This Thursday, December 11, 2025, you are invited to join us for a Christmas Concert led by our High School Ministry! This will be a time of worshipping Christ and reflecting on the first Advent through Scripture reading, songs led by the High School worship team, and a brief Christmas message.
There will be s’mores and hot chocolate available too!
Frank Ballesteros’ adaptation of ‘A Christmas Carol’ showcases local Antioch community theater talent
By Carla Baker Marymee
Ebenezer Scrooge played by Joe Ballesteros in the 2025 Humbug play in Antioch. Photo: The Mad Hatter Players
“Humbug,” a Bay Area tradition is returning for its 49th year. Joe Ballesteros is performing as the character of Ebenezer Scrooge in “Humbug,” as an injury prevents his father, Frank Ballesteros, from performing. “Humbug” is an adaptation of Charles Dickens’ 1843 novella entitled, “A Christmas Carol.”
Presented at the Paulette Taylor Studio, located at 307 G Street in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown, show times are: Dec. 19 at 7 p.m.; Dec. 20 at 7 p.m.; Dec. 21 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Dec. 22 & Dec. 23 at 7 p.m.; and Christmas Eve at 11 a.m.
“Humbug” mirrors the traditional story of Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol,’ similar to the 1954 classic movie and the 1980’s version played by George C. Scott. The production includes one spirit (Jacob Marley) and three ghosts that represent Scrooge’s past, present, and future, with each embodying a different theme.
However, there are a few minor modifications. While Frank Ballesteros’ adaptation of the classic Christmas Carol finds Scrooge understanding that true fulfillment comes from compassion, generosity, and human connection, he also accepts Christ in his heart.
“It’s the same message of Christmas, one of the most iconic and beloved Christmas stories of all time. The message is especially important today. Plays like ‘A Christmas Carol’ are central to many people’s holiday experience because it continues to embody the season’s spirit,” Joe Ballesteros said.
“This play evokes a sense of tradition. Many families in Antioch have made attending this holiday play a cherished annual tradition. The play brings a room of strangers together, providing a shared cultural touchstone, uniting families and communities through storytelling,” Jim Lanter, show producer said.
The actors portraying Bob Cratchit and family, including Tiny Tim (center front) in the 2025 Humbug play in Antioch. Photo: The Mad Hatter Players
Presented by the Madd Hatter Players, the actors include: Ebenezer Scrooge-Joe Ballesteros; Bob Cratchit-Curtis Moore; Anne Cratchit-Kelly Halvorson; Peter Cratchit-John Hilton; Belinda Cratchit-Vivienne Riley; Martha Cratchit-Tori Gregory; Elizabeth Cratchit- Avery Simmons; Edwina-Zoey Siino; Edward-John Hilton; Tiny Tim-Nello Siino; Frederick Holywell-Christien Green; Mrs. Cooper-Patti Blevins; The Collector-Suzanne Pamphile; Jacob Marley-Christian Nance; Ghost of Christmas Past-Jenna Riley; Ghost of Christmas Present-Adriana Arceo; Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come-Anthony Chaves; Belle-Jessica Miller Drum; Ebenezer-Jaime Aragon Jr.; Mr.Fezziwig-Robert Sisk; Mrs. Fezziwig-Deborah Misquez; Dick Williams-Elijah Enriquez; Young Ebenezer-Ruhaan Kumar; Fan- Marisa Misquez; Stern Man-David Calvo; Georgina–Olivia Dukes; Alice-Chole Coon; Jane-Paisley Greenlaw; Ignorance-Odin Slaughter; Want-Genevieve Slaughter.
The actors who portray the three Spirits and Jacob Marley (2nd from left) in the 2025 Humbug play in Antioch. Photo: The Mad Hatter Players
The play is sponsored by the Rotary Club of the Delta and Jim Lanter State Farm Insurance. The play is produced by Jim Lanter and directed by Joe Ballesteros, Curtis Moore, and Kelly Halvorson.
