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YOUR HOMETOWN WEEKLY NEWSPAPER
Vol. 9, No. 42 Including Surrounding Communities
www.thepress.net October 16, 2009
Natio
nalAwardWinning Newspapers
THIS WEEK
FOR MOVIE TIMES SEE PAGE 5A
Falcons douse Patriot fire
Heritage played better in the rematch, but couldnt match
Freedoms aquatic athleticism.
Page 1B
Calendar ..........................27BClassifieds
........................16BCop Logs
..........................12AEntertainment ................13BFood
.................................14BHealth & Beauty
.............11BMilestones .......................10BOpinion
...........................13ASports
.................................1BWebExtras!
.......................1B
INSIDE
Patriotic processionWorld War II veterans will be front and
center at a stirring East County parade on Nov. 11, Veterans
Day.
Page 3A
Creep-out calendar
Dust off your coffins and tune up your broomsticks. Youll find
our lineup of East County Halloween events a real scream.
Page 4A
A plan to construct more than 12,000 houses, apartments and
condos along with more than 6 million square feet of shop-ping
centers and business parks on the old Concord Naval Weapons Station
property has East County residents and offi cials con-cerned it
will signifi cantly worsen traffi c con-gestion on Highway 4.
If East County does not act together and the Naval Weapons
Station (develop-ment) comes on line in fi ve years, there is no
bond money and there will be no improve-ments on that section of
highway, Antioch resident Terry Ramus said to East County of-fi
cials at the last Transplan meeting. Right now you back up on
Willow Pass every morning even during a down economy. If the
economy comes back, we will not be able to get out of East County
to get to work. East County needs to take a position on it.
The Antioch City Council on Tuesday agreed to join with other
East County cities and the county to write a letter expressing
concerns about the planned development and urging that adequate
measures be put
in place to lessen the traffi c impacts from the new residents
and businesses that might move into the 5,000-acre site on the
other side of the hill to Central County.
Antioch Mayor Jim Davis has also spo-ken at one of the Concord
planning meet-ings for the project. I stated then that I am
concerned about the impacts on Highway 4 with a major subdivision
or cluster of homes and villages, he said. If that dumps onto
Highway 4 without mitigation, then traffi c in East County (will
worsen).
We have been trying to get BART out here and Highway 4 widened
for the last 25 years. We are starting to see some light at the end
of the tunnel. And here we see possible impacts of gridlock at the
top of Willow
Pass for everybody.I think we need to speak up. I think we
can throw our wrench in it and make sure they will mitigate for
Antioch, Oakley and Highway 4. I am not opposed to the develop-ment
and their being able to plan their own land. But when it impacts
Highway 4, it im-pacts us.
The weapons station project is not yet a done deal. Its
currently in the draft envi-ronmental impact report (EIR) stage; a
fi nal EIR is expected next spring. The draft EIR confi rms that
traffi c will worsen on Highway 4 east of the weapons station
property if ei-ther of two projects is built out by 2030.
The preferred alternative of clustered villages devotes half of
the property to parks, recreation and open space. It would
accom-modate up to 12,272 residential units and 6.2 million square
feet of commercial and retail space.
The other possible project, known as the Concentration and
Conservation Al-ternative, places most of the housing, retail and
commercial development north of Wil-low Pass Road. It would
accommodate up
Concern over projects impacts on Highway 4by Dave Roberts
Staff Writer
see Impacts page 18A
City council seeks, and delays, input
The Oakley City Council Tues-day said it needed more public
input before deciding on one issue before it, but declined hear
more testimony on another more contentious item carried over from
September.
During a work session for the Oakley Downtown Specifi c Plans
draft environmental impact report, only one person spoke up when
the public was invited to make com-ments regarding downtown
devel-opment. Councilman Bruce Con-nelley said he didnt think that
was enough.
We have 33,000 more people, he said. I realize the focus of this
meeting is to direct staff to conduct outreach programs to our
down-town businesses and other stake-holders regarding the specifi
c plans EIR, and were seeing it tonight that its obvious that we
need to put forth
a strong effort (to get public input.)The downtown affects
every-
body, not just the downtown busi-nesses, and if we have to go
knock-ing door to door to let people know and encourage them to
show up, then we need to bend over backward to let them know that
we need their input. We need your involvement. I dont want to see
anyone come back and say, You didnt tell us.
Connelley said he understood time constraints make it diffi cult
for business owners to attend council meetings but he advised staff
to take whatever steps necessary to make sure everyone in town
knows about the project.
Councilman Jim Frazier agreed. He said its important to make
sure everyone is aware of the project be-cause those who operate
their busi-nesses from home might want to relocate to the downtown
area once
by Samie HartleyStaff Writer
see Input page 18A
If the economy comes back, we will not be able to get out of
East County to work. East County needs to take a position on
it.
Antioch resident Terry Ramus
Local kayaker Jarred Schubert didnt let the rainstorm last
Tuesday dampen his spirits. When the Freedom Falcons water polo
practice was canceled, Jarred went for a paddle on the schools
submerged soccer eld instead. When asked whats his motive was,
Jarred re-plied he was just getting in a little extra time in for
my White Water Merit Badge!
Rain floats his boat
Photo by Heather Schubert
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OCTOBER 16, 2009 COMMUNITY THEPRESS.NET | 3A
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East County vets to parade in Antioch
For the most part, Veterans Day doesnt feature the ceremonial
pomp and circumstance of its more heralded broth-er, Memorial Day.
There wasnt a Veter-ans Day Parade in East County until last year
when a patriotic group in Antioch, after spending fi ve years
raising funds for and building a war dog memorial near the Antioch
Marina, was looking for a new project.
I think it was Mayor (Jim) Davis who said, Lets have a parade,
said his wife Susan Davis, who is co-chairing with him the
committee organizing the second annual Veterans Day Parade.
She said last years inaugural parade drew about 20,000 people to
see veterans, classic cars, motorcycle riders, marching bands,
Scout troops and others parade down Second Street in downtown
An-tioch. She and fellow committee members are expecting a similar
turnout this year. It begins, appropriately, at 11 a.m. on 11/11
near the Antioch Lumber Company and ends up at the marina.
Hoping to make the annual parade an event for all of East
County, com-mittee members have been drumming up support by
speaking at community events, setting up a table at the mall,
placing fl i-ers around town and issuing Chamber of Commerce
e-blasts. So far, 20 participants
from last year are on board for this years parade, including the
Antioch and Deer Valley high school bands, numerous mili-tary
vehicles, veteran motorcycle groups and community organizations.
Front and center in the parade will be WWII veter-ans more of whom
are still being sought followed by those from other past and
current confl icts.
I think its important that we honor
all of the men and women who served in all of the wars and who
have given their lives for us to enjoy the freedoms that we do,
said Mayor Davis. We are expecting this year to be bigger and
better. If its anything like last year, we are expecting a
tremendous turnout.
As many as fi ve veterans might serve as co-grand marshals for
the parade, which this year honors prisoners of war.
Antioch resident Vincent Silva, 91, was one of those prisoners,
one of the for-tunate survivors of the Bataan Death March in the
Phillipines in World War II. Despite the hardships, Silva looks
back on his service as a great experience but adds I wouldnt go
through it again for $1 million.
by Dave RobertsStaff Writer
see Veterans page 10A
The Armys Steve Adams was one of many active service mem-bers
taking part in the Veterans Day Parade in Antioch last year.
Photo by Richard Wisdom
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4A | THEPRESS.NET COMMUNITY OCTOBER 16, 2009
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Bountiful harvest of Halloween funIts the season of witches,
warlocks,
ghosts and goblins, and if youre looking for a frightfully fun
time, or a happier harvest festival, theres an abundance of
upcoming events and ways to celebrate the season. Here is a
sampling. THROUGH NOV. 1, FRIDAY, SATURDAY AND SUNDAYS
ONLYSanctuary of Evil Haunted House and maze
Take a tour through a horrifying haunt-ed house, or run
screaming through a 7,000 square foot corn maze. Perhaps a trip on
the Last Ride, a simulated coffi n, is more to your liking? Its all
here for the eighth year, at 936 Carpenter Road in Oakley. Hours
are Friday and Saturday 7 to 10 p.m., Sunday 7 to 9 p.m. Admission
is $5 for the haunted house, $3 for the simulated coffi n ride, or
$8 for both. Check out video footage of the Sanctuary of Evil
Haunted House at www.thepress.net.OCT. 16 AND 17Halloween
Festival
The Red Men and Pocahontas of Oak-ley are offering spooky
delights at their 8th Annual Halloween Festival, located at 1403
Main St. The event features crafts, face paint-ing and a
kid-friendly haunted house. A por-tion of the proceeds will go to
the Martinez Veterans Hospital. Admission is $1.50. Hours are
Friday, 6 to 10 p.m. and Sat. 7 to 10 p.m.OCT. 16Brentwood
Elementary Carnival and Pumpkin Patch
Bring the family and enjoy an evening of pumpkins, cakewalks,
games, a petting zoo
and more at the Brentwood Elementary fund-raising event. No need
to cook dinner either: there will be Sticky Chicken and Ribs, Straw
Hat Pizza and Loards Ice Cream on hand, with a portion of their
sales going back to the school. The party is at 200 Griffi th Lane
and is from 5 to 9 p.m. For additional information, call
925-513-6360.OCT. 23Laurel Elementary Pumpkin Patch Festival
This super-popular annual event comes to Oakleys Laurel
Elementary again this year from 4 to 8 p.m. at 1441 Laurel Road.
