YOUR HOMETOWN WEEKLY NEWSPAPER

Vol. 9, No. 20 Including Surrounding Communities www.thepress.net May 15, 2009

Natio

nalAwardWinning Newspapers

THIS WEEK

FOR MOVIE TIMES SEE PAGE 5A

LOOK here rst! Find an event.Check the local online community calendar! Having an event? Post it for free!

Doubly dominant

Falcon batters stung, Falcon pitchers stifled, and the final scores earned Freedom two league titles.

Page 2B

Hook, line and bigger A legendary fishing and hunting equipment shop is celebrating its expansion this weekend with a gala event.

Page 6A

Business .............................6ACalendar ..........................23BClassifieds ........................16BCop Logs ..........................17AEntertainment ................14BFood .................................12BHealth & Beauty ...............8BMilestones .......................11BOpinion ...........................16ASports .................................1BWebExtras! .......................1B

INSIDE

Iconic crossing

When choosing a venue for their bridging ceremony, these impending Cadettes decided to think big.

Page 7A

Oakley Chamber honors FrazierIt was a night of tributes,

triumphs and tears as residents and supporters came out last weekend to honor their own at the Oakley Chamber of Com-merce Citizen of the Year awards dinner held at City Hall.

Oakley Councilman Jim Frazier was honored as Citizen of the Year for his efforts on the council and his work on the nonprofi t organization Friends of Oakley, which he co-founded with council members Pat An-derson and Kevin Romick. The former planning commissioner was also recognized for his dedi-cation to the Special Kids Foun-dation as well as his involvement in other community organiza-tions, including implementing a trust fund for the Nunn/Wilson children. Frazier and his wife Ja-net are also the founders of the Network of Care, a service that provides meals to families with a sick or injured child in the hos-pital.

An emotional Janet Frazier spoke of her husbands accom-plishments and virtues: Ive got fi ve pages of notes, which makes me nervous because ev-eryone else had just one. She

ended her tribute by saying, Im very proud to be his wife. A vis-ibly touched Frazier thanked his family, the chamber and his co-workers for the evenings honor.

Pat (Anderson) and Kevin

(Romick), were the three mus-keteers, the three amigos, said Frazier referring to the council-members work on community projects. One of the reasons I became a councilman was to make a difference, and after get-ting on the planning commission, I went to every council meeting and I was enthralled. I wanted to be a part of that so that I could make a difference, too.

If anything comes of this (award), what I would like to promote is volunteerism for our community. Our time is more valuable than money and if we can give ourselves to an event or service club or just a cause, then I would encourage it.

The Volunteer Service Award went to Joe Ballard, a popular spokesperson for the American Cancer Societys Re-lay for Life and chairman of its newly formed Oakley chapter. Ballard is also the president of the Oakley Delta Lions Club and a member of the Oakley

by Ruth RobertsStaff Writer

School districts to receive stimulus dollars

During the next few weeks, more than $11 million in State Fiscal Stabilization Fund (SFSF) checks will be making their way into East County school district coffers. And while local offi cials agree that the stimulus dollars are welcome in a year marred by budget cuts and pink slips, how those funds will be spent depends upon a number of factors.

Its nice to have that positive news, ab-solutely, especially with all the negative news this year, said Brentwood Union School District Superintendent Merrill Grant, whose district is slated to receive $2,077,897. But its something that everyone is being cautious with. Were going to have to ana-lyze and examine some items before we make any decisions.

Under the guidelines of the SFSF, which are part of President Obamas American Re-covery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), local education agencies are required to spend the

one-time dollars on promoting and enhanc-ing school programs and saving jobs. Taken in that vein, it would seem logical that the dollars would be used to reinstate teachers recently laid off as the result of state educa-tion cuts.

However, with a state budget to be fi nal-

ized in June, and a series of May special elec-tion measures on the ballot (designed to nar-row a reported $42 million funding gap), the obvious choices are not so clear. Should the ballot measures fail and current indicators

by Ruth RobertsStaff Writer

see Chamber page 21A

see Stimulus page 13A

City Councilman Jim Frazier, right, was chosen Oakley Citizen of the Year for 2009. Oakley Chamber President Steve Nosanchuck, left, presented Frazier with a plaque at an awards dinner last weekend.

Photo by Ruth Roberts

Photo by Richard Wisdom

The Brentwood Union School District will be receiving more than $2 million in state stimulus relief funds. The one-time dollars are to be used to improve education pro-grams and save jobs at district schools such as Garin Elementary, above.

MAY 15, 2009 COMMUNITY THEPRESS.NET | 3A

A taste of summer on First StreetAn impressive array of produce amid

the backdrop of blue skies, conversation and music, and a sense of excitement in the air set the stage for the fi rst Farmers Market of the season last Saturday. The market, unfurled along First Street in downtown Brentwood, opened at 8 a.m. and ended at noon.

We are an agricultural community, and we do not wish to ever sever those ties, said Mayor Bob Taylor at the ribbon cutting ceremony marking the opening of a much-anticipated growing season. The people of Brentwood have responded wholeheartedly in support of the Farm-ers Market, because its part of our heri-tage.

The market featured more than just farmed products, showcasing specialty producers such as Granma Lillie Ol Fashioned Sweet Potato Pies and Bella Luna Chocolates, both from Brentwood. Nurseries also sold vibrantly colored fl owers to passersby in need of a bouquet for Mothers Day.

Weve found that in the Farmers Markets, people want to have fresh pro-duce, but they also come down for fresh food items, fi sh, chocolates foods like that, said Greg Pursley, the market man-ager for the Pacifi c Coast Farmers Mar-ket Association. The additional vendors

did so well Saturday that this years mar-ket will continue to feature more produc-ers outside the farming spectrum.

Several new farmers also made their debut on the opening day. Locally, there are about fi ve new farmers represented to-day, with 14 represented in total, Pursley said. But later, there will be around 18.

Despite the economic recession, sales were anything but slack. They eat their way through the market every year! Jen-nifer Eissner, a faithful shopper of the market, said about her kids. We love the fresh fruit and veggies, meeting the local

The Lujan Farm booth, above, showcased some of the 2009 seasons rst cher-ries. Above right, customers take a look at the produce provided by Chao & Zoua Moua Farm. Carrots and radishes are placed side by side at one booth, right.

Photos by Elysia Cook

by Elysia CookCorrespondent

see Summer page 22A

4A | THEPRESS.NET COMMUNITY MAY 15, 2009

glekjrfoeb^iqe+`lj John Muir Health thanks the following major sponsors:

Meet the Pediatricians Tracy Goldman, M.D.; Lisa Rood, M.D.; Lorna Paz, M.D. (pictured far left) t Physician Referral 941-2244

Mini Lectures11:30 a.m. Childhood Obesity: Prevention and Management

Mike Kern, M.D., Medical Director, John Muir Physician Network 12:30 p.m. Managing Injuries in Active Children and How to Keep Th em Injury-free Stacia Schroeder, Physical Th erapist, John Muir Physical Rehabilitation Services 1:30 p.m. Reinventing the Bag Lunch Chef Tyler of Brentwoods Vic Stewarts Restaurant

John Muir Kids Zone Fun Activities10:30 a.m.-11:15 a.m.

t 'SFFMagic Show by Peter Morrison, Magician 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. t .FFUDoodles the Clown t 'SFFDigital Photograph Asa Mathat Photography (photo release required) t 'SFFDPMPSJOHCPPLTCBMMPPOTHBNFTXJOWBMVBCMFQSJ[FT and coupons

Grand prize drawing for Kohls $200 gift certificate (must be present at 1:30 p.m. to win)Free First Aid kits for first 200 to RSVP (925) 308-8275 RSVP by May 28

John Muir Medical Group Pediatric Open HousePlease Join Us at John Muir Outpatient Center - 2400 Balfour Road, Brentwood

May 30 - 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The cast of Edna Hill Middle Schools production of Cinderella will give an ex-tra performance this Sunday, May 17 at 3 p.m. in the schools Bristow Theater, 140 Birch St. in Brentwood. For the third year in a row, casts will be combined and the talented students of Edna Hill will present one special show, the Purple Performance, to raise money for Relay for Life.

Its been a wonderful experience the last two years, and the kids are at a place now where they ask if we are going to do the

Purple show, said director Bart Schneider. They love the fact that they get to perform again, but the bigger picture of how they can use their talents to raise money to help fi nd a cure for cancer is what really drives these students to want to participate.

The Delta Childrens Chorus will treat the audience to a brief performance prior to Cinderella. Tickets for the evening are $10 and may be purchased by e-mailing bschneider@brentwood.k12.ca.us or call-ing the school at 925-513-6440.

Fairy tale goes Purple

Some of the Relay for Life team members of Donnas Troopers got together last Thursday after school to paint Ron Nunn Elemen-tary School purple to raise community awareness of the upcom-ing Relay for Life. The team is named after Girl Scout Troop 1495 leader Donna Gutridge. The girls and their parents, plus friends and family of Donna formed Donnas Troopers to honor, celebrate and show support for her. To raise money for Donnas Troopers and the ACS on Paint the Town Purple day, the girls dressed in purple and donned funny hats and wigs to sell goodies to parents waiting in line in the pick-up loop. Gutridge, currently undergoing cancer treatments, was out in the rain last Friday to help with the bake sale and baked up a ton of goodies.

Photo courtesy of Bart Schneider

Savannah Rose as the Fairy

Godmother, left, and Vanessa

Munoz as Cinderella will take part in a special Purple

Performance of the classic childrens

tale. Proceeds from the extra show will

bene t the Relay For Life cancer

fundraiser.

