Photos: (Left) Antioch Herald, (right & below) Black Diamond Ballet
By Black Diamond Ballet
Black Diamond Ballet welcomes community members to attend its 14th Annual production of the NutcrackerNovember 13–22 at the El Campanil Theatre.
For many families, the Nutcracker at El Campanil Theatre is tradition, a commencement of the winter holiday season. Attending a performance or donating to Black Diamond Ballet supports the dancers and the work required to bring this production to life. Bring your family, invite a friend, and help spread the word about the earlier dates.
Source: Black Diamond Ballet
“We see this as a necessary change prompted by circumstances beyond Black Diamond Ballet’s control,” says Sam Khamseh, Black Diamond Ballet (BDB) Board President. (See related articles here, here and here)
In addition to its annual production schedule, BDB is committed to producing a Sensory-Friendly performance, and school-day shows for students and special-day programs, all of which help make the joy of live ballet accessible to all audiences in our community.
Bessie Scott during her time as Antioch City Manager at the dais in June 2025, speaking at the lawsuit settlement press conference Dec. 2025 and in one of her official photos. Sources: (Left & center) video screenshots (right) City of Antioch
By Allen D. Payton
Today, Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026, the two-year contract for Antioch City Manager Bessie M. Scott ended.
After being hired in August 2024, she began her tenure in October, just a month before that year’s elections when a new mayor and two new council members were elected, forming a new council majority. As a result, Scott was not expected to last in her position for more than six months. Instead, she served 19 months before being placed on paid leave on May 5th. Less than two weeks before that occurred, Scott shared her thoughts on the role and position of city manager saying, “It sounds hard, and it is – but JOY abounds here!”
In response to the end of her contract, Scott issued the following farewell message to Antioch residents, offering a list of accomplishments during her time in the position:
Speaking at the Delta Association of Realtors in May 2025, during the Antioch City Council meeting January 13, 2026, and in Washington D.C. with Police Chief Joe Vigil, City staff and consultant, Brian Addington in May 2025. Sources: (Left & right) City of Antioch (center) video screenshot.
Statement from Bessie Scott
On the Conclusion of My Service as Antioch City Manager
“As my tenure as Antioch City Manager concludes on October 7, 2026, I want to express my gratitude for the opportunity to serve this community. It has been an honor to hold this position and to serve as the first woman City Manager in Antioch’s history.
I entered this role with a commitment to strengthen city operations, support employees, improve public services, strengthen police and community relations, and build a more responsive and accountable government. My tenure included significant challenges—from staffing shortages and financial pressures to organizational and leadership difficulties. Some of those challenges were deeply personal and professionally painful. I acknowledge them honestly while remaining proud of the work we accomplished and the people who made it possible.
In the community at the Senior Center and at the Disney House (center) and with owners, the Vistallis and the Lanters (left) on Dec. 6, 2025. Sources: (Left) Bessie Scott (center) Antioch Herald and (right) Allen D. Payton
“Together with dedicated staff and regional, county and community partners, we advanced meaningful priorities and made great strides. These efforts included securing a $35 million Homekey+ award to address homelessness, obtaining additional emergency homelessness funding, and strengthening housing services through rental assistance, fair housing, and landlord-tenant support. We moved forward with efforts to address illegal dumping, beautify our Amtrak – Gold Runner downtown train stop, improve wayfinding, modernize agenda and records management, update outdated city policies, and address the public records request backlog.
“We also advanced police accountability and community engagement, including filling Police Oversight Commission seats, reinstating Neighborhood Watch, and supporting work to implement the City’s police settlement obligations. Our investment in young people helped send ten students to the State Capitol through Youth and Government, with one student selected to participate in National Advocacy Days in Washington, D.C.
“These accomplishments belong to the employees, residents, and partners who worked alongside me. To City staff: thank you for your expertise, persistence, and care for Antioch. I saw the demands you carried, and the effort you made to keep essential services moving, often under difficult circumstances. Your work matters, and I am grateful for your dedication.
Speaking during the District 4 Community Meeting in April 2025, official photo and at the City Council meeting Oct. 14, 2025. Sources: (Left & center) City of Antioch and (right) video screenshot
“To the Antioch community: thank you for welcoming me, sharing your concerns, challenging us to do better, and contributing your time and ideas. Your advocacy and commitment to your neighborhoods strengthened our work and reminded me why public service matters.
“I leave this role proud of what we advanced and mindful that meaningful work remains. My hope is that Antioch continues to invest in its employees, strengthen public trust, and pursue opportunities that truly and positively improve the lives of all of its residents in a sustainable and equitable manner.