The doors will open 45 min. before show time. The audience is urged to arrive early as tickets will only be sold at the door: Adults $20, Seniors $15, and Children $8.
Parking is readily available at the Nick Rodriguez Community Center, Antioch City Hall, and Pantell’s Music Box parking lot.
Antioch’s Disney House will be featured on The Great Christmas Light Fight TV show on ABC Dec. 11. Photo by K.Vistalli
Ready, set, glow!
By Allen D. Payton
The most wonderful time of the year is here as ABC’s hit decorating competition series, “The Great Christmas Light Fight,” returns for its 13th season. The Disney House of Antioch’s own Vistalli Family will be competing as one of the 2025 Contenders.
According to ABC and Wikipedia, “The Great Christmas Light Fight” is a popular American reality competition show where families showcase their elaborate Christmas light displays for a chance to win the weekly episode’s $50,000 grand prize and Light Fight trophy.
The show first aired on December 9, 2013, on ABC. Each episode features four families competing to create the most impressive Christmas light displays. The displays are judged based on three criteria: use of lights, overall design and Christmas spirit.
Each display is first individually featured, then the judge or judges review the display and its specific details. Once all contestants have been reviewed, a winner is chosen, and the judges return to the winner to congratulate them.
The show is hosted by lifestyle expert Carter Oosterhouse and interior designer Taniya Nayak, who assess the creativity and effort put into each display.
Kristen Vistalli said, “We’re so excited to be on the show. The experience was amazing. They film a whole year in advance so the family can prepare.”
“They filmed last Nov. 1st and 2nd,” said Gary. “They were at our home from 2:00 p.m. until midnight for two days. They had a crew, here, of about a dozen. They had a big boom rig and also used a drone.”
“To see how a television is produced is really cool,” Kristen said.
“We haven’t seen any of it, yet,” she added..
The Antioch Disney House will be featured on the episode airing December 11 at 10:00 p.m. on ABC.
See the Lights Now
You can drive by now and see the lights, now. They’re on every night from Sunday through Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday until 11:00 p.m. The Disney House is located at 3732 Colonial Court in Antioch.
Fundraiser & Toy Drive with Antioch Police Dec. 6
Reminder about this Saturday’s fundraiser with the Antioch Police Department from 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Stop by with new unwrapped toy, with emphasis on teens, also gift cards, warm winter clothing or donations by Venmo. (See related article)
Get 2 movie passes for each donation of $10 or more – Nov. 26-Dec. 23
BREA, CA 11/25/25 – Maya Cinemas, known for developing movie theatres in underserved communities with state-of-the-art presentation, first-class amenities and community involvement, is offering 2 free movies passes for every $10 donation to a local food bank. Beginning on November 26th and running through December 23rd, movie-goers can donate at any Maya Cinema and receive 2 free movie passes (valid 1/1/26 – 2/28/26) for every $10 they donate. Donations are made through the Maya Community Foundation and 100% of proceeds go directly to the food banks supported.
Donations can be made in-theatre at any of Maya’s six locations:
Bakersfield – 1000 California Avenue, Bakersfield, CA 93304
Delano – 401 Woollomes Avenue, Delano, CA 93215
Fresno – 3090 East Campus Pointe Drive, Fresno, CA 93710
North Las Vegas – 2195 North Las Vegas Blvd., North Las Vegas, NV 89030
Salinas – 153 Main Street, Salinas, CA 93901
“We are thrilled to bring this fundraiser back again. This year, more than ever, our community food banks need funding support. Maya Cinemas is a proud part of the community and happy to have the resources to implement a program like this.” said Greg Heckmann, Director of Marketing at Maya Cinemas.
