ConFire: busier than usual on July 4
that it’s ignored.”
“It almost seems like it’s Groundhog Day. We’re just going to keep doing the same thing over and over as a fire district.”
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
ConFire firefighters were busier than usual on July 4 last week with a majority of calls they say could have been prevented.
“We prepped up our support staff to make sure that we’re able to take on the increased call load,”
ConFire Fire Commissioner Brian Oftedal said. “We know that no matter how much education we do, and even though it’s very based on data, you see constantly
According to a recent report from ConFire, they answered 1,104 calls between 10:30 a.m. on July 4 and 3 a.m. on July 5.
ConFire dispatched 317 incidents on July 4 and started the day with a 10-acre vegetation fire that was started by illegal fireworks on Leland Road in Pittsburg as early as 10:30 a.m.
The 317 dispatched incidents last Thursday was 74 more from the 243 dispatched incidents on July 4, 2023, according to ConFire’s report. Antioch and Pittsburg had the
Summer returns, so does toxic water in the Delta
By Dawnmarie Fehr Correspondent
Warm temperatures bring people and boats out on the Delta. But they also bring toxic bluegreen algae blooms, turning the water green.
One local man is working to clear the Delta waters of harmful algae and give Discovery Bay homeowners their Delta playground back.
Jim Mattison of the Discovery Bay Community Foundation (DBCF) said every home on the water can have issues with blue- green algae, but those on the lake and farther from the main channels have more serious problems than deep water homes.
“They are battling some real blue-green algae issues,” Mattison said. “We have experienced (blue-
see Delta page 19A
Oakley City Council approves Bernard Corners rezoning
By Connor Robles Correspondent
Oakley’s City Council approved applicant Brian J. Kelly’s request to rezone the vacant lot known as Bernard Corners from a Planned Unit Development to a commercial space, matching its General Plan land-use designation. The rezoning will pave the way for new business ventures in the area of Bernard Road and Main Street, but the plan had its critics in the council chambers.
According to Associate Planner Evan Gorman, who presented Kelly’s request to the Council, Bernard Corners was originally planned to be designated as a com-
mercial space in the 1990s. But for unknown reasons, this never happened, and the site has sat empty for three decades.
“What we’re trying to do is bring the property into conformance with the General Plan designation of commercial,” Kelly said. This change would allow Bernard Corners to become the site of new businesses, similar to other plots of land in the same area. Kelly added that he wished to take on the complicated task of requesting a rezone so that business owners who are interested in the site do not have to do so themselves.
To streamline the rezoning pro-
This charred hill side was at Hillcrest Avenue behind Hillcrest Crossroads.
Photo courtesy of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District
Blue-green algae in Discovery Bay in early June.
Photo courtesy of State Water Resources Control Board
Local cities prepare for National Night Out
Annual event scheduled for Aug. 6
By Jake Menez Staff Writer
Local cities are encouraging neighborhoods to participate in National Night Out, an annual event where residents and local law enforcement get together to play games, barbecue and host block parties in an effort to enhance the relationship between locals and law enforcement, according to the organizers of National Night Out. Begun in 1984, this year’s event is on Aug. 6.
“This special event happens every year on the first Tuesday of August,” the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff wrote on social media. “We can’t wait to come together with all of you in the community.”
Oakley
According to Oakley police, National Night Out is designed to:
• Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness.
• Generate support for, and participation in, local anti-crime efforts.
• Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police/com-
munity partnerships.
• Send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.
“Your neighborhood is invited to be part of this fun,” Oakley police said in a social media post. “Neighborhoods will be hosting a vari ety of events ranging from small potlucks and BBQs to large block parties. Some additional event ideas in clude, but are not limited to, ice cream socials, disaster preparedness, games, contests, discussing neighborhood issues or setting neighborhood goals, food or clothing do nations, plan a clean-up day, beautify a common area, dis cuss or plan a Neighborhood Watch Program.
Oakley police will be visiting registered neighborhoods from 6-9 p.m. Residents interested in registering their neighborhood for the program can do so at https:// tr.ee/tH7-k1BgFN
Residential Garbage & Recycle/Yard Waste Collection Route Rebalancing
The City’s Solid Waste Division is implementing a Route Rebalancing effort to enhance the efficiency of collecting residential garbage, recycling, and yard waste for our growing community.
Route Rebalancing is a comprehensive review and restructuring of all collection routes within our City. As part of this process, the City aims to reassess and optimize these routes, ensuring logical mapping and a balanced distribution of stops across all routes. Additionally, these changes will improve the efficiency of the City’s transfer station processing by balancing out the volumes of recycling streams each week.
Police are also encouraging residents to sign up to host National Night Out events from 6-9 p.m. by registering at brentwood.info/2024-NNO
“National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community relationships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring place to live,” the department said in a Facebook post. “Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.”
More information about National Night Out, including how to register for the event for residents of other cities, is at https://natw.org/ To comment, visit www.thepress.net
The City of Brentwood held its classic 4th of July parade on Independence Day, celebrating patriotism and enterprise.
Despite some cities canceling their July 4th parades due to the ongoing heat wave in the Bay Area, Brentwood kept the show going as planned.
The main parade was preceded by a children’s parade, featuring hundreds of local youths riding on bikes, wagons, scooters, and more. After them, the regular parade began with a military color guard made up of local veterans from the American Legion and local Marine Corps posts, among other organizations.
The parade that traversed downtown featured appearances by numerous local officials, including Brentwood Mayor Joel Bryant, showcases of local businesses, and performances by dance and cheer teams and a Mexican tamborazo band. The procession concluded with a group of local horse riders.
To view a video and a slideshow, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
News iN Brief
Part of Brentwood Boulevard to be repaved on July 12 and 19
The Contra Costa County Public Works Department will perform pavement repair work on Brentwood Boulevard between Sellers Avenue and Byron Highway, on Friday, July 12, and Friday, July 19 barring unforeseen circumstances.
The work will take place from 7 a.m.-4 p.m., weather permitting. Electronic message boards will be placed in advance to alert drivers to work and advise of expected delays. Temporary lane closures will be required during working hours. Traffic control will be used. Road users can expect delays of 15-20 minutes and are encouraged to use alternative routes.
State offers boating infrastructure grants for marina operators
California State Parks’ Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) is accepting applications from public and private marina owners for federal boating infrastructure grants.
For 2025, a total of $18 million is available for the grants projects nationally. These grants can pay for up to 75% of total project costs, with a maximum award of $1.5 million. Applications will be accepted through Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024.
Funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service (USFWS) - Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program, the grant program is competitive and open to both publicly and privately owned marinas to renovate or construct visitor docks, restrooms, gangways, and dockside utility hook-ups to serve transient recreational boaters with vessels 26 feet or greater in length, staying fewer than 15 days.
Approved grant projects would provide the following resources to recreational boaters:
• Enhance access to recreational, historic, cultural, and scenic resources.
• Strengthen community ties to the water’s edge and increase economic benefits.
• Promote public/private partnerships and entrepreneurial opportunities.
• Provide continuity of public access to the shore.
• Promote awareness of transient boating opportunities.
Applicants should first review the program guidelines to determine if they meet the necessary requirements. Grants are available to qualifying projects on a competitive basis. The USFWS ranks and scores grant requests according to need, access, cost efficiency, matching funds, and innovations that improve user access to the waterways.
DBW reviews each application and sends the most eligible projects to the USFWS to compete against applicants from other states and territories. If awarded a grant, the DBW will manage the project through completion to ensure it meets federal requirements.
