Antioch High Class of 1966 graduate and Senior Class President
Don Menasco passed away peacefully in March 2026, having spent his final year at the Northern Nevada State Veterans Home near his family in Truckee, CA. He leaves behind a legacy of service and family.
Born in 1948 and raised in Antioch, CA, Don built lifelong friendships and values that guided him throughout his life. He was a 1966 graduate of Antioch High School and served as Senior Class President. He married his high school sweetheart, Shirley, and together they shared 48 years of marriage rooted in love and partnership.
Don proudly served in the United States Air Force, including a year in Vietnam. After his service, he graduated from CSU Sacramento and built his life in Sacramento and Elk Grove. He became a successful businessman in the mortgage industry, known for his integrity and work ethic.
Above all, Don was devoted to his family. He is survived by his son Jeff; daughter-in-law Jessica; grandchildren Jack, Siena and Julia; and his brothers Tom and Ron Menasco and their families.
A Celebration of Life for Don Menasco will be held May 30, 2026, 11:30 a.m., Lone Tree Golf & Event Center in Antioch. Guests are kindly asked to RSVP at DonCOL5.30.26@gmail.com
Step up, stand out, and be part of something amazing this summer!
We’re looking for energetic, motivated teens to step into the role of Junior Recreation Leader (JRL) and help bring our summer programs to life.
From leading activities to creating memorable experiences for the community, this is your chance to build skills, make friends, and have a blast while making a difference.
Don’t wait – applications close May 15th!
JRL Program Overview
The Antioch Recreation Junior Recreation Leader program provides youth ages 13 through 15 with the opportunity to gain leadership skills and work experience by volunteering at local recreation centers and working with trained recreation staff. Participants gain professional experience beginning in the application and interview process, receive training in a variety of leadership and youth development skills, and go on to volunteer at our Coyote Hills Summer Camp, Youth Sports Camps, and Antioch Senior Center.
Youth work under the direct supervision of the Program Coordinators, Camp Directors, and Recreation Staff. It is essential for participants to be committed, responsible, and engaged. Junior Recreation Leaders (JRLs) are program volunteers who shadow part-time staff, assist when directed, and gain valuable experience connecting with peers and their community.
This year, the program will run for 6 weeks, from June 22, 2026 through July 31, 2026. Program hours are generally Monday through Friday, between 8:30 am to 4:00pm. Occasionally, hours will adjust to 8:30am to 1:00pm, depending on the site. There will be occasional field trips and off-site visits to local businesses. Junior Recreation Leaders are expected to be punctual and must be picked up on time at the end of the program day. Ask staff about available transportation options, if needed.
Applicants need to indicate their availability for the summer. We understand that families schedule vacations and other activities over the summer, so a short period when the applicant is not available does not disqualify the applicant. However, scheduling to miss 10 or more days of the program will affect applicant ranking.
Space is limited. Failure to attend the mandatory training on June 9th to 11th will result in dismissal from the program. Application must be fully completed; incomplete applications will not be considered. The application deadline is May 15th at 5 pm. Applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered.
BISSELL Pet Foundation’s Empty the Shelters® 10th Anniversary Event
Adoption fees waived in Antioch May 1-17
By Becca Bryant
Today marks the start of National Pet Month, and the timing couldn’t be better.
BISSELL Pet Foundation’s Empty the Shelters® – the nation’s largest funded adoption event – returns May 1-17, 2026, marking the 10th anniversary of the Foundation’s signature program. This milestone event celebrates a decade of lifesaving second chances for shelter pets. Hosted in partnership with 335 animal shelters across 39 states, the initiative helps make adoption more affordable by sponsoring reduced adoption fees of $70 or less. All pets are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped—ready to go from kennel to couch.
As shelters face increased intake during the spring months and adoptions struggle to keep pace, this event provides critical relief by helping thousands of pets find loving homes. Since launching in 2016, Empty the Shelters has helped nearly 400,000 pets find homes through partnerships with 909 organizations across 49 states and Canada.
Source: Antioch Animal Services
BISSELL Pet Foundation, a leading national nonprofit founded in 2011 by Cathy Bissell, partners with animal welfare organizations by reimbursing adoption fees so that adopters pay $70 or less. Every pet is spay/neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped – ready to go from kennel to couch.
