The Press 05.24.2024

Heritage students honored for C-SPAN documentary

By Daniel Gruen Correspondent

Students from Heritage High School received national attention Tuesday by winning “honorable mention” in this year’s C-SPAN StudentCam documentary filmmaking competition.

Rachel Katz from C-SPAN hosted the ceremony Tuesday morning at the Heritage High School Auditorium and congratulated the student filmmakers as their friends and family cheered.

“They are 1 of 150 winners C-SPAN has around the country,” she said. The award-winning film, FDA Regulation, was produced by Heritage seniors Matthew Schnaider, Amy Ordaz and Kyan Wai, and was selected from more than 1,600 submissions, according to Katz. The

Suspect in 22-year-old Oakley sexual assault case arrested

County into custody, Oakley police Chief Paul Beard said in a press release.

Police have arrested a suspect in a 22-year-old sexual assault case in Oakley.

On May 16, the United States Marshals Service, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, police, and a Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team, took Eric Ferguson, 49, of Rathdrum, Idaho and a 2002 resident of the East Contra Costa

Oakley detectives will bring Ferguson back to California this week and book him into the Contra Costa County jail for the crimes for which he is a suspect that were committed 22 years ago.

In April 2002, a sexual assault was re ported near Laurel Road in Oakley that involved a juvenile female who had been out walking

her dog. She was approached by a man who got out of a vehicle, pointed a gun at her, ordered her into the back seat of the vehicle and is suspected of ordering her to perform several sexual acts at gunpoint. At some point, the girl escaped. The juvenile went to a nearby house for help, and the police were called. DNA was collected and analyzed as part of the in-

see Assault page 22

a ceremony on May 21 where Heritage seniors Matthew

Amy Ordaz and Kyan Wai were recognized for their “honorable mention” win in this year’s C-SPAN StudentCam documentary filmmaking competition.

Brentwood planners focus on training themselves

this on the schedule for a while,” Planning Manager Erik Nolthenius said before the presentation.

By Jake Menez Staff Writer

The Brentwood Planning Commission took advantage of a light meeting agenda on May 21 to do their annual training and shed light on their processes. Commissioner Kristopher Brand was absent due to an illness.

“We’ve been trying to get

“We are committed at the staff level to holding some sort of annual training session at an official commission meeting. “ According to the staff report, the training is meant to coincide with the timing of the Planning Commissioners Academy that is hosted by the League of California Cities in Long Beach in early March. The purpose of the city-level training and the academy is to expand

22

Rachel Katz from C-SPAN (left) hosted

Schnaider,

Photo by Daniel Gruen

Ballot Closes Monday, May 28 at 5:00 p.m.

NOW IS YOUR CHANCE TO SPEAK UP AND VOTE for your favorite Oakley and Bethel Island business or person. Who is your favorite stylist, gardener or carpet cleaner? Where do you get the best pizza? Who’s your dog groomer? You get the idea – now get voting! We list more than 150 categories to help you weigh in on the Best of Oakley.

CERTIFICATE

just by taking the time to fill out and submit a ballot. We will be awarding three lucky voters who submit their ballots by Tuesday, May 28 at 5 p.m.

Full-sized, 11 x 17 photocopied newspaper ballots are OK, but entries must be written by hand in

* Additional paper ballots are available at The Press, 248 Oak Street, Brentwood. 5. When voting for a person, enter the person’s FULL name AND their company’s name. 6. When voting for a company, enter the company’s complete name.

Brentwood mom wins beauty pageant

By Hemananthani Sivanandam Correspondent

Sumita Wahi Singh’s love for fashion and the runway has always been evident but it took a back seat to a different career: raising a family. However, her move to Brentwood helped reignite her dreams.

In April, Sumita was crowned Mrs. Bharat California 2024, a category in the Miss Bharat California 2024 beauty pageant organized by MyDream TV USA.

The mom of two said moving to Brentwood gave her the financial freedom to pursue her dreams. “I was so stuck in my routine,” Sumita said. “I was a high school teacher, and I loved it, but I felt I did not have the chance or time to fulfill my passion, which is in modeling or beauty pageants.”

“Moving to Brentwood was a big turning point; it gave me the financial freedom to explore my hobby and passion.”

Encouraged by her husband, entrepreneur Beant Singh, Sumita decided to pursue her passions again.

Her initiatives to get back into the spotlight took her to Paris Fashion Week in February, where she walked for U.S.-based designer Tara Gems Galore. This experience rekindled her love for the runway and led her to participate in LA Fashion Week, where she modeled for designer Priyal Doshi.

At the LA Fashion Week, Sumita heard about the Miss Bharat California pageant. She took the opportunity and prepared for the competition, attending weekly Zoom training sessions and in-person rehearsals that covered everything from stage choreography to addressing social and global issues.

All the work paid off on April 28, when she impressed a panel of judges, ultimately earning the crown.

However, Sumita’s journey in the pageant world began long before. Born in Punjab, India, she first experienced the thrill of the stage at 18, securing the first runner-up position in the Miss World Punjab pageant. Her path led her to Australia, where she modeled as a hobby while pursuing a Master’s degree. However, her life took a different turn after moving to the United States in 2015. Marriage, chil -

dren, and a fulfilling career as a high school math and science teacher in San Jose filled her days, yet the spark of her modeling dreams flickered within her.

For Sumita, the win is a personal achievement and a platform for advocacy and change. With a passion and keen interest in the environment, Sumita aims to raise awareness about global warming

and promote sustainable living. She is already active in her community, being a member of the Mothers of Brentwood organization, and hopes to create more awareness and activities. She also hopes to inspire young girls and women, mainly from Indian cultural backgrounds, to break free from societal norms and pursue their dreams. To comment, visit www.thepress.net

Sumita Wahi Singh was crowned winner of Mrs. Bharat (India) California 2024.

Photo courtesy of Sumita Wahi Singh

Four Legs Brewing in Brentwood wins international marketing award

By Katherine Pfotzer Correspondent

Four Legs Brewing in Brentwood was named among the winners of the internationally famous 2024 Craft Beer Marketing Awards. The local spot at 2010 Elkins Way Suite 120, took home a platinum Crushie for Best Can Label Design in the 16- to 32-oz craft beer category. This is the first time they have won this specific category and this specific tier, and the second time they have won an award from CBMA; they won a golden crushie in 2023 for best can label design, hard seltzer. The awards were announced on April 18, accompanied by a message from CBMAS co-founder Jim McCune.

“We were so impressed by the sheer creativity, innovation, and caliber of marketing displayed in entries this year in every category,” McCune said on Facebook Live where the winners were announced.“More than 600 industry professional judges from around the world had their work cut out for them.” This is the fifth year of the competition aimed to honor excellence in craft beer marketing and design. The organization issues awards in three ascending tiers — gold, platinum, and global Crushies.

The award itself is a sculptured arm crushing a beer can to convey how breweries across the world are “Crushing It” in terms

of marketing, design, and branding of craft beverages.

The winning label is for one of the brewery’s most popular craft beers, Mothoven’s Symphony. “It is a single-hop mosaic IPA,” said Kymberlie Bambach, bar manager and Four Legs in-house graphic designer. “It’s really crisp, clean, smooth. It doesn’t have that hoppy bite to it. It quickly became one of our flagship IPAs for this brewery.”

The winning label features a kaleidoscope-like portrait of Beethoven, the beloved St. Bernard of children’s movie acclaim, represented in abstract, colorful shapes. It is aptly named Mothoven’s Symphony.

“The whole inspiration for the label was that it’s a single-hop mosaic IPA so with it being mosaic I went with stained glass, mosaic vibe for the label,” Bambach said. This is the

Bambach’s formal education in art did not extend past her high school classes. Instead, she has learned on the job at her sister and brother-in-law’s brewery, designing wherever needed. “It’s a family business. We just help each other out,” Bambach said. Four Legs Brewing was started in 2021 by Michelle and Erik Bacher after the latter fell in love with home brewing, but longed to

scale up his operations.

“He had this dream to start his own brewery and it kind of just went from there.” Bambach said. “They have their own family, they love dogs, and they kind of just wanted to combine it all into one big thing.”

The idea was simple — an inviting place for people to enjoy craft beer on tap in the company of every member of their family, including the four-legged members, they said. Stepping into Four Legs Brewing is like stepping into that idea.

The bar counter is surrounded by industrial decor. Sunlight filters through floor-to-ceiling windows. Tables spill onto a patio that lends the whole place an insideoutside feel. Sitting at many of those tables are families and their dogs, including the owners’ dog, Cash.

Bambach shares the owners’ love for dogs and the brewery for which she manages and designs.

“We have really good customers here, especially the dogs,” Bambach said. “The dogs are the best customers.”

For more information about the brewery, visit: https://fourlegsbrewing.com or via social media (Instagram: @fourlegsbrewing, Facebook: Four Legs Brewing) or through their email (fourlegsbrewing@yahoo.com).

To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia

second win for Four Legs by Bambach, the inhouse graphic designer and bar manager.

BAMBACH

Hindu-American community at Guru Vandana hosts Brentwood teacher appreciation event

By Alexander De Luna Correspondent

Teachers from various schools in the Brentwood Unified School District were honored with appreciation by the Hindu-American community at Ron Nunn Elementary School on Sunday May 19.

Teachers, BUSD staff and Brentwood Mayor Joel Bryant were welcomed into the auditorium with rose petals and smiles.

There were musical and dance performances highlighting Hindu culture and heritage. Teachers were brought up from their seats to participate in ceremonial activities that showed appreciation and giving blessings to them through Hindu practice.

This event is unique to Brentwood because it revives the age-old Hindu tradition of fostering a strong bond between teachers and students, aiming to nurture confident individuals who are capable of making meaningful societal contributions in the future, organizers said.

BUSD Superintendent Dana Eaton, Ed.D thanked the “Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh” for hosting the event and for “being a growing part of our community. We are so fortunate to have you all, and you play a significant role within our schools.”