“Thank you for the privilege of serving as your City Manager.”
26-year-old Antioch man has history of 23 other arrestssince January 2021; held on $950,000 bail
By Lt. Franco Cesar #7264, Antioch Police Department Field Services Division
ANTIOCH, Calif. — This morning, the Antioch Police Department arrested 26-year-old Eric Washington of Antioch in connection with a gang-motivated shooting that occurred on Lone Tree Way in June 2023.
Police arrested Washington on October 7 after a coordinated high-risk warrant operation involving the Antioch and Pittsburg Police Department SWAT Teams at a residence in the 4500 block of Wolf Way.
On June 17, 2023, Antioch Police officers responded to a reported shooting near Lone Tree Way and Country Hills Drive. Investigators determined that two victims were leaving a gas station in the 4100 block of Lone Tree Way when occupants of another vehicle confronted them. During the confrontation, the occupants exchanged words regarding one victim’s suspected gang affiliation. (Note: The incident was not reported by APD until now).
As the victims attempted to drive away, the suspect pulled a semi-automatic handgun and fired at least nine rounds at their vehicle. The gunfire shattered the vehicle’s rear window and caused the victims to crash into the center median.
Officers responding to the scene recovered physical evidence and obtained surveillance video that captured the confrontation. During the subsequent investigation, Antioch Police Detective Miller identified Washington as the suspected shooter. Investigators also gathered witness statements and additional evidence supporting his identification.
The Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office reviewed the case and filed the following felony charges against Washington:
PC 664/187 — Attempted Murder
PC 245(b) — Assault with a Semi-Automatic Firearm
PC 246 — Discharging a Firearm at an Occupied Vehicle
A felony arrest warrant was issued for Washington with bail set at $950,000.
Because of the violent nature of the alleged offenses, the suspected gang involvement, the outstanding violent felony warrant, and the fact that the firearm used in the shooting had not been recovered, the warrant service was classified as high-risk. Antioch Police coordinated with the Pittsburg Police Department SWAT Team to safely execute the warrant and reduce risks to officers, Washington, and neighboring community members.
On the morning of October 7, 2026, tactical operators from the Antioch and Pittsburg Police Department SWAT Teams executed the warrant at the Wolf Way residence. Washington was taken into custody without incident and booked into the Martinez Detention Facility on the outstanding warrant.
Anyone with additional information regarding this case is encouraged to contact the Antioch Police Department Investigations Bureau at (925) 779-6884.
According to localcrimenews.com, Washington is Black and has a history of 23 other arrests since January 21, 2021, by multiple agencies for crimes including grand theft, robbery, burglary, shoplifting, receiving or concealing stolen property, vandalism, carrying a concealed large knife, trespassing, displaying an imitation firearm in a public place and drawing or exhibiting an imitation firearm in threatening manner.
According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, the six-foot, six-inch tall, 200-pound suspect is Non-Hispanic, but also described as Black, was born May 4, 2000. Washington’s next court appearance is scheduled for tomorrow, Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. in Martinez Superior Court Dept. 5. Case #23-4518. Docket #04-26-01531-1
The Deer Valley High School Teal & Black Regiment marching band performs in the parade during the 37th Annual Delta Band Review on Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026. All photos: AUSD
Antioch High hosts Parade, Street Percussion & Jazz Competitions but not eligible for awards
By Antioch Unified School District
It was a hot day but that didn’t stop 24 school music groups from giving great performances.
On Saturday, Oct 3, 2026, the 37th annual Delta Band Review started the day of competition with a parade in front of Antioch Middle School on D Street.
A total of 20 high school marching bands competed. The event also included a jazz contest, with four schools competing.
The Deer Valley High School Teal & Black Regiment marched away with the second place award in the Parade division 2A. The Parade and Jazz Competition awards were presented in Eels Stadium.
Antioch High School’s Pride of Antioch Marching Band and Color Guard kicked off the day but, as event host, wasn’t eligible for awards.
Thanks to the many who made this event so special.
Organized by Antioch Band Backers Association
The Delta Band Review is organized by the Antioch Band Backers Association.
In a letter to “Band Members, Directors, Coaches and Guests, AHS Band Director Brian Allen Hobbs and Association President Johnny Hackenkamp wrote, “On behalf of the Antioch Band Backers Association, it is our absolute pleasure to welcome you to the 37th Annual Delta Band Review!
The Antioch High School Pride of Antioch Marching Band participated in the parade but as hosts, did not compete for the awards.