“Ten years ago, Empty the Shelters® began with a simple goal—to bring awareness to the incredible pets in shelters,” said Bissell. “Today, it has grown into a national effort that has helped nearly 400,000 pets find families. Those adoptions have opened space for other pets to enter shelters, provided relief for shelter teams, and created the heartwarming joy that only adoption can bring. This impact has been made possible thanks to the commitment of shelters, adopters, donors and supporters across the country. As we celebrate 10 years, we encourage everyone to consider adoption and help more pets find the homes they deserve. It’s never too late to make a difference.”
Source: Antioch Animal Services
Antioch Animal Services Participates Again
Antioch Animal Services is participating in the Empty the Shelters® 10th Anniversary Event. Stop by Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm at 300 L Street in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown.
Antioch’s staff says, “Come check out our amazing pets and perhaps find your new best friend!”
Events take place quarterly, with emergency activations during shelter crises.
Each shelter has its own process – contact them directly for applications, adoptable pets, and event hours.
BISSELL Pet Foundation does not operate a shelter or offer individual pet grants.
Follow @bissellpets on social media for updates and announcements.
Adoption saves two lives – the pet going home and the one who takes their place
Source: Antioch Animal Services
About BISSELL Pet Foundation:
BISSELL Pet Foundation is a charitable 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to help reduce the number of animals in shelters through pet adoption, spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchipping and emergency support. Founded in 2011 by Cathy Bissell, BPF is an extension of her long-standing love for animals and commitment to their welfare. BPF has since partnered with more than 6,025 shelters and rescues across the U.S. and Canada to help pets find loving homes. The foundation is supported by generous donors and BISSELL Inc. where every purchase saves pets. To learn more, visit www.bissellpetfoundation.org.
To celebrate Small Business Week and support local entrepreneurs
By Nicole Holmes
The Bloom Market will debut this week as a community-centered event celebrating Small Business Week, beginning Sunday, May 3. Hosted in Antioch, the market is designed to uplift local entrepreneurs, connect residents to small businesses and activate community space through wellness, commerce, and engagement.
This first Bloom Market is free to the public (and vendors) and was made possible through a grant supporting community programming in Antioch.
Programming for the event includes a fitness session led by Coach Capri featuring an extreme hip-hop workout, live DJ entertainment throughout the day, and two rounds of community bingo at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Attendees can also expect a curated vendor marketplace, entrepreneur resource tables, light bites, and specialty beverages including dirty sodas.
Organizers emphasize that the Bloom Market is both a celebration and an experiment in community engagement, designed to assess interest and build momentum for future recurring markets throughout the summer.
Event Details:
Bloom Market – Small Business Week Kickoff
514 W. 2nd Street, Rivertown, Antioch (The Lemon Tree)
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Free and open to the public
Family-friendly event
For more information visit the Bloom Market Facebook page.
By Sgt. Rob Green, Traffic Division, Antioch Police Department
On Friday, April 17, 2026, at approximately 8:00 AM, Antioch Police Officers responded to a report of a vehicle versus pedestrian collision at the intersection of Country Hills Drive and Wolverine Way.
Upon arrival, officers located an 84-year-old female pedestrian from Antioch who had sustained major injuries. She was transported to a local hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.
The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and is fully cooperating with the investigation. The Antioch Police Department Traffic Unit has assumed responsibility for the case.
If you witnessed the collision or have any information that may assist investigators, please contact Officer Josh Egan at (925) 204-1587 or jegan@antiochca.gov.
Source: Sandra White for Antioch City Council District 4 2026
Will focus on economic growth, public safety, community investment & partnerships, fiscal accountability
Hoping third times’ a charm
By Sandra White for City Council campaign
Sandra White, human resources executive, current president of the Antioch Rotary Club and former Antioch Police Crime Prevention Commission Chair, announced her candidacy for Antioch City Council, District 4 during a campaign kick-off on April 18.
As a resident of Antioch, White has seen firsthand the challenges facing local families, small businesses, and public safety resources, and is committed to delivering practical, results-driven solutions.
