Contra Costa Herald

News Of By and For The People of Contra Costa County, California

Stand Down on the Delta 2025 at fairgrounds in Antioch Sept. 12-15

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Veterans Served Their Country — Now They Serve Their Communities

Join us for Stand Down on the Delta 2025, September 12–15, 2025 at the Contra Costa Event Park (fairgrounds) in Antioch, presented by Delta Veterans Group.

Launched in 2023, our “Veterans Served Their Country — Veterans Serve Their Communities” program gives these honorable individuals a New Mission of Service — and you’re invited to join them.

These brave women and men served our nation. Now, they’re answering a new call — to serve the neighborhoods and communities they call home.

Saturday, September 13, 2025, is Community Service Day, when Veterans will serve every corner of Contra Costa County, helping everyone, not just fellow Veterans. ervices are open to everyone regardless if you are a veteran or not.

Veterans: Pre-register or walk in daily

Everyone else: Come volunteer, get connected, or lend support.

Over four days, we provide life-changing services to hundreds of Veterans:

  • Medical & Dental Care
  • Housing, Job Placement & Legal Support
  • Mental Health & Recovery Services
  • Meals, Clothing, Gear & More

Over 1,754 Veterans and families helped so far — and we’re just getting started.

Help us make 2025 the most impactful Stand Down yet.

The Fairgrounds are located at 1201 W. 10th Street in Antioch.

Delta Veterans Group – “A Hand Up, Not a Handout”. For more information visit www.deltaveteransgroup.org/stand-down-on-the-delta.

Brentwood youth football referee sentenced on child exploitation, firearm charges

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Tommy Vance was arrested with a cache of illegal firearms and ammunition on April 10, 2025. Photos: Brentwood PD

48-year-old Tommy Ray Vance will serve two years, 10 months in state prison, register as sex offender for 20 years

By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office

Martinez, California – A Brentwood man was sentenced in Contra Costa County Superior Court after entering guilty pleas to felony charges of attempted sexual abuse of a child under 14 and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

48-year-old Tommy Ray Vance (born 12-19-1976) was sentenced by the Honorable Joni T. Hiramoto on August 18th, 2025, to two years and 10 months in state prison. Vance was further ordered to register for 20 years as a sex offender upon his release from custody.

Tommy Ray Vance following his arrest by on April 10, 2025. Photo: Brentwood PD

The offenses for which Vance was sentenced occurred on April 9 and 10, 2025, when Vance attempted to coerce a person, whom he reasonably believed to be a 13-year-old child, into meeting him to engage in sex acts. The minor was in fact an undercover Detective with the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office. When Vance arrived at a park in Brentwood, he was arrested by patrol units of the Brentwood Police Department.

Investigators with the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force served a search warrant at Vance’s home after his arrest and discovered over a dozen firearms. Investigators quickly learned Vance was prohibited from possessing firearms as a result of a 1996 conviction in Contra Costa County for Arson, Intimidating a Witness and Assault with a Deadly Weapon.

At the time of Vance’s arrest, he was working part-time as a volunteer youth football referee in Contra Costa County. According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, he is six-feet tall, 230-pounds and Hispanic.

Vance has been in custody since his arrest and will begin to serve his sentence immediately. (See related articles here and here)

“Thanks to the investigative efforts of Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and Brentwood Police, we were able to ensure this defendant faces consequences for his actions,” said District Attorney Diana Becton. “This case exemplifies our continued dedication to defending our community’s children against those who would harm them.”

Deputy District Attorney Jenna Franklin from the Sexual Assault Unit prosecuted the case. The Contra Costa County Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force led the investigation.

Case No. 01-25-01209 | The People of the State of California v. Tommy Ray Vance

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

State-of-the-art baseball, softball training center in Oakley to hold Grand Opening Aug. 25

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D-BAT Baseball & Softball Academy in Oakley offers computerized batting cages with different modes and speeds. Photos by Allen D. Payton

D-BAT is “open for everybody” – Co-owner Brian Bajarias

Ribbon cutting held with City officials includes presentation of $50,000 check

By Allen D. Payton

A new state-of-the-art training center, known as D-BAT Baseball & Softball Academy, will hold its Grand Opening in Oakley on Monday, August 25, 2025. Best friends Brian Bajarias and Joshua Choy, along with Brian’s wife Vanessa Vasquez, own the local franchise, which has hundreds of locations throughout the U.S. During the ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, August 21, they were presented with a $50,000 ceremonial check from Mayor Shannon Shaw, representing the funds from the City’s Façade and Tenant Improvement Program.

