Environmentalists talk legislative strategy
DeSaulnier holds town hall meeting in Oakley
By Connor Robles Correspondent
East Bay officials gathered last weekend to discuss current environmental initiatives, recent achievements in environmental preservation, and the decline of bipartisanship in government, among other topics.
U.S. Rep. Mark DeSaulnier held a town hall discussion about the importance of environmental preservation initiatives at Big Break Regional Shoreline in Oakley on July 26.
The Congressman, a Democrat representing California’s 10th district, which includes parts of East County, stressed the benefits of environmental initiatives on public health as well as their historical bipartisan support, calling for unity in the face of the Trump administration’s staff changess and cuts to the EPA.
DeSAULNIER
East Bay Regional Parks District Director John Mercurio, Contra Costa principal climate and energy planner Demian Hardman-Saldana, and Bay Area Air Quality Management District deputy officer of public affairs Viet Tran also talked to the audience on environmental topics.
The town hall meeting was preceded by an outdoor resource fair, featuring local nonprofits,
environmental groups, and resource management organizations, including the Diablo Water District, White Pony Express, and the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District.
DeSaulnier, a longtime supporter of environmental initiatives and a former member of the California Air Resources Board, recounted the difficulties he and his colleagues have faced since the beginning of the current legislative session. These difficulties intensified after the passage of the ‘big beautiful bill, which he calls the “big ugly bill;” the law contains “lots of cuts to environmental programs, lots of attacks, in [his] belief, on historic environmental protection rules,” he said.
DeSaulnier, a liberal Republican turned Democrat mentored by fellow Republican environmentalist John A. Nejedly, also lamented the decline in bipartisanship in the American government. “When the Congress works, like with the U.S. Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act, that’s the way we work,” he said.
“Right now, we’re not [working], quite
More changes coming to The Streets of Brentwood
Focuses include security, growth
By Sean Tongson Correspondent
Construction has started on the revitalization of one of Brentwood’s main lifestyle and entertainment centers.
A groundbreaking ceremony was held on Tuesday, July 15 to officially commence construction on additions to The Streets of Brentwood at 2455 Sand Creek Road. The event, hosted by Los Angeles-based CenterCal Properties with Brentwood city leaders, project partners, and other stakeholders in attendance, celebrated the launch of what is planned to be multi-phase project aimed at rei-
“ The Brentwood Police Department will work closely with CenterCal’s management and security to ensure a pleasant and safe shopping experience. ”
Economic Development Manager Ricardo
magining the heart of Brentwood’s retail and entertainment district.
“The City of Brentwood is thrilled that one of the most successful retail developers and owners on the West Coast, CenterCal, has purchased the Streets of Brentwood,” said Brentwood Economic Development Manager Ricardo Noguera.”CenterCal is creating a lively, entertainment-oriented venue where families can visit and
Noguera
consider a wide variety of restaurants and shops in an environment where folks will want to spend hours.”
Confirmed new businesses coming to The Streets of Brentwood include Handel’s Ice Cream, who according to Noguera, signed a lease and is likely to open at one of the pavilions later this year.
see Changes page 18
frankly, and it’s a struggle,” he added.
After DeSaulnier spoke more on his bipartisan credentials, including an award from the Congressional Management Foundation for constituent outreach, Mercurio discussed the East Bay Regional Park District’s climate resilience work. Mercurio’s district holds stewardship over 55 miles of coast, from southern Alameda to Contra Costa, almost all of which is under threat from rising sea levels.
“The Park District has incorporated adaptive design into all the projects that we do that are right along the shoreline, including the various wetland restoration projects that we do,” Mercurio said. We’d never forget about the trails, like the Bay Trail; they are factored into the plans as well. We have ways to either raise the trail a bit, or a plan for retreating the trail inland and putting it somewhere else. Depending on how fast it happens, we can react and we can adapt.”
Mercurio called Big Break “ground zero”
see Town Hall page 18
Leaving a ‘legacy’
The theme of this academic year for LUHSD, as superintendent Denise Rugani explained to hundreds of teachers and staff, is “legacy,” despite facing potential budget cuts from the federal government. See story, page 5
Press photo
‘Our Balfour baby:’ Brentwood couple delivers daughter in parking lot
By Connor Robles Correspondent
Brentwood residents Tom and Amanda Brandt were forced to deliver their daughter in their car in a parking lot across from Heritage High School on June 29, when her contractions proved too intense to wait for their arrival at Kaiser Permanente Antioch Medical Center. Despite neither having any medical experience, both mother and child came out of the experience healthy, and the birth was complete before emergency services arrived.
Though Amanda had begun feeling contractions around 6 a.m., the Brandts did not leave for the hospital until 7:30 a.m. due to their experiences with the birth of the first child, Jack, who took nearly two days to be born, according to Tom. During that first 90 minutes, they continued with their normal morning routine, until the contractions began rapidly intensifying after 7:15 a.m. They left the house at 7:30 a.m. to make the 15-minute trip to Kaiser Permanente.
“We were getting in the car, and she was having contractions, and it was like, ‘Oh, I remember this with our son. These are the birthing noises. We need to hurry up,’” Tom said about their departure.
The contractions became “pretty hard” during the car ride, according to Tom. Amanda said that the situation was “getting intense” by that point, with her “yelling” from the pain while her husband was “driving probably faster than was legally allowed down Balfour, blowing red lights.”
“We’re flying down Balfour, going as fast as we can, and [Amanda] starts screaming, ‘Oh my God, this baby is coming, you need to pull over, this baby is coming,’” Tom remembered. “We get almost to the light, coming up to East Country Club Drive, and she said, ‘Tom, I can feel her head, she’s starting to crown. We need to pull over now.’”
Amanda dialed 911 as Tom continued driving at breakneck pace, with the two informing the operator of their situation. When asked for a location, they
“Amanda the whole time was feeling fine,” Tom said of the time before the ambulance and fire truck arrived.
their location, opened the passenger side door, unbuckled Amanda’s seatbelt, and within minutes, their daughter had arrived. The time was 7:40 a.m.
“I put her legs up on my shoulders, swoop[ed] underneath her, and all of a sudden, I [held] onto the baby, and the baby is out and in my arms, and it was like, ‘Oh my God, this baby was just born,’” Tom said, recalling the frantic situation. “911 is still on the line, they’re kind of like, ‘Okay, where are you guys at? Is everything okay?’ And I said, ‘The baby is born; the baby is in my arms right now.’ At that point, [the baby] started crying, which was the most relieving sound I’ve ever heard in my entire life. That let me know she was going to be okay.”
Tom said that he nearly was the one to tie off the baby’s umbilical cord with his own shoelace, as he would have needed to do so if emergency services did not arrive within three minutes.
spotted the parking lot across Balfour Road from Heritage High School, home to Willy’s Bagels and Blends and Misaka Sushi. They pulled into the lot, gave 911
“Amanda the whole time was feeling fine,” Tom said of the time before the ambulance and fire truck arrived. “She was sitting there with a smile on her face and the baby on her chest, like, ‘Okay, no problem. Alright, well, when are they go-
see Brandt page 13
Location: The Press
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Benefits: Access to a 401(k) plan
Submitted photo
Districts to enforce stricter student cellphone policies
New law takes effect in a year, but schools implement rules now
By Dawnmarie Fehr Correspondent
Brentwood students had some new rules to learn about when and where cellphones could be used on campus as school started back this week.
In an effort to “reduce classroom distractions and improve student focus,” Brentwood Union School District (BUSD) Superintendent Dana Eaton said a new policy for mobile devices was enacted this school year.
“The change aligns with Assembly Bill 3216, which requires all California school districts to adopt policies limiting or prohibiting smartphone use on school campuses,” Eaton said, noting the law doesn’t take effect until next July. Even though the law won’t take effect until a year from now,, the new rules started this week and align with the new bill coming in a year earlier than necessary.
“The newly adopted policy prohibits students from using personal mobile devices, including smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, Bluetooth headphones such as AirPods, and other recording devices, during the instructional day.”
