CDC also noted that more than 4,000 people die from unintentional drowning each year in the United States, addressing that formal swim lessons are proven to reduce drowning risk.
Michelle McCauley, Marketing Director at Spare Time Sports Clubs, said Diamond
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By Taylor Shepherd Correspondent
Looking to start a ‘green thumb’ is more than just providing soil for plants to grow in. Knowing how to start and which plants will grow best for the season is critical to having a flourishing garden. Local experts explain this process.
Irma Perez, owner of Perez Nursery, said her advice for those starting a vegetable garden is to “start small and keep it simple.”
Perez said to choose a sunny location that receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. “Healthy soil is the foundation of a successful vegetable garden, so I recommend amending the soil with high-quality compost or planting mix before planting,” she said. “Water consistently, especially during the summer months, and don’t be afraid to ask questions at your local nursery. Gardening is a learning experience, and even the most experienced gardeners always reach out for help.”
Scarlett Bates, the nursery department head at Brentwood Ace Hardware, said there are many tips for first-time vegetable gardeners. “First, it depends on if it’s the warm season (spring-summer) or the cold season (fallwinter). With it being the end of June this is everyone’s last chance to plant the warm-season vegetables.”
Warm-season vegetables include summer squash, cucumber, eggplant, zucchini, peppers, strawberries, watermelon, beans, pumpkins if you want them by Halloween, and determinate tomatoes.
Bates explained this terminology. “For reference, indeterminate tomatoes are the ones that continuously grow
and produce fruit throughout the season. Determinate tomatoes grow to maturity and produce fruit within a few weeks of planting. After picking the vegetables you want to grow, we then decide placement.”
Bates said her favorite soil to recommend is the two cubic feet E.B. Stone Raised Bed mix. “This soil has some fertilizer, compost, and pumice for good drainage,” she explained.
To determine the amount of soil needed for the bed,
“Planting at the right time makes all the difference,” Irma Perez, owner of Perez Nursery said.
Bates said to multiply the length, width, and depth to get the amount in cubic feet needed to fill up. “For fertilizer I like to recommend a combination of E.B. Stone Tomato and Vegetable food and the E.B. Stone compost,” Bates said. “The vegetable food provides the plants with the necessary nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium and beneficial microbes for prolific growth and flowering.
Garden page 15
By Sean Tongson Correspondent
A local high school student non-profit is collecting surplus produce from residents who have extra fruit in their yards to provid another avenue to help families and those in need.
The Sacred Tree, a registered 501 (c) (3) student-led nonprofit with a growing 10-member team, collects surplus fruits and vegetables from local backyards and farms and donates them to nearby food banks, churches, family support organizations, and other donation centers. Founded by Heritage High School senior Vanshika Tyagi in January 2024, The Sacred Tree to date has donated over 2,000 pounds of fresh produce to local community organizations in Brentwood and Antioch, including Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, EA Family Services, and the Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano.
“The Sacred Tree is built around the idea that helping can be simple,” Tyagi said. “If we work together as neighbors, farms, students, and local organizations, we can reduce food waste and get more fresh food to people who need it.”
The mission of The Sacred Tree is to help families who need food to get it, “reducing food waste, and providing support to underserved communities,” according to their website. The process, according to Tyagi, entails a neighbor or farm contacting The Sacred Tree through their website,
email, or phone number. Their team then arrives with their own boxes and equipment, with the owner letting them know how much produce they would like to keep. The Sacred Tree then takes the rest and delivers the surplus produce to a local donation center. Afterwards, The Sacred Tree sends photos back to the owner.
“A lot of fresh produce goes to waste simply because people do not always know what to do with it or do not have the time to harvest it,” Tyagi said. “I would love for the community to know that even something small, like extra fruit from one backyard tree, can make a real difference.”
Tyagi said one of the reasons for starting The Sacred Tree during her freshman year was because she noticed the amount of unused fruit in the community. Tyagi said she wanted to find a way to reduce that waste while giving the extra produce to families and organizations that could use it. Tyagi said that they started by harvesting extra fruit from neighbors’ backyard trees, and began working with local farms after their U-pick seasons to collect fruit that may have been slightly bruised or imperfect, but still fresh and good to eat.
“In Brentwood, many families have fruit trees in their backyards. But when the trees produce a large harvest at once, it can be hard to use or give away all the fruit,” Tyagi said. “My family has a large lemon tree in our backyard, and before I started The Sacred Tree, we often had more lemons than we could use, even after sharing bags with neighbors. I also noticed that local farms sometimes have fruit left behind after U-pick seasons be-
cause people usually choose the ‘perfectlooking’ fruit and leave behind pieces that are slightly bruised or imperfect, even though they are still good to eat.”
Tyagi said residents can help in several ways, as someone who has a fruit tree or extra produce in their backyard are welcome to contact The Sacred Tree, who can help collect and donate it.
Additionally, local farms can reach out if they have surplus produce or fruit left after a harvest or U-pick season. Students and residents are also welcome to volunteer.
“Even if they do not have produce themselves, they can help by spreading the word or connecting us with neighbors, or farms that may have extra fruits or vegetables to donate,” Tyagi said. “Volunteers help with harvesting, sorting, delivering produce, and spreading the word. Anyone interested can email us, text us, or fill out the short sign-up form on our website.”
For details, visit www.thesacredtree. org/ or email info@thesacredtree org
By Dawnmarie Fehr Correspondent
Brentwood plans to celebrate its agrarian heritage and the American semiquincentennial with an event it’s calling America 250: Agricultural Roots and the American Dream.
Set for Saturday, July 4, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Brentwood City Park, the schedule includes the town’s annual 4th of July Parade, followed by a list of free, family-friendly activities.
“We are really excited for this,” said Thien Nguyen, the City’s recreation manager. “It will be a nice, big event, and this anniversary doesn’t exactly happen often. So we are excited to be part of this.”
According to the event description on the city’s website, America 250 “will honor the people, industries, innovations, and ideals that have shaped both our nation and our community.” Nguyen said his team has partnered with many local organizations to ensure a local spin on the national celebration.
“We are working with veterans’ organizations, the Downtown (Brentwood)
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Coalition, Harvest Time, and Foodie Crew, the Historical Society, and others because we are also celebrating our roots,
and everything that is Brentwood,” Nguyen said.
As part of the lineup, following the parade is a free concert at Brentwood City Park, a car show, a train ride, face painting, a petting zoo, and activities, exhibits, entertainment, and experiences that highlight the people, industries, and ideals that shaped Brentwood and America. The parade is scheduled to start at 9:30 at the intersection of First and Birch streets, winding down First Street to Oak Street, and finishing in front of City Park at 11:30. Opening ceremonies follow the parade, then, a concert and other events.
There is also a downtown decorating contest for local businesses to participate in, and visitors can cast their vote for the best patriotic storefront. Winners will be announced during the day.
For more information, a map of the parade route, or to participate, call 925-516-5444, visit www.brentwoodca. gov/home or follow www.facebook.com/ CityofBrentwoodCA.
By Robert Ayres, Owner of Liberty Pest Services
Summer in Brentwood means backyard barbecues, hiking trails, kids playing outside, pets running through the yard, and more time enjoying the outdoors. But warmer weather also brings more pest activity around your home, including ants, spiders, wasps, ticks, rodents, and even rattlesnakes.
Ticks are tiny hitchhikers. They wait in tall grass, weeds, brush, and trail edges, then cling onto pets, pant legs, socks, shoes, and backpacks. Many people do not notice them until they are already back home. Once inside, ticks can end up on pets, furniture, bedding, or carpets. After hiking, camping, or walking the dog, always check yourself, your children, and your pets.
Rattlesnakes are also more active during the summer months. They often seek shade near bushes, wood piles, sheds, fences, rocks, and places where rodents may be living. Never try to move or handle a snake yourself. A clean, inspected, well-maintained property can help reduce unwanted pest activity.