To
Marina operators eligible to compete in this program can receive an application packet by contacting Ethan Tratner at Ethan. Tratner@parks.ca.gov or (916) 902-8823.
State created 16% of U.S. jobs in June
California created 43,700 jobs – one out of every six jobs in the nation – last month as the state’s unemployment rate dropped by 0.1 percent. Since May 2020, California has gained 3,100,400 jobs, an average of 63,273 per month..
The Golden State, which has the most equitable tax system in the country, is #1 in the nation for new business starts, #1 for access to venture capital funding, and the #1 state for manufacturing, high-tech, and agriculture, according to a press release from the governor’s office.
Last month, Gov. Newsom announced that California’s travel spending reached an all-time high of $150.4 billion last year. This comes after the state’s population increased for the first time since the pandemic and the International Monetary Fund’s World Economic Outlook noting that California remains the fifth-largest economy in the world for the seventh consecutive year, with a nominal GDP of nearly $3.9 trillion in 2023 and a growth rate of 6.1% since the year prior, according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. California’s per capita GDP is the second largest among large economies.
State adding more fast-food jobs in 2024
California’s fast-food industry has added jobs every month this year, including roughly 10,600 new jobs in the two months since Gov. Newsom signed the fast-food minimum wage bill into law,, according to new state and federal employment data.
Below is a breakdown of the data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which shows that the state has added roughly 20,700 fast-food jobs since the beginning of this year and each month had more jobs than at this time last year:
In September of last year, Newsom signed legislation to increase the minimum wage for California’s more than 500,000 fastfood workers to $20 per hour. It also created the Fast Food Council where workers will have a stronger say in setting minimum wages and working conditions, including health and safety standards.
• January 2024: 724,900
– January 2023: 715,000
• February 2024: 732,700
– February 2023: 725,100
• March 2024: 735,000
– March 2023: 730,900
• April 2024: 739,500
– April 2023: 734,400
• May 2024: 745,600
Tri Delta Transit wants your opinion
Public transportation is a vital part of the county and is an essential service. Tri Delta Transit has launched REVITALIZE TRI DELTA because it wants to improve their service for all, especially those who need it most.
To that end Tri Delta Transit is seeking input from riders and the public about any and all of their services in order to reshape service for the future. Take the short survey at bit.ly/4bZMLYP. To learn more about the project, visit revitalizetridelta.com.
Help improve county public transit and possibly win a $100 Clipper card
The Contra Costa Transportation Authority is inviting residents and travelers within the county to participate in a survey on transit use. Survey responses will inform the development of an Integrated Transit Plan to make public transportation easier to use and more convenient in Contra Costa County, according to a press release. With improved transit, Contra Costa County will be a more livable, sustainable, and equitable place to live and travel. As those recommendations are put into place, the public will see many benefits, including:
• Better connections to regional services, like BART and Capitol Corridor.
• Improvements for increased speed and reliability.
• Enhancements to improve riders’ transit experience.
Five survey participants will also have the chance to win a $100 Clipper card. To take the survey, go to https://ccta.net/planning/integrated-transit-plan-survey/.
School districts announce subsidized meal policies
Liberty Union High School District and Byron Union School District announced their policies to serve nutritious meals every school day under the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program.
Breakfasts and lunches will be served free of charge every school day thanks to Universal Meals, but Liberty and Byron Districts are still required to make eligibility determinations for free and reduced-price meals, the districts said in a joint press release. Effective July 1, 2024, children are considered eligible for free or reduced-price meals if the household income is less than or equal to the federal guidelines.
Households do not need to turn in an application when the household receives a notification letter saying that all children automatically qualify for free meals when any household member receives benefits from CalFresh, CalWORKs, or FDPIR.
Children who meet the definition of foster, homeless, migrant, or runaway, and children enrolled in their school’s Head Start program are eligible for free meals. Contact school officials if any child in the household is not on the notification letter. The household must let school officials know if they do not want to be considered eligible for free or reduced-price meals. Applications will be sent to the household with a letter about the school meal program. While breakfasts and lunches will be provided free of charge every school day, determining eligibility for free and reduced-price meals is still necessary and these determinations can be used to qualify households for other benefits.
Households interesting in establishing eligibility for meal benefits must fill out one application for all children in the household and give it to the nutrition office at each school. For a simple and secure method to apply, use the LUHSD
application at https://linqconnect.com/ public/meal-application/new or the Bryon application at https://www.myschoolapps. com/Application. Contact your school for help filling out the application.
The school will provide notification regarding the outcome of your applications, the release said.
Households may turn in an application at any time during the school year. If you are not eligible now, but your household income goes down, household size goes up, or a household member starts receiving CalFresh, CalWORKs, or FDPIR, you may turn in an application at that time. Information given on the application will be used to determine eligibility and may be verified at any time during the school year by school officials.
The last four digits of the Social Security number from any adult household or checking that you do not have a Social Security number is required if you include
income on the application.
Households that receive Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits, may be considered eligible for free or reducedprice meals by filling out an application.
Foster children are considered eligible for free meals and may be included as a household member if the foster family chooses to also apply for the nonfoster children on the same application. Including foster children as a household member may help the non-foster children
qualify for free or reduced-price meals. If the non-foster children are not eligible, this does not keep foster children from being considered eligible for free meals, the press release stated.
Your child’s eligibility status from last school year will continue into the new school year for up to 30 school days or until the school processes your new application, or your child is otherwise certified for free or reduced-price meals. School officials do not have to send reminder or expired eligibility notices.
The County’s new offices
The Contra Costa County Administration Building, a new office administration building and civic plaza at 1026 Escobar St. in the heart of downtown Martinez, had its grand opening on Tuesday, July 9 with Supervisor Diane Burgis (below) among the featured speakers. The newly constructed building, set on historic grounds once home to an outdated office tower and a jail, showcases modern, sustainable architecture that harmonizes with the surrounding historic structures, the county said in a press release. The development offers a new public library, retail stores, parking garage, major street improvements and a stormwater system designed for the site’s groundwater challenges. As a hub for County administrative departments, including the Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice and the Public Defender, the building also streamlines essential services, improving service delivery and promoting community interaction. To view more photos of the event, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia/slideshows
Photo by Alexandra Pony
Calendar
This Week’s Events
Friday, July 12-Sunday July 14
A Chorus Line: Teen Edition
This performance is a full-length version of the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical, adapted for performance by high school students with family audiences. The musical captures the spirit and tension of a Broadway ensemble audition. There will be two separate casts to accommodate the great amount of youth talent that is part of this show. 7:30 p.m. at The Theatre at Edna Hill, 140 Birch St., in Brentwood. Tickets are $16-$20. Shows are July 12 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, July 13 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, July 14 at 2 p.m. For detais, visit https:// ghostlightte.org/
On the Horizon
Saturday, July 20
Book sale at Brentwood library
Teachers, parents, and homeschoolers will find bargains galore on a large variety of educational materials, children’s books and other back-to- school specials at the Friends of the Brentwood Library Educational Supplies/ Teachers Pop-Up Book Sale. The sale, which runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., will be on the second floor of the Brentwood Library, 104 Oak St. In addition to the educational materials, other reading favorites, such as adult books, books for young adults, and more will be available at discount prices. Visit https://www. friendsofthebrentwoodlibrary.org.