Bryant added: “If our society paid teachers according to their value, they would be the wealthiest people in our society.”

The teachers who attended expressed their gratitude for the cultural event and also their appreciation in teaching the students.

Vasanth Shetty, leader of the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh” chapter in Brentwood, spoke about what a guru meant because the event was called Guru Vandana. “Guru is what they consider their teachers, mentors, a guide and an expert in their field,” Shetty said.

Then everyone was served a lunch of authentic Indian cuisine.

To view a video and a slideshow, visit www.thepress.net / multimedia

Delta Dog Camp

For more information, email contacthalo@ yahoo.com or visit www.eccchalo.org.

other. Please contact their foster at n_taylors@yahoo.com for more information and to meet Joan and Lita.

There were musical and dance performances highlighting Hindu culture and heritage at the teacher appreciation event last weekend at Ron Nunn Elementary School in Brentwood.

Photos by Alexander De Luna

by Vera Martinez, Certified Travel Agent

In today’s fast-paced world, families often find themselves scattered across cities, or even continents. When we include multiple generations in vacations, families are given rare opportunities for meaningful connections. Family members of different ages can learn more about each other and most importantly, create lasting memories that can be shared for generations.

Whether it’s a Disney Cruise, an all-inclusive stay in the Caribbean, or a simple weekend getaway, multigenerational travel creates enduring memories that strengthen familial ties. These journeys promote empathy and understanding across generations. Grandparents gain insight into the lives of their grandchildren, while younger family members develop appreciation for the wisdom and perspectives of their elders. This intergenerational exchange not only enriches individual lives but also strengthens the family unit as a whole.

Beyond personal enrichment, multigenerational travel has societal benefits, fostering a sense of continuity, tradition, and shared heritage within families. It reinforces the value of togetherness and the importance of investing in relationships that transcend time. In essence, multi-generational travel is not just about visiting new destinations; it’s about creating lasting connections that endure across generations.

One of my own most cherished memories is a trip we took to Hawaii as my husband, and I were blending our families. That trip changed the dynamic of people who lived together but didn’t really know each other into a true family.

A family where parents, brothers, and sisters, learned to talk to each other, share experiences together, and became a family.

To Book Your Dream Vacation call me at 925-639-9194 or go to www.vmartinez.dreamvacations.com.

East County honors veterans

By Dawnmarie Fehr Correspondent

A variety of remembrance events are scheduled around East County to mark Memorial Day, May 27.

This holiday is a time to remember those who gave their lives in service of their country. Three local groups have put together events to keep the memories of those who did not come home alive.

There are no city-sponsored events in Brentwood, Antioch, or Discovery Bay.

Brentwood – VFW

The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 10789 and the Marine Corps League, Det. 1155, will host their annual Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony at Union Cemetery, 11545 Brentwood Blvd., Monday at 9 a.m..

VFW Post Commander Bill Weber said this ceremony is one of the most important events for his group. He said their goal is to remind the public of the reason behind the day.

“We want to remember the members of our military who died in service of our country,” Weber said. “To remember them and keep their memories alive is what this event is all about.”

Like many veterans, Weber came home from his time serving in the military with memories of friends who had died while serving. He and the other members of the VFW and Marine Corps League want to honor them.

Oakley

The City of Oakley will honor Memo-

rial Day with a Morning of Remembrance on Monday from 10-11 a.m., at the Oakley Recreation Center, 1250 O’Hara Ave. The event will feature speakers – including keynote speaker Charles Immekust of the Veterans of Oakley – live performances, and wreathe dedication. For more information, call (925) 625-7000.

Brentwood- Trilogy

The Trilogy at the Vineyards Veterans Association will host a short ceremony at the flagpole in front of the Trilogy Clubhouse, 1700 Trilogy Parkway, at 9 a.m. on Monday. The Trilogy at the Vineyards Veterans Association will host a short ceremony at the flagpole in front of the Trilogy Clubhouse, 1700 Trilogy Parkway, at 9 a.m. on Monday.

But the event is open to only Trilogy residents, organizers said, because of limited parking at Trilogy. John Cooper, the group’s commander, said the annual event is a day to honor all the veterans who have lost their lives.

“It’s a day we pay very close attention to,” he said.

The event will include a flag ceremony, some speakers and a prayer. Cooper said it is important to commemorate the holiday. “May is an interesting month. It is Armed Forces Month, then you have Armed Forces Day, and also Memorial Day. It’s a tough day for some of us.”

Antioch – Oak View Memorial Park

Oak View Memorial Park will host an event at their location, 2500 East 18th St., Antioch, at 10 a.m. The ceremony will include a fire engine escort, the national anthem, a 9/11 tribute and aerial salute.

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

Saturday, May 25

Oakley – Morning of Remembrance

The city of Oakley wil honor Memorial Day with a Morning of Remembrance at 10 a.m. at the Oakley Recreation Center, 1250 O’Hara Ave. Clean-up event at Shadow Lakes for a cleaner tomorrow

Meet at Willy’s Bagels & Blends parking lot at 390 W. Country Club Drive in Brentwood to clean up the Shadow Lakes golf course from 8–10:30 a.m. Registration and supplies (gloves and trash bags) will be provided at this free event. For details, call 925-308-7534.

Sunday, May 26

‘Every Day is Earth Day’

The Sierra Club Delta Group offers its second annual free presentation ‘Every Day is Earthy Day’ at Big Break Regional Shoreline Park, 69 Big Break Road, in Oakley. This year’s theme is ‘Appreciating Mother Earth,’ and the topic this month is invasive plants. The panel will show photos and exhibits to help identify undesirable plants locally, and if there is time, the ranger will take guests into the park to eliminate some of those plants. Light refreshments will be provided, and children and dogs on a leash are welcome. For details, call club secretary Liz Elias at 925-625-0873 (land line) or 925-727-2359.

Bags & Brews Cornhole Tournament and Military Tribute

The Downtown Brentwood Coalition is hosting a cornhole tournament on First Street in Brentwood. There will be three divisions: Beginners ($75 registration), backyard ($100 registration) and competitive ($100 registration). Check-in starts at 10:30 a.m., followed by the tournament at 1 p.m. Spectators can watch for free. During the tournament, the DBC will hold an Honor & Remember Ceremony at noon to commemorate Memorial Day weekend. For details, visit https://www.eventbrite. com/e/2024-bags-and-brews-cornhole-tournament-in-downtown-brentwood-registration852540069297?aff=oddtdtcreator.

Monday, May 27 (Memorial Day) Brentwood – Memorial Day Remembrance

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10789 and Marine Corps League Det. 1155 host their annual Memorial Day Remembrance at Union Cemetery, 11545 Brentwood Blvd., in Brentwood at 9 a.m.

Antioch Memorial Day Ceremony

Oak View Memorial Park will host a Memorial Day event at 2500 East 18 St. at 10 a.m. featuring a fire engine escort with Christian-mounted messengers, the singing of the national anthem, a 9/11 tribute, a presentation of the colors and an aerial salute. The Antioch Rivertown Veterans Lions Group will sponsor a pancake breakfast at 8 a.m.

Memorial Day event at Marina Bar & Grill in Discovery Bay

From 4-9 p.m., pay tribute to fallen service members as many families who have lost a loved one during active service will be honored. Organizers encourage attendees to bring a picture of their loved one to this free event. Join the conversation with Kevin Graves and Harley LaMunyon, who will also be serving pints and enjoy live entertainment with The Buzzy Dupree Blues band at the bar and grill at 5879 Marina Road in Discovery Bay. “Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it. It flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it.” For details, call 925-239-4393 or visit https://www.opentable. com/r/marina-bar-and-grill-discovery-bay.

Thursday, May 30

Resource Fair in Oakley

The annual Resource Fair at the Oakley Senior Center is from 10 a.m.-2 p.m at 215 Second St. Oakley visitors can get free information for health and living assistance as well as several other programs available such as a monthly flea market on the first Saturday of each month, food distribution, exercise classes, casino tours, bingo and more. Cross streets are Acme near O’Hara Avenue. For information, call 925-626-7223.

On the Horizon

Saturday, June 1

Brentwood Community ChorusSpringtime Melodies

The chorus performs its spring concert, Springtime Melodies, with the Liberty High Chamber singers and the ladies quartet, Replay, from 2–4 p.m. at the Allan E. Jones Performing Arts Center at 850 Second St. It’s the final performance for conductor Susan Stuart. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for high school students with ID, and kids 12 and younger are admitted free. Tickets may be purchased in advance at https://www.brownpapertickets. com/event/6253090/ref/4016041 or at the door. Donations of used athletic shoes will be accepted in the lobby. For details, visit http:// www.brentwoodcommunitychorus.com.

Kaleidoscope support group presents Arts and Crafts show

Kaleidoscope, nonprofit cancer support group, is having an arts and craft show from 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. featuring arts and crafts from local artists, plants, face painting and raffles at 14671 Byron Highway in Byron. For more informatio, call Mary Ann Smith at 209-639-6164.

Friday, June 7

Inaugural Meals on Wheels golf tournament

This Meals on Wheels of Contra Costa tournament is open to anyone regardless of skill. This inaugural tournamanent Starts at 7:30 a.m. with registration at Shadow Lakes Golf Club, 401 W. Country Club Blvd. Play starts at 9. Registration is $150. For details, visit https://mowofcontracosta. org/meals-on-wheels-contra-costa-news-events/ inaugural-golf-tournament/.

Saturday, June 8

Golden Hills Community Church

Food distribution

The church at 2401 Shady Lane in Brentwood is offering food distribution to anyone on specific Saturdays from 12:30-2:30 p.m. while supplies last. There are no income requirements or qualifications. Also offered on these Saturdays: Aug. 10, Oct. 12 and Dec. 14. For details, call 925-234-8739.

Movie in the Plaza featuring Tarzan ‘Tarzan’ will be shown at Civic Center Plaza, 3231 Main St.. Activities begin at 7 and the movie starts at sunset. Oakley Recreation will be selling popcorn, candy and soda in the snack shack located behind the stage. For details, visit http:// www.OakleyInfo.com.

