Celebrate Halloween at The Four Seasonings Steakhouse in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown Saturday night

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For reservations and menu details visit www.the4seasonings.com.

Publisher @ October 28, 2026

51-year-old Antioch man arrested for robbery of 7-11 store, threat to terrorize

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Sources: APD and CitizenRIMS

Held on $125,000 bail, has brief history of arrests

By Allen D. Payton

According to the Antioch Police Department’s CitizenRIMS Arrests list, 51-year-old Christopher Lee Wilson on Monday, Oct. 26, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. in the 2700 block of Hillcrest Avenue,  the location of the 7-11 store and 76 gas station, for first degree home invasion robbery and threatening a crime with intent to terrorize. Both are felonies.

Wilson is described as Black or African American, six-foot, three inches tall and 190 pounds and was charged with 211 Pc: Robbery 1st Degree Home Invasion (F) and 422(a) Pc: Threaten Crime With Intent To Terrorize (F). Felony robbery is punishable by 2–9 years in state prison, plus possible fines, with enhancements for firearms, injury, or repeated offenses, according to ShouseLaw.com, and the threat charge is punishable by imprisonment in the county jail not to exceed one year, or by imprisonment in state prison. Case Number: 26-10360

According to the APD CitizenRIMS Map, the incident occurred at 6:53 pm. Case Number:26-10360
Incident Number:2610260193.

APD leaders were asked why the robbery of a convenience store and gas station is labeled a home invasion robbery. But they did not respond with an explanation prior to publication time. Please check back later for any updates to this report.

According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, Wilson was born April 12, 1975, and is being held in the West County Detention Facility on $125,000 bail.

According to localcrimenews.com, this is at least his sixth arrest since 2014, including two in Pittsburg for warrants or holds only, two by Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Deputies in 2017 for vandalism of $5,000 or more and burglary in 2017, and for trespassing by driving on private property and disorderly conduct – lodges in any building, structure, vehicle or place whether public or private without the permission of the owner or person entitled to the possession or in control of it on Dec. 5, 2025. He was also arrested in 2017 by Antioch Police for burglary.

Publisher @ October 28, 2026

Here’s how much California Teachers Association has spent on Barrera campaign, Prop. 3

Posted in: Education, Finance, Labor & Unions, Politics & Elections | Comments (0)

By Daniel J. Willis, EdSource.org, republished with permission

The California Teachers Association, the state’s largest teachers union and one of the largest funders of California political campaigns, has spent more than $65.5 million this election cycle, campaign finance records show.

Most of that money — $58.3 million — has been spent in support of Proposition 3, a ballot initiative to make permanent a temporary tax on high earners that helps fund public schools and community colleges. CTA’s contributions account for 87% of the Yes on 3 campaign’s funding. Records show the No on 3 effort has raised a total of $5,500, meaning CTA alone has spent nearly $9,700 for every dollar spent opposing the proposition.

CTA is also a major source of independent support for State Superintendent of Public Instruction candidate Richard Barrera, having spent $8.4 million as of Oct. 27. That includes spending in support of Barrera and spending in opposition to his opponent, Sonja Shaw. 

The union is by far the biggest Barrera supporter in terms of spending, with 96% of independent spending to support Barrera having come from CTA through various committees. The union also contributed $39,200 directly to Barrera’s campaign.

Other causes CTA has spent on include $1.5 million to oppose Prop. 39, an initiative to add stronger voter ID; $500,000 to oppose Prop. 43, which aims to require voter-proposed tax increases meet the two-thirds majority required for Legislature-proposed taxes; and $481,000 in support of local bond measures across the state.

Unlike in previous elections, CTA has mostly stayed out of the race for governor. Records show $39,200 in contributions to Xavier Becerra’s campaign or independent expenditure committees supporting him.

Publisher @ October 28, 2026

Antioch Unified School District hosting Winter Clothing Drive Nov. 2-20

Posted in: Children & Families, Community, Education, Weather, Youth | Comments (0)

By AUSD

Antioch Unified School District is hosting a Winter Clothing Drive. We are looking for new or gently used coats, hats, gloves, blankets, umbrellas, scarves and socks. The donation dates will be from November 2nd through November 20th.