She also currently serves as a Standby City Council Member for Mayor Ron Bernal. Her volunteer endeavors included serving on the Antioch Unified School District Advisory Board and previously the Contra Costa County Community Corrections Partnership Community Advisory Board, which focused on re-entry programs for formerly incarcerated individuals.
This will be her third attempt at replacing incumbent Monica Wilson, now serving in her fourth term on the council since first being elected in 2012, but who has yet to announce for re-election in November. White ran in both 2020 for the two-year term and 2022 for the current four-year term.
White brings extensive experience in business operations, workforce development and organizational leadership, with a campaign focused on economic growth, public safety and strengthening community investment and partnerships, and fiscal accountability.
“Antioch is at a critical turning point,” said White. “We have an opportunity to build a safer, stronger and more economically vibrant city. I’m running to bring accountable leadership, common-sense solutions and a stronger, safer future for our community.”
White works as Vice President of Human Resources for a multi-state organization, Center for Social Dynamics, providing autism services to children, where she has led initiatives focused on workforce growth, operational efficiency, and building high-performing teams. According to her bio on the organization’s website, “She loves volunteering in her community and racking up airline mileages. Sandra earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from California State University, East Bay, and a Master of Associate degree in Counseling Psychology from John F. Kennedy University.”
Her professional experience is complemented by a strong record of community involvement in Antioch, including efforts supporting public safety, education, and youth development.
White’s Campaign Priorities Include:
• Economic Development: Attract businesses, support small businesses, empower entrepreneurs, and create sustainable local jobs. Strengthen City leadership by hiring department heads and staff with proven economic development experience and measurable results.
• Public Safety: Support full police staffing, reduce response times, and maintain safe neighborhoods and thriving business districts.
• Community Investment & Partnerships: Expand youth programs, strengthen community services, and improve overall quality of life for Antioch residents.
• Fiscal Accountability: Ensure responsible budgeting, transparency and long-term financial stability while protecting taxpayer dollars.
“We cannot spend more than we bring in,” White added. “Antioch needs disciplined financial leadership, transparency and a high-performing team focused on delivering long-term economic success.”
White’s campaign will focus on engaging residents, listening to community concerns, and building practical solutions that reflect the needs of District 4 and the broader Antioch community.
“This campaign is about bringing people together, listening to our community, and making sure every voice in Antioch is heard.”
Residents interested in learning more, volunteering, or supporting the campaign are encouraged to contact Sandra White at sandra.white4antioch@gmail.com or by calling (510) 303-5880, and follow-on social media at Facebook: Sandra White for Antioch, on Instagram: @sandrawhiteforantioch and TikTok: sandrawhiteforantioch.
Application deadline for 5 vacancies: Friday, May 1st
By City of Antioch
The City of Antioch encourages residents to become involved in their local community. One way to do so is to serve on one of the various Boards, Commissions, and Committees. Any interested resident is invited to apply for the following vacancies by Extended Deadline Date: 5:00 p.m., Friday, May 1, 2026.
SALES TAX CITIZENS’ OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE
Three (3) Full-Term Vacancies, expiring March 2030
Two (2) Part-Term Vacancies, expiring March 2028
The Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee shall review the expenditures and report publicly how the funds from the City’s Measure W one-cent sales tax are being used to address the City Council’s stated priorities of maintaining Antioch’s fiscal stability, police patrols, 911 emergency response, youth violence prevention programs; ensuring water quality/safety; repairing streets; cleaning up parks/illegal dumping; restoring youth afterschool/summer programs; and other essential services. Each year, an independent auditor shall complete a public audit report of the revenue raised and its expenditure. The Committee’s review shall be completed in conjunction with the City’s budget process. The Committee’s report on its review, whether oral or written, shall be considered by the City Council at a public meeting before April 1 of each year. Any written report shall be a matter of public record.
The Council’s intent of Measure W is to split the revenue on the following basis: 80% for the maintenance of public safety, 10% for youth services, and the remaining 10% for supporting quality of life and fiscal stability and accountability. The sales tax passed by Antioch voters in November 2018 lasts for 20 years. (See related Herald articles here, here and here)
The official ballot measure language reads: “Antioch’s Quality of Life Measure. To maintain Antioch’s fiscal stability, police patrols, 911 emergency response, youth violence prevention programs; ensuring water quality/safety; repairing streets; cleaning up parks/illegal dumping; restoring youth afterschool/summer programs; other essential services; shall the measure be adopted approving an ordinance to renew the sales tax at the one-cent rate, raising approximately $14,000,000 annually, expiring in twenty years, with mandatory annual independent financial audits, and independent citizens oversight?”