For the Brentwood and surrounding cities residents, Liberty Pest Services is offering a special summer discount. We are waiving the initial setup fee when you sign up for an ongoing pest control preven-
tion plan. Mention that you saw us in this newspaper to receive this discount.
At Liberty Pest Services, we stand behind our quality of service and take pride in every home we protect. We believe in honest pest control with straightforward service. We do not use hidden fees, misleading discounts, or contracts that lock you in.
Our prevention plans are designed to help protect your home year-round. We inspect, treat, deweb spiderwebs, and help stop pest problems before they get out of control. If the pests come back between regular services, so will we, free of charge, as long as your account is current.
We are local, veteran-owned, and customer focused, and we work hard to earn your trust with every visit, not the first. Give Liberty Pest Services an opportunity to protect your home this summer.
Call today at 925-628-3030. Serving Brentwood and surrounding East County communities.
Pest control service for homes and businesses, Real estate inspections and termite treatments, Rodent exclusion and inspections. Licensed – Insured –Bonded. Opr#14018
California State Parks’ Division of Boating and Waterways is accepting grant applications for the Clean Vessel Act Education and Outreach Grant Program.
A maximum of $360,000 of federal funding per targeted region is available to organizations for educating coastal and San Francisco Bay-Delta Estuary recreational boaters about proper vessel sewage disposal and the use of pumpout facilities and monitoring pumpout and dump stations, according to a press release from the state.
In 1992, Congress passed the Clean Vessel Act to help reduce pollution from vessel sewage discharges in U.S. waters. The grant program serves as an important educational opportunity for all boaters on how to help keep California’s waterways clean.
Discharging sewage overboard creates environmental and human health problems. To reduce the harm from this action, all
recreational boaters are encouraged to use sewage management facilities, including pumpout stations, dump stations, floating restrooms and mobile pump-out services.
The state will fund two grants (one for each targeted California geographic region-The Delta and Southern California) to develop and implement a 12- to 14-month Clean Vessel Act Education and Outreach Program.
Each regional grant must include education and outreach efforts and a pumpout/dump station monitoring program. Applications will be evaluated and ranked according to how each application proposal demonstrates comprehensive and proven methods for meeting grant program goals. The deadline to submit applications is Monday, Aug. 17, by 10 a.m.
For details and the application, visit https://dbw.parks.ca.gov/
clear understanding
of what it takes to handle a difficult divorce. A closely bonded group of professionals, they offer a wide range of high-quality services to the residents of East County and beyond. Golden Legacy Law Group is located at 1181 Central Blvd., Suite A, in Brentwood. For more information, call 925-516-4888.
Saturday, July 4
Liberty Bell Run in Brentwood
This third annual 5K run/walk starts at 7 a.m. at Veterans Park at 3841 Balfour Road. Events include a 1-mile fun run and the 5K. All proceeds support the Liberty High band. For details, visit libertylionsband.com.
America 250 – Brentwood
The city will honor its past and celebrate the future with a parade downtown, food trucks, games, live music, family activities and a celebration of service from 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. at City Park and Second and Oak streets. The free parade starts at Birch and First streets, then turns right on Oak Street to City Park. To enter the parade, visit https://anc.apm.activecommunities. com/brentwoodparksandrec/activity/ search/detail/16587?onlineSiteId=0&fro m_original_cui=true.
America 250 car show in Brentwood
A car show will occupy First Street in front of the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building at 757 First. St. from 9:30 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. Check-in is at 9:30 a.m., with awards given out at 1 p.m. There will be trophies and awards for many classes, food vendors, music and entertainment. Entry fee is $20. To enter, visit zeffy.com/en-US/1
Tuesday, July 7
DeSaulnier to host town hall meeting in Brentwood
U.S. Rep. Mark DeSaulnier, whose district includes East County, will host a town hall meeting in Brentwood from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at a location to be announced. RSVP to https:// desaulnier house gov/town-hall-rsvp
Saturday, July 11
Hometown Heroes Safety Expo
Hometown Heroes Safety Expo brings together law enforcement, fire, emergency medical, and public safety professionals to celebrated the men and women who protect the city. The event will be at Los Medanos College’s Brentwood campus at 1351 Pioneer Square from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., this free public expo features live demonstrations, safety training, family-friendly activities, and direct engagement with the agencies that serve the region. There will be a live DJ, food vendors, local dignitaries, fire engines, first aid demonstrations. The event’s goal is to strengthen bonds, empower residents with practical safety skills and recognize and honor first responders. For details, visit brentwoodchamber.com, call 925-634-3344 or email admin@brentwoodchamber com
Saturday, July 25
Think Big, Act Bigger Backpack Giveaway in Brentwood
All students must be present to collect their school supplies at from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at 757 First St. in Brentwood. Take what you need and leave what you don’t, giving others the opportunities to take what they need. If students have one at home they would like to re-use instead please bring it to fill. All college students will have to provide a current student ID or a current school schedule upon check-in. One backpack per student. Students must be present to collect backpacks. For details, visit http:// tbactbigger org
Community Barbecue and Clothing/ Food Drive in Brentwood Rage for Democracy is hosting a free community barbecue at Veterans Park, 3841 Balfour Road in Brentwood from 5-7 p.m., to bring neighbors together for food,
To have your event appear in the newspaper, email your events to calendar@brentwoodpress.com one week prior to publication. To have your event online, post your event for free on The Press Community Calendar www.thepress.net/calendar.
connection, and local support. The event will include free hot dogs and chips, kidfriendly activities, music, and a beginner gardening class led by local residents. Guests are welcome to stop by, meet neighbors, learn more about Rage for Democracy’s community outreach programs, and help support local families by bringing food bankstyle donations or gently used clothing. The barbecue is part of Rage for Democracy’s ongoing effort to create welcoming, familyfriendly spaces where people can connect, share resources, and build a stronger community together. For details, visit https:// www eventbrite com/e/1990822772504
Back to School Supply Giveaway in Pittsburg
Mount Diablo Resource Recovery is hosting its seventh Annual Reuse Event with the Pittsburg Police Department to help local families prepare for the school year while promoting the power of reuse. The event is from 9-11 a.m. at 65 Civic Ave. Registered families will receive free backpacks filled with school supplies to help them kick off the school year. To register, go to https://form. jotform.com/261536340731149
Saturday, Aug. 8- Sunday, Aug. 9
Delta Quilters Guild 2026 Quilt Show
The Delta Quilters Guild 2026 Quilt Show are hosting a quilt show from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Aug. 8) and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (Aug. 9) at the Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St. Tickets are $12, good for both days (those younger than age 8 and over age 80 are admitted free) . For details, visit http:// deltaquilters org
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 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.e-clubhouse.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/. Soroptimists of the Delta Soroptimists is a global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment. They meet the first Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St. For more information, call Sonia at 415-717-0294 or visit siofthedelta.com.
Marine Corps League, Delta Diablo Detachment 1155, monthly meeting
The Marine Corps League, Delta Diablo Detachment 1155, hosts its monthly meeting on the third Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building, 757 First St., in Brentwood. The group is open to all active or retired U.S. Marines. Attendees are encouraged to bring a veteran friend, and spouses are always welcome. The meetings feature camaraderie, food, drink, conversation and updates on upcoming events. For more information, call 925-338-1775, email MCL1155@outlook.com or visit https://www.mcl1155.org/.
Widow and Widower Grief Support Group
A widow and widower grief support group from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church meets every Thursday from 5 to 6:15 p.m. at the church library at 500 Fairview Ave. in Brentwood. The group focuses on finding a new normal as attendees walk the grief trail with others experiencing the same loss. A monthly pot luck and happy hour are also available. For more information, contact Mary Ann Smith at 925-240-1706 or Connie Cononen at 925-392-9037.
