Local treasure hunter buys it at Concord drive-in swap meet, offers it for sale at $4 million

Oakley resident Derek Baker is a part time vintage treasure hunter who frequents garage sales, estate sales and flea markets looking for interesting items he can flip for profit.  He sells on eBay, through his own personal network and at a vintage co-op store in downtown Antioch called the Rivertown Treasure Chest.  Comic books are his focus, but he tries to keep his mind open to anything that comes his way. 

One Sunday morning, Baker was at the West Wind Solano Swap Meet & Public Market at the drive-in in Concord, when he noticed a pile of concert posters on the ground.  The vender was the type of person who cleaned out homes or storage units and likely had no idea of what they really had.  Many of the posters had the kind of art that would be associated with The Grateful Dead or other similar bands, which can fetch a good price. Some of the posters had inscriptions and signatures on them.  So, he grabbed a stack, making sure to include all those with writing and got a bulk deal – 29 posters for $20.

They were almost all good posters that, in turn, can be sold for $10 to $30 each.  One poster was even related to the Grateful Dead as it appears to have a signature from Vince Welnick, who played for the band at one time.  However, the real gem was a pop culture piece of history from 1992.  A poster of “Girl’s Tyme” – later known as Destiny’s Child – from their performance on Star Search.

The poster was printed and displayed for the live studio audience of Star Search to view as they attended the performance.  It is unknown how many of these were actually printed for use inside the theater.  Being that they lost that night, it is likely almost all of them, if not all the rest of them, were thrown in the trash when the theater was being prepared for the next evening’s performances.  This particular copy appears to have been saved by one of the band’s managers at the time, Alonzo ‘Lonnie’ Jackson, who had several of the girls personalize it for him.

Beyoncé Knowles was 11 years old, and she already knew she was going to be a star.  Not only did she sign her name but also added her autograph. Only one other girl even thought to sign her name, Ashley Tamar Davis.  Two others inscribed notes but didn’t even put their names down. But Beyoncé already knew one day she would be the Queen B.

Baker’s poster appears to be the first signature and autograph of Beyoncé on any professional promotional material. Some baseball card collectors have told him that it’s like having the signature on a rookie card of one of the most popular players of all time. 

Baker purchased the poster in April 2025 and since then, he has had James Spence Authentication (JSA) certify that they believe it to be genuine. Star Search has since been rebooted on Netflix, making this a ‘Tymely’ treasure find.  Being a piece of pop culture history for both Star Search and Beyonce, it may be a museum-worthy artifact. Baker thinks the new Hip Hop museum opening in the Bronx this year would be a good home.

The poster may be a ‘unicorn’ with no other piece to compare it to.  How much is it worth?  Is it a $1,000 poster or a $10 million poster? One suggestion is that he travel to Las Vegas to have it valued by Pawn Stars from the famous TV show which Baker said he might do.

The value or rather price he can get for the poster – which is the only true value of such an item – is unknown, for now. But Baker will eventually find out as he has it up for sale, asking $4 million.  Maybe a super-fan from the BeyHive, as Beyoncé’s fanbase is known, or a museum benefactor will let him know.

Interested? Stop by and see Baker and more of his treasures for sale at the Rivertown Treasure Chest in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown at 306 G Street. Or make him an offer on ebay.

Good luck Derek!

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

By City of Antioch Recreation Department

Come join our NEW Bachata Class at Antioch Recreation!

“Everyone deserves to be on the dance floor” is Instructor Ricky’s motto-and he’ll show you how to dance with confidence. Anyone can learn Bachata!

Bachata Basics will teach you three common moves used in all styles that anyone can learn and do. You will learn how to Lead and Follow using safe positions, footwork, and a little styling.

Plenty of practice will help you build a strong foundation and transition into the immediate level with ease. Bonus: You will be able to attend any Bachata Social event with confidence!

Classes are open to ages 18+ and start Wednesday, February 4th.

Sign up now and start moving!

WEDNESDAYS
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Antioch Community Center at Prewett Family Park, 4703 Lone Tree Way

$50 Resident / $60 Non-Resident

antiochca.gov/register

By Allen D. Payton

Join Studio B Dance Company for an unforgettable afternoon of celebrating artistry, passion and performance as they present their 4th Annual Grand Recital entitled, “Raising The Barre”, on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026. This special showcase celebrates their dancers’ dedication and growth through high-energy routines, beautiful choreography and inspiring moments on stage. From the youngest performers to the studio’s advanced dancers, each piece reflects a commitment to excellence, creativity and the joy of dance.

The show at El Campanil Theatre in historic, downtown Rivertown begins at 10:00 AM.

According to Wikipedia, a barre is a stationary handrail that provides support for people during various types of exercise. Barres are used extensively in ballet training and warm up exercises, where such exercises are commonly referred to as barre work. In a ballet class, barre may also refer to the part of the class that involves barre work. Barres are also used for warm up exercises in other types of dance, as well as in general fitness programs.

In ballet, barre work includes both slow and fast exercises, which both serve to strengthen muscles. Slow exercises are typically performed first, to stretch and warm up muscles, and to focus on proper body form, whereas fast exercises condition dancers to maintain precise ballet technique while moving. Each exercise has a specific purpose, such as to strengthen feet and legs, increase extension, improve flexibility and develop ballon, the appearance of being lightweight and light-footed while jumping. Proper form (posture, positions of feet and arms) is strived for in all exercises.

Tickets for the Grand Recital are $35 for Adults and $25 for Children ages 3-12, and are available at Raising the Barre – El Campanil Theatre. The theater is located at 602 W. 2nd Street.

Studio B Dance Company is located at 314 G Street in Antioch. For more information about classes visit www.studiobdancers.com or call (925) 434-6659.

By City of Antioch

Join us for an important community conversation about human trafficking. We’re screening “Buying Her,” a powerful documentary exposing the realities of human trafficking in America. This is a chance to learn, connect with local advocates and take action.

Friday, January 23 | 6:00 PM

El Campanil Theatre, 602 W. 2nd Street, Antioch

FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

• Panel discussion with local experts & service providers
• Q&A session

Why this matters:

• Raise awareness about human trafficking
• Educate on warning signs & prevention
• Inspire action for change

If you or someone you know needs help:

National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888

RSVP: bit.ly/screeningbuyingher

Together, we can make a difference.

By Allen D. Payton

During the Brentwood Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting on Saturday, November 29, 2025, Tiffany Stewart, founder of Antioch-based Virtuous Voices Music Academy, was a featured singer, delighting audiences at one of the community’s most beloved holiday events.

“Coach Tea”, as she’s referred to, performed Jesus is the Reason.

Her performance highlighted the growth of Virtuous Voices, a music program serving diverse students locally and nationwide through online and in-person voice training, group classes and the academy’s signature, Sing Theory program.

“Sharing my voice at the parade is a celebration of what music brings to our communities,” said Stewart. “I hope young singers feel inspired to step into their own musical journey.”

For more information about Coach Tea and Virtuous Voices Music Academy visit www.virtuousvoices.com or see their ad on the right side of this page.

By Golden Hills Community Church

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!

Golden Hills Community Church is located at 2401 Shady Willow Lane in Brentwood. For more information visit www.goldenhills.org or call (925) 516-0653.

Frank Ballesteros’ adaptation of ‘A Christmas Carol’ showcases local Antioch community theater talent

By Carla Baker Marymee

“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.

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 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.

For more information, email jim.lanter.b8jq@statefarm.com  or call 925-584-9265.

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)