The Antioch High Class of 2024 graduates toss their caps in the air to celebrate on Friday June 7. 2024. Photos by Allen D. Payton (left) and Selena Cedano (right)
By Allen D. Payton
The Antioch High School Class of 2024 graduation started with a special treat at Eells Stadium on the campus of the Panthers on Friday, June 7, 2024. After entering to the sounds of the traditional processional of “Pomp and Circumstance” and following the posting of the colors by the U.S. Marine Corps, graduates Joshua Llanes and George Villalobo performed the National Anthem on their electric guitars, reminiscent of Jimi Hendrix at Woodstock 55 years ago. It was met with cheers and applause from classmates and their new fans in the stands.
The Antioch High School Class of 2024 grads enter Eells Stadium to the sounds of Pomp and Circumstance and led by Principal John Jimno on Friday, June 7, 2024. Photos by Selena Cedano.
“When they asked…I told them no at the beginning of the year,” Principal John Jimno said with a laugh. “But then they killed it at the last rally we had.” (See video of their Anthem performance on Facebook or YouTube)
The U.S. Marine Corps posted the Colors followed by the performance by AHS Class of 2024 grads Joshua Llanes and George Villalobo of the National Anthem on their electric guitars. These and all other photos by Allen D. Payton unless noted.
Associated Student Body Vice President Amanda Rogers, who will be attending U.C. Berkeley, welcomed her fellow graduates saying, “Our lives are filled with unfinished chapters. There is only one you in this world. You are not your mom, dad or sister or brother. You are uniquely you. Continue to be the best version of yourself as you create your own path in life.”
“Someone else’s success does not diminish our own,” she continued. “While it’s natural to compare ourselves to others we must resist the temptation. We are each on our own journey with our own aspirations, dreams and goals.”
AHS Class of 2024 Salutatorian George Feliciano and Valedictorian Albert Wong speak to their classmates. Large photos by Selena Cedano
Salutatorian & Valedictorian
Jimno then introduced Salutatorian George Feliciano and Valedictorian Albert Wong to share their memories and offer inspiration to their classmates.
“Some of this will be in Spanish,” Feliciano began. He thanked his teachers and counselors, friends and classmates “who have made my experience here more tolerable.”
“We made it through COVID, we made it through the years,” he continued. “We’re moving on and there’s just some things we have to let go of because life can be unpredictable at times. Being original is challenging. Sometimes it’s hard to stand out and can be tempting to steal something as a corny joke or plagiarize. I will always challenge myself to stay out of my comfort zone. We all have our priorities and values. But we eventually will have to compromise.”
“We can’t always get what we want. Don’t lose your originality. Be original or be forgotten. Stay beautiful, guys,” Feliciano concluded.
Top photos by Selena Cedano.
Wong spoke next saying, “Freshman year began…in the quiet corners of our homes. Then sophomore year…we moved from the Microsoft Teams meetings to the in-person classroom. Everyone crafted their own unique high school experience to take with them. I figured since I’m going to be stuck at Antioch (High) anyways, I may as well make the most of my time here which led me to join activities such as cross country, track and other club on campus.”
“And now here we are…with student debt and taxess to look forward to,” he said with a laugh.
Speaking of his parents he said, “They expected me to achieve but also be humble in my accomplishments. It is because of their high standards and relentless support that I am standing here as your valedictorian.”
Many of the AHS Class of 2024 grads decorated their caps.
“I encourage you to reflect on the expectations that have shaped you,” Wong continued. “Remember that expectations are powerful, but they are also personal. They are a reflection of your dreams and aspirations. Hold onto them tightly…and never be afraid to exceed them.”
Jimno then offered brief remarks to the graduates saying, “The true gift for many of us who have chosen this profession is days like today. I’m proud of you and in awe at all the accomplishments. Right now, I’m just excited the future is in front of you. Thank you, Class of 2024.”
AHS Principal John Jimno, AUSD Board President Antonio Hernandez and Vice President Mary Rocha each addressed the graduates.