Coffee with Carolyn Kaleidoscope Cancer Connection’s Coffee with Carolyn is a cancer support group for women, hosted by Carolyn George and financially supported by The Kaleidoscope Cancer Connection of Byron. The group meets on the fourth Tuesday of every month from noon to 1 p.m. The location is at the Kaleidoscope Sacred Garden behind the Byron United Methodist Church (14671 Byron Highway in Byron). For more information, contact Carolyn George at 925-577-3325.
4-H Clubs
Oakley: The Oakley 4-H Club has monthly meetings the second Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. The club is open to boys and girls ages 5-19. For location information, email Amanda at oakley@contracosta.org. Knightsen: Knightsen 4H meets on the first Wednesday of each month from 5:30-7 p.m. at Knightsen Elementary School at 1923 Delta Road. Open to boys and girls ages 5-19 as well. For details, contact Rosa Sherwood or Maria Jehn at knightsen4h@gmail.com.
Brentwood: The club has monthly meetings the second Tuesday of each month with dinner at 6:30, and meeting at 7 p.m. The club is open to boys and girls ages 5-19. They meet at the Knightsen Farm Bureau Hall at 3020 2nd St. in Knightsen. For further details, email Angela at brentwood@contracosta4h.org.
El Campanil Theatre
602 W. Second Street • Antioch
Cool Down at the Campanil Movies, Popcorn, Drinks and Fun Saturday, July 4th 5pm and 7pm showings
Two tickets for $5!
Jared Freiburg & The Vagabonds
The MESS AROUND Tour Presented by El Campanil Theatre Sunday, July 12th @ 2pm
Maroon Vibes: #1 Maroon 5 Tribute Band Presented by El Campanil Theatre Saturday, August 15th @ 7pm
Stroll Down Penny Lane: A Paul McCartney Tribute Presented by Yesterday 2Night Productions Saturday, August 22nd @ 7pm
Los Calderones Latin Funk Presented by The Hen & Drake Modern Tearoom Saturday, September 5th @ 7pm
TICKETS AVAILABLE ONLINE & THROUGH THE BOX OFFICE @ ELCAMPANILTHEATRE.COM BOX OFFICE: (925) 757-9500
RENTAL INFORMATION: OUR VENUE IS A PERFECT PLACE FOR RECITALS, CONCERTS, SEMINARS, WORKSHOPS, POETRY READING, GRADUATIONS, WEDDINGS, PLAYS, MUSICALS AND MANY OTHER EVENTS.
William (Bill) Russell Smith III Dec. 29, 1951-June 12, 2026
William Russell Smith III, known to family and friends as Bill or Billy, was born in 1951 and raised in Knightsen, California, where he spent his life deeply rooted in family, farming, and community.
Bill attended Knightsen Elementary School, where he was active in the marching band and participated in the Knightsen 4-H Club. He graduated from Liberty Union High School in 1971 and was a member of the FFA. His love of music continued throughout his life, and he brought joy to countless family gatherings through his accordion playing.
From an early age, Bill worked alongside his grandparents and family growing fruits and vegetables, a passion that remained with him throughout his life. Anyone who knew Bill knew he grew the biggest and sweetest watermelons and peaches and some of the finest Valencia oranges. He took great pride in sharing the fruits of his labor with family, friends, and neighbors. As he grew older, Bill helped carry on cherished family traditions, working alongside aunts and uncles to make sausage, cure olives, and prepare Spanish family recipes that had been passed down through generations.
Bill started a landscaping service in his 20s, maintaining the yards of local residents. For many of his elderly customers, his weekly visits became much more than yard maintenance. Bill often provided a listening ear, and a helping hand with whatever needed to be done. In 1984, he graduated from the Antioch Police Academy where he was a reserve.
Around 1980, Bill and his three siblings founded Smith Family Farm. Together they spent long days planting, watering, and harvesting tomatoes,
melons, peppers, and a variety of row crops. Bill became a familiar face at farmers markets throughout the Bay Area, including the Clayton Farmers Market, where he sold fresh fruits and vegetables grown on the family farm. Over time, Smith Family Farm expanded to include school field trips and a beloved pumpkin patch that welcomed visitors each October. He retired in 2020 but enjoyed socializing with the guests each season.
Bill was known for always having a joke to tell, organizing lunch with friends at the Brentwood Cafe, attending church and creating delicious meals from whatever was in season. He knew no strangers.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William R. Smith Jr. and Betty Pastor Smith.
He is survived by his brother, Kenneth Smith and sister-in-law Kim Smith of Knightsen; his sister Janice Smith of Knightsen; his sister Shirley Smith and brother-in-law Patrick Doherty of Santa Rosa; his nephew Nicholas Smith of Berkeley and 34 first cousins.
Bill’s life was one of family tradition and community. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him. We wish him peace and happiness on his journey.
Services will be held on Tuesday, July 7, at St. Anthony’s Church in Oakley. Mass will begin at 11 a.m., followed by a gathering at St. Anthony’s Hall.
Burial will be held on Thursday, July 9, at Union Cemetery in Brentwood at 10:30 a.m.
All who knew Bill are welcome to attend.
Flowers may be sent to Brentwood Funeral Home, 839 First Street, Brentwood, CA 94513. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bill’s memory to Knightsen Elementary School District, P.O. Box 265, Knightsen, CA 94548.
William Kenneth Thornton May 1, 1971 - June 22, 2026
Bill was a California native and long-time resident of Brentwood.
A dedicated employee of Pizzagoni’s Towing, his hobbies included video games, tinkering with computers, astronomy, photography, classical literature and classical music.
He is survived by his brother-inlaw and sister, Tommy and Anne Ray of Antioch.
He will be missed.
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Nine country administrative departments heading to Brentwood in 2028 - June 18, 2026
“Disgusting, and built without asking the city if they have appropriate resources to accommodate influx of traffic and individuals from all over the county. This will overwhelm Brentwood’s infrastructure and neighborhoods, and it shows how much our supervisor Diane Burgis cares about her constituents.
#recalldianeburgis”
- Sinziana Todor/Facebook
“More BS coming to my late country town. Along with that is dmn heavier traffic. Ridiculous!”
- Joel Rivera/Facebook
“Great.... More criminals coming too Brentioch.”
- Robbie Guard/Facebook
Rage for Democracy holds community clean-up, schedules barbecue - June 16, 2026
“Beautiful to see in a time where this administration is defunding services that serve all people.
- Drani Banani/Facebook
“Appreciate your hard work to keep our beautiful city clean.”
- Naomi Schey/Facebook
Brentwood release latest water report - June 25, 2026
“And still have the worst drinking water.”
- wooten67/Instagram
“One of the best things Brentwood did was build the purple pipe infrastructure. We can be in a drought and the parks and medians stay nice and green!”
- doubled76/Instagram
Brentwood Council prioritizes community - June 25, 2026
“NO! NO! NO! We do not want a data center anywhere near here! They are incredibly harmful and take all of our prized resource, water.”
- dodgerdave10/Instagram
“Nah better to build a data center so they can’t build more houses already enough traffic on highway 4”
- jack_maguire121/Instagram
“I’ve been here 5 1/2 decades and was staunchly against growth for a myriad of reasons.
Now that the damage is done, let the data center finish off Brentwood.”
- trekker_71/Instagram
Roger B. Taney was Chief Justice on the U.S. Supreme Court in 1857 when he handed down a majority decision on a case that fomented a war pitting North against South in the bloodiest conflict in our nation’s history.
Dred Scott was a Black man and a slave who sued in the courts for his freedom, based on the fact that his master had brought Scott with him as he relocated to a northern state, one that did not recognize slavery.
Supported by Abolitionists from the North, the Scott case endured for 11 years, advancing through the Missouri courts, first winning and then losing on appeal. The case for Dred Scott’s freedom rose to the federal judicial system, where it was finally heard before the highest deliberative body in the land, the Supreme Court.
The majority ruled against Scott’s claim of freedom, and Taney declared that Black people, free or enslaved, “had no rights which the white man was bound to respect.” He believed the decision would settle the volatile national debate over slavery, but it instead provoked outrage at the denial of fundamental rights to human beings.