All proceeds from the event will benefi t the new kindergarten
playground, so come on down and take a tour through the haunted
house and feel free to come in costume. Admission is free.Aquatic
Pumpkin Patch
Do pumpkins sink or fl oat? Participants will get the answer to
that question at the Brentwood Parks and Recreations fourth an-nual
Halloween event. This year the fun runs from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the
Brentwood Family Aquatic Complex, 195 Griffi th Lane. The
rec-reation pool will be fi lled with fl oating pump-kins of all
sizes and shapes and participants can swim out and pick the pumpkin
of their choice. Dont forget to stay for the games and prizes too.
Admission is $15 per person. Ages 3 and up are welcome. OCT.
24Hometown Halloween
Brentwoods premiere trick-or-treat event is perfect for all the
ghosts and goblins in your
house. Take a stroll through downtown and visit the many
merchant booths set up along the street, and dont forget to pop
your head into the local businesses that have plenty of treats for
this safe and sane Halloween event. Located at First and Oak
Streets, the Cham-ber of Commerce hosts this event from 5 to 8 p.m.
Black Cat Ball
Who says black cats arent lucky? This spooktacular event raises
thousands of dol-lars each year for cats and other animals at the
Antioch Animal Shelter. Costumes are optional at this gala dinner,
which includes dancing, music and a silent auction, but there will
be a costume contest for those who dress up. Located at the Lone
Tree Golf Course, 4800 Golf Course Road in Antioch, tickets are $60
for adults and $25 for children (13 and under). For tickets or
additional information, call 925-431-8318, or
925-754-2923.Discovery Bay Harvest Festival
There will be plenty of activities and fun for all at the
Lakeview Business Plaza, including childrens activities, food and
wine samples, artists, vendors and music. Dont for-get to bring
your scarecrow-building talents for the contest, which will award
prizes for the best-dressed scarecrow. The event is from 11 a.m. to
3 p.m. at Lakeview Business Plaza on Discovery Bay Boulevard. Grace
Bible Fellowship Harvest Festival
Bring the family to this free event at the
There are dozens of ways to enjoy Halloween and the fall harvest
this year, including the Sanctuary of Evil in Oakley, where this
denizen of the dark was spot-ted last year. See the list for
details.
Press file photo
see Halloween page 5A
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OCTOBER 16, 2009 COMMUNITY THEPRESS.NET | 5A
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Grace Bible Fellowship Church, 657 McClar-ren Road in Brentwood.
There will be plenty of food, candy, games and much more! The event
is from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Oakley Harvest Festival
Oakleys inaugural event is free to the public and will be held
from noon to 4 p.m. at the Civic Center Plaza, 3231 Main St. There
will be activities for the entire family includ-ing a petting zoo,
giant slide, hay maze, arts and crafts, pie eating and costume
contests and a parade. For more information, call 925-625-7041 or
email, at [email protected]. 25Tarantula Trek
Theyre big, theyre fuzzy and oftentimes clumsy! These
eight-legged residents are prowling the park at Black Diamond Mines
Regional Park and the search is on. Enjoy an easy walk through the
park as you learn some little-known facts about these funny,
misun-derstood friends. The walk is from 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Participants meet in the parking lot at the south end of
Somersville Road, inside the Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve,
at 5175 Somersville Road in Antioch. For more information, call
925-544-2750. OCT. 27 AND 28La Paloma Haunted House
La Paloma High School will be hold-ing its fourth annual haunted
house on both days from 5 to 8 p.m. at the high school, 6651 Lone
Tree Way, across the street from Winco. There will be games,
prizes, and a very scary haunted house. Donations are $2 for kids
12 and under and $4 for adults.
OCT. 28Dramatic Halloween
Adams Middle School in Brentwood is hosting Dramatic Halloween
from 12:45 to 3:30 p.m. The event is open to the public, so bring
your most dramatic Halloween self and head on over. For more
information, call 925-513-6450.OCT. 29Howl La La Boo
Join the Oakley Library Youth Squad for their second annual
story time event at the Oakley Library. Join the squad for some
Hal-loween stories, games and crafts. Participants are encouraged
to come in costume. Free for kids preschool to fi fth grade. The
Oakley Li-brary is located at 1050 Neroly Road on the Freedom High
School campus. The event is from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Call
925-625-2400 for additional information. OCT. 30Halloween Dance
Extravaganza
Come on out for this Halloween bash for individuals with special
needs ages 13 and up. Participants are encouraged to come in
costume to the event that runs from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Brentwood
Senior Activity Cen-ter. The cost is $6.50 and pre-registration is
required by Oct. 27. To register call Brent-wood Parks and Rec at
925-516-5444.OCT. 31Halloween Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise
Delta Discovery Cruises presents this nautical adventure. Come
dressed as your fa-vorite pirates, sailors, captains and ghosts for
the Ghoulish Dinner and Nautical Mystery. The cost is $49 per
person, as long as space is available. The party is from 6 to 9:30
p.m. and sails from the Driftwood Yacht Club in
Oakley. For tickets and additional informa-tion, call
925-252-9300.Halloween at Sand Creek Crossing
Trick or Treaters are welcome at the Sand Creek Crossing
Shopping Center in Brentwood on Halloween from 2 to 6 p.m. The
centers stores, restaurants and retailers will be handing out free
Halloween goodies while supplies last.Halloween at the Museum
Come in costume and be transported back in time at the East
Contra Costa Histor-ical Societys Halloween party. Tour the 1878
farm house which is fully furnished, and see the assorted antique
farm equipment, Model Ts, fi re trucks and more. From 11 a.m. to 4
p.m. at 3890 Sellers Ave. in Brentwood/Knightsen. Admission is
free, donations are appreciated. Call 925-634-8651 or 925-679-1024
for additional information. Halloween on Hollow Hills
Have a frighteningly good time at this festive event. Games,
crafts, scavenger hunts and much more will give you a chance to
explore the history of the Black Diamond Hills and to meet some of
the parks creepi-est critters. Event is from 1 to 4 p.m. and
par-ticipants meet in the parking lot of the Black Diamond Mines
Regional Preserve at the south end of Somersville Road. The address
is 5175 Somersville Road in Antioch. Circus Night
Come on out and enjoy a safe and sane alternative to Halloween
at the Harvest Time Assembly of God Church from 6 to 9 p.m., 2200
Ventura Dr. in Brentwood. This free event will have candy, games,
pony rides and much more. Call 925-516-1908 for more info.
Halloween from page 4A
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OCTOBER 16, 2009 COMMUNITY THEPRESS.NET | 7A
Advertisement
ATTORNEY LOAN MODSMany homeowners in our area would
like their loan modified, so there is a huge opportunity here
for loan modification companies, who have sprung up by the
thousands across the nation. Unfortunately, their track record
overall hasnt been that great, and there are some fast-buck scam
artists that you have to watch out for. Ive heard many stories
where people send in $500-$3,000, only to never hear from the
company again.
Now that there are hundreds (thousands?) of these companies
around the country pitching their services, they are all searching
for ways to stand out from the crowd. The latest fad is where they
claim to be attorney-based and make claims that only attorneys
should really be doing loan mods. Or at least they claim that their
rate of success will be higher since they have attorneys doing the
work.
The problem is that many of these attorney-based firms really
just have one or two attorneys on retainer, but its still the same
hourly employees doing the actual negotiations for you. Some of
these modification firms are taking on hundreds, if not thousands
of loan modification clients. It would take an ARMY
of attorneys to really give each file the personal attention it
deserves.
The State Bar of California is especially concerned about this
situation as they fear that their members are collecting fees while
providing no benefit to the client, who is already in a vulnerable
and precarious financial position. Earlier this year the Bar
created a special task force to deal with a 58% increase in
investigations since last year. In my 21 years in attorney
discipline, I have not seen a crisis of this magnitude. It is truly
unprecedented, said Interim Chief Trial Counsel Russell Weiner
recently as the Bar released the names of 16 attorneys who are
under investigation for misconduct in relation to loan
modifications. This is the first time the Bar has released more
than just a couple of attorneys names during an investigation. They
just felt their duty to warn the consumer was paramount in this
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
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With purchase of new lawn 500 sq. ft. or more
Greenbelt Alliance Campaigns Director Melissa Hippard will speak
at the East Contra Forum later this month regarding the recent
ruling in a case against the city of Oakley.
The Contra Costa County Superior Court ruled that the
environmental impact report for the East Cypress Corridor Specifi c
Plan is incomplete, halting Oakleys plans to develop thousands of
acres of farmland.
In a precedent-setting decision, Superior Court Judge Barry
Baskin wrote: Inexplica-bly, the City failed to consider a
reasonable range of mitigation measures or potentially feasible
alternatives to lessen the impact to important farmland. The judge
went on to question why the city didnt ask developers to acquire
similar farmland for conservation purposes elsewhere in the county
to make up for the lost land in Oakley.
Greenbelt Alliance is a San Francisco-based environmental
advocacy group that works with citizens, elected offi cials and
diverse groups to protect open space and improve the livability of
existing communi-ties through grassroots organizing, coalition
building, policy analysis, political strategizing and local
advocacy.
