APD Crisis team and SWAT members, Brentwood PD’s armored rescue vehicle assist
By Sgt. Kristian Palma #6286, Antioch Police Patrol Services Bureau
On Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at approximately 5:05 PM, Antioch Police officers responded to Wightman Court for a call regarding shots being fired during a verbal disturbance in front of a residence.
While officers were responding, additional callers reported hearing several more shots.
Upon arrival, officers established containment around the involved residence. With the assistance of on duty Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT) members, SWAT team members, and the Brentwood Police Department’s armored rescue vehicle, APD officers were able to safely remove the victim from the residence and resolve this highly volatile and tense situation.
After approximately one hour of de-escalation efforts, the suspect, 18-year-old Angel Jiminez of Antioch, surrendered to APD officers and was subsequently arrested without further incident. Through the investigation, it was determined that Jiminez used a replica firearm to shoot the victim with a metal ball bearing, causing an injury.
Antioch Police Captain Matt Koch later shared the suspect used either a “pellet or BB” gun.
This was an isolated incident, and there is no ongoing threat to the community. The Antioch Police Department is pleased to have peacefully resolved the situation and restored a sense of normalcy to the affected community.
Any further information or additional press releases will be provided by the Investigations Bureau. Tips can also be sent to tips@antiochca.gov.
(Left) Chamber Board Member Ana Walker with Elisa and Mike Van Der Valk, owners of 2024 Antioch Small Business of the Year winner Mike’s Pastry Shop. (Right) past Chamber Board Chair Michael Gabrielson with Cindy Tunales, Manager of 2024 Large Corporate Business of the Year, Travis Credit Union’s Hillcrest Branch in Antioch, with the 2024 Chairman’s Award honoring 2023 Chamber Board Chair Marivel Branco, the former Hillcrest Branch Manager. Photos by Kord Holland
By Antioch Chamber of Commerce
At the annual Antioch Chamber of Commerce Gala on Friday, March 28, 2025, Mike’s Pastry Shop was awarded the 2024 Antioch Small Business of the Year and Travis Credit Union was honored as the 2024 Antioch Large Corporate Business of the Year.
Small Business of the Year – Mike’s Pastry Shop
Congratulations to Mike’s Pastry Shop for being awarded the Small Business of the Year Award! This well-deserved recognition goes beyond their delicious pastries and warm, welcoming staff. It honors their unwavering commitment to the community. While they never seek the spotlight, Mike’s Pastry Shop quietly made and continues to make a difference by consistently donating to those in need, sharing their love for baking in the most meaningful ways.
Their generosity, done without expectation of praise, speaks volumes about their values and dedication to giving back. This award is not just for their exceptional baked goods but for the kindness and compassion they sprinkle into everything they do.
Thank you, Mike’s Pastry Shop for blessing us all with your kindness, generosity, and delicious treats.
About 300 people attended the annual Gala at the Lone Tree Golf & Event Center on Friday, March 28, 2025.
Large Corporate Business of the Year – Travis Credit Union
Travis Credit Union continues to be recognized for its outstanding service and commitment to financial wellness, earning several prestigious awards. In 2024, they were named on the Newsweek’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions List, a testament to its excellence in banking. Additionally, they have been honored as a Forbes Best-In-State Credit Union for multiple years, showcasing its dedication to superior member service. Their impact extends beyond traditional banking, as seen in their recognition as the U.S. Air Force Distinguished Credit Union of the Year.
More than just a financial institution, Travis CU actively works to uplift communities by advocating for financial education, assisting the underserved, and investing in meaningful partnerships. Through its knowledge is Power Financial Education, Financial Literacy, and Financial Advocacy, they collaborate with organizations such as Opportunity Junction, The Lighthouse Mentoring Center, Antioch Parks and Recreation, and the Antioch Public Library.
With a passion for making a difference, Travis Credit Union continues to change lives and strengthen communities through financial wellness.
Economic Development Department partners with key stakeholders to offer direct services to the small business community.
