” Stewart said. “After teaching both home-school, charter school, and public school
students, I wanted to give them more than just foundational musicianship. I was blessed to receive a music scholarship entering college and I wanted to bring awareness and support to my students so they could receive the same access.”
Stewart said she made some phone calls and spoke with some of the top colleges such as Pepperdine, where she learned that the key to success was the accreditation, because that means students are processing the information, retaining, and using it daily. She applied and took the steps to secure the accreditation through the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
the vision I had for my school program and supported me from start to finish in my journey through a year-long application process,” Stewart said. “Now, I can offer high-quality music education to students who truly want to pursue a future in music. Aspiring students in the community can now apply and attend my program and take Sing Theory courses created by myself and paired with other music curriculums to study music theory, learn to sing properly, and prepare for AP college testing.”
Sing Theory is a music theory course for singers, aimed at homeschool students who love music because it helps students build the skills necessary for success on the AP Music Theory Exam offered by the College Board.
While not an officially authorized AP course through the College Board’s AP Course Audit, it does cover key concepts in theory, sight-singing, and aural training. Additionally, students from public school or homeschool may qualify for fine arts credits, depending on their school’s or district’s guidelines, according to their website.
Stewart added that she also offers Royal Conservatory certification and is partnered with some local colleges to support seniors in auditioning for scholarships. Some local high schools, charter schools, and home-school students also accept her courses as elective and can put it in their transcripts as fine arts credits, while Stewart has additionally talked to Golden Hills Christian School and Deer Valley High School.
“Sight singing is like reading a book, one note at a time. Every song is a story and every singer is a storyteller,” Stewart said.
For details, visit www.virtuousvoices com or call 925993-4103
“My WASC counselor, Dr. Latoya Brown, believed in
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
TIFFANY “COACH TEA” STEWART
Prodigy Elite All-Stars showcased their talent at the TSN Northern Championships recently at the Reno Events Center.
Submitted photo
Prodigy Elite All-Stars win five first-place titles
Team also wins historic paid trip to Super Cup in Florida
Prodigy Elite All-Stars showcased their talent at the TSN Northern Championships recently at the Reno Events Center. Five out of six teams took home divisional titles and the sixth youngest team earned the highest honors in their category.
The weekend culminated in a historic announcement: Prodigy Elite, located in Oakley, is the first gym of the United States to have their entire program for the 2026-2027season awarded a Full Paid Bid to the 2027 International Super Cup in Florida.
Here are the title winners:
• Tiny Couture (Level 1 Novice): These athletes (ages 3–6) earned an Excellent Performance rating — the highest possible achievement for their division.
• Bombshells (Level 2 Youth): Beyond securing first place, the Bombshells were named. Level Champions for the Level 2, 3, and 4 categories.
• Lavish (Level 2 Junior): Lavish finished in first place.
• Obsession (Level 1 Junior): First place, Level 1 Champion, and they earned the ultimate title of Grand Champion for the entire competition.
• Mini Legacy (Level 1 Prep) – first place
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
SELLING AND BUYING IN AN AI WORLD
By Seana Fippin, Red Box Business Solutions
When people hear the word selling, they often think of business owners or sales teams, but the truth is we all sell and buy every day, whether it’s sharing ideas in meetings, presenting ourselves in interviews, convincing our kids why homework matters, or making purchasing decisions as consumers, professionals, and members of our community.
In 2026, both selling and buying are evolving because of one major influence: Artificial Intelligence.
Today, selling is less about pressure and more about clarity. It’s built on control without dominance, confidence without scripts, and trust without pushing sales. Buyers are more informed than ever. Before they ever walk into a store or schedule an appointment, they’ve likely researched options, compared reviews, and formed opinions. That means conversations matter more.
The strongest sellers and communicators focus on asking better questions. Instead of trying to convince, they guide. Instead of pushing, they help people think clearly enough
to make confident decisions. Identifying real decision-makers and real budgets earlier in the process prevents wasted time and frustration on both sides.
AI now supports both buying and selling. It can help sellers prepare for conversations, improve discovery discussions, and create follow-up that feels natural, not “salesy”.
Buyers use it to compare products and evaluate choices faster than ever. But technology can’t replace judgment, integrity, or relationships.
In a community like ours, trust still drives decisions. The future isn’t about selling harder. It’s about communicating better, using technology wisely, and building intentional relationships. Because in an AI world, the real advantage is still human.
Join us:
Wednesday May 20, 2026 @8am-9am REDBOXSellingin2026.eventbrite.com
Contact Red Box Business Solutions at (925) 513-0000 or visit www.GetRedBox.com. Let’s make 2026 our strongest year yet.
– Advertorial
How Heritage ‘EF Trips’ abroad change students’ lives
For over a decade, Heritage High School students have had an opportunity every teenager dreams of: to step off a plane and hear a language they don’t understand, eat food they’ve never had, and come back home more open, more confident, and ready for everything to come. That opportunity exists because of one person: Darlene Hinojosa.
Youth Writer
Since 2014, Ms. Hinojosa has been organizing EF Educational Tours for Heritage students, leading trips across Europe, Latin America, and Asia. This year and next, students have the opportunity to travel to Costa Rica, France, and Spain during school breaks. What EF trips are
EF (Education First) Educational Tours is one of the largest student travel organizations in the world, and the trips go far beyond sightseeing. Students learn the history of tourist spots, engage with local communities, pick up bits of new languages, and are challenged in ways a classroom cannot replicate.
The goal: immerse yourself outside your comfort zone. Whether it is navigating a market in Costa Rica, ordering food in French, or standing at the edge of something impossibly tall in Switzerland and deciding to go for it anyway, every moment on these trips is a lesson. Ms. Hinojosa has watched this change in students taking on this challenge year in and year out. Students who thought they could never do something come back with a story about how they did.
Of all the destinations Ms. Hinojosa has taken students to over the years, Europe, Asia, and Latin America, some of the trips stood out to her more than others. They stood out not because of the tourist spots but the impact they made on the trip.
One of the most memorable experiences for her took place in Peru, where students traveled to a community of indigenous weavers and helped build a weaving center for
realizes how big the world is and how much of it they want to see. These moments are exactly why Mrs. Hinojosa hosts these trips and why she enjoys them so much.
High school goes by quickly, and most students spend those four years preparing for what comes next, whether that be building a resume or studying for tests. Traveling is a unique experience that nobody can get from a classroom.
They have talked to strangers in different languages. They have helped build something with their hands in a country they had never visited. They have been uncomfortable and pushed through it.
And when they walk across that graduation stage and face whatever comes next, they do it with confidence.
If your student is interested in one of these trips and parents are unsure, travel is the best investment you can make in your child. Through travel, they will learn what no classroom can teach them.
replicate.
local women. Students worked alongside local residents. They helped create a place where women could gather, weave, sell their goods, make a living, and pass along a generations-old tradition to their children. This trip stood out to her because of the real and lasting impact her and the students experienced.
Not every defining moment on these trips is a volunteer project.
Sometimes, it is something small that catches you off guard. It is the student who is terrified of heights and conquers something enormous in Switzerland, and cannot stop talking about it for the rest of the trip. It is the student who nervously tries to speak Spanish to a local, and it actually works, and the look on their face afterward is pure pride. It is the student who has never left California who suddenly
They will gain confidence and a new found perspective on how they see their day to day lives. It is also a oncein-a-lifetime experience to go and see the world outside of your home city. She believes that travel can change your life. When your student asks you again, say ‘yes’ and learn more about the trips.