District officials say the new policy, dubbed Disconnect to Reconnect, is
grounded in growing research highlighting the detrimental impact of mobile device usage on student learning.
A study in 2021 in the “Journal of Educational Psychology” found that students who used mobile devices during school experienced lower test scores and increased levels of distraction. Additionally, BUSD administrators reported a significant number of student behavior issues in recent years have been tied to inappropriate or excessive device usage during school hours.
Kirsten Jobb, Brentwood’s director of student services, said the new policy means students can no longer have phones on between classes or during recess, as they could in previous years.
“Now, once they reach campus, the phones are off up until the last bell,” Jobb said. “Also, we don’t want to see them at all. Usually, kids would put them in their back pocket, but we want them completely
A study in 2021 in the “Journal of Educational Psychology” found that students who used mobile devices during school experienced lower test scores and increased levels of distraction.
away” in backpacks, lockers – as long as the phones aren’t seen.
“The policy outlines clear expectations,” Eaton said. “Students must turn off and store their devices in their backpacks or lockers upon entering campus, and may not use them again until the final bell rings.”
Jobb said the district began communicating the change in the spring and received positive feedback from families. Letters have gone out, an informational night was held, and all information was put on the district’s website www.brentwood.k12. ca.us/o/busd/page/mobile-policy
Consequences of violating the policy begin with a warning, then escalate to the device being confiscated, being picked up by a parent, then a meeting with the family and student.
Oakley, Knightsen BUSD is not alone in enacting these types of restrictions. In the Oakley Elemen-
tary Union School District and Knightsen Elementary School District (KESD), similar policies exist, prohibiting smartphone use on campus during school hours.
“As both a parent and an educator, I understand the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between staying connected with our children and minimizing the disruptions that unchecked cell phone use can cause at school and in the community,” said KESD superintendent Harvey Yurkovich.
He noted that most schools have a 1:1 ratio of laptops to students, making mobile devices unnecessary. He also said school devices provide a level of content filtering and protection many cellphones don’t have.
“Moreover, when mobile devices are unchecked and misused at school, they often lead to social challenges, bullying, and drama,” Yurkovich added.
Liberty
As elementary districts tighten their policies, there remains one exception: Liberty Union High School District (LUHSD) continues to allow cellphone use on campus, with some limits. Superintendent Denise Rugani said the policy has been in place for several years.
“Students are allowed to use their cellphones during non-instructional time,” Rugani said in an email. “Mobile communication devices shall be turned off turning instructional time unless a teacher has designed a lesson plan to include its use. The Board shall also update and review this policy once every five years.”
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Directors of Diablo Water District adopted a resolution on July 23, 2025, to approve an increase in the Water System Facilities Reserve and Main Extension Reimbursement Assessment Charges applicable to new development connections. DIABLO WATER DISTRICT NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF INCREASED WATER SYSTEM FACILITIES
• Effective Date of Fee: September 22, 2025
• Amount of Fee: Visit www.diablowater.org for adopted fees.
• General Description: This fee is charged to new water service connections to fund expansion of water system capacity and infrastructure necessary to meet the demands of new development.
• Supporting Documents: The report and data supporting the fee adjustment are available for public review at www.diablowater.org
This notice is published pursuant to California Government Code Section 66019.
DIABLO WATER DISTRICT Dan Muelrath, General Manager
Posted: Friday, August 1, 2025
‘I want to continue to keep it strong’
Potential
federal
budget
cuts could harm LUHSD theme of ‘legacy’ in new school year
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Just days before students in the Brentwood-Oakley area return to school for the 2025-26 academic year, teachers from all three local high schools were at Freedom High School in Oakley for the annual Liberty Union High School District convocation Friday morning.
The theme of this year’s academic year, as LUHSD superintendent Denise Rugani explained to the hundreds of teachers and staff in attendance, is “legacy,” despite facing potential budget cuts from the federal government.
The LUHSD, like many districts across the country, also enter the new school year potentially facing those budget cuts after President Trump’s administration froze federal funding for schools in early July. However, as of last Friday afternoon, the Trump administration reportedly announced that they are releasing approximately $6 billion that was previously held starting next week.
“The whole idea is that what we do
freeze on the Title II, Title III and Title IV funds, which, for our district, is about $293,000. …If they are released, then it’ll be cut by a third, which for us would be about a $90,000 reduction. …We just have to take it as it goes. But basically, our goal and what we are committed to is making sure that we keep focus on our students and our families and provide a strong, academic environment.”
For veteran teachers like Freedom’s Jill Johnson, who was honored at Friday morning’s convocation for her 30 years in the district, the majority at Freedom since it opened, money has always been a challenge in her profession.
each day, in our jobs, in our world, affects our students, our families, and really our legacy, what we’re going to leave behind and what our organization, our school district is all about,” Rugani said. “I want to continue to keep it strong, and I want us to really think about that, it’s just after we retire, but it’s really what we do each day in the classrooms, academically, emotionally, the support we give.”
“It was that idea of taking a minute to think and to ponder about how and what we can do differently and how we can make the difference each day.”
Rugani said on Friday morning that even if the funds that the district is expecting are released, they believe it’ll be cut by a third of the previously promised total.
“Each year brings its own set of challenges,” Rugani said. “The latest is the
“Teachers should never have to go buy supplies for their job and for their class and students,” Johnson said. “But that is what a whole bunch of people in this gym do. You want to provide for your students, you want to do an excellent job so you’ll walk into teachers’ classrooms and think ‘oh, this is beautiful. There’s probably no funding issues in this school.’ Well, it’s a facade, because the teacher paid for those decorations, those supplies, those boxes, so much stuff and it’s really wrong.”
“It’s a crime in this country that, in this state, that we don’t fund this profession, that we don’t help teachers do their work, because it benefits every single child.” To view a video and a slideshow, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
LUHSD Superintendent Denise Rugani speaks during Friday morning’s district convocation inside the gym at Freedom High School in Oakley.
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
PEST TALK WITH LIBERTY
By Robert Ayres, Owner of Liberty Pest Services
As we head into August, it’s hard to believe that fall, and eventually winter, is just around the corner. While many are soaking up the last of the summer sun, now is actually the ideal time to start preparing your home for the cooler months ahead.
If you dealt with rodents last winter, you already know how quickly they can turn your peaceful home into a stressful situation. Once temperatures drop, rats and mice begin looking for warmth, food, and shelter. Often ending up inside homes through small cracks, vents, or gaps in the foundation.
“Rodents don’t need much to get in,” says Robert Ayres of Liberty Pest Services. “Openings as small as a quarter-inch are enough for mice, and rats aren’t far behind. If they got in last year, they’ll come back again -unless you do something now.”
Sealing your home before the first cold
snap can save you a lot of headache later. Exclusion work, which includes sealing entry points and reinforcing vulnerable areas, is one of the most effective ways to keep rodents out for good.
Don’t wait until you hear scratching in the walls or find droppings under the sink. By then, the damage and the stress are already done.
Take a walk around your home, check for holes or signs of rodent activity, and consider scheduling a professional inspection.
A little preparation now can mean a rodent-free winter later. Your peace of mind is worth it, call Liberty Pest Services 925-6283030 or visit libertypestservices.com
Pest control service for homes & businesses, Real estate inspections and termite treatments, Rodent exclusion and inspections. Licensed –Insured – Bonded. Opr#14018
Where women support women
The national Soroptimist organization opened applications on Aug. 1 for their annual Live Your Dream Awards – a scholarship program for women demonstrating financial need or hardship.
Soroptimist clubs – also known as S-clubs in local high schools such as at Heritage High in Brentwood -- empower women through seminars, fundraisers, and projects.
Recently, the S-club hosted its Violet Richardson Award program to recognize S-club volunteers for their dedicated service to community and Legacy Award program to recognize senior year S-club students for their services and provide them with an opportunity to address women’s struggles.
both days under 8 & over
Through Soroptimist of the Delta, which has been in Brentwood for 41 years, many women in Brentwood have felt the generosity of S-clubs. Specifically, one of the Delta’s high school extensions, Heritage High School’s S-club, looks forward to another year dedicated to “women supporting women,” said current club President Roya Gouda.