By Collette Hanna, Executive Director, Alliance for Community Development & Jaden Baird, PIO, City of Antioch
ANTIOCH, CA — The City of Antioch Economic Development Department has launched the Antioch Business Collaborative, a collective effort to support the city’s small business community. The Antioch Business Collaborative brings together technical assistance providers and funders to provide one-on-one as well as group advisory services, and access to capital for small businesses located in the city of Antioch. It provides a range of resources to help ensure small business success in the Antioch community.
The Antioch Business Collaborative is an economic development initiative of the City of Antioch, with the goal of providing support to the over 3,000 small businesses in the city. The initiative is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, with targeted support provided to businesses through 2027. Through the Antioch Business Collaborative, small businesses can contact one of the designated partners for help with any of the following services:
• Technical assistance on starting a business, writing a business plan, budgeting, financial management, marketing, and other topics • Workshops and accelerator programs • Assistance with access to capital including low-interest loans and grants
Antioch Business Collaborative partners include: • Alliance for Community Development • Arroyo West • East Bay Small Business Development Center • ESO Ventures • Pacific Community Ventures • Renaissance Center • Uptima Entrepreneur Cooperative • Working Solutions CDFI
In addition, according to Gaby Seltzer, the City’s Economic Recovery Corps Fellow, the Antioch Chamber of Commerce “has been actively involved as a supporting partner in this effort. The Chamber and the Antioch Business Collaborative are two separate but mutually supportive business resources. The Antioch Business Collaborative is a group of organizations funded by city contracts to provide free technical assistance to all Antioch businesses. The Chamber is a membership organization that provides input and promotes these services to its members.”
“We are very proud to support the small business community in Antioch, understanding that they play a critical role in building the entire Antioch economy. Our businesses deserve support to help them grow and thrive, and our residents and community need their existence for our everyday needs of goods and services. We’re happy to have this partnership in place to build and grow the Antioch economy,” said Brad Helfenberger.
Businesses can visit www.growfromwithinantioch.com to learn more about the Antioch Business Collaborative and to find a partner with which to work on growing their business.
Dress like a cow to eat free on opening day at new location in the Slatten Ranch Shopping Center on Lone Tree Way
Breakfast begins at 6:30 a.m.
A new Chick-fil-A® restaurant will begin serving guests in Antioch on Thursday, April 3 at 6:30 a.m. Chick-fil-A, Inc. has selected Evan Hawthorne to serve as the local Owner-Operator of Chick-fil-A Antioch at Lone Tree Way in the Slatten Ranch Shopping Center. The new restaurant brings approximately 100 jobs to the community.
To celebrate the restaurant moo-ving into town, Hawthorne and his team are inviting the community to show off their cow spots at the restaurant on opening day for one free entrée*!
New Owner-Operator Evan and his wife Lindsey Hawthorne (with scissors), her father Dan Kosin, the owner of a location in Fremont, and team held a ribbon cutting followed by a separate ribbon cutting with the Antioch Chamber of Commerce and local officials, including Mayor Ron Bernal and Councilman Don Freitas, during what was labeled a “small closed private ceremony” Wednesday, April 2, 2025. Photos by Zeno Group.
Whether it’s a full cow suit or a simple cow-spotted accessory, Guests of all ages are encouraged to join the fun. The celebration takes place on opening day, offering the community a chance to celebrate the iconic Chick-fil-A Cows seen in TV commercials and on billboards. Guests dressed in cow attire can redeem the offer of one free entrée inside the restaurant or in the drive-thru.
Located at 5705 Lone Tree Way, Chick-fil-A Antioch at Lone Tree Way will serve Guests Monday through Saturday from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., offering dine-in, drive-thru and carry-out.
Rendering of the new Chick-fil-A location in Antioch. Source: City of Antioch
Locally Owned and Operated • “Chick-fil-A holds a special place in my family’s heart, and I am forever grateful to my father-in-law for introducing me to the brand – it has truly changed my life,” said Hawthorne. As we open our doors in Antioch, my goal is to make a meaningful impact by bringing our community together through service and care. I look forward to mentoring future generations while serving great food with genuine hospitality.”