“Today, we invite you to experience the spectacular sights, sounds, and magic of marching and jazz bands. From the vibrant performances on the streets of Antioch to the captivating sounds inside the Beede Auditorium, this event promises an unforgettable celebration of music and community. The Parade and Percussion competitions will take place at Antioch Middle School and the City Library, while the awards ceremony will be held at Eells Stadium on the AHS campus.
“The success of this event is a testament to the dedication, passion, and support of so many individuals. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the volunteers, donors, band families, and community members whose hard work has made today possible. Be sure to check out our special thanks page, where we recognize these amazing contributors.
“Once again, welcome to Antioch High School. We are excited to have you here and wish the best of luck to all the bands competing today!
Antioch City Attorney Lori Asuncion reports out from Closed Session while Acting City Manager Ana Cortez looks on during the council meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026. Video screenshot
Public comments before the Closed Session decisions both positive, negative
By Allen D. Payton
During a special Closed Session meeting Wednesday afternoon, Oct. 7, 2026, the City Council chose to keepAntioch Human Resources Director Ana Cortez as acting city manager and begin the process to appoint an interim city manager. The Council also agreed to begin the recruitment process to search for a permanent city manager. The meeting was held on the last day of outgoing City Manager Bessie M. Scott’s two-year contract. (See related article)
Public Comments
During Public Comments at the beginning of the meeting, four residents spoke but only two on the matters to be discussed.
Melissa Case spoke on Item 4.2 saying, “I believe the process of selecting the next city manager should be as transparent as possible…and we’re not just hiring somebody to sit in the city manager’s office. I think we should be very clear about what we’re looking for. I personally want a city manager who understands economic development and knows how to find and pursue grants. Antioch has tremendous needs, right now and there are state and federal resources available to us. I also want someone that knows how to build partnerships and to bring these dollars to Antioch. I want someone who knows how to inspire city employees to do their best work. I want a city manager who is customer service focused. The residents of Antioch are the customers of our local government. The first question should be, ‘how can we solve this’ not ‘that’s not my department’ which I get a lot.”
“I also want someone who understands budgeting, accountability, infrastructure, public safety, economic development, communication…and long-term planning and someone who can actually work professionally with the five of you, as well,” she continued. “Someone who can track the results.”
“I just think it’s important to find someone who knows how to get things done…and how to get the resources to do it. Knows how to inspire the people, here in Antioch, the workers and the citizens and remembers who they’re ultimately serving which is the people of Antioch,” Case concluded.
Another resident who chose to not provide his name or turn in a speaker card spoke about Item 4.3, regarding, “Significant exposure to litigation. So, somebody filed a whistleblower complaint. I guess Because of my efforts at public records requests, I’ve read some of the emails between certain government officials of Antioch.”
So, Bessie was complaining because Ron was trying to get something on the agenda for one of his campaign donors. That’s not ethically correct,” he continued. “Ron was apparently going around telling everybody she’s unexperienced. She’s not doing the job. And somebody in the back of a public meeting said, like, ‘she doesn’t know what she’s doing. She’s a jerk,’ and Bessie ran with that.”
“So, somebody’s a whistleblower,” he stated, then named all of Antioch’s city managers, including acting and interim, dating back to 2017, making a comment about each of them and about his own past arrest.
“Now, we’ve got Ana back. Look how many mistakes she’s made. I’m sorry, Ana. I have to say it. If I had more time I’d say the good things you’ve done. But you’ve screwed up. You’re screwing up. You can’t hire her. We can’t afford it. Look at all the mistakes she’s made. God bless you,” he concluded.
After City Attorney Lori Asuncion read off each of the four agenda items, the council then adjourned to Close Session.
Council Decisions Keep Cortez in Acting Position While Searching for Interim, Permanent City Manager
Following the Closed Session that lasted almost two-and-a-half hours, Asuncion reported out saying, “For agenda items 4.1 and 4.4…Council gave direction that Ana Cortez will continue serving as Acting City Manager while the council completes the process of selecting an interim city manager.”
Item 4.1 was a Public Employment Appointment: Interim City Manager and Item 4.4 was a Conference with Labor Negotiators regarding the Interim City Manager position.
“She’s also authorized as the Human Resources Director to negotiate an employment agreement with the candidate for the interim city manager position,” the city attorney continued. “If and when an interim city manager is chosen and an agreement reached, the appointment and agreement will be brought to open session during a regular city council meeting for consideration.”
Asuncion then said, “For agenda item 4.2…Public Employee Recruitment: City Manager…Council provided direction to staff to move forward with a Request for Proposal process for the permanent city manager recruitment.”
