The Press 06.07.2024

Local bar owners prepare for new drug test law

By Connor Robles Correspondent

As a new law requiring bars to have drug testing kits takes effect on July 1, most local bar owners have declined public comment on it.

Assembly Bill 1013 by Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal, (D-69th district), mandates that all bars and nightclubs with Type 48 licenses must stock “strips, stickers, straws, [or] other devices” that can detect controlled substances, including ketamine, rohypnol, and GHB, so-called ‘date rape’ drugs. Bars and nightclubs must buy these kits without monetary support from the state. Establishments must also post a visible sign with the message “Don’t get roofied! Drink spiking drug test kits available here. Ask a

staff member for details.”

According to the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, a Type 48 license authorizes the sale of beer, wine, and distilled spirits at a bar or nightclub. The category excludes establishments such as restaurants with bars inside, applying to only those whose primary business is the sale of alcohol rather than food.

“The bill only covers Type 48 licensees because that’s the type of establishment that is most likely to have the problem of people drugging drinks,” said Lizeth Chimal, a field representative for Lowenthal’s Long Beach office. “The goal, of course, is to expand the law to all alcohol-serving establishments.”

Of the four Type 48 license

see Bar page 19A

Liberty students cut ribbon on sculpture

There’s a new piece of art sitting on the corner of Sand Creek Road and O’Hara Avenue in Brentwood from the art and design students from Liberty High School. Liberty seniors (from right to left) Diego Lopez, Kristiana Zest, and Briauna Schmid, cut the ribbon on the new salmon sculpture on the corner of Sand Creek Road and O’Hara Avenue Tuesday afternoon. Along with teacher Jake Edwards, students of Liberty’s PADA (Public Art and Design Academy) cut the ribbon on their metal salmon sculpture Tuesday afternoon along with some of the members of Brentwood’s City Council in attendance and Mayor Joel Bryant. To view a video and a slideshow of the event, visit www. thepress.net/multimedia

‘We’re not talking the Ritz-Carlton, but…’

Golf facility to expand

By Hemananthani Sivanandam Correspondent

Oakley residents will soon have an indoor golf practice facility on Main Street, further adding a recreational value to the community.

On Tuesday, June 4, the Oakley Planning Commission unanimously approved an application requesting approvals for design review and two conditional use permits with special conditions. Commissioners Diego Verduzco and Jimmy Ramirez were absent.

By Jake Menez Staff Writer

The city of Brentwood may soon get a new hotel after the Planning Commission voted 4-0 to approve the design for a dual-branded La Quinta Inn/Hawthorn Suites that would be built near the Streets of Brentwood shopping complex. Commissioner Gerald Johnson was absent from the meeting.

The proposed 69,060 squarefoot hotel is to be located at the southwest corner of Shady Willow Lane and Los Cielos Way, adjacent to Sprouts according to the agenda packet for the meeting. The hotel would be four stories tall with 151 rooms. Amenities would include a swimming pool and a covered barbecue patio. The approved design also includes 121 designated parking spaces for the hotel and 30 parking spaces the hotel would share with surrounding businesses, bringing the total to 151 to match the number of rooms. The building would allow for “some extended stay” in the Hawthorn Suites half of the hotel, according to city staff, but no more than 30 days at a time.

The application was submitted by Brandon Johnson, the owner of Golfballin’, a business operating as a golf retail store within a former nursery on about one acre of property on 4701 Main St. Johnson had applied for a design review for an outdoor golf practice facility, including hitting bays, associated netting, putting greens, and bunkers, a conditional use permit to operate the practice facility, and a conditional use permit for the outdoor display of golf carts in front of the location.

The Planning Commission, however, imposed two special conditions as proposed by the City for the project following concerns about noise and long-term maintenance of the essential netting so close to residences.

“We’re not talking the RitzCarlton, but we’re talking something that is going to enhance that community,’ Chairperson Anita Roberts said of the hotel’s design.

“It would really be a plus to kind of dress that up.”

The proposed facade of the

see Hotel page 19A

Evan Gorman, Oakley’s Associate Planner, said two specific conditions are necessary to get the project to meet the findings for approvals according to the local municipal code.

“The first proposed condition mandates that any driving prac-

see Golf page 19A

Concept art of the proposed hotel, which will have 151 rooms.

Image courtesy of City of Brentwood

Photo by Jeff Weisinger

For print, email your events to calendar@brentwoodpress.com one week prior to publication. For online, post your events for free on The Press Community Calendar www.thepress.net/calendar.

This week’s events

Friday, 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 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 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.

Sunday, June 9

Annual Festa Italiana in Lodi

Get into the spirit of Italy at Festa Italiana is 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Lodi Grape Festival Grounds to taste fine food, activities and entertainment of the Italian culture. The festival offers Italian food from local Italian ‘chefs’, a Mercato Marketplace, cooking demonstrations, Italian art and history, bocce ball, salami toss, the automobili show, wine tasting, olive oil and local product tastings. Renowned Italian Tenor Pasquale Esposito, presented by John and Maxine Ferraiolo, headlines the festival on the Morada Produce Main Stage. Nino, d’Italiano, local opera singer Bianca Orsi, and the Trucco Band, The Balliamo Italian Dancers also will headline in the Pavilion. Local entertainment, including Stockton Garage Combo, Opera Singer Kerri Scott, Louis Lodi, and the Nicolini Brothers on accordions, will be on the Benevenuti Stage. Tickets are $20 at the door. Children 12 and under are admitted free with an adult. Get tickets in advance at Gian’s Deli - 2112 Pacific Avenue, Stockton; SASS! Public Relations - 628 Lincoln Center, Stockton; Lodi Grape Festival Ground - 413 E. Lockeford St., Lodi; Rinaldi’s Market - 4625 Duncan Road, Linden; the Fruit Bowl - 8767 E. Waterloo Road, Stockton. For details, visit festa-italiana.com.

Wednesday, June 12

‘Exploration Stations’ at Brentwood library, City Park

The Brentwood Library at 104 Oak Street and

City Park offer ‘Exploration Stations’ for kids from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Discover science this summer with Exploration Stations, where you can look, touch and explore to learn about our natural world and communities. Guests include the Lindsay Wildlife Experience, East Bay Regional Parks, Mt. Diablo and East Bay Astronomical Societies and 511 Contra Costa. For details, visit https://tinyurl.com/CCCL-Exploration (or ccclib. org/events.)

On the Horizon

Saturday, June 15

Brentwood veterans host Luau 2024 Wear your favorite Hawai’ian shirt and 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 Maui fires. For tickets, visit www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/ a97eba5d-7b78-44b9-bb3b-e6dfa00759e8. the wildfires in Maui last year. Win raffle and silent aution prizes.

Oakley Juneteenth Celebration

Music, food, and community events that make Juneteenth a day of joy and unity to highlight and uplift Black voices will be from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Civic Center Plaza at 3231 Main St. The event is free. For details, visit www.OakleyInfo. com.

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 form.jotform.com/240678550555160.

Wednesday, June 19

Brentwood – Juneteenth Celebration in the Park Commemorate this significant milestone in American history. Juneteenth is significant as it marks the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. It’s a day to reflect, honor, and celebrate the rich culture and heritage of the African American community. There will be food trucks, craft vendors, educational booths and kids activities from 4-8 p.m. in City Park in Brentwood. Musical guest is Lenny

and recognition to 22 recipients. Tickets available at Eventbrite – https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ soroptimist-uncorked-tickets908428503107?aff=ebdssbdestsearch - or at Gursky Ranch at 1921 Apricot Way or by leaving your contact information at 925-219-2670. For details about soroptimists, visit www.siofthedelta.com or call Sue Pretzer at 760-583-3058.

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.

Tuesday, June 25

Oakley Senior Center Bus Trip to Cache Creek Casino

The bus will leave the senior center at 215 Second St. at 8 a.m. and return by 5 p.m. to allow for five hours of gambling and lunch. Tickets are $47. RVSP by calling 925-626-7223.