Hippard will also discuss the phenom-enon of eating local, a
movement that pro-motes urban farming within cities.
The forum, sponsored by Oakley Citi-zens for Responsive
Government, will be held on Sunday, Oct. 25 at 1 p.m. in The Red
Ca-boose, 210 Fulton Shipyard Road in Antioch. The forum is free
and open to the public.
For more information, call Eve Dia-mond at 415-309-0611 or
e-mail her at [email protected].
Greenbelt Alliance to speak at Forum
The East County Democrats For Ac-tion, the Democratic Party of
Contra Costa County, the Antioch Democratic Club, the Tri-Valley
Democratic Club, and the Lamor-inda Democratic Club are
co-sponsoring an eBART Forum on Thursday, Oct. 22 from 7 to 9 p.m.
at Black Diamond Middle School, 4730 Sterling Hill Drive in
Antioch.
Topics will include when BART will
come to East County, and whether the ex-tension should feature
diesel eBART or stan-dard electric BART trains.
Taking part in the discussion will be State Sen. Mark
DeSaulnier, BART Direc-tor Joel Keller and Congressman Jerry
Mc-Nerney.
For more information, call George Van Hasslett at
925-754-9514.
Democrats look at BART
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8A | THEPRESS.NET COMMUNITY OCTOBER 16, 2009
Trevors Weekly Mortgage MattersBy Trevor Frey
Tax Credit Questions
Advertisement
With November 30, 2009 creeping up no pun intended for Halloween
right around the corner the window of opportunity to take advantage
of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, and its
$8,000 fi rst time buyer credit, is quickly coming to a close. As
most potential fi rst time buyers (even those who have recently
become fi rst time buyers) will tell you, our current real estate
market is already frustrating without having to worry about the ins
and outs of said $8,000 credit. To allow any would be buyers to
concentrate on what matters most actually fi nding a home Ive
compiled a list of the questions Im most frequently asked that
revolve around the tax credit with a Cinderella date of Decem-ber
1, 2009:
What type of homes qualify for the credit Any home that will be
used as a primary/principal residence qualifi es for the credit. Th
is includes single-family detached homes, attached homes (i.e.
townhomes and condominiums), manufactured homes (also known as
mobile homes), modular homes and houseboats. If it qualifi es for
the capital gains tax on a primary residence, it qualifi es for
this credit.
How do I claim the tax credit You claim the tax credit on your
federal income tax return. Specifi cally, home buyers should
complete IRS form 5405 to determine their tax credit amount, and
then claim this amount on Line 69 of their 1040 income tax return.
No other applications or forms are required, and no pre-approval is
necessary.
How much of the credit will I receive - Th e full tax credit is
given to fi rst time buy-ers with a modifi ed adjusted gross income
(MAGI) of less than $75,000 for single tax payers and $150,000 for
married taxpayers fi ling a joint return. For taxpayers with MAGI
of more than $95,000 (single) or $170,000 (married) the credit is
reduced to zero. Taxpayers between these fi gures are prorated
accordingly.
Is a tax credit the same as a tax deduction No, a tax credit is
a dollar-for-dollar reduc-tion in what the taxpayer owes. Th at
means that a taxpayer who owes $8,000 in income taxes, and who
receives an $8,000 tax credit, would owe nothing to the IRS. A tax
deduc-tion is subtracted from the amount of income that is taxed.
Assuming the same $8,000 tax liability from above, a taxpayer that
is in the 33 percent tax bracket would have their liability reduced
from $8,000 to $5,360. ($8,000 multi-plied by 33%).
Th e most important thing to remem-ber about this tax credit is
that you should be congratulating yourself. If you intend to claim
this credit it means that somewhere within the last eight months
(April through November) you became a home ownera huge
accomplishment! Should you ever have any other questions regarding
the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, or anything
else related to real estate fi nancing, please write or call. Im
always here to help and Im only a phone call away. 925-726-1444,
[email protected].
First-time buyers, act now to take advantage of up to $8000
federal tax credit, and a great mortgage rate!
LARGEST SELECTION OF LOAN PROGRAMS AVAILABLE
Call Randall Ruzich(925) 954-5729100 Cortona Way, Ste.
130Brentwood, CA 94513
Commercial Capital | Mortgage CorporationA Division of Fremont
Credit Corporation
As winter approaches, now is a good time to take care of those
essential tasks that help your house keep you warm and dry. Its
always cheaper to make repairs ahead of time while the weather is
good than to deal with an emer-gency in the middle of a storm.
Dirty furnace fi lters should be cleaned or replaced to ensure
that the furnace operates as effi ciently as possible. This will
also help combat indoor allergies as well as conserve energy.
If your thermostat and smoke detectors are battery operated, you
should test their batteries. According to Oak-ley Building Offi
cial Brent Smith, Most people see their smoke detectors as an
irritant when it comes to changing the batteries; however, if you
ever have a fi re, youll certainly be glad you took the fi ve
minutes to change them. Inspecting doors and windows for minor air
leaks is also an easy preventive measure. People would also be
surprised how much energy is lost by lack of maintenance when their
door gaskets wear out and become less effective, Smith said.
Weather stripping for doors is an inexpensive investment of time
and money that will make your house more energy effi cient and
comfortable.
If you have a fi replace, make sure the
chimney is clear of obstructions inside and out and that your
damper is in the open posi-tion prior to lighting a fi re. Start by
walking around the exterior of your house. Inspect-ing rain gutters
and downspouts to make sure theyre clean and unobstructed from
debris is important, said Smith, even if you do not have many trees
around your house or theyre small, less matured trees. Youll be
surprised at how much dust will settle in the gutters.
Inspect the roof for broken shingles or tiles. This is also an
ideal time to adjust au-tomatic sprinklers so that youre not
overwa-tering in the winter months. Considering we had a drought
emergency declared by the g ove r n o r, said Smith, its important
to conserve water in the winter
months as well.If this is the year
you upgrade that old, ineffi cient furnace to a
newer, high-effi ciency unit, the City of Oakley
has reduced permit fees by 50 percent for energy-saving devices
and ap-
pliances such as skylights, high-effi ciency water heat-ers and
furnaces. If you
do fi nd some problems beyond what youre comfortable fi xing, be
sure to hire a licensed contractor. I always recommend that people
get at least three to fi ve bids and actively check references,
Smith said.
For information regarding what repair work needs a permit and
what is exempt, call the Oakley Building Division at 925-625-7005
Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For tips on hiring a
licensed contractor, go to the Contractors State License Board
homepage, www.cslb.ca.gov.
Get a jump on winter maintenance
-
OCTOBER 16, 2009 THEPRESS.NET | 9A
Shea Homes makes now the time to buyFor a limited time, the Shea
Homes
Stimulus Package is still in effect. With Northern California
home prices back on the upswing, the Stimulus Package could mark
the best time this year to seal a deal on a quality Shea home.
Sheas 2009 Stimulus Package pulls together an impres-sive
collection of values on move-in-ready homes: Great nancing with low
down payments, closing cost credits and Federal tax credits up to
$8,000. Speci c offers vary by property and may include other
incen-tives, so be sure to visit a Sales Center soon to choose a
favorite home.
Stimulus Package homes are available in one of Sheas most
popular Northern California communities: Summer Lake, in Oakley
near the Delta watersports getaway region. Centered around a
25-acre lake, its a stellar example of how Shea Homes takes care to
build not only new homes, but com-plete neighborhoods. Buyers can
choose from a broad range of single-family home sizes and prices,
with generous oorplans and premium features. The 2009 Stimulus Plan
makes these desirable homes acces-sible to more buyers than
ever.Building on a Strong Foundation
During the recent home market slump, many builders have been
forced to make drastic cutbacks or even go out of busi-ness. All
builders have felt the pinch, but Shea Homes continues to sell
homes at an impressive rate, even introducing new products at a
time when other builders are burdened with standing inventory.
Selling over 1,100 new homes already in 2009, Shea Homes remains
strong due to its legendary construction quality, combined with a
focus on creating desirable neigh-borhoods to foster a sense of
community. The company has been family-owned since 1881, and is
Americas largest privately-owned homebuilder, building new homes in
seven states.Federal Tax Credit Program Expires Soon
Eligible buyers who act fast can still take advantage of the
governments Federal Tax Credit program, offering up to $8,000 in
credits for rst-time homebuy-ers (or those who have not owned in
the past three years). The credit is given as a reduction on income
tax owed. If it reduces taxes to less than zero, it will result in
a tax refund. The credit is 10% of the home price up to a maximum
of $8,000. It is available to individuals with incomes up to
$75,000, or couples with incomes that do not exceed $150,000.
Staying in the new home for three years is required, or the credits
will have to be repaid. Additional government help is available
from the FHA, who has increased loan limits and now only requires a
3.5 percent down payment.
The Federal Tax Credit program is expiring soon. Buyers must
close escrow by 11:59PM November 30, 2009 in order to qualify. To
help accommodate the program, Shea Homes is prepared to put
eligible buyers on a fast track to closing. See a sales
representative in the commu-nity of your choice soon to get
started.