Parish Festival in honor of Feast Day

The Immaculate Heart of Mary is hosting a festival in honor of the Feast Day at 8 a.m. at 500 Fairview Ave. in Brentwood. Booths open at 11:30 a.m. with program and games from 1-3:30 p.m. Proceeds go to the church youth group and World Youth Day. For details, call 925-634-4154 or email ihmchurch@ihmbrentwood.com.

Saturday, June 15

Brentwood veterans host Luau 2024

Wear your favorite Hawai’ian shirt and

Look at the many local events on

enjoy live Hawai’ian music and cuisine provided by Landeza’s Island, from 6-10 p.m. at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building, 757 First. St. Hosted by the Marine Corps League, Detachment 155, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10789 and American Legion Post 202. Tickets are $80 and are available until June 10. Wear your favorite Hawai’ian shirt and enjoy live Hawai’ian music, hula dancers, and raffle, silent auction prizes. Proceeds benefit the veterans buiding and veterans organizations affected by the wildfires in Maui last year. Win raffle and silent aution prizes. For tickets, visit https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/ a97eba5d-7b78-44b9-bb3b-e6dfa00759e8.

Sunday, June 16

Father’s Day Car Show

Enjoy music, street vendors, food, beer and wine for sale from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at 2nd and G streets in downtown Antioch. Prizes awarded for Best in Show, Hot Rod, Classic, Low Rider, Sport, Truck and People’s Choice. Registration is 9-10 a.m. Applications can be handed in, or mailed in to Willow Park Mercantile, 205 G St., Antioch, 94509. Applicans cost $25 and are payable to the Celebrate Antioch Foundation. Also apply at https://form.jotform.com/240678550555160.

Wednesday, June 19

Juneteenth Celebration in the Park

Live music, food trucks, craft vendors, educational booths and kids activities from 4-8 p.m. in City Park in Brentwood.

Saturday, June 22

6th annual Soroptimist of the Delta Uncorked Wine Tasting & Dinner Fundraiser

Soroptimist International of the Delta presents their 6th Annual Uncorked “Wine, Dine & Dance the Night Away” fundraiser held at DeLuna Ranch, 7540 Balfour Road, in Brentwood from 5-9 p.m.. Tickets are $75 and include 6-oz wine tasting/appetizer bar, dinner catered by The Holy Smoker, dessert, and music and dancing to Joey T & Friends. There will be raffles, silent and live auctions, and a door prize drawing. For tickets, call Sue Pretzer at 760-583-3058 or go to Gursky Ranch. All proceeds from this fundraiser benefit our scholarship programs to local women and girls. For details, visit www.siofthedelta.com.

Railtown Classics and Antiques Festival in Byron

Ride the trains, and visit antiques and vintage dealers, classic motorcycles and cars plus music and entertainment on two stages from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Main Street to Borden Junction. Take a ride on a train, trolley or carriage, taste local food and spirits, barbecue rib cook-off, games, costume contest and scavenger hunt. The festival is part of the community’s five-year celebratoin of its sesquicentennial (1878-2028). All money raised fill the needs of the community (sidewalks, a main street, mobility and affordable housing) and its ability to thrive. For details, contact Roger Boaz at Roger@ROARca.org.

Thursday, July 4

Liberty Bell 5K presented by the Liberty Lions Band Boosters

The first Liberty High School Band 5K (3.1 mile) fun run is from 7:30-10 a.m. at Veterans Park, 3841 Balfour Road in Brentwood. Registration starts at $35. Proceeds directly benefit the marching band, jazz band, concert programs, winter percussion and winter guard programs. For the virtual run, you can run whenever and where ever you want from Thursday, July 4-Sunday July 14. All participants will receive a 2024 first annual commemorative T-shirt and medal participating. Packet pick-up is scheduled for Wednesday, July 3, from 3-7 p.m. at Fleet Feet,

6061 Lone Tree Way, in Brentwood. For details, visit https://libertybell5kfunrun.itsyourrace.com/ event.aspx?id=16236.

Friday, Aug. 2

Antioch Chamber Cares Golf Tournament

The Antioch Chamber Cares Golf Tournament at Lone Tree Golf & Event Center, 4800 Golf Course Road is a fundraiser for the Chamber Cares Program “501 (c) (3), which helps all businesses in Antioch that have been victimized by vandalism or theft. This is a shotgun tournament from 1-5 p.m. The cost per golfer of $150 includes: range ball, green fee, cart, tee prize and Italian dinner. Register and details at lonetreegolfcourse.com.

Ongoing Events

Liberty Adult Education Winter Course Catalog

Class registration is open for English Second Language, GED, Computer Technology and Community Interest Classes. Register online at www.libertyadulted.org, call the Adult Education office at 925-634-2565 or in person at the Adult Education office.

East County Rotary Club Meetings

Brentwood: The Brentwood Rotary Club meets weekly on Monday at noon at the Wedgewood Banquet Center at 100 Summerset Drive in Brentwood. For more information, visit https://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 http://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 https:// www.facebook.com/antiochrotaryclub/. The Rotary Club of the Delta meets weekly on Wednesday at 7 a.m. at Denny’s, 4823 Lone Tree Way in Antioch. For more information, visit https://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 Westmont of Brentwood, 450 John Muir Parkway. For more information, visit: https://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-weare/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://eclubhouse.org/sites/byron_delta/.

Oakley Senior Center Food Distribution

The Oakley Senior Center at 215 Second St. gives out free food every Thursday from 1-2:30 p.m. Residents are asked to bring their own grocery bags. It also hosts a flea market, vendor fair, which includes trinkets, arts and crafts, collectibles and antiques, happens the first Saturday of every month from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Table space is $10 or 3 for $25. For details, call Jim Fridas at 925813-1007 or the senior center at 925-626-7223. The center also offers bingo the every second Tuesday of the month. The next date is April 9 at 12:30 p.m. Doors open at noon and you must be 18 to play.

Hope House Food Distribution

The distributions are on Monday and Wednesdays from 9 a.m.-noon at 218 Pine St. in Brentwood.

Rob Brandt (left) and club president Julie Deck (right) honor longtime Rotary Club of Brentwood member Bruce Ghiselli for his 40 years of service to the Brentwood community at the Rotary Club’s 75th anniversary gala last weekend.

Submitted photo

Rotary Club of Brentwood celebrates 75 years in style

Brentwood Rotarians celebrated their 75th anniversary with a gala last Saturday to recognize the success and fellowship of the Brentwood club. During the evening, a first-time award was given to Bruce Ghiselli for his dedication and commitment to the Brentwood club. He was given the lifetime achievement award.

“We are thrilled to celebrate our 75th anniversary, a milestone that reflects our enduring commitment to service and community,” said club president Julie Deck. “This year’s celebration is made even more special as we honor Bruce

Ghiselli with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding dedication and 40 years of unwavering service. Bruce’s contributions have been invaluable, and his passion for helping others embodies the true spirit of Rotary.”

For more information about the Brentwood Rotary Club or to become a member go to www.brentwoodrotaryclub.com or can join them any Monday at noon at the Wedgewood event center at 100 Summerset Drive, Brentwood. To view a slideshow, visit www.thepress. net/multimedia/slideshows

EDITORIALS, LETTERS & COMMENTARY

O pini O n

Letter to the editor

Remember Memorial Day for its ‘true meaning’

Editor:

As Memorial Day approaches, it is important for all Americans to take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of this day. Memorial Day is not just a long weekend or the unofficial start of summer. It is a day dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Department of California wishes to remind everyone that the freedoms we enjoy today are the result of the courage and dedication of our fallen brothers and sisters. These individuals came from all walks of life but shared a common commitment to protect and defend our country. Their sacrifices must not be forgotten.

We encourage you to participate in Memorial Day ceremonies to pay respects to those who have given their lives for our freedom. Additionally, we ask that everyone take a moment of silence at 3 p.m. local time, as part of the National Moment of Remembrance.

Let us ensure that Memorial Day remains a poignant reminder of the cost of our liberty and an opportunity to honor and remember our military heroes. By doing so, we preserve the legacy of those who served and reaffirm our commitment to supporting the families they left behind.

To learn more about how you can pay tribute not only on Memorial Day, but throughout the year, contact your local Veterans of Foreign Wars Post.

Tim Bryant State Commander, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Department of California

& Publisher Emeritus Jimmy Chamoures

Have something to say? Post a comment or submit a letter to the editor at www.thepress.net/site/forms.

Local news finds ways to engage, keep audience

Editor’s note: Loujain Habibi is an 11th grader at Liberty High School in Brentwood. A version of this story first appeared in CCSpin.net, the website for Contra Costa Youth Journalism.

The ever-expanding “digital age” continues to give news outlets the ability to report in new and faster ways. And many local news organizations are doing exactly that – all while maintaining a focus on their community.

“Local news is crucial for smaller communities like ours here in East Contra Costa County,” said Juan Cebreiros, a writer for the Brentwood Press. “If you take away the Brentwood Press, the people of this area would be missing out on much-needed information that affects smaller communities more than larger ones.”

“I like to say to people, ‘Our paper is about the kids, the schools, the community and keeping the City Council honest,’” added Greg Robinson, the publisher and interim editor of the Brentwood Press.

Although printed publications are still popular in many smaller communities, the impact of technology plays a big part in the ways that people consume news.

A Pew Research Center survey conducted in 2020 found that of the 86% of U.S. adults who receive their news from a smartphone, computer or tablet “often” do so 60% of the time,

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while 26% of those polled only “sometimes” get news from digital devices. Fast forward to 2023, those numbers shifted slightly to 56% and 29%, respectively.

When survey respondents were asked from which platform they prefer to get their news, “nearly 6 in 10 Americans say they prefer a digital device (58%), more than say they prefer TV (27%). Even fewer Americans prefer radio (6%) or print (5%)” reports the journalism research and training organization.