Soroptimist background and events
In 2022, S-club won the non-profit of the year from Brentwood’s Chamber of Commerce for service to the community.
“Dream-it Be-it” is a seminar hosted at Liberty High School by Soroptimist twice a year to guide young women on their career paths, to introduce young women to community role models, and to help them overcome the “glass ceiling” — a term coined by advocate Marilyn Loden in her 1978 speech to refer to systemic obstacles in women’s careers.
“Uncorked” and “Bunco Night” are yearly Soroptimist-hosted fundraiser that provide S-club members with experiencebuilding volunteer opportunities and philanthropic attendees with dinner and entertainment.
Bunco Night was hosted inside Brentwood’s Senior Activity Center, while Halloween Bingo and Uncorked were hosted on Deluna ranch.
Many Brentwood adults have participated in annual events of S-club student members. On the other hand, they contribute through service projects like collecting hygiene products and making blankets to donate to local shelters such as Shepherds Gate.
Insights from Heritag S-club officers:
During my two years as a member and co-historian of Soroptimist, I have experienced ”the friendly, welcoming atmosphere that S-club aims to create for young, committed women that would like to make an impact by volunteering in their community and advocating for human rights” as attested to by other members’ responses.
When asked about one main goal she hopes to achieve during her term as an officer, co-historian Brisa Herrera said “I want to make sure that people know they are able to speak their mind and feel welcome in the club no matter what, I also want people to feel more passionate about serving in our community.”
Herrera described the women in S-club as “hardworking, devoted, and helpful”.
Meanwhile, Vice President Kiana Gouda defined S-club as “service, education, and feminism.” When asked about her favorite aspect about S-club, Roya Gouda recalled, “the sense of community fostered and the close connections I’ve built with members and Soroptimist women.”
Herrera said, “I personally adore doing service in our community... Soroptimist gives so many opportunities to be able to help out in our school and our city.”
Mary Rover, S-club member for two years, joined Soroptimist to “serve [her] community. I recommend joining. It has been a very fun experience for me, and it really helped me branch out as a student. I was drawn to the club’s goal of uplifting our local community and women in need as well as the shared rapport within Soroptimist.”
For details or if you are a Heritage student interested in attending Heritage S-club meetings, visit room HR-104 (Ms. Spear’s room) during lunch on the third Tuesday of each month.
For more information about Soroptimist, visit https://ca01001129.schoolwires. net/domain/1839 (Heritage S-club), www. siofthedelta.com/ (Soroptimist of the Delta club), and https://www.soroptimist.org/ (Soroptimist International of the Americas). If you would like to get involved with the Shepherd’s Gate Shelter, visit https://shepherdsgate.org/get-involved/.
— Janya Faustina Arokia Rajasekar, Grade 12, Heritage High School
– Advertorial
Submitted photo
Pictured are Soroptimist members from Heritage High School.
Liberty alum leading the way for Navy youth program
By Isaac Arriaga Correspondent
Liberty High School graduate Jaselle Escobedo is serving in the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps program as a Chief Petty Officer, the highest rank in the program.
In that role, Escobedo delegates duties to younger cadets during training and drill sessions.
“I work with (kids) ages 10 to 13 (who) are Navy League Cadets and then once you become 13, you move up to Sea Cadets,” Escobedo said. “I work with all ages.”
The Sea Cadets is a Navy Youth Program that is open to U.S. citizens aged 13-18 who are attending high school. In April after
being in the program for five years and going through a Chief’s Board Assessment, Escobedo was awarded the rank of Chief Petty Officer. Three chiefs and two officers questioned Escobedo about her knowledge of scenarios that determine whether a cadet can become a Chief. Escobedo passed her assessment and continued leading younger cadets, she said.
For at least one weekend every month, the Sea Cadets participate in training exercises or drills that help them build their knowledge of the military and helps them build themselves to be future leaders of America, said Escobedo, who has participated in several diverse training camps including photojournalism and Master-At-Arms. “I have attended Petty Officer Leadership Academy,
Culinary, and Marksmanship,” she said.
During that time, Escobedo has earned 16 ribbons, eight challenge coins, and three medals in the program; the Daughters of the American Revolution Medal, the Navy League Sea Cadet of the Year medal, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Medal.
“It was kind of harsh for training because it was always in the summer so I couldn’t really hang out with friends,” Escobedo said about participating in the Sea Cadets while in school. “The most difficult part of it is if there’s night I need to do school work and we need to do an evening color guard … I have to sacrifice one or the other, but I got through it.”
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
Small enough to know all our clients and to serve
That’s the mantra of Certified Accounting Services Co. owned by Marlen Rosales, CPA.
They prepare income tax returns and financial statements, do QuickBooks clean-ups, support small business CFOs, payroll, do sales tax returns, tax projections and tax research.
The advantages of doing business with them are
that they save time and stress, are extremely thorough and have a proven 99% audit-free track record.
Rosales was inspired to open the business because of her love of accounting, satisfaction of balancing books, and the desire to manage her own business. Her clients are middle-class individuals and closely-held businesses in the real estate professions.
them personally
The company opened 24 years ago in South San Francisco and eventually moved to Brentwood in 2019 to their location now at
Blvd. Suite C. Call Certified Accounting Services at 925-392-8047 or email marlen@rosales-cpa.com to schedule an appointment. Rosales will respond to each call or email.
ESCOBEDO
El Campanil Theatre
602 W. Second Street • Antioch
If These Walls Could Talk: A Family Affair
Presented by CJG Productions
Saturday, August 2 @ 7pm General Admission $40
Comedy in Antioch
Presented by Blackbook Comedy
Saturday, August 16 @ 8pm Pre Sale $20 Day of Show $25
Matt
Stone As: Elvis in Person
Presented by Matt Stone Enterprises
Saturday, September 7 @ 7pm Orchestra $55, Loge $45, Opera $35
Comedy Game Night!
with Comedian David Studebaker
Presented by El Campanil Theatre
Friday, September 19 @ 7pm
Adult: $32, Senior $29, Youth $15
LIMITED TIME PROMO: Use Code BIG25 for $25 tickets. Valid through August 31
Midnight Flyer: A Tribute to the Eagles
Presented by El Campanil Theatre
Sunday, October 5 @ 2:00 PM
Adult: $32, Senior $29, Youth $15
LIMITED TIME PROMO: Use Code BIG25 for $25 tickets. Valid through August 31
Blues in the Night: Tia Carroll & Frankie G
Presented by El Campanil Theatre
Saturday, November 1 @ 7pm
Adult: $32, Senior $29, Youth $15
LIMITED TIME PROMO: Use Code BIG25 for $25 tickets. Valid through August 31
Franc
D’AMBROSIO with Nick Crossen
S.F.’s Favorite Phantom of the Opera in Concert with Guest American Idol Alum: Nick Crossen
Presented by El Campanil Theatre
Sunday November 9 @ 2pm
Adult: $32, Senior $29, Youth $15
LIMITED TIME PROMO: Use Code BIG25 for $25 tickets. Valid through August 31
TICKETS AVAILABLE ONLINE & THROUGH THE BOX OFFICE
@ ELCAMPANILTHEATRE.COM
BOX OFFICE: (925) 757-9500
RENTAL INFORMATION: OUR VENUE IS A PERFECT PLACE FOR RECITALS, CONCERTS, SEMINARS, WORKSHOPS, POETRY READING, GRADUATIONS, WEDDINGS, PLAYS, MUSICALS AND MANY OTHER EVENTS.
Calendar
This Week’s Events
Thursday, August 3
Wonders of the Wetlands2025 Art Exhibition
The Art Guild of the Delta presents an art exhibition daily through Aug. 3 that includes original paintings, drawings, photographs and jewelry.
