By Jazmine Vega Zanders, MSW 

Three Antioch middle school-aged cheerleading squads went to JAMZ NorCal Challenge Cup Competition on Saturday, March 29th and all competed in the same division. All teams did a great job representing Antioch at Adventist Health Arena in Stockton, CA.

Dallas Ranch Cheer powered by Vega Stars Elite took first place and went home with Champion Rings. Park Middle took second place, and Antioch Charter took 3rd.

Congratulations to all the cheerleaders!

Vega Zanders is the owner of Vega Stars Elite Performing Arts Center for Cheer and Dance in Antioch. For more information visit www.facebook.com/vegastarselite or https://linktr.ee/vegastarselite.

By Patrick McCarran, Real Estate Broker

A reverse mortgage can be a helpful tool for your retirement plan. There are generally two options. Options one is to refinance your existing home and receive a monthly payment to supplement your income. Option two is less well known and is to purchase another home with a reverse mortgage loan. In this scenario you either use equity from the sale of your home such as in a downsizing option or moving to a more affordable area. If you have the funds, you can also use those as a down payment, usually half the value.

You may not have planned on having a loan on your home in your senior years but it may be a good option for you if you can get pass the misinformation.  There is a great deal of misleading “facts” about reverse mortgages and a large population that believe what they hear. I will address some of the misinformation.

The government will NOT Own your property. The government involvement is limited to insuring your loan with the actual lender much the same a traditional purchase loan.

You can absolutely sell your property if your situation changes. Just like any other loan you can sell the property pay off the loan, take your equity, and move on.

Nobody will take your property form your or your heirs.If there is equity in the property then your heirs can sell and take the equity or refinance the home to pay off the balance and keep the home. There are some timelines associated with the process but in my experience HUD is reasonable.

If the value drops they cannot come after you for the difference. A reverse mortgage is a non-recourse loan. This means that house is the only collateral and the lender or HUD cannot come after you or your heirs.

Your spouse will not have to move even if they are younger. A law was passed in 2014 that protects a non-borrowing spouse so they can stay in the home until they choose to move.

There are ways however instances in which you could be forced to sell. These include, if you do not occupy the property as your primary residence for 12 months, if you fail to maintain the property, if you do not pay necessary expenses such as property taxes, insurance, HOA fees, etc.

Itcan be confusing, but part of the application process is a mandatory counseling session with an approved non-partisan counselor. Their job is to answer any questions and get you more information. The fees can be higher than traditional mortgages and HELOCs. But often the benefits outweigh the costs. There are no loan payments, no stringent qualifications, and no required income level to qualify.

It is a fact that you are using your equity and therefore less money will be left to your heirs but that’s your choice to make and it may improve the quality of your golden years.

Be informed and know your options.

Patrick McCarran is a local Realtor and Broker DRE# 01325072. He can be contacted by phone or text at (925) 899-5536, pmccarran@yahoo.com or www.CallPatrick.com. An independently owned and operated office.  In association with Realty One Group Elite DRE# 0193160. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Restaurant and property put up for sale

By Allen D. Payton

A 69-year-old Antioch institution and icon, Mac’s Old House, will close in June as owner and president Gary Noe and general manager and head chef Rick Cook have decided to throw in the dish towel and chef’s hat.

Locally famous for their dine-in, family-style prime rib and pasta dinners, as well as their very affordable cocktails, “The story of Mac’s stretches back to 1925 when Floyd ‘Mac’ McKinney built this house with his father. In 1956 he began to operate a bar out of a converted part of the home. He operated it for 17 years before selling it and retiring,” according to a report by onlyinyourstate.com. “The restaurant changed hands a few times after Mac, but today’s owner bought it in 1983.”

Noe and Cook, who have operated it on E. 18th Street, announced the closure in a post on Facebook Friday evening:

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the closing of Mac’s Old House on Sunday, June 22, 2025.

We know this may come as a shock, but after 42 incredible years it’s time to hang up our hats. In 1983, Gary and Rick came together with a vision to create the Mac’s you know and love today. Gary purchased this old house with the dream of bringing Bertolas style to Antioch, and Rick, who spent over a decade at Bertolas in Oakland, joined him. We were welcomed with open arms and were a success from day one.