Marina Hernandez Rodriguez, a 10th grader at Liberty High School in Brentwood, said she prefers to get her news online.

“To me, it’s an efficient way to read and to keep up with news,” she said. “Instead of traditionally watch -

ing news through a television screen, I just swipe on my feed on social media apps and news articles typically show up.”

Classmate Rylee J. Marcelino agrees.

“When there’s a newspaper, it’s still good. But if something else were to happen you wouldn’t know,” Marcelino said. “Whereas on technology, your phone would probably immediately update you and the news on the device would be updated letting you know almost immediately.”

Edith Tidrick, a retired teacher in Brentwood, said she still enjoys the traditional route.

“I prefer printed but find it more time consuming, and sometimes I am a day or two behind,” Tidrick said. “Digital is faster to get what is sensational, but very slanted and opinionated.”

Local news publications are also adapting by using various forms of media to report news – incorporating podcasts into disseminating the news like the San Francisco Public Press has done, hosting “Civic” on KSFP 102.5 FM radio, or like the Brentwood Press has done with “page-turning” software for its virtual editions.

“We’re embedding videos into our stories that you can see, which you don’t have when you have a printed newspaper,” Robinson at The Press said. “We actually also have an app, which not all newspapers have.”

Loujain

Habibi Contra Costa Youth Journalism

comment

HABIBI

Liberty Lions excited for future after NCS playoff exit at College Park

By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer

It’s said that all good things must come to an end. Unfortunately, for all of the good that Liberty softball has accomplished this season, the nerves of the late stages of the North Coast Section playoffs caught up to the young Lions team.

Liberty’s lineup finally ran out of power in their 7-3 loss at College Park Tuesday afternoon, ending the team’s season and forcing the Lions to have to wait another year to try to return to the NCS finals.

With the win, College Park reached the NCS finals for the first time in 23 years, as announced by College Park’s public address announcer after the game.

“It just felt like there were probably some nerves and excitement (with the team),” Liberty head coach Brandi Macias said. “These girls haven’t gotten this far. I don’t even want to say it was the pressure, I just think that they wanted this so bad that sometimes you can try too hard.”

“Everyone was very nervous because we had a lot to lose,” senior shortstop Paige Breitstein said. “If we relaxed a little bit, we would have done perfectly fine.”

College Park jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the first inning against sophomore starting pitcher Kate Skinner who was dominant in the team’s first two playoff

games. Fellow sophomore Kaitlyn Macias took over in the third inning and held off the Falcons’ lineup as best as possible despite allowing a sacrifice fly to center by Luka Capulong to extend College Park’s lead to 4-0 after three innings.

Liberty rallied in the fourth inning with two runs as a two-RBI double to deep center by Jewel Cooper scored both Taylor Jennings and Breitstein who had singled to lead off the inning. Madison Tuttle then singled to put the would-be tying run on first and Kaitlyn Macias singled to left to load the bases. However, both Kelsie Skaggs and Savannah Page flew out to end the inning and the Liberty rally.

Despite deep hits by the Lions’ lineup, the wind in Pleasant Hill took away Liberty’s power that has fueled the lineup all season.

“Our power was really taken away from us today with the wind blowing in like crazy,” Brandi Macias said. “So we

see Lions page 15

New Lumos volleyball club has dual objectives

Coaches aim to teach sport and take on its high cost

By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer

“Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.”

The quote from J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series of best-selling books (and eventual box-office hits) is one of the more positive lines throughout the story.

The symbolism of light plays a huge significance throughout the Harry Potter series, The term “lumos,” one of the lightspells in the movie, comes from the 19thcentury Latin word “lumen” or light.

It also inspired three former women’s volleyball players and current youth volleyball coaches to start a club in East County that sheds light on those who may be looking for playing opportunities but cannot afford youth club volleyball’s high cost. These high prices tend to price kids from lower-income areas out of club volleyball, let alone club sports overall in general.

“We are looking to offer kids who may not have the opportunity to get the exposure that they need at less expensive clubs,” said Lumos volleyball club co-founder and treasurer Rebecca Reed. “We can give them that without the $5,000 price tag.”

Like most youth club sports teams nationally, the cost of youth sports can be too expensive for some families.

For example, Northern California Volleyball Club’s fees ranged from $2,900 to $3,800 last year, according to their website, and Bay Area Volleyball Club’s fees were as low as $3,800 to as high as $5,200 for last season, according to their website.

In Contra Costa County, Diablo Valley Volleyball Club’s girls teams range from about $3,750 for its Girls 13 Green team, to as high as $5,270 for its Girls 14 Black team, both of which for the Power League season, according to the club’s website. Diablo’s Valley’s upcoming summer camp sessions starting in early-mid June cost $215 per player from fourth to

Lumos Volleyball Club cofounders (from left) Rebecca Reed, Jessica Higuisan, and Taylor Sims.

the reported 12,648 white female players.

“We wanted to make sure that we were more affordable so we can include more Black and brown, and lower-income girls to have access to the sport because it is very important to give them access to the higher-end tournaments to actually have someone that cares about them off of the court,” Sims added.

According to a report by the Women’s Sports Foundation from 2016, “female athletes of color remain underrepresented compared to their enrollment in the student body, and their participation is concentrated primarily in two sports –basketball and track and field.”

eighth grade, and $285 per player for high school players.

Reed, along with co-founders Taylor Sims and Jessica Haguisan want to change that in hopes of creating opportunities for those who may be priced out of opportunity.

“We want to make sure that we’re an affordable club, but also that we could have the equipment and everything like that,” said Sims, a Pittsburg native and former Pittsburg High and Los Medanos College player. “We noticed very early in our coaching career that when we went to tournaments that volleyball is a very predominantly white, affluent sport.”

According to a survey by the NCAA, there were 2,041 Black females playing collegiate volleyball in 2023 – 16 percent of

According to Reed, Lumos aims to charge $2,500 per athlete, and with parents who have two players in the club, the second one comes in at $2,000. Like the previously mentioned clubs, Lumos will have payment plans available and, if enough funds are raised, hopes to offer at least two scholarships per season to families of players who are not able to afford the costs.

Reed adds that the fees go towards facility fees, equipment, AAU club and staff membership fees, and other necessary fees and costs. None of the coaches or staff at Lumos will receive any salary or payment, and the club plans to pay for hotel accommodations when they travel for tournaments.

“Facility and tournament fees alone

Liberty senior Kaileigh Mares walks off of the field after flying out for the final out of the Lions’ NCS semifinal game at College Park in Pleasant Hill Tuesday afternoon.

Photo by Jeff Weisinger

Photo by Lumos Volleyball Club

Liberty football prepares for fall “redemption

By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer

As Liberty’s football team enters the final week of their spring camp with the team preparing for the 2024 season, there’s one thing that’s on their mind: “redemption.”

“It gives me chills,” soon-to-be senior quarterback Sage Robertson said. “I can’t wait to play these teams. My guys have worked their butts off this offseason, we’ve come out here early morning, late nights. We really want this and we know we have the guys.”

“(Missing the playoffs) definitely puts a chip on our shoulder,” upcoming junior running back Jaxon Bell said. “I feel like we got cheated out of it. We should’ve been in it.”

After Liberty walked off of the field after last year’s 52-21 win in the Brentwood Bowl against Heritage, the Lions hoped that despite losses against Los Gatos and San Ramon Valley in non-conference play, that they did enough in the Bay Valley Athletic League to earn one of the last playoff seeds in the North Coast Section Division I playoffs.

The NCS didn’t see it that way. Instead, they awarded James Logan, who won their league championship, the eighth and final playoff seed, keeping Liberty outside of the postseason for the first time since 2021. Logan went on to get blown out at De La Salle 48-20.

“It was a little bit of a rough transition,” Liberty head coach Mike Cable said. “At the end of the season we definitely felt like we were one of the teams that should have had an opportunity to compete in the playoffs, and it was out of our control.”

“We were pissed off about it,” Robertson said. “We’ve all just been upset. Not getting in has been a big motivation for all of us.”

Despite the Lions going 3-2 in non-conference play

when we didn’t,” Cable explained.

The non-conference half of the schedule includes Frontier from Bakersfield who went 10-1 overall last year, reaching the CIF-Central Section Division I playoffs, a rematch with the NCS Division II champs Los Gatos, Amador Valley, who lost to Pittsburg in the playoffs, and Clayton Valley Charter, who lost to California High in the playoffs last year.

“(The scheduled opponents) are some quality teams,” Cable said. “We’re definitely just going after guys this offseason to: 1 prepare ourselves for the tough season that we’ll have; and 2. to prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that we’re ready.”

Liberty faces a different look in the BVAL as well this season. Freedom has garnered a lot of excitement and energy under new head coach Stephen Rodriguez, Deer Valley looks to be making strides back in the right direction, Antioch will have a different look in the roster as their senior-laden roster all graduated, and Heritage will come in more experienced after reaching the NCS Division II semifinals last year. All will still be chasing Pittsburg, who remains the consensus among coaches and players as the clear favorite to once again win the league title.

last year, many can point to the 35-34 loss against eventual CIF State Division 2-A runner-up Los Gatos as being what may have held the Lions out of the postseason. Liberty blew a 20-point, second-half lead to the Wildcats in the home opener on Sept. 1. The Lions travel south to Los Gatos on Sept. 6 as part of a non-conference schedule that features teams who all reached the postseason last year.

“We looked at the offseason and the preseason schedule and decided to go after the teams that made it

Through both non-conference and what should be an improved league play all-around, the Lions say that they’re ready for the challenge.

“Iron sharpens iron,” Cable said. “The tough (nonconference) matchups, that’s important and why we went after these guys in the preseason to prepare us for the (league) schedule. At the end of the day, we know these teams, they know us, each game is personal because of the history that we have. We’re looking forward to the competition.”

To view a video and a slideshow, visit www.thepress. net/multimedia

Liberty running back Jaxon Bell runs through drills during the team’s spring practice Tuesday afternoon in Brentwood.