Heritage High School students currently have the opportunity to sign up for EF Educational Tours to the following destinations during school breaks:
• Costa Rica which includes Rainforests, wildlife, culture, and community.
• France and Spain, which includes history, language, art, and European life For more information on how to sign up or learn about upcoming trips, reach out to Mrs. Darlene Hinojosa directly through the school.
The EF Trips are not funded by the company or the district. Attendees must pay out of pocket an average of $4,000 to $7,000 per trip.
–Aarav Aiden Bhattachary
Photo by Adobe Stock
Freedom High School honors Hispanic heritage for Cinco de Mayo
By Connor Robles Correspondent
With the rattle of beads on indigenous costumes and the smooth tones of a Mexican-style band, Freedom High School held its second annual Cinco de Mayo multicultural festival on May 4 in the school’s central quad.
The festival, featuring food, drinks, muscle cars, Aztec-style dancers, and live music, was held a day early because of Advanced Placement testing taking place on Cinco de Mayo proper, which could not be rescheduled. Hundreds of Freedom students attended to sample the refreshments, watch the performances, or get their faces painted, among other activities.
Freedom’s annual Cinco de Mayo celebration began last year, and was a project years in the making, according to Johnny Rodriguez of Community Initiatives, One Day At a Time, who helped organize the event.
“We just felt like we had the right group and the right people to work with,” Rodriguez said. “It was a great opportunity to host the first annual, which was last year. It was a huge success, and obviously we have a lot of students that are involved in our program, and we want to continue the tradition.”
The event is led and coordinated by 3540 students, Rodriguez said. They were selling refreshments, painting faces, and even dancing and singing for the crowds, with the Azteca indigenous dance group moving to the rhythm of a powerful drumbeat and Oakley student band Los Turbos getting up on stage to serenade attendees in Spanish.
Numerous booths were present to rep-
Freedom High School went all-out on celebrating the heritage of its Hispanic students for Cinco de Mayo.
resent various school and other organizations, from Freedom’s own Latinos Unidos heritage club selling nachos, to La Clinica de la Raza, a medical organization that commonly treats undocumented immigrants, to the Navy, looking for recruits. 925 Customs showed off 10 of their vintage sports cars on campus, while Guadalajara Taqueria and Nena’s Tacos provided food nearby.
Rodriguez and student coordinator Brianna Telles considered the event a success in its first year and this one.
“The big thing we see is just kids having fun, being able to connect with the music, connect with the vibe, just being able to dance,” Rodriguez said.
To view a video and a slideshow, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
Photos by Connor Robles
The Force was with them W
OBITUARIES
Patricia Jean Wilkins
Aug. 2, 1940 - March 5, 2026
Patricia Jean Wilkins, 85, passed away March 5, 2026, in Castro Valley, Calif.
Born in Cleveland, Ohio, she moved to California in the 1960s and later settled in Brentwood to be near family.
She built a distinguished career
Donald Menasco
1948 - 2026
in finance, serving as an accountant, comptroller, consultant, and finance chairperson. A lifelong sewer and creative, she also volunteered with the Senior Food Brown Bag Program, Brentwood Library, and Senior Club. She is survived by her son William Wilkins, his wife Denise, and grandchildren Emily and Blair. A Celebration of Life is planned for May 23, at 2 p.m. at the Brentwood Senior Activity Center, 193 Griffith Lane.
hat an incredible day celebrating the Life Skills students from Liberty High School, Heritage High School, Freedom High School, and the Gateway Program at this year’s Unified Prom and Parade. Downtown Brentwood was filled with community spirit, smiles, Star Wars fun, and the force was definitely with everyone last Saturday. The Brentwood Police Activities League, the Brentwood Police Department, the Liberty Union High School District, local businesses, volunteers, sponsors all made this event possible. Local residents showed up, cheered them on, and made each student feel like a star.
To view more photos of the event, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia/slideshows
Heritage senior wins Sara Bareilles Award
Don passed away peacefully in March 2026, having spent his final year at the Northern Nevada State Veterans Home near his family in Truckee, Calif. He leaves behind a legacy of service and family.
Born in 1948 and raised in Antioch, Calif., Don built lifelong friendships and values that guided him throughout his life. He married his high school sweetheart, Shirley, and together they shared 48 years of marriage rooted in love and partnership.
Don proudly served in the United States Air Force, including a year in Vietnam. After his service, he graduated from CSU Sacramento and built
his life in Sacramento and Elk Grove. He became a successful businessman in the mortgage industry, known for his integrity and work ethic.
Above all, Don was devoted to his family. He is survived by his son Jeff; daughter-in-law Jessica; grandchildren Jack, Siena and Julia; and his brothers Tom and Ron Menasco and their families.
A Celebration of Life for Don Menasco will be held May 30, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at the Lone Tree Golf & Event Center, 4800 Golf Course Road, in Antioch. Guests are kindly asked to RSVP at DonCOL5.30.26@gmail.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the Northern Nevada State Veterans Home: https://veterans.nv.gov/ product/northern-nevadastate-veterans-home-donation/
Heritage High School senior Andrew Briseño won the Sara Bareilles Award on Sunday, May 3 at the Orpheum in San Francisco for Outstanding Actor. Briseño won for lead actor for Gleb Vaganov, a character in Anastasia. His honor earned him a trip next month to the prestigious Jimmy Awards in New York City. He was one of five nominees from Northern California for the Outstanding Lead Actor at the award ceremony named after twotime Grammy Award winner, three-time Tony Award
nominee, and four-time Emmy Award nominee Sara Bareilles, according to a press release.
As a representative of the
Sara Bareilles Awards, Andrew will travel to New York City next month to participate in the National High School Musical Theatre Awards, a national program, offering training that includes coaching sessions, and rehearsals led by some of Broadway’s most accomplished professionals for all of the more than 100 regional winners from around the U.S.
More information about the award can be found at https://bit.ly/4uxhvcu
To view a video, visit www. thepress.net/multimedia
Liberty auto show features 175 cars
The Liberty High School Auto Shop had their 13th annual benefit car show on April 18 in downtown Brentwood using the parking lot of Independence High School and Pine Street. The students used their 3D printer to make top 13 trophies, handmade a Best-in-Show trophy, and a local artist made a ‘Best paint’ award. Cars started showing up at 8 a.m. and did not stop until after the show started 10 a.m. – 175 cars in total. Students judged the cars and picked all the winners. Awards for the top 13, the best-in-show and best paint trophies were handed out along with gift cards to local businesses. The first 130 cars at the show also got 10% off coupon at the new Dad’s Diner. To view more photos of the event, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia/slideshows
BRISEÑO
Calendar
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 8
Banner Up! Call for artists
Artists Guild of the Delta is collaborating with Harvest Time as they celebrate their 50th anniversary. In recognition of this milestone, artists are asked to specifically explore themes inspired by Brentwood’s rich agricultural heritage. Only 60 banners will be available to artists on a first-come, first-served basis. Banners can be picked up on Friday and Saturday, May 8 and 9 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. and Saturday, May 16, from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Downtown Brentwood Coalition building, 648 Second St., Brentwood. There is no cost to participate.