Drop off locations are the Mission Elementary School, Carmen Dragon Elementary School, Belshaw Elementary School, and Deer Valley High School Front Offices. You can also drop them off at Prospects High School with the counselor, Wanema Cornell.

Finally, you are more than welcome to drop them off at the District Office with Barbara Aguilar located in Portable D in the back.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Barbar directly at 925-779-7500 ext. 53402 or email her at barbaraaguilar@antiochschools.net.

Publisher @ October 28, 2026

Antioch Police recognize National First Responders Day

Posted in: News, Police & Crime | Comments (0)

Source: Antioch PD

By Antioch Police Department

Today, the Antioch Police Department recognizes and honors the dedicated men and women who answer the call when our community needs them most.

From law enforcement officers, detectives, community service officers, and evidence technicians to firefighters, emergency medical personnel, and dispatchers, so many dedicated professionals work around the clock to protect lives, provide critical assistance, investigate crimes, and keep our community safe.

We are grateful for the teamwork and strong partnerships we share with our fellow first responders throughout Antioch and Contra Costa County. By working together, we can better serve our community and make a difference when it matters most.

To all those who serve, thank you for your dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to helping others. We recognize that keeping our community safe takes an entire team, both in the field and behind the scenes, including the dispatchers who serve as the vital link between those in need and the help on the way.

Happy National First Responders Day! Thank you for all you do to serve and protect our community!

For more information about today’s recognition see related article.

Publisher @ October 28, 2026

Rep. DeSaulnier to host virtual Town Hall on Social Media and Mental Health Oct. 29

Posted in: Government, Health, Technology, Youth | Comments (0)

With Dr. Brian Keum, Associate Professor, UC Berkeley School of Public Health & Dr. Supreet Mann, Director of Research, Common Sense Media 

By Mairead Glowacki, Communications Director, Office of Congressman Mark DeSaulnier

Walnut Creek, CA – Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10) will host a virtual Town Hall on Social Media and Mental Health on Thursday, October 29th at 3:30 p.m. PT. In 2023, then-Surgeon General Vivek Murthy issued a public health warning linking the youth mental health crisis with social media use. Since then, social media usage has increased and recent lawsuits are an indication that more needs to be done. The Congressman will be joined by expert special guests from the UC Berkeley School of Public Health and Common Sense Media to discuss the latest research on this link and innovative policy solutions to protect American kids and families.

Virtual Town Hall on Social Media and Mental Health

Thursday, October 29th

3:30 – 5:00 p.m. PT

Hosted on Zoom

Panelists include:

  • Dr. Brian Keum, Associate Professor, UC Berkeley School of Public Health
  • Dr. Supreet Mann, Director of Research, Common Sense Media 

To reserve your spot and receive a Zoom link or to request special accommodation, visit https://desaulnier.house.gov/town-hall-rsvp or call (925) 933-2660.

This will be Congressman DeSaulnier’s 280th town hall and constituent office hours since coming to Congress in January 2015.

Publisher @ October 28, 2026

Today is National First Responders Day

Posted in: Fire, News, Police & Crime | Comments (0)

Recognizing police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, dispatchers and other emergency responders

By Allen D. Payton

Today, Wednesday, October 28, 2026, is National First Responders Day, recognizing the dedicated men and women who answer the call when our communities need them most.

From law enforcement officers and firefighters to emergency medical personnel and dispatchers, first responders work around the clock to protect lives, provide help during emergencies, and serve their communities.

To all of our first responders — thank you for your service, dedication, and commitment to keeping our communities safe.

According to DaysoftheYear.com, the history of first responders in the US dates back to the Civil War, when field workers would provide needed, on-site care to wounded soldiers. But this idea dates even further back to Europe, during the Napoleonic Wars, where lightweight wagons delivered the wounded to field hospitals.

