The Antioch Unified School District is providing free, hot meals for kids and teens 18 and under during breakfast and/or lunch at multiple locations in Antioch this summer.
Antioch Community Center serves lunch M-F from 12 pm-1 pm. No breakfast service.
Antioch Library serves lunch Tues.-Fri., from 12 pm-1 pm. No breakfast service.
Grace Bible serves breakfast from 8 am-9 am, lunch from 12 pm-1 pm.
All other sites serve breakfast from 8:00 am-8:30 am and lunch from 12-12:30 pm.
BART continued in 2023 to pioneer sustainability initiatives aimed at enhancing rider experience while prioritizing environmental stewardship. With a legacy rooted in forward-thinking transportation solutions, BART reaffirmed its commitment to reducing carbon footprints and advancing sustainable transit practices. The accomplishments of 2023 are detailed in the annual Sustainability Report, officially presented to the Board of Directors on July 11, 2024.
Source: BART
“BART’s sustainability efforts were all about innovation in 2023,” said BART Board President Bevan Dufty. “We are dedicated to integrating creative solutions that not only improve the rider experience, our immediate priority, but also emphasize long-term sustainability.”
Established over fifty years ago with a vision to alleviate regional traffic congestion through eco-friendly transit options, BART has continually evolved its practices to reflect contemporary environmental standards. Notably, engineers initially opted to power trains with electricity rather than fuel, a decision that laid the foundation for ongoing sustainability achievements.
In a poignant farewell to its legacy fleet, BART hosted a memorable “retirement party” in February 2024, marking the culmination of efforts to retire older vehicles. Thousands of attendees gathered to bid farewell to the trains that had served millions of passengers over the years. The decommissioned cars are being repurposed for various projects, including a BART car short-term rental in the Sierra Nevada and a youth bike shop and clubhouse in East Oakland, demonstrating BART’s commitment to sustainability beyond transit operations.
Source: BART
The introduction of new, energy-efficient train cars has furthered BART’s sustainability goals, boasting a 7% reduction in energy consumption compared to previous train car models. By running shorter trains during off-peak hours, BART has achieved significant energy savings. 88% of BART’s electricity comes from greenhouse gas-free sources like solar, wind, and hydropower.
“Our shorter trains not only save energy and reduce costs but also enhance safety and efficiency in maintenance,” BART General Manager Bob Powers added. “These innovations underscore our holistic approach to sustainability across all facets of our operations.”
In addition to transit improvements, BART expanded its Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) program, constructing 531 new housing units near BART stations. Projects like the Gateway at Millbrae Station and the Upper Yard at Balboa Park Station not only address regional housing needs but also promote sustainable urban development and economic revitalization.
Highlighting unique environmental initiatives, BART’s Sheep and Goat Fire Mitigation program has grown substantially, utilizing over 500 grazers to mitigate fire risks across its properties. Meanwhile, the Falconry-Based Nuisance Bird Control program, now implemented at 12 stations, effectively manages pigeon populations through pesticide-free methods.
For more information on BART’s sustainability initiatives and ongoing projects, visit bart.gov/sustainability.
Mayor, council Districts 2 & 3, clerk, treasurer and trustee Areas 1, 3 & 4
By Allen D. Payton
The nomination period for local offices in Antioch including mayor city council Districts 2 and 3, City Clerk, City Treasurer and Antioch School Board Trustee Areas 1, 3 and 4 opens on Monday, July 15, 2024. The nomination period runs through 5:00 pm Friday, August 9, 2024. The election will be consolidated with the statewide General Election on Tuesday, November 5th, 2024.
Papers for offices that are up for election for city candidates will be available at the City Clerk’s office inside City Hall, 200 H Street in historic, downtown Rivertown and for school board candidates at the Contra Costa Elections Office, 555 Escobar Street in Martinez.
Source: City of Antioch
“The 2024 General Election has officially begun,” said Kristin B. Connelly, Contra Costa Registrar of Voters. “Candidate Filing begins Monday July 15, and our Candidate Services team is ready to help our residents who are looking to serve their communities in an elected position.”
If an incumbent does not file to run for office by the deadline on August 9th, the filing period for that office will extend until 5:00 pm on Wednesday, August 14, 2024.
Interested candidates for Antioch School Board can schedule an appointment through email at candidate.services@vote.cccounty.us or by calling 925-335-7800. Walk-ins are accepted, but service is subject to the availability of staff. Appointments are available on weekdays from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Filing documents and information will be provided to interested constituents at their appointment. The process takes 20 minutes.
