Spring Home and Garden 04.16.2021 by Brentwood Press & Publishing

APRIL 16, 2021

THE PRESS

Edition

Photo by First Last

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

HOME & GARDEN

APRIL 16, 2021

Retirement! The beginning of something new!

here is almost nothing that I like better than preparing the garden for Spring. It is a new beginning. It is life renewed. It allows

us to make new choices – what kinds of tomatoes, which types of lettuce, and red or green bell peppers this year, or maybe even jalapeños? The smell of the fresh dirt, as we turn in the organic matter to bring the nutrients to life, is so raw, it reminds me of when I was a little kid, running around, playing and getting dirty without a care in the world. This Spring is even more special. With 2020 behind us, and vaccinations for all, it feels like the beginning of a new era. We went out to dinner with our group of friends this past week at one of our favorite haunts. We all reminisced about old times, pre-COVID times, back when life was easy breezy, and we were all together, forever, we thought. 2020 was hard on some of them. One couple split up, and another sold their home and moved out of state, and yet another lost their job. At dinner we talked about the things that are different, but we also talked about how they hold great potential for new adventure for us all. Two people were starting new jobs which can be a bit intimidating at our age. One friend is going to be traveling the country for her new job which is super exciting. Our other friend can now work from his home which will allow him more time with his grandbabies. It is an exciting new venture for both. As we start to think about what the future holds for us all, new endeavors sound intriguing. It is almost like a blank slate. Anything is possible. Our friends moved to Texas, just outside of Dallas. Lucky for me because I LOVE Dallas. Fabulous shopping, super cosmopolitan, it is clean and new and shiny! Now we have a new reason to visit there. We have some other friends who have lived there for years and we will get to see them again. We have friends in San Antonio, and my sister lives outside of Austin. We are super excited to have new mischievous escapades in Texas. We have been out looking at various states trying to decide where we will live when we grow up, now Texas holds more interest, and has been added to our list. Our other friends who have also been on the hunt for where to move upon retirement have added Texas to their list of possibilities as well. Who knows, maybe we all end up together again, just a few states to the right, pun intended. This past week we had the pleasure of visiting my Father-in-Law who lives in Hawaii. We had dinner one night with his friends to talk about their experience retiring in Hawaii. One of the ladies said that she missed her kids terribly, but that they loved to come visit her from the mainland. She did admit that once grandbabies started arriving, she would probably move back to Texas. Oh look, there is Texas again. All the other guests said that they were very happy with their choice of places to retire and they were most happy because Hawaii does not tax retirement monies. That was good news. All in all, the consensus was that the

weather, the aloha attitude, the lack of intense politics, all work together to provide a sense of calm, and security. 2020 is going to be a major memory like the ones our parents used to talk about. Our parents lived through the depression, the baby boom, the march on Selma, Vietnam, raising us! LOL. But seriously, there are certain events in our lives that change us forever, and 2020 is one of them. Looking at things as being forever changed can be daunting for sure. There is so much to consider, so many decisions to be made. Sometimes it is new and exciting and other times it is sad and overwhelming. All we can do it put one foot in front of the other and keep going. The days will get easier with each new dawn. In my business, I meet people every day who have experienced “everything has changed” life altering events. For some they have lost a spouse or in some cases their spouse is still with us but no longer knows their wife/ husband’s name or does not recognize the kids any longer. It is heartbreaking. Others of my clients have lost their jobs, lost friends or family, gone through a divorce, or a devastating illness. Even if it is just retirement because you decided to retire, it creates big changes in our lives. What do we do every day? Where do we go? Do we still get up, get showered, and get dressed every day? Do we get to linger over coffee and read the paper in our jammies? Everything is new because it is different than the last 40 or 50 years of our lives. There are just so many stories that I hear from my clients. No matter where they are in their lives, crisis or no crisis, happy or sad, good times, or bad, most of them end with one consistent theme. I wish I had “lived” more, appreciated my moments more, soaked in all the world has to offer more. I wish I had worked less and played more. I wish I had noticed more of the little things, the kids laughing, the smell of great food, the breeze in my hair. I wish I had played with my kids, my nieces and nephews, my godchildren more. And then the realization… I do nott want to wish any more, I want to do! I often meet with the kids of my clients along with my homeowners. The kids are the ones who are always saying to the parents “you should do it Mom and Dad. This is a great opportunity for you to do the things you have always talked about.” For some that is to remodel the house, for others it is to travel to Paris, and for others it is a gift to their kids or grandkids as an early inheritance. For some they just want a back up financial plan to hedge the markets or cover unexpected expenses. For just as many of my clients, it is simply financial security. They want to have money left over at the end of the month to play with, to go out to dinner, to splurge. The reasons for a reverse mortgage are as varied as my client’s colorful stories they share but the theme is the same, they want to do the things they always planned to do when they retired. If you have ever thought about a reverse mortgage, now is the time to act. Values are strong, rates are good. Give us a call. I can’t come to your home yet, but I have become an expert Zoomer! Or we can do it the old fashion way and chat over the phone. Let’s start the conversation. Absolutely no obligation and never any pressure. You make your decision after you

Beth Miller-Rowe has been in the mortgage industry for 38 years specializing in reverse mortgages for the past 12 years. Beth has degrees in economics and business administration. have done your research. If a reverse mortgage works well for you, great! If it doesn’t that is okay too. You will have made an educated decision. Give me a call today. I look forward to it.Let’s start the conversation. Absolutely no obligation and never any pressure. You make your decision after you have done your research. If a reverse mortgage works well for you, great! If it doesn’t that is okay too. You will have made an educated decision. Give me a call today. I look forward to it. – Advertorial

Let’s take a look and see if we can Make Your Retirement Dreams Come True.

Beth Miller-Rowe NMLS: 294774

Branch Manager and Reverse Mortgage Specialist

The Reverse Mortgage Group • A Division of American Pacific Mortgage Corp.

Office: 925-969-0380 Cell: 925-381-8264 Beth@YourReverse.com

3478 Buskirk Ave., Ste. 1000 Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

Your Retirement Dreams Can Come True! A Division of American Pacific Mortgage Corporation NMLS 1850

DRE: 00950759/01215943 • NMLS: 294774/831612/1850 Licensed by the Dept of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act

*Reverse mortgages are loans offered to homeowners who are 62 or older who have equity in their homes. The loan programs allow borrowers to defer payment on the loans until they pass away, sell the home, or move out. Homeowners, however, remain responsible for the payment of taxes, insurance, maintenance, and other items. Nonpayment of these items can lead to a default under the loan terms and ultimate loss of the home. FHA insured reverse mortgages have an up front and ongoing cost; ask your loan officer for details. These materials are not from, nor approved by HUD, FHA, or any governing agency. **American Pacific Mortgage Corporation is not financial service company or licensed tax advisors; the material provided is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, tax and/or mortgage advice. Although the material is deemed to be accurate and reliable, there is no guarantee it is without errors. We are not financial or tax advisors, please contact your financial professional for your personal financial situation.

