YOUR HOMETOWN WEEKLY NEWSPAPER

Vol. 9, No. 3 Including Surrounding Communities www.oakleypress.com January 16, 2009

Natio

nalAwardWinning Newspapers

THIS WEEK

Authorship achieved

A local writer put pen to paper and found that the goal of getting published was no idle fantasy.

Page 4A

Xplosive materials

When their competitive fuse gets lit, this team goes out and has a blast.

Page 2B

FOR MOVIE TIMES SEE PAGE 5A

Arts...................................14ACalendar ..........................19BClassifieds ........................15BCoplog .............................17AEducation ..........................7AEntertainment ................18BHealth & Beauty ...............8BMilestones .........................7BOpinion ...........................16ASports .................................1B

INSIDE

Brains before beauty This photogenic female wouldnt have made the grade without lots of grade-A gray matter.

Page 6A

YMCA campaign enters final phase

The Delta Family YMCA Board of Directors is reach-ing out to the community for help in securing the final funds for its $6 million per-manent multi-use facility in Oakley. Now in the last phase of its Together We Build cam-paign, the YMCA is looking to make its longtime dream a reality.

We are excited to have reached this final but crucial phase of the campaign, said Patrick Shannon, vice presi-dent of East County YMCA operations. And the adviso-ry board will now be asking for support from key business and community leaders.

Working in conjunction with the Special Kids Foun-dation an organization ded-icated to special-needs chil-dren and their families the

25,000-square-foot-facil ity on OHara Avenue will house services, therapies and pro-grams for the special needs and general population of East County. The combined facility will also include an All Abilities Playground for children with limited physi-cal abilities. The emphasis at the combined site will be in-clusion, family and healthy lifestyle.

What I think is so im-portant is the collaboration taking place between the Spe-cial Kids Foundation and the YMCA so that they can pro-vide services to all members of the family, said YMCA Advisory Board Member Vickey Rinehart. Its a big undertaking that has taken a long time, and with eco-nomics the way they are right now, its been difficult. But

Photo courtesy of the Delta Family YMCA

by Ruth RobertsStaff Writer

see YMCA page 21A

Boat storage ordinance makes waves

City officials Tuesday night were engaged in what appeared to be a routine, noncontrover-sial updating of definitions and details in a city ordinance regulating boat storage, but one longtime harbormaster let them know he wasnt pleased.

The discussion began with Senior Planner Ken Strelo tell-ing the council, We have an existing (ordinance) section that we have found doesnt make sense to us. We are try-ing to clean it up, to apply our knowledge as planners.

The ordinance listed boat storage and boat yards as two different things but didnt define the difference between them. So the revised ordinance combines them into boat stor-age/yards.

The revised ordinance specifies that these sites would be allowed to haul boats out of the water and make minor re-

pairs, but major repairs would require the storage yard owner to get a Conditional Use Per-mit from the city.

Major boat repair, such as engine repair or body work or boat building, has the po-

tential to result in undesirable impacts from either noise or aesthetics, Strelos staff report states. Requiring approval of a Conditional Use Permit will allow the Planning Commis-sion or City Council and staff

to better evaluate the proposed use or mitigate potential im-pacts on a case-by-case basis.

Normally those would be the kind of minor changes that the council would simply ap-prove unanimously with little discussion before moving on to the next item on the agenda.

But Chris Lauritzen, owner/operator of Lauritzen Yacht Harbor, which has been in business for 50 years at the end of Bridgehead Road, let the council know he wasnt happy about not being notified of the proposed changes to the ordinance. He noted that city officials would have needed to notify only three businesses: his, Driftwood Marina and Big Break Marina.

You need to help get the message out on something this important, Lauritzen told the council. None of us marina operators were ever told there was something that would im-

Chris Lauritzen, owner/operator of Lauritzens Yacht Harbor, convinced the City Council to get his and other marina op-erators input before approving changes to the citys boat ordinance.

Photo by Dave Roberts

by Dave RobertsStaff Writer

see Waves page 21A

Plans for a permanent multi-use facility at the YMCA in Oakley are in the nal fundraising stages. When complete, the $6 mil-lion site will house adult programs such as kickboxing, above, as well as programs for special-needs children and an All Abilities Playground for children of all aptitudes.

JANUARY 16, 2009 COMMUNITY THEPRESS.NET | 3A

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This 3 bdrm./2ba. 1539 sf home has an open floor plan with lots of space. Master bedroom/bath is set for disabled access. Huge lot with side yard access and swimming pool. Easy commute location. Priced at $374,000

1043 Fox Meadow Way, Concord

This property has an elegant tree lined drive, fenced pasture, RV parking, swimming pool and much more! There are 7 level acres, 7 acres for grazing or planting PLUS plans for a 2nd home. Call Lori for details. Price reduced to $599,000

4901 Briones Valley Rd., Brentwood

Huge Price Reduction! New Price at $849,000 gets it all! Now includes home on 3.5 acres, barn, plus approved conditional sub-division map by city of Oakley for two 1 acre parcels to be split off. Almost 1200 sf of living space, featuring 3 over sized bdrms. and 2 ba. Priced at $849,000

91 Lozoya Way, Oakley

1300 Central Blvd. Brentwood

Features newer appliances with separate dining area. Lots of storage. Priced to sell. 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath, 1251 sq. feet. w/gated patio. Priced at $84,900

8 Madrid Place, Antioch

Lori Abreu(925) 216-6317Owner/Broker www.DeltaRanches.com

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5 level acres w/your own private pavered driveway to your custom 3,000 sf single level home. 4 bdrms, 2.5 baths w/open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, and formal dining rm. In-ground pool w/pool hse. Huge full power shop w/overhead lighting and concrete floor; has open area for hay storage, horses or parking. This property also has its own fully lit sports court that kids of all ages will love. Priced at $1,195,000

Country Club living with golfcourse and lake views for a WOW price! Great floor plan for this 2 bdrm. 2 ba., 1632 sf home. Open kitchen has corian counters and laminate floors. Outside has large side yard and nice back patio. Priced at $245,000

2468 Wayfarer Court, Discovery Bay

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1230 Eden Plains Rd., Brentwood

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This 5 bdrm., 3.5 bath, 3,148 sq ft home will not last. This bank owned property has tile floors through most of the lower level, corian kitchen counters w/ choice of 2nd master, teen suite, or bonus room upstairs. Custom tinted windows. Great commute location, and close to shopping. Reduced to $324,900

Great newer home waiting for your personal touches. This two story, 2,232 sf home has 4 bedrooms that are a little larger, 2.5 baths and open floor plan with tile and wall to wall carpeting. This is a must see. Priced at only $229,900

Brentwood to crash Inaugural bash

Brentwood residents Yvonne Gamble and Merthia Thompson planned to be in Washington, D.C. on Jan. 20 for the presi-dential inauguration, but in keeping with the theme of Barack Obamas campaign, a plan for change was presented.

We had it all planned, Thompson said. We had the hotel and everything, but then we realized that it would be better to bring this historic event to the entire Contra Costa community instead of just the two of us fl ying out there.

Thompson and Gamble, founders of Women Leading Change Now, an educa-tional non-partisan organization that helps women improve their leaderships and com-munication skills in order to advance in busi-ness and political arenas, decided to create an event to not only celebrate the inauguration of the 44th president of the United States, but to honor the newly elected offi cials in East Contra Costa County. Mayors and city council members from Brentwood, Oakley, Antioch, Discovery Bay and Pittsburg will be recognized during an award ceremony at the end of an inauguration party.

Gamble said the event is a time to em-brace a turning point in the nations history, but it is also a time to thank our local leaders for volunteering to serve the public in these diffi cult times.

Anyone can be honored after the game

has been won, Gamble said, but these men and women who are stepping up to the plate to represent us on a local, statewide, national and global level have a tremendous challenge in front of them.