Joined by family, friends and local officials, owners Brian Bajarias (left) and Joshua Choy (right), and Bajarias’ mother Lolita (center), hold the scissors to cut the ribbon officially opening their D-BAT training facility in Oakley on Aug. 21, 2025.

The event was also attended by City officials, local business owners and the president of the Oakley Chamber of Commerce, Oleksii Chuiko.

“We are so excited and thrilled to have this facility in Oakley that will serve all the people of the Delta,” he said. “You guys have something incredible here.”

D-BAT stands for Developing Beliefs, Attitudes and Traditions.

“It’s a facility we wanted to bring to this area,” Bajarias stated.

D-BAT Oakley owners Joshua Choy and Brian Bajarias offer a start-of-the-art 12,000 square foot training facility.

“We’ve been working on this project for about three years and we’re finally at the point where we get to open this gym with the great community we have here,” Choy shared.” My brother, Brian, and I have dreamt of opening a business together since we were young. We’ve always come up with many different ideas, but nothing really panned out. Brian moved out to Oakley looking for an indoor training facility but not a whole lot of options, here.”

“We’ve been working on this project for about three years and we’re finally at the point where we get to open this gym with the great community we have here,” Choy shared.” My brother, Brian, and I have dreamt of opening a business together since we were young. We’ve always come up with many different ideas, but nothing really panned out. Brian moved out to Oakley looking for an indoor training facility but not a whole lot of options, here.”

“So, we did some research and stumbled upon D-BAT. It’s a franchise nationwide with about 180 locations known for indoor softball, baseball training which is great for this big baseball community that we have here,” he added.

Choy then thanked and name “all the local businesses that have come out to make this possible for us.” He also thanked his wife, Chelene “whose been supportive through this whole process and to everyone who’s encouraged us along the way.”

“This has been a journey of faith, perseverance and community. With God, family and friends all things are possible and today’s proof of that,” Bajarias said.

He offered thanks to his wife and their children, who he named and said, “this is all for you.” Bajarias then thanked his mother, Lolita, saying, “Thank you for all your prayers and constant support. Without you this isn’t possible.”

Finally, he thanked all those who helped make the center a reality, including the building owners Mike and Bob Mello, contractors, architects and City of Oakley Councilmembers and staff as well as the Chamber of Commerce.

“D-BAT Oakley is more than a training facility. It’s an anchor for this community, a place for athletes to grow, families to connect and local businesses to thrive alongside us,” he continued. “We’re proud to be here and Josh and I are just getting started.”

Mayor Shannon Shaw speaks about the $50,000 from the City of Oakley as owners Brian Bajarias (left) and Joshua Choy hold the ceremonial version of the check and Oakley Chamber of Commerce President Oleskii Chuiko looks on during the ribbon cutting ceremony on Aug. 21, 2025.

Mayor Shaw spoke next saying, “One of the comments we get the most is there’s not enough youth activities for the residents of Oakley and you guys are bringing that. Not just to Oakley but to the entire region. I look forward to you being a great partner. Even before you were open, you were part of our parade and won an award for Most Enthusiastic. You’re already being part of the community, and we really appreciate that.”

She then presented the ceremonial check to the two men.

About D-BAT Oakley

The 12,000 square foot facility includes batting cages, two 70-foot tunnels in the bullpen with mounds and radar for live batting practice, plus a pro shop by Easton Rawlings.

“We have all the top-of-the-line gear, bats, gloves and hats,” he shared.

The batting cages include slow pitch options, three different modes for baseball and slow pitch softball. Plus, D-BAT supply the training T-s, buckets, balls, stools and L-screens.

They will offer memberships, lessons, camps and clinics and will host birthday parties, as well.

“I played baseball when I was really young. My sisters played softball. My sons play baseball,” Choy shared. “I got into it with my partner here and the local area needs a facility like this.”

“It’s America’s pastime,” Bajarias stated. The players they expect to use their facility will “come from all over the area and play on teams and in tournaments.”

Although he “didn’t play too much baseball,” Bajarias said, “We enjoyed watching the Giants and the A’s while growing up and my kids are in sports.”

“We believe kids thrive when they train in a safe, fun and weather-proof indoor facility where the focus stays on learning, growing and enjoying the game year-round,” he explained.

Asked why Oakley, Bajarias said, “There really wasn’t anything out here with the type of space we needed.”

