Cedarwood Estates housing plan sparks debate in Oakley
By Connor Robles Correspondent
A proposed amendment to the general land use plan for the Cedarwood Estates housing development on Live Oak Avenue and Knox Lane in Oakley caused protests from area residents at the Oct. 1 meeting of the Oakley Planning Commission. The residents oppose the amended plan’s increased housing density compared to the surrounding neighborhood.
Cedarwood Estates is a 14.41-acre empty lot on Live Oak Avenue, with Knox Lane dividing the northern and southern sections of the property and ending in a court within it. It is zoned for single-family residential development, while nearby properties are zoned for single-family homes with larger lots.
The amendment would change Cedarwood Estates’ land-use designation from Residential Very Low to Residential Low/Medium,
representing an increase in the development’s housing density from 34 to 60 units, along with three parcels for drainage facilities. The conceptual plan, presented by Oakley Associate Planner Evan Gorman and Louis Parsons of Discovery Builders, is preliminary, and may not end up as the final plan for the area. The work session was held to determine the level of support for a higher-density project and to receive public feedback.
and the next full moon will appear on Oct. 17.
Chamber, DBC join forces for holiday events
By Dale S Satre Correspondent
The Brentwood Chamber of Commerce has invited Downtown Brentwood Coalition to work together to hold their annual Hometown Halloween and Holiday Parade events. This is the first year that both organizations are collaborating on the events, and both groups say they are optimistic for creating memorable events that will showcase the local community with booths, scavenger hunts, and public activities. The events are free and open to the public.
The Hometown Halloween festival takes place on Saturday, Oct. 26 from 4-8 p.m. in downtown Brentwood on Oak, First and Second streets. The event will have booths for local businesses and or-
ganizations, to pass out candy for trickor-treating, and a scavenger hunt around downtown Brentwood, according to Karri Reiser, president of the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber also part-
nered with the city’s Parks and Recreation department to offer a movie at the City Park for eventgoers to attend after the festivities. Monsters University will start at 7 p.m.
The Holiday Parade, in its 42nd year, will be on Saturday, Nov. 30 at 5 p.m. in downtown Brentwood. The Chamber is making this year’s lighted parade special with a new theme: “Let it Glow”.
“The whole idea is reminiscent of the electric light parades I went to as a kid in Disneyland,” “When it’s dark outside and to see all these lights glowing.” said Erika Bolds, chairperson of the Holiday Parade.
The parade will also honor distinguished citizens such as the city’s Citizen of the Year and the Small Business of the Year, according to Reiser. After the parade, the city’s Parks and Recreation department will host the annual tree lighting ceremony in City Park, Bolds said.
“I appreciate all the support I have re-
see Events page 19A
illiam Thornton shared this photo of the crescent moon over Brentwood on Sept. 28. The new moon was on Oct. 2
Photo by William Thornton
New Beginnings Christian Center EVOLVES from an In-Person Sunday
Worship Local Church into New Beginnings 1995 Legacy Church , an online 24 Hours a Day, 7 Days a Week Worldwide Church
NEW BEGINNINGS 1995 Legacy Church
New Beginnings Christian Center began as the first in person multi-racial Church in the cities of Antioch, Oakley and Brentwood, CA in 1995. The founding Pastor was Gregory N. Bell, who had previously served as an Associate Minister for various churches as well as Executive Director of Mario Murillo Ministries, a Televised Worldwide Evangelistic Ministry. In the 17 years that Bishop Bell led the Church at and under the direction of the Lord Jesus Christ the Church caused thousands of souls to accept Jesus Christ as their personal Savior.
Now, New Beginnings 1995 Legacy Church continues to Spread the Word of God, Win Souls and Bless the Saints of
God with a Digital Church featuring Audio and Videos from the Worship Services of New Beginnings Christian Center.
While many churches had building funds that sometimes lasted years asking members to donate funds for the growth of the church, New Beginnings never had a building fund. Instead, Bishop Bell asked members to give to different capital campaigns to fund the growth of the Church.
Listed below are all of the members, individuals and other Church’s that donated to New Beginnings Christian Center to fund our expansion and growth when we were an in person Church. Thank you and may God to continue to bless all of you for your generosity.
Lifting Jesus Higher
Rotary Club Brewfest funds local scholarships
By Connor Robles Correspondent
The Brentwood Rotary Club held its third annual Brentwood Craft Beer Festival on Saturday, Sept. 28, and more than 400 people attended the festival at Brentwood City Park to sample the brews of 38 breweries, cideries, and kombucha makers and food from of local food trucks, according to event chairman Ron Wulff. He brought the idea of the brewfest from Truckee to Brentwood and has been chairman for three years.
Wulff credited Brentwood Craft Beer and Cider’s support and network of contacts for the presence of so many breweries. Event proceeds go toward local scholarships for Brentwood high schoolers and the Polio Plus international polio eradication fund. According to Wulff and Brentwood Rotary Club president Oscar Peccorini, the exact amount raised won’t be known for a few days because it has
not been counted.
The turnout was not as high as last year’s 700 attendees, Wulff said, due to the date falling near the beginning of fall break for local students and their families, a time when many people who would otherwise come to the festival are instead on vacation. He said holding next year’s festival on Aug. 23 will enable more people to experience it.
To view a video and a slideshow, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
Two Eggs, Two Sausages, Coffee, Orange Juice
Suggested Donation
$7.00 Adult $4.00 Children
The Redmen Pocahontas Hall is available for Rental Redmen / Pocahontas Hall 1403 Main St. Oakley
Household Hazardous Waste COLLECTION DAY
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Photos by Connor Robles
How to handle the transition from seventh to eighth grade
As the first quarter of Adams Middle School winds down, many sixth and seventh graders are worried about what to expect up the road. What’s new? How do I keep those A’s? Are the teachers nice? Throughout the quarter, I’ve had students ask me these sorts of questions: You have nothing to worry about. As the quarter comes to an end, I will be discussing the expectations in eighth grade.
Youth Writer
First, the teachers. Speaking from an eighth-grade perspective, the eighthgrade teachers are some of the best in the school. All of them are chill, funny, and kind, but at the same time, they do a great job teaching. Take Mrs. Rad for example. She makes learning the curriculum fun and engaging by using simple group projects and guided notes.
There is Mr. Fujinaga, who is one of the most fun-loving teachers at Adams. He does a great job explaining the topic, and his doors are always open if you need extra help or just want a quiet place to work. Their classes are ones that you look forward to, and the best thing is that almost all the teachers are similar to
Mrs. Rad and Mr. Fuj, so don’t worry. You will be fine.
Now, the curriculum. The curriculum depends on the teacher, as some like to ease into things while others want to hand out tests in the same week. Don’t let that scare you. If they are assigning a test straight away, they already know that you know the topic, and if you ever need help, just ask. That’s the rundown for the teachers in eighth grade.
Next, grades. This section is probably one of the most important ones to students. The pressure is always on for students to get good grades to earn Honor Roll or Honor Society at the end of each quarter, and don’t worry, getting straight A’s is as easy as 1, 2, 3.
1: Do your homework. Now, I know this must be a no-brainer. Of course, I have to do my homework, but you’re missing the point. You actually have to do your homework, as in, try your best on it. Many kids just scribble a bunch of chicken scratches on their paper, but the real effort comes in when you try on your homework. Not only will this boost your grade, but it also creates good habits that you will need in a later part of your life.
2: Take notes, but I don’t mean the half-page bulleted list on your notebook,
I mean good notes that you could look at and depend on. The good news is that most teachers in middle school give you a note-taking sheet, or at least guide your notes for you. That small percentage of teachers that don’t give you a sheet will give you a reasonable boundary, such as what your notes should contain, or what kind of notes are useful to help you with your notes. These notes will help you on tests, homework, and projects, which is why they are so important.
3: Triple-check your assessments. This is arguably the most important point since tests are worth so much. I have learned from experience that it doesn’t hurt to check, check again, and check one more time. This will not only boost your chances of acing a test but will also reflect in your other activities. It will make sure you keep your phone silenced at a meeting or will make sure you get everyone’s correct order when eating at McDonald’s. This is why you must check your work multiple times, and if not three, then two times.