Thursday, June 27 and Thursday, July 25

Hometown Nights - A celebration of community and nostalgia

The Downtown Brentwood Coalition presents its newest event series, Hometown Nights, from 4-8 p.m. daily in historic Downtown Brentwood. These nostalgic, family-friendly evenings will be a celebration of all things Brentwood, including a charming ‘50s theme with beautiful classic cars and an ice cream social area offering a variety of cool treats for purchase. On June 27, the East Contra Costa Historical Society will guide attendees through the history of downtown Brentwood; agriculture & art with local displays and interactive exhibits; local wine and food from award-winning local winerie; downtown restaurants show off their culinary delights in indoor and outdoor seating; Threads of Strength - a special fashion show in which Adventure Therapy Foundation, a local nonprofit, present a fashion show uplifting individuals impacted by cancer. The show will feature new styles from Downtown retail shops, highlighting both fashion and resilience and community programs. Learn about the programs and amenities that contribute to Brentwood’s hometown feel. For details, visit contact Executive Director Amy Tilley at specialevents@downtownbrentwood.com or visit www.brentwooddowntown.com.

Soroptimists’ Uncorked event celebrates 40 years of service

Soroptimist International of the Delta is celebrating 40 years of service to the Brentwood community and is celebrating by continuing its sixth annual Uncorked Event on Saturday, June 22 from 5-9 p.m. at De Luna Ranch at 7540 Balfour Road in Brentwood. Sip fine wines not found in your local grocery and indulge in delicious bites while mingling with fellow wine enthusiasts. Dinner is being catered by The Holy Smoker, and Joey T and Friends will entertain. Tickets are $75 and include, dinner, six-ounce wine-tasting glass, raffles, appetizer bar, dessert and a silent and live auction. Proceeds support Soroptimist’s mission to empower local girls and women. This year, they awarded scholarships

Saturday, June 29

City of Oakley’s 25th Anniversary Parade

The parade from 9-10 a.m. runs down Main Street beginning at 5th Street and ending at Civic Center Plaza. Residents are invited to participate in the parade with floats, classic cars or as part of a performing group, band, dance team, or walking group. For details, visit http:// www.OakleyInfo.com.

Oakley Summer Fest

This festival from 11 a.m.–4 p.m. at Civic Center Plaza at 3231 Main St. from Norcross Lane to Vintage Parkway is free and will family-friendly festival with live music on the main stage, a giant kids area, local artisan makers, adoption opportunities with Joybound People & Pets (previously known as the Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF)), and food vendors. There will be no fireworks at this event. For details, visit http://www.oakleysummerfest.com

Delta Theatre in Brentwood to reopen this month

Building was dormant since 2020

By Sarah Capperauld Correspondent

After a years-long hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic, the show is ready to go on for the Delta Theatre in downtown Brentwood, which is scheduled to reopen on June 13 with the new Pixar movie Inside Out 2.

Built in the 1930s, the Delta has been a historic piece of Brentwood drawing in many to its vintage charm. It has been closed for the past few years, partly due to the pandemic and partly in order for its owner to bring the theater into the 21st century without losing touch with its past.

“I really just wanted to make sure that this theater had this old vintage feel to it,” owner Sean McCauley said.

The renovations include taking out a glass wall and opening the foyer, keeping the old memorabilia and even featuring artwork from the East County Historical Society, according to McCauley.

“I think this is one of the most iconic buildings in Brentwood, and I would say it is important for us to have as many people go through there and important for us to have historical pictures and historical stuff that Brentwood once was so that we never lose sight of that.”

The theater will have two screening rooms: one with regular seats and the other with recliners, he said. The theater also will serve locally sourced food, beer and wine, and it will feature state-of-theart sound systems into both theaters.

“We want to cater to the community – old-school films on the big screen,” McCauley explained. They will also be featuring new movies in the theater as well, “although the theater is only one step towards making downtown Brentwood a full entertainment area.”

His ultimate goal is to take downtown and turn it from what he called a former ‘ghost town,’ into a thriving community.

The original project for revamping the theater started back in 2012. “This

The Delta Theatre in downtown Brentwood is expected to reopen in mid-June, just in time for the latest Pixar film, Inside Out 2. The theater has been closed since 2020.

project for us is not something we are doing for personal gain, it’s more for the community, and we feel that theater is definitely the anchor for downtown, as well as keeping the momentum going downtown Brentwood from what we started post-the Great Recession.”

Just after the Recession, McCauley had noticed from 2009-2012, the downtown area as a whole was “deserted.”

Alongside members of local organizations such as the Downtown Brentwood Coalition and the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce, McCauley said he pitched in to “revitalize” downtown Brentwood.

For his part, McCauley ended up buying some of the buildings downtown and hiring entrepreneurs to make sure that

downtown could thrive. Combined with city efforts to widen sidewalks and rehabilitate older restaurants, bars and other small shops, downtown became a space in which people could gather, McCauley said.

The Delta is the last “puzzle piece” for McCauley to reach his official goal of turning downtown into that gathering place. The cost of the renovation was “A lot of money – a lot – more than we wanted to put in but we think it’s worth it for the community,” he said, without providing a dollar figure.

Ahead of the grand reopening for the public, McCauley plans to host a small celebration at the theater for city officials and members of the team that helped with the renovations.

The Delta will be hosting ‘throwback nights’ and will hold about 200 people. Each screening room holds about 100 people. Regular seats in the theater will cost $8; recliners in the other room will cost $12. There will most likely be more events in the future, McCauley said. “I am most excited about the outpouring of community support. Just seeing kids and families enjoying the theater and hopefully a lot that have never been downtown.”

For more information, including upcoming showtimes, visit https://deltatheater com/

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News iN Brief

LUHSD accepting applications for Measure U school bond Citizens’ Oversight committee

The Liberty Union High School District seeks a member to serve a two-year term under the following category:

• Member of the community

The committee will meet at twice a year for the following:

• To actively monitor all projects and expenditures approved by the voters.

• To provide proper oversight and accountability to ensure that Measure U funds are used as they were intended.

• To report to residents on the progress of Measure U projects. Applications are now available on www.luhsd.net under ‘Latest Headlines’. Paper applications also located at: Liberty Union High School District Office, 20 Oak St., Brentwood, CA 94513. Completed applications must be received at the Liberty Union High.

22 more bike turnouts being built at Mount Diablo State Park

California State Parks, in partnership with the California State Parks Foundation, Mount Diablo Cyclists, and community donors, started construction on June 3, of 22 new bike turnouts at Mount Diablo State Park.

Once completed, these 22 new turnouts will bring the total turnouts in the park to 67. Turnouts allow bicyclists, who move at slower speeds as they pedal uphill, to pull out of the main traffic lane into their own lane so that vehicles can pass safely, according to a press release from the state. They are expected to be completed by fall 2024.

Here is what the public can expect during construction:

The three park roads receiving new turnouts (South Gate Road, Summit Road and North Gate Road) will be closed on weekdays, from 8 a.m. on Monday through 2 p.m. on Friday. The park will be fully open on the weekends during the project.

This work will be done in three phases, with the first phase having begun on June 3, on South Gate Road. Southgate Road will remain closed on weekdays for approximately five weeks until the project moves to Summit Road and then to North Gate Road.

Vehicles, bicyclists, equestrians, and hikers will be prohibited on the closed roads until the project is completed.

Camping will only be allowed onFriday and Saturday nights in campgrounds along closed roads.

Contra Costa Animal Services Offers June License Amnesty Program to Help People Protect Their Pets

Contra Costa Animal Services (CCAS) is offering a license amnesty program this month to help county residents protect their pets in advance of the 4th of July holiday. During June, county residents who have overdue animal licenses, or who have never licensed their pets, will have all late and penalty fees waived. Pet owners who take advantage of the License Amnesty Program will also receive a free designer license tag equipped with 24/7 lost pet protection services, adding an additional layer of protection to ensure their pets find their way home if they ever become lost.