HOME & GARDEN

APRIL 16, 2021

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

Drought could shift garden priorities SALINA LAZARUS

ith the likelihood of another dry season this year, California

residents will need to become more self-conscious about their water usage. Naturally, when this issue is raised, the local green-thumbs are concerned with how to properly start or maintain their gardens. Nino Pompei, one of the owners of the Oakley-based Pompei Nursery, offers some advice. He urges fellow gardeners to research drought-tolerant plants which use less water, and to replace some of the plants in their gardens or add in these new variants. Eligible plants are numerous, and Pompei highlights some good options available to all California gardeners. “There are many plants that are drought-tolerant,” Pompei said. “(During) the last drought that we [Pompei Nursery] went through, we actually worked with the local water company…putting together a list which they sent out to the customer base, the water customer base, (explaining) what plants are native California

plants and are drought-tolerant.” The website of Calwaters, the largest subsidiary of the California Water Service Group, also lists plants adapted to long, dry summers and short rainy winters. The site aptly calls these “Mediterranean-zone” plants. Not all are native to California, but are still easily available and suited to the climate. Although California had an unusually dry February, Pompei noted that people aren’t yet seeking out the drought-tolerant plants. He assures the community that once people start shifting their focus to preserving water, Pompei Nursery will have a large selection available as they have during previous drought-conscious times. For now, Pompei Nursery is working with fruit-and-food-producing inventory, thanks to the influx of new garden owners at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The nursery has a large selection of fruit-producing trees, especially citrus, but buyers can also find lovely ornamental plants for decorative purposes. Pompei Nursery is located at 4701 Main St. in Oakley. For more information, call 925-625-7330 or visit http://www. pompeinursery.com. To view the Calwaters list, visit bit. ly/3wPPZtY.

Your Neighborhood Plant Shop

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

With drought conditions possibly on the horizon, it’s never too early for homeowners to begin thinking about altering their gardens to meet the need.

Succulents Supplies

Stop by our shop to see our wide variety of plants, pottery and supplies. We can design custom arrangements for you. Thurs. - Sun. 10am - 6pm 7740 Brentwood Blvd. Ste.B, Brentwood

facebook.com/secretgardendesignsbyhs @secretgardendesigns18

925-418-4297

Gifts &Home Decor SPECIAL SPRING OFFER

~ Family Owned & Operated ~

Pottery

Indoor & Tropical Plants

10% Off Plants* *Restrictions may apply. Mention this ad. Expires 4-30-21.

HOME & GARDEN

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

DIRT 101

APRIL 16, 2021

D MEDAL OL D

20 20200

AWAR

THE PRESS Y OA K LE

From the Helpful Folks at Oakley ACE

appy Spring from Oakley’s Favorite Helpful Hardware Store!

“As more of our customers are enjoying playing in the dirt during this unprecedented year our ‘Garden Gurus’ Danielle and Serina (with a little help from our company spokesman Stan Standard) have put their best tips & tricks into a ‘Dirt 101’ lesson for this spring’s gardeners! Read on for an insider lesson on how to get your garden growing in 4 easy tips.

1. Healthy Soil = Healthy plants!

Stan: Thank you, Brentwood Press readers, for rating Oakley Ace #1 since 2008! In return, we hope to give you some top-notch tips on Dirt 101, and to help you with your gardens from the ground up. We know that all plants (except Tillandsia, aka air plants) need a welldeveloped healthy root system for healthy growth. To encourage root growth and health you need the right base layer to put the plant in. Of course not all plants need the same thing and not all soils are the same so we carry a variety of soils for different plants and planting needs. Stan: Danielle, you’re the expert here - what soils do you recommend for planting directly into the ground? Danielle: One of my favorite allpurpose soils is GreenAll’s All-Purpose Ready-To-Use Planting Mix. You can mix with native soil or use it as it comes from the bag, with great ingredients for healthy roots: fir bark, perlite, mushroom compost, earthworm castings and a wetting agent. It’s made locally in Suisun and is great for general gardening. A lot of our customers, especially those planting flowers and ornamentals, swear by Miracle-Gro soils because they are specially formulated to grow even larger blooms, and for long-lasting soil health. Stan: What if I want to do container or raised bed planting? Danielle: Miracle-Gro® Raised Bed Soil is a no-mix soil blend that’s completely OMRI certified organic. It comes ready to use, and is packed with natural materials (earthworm castings, kelp meal, bone meal, and more) to create a fertile foundation for your plants, and ongoing nutrition for weeks! For pots and planters, MiracleGro® Potting Mix, contains a unique blend of ingredients including coconut coir, aged bark fines, and peat, that help the soil hold onto just enough water for plants to grow without getting soggy roots. Plus it has perlite to help oxygen needed by plant

Dirt-cheap! April soil sale at Oakley Ace, plus everything else you need to get growing this spring. roots to flow through the soil and plant food to get the growing started. Serina: For those wanting to go organic, get EB Stone (OMRI certified organic) Edna’s Best Potting Soil. This longlasting fir-based mix has excellent moisture retention from yucca, pumice for drainage, and air-filled pore space encouraging root growth. Plus, like the Green All products it is locally produced in Suisun.

2. Soil needs to be recharged!

Stan: A big question I hear is that someone wants to plant in their existing bed, but isn’t sure if they should. What do you gurus say? Serina: If your soil has already been “used” by last season’s plants, be sure to amend with some fresh nutrients. Danielle: Agreed. Got a compost bin? Amend the “old” soil with some of your fresh compost, or a bag of one of the many types of compost we carry at Oakley Ace! Chicken Manure is high in nitrogen and is great for adding to vegetable and flower beds. (And many green-thumbed kids like knowing that they’re helping when adding chicken poop to the garden.) Serina: Oh and if you have hard clay soil, E.B. Stone Organics Soil Booster helps increase microbial activity, loosens compacted soil, conserves moisture, and improves soil aeration to help produce bountiful crops and beautiful blooms. Soil Booster’s unique recipe includes aged forest products, aged fir bark, chicken manure, earthworm castings, pumice, feather meal, bat guano, alfalfa meal, and kelp meal.

3. Some plants are picky! Make sure you know their needs.

Stan: Some plants are known for needing a little extra TLC when planting. Can you give me some examples and suggestions? Danielle: ♦ Acidic soil makes Azaleas, Camellias, and other acid-loving plants happy! EB Stone has a potting/planting mix specifically for acid loving plants. You can use it directly in the ground or in a container.

Danielle and Serina, Oakley Ace’s Helpful Nursery Department Team.

Succulents come from dry climates with little nutrients. They need well-draining soil with very specific nutritional blends. Our MiracleGro Succulent Soil contains sphagnum peat moss, composted forest products, perlite, and sand to help keep the soil drained and the succulents thriving. ♦ Roses are beautiful flowers that tend to do well most places, but for the best blooms you want a slightly acidic soil (not azalea acidic). The MiracleGro Rose & Flower soil that we carry, is enriched with our continuous release plant food, and will feed for up to 3 months. Meanwhile, Moisture Control® technology protects plants against over- and under-watering. Serina: – and plant Roses away from rose-loving deer, I might add. ♦

4. Plants get hungry too! Stan: What do people need to know about feeding plants? ♦ Soil in pots, planters, and raised beds tend to have nutrients depleted quicker than in-ground soil, so remember to fertilize more often. (And start with the right soil) ♦ Tomatoes use up a lot of nitrogen, so enrich their soil every 4-6 weeks with something like the EB Stone Tomato and Vegetable food, or amend the tomato or similar nightshade with a healthy serving of Recipe 420 which also includes lots of nutrients plus Mycorrhizal fungi and beneficial soil bacteria. ♦ If you are growing a mixed garden try EB Stones all-purpose plant food. It is suitable for use on vegetables, trees, shrubs, lawns and flower gardens. It is ideal for use when feeding a variety of plants. (ingredients: blood meal, feather meal, bone meal, dried chicken manure, bat guano, alfalfa meal, kelp meal, potassium sulfate, humic acids and soil microbes including mycorrhizal fungi, which you’d think sounds tasty if you were a plant!) ♦ Some flowers like rhododendron and azalea need some extra food as they start to bud. EB Stone Ultra Bloom is specially formulated with micronutrients and humic acid to help with larger blooms and to sustain the plant through the fall/winter.