Finally, the electives. This one might not be as important to some people, but for those who want to join an elective or after-school activity, this is for you. Electives at Adams are a great place to
get ahead in school, and also give you a great preview of electives in high school. From band to Spanish, the options are limitless. But there are a few things to consider. One of these is that these are actual graded classes. These aren’t the classes where you don’t do anything and expect to get an A. These classes will impact your GPA for the better or the worse, depending on how you do. Some electives grade you differently, like band. Band will be graded upon your participation and the occasional playing test, so you can’t just blow a few notes. For other classes like Spanish, you simply have to study your vocabulary sheets, do your homework, take good notes, and check your assessments. If you follow these guidelines, you should expect yourself to get an A in the class.
All in all, eighth grade is one of the best years in your academic career. You have all those good friends, good grades, and are locked in on your extracurriculars, but if you don’t have any of those, don’t sweat it. Eighth grade is the perfect year for you to succeed in all ways, from academic to personal. Only one thing to remember – you got this.
Nahar Grewal is an 8th grader at Adams Middle School
REGIONAL & LOCAL
News iN Brief
LMC names new dean of Brentwood Center and distance education program
Los Medanos College (LMC) named Matthew Muterspaugh to the new position of dean of Brentwood Center and Distance Education, effective Sept. 16.
LMC this fall reorganized to serve students more effectively, particularly at its Brentwood location. LMC President Pamela Ralston said the inaugural position of dean of the Brentwood Center and Distance Education marks the growth of two areas of opportunity and innovation as online offerings and Brentwood Center enrollment have increased steadily in recent years.
“Los Medanos College has reestablished its role in the community since leaving the grocery store location on Sand Creek Road following the COVID 19 pandemic,” Ralston said. “Dr. Muterspaugh is an excellent hire for this new role, guiding the growth and development of the new Brentwood Center at 1351 Pioneer Square. We’re thrilled that he’s joining us.”
Muterspaugh comes to Los Medanos College from Columbia State Community College, where he served four years a dean of science, technology and mathematics.
“I am excited to join Los Medanos College in delivering the highest quality educational opportunities in Eastern Contra Costa County,” Muterspagh said. “I invite members of our community to become engaged with the college as we work together to transform individuals’ lives through access to socio-economic mobility opportunities, while supporting the workforce and economic needs of the area.”
In Brentwood, Muterspaugh will oversee operations of LMC’s newest campus and lead the college’s distance education initiatives and programs.
In his most recent role, Muterspaugh led a division of 40 full-time faculty, five full-time staff, and 75 adjunct instructors across a five-campus college. Prior to that, he was employed for 10 years at Tennessee State University, where he worked as assistant/associate professor of physics and astronomy and served three years as director of the Center of Excellence in Information Systems Engineering and Management. There, he guided strategic planning; managed grants; and coordinated multi-disciplinary research teams.
His previous achievements include a Townes Prize Postdoctoral Fellowship
To submit a news item for this page, send it to editor@brentwoodpress.com
in the Space Sciences Laboratory at the University of California, Berkeley; and serving as a postdoctoral scholar in the Department of Geology and Planetary Science at the California Institute of Technology.
Muterspaugh earned bachelor’s degrees in physics and mathematics from Indiana University, a Ph.D. in Physics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and an MBA from Tennessee State University.
State offers grants to improve recreational boating access
California State Parks’ Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) is providing public agencies with two opportunities to apply for Boat Launching Facility grant funding that can be used to design, engineer, permit and construct improvements to existing public recreational boat launch facilities or create new facilities for recreational boating access.
The grant opportunities include:
• Approximately $6 million of onetime Waterway Connections Initiative funding is available to expand inland waterway-related outdoor access in regions with communities of populations of more than 2,500 located near a river or other inland
MONDAY
OCTOBER, 7
Oakley Recreation Center 1250 O’Hara Avenue
waterway. Funding can be used for improvements for both motorized and non-motorized boating access. Projects meeting the Waterway Connections Initiative criteria are encouraged to be submitted no later than 5 p.m. Dec. 2.
• Public agencies with facilities in coastal waterways or other areas that do not meet the Waterway Connections Initiative criteria are encouraged to apply for DBW’s Boat Launching Facility (motorized), nonmotorized boat launching facility or ramp repair and modification grants. Applications are due by 5 p.m. Feb. 3, 2025.
• Eligible facility components for both grant opportunities include boat launch ramps, slope protection, gangway and boarding floats, associated boater parking, restrooms, fish cleaning station, boat wash stations, access that complies with Americans with Disabilities Act requirements, and lighting for both motorized and non-motorized boating facilities.
Interested applicants should first review the application ranking criteria on DBW’s website (https://dbw.parks.ca.gov/) to determine if the proposed project meets eligibility requirements. Grant applications must be submitted through the DBW’s online grant application system.
Please submit questions to editor@brentwoodpress com with the submject line “Oakley Candidates” by Oct. 4th.
6:00 p.m.
Doors open for meet- and-greet 6:30 p.m.
Forum star ts with all candidates
Livestreaming of forum on facebook.com/thepress.net .
Oleksii Chuiko Dr. George Fuller
Cristina Pena Langley
Law Office of Ruth N. Buzzard
Gov. Gavin Newsom says more than 11.5 million Californian households will automatically see savings on their October electricity bill through the California Climate Credit, funded by the state’s Capand-Trade Program.
This credit will average $71 per electric bill customer. Including credits that went out in April, Californians will receive an average of $217 in bill credits during 2024. Since 2014, California households have already received an average of $971 in combined automatic April and October, the governor’s office said in a press release.
Electricity bill credits this month
will range from about $32 to $174. More than 1 million small businesses are also expected to receive the credit. Customers may remember receiving a similar credit on electricity bills in April.
The California Climate Credit comes from the State’s Cap-and-Trade Program, which collects funds by requiring companies to pay for climate pollution, and is managed by the California Air Resources Board. The credit on utility bills represents consumers’ share of the payments from the state’s program.
Residents can see their estimated climate credit at www.cpuc.ca.gov/climatecredit.
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
Calendar
This Week’s Events
Friday and Saturday, October 4-5
Friends of Oakley Library Book Sale
The Friends of the Oakley Library will be hosting a two-day book sale inside the City of Oakley’s council chambers at Oakley City Hall, 3231 Main St. from 5-9 p.m. There will be fiction for adults, teens, and children of all ages, children’s holiday books, and nonfiction books including cookbooks, books on crafting, parenting, history, and more. Prices are $1 for hardbacks and 50 cents for paperbacks.
Saturday, October 5
Pawstoberfest Party and Dog Parade
Ruff Day Rescue presents Pawstoberfest from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at Veterans Park at 3841 Balfour Road in Brentwood. There will be a beer garden, artisan and pet booths, food trucks, onsite adoptions and microchipping/vaccination, kids area, canine demonstrations, dog parade costume contest (small dogs at 1:30; large dogs at 2:30). Live music by Dawglips from 1-5 p.m. For details, visit ruffdayrescue.org.
Los Medanos College
50th Anniversary Party
LMC is kicking off its next 50 years with a free anniversary party at 11 a.m. at 2700 E. Leland Road, Pittsburg. The celebration includes a party with music hosted by FM Radio 102 Jams DJ Chuy Gomez, food, giveaways and more, followed by the first-ever homecoming football game. The Mustangs play De Anza College Lions at 1 p.m. For additional information about LMC’s 50th anniversary and upcoming events, visit www.losmedanos.edu/50th.
15th Annual Dutch Oven Cook-Off
The Cook-Off will take place at Smith Family Farm, 4450 Sellers Avenue in Brentwood from noon-5 p.m. Food will be served at 1 p.m. There will be a $5 donation to sample food. All donations go to scholarship for 4H and FFA members. Everything from main dishes to desserts, all cooked in Dutch ovens, will be available. Beef and side dishes will be judged at 1 p.m. and desserts at 2 p.m. For more information, contact Lauralye Casipit at 925- 437-1725.
Sunday, October 6
Bethel Island Chamber Chili Cook-off, Dog Show, Concert and Railtown Offroad Jeep Crawler
This free event will be from noon-5 p.m. at Bethel Island Community Park, 6190 Bethel Island Road. There will be a chili cook-off with two categories. 1. Home made. 2. Commerical made. The dog show will take place before the concert in the park showcasing Whiskey Dreams. There will be vendors selling dog products, as well as rescues and animal education people. Railtown Off-road Jeeps will be joining the event to show off their road “crawlers.”