There are millions of people out there looking for answers right now. How will I pay my mortgage? How will I feed my family? How will I keep my job? We need to honor these elected offi cials for their bravery to stand up and tackle these issues.

Thompson said this event is to salute the individuals who are willing to take on the up-hill battle of helping bring the country back to the prosperous nation it has been in the past.

Everyone is starting at square one, Thompson said. Its time to start over, so this

event is meant to celebrate the incoming presi-dent as well as thank our local offi cials and of-fer them our support. Our community needs to come together.

Gamble agreed. She said that although the votes have been cast and the elected offi -cials are taking offi ce, the work of the public is still not done. It is important for people to stay involved in the process and make their voices heard. She hopes this event will promote open communication between the public and elect-ed offi cials.

The event will take place at Cortona Park in Brentwood, and the celebration will be tele-cast live to the gala in Washington, D.C. where footage of parties from around the country will be featured throughout the night.

This is going to be an exciting event, said Desty Shoemaker, secretary of the Brent-wood Diversity Committee. This is some-thing big for our community as well as the country.

The event will feature a business vendors area where the Brentwood Diversity Commit-tee will operate a booth.

Gloria Hartsough, Brentwood Diver-sity Committee member and operations director of Women Leading Change Now, said the event will provide an opportunity for people to socialize and have fun but also network with local businesses and offi cials.This is a unique event, and we want the community to participate. You know everyone is going to be around their TVs watching the coverage, so why not come out and celebrate as a group? It doesnt mat-ter who you voted for. It is time to come to-gether and embrace this new change.

The Brentwood Presidential Inau-gural Celebration will be held at 150 Cor-tona Way in Brentwood on Tuesday, Jan. 20 from 3 to 7 p.m. The award ceremony to honor local offi cials will begin at 6:30. Food and wine will be provided. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased in advance at www.theprosperouswoman.com. Pro-ceeds will be donated to Women Leading Change Now. Vendor registration has been extended through Jan 19. To register, call Thompson at 925-435-2783

For more information about the celebra-tion, call Gamble at 925-752-6241.

by Samie HartleyStaff Writer From left, Merthia

Thompson, Yvonne Gamble, Desty Shoemaker and Gloria Hartsough are hoping residents will come to their Inaugural Celebration on Jan. 20 to wel-come elected of- cials, locally and nationally, into of ce.

Photo by Samie Hartley

4A | THEPRESS.NET COMMUNITY JANUARY 16, 2009

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Nominal Opening Bid: $10,000CONCORD, CA t.PIS-OUnit #D2BR 1BA 854+/- sf condo. Built 1967. Taxes approx $2200 (08).Open house: 1-4pm Sat Jan 17th and 2 hours before sale.

Nominal Opening Bid: $25,000PITTSBURG, CA t0ME$SFFL$JS3BR 2.5BA 1,621+/- sf. Approx .09ac lot. Taxes approx $5339 (08).Open house: 1-4pm Sun Jan 18th and 2 hours before sale.

Nominal Opening Bid: $1,000BAY POINT, CA t8IBSG%S2BR 1BA 978+/- sf. Approx .11ac lot. Taxes approx $3177 (08).Open house: 1-4pm Sat Jan 17th and 2 hours before sale.

Nominal Opening Bid: $10,000MARTINEZ, CA t1BMNT%S4BR 2BA 2,000+/- sf. Approx .95ac lot. Taxes approx $10019 (08).Open house: 1-4pm Sat Jan 17th and 2 hours before sale.

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Dennis Lee Mata wasnt expecting a package that day, but the contents delivered by UPS one December afternoon gave him the thrill of a lifetime. In the parcel were two copies of Asoiavan: Enter the Six, Matas fi rst novel.

Its very surreal, Mata said as he held a copy of his novel. This is what I want, to see my name on the cover, to see my work on bookshelves.

After running out of entertaining things to read, Mata decided it was time to write his own novel. He had been writing short stories since he was in elementary school and attempted to write a novel during his sophomore year of high school before he took an interest in screenplays. After years of kicking ideas around in his head, he began to compile his notes.

The end result is part one in a series of six about the fi rst female Paladin named Ijol Halen, who is destined to follow in her fathers footsteps as the King of Uvidalovs Crown Champion. However, a crew of six evil wizards plots to keep the young warrior from her birthright.

Mata, 30, said the book has a fl are of The Lord of the Rings as it follows the protagonist and her friends as they elude evil while protecting a sacred artifact from the wizards.

Its a fun adventure with lots of action, Mata said. I want to take the fantasy genre to a new level. You dont often see the girl as the hero. Its always the dude with the family sword off to fi ght the battle, so it was important for me to incorporate a strong female lead. Its rare to fi nd the girl power in fantasy.

Mata makes sure to note that there are also a lot of fi ghting and battle sequences throughout the book as well. He said while there is violent content in his works, there

isnt anything too grotesque, so the novel is appropriate for readers at the junior high level and beyond.

Mata is already at work on the second part of the story, and hopes to have the entire series published within fi ve years.

Mata admits that his fi rst book deal came with a lot of luck. He Googled publishers and sent an electronic query letter to Publish America. Within a week, he had a response of interest and a few months later, he received his contract. I was expecting no, but I was surprised by how quickly the process moves. I started typing everything out to prepare sample chapters, but something went wrong with the computer, a bug or something, and I lost it all. Luckily, I hand write everything, so I wasnt completely lost. My mom and my girlfriend helped type it in to meet the deadline.

He said he has no plans for fame, but wouldnt hate it if it happened. Im not doing this to be famous. If it happens, it happens, but I dont want to be in magazines or on TV. I just want to be able to write full time, and entertain readers. I want to share the stories going through my head with as many people as possible.

Mata, who currently works part-time at Aaron Brothers, said friends and family have been supportive of his aspirations. My mom bought 10 copies to hand out to family, and many of my friends have said they will buy a copy. I know some of them wont read it, but theyll at least buy it to support what Im doing.

Matas current project is promoting his novel. It is not available in major bookstores yet, but it is available online. I still need to talk with bookstore managers in the area about setting up book signings. Right now, Im letting it sink in.

Asoiavan: Enter the Six is currently available at the Los Medanos College bookstore in Pittsburg. It is also available online at www.amazon.com. For more information, visit www.publishamerica.com.

by Samie HartleyStaff Writer

Young author has novel approach to fantasy

Oakley resident Dennis Lee Matas rst novel, Asoiavan: Enter the Six, is now available online, and will be available in bookstores later this year.

Photo by Samie Hartley

JANUARY 16, 2009 COMMUNITY THEPRESS.NET | 5A

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Assemblyman says Californiaseconomy on perilous flight plan

California Assemblyman Jim Silva the guest speaker that the East Contra Costa Re-publican Women Federated had to import from Orange County last week to discuss the state budget crisis because there are no longer any Bay Area Republican representatives in Sacramento used an aeronautical analogy to describe the state of the state.

Right now, the state of California is fl y-ing upside down, said Silva in his half-hour discussion at Prevots restaurant in Brent-wood. The plane is loaded and going into a mountain and we cant agree on which way to turn.

According to Silva, the states budget crisis underscored by a $42 billion defi cit projected through June of 2010 is the handi-work of former governor Gray Davis, a Dem-ocrat, who signed onto a plethora of social programs passed by a Democratic-controlled state legislature in the late 1990s when money was plentiful due to the high-tech boom.

When the dot-com industry imploded early in this decade, the state found itself without enough money to pay for all of the programs that had been passed. The recent economic meltdown has signifi cantly exacer-bated the problem.

Thats why my (Republican) colleagues

are saying, We are not going for a tax increase; we have to see some cuts in the budget, said Silva. Thats tough, because once a program is in place, people dont want to give it up.

Theres a lot of waste in state govern-ment, he said, citing an example of needing to add a shelf in his offi ce. He went through gov-ernment channels and was told, after waiting four weeks, that it would cost $420. Instead, he went to Home Depot and put up the shelf himself at a cost of $17.

