For decades, the boundary between west Brentwood and east Antioch was defined by Heidorn Road near Sand Creek Road. Now with the completion of the Sand Creek Road extension last year, the two neighboring cities are more connected than ever and are growing closer to one another.
With a wave of new housing projects coming, it is essentially merging the two cities into what seems like a singular suburban landscape. The two new communities – Brooks at Creekside and the Trails at Creekside – development in Antioch and the upcoming Bridle Gate development in
Brentwood now share Sand Creek Road as the entrance of the two new housing developments, with Heidorn Ranch Road still acting as the dividing line for the extended reach of both cities.
Zoe Meredith, the planning manager for the City of Antioch, noted that this
Houses are under construction at Brooks and Trails at Creekside in Antioch.
corridor represents a primary link in the physical connection between the neighboring cities. “(There’s) definitely more of a connection happening,” Meredith said. “Both communities really have been growing.”
The Brooks and Trails communities
Brentwood and Antioch growing together
at Creekside development in southeast Antioch, built by Tri Pointe Homes, pushes the city’s geographic boundaries to its southeastern corner. The 220-home project features three- to five-bedroom houses ranging from 2,435 square feet to 3,684 square feet on lots of up to 5,500 square feet. While move-in dates remain fluid, model homes are scheduled to open in May or June, with the first home expected to be move-in ready by September or October.
The development’s primary entrance is at the extension of Hillcrest Avenue at Sand Creek Road.
“There’s one main entrance and then there’s two emergency exits,” Meredith said. “They’re building a second EVA (emergency vehicle access) pedestrian bridge (at Heidorn Ranch Road) that will
County breaks ground on Brentwood service center
By Jake Menez Staff Writer
County representatives are touting the benefits of a new East County Service Center in the future, but Brentwood officials are not so convinced.
Representatives from the County’s District 3 and from cities in the district gathered in the vacant lot on Technology Way in Brentwood for a groundbreaking ceremony on March 31 intended to kick off construction of the Service Center. The county has touted the project for creating jobs locally and lessening commuter traffic, Brentwood officials are concerned about the project.
“When these doors open, the center will bring services closer
to home and improve lives everywhere, every day,” District 3 Supervisor Diane Burgis said at the ceremony. “This project reflects a simple idea with a powerful impact: government services should be easy to access and centered on the people we serve.”
The service center, expected to open in December 2027, is intended to house multiple County departments and provide a centralized service center for East County residents with 441 county employees, including approximately 150 relocated from other county facilities, according to the agenda packet for the Feb. 10 meeting of the Brentwood City Council when they received an update. During the groundbreaking ceremony, Burgis and other county Supervisors underscored the importance of bringing jobs to Brentwood.
“The opening of the center
will be a true public benefit, not only to the public, but to our county staff, the local economy and our environment,” District 4 Supervisor Ken Carlson said. “This will enable our East County residents to get services right here in their backyard, and not have to travel that 30 miles to get to Martinez, or other service centers across the
county. Less pollution, less travel time, less congestion, less expense for all of them. For our county staff, it mirrors that same pattern … The residents of Brentwood, Oakley, Antioch, they’re going to be working closer to home.”
The positive environmental impact of the project was a recurring topic during the ceremony,
with Chief Assistant County Administrator Eric Angstadt saying the building would make more energy than it will use.
“What we have here behind us is gonna be a three-story, 117,000-square foot building,” he said. “It’s gonna be a mass timber building, which is one of the most sustainable ways to build these days – really lowers the emitted carbon. We’re going to use geothermal for most of our heating and cooling … cooling is especially important here in Brentwood, because the heat is going to be provided by the geothermal field. It will have enough solar power to offset all of our energy use.”
Angstadt also pointed out that the site would include charging stations for electric vehicles, including fleet vehicles. He said that the site would use solar en-
Submitted Photo
Photo by Jake Menez
County offers permit for home food businesses
By Sean Tongson Correspondent
Contra Costa Health is offering two kinds of permits for home-based food operations for those interested in starting their own home food business.
A cottage food operation (CFO) is one of two different home-based operations that allows limited amounts of certain foods to be prepared in a home kitchen for the purpose of retail sale. A CFO is able to prepare and package nonpotentially hazardous foods from home. The California Department of Public Health maintains a list of foods that are able to be sold from a private residence, as foods on the state listing are approved as cottage food products.
“Cottage Food Operation permits allow production and packaging of foods in home kitchens if they do not need time or temperature control to stay safe to eat,” said Will Harper, spokesperson for Contra Costa Health. “Examples include candy, baked goods with no cream or custard, honey, nuts and vinegar.”
A cottage food operation differs from the other homebased food operation, a microenterprise home kitchen operation (MEHKO), which is a small-scale, home-based restaurant operated by a resident in a private home. Only one of these businesses is allowed to be operated from a private residence because residents are not allowed to operate both a MEHKO and CFO. According to the county website, if you are interested in opening a cottage food operation, you must ensure products are on the approved cottage food list, then review cottage food labeling requirements. Next, you need a valid food handlers card, followed by completion of the CFO application packet, which includes:
• Completion of a CFO health permit application
• Completion of a CFO product ingredients form
• Review the CFO product label requirements
• Provide sample product labels
“Cottage Food Operation permits allow production and packaging of foods in home kitchens if they do not need time or temperature control to stay safe to eat,” said Will Harper, spokesperson for Contra Costa Health.
• Pay the application and health permit fee. For a list of fees, visit www.cchealth.org/about-contra-costahealth/divisions/environmental-health/scheduledfees#!/
• Additionally, according to their website, all CFO products must be properly labeled and legibly written in English while including the following:
• The words “Made in a Home Kitchen” or “Repackaged in a Home Kitchen” in 12-point type. Any purchased whole ready-to-eat product not used as an ingredient must be described.
• The common name of the product or an adequately descriptive name.
• The name, city, state, and ZIP code of the CFO. If the CFO is not listed in the current telephone directory,
the street address must also be declared.
• The registration or permit number.
• The name of the county where the permit was issued
• The product ingredients, listed in descending order of predominance by weight if the product contains two or more ingredients.
• The net quantity (including count, weight, or volume) of the product written in both English and in metric units.
• A declaration of any major food allergens in the product
There are two different types of cottage food operations; Class A and Class B. A Class A CFO may sell foods prepared in a home kitchen directly to the public, which includes transactions made over the phone, internet, and any other digital method. Direct sales may take place in person through mail delivery or using any other third-party delivery service.
A Class B CFO, meanwhile, can sell home-kitchen prepared foods directly to the public or indirectly through restaurants and food markets. Similar to a Class A CFO, a direct sale may be fulfilled in person, via mail delivery, or using any other third-party delivery service, while also including indirect sales. A Class A operator’s current maximum gross annual sales is $75,000, while a Class B operator is $150,000. If you are applying for a Class B CFO, you must prepare for the permitting inspection, and then obtain a home occupation permit by contacting your local city planning and zoning department for application and approval.
Contra Costa Health inspects only Class B (CFOs). Both Class A and Class B CFOs must ensure their products are on the approved food list, properly label all items, obtain a food handler card, and follow health and safety
see Permit page 18A
Photo by Contra Costa Health
Brentwood seeks to memorialize former city manager, volunteer
pography or historical precedent. “We’ve never named a facility after an individual, but that’s where the dedication piece of this policy comes into place.”
field
By Jake Menez Staff Writer
The City of Brentwood is looking for ways to memorialize former City Manager Jon Elam, who died on Nov. 19 of last year. Elam was 83.
During the March 26 meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission, the commissioners discussed the possibility of renaming Stonehaven Park to Jon Elam Park to honor Elam for his years of service to the city. Parks Maintenance Manager Aaron Wanden noted that Brentwood does not have a policy for the naming of parks after people.
“Unfortunately, city policy specifically states naming options will always consider a name based on the city’s geographic location,” Wanden explained, adding that other naming conventions approved by city policy include those based on to-
According to Wanden, the city policy encourages the dedication of facility improvements or enhancements, such as fields and benches, to be named after individuals. As examples, Wanden noted that three fields at the Sunset Park Athletic Complex are named after individuals as well as a soccer field at the Sand Creek Sports Complex named after educator Cecy Martinez, who was an avid soccer coach throughout her life.
“Seeing as we can’t name a park after Jon, I think it would be wonderful to do something in honor of him,” Chairperson Blythe Lind said.
Members of the commission brainstormed ideas, including a field at the Sand Creek Sports Complex or a bench in front of the Senior Activity Center where Elam volunteered for years, but did not reach a single idea. Instead, they chose to keep considering their proposal before bringing it to the City Council later for approval.
Elam served as Brentwood’s City Manager in 1998 and held a number of roles for different cities throughout the region until his retirement in 2017, includ-
ing service as a California Climate Registry Delegate to United Nations Climate Change Conferences from 2006 to 2015, according to city staff.
In retirement, Elam continued to give back to Brentwood through years of volunteer service, including as an election poll worker, Meals on Wheels driver, and supporter of the Brentwood Public Library, ODAT (One Day at a Time), Downtown Brentwood Coalition, and on the board of directors for the Brentwood Senior Center Club.
After his death, Elam was remembered by friends and city leaders as a man of service and a mentor who could provide guidance about city subjects, planning, and economic development. To read more, visit https://bit.ly/4dnWrQG
The full Parks and Recreation meeting can be watched at https://bit.ly/4coxliz
Compostable bags not accepted in organic containers
By Sean Tongson Correspondent
Compostable (clear plastic) bags have replaced plastic bags at grocery stores, but residents may want to think twice before disposing of them in organic collection bins.
Biodegradable products institute (BPI) compostable bags are not accepted in organic bins because they don’t break down quickly enough, according to Brentwood Solid Waste Manager Jon Carlson. The typical composting cycle is six weeks, while the BPI standard time can last 16 to 26 weeks.
“BPI bags can be confused with conventional plastic, thus making it difficult for compost operations to know which to screen out,” Carlson said. “Additional sorting increases labor costs. And if BPI fragments are in the finished compost product, it is more difficult to market the compost itself.”
Rhodes Yepsen, executive director for certification agency BPI, said that the term “biodegradable” has not been an allowed term for a bag under California law for over a decade, as it doesn’t adequately describe whether a product can be composted.
“The state has required bags or other products labeled ‘compostable’ to meet rigorous American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standard specifications,” Yepsen said. “Brentwood’s compost partner is unable to accept compostable bags or other products if they market the finished compost as an approved input for farmers to use in the National Organic Program. In California, the National Organic Pro-
Brentwood has issued a reminder to residents about which products are allowed in organic collection bins. Some grocery bags labeled as biodegradable do not meet the city’s standards.
gram approval has become a stand-in for compost quality. Even conventional farmers now default to requesting it, rather than pushing for broader performance-based testing that could verify quality on its own
terms. This creates a tricky situation for cities like Brentwood when it comes to deciding whether or not to accept compostable packaging.”
In addition, California law requires that any packaging that claims to be “compostable” is certified to ASTM standards, and used only on items that composters accept. Yepsen said that many successful composting systems around the United States encourage the use of compostable packaging and requires on-product labeling with a certification mark.
“It’s important to note that (Senate Bill) 1383 allows organic waste to be col-
lected in a container with garbage, so long as that mixed container is later separated for processing,” Yepsen said. “SB 1383 also does not require organics to be composted, which gives jurisdictions flexibility based on local processing capacity, but unfortunately means mixed messaging for households and businesses across the state.”