Kids kick in for cancer cureWiggin out

MAY 15, 2009 COMMUNITY THEPRESS.NET | 5A

MKT CODE: ROP

COMPLETE PAIR OFEYEGLASSES

$79CALL 1-877-JCPEYES SHOP JCPEYES.com

Call Today forYour Eye Examor Bringin Your RX.Includes:

any frame up to $130 single vision scratch-resistant lenses

JCPenney Optical Announces

We Accept Most Vision Care Plans.

40%off*

EMPLOYEEPRICINGPLU$ +TAKE AN

ADDITIONAL

*Get the employee 15% off discount plus an additional 40% off. 40% off discount applies to all frames excluding Rayban and SunSpot Collection. Select designer brands will be discounted at 25% off.40% off discount also applies to single vision, lined bifocals, and Instinctive no-line bifocal lenses. Employee pricing only valid on 40% off promotion. Complete pair purchase required. Someexclusions may apply. Not valid on contact lenses. See optician for details. $79 offer includes any frame up to $130 and single vision with scratch-resistant plastic lenses excluding Rayban andSunSpot Collection. Some special orders excluded. Additional charge may be applied for strong Rx. Bifocals and/or progressives, specialty lenses and lens options are additional. See optician fordetails. Cannot be combined with any other offer, vision care plan, package pricing or prior orders. Void where prohibited by law. Participating stores only. Eye exams performed by independent statelicensed Doctors of Optometry. Offer ends June 6, 2009.

Antioch: The Orchard at Slatten Ranch (925) 779-1844

Thousands of East County homeowners are needlessly losing their homes to foreclosure. If the value of your home is now less than your loan, if your adjustable monthly mortgage payment has increased or if you are behind on payments, Brule & Rooney can negotiate with your lender to stop foreclosure and modify the loan, often with low xed interest rates for 30 or 40 years and even reducing the balance owed! Your home is important.

Let Brule & Rooney, LLP, licensed local attorneys, represent your interests in negotiating a loan modi cation with your lender for a reasonable xed fee-- no surprises. Call now for a free 1/2 hour consultation with an attorney.

Danville Antioch

The Loan Fitness Counselors

925-934-7400www.BruleRooney.net

Feel like your home Feel like your home is sinking?is sinking?

Loan Modifi cation help Loan Modifi cation help is one call away!!is one call away!!

Two dead in separate incidents

Normally non-violent far East County was the scene of two violent deaths in the space of 24 hours in the past week: one an apparent patricide and the other an appar-ent suicide-by-cop.

Benjamin Packer, 20, has been arrested on suspicion of stabbing to death his 42-year-old father Dennis in his home in the 1200 block of Ironwood Drive in Brent-wood. Offi cers arrived just after 10:30 p.m. on Friday, May 8 after being called about a family dispute, and found Benjamin sitting in the driveway and Dennis and his 40-year-old wife, whom police declined to name, inside the residence bleeding from stab wounds.

The mother and father were convers-ing with the suspect, said Police Sgt. Mark Misquez. He simultaneously attacked both of them with the knife. The mother received a serious laceration to her forearm. It was a violent struggle.

Dennis was transported to Sutter Delta Medical Center in Antioch, where he later died. Police had been called to the residence at least two other times to respond to fam-ily disputes, and Benjamin has a history of

drug abuse, according to Misquez. This is a tragic, isolated family-violence incident, he said.

Benjamin is being held on $2.3 million bail, charged with murder and attempted murder with a deadly weapon.

A trust fund has been set up to provide for the mother and two children, ages 10 and 14. Donations can be made out to the Dennis Patrick Packer Memorial Fund and mailed or dropped off at Bank of the West, 4540 Balfour Road, Brentwood 94513.

A funeral service will be held for Pack-er on Saturday, May 16 at 10 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 1101 McClarren Road in Brentwood.

The stabbing was the fi rst homicide in Brentwood since December of 2006. Those with information should call Detective Agu-iar at 925-634-6911.

Seventeen hours later, Oakley police received a call concerning Alan Openshaw, 37, who was described as despondent and suicidal and driving around the city. Offi cers were unable to locate him right away but had cell phone conversations with him, during

which he made suicidal statements as well as threats toward police offi cers, according to a County Sheriffs Offi ce press release.

Just before 8 p.m., offi cers found Open-shaw in the area of Lois Lane and Mallard Lane in Oakley, where he displayed what looked to be a handgun but which turned out to be a BB gun resembling a Smith & Wesson handgun. He then led offi cers on a pursuit that ended in the 900 block of Al-mond Drive. When Openshaw came out of his vehicle he displayed the gun again and later pointed it to his head while threatening to commit suicide and harm offi cers.

Offi cers repeatedly asked him to put the gun down. They also shot a 40 mm sponge round at him in a non-lethal effort to disarm him. When Openshaw pointed his gun at offi cers, several offi cers discharged their fi rearms, striking him, according to the press release. Openshaw was taken to Sutter Delta Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead of a gunshot wound in the right chest.

No offi cers ever want to be put in this situation, said Oakley Police Chief Chris Thorsen in a press release. However, when a gun is pointed at offi cers, they will use the necessary force to protect themselves and others.

Six offi cers were placed on at least two days paid administrative leave following the shooting: Sgt. Robert Roberts, 13 years of

by Dave RobertsStaff Writer

see Incidents page 15A

This is a tragic, isolated family-violence incident.

Brentwood Police Sgt. Mark Misquez

Police officers kill suicidal man; son stabs, kills father

6A | THEPRESS.NET BUSINESS MAY 15, 2009

How Much Pain Can You Stand?Leg pain wears you down FAST... like having an energy sink-hole.

In fact, just lying in bed thinking about the day aheadand how much youre gonna hurtcan leave you exhausted before your feet hit the fl oor.

Still, its amazing how much pain people can stand how much theyll put up with. For instance, take a look at the TOP 4 LEG COM-PLAINTStheyre as common as dirt, but oft en so hard to diagnose they seem mysterious.

A Knife in Your Knee?(Or is it ARTHRITIS?)

At HealthSource Chiropractic clinics, we hear this complaint all day long. But you know what? Th ese poor folks are not exaggerating. Knee pain really CAN feel like a knife...or even like broken glass grinding away in the joint.

Th e good news is that even severe pain may have NOTHING to do with a worn out knee or ARTHRITIS.

Why?Because the pain may come from something as simple as a knee

muscle higher up in the thigh (its called referred pain).Or the knife may be caused by a teensyweensy stiff spot in the joint

that keeps it off track. Th e knee may just need to be shift ed a fraction of an inch to free itlike spraying WD-40 on a rusty hinge.

F I R E ! ! ! In Your Foot?Our patients say it best. Some patients have described it as, its like

someone is holding a hot coal to my heel... feeling like its ON FIRE!What can be done?

Well, just think of your heel like a safe with a 3-number combination lock. If your doctor only uses 1 number, it will never open... 2 wont do it either. But with all 3, its a piece of cake.And oft en...

Th ats what it takes to eliminate your painin your heel or your back or your neck. One healing strategy may do absolutely NOTHING, but several, woven carefully together, may send the pain packing.

For heel pain, usually you need a slight shift in the ankle joint, plus a little release of a muscle in the calf, and a little balancing in the pelvis.

Th en bingo, you may just go hopping, skipping, and jumping right on out of the offi ce!

Lightning in Your Leg?Its DOUBLE Trouble!

Boy, this is a tough problem to live with because it usually packs a one-two punch. First, theres a gnawing pain in your hip or lower back... like a toothache.

And secondly, an electric shock goes shooting down your hip, thigh... or even into your leg or foot. Yet people ask:

How Can Something SO PAINFULBe So EASY to FIX?

Th ats what one of our patients said aft er coming in with excruciating pain in his hip. It was almost unbearable yet the cortisone shot hed had only lasted for 3 days, then the pain came roaring back. What did we do?

Even though the pain was horrifi c, the solution was simple. Just a gentle shift ing of a joint in the pelvis, untying a knotted up muscle in the butt-cheek and showing him a few stretches to do at home. Which brings up another nasty problem...

It Feels LikeA QUARTER in My Shoe

Its terrible when people go for years with pain on the bottom of their foot, limping and getting cortisone shots with no relief. Its es-pecially tragic when theres a much simpler way to eliminate the pain. Its using the exclusive HealthSource Chiropractic combination of therapies called Progressive Rehab.

Th e quarter problem is sometimes diagnosed as plantar fascitisa big fancy word but usually all it takes a shift ing the joints in the feet, releasing some knots in the arch, and lining things up in the hips and knees. But without this new balanced approach you may just keep getting worse...

The Fastest Way to RUIN YOUR JOINTS!We all know how fast an alignment problem will gobble up the treads

on your tires... like a hot knife through butter. Th ats why its so important you dont just cover up the pain. You may be doing a lot of damage without knowing it.

So dont give up... EVEN if youve been chewed up and spit out by the healthcare systembecause the problem probably hasnt been corrected anyway. Th e chances are GREAT we can still help you.

Besides, what do you have to lose? Nothing but your pain! Nothing but frustration. So take a look at my FREE EXAM and TRIPLE SATIS-FACTION PLEDGE! One other thing...P.S. Dont Get Half-Fixed!

And dont wait! The 19-point exam is only FREE until 5/22/09 with this cou-pon (X-rays are also FREE if you need them). We often fi nd hidden pain in places that are often missed by traditional, ordinary exams. And fi nally...

Knife in Your KNEE? Lightning in Your LEG? Fire in Your FOOT?

Are You Tortured by Mysterious LEG PAIN?If You Cant Take a Step Without Flinching, If You Cant Get Comfortable in Bed, If You Cant Get By

Without Painkillers & Muscle Relaxants... Then Heres NEW HOPE for YOU... Even if Youve Given Up, Even if Youve Been Everywhere for Relief!