Sunday, July 21
Flor do Oakley Holy Ghost Festival
A parade will begin to form at 8:30 a.m, and leave at 9 a.m. At 10, there will be a Mass at Saint Anthony’s Catholic Church, 971 O’Hara Ave., where sopas will be served. There will be a performance by Portuguese Folklore group - Rancho Folclórico “Saudades do Ribatejo,” *Bazaar, Sweet Bread, Tremoço, Linguiça & Bifana Sandwich sales throughout the day. This free event is at Flor do Oakley Hall. For details, visit http://www.flordooakley.com.
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. in downtown Brentwood. This nostalgic, family-friendly evening will be a celebration of all things Brentwood, including a ‘50s theme with classic cars and an ice cream social area offering a variety of treats for purchase. For details, visit contact Executive Director Amy Tilley at specialevents@downtownbrentwood. com or visit www.brentwooddowntown.com.
Thursday, Aug. 1
To have your event appear in the newspaper, email your events to calendar@brentwoodpress.com one week prior to publication. To have your event online, post your event for free on The Press Community Calendar www.thepress.net/calendar.
“Tip A Star” fundraiser for Working Wonders
Zephyr Grill and Bar at 613 First St. #100 in McCauley Plaza hosts a fundraiser from 5-8 p.m. for Working Wonders, a Brentwood nonprofit for adults with disabilities. For reservations, call 925-418-4708.
Friday, Aug. 2-Sunday, Aug. 11
Monty Python’s Spamalot at Ghostlight Theatre
The Ghostlight Theatre players present six performances of Spamalot. Ripped from the film classic, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, this musical has everything from flying cows to killer rabbits, British royalty to French taunters, dancing girls, catchy songs and The Lady of the Lake. This show is considered PG-13 and not recommended for children under the age of 13. Tickets are $25$28. Showtimes are Friday, Aug, 2 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 3 at 7:30 p.m., Sunday Aug. 4 at 2 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 9 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 10 at 2 p.m. and Sunday, Aug. 11 at 2 p.m. For details or to get tickets, visit https:// ghostlightte.org/
Saturday, Aug. 10 and Sunday, Aug. 11
2024 Quilt Show
The Delta Quilters Guild presents their annual show from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Aug. 10 and 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. on Aug. 11 at the Brentwood Community Center at 35 Oak St. There will be quilts, demonstrations, vendors, a boutique and raffles, plus lunch and shopping specials presented by downtown merchants. Entry fee is $12, good for both days. Those younger than 8 or older than 80 are admitted free.
Saturday, Sept. 7
La Gran Fiesta Hispanic Heritage Event
Presented by the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce, celebrate La Gran Fiesta from 2-8 p.m. at Brentwood City Park with live musical performances, a car show, a free kids zone and authentic Hispanic food. For details, call 925-634-3344.
Saturday, Sept. 21
2024 PJTF 11th Annual Benefit Gala
The Patriots Jet Team Foundation’s 11th annual benefit gala from 5– 10 p.m. is Patriots Jet Team Center Byron Airport at 760 Osprey Court, Byron, features Champagne reception, dinner and live music. The cost is $225 per person until Aug. 15. For details, call (925) 338-7583 or visit https:// www.pjtf.org/.
Saturday, Sept. 28
Brentwood Rotary Club
Craft Brew Festival
The Brentwood Rotary Club’s third annual Brewfest is an annual event that brings the community together to enjoy a diverse selection of craft beers, live music, and local food vendors.
The festival at City Park from 1-5 p.m. is a major fundraiser for the club, supporting its various charitable projects and initiatives. Attendees can sample beers from breweries, participate in fun activities, and enjoy a lively atmosphere. The event is designed to celebrate local craft brewing culture while raising funds for causes, enhancing community spirit. Ticket information will be announced shortly.
Ongoing events
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-we-are/meetings/. Byron: The Byron Delta Lions Club meets every first Friday of each month at 10 a.m. at St. Anne’s Church for more information https://e-clubhouse.org/sites/ byron_delta/.
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 925-813-1007 or the senior center at 925-626-7223. The center also offers bingo the every second Tuesday of the month. Doors open at noon and you must be 18 to play.
Bob Mankin
AI-Powered Business Workshop Part 1 of 2
Discovery Bay Community Center 1601 Discovery Bay Blvd
Ribbon Cutting for Fat Jack’s Smokehouse
Tuesday, July 23rd | 5:30 - 7:30pm
Hosted by:
Classic Boat Works and Fat Jack’s Smokehouse
Classic Boat Works 1535 Discovery Bay Blvd Discovery Bay, CA 94514
COMING EVENTS
Dual Chamber Mixer
Thursday, July 18th | 5:30 - 7:30pm
Hosted by:
Discovery Bay and Bethel Island Chambers
Sugar Barge Restaurant 4515 Willow Rd, Bethel Island CA
MUST Register for all events at: www.discoverybaychamber.org (925) 240-4114
1355 Riverlake Rd Discovery Bay, CA 94505
Hope House Food Distribution
The distributions are on Monday and Wednesdays from 9 a.m.-noon at 218 Pine St. in Brentwood.
IHMC Food Distribution
On the second and fourth Tuesdays of every month, the Contra Costa County Food Bank distributes fruits and vegetables from the parking lot at 500 Fairview Ave. from noon-1 p.m. St. Vincent de Paul also distributes food from the church hall every Friday from 9 a.m.-noon.
Golden Hills Community Church
Food Distribution
The SENT (Serving and Engaging Neighbors Together) Ministry, in partnership with Team Jesus Outreach Ministries will be distributing food to anyone in need on these Saturdays — Aug. 10, Oct. 12 and Dec. 14 — from 12:30 -2:30 p.m. while supplies last. Everyone is welcome. The church is at 2401 Shady Willow Lane in Brentwood. For details, call (925) 516-0653 or visit https://goldenhills.org.
DOES A WILL AVOID PROBATE?
By Todd W. Moeller, Moeller Estate Law
Many people mistakenly believe that if they have a Will, their estate will not go through probate. However, if a Will is to be given any legal effect, the Will must be submitted to probate. The word “probate’ comes from the Latin meaning “to prove the will.”
Most of us would rather avoid Probate if at all possible because Probate can be expensive. The costs for Probate may include (but are not limited to): attorney’s fees, executor/administrator fees, accounting fees, publication and bond fees, appraiser fees, and court filing fees.
In addition to being expensive, probate is a time-consuming process. By law, formal probate must take several months, and more often than not, the probate process will take much longer. During this probate process, it may be difficult or impossible to access certain property.
Probate is also a public process. If you die and your Will is filed in probate court, much of your personal information may be available for anyone who is interested enough to go to
the Probate Court and view your Will.
Another potential drawback with Probate is that if you own real property (e.g., land, houses, condos, timeshares, etc.) in more than one state, the family may have to go through Probate in each state where real property is located.
The bottom line is that a Will does nothing to protect you from Probate.
The good news is that you can avoid Probate by setting up a living trust. One of the most important benefits of setting up a living trust is that all assets transferred to a living trust completely avoid the probate process.
If you have questions concerning your existing estate plan or setting up an estate plan, please contact Todd W. Moeller at (925) 3018840 or Todd@MoellerEstateLaw.com.
Disclaimer: The information presented in this advertisement is provided for general information only. Todd W. Moeller is licensed to practice law in the State of California only, and any information contained in this advertisement is based on general principles of California law. The information presented should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of an attorney-client relationship.
– Advertisement
The Press and Taylor Swift
Thuy DaoJensen, Ph.D. took The Press to the Taylor Swift concert in Amsterdam on July 4. Swift played a sold-out show at the Johan Cruyff Arena.