Friday-Saturday, May 8-9
Aladdin Jr at Excelsior Middle School
Excelsior Middle School will present Aladdin Jr. at the Kathy Flynn Tickner Theater at Excelsior Middle School, 14301 Byron Highway in Byron. Showtimes are May 8 at 7 p.m. and May 9 at noon. Tickets are $10. For details, visit www. byronunionschooldistrict.us/
Saturday, May 9
Brentwood Police Bike Rodeo
Bring your bicycles, scooters and helmets from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Senior Activities Center at 193 Griffith Lane for Brentwood Police Department’s Bike Rodeo. This is a free family-friendly event where officers will lead a variety of fun and educational activities designed to teach kids about bike safety. Activities include: bicycle obstacle courses, bicycle safety check, helmet fitting check, bicycle safety tips and education and car seat Inspections.
Sunday, May 10
Handbell Concert - Spring Music played by handbells
Celebration ringers present their spring concert at 2 p.m. at the Brentwood Community United Methodist Church, 809 Second St. Admission is free, but donations are accepted.
Antioch Farmers Market
The Antioch Farmers Market in the Rivertown district brings together 25 truckloads of fresh produce and prepared foods from local family farms and artisans on Sundays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the parking Lot on I Street at 3rd Street from May to October. Free parking is available at City Hall located across from the market. It features super sweet white corn from Brentwood, tree-ripened apricots from Patterson, peaches and nectarines from Hughson, strawberries and organic vegetables from Hollister. Farm-fresh eggs, Asian vegetables, fresh breads and pastries The Antioch Farmers Market is hosted by the City of Antioch and sponsored by the Celebrate Antioch Foundation.
Tuesday, May 12
Vasco Forever Helping Families Blood Drive
The Vasco Forever Helping Families organization is hosting a blood drive at the Diamond Hills Sports Club and Spa in the gym at 1510 Neroly Road in Oakley from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Visit redcrossblood.org and enter code VFHF to schedule an appointment.
Thursday-Sunday, May 14-17
Contra Costa County Fair in Antioch Thursday – Miss Mini and Miss Contra Costa pageant at 6 p.m.; Friday-Rodeo night; Saturday – flat-track motorcycle races at the Antioch Speedway, which is part of the fairgrounds, from 4–8 p.m.; Sunday will feature a full day of Mexican entertainment in addition to the other daily events such as the exotic animal exhibits.
Live entertainment each day. Hours are noon -9:30 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Sunday, and
Saturday from noon-10:30 p.m. For more information on who is performing on which days, and to buy general admission tickets for the fair, visit www.contracostafair.com.
On the Horizon
Saturday, May 16
7th Annual Rotary Club of Oakley Gala:
A Night of Aloha
Celebrate seven years of community service from 5:30–10 p.m. at La Grande Estates at 1799 Carpenter Road in Oakley. The event will be a night featuring island-inspired cuisine, live entertainment, music, dancing, and fundraising opportunities Tickets are $75 per person. For details, visit www.rotaryclubofoakley.com.
Hawaiian luau at IHM Parish Hall
The Italian Catholic Federation is hosting a Hawaiian luau from 4-8 p.m. at the IHM Parish hall at 500 Fairview Ave. in Brentwood. Tickets are $40 for food, cash bar, live music and hula performers. Tickets can be purchased at the parish office on Monday-Wednesday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. or make check payable to ICF and mail to IHM, 500 Fairview Ave., Brentwood, CA 94513. Proceeds pay for local kids’ scholarships. For details, email Michael Valenti at 1mfv2@gmail.com.
Delta Culinary Experience
Soroptimists of the Delta is offering a culinary experience from 5-9 p.m. at DeLuna Ranch at 7540 Balfour Road, visitors can experience seven culinary stations plus five bites by World Chef Champion 2023 Roberto Rose and two stations by Brentwood Fine Meats, each paired with Bay Area wines. The Culinary Experience costs $60, add the wine tasting for $80. The experience helps girls and women with their education. For details, visit www.siofthedelta.com.
Sunday, May 17
Dog Park Opens
Celebrate the opening of the dog park at The Meadows at Marsh Creek — and an adoption event with Rhodie’s Rescue — from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m at 22216 Marsh Creek Road. Bring your fourlegged friends and enjoy an afternoon dedicated to pups and the people who love them. Rhodie’s Rescue, a local 501c 3 non-profit animal shelter, who will be on site with dogs looking for their forever homes. For details, visit http://SheaHomes. com/The-Meadows
Monday, May 18
Brentwood State of the City address
The Delta Theater in downtown Brentwood at 641 First St. will host Mayor Susannah Meyer and the City Council as they present key achievements, investments, and future plans that continue to shape Brentwood’s growth and success. Attendees are encouraged to register early, as space is limited. The speeches start at 6 p.m. (Doors open at 5:45). Or watch on Zoom. Webinar ID: 858 8801 9409
https://brentwoodca-gov.zoom. us/j/85888019409
Tuesday, May 19
Oakley Senior Citizens’ Casino Day bus trip to Red Hawk Casino Roundtrip motorcoach transportation is $49, which includes driver’s tip. The bus leaves the Oakley Recreation Center at 1230 O’Hara Ave. at 8 a.m. and returns at 6 p.m. Money must be in by Friday, May 15. Seats are non-refundable after the 14th. For details, call Allan at 925-489-9785 or the center at 925-626-7223.
Helping One Woman
In April 2025, Kimberly Wilson-Mock of Brentwood was diagnosed with Stage 4 liver cancer. Since then, she has faced ongoing chemotherapy treatments with incredible courage. Through it all, she has remained positive,
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determined, and focused on the things that matter most—her family and her passions. Her strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit are an inspiration to everyone who knows her. She is deeply grateful to Helping One Woman for the love, generosity, and support shown through this dinner at the Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St. from 5:30–8 p.m. Tickets at $26 are available at https://mysosevent.com/events/ how-discovery-bay-kimberly-wilson-mock
Sunday, May 24
Bags and Brews 2026 Cornhole Tournament
A community celebration bringing together friendly competition, local spirit, and a meaningful tribute in honor of Memorial Day weekend. Checkin at 241 Oak St. (in front of the Bank of America building) at 10:30 a.m., Memorial Day remember and honor ceremony is at noon, and bags fly at 1 p.m. The event is free, but registration is $120 per team of 2 to play. For details, visit https://downtownbrentwood.com/event/bags-and-brews-2026/ Saturday, May 30
Free Annual Health Fair
A free health fair will be at the Delta Bay Community Church at 1020 E. Tregallas Road in Antioch from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Vendors include Rehab Doctor Presentation, healthcare supplies, workshops, a hip-hop step class, medical professionals will answer questions, perform blood pressure and blood sugar checks, and there will be a jumper for the kids. For more information, call (925) 238-9792.
Sunday, May 31
Tales, Toppers & Treats
Three of the Bay Area’s most compelling authors: Alka Joshi www.alkajoshi.com, the internationally known bestselling author; Meg Donohue www. megdonohue.com, a USA Today’s best-selling author; and Audrey Lee www.audreyleeauthor. com, a bestselling debut author will speak from 2-4:30 p.m. at a fundraiser at Club Los Meganos at 1700 Trilogy Parkway, Brentwood. Tickets are $45 and available at https://www.eventbrite.com. The fundraiser, “Tales, Toppers & Treats,” is organized by the Friends of the Brentwood Library to benefit programs at the library. Desserts will be served and there will be a no-host bar. For details, visit http://www.fobl.org.