Silva faulted Gov. Arnold Schwarzeneg-ger for not following through on his promise when he was elected to blow up the boxes of state government.

We havent made any cuts, said Silva. We havent cut the waste out of our budget. I had a meeting with Gov. Schwarzenegger and

brought up the shelf. I said, I met you three years ago and you told me that your number-one priority is to cut the waste in the budget. I said, I have been here two years and havent seen any cuts at all. He wouldnt make eye contact with me.

I cannot support raising taxes when we have waste in our budget. I would like to see the state legislature set up priorities in the budget the same way you set up your priori-ties in your budget at home.

Silva said the top priorities for funding should be public safety, education, health and transportation. The lowest priorities should be items like the $90 million spent every year on a train to nowhere, the $12 million the

by Dave RobertsStaff Writer

see Economy page 7A

California Assemblyman Jim Silva discusses the state budget crisis at a recent meet-ing of East Contra Costa Republican Women Federated at Prevots restaurant in Brentwood.

Photo by Dave Roberts

6A | THEPRESS.NET COMMUNITY JANUARY 16, 2009

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A Place of Learning

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6:00 pm Wine and Dinner

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Full disclosure welcomed

Ashley Gesell is a busy young woman. Just a year away from earning a degree in marketing from San Francisco State University, the former Freedom High cheerleader works full-time for a hedge fund group, has her eye on an MBA, and was recently featured in the cyber pages of Playboy Magazine.

Yep, Playboy. And while the smart, sassy and independently-minded 23-year-old has more to add to her resum than her measurements, shell be the first to tell you shes proud of her accomplishments all of them.

I have always wanted to be in Playboy, said Gesell, who appears on Playboys All Naturals Web site. I mean, I dont think there is a girl out there that, if she could make it, would say no. I think you should embrace what you have. Im proud of myself and so is my family.

Mom Rhonda says she is indeed proud of her bright and beautiful daughter, despite the occasion-al maternal twinge. Weve always supported all of Ashleys ambitions, and this is just one of them, said Rhonda. But sure, Im a little torn. Im proud of what shes done, but Im not sure I want strange men looking at her; thats just the mom in me.

Gesells Playboy adventure began a year ago after she sent in some photos to the magazine and was called back for an interview. The process in-cluded a photo shoot that was later posted on the magazines Web site.

The experience said Gesell, was a bit surreal but certainly not intimidating: I was just so ex-cited to have made the cuts, I couldnt believe I was

finally there. They (the crew) were just the sweet-est people ever. They spend a lot of time adjusting the lights and making sure your hair and makeup are perfect. I wasnt embarrassed at all; I was very comfortable.

But how comfortable are her colleagues? Work-ing in a corporate environment where the dress code is decidedly more subdued, how does Gesell feel her peers might view her photos?

Not a problem, she said. Maybe back in the day it might have been a bit of a stigma, but I work with almost all men and they have no problem with it. Times are different; look, we have a black presi-dent. I dont think its anything to be ashamed of and I definitely dont see it as a liability. Shyness and confidence are not a problem for me.

And it is that sense of self that has helped the currently single Gesell accomplish much in her young life. A savvy world traveler, she has em-barked on a career that is already reaping financial benefits. So much so, says Gesell, that if all goes according to plan, she hopes to retire while in her 40s and spend her time soaking up the sun in Ari-zona.

For now, however, her plans are more immedi-ate finish up her degree and focus on her career. As for future Playboy work, Gesell says shes con-sidering auditioning as a Playmate of the Year.

That is something I would love to do down the road; something I would love to continue, she said. But for now, Im just proud of what Ive been able to accomplish. For all the things Ive done, Ive kept my head, Ive set my dreams and I got here. I have a great career, I have my own place and Im having fun. My plate is very full and Im very grateful.

by Ruth RobertsStaff Writer

Former Oakley resident Ashley Gesell, left, pictured with her sister Courtney, was recently featured on Playboy Magazines All Naturals Web site.

Photo courtesy of Ashley Gesell

JANUARY 16, 2009 COMMUNITY THEPRESS.NET | 7A

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I get calls all the time where someone says, Hey, I want to go look at this house thats for sale, it looks really cheap! When I look it up, Ill call them back and say, Oh, thats a short sale, thats why its priced so low. Their normal response is to say, So? Its cheap. I want to see it.

Let me explain why some short sales are priced at what look to be incredibly low prices. A short sale is where the Seller owes more on the property than what it is worth. In this instance, for a sale to happen, the lender(s) has to agree to take less than a full payoff in order to let the sale move forward. When a short sale closes, one of the lenders requirements is that the Seller can receive absolutely NO proceeds from the sale. So for many Sellers, they really dont care what the home sells for, they just want to get it sold. [They would care if they are going to have a 1099 tax issue, or if the lender is going to pursue them for a deficiency.]

On top of that, many agents and/or buyers dont want to even look at short sale

listings. They perceive them to be a hassle and that they take too long. Theyd rather avoid them if there are similar non-short sale homes available at the same price. So some short sales are listed at prices well below what they are worth in order to garner attention, and hopefully more show-ings since they appear to be a great deal.

The danger of this approach is that one of the first things the lender(s) does is to have the property appraised after an offer is submitted. So if the home is listed at $300,000, a buyer can offer full price, but if it appraises for $350,000, the lender isnt going to let it go for $300,000 just because the buyer offered full price. The lender rarely approves the list prices of short sales, so they have full veto power later.

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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LUHSD to consider transfer requests

In order to balance enrollment among the comprehensive school sites in the Liberty Union High School District, attendance ar-eas for Liberty, Freedom and Heritage high schools were established.

Students who live within the LUHSD boundary but would prefer to attend a school not designated for their residential area must submit an intra-district transfer request during the month of February. The requests will apply to the 2009-2010 school year. Decisions regarding these requests will

be made by May 15.Intra-district transfer requests are gen-

erally approved as long as the enrollment for all schools is balanced by total numbers and by ethnicity. As the LUHSD continues to grow and enrollment capacities at all schools are reached, not all requests for intra-district transfers will be approved.

Intra-district transfer requests can be picked up at the district offi ce, 20 Oak St. in Brentwood. For more information, call Pat Kanyuh at 925-634-2166, ext. 2025.

state gives to small counties to neuter dogs and money spent to train union representa-tives.

He criticized the recent move by Demo-cratic legislators to attempt to skirt the re-quirement to get two-thirds approval for tax increases by instead calling them fees. Your billfold doesnt know the difference between a tax and a fee, he said.

Silva said many of the Democrats pro-posed tax hikes may be counterproductive. Raising the sales tax would further hurt the already ailing retail industry. Raising the in-come tax would result in more of the rich buying apartments in Florida (which does not have an income tax) and declaring them

their primary residences. Raising business taxes would result in more businesses fl eeing to other states, taking their jobs with them.

Silva could not predict how it will all play out as budget negotiations continue in a highly partisan legislature.

Democrats want more taxes and Re-publicans want more cuts, he said. In my desk on the fl oor (of the Assembly) I have a toothbrush and toothpaste, because they could lock us down. We are on call. They can lock the door and we have to stay there. May-be thats what it will take. I dont know.

At the end of his talk, Silva was pre-sented with a bag of goodies that included a bottle of alcohol. I might need that, he said with a smile.

Economy from page 5A

8A | THEPRESS.NET EDUCATION JANUARY 16, 2009

Getting kids readyfor kindergarten

A successful start to a childs academic career means more than just getting them to school on time the fi rst day of kinder-garten, and the Brentwood Union School District wants to make sure parents know it. Thats why the district, in conjunction with seven other agencies, is holding the fi rst Brentwood Community Kindergar-ten Readiness Fair on Thursday, Jan. 29 from 5 to 7 p.m.

The fair, which is free, will give par-ents with children 5 and under an oppor-tunity to speak to school principals and kindergarten teachers, apply for a free li-brary card, get a free parenting kit, fi nd out about youth sports and art programs, learn about free tutoring programs, par-ticipate in the Ballet Folklorico dancing school, as well as many other fun and valuable activities.