Evan started his journey with Chick-fil-A as a Team Member at his father-in-law’s restaurant in Fremont, California and advanced to General Manager. Today, he is thrilled to become the local Owner-Operator of the first Chick-fil-A in Antioch – a dream nearly eight years in the making.
Caring for the Antioch Community Hawthorne is committed to giving back to the Antioch community by: • Recognizing 100 local heroes making an impact in the Antioch area by providing them with free Chick-fil-A entrées for a year. • Participating in the Chick-fil-A Shared Table® program, which redirects surplus food to local nonprofits, helping to create over 35 million meals nationwide to date. • Celebrating the opening with a $25,000 donation from Chick-fil-A, Inc. to Feeding America to support local hunger relief efforts of Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano, a Feeding America partner food bank, in honor of the new restaurant.
For the latest news and updates on Chick-fil-A Antioch at Lone Tree Way, visit the restaurant’s Facebook page and follow along on Instagram. For more on Chick-fil-A’s high-quality menu options, click here.
*Guests who dress in cow attire on opening day can redeem the offer of one free entrée inside the restaurant or in the drive-thru. Breakfast offer options are a Chick-fil-A® Chicken Biscuit, Egg White Grill or 4-ct Chick-fil-A Chick-n-Minis® . Lunch/dinner offer options are Chick-fil-A® Chicken Sandwich, Spicy Chicken Sandwich, 8-ct Grilled Nuggets and a 5-ct Nugget Kid’s Meal for kids. The offer is limited to one per person in cow attire, per day, while supplies last. Customizations are not available for this offer and no purchase is necessary. See the restaurant for more details.
About Chick-fil-A, Inc. Chick-fil-A, Inc. is the third largest quick-service restaurant company in the United States, known for its freshly-prepared food, signature hospitality and unique franchise model. More than 200,000 Team Members are employed by local Owner-Operators in more than 3,000 restaurants across the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.
Chick-fil-A opened its first restaurant in the UK in early 2025 with the goal of launching five locations across the UK within the next two years. The first Singapore restaurant is set to open in late 2025, marking the brand’s entry into Asia.
Chick-fil-A local Owner-Operators live and work in the communities their restaurants serve, each supporting local efforts to address hunger, education, and making a positive impact. The family-owned and privately held company was founded in 1967 by S. Truett Cathy. More information on Chick-fil-A is available at www.chick-fil-a.com and @ChickfilANews.
New Antioch Public Works Director/City Engineer Scott Buenting (Source: City of Antioch) and new Public Information Officer Jaiden Baird. Source: LinkedIn
Permanent Public Works Director/City Engineer position filled
New Public Information Officer hired
Still leaves Acting Assistant City Manager, Acting Parks & Rec Director, Interim Community & Economic Development Director; searches on for each plus, Police Chief
The City of Antioch announced today, Tuesday, April 1, 2025, the appointments of individuals to various leadership positions – and it ain’t no April Fool’s joke!
Exciting Leadership Updates in the City of Antioch!
The City of Antioch is making key leadership transitions to continue delivering strong and effective services to our community. Here’s what’s new:
Assistant City Manager Update: Kwame Reed has resigned, and Brad Helfenberger, Parks & Recreation Director, will serve as Acting Assistant City Manager while an internal hiring process is underway.
Parks & Recreation: Shahad Wright steps up as Acting Parks & Recreation Director to continue enhancing community programs.
Public Works Leadership: Congratulations to Scott Buenting, officially named Public Works Director/City Engineer after serving in an acting role for 2.5 years.
Public Information Officer (PIO): Welcome, Jaden Baird, who will lead our communications and public engagement efforts!
Community & Economic Development: David Storer has been appointed as Interim Director for both departments.
To ensure strong leadership across all departments, the City has also partnered with Bob Hall & Associates to recruit for key director positions.
We appreciate the dedication of our incredible staff and leadership team as we continue building a better Antioch! Stay tuned for more updates.
SCOTT BUENTING Scott Buenting has been appointed Director of Public Works/City Engineer, after a nearly 25-year journey through the Public Works and Engineering departments. According to his LinkedIn profile, Buenting has worked for Antioch Public Works Department since 2000.