Stella, Oakley Ace Manager

Did you know you can change the color of some Hydrangea by changing the ph of the soil? A ph lower than 6 will usually give you blue hydrangeas and a ph higher than 7 will usually give you purple/pink flowers. ♦ Citrus trees and plants need nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, copper, manganese, magnesium, iron and other micronutrients. EB Stone’s Citrus & Fruit tree Food provides these through blood meal, chicken and bat guano, and kelp amongst other ingredients all blended with humic acid. Stan: Any last minute advice? Danielle: Yes, when planting, dig a hole larger than the pot the plant is in, and add healthy soil to the hole along with the new plant. (Give it a little boost by adding EB Stone’s Organic Sure Start to insure that your plants get off to a good start; just sprinkle some at the bottom of the hole you dig.) Serina: Oh and when planting seeds? Try E.B. Stone Organics Seed Starting Mix it’s ready to use right out of the bag for starting all types of seeds. It’s natural & organic and is gentle enough to promote root development when planting all types of seeds. Stan: Hope this little lesson in soil helps get the biggest blooms, tastiest veggies, and most beautiful garden you’ve ever had! Be sure to ask us at Oakley Ace if you have any other questions about your dirt – or anything that goes in to the soil! And – check out our Dirt Cheap sale throughout April to get the best foundation for your garden, from the ground up! ♦

Helpful Oakley Ace Staff playing in the dirt. Planters and plants at Oakley Ace. 3100 Main St, Oakley 925-625-2449 • www.OakleyAce.com – By Danielle, Serina, Stan, and the Garden Team at Oakley Ace Photos courtesy of Oakley ACE – Advertisement

APRIL 16, 2021

HOME & GARDEN

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

Adding value and peace in the backyard DAWNMARIE FEHR

he East County real estate market is hot right now. Driven by low inventory and

interest rates, prices are up and sellers can pick and choose among multiple offers well over the asking price. But for those interested in staying in their current homes, now might be a good time for some home improvement. Bathroom and kitchen remodels are always popular and can add value to a property, but homeowners shouldn’t overlook the backyard space, especially since many people are spending more time working and learning from home. “If you can, make a sitting area or a quiet spot, because more people are working from home now,” said Brentwood Realtor Brian Sharp. “While people are segregating in the house — to work, to school — you can make a quiet space in your backyard with some shade trees and a hammock to fit the idea of a staycation, where you can stay home and enjoy your spot.”

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

While the housing market is on fire right now, local experts say homeowners staying put shouldn’t overlook unique ways to make home improvements inside and outside their homes. Sharp has 23 years of experience in the industry. His business, Sharp Realty, offers residential real estate sales services to the Delta area and beyond. Sharp said his business experienced a sharp decline last spring when shelter-in-place restrictions caused buyers and sellers to retreat from the market. Things started to change in the summer, however, and the local market began to pick up. Sharp said one cause of

this is that many people are moving from the Bay Area to Brentwood for the great schools, shopping and other amenities available here. With the ability to work from home — at least part-time, if not fulltime — they have realized that they don’t need to live so close to work. They get more for their dollar in East County and can still be in the office in one to two hours. Homeowners looking to make

backyard improvements can use a home equity line of credit to finance their projects. Though these kinds of products were pulled from the market a few years ago, lenders are starting to offer them again. Refinancing is another popular choice, especially with interest rates at historic lows. Once the money is secured, Sharp has some suggestions for projects that can make a backyard more welcoming. “The number-one backyard improvement right now would be a pool,” he said. “I have never seen a pool get more for the homeowner than right now. That doesn’t mean it’s a moneymaker. If you spend $75,000 on the pool, you might get $50,000 more in a sale. So put a pool in because you want it and will enjoy it and you plan to be in the home for 3-5 years.” He said a barbecue island with a shade cover is another popular backyard amenity, as are bocci ball or sport courts, if you have the room. One trend losing momentum is drought-friendly landscaping. “Although if it doesn’t rain soon, drought-tolerant may come back to being very popular,” admitted Sharp. Sharp Realty is located at 320 Fairview Avenue in Brentwood. For more information, call 925-998-9712 or visit www. sharphomesonline.com.

This is how you get the floor you’ve always wanted Now you can have the floor you’ve always dreamed of with affordable monthly payments! Call today, and let us help you turn your project into a reality.

HARDWOOD

CARPET

TILE

FLOORING EXPERTS FOR OVER 20 YEARS!

CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE

Visit our website for sales and more information! ➜

(925) 477-0327

www.bayareafloorexpress.com

VINYL

HOME & GARDEN

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

APRIL 16, 2021

Secret Garden Designs offers plants and other goodies JENNA HARDS

Garden Designs, visitors are greeted by

a panorama of bright green and the subtle scent of candles. The locally owned Brentwood plant store is home to a variety of succulents, houseplants

CUSTOM AWNING FABRICATION & INSTALLATION We soften the sun! • Sunbrella Canvas • Retractable Power Awnings

• Power Solar Screens • Residential & Commercial

Call Ricky Torres today for a FREE quote

925.466.7082 • www.eclipseawningworkz.com

$.69

arry We Also C Turf! Synthetic

and new pottery, new plants. We’re just really passionate about what we do,” Stefani said. The store began when Stefani started selling arrangements at farmer’s markets across the Bay area. She brought in her husband, who recommended also selling individual succulents. Stefani’s arrangements were already sought after, and the couple found that selling succulents was also very popular at the markets. “Before I knew it, I had seven markets across the Bay area. And it was a little overwhelming, because at that time I wasn’t selling plants. I was only selling arrangements,” Stefani said. The Heffners moved their business to their own house and their customers followed, pushing them to find a new space for their work. Eventually, the two opened their local shop in Sunset Plaza, off Brentwood Boulevard. “The property manager for The Pink Door was actually one of the property managers for Sunset Plaza, where my

shop is now, and she told me they had a vacancy,” Stefani said. “So after we finished the sale, we went and looked at it, and my husband and I both just felt like it was 100% right.” The Heffners put in a lot of work to keep their shop stock fresh and have something for everyone of all ages and lifestyles. “We have clients who are 6 years old who come and spend their allowance with us and are obsessed with plants. And we have a 90-year-old woman who comes in just like everyone — all ages, all genders. The plant community definitely doesn’t discriminate,” Stefani said. Secret Garden Designs is open Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and the store will begin selling at the local Brentwood Farmers Market on April 17. The store can also be contacted through their social media platforms on Instagram and Facebook, at @secretgardendesigns18 and @secretgardendesignsbyhs, as well as their store phone, 925-418-4297.

Spring Sale! Large Selection of: Drought Tolerant Perennials, Shrubs & Trees Quality Plants at Affordable Prices

15% OFF Entire purchase with this ad.

New Truck Load of Shade Trees, Palms & Tropicals Just Arrived Including Crepe Myrtle, Flowering Plum, Evergreen Elm, Flowering Pear

FREE LOCAL DELIVERY on a NURSERY PURCHASE of $250 or more We Make Gardening Personal

2601 Walnut Blvd. at Payne Ave., Brentwood

(925) 516-1052

www.pereznursery.com

D MEDAL OL ARD

2020 AW

THE PRESS O RE NT WO

Visit us on the web for a complete list Open 7 Days a Week Mon - Sat 8:00-4:30 Sun 10-2 of sale items!

Sodpeornslqyft

Photo by Jenna Hards

alking into Secret

and other goodies for shoppers to browse. The owners, Stefani and Tom Heffner, work hard to keep their store filled with unique and popular plants, as well as other household items like candles, pots and decorative pieces. “We go all over the Bay Area, all over California, on Monday, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, sourcing these great plants so that we have new things on our shelves. On Thursday through Sunday, when we’re open, our customers have new things to look at

Secret Garden Designs in Brentwood stocks an array of unique and popular plants as well as other household items like candles, pots and decorative pieces.

Voted Best of Brentwood for 18 Years!