Tuesday, October 8
Shrek Night at the Delta Theatre
Support Working Wonders, a nonprofit that serves adults with disabilities, and see the original Shrek movie at The Delta Theatre. Half of the proceeds will go to Working Wonders. The film will be played at 6 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. at 641 First St., Brentwood. Tickets are $4 and can be purchased at https://865963.formovietickets.com/.
On the Horizon
Friday, October 11
Texas Hold ‘Em
Inaugural Poker Tournament
The Rotary Club of Oakley will hold its Inaugural Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Tournament from 6-10 p.m. at the Oakley Recreation Center, 1250 O’Hara Ave. Tickets are $75 and include a buffet dinner, one drink ticket and tournament play. The event includes a no-host bar and raffle. Participants must be at least
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.
21 to play. Doors open at 6 p.m. for dinner. Tournament starts at 7 p.m. All proceeds will benefit the new Oakley Library and Community Center project. For tickets and sponsorships, contact Mike Hale at 213359-9799 or Michael.Hale@scouting.org. For more information visit www.eventbrite. com/e/oakley-rotary-inaugural-texas-holdem-poker-tournament-fundraiser-tickets971173816027?aff=ebdssbdestsearch.
Ronstadt Revolution-Umbrella of Hope Fundraiser
Ronstadt Revolution, a Bay Area tribute to Linda Ronstadt, will be playing at El Campanil theatre, 602 West 2nd St., in Antioch, on Oct. 11, at 7 p.m. This event is also a fundraiser for Umbrella of Hope Animal Rescue. Umbrella of Hope is based in Pittsburg and specializes in saving senior and special needs animals from local shelters. They also have programs like $5 senior adoptions and free adoptions for veterans. Tickets are $35 per person, and $3 of every ticket sold will go to the rescue center. Tickets can be purchased at https://us.patronbase.com/_ElCampanilTheatre/ Productions/R098/Performances.
Saturday October 12
Brentwood Oktoberfest
The Downtown Brentwood Coalition’s annual Oktoberfest is from 1-7 p.m. General admission is free. VIP passes will also be available. This year’s event will feature The Sierra Nevada Biergarten with special guest Four Legs Brewing, the bands Alpine Sound and Adam Aldama and the Aces, Fun Zone including games, a train, Lockeford Sausage, plus food from local vendors and downtown restaurants, beer stein games, a weiner dog costume parade, local wine from Contra Costa Wine Growers, and an Oktoberfest Market.
Trunk or Treat Open House
The event will be at the Farmer’s Daughter, 23151 Marsh Creek Road in Brentwood, from 4-6:30 p.m. There will be free candy, a raffle, a cake walk, and a food truck. All proceeds will go to the Bay Area Crisis Nursery. Entry is free.
Hula Away the Cancer
This recital is a charitable event with a goal to raise enough money to not only help one family, but many families with children struggling with cancer. It will be from
3 6t h
7:30-9:30 p.m. at the El Campanil Theatre, 602 West 2nd street, in Antioch. Tickets are $25. For more information visit https:// us.patronbase.com/_ElCampanilTheatre/ Productions/R097/Performances.
Wednesday, October 16
Liberty Adult Education Fall Job/ Resource Fair
The event at 929 Second St., in Brentwood is from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The fair aims to showcase a wide range of local professional opportunities, spanning industries from manufacturing, healthcare, IT, finance and beyond. A dedicated space will be made available to conduct interviews upon request. For more information, contact decesaren@luhsd.net. Space is limited. RSVP by Sept. 16 here: https://forms.office. com/r/8G12SthRd1.
Saturday, October 19
Digs
‘n’ Rigs
This event is an opportunity from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. that provides children of all ages the chance to explore vehicles of all types in this hands-on event sponsored by The Rotary Club of Brentwood and Los Medanos College. LMC will offer older children exposure to educational opportunities including public service, emergency services, utility, construction, landscaping, transportation and delivery industries at the Los Medanos College campus, 1351 Pioneer Square in Brentwood.
Wine in The Bay
The 20th anniversary of Wine in the Bay is from 1-5 p.m. at Community Life Center, 2800 Camino Diablo Road in Byron. There will be local wine samples, local artisans, hors d’oeuvres, live and silent auction, cork draw and wine cooler draw. Tickets are $60. Proceeds will benefit various non-profits, including the Food Pantry, John Muir Mobile, youth, and senior citizens. This event is for those age 21 and older. For more information, visit www.anne.church or call Peggy 925-890-5255 for tickets.
VFW Casino Night
The event, hosted by American Legion Auxiliary, will take place from 6-10 p.m. at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building at 757 First St. There will be casino games, appetizers, beer, wine, music, dancing and more. Tickets are $125. For tickets or for more information, contact Dolores Long at (925) 584-6712.
El Campanil Theatre
602 W. Second Street • Antioch
Curtain Call Cabaret
An exhilarating Aerial Variety Show
Presented by Coach Willis Chinn Saturday, October 5 @ 7pm All Seats: $30
A Tribute to Linda Ronstadt
Presented by Ronstadt Revolution Friday, October 11 @ 7pm
Adults: $35, Seniors: $32
Hula Away The Cancer
Presented By Mau Loa Ohana
Saturday, October 12 @ 7:30pm
Reserved Seating $25.00
Children 2 and under free
Tribute to The Eagles
Tribute Artists: Midnight Flyer
Presented by El Campanil Theatre
Saturday, November 2 @ 7pm
Adults: $32, Seniors: $29, Youth: $15
Sanskriti by Saadhana School of Dance
Presented by Saadhana School of Dance
Sunday, November 17 @ 4pm
Gold Circle: $36 (1st 3 rows Orch/Loge) Orchestra: $30 Loge: $25
Opera: $20
Renegade Orchestra
“The Beauty of a Symphony, the Soul of a Rock Band” Presented by El Campanil Theatre
Saturday, November 23 @ 7pm
Adults: $32, Seniors: $29, Youth: $15
Nutcracker by
Black Diamond Ballet
West Delta Chapter ’s
When: For Ages: 3-15
October 12, 2024
CHILDREN
*Kids must be accompanied by an adult or gaurdian
Fishing Time: 9:00 am - Noon
Where: Waldie Plaza, Downtown Antioch
Must bring own fishing rod Registration 8 AM - 10:30 AM Free Bait
Free Lunch and Drink Kids
Free Derby Entry
Adults Lunch and Drink
Presented by Black Diamond Ballet 1 pm Sat - December 7 (Sensory Friendly) 2 pm Sun - Dec 8 & Sat-Sun Dec 14-15 7 pm Fri - December 6 & Sat Dec 14
Gold Circle: $36 (1st 3 rows Orch/Loge) Orchestra: $30 Loge: $25 Opera: $20
Motown Holiday Review
Top Shelf Entertainment
Presented by El Campanil Theatre
Wednesday, December 18 @ 2pm
Adults: $32, Seniors: $29, Youth: $15
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.
Brentwood police to host town hall meeting
Brentwood police are hosting its third town hall meeting on Thursday, Oct. 17, from 6- 7:30 p.m. at the Brentwood Community Center at 35 Oak St.
Sgt. Brouillette and other members of the department will discuss critical incidents, including how such situations are managed and resolved by the department.
A critical incident is “an event that is outside the normal experience, often times an overwhelming traumatic experience to a person or group that poses a threat of serious injury or death,” ac -
cording to Capt. Walter O’Grodnick. He said examples include natural disasters, mass casualty incidents and workplace violence.
“We invite all community members to participate in this important discussion,” the department said in a statement. “It’s an excellent opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the police department’s inner workings and the decision-making processes during critical incidents.”
For details, visit at https://bit. ly/3XOIDFt
Delta Ranches – a leader in local real estate
million winery, you will always remain the priority as they guide you through the listing and
How do we stay relevant in a changing real estate market when there are more agents than listings? By serving our repeat clients and all of their referrals, staying on top of the marketing edge for the most exposure of your listing, including recommendations on repairs and staging to get you the most money, having integrity that never waivers and always putting
first-time
programs and property management. Se habla Espanol. Located in downtown Brentwood, you can reach Delta Ranches and Homes at 925-216-6317, 925-516-3240 or at www.deltaranches.com.