Scott is a proud Antioch native. He attended Sutter Elementary, Park Jr. High, and Antioch High School. Scott received a Bachelor of Sciences degree in Civil Engineering from Cal Poly. He was hired as an assistant engineer in 2000, designing capital improvement projects, construction contracts, performing inspections, and utility alignment assessments. In 2004, he earned his Professional Engineering Certification. In 2005, he was promoted to Associate Civil Engineer, then managing capital improvement budgets, supervising inspectors, overseeing site visits, field surveys, and environmental clearance documents.
In 2017, Scott was promoted to Project Manager. Since 2022, he’s held the responsibilities of Acting Director of Public Works/City Engineer, working to secure state and federal grant funding, managing contracts, and capital improvement projects. His focus on protecting the City’s pre-1914 water rights and water/wastewater rate structures also encompasses his work toward supervising construction of the $100M Brackish Water Desalination Project. Scott plans to continue developing and administering Public Works and capital improvement budgets and overseeing the Public Works operations of the City he grew up in and cares for deeply.
JADEN BAIRD Jaden Baird has assumed the role of Public Information Officer for the City of Antioch. Jaden is a dynamic communications leader with a proven track record of strengthening public engagement, crisis communications, and strategic messaging. He brings years of experience in public relations, media strategy, and community outreach.
Prior to joining the City of Antioch, Jaden served as the Executive Director of Communications and Community Engagement for the Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District since 2021, where he led comprehensive communication initiatives, expanded digital engagement, and managed crisis response efforts that reinforced trust between the district and the community.
According to a report by The Daily Republic, Baird previously worked for “the Long Island City Department of Education, where he served as a special education teacher. Additionally, during his tenure with Lincoln University, Baird served as the Assistant Director of their premier Opera Program.
Baird holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication from Lincoln University, and a Master’s of Science in Special Education.”
His expertise in social media strategy, multimedia storytelling, and press relations will play a vital role in enhancing Antioch’s public outreach efforts. His vision for the City of Antioch’s communications strategy is one of transparency, innovation, and inclusivity, ensuring that every resident stays informed and connected to City government.
BRAD HELFENBERGER Brad returns to his role as Assistant City Manager after previously serving in this role for 15 months until October 2024. With his extensive experience in municipal leadership, parks and recreation, and community engagement, he is ready to continue advancing key initiatives and strengthening city operations. Brad was originally hired with the City of Antioch as the Parks and Recreation Director in February 2021.
Brad has more 25 years of experience in municipal government and holds a Bachelor of Science in Recreation from San Jose State University. Prior to joining the City of Antioch, Brad held leadership roles in the City of Emeryville, the Hayward Area Recreation & Park District, and the City of Milpitas. His expertise in budget management, policy development, and interdepartmental collaboration has made a lasting impact in every community he has served. As the City’s Parks and Recreation Director, he has been instrumental in enhancing public spaces, expanding recreational programming, and fostering community engagement.
As Acting Assistant City Manager, Brad will focus on supporting citywide initiatives that promote economic development, public safety, and efficient municipal services. His leadership will be key in ensuring that Antioch continues to provide high-quality services to its residents while addressing the city’s evolving needs.
DAVID A. STORER With more than three decades of experience in city planning, land use policy, and public administration, David brings a wealth of expertise to our community. His distinguished career includes leadership roles as Planning Director for the cities of Sonoma and Folsom, Assistant City Manager for Elk Grove, and extensive consulting experience providing strategic planning services to municipalities across Northern California.
As a lifetime member of the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), David holds a master’s degree in City and Regional Planning from Brigham Young University. His deep understanding of community development and public sector operations will be instrumental in advancing the city’s vision for sustainable growth and quality of life.
SHAHAD WRIGHT As the Acting Parks and Recreation Director, Shahad will assume responsibility for all programs, activities, and operations of the Parks and Recreation Department.
Shahad was hired in April 2022 as a recreation supervisor and was promoted to Recreation Services Manager the following year. He was born and raised in the Bay Area and received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Recreation with an emphasis in non-profits from San Francisco State University.