We have weathered recessions, a pandemic, and ever-changing times, and through it all, we have been fortunate to serve this community. We could not have done it without our loyal customers and our dedicated staff. This little house has served well over three million meals, and we are grateful for each and every one of you.

As difficult as this decision is, all good things must come to an end.  Rick and Gary have dedicated more than half their lives to Mac’s—along with many of our staff. We are incredibly grateful for everyone who has been part of our Mac’s family over the years. Their hard work and loyalty is what makes Mac’s Old House so special.

We hope this gives you time to visit and enjoy Mac’s a few more times before we say our farewell. Your stories and memories mean the world to us, and we look forward to celebrating with the community that helped make Mac’s an iconic and loved institution.

There is still hope for the future—Mac’s Old House and the property are for sale, meaning it’s possible that Mac’s could live on with new ownership and management. For inquiries, please contact Tatiana Guzman, Chromata Real Estate at 925-783-2480 or tatiana@chromataRE.com.

Thank you all for being the most important part of our story.

With gratitude,

The Mac’s Old House Family”

Their menu also includes Extra Cut Prime Rib, Ribeye Steak, fresh Salmon and Red Snapper, Calamari Steak, Grilled Chicken Breast and Ground Round. Mac’s dine-in meals include hot baked bread, Minestrone soup, salad, pasta and fresh sauteed vegetables. See all of their menu at www.macsoldhouse.com and go get some while you still can!

David Despain for Most Impact, Ray Yaker for Lifetime achievement and Jimmy Bean recognized

By Antioch Chamber of Commerce

During the annual Gala on Friday, March 28, 2025, the Antioch Chamber of Commerce honored 2024/25 Antioch Veterans of the Year, David Despain for most impact and Ray Yaker for Lifetime achievement, and honored the late Jimmy Bean with a posthumous award recognizing him for years of service to the community. The event was held at the Lone Tree Golf & Event Center.

2024/25 Antioch Veteran of the Year – David (Dave) Despain

I was born March 17, 1965, in Boulder, Colorado.I graduated from Niwot High School in Niwot Colorado in 1983 and enlisted in the Navy in July of 1983 as a Construction Mechanic in the Navy Sea Bees!

I attended Boot Camp in San Diego, then transferred to Port Hueneme for Construction Mechanic training and certification.

After completion of training my first set of orders were to Adak Alaska, where I spent 2 years working in Public Works supporting the snow equipment, aircraft refuelers and construction equipment to support the anti-submarine warfare efforts during the cold war.

After leaving Adak, I received orders to Navy Second Class Dive School in Coronado, Ca to eventually be assigned to UCT 2 (Underwater Construction Team 2) in Port Hueneme, CA.

After this assignment I transferred to NMCB 40 (Naval Mobile Construction Battalion) in Port Hueneme.  Where I was deployed to Yokosuka, Japan and then later to Rota Spain.

In 1987, I received orders to the Concord Naval Weapons Station, which brought me to Antioch.

Released from Active Duty in 1992, I began a career with Caltrans (Highway Department).

In late 1992, I enlisted into the navy Reserves and joined CHB-3 (Cargo Handling Battalion) in Alameda, California. While assigned to CHB-3 we were tasked with mobilizing, storing, supplying Mobile Navy Hospitals around the world.  This took me to several countries including, Turkey, Norway, Korea, and Guam.

I retired as a 1st Class Petty Officer in the United States Navy Seabees in August of 2006.

While in the reserves I joined the American Legion, Harding-Noia Post 161 in Antioch, CA. I worked with the American Legion in supporting youth programs by leading and sponsoring Cub Scout Pack 151 and Boy Scout Troop 151. In 2019 I became the Commander for Antioch’s American Legion Post 161 and am still serving as Commander.

2024/25 Antioch Lifetime Veteran of the Year – Ray Yaker

I was born in May of 1947 in Fresno Ca. to William & Martha Yaker, where I went to school and graduated from Roosevelt High in the spring of 1965. In January of ‘66 joined the Navy and later that year after completing a course at BT ‘A’ school was deployed on a West-Pac tour which included off the shore of Vietnam. In the middle of March of ‘67 while trying to assist the rescue of a downed pilot we received a direct hit from shore batteries which came seriously close to sending the entire ship and crew to Davy Jones Locker.