Sheas 2009 Stimulus Package deals include current inventory
homes at Sum-mer Lake in Oakley. Summer Lake offers a range of home
choices in four neighbor-
hoods that surround a private 25-acre lake. Its destination
living at its nest, with incredible amenities, including the Canoe
Club a resort-style recreation center with club facilities and a
75-foot heated pool. Buyers also get a multi-use sports park, lush
stretches of natural open space, and an outstanding network of
hiking and biking trails atop the levee surrounding the community.
Future plans include an on-site day care center, two schools and a
neighborhood re station.
Shea Homes has long been recog-nized for extraordinary
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10A | THEPRESS.NET COMMUNITY OCTOBER 16, 2009
Silva plans to attend the Antioch pa-rade. I think its a good
idea, he said. I think the veterans should be honored in some way
after all we went through over there for the protection of our
country. We do live in the greatest country in the world. I have
been in other countries and I know the difference. We have the best
schools, the best teachers, the best of ev-erything.
Another of the grand marshals will be Benicia resident Richard
Lundin, 72, a major general in the Northern Califor-nia Army
Reserve. Lundin served in three wars Korea, Vietnam and the Gulf
and under 11 presidents. He believes its particularly important to
honor World War II veterans, who are dying at a rate of one
thousand a day, he said. We have to honor them every time we
can.
Regardless of the war, Lundin and his fellow vets in the VFW,
American Le-gion, the Elks and Lions are always ready to help out a
former serviceman in need. Recently they came to the aid of a guy
down on his luck without money for food for his family. When there
is a need, there is a network, he said. This year his focus is on
honoring noncommissioned offi cers, which he summed up by saying,
No ser-geants, no soldiers; no soldiers, no army; no army, no
nation.
Antioch resident Leo Fontana served in World War II, the
highlight of which was a 3-month stretch in England man-ning a
.50-caliber anti-aircraft gun when German planes were bombing the
coun-
try. I am glad that they recognize the vet-erans, said Fontana,
another grand mar-shal. Its nice that they keep the faith and
theres people recognizing these things.
At 11 a.m. on Nov. 11, 1918, World War I concluded when Germanys
Kaiser Wilhem II agreed to President Woodrow Wilsons conditions for
ending the war, and a general armistice was declared.
A year later Wilson proclaimed Nov. 11 as Armistice Day, which
Congress later resolved should be commemorated with thanksgiving
and prayer and exercises designed to perpetuate peace through good
will and mutual understanding be-tween nations. The name would
later be changed to Veterans Day to include those who have fought
for the United States in the several wars that have followed the
war to end all wars.
Veterans Day has never quite gotten the respect of other
national holidays, however. Many people not employed by the
government will likely be at work on Wednesday, Nov. 11. For seven
years in the 1970s, Veterans Day lost its histori-cal connection to
the armistice when it was moved to Monday to accommodate three-day
weekends before being moved back following protests by
veterans.
To let the committee know of veter-ans who would like to
participate, or to get more information on the Veterans Day Parade,
call Jim and Susan Davis at 757-2020 or e-mail [email protected].
Applications for parade participants may be downloaded from
www.art4antioch.org.
Veterans from page 3A
Oakley City Councilman Jim Frazier does some graf ti clean up on
a fence along the Contra Costa Canal last month. Resident Anita
Baker said she had been unable to get water district personnels
as-sistance in cleaning up the fence along her back yard, so she
called Frazier to put some heat on. Having no luck with the canal
folks, Frazier made a trip to the hardware store, bought some
paint, and took care of the prob-lem himself. Baker said she was
impressed with his actions, and learned that Frazier is also very
involved in the Marsh Creek Clean-up and that he does ride-alongs
with the police department to get a better understand-ing of his
community and what is going on around here. Frazier watchers around
here know theres a lot more he does, as well. This man does not
seem to be the type of person that tells these stories just for
ego, Anita said. The look in his eyes and the way he truly is
involved tells the real story. She thought the councilman should
get a pat on the back for his service, and we agree. Way to go,
Jim, and thanks.
Councilman cover-up
Photo courtesy of Anita Baker
-
OCTOBER 16, 2009 COMMUNITY THEPRESS.NET | 11A
When tiles around the outdoor stage at Vintage Parkway
Ele-mentary School started to show their age, students stepped up
and showed their creativity. Drawing on a theme of school spirit
and pride, students, as part of a PTA fundraiser, were invited to
purchase a tile for $25 and draw their own colorful masterpieces.
So far, 110 tiles have been sold and decorated, and the unveiling
took place at the Family Day presentation on Sept. 25.
Whats old is new again
Fraleins Kristy Reno and Alisha Nunes, seen here with Popi,
invite locals to enjoy POPs second annual Oktoberfest on Friday,
October 23 from 6-11 p.m. at Scouts Hall in Bethel Island. POPs
(Parents of Playmak-ers) is the booster club for Liberty High
Schools acclaimed drama club. Tickets include a full German dinner,
dancing and live entertainment. The evening will feature auctions
and raf es. For more information, visit www.lhsplaymakers.com or
call John at 925-634-3469.
POPs goes der schnitzel
Liberty High Schools renowned Rent-A-Carolers are now booking
ap-pointments for the upcoming holiday season.
For a donation of $100, select members of the LHS choir will
sing treasured Christmas carols at any holi-day gathering. Dressed
in Victorian
costumes, the Rent-A-Carolers will joyfully spread the spirit of
the holiday season via their sensational sound and traditional
songs.
To spread the holiday spirit to-gether with these joyous songs,
contact Liberty Choral Director Sue Stuart at 925-634-3411 and
arrange a date.
Holiday harmony for lease
-
12A | THEPRESS.NET COMMUNITY OCTOBER 16, 2009
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I felt bad for the little teddy bear hamster. About as big as a
golf ball, the tiny creature had once sported a fuzzy coat of
butterscotch. She loved her wheel and lived in a little straw Tiki
hut inside her pink cage. Her
name was Marley. You can connect the dots on your own about how
my 20-year-old daughter came up with that name, but Marley was a
well-loved pet, enjoyed by our entire family.
One day we noticed she was scratching quite a
bit. The following week she began los-ing her fur from the
bottom up. After a while it looked like she was wearing a furry
crop top. Her reddish bare bot-tom became exposed for all to see.
The itching persisted. I told my daughter she should take Marley to
the vet but the exam cost $45 and she told me she bought the
hamster for $12. It just didnt make sense.
My friends and neighbors offered all kinds of morbid ideas as to
how I could dispose of the tiny rodent, none of them humane enough
for me to consider. One idea involved a ten-nis racket. I just
couldnt help feeling sorry for Marley. One mosquito bite
drives me crazy. I couldnt imagine the torture of itching all
day and all night. Finally, I broke down and took her to the animal
hospital myself. They were happy to examine her for the $45
fee.
The diagnosis was mites: micro-scopic little bugs that burrow
under the skin and cause incredible itching and sometimes a
secondary infec-tion, which she had developed. Her little eyes were
swollen and red. She truly looked like her namesake. The doctor
informed me that the cure for mites was the injection of a drug
called ivermectin at $40 a pop, and she would need three of them.
She would also require antibiotics that wed need to administer into
her little hamster mouth with a syringe. The antibiotics would be
an additional $15. The dollar signs were whirling around my brain.
All this money for a $12 hamster?
Credit cards are great, arent they? It feels like youre not even
spending your own money. Simply swipe and sign. I knew in my heart
it was the right thing to do; after all, Marley was one of Gods
creatures and the good karma would surely come back to me one
day.
My daughter and I took turns giv-ing Marley her medicine. Marley
actu-ally enjoyed it, sucking on the syringe like a straw and
holding it with her
Adventures of Marley
see Marley page 19A
HANGIN INTHERE
VICKI MCKENNA
-
OCTOBER 16, 2009 THEPRESS.NET | 13A
OPINIONEDITORIALS, LETTERS & COMMENTARY National
AwardWinning NewspapersHave you got something to say? Visit
www.thepress.net and let your thoughts be known.
Layoffs unreliable path to deficit reduction
Editor:It seems like saving money is all any-
one can talk or think about these days. Whether thats by
shopping at discount stores, restricting on leisure activities or
other indulgences. People are becoming growingly more desperate to
save money. At what level does our city reach the bare essentials
on what we truly need to just make it by or to even save money to
lower our defi cit?
The City of Brentwood will face more cutbacks in the near
future. After cutting $11 million of the city budget through
layoffs, cuts in pay and work hours, it bothers me to think of
where the next cuts are going to come from. The city plans on
saving money by staff reorganizations, even more layoffs, cut-ting
police overtime, and a retirement-and-return-to-work program.
These can be very successful and benefi cial ways to decrease
our defi cit. However, laying off more workers and cutting back on
police overtime and benefi ts are very unsettling. Layoffs are
affecting people around the country and cutting costs purely by
layoffs is not always the best solution. Its apparent that laying
off workers is an immediately effective way of saving money but its
also contributing to the growing rate of people on unemployment and
welfare in our country.
The most troubling way our City Council plans to cut another one
million dollars in the future is through cutting police overtime
and benefi ts. This is the absolute wrong way to go about saving
money, considering that safety should be one of our citys main
priorities. Why cut there? Is it just the fact that everyone is
becoming obsessed with saving money so much to where it jeopardizes
the future of our town?