Photo by Jeff Weisinger

News iN Brief

State parks offers free admission to veterans, active and reserve military on Memorial Day

California State Parks is honoring the service of veterans, and active and reserve military members, by offering free admission to 143 participating state park units on Memorial Day – Monday. The list of participating park units can be found at parks. ca.gov/MemorialDay2024.

“State Parks would like to thank these brave people and their families for sacrificing so much for your nation, and for our freedom,” said California State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “I’d like to invite those who have served and those who continue to serve to enjoy the beauty, peace, and rich history of your public lands.”

Veterans, active duty, and reserve military personnel must show a valid military ID, or proof of honorable discharge to receive free admission.

Participating parks in East County include Mount Diablo State Park. For the full list of parks, visit parks.ca.gov/MemorialDay2024.

State wants parkgoers to keep the environment clean during holiday weekend

As Memorial Day weekend and the unofficial start of summer approaches, many Californians attracted to warmer weather and outdoor activities with friends and family are planning trips to the outdoors. With such beautiful and unique places to visit such as Emerald Bay and Humbolt Redwoods State Parks, Folsom Lake and Silverwood Lake State Recreation Areas, Will Rogers State

Historic Park, Cardiff State Beach and other areas, Caltrans, Clean California, and California State Parks are reminding Californians of their impact to public lands and encouraging individuals to do their part to keep their public lands clean to protect the natural ecosystems.

During this summer season, we are aiming to increase awareness of the leave no trace principle by encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to consider the impacts they leave behind and empowering individuals to take action. Simple steps such as packing out all trash when camping, picnicking or hiking will undoubtedly help keep state parks and beaches better than how you found them.

Here are a few simple tips to help keep public spaces and communities free from litter and debris, such as:

• Pack it in, pack it out. Leave no trace behind by bringing a trash bag, especially if visiting a remote area. Put food waste, napkins, single-use food wrappers, and other waste in the bags until it can be properly disposed of. For human waste, the use of waste alleviation (WAG) gel bags or other portable toilet options is recommended. WAG bags can be safely disposed of in regular trash.

• Choose reusable over single-use items. Reusable containers keep harmful toxins out of our water and community recreation areas and are more economical in the long run. If you do use cans or plastic bottles, be sure to properly recycle them to help mitigate their impact.

• Pick up small, littered items to make a big impact. Keep an eye out for bottle caps, food wrappers, cigarette butts, and other small items and be sure to properly dispose of them.

• Secure your load. Whether you live nearby or are traveling to reach your destination, be sure to properly tarp and tie down items in truck beds, trail

ers, and boats to ensure items make it to your destination and do not fly out during the trip. Taking special care to keep items both small and large with you during transit will help keep our roads safe and clean.

Identity of Antioch man found dead on a sidewalk is released

The identity of an Antioch man found dead on a sidewalk in Antioch has been released, and police are asking the public for helping in determing how he was killed.

The victim, Raheem Coe, 48, is known to have frequented the area where his body was discovered, and his death has been ruled a homicide, Antioch police said in a press release.

On May 15 at 7:19 a.m., officers responded to the 2200 block of Country Hills Drive to assist Contra Costa Fire on a reported male down on the sidewalk possibly in need of medical attention. When officers arrived that

morning, they found a dead man.

The cause of death is unknown, and detectives are asking the public for assistance. If you happened to have driven through the area at that time and have dash camera video, you are asked to contact Detective John Cox at 925-481-8147 or email jcox@antiochca.gov. Anonymous tips or information about this –can be sent via text to 274637 (CRIMES) with the keyword ANTIOCH.

Oakley schools offer free summer meals for kids

The Oakley Union Elementary School District is offering free summer meals to children younger than 18 from June 10-28 from noon to 12:30 p.m.

The meals will be served at Oakley Elementary School, 501 Norcross Lane. There is no cost, and sign-up is not required, officials said, and meals must be eaten in the school cafeteria.

For details, call 925-625-6852.

Have you or someone you know reached a “milestone”? If so, we’d like to know about it! Email your information to

Brentwood Rotary Club announces youth community service award winners

The Brentwood Rotary Club has announced the recipients of the 2023-2024 Youth Community Service Award.

This award is designed to promote social responsibility and service learning in our community while teaching the core value of the Rotary motto, ‘service above self,’ at an early age. Sixth- through eighth-graders in Brentwood and Byron were eligible to participate in this voluntary program, and 93 11- to 14-year-olds donated hundreds of hours in service of others. Students were required to complete at least 15 confirmed hours of volunteer service during the school yearto be eligible for recognition.

The students who earned this recognition will be honored with a special Rotary pin and certificate. For more information about the Rotary Club of Brentwood, visit www.brentwoodrotaryclub.com

Adams Middle School

Abeer Srivastava

Akshaya Adhiyaman

Albin Kararickal

Alexis Samuels

Amolika Datta

Anna Victoria Chaidez

Arjan Sandhu

Bali Richardson

Barrett Barbier

Bhavesh Lavu

Chandhana Bharathiraja

Christopher Huang

Eleanor Huang

Emily Bettger

Emily Zhao

Emma Barklow

Erin Shon

Evan Do

Gia Castaneda

Haily Friddle

Harper Lanpher

Harshith Polimera

Isabella Pena

Isabelle Long Giusto

Isabelle Simmons

Jacqueline Vega Rodriguez

Jayvant Rajesh

Jonathan Huang

Jyotsna Yellapu

Katherine Sulit

Kaylie Fujinaga

Kennedie Carter

Kriv Jain

Laasya Unnava

Lexi Wong

Lilla Gellert

Lily Bowles

Lily Friddle

Liz Chauhan

Manuel Starr II

Meilani Rowe

Milena-Gabrielle Mbatchou

Miles Miranda

Navyatha Syamala

Nyah Serrano

Raphael Manayon

Rushabh Gopala

Krishnan Sariya Baru

Sathvik Ghanta

Shreya Lankoji

Vishvak Gurram

Zoe Lin

Bristow Middle School

Avery Lasnier

Melanie Yasar

Saba Abki

Inessa Hernandez

Sarah Richmond

Elias King

Bentley Arechiga

Isabella Maiwand

Taiki Chea

Dylan Wieland

Elijah Hatcher

Hudson Lanam

Maya Clinkenbeard Brynn Campbell

Madisyn Knel-Sharp

Sophia Vernal

Edna Hill Middle School

Andrew Rubin

Juliana Soloria

Juliana Solorio

Ashley Edwards

Kelsey Krings

Hailey Krings

Jacob Peccorini

Matthew Nguyen

Sofia Gomez

Macy Toll

Trinity Tulipano-Stopps

Reece Gale

Samantha Simone Gabis

Brie DaoJensen

Sophie Call

Wyatt Buck

Akshitha Bathula

Juniper Balderas

Leosha Baker

Cristian Almarinez

Sierra Vidal

Gabrielle Brennan

Peyton Cooper

Gabriella Mottashed

Excelsior Middle School

Jordan Hornnes

Winning ‘fair’ and square

Jennifer Barnes (far left) and Stephanie Ann and her sister (right) were the latest winners of The Press’s Mystery Monday photo contest, with each earning free tickets to the county fair last weekend. Thanks to Stephanie and Jennifer for participating.

Photos by The Press staff

Lions from page 11

needed to make better adjustments and hit the ball more through the infield and more line drives versus what we had been doing all season.”

In the fifth inning, the Falcons added a run to extend the lead to 5-2, and Liberty tried to rally again late in the sixth. Breitstein led off with a single down the third base line, and Cooper thought she hit a two-run home run to center, but the ball fell just shy of going over the fence, forcing Cooper to settle for a deep double.

Tuttle scored Breitstein from third on a sacrifice fly to left to pull Liberty back a

Lumos from page 11

run to make it 5-3.

The Falcons put the game away in the bottom half of the sixth, scoring a pair of insurance runs to go up 7-3. Sophomore Savannah Wilson sat the Lions down in order to end the game.

“I think we could have definitely beat them if we played our game,” Breitstein said. “Today just wasn’t our day.”

The four-run loss was the secondlargest margin of defeat for the Lions all season, coming a run shy of their 8-3 loss against Granada on April 20. That also was the last time Liberty lost prior to Tuesday afternoon. Liberty ends their

are a hefty cost annually. Some of the tournaments we plan to participate in are $500-$1,000 per team per tournament,” Reed said. “Gym time can run close to $10,000 per a sixmonth reservation depending on how often and what days of the week we practice. With our coaches and staff not taking a salary, it really allows us to devote all of our funds to the club and the things we need. As the years go on and we profit more, we will be able to provide more scholarships to athletes, handle more teams, and hopefully move into a

season with a 20-4 overall record, their first 20-win overall season during the MaxPreps era (since 2004) and their best record since the 2009 team went 15-10. The 20-win season is also an eight-win improvement from the 12-15 record in 2023, tied for the largest improvement for the program since between the 2008-09 season. Liberty went 7-16 in 2008.

With just three seniors graduating, almost the entire team expected to return next season and with only two juniors on this year’s roster who are entering their senior season, Brandi Macias is excited to continue to raise the bar in 2025.

bigger facility with more courts. We understand that club volleyball is a luxury and a privilege and is still a very expensive activity. So we want to provide a quality experience and some travel with a much smaller price tag.”

Aside from competition, Lumos volleyball club aims to have bigger goals than just winning on the court itself. Reed, Sims and Haguisan want to help set up the girls for success in the real world –- helping with school and having workshops to prepare both the eventual seniors and their parents for everything related to college and trade

“The three seniors (Breitstein, Kaileigh Mares, and Raquel Hare) have impacted our program so much and they’ve been our heart, soul, and drive,” Brandi Macias said. “I’m disappointed that this is our last game, but our future is extremely bright, and I think we’re going to learn from this. They’ve set the foundation, and we have a new tradition ahead of us. We will continue to strive for excellence, but the future is very bright for us.

“Liberty is on the map and great things are ahead for us.”

