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Photo by Tony Kukulich
September 16, 2016
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Reverse Mortgages – Fact and Fiction By Beth Miller-Rowe What is a reverse mortgage? An FHA-insured, home equity conversion mortgage (reverse mortgage) is a loan program designed by and insured by HUD, which allows seniors 62 and over to access equity in their home. The reverse mortgage comes in many shapes and sizes, fixed rate, adjustable rates, monthly income or line of credit. We can pay off your current mortgage, and if there is sufficient equity, we can also provide monthly income or a line of credit. If you do not have a current mortgage against your home, then your options are even greater. Is a reverse mortgage 100 percent financing? The amount you can borrow is dependent on the age of the youngest borrower, current interest rates and the value of your home. It is not 100 percent financing, but rather a percentage of the value of your home. For example, if you are 62, you can borrow approximately 53 percent; if you are 85, you can borrow approximately 70 percent. The first thing we do is pay off your current mortgage, if any, and then we look at the other options open to you. Do both borrowers have to be 62+? No. HUD revised the rules regarding a spouse who is under 62 years of age. We now offer programs that will allow that spouse to remain in the home if something happens to the borrowing spouse. This is referred to as an eligible non-borrowing spouse. What can I do with the money? The bottom line is that you can do whatever you wish with the money. Many people use it to pay off debt, pay medical expenses, hire help around the home, travel or help grandkids or kids. The list is endless. One of my favorites is when I see people improving their home for their enjoyment. Often times, we remodel or upgrade our homes when we are going to sell in order to get top dollar. The sad part about that is that we don’t get to enjoy those improvements
while we are living in our home. Whether it is completely new kitchen and baths, adding some valuable accessibility features or creating a more open living space, why not spend some time enjoying those amenities? What are my responsibilities as a borrower? I call them the Big 5: 1. Pay your property taxes. 2. Pay your property insurance. 3. Pay your HOA dues. 4. Live in the home. 5. Maintain the home. As long as you do those five things, you can live in your home forever without making any principal and interest payments. Why does it all seem so confusing? We have all spent our entire lives paying down our bills and reducing our debt. It feels odd to us to be getting money from the bank and having our debt increase. That is understandable. The overriding goal was to reach retirement with our house paid off and no debt. Some people got there, but would now like to access some of the accumulated wealth to enhance their retirement years. Others were not so fortunate for a variety of reasons, not the least of which was the 2008 economic devastation that destroyed years of diligent savings and planning. It is a whole new way of thinking, and that is why a face-to-face meeting is so important. Speaking face to face is the very heart of good business. I would never consider ‘doing a deal’ that has to do with finances or my home with someone I have never met or laid eyes on. At our first meeting, I will explain the mechanics of a reverse mortgage in detail. We will review it every which way to Sunday, until you understand how and why it works. This meeting will determine the success of the process and, more importantly, the success of the reverse mortgage in meeting your long-term goals.
Beth Miller-Rowe Branch Manager and Reverse Mortgage Specialist The Reverse Mortgage Group
A Branch of American Pacific Mortgage
Office: 925-969-0380 Cell: 925-381-8264 Beth@YourReverse.com 3478 Buskirk Ave., Ste. 1000 Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
• No principal and interest payments required!
• You own your own home, not the bank!
• Proceeds are tax free!
BRE: 00950759/01215943 NMLS: 294774/831612/1850
Licensed by the Dept of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act
SEPTEMBER 16, 2016
HOME & GARDEN
Former lieutenant takes on new role
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RUTH ROBERTS
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he face is a familiar one, it just takes a minute to place him. But once Kevin King,
the general manager and operator of Brentwood Outdoor Living, shakes your hand and says hello, you have that “ah-ha” moment. Yes, that Kevin King: former Brentwood police lieutenant. “My customers are so happy to see me, I almost feel like a fireman,” joked King. “The response has been really great.” The well-known, popular lieutenant, who retired from the force in 2008, is a familiar face in Brentwood, known in recent years for his myriad communityservice projects and support for local orgaON THE COVER: Brentwood Outdoor Living offers customers one-stop shopping and a staff of knowledgeable experts. Photo by Tony Kukulich.
nizations and charities. When he retired, the personable King had trouble sitting still and decided to mix his passion for motorcycles with sales, including a gig selling Harleys in Oakland, working with the world-famous Arlen Ness in Dublin, and most recently running an Indian motorcycle dealership in San Jose. But, when the commute became too much, King started looking a little closer to home. Enter Brentwood Outdoor Living. “This was a great opportunity,” said King, who added going from motorcycle sales to outdoor products was not that much of a stretch. “Motorcyles, spas? Both are luxury items.” King opened the doors to the public at the end of July and stocked his new business with a variety of upscale, premium products, including outdoor kitchens, luxury swim spas, patio furniture, grills, fire tables, umbrellas, hammocks, swings, accessories and more. All items are top-ofthe-line brands, including Hotspring Spas, Louisiana, Alfresco, Artisan, Twin Eagles grills, and of course, The Big Green Egg.
Kevin King, general manager and operator of Brentwood Outdoor Living, seen here with an inanimate customer, specializes in upscale, outdoor patio products.