According to historical records, the first civilian ambulance in the United States was put into service in 1865, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Since then, modern Emergency Medical Services (EMS) systems have developed over time to include the range available today: fire services, ambulances, helicopters,

National First Responders Day was originally made official in the state of Colorado in 2017. Since then, the popularity of the day has continued to grow to other states and has made a number of strides in getting recognized.

According to Officer.com, “Organizations across the country are marking National First Responders Day today with ceremonies, educational programs, recognition events and fundraising efforts honoring police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, dispatchers and other emergency responders. The annual observance recognizes the men and women who respond when emergencies strike and highlights the sacrifices they make in service to their communities.

“The First Responders Children’s Foundation…hosted its annual Roll Call of Heroes ceremony in New York City. The event recognizes first responders from across the country representing law enforcement, fire, EMS, 911 dispatch and volunteer response organizations. The ceremony also marks the foundation’s 25th anniversary, the 25th anniversary of 9/11 and America’s 250th birthday.”

In addition, the U.S. Fire Administration recognizes National First Responders Day on Oct. 28 saying, “This day serves as a tribute to the brave men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving our communities in times of crisis.

“First responders are the backbone of emergency services: firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical technicians, paramedics and 911 dispatchers. These individuals are the first to arrive at the scene of emergencies, providing critical assistance and often risking their own lives to save others.

“Every day, across the United States, approximately 4.6 million first responders stand ready to answer the call of duty. They face a wide range of challenges, from severe weather events and chemical emergencies to fires, vehicle accidents and acts of terrorism.

National First Responders Day is an opportunity for all Americans to show their appreciation for these everyday heroes. At the USFA, we encourage everyone to take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by first responders and their families.”

Happy National First Responders Day!

Publisher @ October 28, 2026

Rep. Garamendi honors two Antioch residents with 13th Annual Women of the Year awards

Posted in: Government, Honors & Awards, News, People | Comments (0)

Rep. John Garamendi with his wife, Patti (top) as she speaks and the Congressman speaks to the honorees at his 13th Annual Women of the Year event on Friday, Oct. 23, 2026. Photos: Office of Congressman John Garamendi

22 from Contra Costa County, 52 total

Learn why the congressman honored the two women from Antioch

By Cameron Niven, Office of Congressman John Garamendi

BENICIA, CA – On Friday, Oct. 23, 2026, at his 13th annual Women of the Year event, Congressman John Garamendi (D-CA-08) honored 52 women from California’s 8th Congressional District, including 22 from Contra Costa County and two from Antioch, who are leaders and visionaries in their communities. Each honoree has made a real difference in our community through public service, business, education, and the local economy.

“Every year, I’m honored to recognize the remarkable women of California’s 8th District who serve as the backbone of our community,” said Rep. Garamendi. “They come from every corner of our district and from many different backgrounds, and they work in a wide range of fields. Each is united by the profound impact they have on the people around them.”

“Their commitment and passion for service deserve recognition, and through this award, their contributions will be preserved for generations in the official Congressional Record in Washington, D.C.”

The event was held in Benicia at the Clocktower and the women from Antioch who were honored are Laura Jacques and Lisa Lacy.

In a post on Facebook following the event the congressman also wrote, “Yesterday I had privilege of recognizing 52 women from California’s 8th Congressional District at my annual Women of the Year celebration. These women are leaders and visionaries who are making a real difference in our community through public service, business, education, and the local economy. Thank you to every honoree for all you do. Congratulations!”

Antioch resident Laura Jacques (second from left) was among the 52 women honored by Congressman Garamendi this year.

When reached for comment about the honor, Antioch resident Laura Jacques said, “I was very honored. I was really humbled by some of the other women who were there and I was thinking, ‘do I really belong here?’ I was really surprised.”

“It was a really nice event,” she added.