Multiple states now have laws requiring diversion of food waste from landfills, which has resulted in an increase in composting and compostable products along with reduced impact at landfills. A recent report from the Sustainable Packaging Coalition said that 35.9 percent of surveyed Americans now have access to collecting residential food scraps, representing an 8.9 percentage point increase since 2020.
“Composting in California helps cities meet the state’s SB 1383 goals of reducing landfilling of organic materials and prevents the generation of methane; a greenhouse gas 84 times more potent than CO2,” Carlson said. “Diverting organics preserves landfill space and creates a nutrient-rich soil amendment that naturally sinks carbon and saves water during droughts when applied back into the soil.”
While Yepsen stressed the importance of properly disposing of organic waste, he emphasized the importance of separating products in different bins to prevent contamination, to ensure safe handling and proper recycling, and to reduce pollution.
“Just because an item is in your yard or garden, that does not mean that it can go in your green bin,” Yepsen said. “For instance, palm branches likely need specific processing to break down properly, and other items — like treated or painted wood, food-soiled paper that hasn’t been certified as compostable, may have contaminants that introduce harmful substances into the compost.”
For details, visit www.brentwoodca. gov/government/public-works/garbage/ mandatory-organics-requirements and at www.bpiworld.org
Image courtesy of City of Brentwood
Gofrette Pamper & Play opens in Brentwood
Brentwood pet owners now have one more option when seeking out a groomer or day care for their furry companions following the ribboncutting for Gofrette Pamper & Play last month. The new business, located at 50 Eagle Rock Way in Brentwood, had its grand opening on March 5 and specializes in pampering pets. For more information, visit www.gofrette.com or call 925 819 5369. To view a video of the event, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
PEST TALK WITH LIBERTY
By Robert Ayres, Owner of Liberty Pest Services
SPRING IS HERE
Spring has arrived in East Contra Costa County, and with the warmer days you’re probably starting to notice a familiar pattern. Those “water bugs” showing up in garages and bathrooms, wasps scouting around eaves, and ants suddenly finding their way into kitchens and along baseboards. It happens every year, and it’s the early sign that pest season is waking up.
The mistake most homeowners make is waiting until the problem gets out of hand. By the time you’re seeing steady activity, colonies are already established. Spring is the window where prevention actually works in your favor. Stop them before they settle in, not after they’ve made themselves at home.
That’s where Liberty Pest Services comes in. With over 22 years of hands-on experience, it’s not just about spraying and hoping for the best. Every pest behaves differently, and proper control starts with identifying exactly what you’re dealing with.
From there, the right products and treatment methods are used to target the problem correctly, not just temporarily.
Pet Grooming, Spa and Boarding Doggie Depot on O’Hara Avenue offers full-service grooming, nail care, spa packages, and gift cards. The talented staff at Doggie Depot are IPG and Pet CPR certified. They continue their education through competitions, classes, and seminars, providing your fourlegged friends with new styles and trends. Doggie Depot also offers a Pet Hotel service with spacious puppy condos available. Doggie Depot is the leader of the pack in pet care, voted Best Pet Groomer 23 years in a row.
And just as important, the job doesn’t end after one visit. Liberty stands behind the work with a service warranty. If the bugs come back, so do we. That’s real protection, not a one-time fix. Spring is meant to be enjoyed. Whether it’s opening your windows, spending time in the yard, or just having peace of mind inside your home, pest problems shouldn’t be part of the season.
If you want prevention done right, give Liberty Pest Services an opportunity this spring. Protect your home now, so you can enjoy everything the season has to offer. Liberty Pest Services provides proactive pest protection throughout East Contra Costa County, helping homeowners stay protected year-round. Freedom starts with Liberty. Call today at 925-628-3030 or visit libertypestservices.com
Pest control service for homes and businesses, Real estate inspections and termite treatments, Rodent exclusion and inspections. Licensed – Insured – Bonded.
Opr#14018
El Campanil Theatre
602 W. Second Street • Antioch
City of Stars: Dance Gala Benefit
Presented by Black Diamond Ballet & El Campanil Theatre Keep Arts Thriving in Antioch Proceeds Benefit
El Campanil Theatre Foundation
Saturday, April 18th @ 7pm
Mads Tolling Residency
Presented by El Campanil Theatre All Shows @ 3pm
Sunday, April 19th
Mads Tolling & American Idol Alum Nick Crossen Sunday, May 3rd
Mads Tolling & Antioch Strolling Strings With Special Guest Peppino D’Agostino Sunday, June 7th
Mads Tolling & Delta Blues Star Frankie G
Calendar
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.
This Week’s Events
Saturday, April 4
East Contra Costa Historical Museum
Opening Day
From 9 a.m.- 2 p.m., at 3890 Sellers Ave., there will be a petting zoo, quilts, games, homemade ice cream, a fire engine, covered wagon, caboose, history displays, and a pancake breakfast hosted by Lions and Rotary Clubs of Brentwood available for purchase. For details, visit http:// www.eastcontracostahistory.org.
On the Horizon
Saturday, April 11
East Bay Anza 250 Symposium
The East Bay Anza 250 Symposium is a collaborative gathering that explores the expedition’s impact on the East Bay, honors Indigenous legacies, and fosters dialogue about how this history informs our present. Symposium registration $30 for the public or $20 for students and seniors. Lunch is included. To register, visit https://bit.ly/4szlhRO. The event will be from 9 a.m.- 4 p.m., with a lunch break at noon in the Student Union of Los Medanos College’s Pittsburg campus at 2700 East Leland Road. An optional walk will take place along the trail that intersects with LMC at 8 a.m.
Friday, April 17
Heritage High School Improv Show
The Improv Team will make up the whole evening up on the spot—characters, song lyrics, situations, and whole scenes. Tickets for the 7 p.m. show are $5 per person, available at https://hhsrisingstars.seatyourself.biz. Online sales only, no cash at the door.
Saturday, April 18
Black Diamond Ballet to host benefit for El Campanil Theatre
bit.ly/3Q0JnH0.
Saturday, April 25
Youth Commission’s Multicultural Fair
The Brentwood Youth Commission celebrates the city’s diverse cultures from noon- 3 p.m. at City Park right after the farmers market downtown. There will be performances, games, and a fashion show put on by local youth cultural groups. If you are a youth cultural or performance group looking to perform or host a booth, contact commissioner and event lead Rojan Habon at rhabon@brentwoodca.gov.
Oakley Day of Service
In addition to Brentwood’s Community Day of Service, Oakley will be hosting its own Community Day of Service. This will be the city’s second annual event and will be from 8 a..m. -noon at 1250 O’Hara Ave. This special event brings residents, families and friends together to give back through hands-on volunteer projects that make a lasting impact. With projects for all ages and ability levels, there’s a way for everyone to get involved. This is a free event, but registration for a particular project is required by all volunteers who participate. Each volunteer will receive free breakfast and an event T-shirt.
Registration can be found under “Events” at https://secure.rec1.com/CA/oakley-ca/catalog.
Cruisin’ for Christ Car Show
The third annual Cruisin’ for Christ Car Show will be at All God’s Children parking lot, 1900 Willow Lake Road in Discovery Bay, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Open to all cars and trucks, there will be food trucks, awards, prizes and vendors. Participating is $30 by April 17, then $40 after that. The event is free to attend. Proceeds benefit All God’s Children Christian School students. For details, contact AGCCarShow@gmail.com. Register at https://forms.glerot8aDGSxrfwyW7y7.
Tuesday, April 28
Presented by El Campanil Theatre Saturday, May 9th @ 7pm
RENTAL INFORMATION: OUR VENUE IS A PERFECT PLACE FOR RECITALS, CONCERTS, SEMINARS, WORKSHOPS, POETRY READING, GRADUATIONS, WEDDINGS, PLAYS, MUSICALS AND MANY OTHER EVENTS.
Black Diamond Ballet will present “City of Stars” Gala & Benefit Concert on April 18 at 7 p.m. at the El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. 2nd St. This evening celebrates the dance community coming together on one stage for one purpose: to keep the arts thriving in Antioch. Building on the momentum of the successful GoFundMe campaign to “Keep the Arts Alive,” the event will raise funds for the El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation to help sustain the theatre, and keep the arts thriving in the community. The evening will include live dance and musical performances from Black Diamond Ballet, Step 2 This Dance and Performing Arts, Be Exceptional Programs and the Pittsburg Performing Arts Academy. Tickets are available at www.blackdiamondballet.org or www. elcampaniltheatre.com. For more information, call 925-757-9500.
Saturday, April 18
United Indian Association Blood Drive
The United Indian Association is hosting a blood drive at Veterans Park, 3841 Balfour Road in Brentwood, from 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m as part of Brentwood’s Community Day of Service. Look for the blood mobile. Donors have a chance to win a $10,000 gift card. To schedule an appointment, go to Vitalant.org and enter blood drive code 100559801, or call 877-2584825 and mention the same code. Photo ID required to donate. For eligibility questions, call 800-289-4923 or visit vitalant.org/eligibility.
Brentwood Communit Day of Service
The Community Day of Service is a coordinated, citywide effort that brings together local service groups, nonprofits, community organizations, and the City of Brentwood for a morning of giving back. Volunteer opportunities are available to participate in, from park and neighborhood cleanups to planting projects to supporting local nonprofits. Kickoff is at Veterans Park, 3841 Balfour Road at 8:30 a.m. Those interested in participating can register in advance at https://
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 www.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 www. facebook.com/antiochrotaryclub.
The Rotary Club of the Delta: The Rotary Club of the Delta meets weekly on Wednesdays at 7 a.m. at Denny’s, 4823 Lone Tree Way in Antioch. For more information, visit 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 the Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St. in Brentwood. For more information, visit: www.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://eclubhouse.org/sites/byron_delta/.
Soroptimists of the Delta Soroptimists is a global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment. They meet the first Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St. For more information, call Sonia at 4150717-0294 or visit siofthedelta.com.
7th Annual East Bay Business Expo & Job Fair
The 2026 East Bay Business Expo & Job Fair from 5-7:30 p.m. at the Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St. is free to all residents. It provides businesses and entrepreneurs the opportunity to network and reach out to the general public in a professional setting. Businesses will have the opportunity to showcase their business; meet new customers, clients, and hire potential employees. Vendors will not be allowed to sell their products. For more information, visit brentwoodchamber. com or call 925-634-3344.
Ongoing Events
St. Anthony’s Church Food Distribution
Oakley Senior Center food distribution has moved out of their previous location. For the foreseeable future, they will be operating out of St. Anthony’s Church at 971 O’Hara Ave. in Oakley on Thursdays from 1-2 p.m. Residents are asked to bring their own bags/containers. For more information, call 925-783-0818.
Hope House Food Distribution
The distributions are on Monday and Wednesdays from 9 a.m.-11:30 a.m. at 218 Pine St. in Brentwood.
IHMC Food Distribution
On the second and fourth Tuesdays of every month, the Contra Costa County Food Bank distributes fruits and vegetables from the parking lot at 500 Fairview Ave. from noon-1 p.m. St. Vincent de Paul also distributes food from the church hall every Friday from 9 a.m.-noon.
East County Rotary Club Meetings
Brentwood: The Brentwood Rotary Club meets weekly on Monday at noon at the Club Los Meganos Event Center at 1700 Trilogy Parkway in Brentwood. For more information, visit www. brentwoodrotaryclub.com.
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/.
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. A monthly pot luck and happy hour are also available. For more information, contact Mary Ann Smith at 925240-1706 or Connie Cononen at 925-392-9037.