Board President Antonio Hernandez spoke next saying, “I grew up here in Antioch and went to Marsh Elementary. I am the first in my family to go to a four-year college and graduate from Stanford University,” to cheers from the crowd. “Remember to celebrate with the people you have around you…family and friends and those who helped you along the way,” he added.
Although not scheduled to speak, Trustee Mary Rocha said, “I’m cutting in. I’m sure many of you have done that, too,” to laughter. “I’m personally here because my granddaughter is graduating.” She then spoke in Spanish to the parents of some of the students.
AHS Class of 2024 grads receive their diplomas. Trustee Mary Rocha presented the diploma to her granddaughter. (Bottom right)
Acting Superintendent Dr. Rob Martinez accepted the class saying, “On behalf of the Antioch Unified School District, it is my distinct honor to accept the 2024 graduating class from Antioch High School. Upon the recommendation of the faculty and on behalf of the Antioch Unified School District Governing Board of Education, I certify that each of you has completed the graduation requirements set forth by the…District.
Having completed these requirements, I confer upon each of you the high school diploma with all its rights, honors and responsibilities. Henceforth you are to be considered high school graduates and alumni of Antioch High School in the Antioch Unified School District. Congratulations.”
Diplomas were then presented to the graduates and the class officers were the first to receive theirs.
In memory of Giovanni Martino, his sister Kylah received his diploma on his behalf. According to one of the teachers at the ceremony, Giovanni died during their first year back from the COVID lockdown.
Principal Jimno presented a special diploma in memory of Giovanni Martino to his sister Kylah.
Senior Class President Karissa Legaspi spoke to her fellow graduates saying, “Today, we mark the end of an unforgettable chapter. Together we made memories that will last a lifetime. This isn’t the ending. 13 years flew right by us. Look at us now…on this day with the world at our fingertips. When I look out on this crowd I see a bright future. You can make any of your dreams happen. Motivation is the key. Your future is in your hands.
HS ASB Vice President Amanda Rogers and Class of 2024 grad speaks to her classmates. They later turn their tassels led by Senior Class President Karissa Legaspi.
She then led her classmates in the turning of their tassels signifying the end of their high school career. That was followed by the graduates celebrating and tossing their caps into the air.
The Herald congratulates the Antioch High School Class of 2024 graduates. May God bless you in your future!
Victory Outreach Antioch presents Unleashed, A Community and Family Event on Saturday, June 22, 2024. Enjoy a custom car show, free haircuts, live hip hop music concert featuring artist EGR and a food giveaway. The event will be held at Antioch City Park on the corner of A and W. 10th Streets from 1:00-5:00 p.m.
The Deer Valley High School Class of 2024 graduates toss their caps at the end of the ceremony on Friday, June 7, 2024. Photos by Allen D. Payton
By Allen D. Payton
Following the traditional processional of Pomp and Circumstance by the Deer Valley Band, on the cool morning of Friday, January 7, 2024, the Deer Valley High School Class of 2024 enjoyed their graduation ceremony on the school’s new turf football field at Wolverine Stadium. House 2 Vice Principal Mike Green served as Master of Ceremonies. The colors were presented by the U.S. Marine Corps and the National Anthem was announced by Salutatorian Hanna Elizabeth Johnson and performed by the Deer Valley Divine Voices, led by Choral Director Georgia Friend.
DVHS Vice Principal Mike Green served again as MC and Principal Veronica McClennan speaks to her first graduating class at Deer Valley as Trustee Dr. Jag Lathan looks on during the ceremony on Friday, June 7, 2024.
First-year Principal Veronica McClennan spoke of the graduates’ collective experiences during COVID-19.
“You are a testament to what it means to be resilient,” she said. “Your freshman year was spent learning how to jump on Teams calls and maneuvering online learning platforms. You…conducted virtual labs and experienced virtual field trips.”