The 2026 Women of the Year Honorees are:

Contra Costa County:

  • Laura Jacques (Antioch)
  • Lisa Lacy (Antioch)
  • Champagne Brown (El Cerrito)
  • Stacy Wayne (El Cerrito)
  • Susan Duncan (El Cerrito)
  • Christine Mathias (El Sobrante)
  • Jamela Smith-Folds (Hercules)
  • Christine Dean (Martinez)
  • Rachel Shoemake (Martinez)
  • Annisha Geran (Pittsburg)
  • Kaitlin Clink (Pittsburg)
  • Annie King-Meredith (Richmond)
  • Elana Bolds (Richmond)
  • Maria Del Rocio Martinez Luna (Richmond)
  • Mary Ann Dawkins-Padigela (Richmond)
  • Dr. Mayra Padilla (Richmond)
  • Michelle Denise Milam (Richmond)
  • Nwaeze Nmereole (Richmond)
  • Shasa Curl (Richmond)
  • Amanda Jenkins (San Pablo)
  • Dr. Rocio Hernández (San Pablo)
  • Yolanda Mendoza (San Pablo)

A photo and a bio about each woman were included in a program provided to each honoree at the event and a plaque showing their information entered into the Congressional Record was presented to them by the congressman. Lacy did not attend the event nor provide a photo for the program.

Laura Jacques, from the event program, and being presented with her plaque by Rep. Garamendi on Friday, Oct. 23, 2026. Photos: Office of Rep. Garamendi

Laura Jacques – Antioch – Contra Costa County

Laura Jacques is a dedicated member of the Antioch Historical Society and the Woman’s Club of Antioch. In her role with the Historical Society, Laura is essential in organizing and running several community events, including the city’s 150th anniversary and the relocation of the Red Caboose. Laura continuously goes above and beyond, whether it is helping produce a commemorative coin, a book documenting Antioch’s history, or a celebratory barbecue.

As a part of Antioch’s Woman’s Club, Laura has worked tirelessly to transform her local community. She has dedicated her efforts to enhancing the Woman’s Club’s outdoor space, while also spearheading the early stages of a new mural on the building’s exterior that will celebrate local history and art. In addition to directly supervising the reconstruction of the space, Laura was instrumental in the project’s fundraising.

Across all her roles, Laura consistently drives positive change in her community through her leadership, sense of civic responsibility, and commitment to excellence. Her efforts have benefited Antioch community members of all ages and her dedication to supporting the community is truly worth celebrating.

Laura Jacques being honored by Rep. Garamendi (left) and with other honorees (2nd from left) and the congressman (right).

Lisa Lacy – Antioch – Contra Costa

Lisa Lacy is a dedicated member of the Antioch community who works tirelessly to protect and care for the local feral feline population of Antioch. Starting her days in the early hours of the morning, Lisa works to trap, transport, house, and medicate feral felines across Antioch. She has worked tirelessly to prepare formerly feral cats for their new lives in loving homes through trap, neuter and return efforts. Lisa has helped to create a more humane environment for our feline friends and those who enjoy their company.

To educate and empower her fellow Antioch community members, Lisa created the Scruffy to Fluffy information page. Community members can find adoptable cats, as well as information on how best to deal with those that are feral. Many community members have turned to her after receiving litters that are too large for them to manage, and Lisa has helped to arrange adoptions and other methods of care.

Lisa Lacy with one of her friends, Asher. Photo courtesy of Lisa Lacy.

Her work has benefited both 4-legged and human members of Antioch’s community, and her dedication does not go unnoticed. Lisa’s dedication to caring for Antioch’s feline population reflects the very best of community service and continues to make a meaningful difference for both animals and residents.

UPDATE: When reached for comment Lacy said, “I was not able to attend as we had transport to several different cities to have both friendly and community cats sterilized.”

As for her friend in the photo she said, “His name is Asher and he went to a wonderful home in Old Town Sacramento.”

A video of the event can be found here and see more photos here.

Congressman Garamendi represents California’s 8th District in the U.S. House of Representatives which currently includes portions of Contra Costa County along the northern waterfront from Richmond to Antioch. After the 2026 election, the new district will only include portions of West County.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Publisher @ October 28, 2026