Ongoing Events
St. Anthony’s Church Food Distribution
Oakley Senior Center food distribution has moved out of their previous location. For the foreseeable future, they will be operating out of St. Anthony’s Church at 971 O’Hara Ave. in Oakley on Thursdays from 1-2 p.m. Residents are asked to bring their own bags/containers. For more information, call 925-783-0818.
Hope House Food Distribution
The distributions are on Monday and Wednesdays from 9 a.m.-11:30 a.m. at 218 Pine St. in Brentwood.
IHMC Food Distribution
On the second and fourth Tuesdays of every month, the Contra Costa County Food Bank distributes fruits and vegetables from the parking lot at 500 Fairview Ave. from noon-1 p.m. St. Vincent de Paul also distributes food from the church hall every Friday from 9 a.m.-noon.
East County Rotary Club Meetings
Brentwood: The Brentwood Rotary Club meets weekly on Monday at noon at the Club Los Meganos Event Center at 1700 Trilogy Parkway in Brentwood. For more information, visit www. brentwoodrotaryclub.com.
Oakley: The Oakley Rotary Club meets weekly on Thursday at 7:30 a.m. at Black Bear Diner, 3201 Main St. in Oakley. For more information, visit www. rotaryclubofoakley.com.
Antioch: The Antioch Rotary Club meets weekly
AFTER HOURS BUSINESS MIXER
May Business Mixer
Host: 4Ever Paisley Boutique
Tuesday, May 26th, 2026
2465 Discovery Bay Blvd
Discovery Bay, CA
5:30 - 7:30pm
Registration Required
June Business Mixer
TBD
See Website for more details
UPCOMING EVENTS
Always Check the Chamber On New Events
Website for Updates
MUST Register for all events at: www.discoverybaychamber.org (925) 240-4114
1355 Riverlake Rd Discovery Bay, CA 94505
on Thursday at noon at Lone Tree Golf Course & Event Center, 4800 Golf Course Road in Antioch. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/ antiochrotaryclub.
The Rotary Club of the Delta:
The Rotary Club of the Delta meets weekly on Wednesdays at 7 a.m. at Denny’s, 4823 Lone Tree Way in Antioch. For more information, visit www. rotaryclubofthedelta.org.
East County Lions Club Meetings
Brentwood: The Brentwood Lions Club meets the first Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St. in Brentwood. For more information, visit: www.eclubhouse.org/sites/brentwoodca/.
Antioch: The Antioch Lions Club meets every second and fourth Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the Denny’s on Delta Fair Blvd.
Discovery Bay: The Discovery Bay Lions Club meets the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Discovery Bay Yacht Club. For more information, visit: https://discoverybaylions.com/ who-we-are/meetings/.
Byron: The Byron Delta Lions Club meets every first Friday of each month at 10 a.m. at St. Anne’s Church for more information https://e-clubhouse.org/sites/ byron_delta/.
Attention commercial venues! The Press is excited to announce we are now allowing commercial venues, bars and for-profit events to list your events in The Press’s weekly printed community calendar. For only $25 per week, it will include 55-60 words or a 380-390 character count with bigger font and will be hotlinked to your website on the e-Press. To place your event, let us know by Friday at noon for the following Friday’s publication at ads@brentwoodpress.com or call 925-634-1441.
The book within you waiting to get out
I am the author of 41 books, and I would like to use this space to give you tips on the profession of writing and how to write and publish a book — for those of you who never have but always wanted to.
There are many reasons to write a book. You have an experience in life that you feel is interesting enough to share with readers. Or, you feel a creative urge that has been stymied by the dreary nature of your day-to-day regular job. Perhaps you are the type of person who is frustrated and not recognized for the talents that you have inside you, much like a beautiful flower not allowed to bloom; because of infertile hard-pan earth and lack of rain.
Take it from me – becoming the author of a book can give you recognition. It can even save you from the professional disaster you might feel represents your working life. Or, if you are retired, it can give you a new exciting job with a sense of purpose that you control and where you can do it almost anywhere and anytime.
…In your home or on a park bench….
Most of us today do it on a computer.
Despite advances in technology, cellphones, computer games, artificial intelligence, media frenzy, space travel… nothing remains as respected by people as the written word….from the Bible to our
Constitution.
But don’t go into it if you simply think it will make you rich and famous because that’s not likely to happen. In my case I traded the income I could have probably made as an accountant (if I was smarter), for the allure of being an author.
I never wanted to be an average guy. Doing a job that millions of other guys do. I’m not knocking it if that kind of job makes you happy. I wanted to be different than most other people. A woman once told me, “I have never met a published author until I met you.”
That was music to my ears. It more than made up for the five-figure income I could have had in a job where perhaps I have to take high-stress abuse from a boss in an office setting.
Being an author gives you a kind of power. Like that kid in the Star Wars movie with The Force, that super flashlight beam in his hands. It’s something that even the most arrogant no-good strutting corporate head ego-maniac in his 25th-story office in a skyscraper in a big city doesn’t have….because he can’t
do it, or won’t bother to.
But you can.
You can become an author.
The purpose of this column is to show you how.
This is not about fame or monetary success. I’m far from being a nationally known best-selling author. That requires skill, timing and luck. However, I am respected, particularly by my publisher. This column will be more about …. if a person like me can do it…you can too.
The rewards can be enormous. Becoming an author can erase low self-esteem and the prior pitfalls and failures we have all suffered. A published book can give you immortality of a sort. Someone 150 years from now can read it….if there is someone 150 years from now (and we don’t blow or pollute ourselves off the planet).
More next time….
Editor’s note: John Sammon is a freelance writer and the author of 41 books, many of which can be found at https://bit. ly/4d2BEA7 This commentary is the first in a series on self publishing.
JOHN SAMMON
EDITORIALS, LETTERS & COMMENTARY
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Social Talk About Town...
Proposed sales tax increase to be part of midterm ballot on June 2
-Published in the April 24 edition of The Press
“I’m a no on this. I’d like an deep audit of Measure X funds. Diane has put what she wants, where she wants regardless of what residents tell her or object to.”
– Carolina Villaseca Witt/ Facebook
“Vote no on any tax increase until they can show us where all the money actually goes.”
–@rcq3033/Instagram
“The cost of living keeps going up will drive the young people to move away from here, and what left would be majority just elderly retirement folks. ”
– Chien Nguyen/Facebook
Public market considered for Brentwood
-Published in the April 24 edition of The Press
“Fully support this. What a great addition to downtown”
– @sallyyyy/Instagram
“This sounds like a great idea. I have wondered for 2 decades now why downtown Brentwood hasn’t been expanded with the same city block street plan and architectural size and style buildings. That is in contrast to shopping centers the size of many city blocks, each with multiple acre parking lots.”
– Mitch Maguire/Facebook
“Can we vote on what businesses get approved to go in there?”
– @erica.faller/Instagram
Editor:
Letter to the editor
What does ‘free speech’ really mean?
Misunderstandings about free speech aren’t necessarily abstract; they have reallife consequences. At least at the beginning of high school, students should learn that the First Amendment guarantees freedom of expression, but that’s not where its limits lie. That gap leaves room for confusion, violence, and, at times, tragedy.
Look at the aftermath of the Jan. 6 United States Capitol attack, where rhetoric, misinformation, and perceived suppression of speech contributed to a deadly breach of democratic institutions.