Photo by
see Lieutenant page 17B
Tony Kukulich
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SEPTEMBER 16, 2016
Local housing market continues to climb JAKE MENEZ
housing market across the U.S. spiraled out of control
in what was recorded as the largest price drop in history. As the values of homes plummeted, foreclosure rates soared and many were forced to walk away from homes they could neither afford nor make their money back on. Once bustling neighborhoods suddenly looked like ghost towns in what seemed like an endless epidemic. Fast-forward to today and the housing crisis seems like nothing but a distant memory to residents of Oakley, Brentwood and Discovery Bay. The once-abandoned homes dotting the streets have been bought and spruced up by new residents, while the houses that are still for sale have seen an increase in their value. Those in need of concrete evidence that the local housing market is flourishing need look no further than the cities’ project-status reports. For example, Oakley boasts more than 5,000 entitled residential lots. This fall will see the construction of 466 new homes by five developers, all east of O’Hara Avenue. Another 283 homes will be added along
East Cypress Avenue sometime in 2017. Growth like this would have been unheard of seven years ago, but fits right in with today’s economy. As big as Oakley’s plans for growth are, Brentwood’s are even more ambitious. According to information provided by Jeff Zilm, project planner for Brentwood, there are currently 464 homes under construction in the city of Brentwood and another 2,780 that have been approved and are awaiting permits. Besides these 3,244 approved homes, there are another 403 that have been proposed and are awaiting approval. Compare these numbers to those from just a few years ago and the growth is obvious. In the fiscal year 2008, when the housing bubble was bursting, only 37 new permits were issued. The following year saw just 87 issued permits in the entire city of Brentwood. Numbers stayed relatively low between roughly 150 and 250 - until 2013, when a record 531 permits were issued before the numbers began to level out in the 400 range, where they remain today. Brentwood can only be described as going through incredible growth. Not to be forgotten, Discovery Bay is in see Market page 17B
Courtesy of City of Oakley
Oakley is just one area of East County enjoying the housing-market boom. More than 700 new homes are slated for construction or are currently underway in Oakley.
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SEPTEMBER 16, 2016
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A Brentwood icon retires
Selling Your Home? PAUL KELLY
AMY SCHRADER
W
hen Joe Trebino first moved to Brentwood in 1975, the town’s
REALTOR
®
population was around 2,500, there
BRE#01205211
Seller to-do’s before hiring a REALTOR®
were no stoplights and farms filled the
FIX IT FIRST
landscapes.
Every home has problems. Some are minor, while others involve more extensive repairs. When it’s time to sell your home, it’s most always beneficial to fix the problems “before” you sell. You start with a Pest Inspection ($175$250). With this list in hand, you can eliminate what your Buyer is sure to find later. Seller’s estimates for repairs are most always higher than what you might actually have to invest if done yourself or with lower bids. Problem homes sell for less. Stay ahead of potential challenges and you can make your transaction smoother, and net more money at closing.
The Concord native soon purchased Liberty Drug Store on Brentwood Boulevard and found his place in Brentwood’s history. “Having a store in a small town basically meant that you knew everyone, and your customers were your friends,” said Trebino, who added that farmers would have accounts on credit, which they’d pay off once a year after their harvest. “It was a nice way to do business,” he added. After 20 years, Trebino left the drugstore business and was looking for a new endeavor when he met the owner of Delta Pure Water in Brentwood, who wanted to sell his business. “I jumped at the opportunity, because it meant I could stay in Brentwood,” said Trebino. While Trebino ran his business, he also raised his family with his wife, Meryl. Their two daughters, Michele and Kimberly, graduated from Liberty High School before
Call me today to discuss your home.
(925) 437-5831
www.PaulKellySells.com
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attending college and starting their own successful businesses. For 21 years, Trebino served as the president of Delta Pure Water, operating the business with partial owner Chris Hayek, before retiring at age 71, on Tuesday, Aug. 23. After owning a business in Brentwood for over four decades, Trebino is looking forward to retirement, but will miss seeing the customers he called his friends. “I’ll miss seeing my customers every day and am so thankful for all of the people who supported me for the past 41 years,” said Trebino. Delta Pure Water will continue to provide water solutions and the highestquality products and services under the ownership of husband and wife Chris and Denise Hayek, who partially owned the business with Trebino for the last 10 years. “Joe has always been great to work with and very supportive,” said Chris Hayek. “We will surely miss him.” The Hayeks, who have more than 30 years of experience in the water business, also own a plumbing company, Aqua Master Filtration and Plumbing, which previously worked in conjunction with Delta Pure Water and will officially merge, ensuring seamless installation of all water-related products. They are also looking forward to
Press file photo
Joe Trebino, president of Delta Pure Water, has retired after owning the store for four decades. involving their children in the business and continue to support community groups and projects, including the Liberty High School marching band, the Brentwood Art Society and local sports teams. “This community has been great to us, and we love to give back as much as we can,” said Hayek. Delta Pure Water is located at 41 Sand Creek Road, in Brentwood. For more information, visit www.deltapurewater.com or call 925-634-6658.
To comment, visit www.thepress.net.
SEPTEMBER 16, 2016
HOME & GARDEN
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CALL US TODAY! Over 38 Years of Unparalleled Sales, Leasing And Property Management Expertise at Your Disposal! Brentwood
8340 Brentwood Blvd. Brentwood, CA 94513 925.634.8040
Discovery Bay
2453 Discovery Bay Blvd. Discovery Bay, CA 94505 925.624.2224
facebook.com/MarplesTeam
website
www.MarplesTeam.com
Help@MarplesTeam.com @MarplesTeam.com
The Largest Professional Property Management Firm in Your Marketplace for Over 38 Years! We manage every class of real estate including Residential, Commercial, Retail & Office Space!
Call the 38 Year Leasing & Management Experts!
