The Press 12.23.2022

Once again, we want to say Thank You to all of our valued readers and customers for your continued support, whether it’s just reading the paper, becoming a subscriber, a donor or one of our faithful customers. Whether you’re reading the traditional print newspaper or online with our website and new app, or maybe even through our social media platform, we appreciate that you read The Press. We take great pride in being your local news source to keep our readers informed of the news and happenings 24/7 on thepress.net.

So from all of us at The Press, we want to wish you and your family a happy, safe holiday season. Cheers to a prosperous and peaceful new year!

Merry Christmas! from The P ress!

S Season’s Greeting

‘Tunnels’ hope to bring joy to Brentwood boy

By Dawnmarie Fehr Correspondent

through Tunnels of Joy will go directly to his family for medical bills and expenses.

BOB is here!

Golf club to close 9-hole course

By Chris Campos Staff Writer

BRENTWOOD The Brentwood Golf Club will be closing its ninehole Diablo course soon, according to City Manager Tim Ogden.

The club offers 27 golf holes between its Creekside, Hillside and Diablo courses at 100 Summerset Drive, all designed by golf architect Ted Robinson. The club also includes a sports bar, conference rooms and banquet facilities for large groups.

Ogden said Dec. 13, “We have been apprised of the impending closure in about six months. We’ll work with the property owner to ensure the property is maintained as well as possible.”

Rex Choe, the golf club manager who took over in May 2020, declined to comment this week.

BRENTWOOD

The Tunnels of Joy on La Costa Drive opened for the season on Dec. 2 with a new recipient for its fundraising efforts: 11-year-old Cristian Munoz.

Recently diagnosed with Stage 3 kidney cancer, Cristian has already undergone surgery to remove his kidney and a tumor. He completed radiation and is one month into his chemotherapy, with seven more to go. The funds raised from the community

“We are just so grateful to the Brentwood community, beyond anything I can express,” said Maria Munoz, Cristian’s mom. “I don’t even have words to express how much we appreciate the help and the support and love shown to our son, it just means the world to us. I love Brentwood, and I’m so proud to say that I live in Brentwood.”

The Tunnels of Joy go up on La Costa Drive – and surrounding streets – each De-

see Tunnels page 18

The 2022 Best of Brentwood magazine is being distributed to homes and news racks in Brentwood. Inside, you’ll find hundreds of categories, among them describing the best places to eat, enjoy a walk in the park, get your car fixed or take a visitor to show off your hometown. If you’re in Brentwood and did not receive your copy, call 925-634-1441 or stop by The Press office at 248 Oak St., in downtown Brentwood. You can also find it online at bit.ly/3WaIIkC

Bay Area golf courses have been battered by the COVID-19 pandemic and other economic pressures in recent years. The industry nationwide saw a decline between 2003 and 2018 of more than 6.8 million players and more than 1,200 course closures. The National Golf Foundation and Golf Datatech data shows a March 2020 decline of 8.5% in rounds played compared to March 2019; in April 2020, rounds played were down a staggering 42.2% compared to April 2019.

Ogden noted that the Brentwood Diablo course’s zoning allows for housing. “Their current zoning allows housing, but the development feasibility of it is uncertain,” the city manager

By Melissa van Ruiten Staff Writer

BRENTWOOD An estimated 1 in 6 Contra Costa County residents struggle to put food on their table. But Brentwood’s H.O.P.E (Hope, Opportunity, Prayer, and Encouragement) House, along with local businesses, help to reduce the extent of the problem.

This holiday season, Rodda Electric helped to ensure that the families and individuals served by H.O.P.E. House’s food ministry would be provided with whole chickens in their holiday meal boxes. The chickens supplement the food the ministry already receives from the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano County.

“Rodda Electric got involved with H.O.P.E. House in February of 2022,” said Morgan Wentz, Rodda’s Business Development and Marketing Manager. “We work with H.O.P.E. House twice a month. The second Friday, we pick up cardboard, and the last Friday of every month we pick up food from the food bank in Antioch. We bring it back here, and we unload it. We do that every month.”

For Thanksgiving, the company donated 160 whole chickens for the holiday meal boxes, which were then split between two distribution days. Recently, they decided to do the same for the Christmas meals, as well. The poultry was ordered through another local business, Brentwood Fine Meats. Since

H.O.P.E. House has limited freezer space, Brentwood Fine Meats also offered to store the frozen chickens until the distribution took place, officials said.

To meet the Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines and improve the safety and access for the organization’s staff, volunteers, and clients delivering

and picking up food, Adam Martinez and his team from Handydads completed a new handicap-accessible ramp. The work was made possible through an Agency Enhancement Grant given by the food bank.

“Obviously, we love to do any work for the local community and businesses,

so we were all in,” said Martinez. “When we heard about the project, and we saw the previous ramp, we were discussing the challenges of the situation and said ‘whatever you need, we’re here for you.”

Earlier in the year, Rodda also donated their electrical services to help provide secure power to H.O.P.E. House’s industrial refrigerators, install new outlets, replace new light fixtures, and re-ran the power to their water heater.

The H.O.P.E. House ministry is a food and clothing distribution organization serving individuals and families in Antioch, Bethel Island, Brentwood, Byron, Discovery Bay, Knightsen, and Oakley. The ministry began in October 2011 and now serves 1,300 individuals per month, according to their website.

“H.O.P.E. House is grateful for the support of Brentwood Fine Meats, Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano County, Handydads Construction, and Rodda Electric, and we would like to make sure their generosity does not go unnoticed within the Brentwood Community,” said H.O.P.E. House Director Dave Funk.

H.O.P.E. House is open to qualified individuals and families for food distribution every Monday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to noon and to everyone for clothes distribution on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9-11:30 a.m. at 218 Pine St. in Brentwood. Volunteers are always welcome, officials said.

Local businesses, Handydads and Rodda Electric, along with the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano County, help Brentwood’s H.O.P.E. House succeed with their holiday giving.

Photo by Melissa van Ruiten

Brentwood among area cities with the best roads

study

Bay Area road conditions

Melissa van Ruiten Staff Writer

Brentwood has been listed as one of the top five jurisdictions for road conditions in the Bay Area, according to an annual study by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission.

For 2021, Brentwood’s 425.9 lane-miles were rated in the “very good” category with a score of 81 out of a possible 100. Lanemile means the total length of roadway or bikeway taking the number of lanes into account .This stayed consistent with the city’s score from 2020. However, it was a one-point drop from 2019, according to the Pavement Condition Index (PCI) report for Bay Area cities. In 2012, the city received a score of 87, the highest rating to date.

“While we are happy to see our PCI is at least 80, we are still concerned about the gradual downward trend, and would prefer to either stop or reverse this trend in the upcoming years,” stated Director of Public Works and City Engineer Miki Tsubota. “The City will need additional funding to keep the roadway PCI above 80 in the long-term future.”

One goal of the city’s General Plan is to continue to maintain and improve its road and to maintain a “very good” pavement

condition with a PCI value of at least 80, according to Tsubota.

The PCI provides a snapshot of the pavement health of a road, based on a threeyear moving average of road conditions. It is measured on a scale of 0 to 100 (100 means a newly paved road), and many factors affect a city’s or county’s PCI score. These include pavement age, climate and precipitation, traffic loads, and available maintenance funding, according to the MTC website.

“It is an indicator of overall quality of life,” Tsubota said. “Everyone either uses or depends on roadways for almost all aspects of life, from getting to work, to getting kids to school, to getting deliveries from Amazon. Roads that are in better condition allow better movement of people and goods, are safer, are less expensive to maintain, and have better curb appeal.”

Brentwood’s Public Works Department is always looking at general street conditions to determine what repairs are needed. This includes the amount, depth and type of cracking, whether there is general pavement settlement, and any significant wear and tear of the surfacing. Traffic loads on each roadway is also taken into account, along with ancillary impacts, such as tree root intrusion and ponding water, according to Tsubota.

“Every year, we analyze the PCI of individual street networks to determine and prioritize the scope of maintenance work and locations of the following year’s work, as part of our Pavement Management Program,” Tsubota stated. “For streets that just

need slurry seal, we work with a contractor to ensure cracks are sealed, notify affected customers, make small asphalt repairs, slurry the streets, and add new striping.”

For streets with more significant cracking, Tsubota explained that the city works with a contractor to grind out the top layer of damaged asphalt and install reinforcing pavement fabric, new asphalt, and seal cracks upon completion. This work is typically done during the summer and fall months when the weather is warmer.