Its obviously nave to assume that
cutbacks in overtime hours and benefi ts will automatically lead
to a downward spiral of our community. I wonder, though, after the
recent cutbacks go into effect, where will future budget cuts come
from and who will they affect next?
Kyle WellsBrentwood
Unprofessional behavior Editor:
In my opinion, the Mayor of Oakley demonstrated unprofessional
and rude behavior toward the audience and certain individuals at
the Council meeting of Oct. 13. While I recognize that order must
be maintained at these meetings, her way of handling things only
serves to aggravate people and earns disrespect.
Examples include (1) allowing people with warm and fuzzy things
to say to go over the three-minute time limit, while cutting off
others at three minutes; (2) a dismissive attitude toward
anti-development comments submit-ted by people who were not allowed
to speak; (3) outright rudeness toward a lady with a heart-breaking
story of her son being beaten up by thugs in Oakley; (4) public
criticism of Mr. Nix, which was totally not called-for; (5) a
patron-izing attitude toward the audience while explaining that
they are only rezon-ing, when in fact everyone knows that once land
is rezoned, the developer will always go for the maximum density
allowed. The whole scene is reminiscent of an angry schoolteacher
lecturing badly behaving little kids in class.
Our citizens are hard-working adults who deserve respect and a
city govern-ment that not only listens, but responds to their
concerns.
Donald E. ScheerOakley
4-H hangs in, says thanks Editor;
Last week 4-H members across the country celebrated National 4-H
week. I am glad to say that 4-H members in Con-tra Costa County
were again part of that celebration. Only a few short months ago I
did not think we would have the oppor-tunity to be in 4- H this
year. But due to the efforts of many we do. Our program is still in
a crisis mode. Our funding has been severely cut. We have very
limited county resources at this point. But on the positive side we
do have the opportunity to be in 4-H and serve our community.
I would like to thank the Oakley City Council for their support
of 4-H in East County, especially Councilman Jim Frazier. I would
also like to thank County Supervisor Susan Bonilla for helping with
funding for our University of California Cooperative Extension
Offi ce, which oversees our 4-H program and many other
agricultural programs in our county. Even though she is not my
areas county supervisor, I feel she represents myself and other
members more so than many local politicians. I would like to give a
huge thank you to the editor of the Press for supporting 4-H with
numerous articles about the 4-H program.
Marion Smith Delta Diablo 4-H
Community comes through on cueEditor:
East Contra Costa Historical Soci-ety held its annual Community
Barbecue on Sept. 13. The barbecue serves as the major fundraiser
to help maintain the museum for public and school tours and to
preserve historical documents and photos. ECCHS does not receive
revenue from any governmental source, so all funds derived for its
support come from individual and business donors, membership dues
and events such as the barbecue.
At the present time, we are attempt-ing to raise enough revenue
to replace the septic system and restore an 1890s-era schoolhouse.
As an all-volunteer, non-profi t organization, any contributions
and donations that offset the costs of the barbecue are greatly
appreciated.
East County has once again shown its giving spirit in
contributing to this cause. We owe a huge debt of gratitude to the
following organizations, individu-als and businesses for their
donations: Rotary Club and Rotary Interact; G&S Farms; Smith
Farms; Wild West Bar-B-Q & Catering; Delta Pure Water; Harvest
Park Bowl; Sweeneys Grill and Bar; Bloomfi eld Vineyards; Cline
Cellars; Viano Winery; Hannah Nicole Vine-yards; Costco; Oakley
Disposal; Orin Allen Youth Rehabilitation Facility.
And to the raffl e donors: from Brentwood Shiny Nails; Prevots
Oyster Bar & Grill; Crme del Gem Jewelry; Straw Hat Pizza (Lone
Tree Way); Bill Brandt Ford; Sticky Chicken & Ribs; Health Hut;
Gabbys Grind; CK Piz-zeria; SpeeDee Oil Change & Tune-up;
Doggie Depot; from Oakley Yogurt Island; Genes Handiwork; Oakley
Super Beauty Salon; from Knightsen Pam-pered Pets; and from Antioch
The Red Caboose. Please support these businesses and show them how
much their philan-thropic efforts are appreciated.
In addition, ECCHS thanks the American Legion; Samantha,
Madelyn, and Olivia Bustos; the Community Band; Byron Station; and
Rod Linn and his musical group for their participation in the
event.
East Contra Costa County has once again proved why it has the
best of the
best! Thank you again for your generous support.
We invite anyone interested in the history of this area to join
ECCHS (an-nual dues are $20 for families; $15 for in-dividuals and
$50 for business concerns); to become docents for the museum (open
on Saturdays from April to October); to tour the Byer/Nail House;
and to aid the historians who labor many hours in preserving and
cataloging photos and records from yesteryear.
Patrick McHenryChairman
Amazing communityEditor:
The Liberty Class of 2012 would like to thank our Homecoming
Pa-rade Float sponsors: Ace Hardware of Brentwood donated all our
fl oat build-ing supplies; Hannah Nicole Vineyards donated the use
of its truck, and Ralph Birchfi eld drove for us and donated his fl
atbed trailer. We could not have done it without all the
support.
We live in an amazing community. Thanks so much.
Kellie Callahan and Maria NajeraClass of 2012 Advisors
Fabulous fellowshipEditor:
October 10th was the second annual festival-chili cook off in
Byron. The attendance was good and the fellowship great. The chili
sampling, tri-tip dinner, silent auction, vendors, live music and
childrens area were enjoyed by many. We wish to thank the many
individuals and businesses whose generosity made this event a
success:
Wild Idol, Dillards, Marin Foods, Drill Tech Drilling and
Shoring, Linda Brown, Brentwood Blues Band, Byron Station Band,
Johnny Pickels Band, Annie Piazza, Starbucks Discovery Bay, Safeway
Discovery Bay, Discovery Bay Chiropractic, Supercuts Discovery Bay,
Discovery Nail, Subway Discovery Bay, Straw Hat Pizza Discovery
Bay, Vaults Boutique, Silver Skillet, Scrumdillyump-tious Yogurt,
Horsetown Tack, Maureen McClathery from Rafter D, Valeros in Byron,
Sand Hill Ranch, Kim Rowena, Knightsen Honey, Swan Levine House in
Grass Valley, Janessa White, Bon Gustos, Classy Cottage, Carol
Jensen, Culinary Center of Monterey, Best Buy, Red Robin, Rubios,
Rave Theater, Kinders in Antioch, Trader Joes in An-tioch, Gabbys
Grind, Peets in Antioch, Texas Road House in Tracy, Tacqueria Diaz,
Griswolds Heating and Air, Byron Inn and Got-A-Party.
Liz Clough,Byron Community Library Club Secretary
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 CORPORATIONNational Award
Winning Newspapers
Founder & President Jimmy ChamouresPublisher & General
Manager Greg Robinson
Executive Editor Rick LemyreProduction Manager & Webmaster
Lonnie de Lambert
Business Manager Heather ReidAdvertising Manager Ed Feldman
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 [email protected]
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
-
14A | THEPRESS.NET OCTOBER 16, 2009
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A sampling of recent law enforcement activity reported by East
County police departments.
BRENTWOODOct. 2, 12:19 a.m. On Brentwood Boule-vard at Balfour
Road, a driver stopped for a vehicle code violation was found to be
under the infl uence of a central ner-vous system stimulant. His
passenger was found to be in possession of suspect-ed
methamphetamine.Oct. 2, 2:48 a.m. A resident of Dawnview Drive
reported that a group of juveniles was littering her front
yard.Oct. 2, 2:54 p.m. The personal informa-tion of a resident of
Monroe Court was stolen and used to open a wireless tele-phone
account.Oct. 2, 6:30 p.m. On Fairview Avenue at Lone Tree Way, a
subject stopped for ve-hicle code violations was found to be un-der
the infl uence of alcohol and on court probation for DUI.Oct. 2,
8:23 p.m. On Balfour Road at Summerset Drive, the vehicle
registra-tion of a subject stopped for a vehicle code violation was
found to be expired for more than six months. The vehicle was
towed.Oct. 2, 10:38 p.m. On OHara Avenue at Grant Street, a subject
stopped for vehicle code violations was found to be driving without
a license.Oct. 2, 11:04 p.m. On Second Street at Chestnut Street, a
subject was found to be under the infl uence of a central ner-vous
system stimulant. He was arrested and taken to the Martinez
Detention Facility.Oct. 2, 11:59 p.m. On the Highway 4 By-pass at
Sand Creek Road, a driver who rear-ended a vehicle stopped for a
red light was found to be driving under the infl uence of alcohol.
He was arrested and taken to Sutter Delta Medical Center for
examination. The victim was taken to Kaiser Hospital for minor
injuries.Oct. 3, 12:20 p.m. On Brentwood Bou-levard, a subject
found in possession of suspected narcotics was arrested and taken
to the Martinez Detention Facility.