The district recognizes the immense importance of early childhood develop-ment and wants to partner with each and every parent and future student from the earliest possible age, said Dana Eaton, director of student services for the BUSD. We realize the family is every childs fi rst teacher and want to provide parents with

free tools, information and support as well as connect them to wonderful agen-cies that provide ongoing support to fami-lies.

The event will include fi ve 20-minute presentations on various aspects of early childhood development. One will be a user-friendly overview on brain develop-ment by the Child Care Council of Con-tra Costa County.

We just want make sure that parents are aware of how important development of the brain is, said Candy Duperrori, resource referral supervisor for the Child Care Council. She said that 80 percent of a persons brain has developed by age 3, and that stimulation provided by parents, child care providers and teachers through play, music, arts and crafts, and reading is critical.

Preschool does matter, said Dup-errori. Children who have attended pre-school are able to catch on to reading faster, they can sit in class and socialize better, and do what they need to do in the classroom to thrive.

Other presentations will be on kinder-garten curriculum expectations (presented by the BUSD); early literacy (Brentwood

by Rick LemyreStaff Writer

see Kindergarten page 21A

JANUARY 16, 2009 COMMUNITY THEPRESS.NET | 9A

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Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke the following words in 1964 during his acceptance of the Nobel Prize for Peace: I accept this award, he said with an abiding faith in America and an audacious faith in the future of mankind.

Forty-fi ve years later, as we celebrate Dr. Kings legacy on the holiday honoring him, the United States prepares to swear in our fi rst president of African-American descent, Barack Obama. This historic moment speaks volumes about the progress our nation has made in realizing Rev. Kings faith in the

American people. No matter what political party we belong to, we can all be proud of this collective triumph.

Perhaps one of the most positive aspects of this triumph is that the victory is viewed not only in terms of Mr. Obama being the fi rst black U.S. president. Throughout his political career, President-elect Obama has not characterized himself by race, but rather by his ideas of how citizens as a whole need to overcome the nations problems. He understands both typically black and white perspectives, and is therefore able to bring them together to see a larger picture. This is evidenced in his extraordinarily frank A

More Perfect Union, the memorable March, 2008 speech regarding race relations. In it he details with empathy the unique concerns of all races, but goes a step further to say that Americans have bridged the gaps between these concerns and that his candidacy is proof of this success.

Current polls show an overwhelmingly positive acceptance of Mr. Obama as an element of immense change. His actions so far show that he truly wants to fulfi ll his campaign promise of a greater unity within government. His cabinet appointments have shown a respect for knowledge and a willingness to understand views different from his own. His ideas look past the surface and recognize that we all want the same things for us and our children: peace, justice and the opportunity to better ourselves.

One of the anthems of the Civil Rights movement was the song We Shall Overcome. America has overcome. We have overcome tragedies like Dr. Kings assassination and the Los Angeles riots. We have overcome divisive radio commentators and insensitive stereotypes in the media and within our own community. These travesties still exist, but they are now seen by most people for what they are appalling offenses against our basic humanity. And so we shall continue to overcome such events because the great majority of us know in our hearts that we are all created equal, and that incidents like these

Bridging the gaps

see Bridging page 20A

BRENTWOODDIVERSITYCOMMITTEE

DESTYSHOEMAKER

10A | THEPRESS.NET EDUCATION JANUARY 16, 2009

Home Concepts

32733

Congratulations to the Mission Elementary School Students of the Month of November, 2008, who were recognized for displaying the character trait of Citizenship. In the front row, from left, are Joann Gaytan, Mayra Arellano, Nandi Loving, Jennifer Fung, Maranda Hanshew, Jessica Hernandez, Marco Lozano and Daniel Sedano; middle row: Jasmine Gomez, Alexis Xaysana, Emma Ramos Garcia, Abby Garcia, Derrick Johnson, Jordi Contreras Camarena, Yaneli Aguilar, Nesrine Nekkab, Kayla Houston and Fernando Alarcon; back row: Shea Calvert, Ricardo Padillo, Deiloni Coleman, Frances Mariano, Samantha Grijalva, Jackelyn Rodriguez, Destiney Johnson and Jocelyn Silva. Not pictured is Iziah Williams.

Cited for citizenship

Congratulations to the following Diablo Vista Elementary School Students of the Month, who were awarded certi cates for displaying the character trait of Fairness for the month of December: in no particular order are Nicole Arroyo, Paiman Arwand, Anthony Bergantino, Anthony Bonilla, Henry Damani Bow, Jacob Dacus, Caden Easter, Chase Easter, Brandon Gee, Melissa Gee, Kyla Geraldo, Christopher Gomez, Leonela Gomez, Taylor Holt, Phillip Huff, Mason Padilla, George Mills, Jorden Montgomery, Jeremy Rolandelli, Francesca Rodriquez, Danny Romero, Amanda Rovner, Anahi Samaniego Aldaba, Jacob Scates, Fernanda Solano, Kiana Steward, Idanea Jacqueline Talbott, Jennifer Vargas, Daniel Valdepena, Mary Gaele Vocal, Justin Williams, Zachary Zulawski and Joshua Zulawski.

Fairness affirmed

JANUARY 16, 2009 THEPRESS.NET | 11A

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Chiropractor Blamed For Huge Explosion!Brentwood Local chiropractor, Dr.

James Martin D.C. was found to be re-sponsible for a huge explosion in Brent-wood. He was going on about his business helping Brentwood men and women elim-inate a serious life altering medical condi-tion in his clinic when he unknowingly got himself into a precarious situation.

A very slick medical equipment sales-man from Florida talked Dr. Martin into buying a very large expensive shiny new machine with lots of digital displays that was supposed to be the next big thing for eliminating a serious medical condition that affects over 80% of the population during their lifetime.

This health condition that affects a large portion of the population does not really have a successful treatment. Lots of different treatments are tried only to fail, leaving its victims helpless and hopeless, only to suffer this affl iction for the rest of their lives.

Local Doctor Duped By Slick Salesman? Dr. Martin thought he had been

duped by this fast talking salesman from Florida, when this new medical treat-ment for a seemingly incurable disease was supposed to be a new miracle treat-ment showed up in a huge moving truck. The doctor reluctantly looked on as some technician from this Florida based medi-cal equipment manufacturer assembled a mammoth, shiny, metallic spectacle cov-ered in beeping fl ashing numbers.

After a few hours of clanking, ratch-eting and drilling Dr. Martin was asked to verify and sign for this huge mechanical beast. Skeptically the doctor signed and the technician left the doctor with an ap-pointment for a Training Doctor who was going to train him and his staff to operate this big machine.

Just What Had The Doctor Done?! Dr. Martin could have bought a Fer-

rari, but instead ended up with this ma-chine! Well, the Training Doctor came, did her training and left. Dr. Martin then began treating this seemingly incurable condition with this alleged miracle break-through treatment.

Dr. Martin then performed these treatments over the course of four weeks and he was absolutely fl oored by the re-sults of this new medical breakthrough!

Dr. Martin Had Found The Biggest Breakthrough In The Treatment Of Back Pain And Leg Pain As Well As Neck Pain And Arm Pain Caused By Herniated, Bulg-ing, And Degenerated Discs!

He just could not believe that he was watching hopeless cases of back pain and leg pain that would not get better after chiropractic treatments, physical therapy, pain drugs, epidural pain shots in the spine, and even back surgery GET BET-TER! How could this be?

And this is why Dr. James Martin has been blamed for the huge explosion in Brentwood. His offi ce has literally explod-ed with so many people that are suffering with back pain and leg pain he had to hire extra staff and add offi ce hours to keep up with demand for this new treatment!