To view a slideshow, visit www.thepress. net/multimedia/slideshows

school, whichever one the athlete decides to go to.

“Come have fun, learn the sport, if that’s the direction your life goes,” Reed said. “But we want to provide that no matter what. We’re pushing you towards higher education. How can we help push you there and care about you as more than just a star athlete.

“I hope that we can make a change and inspire others to be more positive.”

For details, visit the Lumos Volleyball Club’s website, https://lumosvbc.org.

Local Flavors

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5007 Lone Tree Way, Antioch www.samuraiantioch.com •

Veterans and substance abuse — how to get help

There is a growing problem among veterans – substance use, addiction, and overdose – and the stigma that sur rounds addiction prevents countless veterans from seeking help.

We must continue to destigmatize the discussion about addiction, focus on helping veterans, and highlight how drug education and early intervention play a significant role in reducing sub stance use, especially with alcohol.

Alcohol is often the catalyst that leads to addiction for many people as it is used to cope with trauma and pain in all forms. In San Diego County, for example, 21% of adults reported binge or heavy drinking, according to the recent data from County Health Rankings and Roadmaps.

While knowing how many veterans are struggling is impossible, we can still help those close to us. California is home to about 1.8 million servicemembers, the largest veteran population in any state. Veterans Affairs reports that more than 2 in 10 veterans with PTSD also have a substance use disorder; there is an increasing need for treatment.

Here are some steps you can take:

• Start the conversation and talk to a veteran about substance use. The simple act of starting a conversation could be a turning point that encourages a veteran to get help.

• Begin the conversation by focusing on your observations and sharing your feelings. Say things such as: “I’ve noticed you’ve been drinking alcohol a lot. Is everything OK?” or, “I wanted to check in with you because you have not seemed like yourself recently.” Once you have started the conversation, you can ask questions about when they started feeling like this, if something happened, and if you can provide support.

• Keep listening to them without judgment, and if you feel there are concerns, call the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988, then press 1. Seek other professional help, such as the Veterans Affairs Resource

There are many ways for veterans to get help with substance abuse, and for their relatives, friends and loved ones to help them get it.

Locator or the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Before the problem spirals out of control, we can all take steps to encourage more education and early intervention. Drug education works; whether it’s a printable pamphlet or speaking with an expert, it helps increase awareness. Moreover, intervening early enough may save their life. Make a point of having conversations frequently and be available and encouraging. Tell them to call or stop by at

any time. Encourage healthy lifestyle changes, such as eating well, exercising, and adequate sleep.

A veteran may need a person in their life who can provide consistent reminders that things can and will get better. We can all make a difference in the lives of our veterans.

Michael Leach has spent most of his career as a healthcare professional specializing in substance use and addiction recovery. He is a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant and the Public Relations Officer at DRS.

LEACH

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the Planning Commission of the City of Brentwood will, at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the normal course of business permits, meet at the Council Chambers, located at 150 City Park Way, in Brentwood on June 4, 2024, and hold a public hearing to consider:

An application for a General Plan amendment (GPA 24-002) to amend the Safety Element as it relates to the recently certified Housing Element and Government Code section 65302(g)(3), in compliance with state law.

The amendment is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), pursuant to Section §15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines. The Planning Commission will be making a recommendation to the City Council, which will take final action on this project.

Applicant: City of Brentwood HOW VIEW AND PARTICIPATE

The public is invited to participate in the Planning Commission meeting using any of the following methods:

1. IN PERSON:

a.Members of the public can provide in-person comments in the Council Chambers. Members of the public are encouraged, but not required, to fill out a speaker card. The Council Chambers will have seating available for members of the public to attend in person up to full seating capacity.

2. REMOTE:

a. Zoom: https://www.brentwoodca. gov/planningmeetingonline or Zoom Webinar ID: 87350296630

b. Zoom Phone Numbers. Dial Toll Free: (877) 853-5247 or (888) 788-0099 or (833) 548- 0276.

c. During the meeting, each period for public comment will be announced, and participants may use the “Raise Hand” feature on Zoom to request to speak.

(If you need instructions on how to use this feature, please contact the Planning Administrative Secretary by noon of the meeting date at planning@brentwoodca.gov or 925.516.5433.)

3. E-MAIL

a. Public comments can also be submitted via e-mail to planning@brentwoodca.gov. Any public comments received up until 3:00 p.m. of the meeting date will be:

1. distributed to the Planning Commission via email before the meeting, 2. posted online for public inspection at www.brentwoodca.gov/meetings and 3. later summarized in the meeting minutes.

b. As e-mails containing public meeting comments are part of the official record, note that personal contact information may be published if it is included with your e-mail.

4. TO WATCH OR LISTEN ONLY:

a. The public may view the meeting via one-way video feed by selecting the video option at the City Council Agendas’ link on the City webpage at www. brentwoodca.gov

The City cannot guarantee that its network, website, and/or the Zoom system will be uninterrupted. To ensure that the Planning Commission receives your comments prior to taking action, you are strongly encouraged to submit them in advance of the meeting by

ficial record, note that personal contact information may be published if it is included with your e-mail. In addition, any other disclosable public records related to an agenda item for the open session of this meeting distributed to all or a majority of the Planning Commission less than 72 hours before any meeting will be made available online shortly thereafter.

There is a 90-day limit for the filing of a challenge in court to certain City decisions that require a hearing by law, the receipt of evidence, and the exercise of discretion. The 90-day limit begins on the date the decision is final (Code of Civil Procedure §1094.6). Moreover, if you challenge this action in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the Brentwood Planning Commission at, or prior to, the public hearing. Further information may be obtained from Senior Planner, Jennifer Hagen [(925) 516-5135 or jhagen@brentwoodca.gov] in the Community Development Department of the City of Brentwood. Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 92765 Publish Dates: May 24, 2024.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

File No. F-2024-0002245 The name of the business(es): NINETEENTH HOLE Located at: 2746 West Tregallas Road In: Antioch, CA 94509, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): 1. Stephen Elbert Scudero 2. Eddie Carl Beaudin This business is conducted by: A General Partnership. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 5/17/1984. Signature of registrant: Stephen Scudero, General Partner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: April 19, 2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 4/18/2029 Antioch Press No. 06-1617 92661 Publish dates: May 3, 10, 17, 24, 2024.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT

File No. F-2024-0002473 The name of the business(es): WARREN LAMONT MITCHELL TRUST Located at: 1225 Oak Haven Way In: Antioch, CA 94531, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): WARREN LAMONT MITCHELL, WARREN LAMONT MITCHELL TRUST. This business is conducted by: A Trust. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: WARREN LAMONT MITCHELL, TRUSTEE. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: April 30, 2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 4/29/2029 Antioch Press No. 06-1617 92685 Publish dates: May 10, 17, 24, 31, 2024.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

File No. F-2024-0002527 The name of the business: Hops & Grapes Located at: 102 W. 10th St. In: Antioch, CA 94509, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Martinez Bros Corp. This business is conducted by: A Corporation, State of Incorporation. CA The registrant commenced to transact busi-

of registrant: Ernesto Martinez. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: May 2, 2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 05/01/2029 Antioch Press No. 06-1617 92756 Publish dates: May 24, 31, June 7, 14, 2024.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT

File No. F-2024-0002695 The name of the business(es): Grandmas’ Hands Located at: 5104 Homestead Ct In: Antioch, CA 94531, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Beverly Antionette Hines. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Beverly Hines, Individual. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: May 13, 2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 5/12/2029 Antioch Press No. 06-1617 92739 Publish dates: May 17, 24, 31, June 7, 2024.

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE

T.S. No.: 2023-01926-CA

A.P.N.:053-405-002-6 Property Address: 5024 CANADA HILLS WAY, ANTIOCH, CA 94531 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE PURSUANT TO CIVIL CODE § 2923.3(a) and (d), THE SUMMARY OF INFORMATION REFERRED TO BELOW IS NOT ATTACHED TO THE RECORDED COPY OF THIS DOCUMENT BUT ONLY TO THE COPIES PROVIDED TO THE TRUSTOR. NOTE: THERE IS A SUMMARY OF THE INFORMATION IN THIS DOCUMENT ATTACHED 注：本文件包含一个信息

서에 정보 요약서가 있습 니다 NOTA: SE ADJUNTA UN RESUMEN DE LA INFORMACIÓN DE ESTE DOCUMENTO TALA: MAYROONG BUOD NG IMPORMASYON SA DOKUMENTONG ITO NA NAKALAKIP LƯU Ý: KÈM THEO ĐÂY LÀ BẢN TRÌNH BÀY TÓM LƯỢC VỀ THÔNG TIN TRONG TÀI LIỆU NÀYIMPORTANT NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 09/02/2005. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. Trustor: HANNAH JONES, AN UNMARRIED WOMAN Duly Appointed Trustee: Western Progressive, LLC Deed of Trust Recorded 09/13/2005 as Instrument No. 2005-0347543-00 in book —-, page—- and of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Contra Costa County, California, Date of Sale: 06/26/2024 at 01:30 PM Place of Sale: AT THE NORTH SIDE OF THE PITTSBURG CIVIC CENTER NEAR THE GRASS LOCATED AT 65 CIVIC AVENUE, PITTSBURG, CA 94565 Estimated amount of unpaid balance, reasonably estimated costs and other charges: $ 534,515.38 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE THE TRUSTEE WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH, CASHIER’S CHECK DRAWN ON A STATE OR NATIONAL BANK, A CHECK DRAWN BY A STATE OR FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, OR A CHECK DRAWN BY A STATE OR FEDERAL SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATION, A SAVINGS ASSOCIATION OR SAVINGS BANK SPECIFIED IN SECTION

5102 OF THE FINANCIAL CODE AND AUTHORIZED TO DO BUSINESS IN THIS STATE: All right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described as: More fully described in said Deed of Trust. Street Address or other common designation of real property: 5024 CANADA HILLS WAY, ANTIOCH, CA 94531 A.P.N.: 053-405-002-6 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, under the terms of said Deed of Trust, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale is: $ 534,515.38. Note: Because the Beneficiary reserves the right to bid less than the total debt owed, it is possible that at the time of the sale the opening bid may be less than the total debt. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee, and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. The beneficiary of the Deed of Trust has executed and delivered to the undersigned a written request to commence foreclosure, and the undersigned caused a Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property is located. NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on this property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale

of this property, you may call (866)960-8299 or visit this Internet Web site https://www.altisource.com/loginpage. aspx using the file number assigned to this case 2023-01926-CA. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE NOTICE TO TENANT: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction, if conducted after January 1, 2021, pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call (877)518-5700, or visit this internet website https://www.realtybid.com/, using the file number assigned to this case 202301926-CA to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid, by remitting the funds and affidavit described in Section 2924m(c) of the Civil Code, so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. Date: May 9, 2024 Western Progressive, LLC, as Trustee for beneficiary C/o 1500 Palma Drive, Suite 238 Ventura, CA 93003 Sale Information Line: (866) 960-8299 https://www.altisource.com/loginpage.aspx Trustee Sale Assistant WESTERN PROGRESSIVE, LLC MAY BE ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Antioch Press No. 06-1617 92720 Publish Dates: May 17, 24, 31, 2024.