Oct. 3, 4:55 p.m. On Lone Tree Way, a driver struck the rear of
a parked vehicle and fl ed the scene without leaving con-tact
information.Oct. 4, 12:47 a.m. On Sand Creek Road at Brentwood
Boulevard, a subject stopped for vehicle code violations was found
to be driving on a suspended license.Oct. 4, 5 a.m. A subject
contacted in a parking lot on Shady Willow Lane was found to have a
citable warrant. He was arrested and released on a Promise To
Appear.Oct. 4, 6:47 p.m. On Brentwood Boule-vard, a subject was
arrested for public intoxication and taken to the Martinez
Detention Facility.Oct. 5, 12:15 p.m. A resident of Cam-brian Place
saw a subject run from the front of his house and discovered that
the house had been burglarized by means of forced entry.Oct. 5,
4:33 p.m. On OHara Avenue at Central Boulevard, offi cers responded
to the report of a fi re and discovered evi-dence of an explosive
device.Oct. 5, 7:37 p.m. A resident of Cheshire Drive reported that
she believed a sub-ject attempted to gain access to her resi-dence
through the rear door while she was away.Oct. 5-6, 8:45
p.m.-midnight On the Highway 4 Bypass from Balfour Road to Sand
Creek Road, unidentifi ed persons threw water bottles at passing
vehicles, causing damage to vehicles hoods, front grills and
windshields.Oct. 6, 10:30 a.m. An unidentifi ed person stole items
from a residence on Atherton Boulevard during a party.Oct. 6, 2:03
p.m. Brentwood police re-ceived a forgery report involving the
drivers license of a Brentwood resident. It was determined that the
license was stolen in Sacramento.Oct. 6, 2:25 p.m. A resident of
Prominent Drive lost his wallet and an unidentifi ed person used
his credit card to obtain goods.
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.
ANTIOCHOct. 7, 3:49 p.m. A vehicle northbound on Somersville
Road collided with a vehicle southbound on Somersville Road as both
vehicles attempted to turn onto the east-bound Highway 4 on-ramp.
Both drivers and three passengers two male Antioch residents, 77
and 29; a female Antioch resident, 76; a male Oakley resident, 20;
and a female Oakley resident, 19 were transported to an area
hospital suffering from various injuries, none of which ap-pear to
be life threatening. Both vehicles were towed from the scene, and
the inci-dent remains under investigation.
For information on law enforcement in Antioch, visit
www.ci.antioch.ca.us/citygov/police.
OAKLEYSept. 28 A vehicle was stolen from the 100 block of Merlot
Court.Sept. 28 On East Cypress Road and Machado Lane, a subject was
charged with driving without a license.Sept. 28 On the 3900 block
of Creekside Way, a vehicle was burglarizedSept. 28 Shoplifting
occurred at a busi-ness on the 2500 block of Main Street.Sept. 28
Parts were stolen from a vehicle on the 100 block of Lozoya
Way.Sept. 29 A subject was found in pos-session of dangerous drugs
on the 5000 block of Fernwood Court.Sept. 29 Vehicles were towed
from the 4700 block of Burgundy Drive at Helena Court, and from
Hemlock Drive.Sept. 29 An arrest warrant was issued on the 100
block of Old Oak Court.Sept. 29 Misdemeanor battery was re-ported
on the 600 block of Frazier Drive.Sept. 29 Terrorist threats were
reported on the 2000 block of Rubens Way.Sept. 29 Grand theft was
reported on the 1700 block of Isleton Court.Sept. 30 A stolen
vehicle was recovered on Cashew Lane at Macadamia Lane.Sept. 30 On
Mellowood Drive at Vine-wood Drive, a subject was charged with
driving under the infl uence of alcohol.Sept. 30 A custody order
was violated on the 100 block of Carol Lane.Oct. 1 On Live Oak
Avenue at Main
Street, a subject was charged with posses-sion of dangerous
drugs.Oct. 1 A vehicle was towed from Cor-nish Court and Lois
Lane.Oct. 1 Forgery of fraudulent documents was reported on the
2500 block of Main Street.Oct. 2 A vehicle accident with injuries
occurred on East Cypress Road at Mach-ado Lane.Oct. 2 A suspicious
circumstance was reported on Harvest Drive at Laurel Road.Oct. 2
Hit-and-run incidents occurred on Laurel Road at Main Street, and
the 1900 block of Santa Fe Street.Oct. 2 A misdemeanor battery was
reported on the 4600 block of Chelsea Drive.Oct. 2 Vandalism was
reported on the 100 block of Red Barn Court.Oct. 3 On the 2000
block of Main Street, a subject was found in possession of drug
paraphernalia.Oct. 3 At the intersection of Vintage Parkway at
Walnut Meadows Drive, a subject was found in possession of an
un-lawful weapon.Oct. 3 Incidents of DUI took place on Main Street
at Malicoat Avenue, and the 900 block of Main Street.Oct. 3 A
parole violation occurred at Live Oak Avenue at Main Street.Oct. 3
Theft of an access card was re-ported from the 5100 block of
Winchester Drive.Oct. 3 An act of trespassing occurred on the 4300
block of Beechnut Lane.Oct. 4 On Live Oak Avenue at Walnut Meadows
Drive, a subject was charged with possession of an unlawful
weapon.Oct. 4 On Hampton Way at Laurel Road, a subject was charged
with driving without a license.Oct. 4 Incidents of DUI took place
on Laurel Road at Main Street, and West Bolton Road at Main
Street.Oct. 4 A parole violation occurred on the 900 block of
Rosemary Lane.Oct. 4 Burglaries occurred on the 5600 block of Main
Street, the 500 block of Second Street and the 500 block of
Wind-sor Court.
COP LOGSFROM EMERGENCY SERVICES DISPATCH LOGS On OHara Avenue at
Central Boulevard, offi cers re-sponded to the report of a fi re
and discovered evidence of an explosive device. Oct. 5, 4:33 p.m.
in Brentwood
-
In observance of Hispanic Heritage month (Sept. 15 to Oct. 15)
the Council on Contemporary Families has released the fol-lowing
fact sheet prepared by Ruth E. Zam-brana and Laura A. Logie of the
University of Maryland.
Over the last 30 years the Latino/Hispan-ic population in the
United States has grown seven times faster than the population of
the nation as a whole. Hispanics currently repre-sent almost 15
percent of the U.S. population and within the next two decades are
expected to constitute a full quarter of Americans. Seven in 10
Latinos are currently U.S. citizens, either by birth or by
naturalization.
Although often treated as a monolithic ethnic group, Latina/os
differ in their racial and ethnic identities, religious beliefs,
health status, socioeconomic status and language patterns. Lumping
all these groups under the rubric of Latino or Hispanic masks
im-portant demographic and socioeconomic dif-ferences and
perpetuates negative stereotypes.
The Hispanic/Latino montage repre-sents 43 Spanish-speaking
countries, includ-ing Mexicans, Puerto Ricans, Hondurans, Cubans,
Dominicans, Costa Ricans, Salva-dorans, Colombians, Bolivians,
Guatemalans and Peruvians. Latina/os comprise a diverse mixture of
European, indigenous, American Indian and African backgrounds.
Contemporary Latino communities are a complex mix of native-born
and immigrant families. Approximately 60 percent of all Latinos
were born in the United States and are therefore U.S. citizens by
birth. Another 10 percent were foreign-born and have since become
naturalized citizens. People born in Puerto Rico are considered
native born be-cause they are U.S. citizens by birth.
A majority (52 percent) of the nations 16 million Hispanic
children are now second generation, meaning they are the U.S.-born
sons or daughters of at least one foreign-born parent, typically
someone who came to this country in the immigration wave from
Mex-ico, Central America and South America that began around 1980.
And 37 percent are third generation or higher, meaning they are the
U.S.-born children of U.S.-born parents and often U.S.-born
grandparents as well.
Latino families do speak English. The majority of U.S. Latinos
were born in the continental United States, and their fi rst
lan-guage is English. About 31 million United States residents
speak Spanish at home, mak-ing Spanish the second-most spoken
language in the country. But according to the U.S. Cen-sus Bureau,
a majority of those who speak languages other than English at home
report themselves already profi cient in English, and young
immigrants (ages 5 to 17) almost al-
ways speak English over their native tongues by adulthood.
A commonly-held stereotype is that La-tino parents do not value
education. How-ever, one recent study found that 95 percent of
Latino parents believe its important for their children to attend
college, compared to 78 percent of whites and 94 percent of blacks.
And 94 percent of Latino parents report that they have much or some
infl uence over their childrens education, compared to 88
percent
of whites and 91 percent of black parents.More than half of
Mexican-Americans
own their own home. By 2012, it is estimated that 40 percent of
the nations fi rst-time home-buyers in the United States will be
Hispanic.
The number of Latino eligible voters in-creased 21.4 percent
between 2004 and 2008, the largest percentage increase of any
group, and a rate of growth that outstripped the in-crease in the
adult Latino population overall, which was only 13.7 percent.
OCTOBER 16, 2009 COMMUNITY THEPRESS.NET | 15A
Alan, Erick, Ryan, Scotty and Stephanie Iannaccone were able to
reach out and touch and even climb ancient history when they took
the Brentwood Press to Cairo, Egypt on their recent trip to the
land of the pharaohs. Thanks, kids, for exposing your Hometown
Weekly Newspaper to some authentic Pyramid Power.
Seen in EgyptLatino families changing America
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OCTOBER 16, 2009 COMMUNITY THEPRESS.NET | 17A
The Kiwanis Club of Brentwood recently installed new members to
its board of directors. From left are incoming Secretary Tom Ontis,
Kiwanis Division 26 Lt. Gov. Jim Sullivan (who of ciated at the
induction and who is also a member of the Brentwood club), incoming
President Val Thompkins and incoming Vice President Jeff Schults.