Take a copy of The Press with you on your next getaway and send a photo to editor@thepress.net to be featured in an upcoming edition.
For more information, email contacthalo@ yahoo.com or visit www.eccchalo.org.
Meet Skyler and Tippy
Male, DOB 4-1-24, BONDED Brothers
These sweet, playful brothers are looking for a forever home. Skyler and Tippy have tested positive with FeLV and can live a long happy life with you. FeLV cats can be the only cats in the home. Please contact anangelrn@aol.com to meet Skyler and Tippy. ADOPT A PET ADOPT A PET
Our veterinary hospital is well-equipped with advanced equipment and technologies to provide the highest standard of care for your pet. At Oakley Veterinary Medical Center we are committed to providing quality care at every stage of your pet’s life. From routine preventive care to early detection and treatment of a wide range of conditions and diseases, as well as surgical options, we have the expertise to provide the care your pets need.
Submitted photo.
Have you or someone you know reached a “milestone”? If so, we’d like to know about it! Email your information to editor@brentwoodpress.com.
Bowman and Walker receive Rotary honors
President Julie Deck honored two distinguished members of the Rotary Club of Brentwood for their exceptional contributions to the club for 2023-2024. Fran Bowman was named “Rotarian of the Year.” A dedicated member since 2013, Bowman has served in various board positions, consistently demonstrating a deep commitment to the club’s mission and values.
The inaugural Bruce C. Ghiselli “Service Above Self” award, established this year by Deck, recognizes outstanding long-term service to the community. This prestigious award was presented to Steve Walker, a pillar of the club whose unwavering dedication has significantly benefited the community since 2008. These accolades reflect the high standards and values upheld by the Brentwood Rotary Club, celebrating individuals who exemplify dedication and service. For more information, go to www.brentwoodrotaryclub. com.
Eagle Scout project chronicles local veterans’ history
Spencer Peddy’s Eagle Scout project consisted of interviewing eight local Vietnam and Korean War veterans. Spencer, a Brentwood resident and recent Heritage High graduate, learned their brief history as well as engaging and heartbreaking stories from their time and experiences in the military.
“Spencer has always loved anything history related, especially World War II,’ said his mother, Stephanie, via email. “Veterans stories and their experiences have always been a huge interest for him, so the Veterans History Project really lined up with his interests and passion.”
“Being able to speak one on one with each of the eight veterans meant so much to him,” she added. “When he explains to people who ask about his project, he talks about the highs in the lows of interviewing them. You hear about the interesting beginnings of military life for them, as well as the incredibly difficult and heartbreaking parts of it. And he felt that it was very important that future generations know their stories because when he was 3, he wanted to know
the stories of his grandfathers who were in World War II. And by putting their stories in the Library of Congress, and with the veterans history project, we can ensure that future generations are able to hear them even when they’re long off this earth.”
John Cooper, leader of the Trilogy Veterans Association, was pivotal in helping gather most of the veterans for Spencer’s interviews.
The results of these recorded interviews are going to be added to the Library of Congress database so that many generations to come will be able to watch and learn from the experiences of these eight men with the military and war time, according to Stephanie.
Spencer was in charge of coordinating the scheduling, the paperwork, working with the cameraman to ensure the best angles, the sound and the questions asked of each veteran.
Spencer’s Eagle Scout Court of Honor was on July 7.
To view a slideshow, visit www.thepress. net/multimedia/slideshows
Submitted photo
Submitted photo From left President Julie Deck, Bruce Ghiselli and Steve Walker
Hometown SportS
Wolverines finally set foot on new turf
Editor’s note: This is a part of The Press’s high school summer football camp series throughout the Bay Valley Athletic League.
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
What was once a wish finally came true, and moving day came for the Deer Valley high football team.
The 2024 Wolverines took their first steps on their new turf Monday as the team returned to camp after having last week off for the July 4th holiday.
“It really felt surreal,” junior quarterback Sebastian Honey said. “Compared to last year, it just feels like we’re at a private school or someplace fancy like that. We really have one of the nicest stadiums I’ve ever seen for a high school team.”
“It was great,” head coach Matthew Mills said of the team’s first practice on the new turf. “I thought we saw great spacing and I thought guys better understood the concepts that we’ve been teaching from Day 1.”
Mills added that as the team had last week off, they were excited for their first day in the renovated stadium.
“I had kids messaging me, ‘Coach, I’m so excited,’” Mills explained. “Getting back after a week off, the kids were just excited. They were happy that they no longer had to deal with potholes.”
As excited as the players were to get on the field, there is one thing that the young Wolverines team has to learn – dealing with
the East County heat, on turf, which is, on average, about 10 degrees warmer than the outside temperature.
“We started off with pretty good energy and the guys were flying around,” Mills said. “Halfway through we hit a wall, but I think as we continue to practice on this field, we’ll build up that endurance and that stamina that will help us be able to finish all four quarters, which is what we’re going to need to be successful this year.”
“I feel like we’re going to get used to practicing on the field when it’s hot,” Honey added. “We’re gonna pick it up.”
The team opened summer camp last month on the grass fields above the field near the parking lot as they patiently waited for the go-ahead from the school to be cleared to practice on the field.
Along with taking to the new field, the Wolverines also got to use some of their new practice equipment – a big pass-
Deer Valley running backs go through drills with their new gauntlet on the team’s first day on their new turf.
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
ing net seen at major college programs and professional teams for the quarterbacks, a gauntlet for the running backs, a five-man sled for the line and tackling bags, all of which were part of the field and the program’s renovation.
Deer Valley played all 10 of their games away from campus last year as the field was set for the renovation. They played their “home” games at Antioch High School through the season, finishing 4-6 overall (1-4 BVAL).
The field’s renovation was paid for as the Antioch Unified School District passed Measure B back in March, authorizing $195 million in bonds to finance various repairs and improvements throughout the AUSD schools. Deer Valley’s renovation was one part of the bond.
Deer Valley opens the season with four of their five non-conference games in their new digs, starting on Aug. 30 against Mt. Diablo, who they lost to in the sea-
son opener last year in Concord. Three of Deer Valley’s four wins last season came in non-conference play.
They’ll also close the season out with three straight home games against Antioch (Oct. 25), the defending BVAL champs Pittsburg (Nov. 1) and ending against Freedom (Nov. 8) in a rematch of last year’s season-finale shootout that the Wolverines won 49-41 in Oakley.
With the changes coming to the North Coast Section as a whole, Honey is confident that the new field will motivate this young Wolverines team to return the program to its once winning ways, and as well, aim for the playoffs. Deer Valley has not played in the NCS playoffs since 2013, when they lost to De La Salle in the NCS Division I semifinals. The Wolverines beat Castro Valley and James Logan that year to reach the semifinals.
“We definitely want to win more than four gamers, definitely want to go to the playoffs,” Honey said. “We definitely want to just go out there and be way better than we were last year.
“With the field and everything, we’re blessed and grateful to have it. We need to do our part this year in terms of winning and playing well.”
“It would mean the world to me if we could just get a winning foundation again, being the top school in Antioch. That’s personally what I want to build a winning foundation here again.”
To view a video and a slideshow, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
Williams steps down as Freedom softball coach
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
After taking the Freedom High School softball team to back-to-back playoff appearances, Hannah Williams is stepping down as head coach to take a new job, according to Freedom Principal Steve Amaro.