APRIL 16, 2021

HOME & GARDEN

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

Tips to stay safe when working in the yard

day spent working in the yard is an ideal way to pass the time on spring

and summer afternoons. A pristine landscape can add value to a property and instill pride in homeowners who put a lot of thought and effort into their lawns and gardens. A sun-soaked day can make it easy to overlook potential threats when working on a lawn or garden. But safety precautions are of the utmost necessity when working in the yard, where the risk for serious injury is considerable. For example, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reports that in 2016, more than 90,000 patients, including nearly 5,000 children, were treated in hospital emergency rooms for lawn mower-related injuries. Here are some tips to prevent injuries: ♦ Know your terrain before mowing. Knowing the terrain in your own yard can reduce the risk for accident or injury. This can be especially important when mowing the lawn with a riding mower. Adhere to manufacturer’s recommendations regarding inclines to reduce tip-over accidents that can pin riders beneath the mower. Study hilly areas of the yard prior

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

Lawn- and garden-related injuries can be prevented without going to great lengths. to mowing so you know which areas are safe to mow with a riding mower and which areas are best mowed with a walkbehind mower. For greater control when using a walk-behind mower on an incline, mow parallel to the slope. ♦ Apply and reapply sunscreen. Sunburns may not require trips to the emergency room, but they can still be serious. In fact, the Skin Cancer Foundation (SCF) notes that sunburn is a leading cause in the majority of cases of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma, which is the deadliest form of

skin cancer. The SCF recommends applying sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside to allow the sunscreen to bond to your skin. Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours, and more often if you’re sweating excessively. The SCF recommends broad spectrum sunscreens, which protect the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Though a product with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 is acceptable when walking the dog or driving to work, the SCF advises using a product with an SPF of 30 or higher when engaging in extended outdoor activities like gardening or mowing.

♦ Employ the buddy system. Use the buddy system when pruning tall trees or performing any tasks that require a ladder. The Orthopedic Institute of Pennsylvania (OIP) reports that more than 164,000 people are injured each year falling off a ladder. Ask a significant other or neighbor to hold the ladder in place while you climb up to reduce your risk of falling. If cutting large branches, cut them piecemeal to reduce the risk of being injured by heavy falling branches. ♦ Inspect the property for insect hives. The OIP notes that the most common insect stings in spring come from bees, wasps and hornets. Homeowners who are not careful can inadvertently come across hives when doing spring cleanup, making them vulnerable to bites and stings. That can be very dangerous for anyone, and especially so for people with a history of allergic reactions to insect bites or stings. Inspect areas where you’ll be working to make sure insects haven’t put down roots on your property. If you discover any hives and are hesitant to remove them on your own, contact a local landscaping firm. Lawn and garden accidents and injuries can be serious. Thankfully, accidents and injuries are easily prevented when homeowners take a few simple safety precautions while tending to their lawns and gardens. – Courtesy Metro Creative

CA Lic. #1073709

construction ✔ CONSTRUCTION

Bathroom and kitchen remodel? We can handle it from start to finish!

✔ PLUMBING

Faucet, sink, toilet or drain problems? No problem!

✔ ELECTRICAL

Need additional outlets, ceiling fans, sconces or recessed lighting? We do that, too!

✔ PAINTING

Interior, exterior, fence or other structure that needs painting? We’ve got you covered!

✔ MAINTENANCE

Gutter cleaning, pressure washing, fence repair, landscaping, hauling? We’ve got you covered!

www.handydads.net NO JOB TOO SMALL! BBB Rating A+

Call to request an estimate

9 2 5 - 5 8 7-D -DA ADS (3 2 3 7)

Adam Martinez

HOME & GARDEN

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

The many benefits of houseplants

he lines between the outdoors and indoors are being blurred. Homeowners build extensive

Houseplants can be used to improve indoor spaces, and they also provide various health benefits.

outdoor living spaces so they can relax on weather-resistant furniture and even cook in lavish kitchens in their backyards. In addition, indoor threeseason rooms full of bright, open windows that showcase outdoor vistas challenge the boundaries between

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

outside and inside. For those working with limited budgets, there are some easy, inexpensive ways to enjoy the majesty of natural landscapes indoors. Houseplants can be used to improve indoor spaces, and they also provide various health benefits.

♦ Help with allergies According to WebMD, rooms with houseplants tend to have less dust and mold in them than those without any foliage. Leaves and other parts of the plants serve as natural filters, catching airborne particles and allergens. Plants with textured leaves might be especially effective at trapping particles.

CUTINO’S

Your East County Ranch & Pet Feed Store

FEED & SUPPLY

over 50 years!

3770 Main St., Oakley

OAKLEY PRESS

OAKLEY

OAKLEY PRESS

OAKLEY

OAKLEY PRESS

OAKLEY

OAKLEY PRESS Y O E

AKL

OAKLEY PRESS Y O E

AKL

MEDAL LD AWARD

20 2 199 2 177 20 2 188 20 OAKLEY PRESS

OA KLEY

OAKLEY PRESS

OA KLEY

MEDAL LD AWARD

2 144 20 2 155 2012 2013 20 GO

20 2 100

MEDAL LD AWARD

OAKLEY PRESS

OA KLEY

D MEDAL OL RD

2020

625-2200

for Oakley g n i v Ser

AWA

THE PRESS Y OA K LE

♦ Put more oxygen into the air The human respiratory system works by bringing in oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide. Plants do the opposite during photosynthesis. They absorb carbon dioxide and then release oxygen. Plants can put much more oxygen into the air, improving indoor conditions. ♦ Increase indoor humidity and reduce illness Studies from the Agricultural University of Norway found that indoor plants can increase humidity in indoor spaces, which decreases the incidences of sore throats, dry coughs, dry skin and the common cold. Higher absolute humidity can decrease the chances of survival and transmission of the flu virus.

APRIL 16, 2021

♦ Filter the air Researchers who presented their work at the 252nd National Meeting & Exposition of the American Chemical Society, found certain houseplants can combat the potentially harmful effects of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Plants may help filter out VOCs like benzene, acetone and formaldehyde, which can enter indoor air via cleaning supplies, drycleaned clothes, furniture, printers and paints. ♦ Improve interior atmosphere Prevention magazine says plants can be used to screen unattractive areas, moderate room temperature by shading spots from the sun and even reduce noise. Plants also can improve ambiance and create a pleasing atmosphere in a room. ♦ Can improve mood Growing and caring for plants can alleviate everyday stress. A nationwide study from UK Magazine Gardeners World found 80 percent of gardeners declared themselves satisfied with life, compared to 67 percent among non-gardeners. Gardeners were more positive mentally. Greenery can help people feel more at home and improve mental health. A rehab center in Norway found patients reported a greater increase in well-being four weeks after having greenery added to their surroundings. Houseplants can improve indoor areas and positively affect personal health. – Courtesy of Metro Creative

National Flooring & Supply

Ready to get that flooring project done?

Cliff McCurley & his family have been serving the community since 1985.

Give us a call for details on how we can help you!

Estim

Carpet Laminate Hardwood Vinyl Plank Ceramic Tile

Your referrals are our greatest compliments!

3111 Balfour Rd.

(corner of Balfour & Fairview)

925-634-4111

D MEDAL OL ARD

2020 AW

THE PRESS O RE NT WO

FREaEtes

• • • • •

We are open and practicing safety guidelines

A portion of our sales go to help St. Jude’s Hospital charities.