It would take civil war to end slavery, and constitutional amendments to guarantee freedom, citizenship, and the right to vote to all former slaves. Historians have not been kind to Taney in weighing his service on the Supreme Court, and his Dred Scott decision is seen as one of the greatest injustices to our nation.
Recently, the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice John Roberts, handed down rulings in several immigration cases. The Trump administration was granted the right to disregard the Temporary Protected Status
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program and legal residency in the U.S., enabling the deportation of hundreds of thousands of people from Haiti, Syria, and other strife-ridden countries.
The Court’s conservative majority also determined that asylum seekers at our southern border can be denied application under the rules of mandatory processing if they are not “physically” within the boundaries of the United States.
Finally, lawful permanent residents who have earned a coveted green card may be prevented from returning here after traveling abroad, on the assumption of criminality without cause or evidence.
These decisions are not abstractions, but the latest blows in a concerted effort by the Radical Right to eliminate diversity in America. They rewrite our history and delete the contributions to our country made by immigrants; they have engineered the incremental dismantling of the Voting Rights Bill and the disenfranchisement of Black Americans; they deploy militant ICE agents to terrorize our cities and violently round up and deport “illegal aliens” with no criminal record, numbering in the hundreds of thousands - our neighbors, our friends, our families.
It will not be long before history bears witness that the decisions handed down by the Supreme Court’s conservative majority were not based on interpretation of Constitutional law, but on an ideology of racism and bigotry.
In time, Roberts will be found guilty of facilitating this heartless agenda and will join his fellow jurist Roger B. Taney in the annals of injustice.
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Marcus Malu keeps coming back to the mud. The kind you have to climb out of. The same mud that Deer Valley’s football team climbed out of last year after nearly a dozen years of struggle.
“Every win, it’s like a championship, because we get in and out the mud,” Malu said. “We’re taking kids that were said to be troublesome kids. No — they’re just kids with problems, just like we had problems.”
In his debut season a year ago — his first as a high school head coach — Malu did what plenty of outsiders thought was impossible. He took the overlooked, struggling Wolverines and turned it into a playoff contender. Deer Valley went 6-5 overall in 2025, their first winning record since 2013, and earned a North Coast Section playoff berth for the first time in as long.
to qualify for November football. They beat Heritage on a school-record, gamewinning 45-yard field goal from Santiago Navarro-Berny on Senior Night, then took down Freedom in Oakley to finish 6-4 and clinch the playoff berth. The postseason run was brief, however — a first-round loss at Granada in Livermore.
Good and bad, Malu said, it was all part of the process.
“I knew what was going to happen with that process,” he said. “Coming out the gate, the kids were excited. Our opponents, it was a good building block. But I also knew that when we went into Week 5, that was going to be the stretch where we take some hits. …We had a lack of experience in big games. Now we have kids that’ve been in big games, who understand the moment.”
Now, entering his second season at the helm, the question entering 2026 is what he and the Wolverines have in store for an encore., Besides, Malu already knows the reason for the turnaround. He learned it himself last Fall.
“It’s the process,” he said after Tuesday’s camp practice. “The process, the daily grind. Now I understand what to expect, and I understand how to maneuver around it a little bit more.”
Deer Valley stunned everyone last year by opening 4-0, its best start since that 2013 season, before hitting a wall. The team dropped four straight, all to playoff contenders: Roseville, Liberty, Antioch, and Pittsburg.
The Wolverines turned it around late
The biggest change over the second half of last season was how the Wolverines practiced. So, after practice on Tuesday, Malu wanted to talk about practice. Not a game or gameplan, but practice.
“We needed to change the way we coach them up,” he said. “We made practice where it’s loose and lets [the players] have fun. I think it worked out, because
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Two months ago, 44 girls flag football club teams from across California — and one from Colorado — packed the fields at Heritage High School in Brentwood for the third-annual U-Pick6 tournament. Now, East County schools are getting ready for their fourth high school season.
For East County Valkyrie president and founder Paul Stonebarger, whose club also hosted the early-May showcase, the growth of the sport continues.
“I think it’s ever growing,” Stonebarger said. “It’s so new that I think everyone’s still finding its way. It’s just been a growing experiment that is obviously working.”
Liberty began its off-season workouts two weeks ago, with Heritage to start theirs on Monday. Stonebarger, who will serve as a volunteer on Liberty’s varsity staff this fall, said the club season wrapped up the last weekend of May.
What has changed most, he said, is who is playing — and why. When the sport arrived as a sanctioned varsity sport in 2023, rosters were filled with multi-sport athletes trying something new. Now, more of them are choosing flag football first.
“A shift is definitely happening,” Stonebarger said. “You’re seeing a lot of the older girls drop sports because they’re making decisions (about) what they think
ketball, soccer, track,” Turf Elite and recent Pittsburg graduate Isabella Lacy said at the U-Pick6 tournament. Lacy will continue her flag football career at Cal Poly in the fall. “Everyone’s coming to this sport because it’s growing and there’s more opportunities here.”
Those mentioned opportunities come on a bigger stage. Flag football for both the men’s and women’s side will make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games, and Stonebarger said the possibility is no longer abstract for his players.
“There is a realistic opportunity for any of these girls to play Olympic flag football if they want to put the work in,” he said. “They’re doing their own workouts. They’re calling coaches. It’s a realistic possibility, whether it’s the Olympics, college — the opportunities are there.”
Heritage senior Malia Barcojo, who plays her club flag football with East County Elite and was recently offered a scholarship by Simpson University, says that she wants to continue her career after graduating next spring.
is best for their future. And the younger girls, now this is an opportunity for them to make this their sport.”
“It’s really crazy how many girls really just picked up on this because some girls, they came from bas-
“I’m really excited to see what comes for college because I’m not set on a college that I want to go to, but I know that I’m going to play flag football in college,” Barcojo said at the U-Pick 6 tournament. “No matter where I go, I want to carry this with me past high school.”
Football from page 10
However, the continued growth at the club level has strained the pipeline at the high school stage. Stonebarger said that Valkyrie drew more than 100 girls to tryouts this year, ages 8 to 17, up from about 40 players the years before. At Liberty’s new open-field summer sessions, he counted roughly a dozen freshmen amongst the returning players who had never played the sport.
But he says that the high school game is not keeping pace. Programs typically field a junior varsity and a varsity team — both carry roughly 20 players each — and no freshman squad, even as interest increases.
“It’s exciting to me because I just see that it’s still growing,” he said. “I think the biggest disappointment in the high school game right now is at levels we’re not keeping up with, because we’re not offering freshman (teams).”
The obstacles, he acknowledged, are familiar ones for any sport: field space, a shortage of referees willing to learn a new rule set, and the cost to the school of adding another team. He would like schools to consider
Malu from page 10
they came out of it strong — especially against Heritage, and then finishing off [the regular season] at Freedom. We had to adjust, not just myself, but our whole staff, on coaching them up.”
The results showed up off the field, too. For the first time in a long time, Deer Valley didn’t lose any players to grades last year, and this year participation climbed with it. The Wolverines carried about 50 players in 2025 throughout its entire program. This year, Malu said, that number is up to 63.
He credits the growth not only to the
at least an inter-conference freshman team.
“We definitely have enough [players] to make a freshman team. We definitely have enough to do a JV team,” he said. “I just don’t think right now the schools are really prepared.”
With no freshman team, some talented freshmen who tryout get cut based on numbers alone.
“It’s just about the numbers, and it’s not exactly about the talent,” Stonebarger said. He pointed to redemption stories, too — two girls he cut his first year coaching at Liberty came to Valkyrie and made their high school teams within two seasons.
For Stonebarger, a self-described “boy dad” of two sons, the whole story arc of girls flag football still hits pretty hard, even in a game that doesn’t have any, or much, hitting.