ABOUT MAYA CINEMAS
Maya Cinemas was chartered in 2000 with a mission to develop, build, own and operate modern, first-run, multi-plex movie theaters in underserved, family oriented, Latino-dominant communities. Maya Cinemas offers first-run Hollywood movies and unique content through its Canal Maya program in high-end theaters focused on quality of design, state-of-the-art film presentation technology, and providing first-rate entertainment with superior customer service. The Maya Community Foundation is dedicated to the development and enrichment of the lives of people in the community in which Maya Cinemas serve.
Monthly recurring donations are the key to a thriving future for the theatre
The El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation has launched a new fundraising drive to ensure that live theatre, music, film, and community events continue to thrive in downtown Antioch. Supporters can make a one-time or recurring monthly donation at donate.elcampaniltheatre.com.
Built in 1928 and lovingly restored by the community, El Campanil Theatre has been a cornerstone of Antioch’s cultural life for nearly a century. Today, the theatre continues to serve as a vital gathering place for live performance, youth programming, and community events. As the organization looks to the future, monthly donations have become the most effective way for supporters to sustain its mission and keep the arts alive.
“Every dollar helps, but it’s our recurring monthly donors who truly keep the lights shining on our stage,” said Joshua Price, Executive Director of El Campanil Theatre. “As Bay Area venues continue to learn how to sustain themselves in a post-pandemic arts environment, monthly contributions allow us to plan for tomorrow, invest in our teams and artists, and preserve this beautiful historic theatre for future generations.”
While monthly donations provide the most sustainable support, one-time gifts are just as impactful and play a critical role in maintaining this historic theatre, funding new productions, and expanding arts access across East Contra Costa County.
How to Help:
● Visit donate.elcampaniltheatre.com
● Choose “Monthly” for sustainable support
● Or choose “One-Time” to make an immediate impact
● Share the campaign with friends, family, and neighbors
El Campanil Theatre is an asset to the community and has stood as long as it has because of community support. By becoming a recurring donor or by making a generous one-time gift, you ensure that the crown gem of Antioch continues to inspire audiences and nurture creativity for generations to come.
About the El Campanil Preservation Foundation
The El Campanil Preservation Foundationis the nonprofit organization dedicated to maintaining and operating El Campanil Theatre, a historic performing arts venue in downtown Antioch, California. Originally opened in 1928, the theatre is a cherished cultural landmark presenting live performances, films, and educational programs for audiences of all ages. The Foundation relies on community donations to preserve this beloved institution and keep the arts thriving in East Contra Costa County.
Learn more at www.ElCampanilTheatre.com or donate today at donate.elcampaniltheatre.com EIN 68-0453921.
Free to the public, during Rhythms by the River Fall Festival
By City of Antioch Recreation Department
Join us at the Nick Rodriguez Center Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown tomorrow for a morning of creativity on display.
With no cost for entry, you and your family are invited to stop by and enjoy the exhibit from 10:00am to 1:00pm. From live art demonstrations to hand crafted pieces, this event is a wonderful place to see Antioch’s artists across generations have their chance to shine!
Then stick around for the annual Rhythms by the River Fall Festival from 11:00am to 5:00pm. (Click here for details)
Includes the Rotary Club of the Delta Cornhole Tournament
By Celebrate Antioch Foundation
Join us, Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025, from 11:00 AM 5:00 PM, for a celebration of music, food and family fun at the Rhythms by the River Fall Festival! Set against the beautiful backdrop of the river, this event promises a day full of entertainment and excitement for all ages in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown.
Highlights include a music stageat the north end of G Street (in the “bulb”), a beer and wine garden, the Rotary Club of the Delta’s Cornhole Tournament, Car Show, food trucks, artisan vendors and even a special Kid Zone for games and activities.
Enoy musical performances by Spinout from 11AM-1PM., The Boyz from 1-3PM and Fog City Swampers from 3-5PM.
The event will be held on West 2nd Street and G Streets and is presented by Celebrate Antioch Foundation, the City of Antioch and Antioch Rivertown Jamboree.