Attention commercial venues! The Press is excited to announce we are now allowing commercial venues, bars and for-profit events to list your events in The Press’s weekly printed community calendar. For only $25 per week, it will include 55-60 words or a 380-390 character count with bigger font and will be hotlinked to your website on the e-Press. To place your event, let us know by Friday at noon for the following Friday’s publication at ads@brentwoodpress.com or call 925-634-1441.
BIRTHS,
Milestones
OBITUARY
Barbara Sue Byer
Feb. 12, 1946 - March 7, 2026
Barbara Sue Byer, 80, of Byron, Calif., passed away peacefully at her home on March 7, 2026, surrounded by her family.
She was a cherished mother, grandmother and greatgrandmother, and her presence will be deeply missed. Barbara was born in Piggott, Arkansas, on Feb. 12, 1946, to James and Letha Powers, and moved to California in 1963.
She married in August of 1969 and eventually moved to Byron. She dedicated her life to caring for her family and volunteering in the community. Her contributions were widespread and go back decades, be it small families or large organizations, like St. Jude Children’s Hospital, Meals on Wheels, veterans or-
ganizations and the East Contra Costa Historical Society.
Her joy was packing food baskets at the Brentwood Regional Community Chest, delivering Christmas stockings to children, Thanksgiving meals to families, donating coats and pajamas, being a 4-H Leader and ensuring the Byron “Volunteer” Fire Dept. firefighters had food and water on calls.
Barbara is survived by her husband of 56.5 years, Bob; daughters Teresa Gonzales, Lisa Allen (Jason) and Tia Byer; grandchildren Tiffany Gonzales, Richard Gonzales Jr. (Gennifer) and Justin Milam; great-grandchildren Sierra, Toby, Josh and Jake; sister Shirley, and brothers James and Dwayne. She is preceded in death by her parents and her sister Judy.
A celebration of Barbara’s life will be held at Brownstone Gardens at 91 Brownstone Road in Oakley, on April 23, 2026 from 1- 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Brentwood Regional Community Chest in her honor.
Milestones Milestones
Have you or someone you know recently reached a “milestone”? If so, we’d like to know about it!
Examples of a milestone could be:
A new baby, A 100th birthday, Engagement/Wedding, Significant Anniversary, Awards Won, Military Achievements or a Hole-In-One!
Mail or Fax info to: The Press, 248 Oak St., Brentwood, CA 94513 or email to: editor@brentwoodpress.com
Attention bikers, runners, and dog walkers. There is a new bench to relax on, sit on, and ponder along the Marsh Creek Regional Trail at the end of Crystal Garden Court in Brentwood.
On Sunday, March 29, there was a memorial bench dedication and celebration held in honor of Jordan Bach, son of longtime Brentwood residents Shelly and Bob Bach. April 1 was Jordan’s 10-year angel anniversary.
The Bach family has kept Jordan’s memory alive by helping to raise awareness and money for the NephCure Kidney International, a U.S. 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization. Their mission involves ensuring equitable access to treatments and care for people who have a rare, protein-spilling kidney disease to provide the best outcome possible for kidney health. The Team Jordan Facebook page was able to raise money for the bench through a variety of creative means. For details, visit https://bit. ly/4dRObZi
These fundraisers were mainly organized by family friend and Brentwood Quick Stop owner Amber Zulawski. Fundraisers included 50/50 raffles, bake sales, a balloon pop, painting signs, buying football game squares, restaurant fundraisers, and even sponsors for all the different parts of the bench.
The bench will be maintained by the City of Brentwood. A plaque on the bench reads, “In memory of Jordan Bach. Behind this bench is where he grew up. It was in the court he loved. We feel him every day.”
They hope to one day sit on this bench with their future grandchildren. Next to the bench sits a planter of yellow flowers in memory of Michael Stewart Pippin, a neighbor who recently passed away. The sign’s sentiment reads, “He loved the daffodils of spring. May their bright return remind us os his warmth and quiet kindness. Truly a great husband, father, grandfather and neighbor.” The Bach family has found a way to turn their grief into gratitude.
Boy, 5, hospitalized after accidentally shot by father
A 5-year-old boy is expected to recover after being accidentally shot by his father while the man was cleaning his rifle Sunday night in Oakley.
Oakley police responded to the 1700 block of Hemlock Court shortly before 9:30 p.m. after an initial report that an adult male had shot himself, according to a press release by the City of Oakley on Monday morning. However, the call was updated while officers were en route to indicate a child had been shot in the chest.
Police arrived about three minutes later and found the boy’s father holding him and applying pressure to the wound. Fire personnel and ambulance crews arrived shortly after, and the child was transported by helicopter to a hospital, where he underwent surgery. Oakley police added that the boy is expected to make a full recovery.
It was discovered later that the child’s injury “was a grazing wound rather than a penetrating one,” but also said that such injuries can still be severe, Oakley police Chief Paul Beard said in a statement.
After investigation, detectives deter-
mined that the father had been cleaning his firearms and removed an AR-15-style semi-automatic rifle from a gun case when he accidentally pulled the trigger. The rifle discharged, and a bullet struck the boy at close range in the torso. Police said that the
Oakley police investigate a house after a 5-year-old boy was accidentally shot by his father Sunday night in Oakley.
intent behind the shooting, though the case remains under investigation. Police added that once the investigation is complete, the findings will be forwarded to the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office to determine whether criminal charges are warranted.
Beard called the incident “a very tragic event,” and emphasized the importance of firearm safety, including treating all guns as if they are loaded and keeping fingers off triggers unless intending to fire.
“We are very thankful the injuries sustained by the boy are not worse than they are,” Beard said in the press release.
father told investigators he thought that the rifle was empty.
Authorities served a search warrant and removed firearms and evidence from the home as part of the investigation.
Investigators do not believe there was
“An inch of difference of where the bullet struck the boy would have been a different, and more tragic, outcome. Even though we believe this to be an awful accident, some crucial errors of negligence were made. Firearms should always be treated as if they are loaded and one should never put a finger on the trigger of a firearm unless there is an intent to shoot it.”
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
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EDITORIALS, LETTERS & COMMENTARY
O pini O n
Letters to the editor
Ordinary folks who know something is wrong
Editor:
Last Saturday afternoon (March 28), a group of people assembled at a busy intersection in Antioch. The 50 or so individuals were remarkably diverse women and men, young and old, Caucasian, Latino, Black, Asian. Some wore costumes while others dressed just to beat the heat.
These folks gathered and stood at each of the four corners to get the attention of passing motorists stopped at the traffic lights. They waved American flags and displayed homemade signs with heartfelt messages. Each person at that intersection seemed grateful to be among others, binding family, friends, neighbors, and total strangers, compelled by a common cause to do something they may have never done before, something out of their comfort zone, something exceptional. They came out to this intersection to publicly deliver their message of distrust, betrayal, and anger over the actions of a would-be king and his accomplices.
The grievances they expressed included the rising cost of living, healthcare, and housing; the growing disparity between rich and poor; the detention and abuse of good people; the unilateral decision to inflict death and destruction on a sovereign nation to project power.
As America engages once again in an ill-conceived war, our nation’s reputation around the globe suffers, and a man who knows no bounds enriches himself through graft, influence peddling, and extortion.
The citizens who chose to assemble here were ordinary folks. They were
Have something to say? Post a comment or submit a letter to the editor at www.thepress.net/site/forms.
not coerced, they were not paid, but they were moved because of all the aberrations occurring, contrary to what their country represents. Their government of, by, and for the people is being dismantled before their eyes.
This act of true patriotism was not an isolated incident, and it was repeated by other patriots in Brentwood, Oakley, Pittsburg, and in communities large and small across our county and state, and throughout our nation. The overwhelming number of ordinary folks who came out to express themselves on this special day suggests that there is something terribly wrong, and this is what they must do to fix it.
Richard Kushnier Brentwood
The problem with surveillance cameras in Brentwood
Editor:
Thank you for your article regarding the Flock surveillance cameras in Brentwood. (April 30, 2025) There are many problems with surveillance cameras, but my biggest concern is two of the owners of this surveillance system: Peter Thiel and Marc Andressen. Brentwood police are using taxpayers to help fund this company. If the cameras are useful, why help fund a company that wants to start its own bitcoin city in the island country of Nevis (The New York Times and East Bay Times).
If surveillance cameras were so helpful in the last 100 investigations, why not buy and maintain our own property as the city of Pittsburg has done?
Flock is mining the data from those cameras. For what reason, only they know.
Sandra Cole Schultz Brentwood
LETTERS POLICY
The Press invites your comments. Letters must be no longer than 325 words and include name, address and phone number for confirmation.
The Press reserves the right to edit submissions for length, clarity, potential libel and taste, or to not print letters we feel violate our standards of acceptance.
Opinions expressed in letters are not necessarily the opinions of The Press, whose opinions are contained in clearly marked editorials.
Email your opinion letter to editor@brentwoodpress.com.
Liberty looks ahead after first loss
Lady Lions softball
set sights on league play after loss to Tracy
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
It seems as if the defending Bay Valley Athletic League and North Coast Section champion Liberty softball team is mortal after all.
Liberty’s 8-7 defeat on Wednesday to the Tracy Bulldogs (12-0) felt like a playoff preview between two of the top teams in Northern California, with five lead changes, each rallied to tie, almost all of which coming from home runs left and right and big plays throughout the day from both sides.
Along with big hits and big plays, for a rare day, the Lady Lions looked like a team a bit rusty coming off of a long break – uncharacteristically sloppy in the field as mistakes defensively, along with a lack of sharpness in the circle and on the basepaths, cost Liberty their chance at continuing their undefeated streak.
“Losses for me are learning experiences, number one, and number two, it lights a fire under our butt,” Liberty head coach Brandi Macias said. “We’ve got to be a little bit cleaner defensively. Our base running needs to be a little bit more aggressive. Little things like that — it gives me some things to work on at practice.”
“Small little details matter, in my opinion, and that’s what it came down to. Both teams fought. So much respect over there because I know they’re a quality team. But in games like that, it’s those little things that end up deciding it.”
Macias added that the 20-day break in between games wasn’t as much of a factor as it may have seemed.
“We haven’t been on the field in two weeks in this environment,” Macias said. “We practice, we do those things. I was super confident coming into this that they were going to come out with a ton of energy and just so excited to play. I thought we were ready.”
Despite the loss on Tuesday, there is light at the end of the tunnel for the Lady Lions (6-1) going forward: Liberty has lost back-to-back games just twice since 2024 – the first two games of the 2024 season, then against Whitney and Casa
Grande in a day-night doubleheader in the Livermore Stampede tournament last year.
As well, the pressure of the undefeated season is now off of Liberty’s shoulders, maybe for the better.
“I think that loss is going to light a fire under us to just come back even harder and just go and explode on everyone else,” Liberty senior outfielder Kylee McKinney said. “It was definitely stressful [the pressure of staying undefeated]. Everyone’s talking about how we’re undefeated. I personally think this will bring us up.”
McKinney led the way at the plate in Tuesday’s loss, going 3-for-4 with two home runs and four RBI, including a homer in the bottom of the second inning to tie the game at 3-3, then again in the sixth inning to push the score to 7-7 before Tracy responded with a go-ahead home run of their own in the top of the seventh.
As the Lady Lions’ lineup tried to keep them in the game, even leading at moments, Liberty’s pitching struggled to contain the Bulldogs’ lineup.
Starting pitcher Kaitlyn Macias got off to a slow start, allowing the opening three-run home run by the Bulldogs in the first inning, and fellow senior Kate Skinner struggled in relief after entering in the third, allowing five runs, four earned, through the final five innings.