“We have trainers and instructors here. They’ve been through all the Little Leagues, Pony Leagues and have or are now playing college level ball,” he continued. We have two instructors who are super seasoned in coaching with over 30 years combined.

“We’re open for everybody. We just love sports,” Bajarias added. “We saw a need and it’s something this area wanted.”

His background is in juvenile probation.

Choy has been in the automotive industry on the service side for the past 20 years.

“But I’m taking this on full time,” he stated.

“State-of-the-art training equipment for all of the athletes, that’s what D-BAT brings,” Choy explained. “D-BAT has set the bar high for training facilities.”

They’re looking to have more locations, Bajarias added.

D-BAT is located at 1241 Main Street in Oakley and they’ll be open M-F 10AM-9PM, Saturday 10AM-6PM and Sundays 12PM-6PM. For more information visit www.dbatoakley.com or call (925) 832-3228.

Contra Costa County’s 7th Annual Block Party in Antioch Aug. 28

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One Stop for Your County Services in collaboration with Supervisor Diane Burgis and the City of Antioch

Come to Contra Costa County’s 7th Annual Block Party!

Date: Thursday, August 28

Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Location: Antioch Community Center, 4703 Lone Tree Way

Contra Costa County, in partnership with the City of Antioch and Supervisor Diane Burgis, is bringing its annual Block Party to East County.

Contra Costa County, the Clerk-Recorder-Elections Department, the Employment & Human Services Department, County Public Works and Contra Costa Health along with the City of Antioch are partnering to provide a fun, festive event that offers a wide variety of on-the-spot government services at one single location. This will be the seventh year of the increasingly popular event, providing opportunities throughout the County to learn what’s available to you as a Contra Costa County resident.
Please submit your request at least 72 hours in advance to help ensure availability.

Available services at the Block Party include: Sign-ups for CalFresh, Medi-Cal, and CalWORKs, information about childcare and preschool options, Records within Reach from Clerk-Recorder’s Office, Voter Registration, Contra Costa Television (CCTV) — and many more County programs.

County Departments & Programs                     

  • 4 Our Families Navigators (EHSD)
  • Clerk-Recorder-Elections
  • Community Services Bureau (EHSD)
  • Contra Costa Television
  • Information & Assistance (EHSD)
  • Public Works – Flood Control District
  • Public Works – Transportation Engineering
  • Supervisor Diane Burgis, District 3

If you require an accommodation to participate in the Contra Costa County Block Party, please contact Diane Truong, Public Facilities ADA Program Manager, at (925) 335-1436 or email Diane.Truong@riskm.cccounty.us.

Fatal two-vehicle head-on crash in Discovery Bay

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Leaves one driver dead, the other with major injuries

By CHP – Contra Costa

DISCOVERY BAY, CA – On Thursday, August 14, 2025, at approximately 10:19 a.m., officers assigned to the California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) Contra Costa Area office responded to a two-vehicle head-on crash which occurred on State Route 4 (SR-4) westbound, just east of Discovery Bay Blvd. in the township of Discovery Bay.

Our preliminary investigation indicates a Toyota Camry, driven by an adult male, was traveling eastbound on SR-4 when, for reasons still under investigation, it crossed over the double-yellow divider lines and crashed head-on into a GMC Sierra occupied by a male adult.

Tragically, the driver of the Toyota sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the GMC sustained suspected major injuries and was airlifted to the hospital. An impaired driving investigation was also conducted, and DUI was ruled out as a factor in this crash.

This crash remains under investigation. If anyone witnessed the incident or the events leading up to it, please contact Contra Costa Area office in Martinez at (925) 646-4980 or email your contact information to 320Investigations@chp.ca.gov to be contacted by the investigating officer.

The Mission of the California Highway Patrol is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.

Search warrant leads to arrest of Brentwood convicted felon

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The loaded stolen firearm discovered at Guzman’s home during a search on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. Photo: Brentwood PD

31-year-old Carlos Guzman had drugs, stolen firearm at his home

By Brentwood Police Department

On Tuesday, August 12, 2025, Brentwood officers were dispatched to the 7900 block of Lone Tree Way for a report that a suspect had threatened two victims with a gun. As officers arrived, they saw the suspect identified as 31-year-old Carlos Joseph Guzman of Brentwood leaving the scene in a vehicle. Officers conducted a traffic stop and detained Guzman.