Another relatively recent example is the supermarket shooting in Buffalo, N.Y. The attacker published a manifesto and engaged in online media filled with racist conspiracies theories, (into an echo chamber) and in those circles his speech was deemed as “free”.
These ideas didn’t stay abstract as they were conceived but turned into justification for a mass murder of 10 people.
These events reveal how easily “free
speech” can be misinterpreted as a shield for harm or as justification for silencing others, or, quite crudely, bigotry. Education can intervene before such misunderstandings harden into a set ideology.
A dedicated high school course on free speech should be implemented in the United States. Students should examine Supreme Court cases, distinguish protected speech from incitement, and explore how the law treats threats, harassment, and misinformation.
They should debate real scenarios, learning that this right coexists with responsibilities and consequences. Importantly, these classes should foster civic resilience: the ability to engage and entertain opposing views without resorting to violence.
By grounding this abstract freedom in historical events, schools can help students recognize when speech crosses into hate speech, and how to respond constructively. Free speech is foundational, but it is not self-explanatory. Teaching it explicitly, with nuance and context should be a necessity.
Isaias Gonzalez Oakley
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Email your opinion letter to editor@brentwoodpress.com.
Liberty’s grit carries Lions deeper into playoffs
By Jeff Weisinger & Raymond Beasley V Staff Writer, Correspondent
Liberty boys volleyball did not leave its North Coast Section Division I playoff opener with a shut-out against 11th-seed De La Salle. The Lions left with something more useful this time of year – grit.
The sixth-seeded Lions defeated the Spartans 3-1 (28-26, 19-25, 28-26, 25-19) on Tuesday night in Brentwood, surviving two extra-point set wins, a second-set stumble that tied the match at 1-1, and a late fourth-set push from the Spartans that saw Liberty blow a 17-11 lead before stepping up to win.
“I’m not sure it’s more confidence as much as it is grit and wanting this,” Liberty senior outside hitter Zachary Sisney said. “We have so many seniors that have been on this team for a long time. We really want it. We’re not going to lose without a fight.”
That sense of fight showed against De La Salle Tuesday night as the Lions hope to carry that into the quarterfinals.
“We just needed to finish,” Liberty coach Haylie Bustamante said. “Take care of the ball and keep playing the way that we’ve been playing. We couldn’t panic.”
The win sends Liberty into its third quarterfinals appearance in as many years as they’ll head to third-seeded Dublin on Thursday to take on the Gaels. Liberty is
hoping that Tuesday’s win gives them momentum to finally get over the quarterfinals hump. Not only has Liberty reached the quarterfinals the last three years, they’ve also bowed out of the playoffs in the quarterfinals the last three years.
“This is one of our best ones, honestly,” Liberty senior outside hitter James Barnett III said. “We really came together as a team today and it showed the unity and pride that Liberty has to offer. It was an all-around group effort and no one gave up.”
“It really proved that we belong in NCS,” Sisney said. “That’s a great team, and it really pushes our forward momentum.”
Heritage boys volleyball season ends after Acalanes reverse sweep
Heritage boys volleyball season ends after Acalanes reverse sweep Heritage boys volleyball had Acalanes on the brink Tuesday night, but the Patriots could not close out the Dons in the first round of the North Coast Section Division II playoffs.
After taking the first two sets, Heritage saw its season end in a 3-2 loss (25-17, 25-23, 23-25, 20-25, 14-16) to Acalanes in Brentwood as the Dons reverse sweep the Patriots, rallying to win the final three sets.
The Patriots had to regroup early. After falling behind 6-3 in the opening set, Heritage coach Janet Hannigan called timeout and had her players run
line drills during the match, a practicestyle response to what she said was a lack of effort and focus.
“It shouldn’t matter what game it is,” Hannigan said. “Whether it’s the playoffs, an easy league game, doesn’t matter. It’s what we do in practice, so it’s what we do here.”
“The first thing about being a leader is accountability and knowing what you did wrong and what you did right,” Heritage senior Alvin Ella said.
Heritage responded immediately after the drills and a 6-3 deficit, closing the first set on a 22-11 run to win 25-17. The Patriots then rallied again in the second set after Acalanes took an 18-14 lead, coming back to win 25-23 and build a 2-0 match lead with what seemed like momentum behind them.
But Acalanes stayed alive in the third. Heritage led 13-10 before the Dons rallied late and took the set 25-23 on a touch shot by middle blocker Gage Svoboda.
The Dons carried that momentum into the fourth set, capitalizing on Heritage mistakes to win 25-20 and force a deciding fifth set.
The final set stayed tight until the end, with the teams battling to a 12-12 tie before Acalanes pulled ahead and closed the match on a Heritage error.
Ella said the Patriots will need to build from the loss with more accountability.
“We just need to be better next year,” he said. “I believe in what we can control.”
Liberty baseball’s Chayce Formosa commits to Cal
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Liberty junior Chayce Formosa and the University of California, Berkeley have been familiar with each other for years.
“I’ve been around Cal a lot my whole life,” Formosa said. “I played travel ball there for one of the coaches, so I’ve definitely been around Berkeley a lot, been around the Bears a lot.”
Now, he’ll be around the program even more.
The Lions pitcher and centerfielder announced his commitment to play at Cal following his 2027 graduation, becoming the second Liberty player this season to commit to a Division I program this school year after fellow junior Stevie Wellens announced his commitment to Navy during the winter.
“My dad’s extremely excited to be able to drive 45 minutes to come watch me play, or get off work and come watch me play. My mom too,” Formosa said. “They’re extremely excited for me to be able to go to a university like that and play that type of baseball.”
“It’s an honor to be able to go to a school that’s produced professional players,” Formosa said. “Even the academics, it’s extremely great academics there. So, it’s truly an honor to be able to get an offer from someplace like that and choose to go there.”
Formosa heads to Berkeley after putting together a strong season at the plate. Through 21 games, he is hit-
ting .364 with 18 RBI, seven doubles and five home runs — the first five homers of his high school career. For his career, Formosa has hit .400 with 37 RBI entering the final stretch of his junior season.
Pitching has been more inconsistent. He 1-3 with a 3.82 ERA in eight appearances this season.
“He’s an exceptional player,” Liberty head coach Shawn McHugh said. “I think he just felt at home there. … He’s going to hit a lot of balls out of that building.”
Formosa joins a Cal program still adjusting to life
in the Atlantic Coast Conference. The Bears went 24-31 overall and 9-21 in ACC play in 2025, though they made a run in the ACC Tournament as the No. 16 seed with upset wins over Miami and Wake Forest before falling to Georgia Tech in the quarterfinals.
Cal entered Tuesday with a 24-23 overall record this season, though the Bears remained 8-16 in conference play.
McHugh believes the fit in Berkeley extends beyond baseball. During his coaching career, including before arriving at Liberty, McHugh has sent multiple players to Cal and pointed to the program’s staff as a major reason why.
“I think (Cal hitting coach Brett Wallace) is one of the best hitting guys out there,” McHugh said. “(Cal head coach Mike Neu) is a great human. That’s what you kind of look for. You look for people that are just really good human beings. Those guys, to me, are just really good human beings.”
Formosa said being around older Division I-caliber players during his first years on varsity also helped shape his own path. As a freshman, he watched former Liberty standouts Josh Rhodes, and David Roberts Jr. move on to Division I baseball, along with teammate Rane Miller last year.