“It’s a learning opportunity for me personally, knowing where I need to throw my spots and work on my adjustments and mechanics from that,” Skinner said.”
The Lady Lions open their league schedule hosting Heritage (5-2) Tuesday, the first of a stretch of five games in four days for the Lady Lions, which includes a day-night doubleheader on Thursday, April 9 against both Granada (3:15 p.m.) and Alameda (7:15 p.m.) in next week’s Livermore Stampede tournament.
Freedom softball wants BVAL title with target set on Liberty
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
Freedom softball may have stumbled out of the gate for the second straight year, but the Falcons’ goals haven’t changed. They want a shot at the league title, and more so, a shot at the two-time defending Bay Valley Athletic League and reigning North Coast Section champion Liberty Lions.
After a 17-1, five-inning win over Deer Valley to open league play Tuesday, Freedom is again looking up at the same program that has reigned over the league since 2023 — Liberty — and measuring itself against that standard.
“What I’m trying to do is line ourselves up for Liberty because they’re the queen (of the BVAL),” Freedom head softball coach Kenny Sposito said. “If we could just get one of those games. … All of this accumulates to Liberty. Liberty’s an outstanding program. They are it, and I acknowledge that. But we’re here, too, and I’m not going to rest until I get that.”
Tuesday’s win snapped the Falcons’ three-game losing streak and gave Freedom a needed reset entering league play after the program’s second straight year of winning just one non-league game out of their first six games before starting league play.
“I’m a competitor. I hate to lose, period,” Sposito said. “The team has been hun-
gry. The schedule I set this year was meant to toughen us up for league and, hopefully, set our sights on a BVAL title.”
In Sposito’s first season at the helm last year, Freedom opened 1-5-1 before finding its footing in BVAL play. The Falcons went 8-2 in league, with both losses coming against Liberty, and carried that momentum into a deep postseason run that ended in the North Coast Section semifinals.
“It’s been a work in progress,” Sposito said. “What really helped last year was the playoff run. The players started looking at me like, ‘Maybe this old man does know what he’s talking about.’”
Freedom also showed last season it could push Liberty, even if it hasn’t broken
Freedom’s Mariah Almendarez pitches in the Falcons game against Deer Valley Tuesday afternoon in Oakley.
through yet. The Falcons took the Lady Lions to extra innings in their first meeting before falling 6-5 in eight innings, then dropped the second game of the series 10-0 two days later in a five-inning, mercy-rule loss as Liberty’s Kate Skinner tossed a no-hitter.
“We let the heat get to us because we were too young,” Sposito said. “My pitchers were too young. That’s why we built this schedule — let’s get beat up, learn how to take a punch and see what we can do.”
In Tuesday’s win over the Wolverines, Freedom showed that they’re able to swing back – literally.
Freedom scored 17 runs on 18 hits on Tuesday, a far cry after the Falcons scored a combined seven runs on 13 total hits dur-
ing the three-game skid, according to MaxPreps.
Freedom wasted little time setting the tone on Tuesday, scoring six runs in each of the first two innings to take control early.
Freshman Mckenna Johnston led the way with a three-hit, four-RBI performance, including a two-run, inside-the-park home run during that opening frame. Johnston also added RBI singles in the second and third innings.
Freedom’s lineup also got multi-hit contributions from Alyssa Price, Terralynn Delauter, Ciera Canion, who hit a towering home run to left-center in the third inning, Kendal Johnston, and Isabella Sanchez in the win.
“Our depth has been hungry,” Sposito said. “Even in games like this, you can build bad habits if you’re not disciplined. I liked how we handled it — we didn’t chase bad pitches and we took what they gave us.”
In the circle, senior Mariah Almendarez kept the Wolverines’ lineup in check, throwing a five-inning complete game, allowing one run on two hits while striking out seven and keeping Deer Valley off balance throughout.
Her only blemish came in the fourth inning, when Lysette Marcial drove in Ella Rangel with an RBI single after Rangel led off with a double. By that point, however, the game was well in hand.
Liberty’s Kylee McKinney in the batter’s box during the Lady Lions softball game against Tracy Wednesday in Brentwood.
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
Photo by Jeff Weisinger
Antioch’s Cornerstone Christian boys basketball to bask in national spotlight
By Jeff Weisinger Staff Writer
The defending CIF Division III State champion Cornerstone Christian’s boys basketball program is taking their talents to the national stage.
The Cougars have been invited to compete in the Section 7 national summer tournament in Arizona this June, a premier showcase event that features top high school programs and college-level exposure opportunities.
Cornerstone Christian Athletic Director Madison Alexander said the program received the invitation this week after years of applying to the event.
“We got a phone call saying, ‘Hey, we want to invite you guys — we’ve seen what you guys have been doing,’” Alexander said. “For our program, we’re just completely humble because this is the first time we’ve been invited to something of this magnitude.”
The Section 7 tournament, held every June, brings together elite programs from across the country, enabling college coaches to evaluate players while teams compete against each other in top-tier competition.
The invitation marks another milestone for a rapidly rising Cornerstone Christian program, which captured the California Interscholastic Federation State Division III title last month and has steadily built its profile despite being one of the smallest schools in the area with just under 150 students, according to Alexander.
The Cougars went 29-8 in the 2025-26 campaign, bouncing back to eventually win State after starting their campaign 1-3. Cornerstone Christian lost just twice after the calendar turned to 2026, falling to Chula Vista’s Victory
Diane Alexander
Kevin Allen
Dennis Baldocchi
Gretchen Barber
Miriam Bell
Lisa Bencriscutto
Jerry &Mary Black*
Patricia Blumen*
Jamie Bolt*
Leo Boghosian
Mark Branson
Marsha Brown
Vince Buchanan
Lily Campanile
Bethi Carver Gibb*
Gary Chambers
Janet Clarke*
Bruce & Christine Clegg
Robert Conner
John Cooper
Kimberly Cope
Donna Corrigan
Denise Cosgrove* DF
Rosa Daley
Dominic DeBellis*
Albert Del Grande
Betty DeLoach
Maria Denney
Debra Doherty*
John Dodson
Michael Echeverria*
Armando Estrada
Larry Fancey
Irene San Filippo
Timothy Finnigan
David Foster
Gloria Foster*
David Goodwin
Joanne Gonzales
Carol Grossman
Deena Gruver*
ball programs won NCS titles in 2026, the girls also won the CIF NorCal Division VI title this year, defeating Redding Christian 48-27. The girls program also reached the CIF Division III State Regional semifinals in 2024.
“I think you have a unique combination of some very special kids … us winning the State title, which has brought some amazing attention,” he said. “It’s kind of a magic moment of all those things coming together.”
The opportunity for the Cougars is significant at the high school level, where full-team national events are limited especially when compared to the individual AAU circuits that are more common. Alexander relishes the opportunity more after years of working to build the program’s profile.
“For me, it’s even more special,” Alexander said. “This was the vision — to get these kids to the highest stage possible. It’s one thing to have a dream, it’s another to live it.”
Cornerstone Christian will be represented at Section 7 by its returning core for the 2026-27 campaign, with juniors and underclassmen competing in the summer event as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Alexander says that the program plans to pay for the trip through a combination of fundraising, family contributions and support within the Cornerstone Christian community.
Christian Academy on Jan. 3, and to Oakland Tech on Jan. 17. After the loss to Oakland Tech, Cornerstone won their final 18 games in a row on their way to the CIF state title.
While in the shadows of the bigger high schools in Brentwood and Antioch, Cornerstone Christian has been a dominant force on the court. Both the boys and girls basket-
“It’s a combination of our community coming together — our parents, our school and our supporters,” Alexander said.
For players, the reaction has ranged from validation to excitement.
“We’re just super excited to get that experience,” Alexander said. “A lot of these kids see this on Instagram and wonder, ‘Why not us?’ Now they get that chance.”
Carol Guadagni
April Guarascio
Rinaldo Hamade*
Bill Harms
Hugh Henderson*
Geraldine Hogan
Charles Honodel
Marianne Hughlett
Monica Hurney
Udo Jaquet
Nigel Jesson*
Edna Johnson
Martha Karamanougian
Kamaljit Kaur
David Kerley
Elaine Kilpatrick
Lauren Kovaleff
Pat & Mary Lamb
Cathy Little*
Carlee Lopez
Robert Lyman
Karen Mann
Janet McCarthy
Jay McLaughlin
Jamie McManus
Kryssie Mingst*
Lawrence Moglia*
Elizabeth Montgomery
Shani Moore*
D.V. Morales
Narmadha
Rick Nelson
Brian Oftedal
Ken Olson
Sharon Ouka
Jean Marc Petit
Gary Pollock
Joyce Poertner*
Sue Pretzer
Leonard Price
Liz Robbinz
Linda Morse Robertson
Stacey Robles*
Gloria Rodda
Annette Rodrigues
Lourdes Rosado-Ford
Kitten Russell
Gary Sands
Irene San Filippo
Gwendolyn Schmid
Craig Schoenthale
Sandra Schultz
Matt Schwab
Jorge Segovia
Catherine Senior
Tim & Cindy Shehorn
Harjot Singh
Donald Smith*
George & Linda Soles
Darlene Souza
Wayne Steffen
Birgit Stephens*
Mike Suboez
Sue Swackhamer
Sally Taboada
Kiran Taunk
Zack Taylor
Linda Thuman*
Amy Tilley*
David Wahl
Larry Wallace
Julia Wantuck
Judi Weisenberg
David Wyatt
Ron Yarolimek
Suleyman Yesilyurt
Carl Yost
Carolyn Young
Joseph Young
Larry Young
Mary Young
Thomas Webster
Ron Zwemmer
Cornerstone Christian’s Benjamin Lukacs receives congratulations after the Cougars won the CIF State boys basketball championship in March.
Photo courtesy Cornerstone Christian Athletics
East County joins in nationwide protests
Hundreds of people stood on the Highway 4 overpass in Brentwood on Saturday in just one of several No Kings protests in East County and nationwide. Residents collaborated and organized locally to push back against President Trump’s “violent, authoritarian actions,” said Mike Rodriguez of Rage for Democracy. “We’re bringing together our local residents from all walks of life who share the same simple message: We do not do dictators or kings in America.”
To view a video and a slideshow of the event, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
At Heritage High School’s recent multicultural rally, flags of countries were strung up on railings, balloons bounced on bleachers, and a massive poster of the world had a pin for every culture represented, transforming a sterile gymnasium into a living, breathing landscape.
Heritage High’s multicultural rally creates sense of community
Heritage High School recently hosted its annual Multicultural rally with 17 clubs and over 150 student performers. There was an endless amount of celebration.
The rally demonstrated something that is especially important in high schools: a representation of all cultures, no matter how loud or how big. Looking at the rally’s preparation, how it unfolded, and why it matters shows just how significant the event was. School events rely heavily on decorations as they elevate the mood, create scenery, and, in the case of the rally, help express the cultures at Heritage High School.
Flags of countries were strung up on railings, balloons bounced on bleachers, and finally, the main piece: a massive poster of the world, with a pin for every culture represented, transforming a sterile gymnasium into a living, breathing landscape.
For the rally, the decor served as a visual anthem, expressing the vibrant, intersecting cultures that make up the student body.
The effort put into the display was extraordinary, turning the venue into a stage. From high-energy playlists to lion dancers, the rally was a show of student passion and traditions.