“The 4th of July sees more pets becoming lost than any other time of the year,” said Ben Winkleblack, Director of Contra Costa Animal Services. “Licensing your pet can be the difference between losing your pet and getting them back, so there’s no better time to offer this program to help people protect their pets.”

Residents are required by law to license owned dogs that are over four months of age. While not required, Contra Costa Animal Services recommends licensing of owned cats that are allowed outdoors. Licenses can be purchased online at CCAS’s website: www.ccasd.org. License fees are as follows:

1-year license for altered pet - $25

1-year license for unaltered pet - $65

3-year license for altered pet – $60

All trails and fire roads will remain open throughout the project.

For detailed information on Mount Diablo State Park, visit parks.ca.gov/ MountDiablo.

3-year license for unaltered pet - $180

Military veterans and senior citizens over 65 years of age – Free for first pet, if altered.

Operation Backpack offers more than school supplies

By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer

It started as a simple observation while walking through campus.

Graduating 8th-grader Isabella Maiwand was walking to class at Bristow Middle School and she noticed something that might normally go unnoticed by the rest of her peers — not everyone has a new, or even decent backpack, at least compared to her.

”I had a friend in the sixth grade, and I wondered to myself why she didn’t have a backpack like me, or a backpack like some of my other friends,” Isabella explained. “She came to school with a plastic drawstring backpack. That’s when it kind of hit me that some kids don’t have this kind of luxury and I wanted to do something about it.”

Isabella, who was part of Bristow’s leadership program, used a class project to create a project called “Operation Backpack,” a fundraiser designed to collect backpacks and other school supplies for underprivileged students in hopes to give back to her community and to also build students’ confidence at the start of a new school year.

“When I receive a new backpack for the new school year, I feel refreshed and ready to start another school year,” Isabella said. “It’s like a little confidence boost. So I just want these kids to have that same moment.”

Isabella is hoping that what started as a simple leadership class project can eventually turn into a full nonprofit organization.

”If it gets big enough, I can distribute these all around California, so some of the poor areas can get all of these backpacks,” Isabella said. “It’ll help out the less privileged.”

”We wanted to keep it at home first in our direct community,” Isabella’s mother, Cheri Nguyen, added. “We’re going to reach out to all of the local schools, churches, shelters if there’s any need for that, then we’ll branch off.”

Isabella held a fundraiser drop-off in Blue Goose Park in Brentwood during Memorial Day weekend. So far, she has raised nearly $800 in supplies in both live donations and through GoFundMe.

Operation Backpack is at 60 backpacks, working toward its goal of 200 by late July, just before the start of the 202425 school year with the focus mostly on elementary and middle school students.

Isabella and her mother said that some people came to the drop off last weekend and donated new school supplies and backpacks. One person even donated a $200 Sprayground backpack for the fundraiser.

”We’d rather auction it off, take the money and buy more,” Nguyen said. “We can probably buy 15 (backpacks).”

Nguyen added that more people have responded and donated through the project’s GoFundMe link.

“We’re actually surprised that it went this far,” Nguyen added. “We were expecting to just do a little thing for school. She’s gotten more support than she even realized or it was bigger than she even realized.”

Isabella Maiwand, left, and her sister Sophia stand at their fundraising table at Blue Goose Park in Brentwood on May 25 as part of Isabella’s “Operation Backpack” fundraiser drop off.

Isabella’s project could be combating more than just families who couldn’t normally afford school supplies — its shedding light on both the rising cost of education, and Brentwood’s wealth gap while helping those in need.

“I’ve seen the impact just in our community alone,” Isabella said. “When I put the magnifying glass on it, I realized that this is getting big and there’s a need for this.”

“Some of our friends are not as privileged,” Nguyen added. “Parents are hardworking and, with the economy the way it is now, even the ones that may have been very privileged at one point might be in a different circumstance now.”

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According to a study last year by the Deloitte Consumer Industry Center, families in the Bay Area spent an average of $805 in school supplies per child for the 2023-24 academic year; the national average is $597. The study adds that the largest chunk of the total went towards technology products like computers and calculators.

Nguyen, a mother of three, knows how expensive school supplies have become throughout the years especially as the cost of living continues to increase. Isabella wants to help those in need.

”An average backpack, a good backpack, can be anywhere from $20 to $50,” Nguyen said. “And that’s just the necessities. They give us a long list in the beginning of the school year before it starts of what’s required (for the class).

”There’s little things that you just never know that so and so’s parents really just can’t afford right now. It doesn’t mean that they won’t later or they couldn’t in the past. Right now might be a little different for some people. If there’s anything that we could do to help a family feel relief, relieve stress, we’re willing to do it.”

Those interested in donating to Operation Backpack can go to the GoFundMe page at https://www gofundme com/f/ isabellas-operation-backpack-for-bristow To view a video and a slideshow, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia

Date: June 21, 2024 Deadline for space reservation: June 11, 2024

Photo courtesy Cheri Nguyen

PROTECT YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION WITH ADVANCED 2-FACTOR AUTHENTICATION

By Seana Fippin, Red Box Business Solutions

In an era of increasing cyber threats, safeguarding your personal information is crucial. One effective way to enhance your online security is through 2-factor authentication (2FA). This additional security layer helps keep your sensitive data safe from hackers and unauthorized access.

Why 2FA matters

Without 2FA, cybercriminals can easily access your accounts using stolen passwords. However, with 2FA, even if someone has your password, they will need a one-time code sent to your authenticated device or generated by an app, making unauthorized access nearly impossible.

The risks of SMS-based 2FA

Many people use SMS for 2FA, where a code is sent to their mobile device. While convenient, this method has significant flaws. Text messages are not encrypted and can be intercepted by cybercriminals exploiting mobile network vulnerabilities, potentially leading to unauthorized account access even with 2FA enabled.

Advanced 2FA solutions

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Google Authenticator app

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Family of Bill Bristow donates tuba to Bristow school band

Bristow Middle School Director Mark Morello announced that a recent donation has helped his exemplary music program maintain a continued level of excellence.

The family of school namesake Bill Bristow learned that the largest middle school music program in California needed a new tuba. Knowing that a quality tuba can cost several thousand dollars, the family immediately offered to purchase a tuba for the program. Morello said the tuba is a critical to the entire band because the instrument helps give the band a balanced sound.

Under Morello’s leadership, the Wind

Ensemble, Jazz Band and Choir have earned over 30 Unanimous Superior ratings at Music in the Parks and CMEA Festivals. They have received countless firstplace awards at Music in the Park events for both Wind Ensemble and Choir and “Esprit de Corps” Awards for best overall team spirit and professionalism for the past three years.

“Bristow offers tubas for students to use since they’re not readily available to rent,” Morello said. “The new tuba is now being played by a 7th-grade band student. The tuba he was playing was over 20 years old.”

Photo courtesy of Dana Eaton

Contra Loma lagoon closed for another season

Officials cite safety concerns for Antioch swim area

By Dawnmarie Fehr Correspondent

The Contra Loma swim lagoon will remain closed this year for the third summer in a row.

Last open to visitors in the summer of 2021, ongoing maintenance and public safety issues resulted in its indefinite closure

in September of that year, officials said.

The lagoon is part of the East Bay Regional Parks District (EBRPD). It is a large, shallow-entry, concrete pool built on the edge of the Contra Loma Reservoir in Antioch. The design included sand in the entry side of the lagoon, which officials said caused safety concerns for lifeguards on busy days. Large crowds would stir up the sand, limiting visibility in the water. The sand also caused wear on both the lagoon’s shell and the mechanical filtration system.

The lagoon won’t remain closed forever, however. Parks district spokesperson Dave Mason said the district’s design and

construction team is working on new plans for the popular swimming spot.

“Park District staff are developing options for the Contra Loma lagoon and intend to present plans and cost estimates to the district’s board of directors this summer,” Mason said. “More information regarding possible plans for the Contra Loma lagoon will be available at that time.”

To augment swimming options in the area, the district has partnered with the Ambrose Parks and Recreation District to provide alternate swim access and programs at Ambrose Aquatic Center at 125 Memorial Way in Pittsburg (https://www. ambroserec.org/ambrose-aquatic-center).