“It motivated me a lot,” Formosa said. “Especially my freshman year, just seeing those older guys playing at that level and having their next four years set really motivated me to want to get there where they were at. It even challenged me to surpass them and hopefully find myself at a higher place than they were.”
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
Liberty’s Chayce Formosa prepares for his at-bat in the Lions’ dugout.
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
Liberty senior James Barnett III (middle) celebrates with his team during the Lions’ NCS boys volleyball playoff game against De La Salle Tuesday in Brentwood.
Underdog Freedom sets sights on BVAL title entering season-finale series against Liberty
Falcons beat Antioch 9-3
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Freedom senior pitcher Colton Vick has one goal before his Falcons career ends: win a Bay Valley Athletic League title — especially in the program’s first season under new head coach Jonathan Lewis.
After Monday’s 9-3 Senior Day win over Antioch, the Falcons moved a step closer — and have largely done it under the radar. With a new coaching staff this year, much of the preseason attention centered on league rivals Heritage and Liberty, who feature some Division I college-bound players on their teams.
“It would be amazing,” Vick said. “A new coach, new everything. It would just be amazing for the school and for us.”
Vick, a Carthage College commit, turned in another strong outing Monday, allowing three runs on four hits with six strikeouts over six innings on the mound. He retired the first nine batters he faced before Antioch scored three runs in the middle innings. Vick threw the first pitch of the seventh before being relieved — a planned move by Lewis to allow the seniors a final home ovation, especially being up by a big margin in the final inning.
“It was more of a tip of the cap to the se-
niors who have been playing hard all season,” Lewis said.
Vick improved to 7-1 with a 2.06 ERA and matched his strikeout total from a year ago with 38 following Monday’s win, entering what is expected to be his final start next week against Liberty, according to Lewis.
Freedom hasn’t really been a part of the title chase for a long time. The Falcons have not won a league title since 2017, when they went 8-2 in BVAL play to edge Liberty and Heritage. Freedom hasn’t finished better than 5-5 since 2022, and no better than 7-3 since their 2017 league title-winning season, according to MaxPreps and the BVAL.
A familiar path is in play again, at least,
Freedom senior pitcher Colton Vick (28) gets congratulated on his way back to the dugout during the Falcons’ 9-3 win Monday afternoon in Oakley.
by Jeff Weisinger
so it seems. The Falcons (13-7, 5-1 BVAL) sit ahead of the Lions (14-6, 2-2) and Patriots (14-6-1, 4-2), two teams who were widely projected by other high school sports media outlets to contend for the title entering the season, especially Liberty, who shot up a new North Coast Section rankings after starting the season 6-0.
Heritage has two league games remaining against Antioch to close its regular season next week, while Liberty has four games left, beginning this week against Pittsburg. Liberty starts a season-ending series against Freedom on Tuesday, May 12 — a matchup that could decide the league champion.
Monday’s win not only kept Freedom
in control of its title chances, it provided momentum entering a stretch of three games in four days. The Falcons host Arroyo on Tuesday to open a home-and-home series, then travel to San Lorenzo on Thursday to finish their final non-league series of the regular season against the Dons.
“This game was big because it moved us to 5-1 in league,” Lewis said. “It’s good to get off to a good start and kind of carry that into the week.”
For Lewis, who replaced Ken Evanson as the team’s head coach this season, the season has been less about resetting the program and more about building on its foundation.
It has also come with minimal outside expectations, something the Falcons have also embraced.
“Nobody really gave us a chance based on what they thought we had,” Lewis said. “The kids have worked. They’ve acclimated to our way. Coach Evanson did a good job with these guys, and I’m just building on it. I told them, ‘We have a chance to get there. You just have to come with me.’”
If Freedom wins its final four games, the Falcons would finish with 18 victories in 2026 — the program’s highest win total since going 17-10 in 2018, according to MaxPreps.
“(The BVAL teams) don’t want us to win it,” Lewis said. “But we’re right there. We just have to take care of business.”
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FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2026-0001898 The name of the business(es): Manor Pest Solutions Located at: 420 Beatrice Ct., Ste. E In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Pepper Investments, Inc. This business is conducted by: A Corporation, State of Incorporation: CA. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Deane Sheppard, President. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 04/06/2026 by Deputy Clerk Expires 04/05/2031 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: April 17, 24, May 1, 8, 2026
NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: GREGORY JAMES MARTIN, deceased CASE NUMBER P26-00759
To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: GREGORY JAMES MARTIN, deceased. A Petition for Probate has been filed by: DIANE EILEEN CHILDS - C/O RYAN DARLING, 3697 ARLINGTON AVE., RIVERSIDE, CA 92506, 951-788-2889 in the Superior Court of California, County of: CONTRA COSTA The Petition for Probate requests that: DIANE EILEEN CHILDS 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
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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: JULY 08, 2026 Time: 9:00 AM Dept: 38. 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: RYAN MICHAEL DARLING, 3697 ARLINGTON AVE., RIVERSIDE, CA
92506, 951-788-2889
Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: May 8, 15, 22, 2026
NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: VICTOR ANTHONY MALETIC, deceased CASE NUMBER P25-01877
To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: VICTOR ANTHONY MALETIC deceased. A Petition for Probate has been filed by: JASON B. SMITH in the Superior Court of California, County of: CONTRA COSTA
The Petition for Probate requests that: JASON B. SMITH 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 16, 2026 Time: 9:00 AM Dept: 38 WAKEFIELD TAYLOR COURTHOUSE. 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
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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
Business Profile
Business Profile
Antioch Historical Museum to preserve city’s legacy
A new era is taking shape at the Antioch Historical Museum. Located at 1500 W. 4th Street in the Riverview High School building, the museum is embarking on one of the most significant transformations in its history — unveiling a five-year strategic plan designed to elevate, protect, and reimagine Antioch’s rich cultural legacy.
At the heart of this effort is the museum’s newly appointed eight-member transition team, a diverse group of community leaders who will guide the plan’s first phase. Members include: Theresa Court (AHS Board President); Janet Farr (AHS Board Member); Mike Green (Vice Principal, Deer Valley High School); Matthew Hart (Attorney); Tom Hartrick (Business Owner); Carla Baker Marymee (AHS Board PresidentElect and Business Owner); Clifton Mbanugo (Business Owner); and Donna McGee (Kaiser Permanente Antioch Medical Center Site Director). The team is being led by Raymond Davi, Museum Strategic Advisor, the museum said in a press release.
This milestone follows an 18-month assessment led by Davi, who conducted indepth research and interviews with board members, museum members, committees, and community stakeholders. His findings made clear that the museum needed a new direction to secure its long-term future.
To bring that vision to life, consultant Sanjay P. Hukku, Ph.D was hired to shape a five-year plan and a modernized organizational structure.
The resulting plan establishes a revitalized structure — featuring a governing board, advisory team, executive director, and Friends of the Museum group — and sets a clear roadmap for growth, sustainability, and community impact.
During the first year, the Transition Team will focus on foundational work: assessing the historic 1910 Riverview High School building, establishing the new organizational structure, and launching the search for the museum’s first executive director.
“The Antioch Historical Museum is at a defining moment,” said Raymond Davi. “At the heart of this transformation is a bold new mission that redefines what the museum stands for and how it connects with the community.”
The museum’s new mission statement reflects that vision:
“We welcome curious visitors to explore the extraordinary history in every corner of our community and region. We focus on hidden heroes, untold stories, and surprising moments—bringing them to life through exhibits, outreach, and publications that help young people, families, and visitors of all ages discover that Antioch’s history is impossible to ignore.”