Witnessing these clubs take the floor to present their heritage is a powerful experience; it’s a vivid reminder of the diversity that defines the student body.
The atmosphere was a sensory feast, fueled by high-energy playlists that jumped from infectious global pop to traditional rhythmic drumming, keeping the crowd in constant motion. The transition between groups was seamless, yet each performance offered a unique window
into a different corner of the world.
Watching the spectacle unfold was magical. Multicultural rallies are great at many things, but one thing they do best is bring the school closer together. After the rally, participants in the rally got praises, fist bumps, high fives, and hugs just because people loved their performances.
This support proves that the rally wasn’t just a spectacle to be watched; it was an experience to be felt. When someone sees the courage it takes to share a piece of their heritage, it creates an instant bond of respect.
Students weren’t just complimenting a dance or a costume; they were validating their classmates’ identities. Those small gestures, a quick “you were awesome” in the hall or a high five, act as the glue that holds a diverse campus together. By showcasing the beauty of more than a dozen different cultures, the rally replaced “otherness” with familiarity and admiration. That sense of unity lingers long after the decorations are taken down.
Such festivals turn the school from a collection of individuals into a true community where every student feels seen, heard, and, most importantly, celebrated for who they are, and that is what makes Heritage, well, Heritage.
Ultimately, the multicultural rally was more than just a date on the school calendar; it was a vivid reflection of the heart and soul of Heritage. The balloons may be popped, the pins on the map may be removed, and the flags may be taken down, but that unity, that diversity will always stay, all thanks to the multicultural rally.
Nahar Grewal, Grade 9 Heritage High School
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/ multimedia
Photo courtesy of Heritage High School’s Latino Unidos Club
Youth writer
C lassifieds & l egals
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FREELANCE WRITERS WANTED!
Writers will be expected to pitch story ideas with a focus on local news as well as features highlighting people and places of interest within the East Bay. Stories should focus on Brentwood, Oakley, Discovery Bay and Antioch.
Candidates must:
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Candidates based in East County are preferred. Job type: Part-time, Monday to Friday afternoon/ evenings with weekend availability
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If you are qualified for this position please send your resume, writing and photo samples to: editor@brentwoodpress.com
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FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2026-0001333 The name of the business(es): Blue Horizon Pools Located at: 2605 Tampico Drive In: Pittsburg, CA 94565, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): 1. Jeremy Carrier 2. Rolondo Zamora. This business is conducted by: a Joint Venture. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. Signature of registrant: Jeremy Carrier. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 03/11/2026 by Deputy Clerk Expires 03/10/2030 Publish Dates: March 27, April 3, 10, 17, 2026
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2026-0000927 The name of the business(es): Sequoia Garage Door Services Located at: 285 Yellow Rose Circle In: Oakley, CA 94561, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): AJM Realty 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: Carlos Antonio Yow Chamorro, COO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 02/23/2026 by Deputy Clerk Expires 02/22/2031 Oakley
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. F-2026-0001136 The name of the business(es): KAHIL EVENTS Located at: 407 Lakeview Ct In: Oakley, CA 94561, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Shimmer And Sage 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 01/01/2026. Signature of registrant: Ali Alkahily, CFO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 03/03/2026 by Deputy Clerk Expires 03/02/2031 Oakley Press No. 03-0477
Publish Dates: March 20, 27, April 3, 10, 2026
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2026-0001238 The name of the business(es): Greenhead Diesel and Tractor Repair LLC Located at: 4995 Sandmound Blvd. In: Oakley, CA 94561, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Greenhead Diesel And Tractor Repair 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: Kristin Pipkins, Manager. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 03/06/2026 by Deputy Clerk Expires 03/05/2031 Oakley Press No. 03-0477
Publish Dates: March 13, 20, 27, April 3, 2026
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT
File No. F-2026-0001174 The name of the business(es): T N Williams Staffing and Transport LLC Located at: 4815 Mammouth Lane In: Oakley, CA 94561, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): T N Williams Staffing and Transport 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: Samuel Mulbah Sondah Jr., CEO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Contra Costa County on: 03/04/2026 by Deputy Clerk Expires 03/03/2031 Oakley Press No. 03-0477
Publish Dates: March 20, 27, April 3, 10, 2026
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME
PETITIONER OR ATTORNEY:
THEWODROS KASSA & MESSAY
SEIFU SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF CONTRA COSTA, 725 Court Street Martinez, CA 94553 PETITION OF:
THEWODROS KASSA & MESSAY SEIFU, WONDSEN THEWODROS CASE NUMBER: N26-0435 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS:
1. Petitioner THEWODROS KASSA & MESSAY SEIFU filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present Name: a. WONDSEN THEWODROS b. LEILIT THEWODROS
c. MARKONAL THEWODROS to Proposed Name:
a. WONDSEN KASSA
b. LEILIT KASSA
c. MARKONAL KASSA
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: 05/04/2026 Time: 09:00 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 b. thepress.net
Date: March 13, 2026 Judge of the Superior Court Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: March 20, 27, April 3, 10, 2026
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME
PETITIONER OR ATTORNEY: Oluwafewa David Adeyanju SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF CONTRA COSTA, 725 Court Street Martinez, CA 94553 PETITION OF: Oluwafewa David Adeyanju CASE NUMBER: N26-0243 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS:
1. Petitioner Oluwafewa David Adeyanju filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present Name: a. Oluwafewa David Adeyanju to Proposed Name:
a. Fewa Kristopher
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: 05/20/2026 Time: 9:00am 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: February 11, 2026 Judge of the Superior Court Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: March 13, 20, 27, April 3, 2026
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME
PETITIONER OR ATTORNEY: Todd Swenson & Jana DuMond SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF CONTRA COSTA, 725 Court Street Martinez, CA 94553 PETITION OF: Todd Swenson & Jana DuMond CASE NUMBER: N26-0167 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner Todd Swenson & Jana DuMond filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present Name: a. Todd Edward Swenson b. Jana Justine DuMond
to Proposed Name: a. Todd Edward TilVerold b. Jana Justine TilVerold 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: 05/06/2026 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: January 29 2026 Judge of the Superior Court Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: March 13, 20, 27, April 3, 2026
NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: TANIELA KULU, deceased CASE NUMBER P26-00470 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: TANIELA KULU, DAN KULU. A Petition for Probate has been filed by: LARINA NOELANI KULU in the Superior Court of California, County of: CONTRA COSTA
The Petition for Probate requests that: LARINA NOELANI KULU, Daughter of decedent be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. The petition requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows:
a. Date: APRIL 27 2026 Time: 9:00 AM Dept: 30. Room: 201 b. Address of court: 725 COURT STREET, MARTINEZ, CA 94553. If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters a general personal representative as defined in section 58(b) of the California
Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Petitioner: LARINA NOELANI KULU 1971 Windy Peak Court Antioch, CA 94531 (925) 329-0644 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: March 27, April 3, 10, 2026
NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: TAMMY ANN CASEY, deceased CASE NUMBER P26-00465 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: TAMMY ANN CASEY deceased. A Petition for Probate has been filed by: TAYLOR CASEY in the Superior Court of California, County of: CONTRA COSTA The Petition for Probate requests that: TAYLOR CASEY be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: a. Date: APRIL 20, 2026 Time: 9:00 A.M. Dept: 30. b. Address of court: 725 COURT STREET, MARTINEZ, CA 94553. If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters a general personal representative as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided
in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner: TAYLOR CASEY
Mark D. Poniatowski, Esq.; Kimberly F. Leding, Esq. PONIATOWSKI LEDING LAW PC 21715 Redwood Road, Castro Valley, CA 94546
510-881-8700
Brentwood Press No. 02-1273
Publish Dates: March 20, 27, April 3, 2026
NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: MAREETA REENE GARCIA LOVE, deceased CASE NUMBER P26-00217 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: MAREETA REENE GARCIA LOVE deceased. A Petition for Probate has been filed by: BREONNA MONIQUE LOVE in the Superior Court of California, County of: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
The Petition for Probate requests that: BREONNA MONIQUE LOVE be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: a. Date: JULY 21, 2026 Time: 09:00 AM Dept: 30. b. Address of court: 725 COURT STREET, MARTINEZ, CA 94553 If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters a general personal representative as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Petitioner: BREONNA MONIQUE LOVE 4832 Green Hills Circle Antioch, CA 94531 *ANTIOCH PRESS* 06-1617 Brentwood Press No. 02-1273 Publish Dates: March 27, April 3, 10, 2026
Permit from page 2A
standards outlined in the self-certification checklist, said Brittany Goldman, Communications and Media Specialist.
“CFOs that have over $150,000 in annual sales require yearly health inspections like other commercial food businesses,” Harper said. “Food safety training or certification is required for all permit holders. Contra Costa Health evaluates all kitchens to ensure safe and clean operation.”
Other examples of state-approved foods include cook-
Grow from page 1A
also handle the utility connections across Sand Creek Road. That was definitely part of the planning of this, to make sure that there are emergency exits and not just having one way in and out.”
On the other side of the line, Brentwood is advancing its own significant project, Bridle Gate, built by West Coast Home Builders (a division of Seeno Homes), which serves as the western bookend to its own residential growth.
According to Brentwood Planning Manager Erik Nolthenius, the 269-home development was approved in December 2024 and is in the active grading and sitepreparation phase.
Bridle Gate will feature three-to-five bedrooms and homes with sizes ranging from 1,808 square feet to 3,100 square feet on lots that are 5,000 to 5,500 square feet.
While the start date of construction is unknown, homes could be under construction by late summer or early fall, according to city officials familiar with the project. The total build-out of the new neighborhood is expected to span several years.
The project is part of Brentwood’s long-term vision to manage a population that has already reached 65,000 residents and counting. With an estimated buildout of approximately 80,000 residents as defined in the city’s 2014 General Plan, Brentwood is now more than 75% of the
ies, candies, jams, jellies, muffins, cakes, and pies, according to their website. A full list of approved cottage foods is at: www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CEH/DFDCS/CDPH%20 Document%20Library/FDB/FoodSafetyProgram/CottageFood/ApprovedCottageFoodsList.pdf
CFOs are relatively common in California, with at least 4,781 active cottage food businesses, according to the Institute for Justice.
According to the website, California has been a leader in the cottage food movement since the passage of the Cali-
fornia Homemade Food Act in 2012. New laws passed in 2013, 2018, 2021, and 2023 have given cottage food producers expanded freedom, according to the Institute for Justice. Contra Costa Health began receiving CFO applications in Feb. 2013, and there are 273 cottage food operations in the county, according to Goldman. Details on fees are at www.cchealth.org/home/showpublisheddocument/31798/638854071677000000
For details, visit www.cchealth.org/about-contra-costa-health/divisions/environmental-health/home-kitchens
way toward its final development capacity.
“The city has seen a tremendous amount of growth,” Nolthenius said, noting the population has nearly tripled in the past 20 years. “The city has grown consistent with the General Plan, which is basically the community’s vision for how it’s supposed to grow.”
To address the projected increase in vehicle traffic in the area, the Bridle Gate project will extend San Jose Avenue to connect with Sand Creek Road. The extension
ergy and would include a back-up battery in case of power outages. If one happens, the building’s heating and cooling centers would continue to work and provide relief to residents affected by inclement weather.
Although the county says the project will benefit Brentwood residents, as well as those from neighboring cities, Brentwood City Councilmember Jovita Mendoza said that the project may harm Brentwood residents regarding traffic and environmental impact.