The exhibit is from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Big Break Visitors Center, 69 Big Break Road in Oakley. The theme of the exhibition is the wetlands of the Sacramento River Delta, and includes the wildlife (birds, fish, insects, turtles) and plants of this area. The artists include Kitty Carton, Jeremy Jones, Mary Lamb, Frank Littman, Sharon McKeon, Donna Palmer, Irene Sanfilippo, Rich Sanfilippo, Jill Schnell, and Makenna Whiting. For more information, visit www.artguildofthedelta.org/ wonders-of-the-wetlands-2025.
Friday, August 1
Oakley Concert in the Park
Friday Night Bites and Foodie Crew features a free concert with the Real Thang Band. Food trucks and live music will be on site from 5–9 p.m. at Civic Center Plaza, 3231 Main St. Guests may bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy a meal and concert in the park. No outside alcohol is permitted. Concerts in the Park will be each Friday in August. For more information about the concert, contact Alicia at (925) 625-7044 or email oleary@ci.oakley.ca.us. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/events/973607858247557.
Saturday, August 2
Worm Composting Workshop
A free virtual worm composting online workshop will be offered by the Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development from 10 a.m.-noon. Participants will learn how to create their own worm compost. Vermicomposting (“vermi” is Latin for “worm”) is the process of using worms to break down organic food waste into nutrient-rich soil. The workshop will be led by Todd Sutton, an environmental expert. This live online event will be hosted via Zoom, with the link provided upon registration. Join in to gain valuable composting skills that benefit both your garden and the environment. For more information on composting and recycling, visit www.cccrecycle.org.
NovaCon X 2025 – Brentwood’s First Cosplay and Fandom Festival
NovaCon X is the first event of its kind in Brentwood, and it will take place at Brentwood City Park, 790 Second St. from 3-9 p.m. NovaCon X 2025 brings together anime, comics, cosplay, live entertainment, vendors, artists, live panels, children’s crafts, slime making, intergalactic activities made just for little ones, and family-friendly fun. The free event will feature special guests, fan-favorite characters and cosplay guests. To register: www.eventbrite.com/e/novacon2025-tickets-1275833906559?aff=oddtdtcreator. For more information, visit lovelynovaarts.com. Sunday, August 3
Unity Inspired Living Non-Profit
Presents Rev. Jacquelyn Edwards
Reverend Jacquelyn Edwards will give a free talk, “Aligning with Source,” at 10 a.m. on Facebook Live at www.facebook.com/unityinspiredliving. org. Inspirational music will be provided by Laurie Roldan. For more information, visit unityinspiredliving.org.
Tuesday, August 5
National Night Out-Bethel Island
The Bethel Island Chamber of Commerce hosts a National Night Out in conjunction with Bingo. There will be activities for the whole family throughout the evening at Bethel Island Community Park, 6190 Bethel Island Road, from 4:30-9:30 p.m. There will be food trucks until 8 p.m. Bingo will start at 6:30 p.m. There will be music in the park with DJ Daniel Vega and outdoor games at Scout Hall at 6:30 p.m.. A movie yet to be announced and popcorn will
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.
start when the sun goes down around 8 p.m. For more information, visit bethelislandchamber. com/Home/Events.
National Night Out-Oakley
The event will be from 5-9 p.m. at 4830 Brown Road in Oakley. There will be monster truck rides, pony rides, food trucks, face painting, bounce houses and more at this event hosted by Happy Trails Riding Academy and Sophia Kossak Real Estate.
Wednesday, August 6
Park and Play and Q and A Curious about Cub Scouts? Joining Pack 21 and other packs across the district from 6-7 p.m. at Creekside Park, 1010 Claremont Drive in Brentwood. Admission is free.
On the Horizon
Friday, August 8
Antioch Chamber Cares Golf Tournament
The Antioch Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual Chamber Cares Golf Tournament at Lone Tree Golf & Event Center, 4800 Golf Course Road in Antioch. Shotgun start is at 1 p.m. Funds raised from this tournament support the Chamber Cares Program that supports businesses in Antioch that have been vandalized or damaged. Tickets are $165 per person. For more information, visit https://antiochchamber.com/. To register, visit www.lonetreegolfcourse.com.
Saturday, August 16 & Sunday August 17
Bethel Island Boats and Berries Festival
This free family-friendly, two-day event will take place from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Bethel Island Community Park, at 6190 Bethel Island Road. There will be a parade at 10 a.m. There will also be a car, bike and boat show, live music, catfish races, vendors, food trucks, duckie races, kids zone, bathtub races, and more. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=615 75533144967&mibextid=wwXIfr.
Monday, August 18
Catwalk for Courage: A Fashion Show Supporting Adventure Therapy
The Downtown Brentwood Coalition presents an evening of fashion, strength, and community in support of Adventure Therapy. Each model gracing the runway has been personally impacted by cancer, and this event honors them while raising money for Adventure Therapy’s mission. The evening will begin with a pre-show reception at Erickson Realty Group, 651 First St. in downtown Brentwood. Food will be provided by Kitch’n by Anthony R, desserts by Kristy’s Confections, and wine donated by Zephyr Grill & Bar. Next, guests will go to the Delta Theater, 641 First St., with doors opening at 6:45 p.m. and the show at 7 p.m. Models will showcase looks from downtown retailers. Tickets are $40 and can be purchased at ticketing.roninpos.app/events/dbccatwalk. All proceeds benefit Adventure Therapy.
Wednesday, September 3
Impact of Federal funding Cuts on Contra Costa Cities
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for Brentwood Dental
Excellence
The ceremony will be from 5:30-7 p.m. at 6511 Lone Tree Way Suite #140 in Brentwood. The ribbon cutting will begin at 6 p.m. The event will feature networking and an opportunity to tour the Brentwood Dental Excellence office. To register, visit www.brentwoodchamber. com. – Paid
Saturday, August 9
Tea Party for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Awareness
Join the Tea Party for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Awareness, hosted by PETALS, from noon-3 p.m. at the Streets of Brentwood, 2535 Sand Creek Road Suite 128. Tickets are $65 per person. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Alzheimer’s Association in Northern California. The event will feature guest speaker Cora Becker, MSW, a family care specialist at the Alzheimer’s Association - Northern California and Northern Nevada Chapter. Tickets can be reserved at square.link/u/aKQHsWOo.
Saturday, August 9 & Sunday August 10
Delta Quilters Guild 2025 Quilt Show
The Delta Quilters Guild presents its 2025 Quilt Show at the Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St.. The event will take place from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Aug. 9 and 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. on Aug. 10. The show will feature quilts, demonstrations, vendors, boutique, and raffles. Entry fee is $12 and is good for both days. Anyone 8 years and younger, or older than, 80 will be admitted free. For more information, visit deltaquiltersguild.org.
Thursday, August 14
NEW DATE-Tip A Star Fundraiser
Zephyr Grill & Bar is celebrating nine years in downtown Brentwood by hosting Tip A Star, a fundraiser for Working Wonders from 5-7 p.m. Participants from Working Wonders, a nonprofit day program for adults with developmental disabilities, will work alongside Zephyr staff to collect “special tips” and donations from guests to raise funds for their program. Reserve your spot now at www.zephyrgrill.com/brentwoodreservations or call 925-418-4708. For information about Working Wonders, visit https://www. letsworkwonders.org.
How do Washington D.C.’s latest actions affect Contra Costa County residents? Join the League of Women Voters of Diablo Valley and a panel of government leaders to discuss impacts locally the budget cuts from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) cuts and President Trump’s “big beautiful bill” sent to Congress. The event will be from 7:30-8:45 p.m. in the Oak Room of the Walnut Creek Public Library, 1644 Broadway. Hear from local elected leaders and have questions answered about what’s in store from these impending cuts. Confirmed panelists include: Kevin Wilk, Walnut Creek Mayor Pro Tem, and Shanelle Scales-Preston, county Supervisor. Additional panelists to be announced. Register at unite.rise@lwvdv.org. For information, contact Gail Murray at 925-937-0841 or murrayconsult@aol.com.
Saturday, September 6
4th Annual La Gran Fiesta
Celebrate Hispanic culture in Brentwood at Brentwood City Park, 35 Oak St. from 2-8 p.m. Admission is free. The event will feature a car show, music, food, and a free kids zone. For more information, call 925-634-3344 or visit www. brentwoodchamber.com.