Lic. #572991

www.nfsbrentwood.com

HOME & GARDEN

APRIL 16, 2021

Swimming pool landscaping ideas

ackyard pools provide a way to cool off and enjoy a taste of luxury without having

to travel. In 2020, backyard pools provided even more convenience and a welcome respite, as many public pools were closed in response to social distancing restrictions put in place during the pandemic. After installing pools, many homeowners realize that touching up the landscaping around the pool can provide the finishing touch to their backyard retreats. Not all landscaping is the same, and homeowners should choose plants that look beautiful, are tolerant to pool splashout and won’t outgrow the area. Home and garden resource The Spruce, notes that a plant that is attractive at 2 feet tall can grow rapidly and drop leaves or other debris into the pool. When selecting options for pool landscaping, here are some considerations to keep in mind:

♦ Choose plants that will provide privacy. ♦ Know which kind of climate a plant needs prior to purchasing it. Tropical plants may be fitting poolside, but will they endure when the season is over? ♦ Design according to the theme of the home, as plants should complement the existing style. Modern foliage may not blend well with a home styled after a traditional cottage. ♦ Decide whether you can accept spreading or trailing plants that can cascade over retaining walls and other infrastructure. ♦ Look at trees that won’t drop many leaves, flowers or fruit into the water. ♦ Don’t overlook the possibility of lawnabutting pavers or concrete surrounding a pool, as it can soften the edges and keep spaces open and inviting. ♦ Incorporate herbs or fragrant plants, which can transform a pool day into a spa experience. Consider low-maintenance lavender as an option. Pool landscaping must marry a variety of different features and plant requirements. As a result, professional consultation may be the route to take. Landscape architects will have the know-how to select plant varieties that are tolerant, beautiful and fulfill homeowners’ wishes.

Tap Into Healthier Water for Your Entire Family

Ensure safe and healthy water for drinking, bathing and cooking with our convenient whole-house filtration systems.

FULL SERVICE WATER STORE FULL SERVICE PLUMBING

• Water Treatment Solutions • Water Softeners • Water Conditioners • Reverse Osmosis Systems

• Well Water Treatment • Non-salt Water Conditioners • Bottled Water • Pure ICE • Salt

DELTA PURE WATER ETC Wa t e r Tr e a t m e n t S y s t e m s 41 A Sand Creek Rd., Brentwood (at Brentwood Blvd., behind McDonald’s)

Lic. #838264

Mon.-Fri. 10am - 6pm Sat. 9am - 5pm

925-634-6658 www.deltapurewater.com

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

10B

HOME & GARDEN

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

APRIL 16, 2021

Seven things to consider when buying a shed

ackyard sheds can be useful assets. Sheds can create storage space in the garage,

basement or other areas of the house that have become gathering spots for gear typically used outdoors. Sheds are ideal for housing mowers, tools and even pool-care equipment. But they can be put to other uses as well, such as being key spots to engage in hobbies or even as a child’s clubhouse. Various factors should be considered before building or buying a shed. A storage shed can be a significant investment. Once placed, a shed may remain in its dedicated spot for years to come. As a result, careful thought should go into the planning process.

1. Check your local building codes first. Before you accumulate building materials or order a shed, be sure to know the ins and outs of shed codes. The codes may impact the shed’s placement, construction, the materials used, size and numerous other factors. It is much easier to amend plans beforehand than to face the hassle and expense after learning things were done incorrectly. 2. Choose placement wisely. Spend several days assessing the yard and thinking about the uses for the shed. If you plan to store pool floats and chemicals inside of the shed, it should be located close enough to the pool to be convenient. Look at the lay of the land. If there is a soggy patch of land that can turn swampy under the shed’s foundation, that is a poor location choice. If you need access to electricity, placing it far away from the house could necessitate running expensive wiring. 3. Consider the design. Just because a shed is for storage doesn’t mean aesthetics should be over-

PATIO COVER COMPANY, INC.

2020

Serving Contra Costa County Since 1998 We are already in your backyard

AWA

THE PRESS O RE NT WO

Financing Available - Call for details!

Shop Local

D MEDAL OL RD

www.sunbustersinc.com

(925) 625-0120

There are several factors that should be considered before building or buying a shed for your home.

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

looked. Choose a shed style that complements your home. You may also want to match certain architectural features, like arched doorways or dormers. Design also may relate to practicality. For instance, storing a riding mower inside may necessitate dual doors that open widely. 4. Invest in quality materials. Spending a little more and using quality materials will ensure the shed lasts long enough to be cost-effective. The right materials will be resistant to splitting, cracking, decay and insect damage. 5. Prepare the site well. A proper foundation for the shed is almost as important as the shed itself. You

cannot just drop the shed on the lawn and leave it; the shed can sink or structural issues may arise if it is placed on a weak base. 6. Blend into the environment. Surround the shed with shrubs or plants so that it blends into the yard and complements the space. 7. Deck out the interior. Use every storage tool at your disposal to maximize floor, wall and even rafter space for storage. Plan where items will be kept and customize the storage options around those locations. Sheds can be an asset and improve storage capability in the backyard. – Courtesy of Metro Creative

WE BRING PEOPLE HOME. Rob O’Malley

Branch Manager/Sr. Mortgage Advisor NMLS# 240904 | CA DRE ID# 10423655 925.634.6600 omalleyteam@preferredrate.com

Steven Gazzaneo

Mortgage Advisor NMLS# 2046225 925.765.0582 steven.gazzaneo@preferredrate.com

Alex Coons

Director of Business Development NMLS# 1055487 925.418.3751 alex.coons@preferredrate.com

Coynda Lozano

Sr. Mortgage Advisor NMLS# 242505 | CA DRE ID# 01755157 925.584.4824 coynda.lozano@preferredrate.com Hablo Español

Peggy Valley

Sr. Mortgage Advisor NMLS#221369 | CA DRE ID# 01000599 925.890.5255 peggy.valley@preferredrate.com

Angelic Hetrick

Sr. Mortgage Advisor NMLS# 256715 925.584.4721 angelic.hetrick@preferredrate.com

George Munoz

Sr. Mortgage Advisor NMLS#252207 925.437.9520 george.munoz@preferredrate.com Hablo Español

Brian Wieber

Sr. Mortgage Advisor NMLS# 243294 510.329.5363 brian.wieber@preferredrate.com

© 2021 Preferred Rate - Partnered with American Pacific Mortgage (NMLS# 1850) • 141 Sand Creek Rd., Suite C • Brentwood, CA 94513 • Branch NMLS# 2085568 • For informational purposes only. • No guarantee of accuracy is expressed or implied. • Some products may not be available in all states and restrictions may apply. • Equal Housing Opportunity. • Licensed by the Dept. of Business Oversight under the CRMLA. • For licensing information, visit NMLSConsumerAccess.org

HOME & GARDEN

APRIL 16, 2021

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

Cut blooms that will last the longest

lowers may look beautiful

until late summer. Available in many hues, they can be used in conjunction with other blooms to create well-rounded floral displays that may last between two and three weeks.

in gardens and even when snipped and brought inside

to brighten up a mantel or dining

Lilies:

table. Unfortunately, cut flowers have

Lilies are traditional flowers that are beautiful to behold. Lilies are available in various sizes and colors and can be bought fresh year-round. Lilies often last longer than a week after being cut. Look for lilies with tight buds, as such flowers tend to last the longest.

a finite shelf life. While cut blooms can not live forever, certain varieties will outlast others. Choosing flowers wisely for wedding centerpieces or keepsakes can help couples enjoy

Gladioli:

selected flowers longer.

Peonies:

Peonies can last for about a week or two when brought indoors. HGTV says to snip the stems when the buds are tight, wrap them in newspaper and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to arrange.

Zinnias:

These bright blooms can last for three to four weeks and are best harvested in summer. Related to the sunflower, zinnias are available in a wide range of colors.

Chrysanthemums:

Widely referred to as mums, these

11B

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

While cut blooms will eventually die, certain kinds do have longer lives. midsummer to late-fall flowers can last between three and four weeks after being cut. Mums can be used to fill out floral displays as they tend to be inexpensive but durable flowers.