For item 4.3 which reads, “Conference with Legal Counsel – Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(e)(2): Number of potential cases: (1). The City is in receipt of information concerning facts and circumstances that might result in litigation against the City which are known to a potential plaintiff or plaintiffs pertaining to possible Labor Code Section 1102.5, and Fair Employment and Housing Act violations,” the city attorney said, “And there’s nothing to report for that item.”
According to California.Public.Law, Government Code Section 54956.9(e)(2) reads, “Facts and circumstances, including, but not limited to, an accident, disaster, incident, or transactional occurrence that might result in litigation against the agency and that are known to a potential plaintiff or plaintiffs, which facts or circumstances shall be publicly stated on the agenda or announced.”
According to Justia.com, Labor Code Section 1102.5 is referred to as, “Whistleblower Protection” and according to Bluestone Law, it “is the state’s main whistleblower law. It makes it illegal for your employer to retaliate against you — fire you, demote you, cut your hours, or push you out — because you reported something you reasonably believed was illegal.”
Following the meeting Asuncion, Mayor Ron Bernal and Mayor Pro Tem Don Freitas were asked if the council took votes. Bernal said, “It was more of a consensus. We didn’t take any official votes.”
The meeting was adjourned at 3:52 PM.
See the agenda and watch the meeting video at the 2:55 mark for the public comments at the beginning and the 2:23:06 mark for the report out.
Noah is competing in Stan Lee’s Super Kid competition. Photos courtesy of his mother, Kristina.
Prize is $25,000 and appearance in a new comic book!
Voting for TOP 10 ends Thursday, October 8th at 7PM PDT
“Autism is my superpower.” – Noah
Now, in 5th place
By Allen D. Payton
Noah is a 10-year-old Antioch boy competing in Stan Lee’s Super Kid 2026. According to his mom, Kristina, “he proudly calls autism his superpower and wants other children – especially kids who feel different – to know they never have to hide who they are. His family’s message to him has always been simple: sometimes thinking differently is exactly what makes you extraordinary.
“Noah loves Spider-Man because he sees an ordinary boy whose extraordinary ability is not always visible to everyone around him. That idea mirrors how Noah talks about autism: people may not immediately see what makes his mind work differently, but those differences can also be strengths.”
“I want other kids to know they should be proud of what makes them different,” Noah said.
According to a July 14th post on the Super Kid Facebook page announcing the contest, “If your kid goes above and beyond to make a difference in the world, this competition is one you don’t want to miss out on.
“One everyday hero will win a Marvel-ous prize including the title of 2026 Super Kid and $25,000! PLUS, they will transform into their own superhero identity and star in a new Stan Lee Universe comic book!
As of Tuesday night, Noah was in 5th place.
“This competition proudly supports the Stan Lee Foundation and their mission to promote literacy and the narrative arts. Now that’s competition with a whole lot of heart.
“Your kid isn’t a regular kid… they’re a super kid!”
Who is Noah’s favorite superhero and why do they admire them?
Spider-Man is Noah’s favorite superhero because he is a regular guy who is kind and helps people. Noah says Spider-Man’s superpower can be invisible to most people—they only know if he tells them or shows them. That reminds Noah of being autistic: people may not see it right away, but it is part of how he experiences the world. To Noah, Spider-Man proves that an ordinary boy can still do extraordinary things.
Where did Noah’s love of superheroes come from?
Noah’s love of superheroes began when he was little, watching Disney Junior’s Spidey and His Amazing Friends and PJ Masks. He loved how the heroes were leaders, helped others, and stood up for their friends and family even when they were afraid. Spider-Man became his very first favorite superhero, which makes this Stan Lee opportunity especially meaningful to him.
What superpower would Noah want and why?
Noah would choose telekinesis—the power to move things with his mind. He says he would use it to create cool things from the elements of the world and make things that are useful in everyday life. He loves the idea of a superpower that is not just amazing to watch, but could also help people solve problems, build things, and make life a little easier.
“The real superheroes are the people who help others.” — Stan Lee
Comic Book Origin Story
Every hero deserves a legendary origin story. A team of elite comic book writers and artists will transform the champion’s real-world strengths into a larger-than-life superhero identity, immortalizing their story in a limited-edition Stan Lee Universe comic book.
Los Angeles Comic Con
The Super Kid will earn 4 VIP passes to the 2027 L.A. Comic Con, one of the largest pop culture conventions in Los Angeles. The event celebrates comics, gaming, film, and more, bringing together fans, creators, artists, and special guests for panels, exhibits, and immersive experiences.
Story Is Power
Honoring the legacy of the legendary writer, The Stan Lee Foundation champions literacy and the narrative arts. They support public charities that advance storytelling and uplift creators in need, helping communities everywhere access the power of stories.