Dr. Martins offi ce receives inquiries about his new non surgical treatment for herniated, bulging and degenerated discs

from all over the nation, sometimes over 400 inquiries per month. As a result, he has three non surgical disc machines. Two for low back and leg pain and one to treat neck, arm and hand pain from disc prob-lems in the neck.

He is also looking to hire doctors to work for him to keep up with the demand. If you are suffering with SERIOUS back pain, leg pain, neck pain or hand or arm pain caused by a bulging, herniated or de-generated disc, pay attention. This may be the most important article you read this year!

Do You Have A Disc Problem?If you experience any of the follow-

ing, chances are your pain is due to a disc bulge, herniation or degeneration:

A vice squeezing your back, Sitting causes back or leg pain, Stabbing pain at the belt line, Turning over in bed with-out hurting, Numbness in your toes, Fire down your legs, Prickling in your thigh.

Finally, Some Good NewsIf you have been suffering with back

pain or leg pain caused by a disc bulge, disc herniation or squashed or compressed discs.

Its all because of 14 recent medical studies on spinal decompression.

Until recently, the only advice for many of you suffering in pain was to try what youve been told:

Try exercising, Try physical therapy, Try pain medications, Try muscle relaxers, Try pain shots, Try dangerous back sur-gery, Just live with it.

If youre like most, none of these have worked for you or you are afraid of what could happen if you do try some of these.

Exercising makes you hurt more, pain medications and muscle relaxers cover up the problem and give you side effects. Pain shots can cause more pain, dont work or dont last very long or FIX the prob-lem, back surgery didnt work or made you worse. Or maybe you were one of the lucky ones that back surgery actually helped, but now the problem is back with a vengeance.

Whatever your situation, you owe it to yourself to check into a Breakthrough Computerized Non-Surgical Treatment for back pain and sciatic or leg pain as well as neck pain or arm pain caused by a bulging, herniated or squashed disc or discs. It has helped dozens of people who were suffering just like you. This new treat-ment machine Im calling my squashed disc machine.

How Do Discs Go Bad?Over time the discs in your back tend

to get squashed or compressed, especial-ly if youve played certain sports when younger or have a job that requires lots of sitting or standing in one place for long pe-riods of time. Car accidents, lifting things, very physical jobs just to name a few.

Its kinda like a cookie with cream fi lling, and the cream fi lling will start to ooze out from between the sides of the cookie if pressure is applied on top of the cookie (like gravity on our spines). Even-tually this happens to a lot of us. Statistics are something like over 80% of Americans will suffer with back pain sometime in their life.

Back to my new computerized squashed disc machine. Youre probably wondering how this new machine works.

How Does This Machine Work? Havent you ever had the thought

Gosh, if somebody could just pull me apart. I would feel a whole lot better. Yeah, I know you have. And it kinda makes a bit of sense.

Well someone else, actually a medical manufacturer, back pain specialists, neu-rosurgeons and engineers have come up with just that. A machine that gently pulls you apart, stretches the disc to a certain point that causes a drop in pressure inside the disc (like a little vacuum in the middle the cream fi lling) causing the cream fi lling to suck back in!

Warning: Decompression is NOT like old fashioned traction or hanging

upside down which can send you into severe spasms and squeeze the discs even harder!

In my clinic, Ive successfully treated

dozens of patients with spinal decompres-sion so theres no reason your back prob-lem should be any different.

In fact, Im so confi dent we can help you, Im willing to back it upbut not with empty promises.

I GUARANTEE you will only be ac-cepted into our program IF YOU QUALI-FY for the treatment AFTER having THE MOST THOROUGH AND COMPRE-HENSIVE ASSESSMENT YOU HAVE

EVER HAD or I will buy you lunch! (I havent bought one yet!)

Yes! I am very confi dent, but I cant help EVERBODY. You see, theres a very small percentage of folks we cant help. Heres what a couple applicants said after I told them both I couldnt help them:

I was treated very nicely. The doctors have listened to me and they didnt rush me out of the offi ce, despite the fact I wasnt a candidate. The exam I had was super, the best Ive had anywhere. The doctor explained things to me that no one else ever has.

Non-Candidate, Brentwood, CaI thought Id write a note to you and all

of those potential patients who have serious doubts (as I had) about your decompression treatments. Actually, I thought your pro-cedure was more of a psychological placebo designed for everyone, instead of a non-sur-gical process that could repair injured verte-bral discs. Imagine my surprise when you advised me that my condition was too severe

for your procedure to correct. To me, that refusal added worlds of credibility to your program. It showed me that you are only there to help patients; not just to take their money. I assure you that I will recommend you to anyone I know or meet that suffers from spine and/or disc pain. I can do this knowing full well that they will be treated right.

Non-Candidate, Antioch, Ca

And thats why Im offering a limited time

The FREE 19 Point Flat-DiscQualifying AssessmentThats right, no charge and we wont

try to sell you anything. But you will fi nd out if you are a candidate for this revo-lutionary new therapy. You wont be left wondering if its something that could have eliminated your pain.

As your FREE ASSESSMENT well check out your: ligaments, muscles, hips, pain index, refl exes, discs, tendons, spine, pelvis, x-rays, fl exibility, and nerves.

Expires 1/23/09

Most Serious Back Pain Or Neck Pain Sufferers Are Very Skeptical Of This New Procedure As I Was Very Skeptical When I Purchased My First Decompression Ma-chine, So If You Are Skeptical

See What Some Of Our Clients Have Had To Say About Our Program:

I had unrelenting back pain, gloom and disappointment as I had several doctors who were unable to help me. Spinal Decompres-sion is really amazing!

I have gone through a transformation of pain, gloom and disappointment to a new value, new hope and a new lease on life.

Herb Olsen Retired I had severe back pain and was los-

ing ability to function. My problem started 13 years ago and it got severe in the last 2 months or so. After the fi rst treatment, the numbness in my left leg and foot went away.

Burna McClelland- Rancher I had serious back pain. I was taking

several pain medications when I started the program. After the 5th treatment, I woke up feeling thirty fi ve again! It was amazing. I am now off all pain drugs and am totally pain free.

John Marek Pet Care I had severe leg pain and numbness in

both feet and could not walk without a cane and the leg pain would not change no mat-ter how I layed down to sleep. Ive had this problem for 40 years.

Dr. Martin has made a believer out of me. My wife and my dog Bongo says thank you! I can now walk him again.

Angelo MirabellaRetired

CALL TODAY!925-516-5855

HealthSource2200 Sand Creek Road #B

Brentwood, Ca 94513

JANUARY 16, 2009 THEPRESS.NET | 13A

Dr. James Martin D.C.

Advertisement

14A | THEPRESS.NET ARTS JANUARY 16, 2009

Photo courtesy of Lynn House Gallery

Yosemite Meadow by Brentwood artist Milt Bullard is part of the current exhibit at Antiochs Lynn House Gallery.

Drawing is arguably the most important skill or tool of a visual artist. For some artists, drawing is primarily a means to an end, and they rarely if ever exhibit their drawings. The Lynn House Gallery is hosting an Emphasis on Drawing Exhibit featuring local artists Milt Bullard, Mark Eanes, Mary Lieser and Anthony Riggs. The exhibit runs through Jan. 31.

For the four artists in this exhibit, drawing is often an end in itself, a fi nished artistic statement. Though these artists work in other areas, such as painting and print making, drawings make up a considerable

portion of their exhibited works.Bullards paintings and watercolors

have been shown in juried exhibitions at the state capitol and in San Francisco. His work has also been displayed in several galleries within Contra Costa County, as well as included in Yosemite National Parks annual Renaissance. In the park, he teaches pen and ink drawing for Art Center visitors. Milts e-mail address is miltbullardart@aol.com.

Benicia artist Eanes is a painter and

Exhibit draws on local artists talent

see Exhibit page 15A

JANUARY 16, 2009 ARTS THEPRESS.NET | 15A

Photo courtesy of Lynn House Gallery

The Emphasis on Drawing exhibit now at the Lynn

House Gallery in Antioch in-cludes Camp Fire, above, by Anthony

Riggs.

print maker. He teaches at the California College of the Arts in Oakland and recently served as a juror for the current Soupcon Small Works Show at Arts Benicia.