925.634.7774 www.MarplesPM.com
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License #00881485
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HOME & GARDEN
Does your home’s energy need to be cleaned? AMY SCHRADER
E
veryone cleans their houses; we vacuum, dust, sweep, polish and shine floors and surfaces to get
rid of dust, dirt, germs and grime. What many people don’t realize is that negative energy can build up just as easily as the dust and dirt, leaving the occupants feeling uneasy, depressed, angry or anxious. If you’ve ever walked into a room and felt a sense of dread or have found yourself in a rut, it might be time to clean the energy in your home. Maureen Bradley, a shaman and owner of Your Soul’s Destiny in Brentwood, clears and blesses homes, creating a peaceful and harmonious vibration. “Your house is your sanctuary and should be a refuge from the stresses of the outside world,” said Bradley. “When negative energy is absorbed into the atmosphere of your home or business, it can impact other parts of your life.” According to Bradley, who has cleared Bay Area homes and recently worked with a team to cleanse a celebrity house in Hollywood, there are seven steps to cleansing
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OAKLEY OAKLEY OAKLEY OAKLEY PRESS S PRESS PRESS O A K L E Y O APRES Y K L E OAKLEY OAKLEY
Photo courtesy of Maureen Bradley
Maureen Bradley, a shaman and business owner of Your Soul’s Destiny in Brentwood, clears and blesses homes, creating a peaceful and harmonious living space. a space, and the process of a spiritual, energetic house clearing and blessing can wipe the slate clean and establish an environment that encourages calm, joy and comfort. Besides using traditional sage, which see Energy page 12B
2010 OAKLEY PRESS OAKLEY
SEPTEMBER 16,2016
HOME & GARDEN
THEPRESS.NET
DUDUM REAL ESTATE GROUP PROUDLY ANNOUNCING OUR OPENING IN BRENTWOOD!
Top Row: Jamie Connors, Amy Bright, Jason Moorman; Bottom Row: Belinda Heisner, Sheila Christie Guaragna.
Dudum Real Estate Group is happy to announce the opening of our newest office in Brentwood, allowing us to better serve the Brentwood, Oakley, and nearby communities. Dudum Real Estate Group is an independently-owned, thriving brokerage comprised of highly motivated, resourceful and successful real estate professionals. Formed by Julie Dudum Del Santo— who comes from a long line of Bay Area entrepreneurs—Dudum Real Estate Group is one of the preeminent and finest real estate brokerages in the East Bay. With offices in Brentwood, Lafayette and Walnut Creek, Dudum Real Estate Group agents work collectively to give their clients the best possible real estate buying and selling experience in the East Bay. At the core of our business philosophy is a commitment to extraordinary service, cooperation, honesty and communication. Our team of experts, knowledgeably and competently, cover a wide territory from the Oakland/Berkeley area, continuing east along Highway 24, throughout Lamorinda, as well as the communities along both sides of Highways 4 and 680. To find out more about us please visit us at www.dudum.com or call us today!
BRENTWOOD
LAFAYETTE
WALNUT CREEK
106-B Guthrie Rd., #B Brentwood, CA 94513 925.937.4000
999 Oak Hill Rd.,#100 Lafayette CA 94549 925.284.1400
1910 Olympic Blvd.,#100 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 925.937.4000
WWW.DUDUM.COM CalBRE#01882902
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HOME & GARDEN
ATTENTION: FAR EAST COUNTY HOMEOWNERS
SunBusters Patio Covers in Brentwood specializes in giving outdoor spaces shade that allows homeowners to enjoy the outdoors year round, rain or shine.
Do you have a Water Softener in your home? Did you know they are now BANNED in Far East County? Delta Pure is proud to announce that they are carrying the new Krystal Klear Water System - which is the best alternative on the market: • No salt or Chemicals! • Maintenance - Free! • Gets rid of Scale Build - Ups! • You’ll use less soap & detergent! And your appliances will last longer! Best of all... Your hair and skin will feel like you just got out of a spa!
FULL SERVICE PLUMBING Call NOW for free details with NO obligation! Delta Pure Water Phone (925) 634-6658 41 Sand Creek Rd. Suite A, Brentwood, CA 94513
...or visit us at deltapurewater.com
Photo courtesy of Sam Davis
Throwing some shade into your yard AMY SCHRADER
Y
our backyard should be a haven and a place to escape from the rigors of daily life,
while you simply sit back and relax in your own private space, but unless you have a natural element providing shade, relaxing or entertaining outdoors can be nearly impossible under a hot, glaring sun.
SunBusters Patio Covers in Brentwood specializes in providing shade for outdoor spaces, with their custom louvered covers, solar screens, drop shades, insulated and non-insulated roofs, lattice covers, freestanding or attached pergolas, trellises, lattices, golf ball screens and windbreaks. For more than 18 years, Alan Lee, owner, has been offering affordable patio covers that are a fraction of the cost of wood, without all of the maintenance. The see Shade page 22B
SEPTEMBER 16, 2016
HOME & GARDEN
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Fall Inventory
ANNUAL
UP TO
OFF 60% RETAIL!
Enjoy 20-60%
OFF
Now through 10/31/16
DCS
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Single 20” Tower Drawer
Softclose tracks, removable for easy cleaning, can hold up to 75lbs. TDS20. Was $789
Natural gas fueled. BGC48BQAR. Was $5459
Now
$4159.20
DCS
Vinyl Cover for Liberty Collection Freestanding Grill
DCS
Dual Sideburner
Perfectly fits Liberty Collection Freestanding grill, velcro closures for a proper fit. BFG30VCC. Was $84
9 volt battery ignition, two individually controlled burners. BGB132. Was $749
Now
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AMERICAN FYRE DESIGNS, 32”
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Liquid propane fueled, Café Blanco colored. Was $1680................. Now
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9’ diameter, hand crank. Was $117........................................................... Now
FIRE MAGIC, Single
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Outdoor Fire Pits Gas Logs Pizza Ovens Outdoor Fireplaces Patio Heaters Grilling Accessories
234 Oak Street, Brentwood
(925) 516-1603
Mon-Fri 9am-5pm • Sat 8am-5pm • Sun 9am-5pm
www.wholesalepatiostore.com
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SEPTEMBER 16, 2016
Why renters insurance is worth it AMY SCHRADER
F
ires, broken pipes and burglaries are known threats that can wipe out all of the possessions
within a home. While 95 percent of homeowners in the U.S. carry homeowners insurance, only 35 percent of renters are insured, which leaves them at risk in the event of a disaster. According to the National Multifamily Housing Council, 37 percent of homes in the U.S. are renter-occupied, which leaves a large percent of the population unprotected from events that threaten the homes they rent. “We encourage anyone who owns a rental property to make sure their renters have insurance,” said Emily Slatten, co-owner of East County Insurance Company.