“This is how we are trying to still provide access to water and water safety and recreation,” said Pete DeQuincy, Lifeguard Services Manager for EBRPD. “We are using our existing funding we had for staffing Contra Loma. Rather than that go back into the General Fund, we are using that money to support another aquatic facility in the region.”

DeQuincy said that his district supported the Ambrose pool in the same way in 2022 and 2023. He also said the partnership resulted in increased attendance at the Ambrose pool.

see Lagoon page 14A

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O pini O n

EDITORIALS, LETTERS & COMMENTARY

Veterans’ luau fundraiser June 15 seeks support

As a dedicated veteran, I am reaching out with an earnest plea to my fellow veterans and a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to those who have supported us. The Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building, along with the local chapters of the Marine Corps League, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and the American Legion, are vital institutions for our community. These organizations provide crucial support and camaraderie for veterans and their families, and they play an essential role in honoring our service and sacrifice.

However, the reality is that only a few dedicated individuals are working tirelessly to keep these organizations afloat. They are experiencing burnout due to the overwhelming responsibilities they carry. Many of them playing vital rolls for multiple organizations. Without additional help, we risk losing the support and fellowship these groups offer.

A prime example of our current struggle is the upcoming luau fundraiser for the veterans building. We urgently need your support to ensure its success. We are at risk of a financial loss if we don’t sell 200 tickets, and with less than a month remaining, we still need to sell 120 tickets. This event is crucial for our ability to continue supporting our community and our veterans.

We are at a critical juncture for our veteran organizations here in East County. We need every veteran to step up and join at least one of these vital organizations. Imagine the impact we could have if all veterans in East County came together. Our collective efforts could transform our community, providing unparalleled support and resources for veterans and their families. By joining and getting involved, you will help ensure that these organizations remain strong

and vibrant, continuing to honor and serve those who have served our nation.

For our luau fundraiser, we are calling on you, our fellow veterans, to make a difference. You can help by selling tickets to friends, family, and colleagues, or by purchasing tickets yourself. If each member sold just one ticket, we would be in a much stronger position. However, given our current circumstances, we need individuals to step up and sell tickets to ensure the success of our event. In addition to selling tickets, we ask that you share our event on social media, distribute flyers in your community, and email them to your contacts. Every effort counts, and your involvement could be the difference between success and failure.

Your participation can make a significant difference in the lives of fellow veterans and the broader community.

Don’t let this opportunity pass by. Join us today and be a part of something greater. Together, we can create a lasting legacy of support and camaraderie for current and

future generations of veterans.

I also want to take a moment to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Sons of the American Legion. Their dedication and hard work have been invaluable in supporting the veterans building and the missions of the Marine Corps League, VFW, and the American Legion. Their commitment to our veteran community has not gone unnoticed. By stepping up and lending a hand, they have significantly eased the burden on our veteran members, ensuring that our events run smoothly and our goals are achieved. Whether it’s organizing fundraisers, maintaining the hall, or supporting our outreach efforts, their contributions have been essential to our success.

Proceeds benefit the veterans buiding and veterans organizations affected by the Maui fires. For tickets, visit https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ ticketing/a97eba5d-7b78-44b9-bb3be6dfa00759e8.

Thank you for your service and your commitment to our community.

Donald Hester Commandant Delta Diablo Detachment 1155, Marine Corps League

Letters to the editor

‘Thank you’ to Oakley Public Works

Editor:

A big ‘thank you’ to Kevin Rohani and his department for listening to our comments, studying the problem and restriping the westbound lanes of Main Street at Neroly Road back to two lanes through to the freeway. The change that had been made forcing the inside lane to merge into one lane just before Neroly caused many near hits, and maybe some accidents, as drivers realized at the last minute they had to merge right or end up in the left turn lane to Neroly. Returning it to two lanes through makes sense and will make it safer.

Mike Stewart Oakley

Conor Rodriguez Liberty High School

Congratulations Conor!! Best of luck on the next chapter. We are all so proud of you and love you lots!!

Troy is an outstanding student that goes above and beyond for his family. Troy has shown time and again how responsible and caring he is. All of Troy’s cousins look up to him as a role model, they’ve seen how hard he works. We are proud of him and all of his accomplishments and wish him nothing but the best in all of his future endeavors.

We love you Troy.

Thanks for always being an amazing son and the best big brother.

We are very proud of you.

As you start this new journey, remember to always do your best and never stop learning.

We love you always and forever no matter what.

TIMES GRADUATION

Independence: Tuesday, June 4th | 6:00PM (Ghiggeri Gym at Liberty)

La Paloma: Wednesday, June 5th

6:00PM - 8:00PM

Heritage: Thursday, June 6th

7:30PM - 10:00PM

Liberty: Friday, June 7th

7:00PM - 9:00PM

Freedom: Saturday, June 8th | 8:30AM

2024 Heritage HS graduate. Will be attending Baylor University and studying for a degree in Architectural Interior Design. Sic’em Bears!

Brooke Chatburn

Congratulations, your family is very proud of you!

Rafael Gonzalez Liberty High School

Troy A Jordan Freedom High School

Brooke Chatburn Heritage High School

Looking back at the year that was

Our favorite sports stories of the 202324 academic year

By Jeff Weisinger, Staff Writer & Juan Cebreiros, Correspondent

The 2023-24 high school sports year here in the Brentwood-Oakley area was full of memorable moments — Heritage football returned to the playoffs for the first time in seven years, while Liberty found themselves on the outside looking in, to Liberty softball stunning the Bay Valley Athletic League and claiming their first league title in nearly three decades, breaking records on their way back to the top.

As the schools and local families celebrate the Class of 2024 ceremonies this week, we take a look back at some of our favorite sports stories of the year.

Heritage football returns to the playoffs while Liberty gets left out

The 2023 high school football season had its share of moments for both Liberty and Heritage -- good and bad.

Entering the year, Liberty started life after Nate Bell and entered their second season under head coach Mike Cable On the other side of Brentwood, Heritage dropped down to Division II in the North Coast Section in hopes of reaching the postseason for the first time since 2017.

Despite Liberty going 7-3 overall and 4-1 in league with a blowout win over Heritage in the Brentwood Bowl and their lone loss being against eventual BVAL champion Pittsburg, and Heritage going 5-7 and 2-3 in league, it was the Patriots in the end qualifying for the NCS Division II postseason. The Patriots earned the bid after going 4-1 against other Division II opponents, while Liberty was left out as James Logan took the eighth and final Division I spot.

Heritage ran with their first playoff berth in six seasons, grabbing a big win on the road at Redwood in Larkspur before falling to eventual NCS Division II champ El Cerrito in a rainstorm on the road.

The girls stepped onto the gridiron for the first time, and it was awesome

Nobody really knew what to make of the inaugural girls flag football season in the BVAL this year. In Week 1, most of the coaches didn’t realize how serious and competitive it would be, and some didn’t know all of the rules either. But at the end, not only was the season a success, it’s set to expand in 2024.

Opening night saw Heritage blow out Liberty in front of a packed crowd at home, the main card of what became the usual three-game homestands through the 10-week season. Liberty returned the favor with the BVAL championship on the line in the regular season finale, blowing Liberty

out to take the title.

That wasn’t the only thrill of the season. Freedom defeated Liberty in the league’s first overtime in the first girls’ edition of the Bell Game in Oakley, and Liberty was just four yards away from defeating top-seed California High School in the first NCS championship tournament at Alhambra High School in Martinez.

Monday night lights officially arrived and it’s here to stay.

Pittsburg and Liberty boys basketball play three classics in 2023-24

The best sports story of this year was the rivalry between Liberty and Pittsburg boys basketball teams this season. The two regular season battles were decided by fewer than 10 points with the Lions coming back from down by 15 points at halftime in Game 1 to win. In Game 2, Pittsburg’s eight late unanswered points made it close, but weren’t enough to complete the comeback. Both games were like heavyweight fights with the fans on both sides cheering for their respective teams. In Game 1 at Liberty, Pirates fans almost filled out the visitors section while also bringing their cheer squad. The on-court play along with the high-energy fans made this one of the best sports stories of the year.