He became an employee of the YMCA in 2003, leading local and national programming for more than 15 years. While working for the YMCA he also traveled across the country for NIKE as an event planner, hosting events for NBA All-Star weekends and USA Olympics.
Mike Green offers his thanks for the recognition during the Gala on Friday, March 28, 2025. Lori Ogorchock (second from left) is joined by (L-R) friends Kristen Vistalli, Antioch School Board Trustee Mary Rocha, Debbie Toth, Lucia Albers and Phyllis Gordon. Photos by Kord Holland
For Most Impact and Lifetime Achievement, respectively
By Antioch Chamber of Commerce
During the annual Gala on Friday, March 28, 2025, the Antioch Chamber of Commerce honored Deer Valley High School Vice Principal Mike Green as the 2024 Antioch Citizen of the Year for Most Impact and former Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock with the 2024 Antioch Citizen of the Year for Lifetime Achievement award. The event was held at the Lone Tree Golf & Event Center.
2024 Citizen of the Year for Most Impact – Mike Green
Mike is the kind of volunteer every community dreams of – dedicated, selfless and endlessly giving. His commitment to service extends both locally and internationally, having traveled alongside his father to Mexico and Zambia to assist with dental work for those in need. A natural leader from a young age, Mike achieved the rank of Eagle Scout at just 12 years old and has since continued his scouting journey as a Scoutmaster, tirelessly fundraising and mentoring young scouts.
Beyond scouting, Mike has devoted his career to shaping young minds, serving as an elementary school principal and now as the Vice Principal at Deer Valley High School. His passion for helping students reach their full potential extends to the athletic field, where he previously coached track at Deer Valley. His impact in Antioch runs deep – serving on the boards of Delta Advocacy, the Leo Fontana Foundation, and the Rotary Club of the Delta, where he has championed initiatives supporting low-income families, youth, and seniors.
Mike’s generosity does not stop there. He founded the Home Team program, which provides minor home repairs for local seniors, ensuring they can live safely and comfortably. His heart for service is also evident in the kitchen, where he volunteers as a sous chef, preparing meals for community dinners benefiting causes such as the Elderly Wish Foundation and Special Needs Christmas events. The list of Mike’s contributions could go on and on, but one thing is clear—his impact is profound, and his dedication to Antioch is unmatched. He is truly an incredible, selfless, and exemplary member of our community.
Business owners, community leaders, family and friends of the honorees enjoyed the annual Gala at Lone Tree Golf & Event Center.
2024 Citizen of the Year for Lifetime Achievement – Former Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock
Lori is the true definition of a servant leader, dedicating countless hours to understanding and uplifting her community. Her passion and commitment have driven numerous initiatives that have positively impacted Antioch and beyond.
From coaching youth sports to organizing fundraising efforts, Lori has always prioritized the well-being of children and families. She played a pivotal role in coordinating the first Women’s March in Antioch, raising awareness for women’s rights in East County. She also initiated the Veterans Banner Program, a heartfelt tribute that honors local veterans by displaying their images along the city’s main streets.
As a dedicated board member of PAL (Police Activities League), Lori works tirelessly to support fundraising efforts for youth programs, ensuring that children have access to positive activities and opportunities. Additionally, she serves as the Chair of the Elderly Wish Foundation, granting seniors their final wishes and bringing joy to their lives in their most precious moments. Lori’s impact extends even further as she was instrumental in the opening of Antioch’s Family Justice Center, providing essential resources and support for individuals and families in need.
Her efforts have not only strengthened community programs but have also inspired countless individuals to take action and give back. Whether advocating for women’s rights, honoring veterans, supporting youth, or fulfilling the wishes of seniors, Lori’s selfless contributions have touched lives in profound ways. Her lifelong commitment to service and advocacy is a testament to her character, making her a truly deserving recipient of this award.