BIRTHS, ACHIEVEMENTS AND OBITUARIES
Milestones
Lions Club adds vision tests to offerings; looks ahead
The Brentwood Lions Club’s efforts have taken on a new dimension through a partnership with Hijas del Campo, a local nonprofit. This collaboration began in December 2021 after a fire and has since grown into a multi-faceted community support initiative.
In addition to their food distribution efforts, the Lions Club has recently expanded their services to include vision testing. “In March/April 2024, we initiated the purchase of a spot vision screener to expand our services further,” said Laura Avila, a Lions Club member. “The camera arrived in late April/May 2024, and our Past District Governor, Linda Barbara, trained our member Skip Zehnder to lead vision testing efforts for workers and their family members twice a month.” This new initiative has providing essential health services to those who need them most, Lions officials said.
For details, visit https://e-clubhouse.org/sites/brentwoodca/
As the initial shock of the fire wore off, the Lions Club found more ways to get involved. They began participating in despensas, or pantry distributions, and food distribution efforts. “Our first distribution site was at the De Luna Ranch, which later moved to the Brentwood Library,” Avila said. “Now, we operate out of their headquarters on Continente Ave.” The club’s volunteers, including members from the Brentwood Lions, family members of farmworkers, and several contacts from Hijas del Campo’s founders, have been instrumental in supporting these efforts. In November 2023, Hijas del Campo moved into their current location, allowing for even greater outreach.
As they look to the future, the Lions Club has plans for continuing their support of Hijas del Campo and the community at large. “Looking ahead to March 2025, our club aims to continue expanding our support by preparing homemade burritos and delivering them directly to the fields for the workers,” Avila said. “This initiative is just another way we hope to show our appreciation and support for the hardworking individuals who are such a vital part of our community.”
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.
OBITUARY
Linda Sue Pastor
Jan. 6, 1945-Sept. 22, 2024
Linda Sue (Coble) Pastor, 79, of Tracy died Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024 after a battle with Alzheimer’s. Our mom, aka “Omi” was taken too soon but the memories of her fun-loving spirit will remain with all who loved her.
The family would like to thank the staff of Astoria Memory Care and Amore Hospice for their kindness and support during this difficult battle.
Linda Sue Pastor was born in Oakland, Calif. to Kenneth Wilmont Coble and Charlotte Helena (Glick) Ramos. She raised two children with her first husband Edwin James Pastor. Linda and Ed remained friends until his passing in 1998. Linda had found love again with Rickie Ray Nelson until his passing in 1995.
Though their love story was brief,
Rick brought her much happiness. Linda was adventurous and generous. She (allegedly) had a problem with speeding and a much loved Corvette in the ‘60s. She loved water and snow skiing. She loved hosting holiday gatherings and throwing epic parties. She loved her crafts and her dogs. Her greatest joy was loving her kids and her six grandkids. She was an expert in retail therapy and loved to spoil us.
She is survived by her son Ted Pastor and his wife Dannette, her daughter Shannon Hicks and her husband Dean. We will do our best to carry on her traditions with the eight great-grandchildren who have followed.
We could take a full-page ad and it wouldn’t be enough. Instead, we have a favor to request. Our mom was not basic and a basic obituary is not for her. Alzheimer’s took a lot from our Omi. She never lost her love of margaritas or ice cream. Please take some time with your loved ones.
Visit your favorite Mexican food restaurant for a margarita or the local ice cream parlor. Please raise a glass or spoon in memory of our mom.
Tell your server about Linda Sue, her big beautiful smile and leave a big beautiful tip in her honor. If you have a chance, please share some photos and the love.
A celebration in her honor will be planned for a later date.
Photo courtesy of Hijias del Campo
Freedom volleyball stuns Heritage
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Freedom’s girls volleyball team has had a thing for taking down the giants of the Bay Valley Athletic League.
Just a few weeks after pulling a shocking sweep of Liberty at home back on Sept. 10, the Falcons did what was once unthinkable Tuesday night – defeat Heritage.
Freedom defeated Heritage 3-1 (2514, 24-26, 25-22, 25-16) Tuesday night in Brentwood, not only stunning a Patriots team that hasn’t dropped a set in league play this season, winning 15 straight sets in BVAL play, but also beat Heritage for the first time since 2007, according to MaxPreps.
“This is a huge win,” Falcons senior captain Madison Perry said. “This game really determines our place in the BVAL. It’s one of our biggest wins. Heritage is known for always placing first in the BVAL every single year. It just shows how far we’ve come as a team.”
Freedom’s win Tuesday night marks their sixth in a row. The lone set that they allowed to Heritage Tuesday night – 2624 in the second set – ended a 16-set winning streak for the Falcons as well.
“It was a little nerve wracking,” Freedom head coach Elizabeth Rivas said. “First set, we took it strong. Second set, they came back and clinched it. We made
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
Angela Delos Reyes celebrates with the rest of the Falcons after Freedom defeated Heritage on Tuesday night in Brentwood.
a lot of unforced errors, which helped them win that set. Third set we dominated, and in the fourth set it was a battle between both of us and who would make the least errors.”
Freedom’s last win over Heritage was back in 2007 at 3-2. The last time the Falcons came close to defeating the Patriots was on Oct. 13, 2015, when the Falcons lost in five games at Heritage. Since then, Freedom has won just six sets against the Patriots.
“This is tremendously huge,” Rivas said. “Getting that win today is a huge ac-
complishment, not only for the team, but for Freedom High School, letting everybody know that we defeated Heritage.”
The win is also Rivas’s first against Heritage since she was named head coach of the team in 2012.
On the other side, Heritage head coach Janet Hannigan expressed her and the team’s disappointment with the team’s play on the night.
“I don’t know where (the team) was,” Hannigan said. “I don’t know what the mindset was, but it seemed very individ-
ual instead of a team atmosphere. I think they’re disappointed that we couldn’t figure (Freedom) out. But everybody needs to figure out how to step up.”
Heritage looked like they would start to turn things back around after winning the second set. However, even though they traded points to start the third and fourth sets, the Patriots just never seemed to find their rhythm through the night.
“I never felt like my team was in the game,” Hannigan said. “We were mentally just not there. I know what they’re capable of, and tonight it just didn’t come together.”
Despite the loss, Heritage still hangs onto the top spot in the BVAL with four league matches remaining – all against teams that they swept earlier this season and all of which enter the final two weeks of the regular season with overall losing records.
Freedom will travel one more time as they take on Liberty in Brentwood Thursday night before finishing the regular season with three consecutive home matches.
Rivas added that Tuesday’s win is more motivation for the Falcons going into their final four matches of the regular season.
“We have other contenders that are going to be pushing us,” Rivas said. “It’s not going to be a walk in the park.”
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No. 12 Liberty opens league play with statement win
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Ever since last year’s loss in the inaugural NCS tournament, the Liberty girls flag football team has been on a single mission – to win another Bay Valley Athletic League title and make their way back to the now NCS playoffs building off of last year’s one-day debut NCS tournament.
Liberty seems on the verge of doing just that after Monday night’s big win to start league play.
After rolling to a 9-1 non-conference record this month, Liberty, ranked 12th in the country according to MaxPreps entering Monday night, made their statement in search of a repeat BVAL title, blowing out Antioch 41-6 in Monday night’s league opener.
“We want back-to-back BVAL titles,” senior quarterback Shyanne Smith said. “Then we want to go into the playoffs and we want to take over the playoffs as well.”
The win extended the Lions’ win streak to eight games and improved their record to 10-1 with their lone loss coming against San Ramon Valley 20-6 on Sept. 4.
Smith scored five touchdowns Monday night, throwing for 186 yards four scores, and had 33 yards rushing with a touchdown run.
“She’s just more relaxed out there,” Lions head coach Matt Malzahn said of Smith. “She’s more comfortable in the offense and I think she’s having more fun
out there this year.”