“I honestly can’t even put it in words,” he said of girls flag football’s growth. “It’s not only just my experience. It is history — girls flag going to the Olympics, all that. We’re just happy to be a part of it. And seeing them finally get the opportunities, it’s so cool.”
on-field success but to changes across the school.
“It goes back to my staff, and it goes back to our admins,” he said. “We have a new principal, a new athletic director. And we get big support from our district. If we don’t have that support, we’re not going anywhere.”
Part of that growth transferred in — literally. Senior defensive linemen Sonasi Maka II and Delonte Everett are the program’s two Division I-bound commits. Maka came over from De La Salle after two seasons in Concord and committed
by
to Washington State. Everett arrived from Liberty for his senior year this year and is committed to Idaho State.
“We were a new team last year,” Maka said of his junior season. “The expectation is being better than we were last year, on and off the field — to do everything possible to be better than 6-4.”
“We both bring experience,” Everett said. “We both know the game pretty well and come from winning programs. We bring physicality, know what it takes to win, and we’re trying to help teach our guys that, too.”
Malu and the Wolverines’ expectation for 2026 is a return to the playoffs, which Malu said, is also part of the process, whether he wants to talk about it or not.
“What I’ve learned from the mentors, from being around top coaches, is that they never talk about winning,” he said. “Not even repeating. But we’ve got to repeat the day-to-day — how can we get better? Everything has to be on point. It’s the little things now. If we keep that pressure of the day-to-day being perfect, and work on the things we need to work on, I think it sets us up to revisit the playoffs.”
By Connor Robles Correspondent
Oakley once again held its annual Summer Fest to celebrate the anniversary of the city’s incorporation on June 27 at Civic Center Park and City Hall.
City Clerk Kim Snodgrass estimated that 5,000 to 6,000 people attended the festival, an increase of 1,000 to 2,000 over last year’s estimate.
The festival was packed with entrepreneurs’ stands, food trucks, and activities for all ages, including bungee jumping, rock climbing, bounce houses, and a spinning Berry-Go-Round ride, as well as a station at which children could look for real gems in mining sluice that flowed down a trough, similar to a gold panning rig. Bay Area blues band Evan Thomas and the Brotherhood, veterans of playing at Oakley’s Summer Fest, provided live music throughout the day.
Unlike last year and the year before, there was no parade to kick off the celebration. According to Snodgrass, the parade was originally meant to mark Oakley’s 25th anniversary of incorporation in 2024, and was subsequently picked up by the Oakley Chamber of Commerce for a second year, but was not included again this year.
Attendees and vendors alike said they enjoyed Summer Fest.
“It’s my fourth year doing this event, and it’s a really good event,” said Mayra Rodriguez, owner of Belmya Boutique, one of the many craft stands lining Main
Street. “Every year, it seems like they do more – more activities, more vendors. It’s grown a lot since I started.”
Councilmember Anissa Williams concurred, and praised the efforts of city staff in setting up the event.
“It’s so good,” she said of the festival. “Every year, it feels like they do it better and better. Our Oakley staff is the best.”
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
California leaders responded to the U.S. Supreme Court this week upholding the current vote-by-mail process used by millions of Americans, regardless of political party — helping ensure mail-in-ballots get counted and people’s voices are heard through the democratic process, according to a press release from Gov. Newsom’s office.
“This is a win for voters, plain and simple. California, like many states, utilizes vote-by-mail to increase participation in our democracy and today’s ruling helps ensure mail-in-ballots get counted and people’s voices are heard through the democratic process. Despite ongoing attacks from the Trump Administration, we will continue our work throughout the Golden State to ensure every eligible Californian participates — because democracy is strongest when we all take part.”
- Gov. Newsom
“(The) U.S. Supreme Court decision is a win for voters, for the rule of law, and for the future of our democracy. By rejecting efforts to shorten the vote-by-mail return window, the Court protected an important safeguard that helps ensure service members, overseas voters, Californians with disabilities,
and rural communities are not silenced by mail delays beyond their control. This ruling makes one thing clear: our elections belong to the people, not to partisan agendas. As Secretary of State, I will keep working to ensure every eligible Californian has the opportunity to be heard, because our democracy is strongest when every voice counts.”
- Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D
Under California law, voteby-mail ballots that are postmarked on or before Election Day and received by county elections officials within seven days are counted.
“Today’s decision recognizes a basic reality: Mail delays happen. When
people vote by Election Day, their ballots should not be discarded because of those delays. Since our nation’s founding, states have been primarily responsible for regulating elections, and we are pleased that the U.S. Supreme Court has respected that authority.”
- Attorney General Rob Bonta
The court ruling reaffirms the authority of states to administer fair and inclusive elections, allowing California to continue educating voters, supporting county elections officials, and protecting access to the ballot every step of the way, Weber said in a press release.
Under California law, vote-by-mail ballots that are postmarked on or before Election Day and received by county elections officials within seven days are counted. This helps protect voters from being disenfranchised because of mail delays outside their control.
Kindergarten – 8th Grade Applications Available Beginning June 8, 2026:
Applications will be available online for Brentwood, Oakley and Byron School Districts.
STUDENT ID NUMBER 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 the application must match the one provided to the school in order to apply for transportation and 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.
We 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 air mile radius from the school are NOT eligible for transport.
High School Applications Available Beginning July 13, 2026:
Applications will be available online for Liberty Union High School District.
STUDENT ID NUMBER REQUIRED TO APPLY
Precede the Student ID with the LUHD – example: LUHD1234567
The email and home address you use on the application must match the one provided to the school in order to apply for transportation and 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.
We are only able to transport students to their home school based on the home address.
Students in grades 9 through 12 who live within a two air mile radius from the school are NOT eligible for transport.
APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE ONLINE at LUHSD.net. Select Departments then Transportation Services or https://www.luhsd.net/departments/transportation-services/welcome or use the QR code.
BUS PASSES MUST BE SIGNED FOR AND PICKED UP AT 19 OAK STREET, BRENTWOOD, CA
To avoid disqualification, do NOT submit applications before the dates shown above. Applications submitted early WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. You will need to reapply once the 2026–27 applications are online.
Three 2026 Liberty High School graduates –Cash Davies (Contra), Andrew Giles (Snare) and Abigail Schmidt (Mellophone) – have been selected to participate in the prestigious and highly competitive Blue Devils B Drum Corps finals in Indiana in August.
Based in Concord, they are part of BD Performing Arts (BDPA) is a nonprofit 501 ()c (3) youth performing arts organization that develops young performers through nationally recognized programs including The Blue Devils, Blue Devils B, Blue Devils C, BD Juniors, BD Winds, the Blue Devils Special Needs Guard, and an indoor percussion ensemble, the group said in a press release.
“Founded in 1957, The Blue Devils are the most decorated corps in DCI history, with over 40 years in the top five and a record-breaking 21 world championship titles. BD Performing Arts offers young men and women age 8-22 high-quality educational and performance experiences in the areas of musical and dance performance. BDPA’s objective is to develop personal character through challenging physical, emotional, mental, and social activities while promoting the values of dedication, hard work, and commitment to a team effort.”
“Due to The Blue Devils’ renowned championship history, entry into the corps is highly competitive. Participants come to audition from all over California and even from out of state,” explains Matt Sieve, Director of Open Class Corps, which includes Blue Devils B, Blue Devils C and BD Juniors. “It is
a testament to the quality and culture of the Blue Devils program that we are able to assemble such high-quality musicians and performers each year.”
Sieve, who played tuba in Blue Devils A from 2013 to 2016, continued working with Blue Devils after “aging out”, first as an instructor and then moving into an administrative role after completing college. He describes the drum corps atmosphere as, “the Major Leagues of marching arts. Kids in drum corps commit to 12 hours a day, six days a week and it is a lot of hard work. They are extremely dedicated to the physical training and musical practice that goes into this level of competition.”
Schmidt said, “For years I’ve wanted to participate in a drum corps. I heard about it first in middle school. After being in Liberty’s marching band, I knew I wanted even more of the marching arts in my life. It’s great to finally do the thing I’ve always wanted to do.”