Coneflower:

The purple coneflower is popular, but coneflowers are available in many colors aside from purple. Coneflowers attract butterflies and are beautiful in cut displays.

Ranunculus:

Ranunculus mimic the look of roses and display layer after layer of silky, crepelike petals. These blooms can last a week or more in vases if they are put in water promptly after being cut.

Carnations:

Another budget-friendly flower, carnations are popular from early spring

The lovely flowers of the vertical-growing gladiolus, which is sometimes referred to as the sword lily, are available in yellow, peach, pink, white and other hues. These bulb-based plants can last up to two weeks after being cut and add variety and texture to floral displays. Although advice varies on how to keep cut flowers fresh the longest, veteran florist Nic Faitos, senior partner at Starbright Floral Design in New York who has provided his floral expertise for Reader’s Digest, says the best approach is to keep vase water clean. In addition, ProFlowers suggests keeping cut blooms in a cool room away from direct sunlight and heat. – Courtesy of Metro Creative

Transform Your Home BEFORE • Complete design service concept thru construction drawings with 3D animation

AFTER

Help us keep as many items out of the landfill as possible.

• Firm start and finish dates

THE PRESS O RE NT WO

• 5-year written guarantee

D MEDAL OL ARD

MEDAL LD AWARD

2020 201920182017 AW

reduce • reuse • recycle • respect • recover

• Personalized material and product selection

• Top quality craftsmanship

Call 877-734-6404 or visit www.CareyBros.com to schedule your virtual or in-home design consultation

Mt. Diablo Resource Recovery Park 1300 Loveridge Road, Pittsburg Recycling and Recovering 88% of all material For more information call (925) 473-0180 or visit www.mdrr.com

“A family owned company in the business of building quality” CA State License #442880

• Kitchens • Baths • Additions • Remodeling

12B

HOME & GARDEN

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

APRIL 16, 2021

Tools that can keep people safe at home

omes should be sanctuaries

sound requires both maintenance and caution designed to make homes less

D MEDAL OL ARD

MEDAL LD AWARD

vulnerable to potentially costly issues.

MEDAL LD AWARD

2020 20192018 AW

THE PRESS O RE NT WO

www.hennesseysfencing.com

Keeping homes safe and

Voted Fencing - Redwood - Metal Decks - Wrought Iron BEST Fencing Arbors - Chain Link Company Gates - Vinyl in Brentwood! Free Estimates 925-516-6601

Residential & Commercial

• • • •

for their inhabitants.

License #899814

We are your Good Neighbors!

Gotk ? Mar

Mark Murray Agent 2051 MAIN ST., OAKLEY

679-1500

ER MEDA LV ARD L

2020

LIC #OD64403

THE PRESS Y OA K LE

11 YEARS RUNNING!

www.markmurray.org

Promptly addressing maintenance issues around the house can reduce the risk of accident or injury. In addition, various items can alert homeowners to problems they may not otherwise recognize before issues jeopardize residents’ health or take a turn for the costly. ♦ Auto shut-off features Who hasn’t left the house only to worry an hour or so later whether the coffee pot was turned off or the straightening iron was unplugged? When shopping for personal care items or appliances, seek out models that have automatic shut-off features. This safety feature will power down the unit after a certain amount of time, which can reduce the risk of overheated products and house fires. ♦ Flood and leak detector The financial information and wellness resource, Canstar says leakages, burst pipes and other water-related issues in a home are one of the most common home emergen-

cies. Water damage can cost from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on how invasive the water problem is. Catching a leak or flood in a home early on is essential. Water leak detectors are designed to detect a potential flood or leak at an early stage so homeowners can take action. Sensors may sound an alarm or be connected to a WiFi system to send an alert to a mobile device. ♦ Carbon monoxide and gas detection It’s vital that homeowners install carbon monoxide detectors in their homes. Carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless and can cause poisoning that slowly suffocates a person. It also is combustible. Carbon monoxide devices cannot detect a gas leak, but gas detectors can. They are a wise addition for people who have a significant number of natural gas appliances, or those who have older, gas-powered appliances. ♦ Sump pump alarm A sump pump can mean the difference between a flooded basement and a dry floor. Homeowners may not recognize a sump pump malfunction during a power outage, and clogs also may not be detectable until the basement floods. Sump pump alarms incorporated into the system alert homeowners that something is amiss. – Courtesy of Metro Creative

SPRINGTIME is for planting! Water Filtration and Plumbing

• Ornamentals & Fruit Trees • Statuary • Palms • Vines & Shrubs • Bird Baths • Citrus Plants • Fountains • Annuals • Perennials • Drought Tolerant Plants • Organic soils, nutrients and pesticides • EB Stone Soils and Fertilizers

• Whole House Salt-Free Filtration & Purification • Water Heater Specialist

Ask About Our Tankless Water Heaters

• Water Softeners & Drinking Systems

EXPANDED INDOOR ORGANIC GROWING SUPPLIES

• The Most Advanced Salt-Free Systems Available Zero Water Waste Zero Electricity

ER MEDA LV ARD L

2020 AW

THE PRESS O RE NT WO

• • • • • •

Fox Farms Products Recipe 420 Soil Botanicare Nutrients General Hydroponics Cloning Supplies Bring us your gardening questions!

Pompei Nursery

Insured • Lic #945964

MEDAL LD AWARD

201820172016 OAKLEY PRESS

OA KLEY

OAKLEY PRESS

OA KLEY

OAKLEY PRESS

OA KLEY

MEDAL LD AWARD

2014

(1 block south of Cypress towards Brentwood) Open 6 Days 9 am - 5 pm • Closed on Mondays

www.PureFloWatersystems.com

4701 Main St. Oakley • 625-7330 www.pompeinursery.com

925-516-7000

Locally Owned and Operated Family Business

OAKLEY PRESS

OAKLEY

HOME & GARDEN

APRIL 16, 2021

The wonderful world of succulents

ucculents can be just what indoor or outdoor gardens need. Even though succulents are

becoming more popular, some people are still unaware of their attributes. By learning more about succulents, people may become devotees of these unique plants. The word “succulent” brings to mind juicy, savory foods. But succulents aren’t meant to be consumed. In fact, they get their mouth-watering name from their uncanny ability to store water in fleshy stems or leaves. That means they don’t require frequent watering, as other plants do. Succulents may also prove more durable against drought. They’re a handy plant for forgetful gardeners or those who travel frequently and want something more hands-off in their gardens. According to the resource Succulents and Sunshine, most succulents prefer warm temperatures and are not very cold-tolerant. Some varieties, however, can survive freezing temperatures.

10%

F OF

Still, most succulents do best kept in warm, moderately sunny conditions. The DIY Network says succulents grow best in bright light but not always in full, hot sun. Succulents may attract gardeners thanks to their diverse looks. Better Homes & Gardens says that color variations of succulents are quite varied and include green, yellow, burgundy, white, blue-green, pink, red and variegated combinations. Their shapes can be just as diverse, with many having pointy, rounded, spiky, or ruffled leaves. People may be especially familiar with one type of succulent: cacti. These traditional desert-dwellers are prized for their water-retention abilities, but some can look downright scary with their prickly exteriors. Though all cacti are succulents, it’s important to note that not all succulents are cacti. Less needle-like succulents include aloe, jade, snake plant and agave. Hens and chicks (sempervivum) and wax plant (hoya) are other succulents to consider. Searching for succulents online is a great way for gardeners to discover these wonderful plants. – Courtesy Metro Creative

Thank you R&D Electric for lighting up The Press building. – Greg and Sandie

• • • •

Energy Saving LED Light Replacement We do Projects of any scale Residential and Commercial Competitively Priced. Labor and parts under warranty for 5 years. • Only Install Top Quality Lighting

Call Today for FREE Estimate 925-628-1126 C-10 LIS# 1032135

modified prebuilt ad

ly.

app ons

SPECIAL REBATES AND CREDITSSPECIAL REBATES UP TO $5000 FORAND CREDITS QUALIFYING UNITS SPECIAL REBATES

UP TO $5000 FOR AND CREDITS QUALIFYING UNITS UP TO $5000 FOR QUALIFYING UNITS

$49*

your landscape 19-Point can help! Air Conditioning

• Full Scale Nursery Tune-up • Pavers *AFTER MAIL-IN-REBATE. • Brick REGULAR PRICE $99. • Manufactured Stone Limited time offer. Not valid with any • Natural Stone Let us be your primary source for stone, concrete pavers, offers or discounted specials. gravel, and sod. You will not regret it. We proudly feature other • Sod an affordable and extensive inventory that is constantly • Landscape Materials being updated to include the latest products. • Masonry Supplies Family-owned-and-operated, Morgan’s Home and Garden has a wide selection of high-quality landscaping supplies. Along with our trained, knowledgeable staff, our store has the resources you need to complete the landscape your property deserves.