Along with their 12th ranked spot in the national rankings, as of Monday, Liberty is also eighth in the state, and the top-ranked team in the North Coast Section, two spots over California whom they’ve already defeated once this season on Sept. 26. The Lions are the highest ranked team amongst the BVAL schools both nationally and in California. Freedom (7-0) is the next highest ranking BVAL team coming in at 67th in the country and 42nd in the state rankings, according to MaxPreps.
Liberty’s current eight-game win streak includes
three shutouts, and an average margin of victory of 21.5 points per game.
“The defense has been very aggressive,” Malzahn said. “My assistant coach is doing a great job with the defense and I’m super proud of them. They’re doing what we’re asking them to do, and it’s just fun to watch them kind of grow out there.”
The Lions’ offense has scored 33 or more points in five of the eight games through the current streak and, in the five games where opponents did score, the Lions’ defense held those opponents to no more than 14 points.
The streak also includes last Thursday’s 35-14 win over California in Brentwood.
The Lions showcased their nationally-ranked form Monday night against the Panthers. Liberty scored on their first four drives while the defense didn’t allow Antioch past midfield until midway through the second half.
“We always tell (the girls) it’s one possession,” Malzahn explained. “One possession can make a difference in the game and one turnover can make a difference in the game. So our focus is kind of just keeping the gas going.”
Liberty has a bye week next week before traveling to Antioch to take on Deer Valley on Oct. 14, and host them on Oct. 16 before their rematch against non-league rival California on Oct. 17 in San Ramon.
To view a video and a slideshow, visit www.thepress. net/multimedia
Freedom’s
Liberty quarterback Shyanne Smith looks to pass against the Antioch Panthers Monday night in Brentwood.
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
Strong start has Liberty water polo eyeing playoffs
By Sean Tongson Correspondent
The Liberty High School boys water polo team are off to a strong start to begin the 2024-2025 season, putting the team in a prime position to enter the playoffs with high seeding with a chance to host their first North Coast Section (NCS) water polo game.
With a first-half season record of 13-3 and victories over seven Division 1 North Coast Section teams including Foothill and Heritage, and a recent victory over Lodi, the Liberty boys water polo team also took second place at the Vintage tournament and finished in the top brackets in the Sierra tournament. As a result, they now have the most wins out of all the Bay Valley Athletic League teams under new league seeding, which takes into account head to head, win/loss record on MaxPreps.
According to head coach Rosy Ayers, the team’s difficult schedule has kept them focused, with their goal of taking the number one seed heading into the league tournament.
“The Liberty boys team has been working hard not only in the pool, but also doing film study which has helped them build on their success and improve on their weaknesses,” Ayers said. “With five regular season games left of the season, and a tournament left before the BVAL tournament, the Liberty boys plan to continue training through the break to prepare for their ulti-
mate goal–the NCS playoffs, and possibly even hosting their first home NCS game ever at Liberty High.”
According to Ayers, the team is allowed to play a maximum of 24 regular season games, which is followed by the BVAL league tournament. The tournament schedule is as follows:
• October 31: League quarterfinals (with byes for 1st and 2nd seeded teams)
• November 1: League Semifinals
• November 2: BVAL championship
The BVAL tournament consists of seven teams – Liberty, Pittsburg, Heritage, Antioch, Freedom, Deer Valley and
the recently-added Emerald High. The BVAL champion will gain an automatic bid to the NCS playoffs, which consists of 67 teams. According to Ayers, there is a new seeding format for the NCS playoffs where a seeding committee will take the following into account; league champions, the win/loss record of each team, strength of schedule, and coaches seeding at the end of the season.
From there, teams will be ranked as follows, with the top four being in the open division, the next 12 being in Division 1, and then next 12 in Division 2, which differs from years past when divisions were
based on enrollment.
“Early in the season they started a little sloppy, but the team has improved on last year by reducing the amount of exclusions the team had in half,” Ayers said. “The team is also disciplined and knows how to finish games, and everyone is in it for the team, not for themselves.”
Returning captain Jace Cleghorn, who leads the team in goals, attributes the team’s strong start to Ayers along with fellow captains Qusai Drief and Jack Lorenz for their leadership, work ethic, and pushing each other to improve.
“Last year when we won the league championship, it was the most surreal moment of my life, and I want to relive that experience,” Cleghorn said. “My number one goal for the rest of the season is to be back-to-back BVAL champions. We are a strong team and we are capable of achieving anything. We just need to stay healthy.”
Ayers says after a brief break, the team will return to practice this week to prepare for a Castro Valley rematch at home Wednesday, Oct. 9 at 6 p.m., along with another rematch at Heritage on Tuesday, Oct. 15 at 6 p.m..
For more information on the Liberty boys water polo team, including an upcoming schedule, visit https://www.maxpreps. com/ca/brentwood/liberty-lions/waterpolo/ Detalis on the NCS playoffs and the list of 67 teams are at https://d2o2figo6ddd0g.cloudfront.net/i/h/xfs1mj1z0bs97y/2024-25_Water_Polo_Divisions.pdf.
The Liberty High School boys water polo team took second place at the Vintage tournament and finished in the top brackets in the Sierra tournament.
Photo courtesy of Rosie Ayers
How one point motivates the Heritage football team to be “best in school history”
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
One point. One single point.
Back on Aug. 30, the Heritage football team lost their season-opening game against Foothill 20-19. A loss like that could deflate some teams early on. However, instead, it seemed to have motivated the Patriots.
”I told them at the start of the year when we lost to Foothill, if that one
point woke us up and got us focused, then it was worth it,” head coach Dave Fogelstrom said.
Since that loss, Heritage has won four in a row following last Friday night’s 42-28 win at Livermore, ending non-league play at 4-1 for the second time in three years.
“We’re all clicking,” senior wide receiver JJ Kinnaird said. “We’re starting (to believe that) we got to be the best team in school history. That’s the goal.”
But this 4-1 feels different.
The last time Heritage ended nonleague play at 4-1 was in 2022. Heritage won their first four games before falling at James Logan in Week 5. That loss sparked a turnaround in the wrong direction, then, for the Patriots who went on to win just two of their five BVAL games, finishing the season 6-4 and missing the playoffs.
This year, Heritage flipped that script. They enter next Friday’s BVAL opener at home against Deer Valley (Oct. 11, 7 p.m.) on a four-game win streak. Since that loss,
Heritage is on the quest to become the best team in school history.
”That’s our mentality right now,” Fogelstrom said. “We’re one game at a time and we’re geared up towards getting healthy, cleaning up our mistakes, then coming back with the league opener against Deer Valley.”
Heritage’s best record came in 2010, with the team finishing 9-3 overall with a
from page 12A
first-round playoff win over Pittsburg before they fell to De La Salle in the second round of the NCS playoffs. That team also started the season 4-1 and finished the 10game regular season 8-2.
Excluding the perennial defending BVAL champion Pittsburg, Heritage has been one of, if not the, hottest team in the BVAL entering league play, and the Patriots seniors have led the way.
”This team is senior heavy,” Fogelstrom said, “They were furious that they lost that game against Foothill and they don’t want to go through that feeling ever again.”
The Patriots have run for more than 120 yards in each of the last three games with the totals increasing week in and week out, highlighted by the Patriots’ 220-yard effort at Livermore last week. Senior running back Mekhi Adanandus found his groove back in Week 3 and continued it at Livermore rushing for a season-high 176 yards last week. He has scored on the ground in each of the Patriots’ five games this season. His 10 total touchdowns this season — he caught his first score of the year last week as well— leads the team.
“It shows how much effort that we’ve played with,” Adanandus said of the win streak. “It’s a long season, so this shows how much effort we play with.”
Senior quarterback Phillip Babbitt has been efficient in the passing game and looks more comfortable since taking the starting job last season. He went 8 for 12 passing in the win against the Cowboys,
but of those eight completions, four went for touchdowns, including two deep balls to Kinnaird.
Overall, Babbitt has completed just under 60 percent of his passes, throwing for 691 yards with seven touchdowns and three interceptions.
”It’s amazing,” Babbitt said about the team’s win streak entering the bye week. “Being 4-1 and going into our bye week, we get time to heal. Everyone feels good.”
Where the offense has shown its firepower, Heritage’s defense has shown its fight. The Patriots defense have racked up 15 sacks through the first half of the season while the secondary has grabbed 11 interceptions, according to MaxPreps.