Due to the violent nature of the incident and Guzman’s prior felony conviction, detectives obtained a search warrant for his residence. When the warrant was served, officers located a loaded stolen firearm and a large quantity of narcotics inside the home.

Guzman was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon, being a felon in possession of a stolen firearm, possession of drugs for sale and other related charges.

This arrest highlights the outstanding teamwork between patrol officers and detectives, whose quick actions and thorough investigation ensured a dangerous individual was taken off the streets.

According to recentlybooked.com, Guzman is five-feet, eight inches tall, 200-pounds and Hispanic.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

 

Brentwood native, farmer, developer, community leader Ron Nunn passes at 92

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Photos by (left) City of Brentwood and (right) Three Nunns Farm.

Lifelong resident honored by family members, City of Brentwood as “steward of our city’s agricultural heritage”

Family has been farming in Brentwood since the 1880’s

By Allen D. Payton

A post on the City of Brentwood’s X (formerly Twitter) feed on Thursday, August 14, 2025, announced the passing of Brentwood native, lifelong resident, farmer, developer and community leader Ron Nunn. Born on April 8, 1933, he passed at the age of 92.

The post reads, “The City of Brentwood joins the community in mourning the loss of Ron Nunn, a lifelong farmer, community leader, and steward of our city’s agricultural heritage. His life’s work leaves a lasting impact on Brentwood and the generations who will benefit from his legacy.”

An August 10th post on Our Town Brentwood’s Facebook page shows Nunn’s high school graduation photo and a more current one, and offered condolences. “I just heard the sad news about the Passing of an East County Icon Farmer Ron Nunn at the age of 92 – 1933-2025 – Rest in Peace Thank you for being a good friend to the East Contra Costa Historical Society and to your contribution to farming. The picture on the left is his 1951 Liberty High School Graduation picture, the Nunn’s have been farming this area since the 1880’s. My Deepest Condolences to the entire Nunn Family.”

Ron Nunn’s graduation photo from Liberty High School in 1951 and a more recent photo of the local icon. Courtesy: Our Town Brentwood

A post by his relatives, Sam and Sara Nunn, on the Instagram page for their Three Nunns Farm on Friday, August 15, showed an aerial photo of the farm with the words, “Ron Nunn Dreamer & Doer” plowed into the field.

The post also reads: “He may not be walking tomato fields and cherry orchards with us anymore, but you’ll find him forever in all the countless places and people he impacted in the place he was proud to call home, Brentwood. He was larger than life and we all caught a little of his magic just by being in his orbit. We have always thought there is only joy in celebrating a life well lived, and with Ron there is no doubt. We will honor him by doing as he did, dreaming big and doing whatever it takes to make it happen! We are dedicating our 2025 corn maze to the memory of Brentwood’s best, Ron Nunn. Thank you for being you, Uncle Ron.”

As part of the 75th anniversary year of cityhood, a video interview of Nunn and an August 2023 article on the City of Brentwood’s YouTube channel entitled, “Brentwood Community Highlight: Ron Nunn” offered additional details about his life.

It reads, “Born and raised in Brentwood, Ron Nunn has firsthand experience with Brentwood’s historical changes over the years. Ron discusses his family’s multi-generational ties to Brentwood’s farming legacy dating back to the 1880s. He notes that the early days were marked by dry land wheat farming. The wheat was loaded onto ships traveling as far as Cape Horn, the southern tip of South America.” However, according to Ron’s son Bob, “Actually, it went around the horn to Liverpool, England.”

The YouTube article continues, “His favorite memories of growing up in Brentwood revolve around the vibrant festivities held at City Park, including the Apricot Festival, playful tug of war with Belgian horses, and evolving into larger community events like the Carnique and Corn Fest. These memories capture the close-knit, small-town charm that he treasures most about Brentwood.”

Nunn was honored by the Brentwood Unified School District in 1991 when they named Ron Nunn Elementary School for the local icon. All Brentwood schools will honor him posthumously next week by flying their flags at half-staff.

An obituary with more details about Nunn will be provided by his family and published at a later date.

East County girls’ soccer team receives $10K donation to support underserved youth athletes

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Oakley Girls Soccer Team Fuego members and coaches with check from CashSwipe founder and CEO, Paul Alex (left). Photos by Allen D. Payton

From CashSwipe founder, a former Oakland cop

Will help fund travel, equipment, development for 10- & 11-year-olds building confidence, character through sport

By Ana Tackett

In a powerful show of community investment and full-circle mentorship, CashSwipe – a national fintech company founded by former Oakland police officer and Antioch resident Paul Alex – donated $10,000 to a competitive girls’ soccer team based in Oakley. The check was formally presented on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at Knoll Park in Antioch, recognizing the dedication of a team that’s as committed to personal growth as it is to the game.