While concrete is harder and lasts longer, Brentwood has several reasons for making the decision to construct their roads with asphalt, city officials said.

“Asphalt is generally cheaper to install, is easier to maintain and repair, is quieter, offers more tire traction, is more readily available, and is more flexible in responding to changing weather and soils conditions,” Tsubota explained.

Elsewhere in East County

Oakley’s roads were rated at 75 – in the “good” category. Antioch and Pittsburg scored 65 and 61, respectively, putting them

both in the “fair” category. There was no data available for Discovery Bay, Bethel Island, Knightsen, or Byron, because they are not incorporated cities.

Contra Costa’s aggregate PCI for 2021 is 69, putting the county at the top end of the “fair” category. However, Brentwood scored 14 points higher than the average of 67 for the entire Bay Area. The region’s average PCI score is much closer to the 60-point threshold at which deterioration accelerates rapidly, according to the MTC website.

“I’m grateful for our well designed and landscaped streets and for our recognized street conditions,” stated City Manager Tim Ogden in the December edition of Brentwood Buzz, the city’s newsletter. “Our streets are in great condition, and excel when compared to other cities.”

The Bay Area consists of a total of 43,953 lane-miles, according to the MTC website. Other jurisdictions rated in the top ten for PCI include Cupertino, Orinda, Palo Alto, Dublin, Solano County, Danville, Foster City, Los Altos Hills, Clayton, and Woodside.

They are feeding ‘the hidden hungry’

Meals on Wheels to start fundraising campaign in February

Editor’s note: The Press asked Sherry Nadworny, director of development and community relations at Meals on Wheels Diablo Region, what her organization is doing to help seniors during the holidays.

Hunger is something most people associate with famines in some far-off continent. But when COVID-19 hit and people lost their jobs, people not having enough food to eat was in the news as U.S. citizens lined up at food banks. But prior to the pandemic, seniors here in Contra Costa County have needed help procuring food every day for years. With the pandemic, the problem has become more pronounced.

Seniors are the hidden hungry in our community. They are homebound, isolated, and they have few people to advocate for them. They don’t have enough food for many reasons, but inflation has had a dramatic impact on those living on fixed incomes. Limits seniors face in their physical ability also contribute to hunger. Many elders no longer drive, and are too frail to negotiate their way around the supermarket. Arthritis or other health problems make it impossible for them to stand and cook, or even cut up vegetables.

According to Caitlin Sly, executive director of Meals on Wheels Diablo Region, the need for home-delivered meals has increased by 50% since 2019 with the organization delivering over 600,000 meals last year, the largest number in its 50-year history. She expects that number to continue to increase. “Every day, 10,000 people turn age 70 in the United States, and in Contra Costa County older adults are the fastest-growing segment of the population. Inflation, increased life spans, and having a fragile support system mean that more and more people

will turn to organizations like Meals on Wheels Diablo Region. For many, we are the safety net. We are the difference from being fed to going hungry.”

In addition to the increase in homedelivered meals, the pandemic demonstrated another aspect of senior hunger. “We found that too many clients were splitting the one meal we delivered to

have enough food for lunch, dinner, and to take at night with medications. As a society, those who gave so much to our community should not be forced to ration food,” Sly said.

During the pandemic, Meals on Wheels Diablo Region began the Breakfast Bag Program, which started in Brentwood. The Breakfast Bags contain enough food for a week’s worth of breakfast items such as string cheese, fresh fruit, yogurt, hard-boiled eggs, and healthy grains like oatmeal. The bags also now include salads, sandwiches, and snackable vegetables. Seniors who are receiving Breakfast Bags report a significant improvement in their health, are no longer hungry all day, and are less anxious about not having enough food. The program has now expanded to cities across the county.

“We believe everyone deserves a healthy breakfast,” Sly said. “Eating a healthy, well-rounded breakfast can keep the older adults we serve out of the hospital and long-term care.”

Funding for the Breakfast Bags comes from a variety of sources, and Sly hopes they will be able to expand the pro-

gram to all seniors who need it. “Right now, we need to raise funds to make sure we can continue the Breakfast Bag Program so very food insecure elders don’t go hungry. With the rising prices of food and gas, it is even more expensive to deliver meals.” In February, the organization will hold the Feed the Soul campaign with the goal of raising $28,000 in 28 days to support the Breakfast Bag program.

While funding is always challenging, recruiting volunteers can also be difficult. “People are often under the impression that the volunteer commitment is very time-consuming, but actually it is only 2 hours a day, once a week,” Sly said. “When a volunteer takes a route, they find it extremely fulfilling.”

Joan Vandivier, a Direct Support Professional who coordinates deliveries in Brentwood with her group Future Explored, says volunteering for Meals on Wheels Diablo Region is rewarding. “Some of the clients we deliver to have no family members. When they see us, it brings a smile to their face, and we know how much they appreciate and need the meal we deliver. We’re always happy to see them, too. They have become almost like friends. Anyone who is thinking of volunteering, I say do it because you’ll like it.” Meals on Wheels Diablo Region has a tremendous need for volunteers in Brentwood and other East County towns. Volunteers can apply on the website at MOWDiabloRegion.org.

Another challenge the organization recently faced is a fire in its Walnut Creek offices in September. Services to seniors were not disrupted because the staff worked from home for seven weeks and are now in temporary office space, but they will not be returning to their building for at least a year.

The fire has resulted in a financial burden to the organization, and they have set up a fire fund for donations. “Our staff and volunteers are resilient, and we are all proud that no client missed a meal because of the fire,” Sly said. “We are focused on our mission and that is to make sure seniors remain nourished, safe, and independent at home for as long as possible. Elders depend on MOW Diablo Region, and we are committed to being there for them, today and into the future.”

To support Meals on Wheels Diablo Region and help seniors, visit www.mowdiabloregion.org. For more information, contact Sherry Nadworny at snadworny@ mowdr.org.

– Sherry Nadworny

Volunteers for the Diablo Region chapter of Meals on Wheels help deliver food to the “hidden hungry,” such as home-bound seniors.

Photo courtesy of Sherry Nadworny

Lighting up the world – right here at home

East County Jews celebrate Chanukah

By Rene De Amaral Staff Writer

BRENTWOOD Chabad of the Delta hosted their annual Grand Community Chanukah Festival Sunday, Dec. 18, the first night of Chanukah, in Brentwood City Park.

Chanukah, also known as Hanukkah, is the Jewish Festival of Lights celebrated over eight days and nights. During each successive night, one more candle is added to the menorah and lit.

Chanukah is meant to celebrate the miracle of light during the rededication of the Temple to the Hebrew God. Those in the Temple were left one vial of oil, enough to burn for a single day. The remaining oil was able to burn for eight days, allowing the Judeans to procure more oil, according to National Geographic.

The event began as the few hundred people who gathered listened to Chabad of the Delta Rabbi Peretz Goldshmid describe the importance of Chanukah and its affirmation of Jewish pride.

“On Chanukah, we reaffirm our Jewish pride as we light the world at home and in public.” he said. “We let the world know

and remind ourselves of the miracle of the victory of the few over many, who desired and attempted to squash the possibility of religious freedom.”

Local dignitaries, including Brentwood Mayor Joel Bryant, City Manager Tim Ogden, Vice Mayor Susannah Meyer and City Council members Tony Oerlemans and Jovita Mendoza, joined the gathering.

Bryant emphasized the importance of celebrating light, and that Brentwood welcomes anyone from the Jewish community with open arms.

“Chanukah is the celebration of the miracle of lights. And if you are paying attention to what’s going on in the world, around the world, we need light more than we ever have in our homes, in our families

and in our community,” he said.

Rabbi Peretz Goldshmid then lit the first candle of the menorah after sunset, citing the importance of being positive and bringing more light into the world every day during Chanukah, along with the sharing of light throughout the crowd.

Mashie Goldshmid, program director at Chabad of the Delta, said she believes that their annual Chanukah festival shows the pride and resilience of the local Jewish community “It is incredible to be involved with the local Jewish community that is truly thriving, with numerous classes, holiday and community programs, and volunteers who generously help the elderly and homebound throughout the year,” she said.

“However, the most inspiring aspect of the community is the powerful sense of unity and pride exhibited when everyone comes together to celebrate Chanukah at the public festival. This celebration is like a modern-day miracle, reminding us of the strength and resilience of the Jewish people,” she said.

An original Chanukah rap was performed by Brentwood music teacher Aaron Smith, and the event featured Chanukah doughnuts and latkes, “guess the weight” Challah bread, along with crafts and a collaborative painting led by artist Andrew Swartz. The painting will be featured in the Delta Art Gallery at the Streets of Brentwood.