Also from Benicia, Riggs has been an award-winning artist since 1975, though still only in his 30s. He received the Sears Kindergarten Art Award in 1975 and the California College of the Arts Faculty Honors Award in 2003. He is currently earning his masters of fi ne art degree at the California College of the Arts in Oakland.

Lieser is a graduate of Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where she majored in fi ne art, working in graphite, oils and ceramics. After graduation, she moved to

Hawaii, where she spent time working in art conservation and restoration. Hawaii is where Lieser met her future husband, artist Francis Palermo. Upon returning to the mainland, they took up residence in Pittsburg, where they became the fi rst Seafood Festival commemorative prints artists. Lieser has been involved with the Pittsburg Arts Collaborative, hanging in many of their shows. She works in watercolor and plein-air painting.

The Lynn House Gallery is located at 809 W. First St. in downtown Antioch. Gallery hours are Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 5 p.m. during exhibits. For more information, visit www.art4antioch.org or call 925-779-7018.

Exhibit from page 14A

16A | THEPRESS.NET JANUARY 16, 2009

Community should be a pal to PALIn tough economic times, tough choices

must be made, and the Brentwood City Council certainly had one of those on its plate Tuesday evening. As it considered how to meet the

challenges of a shrinking revenue stream, one of the programs whose continued funding

the council was forced to scrutinize was an after-school program offered through the Police Activities League.

Currently conducted at all three of Brent-woods middle schools, the PAL After the Bell program provided a place for about 150 children to go after school and do homework, play games and simply not be alone and at risk of engaging in, or being victims of, crime.

In the past, the city has provided support for the program through the Parks and Rec Department. By holding fundraisers and getting grants, PAL has reimbursed to the city about $50,000 of the programs $250,000 annual cost. Unfortunately, grant money is much harder to come by these days and communities with higher crime rates have edged out Brentwoods PAL in getting cash assistance. (Ironically, if Brentwoods crime rate were higher as might have been the case had PAL not existed Brentwood might have a better shot at grant funding.) There is likely no money forthcoming from PAL this year.

As PALs reimbursement to the city has diminished and the citys own coffers have been increasingly strained, the council this week made the hard decision to discontinue funding for

After the Bell, and the program will end Feb. 1.PAL has been an integral part of the

citys emphasis on youth for more than a decade, and its important for residents to know that despite the loss of After the Bell, it will continue to be in the future. Numerous activities, from wrestling and skateboard tour-naments to martial arts and golf instruction, are either in existence or on the horizon. The expanding list of activities will help PAL con-tinue its primary goal of breaking down barri-ers between at-risk kids and police offi cers.

There are several ways members of the public can support this important group. First, they can make a direct donation. Second, they can attend fundraisers benefi ting PAL, such as the Brentwood Barbecue King Cook-off on Feb. 1 at Harvest Park Bowl.

Third, they can enroll their children in PAL programs such as a wrestling tournament set for Feb. 22. While not specifi cally fundrais-ers, increased participation in PAL activities makes them more affordable and broadens the programs reach.

Its hoped that eventually the city will be able to restore funding for after-school programming, but until that can happen, PAL represents an important asset for our youth, one we can all support simply by participating in. We encourage everyone to do so, and in the process help improve the community in which we live.

To learn more about PAL or its activities, contact Offi cer Roger Wilson at 925-634-6911. For tickets to the Barbecue King Cook-off, call 925-634-1441.

EDITORIAL

Rubbing salt into Deltas woundsEditor:

Our California Deltas health has made a surprising comeback in the last 20 years. The water quality has improved immensely; the areas that used to smell like sewage no longer do. There is a lot less foam and cloudy water from fi eld drainage. Heavy metals are still present in the water from placer mining 100 years ago, making the consumption of fi sh in large quantities unhealthy.

I have noticed within the last 10 years the decline in fi sh population. I no longer see schools of smelt around dock pilings or tules; when swimming, I no longer feel fi sh brushing against my legs. Ducks dont have any competition from fi sh when I drop bread-crumbs in the water. The water is beginning to taste salty; I noticed this in the last four years. The brackish water will damage the fi nish on my boat if I dont immediately wipe it off after removing the boat from the water.

I am not an environmentalist or a scien-tist. I am an avid water sports enthusiast and have noticed what is happening to our Delta. The peripheral canal idea will not save the Delta; any uneducated person like me can see

that. Wouldnt the money for the periph-eral canal be better spent on desalinization facilities for Southern California? Reduction in pumping water from the Delta is the only option for saving the habitat.

There is a lot of water fl owing down storm drains. I noticed this on my last trip to Southern California while strolling across a park with lush landscaping. Asking the pub-lic to conserve is not working. Water ration-ing seems to be the only answer. Rationing would be statewide, not just certain areas. We have to save our Delta for the survival and enjoyment of future generations.

Christopher CoadFourth-generation Contra Costa native

Antioch

Remarkable rosterEditor:

Antioch citizenry just underwent two rigorous examinations on its commitment to public service. It passed with fl ying colors. Fourteen applicants, all top-notch, went through a grueling elimination process for City Council and eight others vied for school board. Happily, the belief that the very breath of life is service to others proved not lost on Antioch.

Reaching a consensus was, indeed, a for-midable task for the school board. We were determined to choose not only the best of the best but to choose someone fi tting the needs of the time. We wanted continuity, someone in the game for years to come. Someone, also, who added a complementary perspective to the collective assets of the other four board members.

Might I say, what a diverse board it is! We now have two African-Americans, three women and two men, representing education, the corporate world, criminal justice fi eld, school volunteering and youth mentoring. Our superintendent is an African-American woman. Obviously, we are quality driven and color and gender blind.

In truth, in the heat of the intense interviewing process, I honestly didnt refl ect

on this, but in retrospect, how fascinating that we choose a police lieutenant what with next years opening of a Law and Criminal Justice Academy and with a community that demographically tops Contra Costa with 38 percent of our population under 18.

Congratulations, though, to all eight. Angie Ayers-Smith, certainly we havent heard the last of you. After a successful corporate career in San Francisco, you are back home, now involved in the Youth Intervention Network. You are modest but savvy, decidedly exemplifying a collaborative demeanor.

Diana Bello, six kids and a distinguished business career! Dare say, what vitamin are you taking? You are energetic, determined, skilled at policy and negotiations, and, un-mistakably, exemplify resolve.

Dale Hudson, you bring unquestioned depth of experience to the table, with previ-ous school board experience and 16 years superintendency. You are affable, composed and strikingly exemplify enduring commit-ment.

Vincent Manuel, kudos on being a fi nalist in both council and school board appointments. Your resume is stellar, with a doctorate in public administration at grasp and years of agency directorship and chief of staff experience. You surely exemplify cool competence.

Joyann Motts, Antioch is blessed to have you. You carry on in the unselfi sh volunteer-ing spirit of your mom, who served on the board for 20 years. Your work with Antioch High, community clubs, and chairing the successful $61 million older school renova-tion bond is laudable. You exemplify inspired passion.

Larry Osorio, your many years on the Mello Roos Board, Scoutmaster mentoring, and unfl agging congeniality bodes well for the future. You perfectly exemplify the Scout motto, Be Prepared!

Sean Wright, you have a bright future in continued community service ahead of you, building upon school volunteering and

Chamber of Commerce leadership. You vividly exemplify an outgoing, creative, roll-up-your-sleeves demeanor.

Now, to the last man standing, Wayde Harper. Outlasting eliminations against such a talented fi eld speaks volumes. You comple-ment the board with your masters in business administration, training in strategic thinking, demonstrated team spirit, and in-the-trenches background rooted in police work, youth development, school volunteering and the faith community. You resoundingly exemplify conviction. Welcome aboard!