The girls’ soccer team, Fuego of the Oakley Youth Soccer Club, is composed of 10- and 11-year-olds from diverse backgrounds with many from Oakley and Antioch. They travel to compete with other teams in the Nor Cal Premier Soccer League. It provides far more than athletic training. It creates an environment of support, empowerment, and discipline—helping young girls grow into confident leaders on and off the field. For many families, the financial burden of youth sports can be overwhelming. This donation will go directly toward travel to regional tournaments, high-quality uniforms, registration fees, and additional development opportunities such as clinics and camps.

“This donation means the world to our team. It’s more than just money—it’s a vote of confidence in these girls and their potential,” said Pedro “Coach Pete” Elias, head coach and also a former Oakland Police officer. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to give them experiences they’ll carry for life.”

Team Fuego practices at Knoll Park in Antioch.

Oakley’s girls’ team isn’t just playing to win—they’re playing for each other. The club’s philosophy centers around building strength of character through teamwork, accountability, and resilience. That shared mission resonated deeply with Alex, who once patrolled alongside both Coach Elias and Luis “Coach E” Espinoza. Coach. Coach Jesus “Chuy” rounds out the team’s leadership.

“This team is about more than soccer—it’s about heart,” said Espinoza. “These girls show up for one another, push themselves, and prove every day that leadership starts with integrity. I’ve known Paul since our law enforcement days, and it’s inspiring to see him invest in a new generation the way he does.”

For Alex, the donation represents more than philanthropy – it’s a reflection of purpose. After leaving a successful career in law enforcement, he launched CashSwipe to empower everyday people through passive income systems like ATM placement and merchant services. His commitment to mentorship and underserved communities has remained at the center of his work.

“Sports can be life-changing,” said Alex the company’s founder and CEO. “They teach leadership, discipline, and confidence. Every child deserves the chance to grow through those lessons—regardless of their financial situation. Supporting this team is not just about soccer—it’s about investing in future leaders and showing them what’s possible.”

Alex’s story is one of transformation. Once a police officer on the streets of the Bay Area, he saw firsthand how underserved communities—especially young people—often lack access to the very opportunities that could change their lives.

Coaches E, Pete and Chuy join CashSwipe founder and CEO Paul Alex for the donation check presentation on June 26, 2025.

Now a national entrepreneur and speaker, Alex hasn’t forgotten where he came from. His donation to the soccer team isn’t just a check – it’s a commitment to investing in young women who are striving for more despite financial barriers. The funds will cover critical needs such as uniforms, tournament fees, travel expenses, and training equipment – resources often out of reach for underfunded teams.

“I know what it feels like to grow up without much – and I know what sports can do for a young person’s confidence, discipline and future,” said Alex. “This is about more than soccer. It’s about showing these girls that someone believes in them.”

He later shared that he played on the Oakland PD soccer team and said with a laugh, “I wasn’t very good but I played.”

In communities like Oakley and Antioch, access to resources such as travel, training, and tournament fees often determines whether a child can continue to play. CashSwipe’s contribution ensures these girls can compete at the highest level without being held back by financial hardship. It’s a reminder that when businesses choose to lead with purpose, they can change lives far beyond their industry.

About CashSwipe

CashSwipe is a fintech company that helps individuals build passive income through ATM placement and merchant services. Founded by former Oakland Police Officer Paul Alex, CashSwipe is now a national brand empowering aspiring entrepreneurs to take control of their financial future. The company remains rooted in its mission of community upliftment and impact-driven opportunity. For more information visit https://cashswipe.com.

About the Oakley Girls’ Soccer Club

The Oakley Girls’ Soccer Club is a competitive program for 10- and 11-year-old athletes committed to teamwork, growth, and integrity. Led by former law enforcement officers who bring a mentorship-driven philosophy to the field, the club offers a safe and supportive space for girls from diverse and often underserved backgrounds. The program aims to develop strong athletes—and even stronger young women. For more information visit https://oakleyyouthsoccerclub.com.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report

Park District acquires 140 acres in East County for future Deer Valley Regional Park

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The 140-acre Freschi property was added to the future Deer Valley Regional Park south of Antioch and west of Brentwood. Photo: EBRPD

Purchased from the John R. Freschi, Jr., 2018 Living Trust; will be added to acreage sold by Jack Roddy and partners

By Dave Mason, Public Information Supervisor, Public Affairs, East Bay Regional Park District

The East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) is pleased to announce the acquisition of 140 acres adjacent to Deer Valley Regional Park in partnership with the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy (Conservancy). The property is located in eastern unincorporated Contra Costa County south of Antioch and southwest of Brentwood, within the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan/Natural Community Conservation Plan (HCP/NCCP) area.