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

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

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Hundreds of East County’s Jewish residents celebrated Chanukah at the Chabad of the Delta’s annual Grand Community Chanukah Festival, which featured entertainment such as performers and music.

Photo by Rene de Amaral

Events

Saturday, Dec. 24

Community Memorial Service in Remembrance of 250,000 Liberia’s war victims

The Coalition for Justice in Liberia is hosting a free event to pay tribute to victims of the civil wars in Liberia from 1989 to 2003. The service will take place at Agape International Ministries and Church in Antioch from 5:30-7 p.m. For more information, contact Lovetta at 925-727-8291.

Sunday, Dec. 25

You Are Sacred

Brentwood Inspired Living Center Presents a talk with Michael J. Allen from 10-11:15 a.m. on Facebook LIVE. For more information, visit https:// www.facebook.com/brentwoodilc.org.

Saturday, Dec. 31

Noon Year’s Eve

The Oakley Library is hosting a free New Year’s Eve puppet show from 10:45 a.m.-noon. The event will also feature crafts, a dance party and a balloon drop at noon. For more information, visit https://bit.ly/3WcC6BT

Friday, Jan. 13

Knights of Columbus Youth Basketball Free Throw Competition

The Knights of Columbus is hosting their annual Youth Basketball Free Throw Competition at the Giovannoni Parish Center on 21 East 15th St. in Antioch. All boys and girls ages 8-14 are invited to participate. Age eligibility is determined by the age of the contestant as of Jan. 1, 2023. Proof of age is required via a copy of the child’s birth certificate. Registration for ages 8-11 opens at 5:30 p.m. and registration for ages 12-14 opens at 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 28

Brentwood Lions Club Pancake Breakfast

The Brentwood Lions Club is hosting a pancake breakfast from 8 a.m.-noon to support the Lions Wilderness Camp for the Deaf, where deaf children ages 7 to 15 can learn outdoor skills and enjoy nature.

Saturday, Feb. 11

1st annual Sweetheart 5K Run/Walk

The Rotary Club of Brentwood is hosting their first annual Sweetheart 5K (3.1 miles) Run/Walk from 9-11 a.m.at Veterans Park at 3841 Balfour Road, replacing their previous New Year’s Day 5K. The race fee is $35 and the sign-up fee is $4. For more information and to register, visit https://bit.ly/3FH5rOd

Ongoing Events

Liberty Adult Education Winter Course Catalog

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

East County Rotary Club Meetings

Brentwood: The Brentwood Rotary Club meets weekly on Monday at noon at the Wedgewood Banquet Center at 100 Summerset Drive in Brentwood. For more information, visit https:// www.brentwoodrotary94513.com Oakley: The Oakley Rotary Club meets weekly on Thursday at 7:30 a.m. at Black Bear Diner, 3201 Main St. in Oakley. For more information, visit http://rotaryclubofoakley.com Antioch: The Antioch Rotary Club meets weekly on Thursday at noon at Lone Tree Golf Course & Event Center, 4800 Golf Course Road in Antioch. For more information, visit http://www.antiochrotaryclub.com/. The Rotary Club of the Delta meets weekly on Wednesday at 7 a.m. at Denny’s, 4823 Lone Tree Way in Antioch. For more information, visit https://www.rotaryclubofthedelta.org/.

East County Lions Club Meetings

Brentwood: The Brentwood Lions Club meets the first Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at Straw Hat Pizza on Lone Tree Way. For more information, visit: https://e-clubhouse.org/sites/brentwoodca/ Oakley: The Oakley Lions Club meets the fourth Wednesdays of every month at 7 p.m. at the Oakley Senior Center, for more information,

visit https://e-clubhouse.org/sites/brentwoodca/ Antioch: The Antioch Lions Club meets every second and fourth Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the Denny’s on Delta Fair Blvd. Discovery Bay: The Discovery Bay Lions Club meets the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Discovery Bay Yacht Club. For more information, visit:https:// discoverybaylions.com/who-we-are/meetings/ Byron: The Byron Delta Lions Club meets every first Friday of each month at 10 a.m. at St. Anne’s Church for more information https://e-clubhouse. org/sites/byron_delta/

Oakley Senior Center Food Distribution

The Oakley Senior Center gives out free food every Thursday from 1-2:30 p.m. Residents are asked to bring their own grocery bags.

ACA Women’s Group

The ACA Women’s Group meets every Wednesday at 5 p.m. at 809 Second St. in Brentwood. For more information, contact Cici at 530-306-7034.

Nonprofit offers Health Care Career Courses

The nonprofit Opportunity Junction is accepting applications for its Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program at two locations including the Opportunity Junction Antioch office at 3102 Delta Fair Blvd. Classes began in September. The CNA program includes 12 weeks of training, life skills training, hands-on clinical experience, and job placement assistance. The first step in taking the course is to complete an application form online by visiting https://opportunityjunction. secure.force.com/apply/HCP

Discovery Bay Corvette Club Meetings

The nonprofit Discovery Bay Corvette Club meets on the first Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Discovery Bay Yacht Club, 5871 Marina Road, Bilge Room. The club is dedicated to the enjoyment of owning and driving America’s sports car. For more information, drop by a meeting or contact the membership vice president at 925-341-9433. For more information on the club, visit www.discoverybaycorvetteclub.com

California Striped Bass Association West Delta Chapter Meeting

The California Striped Bass Association meets on the second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. at Sportsmen Yacht Club, 3301 Wilbur Ave., Antioch. For more information, call Moe Adams five days before meeting at 916529-1192. For more information, visit www. csbadeltachapter.org

Marine Corps League, Delta Diablo Detachment 1155, monthly meeting

The Marine Corps League, Delta Diablo Detachment 1155, hosts its monthly meeting on the third Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Brentwood Veterans Memorial Building, 757 First St., in Brentwood. The group is open to all active or retired U.S. Marines. Attendees are encouraged to bring a veteran friend, and spouses are always welcome. The meetings feature camaraderie, food, drink, conversation and updates on upcoming events. For more information, call 925-338-1775, email MCL1155@ outlook.com or visit https://www.mcl1155.org/

Applications accepted for Administrative Careers Training

The nonprofit Opportunity Junction is accepting applications for its administrative careers training program. Classes are taught via Zoom. The intensive training is 12 weeks, followed by up to four months of paid internship. Participants will learn life and business skills, and can earn their Microsoft Office Skills certificate. For more information, visit https://www.opportunityjunction. org/program-application

Widow and Widower Grief Support Group

A widow and widower grief support group from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church meets every Thursday from 5 to 6:15 p.m. at the church library at 500 Fairview Ave. in Brentwood. The group focuses on finding a new normal as attendees walk the grief trail with others experiencing the same loss. For more information, contact Mary Ann Smith at 925-240-1706 or Sandy Heinisch at 925-513-3412.

Photo courtesy of Jenifer Montgomery

How to stay healthy for the holidays

County, Bay Area officials list steps you can take

A so-called ‘tripledemic’ —COVID, the flu and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)— has spread across the country, and Northern California and Bay Area health officers have taken steps to help you avoid getting sick.

The 12 health officers from Northern California counties, including the Contra Costa County health official, offer this advice.

Get vaccinated against flu and COVID

• The updated Omicron COVID booster, also known as the bivalent booster, targets the Omicron variant, as well as the original 2020 virus. The Omicron boosters are available for everyone six months and older. These improved vaccines are the best protection against severe symptoms of COVID and hospitalization.

• Earlier in the pandemic, COVID vaccination rates in the Bay Area were high, shielding some communities from the worst outcomes. This vaccine protection has decreased over time, but an Omicron COVID booster can rebuild it. In most parts of the Bay Area, less than half of eligible people have received the updated Omicron COVID booster.

• More people in the Bay Area are getting

the flu this year than earlier in the pandemic. Flu is not the same as the common cold and can lead to sudden, severe illness in the very young, seniors, and those with underlying medical conditions.

• Get your flu shot as soon as possible. Your doctor can give you the flu shot and the Omicron COVID booster in the same visit. COVID shots are free and other recommended immunizations are widely available at low or no cost.

• There is no vaccine for RSV, but simple measures like regular hand washing and covering coughs can help.

Stay home if you are sick

• No matter which virus you have, if you are feeling sick the best way to keep from spreading it to others is to stay home until you have recovered. If you think it might be COVID, get tested.

• You can decrease risk of RSV and other respiratory viruses by washing your hands, covering coughs, and, most importantly, staying home when you are sick.