Committee Seats: Seven (7) Members, 4-year terms.
Meetings: The Committee shall meet at least twice a year.
Staff Liaison: Dawn Merchant, City of Antioch Finance Director
Requirements:
Must be a resident of the City of Antioch.
At least one member of the Committee shall have a financial, accounting or auditing background.
Commissioners are required to submit the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) Form 700 (Statement of Economic Interests) upon assuming office, and every year thereafter.
Commissioners are required to complete a 2-hour online AB1234 Ethics course within one year of their appointment.
Newly appointed and reappointed Members are required to take an Oath of Office administered by the City Clerk.
To be considered for the vacancy position(s), please complete an application and submit it to the City Clerk’s Office by the deadline date listed above. Applications are located on the City’s Website: www.antiochca.gov and may be picked up in person at Antioch City Hall, 200 H Street, Antioch, CA.
Please email your completed application to: cityclerk@antiochca.gov. You can also drop off your application (Attn: City Clerk) in the water billing drop-off box located in the parking lot just outside of Antioch City Hall.
The Friends of the Antioch Library (FOAL) hosted a heartfelt Volunteer Luncheon on Friday, April 24, honoring the dedicated individuals who give countless hours in support of the Antioch Library and its vibrant community.
The event recognized several long-time volunteers who recently retired from active service with FOAL. Merle Whitburn, Richard Angeloni, and Marian Ferrante were each presented with certificates of appreciation for their extraordinary contributions spanning three decades. Whitman served in numerous leadership roles, including President and Membership Director. Angeloni was the longtime editor of BookMark, the Friends’ official newsletter. Ferrante, a devoted board member and secretary, also brought joy to the luncheon with an entertaining storytelling and sing-along that delighted attendees.
FOAL Board President Walter Ruehlig introduced the current board members who continue to lead the organization’s fundraising efforts for the library. The board includes Secretary Rosanne Carey; Financial Secretary and long-time board member Patty Chan; Members-at-Large Linda Lawson and Joanna Delligatti; and Treasurer and Interim Membership Coordinator Tammy Smith.
Following the luncheon, Smith, alongside Member-at-Large Linda Lawson and Cashier Coordinator Leigh Smith, hosted FOAL’s first official cashier training. Volunteers were equipped with the tools and confidence needed to support book sale operations—ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience for the community, one book at a time.
Looking ahead, FOAL will host its second book sale of the year from Thursday, April 30 through Saturday, May 2 at the Antioch Library, located at 501 W 18th Street. As book sale revenues have declined in recent months, the demand for library services has surged, with full program rooms and increased community reliance on library resources. The need for support is greater than ever.
Friends of the Antioch Library are (left to right): current board members Joanna Delligatti, Patty Chan, Tammy Smith, Linda Lawson, Rosanne Carey, and Walter Ruehlig; and former board members and newsletter editor Marian Ferrante, Merle Whitburn and Richard Angeloni. Photo: FOAL
Community members are invited to shop the sale and discover incredible deals while supporting a vital cause:
Thursday, April 30 – 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. (Members Only)
Thursday, April 30 – 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. (Open to the public)
Friday, May 1 – 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday, May 2 – 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
$7 Brown Bag Sale – Saturday from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Shoppers will find fantastic bargains, with children’s books starting at just 25¢ and adult books beginning at only 50¢. All proceeds directly benefit Antioch Library programs, materials, and special projects that serve the entire community.
The Friends of the Antioch Library encourage everyone to get involved—whether by becoming a member, making a donation, volunteering, or simply shopping the book sale. Every contribution helps ensure the library continues to thrive for generations to come.
About FOAL
The Friends of the Antioch Library is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving library services in Antioch. Through membership donations and Book Sale earnings, the Friends provide the library with books, magazines, DVDs and CDs. We also provide children’s and cultural programs for the community.