The museum is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1-4 p.m.
For more information, contact Carla Baker Marymee, at (925) 775-8764. Visit the museum on Facebook at facebook.com/ antiochhistoricalmuseum
Top row from left: Tom Hartrick, Mike Green, Matthew Hart, Clifton Mbanugo, Raymond Davi. Bottom row from left: Donna McGee, Janet Farr, Theresa Court, and Carla Baker Marymee
Photo courtesy Antioch Historical Museum
REGIONAL & LOCAL
News iN Brief
County creates webpage to follow state budget impacts locally
Contra Costa County has created an HR 1 and State Budget Impacts webpage to support clear and consistent communication around HR 1 (federal) and state budget impacts to county residents and the county budget.
These resources are intended to make information easier to access and understand, according to press release from Supervisor Diane Burgis’s office.
This webpage was created through collaboration across all County Departments, including the County Administrators Office, Contra Costa Health, and Employment and Human Services. The content on the webpage will continue to be refined as additional federal and state information and guidance becomes available.
For details, visit https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/10560/HR-1-Impacts.
Supervisors to honor AANHPI community on May 12
The County Board of Supervisors will honor the cultural heritage and contributions of Asian American Native Hawaiian & Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities at the fourth Annual AANHPI Heritage Month Commemorative Event on May 12 at 11 a.m. at 1025 Escobar St. in Martinez.
This celebration is a reminder of the strength in shared heritage, the wisdom passed from generation to generation, and diverse voices come together with purpose and pride, according to a press release from Supervisor Diane Burgis’s office.
State offers boat launching facility grants
California State Parks’ Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) is calling on public agencies with facilities serving both motorized and non-motorized recreational vessels to apply for inland boat launching facility grants totalling about $11.8 million. Funding can be used to design, engineer, permit and construct new public recreational boat launching facilities or for improvements to existing facilities. Applications are due by noon, May 22, the state said in a press release.
This one-time state funding comes from the Waterway Connections Initiative and is allocated to expand inland waterway-related outdoor access in regions with communities of populations of more than 2,500 located near a river or other inland waterway. Projects meeting the criteria are encouraged to apply.
Eligible facility components include boat launch ramps, slope protection, gangways and boarding floats, associated boater parking, restrooms, fish cleaning stations, boat wash stations, ADA-compliant access, and lighting.
Interested applicants should first review the application ranking criteria on DBW’s website at https://dbw. parks.ca.gov/?page_id=28818&utm_ medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery to determine if the proposed project meets eligibility requirements. Grant applications must be submitted through the DBW’s online grant application system.
Annual STEM In Living Color 2026 festival back in Antioch May 16
The third annual STEM In-Living Color 2026 festival is a free, hands-on celebra-
To submit a news item for this page, send it to editor@brentwoodpress.com
tion of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) open to people of all ages. All four disciplines come alive through exploration and play from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Williamson Ranch Park, W. 4th St. in, Antioch.
To register, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/stem-in-living-color-community-event-tickets1977544969237?aff=oddtdtcreator
According to press release from Supervisor Diane Burgis’s office the festival features:
• Interactive STEM booths hosted by educators, industry professionals, and partners
• Hands-on activities for all ages—engineer, design, code, and experiment
• Live entertainment and a DJ
• Food vendors and resources
Antioch police investigate fatal shooting; man arrested
A suspect was arrested on Tuesday, May 5 after a man was fatally shot in Antioch.
Antioch police responded to a shooting in the 5000 block of Percheron Way on May 5 at 9:14 a.m.
Officers located an unidentified man who was unconscious, not breathing, and suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Officers rendered aid until paramedics arrived, but the victim died at the scene, Antioch police said in a press release.
The suspect was located nearby and taken into custody after breaking into an unrelated residence. The weapon used in the incident was recovered.
A good smile can open doors. A
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is asked to contact Detective Becerra at (925) 779-6937 or abecerra@antiochca.gov, or the Investigations Bureau at (925) 779-6926.
National safety leaders offer free eBike course this month
Riders across the country can make sure they are riding their eBikes safely for free. In celebration of May Bicycle Month, America’s online eBike eCourse, normally $35.99, will be available to everyone at no cost.
Whether commuting to school or work, cruising to a favorite coffee spot, or riding with friends, electric bicycles (eBikes) are transforming the way people get around by offering a fun, efficient, low-effort way to travel and recreate. But as more riders take to the streets, many are still struggling to navigate traffic safely and understand the unique features of eBikes, according to a press release.
To meet that growing need and support safe riding across the country, PeopleForBikes and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation are offering free access to their interactive online eBike eCourse. The course covers the basics of eBike ownership and rules of the road and includes practice drills designed to help riders build confidence and improve their skills.
Riders can register for free access at eBikecourse.com/MBM.
Sheffield Smile can change lives.
The course helps riders get ready for real-world eBike riding, from choosing the right bike and quality gear to navigating traffic and riding with friends.
Additional resources — including a readiness checklist, guidance on talking to kids about eBike safety, riding tips, and downloadable promotional materials — are available at eBikecourse.com/ resources.
Enjoying the fruits of his labor
“People around town used to call him ‘the tree doctor,’” Monica Chavez said of her father, Richard. “He could just look at a tree and tell you what was wrong with it from that one look.”
While he may no longer spend his days diagnosing trees around the area, Richard Chavez’s enthusiasm for agriculture has not diminished. Early May marks the beginning of cherry season, bringing thousands of visitors from out of town to local farms, where they take part in the various U-Pick opportunities in Brentwood. Two of these farms–Papa’s U-Pick and RC U-Pick Cherries–belong to Chavez and his wife Christine. They serve as a way to keep agriculture running in the family, with children and grandchildren spending their formative years helping out around the farms.
“Even the lazy ones,” he added with a chuckle.
Tourists come to the two Chavez farms “by the thousand,” Monica explained. Her sisters Teresa and Lori are still deeply involved in the family business, with Teresa in charge of the day-to-day aspects of farming, from watering to weeding, while Lori is in charge of managing the customer aspect of the farm, such as dealing with tourists.
Before his foray into cherries, Chavez began his agricultural career by working with Ron Nunn in the 1970s. Nunn, who died last year at 92, was a fourth-generation farmer who was eulogized by the city as “a steward of [their] agricultural heritage” thanks to his lifelong passion for farming and his efforts to bolster Brentwood’s agricultural footprint. Many of the farmstands in Brentwood are owned by his family. Chavez worked with Nunn for over 50 years, he said, noting that he is still sent a monthly check by the family.
“Ron was very good and very generous,” Chavez said. “He got me where I am today.”
Chavez, now 82, began working with Nunn when he was in his 30s and said that he learned quite a bit in those early days not just from Nunn, but from Nunn’s friend and
fertilizer salesman, Dewey Demartini. One of Chavez’s endeavors was managing ProTree Nursery for Nunn, and he attributed his success in that role partly to being given the freedom to make his own decisions.
“I ran it the way I wanted to,” he said, recalling times when he’d serve as middle man between Nunn and a client only to have Nunn tell him the decisions were his to make instead.