Wear a mask in indoor public places

• Masks can prevent transmission of COVID, flu, RSV, and other respiratory viruses all at once.

• Wearing a high-quality mask, such as a KN94, KN95 or N95, can prevent you from getting sick and missing out on life, work, school, and holiday parties. Wearing a mask is strongly recommended indoors in public settings to prevent the spread of viruses and reduce the risk of

illness. Masks also lower the likelihood that you pass on an infection if you are already sick, even if your symptoms are mild. This helps protect people around you, especially those at higher risk of serious illness.

• Improve ventilation indoors by turning on heating, ventilation and air-conditioning, filtering the air with a portable HEPA filter, pointing fans out open windows, or opening doors and windows when possible. These can all help viruses from spreading indoors.

Get tested before an indoor gathering or if you feel sick.

• Reduce the chances of infecting someone else with COVID by finding out if you have the virus before gathering with others. COVID symptoms may be mild or absent. Make sure to stock up on home test kits. They are now free from the federal government, and can be sent to your home by visiting www.covid.gov or call 800-232-0233.

Get treatment if needed

• Free treatments are available if you test positive for COVID. Free medication prevents hospitalization and is available to most adults and some teens with even mild symptoms.

• Talk to your doctor about treatment options or visit https://covid19.ca.gov/treatment/ or find a test to treat location near you: aspr.hhs.gov/TestToTreat. Treatments work best when started right after symptoms begin, and within 5 days of symptoms starting.

One treatment is the use of the antiviral drug Paxlovid, which was associated with a reduction of the risk of COVID-19 hospitalization or death by 44% among highly vaccinated Americans aged 50 and older, according to the results of a large study published last Wednesday in the Annals of Internal Medicine. Researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital studied the risk of hospitalization and death among nearly 45,000 non-hospitalized COVID-19 patients who were prescribed Paxlovid — a combination of the drugs nirmatrelvir and ritonavir — during the omicron BA.2 surge from January to July, to factor the risk reduction.

“These data have been helpful as we prepare for a winter surge,” corresponding author Scott Dryden-Peterson, MD, medical director of Mass General Brigham’s COVID outpatient therapy, said in a news release “Our findings suggest that Paxlovid can save lives, and it can have a real impact on keeping hospital beds available for the treatment of other conditions. The opportunity to prevent COVID-19 hospitalizations is not there unless people know that they’re positive, so we have ongoing efforts to do outreach, make testing available, and communicate to the highestrisk patients that they may benefit from Paxlovid or another antiviral treatment option.”

Of the steps outlined here, which are people least likely to do and why? Will Harper, the public information officer for the county health department, said, “I don’t think we can answer this with any certainty. We are just trying to educate people about the best ways they can avoid getting sick or infecting others with respiratory viruses in circulation now,” in response to which steps

people are least likely to take and why. “It’s up to individuals to decide whether to follow our advice. Of course, we hope they do because it will help keep people healthy at a time these viruses are spreading more. “

He said that “we can offer people credible, evidence-based information to help them make their decisions.”

He said the most important thing residents can do is getting their flu shot and staying up to date on your COVID vaccinations. “Even though these vaccines may not prevent infection, they provide excellent protection against severe disease and keep you out of the hospital,” Harper said.

As for which is more dangerous to the public —COVID or the flu— he said “The flu season in California and the U.S. started early this year and is likely why we are seeing a strain on hospital capacity in the county right now.”

COVID hospitalizations are rising as well, but the current rate (there are 94 people hospitalized with COVID in Contra Costa right now) is far from the more than 330 COVID hospitalizations the county saw during the peak of the original Omicron wave in January.

“We’ll have to see what January brings us in 2023 as it pertains to COVID,” he said.

Infectious disease specialists nationwide reportedly have said there are still people who don’t believe COVID vaccines work.

Harper countered with: “There’s ample scientific evidence and data showing that the COVID vaccines protect against hospitalization and death. But if someone is dead set against getting vaccinated, there are other tools at their disposal to protect themselves and others e.g. high-quality masks, staying home when you’re sick, and talking to your healthcare provider about treatment options if you become infected.”

The Paxlovid therapy for those who become infected with COVID is “free, effective and widely available, but under-utlilized,” Harper said, paraphrasing the state’s health officer Dr. Tomás J. Aragón.

People who test positive for COVID-19 should immediately contact a health care provider because treatments must start within the first five to seven days after symptoms begin, Aragon said in a press release. Most treatments are pills that can be taken at home, such as Paxlovid, which can reduce the risk of hospitalization or death by up to 50% and 88%.

Harper also said the county does not keep local data to track ‘long COVID’. But its symptoms include:

• Tiredness or fatigue that interferes with daily life;

• Symptoms that get worse after physical or mental effort (also known as “post-exertional malaise”), fever, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, cough, chest pain, fast-beating or pounding heart (also known as heart palpitations), difficulty thinking or concentrating (sometimes referred to as “brain fog”), headache, sleep problems, dizziness when you stand up (lightheadedness), pins-and-needles feelings, change in smell or taste;

• Depression or anxiety, diarrhea, stomach pain, joint or muscle pain, rash, changes in menstrual cycles.

OBITUARIES

Alma Maxine Adams

Oct. 6, 1923 – Dec. 9, 2022

Maxine was born in Coodys Bluff, Oklahoma Indian Territory to Felix and Viola Long. The eldest of four daughters, she grew up on a farm, attending a two-room school until high school. After graduating from Nowada High School, she attended a business college in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

In 1942, her family settled in Brentwood, Calif., and Maxine went to San Francisco to live with friends and worked for Transport Clearing for the next 34 years.

In 1945, VJ Day, she met her future husband Kurtis on a blind date, and they married in October, 1946. While in San Francisco, they

became 49ers fans, attending games at Kezar Stadium, and attended baseball games at Seals Stadium. In 1978, Transport Clearings relocated to Santa Cruz. Kurt had just retired, and they moved to Aptos, and she continued with the company until their closing.

In San Francisco, Maxine was a member of St. John’s Presbyterian Church, where she served as a deacon and elder. Her membership was transferred to St. Andrew Presbyterian Church in Aptos, and she served actively as deacon and elder. During her later years, she was employed by Santa Cruz Motors, and in 2015 retired from Ocean Honda after many years.

Maxine was known by many as “Aunt

Anthony M. Massoni

Sept. 2, 1953 – Dec. 13, 2022

Anthony was born in Antioch, California on Sept. 2, 1953 to Roy and Joyce Massoni. He grew up in the community of Oakley and attended Oakley schools until 8th grade. As a child, he was known for his rambunctious and determined personality; traits that earned him the nickname “Spunky.” This nickname would unknowingly and affectionately carry with him throughout his lifetime. From a very early age, he was immersed in farming, spending many hours helping in his grandparents’ and uncles’ almond and walnut orchards.

Anthony graduated from Liberty High School where he was active in the Future Farmers of America Club and became known for driving his GTO way too fast and perfecting donuts. He was also a regular on the Antioch Cruise. Following high school, rather than waiting to be drafted, he chose to enlist in the United States Army.

After finishing his years of service in the Army, he returned home and began to work for his uncles Harry and Gino Simoni, who at that time had become well-known for their sweet corn. Through Anthony’s contributions, the business expanded into cannery tomatoes, lettuce, cabbage, and the “Spunky” label of cantaloupes.

He also ran a successful U-pick for many years drawing many loyal customers from all over the Bay Area. Following the deaths of his uncles, the business was

reestablished as Simoni-Massoni Farms. Working with his cousin Paul Simoni, and later his son Nick, Anthony continued to lead the innovation and expansion of the family business.

Anthony was known to be an exceptional farmer with an unparalleled work ethic. Farming and a love for the land ran deep in his blood. He valued all of his employees and the vital part they played in growing, harvesting, and packing the crops that feed so many. He respected and embodied hard work, honesty, and never asked his employees to give more than he gave of himself.

On Feb. 11, 1978 he married his be-

loved wife Cathy. Little did they know that their first introduction had occurred in the nursery of the Antioch Hospital where they were born only hours apart. Soon after marrying, they had two children, Nicholas and Meagan.

His family would later grow with the addition of his daughter-in-law Taryn and son-in-law Eric and five very precious grandchildren.

Family was everything to Anthony. He was a loving, supportive, and encouraging father and husband and was the “rock” of our family. He had the ability to bring humor to any situation and always made you feel as though things would be alright. He felt great joy and responsibility to keep the memories and stories alive of both his Simoni and Massoni families. We loved hearing these stories over, and over, and over again. His love for his mother Joyce, brother Roy, and sister Stephanie was endless. In the last several years, he had the strength to be their “rock” too.