“We’re having so much fun right now,” senior Aidan Donaville said. “It’s exciting to have one of, if not the, most picks in this area right now. That’s pretty cool.”
“We have a veteran secondary right now, and they’re flying to the ball,” Fogelstrom said. “They’re playing incredibly well and part of that is the beneficiary of our defensive line and our linebackers getting to the quarterback and getting pressure. They’re working great as a unit right now.”
Heritage has a chance to extend their win streak to five games for the first time since 2017, which is their second-longest win streak in program history to the 2016 team’s six in a row.
However, Fogelstrom isn’t worried about down the road, just what’s immediately ahead.
He exudes that by saying, “We’re focused on Deer Valley now.”
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Diane Alexander
Miriam Bell
Patricia Blumen*
Jamie Bolt*
Mark Branson
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Bethi Carver Gibb*
Gary Chambers
Janet Clarke*
John Cooper
Donna Corrigan
Denise Cosgrove* DF
Rosa Daley
Albert Del Grande
Debra Doherty*
John Dodson
Michael Echeverria*
Larry Fancey
Irene San Filippo
Timothy Finnigan
David Foster
Gloria Foster*
Jack Gaughn*
David Goodwin
Carol Grossman
Deena Gruver*
Carol Guadagni
Rinaldo Hamade*
Bill Harms
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EDITORIALS, LETTERS & COMMENTARY
oP inion
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Letters to the editor
Oakley businesses answer the call
Editor:
Many thanks to the local businesses that have supported fundraising events by the Friends of the Oakley Library this summer. Many people do not know that the current Oakley Public Library is merely a room at Freedom High School. Efforts are underway to build a new library and Community Center next to Oakley City Hall to support library services, community groups, events and programs. But, of course, money is needed, along with support from many stakeholders at the local, county and state levels. Every dollar counts.
The Beer Aisle
Black Bear Diner
Beauty Town Salon
Cypress Self Storage
Delta Schools Federal Credit Union
Diamond Hills Spa
Dream Vacations
Dutch Bros Coffee
El Campanil Theater
Golfballin’
Good Scents Florist
Great Cuts for Hair
Guanatos Ice Cream
Hairy Hounds
CORRECTIONS:
Muddy Paws Grooming
Oakley Ace Hardware
Oakley Grocery Outlet
Picante Mexican Restaurant
Raley’s
Rotary Club of Oakley
Sabrina’s Pizzeria
Safeway
Barbara Santos (Oakley author)
Sarah Pope Photography
Skipolini’s
Target
ThePress.net
Yogurt Island
The next fundraising event is a Texas Hold ‘em dinner and tournament on Friday, Oct. 11 at the Oakley Recreation Center. Hosted by the Rotary Club of Oakley, doors open at 6 p.m. for a buffet dinner catered by Skipolini’s and the Tournament will begin at 7 p.m.. It’s OK to come just for buffet dinner and catch up with friends, neighbors, buy some raffle tickets and cheer on the players.
To purchase tickets or sponsorships, visit www. oakleylibrary.org or contact Mike Hale at (213) 359-9799 or Michael. Hale@scouting.org.
We hope to see you there..
Angela Lowrey Volunteer, Friends of the Oakley Library
A story in the Sept. 27 edition incorrectly identified Oakley Engineering Manager Billilee Saengchalern.
A story in the Sept. 27 edition incorrectly stated that tours would be given of the John Marsh House at an upcoming event The inside of the house will remain off limits for safety reasons, but attendees can see the interior through the open door. Tours will be conducted of the surrounding trails.
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SUMMONS
(CITACION JUDICIAL)
24CV03554
NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: (Aviso al Demandado) Reynante Taebas Alcaide and DOES 1-10
YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF: (lo esta demandando el demandante) Michelle Elizabeth Wilhoyte NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below. You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/ selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court. There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service.
If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal service program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Web Site (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org) the California Courts Online Self Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. The court’s lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case. ¡AVISO! Lo han demandado. Si no responde dentro de 30 días, la corte puede decidir en su contra sin escuchar su versión. Lea la información a continuación Tiene 30 DÍAS DE CALENDARIO después de que le entreguen esta citación y pa-
peles legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia al demandante. Una carta o una llamada telefónica no lo protegen. Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte y mas información en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www. sucorte.ca.gov), en la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede mas cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación, pida al secretario de la corte que le de un formulario de exención de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podrá quitar su sueldo, dinero y bienes sin mas advertencia. Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que llame a un abogado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede llamar a un servicio de remisión a abogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services, (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www.sucorte.ca.gov) o poniéndose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales. AVISO: Por ley, la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobre cualquier recuperación de $10,000 o mas de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesión de arbitraje en un caso de derecho civil. Tiene que pagar el gravamen de la corte antes de que la corte pueda desechar el caso. The name and address of the court is: (El nombre y direccion de la corte es):
SONOMA COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT
3055 CLEVELAND AVE., SANTA ROSA, CA 95403
The name, address, and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney is: (El nombre, la direccion y el numero de telefono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante que no tiene abogado, es):
George J. Keller 121728
1550 Airport Blvd., Suite 201, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
707-545-7010
DATE: 06/12/2024
Deputy (Adjunto): Ryan Carle Notice to the person being served: You are served.
Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: October 4, 11, 18, 25, 2024
Fax 925-634-1975 or Email to legals@brentwoodpress.com Deadline: Monday at 1:00 pm
Events from page 1A
ceived so far from our partners, and I am really excited to see it all come together and interact with local businesses and the community,” Bolds said.
Amy Tilley, executive director of the Downtown Brentwood Coalition, expressed optimism for the partnership and the value that the Hometown Halloween and Holiday Parade will bring to the community.
“We appreciate the Chamber and the city for hosting the events downtown,” Tilley said. “I think that strengthening the partnerships between all these local organizations enhances what everybody brings to the table. For us, we are easily entertained. We’re going to love seeing kids spend quality time with their families.”
DBC leader Tilley to stay until early November
Although the Downtown Brentwood Coalition (DBC) announced on Sept. 5 that Executive Director Amy Tilley would be stepping down in early October, Tilley has recently said that she will “stick around” until early November in part due to the upcoming slate of planned events.
“After that, I’ll still be available for the next month, year or decade,” she joked at the Sept. 23 DBC meeting. “It’s not like I’m going to leave town.”
After three years of leading the group, Tilley will be “shifting some much-needed focus back to her family,” said Peter Jacoway, DBC board president, said in a press release announcing her departure.
In a letter to coalition members, Tilley said “This decision comes after many lengthy discussions with my family (particularly the little ones!) about finding a new path that best supports our family in
After the presentation, Commissioner Jimmy Ramirez questioned Parsons about a nearby eucalyptus tree line and the possibility of recreational areas within the development. Parsons answered that the trees would likely be removed during construction, and that there were no current plans for a park. He said the changes to the original plan occurred because Discovery Builders, the longtime owner of the land, wished to bring Cedarwood Estates in line with other housing developments that they had built in the past, and because they believed that the old 34-house plan would not be profitable.
Four Oakley residents living adjacent to Cedarwood Estates gave public comments on the project amendment; all four were against higher-density development of the vacant lot.
Michael Tate voiced his concern for a wall along Michelle Lane, which he said had previously been improved twice, but under the new plan, is slated for demolition. He also opposed removing the eucalyptus trees to the northeast of Cedarwood Estates, which, according to him, are home to falcons and owls. He opposed an increase in density, saying that he believes that Discovery Builders changed the plan because “they just want more money.”
Julia Fierros, who owns two parcels of land on Knox Lane, said that the project had been “hanging over their heads” since 2007, when the land was purchased by Jackie Seeno of Discovery Builders. According to Fierros, Seeno cut down 164 heritage trees on the Cedarwood Estates property, which resulted in a fine from the City of Oakley. Fierros opposed the plan amendment on the grounds that a similar plan was previously denied by the City Council two years ago, and that 60 homes is too many for a small street like Knox Lane.
the multitude of ways that parenthood requires.”
As the coalition begins the transition process, the Board of Directors will work to ensure a smooth hand-off to a new ex-
ecutive director, Jacoway said in the release.