Why I Insist on Giving You OurTRIPLE Satisfaction Pledge!

Because Im trying to stop your legs from getting WORSE! And by showing you in advance, that theres nothing to lose, feel free to take action FAST... to prevent further damage. So heres what MUST happenright off the batwhen you call us for your FREE, WHY NOT? Hidden Pain EXAM:

You get an appointment the SAME DAY you call or your 1st treatment is FREE! If you do in fact qualify for treatment and are not cheerfully greeted by our warm and friendly staff , then your treatment is FREE! If you fi nd a better PLEDGE you get an entire week of treatments absolutely FREE!But dont wait! Theres more:Dont put it off ! If youre one of the fi rst 7 people to call, well give you a soothing, stress-busting 1/4-hour massage! OFFER EXPIRES 5/22/09

Dr. James Martin, D.C.(925)516-5855

2200 Sand Creek Rd., Suite B BrentwoodCopyright 2008 HealthSource heathsourcechiro.com

This

o e

r doe

s not

app

ly to

fede

ral i

nsur

ance

ben

e c

iarie

s or A

CN p

artic

ipan

ts.

Hook, Line & Sinker expands shopAt a time when many businesses are struggling to survive

or are closing shop, one longtime Oakley fi xture Hook, Line & Sinker is expanding, and celebrating that expansion with grand opening festivities this weekend.

When Gene Bucholz bought the business in 1993, the fi shing and hunting equipment store was in a 900-square-foot building at Big Break Marina. A professional bass angler, Bucholz began sponsoring bass tournaments at the marina, bringing ESPNs national television coverage to Oakley.

In September of 2001 he moved the store into a 1,700-square-foot space in the Oakley Plaza shopping center, then opened a second shop at Russos Marina in Bethel Island and moved his bass tournaments there. In March, the Oakley store expanded into adjoining space in Oakley Plaza and now oc-cupies 5,500 square feet.

So, business must be good, right?It was real good up until the economy crunch, and

things slowed down, said Bucholz. At the same time, rent got cheaper. It (the expansion) was kind of the right thing to do, but also a gutsy thing to do. We have some very, very loyal cus-tomers. My staff is very personable and they try to help them out as much as possible.

The staff can provide tips on the better fi shing spots on the Delta as well as information on the best baits to use. With the fi sh population dwindling, anglers can use all the help they can get.

Its becoming more of a challenge; the striper bass fi sh-ery is down, said Bucholz. We are not getting the spawns that we normally do. We are noticing this year for the fi rst time the black bass fi shery is out of whack. Its 100 percent due to the pumps pumping water south. If everybody can come to a happy medium (on Californias water needs), we can keep this Delta the second best fi shery in the world.

On the hunting side, its not so much the game as the hunters who feel they are under assault and being stalked by politicians who enact or threaten tougher restrictions on fi re-arms and ammunition. As a result, there has been a run on ammo and some of the more popular fi rearms since Presi-dent Obama was elected in November, reducing supply and increasing prices.

I truly believe that people think the Obama administra-tion will do one of two things, said Bucholz. They think their guns will be taken away from them. I dont think that will hap-pen, particularly after the last Supreme Court ruling on the Second Amendment. But they are trying to make it more dif-

fi cult to get ammo to shoot through your gun.They also think there will be a revolution. Your thefts,

your home break-ins have all increased. Thats what happens when people are out of work and have to fi nd food. Many people who have never owned a gun before have come in and bought guns. It has to do 100 percent with the Obama admin-istration trying to control the Second Amendment.

County budget cuts that have resulted in layoffs of sher-iffs deputies and decreased patrols at night in unincorporated areas along with threats by the DAs offi ce to stop prosecuting some crimes may also be contributing to some local residents interest in increasing their self-protection.

The staff at Hook, Line & Sinker are glad to help fi rearm newbies fi nd the right gun, rifl e or shotgun and advise them on training. The grand opening events include a variety of semi-nars, including one Sunday at 11 a.m. on handgun safety for women. Most of the seminars, which go from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on both days, focus on fi shing. It all kicks off with a ribbon cutting at 10 a.m. Saturday and includes free hourly drawings, a grand prize raffl e and free gift cards.

As a fellow business owner, I admire Gene for moving forward and being proactive instead of reactive in this econo-my, said Councilman Jim Frazier via e-mail. Gene is certain-ly knowledgeable in all facets of the products that he carries. I know this because I have been a customer myself. I would like to wish Hook Line & Sinker congratulations and many years of success.

I appreciate that Gene is continuing to invest in our com-munity and provide his patrons with more of the good things he offers, said Councilwoman Pat Anderson via e-mail. I be-lieve his business thrives because he goes far beyond the goods he stocks on his shelves. He builds and maintains relationships with his customers and is a wonderful example of what makes Oakley special.

For more information, call 925-625-2441 or go online to www.hookproshop.com.

Gene Bucholz holds a Ruger Mini-14 ri e, one of the many hunting and shing products for sale at Hook, Line & Sinker, which is holding a grand open-ing this weekend to celebrate its expansion.

Photo by Dave Roberts

by Dave RobertsStaff Writer

MAY 15, 2009 COMMUNITY THEPRESS.NET | 7A

Give your kids their independence this summer,while reclaiming your own!

Unlimited rides June 1st thru August 31st, 2009, on all fixed route buses. Cool wristband design so you dont have to worry about kids losing it!

Tri Delta Transit Summer Youth Passes

Order now by calling 925-754-6622 or online at www.TriDeltaTransit.com.

Buy Early and Save $10!Be one of the first 500 to purchase a

2009 Summer Youth Pass and pay only $45 each.

Thats a savings of $10!Limited supply offer so hurry! Order today.

$10 savings provided by:

Advertisement

So Ive spent the last two years telling Sellers what they dont want to hearthat their house is worth much less than what they thought, and also less than what they owe. And now, Im telling Buyers what they dont want to hearthat even though they made a good offer on the property they wanted, someone else got it because they offered more.

What? they ask me. How can that be? I thought this was a Buyers Market? You know, more Sellers than Buyers? Falling prices? I thought I could come in low and get a steal? What I then have to explain is that the combination of low prices, low interest rates and low inventory has created a bit of a mini buying frenzy around here right now. Well-priced homes in decent shape are receiving multiple offers, sometimes as many as 10 or 20+ offers, especially in the lower price ranges. So as one of our national sales trainers puts it, You could come in low, but you will not come into this house

This is a bit frustrating for buyers who have been on the sidelines the past few

years, waiting for the market to bottom out. And now that they are finally ready to buy, they are still dealing with multiple offers. I counsel them that while it is frustrating to compete with so many other buyers, the good news is that the prices are 50% or so less than they were just a few short years ago, so just be thankful they didnt buy back then.

The good news is that there are rum-blings in the industry that the banks will start releasing more bank-owned properties in the coming months as the foreclosure moratoriums expire. That will mean higher inventory than what we have now, which will give buyers some more choices, and may reduce the amount of multiple-offers.

In a future article Ill share with you some suggestions as to how to make your offers stand out in a multiple-offer situation.

If you have questions on this or any other real estate topic, call me at (925) 240-MOVE (6683). To search the MLS for free and view virtual tours of homes for sale, go to: www.SharpHomesOnline.com. Sharp Realty

LOSING OUT IN MULTI-OFFERS

Oakley Troop 634 recently participated in the 2009 Girl Scouts Golden Gate Bridging. This years event was the second largest of its kind ever hosted on the Golden Gate Bridge. More than 7,000 Girl Scouts from eight states and Canada walked the bridge, making the journey to the next Girl Scout level, Cadettes. It was an event the girls will remember for the rest of their lives. Congratulations, Scouts!

Golden moment

8A | THEPRESS.NET EDUCATION MAY 15, 2009

Approved Repair Facility For All Major Insurance Companies

Highest Quality, Affordable Rates Foreign & Domestic Repairs Laser Accuracy Unibody Repairs Rental Cars & Towing Available

FREE ESTIMATES COURTESY SHUTTLE SERVICE

4515 OHara AvenueBrentwood

634-2211Mon - Fri: 7:30-5:30

Direct Repair Network

Serving East County for Over 32 Years

Voted one of the Best 7 Years in a Row

Teens do more than a Wii bit of reading

The Contra Costa Library is sponsor-ing a Teen Book Swap at the Brentwood Library on Wednesday, May 27 at 4 p.m. Teens in grades six through 12 can bring in one or two old (or new) favorites and exchange them for something completely different and perhaps discover a new fa-vorite summer page-turner.

Manga, fi ction and nonfi ction are all welcome. Snacks will be provided by the Friends of the Brentwood Library.

And dont forget that Teen Summer

Reading 2009 starts Monday, June 8. The theme this year is Express Yourself, and teens in grades six through 12 can mark off reading time on a wallet-sized read-ing record. Finishers who submit a book review are entered in a drawing to win a Nintendo Wii. Reading records can be printed from the Web site, www.ccclib.org, or picked up at a volunteer table out-side the library during scheduled hours.

For more information about these programs, call 925-634-4101.

Trevors Weekly Mortgage MattersBy Trevor Frey

Th rough the Looking Glass

Advertisement

As with the previous three months in 2009, April came and went with what seemed like 24 hour news coverage (much of which arm-chair politics) on President Obamas every decision move, speech, walk in the park, and so on and so forth. Once the dust settled, and we found ourselves in May, important de-tails pertaining to Bankruptcy laws had already come and gone without many people even knowing the happenings that took place on April 30, 2009.