The outdoors and hunting were a large part of Anthony’s life. Through this sport, he shared many wonderful times with family and friends. The camaraderie, shared meals, laughs, and jokes brought him great happiness and valued friendships.

He looked forward to the winter months when he had more time to travel with his family. He cherished the travels he was able to share with his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Mac.” Even to the very end, she loved her walks along the beach.

She was predeceased by her parents, her husband of 62 years, Kurtis, and her sister, Wanda. She is survived by her two sisters, Earline Dal Porto and Patricia Casey –both of Brentwood – also nieces Vickie Del Colletti, Karen Mancuso, and Denise Mcclune, and nephews, Mike and Mark Casey, and Dennis Chapman. She was loved by her many caregivers, especially her great-nephew, Joe Del Colletti.

Her ashes will be joined with Kurt’s, and they will be buried at the Brentwood Cemetery. A memorial service will be later at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church in Aptos.

Anthony is survived by his wife Cathy, son Nicholas and his wife Taryn, daughter Meagan and her husband Eric Gargiulo, and five grandchildren: Sadie, Ellie, and Garrett Massoni and Madison and Emmie Gargiulo; his mother, Joyce Massoni, brother Roy, and sister Stephanie. He is also survived by sister-in-laws, brother-in-laws, and numerous nieces and nephews who he loved and with whom he enjoyed many, many years of family gatherings. He is predeceased by his father Roy Massoni, his mother and fatherin-law Richard and Helen Cakebread, and a son who was sadly lost before birth.

If you wish, in lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the Simoni-Massoni Scholarship Fund through Liberty Union High School or a charity of your choice. Anthony passed suddenly and unexpectedly while on a hunting trip with his son in a place that he loved.

He would love for you to take pleasure in driving by a beautiful field of growing crops, find joy in sipping on a Long Island Iced Tea, and for you to enjoy every minute you have on this Earth with your loved ones. Now it is our privilege and honor to share our stories and memories of him for generations to come.

A service was held on Thursday, Dec. 22, 2022 at 10 a.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Brentwood. A celebration of his life followed at Simoni-Massoni Farms. His family thanks everyone who came together to honor him.

Hometown SportS

Heritage girls win fourth in a row

Patriots’ second victory over James Logan this season

Since opening the season with a home loss to perennial state powerhouse Archbishop Mitty, the Heritage girls basketball team has run off four victories in a row after defeating James Logan at home on Wednesday night.

The Patriots defeated Logan 55-41 on Wednesday, Dec. 14, their second victory over the Colts on the young season, after also facing each other at the recent Miramonte Peyo Classic. Junior guard Kendall McClure continued her recent strong play with a game-high 21 points, while senior post Amanda Muse added 15 points, including a buzzer-beater at the end of the first half that gave Heritage a nine-point lead at the break. Muse missed just one attempt from the field in the game, and made her presence felt in the paint with 19 rebounds and a pair of blocked shots.

“We are really beginning to come into ourselves as a team and figure out who we are,” said McClure. “We have not only started to figure each other out, but also how to create our identity as a team. Moving forward not as five separate players, but as a unit, has allowed us to start to be successful.”

Junior post Abby Livermore added six points and five rebounds for the Patriots, while McClure and senior Kimora McLemore had three assists each, rounding out a balanced effort.

The win over the Colts came following a dominant performance at the Peyo Classic. Heritage took down Riordan, 65-32, beat James Logan 68-49 and Monte Vista, 68-48, to repeat as tournament champions. McClure was named tournament MVP after a 30-point, seven-rebound, six-assist performance in the championship game,

while Muse joined her on the all-tournament team. Muse totaled 44 points, 38 rebounds and seven blocked shots during the three-game stretch.

“I really want to step into a role as a leader on this team and help establish that girls basketball deserves to be here,” McClure added. “I would be selling myself

short if I didn’t give it everything I had, so it’s my goal to do that every second of every practice and every game.”

Heritage took a week off before starting the Trojan Toss Up at Oak Ridge on Dec. 21, when the Patriots took on Rocklin in their tournament opener.

– By Nate Smith

For love of the game and getting stronger

Excel Sports League enables kids to play

basketball year round

The sweet sounds of basketball reverberate around the gym; the familiar squeaks of sneakers, basketballs bouncing, some in unison, some echoing over one another, whistles blowing, buzzers sounding and cheers from the stands. Overhead, the gym lights cast an artificial glow onto the two courts below, which at this point hold the efforts of 40 kids. Over the course of this one Saturday, these 2 courts will see more than 300 kids participate in basketball games.

These kids range in age from 4-17 years old. You might catch a 4-year-old in the Starters Division who will make their first successful basketball pass and then run back to get a hug from their mom in the stands. On this same day, you may see an 8-year-old child complete a successful screen and then get a high five from their coach. Later in the day, a 16-year-old leaves it all on the court, because after being cut from their highly competitive high school program, this is the only place that is left for them to

play at their age. These are the types of moments that you might catch if you pay close enough attention throughout the course of a Saturday at Excel Sports League.

However, these moments are possible only through the dedicated work, long hours and organization skills of the founders of this league, William and Veronica Fleming. Like many sports leagues, there is a tremendous amount of work to be expected that goes into the sign-up process, evaluations, the formation of teams, ordering uniforms, facility rentals, scheduling and volunteer recruiting and assignment. This often occurs once a year for seasonal sports. This is where Excel Sports League is not only successful but unique. They provide a program for kids to play all year long.

There are four separate seasons each year, with about a 6-week break in between. That means that the tremendous amount of work that goes into what a seasonal sport sees once a year, happens before each season. For this to happen, you would think that William and Veronica must have a team behind them to make this happen, but it’s their own. All that background work is done out of their home and on their own.

Excel Sports League was founded in 2017, and held its first season in 2018. Just like the rest of the United States, it was affected during the national shutdown stem-

ming from COVID-19, but as soon as they were able to re-open play for the kids safely, they were excited to do so. The league is geared up for its biggest season yet, allowing 400 kids the space to learn and play basketball this coming winter beginning in January.

After player evaluations, doing their best to fulfill buddy and coach requests and team balancing and assignments for the most equitable and competitive experience possible in the program, 40 teams of 10 eager players have been created.

As a player parent, and volunteer coach, I look forward to the possibility and opportunity each season has to offer my three children, ages 8 to 15 years old. With this league, I can see all three of my children play on the same courts in one day. Every “Basketball Saturday,” as my family calls it, I always look around, and am amazed at what the husband and wife duo, William and Veronica Fleming, and their two children (who also play in the league) have established for and continue to maintain for the community. It is a labor of love borne from love for the sport of basketball and for the young kids that just want to play ball.

For more information on the league and contact information for the league, visit https://excelsportsleague.com/

By Cody Gomez

Heritage girls varsity basketball team repeat as tournament champions at the Peyo Classic.

Photo courtesy of Nate Smith

Community Chest holiday basket event helps more than 300 needy families

By Jake Menez Staff Writer

The Brentwood Regional Community Chest held its annual holiday basket program on Dec. 17, giving out non-perishable food, holiday dinners and toys to families who need extra help this holiday season.

Attendees were provided with a warm breakfast as well, courtesy of the Brentwood Rotary Club.

This year’s event was successful in that an estimated 350 families came to the Brentwood Senior Activity Center for assistance, according to Lill Pierce, an organizer at the Community Chest and a relative of the organization’s founder.

Families from Brentwood, Byron, Discovery Bay and Knightsen were eligible to register to receive the baskets. Oakley and Bethel Island residents are served by the Friends of Oakley organization, who held a separate event on Dec. 11.

Community Chest volunteers gathered in the Brentwood Elementary School cafeteria on Friday, Dec. 16 to pack the boxes of food before distributing them from 7:30 a.m. until noon the following morn-

ing. Much of the food, as well as toys and other items, was donated by residents who dropped off supplies in barrels and bins that had peppered East County since midNovember.

The Community Chest was founded by Rose Pierce more than 50 years ago, according to the organization’s website. Pierce founded the Delta East Coalition to collect money and food for needy families throughout Contra Costa County before the program evolved into the Brentwood Regional Community Chest. A moment of silence is held each year on the Friday night of packing in honor of Pierce, who died in 2006.

The program is largely dependent on the support of individuals, families and businesses, according to the Community Chest’s website. Lill Pierce said that support is not hard to come by. “People are very generous with their time and funds,” she said. “Our community has been very supportive of its own, with people and businesses coming together to help out those who need it.”