The suspects crashed their stolen getaway car into a fence. Contra Costa Sheriff’s Deputies and other emergency personnel with one of the suspects in the back of a Sheriff’s vehicle on Thursday, March 27, 2025. Photos by and courtesy of Mike Burkholder, ContraCosta.news
See 4/1/25 Update: Suspects identified; all four are from Antioch, one was arrested for similar charges in December and January
By Allen D. Payton
According to Pleasant Hill Police Lt. Jason Kleven, on Thursday, March 27, 2025, “The Pleasant Hill Police Department responded to a report of a possible robbery in progress at the 7-Eleven store parking lot located at 601 Patterson Blvd. Two delivery truck drivers were making a scheduled delivery when several suspects stole multiple cartons of cigarettes from the truck’s cargo area. No weapons or injuries were reported during the theft.
The suspects fled the scene in a stolen vehicle. Pleasant Hill Police Detectives later located the vehicle traveling on Highway 4 near Concord. With the help of a police helicopter, the vehicle led authorities to the city of Antioch, where the vehicle stopped near Fremont Elementary School. Four suspects then fled on foot from the vehicle.
With the support of Antioch Police, Pittsburg Police, the Sheriff’s Office, and the helicopter, officers set up a perimeter. All four adult suspects were apprehended and arrested.
The investigation remains active, and authorities are asking anyone with information that may assist in the investigation to contact the Pleasant Hill Police Investigations Bureau at (925) 288-4630.
According to a press release by Lt. Joe Njoroge of the Antioch Police Field Services Bureau, “At approximately 2:57 p.m., APD Dispatch received a report about a suspect vehicle involved in a previous incident in Pleasant Hill. APD was requested to assist in locating the vehicle, which was quickly found in the area.
While driving near the intersection of F Street and W. 13th, the suspect vehicle collided with a fence. The suspects then fled the scene on foot. Pleasant Hill PD arrived shortly after, and with the assistance of the Contra Costa Office of the Sheriff and APD, all suspects were apprehended.”
Njoroge later said the four suspects included three males and one female.
3/28/25 10:45 AM UPDATE: In response to a question from an eyewitness who claimed another person was also arrested, the lieutenant said, “A fifth person was detained but he was not associated so, he was released on scene.”
Antioch Police issued a Community Alert on Facebook Thursday afternoon that they were “working in the area of Antioch Middle School and the surrounding area of F Street from W. 13th to W. 18th. Expect heavy police presence in the area. If you see anything suspicious, please call 911 or (925) 778-2441 immediately.”
Later APD provided an update, writing, “We have now cleared the area. Thank you for your patience and cooperation. There is no danger to the community, and the subjects we were looking for have been arrested. Stay safe, and as always, report any suspicious activity to 911 or (925) 778-2441.
4/1/25 UPDATE: According to Pleasant Hill Police, the four suspects were 20-year-old Robert Lee Crawford (born 12/9/04), a six-foot tall, 165-pound Black male from Antioch, 19-year-old Robert Samule Garcia-Scrape of Antioch (born 7/22/05), a five-foot, 11-inch tall, 200-pound White male with blond hair, 21-year-old Jailen Emani Scales of Antioch (born 2/3/04), a six-foot tall, 200-pound Black male and 24-year-old Marieilacqua Bartholomew, a five-foot, one-inch tall, 130-pound Black female, also from Antioch.
According to the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office, Crawford is being held in the West County Detention Center on no bail; Garcia-Scrape is being held in the Martinez Detention Facility on no bail and his next court appearance is on April 15 at 1:30 p.m. in Department 03, Superior Court, Mt. Diablo; and Scales is also being held in the West County Detention Center on no bail.
According to localcrimenews.com, Scales was arrested last year, on Dec. 6th by San Francisco Police for burglary, conspiracy to commit a misdemeanor, carrying a loaded firearm on a person or in a vehicle while in a public place, receiving or concealing stolen property, and resisting, obstructing or delaying a peace officer. He was arrested again on Jan. 15, this year by Fremont PD for robbery, carrying a loaded firearm and with intent to commit a felony, carrying a concealed weapon with a large capacity magazine, receiving stolen property – motor vehicle, and elder or dependent adult abuse.
No additional information could be found through online searches for Bartholomew. However, according to Pleasant Hill Police Lt. Jason Kleven, she is also still in custody.