“As sophomores, you were able to return to campus and together you re-learned morning routines, getting up, getting dressed and getting to school on time. Some of you are still learning that one,” McClennan said to laughter.
The DVHS Class of 2024 was the first to graduate on the school’s new football field.
“No matter where your journey takes you, it is my hope your time here at Deer Valley has prepared you to go into the world with kindness and compassion, with confidence and the courage to stand in your truth.”
She then quoted Taylor Swift to groans from some of the graduates, about being clever but kind, polite but powerful. The principal concluded by quoting Tupac Shakur saying, “Life is a wheel of fortune, and it is your turn to spin it.”
any of the DVHS Class of 2024 grads decorated their caps with special messages.
Trustee Dr. Clyde Lewis spoke on behalf of the AUSD Board of Education pointing out, “You’re the first graduating class to graduate on this field. So, that is an honor.”
“The world outside these walls is vast and full of opportunities. And while the road may be uncertain, I do not doubt that very one of you is more than capable of achieving greatness,” he continued.
“As Wolverines, you are resilient, determined and passionate. You’ve learned the value of hard work and perseverance,” Lewis stated. “As you step out into the world, remember to carry those lessons with you and continue to make a positive impact wherever life may take you.”
“Congratulations, Class of 2024. The world awaits and I do not doubt you will conquer it together,” he concluded.
Trustee Dr. Clyde Lewis encourages the DVHS Class of 2022 graduates and Acting Superintendent Dr. Rob Martinez accepted the class as they listen in their school colors of teal and black.
Senior Class President Corey Hawkins then spoke to his fellow graduates saying, “We entered the doors…just four years ago and just like that we’re in our teal and black caps and gowns. We had the first Junior Prom outside of DVHS. We are the last virtual learning class of DVHS. The first ever graduating class to graduate on the completely renovated Deer Valley football field.”
“It has been an honor serving as your class president four years in a row. You just have to dream, and you will make it your reality,” he added.
Senior Class President Corey Hawkins and Valedictorian William Lee reminisce with and inspire their fellow graduates during Friday’s ceremony.
Valedictorian William Lee, who will attend UC Berkeley and study astrophysics, repeated the question of the 2022 Valedictorian. “‘What advice would you give to your past self?’ I settled on writing about taking risks,” he said. “Taking risks is necessary for growth and you have to start somewhere. I have become a confident risk taker. As a result, I have made important career connections,” Lee continued.
“Class of 2024, we stand at the precipice. I know that each and every one of you has a dream and goal for the future,” he stated. “There will come a time you will have to take a risk. Take that risk and take it confidently because you are capable of more than you can imagine.”
“Congratulations, Class of 2024,” Lee concluded.
The DVHS Class of 2024 graduates line up to receive their diplomas.
Acting Superintendent Dr. Rob Martinez then accepted the class saying, “On behalf of the Antioch Unified School District, it is my distinct honor to accept the 2024 graduating class from Deer Valley High School. Upon the recommendation of the faculty and on behalf of the Antioch Unified School District Governing Board of Education, I certify that each of you has completed the graduation requirements set forth by the…District.
The DVHS Class of 2024 graduates receive their diplomas from Trustees Lewis and Lathan and celebrate during the ceremony Friday morning, June 7, 2024.
Having completed these requirements, I confer upon each of you the high school diploma with all its rights, honors and responsibilities. Henceforth you are to be considered high school graduates and alumni of Deer Valley High School in the Antioch Unified School District. Congratulations.”
The Divine Voices then performed “A Blessing” and “It’s Hard to Say Goodbye”.
DVHS Math Department Chair Maria McClain and Math Instructor Jessika Tate conducted the Reading of the Names, as Trustees Lewis and Dr. Jag Lathan handed the graduates their diplomas. The 2023-24 Senior Class Officers were first to receive theirs.
The DVHS Class of 2024 grads celebrate as they turn their tassels.