“Regardless of whether the City has discretionary approval authority, the residents of Brentwood — who will experience the traffic, visual, noise, public safety, and neighborhood character impacts—are entitled to a complete and transparent environmental review,” a Feb. 23 letter from Mendoza to the Board of Supervisors reads in part. “The building will sit within the City of Brentwood, adjacent to established neighborhoods, schools, and local streets. The daily operational effects — employee commutes, visitor traffic, parking overflow, lighting, height, massing, and public safety demand — will be borne by Brentwood residents.”
A second letter sent by the city to the Board of Supervisors on Feb. 23 outlines over 20 concerns, such as those about traffic, impact on affordability of nearby housing and the environmental impact of geothermal wells on the site. In the letter, the city references traffic impact studies that indicate changes to signal timing at nearby intersections and Tri Delta Transit bus routes that would potentially be impacted by the addition of the service center. According to the letter, the project description for the site does
of San Jose Avenue is designed to create additional traffic flow through the area.
The Brentwood Municipal Code stipulates that construction plans include one additional eastbound lane along Sand Creek Road. Improvements will also include a traffic signal at Sand Creek Road and Bridle Gate Drive. All soundwalls and all street improvements shall be “substantially completed” before the 50th home building permit has been issued, Nolthenius said.
The proximity of these two cities gets
not include information about these and other concerns.
Ultimately, the letter called on the Board of Supervisors to hold public meetings ahead of the start of the project, including an in-person meeting between Brentwood residents and county staff so residents could learn more about the project and have their questions answered directly. In response to concerns from residents and city officials, Burgis’ office called feedback from residents “important” and said that the county had “worked in close coordination with the City of Brentwood throughout the planning and design process.”
According to Mendoza, no community meetings took place nor did the letters receive a response from the county. Burgis’ Chief of Staff, Alicia Nuchols, said via email that the city’s letter was addressed during a Board of Supervisors meeting on March 3.
“In terms of community input, this project has been part of publicly noticed discussions for many years,” Nuchols said. “The County purchased the Technology Way site in 2011 with the intent of developing a service center, and the project has been revisited through multiple public meetings and planning efforts since then, including adoption of the Capital Facilities Master Plan by the Board of Supervisors in 2022.”
According to the agenda packet for the Feb. 10 meeting of the Brentwood City Council, the city has limited authority over the project due to the land being owned by the county, regardless of its location within city limits.
“Under the Government Code (Sections 53090, et seq.), counties are exempt from all city planning and zoning requirements on county-owned land within the city,” the packet reads. “County public works projects, acquisi-
even tighter with another proposed project in Brentwood, also named Creekside. This project is separate from the Antioch development with a similar name just down the street. Brentwood’s Creekside mixed-use project is expected to include 270 affordable and market-rate apartments along with more than 120,000 square feet of retail space according to the application submitted to the City of Brentwood last August. It is planned to be built in between Bridle Gate and the city’s planned Innovation Center.
“We both generally focus on our own projects and development,” Nolthenius said. “But we definitely pay attention to what the other (city) is doing primarily as you get closer to the borders. [Antioch] paid close attention to the Costco project when that went through, and I think that’s a good thing, as long as there’s some coordination and some understanding along the way.”
“We have good relationships with the staff from Antioch and Oakley, and that’s important because they border us on most of the west and north side. But we are always coordinating on things. From a staff perspective, I think it’s good.”
Editor’s note: Both the Creekside developments in Antioch and Bridle Gate in Brentwood are in the Liberty Union High School District and the Brentwood Unified School District. A story about the impact of these housing developments on the school districts is coming soon.
tion or disposition of public property, and construction of public buildings can be reviewed by the Planning Commission for conformance with the General Plan, although the findings of the City either way are advisory only and would not prohibit the county’s project.” Employees have further explained this to mean that the county can “basically do whatever it wants” when discussing the project.
At a recent meeting of the Planning Commission, Commissioner Anita Roberts expressed skepticism that the East County Service Center would result in many jobs for Brentwood residents, saying, “There are probably more jobs being offered at Burger King than there are on this big project.” Roberts also echoed the city’s calls for community discussion on the topic, requesting it be made into an agenda item at a future Planning Commission meeting.
Nuchols’ email, in response, called the project a “longterm public investment in the Brentwood area.”
“We also recognize questions around local economic impact,” she said. “Public facilities can help support local economic activity by bringing employees and visitors into the area. Based on standard economic modeling, the approximately 441 jobs anticipated at the center could support additional indirect and induced jobs in the community. While hiring is based on qualifications, locating these services in Brentwood creates greater access and opportunity for residents by bringing those jobs closer to where people live.”
The full letter from the city can be found at https:// www.thepress.net/letter-to-contra-costa-county---eastcounty-service-center-mnd/pdf_3d4fcb0a-6707-4662-92b766408089b5d1.html
To view a video, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia
County from page 1A
Maps of the planned housing developments coming on Sand Creek Road.
Press graphic
REGIONAL & LOCAL
News iN Brief
Annual farmworkers rights movement celebration on April 14
The 32nd annual celebration of farmworkers’ rights movement is scheduled for Tuesday, April 14 at 11 a.m. at the Board of Supervisors chambers at 1025 Escobar St., Martinez.
This year, the event name has been updated to center on the broader Farmworkers’ Rights Movement, reflecting a more inclusive recognition of the diverse communities and histories that have shaped and continue to drive this work, according to a press release from Supervisor Diane Burgis’s office.
“Following the lead of the United Farm Workers, Contra Costa County remains focused on supporting farmworkers and advancing equity, safety, and opportunity in agriculture,” said Burgis, Board chairwoman. “Our goal is to ensure this event honors farmworkers, highlights urgent issues like fair wages and safe working conditions, and reflects our shared values of dignity and inclusion.”
The theme for this year’s celebration is Rooted in Resilience. The celebration will feature keynote speaker Jane Garcia, Chief Executive Officer of La Clínica de la Raza. Since becoming CEO in 1982, Garcia has expanded the organization from a $2 million project to a $170 million health system with over 1,200 employees. La Clínica now serves more than 85,000 patients across 35 sites in Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano counties.
The event will feature the presentation of the 2026 Youth Hall of Fame Awards honoring students who have made outstanding contributions to their communities. The program will also include live performances by Mariachi Monumental and Pittsburg High School Ballet Folklórico, along with remarks from Supervisors. Here are the County’s 2026 Youth Hall of Fame Awards winners from East County.
• Good Samaritan: Amadeus Castillo, 11th Grade, Freedom High School in Oakley
• Perseverance: Camilla Rodriguez Cantwell, 7th Grade, Excelsior Middle School in Byron
• Innovation & Empowerment: Samantha PedrazaLindsey, 8th Grade, Black Diamond Middle School in Antioch
Delta Christian Community sponsors mobile food pantry
The Delta Christian Community Food Pantry operates a mobile pantry every Tuesday, visiting three places. They start their route in Byron, continue through
Knightsen, and finish on Bethel Island. Recipients drive up, walk up, and even boat up to receive donations, including those for pets, according to a press release from Supervisor Diane Burgis’s office.
They start at 8:30 a.m. at St. Anne Catholic Church at 2800 Camino Diablo in Byron, then at Calvary church at 3090 Curlew Connex in Byron at 10 a.m., then to New Covenant Church at 6080 Bethel Island Road in Bethel Island at 11:30 a.m.
For details, visit https://www.deltafoodpantry.com/
Ready Kids East County Resource Fair on April 11
The Ready Kids East County Resource Fair is set for Saturday, April 11 from 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. at the Marina Community Center at 340 Marina Blvd. in Pittsburg.
The fair’s goal is connect East County Black families with resources that can help them in a variety of ways, according to a press release from Supervisor Diane Burgis’s office.
Families can meet organizations and child care programs that offer culturally relevant programming for African-American families with young children. More than 30 service providers will be available to share resources, answer questions, and help families connect to programs that support their children’s success.
The fair will feature the following:
• Connection with organizations offering support at every step, including prenatal and postnatal care, early learning, health and well-being, school readiness, and essential resources for your family’s success.
• Free tote bag and shirt for the first 100 families
• Inflatable bouncy house for kids to jump and play
• Balloon animals and face painting
• Explore First 5 California’s Stronger Starts Roadshow: a hands-on, sensory adventure where children can see, touch, and learn through interactive stations
• Meet The Rolling Reader, the Library’s all-electric van: enjoy storytimes, free books, and hands-on early learning activities
• Free lunch from Taco Tone
• Drumming performance by The Peaceful Warriors
• Wonderland play area with activities, and arts and crafts
• Connect with Black-led child care programs that nurture, educate, and empower young learners
• Hourly giveaways and raffles
Clipper ‘Start’ card offers 50% off BART trips
The Clipper START discount program offers 50% off all Bay Area transit agencies so qualified Bay Area residents can commute for less money. Residents aged 19-64 who meet certain income levels can take advantage of these savings by going to clipperstartcard.com to see if they qualify and to apply.
ECCHS to host ‘bypass the tax’ donation seminar
The East Contra Costa Historical Society is hosting a seminar on April 15 from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at
To submit a news item for this page, send it to editor@brentwoodpress.com
the museum at 3890 Sellers Ave. in Brentwood on how to make charitable donations to ECCHS with a ‘Qualified Charitable Contribution’ and bypass the tax. You are required to take money out of your retirement accounts at age 72 ½, but you don’t have to give more of it to taxes, according to a press release.
A Qualified Charitable Distribution can send taxfree dollars to support the plans to expand the museum and at the same time can reduce the amount of taxes you would pay on the funds you are required to pay on an RMD.
Brian Sullivan of Tomren Wealth Management will discuss how Qualified Charitable Distributions can help support the local history museum while potentially reducing our tax burden.
For details, call Mary Black at 925-206-5087.
Black Diamond Ballet to host April 18 benefit for El Campanil Theatre
Black Diamond Ballet will present “City of Stars” Gala & Benefit Concert at 7 p.m at the El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. 2nd St. This evening celebrates the dance community coming together on one stage to keep the arts thriving in Antioch.
Building on the momentum of the successful GoFundMe campaign to “Keep the Arts Alive,” the event will raise funds for the El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation to help sustain the theatre. The evening will include live dance and musical performances from Black Diamond Ballet, Step 2 This Dance and Performing Arts, Be Exceptional Programs and the Pittsburg Performing Arts Academy. Tickets are available at www. blackdiamondballet.org or www.elcampaniltheatre.com. For more information, call 925-757-9500.
Antioch teacher Brandon Lawson announces candidacy for school board
Brandon Lawson, an Antioch native and current English teacher, has announced his candidacy for the Antioch Unified School District Board of Education, representing District 5.
Lawson enters the race with a clear and focused platform centered on classroom support, transparency, and practical solutions that directly impact students and teachers.
“If elected, I will take my entire $2,000 monthly board stipend and put it directly into a fund for teachers to use for classroom supplies,” Lawson said. “That money should go back into classrooms where it can make a real difference.”
As a teacher working daily with students, Lawson says his approach is grounded in firsthand experience rather than theory.
“I see every day how district decisions affect classrooms,” Lawson said. “My goal is to bring the focus back to students and teachers, make district decisions easier to understand, and ensure the community knows exactly what is happening and why it matters.”
Lawson’s campaign emphasizes simplicity and accessibility. He has launched a campaign website where residents can view his full plan and stay updated – brandonlawsonforausd.com.
Lawson plans to talk to people directly, including regular updates and outreach to local residents.
“This is a local position, and it should stay focused on local impact,” Lawson said. “I’m not overcomplicating it. I want to support teachers, keep the public informed, and make sure decisions actually benefit students.”