15% OFF $49* 15% OFF ALL SERVICE REPAIRS*

19-Point Air Conditioning Tune-up

ALL SERVICE REPAIRS*

*MUST MENTION THIS AD*MUST AT MENTION THIS AD AT SERVICE. THE TIME OF SERVICE.

*AFTER MAIL-IN-REBATE. THEPRICE TIME REGULAR $99.OF

Limited time offer. Not valid with any other offers or discounted specials.

Not valid with any other offers or

discounted Not valid with any other offers or specials. Expires 6/15/21. discounted specials. Expires 6/15/21.

FREE ESTIMATES

FREE ESTIMATES925-625-4963

On Whole House Heating & Air Conditioning Systems

On Whole House Heating & Air FREE Conditioning Systems ESTIMATES

2555 E 18th Street Antioch • (925) 755-7600 www.morganshomeandgarden.com M–F 7a.m.–4p.m., Sat 8a.m.–12p.m.

13B

R&D Lighting Specialize in Saving You Money and Having Beautiful Lighting...

tric

es d. r a s hi ht wit

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

On Whole House Heating & Air Conditioning Systems 925-625-4963 925-625-4963 • www.fairviewair.com

14B

HOME & GARDEN

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

APRIL 16, 2021

How to effectively freeze vegetables

o say that COVID-19 transformed daily life would be an understatement. Few,

if any, aspects of life were untouched once the virus hit. One aspect of daily life that changed considerably is the way people shop for food. As recommendations to remain home and out of crowded places spread, many people felt that shopping in bulk, or at the very least, meal-planning and buying necessities for a few weeks at a time, would reduce the number of trips they needed to make to supermarkets or small food stores. In addition, due to shortages of popular foods, many people have purchased items they did not necessarily need in anticipation that such foods may not be available in the coming weeks or months. Large packages of meat and poultry can be broken down and frozen easily. But what about the fresh produce that many people rely on for important nutrients? Fresh vegetables only last so long, so people need to learn how to safely freeze fresh vegetables to avoid throwing them out. To freeze vegetables properly so they retain their flavor and texture, it is important to freeze them within a few hours of picking them from a garden or taking them home from the market. Certain

Fresh vegetables only last so long, so people need to learn how to safely freeze fresh vegetables to avoid throwing them out.

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

vegetables can be frozen in their raw state. The texture might change slightly upon thawing, but they will remain flavorful. Other vegetables may require blanching before freezing. Blanching requires scalding vegetables in boiling water or steam for a brief time. Blanching helps stop the enzymes that cause vegetables to decay, a process that can occur even in frozen storage. Items that do well with blanching include spinach, kale, winter squash and broccoli, according to HGTV.com.

Another way to freeze produce is to remove the air that can compromise the food. You can do so by filling containers or bags and pushing out the extra air. Vacuum sealers can work to remove the air and help preserve items in the freezer longer; otherwise, use a tray pack method to freeze items. Place chilled and drained blanched vegetables in shallow trays or pans. Freeze them until the vegetables are firm and then quickly fill freezer bags or containers, says the National Center for

Home Food Preservation. Remember to label and date containers so items can be used in the order in which they were packed. Most vegetables maintain high quality for eight to 12 months at 0 degrees or lower, according to the University of Georgia. Freezing fresh vegetables is an option when stocking up on essentials. Flavor and texture can be retained and items will not need to be discarded before they can be eaten. – Courtesy Metro Creative

Looking for a new adventure and want to work close to home?

WANTS YOU! The Brentwood Press & Publishing Co. is seeking an

EXPERIENCED SALES MANAGER

Quality Service with Proven Results Say Code SAVE21 for

$50 off 1st Service

(925) 634-2221 Pay your invoice & schedule your service online at:

This full-time position will help build and grow a new sales team. Candidate will be goal-focused, adept at multi-tasking, detail-oriented and a positive team builder. Must have a minimum three years of management experience with a minimum of two years in sales management. Mutlimedia sales experience a must. Salary plus bonuses, 401k and Health Plan.

Future growth unlimited! Please email your resume and references to greg@thepress.net E.O.E.

APRIL 16, 2021

HOME & GARDEN

Transform bathrooms with help of technology

echnology is infiltrating every room of the house. Many new home buyers are millennials,

and this tech-savvy demographic covets technological innovations. A recent survey by Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate indicates that 77% of Generation X and Y home buyers want their homes equipped with the tech capabilities they have grown accustomed to. Many of these involve smart innovations, including those that can transform one of the most private rooms in the house: the bathroom. Automated home theater rooms and WiFi-enabled home security systems have become the norm, but what tech improvements are available to make the powder room more in touch with today’s digital lifestyle? According to home improvement resource The Spruce, bathrooms have the most potential of any room to be improved with technology. The following are just some of the bathroom gadgets and gizmos no one should resist before trying. ♦ Automatic faucets: Infrared sensors have been helping public restrooms be more hygien-

ic for years. The same technology can be used in home bathrooms to curtail water waste and keep faucets and sinks from becoming infested with germs. In addition, faucets with built-in timers can be programmed to set tasks for brushing teeth or washing your face. ♦ Musical shower: Instead of having to blast the volume on the portable speaker you use in the bathroom, you can use a wireless speaker built into some showerheads. Bathers who like to sing in the shower or listen to podcasts while washing up can enjoy this luxury effortlessly. ♦ Smarter weight management: Bathroom scales have gone high-tech as well, with various options allowing users to measure weight, BMI and body fat percentage before sending the data wirelessly to a phone, tablet or computer. This can give you greater control over fitness goals. ♦ High-tech toilets: Borrowing ideas from bidets and trends around the world, modern toilets do not require hands or paper. These toilets have temperature-controlled water, spritzing wands and air dryers to clean and sanitize. Self-cleaning toilets help busy professionals save time and are ideal for people who always want their bowls as clean as possible. If you desire extra comfort, toiletseat warmers are available, and LED lights can make nighttime visits easier.

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

15B

It’s a Great Time to Paint !

Residential, commercial and apartment painting

Rob Broocker Painting Inc. 42 Years of Painting Excellence

www.robbpainting.com Call Hannah direct at

925.634.8317 Call for a FREE ESTIMATE THE PRESS • Pressure Washing • Exterior • Interior • Docks • Gutter Cleaning

Save Up To

1000

On Any Complete Interior or Exterior Painting Restrictions Apply Call for Details Lic#744276

HOME & GARDEN

Is your home insured for correct replacement value? If you’re underinsured, you could pay for part of a loss. If you’re over insured, you’re paying too much for your insurance! Call us for a no charge calculation of your replacement cost.