Class President Hawkins returned to the stage to lead his classmates in the turning of their tassels, which was followed by their own cheers and those of the audience, and the tossing of their caps into the air to celebrate and say “good-bye” to high school. They filed out in a formal fashion to the music of the DVHS Band led by Music Director Ryan Carr.
The Deer Valley Divine Voices and Band performed separate numbers during the ceremony.
The Herald congratulates the Deer Valley High School Class of 2024 graduates. May God bless you in your future!
Antioch High football standout, National Collegiate Champion with the Alabama Crimson Tide and #22 Running Back for the Pittsburg Steelers, Najee Harris will return home, Saturday, June 22, 2024, to hold his Da’ Bigger Picture Foundation Youth Football Camp in Eells Stadium at Antioch High School. The free, one-day camp for all athletes ages 6-18, is being held in partnership with the Antioch Unified School District Elementary Sports Program.
Formed in 2021, according to greaterthanthegame.org, Da Bigger Picture foundation is “a non-profit that focuses on assisting underserved families in reaching their potential and goals. The foundation’s hope is to provide tools and assistance to families facing challenging times. Some of the key areas of focus will be education, homelessness, addressing hunger, and utilizing sports as a platform to develop life skills.”
The Dozier-Libbey Medical High School Class of 2024 graduates toss their hats to celebrate on Thursday, June 6, 2024. Photos by Allen D. Payton
By Allen D. Payton
During Thursday night’s graduation ceremony for Antioch’s Dozier-Libbey Medical High School (DLMHS) Class of 2024, held in the Deer Valley High School quad amphitheater, Antioch Unified School District President Antonio Hernandez, a DLMHS graduate, offered remarks to the graduates.
He shared of his own experience at the high school then in college, and now in grad school saying, “Setbacks and failures will take you to unexpected routes…that can take you to where you want to go.”
“I know that you all have been through so many struggles and serious challenges. It’s important to celebrate these moments you have…with friends and family and all those who supported you along the way,” Hernandez stated. “We can change the world, overnight, immediately. How long are you going to wait to make that change?”
DLMHS 2024 Valedictorian Belinda Barreras speaks to her classmates.
The first student speaker was Alexandra “Alex” Brewer followed by DLMHS Class of 2024 Valedictorian Belinda Reyes Barreras. She spoke with her fellow graduates saying, “Crossing this stage will honor every challenge we faced. We graduate on behalf of any loved one who has shown us support. Our high school journeys have reached their final growth phase. We are the upcoming generation of adults. We can invoke immense change. We must persevere and take on any challenge. I’m sure DL has prepared us to take on any challenge. Congratulations Class of 2024. We did it!”
Alina Nguyen Duong was this year’s Salutatorian for DLMHS.
Principal Karen Clark spoke to the graduating class next. “Today is a day filled with excitement, joy and pride as we gather here to celebrate the culmination of four years of hard work, dedication and growth,” she said. “It is an honor to stand before you as we reflect on the challenges you have overcome, and we look forward to the journey that awaits you beyond these walls.”
“When you entered Dozier-Libbey Medical High School, you knew you were embarking on a unique educational path by choosing a high school with a focus on health and patient care,” Clark continued.
She then spoke of the COVID lockdown and distance learning.”
“The challenges you faced…have forever shaped all of us. You adapted to a new normal…and you forged ahead with determination. Your parents and teachers became your allies,” Clark stated. “Your sophomore year we were granted the opportunity to return to in-person learning. We realized the significance of human connection and face-to-face interactions.
“As you prepare to step into the world beyond high school, it is our hope that Dozier-Libbey Medical High School has instilled the importance of compassion, empathy and understanding, the very qualities that will define your success in navigating the complex world of healthcare or other professions,” she continued.
Many of the DLMHS 2024 grads decorated their caps with messages including one with the character Groot from the Guardians of the Galaxy movies.
“Be the change. Congratulations. The future is yours to shape. Go forward with compassion, excellence and an unwavering commitment to your future goals,” Clark concluded.