AUSD Trustee Areas Final Map 2022
For further information on the General Election and key dates, go to www.contracostavote.gov
The following candidates have announced for the election in November:
Mayor of Antioch – Incumbent Lamar Hernández-Thorpe, Ron Bernal
District 3 City Councilmember –Antwon Webster, Don Freitas
See list of all offices up for election in Contra Costa County in November, here.
Kristin B. Connelly, County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters and Dawn Kruger, Civic Outreach and Engagement Specialist, Contra Costa Clerk-Recorder-Elections Department contributed to this report.
Drone used to communicate with him from safe distance
By Antioch Police Department
At 8:00 am, Friday, July 12, 2024, dispatchers received a call about a man lying on the trail near Lone Tree Way and Longview Drive. The caller reported that the man had a pistol in his waistband. As a precaution, APD officers used our drone to communicate with the man from a distance.
Officers were able to successfully utilize the drone and de-escalation techniques to safely take the man into custody. It turned out that he was carrying two loaded pistols.
Best of Best Review award for Caring Haven owned by CEO Nicola “Nikki” Lopez.
Founded and owned by Jamaican immigrant Nikki Lopez
Caring Haven, headquartered in Antioch, has proudly been recognized as the Best Senior Care Agency in the Bay Area by Best of Best Review. This accolade reflects the agency’s unwavering dedication to providing dignified care for seniors and veterans.
Founded last October by CEO and Chief Care Officer Nicola “Nikki” K. Lopez, MBA, an inspiring immigrant from Jamaica, Caring Haven is built on the foundation of family love and care. Nikki’s personal values shape the company’s mission: “We ensure every client is seen, heard, and empowered, just as we care for our own family. Each loved one we serve is treated with the same affection and dignity our CEO gives to her grandma.”
The company slogan is “Elevating Life, Embracing Care” and their service areas include Antioch, Discovery Bay, Brentwood, Oakley, Pittsburg, Tracy, Concord, Martinez, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek including Rossmoor, Benicia, Vallejo, Rio Vista and surrounding areas.
According to the awards organization, “At Best of Best Review, we take great pride in recognizing the outstanding companies that stand out in their fields, and this year, Caring Haven LLC has earned a distinguished place as the ‘Best Senior Care Agency in the Bay Area’. This accolade reflects the unparalleled dedication, compassion, and expertise that Caring Haven brings to home care services.
Nicola’s journey, as an immigrant navigating corporate America, has shaped her passion for providing top-tier, empathetic care. This dedication is evident in the way Caring Haven embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion, placing people over profit.
A Testament to Excellence
Caring Haven’s commitment to excellence is evident in the glowing testimonials from clients and partners. Latrice Roberson from Grace and Glory Hospice notes, ‘Nikki’s smile and calm manner can bring an individual’s anxiety down to where they feel empowered to move forward. Her loyalty and dedication to the health industry speaks volumes and shows her empathy towards others.’
Another satisfied client shares, ‘Caring Haven was an absolute godsend recently when my 100-year-old mother’s full-time caregiver came down with Covid. Nikki Lopez personally filled in, ensuring my mother received the care she needed. Her compassion and dedication are unmatched.’
Rigorous Selection Process
Caring Haven’s recognition as the “Best Senior Care Agency in the Bay Area” was not earned lightly. Hundreds of agencies were evaluated based on several criteria, including:
Client Satisfaction: Testimonials and reviews highlighted the exceptional care and dedication of the caregivers.
Expertise and Knowledge: Demonstrated through comprehensive and personalized care plans.
Authenticity and Trustworthiness: Evident in the agency’s transparent and heartfelt communication with clients.
Performance Metrics: High client retention rates and positive health outcomes.
Competitive Differentiation: Unique DEI-led approach and unwavering focus on community and compassion.
Personalized and Compassionate Care
The care provided by Caring Haven is not just about meeting physical needs but also nurturing the emotional and psychological well-being of clients. For instance, one client recalls how Nikki from Caring Haven quickly responded to an urgent request for a caregiver, connecting deeply with the family and ensuring the service started promptly. This personalized attention and genuine compassion are what make Caring Haven stand out.
A Legacy of Dedication
Caring Haven’s mission is clear: to make every client feel seen, heard, and empowered. The team’s dedication to building meaningful relationships and creating a nurturing environment is reflected in every aspect of their service. From companionship and assistance with daily activities to respite care, Caring Haven ensures that clients receive comprehensive support tailored to their individual needs.
Pros of Choosing Caring Haven LLC:
Compassionate and personalized care
Quick response time and professional service
Highly skilled and empathetic caregivers
DEI-led approach prioritizing people over profit
High client satisfaction and retention rates”
About the award, Lopez said, “People are literally trusting me with their lives and others are trusting me with those who matter most to them. It’s humbling, and not a task I take lightly.”
“It was a surprise, I didn’t expect it,” she added.