Pest in Show
Keeping your garden pest-free
April Pools
Prepping your swimming pool for summer
The early spring months of March and April bring warmer weather, and more outdoor activities, including spring cleaning and gardening. That also means more pests, whether they are outside in the garden, or even inside homes.
In East County, the most common pests seen are ants, spiders, rodents, cockroaches, and wasps, while in garden settings, households tend to deal with snails and slugs, local experts say. Although according to Robert Ayres, Founder of Liberty Pest Services, snails and slugs are considered more agricultural pests, and as a result, are not typically treated by general pest control companies.
“The best humane approach is prevention and exclusion first,” Ayres said. “Pests are usually coming in for food, water, or shelter, so when those are reduced, the problem often never starts.”
Ayres said that simple steps, such as sealing entry points, keeping food stored properly,
loving pests such as earwigs can also become a problem.
“Snails and slugs are also worth paying attention to because they can attract rodents since they serve as a food source,” Ayres said. “If you have a heavy snail population, it can indirectly increase rodent activity around the home.”
“We call it IPM (“Integrated pest management”), Ayres said. “It reduces the use of chemical and the chemical exposure to the environment. By trimming trees bushes and maintaining a well-kept yard, it will reduce the chances or having insects and rodents in or around your house. Overall, humane pest control comes down to prevention, habitat modification, and exclusion. When you take away food, water, and shelter, most pests will move on naturally without the need for aggressive measures.”
fixing moisture issues, and maintaining a clean environment can go a long way toward pest prevention. For rodents, such as mice and rats, sealing up access points is the most effective and humane solution. For insects, routine service and monitoring can help keep activity
low without allowing it to turn into an infestation. Additionally, Ayres advised to watch out for spiders, especially around the exterior of homes, along with cockroaches in warm or moisture-prone areas, and wasps during the spring and summer. In garden areas, moisture-
According to Humaneworld.org, lethal methods of pest control do not offer a viable long-term solution. Prevention is better than eliminating a single mouse, rat, or an entire colony. Rodents have been found to avoid the smell of peppermint, spearmint or eucalyptus. Soaking cotton wool balls in one of these oils
see Garden pests page 5B
SEAN TONGSON
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“Pests are usually coming in for food, water, or shelter, so when those are reduced, the problem often never starts,” Robert Ayres, founder of Liberty Pest Services, says.
Garden mulch is excellent for protecting the soil of your yard from numerous threats, according to the Skagit Soils composting facility. It keeps soil cool during the summer, preventing water evaporation and keeping the soil moist and free of salt buildup. In addition, mulch can shield soil from weed seeds, preventing weed growth altogether. The protective layer provided by mulch also prevents wind from eroding soil. Mulch made from organic materials can decompose over time, enriching the soil of your yard and creating more layers of soil in which plants can grow.
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Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
Garden pests from page 3B
ensuring they smell strong and leaving them along work surfaces, underneath units and anywhere that could be an entry point can be a detterent. In addition, blocking all potential access holes with wire wool, ’mouse mesh’, or a strong sealant that will harden quickly. For lofts, basements and sheds, rags soaked in a non-toxic repellent liquid (which can be found at hardware, stores can be left in the corners. And peppermint, spearmint or eucalyptus oil can be rubbed along beams and other areas where rodents travel.
Ayres said to reduce snails naturally, people are advised to focus on removing the conditions in which they thrive. Additionally, people should avoid overwatering, especially during evening hours, since this is when snails are most active in moist conditions overnight. As a result, Ayres advised watering earlier in the day, which allows the soil to dry out by nightfall. Furthermore, clearing out dense ground cover, debris, and anything that holds moisture like boards, pots, or leaf piles helps to eliminate hiding spots for snails, as simple barriers like crushed eggshells or copper-based materials around garden beds can help deter them. Hand removal in the early morning or evening can also keep populations down without chemicals.
“When it comes to overall prevention, sealing the home is one of the biggest steps,” Ayres said. “Small gaps around doors, windows, vents, and the foundation are easy entry points. A good rule is if you can see daylight under a door, pests can get in.”
One such pest is spiders. They are typi-
When you take away access, food, and shelter, most pest issues can be avoided before they start.
– Robert Ayres
cally controlled through maintenance rather than direct treatment, Ayres said. Regularly knocking down webs around eaves, lights, and entryways helps discourage them from settling in. Keeping outdoor lighting to a minimum or switching to warm-colored bulbs can reduce the insects that attract spiders in the first place.
Ayres also emphasized that preventing moisture is just as important. Fixing leaks, improving drainage, and avoiding overwatering near the home helps reduce attraction for ants, cockroaches, and other insects. Outside, keep vegetation trimmed back a few feet from structures, which reduces clutter, and store items off the ground to help eliminate hiding and nesting areas.
“At the end of the day, prevention is always easier than reaction,” Ayres said. “When you take away access, food, and shelter, most pest issues can be avoided before they start.”
For details, call Robert at 925-628-3030 or visit www.libertypestservices.com.
5 patio project ideas to enhance outdoor living in your own backyard
Warm weather paves the way to more opportunities to enjoy fresh air. For homeowners who have the luxury of outdoor spaces, including private patios, now is the time to start thinking about projects to enhance these gathering spots.
A patio can be considered a transitional area that links the outdoors to the inside of a home. According to the home and lifestyle resource The Spruce, a patio is often an oasis for lounging and entertaining. And depending on homeowners’ budgets and preferences, a patio can be just as comfortable and stylish as interior spaces. The following are five patio projects that can transform these valuable spaces.
1. Pretty pergola
A pergola is an open-air (traditionally wood) structure that adds a measure of shade and privacy without completely blocking views of Mother Nature. Installing a pergola over the patio helps define the seating area. Hanging plants can add to the
The options for transforming patios into stylish gathering spots is limited only by your imagination.
ambiance and string lights can make this a great spot to gather when the sun sets.
2. Patio fire pit
Build a fire pit right into the design with the same materials used to create the patio. For example, if the patio is brick or flagstone, build up to create an eye-catching fire pit. Fire pits not only look good, they also expand the time frame that the patio can be
enjoyed, offering cozy spots to sit even when the weather chills.
3. Frame it in
Make the patio a true extension of the inside by putting up walls around three sides of the patio if it connects to the home. Leave the last open to the yard, or consider installing screens to mimic the look of popular lanais. The walls will offer more
weather protection, meaning you can invest in high-quality patio furniture to make this a fully functioning outdoor living room. Hang a television that is rated for outdoor use for movie-watching under the sun or stars.
4. Ooh la la
Vintage bistro tables and chairs can turn a drab patio into one that calls to mind a Parisian courtyard. Whimsical lighting and accents that you would normally think to see indoors, like a gilded mirror, can add extra appeal. Soften wrought iron and other metals on the furniture by including plenty of flowers and greenery. Don’t forget the candles and a place to stash a bottle of chilling wine.
5. Farmhouse chic
Transform a patio into an entertaining space that caters to guests. A large farmhouse-style table flanked by benches and some upholstered chairs sets the scene for a dinner amid the fresh air. Watering cans filled with wildflowers and mismatched flatware establish a casual feel for gatherings in the space. For those who plan to cook and serve outside a lot, invest in outdoor appliances so you’ll never have to miss a beat with guests. – Courtesy of Metro Creative
Photo by Metro Creative
Swimming is an ever-popular summer activity. But if you want a good experience, your pool must be well-maintained and prepared for frequent use. Jermain Garcia of Brentwood’s At Your Door Pool Service laid out how to wake your swimming pool from its winter hibernation and keep it clean and sanitary on sweltering summer days.
The first thing to do is to ensure that the chemistry of the pool’s water is optimal, with a pH balance of around 7.4 to 7.6 regardless of whether you have a chlorine or saltwater pool.
“You want to make sure your pool is balanced, and free of algae in the pool,” Garcia said. “It will require more than chlorine. There’s a whole balance of water chemistry.”
Numerous factors help keep pool water balanced.
“There’s pH and alkalinity, which isn’t for sanitation, but to keep the buildup of the [calcium] line lower. It’s going to
happen either way, but if you ignore it, it can progress faster than you want,” Garcia explained. The sanitation side is chlorine and conditioner levels. The conditioner acts as protection against UV rays and holds chlorine in the pool. If the conditioner level isn’t balanced, you can go through a ton of chlorine, and it’s not doing its job.”
Conditioner, available at pool stores
an imbalance that can require draining the pool and replacing the water, Garcia said.
Water flow is also a crucial component in keeping a pool free of algae and pests such as mosquitoes. Garcia recommended that the filtration system of an average, 17,000 to 20,000-gallon residential pool be run for eight hours per day during the summer to ensure that the water does not become stagnant. Running the system during the day, at a low wattage, can prevent stagnancy in the heat, while also keeping your PG&E bill down thanks to lower power usage. To be effective, the filtration system must also be cleaned, ideally three times per year if possible.
such as At Your Door Pool Service and Supply store, is primarily made up of cyanuric acid, a compound that shields chlorine from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
Removing any pool cover during the hot summer months can also help the water chemistry, especially if you use chlorine tablets to sanitize it. If the cover is not removed, there is a risk of creating
Brushing down the sides and bottom of your pool at least once a week with a large pool brush and skimming it for debris such as leaves, seed pods, and dead insects is another essential maintenance activity, especially if the pool has steps that can accumulate filth and debris, Garcia said. This debris, along with sunscreen from swimmers’ skin and other factors, can cause phosphates to build up in the water. These phosphates not only react with the chlorine in the water, keeping it from doing its job, they also act as a nutrient source for algae that can build up in the pool, he said.
For more information, visit www atyourdoorpoolservice com or call 925-584-1928.
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Photo by Adobe Stock
According to LawnStarter, organic mulch can cost from $30 to $110 per cubic meter, with the average being between $77 and $94. Each cubic meter of mulch can cover 162 square feet at 2 inches deep and 108 square feet at 3 inches deep. The average costs for river rocks are $60 to $170 per ton of rocks. Rock landscaping projects range from $365 to $1,500, with the average at $655, according to LawnStarter.
Types of landscaping material
Bark mulch, typically made from cedar and pine wood, according to Home Depot, is good for sloped gardens and those that are frequently watered, since its interlocking nature prevents it from washing away. Coarse bark lasts longer, according to Roedell’s Landscaping, but may not be as aesthetically pleasing and can float away when watered. Finer bark, however, can be compact and stay in place, but this can also prevent water from reaching the soil.
Bark nuggets are better for flat gardens, as the nuggets do not interlock the same way as regular bark mulch does. Their “chunky” consistency, as Home Depot describes it, keeps them from breaking down quickly, which means that they can be reapplied less frequently, saving you time and money. They must be applied in a thicker layer than regular bark, are harder to walk on, and can be washed away more easily, however.
Gorilla hair mulch is made from shredded redwood, and is “light [and] fibrous” according to Bee Green Recycling and Supply. It more easily creates mats on the soil, which
is beneficial in sloped areas, where it will stay in place. Like fine bark, this trait can prevent water from reaching the soil, but may help retain existing water.
A more exotic choice of mulch is made from the hulls of cocoa fruits, the beans inside that are used to make chocolate. Roedell’s Landscaping says that it decomposes slowly, reducing the need for replacement, and adds a “light chocolate fragrance” to the yard. Cocoa hulls are more difficult to keep properly watered. But with too much, they will grow mold, too little and they will blow away in the wind. In addition, they are poisonous to pets such as dogs and cats.