Grill and Gather- A Country BBQ Fundraiser
Back by popular demand, the event, hosted by Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Court #2714, will take place at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church Hall, 500 Fairview Ave. in Brentwood, from 6-10 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Dust off your cowboy hat and boots for a fun-filled evening featuring barbecue, drinks, live music, line dancing, raffle prizes and more. Tickets are $45 per person. Make checks payable to Catholic Daughters of the Americas. To register visit forms.gle/7UDBHcwJfjQVYLvn. For questions, email ihmcda2714@gmail.com. All proceeds benefit Catholic Daughters charities.
Attention commercial venues! The Press is excited to announce we are now allowing commercial venues, bars and for-profit events to list your events in The Press’s weekly printed community calendar. For only $25 per week, it will include 55-60 words or a 380-390 character count with bigger font and will be hotlinked to your website on the e-Press. To place your event, let us know by Friday at noon for the following Fridays publication at ads@brentwoodpress.com or call 925-634-1441.
‘Lasting Memories of Home’
Quilts Create Lasting Memories of Home is the theme of next weekend’s quilt show hosted by the Delta Quilters Guild at The Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St. on Aug. 9-10 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Aug. 9 and 10 a.m.3:30 p.m. on Aug. 10.
There will be about 140 quilts/quilted art entries, 13 vendors, raffle baskets, a boutique with handcrafted items for purchase, an Opportunity Quilt raffle, and a variety of demonstrations of quilting/sewing techniques. In addition to the 2025 entries, the Best of Show winners from the 2024 Quilt Show will be displayed in the lobby according to a press release.
Gail Ghiozzi is this year’s featured quilter. She taught at Garin Elementary School in the Brentwood Union School District for 24 years before retiring. She has made quilts and inspirational wall hangings for teachers and their children/ grandchildren, baby and adult quilts for the Guild’s community outreach, and patriotic quilts for the Guild’s quilts honoring veterans’ program.
She is expanding her skills by learning new techniques and free-motion quilting.
On Saturday and Sunday at 1 p.m., the Delta Quilters
Guild will present quilts to local veterans to honor and thank them for their bravery, sacrifice, and service.
Brentwood VFW Post 10789 will perform a Color Guard ceremony, with local singer and member of the Delta Strummers, Robbie Myers, singing the national anthem. Local veterans will receive a quilted hug.
In addition to making quilts for local veterans, the Delta Quilters Guild donates different size handmade quilts to a variety of community organizations and pillowcases for children to take to summer camp sponsored by Brentwood Lions Club.
Proceeds from the quilt show will help defray the cost of fabric, batting, and thread for these outreach donations.
Entry fee is $12 and is good for both days. Anyone 8 and younger or older than 80 is admitted free.
For details, visit https://deltaquilters.org/.
Hometown SportS
Freedom looks for progress in 2025
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
They say “patience is a virtue.” Entering his second season at the helm of Freedom’s football program, head coach Stephen Rodriguez has come to embody that mantra, and he and the Falcons hope their patience in his 2024 coaching debut will pay off in 2025.
“I would say that the culture is set, and it feels really good,” Rodriguez said during the team’s training camp this week. “The word for me was just ‘patience.’ A lot of people were saying, ‘Let’s get it done, let’s get it to translate to football,’ but I had to understand that patience was the most important thing.”
“It’s hard to translate to football, hard to rebuild something from the foundation up. Last season was really about laying a foundation and not creeping beyond that, and making sure it was solidified going forward. … We started to lay bricks for our house, and we’re doing very, very well.”
The key to the team’s hoped-for turnaround has been a shift in the mindset within the program. A team that was once just showing up with only shoulder pads and shorts, dressed however they wanted to or could in the previous coaching regime just two years ago, look, and operate, like a proper team.
“The kids are out here dedicated, they’re ready to work, and they’re dressed correctly,” Rodriguez said. “We did our Falcons jumping jacks right on the first try, which is amazing. But it’s been little things like that. … Last year was about culture-setting for a lot of the kids. It was a shock to be accountable — getting in the weight room every day, being here every day. The returners now have confidence because they know they can follow the rules, and that’s huge.”
“(The big takeaway from last season)
is just not to play around as much and take everything more seriously,” said senior quarterback Tah’Kai Edwards.
Freedom went 1-9 last year for the second-straight season, with its lone win coming in the regular-season finale — 28-21 at Deer Valley in Antioch.
While the team worked to improve their culture off of the field under the new regime last year, the Falcons struggled on the field. They were outscored 135-33 in their first three games, then shut out over the
next three by a combined 102-0. In the three games after that, they were outscored 94-28 before finally breaking through in Week 10 for that elusive win.
Freedom’s only 20-point game came in that win over the Wolverines to end the season. The Falcons lost their nine games in 2024 by an average of 30 points per game — still an improvement from the 2023 squad, which suffered an average margin of defeat by 36.3 points per game, according to MaxPreps.
Though it took over two months to get their only win of the season, that victory snapped a 14-game losing streak and sparked the momentum Freedom hopes to carry into 2025.
“It was big,” Rodriguez said. “That was my first win as a coach, so it was amazing. But for us as a program, it created trust. If we didn’t win that game, it would’ve been tough to trust us coaches and our patience and mindset. But with that last win — and we had a good showing offensively and defensively – it really helped the program, the school, and the kids. They ended up trusting and knowing we’re on the right track.”
“The win was good,” Edwards added. “It was a good start for our team this year, and it made us think and helped us work harder to win more games in 2025.”
To view a video and a slideshow, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
TwinMode Fitness’s journey from the garage to Knightsen
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Brothers Scott and Todd Hart have been working out for much of their lives. Their newly opened gym, TwinMode Fitness in Knightsen, epitomizes their attitude toward personal and athletic training.
“We’ve been working out since we’re 15 years old,” Scott Hart, the gym’s owner, said. “We’re 48 years old now and I don’t think we’ve taken a day off since.”
TwinMode Fitness, located at 1690 Delta Road in Knightsen, focuses on athletic training with both individuals, adults and youth, and with local sports teams, like the East County Revolution’s youth soccer teams and players from the high school teams. Each day they change their training focuses, like mobility, agility, cardio, along with weight training. Both of the Hart brothers help coach those involved in the session’s workout, along with other coaches who have had training experience.
The open-air gym built essentially inside of what looks like an extended garage opened two months ago. As their social media account and numerous videos have shown, it has quickly become a go-to spot for not just the local high school and col-
lege athletes in the Brentwood-Oakley area, but for just about anyone throughout East County with training sessions starting as early as 6 a.m. and the gym closing around 9 p.m.
“Basically, the whole (Bay Valley Athletic League) is here, plus soccer teams like the (East County) Revolution,” Hart said. “This basically started from the garage at my house with five of my son’s friends, then I started training the baseball kids from Liberty High School and the parents were asking if (their kids)
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
could do some side training. The garage got too small, so we found the facility in Knightsen.”
“We were kind of worried that it’d be too far out from Brentwood and Oakley. But once we opened it, it was a perfect point for Oakley, Discovery Bay, Brentwood, and Antioch. It was like five, 10 minutes max for all of the kids.”
“This has been my dad’s passion for a while,” Scott’s son, Ryan Hart, a senior baseball player, said. “Him and my uncle, they’ve loved doing this. It’s been their
dream and they achieved it.”
In the same way that the gym started literally from a home, with its own humble beginnings, in its brief history so far the gym itself has already become a sortof second home for some of its clients.
“When I first met Todd, it was at a (get-together) with his daughter and a bunch of my football teammates at the time,” Jabari McKinney, a former Deer Valley football player now playing at Los Medanos College, said. “He was like ‘Y’all play football? I got a gym in my garage’ and in the middle of the party we went and we just started lifting weights inside his garage.
“...I train here, and I help coach the kids (who train at the gym). Overall, he’s helped me not only in an athlete’s perspective, but in a life role.”