The other members of the board are Treasurer John Jewell (also
im-mediate past president), Mervin Rose and Fred Urbin. The Kiwanis
Club of Brent-wood meets every Friday at Perkos Cafe, 1135 Second
St. in Brentwood. To learn more about Kiwanis, call Rick at
925-634-1441.
New Kiwanis boardPhoto by Richard Wisdom
To celebrate Constitution Day, Sept. 17, members of the Antioch
and Delta Rotary clubs distributed free copies of the U.S.
Constitu-tion to all the approximately 1,500 eighth-grade students
in Antiochs four middle schools.
As part of Rotary Interna-tionals emphasis on literacy, both
clubs have for many years given free dictionaries to third-grade
students in Antioch, and will do so again this month. This year,
how-ever, Antioch Club President Allen Payton chose to include
constitu-tions for the older students.
Its a small way we can help our students learn more about our
country and government, Payton said. Im hoping this is something
well continue each year. Id like to thank each of the principals,
as well as the Delta Club members, for their assistance.
The Rotarians spoke to stu-dents in assemblies at both Dallas
Ranch and Park middle schools, and in classrooms at Antioch and
Black Diamond middle schools. Students read from the preamble and a
few of the amendments.
Project Coordinator Devi Lanphere developed fun facts about the
Constitution, which she used to question the students
knowledge.
The pocket-size copies includ-ed both the U.S. Constitution, the
Declaration of Independence and a place for the students to sign
their name.
Since 1947 the Antioch Ro-tary Club has served the Antioch
community with a variety of ser-vice projects, including curb cuts
in downtown Rivertown, building the gazebo and helping fund the
Sports Legends wing at the An-tioch Historical Society museum,
coats for kids and food for the hungry.
In addition, Antioch Rotar-ians started and support a vision and
dental clinic, and a library in Zimba, Zambia. They meet Thurs-days
at noon at the Lone Tree Golf & Event Center.
Rotary International is a 1.2 million member service
organiza-tion made up of business and com-munity leaders in 33,000
clubs in more than 150 countries through-out the world.
Its efforts have led to the vir-tual eradication of polio, and
the promotion of literacy, clean water, health, hunger and disaster
relief programs and projects throughout the world.
For more information or to join Rotary, visit
www.antiochrotary.com.
Rotary means service
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18A | THEPRESS.NET COMMUNITY OCTOBER 16, 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 October 27,
2009, hold a public hearing to consider the following:An
application for a rezone (RZ 08-07) to establish a list of
allowable uses and development standards for the Brent-wood
Business Park project, located on approximately 43 acres within the
Planned Development No. 24 Zone, bounded by Sellers Avenue on the
east, the ECCID Main Canal on the south and Guthrie Lane on the
west (APN 010-160-037, 038, 039, 041, 042 and 043).A mitigated
negative declaration has been prepared for this project pursuant to
the California Environmental Qual-ity Act (CEQA), to assess
potentially adverse environmental impacts. The Planning Commission
held a public hearing to consider the project on Oc-tober 6, 2009,
and recommended that it be approved by the City Council.Applicant:
Equus GroupSaid hearing will be held at the City Council Chambers,
101B Sand Creek Road, Brentwood, California.Further information may
be obtained from Principal Planner Erik Nolthe-nius [(925) 516-5137
or [email protected]] 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: October 16,
2009
NOTICE OF TRUSTEES SALETrustee Sale No. 74-33841-2 Title Order
No.090389660 APN 067-284-004 The mortgage loan servicer has
obtained a nal order of exemption pursuant to CA CIV. CODE 2923.53
that is current and valid as of the date that the Notice of
Trustees Sale was led or given. YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF
TRUST DATED 10/25/2007. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR
PROP-ERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN
EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU
SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On 11/05/2009 at 10:00AM, HOUSEKEY
FINANCIAL CORPORATION as the duly appointed Trustee under and
pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded on 10/26/2007, as Instrument
2007-0301178-00 of of cial records in the Of ce of the Recorder of
CONTRA COSTA County,
California, executed by: DIANE TIMMS, UNMARRIED WOMAN, as
Trustor, HOUSEHOLD FINANCE CORPORATION OF CALIFORNIA as Bene ciary
(Original Lender) and HSBC MORTGAGE SER-VICES INC., as current
Servicer/Lender, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER
FOR CASH (payable at time of sale in lawful money of the Unit-ed
States, by cash, a cashiers check drawn by a state or national
bank, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check
drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings
association, or savings bank speci ed in section 5102 of the
Finan-cial Code and authorized to do business in this state). At:
THE COURT STREET ENTRANCE TO THE COUNTY COURT-HOUSE, 725 COURT
STREET (CORNER OF MAIN AND COURT STREET), MAR-TINEZ, CA, all right,
title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed
of Trust in the property situat-ed in said County, California
describing the land therein: AS MORE FULLY DE-SCRIBED IN THE ABOVE
MENTIONED DEED OF TRUST. The property here-tofore described is
being sold as is. The street address and other common designation,
if any, of the real property described above is purported to be:
231 TEXAS ST, ANTIOCH, CA 94509. The un-dersigned Trustee disclaims
any liability for any incorrectness of the street ad-
dress and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said
sale will be made, but without covenant or war-ranty, expressed or
implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the
remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by said Deed of
Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s),
advances, if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, esti-mated
fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created
by said Deed of Trust, to-wit: $400,034.38 (Estimated). Accrued
interest and ad-ditional advances, if any, will increase this gure
prior to sale. CONDITION OF SALE: The successful bidder will be
required to pay county documentary transfer tax, any city tax, and
any other applicable taxes or fees (including, but not limited to,
the fee for recording Pre-liminary Change of Ownership report) to
the auctioneer at the time of sale. If the Trustee is unable to
convey title for any reason, the successful bidders sole and
exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee
and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. The bene
ciary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to
the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and De-mand for
Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The
under-signed caused said Notice of Default
and Election to Sell to be recorded in the county where the real
property is located and more than three months have elapsed since
such recordation. DATE: 10/12/2009 HOUSEKEY FINAN-CIAL CORPORATION
P.O. BOX 60145 CITY OF INDUSTRY, CA 91716 For Sale Information:
(714)730-2727, www. del-ityasap.com or www.priorityposting.com TO
NOTIFY TRUSTEE OF BANK-RUPTCY FILINGS, PLEASE FAX FACE PAGE OF
BANKRUPTCY PETITION TO (909) 397-3914 Betty Schwab, Trustee Sales
Of cer HOUSEKEY FINANCIAL CORPORATION MAY BE ACTING AS A DEBT
COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED
MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. ASAP# 3302641 10/16/2009, 10/23/2009,
10/30/2009 Antioch Press No. 06-1617 Publish Dates: October 16, 23,
30, 2009
NOTICE OF TRUSTEES SALETS No. 08-0091305 Title Order No.
08-8-336127 Investor/Insurer No. 100239117 APN No. 087-064-015-8
YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST, DATED 06/14/2005. UNLESS
YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROP-ERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A
PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE
PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CON-TACT A LAWYER. Notice is
hereby
given that RECONTRUST COMPANY, as duly appointed trustee
pursuant to the Deed of Trust executed by: JAVIER GOMEZ, AN
UNMARRIED MAN, dated 06/14/2005 and recorded 06/30/05, as
In-strument No. 2005-0240595-00, in Book -, Page -), of Of cial
Records in the of- ce of the County Recorder of Contra Costa
County, State of California, will sell on 11/05/2009 at 10:00AM, At
the Court Street entrance to the County Courthouse (corner of Main
and Court Street), 725 Court Street Martinez, CA 94553 at public
auction, to the highest bidder for cash or check as described
below, payable in full at time of sale, all right, title, and
interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust,
in the property situated in said County and State and as more fully
described in the above referenced Deed of Trust. The street address
and other common designation, if any, of the real property
described above is purported to be: 40 ALVARADO AVENUE, PITTSBURG,
CA, 94565. The undersigned Trustee dis-claims any liability for any
incorrect-ness of the street address and other common designation,
if any, shown herein. The total amount of the unpaid balance with
interest thereon of the obligation secured by the property to be
sold plus reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the
time of the initial publication of the Notice of
Sale is $326,945.12. It is possible that at the time of sale the
opening bid may be less than the total indebtedness due. In
addition to cash, the Trustee will ac-cept cashiers checks drawn on
a state or national bank, a check drawn by a state or federal
credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and
loan association, savings association, or savings bank speci ed in
Section 5102 of the Financial Code and autho-rized to do business
in this state. Said sale will be made, in an AS IS condi-tion, but
without covenant or warranty, express or implied, regarding title,
pos-session or encumbrances, to satisfy the indebtedness secured by
said Deed of Trust, advances thereunder, with inter-est as
provided, and the unpaid princi-pal of the Note secured by said
Deed of Trust with interest thereon as provided in said Note, plus
fees, charges and ex-penses of the Trustee and of the trusts
created by said Deed of Trust. DATED: 11/28/2008 RECONTRUST COMPANY
1800 Tapo Canyon Rd., SV2-202 SIMI VALLEY, CA 93063 Phone: (800)
281 8219, Sale Information (626) 927-4399 By: - Trustees Sale Of
cer RECONTRUST COMPANY is a debt collector attempt-ing to collect a
debt. Any information obtained will be used for that purpose. ASAP#
3303934 10/16/2009, 10/23/2009, 10/30/2009 Antioch Press No.