The property was purchased from the John R. Freschi, Jr., 2018 Living Trust and is accessed from Briones Valley Road, approximately 1.3 miles west of Deer Valley Road. The property will become an addition to Deer Valley Regional Park.

Source: EBRPD

Consistent with other properties acquired in partnership with the Conservancy and conserved for the HCP/NCCP, a Covenant to Restrict Use of Property ensures that existing wildlife and habitat values are protected. The restrictive covenant permits public recreation compatible with habitat values.

The property is composed of oak woodland and oak savanna and includes sprawling grasslands, a segment of Marsh Creek riparian habitat, and a seasonal pond. No species studies have been completed yet, but habitat found on the Freschi property is known to support the California red-legged frog, the California tiger salamander, and a variety of raptors.

“This acquisition reflects the Park District’s ongoing commitment to protecting critical habitat and expanding access to nature for all,” says Park District General Manager Sabrina Landreth. “We’re grateful for our strong partnership with the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy and the support of state agencies that helped make this purchase possible. We look forward to incorporating this beautiful landscape into Deer Valley Regional Park and to preserve its ecological value for generations to come.”

Photo: EBRPD

“Preserving this land not only safeguards vital habitat but also furthers our vision of connecting people to open space in east Contra Costa County,” says Colin Coffey, Park District Board Member representing Ward 7, which includes parts of Contra Costa County. “Strategic acquisitions like this are a key part of building out a regional park network that serves both wildlife and the community. I’m proud to see this progress in a region I represent and care deeply about.”

“Land conservation in this region is made possible through strong, collaborative partnerships,” says Hugh Henderson, Board Chair for the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy and Vice Mayor of the City of Oakley. “The Conservancy and the Park District worked closely with the seller to secure the protection of this property. As habitat for endangered and threatened species, this land holds significant ecological value, and we are dedicated to its long-term stewardship and conservation.”

Source: EBRPD

Will Be Added to Acreage Sold by Jack Roddy

The land is in addition to the acreage sold by Jack Roddy and partners which includes the former 18-hole Roddy Ranch Golf Course located off Deer Valley Road. In 2022, the Park District adopted a Habitat Restoration and Public Access Plan to restore native grasslands across the 230-acre golf course and provide facilities for passive recreation including walking, biking, horseback riding, and picnicking. This parkland is part of the Conservancy’s Preserve System, which emphasizes environmental restoration and preservation.

The next phase of Park development includes:

  • Restoring 84 acres of grasslands
  • Installing picnic areas, restrooms, and nearly four miles of multi-use trails
  • Building an interpretive pavilion for environmental education and history

Construction is anticipated to begin in 2026, pending permit approvals and funding.

A public ribbon cutting to celebrate the addition of the property to the Park District will take place later in the year.

Funding Sources

The property was acquired in partnership with the Conservancy using a combination of grant funds from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife ($1.5 million) with additional funding ($320,000) provided by the Wildlife Conservation Board, both secured by the Conservancy.

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, over 126,000 acres, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Police seek Daly City man as person of interest in series of Brentwood auto vandalism cases

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Person of interest Arpy Yap and the Volkswagen Touareg he’s known to drive. Photos: Brentwood PD

Targets solo females in parking lots in ruse

By Brentwood Police Department

The Brentwood Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance regarding a series of vandalism incidents that have occurred throughout the City of Brentwood.

The individual in the photo has been identified as 48-year-old Arpy Yap of Daly City. Yap is suspected of targeting solo female victims in parking lots. In each incident, the victims returned to their vehicles to discover their tires had been vandalized or deflated. Yap reportedly appeared shortly after, offering assistance in exchange for money.

Yap is known to drive a blue Volkswagen Touareg with a roof rack.

We are releasing this photo in an effort to identify any additional victims or witnesses who may have information related to these incidents.

This is also being shared as a public safety advisory. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Brentwood Police Department at (925) 809-7911. Callers may remain anonymous.