“I had a blast the last two seasons,” Williams said. “The athletes that I was able to coach were some of the most talented and hardworking girls I’ve ever had. It’s unfortunate at this time that my professional development won’t allow me the ability to continue,” she said without elaborating.”
“I had the best time at Freedom, and I know the program will continue to flourish under the new leadership.”
Williams, a Freedom class of 2009 alum, coached the team for two seasons, 2023 and 2024, going 32-18, 15-5 in the BVAL, with a pair of appearances in the NCS playoffs, both times of which saw the team get knocked out of the postseason at San Ramon Valley – the first time in the NCS semifinals in 2023, then in the first round of the playoffs last season.
“Whenever a school is fortunate enough to have an alum come back and coach their sport, it’s a special situation,” Amaro said. “We are incredibly fortunate
to have coach Williams lead our team for the past two years.”
“As a former player, she was part of establishing the winning culture that allowed
us to be an NCS Championship team, so for her to be able to share her experiences and provide leadership to our current athletes so they can reach their highest potential is a gift to our community.”
She also had three of her seniors last season sign their letters of intent to play college softball – Madison Evers-Lyles (Sacramento State), Maya Soto (University of Nevada-Reno), and Taylor Stanton (College of San Mateo).
Williams was a standout, four-year varsity pitcher, designated player, and first baseman during her time playing at Freedom from 2006-09. She led the Falcons to a 95-9 record in her four years including a BVAL title, NCS title and a national title in her 2006 freshman season. She went on to pitch a pair of games as a true freshman at Fresno State before transferring to Humboldt State to finish her collegiate playing career.
According to Amaro, Freedom’s head softball coach position is still open. Those interested can apply at https://www.edjoin. org/Home/JobPosting/1959934.
Hannah Williams stands in the dugout during Freedom’s softball game against Livermore High School early last season.
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
Liberty Lions Band 5K more successful than expected
The Liberty Lions Band 5K on July 4 was so successful that organizers ran out of race bibs and let runners run without bibs if they registered on race morning. Organizers also said they raised far more money than they had hoped for at the event.
Organizers said they expected about 100 runners for the 3.1-mile race at Veterans Park in Brentwood, but 231 runners participated.
“We had more runners register than we had chipped bibs,” said organizer Katie Bartling. “So anyone who showed up the morning of the race was told that they could register and pay for the race. However, they were not going to be awarded a
bib or a T-shirt.”
The top three men were Dylan Baptista (17:20), Josh Butler (22:11) and Mark Salgado (no bib). The top three women finishers were Caitlin Pereira (26:10), Sherrie Garcia (26:190 and Kaelyn Ramos (26:29).
The first-time event raised about $7,000 for the band when they hoped for about $1,000, Bartling said.
Racers’ ages ranged from 3 to 75 Race-day pictures are available at https://jkflicks05.pixieset.com/libertybell5k-2024/.
To view a slideshow, visit www.thepress. net/multimedia/slideshows
Photos by Jason Knapic
Photos by Jason Knapic
The Bay Area is expecting an estimated total economic impact of $1.4 billion as a result of NBA All-Star 2025, and Super Bowl LX and the FIFA World Cup in 2026, the Bay Area Host Committee (BAHC), a nonprofit organization bringing world-class events, has announced.
The report, developed by global management consulting firm Boston Consulting Group (BCG) on behalf of BAHC, reveals that these three events are expected to attract about 500,000 visitors to the region, create or sustain nearly 13,000 jobs, and drive an estimated 400,000 bookings in local accommodations. Other factors driving the positive impact include spending by visitors such as spectators and fans; organizational spending by teams, staff, officials, media, and non-local vendors; and logistics and operations spending to organize events and other adjacent activities, such as fan festivals.
“By hosting multiple celebrated sporting events, the Bay Area will not only be showcased on the world stage, but they will also help fuel California’s economy,” said U.S. Senator Alex Padilla. “These events create jobs, drive tourism, uplift local businesses and unite our diverse communities. We know that with collaboration from key partners throughout the region, these events will be safe, secure, and enjoyable.”
The report focuses on three regions, including San Francisco County, Santa Clara County, and the broader Bay Area (plus Santa Cruz) – which represents Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Mateo, Solano and Sonoma counties. While the three primary sporting events will take place in San Francisco and Santa Clara counties, the economic impact will extend across the broader Bay Area communities:
Bay Area
Super Bowl LX: Total estimated economic impact ranges from $370 million to $630 million.
• $250 million to $440 million projected for San Francisco County
• $100 million to $160 million projected for Santa Clara County
• $20 million to $30 million projected across all other Bay Area counties
FIFA World Cup 2026: Total economic impact ranges from $480 million to $630 million.
• $140 million to $180 million projected for San Fran-
cisco County
• $270 million to $360 million projected for Santa Clara County
• $70 million to $90 million projected across all other Bay Area counties
NBA All-Star 2025: In November 2023, San Francisco Mayor London Breed announced an estimated $350 million in economic impact to the Bay Area as the region prepares to host NBA All-Star 2025, with events taking place at numerous locations including Chase Center in San Francisco and Oakland Arena in Oakland.
EDITORIALS, LETTERS & COMMENTARY
o P inion
Have something to say? Post a comment or submit a letter to the editor at www.thepress.net/site/forms.
The following social media comments are in regards to The Press’s story “Brentwood unafraid of the heat as it kicks off July 4th with morning parade,” which was published on thepress.net on July 4.
“This was My little nephew and nieces first parade. They’re visiting from LA and they had the best time. They got to walk in the children’s parade. This was probably the best turnout so far and all these years we’ve been going. Great job.”
– @stephaniepeddy via Instagram
“Antioch’s was set for 4 pm and Brentwood’s was at
Letters to the editor
Use natural resources instead of technology companies to energize Delta cities
Editor:
Instead of trying to bring technology companies to Antioch, the city should use what they have naturally: create hydro-powered plants that run off of the water in the Delta to give the city energy; this would also create jobs.
Just like in the olden days, Antioch had the coal mines and people worked there, then after that there were the steel mills. It’s time to once again use what the city naturally has – use those natural resources to create jobs, provide service, and boost the economy.
Cities such as Brentwood, Oakley, and Pittsburg can do the same.
9:30 am. Big difference in temperatures. We did attend the Brentwood parade and it was fantastic as always.”
– Jim Davis, via Facebook
“Jim Davis, there was plenty of warning with the heat coming. Times could of been changed an other cities had later parades. Hopefully next year we will change time. Events still went
on downtown at 4pm. Hopefully we will have a new mayor next year an EVERYTHING will change.”
– Jamie Forneris, via Facebook, regarding Antioch’s parade being canceled
“Always worth the heat so enjoyable Thank you Brentwood!!”
– Nicole Lulis, via Facebook
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New Safeway coming to Oakley soon
Planners vote 3-0 on July 2 to approve project
By Hemananthani Sivanandam Correspondent
Oakley residents will soon have a Safeway grocery store in the neighborhood, as the Planning Commission has approved the Oakley Shops project on Laurel Road.
The Planning Commission voted 3-0 on July 2 to approve the project, which sought a tentative parcel map, conditional use permit, variance, and design review approvals. Commissioners Oleksii Chuiko and Jimmy Ramirez were absent.
The exact timeline of the development is unknown. The project will be divided into two parcels. Parcel one is 7.72 acres, consisting of most of the Safeway store and other retail and restaurants. The second parcel, 1.05 acres in the site’s southwest corner, consists of a gas station and convenience store. The plan also proposes two drive-through restaurants adjacent to O’Hara Avenue and Laurel Road and one drive-through pharmacy between the Safeway grocery store and another unidentified store.