Part of the Helping Families Save Th eir Homes in Bankruptcy Act of 2009 failed to move through the Senate with a fi nal vote of 45-51, shooting down any hopes of Democrat Richard Durbin (and supporters) for troubled home owners fi ling BK. Under current law, bank-ruptcy judges do not have the power to change the terms of a mortgage on a consumers primary residence during bankruptcy proceedings. Th e bill would have changed that to allow Bankruptcy judges the power to shrink, or restruc-ture, mortgages for upside down home owners who found themselves forced to fi le for Bankruptcy. According to lob-byists against the bill from the start, al-lowing such legislation would have made way to further destabilization of the housing market. It was their argument that not only would homeowners seek shelter through Bankruptcy, but also

write-off s would hold the banks subject to increasing rates in order to make back the loses incured through Bankruptcy courts nationwide.

Although this might not sound like good news for actual homeowners such as you and me there is yet another angle all together we have not discussed. Possibly, thanks entirely because of the above mentioned bill not passing, the lending industry will actually loosen a little. Loans actually have the opportu-nity to now be slightly easier to obtain seeing how banks are able to again lend money without the fear of a gavel cutting their note by X amount of dollars.

Regardless of which way you lean on this particular subject, the impor-tant thing to remember is this; at the very least youve now been brought up to speed regarding the most recent happenings with Bankruptcy laws. Th e Helping Families Save Th eir Homes in Bankruptcy Act of 2009 was introduced on January 6, 2009 by Senator Richard Durbin and failed to pass through the Senate on April 30, 2009.

If you would like any further infor-mation pertaining to the above subject matter, or have any other questions or concerns pertaining to real estate fi nanc-ing, please dont hesitate to call my new number cell phone (925) 726-1444 or write to tfreymortgages@yahoo.com.

MAY 15, 2009 EDUCATION THEPRESS.NET | 9A

Science Week program a hoot

OK, so there werent any live owls to look at and touch, but any initial disappointment quickly dissipated once the owl pellets came out.

Look what I found. I think its a small rat skull, said Anthony Martinez, 9, as he tore into what looked like a clump of dirt. Its bigger than a mouses head, I know that.

Regurgitated rodents and other nocturnal nemeses were the topic this week at the Oakley Science Week presentation of What do Owls Eat? held at Delta Vista Middle School. The program was one in a series of events sponsored by the City of Oakley and local businesses.

The owl program, hosted by Mike Moran of the East Bay Regional Park District, was a head-to-toe, hands-on look at one of natures most popular creatures.

Owls have great eyesight and their hearing is like radar, Moran told the audience. But its their talons the claws on the end of their feet that are the best part; thats what they use to catch their prey. If you put your two fi sts together, that would be roughly the size of a gopher, and thats something owls can swallow.

And spit back up.Owl pellets give us clues as to what

theyve eaten, said Moran. Theyre fi lled with the animals theyve caught, and then

they yarp it back up. Thats what youll get a chance to look at today.

With dirt fl ying and the gross factor rising the crowd of primarily elementary school students couldnt get their hands on the pellets fast enough. Participants received their own pellet on a paper plate, with strict instructions on what not to do once they dug into the hardened remains.

Once youve touched the pellets, said Moran. Dont touch your face, or pick your nose, or lick your fi ngers until youve washed your hands.

The warnings however, were mostly

ignored, except by hovering parents. Most attendees were focused on more important items items such as bones, fur and teeth. I think I found a leg bone, said Samuel Cosetti, 8, who was surprised to learn that what he had actually extracted was a rodents tooth.

Jawnie Jones, 7, was going slowly with her investigation, picking through her pellet with a toothpick while gently separating the fur from the bones. It started out being gross, said Jawnies mom, but it ended up being a lot of fun.

Anthony, who found the rats head in

his pellet, agreed. This is my second time doing this, he said. I always like to do the fun projects and Science Week is always very, very interesting.

Oakley Science Week continues through May 16. For more information, call the City of Oakley at 925-625-7041.

Chelsea Quinlan holds up a rodent skull she dug out of an owl pellet as Willie Jenesen mugs in the back-ground. The discovery was part of a presentation by the East Bay Regional Parks District for Oakley Science Week. Laurel Elementary student Jawnie Jones painstakingly pulls apart the inside of an owl pellet. The experiment was part of the annual Oakley Science Week program.

Photos by Ruth Roberts

by Ruth RobertsStaff Writer

22 888882008

GOL

D MEDALAWARD

FREE EVALUATIONby appointment

WE ACCEPT: Medicare Blue Shield Kaiser UHC Interplan Healthsmart

3903 Lone Tree Way, Antioch(925) 484-6400

470 Harvest Park Dr. Ste. E, Brentwood 634-7153Mon, Wed -Fri 10-5:30 Tues 10-9 Sat 10-5

WWW.SEWEWEQUILT.COMWWW.SEWEWEQUILT.COM

Fabrics Thread Quilt Kits Patterns

12A | THEPRESS.NET MAY 15, 2009

e

*Every retail purchase over $20, every restaurant purchase over $40, every movie purchase over $60 and every specialty food purchase over $15 generate a donation.

Come to THE STREETS, shop, see a movie, grab a meal

and help the kids SAVE the Old River Elementary School!

Every purchase* you make at The Streets of Brentwood stores,

restaurants and the Rave Brentwood 14 Movie Theater during the

entire weekend of our 2nd Quarterly Community Sale, a donation

is created and given to this quarters community program partner!

2565 Sand Creek Rd., Brentwood, CA 94513 (925) 705-5533 www.streetsofbrentwoodca.com

Charities and community programs can go to our website and apply to become next quarters Community Sale recipients

Fri., May 22 - Sun., May 24

ShopTHE SALE!, Part II

Save the Old River Elementary School, help keep our Community strong and HAVE FUN!

HELP

SAVE

OUR SCHOOL!

MAY 15, 2009 COMMUNITY THEPRESS.NET | 13A

This is the American Cancer Society Relay For Life, a 24-hour community event where people come together to remember loved ones, inspire others, and celebrate life. Its your chance to make a difference in the fight against cancer by raising much-needed funds for lifesaving research, education, advocacy, and patient services. We invite cancer survivors to join us and be honored in their victory against cancer.

Form or join a team today for these unforgettable events!Relay For Life of BrentwoodJune 1314 Liberty High Schoolrelayforlife.org/brentwoodca

Relay For Life of PittsburgJuly 2526 Church of the Good Shepherd

Relay For Life of AntiochJune 2728 Los Medanos Collegerelayforlife.org/antiochca

To start fighting back today, call 1-800-227-2345 or visit relayforlife.org/california

Join us in the fight against cancer.

Survivors & friends: dont miss the Survivor Ice Cream Social on Sunday, May 17.13pm at 772 Centennial Place, Brentwood

Parents looking to encourage their childs inner artist are encour-aged to sign up their budding Rembrandts for the City of Oakleys series of youth art classes running now through the end of July. Lessons include instruction in basic portraiture, still life and landscape drawings and are geared for children ages 3 to 13. For registration in-formation, call the City of Oakley Recreation Department at 925-625-7041. No prior art experience is needed.

Picture this

Photo courtesy of the City of Oakley

are leaning in that direction then revi-sions to the state budget will likely include additional cuts.

So how to best contemplate deci-sions in anticipation of those factors, said Liberty Union High School District Su-perintendent Dan Smith, has become a challenge.

In regard to the stimulus dollars, we are looking at three things, said Smith, whose district is expected to re-ceive $2,033,209. One, we want to fi nd out about the conditions of the money; we want to understand that fully. Two, we need to see what happens with the May special elections. And three, we need to see what happens with the governors budget in June. When we have those three pieces, well meet with the board, share informa-tion and present our recommendations to the board for a decision.

Knightsen Union School District has faced its share of fi nancial challenges this year, including the possible closure of its new Old River School and discussions of a merger with the Brentwood Union School District. For Knightsen super-intendent Vickey Rinehart, there is little question where she would like to see the districts $141,368 dollars go.

Well, of course, we want to put the money toward saving jobs, said Rine-hart, but it does depend upon several things. If the propositions fail, there will be more cuts to the budget and then the money will have to be used make up for additional cuts, which would put us fur-

ther behind. But if some or all of the propositions pass, then there will be less budget cuts and then we can save at least one teacher. But I dont want to assume what the (school) board will choose to do. For now, were just continuing to keep an eye on our budget.

Rick Rogers, superintendent of the Oakley Union Elementary School Dis-trict, says the more than $1 million in stimulus funds his district will receive are certainly welcome, but added that careful investment and prudence will be key to the districts long-term success.

Yes, were happy to have it (stimu-lus funds), he said. But we need to be thoughtful and use it wisely, which is chal-lenging because it is one-time money. Cer-tainly it will have a major impact on what we can do with programs and thats basi-cally synonymous with positions, but how many and what those positions look like is what is yet to be determined.

Denise Porterfi eld of the Antioch Uni-fi ed School District said the school board is waiting for the results of the upcoming election and revisions on the state budget before making any plans for the more than $5 million the district will receive.

We havent had that discussion yet in terms of spending the recovery dollars, she said. Were holding off on making any decisions until the budget and elec-tions are decided.

The Byron Union School District will receive $422,538 in SFSF funding. Super-intendent Eric Prater was unavailable for comment at press time.

Stimulus from page 1A

14A | THEPRESS.NET MAY 15, 2009

*Must be 18 years or older. Local rst time guests only. Trail membership valid for three consecutive days of tness. Must present ad to redeem. Certain conditions and restrictions apply. Offer expires 4/30/09. **$0 Registration valid on 12-month membership only. Certain conditions and restrictions apply. Offer expires 4/30/09

925/755-9111 | www.ClubOne.com/Brentwood

CLUB ONE AT BRENTWOOD120 Guthrie Lane

Brentwood, CA

MondayFriday: 5am11pmSaturday & Sunday: 7am6pm

Swim complex closes at 2pm

4194

AD

V49

CO

BR

Try Your Neighborhood CLUB ONE FITNESS

with THREE COMPLIMENTARY DAYS

OF FITNESS* & $0 REGISTRATION

when you join this month.**

With every challenge, theres victory. And with a

strong body and healthy mind, theres no stopping

you. Our friendly and supportive staff is ready to

help arm you with new found energy so that youre

ready to live life to its fullest.