Acting Superintendent Dr. Rob Martinez accepted the class saying, “On behalf of the Antioch Unified School District, it is my distinct honor to accept the 2024 graduating class from Dozier-Libbey Medical High School. Upon the recommendation of the faculty and on behalf of the…Board of Education, I certify that each of you has completed the graduation requirements set forth by the…District.
“Having completed these requirements, I confer upon each of you the high school diploma with all its rights, honors and responsibilities.
Henceforth you are to be considered high school graduates and alumni of Dozier-Libbey Medial High School in the Antioch Unified School District.
Congratulations.”
The DLMHS 2024 grads line up to receive their diplomas from school board Trustees Antonio Hernandez and Mary Rocha.
The graduates’ names were read by DLMHS Leadership Advisor Heather Pool as Board President Hernandez and Vice President Mary Rocha presented each with their diploma. One graduate, Alexandra Guevara, received the greatest applause from both her classmates and the audience as she was helped by her mother, Maria to receive her diploma. During a traffic collision on May 15, 2022, Alexandra experienced a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Her older sister Samantha Guevara shared what Alexandra said to her saying, “She went through a difficult time following the accident.” It was “a year of recovery. She proved to others and herself that she could manage to graduate and on time with her class. She will continue to move forward to become a better version of herself and spread awareness to other TBI patients.”
DLMHS Leadership Advisor Heather Pool (left) joins Principal Karen Clark as she was presented her gift from the Class of 2024 represented by President Matilda McCarthy (right).
“This is Ms. Clark’s last and final commencement,” Pool stated.
Class President Matilda McCarthy then presented the principal with a gift from the Class of 2024 in the form of a T-shirt signed by each of the graduates.
Clark then said, “I’m certifying the Class of 2024 graduates.”
“Let’s take a moment to remember what we’ve overcome,” McCarthy said to her classmates. She then shared something her mother taught her. “Work hard, now so it will pay off later.”
“Don’t stop here. Keep going,” she added.
Graduates of the DLMHS Class of 2024 turn their tassels.
McCarthy then led her classmates in the turning of their tassels, signifying the end of their high school career, followed by cheers and the obligatory tossing of caps into the air.
The Herald congratulates the Dozier-Libbey Medical High School Class of 2024 graduates. May God bless you in your future!
Keys recovered inside suspect’s car on May 5, 2024. Photos: Brentwood PD
While on felony probation for vehicle theft; has history of arrests dating to 2014 including 5 times this year
By Brentwood Police Department
On Sunday, May 5, 2024, around 4:00 PM, a Brentwood officer was patrolling the area of Lone Tree Way and Canada Valley Road, when he saw a car without a rear license plate. The officer did a traffic stop and contacted the driver, identified as 35-year-old Robert Edward Garcia of Antioch (born 6/27/88).
Garcia told the officer he did not have a driver’s license and he was also on felony probation for vehicle theft.
After searching Garcia’s car, the officer found several sets of keys belonging to different makes of cars, along with shaved keys, numerous tools, blades, cutting instruments, a car jack, a flipper device (which can be used to hack digital devices) and other tools.
Garcia was placed under arrest for being in possession of burglary tools, probation violation, as well as bringing drugs into the County jail.
This incident exemplifies the proactive efforts of our officers in detecting and addressing criminal behavior, contributing to the maintenance of public safety and the prevention of further criminal activity in the community.
According to localcrimenews.com, he has a history of arrests dating to 2014 by multiple agencies for crimes including five times this year and three times last year.
Our community has been hit hard by car thieves specifically targeting Kia vehicles following a social media trend that’s gone viral. The company is introducing a free deterrent device for vehicles that are not eligible for the security software upgrade that Kia introduced earlier this year.
The ignition cylinder protector will be available beginning December 20th. Each vehicle will get window decals to inform would-be car thieves that the vehicle is equipped with enhanced theft protection. Kia is also offering free steering wheel locks to affected owners of vehicles that are not eligible for the software upgrade.