Tilley added in her letter: “The Board of Directors and I are working closely together with the help of a consultant to ensure a smooth transition occurs, while also creating some processes and strategies to strengthen the support that the DBC offers and is passionate about delivering.”
The Board will create a comprehensive plan for the next chapter with the assistance of consultant Rachael Snedecor of Roots Up Collective, along with the organization’s partners through the city of Brentwood and the Main Street America program.
For more information about the coalition and upcoming initiatives, visit wwwbrentwooddowntown.com or contact Jacoway at president@downtownbrentwood.com
“Why do residents always have to compromise, and developers don’t?” Fierros asked.
Ron Paris gave support for the old 34-house plan, comparing it to another housing development at Quail Glen. He was concerned about the new project’s drainage outlets and potential obstructions to the view of Mount Diablo from his house. Mohammad Javed expressed his opposition to the project due to his worries about excessive traffic.
In other Commission news:
• Mt. Diablo Resource Recovery is holding a free residential community cleanup for Oakley residents from 8 a.m. to noon on Oct. 12. Residents can drop off up
to “one pickup truck full” of unwanted items at 5400 Neroly Road. E-waste, construction debris, and batteries , among other forms of waste, are not permitted to be dropped off. Registration for the event and a full list of forbidden items can be found on MDRR’s website: www.mdrr.com/oakley-resi-cleanup-2024/
• According to the East Contra Costa TRANSPLAN Committee, via Oakley Planning Commissioner Leonard Price, planning has begun on Highway 239, a fourlane highway that will connect Highway 4 to Interstates 5 and 580. Construction is expected to begin in 2028, Price said.
Man in critical condition after shooting in Antioch
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Aman is in critical condition after having been shot in Antioch over the weekend.
According to Antioch police, officers responded to a call regarding a man who had just been shot around 4 a.m. Sunday.
When officers arrived, they found the unidentified victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the stomach.
Firefighters and paramedics provided aid and the victim was transported to a nearby hospital in critical, but stable condition.
This shooting is the latest in a string of well over a dozen other shootings in the city since the shooting death of Elijah Scales on Sept. 3.
Antioch Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe held a press conference last Wednesday to address the recent string of violence throughout the city. He also pledged several programs that he hopes will help address the violence in
Antioch. He also said that he’s not afraid to take more drastic measures like a city-wide curfew or even calling in the National Guard should the violence continue.
Meanwhile, Antioch police added that the investigation into the shooting early Sunday morning is in the preliminary stages and that evidence and witness statements are being collected.
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TILLEY
Oakley from page 1A
This map shows the proposed development location.
Image courtesy of City of Oakley
Business Profile
Winter is Coming Car maintenance tips for rainy weather
THE PRESS AUTO GUIDE
CARS · TRUCKS · BOATS · BIKES · RV S
On the Road
Scenic local routes for motorcyclists
No Mechanic Needed 5 DIY vehicle maintenance tasks
One of the most important things a driver can do to ensure the safety of themselves and others while driving during this season is winterizing their vehicle. It may be unlikely to snow in East County but there are still a number of precautions drivers can take before getting on the road this winter.
Maintaining a vehicle is important yearround, but autumn is the best time to touch base on various key components, according to Rob Brandt, an executive at Bill Brandt Ford in Brentwood. Brandt says the three most important things to service when preparing a vehicle for winter conditions in California are the windshield wipers, tires and brakes.
Replacing windshield wipers
Replacing windshield wiper blades is one of the simplest checks that Brandt recommends before winter because it is one most drivers can do themselves. The rubber components that repel water can be made brittle by the summer sun and result in ineffective blades that streak
or leave behind droplets, reducing visibility.
“Wintertime is a good time to change wiper blades for visibility,” Brandt says. “We don’t get as much rain as other states here, but it’s good to stay on top of that.”
For drivers who are unable to change the wiper blades themselves, auto parts stores often provide this service free of charge.
Checking your tires
“Check tire inflation pressure on all four tires and the spare more frequently in fall and winter,” The American Automobile Association (AAA) says in its winter checklist. “As the average temperature drops, so will tire pressures — typically by one PSI (pounds per square inch) for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Proper
Fall is a good time for preventative car maintenance before the rainy season comes, according to experts.
groove, then the tire has an acceptable amount of tread. Spare tires should also be checked for proper tread depth before a situation arises in which the spare is needed.
Brakes
tire pressure levels can be found in the owner’s manual or on a sticker typically located on the driver’s side door jamb.”
Underinflated tires can lead to a blowout if the vehicle hits an obstacle, such as a pothole, and can make it more difficult to come to a stop on slippery roads. Worn-down tread on tires can also contribute to difficulty stopping as well as an increased risk of hydroplaning or losing control of the vehicle on a wet surface. The easiest way to check tread is to use a penny. If the penny is held in the groove of the tire with Abraham Lincoln inserted into the tread headfirst and his entire head is visible, the tread is too low and the tire should be replaced as soon as possible. If Lincoln’s head is at least partly obscured when inserted into the
Even with properly maintained tires, coming to a stop safely on a slippery road requires a vehicle with brakes in good condition. Worn-down brake pads increase stopping distance regardless of season, Kelley Blue Book warns on its website. Worn-down pads and slippery winter roadways are a combination that can lead to traffic accidents if brakes are not maintained. A squeaking or grinding metal-on-metal sound when brakes are applied is the most common indicator that pads need to be replaced, but the vehicle pulling to one side while braking or a rumbling in the pedal can also be indicators of needed service, the website says.
Your battery
In addition to the three winter preparedness tips suggested by Brandt, AAA’s own winter care checklist recommends drivers check their car’s battery, as colder weather can cause a battery with a weak charge to struggle.
“Have the battery and charging system tested by a trained technician,” the checklist says. “A fully charged battery in good condition is required to start an engine in cold weather.”
The rest of AAA’s winter checklist can be found at https://bit.ly/3BCgMAA
JAKE MENEZ
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
Fortunately there haven’t been any injuries between motorists and riders during our club rides,” said Harry Levine of Brentwood cycling club Delta Valley Velo. “There have been a few close calls. Unfortunately there have been injuries to riders riding alone that have been involved in car accidents.”
According to the California Highway Patrol’s Transportation Injury Mapping System, there were 171 accidents involving bicyclists in Contra Costa County in 2023. The average number of accidents involving bicyclists in the last three years in Contra Costa County is 168.3, according to the mapping system. There are ways bicyclists and motorists can practice safety measures to keep them more aware while sharing the road.
Levine said there have not been any injuries between club members and motorists during one of their rides. However, there have been incidents when riders were alone.
Delta Valley Velo, also known as DV2, is an 11-year-old Brentwood cycling club
established by Levine and Dave Leaumont. According to its website, deltavalleyvelo.com, the club seeks to attract enthusiastic riders with similar skills and goals. They ride for health, fitness, to be social and to improve their cycling skills. There is no membership fee to join and all are welcome.
“We are avid cyclists, and as a club, promote cycling and its benefits to better living and better health,” Levine said.
Rides with Delta Valley Velo vary from 20-100 miles and go through Brentwood, Oakley, Discovery Bay, Byron, Knightsen, Antioch, Pittsburg, and Livemore, and can
include anywhere from 10 to more than than 20 riders, according to their website. They also schedule out-of-town rides once a month, and, on occasion, participate in fundraising and host other social events.
“We have a core group that makes decisions regarding rides and events that we offer our club members,” Levine said. “We also have many sponsors that help us financially to support our events or with services that they provide.”
The club requires helmets for all rides, because they say safety is a top priority, and it offers specific safety tips to club
members to keep in mind while riding.
“Safety is number one,” Levine said. “Our riders should always pay attention to their surroundings and road conditions. Stay far right in the bike lanes. Be especially careful if the road does not have bike lanes. We suggest that riders have bright tail lights on their bikes.”
There are certain things motorists should also be aware of when sharing the road with bicyclists, such as being aware of the law as it pertains to sharing the road with bicyclists. According to Levine, something as simple as using a turn signal helps bicyclists.
“Drivers should be aware that they are required by law to keep a three-feet distance when passing cyclists,” Levine said. “They should always use their turn signals. This helps us a great deal when we know their intentions. They also need to know that we have every right to be on the road and if a stretch of road is too narrow, we will take the lane to keep riders safe. This generally lasts for a short distance, as we will not choose those types of roads to ride on for a long distance.”