During his time working with Nunn, Chavez helped to pioneer unorthodox growing techniques that caught attention in their time, such as growing apple trees on an angle to prevent the fruit from being sunburned and compromising the flavor. Other techniques, such as the grafting of fruit clippings onto compatible rootstock, helped to reduce the time it took for orchards to begin growing fruit. Chavez is even partly responsible for the popularity of the Fuji apple, he said. Chavez was one of the first few farmers to bring the varietal from Japan in the 1980s.
Chavez still travels the world in search of interesting varieties of fruit, having established a partnership in Chile 20 years ago for growing varieties of cherries native to the South American country. He makes the trip every November to see the fruits of their labor.
More about RC U-Pick Cherries and Papa’s U-Pick can be found at https://rcupickcherries.com/ and https://papasupickcherries.com/ respectively.
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
CHAVEZ
Giving back to educators
More than 20 teachers were from various schools were honored by the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh organization at Ronn Nunn Elementary School on May 2 as part of the second annual Guru Vandana (‘reverence for the teacher’) celebration. Local dignitaries such as Mayor Susannah Meyer were also present for the event.
To view a video and a slideshow of the event, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
Photos by Mike Rodriguez
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Coroner’s Inquest in Ramirez case set for July 15
Contra Costa County Sheriff-Coroner David Livingston will hold an inquest into the death of Yolanda Ramirez, 72, of Brentwood on July 15.
The inquest is being held at the request on April 17 by Contra Costa County District Attorney Diana Becton.
This incident occurred on Oct. 3, 2025, in Contra Costa County. The proceedings will take place at 9 a.m. at the Wakefield Taylor Courthouse at 725 Court St. in Martinez. The exact department will be determined.
The purpose of the inquest is to present the facts of the incident to a jury for their deliberation and finding on the manner of death. The inquest is open to the public and the media. However, no photographs, audio
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recordings, or videos may be taken during the proceedings.
A Coroner’s Inquest is a public hearing overseen by the Contra Costa County Sheriff-Coroner’s Office. Inquests are open to the public, are conducted by a private attorney hired by the Coroner’s Division and are held in front of a jury of citizens randomly selected from the Contra Costa County Superior Court jury pool, according to the county’s Law Enforcement-Involved Fatal Incidents Protocol. The jury is to decide whether the death was by natural causes, suicide, accident, or at the hands of another person other than by accident.
Ramirez died on Oct. 3 when she was removed from life support at a local hospital. She had been transported to the hospital fol-
ditions make it a preferred choice over mowing.
“The Contra Costa Fire Protection District makes a significant effort to advise property owners of their property’s status regarding overgrown weeds and grasses during the weed abatement season,” Ottolini said. “Properties that do not meet the district’s weed abatement standards receive multiple weed abatement notices and inspections. If these notices are ignored, the issue will be submitted to the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District’s Advisory Fire Commission for authorization to have a weed abatement contractor clear the property’s overgrown weeds and grasses. The cost of the contractor’s work. plus administrative fees, is charged back to a property via a property tax lien.”
Brentwood
According to Brentwood Chief Building Official Ken Murphy, the City uses the county standards for the process, with administrative citations issued for noncompliance.
“Citations are issued weekly at increasing amounts of $100, $200 and then $500 until compliance is met,” Mur-
Brentwood
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packet for the meeting. The second floor would consist of a central open area with two large tenant spaces and one small tenant space, as well as a 1,396-square-foot open-air seating area that could potentially be used for café uses or larger retail uses. The project’s outdoor area would be about 24,000 square feet.
During the meeting, residents echoed Hagar’s belief that the public market would attract more people to downtown. One resident who spoke identified himself as a software engineer at Google, noting that several of his colleagues also live in the Brentwood area. He explained that when he and his colleagues attempt to meet up, they often end up doing so in the Mountain View area instead of Brentwood because of the lack of diverse food options in an elevated space. He said a project like The Grove would keep him and other software engineers closer to town when dining out while also providing an opportunity to bring other colleagues to Brentwood to enjoy the potential eateries.
According to the commissioners, more than 50 residents filed comments about the agenda item ahead of the meeting in addition to those who spoke during the public comment portion of the discussion, which they characterized as largely positive and in favor of the project. Even those with concerns, such as one email read by Brand, were in favor of the project despite their concerns.
lowing a medical emergency while in police custody on Sept. 26 after police responded to a domestic dispute between Ramirez and her sister. According to her family, Ramirez
phy said. “The City may also determine the property is a public nuisance and choose to abate the property at the owner’s expense.”
The weed reduction fines are assessed only with noncompliance. Once fines begin, they escalate from $100 to $200 to $500, with the $500 figure continuing to be assessed, and there is no cap.
Oakley
According to Oakley Assistant City Manager Danielle Navarro, the fire district provides the impetus for weed reduction during fire season as they conduct annual inspections and issue notices when properties are out of compliance, typically with a correction period.
“For City-owned properties, Public Works monitors conditions throughout the season and prioritizes areas as needed to stay in compliance,” said Oakley Public Works Maintenance Manager Jesse Dela Cruz. “We supplement our team with contractors to help manage workload during peak growth periods. Our goal is to address any identified issues within the required timeframe and maintain compliance with County standards.”
lost consciousness in the back of the police vehicle and did not regain consciousness before her death a week later.
The family’s calls for an inquest come in the wake of conflicting autopsy reports related to Ramirez’s death.
While the county’s autopsy determined her cause of death to be natural, an independent autopsy done at the request of the family reached a conflicting conclusion that Ramirez’s death was caused by police during her arrest. According to Nold, there used to be a Coroner’s Inquest anytime someone died in law enforcement custody but that is no longer the policy. Only the Attorney General, District Attorney or City can request one. This is the first case going forward under the new policy, she said.
Antioch
“Weed abatement refers to the process of removing, cutting, or otherwise controlling unwanted vegetation — such as weeds, dry grass, or overgrown plants—from a property or designated area,” said city spokesperson Jaden Baird. “This is typically done to reduce fire hazards, maintain public safety, comply with local regulations, and improve overall property appearance. Weed abatement activities may include mowing, trimming, discing, or applying approved herbicides, and are often required by municipalities to prevent the spread of invasive plants and minimize risks associated with excessive vegetation growth. The City may be subject to fines if found to be noncompliant.”
The fire district’s website says weed reduction extension requests may be submitted only after a final notice for reduction has been issued, with extension requests not accepted after July 4. Officials urge people to continue weed reduction efforts for the entire fire season, which typically continues into late October.
For details, including weed reduction contractor lists and to report a weed reduction violation, visit https://bit. ly/4egsItl
One dominant concern about the project was the request that businesses in The Grove could potentially operate until midnight. While some residents were in favor of this because so few businesses in the area are open late, others expressed concern that it could lead to noise disturbances and potential issues requiring police intervention. They cited bars open downtown such as Crown and Crow that are open until midnight and
which lead to calls for police as a result.
Several commissioners expressed concern that making vendors close at 10 p.m. instead of midnight could hinder their ability to succeed, with Commissioner Gerald Johnson saying that “the community will decide” if that later curfew is working or not.
“I would say that the meeting went as well as we could have ever possibly imagined,” Hagar said. “The community sup-
port was incredible, and the energy and excitement around the project was palpable. From emails to live speakers, we had close to a 100 people come out and voice their support for the project. We are excited to continue working on this project and are more energized than ever to deliver it to the community.”
The meeting can be watched online at https://bit.ly/3OQoTkl
RAMIREZ
Cities
A map of the proposed area for The Grove at Brentwood.