More information about the Brentwood Regional Community Chest can be found at www.brcchest.org.

Seen with The Press

Richard and Mary Fox traveled to Tunisia taking a copy of their favorite newspaper along for the ride. They took a horse-drawn carriage to explore Tozeur oasis where spring-fed canals water date palms seen in the background, as well as flowers, plums, grapes and pomegranates.

Photo courtesy of Richard and Mary Fox

o P inion

EDITORIALS, LETTERS & COMMENTARY

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

‘Twas the night before Christmas

‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house

Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse; The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there; The children were nestled all snug in their beds; While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads; And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap, Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap, When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter.

Away to the window I flew like a flash, Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash. The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow, Gave a lustre of midday to objects below, When what to my wondering eyes did appear, But a miniature sleigh and eight tiny rein-deer, With a little old driver so lively and quick, I knew in a moment he must be St. Nick. More rapid than eagles his coursers they came, And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name: “Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now Prancer and Vixen!

On, Comet! on, Cupid! on, Donner and Blitzen!

To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall! Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!”

As leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky; So up to the housetop the coursers they flew With the sleigh full of toys, and St. Nicholas too—

And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.

As I drew in my head, and was turning around, Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound. He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot, And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot;

A bundle of toys he had flung on his back, And he looked like a pedler just opening his pack. His eyes—how they twinkled! his dimples, how merry! His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!

His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, And the beard on his chin was as white as the snow;

The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth, And the smoke, it encircled his head like a wreath;

He had a broad face and a little round belly That shook when he laughed, like a bowl full of jelly.

He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf, And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself;

A wink of his eye and a twist of his head Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread; He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work, And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk, And laying his finger aside of his nose, And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose; He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, And away they all flew like the down of a thistle. But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight— “Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”

By Clement Clarke Moore

City of Brentwood City Manager and City Council

City Hall

150 City Park Way Brentwood, CA 94513

Phone: 925-516-5440 www.brentwoodca.gov

City of Antioch City Manager and City Council City Hall 3rd and H streets Antioch, CA 94509

Phone: 925-779-7000 www.ci.antioch.ca.us

City of Oakley City Manager and City Council City Hall 3231 Main St. Oakley, CA 94561 Phone: 925-625-7000 www.ci.oakley.ca.us

Town of Discovery Bay Town Manager and Community Services District 1800 Willow Lake Road Discovery Bay, CA 94505

Phone: 925-634-1131 www.todb.ca.gov

GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS

County Supervisor, Dist. III Diane Burgis 3361 Walnut Blvd., Suite 140 Brentwood, CA 94513 Phone: 925-252-4500 Fax: 925-240-7261 dist3@bos.cccounty.us County Supervisor, Dist. V Federal D. Glover 190 E 4th St. Pittsburg, CA 94565

Phone: 925-608-4200 Fax: 925-427-8142 district5@bos. cccounty.us

State Sen. Steve Glazer

Seventh Senate District Capitol Office: State Capitol, Room 4082 Sacramento, CA 95814 Phone: 916-651-4007 District Office: 420 West Third St. Antioch, CA 94509 Phone: 925-258-1176 Fax: 925-258-9982 Cell: 925-963-1611 http://sd07.senate. ca.gov

Assemblymember Jim Frazier

11th Assembly District

Capitol Office: P.O. Box 942849 Sacramento, CA 94249

Phone: 916-319-2011

District Office: 150 City Park Way Brentwood, CA 94513 Phone: 925-513-0411 Fax: 925-513-3511 www.asmdc.org/members/a11

Gov. Gavin Newsom State Capitol, Suite 1173 Sacramento, CA 95814 Phone: 916-445-2841 Fax: 916-558-3160 www.gov.ca.gov

U.S. Rep. Jerry McNerney

9th Congressional District Washington, DC Office: 2265 Rayburn HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: 202-225-1947 Fax: 202-225-4060

Antioch Office: 4703 Lone Tree Way Antioch, CA 94531 Phone: 925-754-0716

Fax: 925-754-0728 www.mcnerney. house.gov

U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla Washington, DC Office: 408 Dirksen SOB Washington, DC 20510 Phone: 202-224-3553 Fax: 202-224-2200 www.padilla.senate.gov

U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein Washington, DC Office: 331 Hart SOB Washington, DC 20510 Phone: 202-224-3841 Fax: 202-228-3954

San Francisco Office: One Post St., Room 2450 San Francisco, CA 94104 Phone: 415-393-0707 Fax: 415-393-0710 www.feinstein. senate.gov

President Joe Biden

The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Washington, DC 20500 Phone: 202-456-1111 Fax: 202-456-2461

Corrections

A story in the Dec. 16 edition of The Press incorrectly printed Oakley City Council member Shannon Shaw’s name. Another story in the same edition left out some information about a holiday food giveaway in Oakley because of a production error: The Oakley Rotary Club was instrumental in shopping for toys, helping prepare for the event, filling 205 bags of toys for distribution and assisting at the event, according to the club’s Brenda D’Amico. We regret the errors.

Cop logs

BRENTWOOD - November 24, 7:50 a.m. www.facebook.com/thepress.net

The following is a selection of recent law enforcement activity:

OAKLEY

Nov. 20, 1:22 a.m. A welfare check was conducted on Century Way/Heritage Way.

Nov. 20, 2:34 a.m. A hit and run misdemeanor was reported at the 20 block on Roger Lane.

Nov. 20, 10:49 a.m. A hit and run misdemeanor was reported at Freedom High School.

Nov. 20, 11:48 a.m. A case of disturbing the peace was reported at the 3000 block on Michelle Lane.

Nov. 20, 2:02 p.m. A case of disturbing the peace was reported at the 200 block on W. Cypress Road.

Nov. 20, 2:17 p.m. A domestic disturbance was reported at the 2000 block on Rubens Way.

Nov. 20, 3:12 p.m. A welfare check was conducted at the 4800 block on Carrington Drive.

Nov. 20, 4:03 p.m. A trespasser with a vehicle was reported on Laurel Road/Creekside Court.

Nov. 20, 5:14 p.m. A case of suspicious circumstances was reported at the Rite Aid in Oakley.

Nov. 20, 5:26 p.m. A case of disturbing the peace was reported at the 700 block on Huffaker Drive.

Nov. 20, 8:41 p.m. A verbal dispute was reported at the 1800 block on Allagash Court.

Nov. 21, 6:20 a.m. A case of disturbing the peace was reported at the 1400 block on Yosemite Circle.

Nov. 21, 8:49 a.m. A case of petty theft was reported at the 100 block on Lozoya Way. Nov. 21, 8:57 a.m. A civil disturbance was reported at the 5000 block on Winchester Drive.

Nov. 21, 10:01 a.m. A custody order violation was reported at the 700 block on Woodmeadow Place.

Nov. 21, 11:43 a.m. A case of petty theft from a vehicle was reported at the 4800 block on Bayside Way.

Nov. 21, 12:45 p.m. A traffic hazard was reported at the 4500 block on Duarte Avenue.

Nov. 21, 1:32 p.m. A hit and run misdemeanor was reported at Freedom High School.

Nov. 21, 1:38 p.m. A case of grand theft from a vehicle was reported at the 1700 block on Gateway Drive.

Nov. 21, 3:08 p.m. A case of suspicious circumstances was reported on Neroly Road/Bridgehead Road.

Nov. 21, 4:35 p.m. A commercial burglary was reported at the 4700 block on Wilbur Avenue.

Nov. 21, 6:19 p.m. A suspicious suspect was reported on Walnut Meadows Drive/ Beaulieu Lane.

Nov. 21, 8:02 p.m. A reckless driver was reported on Main Street/Laurel Road. Nov. 21, 10:09 p.m. A case of vandalism was reported at Vintage Parkway Elementary School.

Nov. 21, 11:44 a.m. An arrest warrant was served on Neroly Road/Empire Avenue.

BRENTWOOD

Nov. 24, 12:12 a.m. An accident with unknown injuries was reported on Walnut Boulevard/McClarren Road. A dark sedan ran into something and then tried to take off. Nov. 24, 7:50 a.m. A residential burglary was reported on Las Flores Drive. The suspect was found in the reporting party’s garage, with the call leading to an adult arrest.

Nov. 24, 9:20 a.m. A case of disturbing the peace was reported on Brentwood Boulevard. A homeless male threw an unknown liquid on the reporting party’s boyfriend.