Energy from page 8B only calms energy rather than removing it, Bradley’s process involves a Despacho ceremony, a tradition of the Q’ero Native Americans. This ritual is an energetic exchange for healing, right of passage, marking transitions and moving forward with health and vitality. “After removing the negative energy, a Despacho ceremony puts all of the joy and positive intentions you set back into the
East County Insurance Agency Inc. is a family business with more than 55 years of experience in Contra Costa County. Slatten and her husband, George Stewart, currently own and operate the business that was started by Slatten’s father, John Slatten. The couple follows John Slatten’s business principles, which were guided by his values. “My dad made a good name for himself, taking care of people and doing the right thing,” said Slatten. “He’s always did things the way they are supposed to be done and made sure his customers had what they needed at the best premium.” Wanting to make sure their customers have the coverage they need, includes making sure renters are aware of the protection renters insurance offers. Renters insurance not only covers personal belongings inside the home, such as TVs, laptops, clothes and furniture, but
it may also cover belongings outside, such as stolen bicycles or items stolen from your car. If there is a fire, renters insurance can provide temporary housing and assist with other necessities, if you are unable to return to your home. When Oakley resident Becca Stocklin’s previous Antioch home was burglarized, she was thankful she had renters insurance. “Thank goodness we had it, because after the robbery, we were able to get money to replace some of the things we lost,” she said. Not everyone is so lucky. According to Slatten, most renters don’t realize how affordable renters insurance can be. The Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America states that renters insurance is much cheaper than homeowners insurance, costing renters an average of $12 per
month for property and liability coverage. “Renters can save money by bundling their policy with other products, such as car insurance,” said Slatten. In addition to being affordable, renters insurance can protect you from personal liability. If someone slips in your home and you are found liable for the injury, or if you cause damage to another person’s property, your renters insurance can offer protection. With numerous advantages, it’s time for the 35 percent of renters who remain uninsured to call their local agent and get covered. East County Insurance Agency Inc. is located at 4550 Balfour Road, Suite G, in Brentwood, and at 2738 W. Tregallas Road, in Antioch. For more information, visit www. eastcountyins.com or call 925-240-1330 or 925-203-0849. To comment, visit www.thepress.net.
space,” said Bradley. “It sets forth a new intention that is personal to each home or business owner.” According to Bradley, houses or businesses should be cleansed when you first move into the space; after an illness; if you don’t feel comfortable or settled in the space; if you’re having bad luck; during transitional periods in your life; after death or a divorce; before you put your house on the market and when you
wish to open doors to new opportunities. Many local residents follow these guidelines, as well as a regular schedule for clearing the energy in their homes. Discovery Bay resident Amy Henry-Smith sages her house monthly. “The house feels lighter and happier afterward,” she said. “If I don’t, the energy feels thick, and strange stuff happens.” Jerika Shields, of Concord, relies on
cleansings to clear negative energies. “I don’t need negativity attaching to me and my belongings,” she said. Besides clearings and blessings, Bradley also provides illuminations and hand readings. Your Soul’s Destiny is located at 819 First St., Suite 2, in Brentwood. For more information, visit www.yoursoulsdestiny.com or call 925-381-4471. To comment, visit www.thepress.net.
SEPTEMBER 16, 2016
HOME & GARDEN
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SPOOKTACULAR
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PUMPKIN
DECORATING STATION
A SPELL-BINDING
TIME pumpkin PATCH
Emerson Ranch Park Saturday, October 22 | 3pm – 6pm A spooktacular event is happening and it’s sure to be a good time! Join us for devilishly delicious bites, pumpkins galore, trick-or-treating and a host of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy.
COSTUME
CONTEST & PRIZES
TRICK-OR-
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Discover More About Our 4 New Home Neighborhoods E MERS ON RAN CH WAY & CY PRE S S ROAD IN OAKLE Y
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Approx. 1,990 – 3,078 Sq. Ft. Up to 6 Bedrooms From the Low $400,000s
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Approx. 2,211 – 2,725 Sq. Ft. Up to 5 Bedrooms From the Mid $400,000s
B R O K E R S W E LC O M E Prices, terms and features subject to change without notice. Square footages are approximate. CalBRE license no. 01996804.
BH007697 EMERSON RANCH FALL CAMPAIGN AD | 9.75” X 12.71 | BRENTWOOD PRESS
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HOME & GARDEN
THE PEST STOPPERS Well known for bringing color to autumn landscapes, mums actually are perennials that can be planted in spring.