Giles’s mom, Janeen Giles, a host family for two of the percussionists from out of town, said, “You can’t imagine how hard these kids work to be able to perform at such a high level. Marching arts is the only high school sport where each participant works so hard to not stand out. The goal is to perform in a way that elevates the overall team. It is very selfless.”
All three of the graduates are pursuing careers in music education and music performance. Andrew and Abigail will attend the University of North Texas, and Cash will attend the University of the Pacific in Stockton.
Garden from page 3
snap from the extra weight.”
Bates noted that vegetables like summer squash, zucchini, watermelon, and pumpkins need a lot of space to grow, whereas peppers, strawberries, and tomatoes do not need as much space and can be grouped together in the same bed.
Perez added that during July through August, gardeners can begin planning for fall vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, lettuce, spinach, carrots, and peas.
Perez advises those looking to start a vegetable garden to visit their local independent nursery, where recommendations are tailored to the local climate rather than generalized for the entire state.
For more information, visit these East County businesses:
“ I would recommend any tomato cages, stakes, and plant tape for extra support during the fruiting stage so the branches don’t snap from the extra weight. ”
Scarlett Bates - Ace Hardware
Brentwood Ace Hardware
8900 Brentwood Blvd. Suite J acebrentwood.com (925) 634-3201
Bearscapes Nursery and Landscape 1555 N. Eden Plains Road, Brentwood https://bearscapesnurseryandlandscape.com (925) 240-6311
Perez Nursery 2601 Walnut Blvd., Brentwood pereznursery.com (925) 516-1052
Several streets in downtown Brentwood will be closed on July 4 for the parade and activities afterward, the city announced.
The street closures for the parade from 6 a.m.-6 p.m. include Fir Street, First Street and Oak Street. Oak Street from First Street to Fourth Street will be closed from 6 a.m.-6 p.m.
For the America 250 celebration, First, Oak and Maple streets are closed from 6 a.m.-6 p.m.,
Oak Street from First to Fourth streets from 6 a.m.-6 p.m., and Second, Maple and Oak streets from 6 a.m.-6 p.m.
The Farmers Market will not operate on July 4.
For details, or questions, call 925516-5444.
Celebrating America’s 250th anniversary this Fourth of July holiday weekend is an opportunity to have fun in the sun at one of California’s 280 (and growing) state parks. Whether you’re swimming, hiking, boating, recreating in an off-highway vehicle, or watching fireworks over San Francisco Bay, the nation’s largest and most diverse state park system has something for everyone. Following simple safety precautions, such as wearing a properly-fitted life jacket in the water, wearing sunscreen, and avoiding alcohol, can help you and your party have a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend outdoors.
Here are some tips to have a safe visit to California’s state parks during the holiday weekend:
Plan ahead and pack appropriately
Schedule activities based on temperatures throughout the day.
Dress in appropriate clothing for your planned activities.
Shield yourself from the sun by bringing a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Bring plenty of water and avoid dehydrating beverages such as alcohol and caffeine.
Water safety
Wear a properly-fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket around the water. Water-related incidents can happen suddenly, and wearing a life jacket is the best way to increase chances of survival. View locations where public agencies and private organizations loan life jackets to the public.
If you encounter an ocean rip current, stay calm and do not fight it. Swim or float parallel to the shore until you are out of the current and then swim toward the shore.
Seek help from a lifeguard or call 911 during emergencies.
Never dive headfirst into the water or use rope swings.
Avoid alcohol and drugs
Operating any vehicle, including a boat or an off-highway vehicle, while impaired is against the law. Impaired drivers and boaters can be arrested and their car or boat can be towed.
Some parks have alcohol bans. Check each specific park website to determine if there are local ordinances concerning alcohol.
Practice fire safety
Fireworks are prohibited in California’s state parks.
Never leave campfires unattended. Fully extinguish fires before leaving and keep water and a shovel nearby.
Do not build fires larger than necessary.
Leave no trace
Leave the park better than you found it by packing out all trash and putting food waste, napkins, single-use food wrappers, and other waste in trash 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.
Leaving items on a beach or park, even if they are “near” a trash can, may be considered illegal dumping.
Do not disturb wildlife or plants.
July 1, 2026, marked exactly four years since the historic annexation of the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District (ECCFPD) into the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (CCCFPD). What began as a monumental administrative shift has completely transformed emergency response and safety across East County, according to a press release.
Before the 2022 merger, East County residents frequently faced severe service deficits, with critical resource shortages and response times that could sometimes stretch up to 20 minutes. Over the last four years, the unified district has delivered on its promise to bring stability and elite care to the region’s 128,000 residents by:
• Reducing response times: Integrating the districts streamlined countywide resource coordination, getting personnel to the scene more quickly.
• Enhanced front-line staffing: Introduction of dedicated truck company operations and guaranteed Advanced Life Support staffing, ensuring a certified paramedic is assigned to every front-line fire apparatus
• Expanding infrastructure: Measure X county funding has allowed for the opening and staffing of essential neighborhood stations, including Station 95 in Oakley, and additional modernizations.
• Advanced fire and rescue capabili-
To submit a news item for this page, send it to editor@brentwoodpress.com
ties: Deployment of a seasonal aerial firefighting helicopter based at the Byron Wildland Fire Center, alongside a specialized marine firefighting and rescue boat program.
• Community and prevention focus: Access to dedicated public education personnel to foster local safety and preparedness.
Antioch Fleet Reinforcements (June 2024)
Fire Station 81 in Antioch receives a significant resource boost. A new ladder truck and a dedicated three-person crew are officially welcomed and pushed into active service during a traditional fire service ceremony.
Station 94 Construction Underway (current)
Following a ground-breaking in late 2025, construction is well underway on the new, state-of-the-art Fire Station 94 in downtown Brentwood. Slated for completion at the end of 2026, this building will restore vital downtown fire protection and localized paramedic services to Brentwood’s highest-density area of need while also increasing response capabilities for the far-east unincorporated communities of Bethel Island, Byron, Knightsen, and Discovery Bay.
Station 90 Design and Development Upcoming/Future
Plans are moving forward for the upcoming Fire Station 90 at Lone Tree Way and Windy Springs Lane in Brentwood. Designed as a large, two-crew “battalion headquarters” on a five-acre site, this future facility will house a ladder truck and full paramedic services to reduce response times across the district.
The Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice (ORESJ) just introduced a major funding opportunity to launch the Federal D. Glover Community Wellness Network – an initiative to boost health, safety, and in the Black community.
If you are a non-profit, foundation, or philanthropic group, ORESJ seeks a lead group to serve as the administrative backbone, rally service providers, and build a lasting legacy, according to a press release from Supervisor Diane Burgis’s office.
On July 8 from 1–3 p.m. is a Virtual Bidders’ Conference. The final proposals are due by Aug. 6 at 3 p.m.
The initial contract is for one year with up to two renewals. To register as a vendor or more details, visit https:// www.bidnetdirect.com/california/contracostacounty
How do you receive emergency information during wildfires, earthquakes,
refinery incidents, or other emergencies?
With summer heat, dry winds, wildfire risk, earthquakes, and other local emergencies always a possibility, staying informed matters, according to a press release from Supervisor Diane Burgis’s office.
Contra Costa County is conducting a public survey to learn how residents get alerts and prepare for emergencies. Your input will strengthen future preparedness and emergency communication strategies across our communities.
Take the survey at https://bit. ly/3QAZPyF
Local advocates, policymakers, and service providers want your feedback on how to improve accessibility to services. Data is collected to form change and build bridges. A more inclusive Contra Costa County is built on your real, lived experiences, according to a press release from Supervisor Diane Burgis’s office.