Nov. 24, 9:38 a.m. A suspicious person was reported on Lone Tree Way. The reporting party said suspects are in the store attempting to steal. Male had a knife on his belt and the female had pepper spray on her keychain.

Nov. 24, 10:41 a.m. A health and safety violation was reported on Central Boulevard. A sedan occupied by two juveniles smelled strongly of marijuana.

Nov. 24, 11:06 a.m. A case of disturbing the peace was reported on Broderick Drive. Suspect swatted the phone out of the reporting party’s hand during a custody exchange.

Nov. 24, 2:31 p.m. An accident with unknown injuries occurred on Balfour Road/Waldon Street.

Nov. 24, 3:25 p.m. A restraining order violation occurred on Shady Willow Lane. The reporting party’s child’s father walked down the stairs after being at the front door.

Nov. 24, 4:27 p.m. A hit and run with no injuries occurred on O’Hara Avenue/ Sand Creek Road. A silver Honda Civic hit a pole and then backed up and turned onto a side road.

Nov. 24, 11:10 p.m. A suspicious vehicle was reported on Milford Street. A male parked in front of the reporting party’s house across the street. The reporting party went up to his vehicle to ask why he

was there and male threatened to hit the reporting party.

Nov. 25, 5:22 a.m. A hit and run with no injuries occurred on Nancy Street/Woodfield Lane. There was a street sign that was knocked over.

Nov. 25, 9:01 a.m. An accident with unknown injuries occurred on Sellers Avenue/Balfour Road.

Nov. 25, 9:08 a.m. A case of vandalism was reported on Brentwood Boulevard. A homeless female was hitting an employee’s vehicle with her body.

Nov. 25, 9:53 a.m. A case of grand theft was reported on Sand creek Road. About $2,000 was taken.

Nov. 25, 10:17 a.m. A harassment complaint was reported on Grovewood Loop. Neighbor was dropping off love letters for the reporting party’s daughter. Nov. 25, 10:35 a.m. A case of grand theft was reported on Sand Creek Road. Nov. 25, 10:37 a.m. An accident with major injuries occurred on Balfour Road. The reporting party was walking and the suspect hit him with his vehicle.

Nov. 25, 2:06 p.m. A fire was reported on Orchard Drive/McClarren Road. Nov. 25, 2:31 p.m. A case of petty theft was reported on Walnut Boulevard. Automotive supplies were taken. Nov. 25, 5:18 p.m. A subject with a gun was reported on Minnesota Avenue/Central Boulevard. The reporting party was riding a bike in the area when a male in a white Mercedez pulled a gun on the reporting party.

Nov. 25, 9:42 p.m. A vehicle theft was reported on Sand Creek Road. Nov. 25, 10:10 p.m. A restraining order violation was reported on Spanish Bay Drive.

ANTIOCH

Dec. 11, 1:14 a.m. An armed robbery was reported at the 2400 block on Mahogany Way.

Dec. 11, 4:56 a.m. A collision with no injuries was reported at the 1200 block on W. 4th Street.

Dec. 11, 5:08 a.m. A collision with unknown injuries was reported on Deer Valley Road/Bluerock Drive.

Dec. 11, 6:07 a.m. A suspicious vehicle was reported on Lone Tree Way/Worrell Road.

Dec. 11, 9:17 a.m. A commercial burglary was reported at the 4500 block on Lone Tree Way. Dec. 11, 10:57 a.m. A vehicle theft occurred at the 800 block on W. 9th Street. Dec. 11, 12:53 p.m. A traffic accident with injuries occurred on G Street/W. 9th Street.

Dec. 11, 1:57 p.m. A strong-arm robbery was reported at the 3100 block on Buchanan Road.

Dec. 11, 6:14 p.m. A traffic accident with injuries was reported on Lone Tree Way/ Highway 4.

Dec. 11, 7:48 p.m. A commercial burglary was reported at the 3700 block on Lone Tree Way.

Dec. 11, 8:45 p.m. A case of petty theft was reported at the 5700 block on Lone Tree Way.

Dec. 12, 1:06 a.m. An aggravated assault was reported at the 2600 block on Lucena Way. Dec. 12, 2:11 a.m. A case of vandalism was reported at the 5000 block on Morgan Way. Dec. 12, 5:08 a.m. A vehicle burglary was reported at the 300 block on W. 5th Street.

Dec. 12, 5:56 a.m. A simple assault was reported at the 800 block on E. 18th Street.

Dec. 12, 7:23 a.m. A hit and run with no injuries occurred on W. 6th Street/B Street.

Dec. 12, 8:24 a.m. A harassment complaint was reported at the 300 block on L Street.

Dec. 12, 9:16 a.m. A suspicious vehicle was reported at the 4800 block on Belford Peak Way.

Dec. 12, 9:27 a.m. A commercial burglary was reported at the 600 block on Wilbur Avenue.

Dec. 12, 10:57 a.m. A commercial burglary was reported at the 4500 block on Lone Tree Way.

Dec. 12, 11:27 a.m. A welfare check was conducted at the 3900 block on Caples Court.

Dec. 12, 11:32 a.m. A vehicle burglary was reported at the 3600 block on Garrow Drive.

Dec. 12, 12:02 p.m. A commercial burglary was reported at the 3600 block on Delta Fair Boulevard.

Dec. 12, 1:07 p.m. An aggravated assault was reported at the 1100 block on Sycamore Drive.

Dec. 12, 2:37 p.m. A case of identity theft was reported at the 300 block on L Street. Dec. 12, 3:13 p.m. An assault with a deadly weapon was reported at the 100 block on Fitzuren Road.

Dec. 12, 3:23 p.m. A simple assault was reported at the 4500 block on Sand Creek Road. Dec. 12, 3:50 p.m. A verbal dispute was reported at the 4500 block on Sand Creek Road.

Dec. 12, 5:12 p.m. A vehicle theft was reported at the 5700 block on Lone Tree Way. Dec. 12, 9:26 p.m. A traffic accident with injuries occurred on Golf Course Road/ Lone Tree Way.

Dec. 12, 10:12 p.m. A commercial burglary was reported at the 5800 block on Lone Tree Way.

A residential burglary was reported on Las Flores Drive. The suspect was found in the reporting party’s garage, with the call leading to an adult arrest.

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LEGAL NOTICES

PETITIONER OR ATTORNEY: Teresa Gayle Schaffer SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF CONTRA COSTA, 725 Court Street Martinez, CA 94553 PETITION OF: Teresa Gayle Schaffer CASE NUMBER: N22-2265

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner Teresa Gayle Schaffer filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present Name: a. Teresa Gayle Schaffer b. AKA Teri Schaffer to Proposed Name: Teresa Gayle Balance. 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING a. Date: 2/22/2023 Time: 9:00 a.m. Dept: 30 b. The address of the court is same as noted above. 3. a. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Brentwood Press. Date: November 23, 2022

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LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

Judge of the Superior Court Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 89578 Publish Dates: December 9,16, 23, 30, 2022.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

File No. F-2022-0006375 The name of the business(es): Rainbow Italian Ice 2 Located at: 2623 Manresa Shore Lane In: Oakley, CA 94561, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Kevin D. Webster. 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: Kevin D Webster, Individual. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: November 16, 2022 by Deputy Clerk Expires 11/15/2022 Oakley Press No. 03-0477 89650 Publish dates: December 16, 23, 30, 2022, January 6, 2023.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

File No. F-2022-0006486 The name of the business(es): New Wave Auto Sales Located at: 1189 Main Street Ste 101 In: Oakley, CA 94561, is hereby registered by the following owner: Livings Automotive 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: Terry Livings, CEO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: November 22, 2022

by Deputy Clerk Expires 11/21/2027. Brentwood Press No. 03-0477 89546 Publish dates: December 2, 9,16, 23, 2022.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

File No. F-2022-0006598 The name of the business(es): National Community Empowerment Programs, Inc. Located at: 4110 Woodhaven Lane In: Oakley, CA 94561, is hereby registered by the following owner: Janice A Gomes. This business is conducted by: Corporation, State of Incorporation.CA. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 7/6/1998. Signature of registrant: Janice A Gomes, CEO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: November 30, 2022 by Deputy Clerk Expires 11/29/2027 Oakley Press No. 03-0477 89629 Publish dates: December 16, 23, 30, 2022, January 6, 2023.