The Legacy of Stan Lee
With boundless imagination and heart, Stan Lee changed the way generations see heroes. Through iconic characters like Spider-Man, Iron Man, and the X-Men, he helped redefine popular culture and inspired millions to believe that greatness is within us all!
Voting for Top 10 Ends Thursday Oct. 8th
Who will star in a limited-edition Stan Lee Universe comic book, get VIP tickets to L.A. Comic Con, and take home $25,000? You decide! Voting for the TOP 10 ends Thursday the 8th of October at 7PM PDT.
Vote for Noah to become the Super Kid by casting your free daily vote, or make an even bigger impact when you vote by donation, supporting The Stan Lee Foundation and their mission to promote literacy and the narrative arts.
The Caltrans QuickMap is a free mobile app from the California Department of Transportation that delivers real‑time traffic, road, and safety information directly from Caltrans, helping drivers plan trips, avoid delays, and stay informed on the road App Store.
What the app offers
The QuickMap app layers multiple live data sources onto a map, including App Store+1:
Freeway speeds and congestion (color‑coded lines; green = normal, red = slow)
Live traffic cameras and snapshots
Lane closures and CHP incidents
Chain controls and snow plows
Changeable message signs (CMS) content
Border wait times
Safety roadside rest areas and Park & Ride lots
Commercial vehicle info: weigh stations, escape ramps, overweight corridors, and California Truck Network routes
Key features
Auto‑refresh: Updates data every 3 minutes (adjustable in settings) App Store
Manual refresh: Available via the refresh button on the map
Geotargeted notifications: Optional push alerts for road closures near your location, even when the app is closed (requires background location; may impact battery life) App Store
Layer controls: Toggle on/off different data layers via the app’s menu QuickMap
How it works
The app uses Caltrans data plus other sources (e.g., Google Maps Traffic Layer, Automated Vehicle Location, cellular data) to provide speed and condition information QuickMap. Clicking a map marker shows detailed info in a pop‑up.
Tip: Enable geotargeted notifications if you want alerts for closures near you, but be aware of the battery impact App Store. This makes QuickMap a useful “know before you go” tool for both urban and rural California travel.
Selected Antioch residents are testing water in their homes for lead and copper from the City’s new Brackish water Desalination Facility. Graphic source: Utilities for My Home. All photos by Allen D. Payton
By City of Antioch
The City of Antioch Water Treatment Plant wants to reassure community members that city staff are currently conducting official sampling for an ongoing, multi-year Lead and Copper Corrosion Control Study. Following the recent opening of Antioch’s new Brackish Water Desalination Facility, this essential study allows certified city personnel and selected residents to monitor household drinking water and verify that no lead or copper is leaching into home plumbing.
Please note that participation is limited strictly to pre-qualified residential sites meeting specific EPA structural criteria, and we are not accepting general volunteers at this time. If your home was pre-selected, have been contacted by staff, or see water treatment personnel delivering or collecting sample bottles, please be assured that this is an official City of Antioch program and not a scam.
We sincerely thank our designated resident partners for helping keep Antioch’s drinking water safe, clean, and state-compliant.
According to the City’s Lead Service Statement in 2024, “Through completing a historical records review and field investigations, City of Antioch has determined it has no lead or galvanized requiring replacement service lines in its distribution system. This includes any privately-owned or customer-owned service lines.
City of Antioch reviewed all applicable sources of information, including:
• All construction and plumbing codes, permits, and existing records or other documentation which indicates the service line materials;
• All water system records, including distribution system maps and drawings, historical records on each service connection, meter installation records, historical capital improvement or master plans;
• All inspections and records of the distribution system that indicate service line material, including inspections conducted during the course of normal operations (e.g., checking service line materials when reading water meters or performing maintenance activities).
City of Antioch used stratified random sampling to develop the initial inventory. Stratified random sampling involves physically verifying a subset of randomly selected service lines in the distribution system. That subset is stratified or divided into groups based on certain characteristics (e.g., years the service lines were installed). Stratification allows for a sample or subset of service lines to be more representative of the service lines in the distribution system.
After investigating the subset of service lines, if no lead or galvanized requiring replacement service lines are discovered, the remaining service lines may be assumed non-lead with a certain level of confidence. City of Antioch verified 9322 service lines, and the service lines were verified non-lead copper, non-lead plastic, or galvanized. No lead or galvanized requiring replacement service lines were identified.
City of Antioch continues to document service line material information obtained from normal operations, such as service line maintenance or water meter readings, after October 2024 and will update the initial inventory accordingly.
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For questions or additional information, please contact the City of Antioch Laboratory at (925) 779-7024.