Take the survey at https://www cchealth org / about- contra- costa- health/ divisions / public - health / communityhealth-assessment-2026
The Contra Costa Transit Authority (CCTA) and the Contra Costa Health Specialty Health Ambassador Program want to learn how they can better improve streets, highways, and bike paths. Whether you live, work, or study in the county, your voice matters. Take the survey in English or Spanish for a chance to win one of five $100 VISA gift cards, according to a press release from Supervisor Diane Burgis’s office.
Take the survey at https:// scdd.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/ SV_3zcoHjK5BPMFJ3w
Contra Costa Health is asking residents to take a survey to better understand the health needs of county residents.
This assessment serves as a foundation for improving public health outcomes and advancing health equity. The survey takes about 15 minutes, and not only asks about health issues like access to care and chronic conditions, but also how families can make sure they have enough food to eat, housing and general well-being.
Take the survey at https://bit. ly/4v9SXq9
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Candidates should have previous journalistic experience in relevant fields and the ability to take photos and video.
Candidates must also be capable of writing concise, accurate and engaging stories on deadline, along with being computer literate and able to function in a multimedia, online environment.
Candidates based in East County are preferred.
Job type: Part-time
Monday to Friday afternoon/evenings with weekend availability Ability to commute in and around East County License: Driver’s License
If you are qualified for this position please send your resume, writing and photo samples: Jake@brentwoodpress.com
By Jake Menez Staff Writer
The city of Pittsburg has launched a web page providing an overview of Pittsburg Technology Park, a planned technology district that will include a proposed data center approved 5-0 by the City Council in November 2024. This follows a press release sent out by the city on June 16 that acknowledged pushback the city has gotten from residents over the decision and promised “a workshop on development of data centers” to be held in the future.
“The AVAIO Perseus Data Center is a proposed data center project within the Pittsburg Technology Park,” the webpage explains. “The project is intended to support advanced technology infrastructure, create long-term economic development opportunities, and help activate strategically planned employment-generating land in Pittsburg.”
Pittsburg’s commitment to its data center, which has been discussed since 2018, stands in contrast to other local cities, such as Brentwood and Oakley, whose councils have sought legal avenues to ban data centers from being developed in their cities.
Among the resources on Pittsburg’s webpage for the data center is a section for frequently asked questions, which includes an explanation of how the project will be funded as well as a number of answers to questions about potential environmental and public safety concerns. Below is an excerpt of the questions and answers, edited for length. The full FAQ section can be found at https://bit ly/4oWP9al
What is the AVAIO Perseus Data Center, and where is it located?
The project is a planned data center within the Pittsburg Technology Park, designed to support digital infrastructure and economic development. It is located along West Leland Road, on the former Delta View Golf Course property.
Has the project been approved? Have contracts been signed, and has AVAIO paid for anything to benefit the City?
The project has received all necessary approvals from the City and state. Please note, future phases will require, at a minimum, approval by the Zoning Administrator at duly noticed public meeting. The Zoning Administrator’s decision may be appealed to the Planning Commission.
There is a Project Development Agreement between the City and AVAIO that was executed in 2019. There are additional agreements between the City and AVAIO that are still being negotiated that deal with power sales and infrastructure.
What environmental review was completed?
The project underwent full environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). An environmental impact report was prepared, and found that there were no significant and unavoidable impacts resulting from the project. All impacts would be reduced to a less than significant level with mitigations incorporated.
Did the City research other data centers and their effects on residents and the environment?
Staff did extensive research and held multiple community meetings from 2018, when the project was first introduced, to when it was approved in late 2024. This is what ensured the data center would be located over 400 feet from the nearest residence, would only use recycled water, would have scrubbers installed on all backup generators, and that extensive noise mitigation would be incorporated.
Do adjacent residents, the nearby church, and the nearby middle school know about the project and how it may affect them?
Yes. Adjacent residents were made aware of the project on multiple occasions dating back to when the project was first introduced in 2018, and multiple community meetings have been held to gather resident feedback. The neighboring church along Golf Club Road has hosted several of our community meetings, including the most recent meeting on May 5. Pittsburg Unified School District is aware of the project, and the environmental impact report analyzes the impact of the project on all surrounding uses.
Will there be enough recycled water to cool the data center? How does the project’s demand compare to Delta Diablo’s current and projected recycled water capacity?
Yes. The environmental impact report included a water supply assessment, which states supplies are sufficient and that Phase I will use primarily recycled water from Delta Diablo. The Delta Diablo treatment plant’s 2023 average daily production of recycled water was about 7.5 million gallons per day, while the data center’s recycled water demand is estimated to be only 0.058 million gallons per day — less than 1% of Delta Diablo’s current recycled water output. For context, the former Delta View Golf Course used about 0.27 million gallons per day of recycled water from the same pipeline.
How is the data center proposed to be cooled if it isn’t using much water?
The data center will be air-cooled. The small amount of water that will be used is part of an optional precooling system, wherein during hot weather water is sprayed onto the chiller coils, which
reduces the electrical load on the compressors and fans significantly. This is where recycled water may be used — for this precooling assist, not for evaporative towers. The chillers also may use humidification for both data halls and offices, which uses the same water supply.
If there isn’t adequate recycled water supply available for any reason, the coolers have been designed to be operational without it.
What contingency plans exist if recycled water is unavailable?
Delta Diablo has significant capacity in its available recycled water and has provided a ‘Will Serve’ letter to the project stating as such. If additional recycled water is needed for any reason, the City and developer could look to neighboring wastewater treatment facilities that have excess recycled water. But switching to potable water would not be an option for Phase I, as it is a direct violation of the Settlement Agreement between AVAIO, the Center for Biological Diversity, and the City.
Much of the water use is optional; if recycled water supplies were to become scarce, the cooling system could function on a very minimal amount.
Who pays for the energy and infrastructure? Will costs be distributed among Pittsburg residents/ratepayers?
The tenant of the data center will pay for the energy used, and the developer will fund all infrastructure upgrades required. These costs will NOT be distributed among residents. Electric service for this project will not result in increased local rates.
We know this has been an issue with other data centers, but this project is unique. Most data centers are located in areas and take power from the local energy company serving the surrounding community. In this instance, you and your neighbors are PG&E customers, and the data center will be supplied power from the Pittsburg Power Company (PPC). This means the power being delivered to the data center isn’t coming from the same PG&E “pool” as your power, and your power won’t be reduced to benefit the data center.
Recycled water sprayed can become aerosolized and can drift into neighborhoods, raising concerns about exposure. How will disinfection, aerosol drift, health risk, review by Contra Costa Health Services, and air-quality monitoring be addressed?
The recycled water will be pretreated, and all spray will occur within confined spaces. It is important to note that the golf course previously used significantly more recycled water to irrigate the 180-acre course using sprinklers — an open-air application. Because the data center’s spray is pretreated and confined, the odor, aerosol, and inhalation concerns — including any interaction with existing landfill odors — are substantially limited compared to that prior open-air use.
Will the City commit to public, ongoing reporting?
There are certain things we are required to report, and others we know the public is interested in. Sharing the information is not something we see as optional, and
the Public Records Act would back that up. This City Council, both past and present, has prioritized transparency and public participation.
We are committed to sharing the data we can, openly and in a way anyone interested can digest.
What policies or agreements protect resident and community data privacy and prevent warrantless or broad surveillance uses?
This facility does not propose to include any type of external data collection or surveillance, such as cameras, for any reason other than security. How residents choose to share their personal data with companies, and how those companies choose to use it, is not something we can control.
How does the project protect against fire hazards the area has experienced over the past several years?
Per the California Building Code (CBC), the building will be designed by a certified architect and meet all CBC seismic standards; undergo independent review by the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (ConFire); and be required to obtain any necessary permits from Contra Costa County HazMat. Any building will be required to be built to the most current adopted code.
The data center will be surrounded by extensive landscaping and a parking area that will provide a buffer from the dry grasses that can catch fire, allowing additional time for ConFire to respond to any incidents. The building will undergo review by ConFire and will be equipped with an extensive fire suppression system. ConFire has been aware of and reviewing this project for several years and has not raised concern over wildfire risk.