Heritage boys volleyball gets their playoff revenge on James Logan

This game meant a lot to the Patriots boys volleyball team. The year prior, they were left stunned by James Logan as the Colts turned a 2-0 deficit into a 3-2 reverse sweep. However, this time around when the Patriots’ 2-0 lead looked to be in jeopardy, they regained their focus and defeated the Colts. For a team that is losing 10 players to graduation, the Patriots played with an intensity as if they had this game circled on a calendar.

The midseason change that reset Freedom football

It’s not often that a head coach of a high school football team gets relieved of their duties during the regular season. But when Freedom dismissed Zach Sims from his head coaching duties following Freedom’s loss in the Bell Game in early October, it sparked the beginning of the reset of the Falcons.

Sims won just six games, 6-19 overall, since stepping into the helm since 2021, a far cry from the success the program had just five years prior as the Falcons went to backto-back NCS championship games.

Longtime head coach Kevin Hartwig and Scott Scranton both coached the program for the final four games of the season. And one of his former players, Steven Rodriguez, was named head coach toward the end of the 2023 calendar year for the 2024 season. Since Rodriguez’s hire, Freedom football has seen a resurgence of player intake with over 80 players combined taking part of spring ball for the junior varsity and varsity sides, and the program is expected to revive the freshman program for 2024, according to Rodriguez.

Heritage girls basketball lose one AllAmerican and may have another coming up, or two

Nobody knew what to make of Heritage’s girls basketball team for the 2023-24 season, especially after All-American center Amanda Muse left for UCLA. As Muse left, the freshman sensation Ze’Ni Patterson made her presence known in her debut season in Brentwood and, as much, twin sister Zion Patterson started to make herself known toward the end of the year.

“You can see their talent as freshmen,” senior guard Kendall McClure said of the Patterson twins after Heritage’s CIF State quarterfinals loss against Caruthers. “Their character and their determination, their work ethic, the way that they love the game is truly special, and I think that whatever they want to do they could accomplish it.”

Ze’Ni Patterson took home BVAL MVP honors, averaging 16.5 points per game, scoring in double digits in all but three games of the season, including scoring 20 or more in three of her final five games. She was a big part of the Patriots reaching the NCS semifinals and the CIF State Division I quarterfinals last season and looks to be a big part of the team’s success going forward.

Zion struggled early, but started to gain confidence and showed glimpses of what she can do toward the end of the regular season and even moreso in the postseason. In the final two games of the regular season and

through both NCS playoff games, Zion was 8 for 12 from beyond the arc and reached double digits in scoring (10 points) in the Bay Valley Athletic League championship game against Liberty and in the NCS semifinal loss against Salesian Collegiate Prep (12 points), according to MaxPreps, hitting big shots when it mattered most.

“It’s just amazing to see her grow as a player,” Ze’Ni said. “She has talent, so for her to really key on that and just grow from the experience is amazing.”

But also, Heritage girls basketball continued their dominance of the BVAL

With Amanda and Abby Muse no longer in the Heritage girls basketball program, a new era was underway, but the expectations remained the same. In one of her best performances of the season, freshman Ze’ni Patterson’s game-high 24 points lifted the Patriots past the Lions in the BVAL title game at Heritage, and clinched an eighth straight BVAL title for the program.

The game was similar to an epic battle. Heritage was trying to keep their longtime spot atop the BVAL with a win, while the Lions, who defeated Heritage at Liberty earlier in the season, were trying to upend their crosstown rival to win their first league title.

And then came Liberty softball, who had their best season in nearly three decades

In the hit Apple TV show Ted Lasso, Ted (played by Jason Sudeikis) uses positivity to coach a struggling professional soccer team back to the top. Liberty softball head coach Brandi Macias did the same thing with Liberty softball since her arrival in 2023 and the program exploded onto the scene this year for the program’s best season since the late 90s. Liberty’s 20-3 record is an eightwin improvement from their 12-15 record in 2023, Macias’ first year as head coach. It was also their first 20-win season in the MaxPreps era and their best record since 2009.

Macias also led the program to a game shy of the NCS championship game and to an undefeated season in the BVAL.

With just three seniors graduating, the Lions are looking to be a force in the BVAL along the likes of rivals and perennial NCS playoff teams Heritage and Freedom, for the next few years.

At left, Heritage senior Brooks Davis stiffarms a Freedom defender in the Patriots’ game against the Falcons back in October, 2023. At right, Liberty softball celebrates their first BVAL title in 29 years after defeating Heritage on April 30.

Photos by Jeff Weisinger/The Press

Area twin teens to represent U.S. in karate world

By Dawnmarie Fehr Correspondent

Two Discovery Bay girls will represent the United States at the World Karate and Kickboxing Union Championships in Greece this October.

Twins Skyla and Railynn Danh have been practicing karate for seven and 10 years, respectively. The girls, 15, said they are excited to take on the challenge of becoming world champions.

“We have both been working super hard over the last few years and we are finally getting results,” Skyla said. “We were undefeated this year, and to end the season in Greece getting gold medals, that would be a really good ending.”

In addition to adding “World Champion” to their list of achievements of winning local and regional tournaments, the girls also hope to trade their brown belts in for black ones. The pair will test for their black belts in December.

“I’ve been doing this over half my life,” Railynn said. “And with all the dedication I’ve put in, I’ve finally reached the goals I set for myself as a little kid.”

The sisters hone their skills at Nunley’s Karate Do in Pittsburg, where they practice sparring with and without weapons, and choreographed movements

called katas. They will compete in these categories in October.

One issue with the girls being such strong competitors is they usually fight each other for first and second place in local and regional tournaments. To avoid that situation in Greece, their Team USA

coaches decided to get them into different weight categories at 110 and 120 pounds, ensuring they’d never fight each other.

To make Team USA, Railynn and Skyla travelled to Utah in March, where they tried out for the team. Once they made it, their coaches sent them home with

training plans, and still meet with them via Zoom to check in on their training.

The WKU Championships is the highest level of competition available to those practicing sport karate, because unlike other martial arts, it is not represented at the Olympics.

Skyla said she thinks the high-contact sport teaches mental toughness and discipline.

“It’s a really underground sport,” Railynn added. “People should try it for basic self-defense and getting into the competition of life in general.”

The girls continue to practice katas and sparring four to five days each week, using plyometrics to become strong and agile. They are preparing to go up against nationally ranked competitors from 25 countries during the one-week competition.

Part of their preparation included fundraising through T-shirt sales. The girls sold shirts to family and friends in East County, and as far north as Oroville, down to Southern California.

“We are so grateful to everyone who supported us,” Skyla said.

Fundraising sales have closed. For more information on the world championships, visit www.wkuworld.com.

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

Twins Skyla and Railynn Danh of Discovery Bay will represent the U.S. in the karate world championships this October.

Photo courtesy of Allen Nunley

Lagoon from page 7A

“We want to continue to provide opportunities for the community through our partnership with Ambrose,” he said. “That includes recreational swimming, swim lessons, water programming and water safety education.”

The parks district and the Antioch Unified School District are providing programming at both Antioch High School and Deer Valley High School this summer by offering aquatic day camps. DeQuincy said an American Red Cross survey showed 55% of Americans don’t know how to swim, and the district wants to increase local knowledge of water safety.

His advice for those looking to beat the heat at a local swimming hole? “When

you are out swimming, swim in a supervised area,” he said. “Swim near a lifeguard and have a good time coming out to the regional parks.”

For more information on EBRPD

The Contra Loma swim lagoon in Antioch will remain closed this year for the third summer in a row because large crowds in the past would stir up the sand, limiting visibility in the water.

Photo by Andrew Rulloda

swimming facilities, visit www.ebparks. org/recreation/swimming.

For more information on the Ambrose Aquatic Center programming, visit www. ambroserec.org/ambrose-aquatic-center.