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
Enjoy the beauty of mums year round
C
hrysanthemums, often
of attention as early as the spring
Although mums are most often purchased in September and October and cast aside shortly thereafter, the plant that many people mistake for an annual is actually a perennial – meaning, with the proper care, it can come back year after year. By planting mums in the spring, gardeners ensure the plants have enough time to develop solid root systems, including their hallmark underground runners, which
gardening season.
see Mums page 22B
referred to as mums, are among the most popular
flowers for autumn plantings and landscape dĂŠcor, but these hardy, often vividly colored plants are worthy
SEPTEMBER 16, 2016
HOME & GARDEN
How to graft a plant
P
lants can be propagated in various ways, including grafting, which involves slicing off
a piece from one plant and connecting it to another to create a new plant. Grafting is actually botanical surgery. The grafted parts eventually grow together to form a single, grafted plant, which will produce leaves, a stem, flowers or fruit on top, known as a scion. The bottom part of the graft is known as the rootstock. Production of grafted plants requires time, and grafting involves more than just propagating plants from seeds or cuttings. The benefits of grafting include the propensity to flower or bear fruit more quickly than traditional plants. Grafting also can help a plant thrive, by selecting a root system adapted to a particular climate. Grafting is particularly advantageous when one wants to produce a plant that is an exact duplicate of the parent plant. Planting from seeds can produce inconsistent results. If grafting seems like something you want to try, consider the following tips. ♦♦ Seek help from experienced grafters. Many grafters work at nurseries or in the research field. If they’re too busy to work with you, you can likely find a video online that can show you the proper techniques.
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
Grafting can help a plant thrive, by selecting a root system adapted to a particular climate. ♦♦ Invest in a high-quality, very sharp knife. According to horticulture expert and teacher Dr. Malcolm Manners, grafting requires very sharp cuts. The knife needs to be razor sharp for it to be effective. Dull see Graft page 22B
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With paint, texture, fabric, lighting and more, rooms can quickly transform into cozy respites from the cold. Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
Transform living spaces into cozy, warm retreats
C
ool weather often drives people to spend more time indoors than they do during
the warmer months. Autumn is a time to winterize gardens, put away lawn furniture and prepare for the holiday season. It also provides the perfect opportunity to begin home-interior projects. Many people decide to redecorate their homes to reflect each season. When temperatures change, it’s time to transition from light colors and breezy fabrics symbolic of summer to thicker, darker materials that evoke coziness. With some inspiration and a little know-how, anyone can cozy up a space in time for fall and winter. Invest in area rugs. While wood floors can look beautiful and work well with many different design styles, wood can feel chilly underfoot. Thick area rugs add warmth to a room and can help it look more inviting. Area rugs also help a room appear more cohesive, coordinating with other colors in a space and providing a visual border. Practice layering in rooms. An affordable and relatively easy way to make a room seem more cozy is to layer fabrics and other accents, including throws and blankets. Remove place mats from the dining room table and use them on accent tables or an ottoman. Table runners also can add a splash of color to the top of
bedroom dressers. Play with texture. Look for fabrics that boast texture and add a tactile feel to spaces. When used on throw pillows or small accents, faux fur can create that cozy cabin feel. Draperies made from nubby fabrics or those with grooves and ridges can add dimension to a room as well. Even a lampshade made of an unusual fabric, such as a waffle-patterned material, can add a little depth and warmth to a space. Re-evaluate your lighting. Lighting a space is more than just flipping on a switch. Finding the right balance of lighting fixtures can instantly transform the feel of a room. Create a warmer atmosphere by switching out bulbs from cooler shades to warmer ones – those that give off yellow and pink hues, rather than cool blues. Accent lighting helps establish a comfortable space for curling up and reading a good book. Spot lighting, such as fixtures that are trained on artwork or inside of a curio or china cabinet, also can set a more welcoming mood. Install a bookshelf and start a book collection. Piles and stacked books can add warmth to any space. Books evoke the hallowed halls of schools and quiet nooks in the library. Fill shelves with books interspersed with additional design accents, and you will instantly make a room feel more inviting. Use the colder weather as an opportunity to reinvent some of the rooms in your home. With paint, texture, fabric and lighting, rooms can transform into cozy respites. – Courtesy Metro Creative
SEPTEMBER 16, 2016
Lieutenant
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from page 3B
With a selection of brands too numerous to name, King and his staff say that while the products speak for themselves, it’s the customer service that brings in their customers and keeps them coming back. “We’re all about customer service,” said King. “No project is too big or too small. We offer quality products at competitive prices, and we’ll offer you as much or as little help as you want.” The large showroom offers clients the opportunity to view a variety of options and work with the knowledgeable staff to meet each customer’s specific needs. “I love the products we sell, and if you love what you sell, it makes all the difference,” said salesman Dwight Williams. “This is a great place to work. People come in and say what a beautiful place this is; we hear that everyday, and they’re right.” For King, working close to home in his own community is worth everything. “My wife definitely likes having me
Market from page 4B a period of growth as well, with two new subdivisions of single-family units estimated to begin construction in 2017. Newport Pointe, to be located immediately west of Newport Drive at Newport Lane, will boast 67 single-family units, while Pantages at Discovery Bay will be a 292-unit, single-family “deep-water subdivision,” located at the end of Timber Point Road and Kellogg Creek. While it may seem as though there
Brentwood Outdoor Living takes customers step-by-step through the process of designing their backyard kitchens and outdoor spaces.
Photo by Tony Kukulich
back,” said King, who has five grandchildren. “This has been a great opportunity, and I’m having a lot of fun.” Brentwood Outdoor Living is located
at 6061 Lone Tree Way, behind Buffalo Wild Wings, in Brentwood. The store is open Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.;
and Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 925-626-6383. Visit, www.brentwoodoutdoorliving.com. To comment, visit www.thepress.net.
are fewer homes being built in Discovery Bay compared to Brentwood and Oakley, Discovery Bay leads in the number of remodeling projects to existing homes. Timothy Bubniak, owner of Tim Bubniak Construction in Discovery Bay, confirmed that his company stays the busiest in that particular town. Bubniak estimates that his company has seen a 40 to 50 percent increase in business this year alone, something he attri-
butes to the improvement of the housing market. “My thought is that there have been people holding off on improvements to their house when property values were low,” he said. “Now that the market is up, they feel good about doing improvements.” Similarly, Jim Clark, of Jim Clark Construction in Brentwood, has also seen an increase in business. “I wouldn’t say I’m the only one who’s
seen an increase,” he said. “Really, it’s all the contractors in the area.” Clark has stayed busiest in the Brentwood area, and the projects he has worked on recently range from single-home remodels to refurbishing parts of entire apartment complexes. “I would say my workload this year in this area has increased at least 25 to 35 percent,” he said. To comment, visit www.thepress.net.
reduce • reuse • recycle • respect • recover Help us keep as many items out of the landfill as possible.