The project would consist of seven buildings totaling 81,728 square feet, 360 parking spaces with more than 70 electric vehicle charging stations, 19 bike rack spaces, and 122 new trees with hundreds of shrubs and grasses.
During the public comment section, Ken Strelo, Oakley’s Community Development Director, said the City received letters from Contra Costa Environmental Health that listed several business requirements for compliance with the county Health Department.
Strelo said the City also received an email from Joe Sbranti, who represents a neighbor north of the Safeway store.
“He requested Concrete Masonry Unit walls or similar material for a sound wall, requested lighting along the
northern property line not to spill into the adjacent residential properties, and requested delivery semi-truck speeds behind Safeway to minimize noise on neighbors and reduced back up alarm usage after hours,” Strelo said.
Another resident, Paul Seger, representing the Sierra Club, had emailed in comments on the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) relating to air quality and emissions reduction and suggested additional reduction.
Strelo said that after a discussion with staff and Raney Planning and Management Inc., they determined that Seger’s accusations were untrue.
“After reviewing the comments in the letter, the City still feels that all requirements have been met.
“The notice of intent was posted for an appropriate amount of time, allowing for comments, and there are no additional impacts.
“In other words, we feel that what was conducted was (done) correctly and satisfies the needs of CEQA,” Strelo said.
The project site also contains a remnant block of concrete painted to resemble a piece of cheese, which will be preserved.
Commissioner Jeanne Krieg said she was happy to see the block incorporated into the project.
“It’s going to be our public art. I am happy to see that incorporated into the landscaping,” she said. To comment, visit www.thepress.net
Image courtesy of City of Oakley
ConFire from page 1A
two highest amounts of fire calls, combining for 65 of the 129 fire calls (exterior, vegetation, and structure). ConFire detailed in the report that during that timeframe they had 92 exterior fires throughout the county, 13 structure fires and 16 vegetation fires, along with 128 EMS calls, three of which were traumatic injuries caused by fireworks. The 92 reported exterior fires last Thursday was almost double the amount of exterior fires reported last year.
“There’s a lot of folks out there that feel like it’s not going to happen to them until they lose fingers or somebody’s killed, or they lose their house or their neighbor’s house,” Oftedal said. “We’re in an area where everything is so dry and the fuel moistures are so low that it’s incredibly easy for a fire to spark off.”
One of the biggest fires came at night on Hillcrest Avenue behind the KFC where
Delta from page 1A
green algae) in Discovery Bay for over 15 years, and to date, no state or local agency has stepped up and tried any existing product or treatment to help mitigate our concerns.”
Blue-green algae is also known as cyanobacteria, and in large quantities can be dangerous, even deadly, to humans and their pets, state officials and experts say.
The algae grow in warm, stagnant and nutrient-rich shallows, blooming and releasing harmful toxins. The blooms are distinguished by a green, blue-green, white or brown scum that floats on the surface or suspends in the water. Generally, the blooms dissipate with fall’s lower temperatures and rain.
In 2022, Discovery Bay’s Willow Lake was almost the site of a pilot program to test a hydrogen peroxide-based product meant to neutralize the algae without causing harm to the water and surrounding environment. The program fell through due to insufficient supply and nothing else has been done since.
Mattison and the DBCF have now joined ranks with LakeTech, Inc., and hope to revive the pilot program, providing a solution for the toxins floating in the water.
Eli Kersh is the founder and president of LakeTech in Oakland. His said his organization has proposed a chemical algaecide application using hydrogen peroxide to treat the existing algae, and also hopes to assist in understanding the root causes of the blooms. Kersh and his team aim to develop management solutions for long-term reduction and control of algae and other nuisance aquatic
Council from page 1A
cess, Gorman also requested that the rezoning project be given a common-sense exemption from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), due to the process having no discernible effect on the local environment.
Councilmember Dr. George Fuller questioned the validity of this request. “It seems to me like we’re rezoning this area to make an impact.” He also asked how there could be no impact if a new business was going to be set up. Gorman clarified that the request was for the rezoning only, a process that would not have any direct physical effect on Bernard Corners as opposed to a future breaking of ground on a local business, which was outside
there were forced evacuations from six homes on Lotus Avenue. The fire, which was creeping uphill towards the houses, was eventually stopped at the fence line, preventing the homes from being damaged.
“We’re very fortunate this year with the number of close calls and the call volumes that we had that these firefighters worked their butts off and saved the homes that they saved,” Oftedal said. “We didn’t have any home losses due to fireworks, and that’s a credit to the firefighters on the engines and trucks and the crews. They’re just working themselves into the ground to protect our community.”
While ConFire couldn’t confirm that all of the calls were definitely the result of illegal fireworks, they did say that a majority of the calls they received were due to the use of illegal fireworks.
One cause that Oftedal alluded to for the
increased amount of fire calls this year was the lack of enforcement available against illegal fireworks.
“We know our law enforcement agencies don’t have the resources to be able to enforce the laws that are in place,” Oftedal explained. “(ConFire) is not an enforcement agency. We rely on our law enforcement partners, and they don’t have the officers that they need to be able to enforce these laws to support us.”
“It’s exhausting, and all you can do is shake your head because individuals know that the odds of getting caught or some sort of punishment from it are low. Until we can get our law enforcement agencies beefed up and the DA prosecuting, we’re just going to continue doing the same thing over and over and there’s going to be thoughts and prayers and everybody hoping that it doesn’t happen to them.”
graph illustrates different solutions to the blue-green algae problem and their efficacy.
plant growth in Willow Lake, Discovery Bay and the Delta.
“We do this primarily by first, measuring the system and identifying those causes, and then working with the stakeholders to identify ongoing management and control solutions they can implement to be more proactive in the management of the water body,” he said, “because chemical treatments are, and should be, a last resort.”
Kersh said chemical treatments to water
the scope of the rezoning request.
Mayor Anissa Williams voiced her approval of the rezoning, saying that such projects are a way for Oakley to show that “we’re business-friendly, as we claim we are.”
Comments from the public, however, were more critical of the plan. A local resident said new businesses near Main Street would harm nearby residential neighborhoods.
“Main Street is chaos, and people are frustrated with traffic,” which the speaker said was worsened by school pickup schedules overcrowding the roads.
In addition, the speaker expressed worry that new businesses mixed with residential areas would degrade what the speaker called
Police activity on July 4
BRENTWOOD According to a records request to Brentwood police, Brentwood had 35 firework disturbance calls between 10 a.m. on July 4 and 3 a.m. on July 5.
OAKLEY Police there said they dealt with the “usual fireworks activity for the Fourth of July,” and Oakley police Chief Paul Beard is scheduled to report on the activity in the August City Council meeting.
DISCOVERY BAY According to the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff, Discovery Bay had 10 calls for fireworks disturbance between 10 a.m. on July 4 and 3 a.m. on July 5.
algae. Mattison and Kersh hope to present their plan to the district and work with them to implement it.
Mattison hopes to have a broader discussion as well. While he does want to clear Discovery Bay’s waters of the blue-green algae, he also hopes to gain the attention of local and state authorities to push for a solution to reduce blue-green algae. Kersh said another aspect of solving the problem is creating streamlined approvals and clear jurisdiction in California’s freshwater bodies, which do not exist. Kersh is a limnologist; he studies inland aquatic ecosystems. He said California does not have clear guidelines on what can and cannot be done to treat water with blue-green algae blooms, nor is there a clear approval system to test solutions.