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE TS No. CA-23-966841-AB Order No.: DEF-584056 YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 11/2/2021. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier’s check drawn on a state or national bank, check drawn by state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, or savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102 to the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state, will be held by duly appointed trustee. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured

by the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. BENEFICIARY MAY ELECT TO BID LESS THAN THE TOTAL AMOUNT DUE.

Trustor(s): TERRILL LUCIAN LEWIS AN UNMARRIED MAN, AS TO AN UNDIVIDED 50% INTEREST, AND PORSHA R. PIERCE, A SINGLE WOMAN, AS TO AN UNDIVIDED 50% PERCENT INTEREST, AS TENANTS IN COMMON Recorded: 11/3/2021 as Instrument No. 20210306585 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of CONTRA COSTA County, California; Date of Sale: 6/18/2024 at 9:00 AM Place of Sale: At the Pleasant Hill Community Center, located at 320 Civic Drive, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523. In the Auction.com Room Amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $589,468.36 The purported property address is: 2341 MEREDITH WAY, ANTIOCH, CA 94509-5755 Assessor’s Parcel No.: 076-472-003-3 NOTICE TO POTENTIAL

BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call 800280-2832 for information regarding the trustee’s sale or visit this internet website http://www.qualityloan.com, using the file number assigned to this foreclosure by the Trustee: CA-23-966841-AB. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the internet website. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TENANT: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant

buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call 800-280-2832, or visit this internet website http://www.qualityloan.com, using the file number assigned to this foreclosure by the Trustee: CA-23-966841-AB to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. NOTICE TO PROSPECTIVE OWNER-OCCUPANT: Any prospective owner-occupant as defined in Section 2924m of the California Civil Code who is the last and highest bidder at the trustee’s sale shall provide the required affidavit or declaration of eligibility to the auctioneer at the trustee’s sale or shall have it delivered to QUALITY LOAN SERVICE CORPORATION by 5 p.m. on the next business day following the trustee’s sale at the address set forth in the below signature block. The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the property address or other common designation, if any, shown herein. If no street address or other common designation is shown, directions to the location of the property may be obtained by sending a written request to the beneficiary within 10 days of the date of first publication of this Notice of Sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, including if the Trustee is unable to convey title, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the monies paid to the Trustee. This shall be the Purchaser’s sole and exclusive remedy. The purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Trustor, the Trustee, the Beneficiary, the Beneficiary’s Agent, or the Beneficiary’s Attorney. If you have previously been discharged through bankruptcy, you may have been released of personal liability for this loan in which case this letter is intended to exercise the note holders right’s against the real property only. Date: QUALITY LOAN SERVICE CORPORATION 2763 Camino

SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL)

CASE NUMBER (Número del Caso):

L23-07127 NOTICE TO DEFENDANT

(AVISO AL DEMANDADO): JOSE EDUARDO GUTIERREZ RAMIREZ AND DOES 1 TO 10, INCLUSIVE

YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF (LO ESTÁ DEMANDANDO EL DEMANDANTE):

MERIWEST CREDIT UNION

NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below. You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www. courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court. There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Web site (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org), the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo. ca.gov/selfhelp), or by contacting your local court or county bar association.

NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. The court’s lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case. ¡AVISO! Lo han demandado. Si no responde dentro de 30 días, la corte puede decidir en su contra sin escuchar su versión. Lea la información a continuación. Tiene 30 DÍAS DE CALENDARIO después de que le entreguen esta citación y papeles legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia al demandante. Una carta o una llamada telefónica no lo protegen. Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte y más información en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www.sucorte.ca.gov), en la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede más cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación, pida al secretario de la corte que le dé un formulario de exención de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podrá quitar su sueldo, dinero y bienes sin más advertencia. Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que llame a un abogado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede llamar a un servicio de remisión a abogados. Si no puede pagar

a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services, (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www.sucorte.ca.gov) o poniéndose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales. AVISO: Por ley, la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobre cualquier recuperación de $10,000 ó más de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesión de arbitraje en un caso de derecho civil. Tiene que pagar el gravamen de la corte antes de que la corte pueda desechar el caso. The name and address of the court is: (El nombre y dirección de la corte es): SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF CONTRA COSTA, WAKEFIELD TAYLOR COURTHOUSE 725 COURT STREET, RM. 103, MARTINEZ, CA 94553

The name, address, and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney, is: (El nombre, la dirección y el número de teléfono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante que no tiene abogado, es): Bret A Yaple 195809 Bret A. Yaple 2701 Del Paso Road Suite 130-245 Sacramento, CA 95835 (510) 275-4603

DATE (Fecha): 12/26/2023 Clerk, by (Secretario): /s/ M. Johnson, Dept (Adjunto) NOTICE TO THE PERSON SERVED: You are served – as an individual defendant. Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 92759 Publish Dates: May 24, 31, June 7, 14, 2024.

NOTICE OF LIEN SALE

Live Oak Storage,1315 Main Street Oakley, CA 94561, has possessory lien on all of the goods stored in the prospective units below. #207 Michael Van Buskirk, #3013 Ashley Moss & Steven Wilson, #3059 & #3060 Anthony Glen, #825 Robert Murley, #900 & #913 Cassie Cavanaugh, #962 Ken Castro, #3027 Michael Brown. The goods are described as furniture, tools and miscellaneous personal property items being sold pursuant to the assertion of the lien on June 6th, 2024 at 11:00am. In order to collect the amounts due from you. The sale will take place at 1315 Main Street, Oakley, CA 94561 County of Contra Costa state of California. This lien sale is pursuant to Chapter 10 Section 2170021716 of the California Self Service Storage Facility Act. Auction is to be held by Jason Whitt ms#199016. Owner reserves the right to bid at the sale. Purchase must be in cash only paid at the time of the sale. Sale is subject to prior cancellation, in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. Oakley Press No. 03-0477 92767 Publish Dates: May 24, 31, 2024.

NOTICE OF LIEN SALE

Notice is hereby given that pursuant to California Self Storage Facility Act of the Business and Professions Code 21700 ET seq., the undersigned, Oakley Self Storage, will sell by competitive bidding in an online auction on www.storagetreasures.com the personal property of: Walter Harris Property to be sold: boxes, furniture, tools, household goods, and other

misc. items. Sale will end on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at 9:30 A.M.

Goods must be paid in debit or credit card and removed at completion of sale. Sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. Oakley Self Storage 4700 Main St, Oakley, CA 94561 (925) 625-7867. Oakley Press No. 03-0477 92715 Publish Dates: May 17, 24, 2024.

NOTICE OF LIEN SALE

The following persons are in lien at Oakley Gateway Self Storage 2101 Laurel Rd, Oakley, CA 94561: Rodney Burks

Yolanda Bowers

Samantha Balisteri

Laura Logemann

The items to be sold include: Misc. Furniture, Clothes, Toys, Electronics, Household Items

All bids must be placed prior to Auction posted end time. The date of the sale will be 6/05/24 @ 12:00 pm. The location of the sale will be: Online at www. storagetreasures.com Oakley Press No. 03-0477 92766 Publish Dates: May 24, 31, 2024.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2024-0002628 The name of the business(es): CAUGHT IN THE ACT THEATER Located at: 4523 Deer Ridge Way In: Antioch, CA 94531, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): 1. Steffen Wayne D 2.Scalise Peggy C. This business is conducted by: Copartners. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 01/26/2019. Signature of registrant: Steffen Wayne D, General Partner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 05/09/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 05/08/2029 Antioch Press No. 06-1617

Brentwood Press No. 02-1273

Publish Dates: May 24, 31, June 7, 14, 2024

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT

File No. 039993 The name of the business(es): Kris Cut Creations Located at: 2795 Vancouver Court In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Kristel D. Santos. This business is conducted by: an Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on . Signature of registrant: Kristel D. Santos, business owner, sole proprietorship. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 11/06/2023 by Deputy Clerk Expires 09/30/2024 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273

Publish Dates: May 10, 17, 24, 31, 2024

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT

File No. F-2024-0002366 The name of the business(es):

1. Encore Wine and Spirits

2. Real Wine Talk Located at: 2334 Windy Springs Lane In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Encore Consulting Services, LLC. This business is conducted by: a Limited Liability Company, State of Organization: CA. The registrant commenced to transact busi-

ness under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Kelley Wyman, Managing Member. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 04/24/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 04/23/2029 Brentwood Press No. 021273

Brentwood Press No. 02-1273

Publish Dates: May 3, 10, 17, 24, 2024

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT

File No. F-2024-0002430 The name of the business(es): Astoria Estates Located at: 2603 Camino Ramon Ste 200 In: San Ramon, CA 94583, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Justin Kuo. This business is conducted by: an Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on . Signature of registrant: Justin Kuo, Individual. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 04/29/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 04/28/2029 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273