River rocks and gravel can also be used as mulch, though they will not add any nutrients to the soil due to their inorganic nature. They are good for stabilizing planted areas, according to Roedell’s Landscaping. Beneath the rock layer should be a layer of fabric, which helps protect against weeds and can help if you want to move or change the rocks. In hotter months, however, rocks can heat up and scorch shallow-rooted plants.
For more local information, contact:
– Bearscapes Nursery and Landscape, 1555 Eden Plains Road in Brentwood, (925) 240-6311, bearscapes27@yahoo.com)
– Brentwood Decorative Rock, 6745 Brentwood Blvd., (925) 634-0131, brentwooddecorock@att.net)
– A & B Landscape Design and Maintenance, Inc., 1820 Eden Plains Road, Brentwood (925) 513-1899, info@ablandscapeinc.com)
Memorial Day from page 8B
quickly, which can decrease the chances that mold and mildew will grow on surfaces like siding. A freshly power washed home also makes for a welcoming entertaining space. A power washer also can be used on outdoor entertaining spaces to remove dirt and debris that built up over the winter. Just make sure to read manufacturer instructions before using a power washer to clean paving stones, decks and outdoor furniture.
Inspect outdoor furniture
Now is a good time to do that if the task was not performed in late fall or early winter before items were moved into the garage or placed in storage. Check to make sure furnishings are still safe to use, addressing any issues before guests come over for a Memorial Day weekend gathering. Wash cushions for outdoor furniture and replace any that might be showing their age.
Clean the grill
A thorough cleaning of the grill also is in order prior to summer entertaining season. Many homeowners do little or no grilling during winter, so now is the time to give grilling surfaces and the interior of the grill a deep cleaning. Check for leaks if using a gas grill, and scrub the interior of any grease that accumulated last season. Many grilling experts advise lighting a grill and letting it burn for roughly 20 minutes prior to putting any foods on the grates
for the first time. Such a strategy allows residual fluids like soap, vinegar and de-greasing products used when cleaning the grill to burn off before food is placed on the grates.
Inspect the landscaping, too
It’s not just seating areas like patios and decks that need some investigation prior to outdoor entertaining season. Take a walk around the landscape and make sure there’s no potentially dangerous spots where people could be injured when playing backyard games. Fill in any holes with soil and fresh grass seed, and inspect trees to see if any branches need to be pruned.
– Courtesy of Metro Creative
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
A home remodeling project is a big commitment of time and money. Budgeting correctly ensures that there are few, if any, surprises along the way.
How to establish a home renovation budget
Homeowners know that the next home renovation project is always right around the corner. And that means finding ways to finance such undertakings.
When planning for renovations, the average homeowner underestimates their
project cost by approximately 22 percent, according to the 2026 Remodeling Impact Report. Establishing a pre-project budget can help avoid such surprises.
Don’t over-improve
A common mistake homeowners make is over-improving a home beyond
see Renovations page 14B
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Bathroom and kitchen remodel? We can handle it from start to finish!
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How to make a spring garden flourish
Experts say the key to a successful spring garden in Brentwood is choosing climate-appropriate plants and setting a foundation for a beautiful, thriving landscape through the warmer months.
Irma Perez, owner of Perez Nursery and Landscaping in Brentwood, said spring is one of the best times to start a flower garden in Brentwood. “My top recommendation is to begin with healthy soil and choose plants suited to our climate -- hot and dry,” Perez said.
These plants include drought-tolerant and heat-loving varieties such as lavender, salvia, ceanothus, and ornamental grasses, all of which do “especially well in the Brentwood and East Bay area,” she said. “Seasonal color can be achieved with perennials and annuals like geraniums, petunias, and marigolds.”
Use quality planting mix and prepare
My top recommendation is to begin with healthy soil and choose plants suited to our climate -- hot and dry.
– Irma Perez
your soil properly by “loosening existing soil and mixing in a quality planting mix to improve drainage and root growth,” she said, adding that mulch helps retain moisture and protect plants. This will set the foundation for long-term success. “I encourage homeowners to plan their layout ahead of time, considering sun exposure and spacing so plants have room to grow and thrive,” Perez said. “We are also seeing increased interest in pollinator-friendly plants that attract bees and butterflies such as ceanothus, also known as California lilac, California poppy, western redbud, manzanita, yarrow, fescue, erysium, and lupine.”
see Garden tips page 13B
Landscaping in 2026 is all about smart choices: native plants, year-round color, eco-friendly hardscaping, and spaces that bring family together. As your local experts, Perez Nursery offers top-quality plants, fresh arrivals, and practical know-how to make your yard shine in every season. Come see us in Brentwood and turn today’s trends into your backyard reality!
TAYLOR SHEPHERD
Drought-tolerant and heat-loving plant varieties such as lavender, salvia, ceanothus, and ornamental grasses (drought-tolerant, low-maintenance landscaping grasses) do especially well in Brentwood and East County.
Garden tips from page 12B
Perez emphasized that early spring as being ideal for planting trees, shrubs, and perennials, “allowing them to establish before the summer heat. Annual flowers can be planted once the risk of frost has passed, and vegetables such as tomatoes and peppers typically do best when planted mid- to late spring.”
An important step to a plant’s health is how to water them. The best time is early in the morning, which allows moisture to reach the roots before the heat of the day, she said.
Perez noted that “deep, less frequent watering is more beneficial than shallow daily watering, as it encourages stronger root systems. It’s also important to adjust watering schedules as temperatures rise.”
The biggest mistake homeowners make is planting without considering sun exposure, soil, and plant size”, she said. Choosing the right plant for the right place is key in Brentwood’s climate,” Perez said.
For more information, visit pereznursery.com, or call (925) 516-1052.
• Fire Extinguisher Inspections
• Fire Extinguisher Disposal
• Fire Extinguisher Rentals
• Reconditioned Fire Extinguishers
• Exit & Emergency Lighting
• Hands-On Fire Extinguisher Training
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the neighborhood value. A good rule of thumb is to employ the average percentage-of-home-value approach in an effort to stay within range of what’s acceptable. Budget a kitchen renovation or finished basement at 10 to 15 percent of the home value. A master bedroom will come in at 5 to 10 percent of home value, while a small bedroom or office falls between 1 and 3 percent of home value. These benchmarks are supported by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and the National Association of Realtors. Historically, a functional, modern kitchen is the top driver of home value, says Remodeling Magazine.
Learn the breakdown
Homeowners should understand that materials, fixtures, appliances, and flooring will eat up 50 to 60 percent of their renovation budgets. Labor, permits and design fees will comprise the next largest chunk, typically 25 to 35 percent. Homeowners also should factor about 15 to 20 percent of a budget to a safety net to cover unforeseen expenses, like mold remediation or structural issues.
Get three quotes
It’s important for homeowners to get several estimates before establishing a budget. Experts advise working with contractors that offer fixed-price contracts rather than those that list time and materials; otherwise, there may be a mid-project
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price hike that comes out of the blue. A person also can ask contractors for a line-item bid so it’s possible to see where money can be trimmed through different material choices. With a list of desired items in hand, and acceptable substitutions if the cost comes in too high, homeowners can create a budget that works.
Saving versus splurging
Homeowners should be realistic about their renovations. They can splurge on items that are seen or touched every day, like door handles, cabinet pulls and faucets. Other items, like lighting fixtures or backsplashes, can be replaced down the road. It may be better to direct funds to structural elements or those “invisible renovations” like upgrading insulation or smart systems that save on energy costs and improve efficiency.
Keep a 20 percent cushion
Homeowners can determine the affordability if a proposed project ends up costing 20 percent more or takes a few months longer. If the answer is ‘no’, homeowners should scale back the project budget until they have that financial safety net. Alliant Credit Union says experts strongly recommend adding a 20 percent contingency cushion to a remodeling budget.
– Courtesy of Metro Creative
Get to the root of a dry lawn
Weather can be unpredictable, even during the warmest months of the year. Summer days may feature strong thunderstorms and downpours, followed by stretches of extremely hot and dry conditions. Weather extremes can take a toll on lawns, especially when drought is part of the equation. The results can be anything from dry patches to a scorched landscape, leaving homeowners wondering what they can do to repair the damage.
According to The Spruce, dry grass can happen in as little as a week without adequate care and water. Sometimes dry grass can be the result of disease, pets, or pests. A healthy lawn will be lush and green; a dry lawn quite the opposite. It’s crunchy, uncomfortable and muted in color. Here’s how to address a dry lawn to restore it to it’s natural beauty.
Pet urine
Animal urine often is the culprit behind dry patches in a lawn. Lawns need nitrogen to grow, which is why it is included in many fertilizers. But the nitrogen in dog urine is concentrated and directed in one area, so much so that it chemically burns the lawn. This concentrated nitrogen causes the grass to dry out, turn yellow and eventually go brown and die.
Rinsing areas where dogs urinate on the lawn or creating a separate potty area in the yard can help alleviate brown spots.
Lawn height
Sometimes a lawn mower might be to blame for a brown lawn. According to Scotts, the higher a person mows, the deeper the lawn’s roots will grow. That can help the lawn thrive under restricted water conditions and insulate the lawn from some of the effects of hot, dry weather. Never remove more than one-third of the total height in a single mowing, as that can stress the lawn.
Trial and error may be necessary to figure out why a lawn is brown and what’s needed to revive it.
Diseases
Leaf blight, brown patches and powdery mildew are just some of the diseases that can affect a lawn. Fungal bacteria can spread on a lawn and contribute to these conditions, which makes it important to aerate and dethatch the lawn in cooler seasons to help prevent disease.
Improper pH
A lawn requires a certain pH to grow well. According to Weed Man Lawn Care Services, the ideal pH range for lawn soil is between 6.0 and 7.0. Anything outside of this range may result in poor, brown grass. A soil pH test will indicate if the soil is acidic, alkaline or optimal. Amend an acidic soil with lime and an alkaline soil with sulphur in small amounts until a balance is reached.
Pest infestation
People are not the only creatures that like a lawn. Many pests feed on blades of grass or the roots. The result can be patchy, dry grass. Figuring out what is causing any damage is essential. Homeowners can then take steps to remove the pests and return the lawn to its former glory.
Dehydration
Deep watering can help restore a lawn that has widespread wilting and browning. Popular Mechanics advises homeowners begin watering more in spring. Water infrequently but for longer periods of time to encourage roots to deepen. The ideal time to water is between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m. to limit evaporation.
– Courtesy of Metro Creative
3 Contra Costa County Locations
Our Garden, Walnut Creek (corner of N. Wiget and Shadelands)
• April 11 and 12 (Sat-Sun), from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Great Tomato Plant Sale
Rivertown Demo Garden, Antioch (Contra Costa Event
• April 18 (Sat), from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
New Location! Richmond Art Center, Richmond, • May 2 (Sat), from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Our Garden, Walnut Creek (corner of N. Wiget and Shadelands)
• April 11 and 12 (Sat-Sun), from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m
Rivertown Demo Garden, Antioch (Conta Costa Event Park, 1201 W 10th St)
Tomatoes Peppers Eggplants Squash
• April 18 (Sat), from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m..
New Location! Richmond Art Center, Richmond, (2540 Barrett Avenue)
• May 2 (Sat), from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
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For more info visit us: ccmg.ucanr.edu
For safety reasons, pets are not allowed inside the sale area.
For more info visit us: ccmg.ucanr.edu
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For safety reasons, pets are not allowed insid All plants $4 Visa, Mastercard, Cash or Check