MAY 15, 2009 COMMUNITY THEPRESS.NET | 15A

GREAT DEALS WITH UP TO $18,000 IN TAX CREDITSGOING ONCE, GOING TWICE

SHEA HOMESSTIMULUS PAC

KAGE

2009

STIMULATE YOUR ECONOMYWITH 100% FINANCING.

BVSAVSO6][Sa 'AbW[cZca>OQYOUSQc``S\bZgW\QZcRSa\Se^`WQSQcbaO\ROdOWZOPZS\O\QW\U^Zcac^b]&W\bOfQ`SRWbaT]`_cOZWSRPcgS`aO\R^`]^S`bWSaBVSbOfQ`SRWb^`]U`O[eWZZdO\WaVa]]\a]R]\bZSbbVSaSaeSSbRSOZaUSbOeOg

DWaWbbVS7\T]`[ObW]\1S\bS`b]ROg

2009 Shea Homes. See SheaHomes.com for program details. Prices and features effective date of publication and subject to change without notice. Communities by Shea Homes Limited Partnership, an independent member of the Shea family of companies.

SUMMER LAKEIN OAKLEY

(888)209. 3859

MANRESAHomesite 110

Plan 2The Velasquez

$492,662

Model Home U Homesite 116Plan 2

The Grayson$577,180

Model Home U Homesite 117Plan 1

The Kohls$548,373

PAINTED SHOREHomesite 13

Plan 4The Pena$424,989

Model Home U Homesite 183The Hansen$478,734

Model Home U Homesite 184The Shetterly

$523,416

Homesite 182Plan 4

The Pena$476,751

THE COTTAGESHomesite 28

Plan 1The Bedford $341,671

SOLD

service; Ricky Grubaugh, 5 years; Mark Johnson, 10 years; Lance Morrison, 3 years; Rhenelle Daniels, 9 years; and Dennis Cur-ran, 6 years.

These types of events are traumatic for all of those involved, said Thorsen in the statement. We are taking the appropri-ate steps to ensure the offi cers are getting the proper support and follow-up services.

When asked whether the incident was a suicide-by-cop event in which a person forces the police to kill him rather than kill-ing himself, sheriffs spokesman Jimmy Lee said, We are not saying anything at this point until the investigation is complete. We need to look at everything before we make a fi nal determination.

It could take three to six months to interview witnesses, examine evidence and conduct a coroners inquest, he said.

The 40 mm sponge round fi red at Openshaw was designed to deliver a strong, stunning blow to his body without penetrat-ing it. The sheriffs offi ce did not shoot a

taser at him as an alternative nonlethal weapon because they do not use that device, said Lee.

They were faced with an extreme set of circumstances, he said. They only had a fraction of a second to act. Whether or not another option would have been enough, we will never know.

This was the second offi cer-involved shooting in Oakley in the past year and a half. In October of 2007, Oakley Police Of-fi cer Ian Jones shot to death James Brennan, who was drunk and attacking him but un-armed, according to the coroners inquest. A lawsuit alleging a wrongful shooting and seeking $20 million has been fi led by Bren-nans family against Jones, the city and the sheriffs department.

Incidents from page 5A These types of events are traumatic for all of those involved.

Oakley Police Chief Chris Thorsen

16A | THEPRESS.NET MAY 15, 2009

OPINIONEDITORIALS, LETTERS & COMMENTARY Nat

ional Aw

ardWinning Newspapers

Have you got something to say? Visit thepress.net and let your thoughts be known.

LETTERS TO THE EDITORPLAs dont belong in Brentwood

Editor:Why is the Brentwood City Council

giving unions a costly and discriminatory monopoly on the construction of the Brent-wood Civic Center?

PLAs are usually found in dysfunctional bastions like Richmond, Oakland and Valle-jo, and are usually supported by left-wing Democrats trying to curry favors with union bosses in order to run for higher offi ces.

Contact your City Council today and tell them to represent all of Brentwood constituents, not just local union bosses whose politics and wasteful ways are not needed in Brentwood. Tell them to abandon the PLA and build the new civic center with open competition, allowing all residents of Brentwood to have a chance to build it, not just out-of-town workers. To e-mail them all: allcouncil@ci.brentwood.ca.us.

Tony BrunoBrentwood

Get educated on unionsEditor:

I am writing you to let you know there are over 1,200 union households in your city; most of these are registered voters. A PLA provides local workers the opportunity to live and work close to home. It also provides them with real pension and medical benefi ts. The ABC and most non-union contrac-tors do not offer or maintain these types of benefi ts.

So when a non-union employee gets injured or sick, they use our public health care system! As far as paying twice, this is a farce. I speak with non-union employees on a daily basis and 90 percent have no pension or health care for themselves and their families. On the other hand, union health and pension plans offer a retirement with dignity and health coverage for their entire families.

Kevin and his ABC contractors do have to pay the prevailing wage rates as required by law, which also happen to be based on the union package. So where are the added costs? Where are the ABCs local apprentices

that complete a full-term apprenticeship? Where are the opportunities for minorities and women? Where is Kevin Dayton from? Who are the local contractors he represents? Do they offer family-sustaining wages and benefi ts to all of their employees? I think the answers will surprise you all!

The local building trades and their apprenticeships, which are jointly run by contractors and unions, have over a 75-year history of taking local residents and teaching them a skill set that commands the prevailing wage every day on every project. Please take the time to educate yourselves before buying in to the politics of greed.

Paul DoolittleMartinez

More particulars, less propagandaEditor:

I have read some comments from the naysayers and opponents of Project Labor Agreements (aka PLAs). The fi rst thing I noticed is that one writer is from Sacramento and the other from Concord. Other than blaming unions and greed, its obvious the writers have a self-serving agenda. I state this because neither lives in Brentwood.

The writer from Concord, a non-union contractor named George Peter Forni II, wrote that unions caused the auto industrys demise and why PLAs shouldnt be used on the Civic Center. How ignorant is that? That statement alone should give the council members a clue and disqualify that contrac-tor from the bid.

What next, does he want us to believe that the current economic downturn such as the housing market, the mortgage melt down, the high foreclosure rates how about the collapse of the fi nancial institutions and the stock market were they also caused by labor unions? That is not possible, because only about 8 percent of the private sector workers are unionized.

Mr. Fornis argument and position would be better supported if he provided truthful facts instead of anti-union propa-ganda on why PLAs shouldnt be used on the Civic Center. PLAs have a proven track record of being cost effective, completed on budget and in a timely fashion, with fewer safety incidents. The recent water treatment center built in Brentwood using PLA is a good example. Why mess with success?

Jesse JuarezBrentwood

Many hands make the work lightEditor:

On April 24, 2009, Liberty High Schools Leadership Class presented the 16th Annual Mr. Liberty competition. A sold-out show, performed to a standing-room-only crowd, could not have been possible without the support and donations of many local businesses. On behalf of the Leadership pro-gram, I would like to thank the following:

We would fi rst like to thank His and Hers Formal Wear in downtown Brentwood

for its donation of tuxes for the Mr. Liberty contestants to wear during the competi-tion. Annette Beckstrand and the staff of His and Hers have been truly remarkable in their support of Liberty High School events over the last year. A local business giving back to the community as they have has been invaluable. We truly appreciate their support!

Black Bear Diner, located in Oakley, has additionally been a standout in terms of support over the last year. The Fagan family has generously sponsored not only the Mr. Liberty breakfast, but also that of Liberty Idol and Homecoming. Our students always look forward to breakfast at Black Bear, not only for the great food, but also the kind and attentive employees. Thank you!

The Mr. Liberty backdrop, complete with photographs of each contestant, would not have been possible without the generous donations provided by Visual Productions Photography and Fast Signs. Visual Produc-tions Photography provided the venue for which the photos could be taken and Fast Signs made those photos into the stunning backdrop for the show. We thank them for allowing us to make the show visually stunning!

Additionally, Brentwood Florists and Gifts generously donated all fl owers for the evenings event, including bouquets for the winners, coordinators and crew. Their con-sistent donation to Libertys events lessens the fi nancial strain of our charity events!

Finally, we would like to thank the following businesses for their donation of gifts for the various winners within the Mr. Liberty competition. As a result of their donation, we were able to donate all funds raised to the Student Emergency Relief (SERF) Fund. Thank you to Harvest Park Bowl, Ribbons and Roses, Joses Barber Shop, Club One, La Fuente, Rave Movie Theaters, Country Waffl es, Cheese Steak Shop, Jamba Juice, and Ace Hardware.

The following individuals helped to ensure the success of Mr. Liberty 2009. With-out their hard work and diligence, we would not have had such a positive event. Thank you to Shelby Pastor and Morgan Wagner, who choreographed the introductory and end dances; the Mr. Liberty technical crew, including Kristen Loyd, Kayla Knowles, Josh Mangold, Amanda Blum, Simon Holmes, Toni Vargas and Karissa Lopez.

Finally, Id like to thank our emcees for the evening, John Romeis and Beth Decker. John and Beth are entertaining, humorous and dedicated to making this event a positive one year after year. Without their wit and enthusiasm, this show would not run as smoothly as it has.