Brentwood Press No. 02-1273

Publish Dates: May 24, 31, June 7, 14, 2024

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

File No. F-2024-0002435 The name of the business(es): JK CAFE Located at: 1300 POMONA ST In: CROCKETT, CA 94525, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): JACK TAN. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: JACK TAN, INDIVIDUAL. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 04/29/2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 04/28/2029

Brentwood Press No. 02-1273

Publish Dates: May 17, 24, 31, June 7, 2024

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

PETITIONER OR ATTORNEY: Laura Genevieve Hughes SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF CONTRA COSTA, 725 Court Street Martinez, CA 94553 PETITION OF: Laura Genevieve Hughes, Laura Genevieve Hughes CASE NUMBER: N24-0838 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner Laura Genevieve Hughes, Laura Genevieve Hughes filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present Name: a. Laura Genevieve Hughes to Proposed Name: a. Atticus Genevieve Hughes. 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING a. Date: 08/09/2024 Time: 9:00am Dept.: 30 b. The address of the court is same as

noted above. 3. a. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Brentwood Press Date: May 13 2024 Judge of the Superior Court Brentwood Press Brentwood Press 02-1273 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273

Publish Dates: May 17, 24, 31, June 7, 2024

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2024-0002536 The name of the business(es): SimplyFit LLC Located at: 29 Oregano Ct In: Oakley, CA 94561, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): SYMPLYFIT LLC. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company, State of Organization: CA. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Arlene McMahan, Managing Member. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on May 2, 2024 by Deputy Clerk Expires 05/01/2029 Oakley Press No. 03-0477

Brentwood Press No. 02-1273

Publish Dates: May 17, 24, 31, June 7, 2024

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: ROBERT KUNS AKA ROBERT A KUNS, ROBERT ANTHONY KUNS, deceased CASE NUMBER P24-00566

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: ROBERT KUNS AKA ROBERT A KUNS, ROBERT ANTHONY KUNS, deceased. A Petition for Probate has been filed by: MATTHEW D KUNS in the Superior Court of California, County of: CONTRA COSTA The Petition for Probate requests that: MATTHEW D KUNS be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. The petition requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. 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: SEPTEMBER 12, 2024 Time: 9:00 AM Dept: #30 ROOM 201. 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. Petitioner: MATTHEW D KUNS *ANTIOCH PRESS* 06-1617

Brentwood Press No. 02-1273

Publish Dates: May 17, 24, 31, 2024

SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL)

23CV050494 NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: (Aviso al Demandado): CASSANDRA LASEIHACL FARRCOLBERT aka CASSANDRA FARR DOES 1 through 10, inclusive;

YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF: (lo esta demandando el demandante) NATIONWIDE INSURANCE COMPANY OF AMERICA, a Wisconsin corporation, NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below. You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www. courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court. There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal service program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Web Site (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org) the California Courts Online Self Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. The

court’s lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case. ¡AVISO! Lo han demandado. Si no responde dentro de 30 días, la corte puede decidir en su contra sin escuchar su versión. Lea la información a continuación Tiene 30 DÍAS DE CALENDARIO después de que le entreguen esta citación y papeles legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia al demandante. Una carta o una llamada telefónica no lo protegen. Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte y mas información en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www. sucorte.ca.gov), en la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede mas cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación, pida al secretario de la corte que le de un formulario de exención de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podrá quitar su sueldo, dinero y bienes sin mas advertencia. Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que llame a un abogado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede llamar a un servicio de remisión a abogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services, (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www.sucorte.ca.gov) o poniéndose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales. AVISO: Por ley, la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobre cualquier recuperación de $10,000 o mas de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesión de arbitraje en un caso de derecho civil. Tiene que pagar el gravamen de la corte antes de que la corte pueda desechar el caso. The name and address of the court is: (El nombre y direccion de la corte es): RENE C. DAVIDSON ALAMEDA COUNTY COURTHOUSE 1225 FALLON ST., OAKLAND, CA 94612 The name, address, and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney is: (El nombre, la direccion y el numero de telefono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante que no tiene abogado, es): LAW OFFICES OF JAY W. SMITH Jay W. Smith, Esq., Sbn 150113 Nancy A. Young, Esq., Sbn 183328 6644 Valjean Avenue, Suite 200 Van Nuys, California 91406 T (818) 709-2556 F (818) 709-2513 DATE: 11/08/2023 Deputy (Adjunto): Chad Finke, Executive Officer/ Clerk of the Court M. Cortez Notice to the person being served: You are served. Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 Publish Dates: May 17, 24, 31, June 7, 2024

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ercise,” he said. Most of the funds to buy equipment comes from student fundraising activities that Guardado spearheaded when he started teaching at Heritage 14 years ago.

“It’s that kind of fundraising that allows my students to get as much experience with this really expensive equipment, because this limited budget I get from the district pales in comparison to what my club students do.”

For this year’s competition students were asked by the C-SPAN competition to produce a 5- to 6-minute documentary film relating to Looking Forward while Considering the Past. “We knew we wanted to do an issue we could connect back to our community of Brentwood,” said Amy, the producer. “So we started thinking about the history of Brentwood and how we have a lot of farms and agriculture. We wanted to see what the FDA was doing and how we could point out this issue.”

Kyan provided on-camera narration, and Matthew handled the camera

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(a Blackmagic 6k pocket camera). While each student had their area of expertise, they worked closely together. “We were all involved in each step of the process to make this film,” Kyan said.

Representatives of U.S. Rep. Mark DeSaulnier and U.S. Sen. Laphonza Butler presented the award certificates to the students on stage. When Katz asked the students if this experience helped them feel inspired to reach out to elected officials, Matthew said, “It’s really helped me realize how much you can do by talking to your local representatives.”

Brentwood Mayor Joel Bryant congratulated the student filmmakers, “You know it is absolutely astonishing at the level of depth they were able to go to in a topic that is going to have far-reaching and permanent impact on the world not just their local community,” he said.

You can view the award-winning film FDA regulation on the C-SPAN StudentCam competition website. https://studentcam.org/

To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia

vestigative protocol. In 2022, a CODIS (Combined DNA Index System) hit alerted the Oakley Police Department to a possible DNA match from that sexual assault case in 2002. CODIS is a national database that contains DNA profiles from convicted offenders, unsolved crimes, and missing persons. CODIS automatically searches its indexes for matching DNA profiles, which enables law enforcement to cross reference their data to learn the identity of suspects or confirm identities.

Training from page 1

each commissioner’s knowledge on a wide range of topics relevant to their role and foster relationships and improve communication with peers.

The two-hour session was broken down into five topics:

• Land use regulation

• Long-range and current planning

• The role of the Planning Commission

• The makings of a good Planning Commissioner

• A crash course in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)

The training session can be watched at https://bit.ly/4ax09SV

Two of the topics – the role of the Commission and the makings of a good Commissioner – gave residents a chance to understand how the Planning Commission makes it decisions.

According to the presentation by Stantec Consulting Services, the role of the Planning Commission is three-fold:

The CODIS notification identified a man who lives in northern Idaho, the press release stated. With this information, Oakley Police detectives began coordinating with the U.S. Marshals Service and a detective from the Coeur d’Alene, Idaho Police Department before Oakley police detectives traveled to Idaho on May 12 to serve a search warrant assisted by the Marshals Service, Coeur d’Alene police, and the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office for DNA collection from the lead suspect in the case. Detectives traveled back home and presented the suspect’s DNA to the

1. It acts as an advisory board to the main governing body – the City Council – on issues related to planning and development.

2. The Commission ensures that the city’s General Plan is implemented by reviewing design proposals case by case.

3. The Commission functions as a decision-making body for many proposals

During this portion of the training, Commission members clarified that although they are a decision-making government body, their hands sometimes are tied by the state, such as with the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) discussed at their May 7 meeting. During that discussion, Vice Chairperson David Sparling reminded the rest of the Commission that their role in that process was limited to ensuring the CIP followed the General Plan. He reiterated that on May 21. “It’s a much, much narrower focus,” he said. “I wanted to make sure members of the

Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office Laboratory so it could be compared to the DNA in the sexual assault case. The DNA from the suspect was a direct match to the DNA recovered during the initial investigation in 2002, Beard said in the press release.

On May 16, Oakley police presented the case to the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office and a formal complaint was filed against Ferguson for the charges of rape of an incompetent person, forcible oral copulation and kidnapping for rape.

public didn’t think we had the [decisionmaking] ability.”

As to what makes an effective Commissioner, the presenters offered several pointers, saying the duties of the role include communicating with residents, educating the public and balancing interests in such a way as to remain ethical and fair in the decision-making process.

“The public in these forums has something called a ‘privileged position,’” presenters explained. “One of your responsibilities is to help inform them so that they understand what decisions are being made. That is the best outcome that you could have, whether they agree with it or not, if they understand what it is that you’re doing.”

Commissioner Rod Flohr cited some challenges to educating the public.

“We’d like to do that more than we’re allowed to due to Brown Act restrictions,” he said, explaining that even his use of social media to engage the public is subject to scrutiny based on if other Commis-

sioners can see it since the act does not allow more than two Commissioners to discuss an agenda item outside of a meeting.

“It makes it difficult,” Flohr continued. “It’s also important that when we do address the public that we educate ‘her’s what it is’ but we don’t offer opinions that might indicate to some other interested party that we’ve formed an opinion on their application before considering it.”

By the end of the training session, the Commissioners had been validated by the presenters several times for the way they have approached issues and agenda items in the past.

Other topics included the request to bring forward a future agenda item proposed by Commissioner Gerald Johnson at the May 7 meeting regarding on-site signage for public hearings. A sign may be posted for a public hearing and then is not taken down afterward by the city, Johnson said in the earlier meeting.

The full meeting can be watched at https://bit.ly/4ax09SV

Brentwood Mayor Joel Bryant (left) also attended the award ceremony.

Photo by Daniel Gruen