“Everyone is pointing the finger at who is finically responsible, who is legally responsible and who has the authority to apply products in this area,” Kersh said. “So there are questions about who’s responsibility it is and from a legal and permitting point of view, who has the authority.”
issues are generally short-lived because they are reactive. But if an underlying cause could be identified, experts can find proactive, longterm solutions more easily.
Initially, Kersh and Mattison will work with local authorities to use Willow Lake for a case study. Once data has been collected, they hope to establish a solution.
The Reclamation District 800 manages Willow Lake. While they do spray for invasive aquatic weeds, they do not treat for blue-green
the uniqueness of Oakley’s appearance, saying that “Oakley needs to look like Oakley, not Brentwood.”
After public comments, Fuller asked whether there would be any problems with overcrowding if a new business was set up at Bernard Corners. Kelly and Gorman said no.
With this final statement, the proposal was put to a vote, and was approved unanimously.
In other council actions:
• The Council established a new subcommittee to oversee the tearing down and renovation of the Oakley Senior Center.
Councilmember Hugh Henderson and Vice Mayor Shannon Shaw were selected
A successful pilot program in Willow Lake could set the example for public-private partnerships with an effective and safe solution that could be replicated, officials said.
“Are there challenges with Discovery Bay and all of California?” Mattison asked. “Yes, big ones, but let’s figure out the solution. It’s out there. We have the products that will work. Wwe just need our politicians to make this a priority so we can use them.”
For more information, visit www. dbcf.info.
to represent the Council on the subcommittee over Fuller’s objection.
• The Council also heard complaints from residents of The Oaks apartment complex, mostly pertaining to what they called chronic and severe negligence and callousness on the part of complex management. Complaints included broken locks, unfinished maintenance orders, and hostility from managers who did not live in the complex and thus did not understand the plight of its residents. The Oaks complex has been under scrutiny by the Council since at least October 2023, when they set up an ad hoc committee to tackle The Oaks’ problems.
This
Graphic courtesy of LakeTech, Inc..
Business Profile
Guide to Health, Beauty & Fitness
Health
How to keep your eyes healthy this summer Beauty Sun exposure and skin cancer Fitness
Discovery Bay woman helps clients release trauma
Marwa Hakimi, MD Medical Dermatology
Jay Zimmerman, MD Medical Dermatology
Hovik Ashchyan, MD Mohs Surgeon
Lam Le, PA-C Medical & Cosmetic Dermatology
Monica Ascencion, RN Medical & Cosmetic Dermatology
Lamai Walker, RN Cosmetic Dermatology
Veronica Rodriguez, LE Licensed Esthetician
Plans for a Brentwood move and addition of ‘trailblazer’
Dr. LaJuan Hall at Alameda Pediatric Dentistry
Alameda Pediatric Dentistry is relocating its Brentwood office to a new, expanded space, along with the addition of an esteemed doctor to its team, Dr. LaJuan Hall.
The new office will open in August 2024 and will be at 4510 O’Hara Avenue, Suite C. It will feature private rooms for treatment and special needs care, as well as family rooms for larger families. The practice is being designed to enhance patient comfort, with dimmable lights, overhead TVs, and the latest technology in the dental field. For now, you can still visit Alameda Pediatric Dentistry at their current location in the John Muir Building at 2400 Balfour Road, #309.
In addition to the move, Alameda Pediatric Dentistry welcomes Dr. Hall to its team of dental professionals. With more than 30 years of experience in pediatric dentistry and a stellar reputation in Brentwood, Dr. Hall brings a wealth of expertise and a passion for serving children and families. Dr. Hall received the 2023 UCSF School of Dentistry Medal of Honor and is known as a woman trailblazer in oral health.
“We are delighted to announce the relocation of our Brentwood office to a larger, more accommodating space, as well as the addition of Dr. LaJuan Hall to our team,” said Dr. MyLinh Ngo, Partner and Chief Dental Officer at Alameda Pediatric Dentistry. “These updates reflect our ongoing commitment to providing our patients with the highest quality dental care in a comfortable and nurturing environment.”
Joining Dr. Jennifer Sun and Dr. Leila Zokaei, the
Brentwood office will have more appointments available and will continue to be on call for emergencies. Alameda Pediatric Dentistry invites existing and new patients to experience the enhanced facilities and unparalleled care at its new Brentwood location. To schedule an appointment or learn more about the practice, visit www.APDsmile.com or call (925) 516-4107.
About Alameda Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Serving families since 1971, Alameda Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics has built a reputation for
Alameda Pediatric Dentistry is relocating its Brentwood office to a new, expanded space, along with the addition of an esteemed doctor to its team, Dr. LaJuan Hall. The new office will open in August 2024, and will be at 4510 O’Hara Avenue, Suite C.
providing exceptional dental care that families trust. Their vision is to create a strong foundation of oral health for a lifetime.
They offer convenient, compassionate, and comprehensive dental care in four Bay Area locations: Alameda, Oakland, Pleasanton and Brentwood. They can treat all kids, including those with special needs. They offer a free “Baby’s First Smile” visit for new patients younger than 24 months old. Their dentists not only treat kids today, but they prepare children for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
TAs the mercury rises and more and more people emerge from their winter and early spring hibernation, a rundown of the link between sun exposure and skin cancer can remind readers of the need to exercise caution when heading outdoors in the months to come.
Sun and skin cancer risk
Exposure to the sun is a risk factor
for skin cancer. According to the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR), exposure to ultraviolet radiation is the primary cause of skin cancer. Ultraviolet radiation comes from natural sources, like the sun, but also from artificial sources like tanning beds. The AIM at Melanoma Foundation notes that exposure to the ultraviolet radiation is the main risk factor for melanoma, which the Melanoma Research Alliance notes is the deadliest form of skin cancer.
Does past exposure affect my risk today?
AIM at Melanoma notes that cumulative sun exposure and episodes of severe sunburns increase the risk of developing melanoma. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, research has shown that the UV rays that damage skin also can alter a tumor-suppressing gene, giving cells less of a chance to repair before a progression to cancer takes place.
hood or adolescence more than doubles a person’s risk of developing melanoma later in life, while five or more sunburns more than doubles that risk as well. The damage to skin caused by a sunburn is indeed cumulative, so the more sunburns a person gets, the greater that person’s risk of developing skin cancer becomes.
So is a tan detrimental to overall health?
AIM at Melanoma notes that the tan many people hope to get and keep throughout late spring and summer is detrimental to their overall health. AIM notes that a tan develops when the skin tries to protect itself from UV rays by producing pigment as a protective shield. The more pigment the body produces, the darker the skin becomes. So a tan is evidence that the skin has been damaged by exposure to UV radiation. In fact, AIM notes that each time a person develops a tan, that individual’s risk of developing skin cancer increases.
A single blistering sunburn in child -
– Courtesy of Metro Creative
Year Round Summer Haven
Discovery Bay woman helps you release traumas and triggers
Michelle Powell Evans of Discovery Bay has made it her life’s mission to teach and provide her clients self-healing techniques through her transformational energy workshop.
What is transformational energy work? Students who seek to dispel stuck energy from life experiences such as traumas, and trigger causing stress call upon Powell Evans’s scientifically based method to release unhealthy energies that are connected to emotions and thoughts.