After that I applied to UDT (Navy Frogmen) and was sent back to San Diego and the infamous “Silver Strand” for training. Unfortunately, after five and a half weeks into the training I was in a bit of an accident that left me missing a couple of teeth and was unable to complete the course and transferred to a second ship where I finished my service in June of ’68. 

In March of ’69 I was married and later that year we had our first of two children. I worked in Fresno at various places till July of ’73 and relocated to Winters Ca and went to work for PG&E and played a little music on the side, till I became a truck driver in ’78 for 16yrs. It was during this time we met Paul and Winkie Scannell, who, were really the people responsible for us getting involved with helping others. At that time, it was the Make-A-Wish Foundation then later the American Legion.

I was already a member of the VFW but when joined the Legion I became a member of their Honor Guard and really got evolved with volunteering it was at that time we noticed that people allover were starting to recognizing Veterans and thanking us for our service to our country.

Over the years we have donated to as many service organizations as possible and have volunteered whenever we could. 

According to local veterans’ leader, J.R. Wilson, who assisted with the presentations, Mr. Yaker was unable to attend the dinner due to his wife being diagnosed with cancer and having her first chemo treatment that day. At Ray’s request, during the ceremony, J.R. spoke about the importance of cancer screening.

Posthumous Award Honoring Jimmy Bean

We are honored to present this Posthumous Award in memory of Jimmy, a devoted family man, community leader, and steadfast supporter of the Antioch Chamber of Commerce. Jimmy’s love and commitment to service and generosity left an incredible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A proud veteran, Jimmy served in the National Guard in North Carolina, demonstrating his dedication to his country. As a longtime member of the Lions Club, he played a pivotal role in organizing countless fundraisers, ensuring their success and impact on the community. His passion for service extended through his years as a business owner and Antioch Chamber member, where he was always willing to assist others in times of need.

Beyond his professional and community contributions, Jimmy was a man of many passions. He found joy in golf, photography, fine wine, and the music of Elvis Presley. His warmth, kindness, and generosity touched many lives, making him not only a respected leader but also a cherished friend. Jimmy’s legacy of service and compassion will forever be remembered. Though he is no longer with us, his impact will continue to inspire generations to come.

In loving memory of Jimmy—thank you for a life well-lived and a community well-served.

Bean passed away on December 26, 2024, at the age of 85. Read his obituary, here:

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Easter Egg Hunts, photos with the Easter Bunny and Petting Zoo, plus, Stuffed Animal Giveaway!

Join us for an afternoon of Easter Egg Hunting and pictures with the Easter Bunny, Saturday, April 9, 2025.This is a free and fun, family-friendly event for the public. Rivertown businesses have a Merchant-2-Merchant egg hunt from 12:00 to 4:00 pm.

Events at Waldie Plaza, on W. 2nd Street across from City Hall, include a Petting Zoo from 1:00 to 3:00 pm, photos with the Easter Bunny at Rivertown Treasure Chest at 306 G Street from 11:00 am to 2:00 p.m. sponsored by Jim Lanter State Farm, then at Waldie Plaza plus, another Easter Egg Hunt from 3:00 to 4:00 pm.

K-911 Animal Rescue kindly donated 600 stuffed animals to be distributed throughout Rivertown Merchant stores, so every child gets one while supplies last.

Visit the following Participating Merchants in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown: Almost There Travel • Royal Banquet • Abuelita’s House Pastries & Deli • Guadalajara Taqueria • Sweets on Second • Flying Dutchman Tattoo • Antioch Chamber of Commerce • Jim Lanter State Farm Insurance • Rivertown Community Church • Feral Unicorn Snack Emporium • Chef Jeff’s Smash Burgers • Ellie’s Grooming • TNT Smoothie & Juice Bar • The 4 Seasonings Steakhouse • Rivertown Treasure Chest • HIMC Hair Studio • Studio B Dance Studio • La Plazuela Restaurant • Antioch Community Federal Credit Union • Willow Park Mercantile.