I can honestly say I would be pleased serving with any of you. Bravo for joining the fray. Stay active. Please run in 2010. Lastly, thank you for echoing, by example, the con-viction of Maria Wright Edelman: Service is the rent we pay for living. It is the very purpose of life and not something you do in your spare time.

Walter RuehligPresident, A.U.S.D. Board of Trustees

Arrogant and thoughtlessEditor:

I agree with Mr. Blunk. In this present recession, why would the city offi cials even think of building a $75 million Civic Center project and, as he stated, putting their own comfort fi rst?

Look around at all of the empty build-ings and offi ces. There are already numerous spaces that the city could use. If they are lay-ing employees off, why would they even need more offi ce space?

Take a hard look at the Streets of Brent-wood, occupied by high-end shops. Who do you think is going to be shopping there? Mervyns has closed,; Macys will be closing stores and I would safely bet that during 2009, some of those stores at the Streets will be closing also.

Homeowners are going to ask for another round of property-tax cuts, which again will slice money from the city budget.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

see Letters page 18A

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

of Contra Costa County.

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People often overlook the importance of the fine arts programs and the individu-als who teach them.

Justin Wilson

JANUARY 16, 2009 THEPRESS.NET | 17A

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SIREN SOUNDSFROM EMERGENCY SERVICES DISPATCH LOGS

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

BRENTWOODJan. 2, 7:26 a.m. On McHenry Way, a driver stopped for a vehicle code violation provided false information. He was arrested and re-leased on a Notice To Appear.Jan. 2, 11:22 a.m. An unidentifi ed person stole a vehicle parked on Mountain View Drive.Jan. 2, 12:55 p.m. An unidentifi ed person stole items from locked vehicles on Walker Court.Jan. 2, 4:34 p.m. A subject attempted to take several items from a business on Lone Tree Way without paying for them was placed un-der citizens arrest and released on a Promise To Appear.Jan. 4, 1:07 p.m. On Lone Tree Way, an un-identifi ed person used a stolen check to make a purchase at Kohls.Jan. 4, 3:35 p.m. An unidentifi ed person used the personal information of a resident of Mericrest Street to open a fraudulent account at The Home Depot.Jan. 4, 4:59 p.m. A subject contacted during a pedestrian stop on Sunset Road was found to be under the infl uence of a central nervous system stimulant. He was arrested and trans-ported to the Martinez Detention Facility.Jan. 4, 7:53 p.m. On Upton Pine Drive, a subject was inadvertently struck by his own vehicle.Jan. 4, 11:57 p.m. On Lone Tree Way, an un-identifi ed person stole a purse and fl ed in a vehicle.Jan. 5, 2:25 p.m. Offi cers responded to the re-port of a civil dispute on Shady Willow Lane. One of the subjects was found to have an out-standing warrant out of Solano County. He was arrested and transported to the Martinez

Detention Facility.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.

ANTIOCHJan. 1, 11:11 p.m. Antioch resident Narcico Morales answered a knock on the door of his residence on Aldagrove Road and was forced back inside by two males and a female point-ing a handgun at him. Morales was confi ned to a closet as his house was ransacked. The robbers fl ed the house with a small amount of cash and property. Morales escaped the closet, went outside and yelled for help. A neighbor called the police as another neigh-bor observed the robbers run to a vehicle, which he described to Antioch Police. An offi cer familiar with the suspect vehicle went to the last known address associated with the vehicle: 2201 Sycamore Drive, the site of an apartment complex. Upon arrival, the offi cer located the suspect vehicle in a carport. Three suspects were removed from the car and ar-rested: 21-year-old Kirk Davis, a 17-year-old male and a 16-year-old female. A loaded

handgun, stolen property and other evidence were found in the car. The victim identifi ed the three suspects. Offi cers made contact with a fourth subject, 18-year-old Louis Davis, in the apartment associated with the robbery suspects. A probation search was conducted and a loaded assault rifl e was discovered. The fourth subject was also arrested. Both juve-niles were transported to the Contra Costa Juvenile Hall, and both adults were booked at the Martinez Detention Facility on robbery and related weapon charges.Jan. 6 The Contra Costa District Attorneys Offi ce fi led charges against 29-year-old Mau-rice Green for the Oct. 11, 2007 murder of 28-year-old Antioch resident Jose Victor Sanchez. Sanchez was the victim of a rob-bery, during which he was punched, causing him to fall to the ground and strike his head. He died at the hospital several days later. The same night of the robbery, Green was caught a short distance away with Sanchezs credit cards in his pocket. Green stated he had just bought the credit cards. Green, on parole at the time, was sent back to prison for violat-ing parole. Meanwhile, the Antioch Police

Department obtained additional evidence leading to charges being fi led against Green, including a December, 2008 robbery arrest.

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

OAKLEYDec. 29 Subjects were cited for driving with suspended or revoked licenses on Laurel Road and Bernard Road.Dec. 29 A vehicle accident involving property damage occurred on Laurel Road at OHara Avenue.Dec. 30 On Meadow Creek Court, a subject was cited for possession of dangerous drugs.Dec. 30 Incidents of unlicensed driving oc-curred on Chablis Way, Douglas Road and Empire Avenue.Dec. 30 Arrest warrants were served on the 1700 block of Cedar Court and the 1200 block of Laurel Road.Dec. 30 Residences on the 4600 block of Chelsea Drive and the 100 block of Hill Av-enue were vandalized.Dec. 31 On the 4800 block of Edgewood Court, a subject was found in violation of a weapon probation.Dec. 31 Separate incidents of misdemeanor driving under the infl uence occurred on East Cypress Road.Dec. 31 A misdemeanor battery was reported on Main Street at Miguel Drive.Dec. 31 A business on the 2500 block of Main Street was burglarized.Jan. 1 A stolen vehicle was recovered on Em-pire Avenue.Jan. 1 On Bayside Way, a subject was found in possession of dangerous drugs.Jan. 1 On the 100 block of East Bolton Road, a subject was found in possession of an un-lawful weapon.

On Upton Pine Drive, a sub-ject was inadvertently struck by his own vehicle.

Jan. 4, 7:53 p.m.

18A | THEPRESS.NET JANUARY 16, 2009

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But hey, what do we care? Lets spend $75 million (and you know it will be more) on a new fancy city hall for all the unemployed people to be able to look at. No doubt it will make them feel better as they struggle to sur-vive until the economy turns around, which according to fi nancial predictions, will not be until 2010 or possibly later.

How arrogant and thoughtless of city offi cials to even entertain building the new Civic Center during this economic downturn!

Diane BlairBrentwood

Music education is no luxuryEditor:

With the next round of impending state budget cuts upon us, I fi nd it important to raise awareness within our community and send a message to our school board members in regard to the importance of our school music programs.

A pro musician myself, and private instructor, I fully support our valued music teachers within the district. People often over-look the importance of the fi ne arts programs and the individuals who teach them. I have kept fi ve teachers close to my heart over the years, and four of them were music teachers.

Science and research have proved that music enhances an individuals brain develop-ment in ways that nothing else can compare to. Students develop stronger social skills, higher test scores, enhanced spatial reasoning and an overall higher intellectual level than those who dont study music. The list goes on and on.

Music in many ways is the fabric of our

lives and the defi nition of society. Ask your-self what the world would be like without music or any kind of art. Might as well sit down in front of the TV all day and rot your brain out on reality shows. The unfortunate thing about our society is that normal day-to-day life is so clouded with white noise that we tend to lose site of the things that defi ne us, the past, and the future.

The school district will announce budget cuts in February and our music programs are at stake. I am asking for the communitys support by writing letters to the administra-tors and school board members. Put some heat and pressure on those people. Make some phone calls and do whatever is neces-sary to steer them toward making the right decisions when it comes to our childrens futures. Unfortunately, we cant save all the teachers, and good people will lose their jobs.

To the state, a teacher is just a number. They fail to recognize that number has a life and a family, or that number is a mentor to your kids, or that number has gone beyond the call of duty to better your kids educations.