Growing up with health-conscious parents and studying nutrition for decades, Powell Evans’s passion for healthful food and exercise became further elevated as she realized that a healthy mind and soul are equally important and impactful to a person’s health.
“For decades I have been teaching people about nutritions,” she said. “I love what I have learned about nutrition and fitness. But in my journey I’ve learned that I don’t care how healthy I am, or how fit I am. If I’m emotionally not in balance, that will throw of my energetic state, so I started for myself learning different modalities, techniques and tools to manage my own stress”
“I am blessed that I have learned how to help people, and release traumas and triggers, and anything in the past
Growing up with health-conscious parents and studying nutrition for decades, Michelle Powell Evans’s passion for healthful food and exercise grew as she realized that a healthy mind and soul are equally important and impactful to a person’s health.
that isn’t serving them,” she said.
Students are taught through exercises such as meditative breathing techniques, tapping, and meditative paddle boarding, which is popular for those who find a strong connection to water, and love being on the Delta, she said.
“When clients walk in for a class, they come in with all forms of stress, and depression,” Powell Evans said. “The three big stresses I see are caused by emotional,
financial, and health triggering stresses that we address during class, and when clients leave, they leave with a sense of ‘I’ve got this!’. They walk away with hope, and encouragement.”
For details, including future healing sessions, visit MichellePowellEvans.com.
To view a video and a slideshow, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
ANDREW RULLODA
Submitted photo
How to keep your eyes healthy this summer
Eye health is an important factor in our overall well-being. Yet 65.3% of California children don’t regularly see an eye doctor. With many kids out of school for the summer, screen time may add up quickly and potentially contribute to health issues, making it a great time to shine a spotlight on vision health.
That can include a focus on preventing or treating nearsightedness, also known as myopia, which can affect our ability to see far-away objects clearly. Importantly, childhood onset of myopia has been linked to a greater risk of developing serious eye diseases later in life, including cataracts and glaucoma.
Myopia is on the rise, affecting about 42% of all Americans, up significantly over the last few decades, statistics show. By 2050, experts project that 50% of people worldwide will be nearsighted.
In an increasingly digital world, it’s more important than ever to be aware of this growing issue and how to address it. This is especially true for kids. According to an international research study, children who spend most of their time on both a smartphone and a computer may have an 80% higher risk of developing myopia.
Here are some tips to support eye health for you and your family:
♦ Reduce excessive blue light exposure.
Research is showing the potential health implications of excessive exposure to blue light, including disrupted sleep cycles
and digital eye strain. Nearly 60% of U.S. adults report experiencing symptoms of digital eye strain with Americans spending an average of 7 hours per day interacting with screens. Make sure to spend ample time outdoors, which research has shown may reduce the risk of nearsightedness.
♦ Watch for warning signs of myopia. Some common symptoms include far-away objects appearing blurry while close-by items are clear, squinting to see properly, eye strain and even headaches. For parents and caretakers, it’s important to remember that children may not know they have a vision problem, so pay attention to indicators like head tilting to read or watch TV, reduced performance at school or constant blinking.
Get a comprehensive eye exam and consider myopia management if needed. If you think you or a loved one may be experiencing vision issues or if you’re a frequent computer user, make sure to visit an eye doctor and get a comprehensive eye exam. These exams can detect health problems that a simple vision screening may miss. Ideally, kids should get annual comprehensive eye exams throughout their school years.
Lori Archer, CEO, UnitedHealthcare Vision, eye doctor and board member for the Global Myopia Awareness Coalition.
ARCHER
“The Mission” – taking the flames off your glasses
Suicide. We think there are no other options, but it’s about just wanting some terrible thing to stop and feeling like we have no other choice. We look through a very frantic and desperately narrow lens. But if your glasses have flames painted on the lenses, then it’s no surprise when it looks like everything is on fire. The “mission” is about taking off the glasses.
The funny thing about perspective is that sometimes you get it by force. I know about desperate because I know what the barrel of my gun tastes like. Like I said, perspective.
I was raised in the Midwest, steeped
in the “men don’t cry, emotions are weakness” mentality where I learned what it meant to “be a man.” That message promoted the idea that if I needed to feel something, I better keep it to myself.
You see, I used to be a police officer. I saw what most first responders would say is the “typical” horrors, but no more than the average first responder currently keeping your neighborhoods safe. I suffered silently and things got really low. I “dealt with it” by punishing myself (and my family, unfortunately), and I’m not the only one who paid a price for my mistakes. I’m nobody special. But despite that well-trained inner voice screaming “This is embarrassing, shame on you, people are going to laugh at your weakness,” I’m willing to talk about it.
The stigma exists because we spend our entire lives preparing for the battle that comes from the outside in, but we didn’t spend any time preparing for the battle
that will (inevitably) come from the inside out.
Everybody else thinks you’re an alcoholic, so it’s not changing until it changes in you.
#3- The core of the “mission.” You have to give that part of yourself that’s been “protecting” you from feeling emotion, PERMISSION to act. You’re fighting a lifetime of shame attached with stigma, so when you have to deal with this stuff, it’s going to be unfamiliar and uncomfortable. You’re getting into areas you’ve never been and “exercising muscles” you’ve never used, so you have to give yourself permission to be intimidated by it, to not be immediately perfect at it, to stumble and fall, and to get back up and keep going.
After my very difficult journey back from the edge, I became a therapist so I could be the resource that I failed to reach out to when I was suffering. I regularly work with first responders and military personnel (complex trauma and PTSI) and the anecdotal evidence suggests that the stigma is still very much alive. I know the people with whom I’m talking because I used to be that person. I also know about the bad taste first responders have in their mouths for all things therapeutic and the idea that admitting that “something is wrong” will ruin your career. So, we just say “I’m fine” and lay the lead blanket of “that’s what I signed up for” over our problems, and ignore it until it’s too big to ignore.
All this to say, I know there are people out there who are still suffering, afraid (but don’t you dare admit it) to reach out and ask for help. And that’s why I’m asking you, the suffering, to join the “mission” because lives may depend on it.
There are three things that have to happen in order for you to “get started.” They’re going to sound obvious, but you’ll see why it’s maybe not so much.
#1 - You have to ACKNOWLEDGE that something is going on that needs to be addressed. If you’ve been depressed for 20 years, it’s not “who you are.” You’re depressed. Do something.
#2- You have to ACCEPT the true level to which that “thing” is hurting your life. “I only drink a little bit.” Yeah, right.
Are you still carrying around a dumbbell from when you went to the gym for the first time? No, because at the time you gave yourself permission to put the weight down, rest, and then come back and try it again. So, why don’t we put down the emotional stuff? Because that’s what we “signed up for?”
When I reflect on my journey, I think about how everyone else would respond to my change. “What’s wrong with you? Why don’t you hang out with us anymore? “The built-in shame and embarrassment were significant, but then I had to remind myself that 4>2. Someone else being uncomfortable in my positive change meant that they were uncomfortable, NOT that I was doing something wrong. I was doing it FOR myself, my family, my future, not TO them. It won’t be easy, and it won’t be immediate. But have you ever seen anyone jump to the top of Mount Everest? Nope. Small steps, and a guide. Give yourself permission to find that guide and get started.
Donn Bradley is a former police officer in the Bay Area who is now a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (CA BBS# 136597) located in Brentwood, working primarily with first responders and former military personnel and their families. He can be reached at therapywithdonn@gmail.com or through his profile on Psychology Today (https:// www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/ donn-bradley-brentwood-ca/746276.
BRADLEY