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holders in the area that The Press contacted -- one in Brentwood and three in Antioch -- only Pedro Horta, owner of Legends Bar in Antioch, agreed to be interviewed. The owner of Lou’s Place, also in Antioch, declined comment.

“I agree with it,” Horta said. “But we [at Legends] don’t really have problems with drugs, so I don’t think it’ll change much. We want people to feel safe.”

He also was confident in his bar’s existing security measures. “I don’t mess with nobody,” he said. “We have cameras, so if somebody does something stupid, we’ll know.”

a bartender will notify the driver, and if not, they will call an Uber and pay for it with the bar’s money.

According to Horta, Legends has practices to help drunken or drugged patrons. If they have a ride available, Horta or

Hotel from page 1A

The bars, restaurants and nightclubs are responsible for procuring testing kits. ABC does not sell or provide kits, and does not officially endorse any specific company that does, according to a press release from the state. Type 48-licensed premises must either offer the drug testing devices for sale to customers at a price not to exceed a reasonable amount based on the wholesale cost, or be given to customers free of charge. Drug testing devices could include test strips, stickers, straws or other devices that can detect the presence of controlled substances in drinks. These substances could include flunitrazepam, ketamine, and gamma hydroxybutyric acid.

Horta said he does not think buying the kits will cut too much into his profits. “I don’t know how much [the kits] cost, but I’m sure it won’t be a problem. They’re pretty cheap.”

The cost of the kits varies depending on a number of factors, which include the

rounding plants.

hotel is largely shades of brown and beige with trellises out front. Roberts proposed the idea of drought-resistant landscaping around the hotel as well as hanging potted plants on the trellises that could change seasonally and help the building “pop.”

“This is our first [hotel] in that area,” she said.

John Vierra, the project architect and owner of NJA Architecture, agreed with Roberts, saying that at least 50% of the appeal of a hotel is in the landscaping, and that there was a focus on creating exterior appeal with the hotel’s face and sur-

from page 1A

tice occur within an insulated, fully enclosed structure,” Gorman said.

“The second condition limits the golf carts displayed in front of the business to three. When considering special conditions, care is taken to avoid putting undue burden on a business operator.”

“In this case, City staff reviewed golf facilities both within our local area and within cities regarded as golf-friendly to explore existing conditions elsewhere and see if we can find alternative solutions,” Gorman added.

He explained that local driving ranges, such as Shadow Lakes in Brentwood and Oakhurst Golf Club in Clayton, maintain at least 250 feet of separation from homes, which can be interpreted as having accepted an “assumed risk” by building simultaneously with the courses.

Golf-friendly cities such as Scottsdale, Arizona, Orlando and Las Vegas have practice facilities that exceed 300 feet from residence, with the few exceptions within 100 feet being exclusively indoor practice facilities

“This review allowed staff to conclude that the proposed condition of having only indoor driving practice was the appropriate solution to allow the project to meet the required findings for the approvals and that there were no examples of successful alternatives,” Gorman said.

Gorman said the property, situated southwest of the intersection of Almondtree Lane and Main Street, previously had a gardening nursery, first developed in 2007. Three residential uses surround the property, and the 4700 Main Street storage facility and commercial spaces are across the street. The primary building, which is about 2,200-squarefeet on the property, houses Golfballin’, and to the back of the main building is a 20,000square-feet outdoor area initially designed as a nursery plant display yard. The business

Members of the public and the Planning Commissioners seemed to be in agreement that the city needs another hotel as it continues to grow, with Commissioner Kristopher Brand noting that it will be close to the Sand Creek Sports Complex when that project is completed. The city’s vision, as stated in numerous past city meetings as well as the mayor’s State of the City address, is to become a place for people to travel to for work and pleasure as evidenced by projects such as the sports complex and the Innovation Center @ Brentwood, a “next- generation business park and town center,” as described on the city’s website. Com-

uses this rear yard for ancillary golf cart sales and storage. There is also an additional fenced storage area and associated storage structure located at the far back end of the property. The property has 19 off-street parking spaces within a parking lot along Main Street.

“In July 2023, Golfballin’ inquired about 4701 Main St., and the City informed the operator that indoor retail sales were permitted. Still, a practice facility required a conditional use permit, and golf carts were not allowed in front (as displays),” Gorman said.

“The City also said new structures needed building permits. Despite regular notices, the operator displayed golf carts and began constructing the practice busily without permits,” Gorman added.

The City staff report also listed other issues in procuring the permits.

Last month, Golfballin’ installed fencing without a building permit or design review approval. They also began constructing practice bunkers prior to design review approval.

During the public hearing, Johnson said he pays a huge premium for the properties as they are on Main Street, and placing the golf carts in front of the property attracts customers.

“I would just like four to six golf carts out there. Three of them out there doesn’t catch people’s eyes,” Johnson said, adding that he made more money with the carts out front to attract more customers, and keeping them out back cost him money.

He also said that golf is an outdoor sport and asked if the city could test whether highgrade, double-layered netting reduces noise.

“I understand we have to research what is out there, but just because there isn’t anything like my business doesn’t mean there should be anything like it.”

“Golf is an outdoor sport. I don’t want it just indoors; otherwise, I would have got an abandoned grocery store and made it all in-

Pedro Horta, owner of Legends Bar in Antioch, said he agrees with the new law. “But we [at Legends] don’t really have problems with drugs, so I don’t think it’ll change much. We want people to feel safe.”

Photo by Andrew Rulloda

type of test kit, the vendor selling the test kit to the bar, and the bar selling the test kit to customers, said ABC spokesman Aaron Francis in an email. “We are not able to provide specific or exact costs due to these various factors.” Bar from page 1A

mission members said the new hotel could help the city with that growth.

Other topics discussed at the meeting include:

• The 4-0 approval of signage – including three wall signs, a menu board, and directional signs – for the new Wendy’s restaurant at 30 East Sand Creek Road

• A postponement requested by staff on the Orchard Grove residential project, which was set to be discussed at the meeting. Staff told the commissioners that a discrepancy had been discovered with part of the project and that they needed more time to “clean it up.”

The full meeting can be watched at https://bit.ly/3x52TsS.

doors,” he said.

Johnson added that he was also “terrible” at paperwork but is willing to learn the due process for what’s needed.

Commissioner Jeanne Krieg said customers can request the golf carts even if placed behind the building.

“If you drive by a Ford (dealer), not all cars are in the front. You go to the dealer and ask for what you want, and they bring it to you.”

“That’s the way I have done it. I don’t pick out a car based on what I see driving down the street,” she said.

Several residents also spoke in support of Johnson’s proposal.

Terry Johnson said golf carts differ from regular cars; few people know the brands and models.

“They need displays for people to see their choices,” she said.

She also said the bays’ netting is similar to the ones used in baseball batting cages.

“We had a lot of freedom in Brentwood. We were there for seven years and didn’t have issues. “We’re in Oakley now, and we would love for residents to come and enjoy the facility,” she added.

David Delgado said it is essential for the community to have recreational facilities.

“It brings a better quality of life; we can keep kids out of trouble,” Delgado said. “I met Brandon personally a few years ago, and he teaches golf; he’s great with kids and gives great golf lessons.”

“I want to mention how important it is to have recreational facilities. Golf is popular here; it would be a blessing to have this business in our community,” he added.

Ken Strelo, Oakley’s Community Development Director, explained that Golfballin’ was on a retail business district zoning, and automobile inventory sales were prohibited in this district as it would be a

conditionally permitted use in a general commercial zoning district.

Commissioner Oleksii Chuiko asked if there was a reason why the golf carts were limited to three. Gorman said that the municipal code sets the required amount of parking spaces for every use.

“Going through the calculations of the municipal code, the proposed project needs to use all 19 spaces, whether in actuality they are needed every day or not, and that is why we are not able to permit golf carts in the parking spots,” Gorman said. He added that landscaping should not also be covered.

“We started with just two, and then in conversations with the applicant, they would send photos, and after reviewing those photos, which may have more than three (golf carts).