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on January 5th,

at 10:30 a.m. In order

due from you. The sale will take place at 1315 Main Street, Oakley, CA 94561 County of Contra Costa state of California. This lien sale is pursuant to Chapter 10 Section 21700-21716 of the California Self Service Storage Facility Act. Auction is to be held by Jason Whitt ms#199016. Owner reserves the right to bid at the sale. Purchase must be in cash only paid at the time of the sale. Sale is subject to prior cancellation, in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. Oakley Press No. 03-0477 89677 Publish Dates: December 23, 30, 2022.

NOTICE OF LIEN SALE

The following persons are in lien at Oakley Gateway Self Storage 2101 Laurel Rd. Oakley, CA 94561: Wanda Weaver Rebecca Solorzono Tamara White

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

All bids mist be placed prior to Auction posted end time The date of the sale will be 1/04/23 @ 12:00 pm. The location of the sale will be: Online at www.storagetreasures.com Oakley Press No. 03-0477 89676 Publish Dates: December 23, 30, 2022.

Cassie Cavanaugh, and #995 John Parnell. The goods are described as furniture, tools and miscellaneous personal property items being sold pursuant to the assertion of the lien

2022

to collect the amounts

cember. They are over-the-top Christmas decorations put up by residents to spread the joy of the holiday season and include tunnels of lights over the sidewalks. Each year, residents choose a family affected by pediatric cancer and collect donations from the community to help with the overwhelming costs that come with a cancer diagnosis.

The tunnels were originally the neighborhood’s effort to support one of their own families when resident Joy Bursch lost her battle with breast cancer in 2009. The street – always a brightly lit participant in seasonal merriment – began adding more lights each year, including “Joy” signs. The tradition has morphed into a major area attraction each December, with food trucks, live entertainment and raffles encompassing more than 150 homes on multiple streets.

“We have had food vendors and entertainment, and we had the classic cars pass by and the fire engine pass by,” said longtime resident Yvette Gardizi, whose family takes credit for the first set of tunnels. “We don’t have any more major events planned this year, but the donation boxes will still be out and the neighbors generally keep the lights up through New Years. So we invite everyone to come by, see the lights, and donate.”

Some of this year’s highlights include a

Course from page 1

noted in an email.

Grinch-themed house, and an elegant Hallmark House that has been the site of several marriage proposals.

Gardizi said Cristian became the Tunnels’ fundraising target because he fit the criteria of a local pediatric cancer patient. Other families were considered as well, but their diagnoses were older, meaning they already had support groups and GoFundMe accounts in place. Cristian’s cancer was discovered only in September, when he fell while playing football with his friends. The

Tunnels of Joy, an annual light display and fundraiser in Brentwood, draws spectators from all over East County during the holiday season.

from the community every day, and Cristian has enjoyed being “famous.” He is the youngest of four children and the family is pulling together to overcome the hurdles they face with Cristian’s cancer. They currently travel to Oakland weekly for chemotherapy and look forward to the day Cristian can move on from this stage of his life.

“Tunnels of Joy has been amazing,” said Munoz. “I can’t believe the love and support that my son has received and everyone that puts the Tunnels of Joy together has been so welcoming to my family and to Cristian and you just feel the love.”

resulting pain led his family to the hospital where doctors discovered internal bleeding and a large tumor on his kidney.

“There are so many deserving families, but we chose them because of the connection of one of our neighbors who knows them and they had just received his diagnosis, so we were able to get in and help them early on,” said Gardizi. “We felt like we could impact the Munoz family the most so that’s why we chose them.”

Munoz said her family feels the love

The Tunnels of Joy are located in the Deer Ridge development on the loop made up by La Costa and Pasatiempo drives in Brentwood, as well as the surrounding loop made up by Torrey Pines and Rancho Canada drives.

For more information, visit the Tunnels of Joy Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/tunnelsofjoy/ or follow them on Instagram @tunnelsofjoy.

Donations to the Munoz family can be made through Venmo to @Cristian_Munoz11. For the QR code, visit the Tunnels of Joy Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/tunnelsofjoy/

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

East Contra Costa County has seen several recent political battles over proposals to convert golf courses to housing projects.

The golf course closure was also cause for resident concern at the Dec. 13 city council meeting, with residents who live in the gated community on the golf course asking council to better define the effects of the closure. Concerns included whether the general public would be able to use the “open space” created by the closure, allowing them to effectively enter the gated community to use former trails for golf carts, and who would be in charge of mosquito abatement on the bodies of water created for the course.

“We are equally concerned with the announced closure of the Diablo course,” Ogden said during the meeting. “The city has a vested interest in the residents’ quality of life and satisfaction out in those neighborhoods. The city has been in contact with the golf course owner and [we] have an understanding that he intends to schedule a town hall with all the residents that could be impacted by the closure.”

The city also posted this statement on social media: Recently it was brought to the City’s attention that the Diablo 9 golf course will be closing in the coming year and that the 18-hole Brentwood Golf Course will remain open.

The property owner has assured the City that a meeting with nearby neighbors will be scheduled soon, and that they will maintain the property after the course is closed.

The City is very concerned about this closure and created the following FAQs for residents:

• Does the City of Brentwood have any interest (ownership or otherwise) in Brentwood Golf Club Diablo course?

• No, the entire property is privately owned and the City has no ownership interest.

• What does the City zoning allow for the Diablo golf course site?

The site is zoned PD-15. The permitted uses for the Diablo golf course site include the following: golf course and related facilities; either age-restricted or non-age restricted detached homes depending on the location within the project; and, homeowners’ association recreation buildings, tennis courts, recreation vehicle parking lots, other common-use facilities. The complete zoning requirements can be found at the following link: https://library.qcode.us/.../title_17-article_viii.

• What will the City do to ensure that weeds are abated at the site?

The City’s weed abatement regulations will be enforced. The property owner will be required to mow all weeds within 30 feet of any residential property line. All other vegetation

outside of the 30-foot buffer area can be allowed to grow freely. Contra Costa Fire Protection District will inspect the area during fire season to ensure the required firebreaks are provided.

• What can be done about any trees that may die?

• The City will request the property owner to remove any dead trees that are visible to the public right of way.

• What can be done to ensure the ponds are maintained?

• The property owner is not required to keep the ponds filled with water. Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District can be contacted at 925-685-9301 to report concerns regarding stagnant water and possible mosquitoes. More information is available on their website www. contracostamosquito.com

• How can a resident submit a complaint or concern to the City?

Residents are encouraged to contact Brentwood Golf Club directly at 925-516-3400. Residents may utilize the Brentwood Connect 24/7 app to report any concerns to the City. The link and the desktop version are available here: Brentwood Connect 24/7 https://www.brentwoodca. gov/.../public-works/service-request

As the City receives additional information, we will update these FAQs.

For more information, see https://brentwoodgolf.com/ the-club.

Photo by Melissa van Ruiten

Volunteers gave away holiday gifts and winter coats to nearly 300 children as part of an event on Dec. 15.

Support

Non-profit delivers for Bethel Island children

Last Thursday, 279 Bethel Island children took home warm coats and Christmas presents from a well-attended community event sponsored by Bethel Island Children’s Support (BICS).

This annual event brings everyone together for arts and crafts, visits with Santa, balloon twisting and doughnuts, cookies, candy and pizza. Each child can leave the event with a picture of their family with Santa, a smile, a special balloon design and some presents. Many families make this party a cornerstone of their holiday activities, and some presents find their way under the family Christmas trees at home.

“This community is very special, and these families and kids deserve all the happiness and support we can put together for them,” said Gina Gloski, president of BICS. “I’m proud of our organization and the work we do to help this community. We get terrific support from residents, local businesses and many of the service agencies, which makes it all possible.”

This year, the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Department collected toys at a nearby Safeway one recent Saturday to support this event. Community Outreach Specialist Tony Fontenot attended the event with

one of his deputies to see how their work affects the children and their families.

“We’ve heard this is a great event every year, and our department is happy to team up with BICS to help the children in our community have a special holiday experience, “Fontenot said.

BICS works with the local school district to provide back-to-school supplies and new backpacks to children on Bethel Island and nearby areas during the summer, and eligible juniors and seniors can apply to receive a new laptop computer to support their continuing education. This year, the organization has awarded their first college scholarship.

“BICS is now a very well organized 501(c)(3) nonprofit, completely volunteer based, and a strong asset to the community,” said Education Director Maria Bordanaro. “The scholarship program is the next step in helping children fulfill their dreams to support training and higher education after high school.”

To learn more about BICS, how to be involved, volunteer time and skills or donate to the programs, visit www.bethelislandchildren.org.

– Bethel Island Children’s Support

Law Office of Ruth N.

Plan & Protect YOUR LEGACY

Our

Photo courtesy of Bethel Island Children’s