06-1617 Publish Dates: October 16, 23, 30, 2009
LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICESLEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL
NOTICESLEGAL NOTICESLEGAL NOTICES
to 10,203 residential units and 4.8 mil-lion square feet of
commercial and retail space.
The analysis indicates that traffi c conditions will degrade at
many loca-tions in the future, with or without either alternative,
the draft EIR states. Both alternatives would result in potentially
signifi cant impacts on the transportation network.
The preferred alternative is projected to have potentially
signifi cant traffi c im-
pacts on six freeway segments, most of which are on Highway 4
(the other two are on Highway 680 north of southbound highways 4
and 242). The Highway 4 seg-ments that would worsen are: East of
westbound Highway 242 in the afternoon commute. East of westbound
Willow Pass Road in the morning and afternoon. East of eastbound
Willow Pass Road in the afternoon. East of eastbound San Marco
Boule-vard in the afternoon.
These six freeway segments operate
at acceptable levels under existing condi-tions, but would
exceed the established performance threshold with the traffi c from
the preferred (development) alterna-tive, the draft EIR states.
In addition, congestion will increase on 11 highway ramps,
including those on Highway 4 at Railroad Avenue in the morning,
Bailey Road in the morning and afternoon, San Marco Boulevard in
the morning and afternoon and Willow Pass Road and Port Chicago
Highway in the morning.
The documents main suggested miti-
gation measure is: Prior to approving a specifi c development,
the City of Concord shall require future developers at the site to
contribute a fair share of the cost to construct planned
improvements on the adjacent freeway system as determined in
coordination with Caltrans and the Con-tra Costa Transportation
Authority.
But it cautions, Even with the im-plementation of this
mitigation measure, this (traffi c) impact will remain signifi cant
and unavoidable.
To read the draft EIR, go online to
www.concordreuseproject.org.
Impacts from page 1A
the transformation is complete.Oakley has been working on
the
Downtown Specifi c Plan since January of 2000. The city plans to
revitalize an 80-acre area downtown bordered by Main Street,
Gardenia Avenue, Home Street and the railroad tracks. The overall
plan is to cre-ate a more pedestrian-friendly downtown featuring
specialty shops, restaurants, cafs and civic facilities similar to
Walnut Creek or Santa Cruz.
The plan, which is expected to take 10 years to implement,
envisions a realignment of Main Street to direct heavy
through-traf-fi c away from the social and commercial ar-eas. The
project also calls for renovations and faade improvement of
existing build-ings and many other changes designed to meet Oakleys
2020 vision.
The EIR spells out how the city will handle the projects
potentially signifi cant impacts so as to remain compliant with the
California Environmental Quality Act. The EIR cites fi ve areas in
need of special attention, including noise, transportation and
parking, air quality, cultural resources and global climate change.
All impacts dis-cussed in the report have proposed mitiga-tions to
reduce the impacts to less-than-sig-nifi cant levels.
The council didnt make many com-ments or ask many questions
regarding the project, but Councilwoman Pat Anderson directed that
more language be added to the air quality section to address how
min-eral emissions, such as asbestos, will be re-duced when older
building are renovated or demolished.
Paul Seger, the only resident to speak during the work session,
said the renovation
was an opportunity to utilize more green technologies such as
solar panels, and to implement water conservation systems.
Oakley Senior Planner Ken Strelo said the public is still
encouraged to submit comments via e-mail or to call the city with
suggestions. The public comment period ends on Wednesday, Oct. 28,
at which time city staff will address concerns presented during the
comment period and then sub-mit the fi nal EIR to the City Council
for approval. The council will hold a public hearing on the plan
later this year.
Copies of the Oakley Downtown Spe-cifi c Plan and the draft EIR
are available at City Hall and the Oakley Library. The document may
also be viewed at the citys Web site, www.oakleyinfo.com.
Also on Tuesday, Mayor Carol Rios announced that the agenda of
the Nov. 10 council meeting would be shortened in order to devote a
preponderance of the evening to a special General Plan work
ses-sion. During this time, citizens would be able to discuss
issues such as zoning and future development in the city.
Were going to look at the entire gen-eral plan for Oakley, Rios
told the audi-ence. Youre going to get a chance to see whats
planned whats open, what has no maps on it and what has maps on it.
Its go-ing to be a time to understand how we got there and where we
want to go.
We want to hear from you. We want to know your concerns.
A few minutes later, the council picked up where it left off
last month concern-ing an application to rezone 13.9 acres off
Laurel Road from a general agriculture dis-trict to a planned
development district to accommodate the proposed Rosewood Es-tates
housing project. More than 100 com-
ments had been submitted during the Sept. 22 public hearing and
testimony lasted for hours. The public hearing had been closed and
the issue continued to this week for fi -nal action regarding
rezoning.
After pulling the item from the con-sent calendar Tuesday, Rios
said comments on speaker cards submitted indicated there was
nothing new to enter into the record, and declined to let residents
address the council. Most of the cards contained re-marks dealing
with design and housing densities, she said, while the issue before
the council dealt only with zoning.
Audience members responded by call-ing out their objections, and
one woman was granted three minutes to speak. She said that with
approval of more housing projects and the addition of more people,
the city risks increased crime rates. She shared her personal story
about her son, who was beat up in town by some of Oak-leys newer
residents. She said she couldnt attend the public hearing last
month be-cause she was tending to her son, who had suffered a
shattered jaw.
The woman went on to discuss other ramifi cations of the project
such as in-creased traffi c, but when her three minutes were up,
the mayor asked her to step down. The woman continued to speak and
the mayor repeatedly informed the woman that her time was up and
asked her to return to her seat. After several warnings, the woman
sat down.
Because only a handful of speaker cards were submitted,
Connelley made a motion to allow the others to make their comments,
but there was no second and the motion failed. Anderson then
encour-aged residents to return for the public hear-ing, expected
early next year, when design
would be addressed.Resident Donald Scheer believes resi-
dents should have been allowed to speak. In an e-mail sent
following the meeting, he said ... everyone knows that once land is
rezoned, the developer will always go for the maximum density
allowed, and said Rios actions demonstrated unprofession-al and
rude behavior.
City Manager Bryan Montgomergy said in an e-mail Wednesday
morning that the unfolding of events at the meeting was
unfortunate.
The residents were primed to believe the Council didnt want to
listen when the reality is that the Council did listen to over 100
comments and speakers when the public hearing was open, Montgom-ery
wrote. Technically, with the hearing closed, it shouldnt be
reopened because it wasnt noticed to be re-opened pursuant to the
Brown Act, as it never is with the sec-ond reading of an ordinance.
Mayor Rios comments were that if something new that was not
discussed during the public hear-ing time, then it could be
entertained, but it appears no one really had anything new except
what was a part of the formal public hearing.
One issue from the Rosewood Estate dis-cussion will be carried
over to a future meet-ing. A session on the developments tentative
map, continued from Sept. 22, would be held at a date uncertain,
Montgomery said. He said the public would be able to comment on
density and other issues pertaining to the tentative map at that
time.
The rezone was approved 4-0. Connel-ley abstained, stating that
he didnt agree with the censoring of the public by not allowing the
other speakers to have their three minutes.
Input from page 1A
-
OCTOBER 16, 2009 COMMUNITY THEPRESS.NET | 19A
tiny hamster hands. We brought her back to the vet twice for
more shots. She finally stopped itching. She began playing on her
wheel again. I could al-most hear Jamaican steel drum music coming
from her Tiki hut. Marley was happy, and all for a mere $250.
A day after she finished her antibiotics, she died. We noticed
an unpleasant odor coming from the Tiki hut. I was heartbroken and
ticked off at the same time. She had another two good years left in
her, I had been assured by the doctor! I called the vet and
described our grizzly discovery. I also demanded a refund for all
the money we had invested in her treat-ment.
The nurse offered her condo-
lences but also refused any refund. She told me that if they
gave refunds for treatments that still resulted in a pets death,
they would be out of business. Wow, that doesnt sound good. How
many patients of theirs have died? Then she had the nerve to offer
me a hamster autopsy for $100! I angrily rejected her offer and
hung up. We then had to dispose of poor Marley, who lay peacefully
decomposing in her Tiki hut. We played Dont Worry, Be Happy while
lowering her entire cage into a big, black garbage bag.
Shes in a better place. I imagine shes sporting a thick, healthy
coat of butterscotch fur, kicking back and listening to some mellow
steel drum music in her Tiki hut in the sky.
R.I.P., Marley.
Marley from page 12A
The Discovery Bay Community Presbyterian Church will hold its
2009 Holiday Home Tour on Sunday, Dec. 6 from 1 to 4 p.m.
Tickets are $20 and may be pur-chased in advance from Alice
Cramer at 925-634-8470, Bev Lyman at 925-513-1939 or from the
church at 925-634-0184. Tickets will also be available at the
door.
The suggested arrival time at the church, located at 1900 Willow
Lake Road, is between 12:30 and 12:45 p.m.