How would the nearby school evacuate during a fire, explosion, or hazmat incident?
The City maintains recommended evacuation routes planned in conjunction with multiple agencies, including the schools. As mentioned, the project doesn’t conflict with the City’s 2018 EOP or the Contra Costa Operational Area EOP, and ConFire has reviewed the evacuation routes around the data center, with a secondary emergency vehicle access route required to connect the data center to West Leland Road.
Schools are legally required to conduct regular fire, earthquake, and evacuation drills. Will the data center — with diesel generators, fuel storage, highvoltage equipment, and batteries — be required to conduct emergency drills, coordinate with ConFire, notify nearby residents of drill schedules, and participate in community-wide disaster planning (evacuation routes, traffic control, communication protocols, emergency shelters, and joint drills involving residents, schools, and first responders)?
Any required fire drills or hazmat drills are under the jurisdiction of Contra Costa County, and the data center will be required to comply with all standard procedures. As noted above, the City maintains recommended evacuation routes developed with multiple agencies, including PUSD, and we are willing to separately review those routes and make recommendations.
Who can I contact with questions?
Please contact Jordan Davis, Director of Community and Economic Development, at (925) 252-4015, or by email at jdavis@pittsburgca.gov.
For most people, the Fourth of July is a time for fun and celebration, going to (or hosting) parties and cookouts with friends, great food and, of course, fireworks. However, for your pets, the Fourth of July can be a stressful, scary time.
Although it is illegal for residents in Contra Costa County to set off fireworks, the number of them that are still used make Fourth of July weekend Contra Costa Animal Services’ busiest time of the year for lost animals as they attempt to reunite them with their families, the organization said. Fireworks can spook even the calmest pets, so make sure your furry friends are licensed, collared, and microchipped, CCAS explained on social media. Learn more at www.contracosta.ca.gov/826/Lostand-Found-Resources
Most animals have sensitive hearing, and the loud noises of parties and fireworks can cause them remarkable stress and discomfort. They don’t understand what’s happening and can often become scared and try to escape, which can result in the animal becoming lost, endangered, or injured.
Making sure that your pets are licensed, collared and microchipped greatly increases the likelihood of reuniting lost animals with their owners, and CCAS cannot stress enough the importance of taking those measures to ensure the safety of your animals.
However, the best possible scenario would be for
partner is Harvest Time, another local nonprofit, in celebration of their 50th anniversary.
According to Rodriguez, the banners are expected to be installed on streetlamps downtown on July 3 and removed by Sept. 30 in preparation for the auction. According to the staff report, there were 53 banner submissions for displays. After reviewing them, the commissioners did not have any concerns that there were banners that did not adhere to the theme.
With profits from the upcoming auction expected to be split between the artists and
your pet to be home safe with you. Below are some tips on how to ensure your pets remain safe.
If you know your animal is sensitive to loud noises, there are some helpful steps you can take to make them more comfortable and reduce the chances of them attempting to escape. Whether you are hosting a party or going away for the evening, there are ways you can keep your pet safe and stress-free from the noises of fireworks and other loud noises:
1. Keep pet indoors. Even if they spend the majority of their time outside, bring them in during the Fourth of July. It will help them feel safe and might save your pet’s life. Many pets go missing because they become ex-
nonprofit partner Harvest Time, as with previous years of the program, Banner Up! is funded through partnership with the city and use of Public Art money up to $14,000, according to the staff report.
“The City first partnered with the art guild in 2017 by providing funding from the Public Art Program Acquisition Fund to launch Banner Up!” The staff report reads. “Since then, the program has continued through a partnership supported by the City’s Economic Development Grant Program…For many years, Banner Up! has received strong community support.”
Water Safety from page 1
become safer and more confident around water.”
This location is one of seven Spare Time Sports Clubs that offers competitive sports, fitness classes, social programs, and spa services.
Vivian Crow, Aquatics Director at Diamond Hills Sports Club, emphasized water safety as not just seasonal, but a lifelong skill.
“While many families think about swimming lessons during the summer, water-related activities happen year-round, from indoor pools to vacations, boating, and water parks,” she said. “Like any important skill, swimming requires regular practice to build confidence, improve technique, and maintain muscle memory. Consistent lessons help children become stronger, safer, and more comfortable in the water over time. Whether you’re 3 or 73, it’s never too late to improve your swimming ability, and with a warm-water pool at Diamond Hill Sports Club. There’s no reason to wait until next summer to continue learning.”
Crow said one of the biggest misconceptions is believing that a child who can swim no longer needs close supervision. “The reality is that drowning can happen to anyone regardless of age or swimming ability, and it
As the guild evaluated ways to strengthen the program, it also “explored a more formal partnership with the city,” according to the agenda packet. Last March, the City Council accepted a proposal that the guild would continue to oversee the program, purchase needed materials, manage artist selection and implement the theme requirements.
The full meeting can be watched at https://bit ly/4y08mvJ. Included in the meeting notes is an attachment with images of all the 2026 banners and statements from the artists about their work.
tremely scared of the fireworks and other loud noises, which results in them escaping and fleeing.
2. Ensure that your pet is wearing a collar that identifies who to contact if they are lost or injured. Additionally, ensuring that your animal is microchipped greatly increases the likelihood of reunification.
3. Leave your pet at home if you head out to enjoy a Fourth of July celebration. You may think it’s fun to take your pet with you to a party, but your pet likely won’t enjoy the fireworks, noise, or large crowds.
4. If you leave your pets at home on the Fourth of July, consider a pet sitter for the evening to help keep your pet company and distracted from the noise.
5. Never leave your pets tethered or chained outside on the Fourth of July. When animals become stressed, they will go to great lengths to escape their bonds and often succeed in breaking free.
6. If you know that your pet is prone to stress from fireworks and loud noises, soothe it by closing windows and curtains and turning on the television or a calming radio station to help drown out the noise. Your pet will still be able to “feel” the fireworks, but the distraction will help alleviate some of the stress.
If your pet does escape, call Contra Costa Animal Services at 925-608-8400, and use the resources on the Lost Pets page at www.ccasd.org.
– Metro Creative contributed to this story
can occur in seconds, even in shallow water,” she noted. “Parents should always maintain active, undistracted supervision whenever children are in or around the water. Designating a ‘water watcher,’ eliminating distractions like phones, and ensuring children understand basic pool safety rules can significantly reduce risk. Swimming skills are an important layer of protection, but they should never replace adult supervision.”
Crow explained that being comfortable in the water and being water safe are not the same thing.
“Many people feel confident while standing or swimming with their head above water, but become uncomfortable or panic when their face is submerged,” she added. “True water safety means understanding how to control your breathing, float, tread water, recover if you unexpectedly enter the water, and remain calm in challenging situations. Staying calm is one of the most important survival skills because panic often makes emergencies worse. Swim lessons help build not only physical skills, but also the confidence and awareness needed to respond safely in and around the water.”
Crow advised parents to prepare their children for activities such as pool parties, vacations, lakes, and boating activities. “The best preparation begins with quality
swim lessons that teach both swimming skills and water safety.”
She added: “Children should learn foundational skills such as blowing bubbles, comfortably putting their face in the water, floating on their front and back, and safely moving through the water independently. As children become more confident and capable, they’re better prepared for a variety of aquatic environments beyond the swimming pool. The more comfortable that the child or swimmer is in the water, the safer they will be when faced with open-water experiences. Having control and knowledge of your body in the water is going to take you far in terms of water safety and comfortability outside of just a swimming pool. Parents should also remember that lakes, rivers, and oceans present different challenges than pools, including currents, changing depths, and limited visibility.”
Crow said continuing to practice water safety skills, using properly fitted life jackets, and maintaining close adult supervision help ensure that children can enjoy every water adventure safely.
For more information, visit www.sparetimesportsclubs.com or call Diamond Hills Sports Club at 925-436-1256.