Lopez’s commitment extends beyond her company. She is an active member of the Antioch and Brentwood Chambers of Commerce and serves on three significant boards in Contra Costa County: the Economic Opportunity Council (EOC), Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), and the Aging Council on Aging (ACAOC).
Additionally, Caring Haven hires and trains the best Care Team ensuring all clients receive a consistent level of professional, dignified, and reliable care.
Caring Haven is credentialed with the Veterans Administration (VA) and Medicaid, and also accepts private pay and various long-term care insurance plans, including workers’ compensation for post-surgery or rehab patients. Their comprehensive services include companionship, personal care, dementia care, and more.
For those seeking quality care for their loved ones, Caring Haven is the trusted choice. Visit their website at www.caringhavenhomecare.com or call 925.331.0590 for more information.
CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee administers the Code of Honor to the 102 new officers on Friday morning, July 12, 2024. Photo: CHP
After completing 1,200 hours of intensive training over 26 weeks
By Tami Grimes, PIO, CHP
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The California Highway Patrol (CHP) proudly introduced 102 of the state’s newest officers during a swearing-in ceremony today at the CHP Academy in West Sacramento. In a continued effort to fill vacant officer positions, these men and women hail from communities throughout California, as well as Colorado and Oregon.
“Having successfully completed the last 26 weeks of intensive training, the CHP is pleased to welcome these new officers to the CHP family. They are beginning a career of service and I trust they will do everything they can to take care of their communities,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “Every corner of the State deserves to have the best trained and prepared personnel, and I am confident these new officers will be able to provide the highest level of safety, service, and security possible.”
CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee inspects the cadets before the ceremony on Friday, July 12, 2024. Photo: CHP
Before offering his prepared remarks, Duryee said to the audience of the new officers’ family members and friends, “Alright, listen. I was a little disappointed to that approach. Not from the cadets, from the crowd. You all gotta get a little fired up. This is a celebration.”
“I don’t know what they’ve told you how this place is,” he continued with a smile. “But this is a celebration, today. So, as we celebrate them let’s get a little rowdy. Yeah?” to which the audience applauded and cheered in response.
While at the CHP Academy, cadets receive over 1,200 hours of training and start with subjects including nobility in policing, leadership, professionalism and ethics, and cultural diversity. Additionally, cadets receive instruction on mental illness response and crisis intervention techniques. Training also covers vehicle patrol, crash investigation, first aid, and the apprehension of suspected violators, including those who drive under the influence. Cadets also receive training in traffic control, report writing, recovery of stolen vehicles, assisting the motoring public, issuing citations, emergency scene management, and various codes, including the California Vehicle Code, Penal Code, and Health and Safety Code.
The Code of Honor was administered by Duryee and repeated by the cadets as follows: “I, a member of the California Highway Patrol, subscribe in word and deed to the following; To serve the United States of America and the State of California honestly, and conscientiously; and fulfill my oath as a soldier of the law; to uphold and maintain the honor and integrity of the California Highway Patrol; Be loyal to my fellow officers; respect and obey my seniors in rank; and enforce the law without fear, favor or discrimination; to assist those in peril or distress and if necessary lay down my life rather than swerve from the path of duty; my person conduct shall at all times be above reproach; and I will never knowingly commit any act that will in any way bring discredit upon the California Highway Patrol or any member thereof; to all of this I do solemnly pledge my sacred honor as an officer with the California Highway Patrol.”
Family members and friends pinned the new officers’ badges to their uniforms. Video screenshot
Today’s graduation concludes the new officers’ stay at the Academy prior to their reporting to one of the 102 CHP Area offices throughout the state on July 22. (View ceremony video and highlight video)
The CHP continues the search for service-minded individuals who are interested in a career in law enforcement in support of its ongoing, multiyear recruitment campaign to hire 1,000 officers. In 2023, the CHP added 407 officers to its ranks. With today’s swearing-in, an additional 409 officers have been sworn in this year and there are still two more cadet classes scheduled to complete the Academy before the end of 2024.
By Lt. D. Bittner #3252, Antioch Police Investigations Bureau
On July 11, 2024, at approximately 7:29 pm, Antioch police officers responded to the apartment complex located at 600 Wilbur Avenue on the report of a shooting.
When officers arrived, they located a 34-yearold male in the street near the center of the apartment complex suffering from a fatal gunshot wound.
The Antioch Police Department’s Investigations Bureau, consisting of Crime Scene Investigators and detectives with the Violent Crimes Unit took over the investigation. This is an active investigation, and no further information will be released at this time.
Additional inquiries, tips or information can be directed to Antioch Police Detective John Cox at (925) 481-8147 or by email jcox@antiochca.gov.