Contra Costa Waste Services 1300 Loveridge Road in Pittsburg
For more information, please visit: www.ContraCostaWaste.com
Recovering as many items as possible!
Contra Costa Waste Service reduce • reuse • recycle • respect • recover A Garaventa Company
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HOME & GARDEN
SEPTEMBER 16, 2016
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
Bedbugs can hitch rides home from hotel rooms, offices and dorms. The key to avoiding an infestation is to prioritize prevention.
Prevent bedbugs at home
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leep tight, don’t let the bedbugs bite, may have been a clever thing to say when tucking children in at
night, but the critters are more than just child’s play. Bedbugs have long been a threat to humans and other animals. Archaeologists have found the fossilized insects in human dwellings in Egypt that date back roughly
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3,550 years. Greek playwrights have mentioned them, and they’re even referenced in the Talmud. Even though bedbugs are commonly associated with areas void of cleanliness, just about any person can end up with an infestation. That’s because bedbugs are very good at hitchhiking. They can nestle into small crevices, such as in the cracks of suitcases, clothing and linens and can take up residence in another see Bedbugs page 21B
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Enjoying the outdoors with fire features dream of adding a fire
feature to their outdoor space. Fire goes hand in hand with outdoor living and with the tradition of gathering around an open flame when the sun goes down and the stars light up the sky. Whether the night calls for a relaxing evening lounging with friends or the excitement of roasting s’mores or hot dogs with the family, adding fire heightens the outdoor experience. There are many options to choose from. Fire features come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from wood burning to gas burning. Here are some of the pros and cons of each fuel type:
Wood burning Pros
Simple – Beyond the initial setup, there’s no gas lines or moving parts to prevent the wood fire pit from operating. Affordable – Firewood is usually pretty cheap, readily available in our area and a sustainable resource. Warmth – Real wood fires create a warm and cozy flame that is unmatched in heat and flame presence. Cons Mess – There is ash and soot to deal with,
Gas burning Pros
Ease of use - they light quickly and easily. When you shut off the gas, the flame is out without any hot embers to worry about catching back on fire. If burning natural gas, there really is no shortage of fuel. Safe - Gas fire pits do not produce dirty smoke and they also do not produce popping embers or flying sparks. However, it must be noted that propane gas can be very unsafe if not installed and used properly. Clean – No ash or soot to clean after use. Cons Kids – Some kids are curious little sleuths
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and it gets even messier when left uncovered. Flying embers – Burning wood can also cause fires elsewhere if a fire is not well tended. Many insurance companies want to be made aware of any wood-burning fire feature you add. Spare the air days – These are days at certain times of the year when we are unable to burn wood. You can check these days at www.sparetheair.org. Not all cities allow wood-burning fire pits or fireplaces, but Brentwood does. Check other city’s zoning requirements before installing in your specific city. Built-in units have different zoning and setback requirements than portable units, so it’s always best to check with the planning and permit agencies first.
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and will fiddle with fire controls when left unattended. If you are using natural gas, be sure that your fire pit has a key valve or a safety shut off. If using propane, it would be wise to get a tank lock or store the fuel away from the pit when not in use. Empty tank – If you decide to use a propane version, which is the easiest to set up, it would be wise to always have a spare tank available so you aren’t caught in the midst of a spectacular evening and run out of fuel for the fire. Danger – Propane gas is heavier than air and can settle inside a poorly built structure until it reaches an ignition source and explodes. This can be very dangerous. If you use a propane tank, do not use your own custom creation without first consulting with a professional to make sure it’s safe. Natural gas does indeed burn cleaner and, in most cases, is cheaper over the long haul, so even though you may spend more than a $1,000 running a gas line to a new fire
feature, the convenience of never running out of fuel coupled with the lesser expense of fuel over the long run may be the wisest choice. Some new homebuilders actually install gas lines off the back of the house for a future barbecue island or fire feature. Where this may seem wise, it isn’t always. Many times the builder under sizes those lines and installs them in a bad location. It’s always an eye sore to have to run a gas line down the wall in your patio area. It is recommended that the gas lines be run all the way to the gas meter from the outdoor appliances. It’s usually cheaper than what the builder would charge anyway. Never install a fire feature in a confined space that is not well ventilated; it is very dangerous. Contributed by Todd Maltbie. Todd Maltbie is the president of Patio Sites Inc., a patio store in downtown Brentwood. For more information, visit www.wholesalepatiostore.com or www. designedby.com.
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HOME & GARDEN
Creating a yard that rocks
SEPTEMBER 16, 2016
AMY SCHRADER
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s the California drought continues and water rates climb, many homeowners are adding decorative rocks and boulders to
their landscaping wish lists. Using rocks can transform a plain yard into a beautiful and relaxing oasis and provide drought-resistant sculptural beauty that’s easy to maintain and cost efficient. Brentwood Decorative Rock is an expert at yard transforming landscaping using rock and soil products. The family business, owned by husband and wife Rob and Theresa Hawkins, has more than 25 years of experience offering beautiful, top-of-the-line rocks, stones, soil, mulch, sand, gravel and other products for homeowners, landscapers and do-it-yourself projects. “More and more, people are incorporating stones and rocks into their yards to not only add natural beauty, but to also conserve water and be environmentally conscientious,” said Theresa. “Those who aren’t adding rocks or stone are using mulch around their plants to help them retain moisture and reduce the amount and frequency of watering.” According to Hawkins, black lava rock is a popular option for ground cover or decoration. Lava rock helps retain moisture in the soil, provides optimum drainage to the bed and is more durable than mulch. “It’s a great option for tropical or desert landscapes,” said Hawkins. Brentwood Decorative Rock carries lava rock in different colors and sizes to meet personal preferences of homeowners and landscapers.