“The ones over three (golf carts) were covering landscaping or in a spot that would not be conducive for pedestrians, so in reviewing the materials, we decided three was doable,” he said.

Staying

The dangers of letting cats roam outdoors

House cats make peculiar, interesting and lovable companions. Cat owners often go to great lengths to make their furry feline friends feel good, and some may allow cats to roam outside. Though such a decision may be well-intentioned, it could lead to some troubling consequences.

The animal welfare organization American Humane notes that allowing indoor cats outside could jeopardize their health and safety in a number of ways.

Health

Cats allowed to venture outside may encounter feral cats, which American Humane notes can be carriers of disease. A 2014 study published in the journal Zoonoses and Public Health estimated that between 60 and 100 million feral cats live in the United States, and that figure could be even higher today. The animal rights organization PETA notes that contagious diseases such as herpes viral conjunctivitis, feline AIDS, leukemia, and infectious peritonitis are common in feral cats. Indoor and outdoor cats who catch these diseases could suffer serious consequences, including death.

Infection with parasites is another potential outcome for indoor cats allowed outdoors. Though American Humane notes parasites are not usually life-threatening for cats, they can cause a multitude of symptoms, including scratching, skin infections, vomiting, and diarrhea. Fleas, ticks, ear mites, gastrointestinal worms, and ringworm, which can be passed on to people in certain situations,

are just some of the parasites cats can pick up if allowed outside.

Safety

Safety is another factor cat owners must consider as they ponder whether or not to let their cats outside. American Human disputes the notion that cats have an innate instinct to avoid busy streets. Reliable estimates regarding how many cats are struck and killed by cars each year are hard to come by, but it bears noting that cats’ small stature makes them hard for motorists to see, which could make them more vulnerable to being hit by cars

than dogs.

Vehicles are not the only outdoor safety threat to cats. Loose dogs and wild animals, including raccoons and foxes, may hunt cats allowed outdoors. Cats also could ingest toxins such as antifreeze, which has a pleasant taste but could prove fatal for cats. And though the image of firefighters saving cats from high perches in trees is common, trees are a significant threat to cat safety. Curious cats may climb trees and then be afraid to come down or struggle to come down safely, potentially leading to severe injuries.

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Courtesy of Metro Creative

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

Though owners may allow cats outdoors as an act of kindness, such a decision could place these pets in serious jeopardy.

Discovery Bay company invents car

ADiscovery Bay company has created a car seat for large-breed dogs that weigh 40-80 pounds.

“We created an entire product category,” said Christina Johnson, co-founder of Rubicon Dog.

The specially designed car seat for dogs took years to design, according to Johnson. It just started shipping to consumers May 17 and is available to purchase on the company’s website www.rubicondog.com.

Rubicon co-founder Alex Florea launched the Rubicon Dog prototype last August on the Crowdfunding platform Kickstarter. Right away, it was a hit. “We exceeded our goal in three hours on Kickstarter; it’s what helped to give us the money to pay for molding and first round manufacturing,” Johnson said.

They attribute their early success to its uniqueness on the market. “People who have large- breed dogs, that love their dogs, want something safe to bring their dogs with them where they go,” she said.

Johnson, a business entrepreneurship professor at Santa Clara University, also runs Ruff Day Rescue, a non-profit that saves large-breed dogs from high kill shelters. She said she couldn’t find a safe way to transport large breed dogs in a single backseat, and that’s what helped inspire the Rubicon Dog. (One percent of revenue from Rubicon Dog goes to help fund Ruff Day Rescue.)

Until the advent of the Rubicon Dog, the best option to transport a large-breed dog was a crate, according to Johnson, but that’s problematic. “It takes up the entire back seat of the car,” she said. Letting the dog free roam is no better. “That’s a

hazard not only to you but to the dog,” she said.

Rubicon Dog plans to expand to offer a variety of car seat sizes and accessories. But for Johnson, it was important to focus on the large-breed dogs first. “When I look at the proportions of dogs that are mistreated, abandoned, dumped, are re-homed because people say they can’t take them when they move, it’s all large-breed animals,” she said.

To celebrate their launch, Rubicon Dog is offering a 30%

Rubicon Dog is a Discovery Bay-based company that has pioneered the first car seat for large-breed dogs weighing from 40 to 80 pounds.

discount along with coupon codes, free shipping, and a free harness. Email christina@rubicondog.com or visit www.rubicondog.com.

Ruff Day Rescue also will be hosting its Pawstoberfest on Oct. 5 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at Veterans Park at 3841 Balfour Road in Brentwood. For details, call Chris at 408-892-6869 or visit ruffdayrescue.org.

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

DANIEL GRUEN

Image courtesy of Rubicon Dog

How to keep your dog safe in a public place

Editor’s note: Norma Quintanilla is long-time Brentwood resident and is the sole proprietor of Walking the Dog Pet Services. She can be reached at quintanillan80@gmail.com or at 925-308-6278.

We, as humans, have taken for granted that we can go almost anywhere, any public place. That’s how it has been historically. Now we live in a time where we feel we need to bring our dogs along with

us wherever we go. I’m sure we’ve all noticed that dogs are allowed or tolerated in public places where they have not been permitted in previous decades. It’s nearly everywhere we go ---- restaurants, stores, offices, schools, etc. And since some folks consider their dogs as members of the family or “man’s best friend”, taking them out in public is not that big of a deal.

If you go to the farmers market on a Saturday morning, you’ll see a variety of dog breeds. Some people consider this a normal thing. Others do not. We need to keep in mind that our dog(s) may or may not enjoy these outings. That said, here are some tips to follow when taking a dog out in public to ensure the safety and great experience for everyone present in a public place.

How’s the weather?

Always check the weather before taking your dog out in public. Is it too hot or too cold outside? If it’s too hot, the dog is not going to be comfortable walking on the pavement with no shade. It may get severe burns on his paws. Or if it’s too cold (raining and/or windy), it’s not going to be comfortable either. We need to imagine how we’d feel in extreme weather. If it doesn’t feel good to us, it’s not going to be good for the dog.

Supplies to pack for the dog

Make sure to take plenty of water with a collapsible bowl, some treats, and bags for picking up dog waste. Summer is almost here and Brentwood has many hot days to come, so you want your dog to stay hydrated. Plus, if your dog starts acting up, you’ll want to carry treats on hand to reinforce good behavior.

Leash laws

Learn the leash laws. In California, most municipalities require that dog owners keep their dogs on a leash when out in public. Not everyone is fond of dogs, so always be mindful of that. Other dogs may not be comfortable with your dog either. Even if your dog is friendly, other dogs might not be. They can be reactive (barking, growling and lunging) or your

dog can be. That’s why it’s important to have a strong leash to grasp tightly in these situations.

Are dogs permitted?

Find out if dogs are allowed in certain places, such as restaurants, bars, offices, stores, or events. Some of these places only allow service dogs who are trained to hellp the disabled. If your dog acts up, be prepared to leave the establishment or event a little early.

How does the dog feel?

Not all dogs feel comfortable going out to all public places. Some dogs don’t feel safe in crowded areas. Dogs can become traumatized at fairs or concerts in the park where there tends to be large crowds. If your dog has a history of biting someone or has been bitten, then to leave him at home. Being around strangers and other dogs won’t be a good experience for anyone.

Be aware of other dogs

Some dogs are reactive to other dogs approaching, so make sure to have a tight hold on the leash. Be prepared ot leave the area or stop far enough away and just let the other dog pass.Then reinforce good behavior by giving treats.

The dos and don’ts of dog etiquette

There are definitely things you should and shouldn’t do to ensure safety and a positive experience for everyone in public places. Here are more tips on that.

♦ Don’t let the dog approach someone first unless that person wants the attention and you are fine with the interaction. Remember not everyone is into dogs.

♦ Always bring treats as a reinforcement for good behavior. Give commands and if he does it, reward him with the treat.

Always walk your dog on a leash in public places, especially in crowded places like fairs, concerts in the park, sporting events, and playgrounds.