As a result of the hard work of the above individuals, Liberty Leadership was able to raise over $3,500 for the Student Emergency Relief (SERF) Fund. I hope that the community of Brentwood enjoyed this years Mr. Liberty and will continue to join us

in the years to come. It is tradition that binds this community together and raises money for students and families when they are most in need.

Summer RodriguezDirector of Student Activities

Liberty High School

Plumbing the inner beauty platitude

Editor: When that dreamy expression creeps

into the eyes, you can guess whats coming next: the clich of a century. Its whats inside that counts. Oh, really? I had no idea. Talking about beautiful insides is all the rage, and to disagree is to brand yourself shallow but recent headlines with a certain Miss Universe fi nalist and Britains Got Talent star have to make you wonder if its just lip service in the end.

Scottish Susan made a tidal wave that reached our own shores with her rendi-tion of I Dreamed a Dream on Britains equivalent of American Idol. It begs the question: why all the hype? Sure, she has a voice, but other women sing opera and never make national news.

But something is markedly different about Miss Boyle and it isnt just her down-to-earth personality. That some-thing made Simons jaw drop and the crowd go from jeering to stunned silence to wild cheering. A spectacular voice came out of a not-so-spectacular body. And poof, shes a singing phenomenon garnering upwards of 10 million YouTube views on a single song.

Why did the media even choose to make such a big deal out of this? Part of it seems rigged a scheme to play off the publics outrage against the superfi ciality of pop culture.

Of course the Susan Boyle story has been played up deliberately. Who doesnt love a story about the underdog? But theres truth in it too, and thats what made the story spread like an epidemic.

The singer/pageant-star look has be-come normative and expected. Singers and celebrities today are symbols with voices symbols of popularity, success, wealth and beauty. Susan defi ed each. The world raised its eyebrows in welcome surprise. Yet it was surprise, nonetheless an indication that average appearances in show biz are anomalies.

Combine this with the story of Stepha-nie Naumoska, a fi nalist in Australias Miss Universe contest, who made a splash of her own with anorexia allegations. In an interview defending herself, she said she weighs 52-55 kilos which, according to a BMI scale and health professionals, is still anorexic for her height (www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi/).

Why is this signifi cant? For all I know,

The Press Newspapers are adjudicated in the the cities of Antioch, Brentwood, Oakley, and the Delta Judicial District

of Contra Costa County.

No part of this publication may be reproduced for commerce or trade without written permission from the publisher.

BRENTWOOD PRESS & PUBLISHING CORPORATION

National Award Winning Newspapers

Founder & President Jimmy ChamouresPublisher & General Manager Greg Robinson

Executive Editor Rick LemyreProduction Manager & Webmaster Lonnie de Lambert

Business Manager Heather Reid

Main Office / Brentwood248 Oak St. Brentwood, CA 94513

Phone 925-634-1441 Fax 925-634-1975Web site: www.thepress.net

Advertising 925-634-1441, ext. 115Classifieds 925-634-1441, ext. 142

Editorial 925-634-1441, ext. 111Circulation 925-250-1405

Editorial e-mail editor@brentwoodpress.com

see Letters page 18A

MAY 15, 2009 THEPRESS.NET | 17A

A sampling of recent law enforcement activity reported by East County police departments.

BRENTWOODMay 1, 1:01 p.m. On Brentwood Bou-levard at Second Street, fi re department personnel observed a subject driving er-ratically. The subject was detained and found to be driving under the infl uence of a prescribed central nervous system depressant. He was booked and released on a Promise To Appear. The vehicle was stored.

May 1, 5:08 p.m. At a business on Lone Tree Way, two subjects stole clothing without paying. A witness stopped them and placed them under citizens arrest. The subjects were cited and released.

May 2, 2:04 a.m. On Lone Tree Way at Gann Street, a subject stopped for ve-hicle code violations was found to be driving under the infl uence of alcohol. It was discovered that the vehicles pas-senger had no-cite misdemeanor war-rants. The driver was arrested and taken to the Martinez Detention Facility. The passenger was released due to medical problems. The vehicle was released to a family member.

May 2, 9:14 a.m. An unidentifi ed person forced entry into a business on Sycamore Avenue and stole a speed lathe, welding unit and multiple tools.

May 2, 12:07 p.m. A subject depressed her vehicles accelerator thinking it was the brakes and drove into the front door of a residence on Jubilee Drive.

May 3, 11:50 a.m. The personal informa-tion of a resident of Boltzen Court was used to open a magazine subscription.

May 3, 1:36 p.m. A laptop computer and iPod were stolen from an unlocked car parked in the driveway of a residence on Spanish Bay Drive.

May 3, 3:03 p.m. A resident of Cristina

Way reported that someone had entered his house while he was away. A search of the house revealed that nothing was missing. The resident also believed the home to be bugged with video-surveil-lance equipment.

May 3, 5:52 p.m. On Sand Creek Road at the Streets of Brentwood center, a subject stopped for expired vehicle reg-istration was found to be driving on a suspended license. He was cited and the vehicle was towed.

May 3, 11:29 p.m. An unidentifi ed per-son passed a counterfeit $100 bill at a business on Sand Creek Road.

May 5, 7:59 a.m. A subject fell out of a second-story window of a residence on Black Rock Street. He was transported to Kaiser Hospital.

May 5, 4:19 p.m. An unidentifi ed person sent an annoying text message to a resi-dent of Alpine Court.

May 5, 6:02 p.m. On San Jose Avenue, a driver fell from her vehicle and was run over by it. She was transported by heli-

copter to the John Muir medical facility.

May 6, 1:45 p.m. An unidentifi ed person took a donation bag contained clothes and shoes from the front of a residence on Carlisle Drive.

May 6, 3 p.m. A resident of Spanish Trail Court returned home to fi nd her mail scattered all over her lawn. Her mail was also found in a nearby park. Noth-ing appeared to be opened or missing.

May 6, 10:04 p.m. On McClarren Road, two subjects fl ed from offi cers investigat-ing a threats call and were found to be too intoxicated to care for themselves. One of the subjects provided a false name. Both were arrested and taken to the Martinez Detention Facility.

May 6, 9:33 p.m. On Barbara Street at Sycamore Avenue, a subject was found in possession of a switchblade knife. The knife was confi scated and the subject was arrested and released on a Promise To Appear.

May 10, 9:20 p.m. An unidentifi ed per-son broke the drivers-side front window

of a vehicle parked on Sand Creek Road and stole a garage door opener and ve-hicle registration. The subject went to the victims residence in Antioch and burglarized the house.

May 10, 10:19 p.m. On Flemish Court, a vehicle ignited as a result of an engine cleaner sprayed into the engine compart-ment.

To view the Brentwood Police Depart-ments public logs on the citys Web site, visit www.ci.brentwood.ca.us/department/pd/reports/index.cfm.

ANTIOCHMay 8, 12:17 p.m. Offi cers of the Antioch Police Department responded to the report of an armed robbery with shots fi red at Dutch Pride Dairy, 507 E. 18th St. Offi cers arrived on scene and spoke with the stores clerks, who said two black male adults with faces covered entered the store wearing gloves and demanded money. The suspects brandished fi rearms at both clerks during the robbery. The suspects fl ed the scene in an older model tan or brown vehicle. The victims were not injured. The suspects have not been identifi ed, and the investigation is ongo-ing. Those with information regarding the robbery should call Antioch Police Dispatch at 925-778-2441.

May 8, 9:33 p.m. Offi cers responded to the report of an armed robbery at Sears in the Somersville Towne Center. Upon arrival, offi cers learned that a single black male wearing dark clothing and armed with a handgun had robbed the store while employees were closing for the night. The suspect fl ed from the building to an unknown location. No vehicle was seen. There is no further description of the suspect at this time. Those with in-formation regarding the robbery should call Antioch Police Dispatch at 925-778-2441.

For information on law enforcement in Antioch, visit www.ci.antioch.ca.us/citygov/police.

COP LOGSFROM EMERGENCY SERVICES DISPATCH LOGS On San Jose Avenue, a driver fell from her vehicle and was run over by it. May 5, 6:02 p.m., Brentwood

18A | THEPRESS.NET MAY 15, 2009

Stephanie is telling the truth; perhaps she doesnt have an eating disorder at all. And frankly, it doesnt matter. What matters is that unhealthy thinness is considered gorgeous enough to qualify as a fi nalist in a beauty pageant. What matters is that no other period in history has ever given mal-nourishment the label sexy. Something is deeply wrong with any society that fosters anorexia and death.

Sure, we can keep paying homage to a vague concept of whats inside when pageants and talent contests call for a politi-cally-correct disclaimer, but it clearly isnt doing much damage to the sex-inundated, image-obsessed society we live in. This is the world our children and grandchildren are entering. Aside from griping, what can we do?

Plenty. We can show the media that we dont want more of what it feeds. (No ones telling us to buy the magazines off the rack, or to watch Americas Next Top Model and Dancing With the Stars.) We can talk less about looks with our girlfriends and focus on other subjects instead. We can stop trying every new diet fad and smile-whitener

on the market. We can stop treating well-dressed, conventionally attractive people with more deference and friendliness than we give their frowsier counterparts. We can praise our daughters for more than their appearances.

In short, we can actually act like the clich is true. Because it is.

Lindsey WagstaffeBrentwood

Another fun event lostEditor:

I read today with annoyance that the Discovery Bay Boat Show scheduled for May 16-17 has been postponed until 2010 due to a lack of exhibitors. I dont buy it. Discovery Bay politics killed it. How sad. First DOktoberfest, now the boat show. What next? The Lighted Boat Parade?

Teri SandholdtDiscovery Bay

Knightsen gains historical status Editor:

After a few years (110, plus or minus) Knightsen has been offi cially recognized for its historical value. A few years ago, information was gathered from a variety of

sources documenting Knightsens history and origins. For the purposes of preserva-tion, protection and grant incentives, an application was submitted to the Historical Landmark Commission of Contra Costa County.