Presented by Celebrate Antioch Foundation and the Rivertown merchants. Learn more at www.celebrateantioch.org and www.downtownantioch.com. Follow the Rivertown merchants, events and activities at www.facebook.com/antiochrivertown or on the Downtown Antioch Assocation page on Facebook.

Ribbon cutting, vendor samples, BMX Bike performances

By Allen D. Payton

According to management staff, after undergoing $13 million of improvements, the Antioch Walmart Supercenter will hold a Grand Re-Opening Friday, April 4, 2025.

A Ribbon Cutting will be held between 8:00 and 9:00 am. and during the ceremony the plan is to congratulate some of the original associates of the store.

Plus, sampling by vendors such as Monster, Coke, Pepsi and Frito-Lay as well as BMX Bike performances.

First approved by the City Council in 1998, the store opened in 2000. It was approved for expansion to include a grocery section by the City Council in 2012. Then following a lawsuit and a 2013 state Supreme Court decision the expansion was allowed to proceed.

The latest improvements include a new building on the west side of the store for customer pick-ups.

The store, #2697, is located at 4893 Lone Tree Way in the Williamson Ranch Plaza. For more information visit www.walmart.com/store/2697-antioch-ca.

For more information and menu visit www.thefourseasonings.com. For reservations call (925) 732-7468.

Mina Aljanaby, RCF Connects receive awards

Teresa Glenn is the 2025 Chamber Board Chair

By Antioch Chamber of Commerce

During the annual Gala on Friday, March 28, 2025, the Antioch Chamber of Commerce honored 2024 Youth of the Year Mina Aljanaby, a Dozier-Libbey Medical High School student, and Non-Profit of the Year RCF Connects. In addition, Teresa Glenn of TreVista Senior Living Antioch was installed as the Chambers new Board Chair for 2025. The event was held at the Lone Tree Golf & Event Center.

Youth of the Year Award – Mina Aljanaby
Mina exemplifies excellence in academics, leadership, and service, making a profound impact on both peers and the community.

As a lead teacher CPR instructor for middle school students, Mina has demonstrated outstanding mentorship and a commitment to educating younger students in life-saving skills. She has also played a key role in organizing medical field days, ensuring that students gain exposure to the healthcare field.

Additionally, Mina helped organize and host bone marrow donation programs, showcasing an incredible dedication to health advocacy and service. Beyond academics, she has excelled in leadership, serving as the Vice President for two years, fostering a positive school environment.

Mina’s hard work has been recognized through the Barbara James Service Award and the Red Cross Merit County Award. Her dedication, initiative, and compassion make her a truly deserving recipient of this award.

During the ceremony, Mina was presented with a scholarship funded by the Antioch and Delta-Antioch Rotary Clubs.

Non-Profit of the Year – RCF Connects
RCF Connects has been an exceptional champion for positive change in the Antioch community, exemplifying its commitment to creating opportunities and addressing pressing community issues. Since 2018, RCF has partnered with local government, community leaders and organizations like the Robin Hood Foundation to raise $1.5 million in support of the Sycamore Drive neighborhood, helping to transform it through projects such as renewed community parks, college and career pathways, and pilot programs like guaranteed income.

The foundation has also made impact in homeownership accessibility by bringing a down payment assistance program to Antioch, raising $1.8 million to help low- to moderate -income first time homebuyers.

The Equity for Black Women and Girls initiative has empowered 24 local women entrepreneurs with a comprehensive business development program, helping to launch 21 new businesses in Antioch in just two years

As RCF continues to address critical needs like transportation gaps and the development of community economic strategies, their impact on Antioch residents’ lives is undeniable. Their efforts to connect people with resources and opportunities truly make them deserving of the Non-Profit of the Year Award.

New Chamber Board Chair
Teresa Glenn of TreVista Senior Living Antioch was installed as the 2025 Board Chair for the Antioch Chamber of Commerce. She moves up from the position of Ambassador Committee Chair and takes over from Michael Gabrielson of Willow Park Mercantile.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.