We’ll find the right protection for you & your family! 2738 B W. Tregallas Rd. Antioch • 757-4208 Lic# 0E08504

emily@EastCountyIns.com www.EastCountyIns.com

• • • • •

Auto Home Commercial Recreational Vehicles Classic Special Interest Vehicles

Call or email for a FREE QUOTE today!

HOME & GARDEN

16B | WWW.THEPRESS.NET

APRIL 16, 2021

HOME & GARDEN PROFESSIONALS GLASS REPLACEMENT SPECIALIST

Hauling

Call for FREE estimate

No Job To BIG or To Small

OOD G BRENTEWRS & WILNASS CO. DOWS

SHOW

ER MEDAL LV

20 2020 AWARD

• Junk Removal • Hauling Services Call Luis Today for a FREE Quote (925) 234-8227

All Types of Glass Replacements Frameless Shower Glass Specialist

CALL TO ADVERTISE

Call today! 634-9029

925-634-1441

570 Valdry C-6, Brentwood • By appt. only Lic. & Insured #795837

www.brentwoodglasscompany.com

E MEDA NZ AWARD

R MEDAL VE AWARD

SIL

BR O

SIL

BR O

E MEDA NZ AWARD

ER MEDAL LV D

20 2020 AWAR

Rick Burgard (925) 698-8662 RE

THE PRESS

Flooring

R MEDAL VE AWARD

www.hennesseysfencing.com

NT WO

Lic. B-1003881

FAIRVIEW HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING R MEDAL VE AWARD

SIL

20 2 188

MEDAL LD AWARD

OAKLEY PRESS

OA KLEY

ER MEDAL LV

20 2020

www.bayareafloorexpress.com

925-634-1441

AWARD

THE PRESS O RE NT WO

(925) 477-0327

O PRESS OAKLEY AKLEY

CA Lic #1022101

www.handymanpaul.webs.com

CALL TO ADVERTISE

AKLEY

925-261-6551

www.perfectstarhvac.com ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ RATED ON

Please recycle this paper

YARD SERVICES Planting • Repairs Clean-Up • Maintenance Hauling • Most Yard Work

QUALITY WORK FAIR PRICES FREE ESTIMATES

Lic. #018971 • Bonded & Insured

925.727.8152

NEW VIEW

Landscaping & Maintenance

Landscapers & Design New Lawns, Sprinkler Systems, Fences, Stamp Color Concrete, Retaining Walls, Free Estimates

ELITE LANDSCAPING (925) 339-1419

Pavers, Artificial Grass & Stamped Concrete Commercial & Residental Lic.#990581

Law Enforcement Military & Senior

DISCOUNT

let People Know About YouR Business! Call to place your ad here. 925-634-1441

Office: 510.323.3190 Cell: 925.698.4531

Serving Contra Costa & Alameda Counties • Water Heater Replacement • Tankless Water Heaters • Trenchless Sewer Line Replacement • Camera sewer line inspection with DVD copy • Whole House Re-Pipes • Drain Cleaning

(925) 439-8271 CA Contractor Lic# 102438

www.firstclasswaterheaters.com

Roofing DELTA ROOFING

REROOFING • REPAIRS New Roofs • Remodels

VELEZ LANDSCAPING Commercial • Residential Contractor Lic. #958539

Irrigation • Maintenance • Landscaping

Composition • Tile • Shakes Gutters & Downspouts

Free Estimates Family owned since 1989 Bonded & Insured Lic. #557556

925-513-8759 www.deltaroofinginc.com

For free estimates call:

925 625-0920 tel 925 584-5234 cell Jose Velez

Window Cleaning COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

velezlandscaping@live.com

LED Lighting

D MEDAL OL RD

20 2020 AWA

THE PRESS O RE NT WO

C-10 LIS# 1032135

WINDOW CLEANING

Brentwood Resident / Fully Insured

408-372-7712

ELECTRICAL

SERVICES

LED LIGHTING FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE WE DO PROJECTS OF ANY SCALE Competitively Priced and Warrantied

FREE ESTIMATE

925-628-7520

NOTICE TO READERS

California law requires that contractors taking jobs that total $500 or more (labor or materials) be licensed by the Contractors State License Board. State law also requires that contractors include their license number on all advertising. You can check the status of

Plumbers

• Landscaping • Remodeling • Hauling • All Phase Construction • Concrete Mason • Tile Setter

925-864-0969

CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE

O PRESS OAKLEY

Let Our Heroes Keep You in Your Comfort Zone!

Handyman Paul

VINYL

OAKLEY PRESS

OAKLEY

• Service • Installation • Repair

"NO JOB TOO SMALL"

CARPET

OAKLEY PRESS

OA KLEY

625-4963 Lic.#533790

(Mon-Fri) 7am-5pm (Sat-Sun) closed

Non-licensed

MEDAL LD AWARD

• Service • Repair • Installation

rbhandymanservices.com

TILE

MEDAL LD AWARD

2 177 20 20 2 144 2013 2012 20 2 188 20 2 100

RBhandymanservices@gmail.com

HARDWOOD

Adriana

SPECIALIZING IN

• Bathroom refacing • FENCING • Kitchen refacing • Handyman • Tile repairs • Sheetrock repair • Decks • Plumbing repair • Door/window repair • Business • Construction • Toilet replacement • Electrical repair 20 2 18820 2 17720 2 19920 2 166 L

Residential & Commercial • Fencing • Decks • Arbors • Gates • Redwood • Metal • Wrought Iron • Chain Link • Vinyl • Lic #899814

E MEDA NZ AWARD

Heating & Air

Quality and More!

FREE Estimates 925-516-6601

AWAR

THE PRESS O RE NT WO

234-0573

THE PRESS O RE NT WO

Handyman

Fencing

• Monthly FREE ESTIMATE • Biweekly • Windows 2020 20 2 177 • Blinds • Deep Clean 14 Years Running • Move-In/Out ER MEDAL LV D

925-775-5036

Perez

(925) 679-2982 Family owned and operated Glass

ESTIMATE!

Lic #1066494

Housecleaning

Lic #898540

513-1899

Call today for FREE

Lic. #905195 / Bonded

Family owned and operated • Lic #898540

Specializing in all phases of your construction needs

Residential & Commercial Interior • Exterior

or email: classifieds@brentwood press.com

C. P. C.

General Construction

F&F PRO PAINTING INC UNBEATABLE PRICES

FREE ESTIMATES

925-634-1441

(925) 679-2982

Place your ad HERE!

Call today for a FREE estimate

General Contractor

Do People Know About You?

Serving Brentwood for 40+ years

• Building Repair & Maintenance

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL • Complete Landscaping Services • Custom Concrete & Pavers • Landscape Lighting • Irrigation Installs & Repairs • Retaining Walls • Weekly/Bi-weekly Maintenance

Lic#858654

Electrical

• Painting - Interior & Exterior

Lic #898540

• Decking & Landscaping

BR O

https://orlandoconstruction.org

(925) 634-5609

Family owned and operated

925-459-4640

• Commercial Tenant Improvement

(925) 679-2982

• Door & Window Replacements

Lic# 702149

info@orlandoconstruction.org

Rose & Sons

Building Trust with Quality Work

• Kitchen & Bath

230 Chestnut St. Brentwood

We do Remodels

KITCHEN & BATH REMODELS OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES RESTORATIONS ADDITIONS WINDOWS

FREE Removal of old shower door included.

General Construction & Painting

Installed within 5-10 days

Painters

C. P. C.

Frameless Glass Showers Your Local Contractor Specializing In:

Landscapers & Design

Business Profile

Frameless Glass

Construction

your licensed contractor at www.cslb.ca.gov or 800-321-CSLB. Unlicensed contractors taking jobs that total less than $500 must state in their advertisements that they are not licensed by the Contractors State License Board.

www.r12windowcleaning.com

Ads starting at only

$29*

Call 925-634-1441 *While space is available. Terms apply.