These places are a home away from home for your dog

Finding an East County spot to visit with a four-legged friend is easy. From dog parks to U-pick orchards, to outside dining areas, there’s a spot for every dog lover.

Here is a list of some of the most petfriendly spots in the Delta.

BRENTWOOD

King Park at 1379 Bauer Way features two dog play areas, one for small dogs and one for large. Both areas feature play apparatus made specifically for canine companions and feature benches for humans to relax and watch their pets. Water fountains for pets and owners are available, as are “Mutt Mitts” to pick up pet waste.

Dakota Park at 480 Ridgewood Court is a 4.7-acre park with a half-mile walking trail connecting to other trail systems in Brentwood. This park also has two dog park areas divided for “smaller” and “larger” dogs, with benches and shade structures for pet owners. Outside of the dog play areas, the park features a turf area with picnic tables and barbecues.

Pioneer Park at 2031 Miwok Ave. was recently completed and sits in the heart of Trilogy at the Vineyards, and adjacent to Los Medanos College’s new campus. Like King and Dakota parks, this one also has trails, “large” and “small” dog areas, and even some equipment for pups to play on.

Magpie Park will be the city’s fourth dog park and is under construction. City officials hope to open it this spring. Located off Empire Avenue behind Winco Foods, the park will have all the perks needed to keep its visitors happy, including two areas for big and small dogs.

Four Legs Brewing, a craft beer spot at 2010 Elkins Way, Suite 120, calls itself “dog friendly” and “family friendly.”

Opened in 2021 by Michelle and Erik Bacher, it’s meant to be a “home away from home” for those who love beer and dogs. Four Legs Brewing regularly features food trucks and offers a range of brews from IPAs

to Pilsners. For more information, visit www. fourlegsbrewing.com.

Diablo Cherries, a small cherry orchard at 3150 Sellers Ave., allows visitors to bring their dogs while their owners pick cherries. Co-owner Emily Benz said one of the advantages of being a small farm is flexibility in the rule book.

“We are 100% u-pick, so we don’t have to follow some of the same practices that the commercial orchards do,” Benz said. “As long as the dogs are leashed and well behaved, they can come in the orchard. We have observed that people want to bring their pets with them more and more, and we are happy to welcome them.”

Benz noted thus far, all guests have been respectful and conscientious, cleaning up after their pets and creating a fun, welcoming atmosphere with their dogs. For more information, visit www.diablocherries.com.

While the idea of strolling through an orchard with the family pet may sound appealing, Harvest Time President Jessica Enos said dogs should probably stay home. “There are many farms that cannot allow pets due to food safety restrictions, and our summers can be hot, making it unsafe to leave an animal in your car,” Enos said.

DISCOVERY BAY

The Discovery Bay Community Center, 1601 Discovery Bay Blvd., features a recently renovated dog park with areas for small and large dogs.

“Our dog park is extremely popular with our residents and used every day we are open,” said the town’s assistant general manager Allan Cantando. “The town regularly maintains the park, so our residents can have a nice and aesthetically pleasing place to enjoy their time with their pets”.

OAKLEY

Koda Dog Park at 100 Oxford Drive opened in 2018, and is named for the Oakley Police Department’s first canine officer. The park was a goal of the city for many years before coming to fruition, and it features separate play areas for big and small dogs. There is also a special agility training area for dogs at the northeast quadrant of the park, and a shade structure over the adjacent picnic benches and barbecue pits.

DAWNMARIE FEHR

103 Technology Court

Exotic animals can make for great pets

Cats and dogs top the list of the most common pets among households across North America. But many people are drawn to more unusual pets. Unconventional pets typically categorized as “exotic pets” can be just as enjoyable as their feline and canine counterparts.

What is an exotic pet?

The definition of an exotic pet varies. The Spruce: Pets says different companies, people, governments, and associations all will define an exotic pet differently from one another.

Learn the legalities

Exotic pets can be interesting creatures to care for, and enable people to learn about the distinctive social behaviors and norms of less conventional animal friends. While some pets billed as exotic are widely sold, not all are allowed to be kept as pets. Each state in the United States and each territory and province in Canada has its own laws regarding species of animals that can be kept as pets. It is best to research local laws before acquiring an exotic pet.

Exotic pet considerations

Once you have established which pets you are allowed to own (with or without permit), these exotics may merit consideration:

♦ Axolotls: An axolotl is a type of salamander that doesn’t go through metamorphosis. Axolotls can be an alternative to aquatic animals like fish or snails. They can live up to 15 years and are mainly solitary animals. They can do well on worms and sinking salmon pellets as food, according to Burlington Emergency & Veterinary Specialists.

♦ Hermit crab: A hermit crab is a decapod, which means it has five pairs of legs,

Exotic animals may be alternatives for people looking for something a little different in a pet.

including a pair of claws, according to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Unlike some other crabs, a hermit crab does not have its own shell, but rather inhabits discarded shells from other animals, like sea snails. Hermit crabs require a warm environment with food they can scavenge. Provide a variety of shells so the crab can occupy new ones as it grows larger.

♦ Macaws: These large, colorful parrots are native to tropical areas in the Americas, advises Britannica. Most macaws are large and need lots of social interaction to thrive. They are high-maintenance pets that also can be a lifelong commitment since they live many, many years.

♦ Bearded dragon: Sometimes called “beardies” among enthusiasts, these medium-sized lizards are native to Australia and have become popular pets. They tend to be very docile in captivity and learn to be handled. They are most active during the day, and will require a combination of insects, vegetables, fruit, and leafy greens to thrive.

♦ Domesticated hedgehog: A hedgehog resembles a furry pin cushion. This small animal, which weighs roughly one pound, has an average life span of four to six years, says Good Housekeeping. Hedgehogs are nocturnal so they should not be forced to be active during the day. Their quills can penetrate the skin when they are frightened or provoked, so that is another variable to consider.

Courtesy of Metro Creative

Signs your dog may be dehydrated

Water is essential for mammals’ bodies to operate at peak capacity. The American Kennel Club says water is necessary to lubricate joints, facilitate digestion, regulate body temperature, and cushion internal organs, among many other functions. Similar to humans, pets that fail to consume enough water can face dire consequences.

Dehydration is a medical term for when the body has lost more fluid than it has taken in. Dehydration can occur at any time, but it is even more common during the warmweather months. Dogs quickly can become very sick from dehydration. That is why every pet owner should learn how to recognize the symptoms of dehydration in their dogs.

The Veterinary Emergency Group says symptoms of mild dehydration can include:

♦ Dry nose, although this also can be a signal of other problems, like fever.

♦ Excessive drooling occurs as the dog tries to cool down its body.

♦ A dehydrated dog can exhibit signs of fatigue, including a reluctance to move around much.

♦ Sticky gums

As the dog becomes more dehydrated, the following symptoms can develop:

♦ Loss of elasticity of the skin.

♦ Loss of appetite.

♦ Thickening of the dog’s saliva.

♦ Gums may go from sticky to dry.

♦ Excessive panting may begin.

♦ Vomiting or diarrhea also may occur.

♦ Dehydration causes the body to redistribute fluid lost, and fluid may be pulled from the eyes, causing the eyes to appear sunken.

If a dog appears to be dehydrated, you can start offering small amounts of water to slowly rehydrate the animal, according to the Northeast Veterinary Referral Hospital. It’s important to call the veterinarian and get further advice regarding how to address dehydration. Some veterinarians may suggest offering an electrolyte-enhanced fluid like Pedialyte so electrolyte loss does not affect organs. The vet may want you to come into the office so the dog can receive intravenous fluids, according to the the American Kennel Club.

• ONSITE MICROCHIPPING & VACCINATION By: Lone Tree Animal Care

The best way to treat dehydration is to prevent it in the first place. Provide dogs with a constant supply of clean, clear water at all times. The amount of water needs to increase if the dog is spending time outdoors in hot weather or exercising.

Cats also are prone to dehydration and can exhibit the same symptoms as dogs. So cat owners also must be diligent in checking for dehydration symptoms in their pets.