Antioch Community Center is Hopping
Sometimes it takes showing off your prized possession to make you appreciate it even more. Antioch got that prideful boost in the arm at the Antioch Community Center this past week as on back-to-back nights it hosted a Town Hall meeting put on by newly redistricted County Supervisor Mary Piepho and then the rotating monthly Mayor’s Conference.
The newly minted Prewett Park facility received raves by consecutive large crowds on November 2nd and 3rd. The attendees were uniformly impressed with the signature blue drop entrance art work, the earth-toned building nestled into the hills and the fact that the facility even boasts a burrowing owl habitat.
If they needed any further proof of the viability of the Center, it was provided by an informal tour. The gym was abuzz with practicing cheerleading squads and the library was packed. Nothing staged; just a typical night at a hopping place.
At the Supervisor’s Town Hall meeting some 125 people heard from Ms. Piepho and representatives from the Planning and Building Department, Housing Authority, Highway Bypass Authority, Veterans Services, Probation, East County Transit Authority and Sheriff’s Office.
The Mayor’s Conference featured Sheriff David Livingstone talking on the realignment caused by state release of certain categories of inmates, known as non-non-nons. Due to some current 300 extra beds in our County system at least for the time being we were told by the Sheriff that nobody will be running loose. We will, in fact, be able to house these transfers.
A presentation was also made on the County Flood and Control District and Channel Safety Awareness Program. This program was prompted by the recent tragic boating deaths of two teens. Upcoming Board and Commission vacancies were announced; the League of California Cities gave an update; and the Mayors had an opportunity to share news.
The Antioch City Hall event organizers also didn’t overlook the amenities. A Deer Valley High Jazz ensemble, led by Band Director Larry Widnener, greeted incoming guests and the Divine Voices, led by Vocal Director Michelle Stark, sang the National Anthem. Dinner, for those wishing to stay after the business meeting, was catered by Lone Tree Golf and Event Center. The meal received praise for transcending the typically bland fare offered at these conferences.
The next Mayors Conference will be held in Brentwood December 1st with a holiday fruit and nut theme.
Walter Ruehlig
President, Antioch Mello Roos Board