Two areas of focus were identifi ed: the original Knightsen Township and Depot along with the East County Historical Society on Sellers Avenue. Both of these Knightsen areas (called area one and area two) contain signifi cant historical structures that were a part of East Contra Costa County heritage.

Area one, the Historical Society location on Sellers Avenue, cares for a BN caboose and fi ve historical buildings dating back to the 1860s. In addition, the nonprofi t society houses a wealth of East County his-tory. This is provided all for the free benefi t of the public.

Area two consists of the original ATT&SF Railway depot property along with a Sante Fe caboose. Also, area two contains 27 parcels with buildings such as the Heidorn Building (Garden Club), Knightsen Saloon (Sonyas), the Duff home, the White home, the Olmstede home, the

Edna Heidorn home, the Knightsen Farm Center and others. Area two buildings date back as far as 1898. The historical status of these areas will hopefully preserve a part of East Contra Costa that is constantly pres-sured by growth.

It is also very important to acknowl-edge the vast support by not only the com-munity but county staff as well. Catherine Kutsuris, conservation and development director, along with Carol Jensen of the Landmark Commission, Supervisor Mary Piepho, Supervisor Federal Glover, KTAC, the Knightsen Garden Club, East Contra Costa Historical Society, Sen. Tom Torlak-son, and many others all made this possible with their help.

The next step in the conservation and protection of these historical resources is to seek the benefi ts from this status. Those benefi ts should be used to restore and dis-play our pride in Knightsen so its historical presence remains for decades to come.

One such project is the restoration of the Eden Plain School House, located at the Historical Society. When the house is

Letters from page 16A

see Letters page 19A

MAY 15, 2009 THEPRESS.NET | 19A

completed, children from all over will be invited to spend time in an educational en-vironment that took place 150 years ago.

For more information and history, contact the East Contra Costa Histori-cal Society or Knightsen Town Advisory Council.

John A. GonzalesKnightsen

Wake up to advantages of unionsEditor:

As I sat in my easy chair and read the many letters ripping the PLA agreements that have been in effect throughout the state, my blood pressure started to rise. How do you people think that you can afford all of the homes, fancy cars, shiny boats and other toys if it were not for the unions and what they have done for all of our wages in this country?

Think about what you are saying: everyone has the right to work, you are right, but do you really think these huge construction fi rms that are going to get these upcoming project would pay you, Joe worker, any more than minimum wage if they were not forced to do so by the same unions you are now berating?

Wake up. If it were not for the unions, all of our work would be out-sourced to the illegal immigrants that cross our borders for a better life. If you want to see how great it is to live in a right-to-work state, I suggest you move to Arizona, or better yet, Texas, where you can be fi red because the boss doesnt like the way you look.

Stop drinking the Kool-Aid and wake up. It was not the unions that have killed this nations work force, it is the politicians and the rich corporations that have out-sourced all of our work to the third-world countries, where they can pay someone $1 a day and still complain that their costs are too much to compete.

You had better wake up and pray that labor takes back its rightful place in America. Work hard, work union, God bless the USA and the labor unions.

Doug RadonichOakley

Thanks to Buddy boostersEditor:

We, the members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10789 and the Ladies Auxiliary, wish to thank all the wonderful people who donated to our Buddy Poppy distribution days, May 8 and May 9. It was greatly appreciated.

Buddy Poppy proceeds represent no profi t to any VFW Units. All money contributed by you is used in the cause of veterans welfare or for the well being of their needy dependents and the orphans of veterans.

We also want to thank the follow-ing businesses for allowing us to use their store fronts: Raleys, FoodMaxx, Safeway on Second Street, Safeway on Balfour (both in Brentwood) and the Safeway in Discovery Bay.

Nick PapadakosCommander of VFW Post 10789

Lucy ColaoPresident of Ladies Auxiliary 10789

Letters from page 18A

MAY 15, 2009 COMMUNITY THEPRESS.NET | 21A

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGNotice is hereby given that the City Council of the City of Brentwood will hold a public hearing at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the normal course of business permits on May 26, 2009, to consider the following matter:Consideration of a resolution certifying and approving the Negative Declara-tion and adopting the 2009/10-2013/14 Capital Improvement Program.Said hearing will be held at the City Council Chambers, 734 Third Street, Brentwood, CA 94513.Further information may be obtained from City Hall, 708 Third Street, Brent-wood, California 94513, (925) 516-5400. Dated: May 12, 2009/s/___________________________Margaret Wimberly, CMC City ClerkPublish: May 15, 2009If you challenge the City Councils action in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the Brentwood City Council at, or prior to, the public hearing.Brentwood Press No. 02-1273Publish Date: May 15, 2009

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGNotice is hereby given that the City Council of the City of Brentwood will hold a public hearing at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the normal course of business permits on May 26, 2009 to consider the following matter:

Adopt a Resolution approving a Memo-randum of Understanding between the City of Brentwood and the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce regarding the 2009 CornFest event and authorize the City Manager or her designee to ex-ecute the Memorandum of Understand-ing, which Memorandum of Under-standing provides, among other things, for the provision of supplemental police services pursuant to Government Code section 53069.8.Said hearing will be held at the City Council Chamber, 734 Third Street, Brentwood, CA 94513.Further information may be obtained from City Hall, 708 Third Street, Brent-wood, California 94513, (925) 516-5400. Dated: May 12, 2009/s/___________________________Margaret Wimberly, CMC City ClerkPublish: May 15, 2009If you challenge the City Councils action in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspon-dence delivered to the Brentwood City council at, or prior to, the public hearing.Brentwood Press No. 02-1273Publish Date: May 15, 2009

SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE NO. 867AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BRENTWOOD AMEND-ING CHAPTER 1.08 (GENERAL PENALTY) IN ITS ENTIRETY; ADDING CHAPTER 1.12 (ADMINISTRATIVE CITATIONS);

AMENDING CHAPTER 8.00 (NUISANC-ES) IN ITS ENTIRETY; AND REPEALING CHAPTER 8.12 (WEED ABATEMENT) TO: CLARIFY METHODS OF ADMINISTRA-TIVE CITATION FINES AND NUISANCE ABATEMENT COST COLLECTION; DIS-TINGUISH ADMINISTRATIVE CITATION PROCEDURES FROM OTHER ENFORCE-MENT PROCEDURES; PROVIDE FOR AN APPEAL OF AN ADMINISTRATIVE CITATION BY AN ENFORCEMENT OFFI-CER; DECLARE DISPOSAL OR SPILL OF MATERIALS, BOTH HAZARDOUS AND OTHERWISE, TO BE PUBLIC NUISANC-ES; AND, TO DELETE OUTDATED PROVI-SIONS FROM THE MUNICIPAL CODE.THE FOREGOING ORDINANCE was in-troduced with the rst reading waived at a regular meeting of the Brentwood City Council on the 28th day of April, 2009, by the following vote:AYES: Council members Becnel, Brock-man, Richey, Stonebarger, TaylorNOES: NoneABSENT: NoneABSTAIN: NoneAnd was adopted at a regular meeting of the Brentwood City Council on the 12th day of May 2009, by the following vote:AYES: Council members Becnel, Brock-man, Richey, Stonebarger, TaylorNOES: NoneABSENT: NoneABSTAIN: None

SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE NO. 868An ordinance of the City Council of the City of Brentwood amending in its entirety Chapter 3.30 of the Brent-

wood Municipal Code related to the California Uniform Construction Cost Accounting Act to provide informal bid-ding procedures for City construction contracts.THE FOREGOING ORDINANCE was in-troduced with the rst reading waived at a regular meeting of the Brentwood City Council on the 28th day of April, 2009, by the following vote:AYES: Council members Becnel, Brock-man, Richey, Stonebarger, TaylorNOES: NoneABSENT: NoneABSTAIN: NoneAnd was adopted at a regular meeting of the Brentwood City Council on the 12th day of May 2009, by the following vote:AYES: Council members Becnel, Brock-man, Richey, Stonebarger, TaylorNOES: NoneABSENT: NoneABSTAIN: None

SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE NO. 869AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BRENTWOOD APPROV-ING A REZONE (RZ 07-03) TO AMEND SUBAREA A OF PD-16 FOR THE PLAZA AT BALFOUR PROJECT, CONSISTING OF SIX BUILDINGS TOTALING 20,000 SQUARE FEET FOR OFFICE AND RETAIL USES, LOCATED SOUTH OF BALFOUR ROAD AND WEST OF ARMSTRONG ROAD (APN 010-171-013).THE FOREGOING ORDINANCE was in-troduced with the rst reading waived at a regular meeting of the Brentwood City Council on the 28th day of April, 2009, by

the following vote:AYES: Council members Becnel, Brock-man, Richey, Stonebarger, TaylorNOES: NoneABSENT: NoneABSTAIN: NoneAnd was adopted at a regular meeting of the Brentwood City Council on the 12th day of May 2009, by the following vote:AYES: Council members Becnel, Brock-man, Richey, Stonebarger, TaylorNOES: NoneABSENT: NoneABSTAIN: None/s/_________________________Robert TaylorMayorATTEST:/s/_________________________Cynthia Garcia, CMCAssistant City ClerkThe above is a summary of the major highlights of the ordinances; reading the ordinances in their entirety may be nec-essary to obtain a full understating of all changes. A copy of the full text of the ordinances are on le and may be read in the City Clerks of ce located at 708 Third Street, Brentwood, and/or copies may be obtained from that of ce based on the Citys actual cost for duplicating.Brentwood Press No. 02-1273Publish Date: May 15, 2009