Even with the gym’s impact on local athletes, TwinMode Fitness has also had a big impact on its regular clients, specifically Davey Carter, 27, who has been going to the gym twice a week since it opened and has known the Hart family for nearly a decade.
To read the rest of the story, go to thepress.net.
To view a video and a slideshow, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
Young athletes from the East County Revolution Football Club work out at the TwinMode Fitness gym in Knightsen.
Freedom head football coach Stephen Rodriguez gives direction during the team’s training camp.
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
Calkins Jr. takes bronze at U17 world championships
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Liberty High School football and wrestling senior David Calkins Jr. is coming back to Brentwood a world medalist after he took bronze at the U17 World Wrestling Championships in Athens, Greece this week.
“It doesn’t feel like I just won a bronze medal,” Calkins Jr. said in an interview after his match with USA Wrestling. “I’m sure it’ll sink in.”
Calkins Jr. defeated Romania’s Ionut
Patru 4-0 in the 92 kilogram bronze medal match. Patru was last year’s world champion.
Calkins Jr. is one of three Americans to win bronze, let alone medal, at the world championships – the other two being Michael Rundell in the 48kg weight class and Arseni Kikiniou in the 65kg weight class.
Calkins Jr. adds his first international medal to what’s already been an illustrious high school wrestling career. Last summer, Calkins Jr. won a national championship in his weight class to qualify for the USA Greco-Roman roster.
WE’RE HIRING
FREELANCE SPORTS WRITER
The Brentwood Press, a weekly newspaper and publishing company that covers the far East Bay in the San Francisco Bay Area, is looking for a freelance sports reporter/photographer.
The writer should focus on high school sports features and game coverage within the Brentwood and Oakley areas, primarily Liberty, Heritage, and Freedom High Schools, along with other local sports stories.
Candidates should have previous journalistic experience in sports reporting, knowledge of sports, as well as taking photos and video.
Candidates must also be capable of writing concise, accurate and engaging feature stories and game coverage on deadline, along with being computer literate and able to function in a multimedia, online environment. Candidates based in East County are preferred.
Job types: part-time
Monday to Friday afternoon/evenings with weekend availability Ability to commute in and around East County License: Driver’s License In-person job, not remote
If you are qualified for this position please send your resume, writing and photo samples: editor@brentwoodpress.com
Photo courtesy of USA Wrestling
Cruising through Scandanavia
After a 2.5-week cruise of the Scandinavian countries, Peggy Ann Valley and Jay McLaughlin of Brentwood ended their trip with three days in Copenhagen. This photo is from Tivoli Gardens, the inspiration for Walt Disney to create Disneyland. Our travel agent was Vera Martinez of Dream Vacations, and she did an amazing job making the trip special.
Visiting ‘another’ Brentwood
Nigel Jesson was visiting his friend Peter in the UK, and found himself near Brentwood, Essex. It was a surreal, full-circle moment to stand in the town centre that lent its name to the place he calls home – a city founded by John Marsh and named after Brentwood in the UK.
Photo courtesy of Peggy Ann Valley
Photo courtesy of Nigel Jesson
ing to be here?’”
Once emergency services were in sight, Tom flagged them down, waving his shoelace in the empty parking lot. The firefighters and EMTs tended to Amanda and brought her the rest of the way to the hospital for recovery, though not before the couple got a few photos with them for posterity. Tom praised the “amazing” firefighters for their quick response and comforting presence.
“My mom is an OB nurse, and Tom wanted to call her rather than calling 911, but she lives in Chicago and was actually at work helping other people have babies,” Amanda remembered. “Once everything was okay, we actually did call my mom from the parking lot, and her whole labor and delivery unit heard (the baby) crying, and we sent pictures. We had a whole lot of family who did not believe what had happened.”
Tom let his incredulous mother and sister know that he had “just delivered a baby in a parking lot,” and was quickly able to rejoin Amanda upon his arrival at the hospital. He “had never got through ER that quickly.” Up to the point that they were transferred to the recovery area, their new baby was still unnamed.
“At this point, we had two names. We weren’t sure what we were going to name her. I thought that, when she was born, I
“ At that point, [the baby] started crying, which was the most relieving sound I’ve ever heard in my entire life. That let me know she was
going to be okay.
”
Tom Brandt
would have this big rush of feelings and I would know this name to give her,” Amanda said. “But the experience was so overwhelming, that I didn’t have that experience. They kept asking us, ‘What’s her name, what’s her name,’ and we didn’t know. Once we were all clear and safe, they told Tom that he could come over and hold her.”
“The moment they set her in my arms, I said, ‘Hi, Aria,’” Tom remembered fondly. “That was it, her name was Aria – Aria Joan.”
Aria, the “Balfour baby,” as Tom called her, is the first member of her family to be born in Brentwood, since most people go to Antioch or other towns with hospitals for births.
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
“The moment they set her in my arms, I said, ‘Hi, Aria,’” Tom remembered fondly. “That was it, her name was Aria – Aria Joan.”
Creek Road
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
A three-vehicle crash in Byron on Saturday night injured five people and sent two to a hospital in critical condition.
According to ConFire, firefighters responded to calls of a three vehicle Byron on Marsh Creek Road, west of Walnut Boulevard shortly after 9 p.m. Saturday for the incident. When firefighters arrived, they found five people injured from the crash, two of whom
were in critical condition and had to be airlifted to John Muir Medical Center. The other three patients suffered minor injuries and refused medical treatment, according to ConFire.
“This is a country, rural road with no center divider,” ConFire battalion chief Jeff Burris said. “People tend to speed through this area because there’s no center divider, or they lose attention and are speeding. (With those factors) the severity of accidents tends to increase.
To comment, visit www.thepress.net
Photo by Connor Robles
Photo courtesy of Art Ray
REGIONAL & LOCAL
News iN Brief
Local health officers urge families to prioritize immunizations in backto-school preparations
As children and families across the Bay Area prepare for the upcoming school year, Contra Costa Health urges everyone to make sure their back-to-school checklist starts with getting their child vaccinated.
Vaccines are safe, effective and a routine part of preventive health care. They protect against serious diseases such as measles, pertussis (also known as whooping cough) and polio, health officials said in a press release from the county health office.
“Vaccines are one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep kids healthy, in school, and to protect our entire community,” said Dr. Ori Tzvieli, health officer for Contra Costa County. “With preventable diseases circulating, vaccines are essential. Every child deserves protection, and every family deserves clear information with easy access.”
Children who attend childcare facilities or schools are required to be vaccinated against several infectious diseases.
Families are encouraged to:
• Check their child’s vaccination records with their healthcare provider or through California’s Digital Vaccine Record portal.
• Schedule well-child visits early and before the school year begins to avoid lastminute delays.
• Access low- or no-cost vaccinations through local public health clinics if uninsured or underinsured.
New Tri Delta Transit system starts Aug. 10 with new routes, faster service
After getting public feedback and conducting analysis for a year, Tri Delta Transit has a new system effective on Sunday, Aug. 10.
The system will feature new routes, new route numbers, a new Tri MyRide zone in Brentwood, and faster and more efficient service, according to a press release from Supervisor Diane Burgis’s office.
For details about planning your trips, visit www.revitalizetridelta.com.
Delta Stewardship Council awards nearly $6 million for new research on Delta
The Delta Stewardship Council has announced that its Delta Science Program will award $5.9 million to fund eight critical scientific studies in the Delta and Suisun Marsh over the next three years. The State Water Contractors will fund two additional studies that support recovery efforts for endangered
To submit a news item for this page, send it to editor@brentwoodpress.com
fish in the Delta, bringing the total awards to about $7.8 million, according to a press release from Supervisor Diane Burgis’s office. Burgis is a voting member of the council.
The projects cover some of the scientific questions that are most important to the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta, such as tidal marsh restoration, cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms, subsidence, carbon emissions, and the cultivation of sturgeon, smelt and salmon.
For details, visit https://deltacouncil. ca.gov/delta-science-program/researchawards.
New Healthcare Literacy Council launches campaign to help local residents navigate healthcare maze
A new countywide coalition is tackling one of healthcare’s biggest challenges: helping people understand how and when to use it.