A new product trending this fall are ginger boulders. The boulders, which are peach colored with dark veining, have been selling off the trucks before they’re unloaded. “A large boulder can add a depth of texture, color and a unique element to your yard,” said Hawkins. Moss rock is popular to use with water features, as it can soften the appearance of a man-made water feature and give it a more natural look. The stones, which have natural moss and lichen growing on them, are unique in size and shape. According to Hawkins, Brentwood Decorative Rock has the biggest supply of moss rock boulders, and inventory changes every week, as new shipments come in. Whether customers purchase rock, stone, sand or mulch, Brentwood Decorative Rock can provide deliveries as small as one cubic yard, and as large as 24 tons, to the curbs or driveways of their customers. Installation is not offered. “Buying a big boulder or a load of mulch, sand or stone can be easy with our delivery options,” said Hawkins. Ease of delivery and a wide range of products have made Brentwood Decorative Rock a staple when it comes to landscaping. “We used moss rock from Brentwood Decorative Rock to create a waterfall in our yard,” said Brentwood resident Celeste Frago. “We love how it turned out. It added a natural element and depth and created a beautiful focal point.” Another Brentwood resident, Breanne Shaffer, frequently uses gravel, stone and decorative rock for her family’s small ranch. “Brentwood Decorative Rock is excellent to work with,” said Shaffer. “The decorative rock is beautiful and is a great material to use around plants.” Brentwood Decorative Rock is located at 6745
Photo courtesy of Theresa Hawkins
Brentwood Decorative Rock offers beautiful, top-quality rocks, stones, soil, mulch, sand and gravel for homeowners and landscapers to use to add visually stunning elements to their landscape designs, including this waterfall in Celeste Frago’s yard. Brentwood Blvd., #4, in Brentwood. For more information, visit www.brentwooddecorativerock.com or call 925-634-0131. To comment, visit www.thepress.net.
SEPTEMBER 16, 2016
HOME & GARDEN
Bedbugs from page 18B home, dormitory or office. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) says bedbug encounters have become more common in public places in recent years. Travelers need to protect themselves by learning how the bugs operate and how to prevent them from becoming a problem. The following are some fast facts about bedbugs. ♦♦ Bedbugs are found living with humans worldwide. ♦♦ Bedbugs feed on human blood to survive and reproduce, feeding roughly every three to seven days. ♦♦ While an immature bedbug will not cause an infestation in a home, all it takes is one pregnant female to lay eggs anywhere she wanders. It takes eggs only six to 10 days to hatch, according to the National Pesticide Information Center. ♦♦ Bedbugs can survive cold temperatures and go months without feeding. Drying out kills bedbugs in isolated areas more so than not feeding. With this knowledge in mind, people can prevent bed bugs from becoming a problem. The NPMA recommends the following preventative tips, particularly during and after staying in a public place. ♦♦ Pull back sheets and inspect mattress seams for telltale bedbug stains. Inspect the entire room, including sofas and chairs and behind the headboard, before unpacking. Notify management of anything suspect and change rooms or establishments immediately.
The National Pest Management Association says bedbug encounters have become more common in public places in recent years. ♦♦ If you need to change rooms, don’t move to a room adjacent or directly above or below the suspected infestation. ♦♦ Keep suitcases in plastic trash bags or protective covers during your stay to prevent bedbugs from nesting there. ♦♦ When home, inspect suitcases before bringing them into the house and vacuum them before storing. ♦♦ Wash all clothes — even those you did not wear— in hot water if you suspect the presence of bedbugs and their eggs. ♦♦ Inspect yourself for any bites. While the bite may not hurt, it can cause itching and irritation. Presence of bites is a clear indication that bedbugs are around and need to be treated. Bedbugs can be problematic. With the increase in travel or the start of a new school year, they can start spreading to new areas. Be diligent in your efforts to prevent infestations. – Courtesy Metro Creative
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Shade from page 10B products are available in a variety of colors and personalized options, such as lighting, electrical options, column upgrades and more. “A solid roof structure makes enjoying your outdoor space year round possible,” said Tiffany Trejo, sales, marketing and estimator for SunBusters. “By adding ceiling fans and lighting, homeowners can enjoy their summer outside into the evening. They can also add outdoor heaters with
Mums from page 14B enable them to grow tall and wide and over-winter. While it’s best to plant potted mums that were used in fall decorating after the flowers die but before winter sets in, some container plants can still thrive and come back the following year. When cleaning gardens in the spring, do not trash withered mums that may have been stashed behind the shed. Try planting them, and you may be surprised that they thrive and
Graft from page 15B knives and cuts can sabotage your grafting efforts. ♦♦ Do test cuts first. Before you decide to work on a plant, select a trial stem to practice on. This can give you a better feel for making smooth, precise cuts. ♦♦ Purchase high-quality rootstock plants. The rootstock plant is the plant that pro-
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SEPTEMBER 16, 2016
propane or natural gas and custom fireplaces or fire pits. With our custom drop shades for the sides, a homeowner can have a cozy space to entertain in the winter.” One of SunBusters’ most popular products are their louvered covers. They are mechanical, hard-wired or solar-powered, opening-and-closing roof systems. “Our customers can get out of the sun on a cool day or full coverage for rain and hot days with just the press of a button,” said Trejo. “They are top of the
line, best of both worlds and sure to get oohs and ahs from your guests.” Brentwood resident Stephanie Dourgarian enjoys her outdoor patio space year around, rain or shine, thanks to her louvered patio cover from SunBusters. “We wanted our outside space to feel like a living area and an extension of our house,” said Dourgarian. “We love our patio cover, especially for the fact that it is rain tight. Even if it’s raining, we can enjoy a meal outside or just sit under it and listen
to the rain. We also love that we can open the louvers and let more light into our whole home if we want to.” SunBusters Patio Covers is a platinum dealer of Alumawood, a recommended dealer for Duralum products, and participates in Ygrene Works and the HERO program. The business is located at 700 Harvest Park Drive, in Brentwood. For more information call 925-6250120 or visit www.sunbustersinc.com. To comment, visit www.thepress.net.