Being knowledgeable of the traffic laws and being aware of surroundings are two of the main practices cyclists and motorists can do to help them stay safe while sharing the road.
For more information on Delta Valley Velo, visit deltavalleyvelo.com or find them on Facebook @Delta Valley Velo.
NICOLE BECCHINA
Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
Cyclists and those behind the wheel of automobiles can reduce the risk of injuries by being more attentive when sharing the road.
Three county roads that are great for motorcyclists
Covering 716 square miles of the Bay Area, Contra Costa County is home to some amazing backroads. Here are three backroads Bay Area riders should consider exploring that provide great views, tests of skills, and just a good time.
Pinehurst Road - Moraga. Nestled in the foothills between Oakland and Moraga sits Pinehurst Road that stretches for about seven miles starting from the north at the top of Skyline Boulevard, and connects to Redwood Road to the south. This tiny, yet mighty, road is surrounded by a forest of redwood trees that immerse you into the surrounding nature. A special feature of this road is its two-mile- long section of fast switch-backs, and S-turns that will make any rider feel like they are on a roller coaster. Once you’ve completed Pinehurst, it’s usually great to take Redwood Road down to Castro Valley. At the time of writing this, a section of Redwood Road after the Anthony Chabot staging area is closed due to recent landslides from past rain, there is no clear date as to when it will be open for use but it is still a fun route to explore for many riders visiting the area.
North and South Gate Roads -
Mount Diablo. When it comes to scenic routes in Contra Costa County, Mount Diablo’s North and South Gate roads are number one at offering high-elevation views, winding roads, and lush nature, making it a great choice for a day trip. You can enter the park from the north in Ygnacio Valley or from the south in Blackhawk. There is a $10 entrance fee into the park, which is worth the price if you also plan on taking advantage of the many vista points, hiking trails, camping, and picnic areas in the park.
North and South Gate roads will lead you to Summit Road, the primary road that takes you to the top of Mount Diablo’s North Peak. Once there, you can check
out the visitor center, and the light tower giving guests a 360-degree panoramic view of the Diablo Mountain Range, where you can see as far south as Mount Hamilton in San Jose to Napa Valley to the north.
With all the twists and turns you will be going through that traffic can be slow at times in areas where cyclists and hikers are present so it’s best to take your time, enjoy the views while making your way to the top of the 3,800-foot peak. Parking is limited, so be prepared to find parking in adjacent lots from the visitor center during the busy days and hours.
Morgan Territory Road - Marsh Creek. If you love single-lane roads with blind corners, and tight hairpins, Morgan Territory Road is for you. This road stretch-
es for 20 miles, winding its way up and over Morgan Territory Regional Preserve connecting with Marsh Creek Road from the north and North Livermore Avenue to the south. It’s important to know that this road is pretty narrow and demands your attention no matter what pace you are riding, being that it serves as a primary road for the residents who live on the hill. Vehicles traveling on this road can take up the entire lane and can force you to ride the edges of the road or, in some cases, onto the dirt. However, that same technicality and difficulty, makes this road one of the best for testing your skills as a rider. There is never a dull moment on this road, so you will want to focus through each turn, avoiding any potential dangers and target fixating on obstacles that may be approaching.
When preparing for your road trip, do your due diligence and check for any road construction projects, or closures that may delay or prevent you from riding through these beautiful roads. During the rainy season, these roads are known to flood or be victim to rock and landslides. Spring, summer, and fall are the best times to travel through these roads. But if you don’t mind the rain and mud during winter, riding through these roads can be just as rewarding as long as you take your time. To view a video of the event, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
ANDREW RULLODA
Photo by Andrew Rulloda Contra Costa County back roads offer beautiful and amazing scenery photo opportunities for travelers.
5 convenient tech features you want in your vehicle
Technology has dramatically changed the way people live, and has increasingly changed how they drive as well. While power windows were once coveted as high-tech features, the sophisticated technology available in modern cars and trucks can make earlier tech seem like child’s play.
While some vehicle technology is designed to keep you safe, other tech is all about comfort and convenience. The following are five options to consider when purchasing your next vehicle.
1. Telematics
Telematics is a system that can remotely monitor many components of a vehicle’s diagnostics and driver behavior. While this
telecommunications technology already is implemented in delivery, towing and public transportation industries, it can be utilized in the private market to track live weather conditions, traffic, parking lot information, fuel consumption, and battery power.
2. Cooled seats
While most drivers are familiar with
vehicle technology features can improve comfort and convenience in
heated seats, many vehicles now come equipped with cooled seats as well. These seats can make it more comfortable to drive on hot days and improve air flow in the car as they work in conjunction with vehicle heating, ventilation and airconditioning systems. Cooled seats can be expensive and will add weight to a vehicle, so they may be best for heavy sedans, SUVs and light trucks.
3. Wireless phone charging
Electronic devices have been going wireless for years, and the newest crop of wireless technology is wireless phone chargers. The online tech resource CNET says wireless charging pads have become
ubiquitous in offices and homes, but now they’re becoming useful tools inside cars. Portable charging pads can plug into the automobile auxiliary power DC outlet. For example, the X-Doria Defense Helix wireless car charging mount with RoboGrip has powered “robotic” arms that automatically open when you place your phone near the charger and then clamp shut after you dock it. Wireless charging pads are built into vehicles manufactured by Lincoln and Mercedes-Benz, and may soon be standard technology on more cars and trucks.
4. Apple CarPlay
Mobile phone users tend to fall into two distinct camps: those who prefer iPhones and those who rave about Android offerings. Many car manufactures have realized consumers want CarPlay (and Android Auto) built standard into their vehicles. These apps allow drivers to access their most-used apps conveniently without an extra learning curve for manufacturerspecific driver assist apps.
5. Second- and third-row USB ports
USB ports for second- and third-row passengers is essential when moving an SUV full of kids or taking a road trip with the family.
These automotive tasks are just some that people can try themselves to save time and money.
5 DIY vehicle maintenance tasks
During the global COVID-19 pandemic, many people looked for ways to save money. One way to live a frugal life is to take on more projects. In addition to lawn and garden upkeep and minor home improvements, people may be able to tackle some auto repair and maintenance jobs themselves.
♦ Replace the air filter. An air filter should be changed annually or more frequently if you reside in a dry, dusty climate. A clogged filter can stress the vehicle’s air conditioning system and reduce heat capacity in the winter. Check the location of the air filter in the owner’s manual; pay attention to how it is placed before removing. Then replace it with a clean filter that can be purchased for about $15.
♦ Replace the wiper blades. When wiper blades are worn out, visibility in rainy weather is reduced. Choose a quality wiper blade, as they usually are made with high-quality rubber, clean better and have more UV protection than manufacturer-provided blades. Follow the installation instructions on the package, and be sure to refer to the particular manufacturer’s buying guide to get the right size for your make and model of vehicle.
♦ Replace spark plugs. The money
management website Money Crashers says spark plugs need to be replaced after around 30,000 miles or as indicated by your owner’s manual. Vehicles will have four, six or eight plugs, depending on how many cylinders the car has. The plugs need to be changed in a certain order, so remove only the first wire and spark plug. Remove and replace plugs one by one with a spark plug socket, wrench or ratchet.
♦ Change the oil and oil filter. Because changing the oil in a vehicle requires jacking up the car or truck and getting a little dirty, some people prefer to leave it to an oil change center. However, at an estimated cost of $20 versus nearly double or more what you’ll spend elsewhere, it can save money to do it yourself. Never change the oil while the engine is hot. And remember to lubricate the rubber gasket on the new oil filter and allocate enough oil to fill the filter with about 2/3 of new oil in addition to what is put in the engine.
♦ Replace headlight bulbs. Replacing headlight bulbs is a fairly easy project and will take only about 10 minutes to do after you purchase the right bulbs for your vehicle. Each vehicle is different, but many bulbs are housed inside of a bulb holder, which is shaped like a trapezoid with three wires coming out of it, advises U.S. News & World Report. Remove the old bulb and put in the new one. Plug the wires back in and test to see if the headlight works.
– Courtesy of Metro Creative
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