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGNotice is hereby given that the City Council of the City of Brentwood will, at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the normal course of business permits on

May 26, 2009, hold a public hearing to consider the following:An appeal led by New Urban Com-munities Partners, the applicant of the Sciortino Ranch project, of certain conditions of approval related to the Planning Commissions approval of an application for a tentative subdivision map (TSM 9152) to allow the subdivi-sion of approximately 61 acres into 11 parcels for future mixed-use develop-ment, located directly east of the Sand Creek Road and Brentwood Boulevard intersection (APN 016-170-011 and 016-170-012).Appellant/Applicant: New Urban Com-munities PartnersSaid hearing will be held at the City Council Chambers, City Hall, 734 Third Street, Brentwood, California.Further information may be obtained from Principal Planner Erik Nolthe-nius [(925) 516-5137 or enolthenius@ci.brentwood.ca.us] in the Community Development Department of the City of Brentwood, 118 Oak Street, Brentwood, California 94513.In any court challenge of City Council decisions, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the Brentwood City Council at, or prior to, the public hearing.Brentwood Press No. 02-1273Publish Date: May 15, 2009

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGNotice is hereby given that the City

Council of the City of Brentwood will, at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the normal course of business permits on May 26, 2009, hold a public hearing to consider the following:Waive the rst reading and introduce an ordinance for a Rezone (RZ 09-05) to amend Chapter 17.455 of the Brentwood Municipal Code for the Planned Devel-opment No. 5 (PD-5) Subarea B zoning designation to expand the originally approved Sunday delivery hours of 9:00 am to 10:00 pm, to 7:00 am to 10:00 pm, for the Shops at Fairview center. The center is generally located at the northeast corner of the intersection of Balfour Road and Fairview Avenue (APN 012-020-018).Applicant: The Bergman CompaniesSaid hearing will be held at the City Council Chambers, City Hall, 734 Third Street, Brentwood, California.Further information may be obtained from Associate Planner Debbie Hill [(925) 516-5135 or dhill@ci.brentwood.ca.us] in the Community Development Department of the City of Brentwood, 118 Oak Street, Brentwood, California 94513.In any court challenge of City Council decisions, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspon-dence delivered to the Brentwood City Council at, or prior to, the public hear-ing.Brentwood Press No. 02-1273Publish Date: May 15, 2009

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICESLEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICESLEGAL NOTICESLEGAL NOTICES

If Discovery Bay resident Mark Simpson knows one thing about kids, its that they need to stay busy. So when his 8-year-old son Christian began acting up at school, and at home, Simpson got busy himself.

Christian was getting sideways at school, getting into fi ghts and back-talk-ing people, said Simpson, who four years ago gained full custody of Christian and his twin sister Sophia. He couldnt be-have for a week straight. So I was trying to fi nd something that would attract him, hold his attention; something I could dangle as a carrot.

The carrot turned out to be go-carts. A friend of Simpson who owned a go-cart suggested that Christian take a spin on one around the parking lot at Orwood Resort.

That was it for him, said Simpson. He loved it, and hes a natural. After that, I started taking him to the Stockton Au-toplex and he was doing really well. But what I really noticed was that there was no arguing, no complaining and no fi ght-ing with his sister when we were there. I told him that if he could behave like this at school, then I would buy him his own go-cart. And since then, there have been no more problems well, at least very few.

Simpsons own positive experience got him thinking about how he might help other children struggling as his son had, and the answer was Kids Finish 1st: a nonprofi t resource program for children 8 to 13 with an interest in riding and

working on anything with wheels. The idea behind the program, which Simpson combines with his Kidz R U$ full-service engine garage, is to offer kids a hands-on, up-close experience.

Ive been a car nut all my life, and since this worked so well with Christian, I fi gured maybe I could do some good for

some other kids too, said Simpson. If you can get their hands on something they like, get them interested and give them some motivation, I think it can make a difference.

Interested participants can sign up for the free program, which includes working a few hours a week at the garage, sweep-

ing up a little, getting familiar with the tools that kind of thing, said Simpson. On the weekends, the group heads out to places like the Stockton track or goes dirt biking, or in the summer, jet-skiing.

Im going to try and get the kids to come out two or three times a week for a few hours and then take them on the weekends, said Simpson, who also owns a construction business. Were so close to so many different tracks here that the skys the limit. And dont forget the girls girls rule.

Since his grand opening of the shop last month, located on Byron Highway next to Red Barn Hotrods, Simpson said the response has been positive.

The foot traffi c has been amazing; weve gotten a whole lot of business, said Simpson. You know kids grow out of stuff so fast that this is really something they can continue to grow with. They can buy and sell their stuff; well probably take stuff on consignment, too. Were still fi guring it all out.

But one thing Simpson has fi gured out is the benefi ts of a program like Kids Finish 1st. If 10 kids sign-up, and I can help three, or even one, then Ill be happy, he said. If I can get them doing something rewarding and productive, itll be worthwhile. I know the fi rst time my son got on (a go-cart), his grin inside that helmet fi lled the whole space. I want to give that to other kids, too.

Kidz R U$ is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday and Monday by appointment. For more information on Kids Finish 1st or volun-teer/mentor opportunities, call 925-413-8031 or 925-240-TOYZ.

Dedicated dad helps Kids Finish 1stby Ruth Roberts

Staff Writer

Photo by Richard Wisdom

Sophia Simpson, 8, along with her twin brother Christian and dad Mark Simpson enjoy a moment together at his Kidz R U$ shop in Byron. Simpsons aim is to use the hobby of go-carting to provide kids a constructive alternative to less productive behavior.

Chamber of Commerce.Amid tears, Ballard, who is currently

undergoing treatment for cancer, thanked the chamber for the recognition. I never thought something like this (award) would happen to me, he said. Thank you so much for this honor.

Steven Hartland, Youth Volunteer

recipient and Eagle Scout candidate, was recognized for his community contribu-tions, including blood donations to the American Red Cross, working with his local church and as a two-time counselor for the sixth-grade outdoor education pro-gram. About my son, said Hartlands father Tom, hes a good boy. Hes always been a good boy.

The genial Freedom High School junior said he was both surprised and honored by the award. It was defi nitely awesome to receive it (the award), Steven said. My dad had kept it a secret from me so I didnt even know I had been nom-inated. Its very cool.

Business Person of the Year Jeff Ro-bidou of Les Schwab Tires was honored

for his ongoing commitment and service to the community. This is a great honor, said Robidou. Thank you very much.

Vice President Stephanie Bates and Secretary Noelle Young shared the Pres-idents Award an honor given to cham-ber members who have gone above and beyond in their commitment to the orga-nization.

Chamber from page 1A

22A | THEPRESS.NET COMMUNITY MAY 15, 2009

Let us save you

757-4208 240-1330

Home, Auto & LifeWe can save you $$$and peace of mind.

EAST AST COUNTY OUNTY INSURANCEURANCELICENSE #0E08504LICENSE #0E08504

farmers and supporting the economy.Charlie Clark, owner of a fi sh com-

pany called Coast Side Charlies, added, I think now it has to do with people appreciating the local farmers and small businesses. You cant get any fresher than you get at the Farmers Market.

Market attendees also enjoyed bal-loon animals made by Joan Smith, aka JoJo the Clown, and acoustic guitar play-ing by Lindell Reeves. In the future, en-tertainment at the market will vary from

local bands to solo performers.Ive been playing at Farmers Mar-

kets since about 1985, said Reeves, a 40-year guitar veteran. The people are good. I like the people who appreciate what you do and you can sing whatever you want to sing!

Vendors relished reaping the fruits (and vegetables) of their labor. Its one of the best times to interact with the cus-tomers, because you can talk to them and see what they like and dont like, said Em-ily Benz, a representative of Nunn Farms.

Were around a lot, so people are used to us and they like our produce.

According to Jerry Gomez, a rep-resentative from Rodriguez Farms, Its different than going to the store. You get the sun and the fresh air and all that. Just look at the faces of the people. Theyre happy just walking through the Farmers Market. Its very good for Brentwood to have this, absolutely. Its relaxing.

The Brentwood Farmers Market will keep First Street hopping every Saturday through Oct. 31 from 8 a.m. to noon.

Summer from page 3A

Lindell Reeves laid-back guitar playing entertains the crowd at the Farmers Market. Fresh food isnt the only attraction at the Brentwood Farmers Market: Cooling off at the Art Gonzalez Memorial Fountain are Mikaila Habana, 5; Emerson Enis, 5; Maya Enis, 2; and Jossana Williams, 2.

Photos by Elysia Cook

24A | THEPRESS.NET MAY 15, 2009

Days are fi lled withgames, fi tness,crafts and fun!

Monday - Friday campsrun June 8 - July 24.

Half day and full day options from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Black Diamond Kids Centerspecializes in summer camps, cheer,

gymnastics, tumbling, educational preschool, dance and birthday parties.

www.BlackDiamondKidsCenter.com

Summer CampFor Ages 3 and Up!

$20 off One Week of Camp

Expires 6/7/09*One Coupon Per Customer*

*Cannot be combined with other off ers*

925-516-6619

MAY 15, 2009 SPORTS THEPRESS.NET | 3B

Heritage High linebacker and right guard Patrick Urbanus, who has played sports in Brentwood since he was 6, was recently own to St. Ambrose University to sign his National Letter of Intent to play football for the Fighting Bees in Davenport, Iowa. In addition to his football skills, Urbanus is known for his community involvement: coach-ing a special-needs baseball team and starting the Christmas program at Shepherds Gate. I am a single mom and raised him by myself, and struggled, said Maureen Ennor. Its amazing that he got this full-ride (scholarship) he just worked so hard. Hes just a really good kid.