bloom again. Remove the dead branches and dried-up parts of the plant only after new shoots begin to grow. Gardening experts advise planting mums in sunny spots with southern exposure. However, be sure to keep the plants away from artificial lighting, such as streetlamps or garden accent lighting, as mums are short-day plants that bloom only when the hours of darkness are greater than the hours of daylight. Mums that get too much light at night may not
bloom to their fullest capacity, or they may be “leggy,” with longer stems instead of being compact. Pruning or “pinching” mums in June and July will help keep mums compact as well, resulting in more flowers. Mums desire a rich and moist, but well-drained, soil. Planted mums will require less water than container plants, but the ground should never become soggy. Well-watered plants will offer more flowers.
Hardy mums work well as edging, in mass groupings to create a shrub-like appearance and even in containers. Thanks to their relative affordability, mums are an inexpensive way to dress up landscapes. Although fall-flowering mums may not be the first plants to come to gardeners’ minds at the onset of spring, planning chrysanthemum landscaping can help ensure beautiful plants when spring and summer flowers begin to wither. – Courtesy Metro Creative
vides a root system and base. Rootstock is bred to have certain qualities, whether it’s to put more plant energy into producing flowers or fruit or to be more durable. ♦♦ Choose compatible plants. Not every scion can be grafted on every rootstock. You will likely need a related species or genus for success. Speak with a horticulturist if you need assistance.
♦♦ Work quickly, so that grafts do not dry out. As you become more experienced, this will be easier to do. Grafting is a technique that can produce true plants and may help generate new, but similar, species. Plant lovers may want to give it a try and see if grafting is for them. – Courtesy Metro Creative
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The simplicity of white in home decorating and renovation, helps any
space look effortlessly chic, blends well with just about any color and can be incorporated into various design styles — from modern to traditional. While the color white is always trendy, paint manufacturer Benjamin Moore chose white (Simply White OC-117) as their “it” color for 2016. White can be used nearly anywhere inside and outside the home. Improving interior and exterior spaces with white elements is easier than you might think, and it instantly can make anything look as good as new.
Kitchen
While rich, cherry wood cabinets and deeply hued granite countertops have long been popular in kitchens, creamy white cabinets paired with blonde wood countertops can work together to make kitchens seem open and airy. If all white is not your thing, brighten up kitchen spaces with white canisters, cookie jars and a fresh bouquet of white flowers to add instant appeal.
Living room
Use white as a base color for living
room spaces, so you can build on it with other hues on pillows and draperies, mixing and matching however you see fit. Homeowners who have children or pets should look for furniture with removable slipcovers. This way, they’re easily removed and laundered.
Bathroom
White bathrooms look fresh and are easy to clean and maintain. White tiles provide a classic look. Include colored bath mats, towels and shower curtains to break up the white as you see fit. A neutral white base makes it easy to switch out color schemes whenever you feel like it.
Bedroom
Feminine and fresh, white bedrooms may not be the first choice for novice designers. If the prospect of white on white seems too sterile, offset deeper hues on bed linens and walls with white furniture. This provides some pop against the darker contrast. Keep in mind that doing a bed up in all white means it will always be easy to find matching sheets and pillowcases, making it possible to ensure everything looks cohesive and crisp. Whether you do so with monochromatic roomscapes or accent pieces, you can incorporate white into design plans throughout your home. – Courtesy Metro Creative
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HOME & GARDEN
Near the Delta and parks. Chef’s kitchen. Room to grow.
Just dream. We’ll take care of the rest. Go ahead, dream away. Here at Oakley’s premier new neighborhoods, you’ll find it all—close proximity to the Delta and parks, chef’s kitchens, open layouts, desirable schools and more. DeNova is dedicated to fulfilling your wish list while fitting into your budget. Visit today. Your dream home is waiting.
Prescott — Oakley
Aspen at Emerson Ranch — Oakley
Large, well-appointed luxury homes located just steps from Cypress Grove Park and pond. • From the upper $400,000s • Approx. 2,036–3,165 sq. ft. • 3–5 bedrooms, 2–3.5 baths
Charming homes located near the Delta’s Big Break Regional Shoreline—a great value! • From the low $400,000s • Approx. 1,990-3,078 sq. ft. • 3–5 bedrooms, 2.5–3 baths
108 Prescott Circle, Oakley (off Cypress Rd. and Picasso Dr.) Phone: (925) 852-0542
813 Shearwater Way, Oakley Phone: (925) 681-8641
DeNova Homes reserves the right to make changes in price, materials and specifications without notice or liability for such changes. Approximate square footage. Models shown do not indicate racial preference. Sales and marketing by DeNova Home Sales, BRE #01247582. Equal Housing Opportunity. Brokers Welcome.
DeNovaHomes.com 888.548.8883