The new Healthcare Literacy Council of Contra Costa County is leading a public education campaign to help people make better use of their health coverage, avoid unnecessary emergency room visits and get the care they need — more affordably and effectively. The pilot will start in the fall in Antioch, Bethel Island, Brentwood, Byron, Discovery Bay, Knightsen and Oakley.
ate and affordable alternatives like doctors’ offices, clinics and urgent care centers are available. If we can help direct people to better alternatives for non-emergency needs, we can alleviate crowding in emergency rooms and reduce stress for healthcare workers and patients alike.”
For more information on the Healthcare Literacy Council and its programs, visit www.RightCareRightWay.org.
Newsom announces local progress in reducing homelessness
Building on the administration’s efforts to reverse decades of inaction on housing and homelessness, Gov. Newsom has announced continued signs of progress in California. In 2024, California outperformed the nation in slowing down the increase in homelessness.
Last year, while the number of homeless people nationwide increased by nearly 7%, California’s remained nearly flat, increasing by only 0.45%. With new preliminary 2025 point-in-time reporting from some of the state’s largest cities, California is seeing ongoing progress and reductions in homelessness in many cities, the governor’s office said in a press release.
Formed by Supervisor Diane Burgis, Kaiser Permanente, Contra Costa Health and the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, the Council brings together stakeholders to educate residents — particularly those on Medicare and Medi-Cal — about navigating a complex healthcare system with confidence.
“It’s no secret that today’s healthcare system is complex and often overwhelming,” said Burgis. “Too many of our residents are confused, anxious and frustrated by medical policies they don’t understand. We’ve come together as a Council to address this challenge and offer residents the support and information they need to navigate this complexity and make wise decisions that protect both their health and their pocketbooks.
The Council’s education program will equip residents of the East County with the information they need to become more confident, informed healthcare consumers, the release stated.
The Council will also train college students to deliver healthcare literacy classes to older residents, high schoolers and other groups this fall.
It envisions far-reaching impacts –a healthier workforce, improved school attendance and empowered residents who can share what they’ve learned with their families and friends.
“By educating the public about how to use healthcare appropriately, we’re also hoping to lighten the load on overburdened hospital emergency departments,” said Dr. Ori Tzvieli, interim director of Contra Costa Health. “These facilities are too often being used when more comfortable, appropri-
Each year, local governments conduct point-in-time counts in January with final numbers reported in December. While the preliminary data reported by cities has not been verified by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, initial reporting by locals is encouraging, officials said.
Cities across California are beginning to see a substantial decrease in the number of homeless people, indicating a trend that they are accepting shelter, programs, services and housing, in part as a result of state investments. California cities are making progress in getting people off the streets and out of encampments and connecting them with the care they need, the press release stated.
Reservation upgrade coming to state parks
California State Parks is implementing reservation upgrades to make it easier for visitors to find their perfect campsite.
Californians and visitors from all over the world can now access campground availability on Parks.ca.gov and book their campsite in just a few clicks as part of customerfocused reservation upgrades announced by California State Parks.
Previously, campground availability and reservations were available only on ReserveCalifornia.com, State Parks’ official reservation service, and were not accessible on the main State Parks website, the state said in a press release. While reservations will still be made through ReserveCalifornia.com, visitors to Parks.ca.gov will now experience improved integration and convenience to book their campsite while accessing a trove of helpful information – including almost real-time campsite status and availability at other nearby campgrounds – to plan their state parks getaway.
C lassifieds & l egals
LEGAL NOTICES
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
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File No. F-2025-0003570 The name of the business(es): COMUNIDAD DE FE DE ANTIOQUIA, INC. Located at: 423 West 6th St In: Antioch, CA 94509, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): COMUNIDAD DE FE DE ANTIOQUIA, INC. This business is conducted by: a Corporation, State of Incorporation: CA. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Luisa Quintero, Vice-President. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 07/02/2025 by Deputy Clerk Expires 07/01/2030
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Located at: 641 EASTWOOD CT, In: BRENTWOOD, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): BAYSIDE HEALTHCARE SERVICES LLC
This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company, State of Organization: CA. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: KUNLE MAJOWOGBE, COO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 07/08/2025 by Deputy Clerk Expires 07/07/2030 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
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File No. F-2025-0000834 The name of the business(es): LUXURYA REALTY INVESTMENT GROUP Located at: 2603 Camino Ramon, Suite 200 In: San Ramon, CA, 94583, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Mahdi Alimi. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious
business name or names listed above on 02/06/2025. Signature of registrant: Mahdi Alimi, Individual. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 02/14/2025 by Deputy Clerk Expires 02/13/2030 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
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NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2025-0003830 The name of the business(es): Sycamore Valley Chiropractic Located at: 401 Sycamore Valley Rd West In: Danville, CA 94526, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): 1. Gregory E Call 2. Kirsten M Call. This business is conducted by: A General Partnership. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 01/01/2025. Signature of registrant: Gregory Call, General Partner. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 07/17/2025 by Deputy Clerk Expires 07/16/2030 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
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FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2025-0003745 The name of the business(es): Stem Guys Tire Supplies Located at: 364 Fremont Peak Drive In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Clayton Tire Supply LLC. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company, State of Organization: CA. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A . Signature of registrant: Richard Leland, President. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 07/11/2025 by Deputy Clerk Expires 07/10/2030 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
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Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
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FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2025-0003608 The name of the business(es): More-ish Cookies Located at: 3037 Carey Lane In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Kris Baker. This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant
commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Kris Baker, Individual. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 07/03/2025 by Deputy Clerk Expires 07/02/2030
Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: July 11, 18, 25, August 1, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2025-0003538 The name of the business(es): Kozo Candles Located at: 2197 Wayne Drive In: Brentwood, CA 94513, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Kozocas Productions LLC. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company, State of Organization: CA. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: L. Graham, Deputy Clerk. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 07/01/2025 by Deputy Clerk Expires 06/30/2030
Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: July 11, 18, 25, August 1, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2025-0003612 The name of the business(es): Second Chance Sanctuary Located at: 37 Minaret Road In: Oakley, CA 94561, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Surrender To Live LLC. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company, State of Organization: CA. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Jacqueline Marie Fetty, CEO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 07/03/2025 by Deputy Clerk Expires 07/02/2030 Publish Dates: July 11, 18, 25, August 1, 2025
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Town Hall from page 1
for sea level rise, citing a study that said that habitats and infrastructure will be affected by sea level rise by 2050. He said that his district has a climate adaptation plan to deal with higher seas.
“The plan that we would implement is a way to prepare the park infrastructure and vegetation for rising water levels.
Hardman-Saldana spoke on the duties of the Contra Costa Department of Conservation and Development, which oversees the creation of the county’s general plan and climate action plan.
“My responsibility is to implement a lot of the measures in the climate action plan related to the built environment [human-made surroundings such as urbanized areas],” Hardman-Saldana explained. “One of the big things in our county that’s been an issue from a health perspective, that’s tied to the environment, is asthma.”
Contra Costa County’s high asthma rates stem from poor air quality along the northern waterfront and in-home factors.
Hardman-Saldana’s department is trying to provide incentives for people to educate themselves on how to reduce asthma in the home through removal of gas-burning appliances, which can “substantially improve health outcomes for people who have asthma,” HardmanSaldana said. The department also handles landfill management for the Keller Canyon landfill, helps install clean heating and cooling systems in homes, and collects development fees to help protect local wildlife habitats, among other programs. Federal funding cuts have caused difficulties for Hardman-Saldana’s department, so they are “pivoting to work with the state as much as possible,” he said.
Tran spoke about the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, which covers all nine Bay Area counties and over 100 cities around San Francisco Bay and manages the Spare the Air program, among other initiatives, to provide a “healthy breathing environment” to the area
Changes from page 1
under its jurisdiction, according to Tran. He said that the Bay Area will soon implement a “first-inthe-nation” rule to phase out at point-of-sale gas water heaters in 2027 and gas furnaces in 2029, both of which cause respiratory diseases.