I tell you what: history has shown us that when people stand up for themselves and support others for the greater good, things start to happen. I encourage you to contact the appropriate school offi cials, fi nd out when board meetings are, and make your voice heard. We all owe it to the teachers in this town.

Justin WilsonBrentwood

Votes tallied in public viewEditor:

This is in response to a letter to the edi-

tor questioning the vote-counting procedure for the bylaws. The procedure for counting the ballots will be open and in public view, as has been done for at least the last 10 years for the election results.

The board has appointed an Election Committee made up of community individu-als not involved with any association activity, and the chairman in this election does not live within the DBPOA boundaries. The committees task is to see that the ballots are distributed, received back by legitimate voters, opened and a result determined at the stated time and place on the ballot, once a quorum has been achieved or at the end of any extended election period. All fi nalized activities and decisions of the Election Com-mittee are certifi ed and delivered to the board and made a part of the public record of the association.

The vote-counting process, time and place, is clearly designated in the voting material distributed to all voters, and anyone is welcome to view the vote-counting process. The only requirement is that non-election committee members must remain in the designated area and not talk or otherwise dis-turb the process. There is an area away from the vote counting that observer conversation can take place.

This process is open, independent and economical, maintaining our continuing ef-fort to keep costs in line.

Mark B. LeePresident, DBPOA

Reefer sadnessEditor:

Concerning the article Oakley says

nope to dope dispensaries (Oakley Press, Jan. 2, 2009), its interesting to see that Oak-ley is adopting the same Reefer Madness attitudes used to outlaw marijuana to begin with: Marijuana infl uences Negroes to look at white people in the eye, step on white mens shadows and look at a white woman twice. (Hearst newspapers nationwide, 1934). There are 100,000 total marijuana smokers in the U.S., and most are Negroes, Hispanics, Filipinos and entertainers. Their Satanic mu-sic, jazz and swing, result from marijuana use. This marijuana can cause white women to seek sexual relations with Negroes, entertain-ers and any others. The primary reason to outlaw marijuana is its effect on the degenerate races. Marijuana is an addictive drug which produces in its users insanity, criminality and death. Marijuana is the most violence-causing drug in the history of mankind. (Smoking) one (marijuana) cigarette might develop a homicidal mania, probably to kill his brother. (see U.S. government propagan-da to outlaw marijuana at www.druglibrary.org/schaffer/hemp/taxact/t3.htm).

Perhaps Police Chief Chris Thorsen can tell us which of these threats is most preva-lent in the Oakley area.

Ralph GivensDaly City

Bypass surgery urgently requiredEditor:

After being a part of the Vasco Road Task Force for the past few years, I have come to the following realization: Task Forces

Letters from page 16A

see Letters page 19A

JANUARY 16, 2009 THEPRESS.NET | 19A

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Trevors Weekly Mortgage MattersBy Trevor Frey

Not loosely, but literally translated the phrase laissez-faire is French and means Let do, or, allow to do. According to the former CEO, and man responsible for taking Salomon Brothers public, the King of Wall Street per Business Week circa 1985 and the defi nition of an excessive era, John H Gut-freund, the investment banks on Wall Street practice that very economic theory, laissez-faire capitalism: the separation of economy and state, or rather, a free market where pro-duction and productivity is controlled by only one of two entities, privately held or publicly traded companiesnot the government.

Its laissez-faire until you get in deep (explicit) Gutfreund was quoted as saying in 2008. And now, in 2009, how much more relevant, and to the point, can that statement possibly be when summing up the burst real estate bubble America now fi nds itself neck deep (and then some) in. Free market and the lack of regulation lead to a gap between interests of those who made their living on Wall Street and the wider population of those that did not, now known as main street. In retrospect and to put it more bluntly, a gap so large the global economy is now forced to share the burden. With more than a $490 bil-lion increase from 2000 to 2005 in subprime loans its very easy to see how free market, not regulation, had taken over the fi nancial sector of Wall Street. Where an F on Wall Street once stood for fun, now, raised high, an F on main street sadly represents foreclosure.

No one knows this fact better than the residents of Foreclosure Alley, this nations hardest hit region; a strip of southern Califor-

nia behind Los Angeles and Orange County where nearly 500 families lose their home to foreclosure daily. Residents of Lake Elsinore, CA can only swallow a very bitter bill and take irony in the once upbeat ad campaigns of now failed fi nancial institutions. Still standing erect are billboards for the now F.D.I.C con-trolled Indymac, that, as tongue-in-cheek as it sounds, simply state, You can count on us.

However, both Wall Street and Main Street seem to still be in agreement on one thing; our markets need to bounce back, and that needs to be done almost single handedly by credit, as a whole, again fl owing through the arteries of real estate. Said best by Chair-man Wilbur Way, of the $8 billion private equity fi rm Invesco, Th e fi rst step is to get banks to where theyll continue to make new mortgages.

So until banks overcome their own knee jerk reaction, and begin lending again, we as main street America have to sit on the sidelines and wait for the opportunity to do our part. You see in a laissez-faire theory type economy, its the consumers not the govern-ment that is the lifeboat. Best summed up by Gentlemans Quarterly, or GQ, journal-ist Charles Bowdin, It is not a question of whether or not they deserve a seat on the lifeboat. Th ey are the lifeboat: the family-rais-ing, credit-card spending, American Buying Machine.

As always, I welcome all questions and or concerns pertaining to real estate lending on my cell phone, 510-798-0060, or via email, tfreymortgages@yahoo.com.

Laissez-faire 101

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dont work. Now, I am sure that we will hear from our locally elected offi cials that what they have done has resulted in no deaths in 2008.

But of course they dont talk about the accidents that still occur, including head-on crashes, or that injuries still happen, or that speeding still occurs, and even with the plastic dividers, passing still occurs. Their ultimate solution: spend $30 million on a small stretch of the road to construct a concrete divider while the majority of the road remains undi-vided.

During these meetings, I have made two recommendations. The fi rst would have created a barrier for the entire length of the road for under $1 million. The other would have changed the way the lanes compress at the Alameda/Contra Costa County border. This would prevent the same type of ac-cident that killed four men and injured two other people. The cost of that project would be minimal.

Yet, both were ignored. I came away from these meetings sensing an attitude from the county and our elected representatives that is well, thank you for your input, but

because we are county workers and/or elected representatives, we know more than you. So they pat us on the head and return to their thrones back in Martinez.

Now we have an issue with the Highway 4 Bypass; specifi cally, the intersection of the Bypass and Sand Creek Road. I am sure by now we all have seen the congestion that oc-curs at this intersection and has extended back over the Lone Tree overpass for southbound traffi c and created backups for northbound drivers as far back as Balfour Road.

There is one major problem: the Bypass southbound left turn lane to Sand Creek. The left turn traffi c is so long that it backs up the southbound traffi c to a point beyond the Lone Tree/Bypass merge, where there is only one lane. The left turn light has to stay on so long in order to relieve this southbound backup that backups occur northbound.

So, is there an easy fi x that can be achieved now without creating a Task Force and at a minimal cost? The fi x: We dont need two southbound lanes at the intersection of Sand Creek and the Bypass. Currently, at that intersection, we have two through lanes and

Letters from page 18A

see Letters page 20A

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one left turn lane. Those two through lanes merge into one lane just past the intersection. Anyone who travels though that intersection knows that there must be at least 10 times as many cars turning left than going straight. The remedy: we convert one of the south-bound lanes as a left-turn-only lane (now we have two left turn lanes) and one lane proceeding south.

This will permit twice the number of cars into the left turn lanes, thus reducing the backup on the bypass and allowing less time for the traffi c to turn left. Northbound traffi c therefore will not back up, and with the

addition of a right-turn-only arrow for the Sand Creek traffi c to enter the bypass, traffi c through this corridor should fl ow faster and safer.

I am not saying this is the solution or the o