“Those water heaters, those gas furnaces are leading contributors to nox--nitrogen oxides,” Tran said. “With the elimination of those appliances, and switching to electric, that’s eliminating nox. It’s a purely nox rule. Nox, as many of you know, exacerbates asthma and leads to many other respiratory conditions--emphysema, bronchitis, and so much more.”
He also celebrated a recent settlement between the air district, Chevron, and Martinez Refining Company over Rule 6-5, which regulates particulate emissions from refinery cracking units. The companies agreed to pay $137.5 million to the district, comply with the rule, and drop their suit, which claimed that Chevron and the refinery company were unable to implement Rule 6-5 in their facilities. This amount included, but was not limited to, $20 million for an air quality fund.
Tran also informed attendees about a new air quality incident notification system, which is designed to supplement county-level systems, and thanked DeSaulnier for getting $15 million from the Federal Highway Administration to install more than 1,600 electric vehicle charging ports in the Bay Area.
During the Q&A, DeSaulnier lamented the politicization of funding for disaster relief, which has led to FEMA funding for wildfire relief being withheld from California. Meanwhile, he said, the Congressman promised to “keep fighting” for the necessary funds for California.
“We need to get those grants to every part of the country, irrespective of their political affiliation,” he said. “We’re Americans, and in crisis, we’ve always supported other Americans.”
DeSaulnier further described the lack of bipartisanship in Washington.
“We should’ve pushed harder in the first two years of the Biden administration, when
A new Dutch Bros Coffee location is also under construction in front of Sprouts Market. Additionally, Sutter Health medical offices designed to enhance access to healthcare services in the area, along with a new hotel, La Quinta, are both scheduled to break ground at The Streets of Brentwood in 2026. the Sutter Health offices and hotel will go to the eastern portion of the site.) Other improvements include new landscaping -- shade trees, new buildings with unspecified uses. Noguera said these additions to the center will also provide much-needed shade and seating where visitors can dine, shop and enjoy entertainment.
“Think of the Streets of Brentwood as another downtown where it becomes a one-stop shop to purchase goods, eat, and enjoy entertainment,” Noguera said. “For those concerned about safety, the Brentwood Police Department will work closely with CenterCal’s management and security to ensure a pleasant and safe shopping experience for all who come.”
Regarding the police presence, “The Streets of Brentwood remains a safe and welcoming destination for families, residents, and visitors,” Brentwood Interim City Manager Darin Gale said. “The City continues to work closely with property management, local businesses, and our Police Department to ensure a secure environment for everyone to enjoy. We are committed to maintaining the high quality of life Brentwood is known for and taking proactive steps to address any concerns that may arise.”
Although there was an incident earlier this month in which a teen meetup at the Streets of Brentwood required police intervention, police did not attribute the city’s commitment to police presence at the shopping center to this in-
we had control of both houses and the White House,” DeSaulnier acknowledged. “The problem, to be quite frank, is that there are 25 seats that determine who’s in charge of the House of Representatives, and the people in those areas? We risk losing that vote if we’re not careful about how we present these things.”
Asked about how non-legislators can help, the Congressman recommended looking into nearby nonprofits such as Democracy Forward.
Despite his challenges against the administration, DeSaulnier stressed that he would continue working with Republicans to pass legislation. He used his friendship with highly conservative North Carolina Rep. Virginia Foxx and an agreement between California progressive Rep. George Miller and Alaska conservative Rep. Don Young on the Endangered Species Act as examples of bipartisan cooperation. Despite these instances, however, he said that it has become more difficult to carry out bipartisan initiatives.
The Congressman called for people to be “principled, but understanding” of other viewpoints than their own, as well as for legal demonstrations and electoral participation to enact change.
On environmental matters, DeSaulnier discussed the “very serious attack[s]” on the national Clean Air Act by the ‘big beautiful bill,’ which attempted to “kill” the California clean air waiver that allows other states to adopt California’s stricter standards for clean air.
He stressed that America needs to recapture the lead in non-fossil fuel vehicle manufacturing to improve air quality, public health, and the economy, and that while alternative fuels need heavy subsidies at the moment, the same was once true of gasoline.
“In China, they have over three million charging stations. You can buy the equivalent of a Tesla [Model] S for $10,000 in China, and they’re selling like crazy,” the congressman said. “They’re about to surpass General Motors and Toyota as the largest car manufacturing company in the world. I tell my Republican friends,
cident. Capt. Walter O’Grodnick said that regular patrols of the area are a routine part of their citywide patrols and that police staff meet monthly with the Streets of Brentwood’s management team to discuss any concerns.
CenterCal, a West Coast developer and shopping center owner, purchased The Streets of Brentwood in October 2024. According to a press release, CenterCal specializes in the investment, development, leasing and management of high-quality retail and mixed-use development and transforming centers into family-friendly entertainment and exciting venues for the public to enjoy. Other lifestyle centers along the West Coast owned by CenterCal include the Veranda in Concord and Bay Street in Emeryville.
“The City of Brentwood is excited about CenterCal’s improvements underway at the Streets,” Gale said in the press release. “The City’s Community Development Department (Planning and Building Divisions) led in the review and processing of permits in a timely manner. In addition, our Police Department and Economic Development Division
‘Your kids and your grandkids will be driving Chinese cars, because Americans aren’t being competitive.’ To some degree, it’s happening with the Japanese too. These are really serious threats, and they’re really stupid, for the environment’s future and our economy. We’re not going to be able to compete. If you want to compete with China, which my Republican friends say they want to, you’re ceding competition on one of the most important parts of the economy, transportation, to the Chinese, because you’re not developing alternatives for Americans to purchase.”
The Bay Area provides a look at how the country could buck this trend, since 25 percent of new cars here are clean energy cars, according to DeSaulnier.
Tran followed up with a discussion about local and state initiatives for cleaner air, such as the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund and Cap and Invest (formerly Cap and Trade), which have sent “hundreds of millions of dollars” to local cities to reduce emissions. Such initiatives are facilitated by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District and led by “the communities most overburdened by air pollution.” Recently, the air district was also able to triple the maximum penalties for refineries that violate clean air standards.
DeSaulnier also praised the Bay Area for leading the way in helping companies and workers to transition away from fossil fuels in a “smart” way, and recalled his work on stopping refineries from flaring excess gas except in emergencies, which has improved public health and refinery profit margins, DeSaulnier. He also advocated doing research about why, for example, people should change their gas stoves to electric.
“People will say, ‘Why do we have to change our gas stove? It’s always been fine.’ Well, we’ve made progress,” the Congressman said. “You can question that progress, but they have all kinds of [research]. You can question it, but at least avail yourself of the opportunity.
For more details about the town hall, visit thepress.net.
have worked closely with CenterCal’s management team to ensure patrons of the center continue to experience a safe and friendly shopping experience as new retailers like Barnes & Noble, Mochinut, and other shops continue to open.”
CenterCal Properties Vice President of Development Scott Bohrer said that the community has been overwhelmingly supportive of the reimagined central amenity area, now branded “The Patio at The Streets of Brentwood”, along with what will be the planned remerchandising of the overall property.
“While the news of our stewardship of the asset has certainly garnered positive attention, especially from the tenant community, the bigger news for our plans for the property have been a major catalyst for leasing and renewed customer interest, Bohrer said. “The opening of Barnes & Noble and how it’s been received is certainly a positive indicator of the community’s appetite for expanded shopping and dining options.”
As a construction timeline, Bohrer said the patio and revitalized plaza improvements are scheduled for completion before the holiday season. There will be a “flurry of new and exciting restaurant and retail tenants opening through the spring and beyond,” with no further driveways or additional parking included in the expansion plans, he said.
“Thankfully, the property has more than enough parking to support our plans for The Streets of Brentwood,” Bohrer said. “The overall driveway infrastructure already exists to support the shopping center, as well as the new hotel and Sutter Health medical office planned for the eastern portion of the site.”
For details, https://shopstreetsofbrentwood.com/. To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
Photo courtesy of CenterCal Properties
