To benefit Shepherd’s Gate women and children’s center, Antioch Church Family ministries

With four Easter Egg Hunts!

By Antioch Recreation Department

Antioch families, plan to hop on over to your neighborhood park for a community-wide egg hunt on Saturday, March 28th!

The Recreation Department invites residents to enjoy a free egg hunt and festive photos with the Easter Bunny at a park near you. We will be coming to each district in the city, so gather your baskets, bring your friends and neighbors, and celebrate the season right in your own backyard. Take a look at our list of parks to locate the park closest to you:

Eggstravaganza – Easter Egg Hunts

Saturday, March 28, 2026

10AM-11AM

Contra Loma Estates Park | Mahogany Way

Gentrytown Park | Monterey Drive

12PM-1PM

Meadow Creek Park | Vista Grande Drive

Diablo West Park | 2000 Prewett Ranch Drive

For inquires contact recreation@antiochca.gov or call our front desk at (925) 776-3050.

Let’s fill our parks with smiles, laughter, and community spirit. We can’t wait to see you there!

Co-founded by NFL running back Najee Harris and his mother, Tianna Hicks, Da Bigger Picture Foundation is a reflection of family, perseverance and giving back. What started as a vision between mother and son has grown into a mission focused on service, youth empowerment and creating real impact where it’s needed most.

Donations fuel every foundation program — from Get Fitted to youth camps, fun events like the Bay Rideout and community drives.

Da Bigger Picture Foundation – Where Confidence Meets Opportunity! Creating access and opportunity for youth through community programs, school partnerships and events that build confidence. For more information or to donate visit https://dabiggerpicture.com

Launches new 2026 infrastructure grant cycle to strengthen food access in communities it serves

New grant-funding round supports critical infrastructure needs at food banks and partner agencies throughout California and Nevada

By Carol Barsotti, Chief Communications Officer, The Raley’s Companies

WEST SACRAMENTO, CA – For 40 years, Raley’s Food For Families has been a steadfast partner in the fight against hunger. Since 1986, the organization has donated more than 81 million dollars and 70 million pounds of wholesome, nutritious food to its existing network of 12 Feeding America food bank partners and their subsequent network of more than 2,400 agencies.

Now, as Raley’s Food For Families marks this significant anniversary, the organization is demonstrating its long-term dedication with the launch of its renewed 2026 Infrastructure Grant Program. The grant initiative builds on immediate hunger relief efforts by investing in infrastructure that enables sustained, meaningful impact for years to come.

“For four decades, Food For Families has been privileged to donate millions of pounds of food and to provide support to hungry families across our communities. This milestone is a moment to celebrate that impact and recommit to the long-term work of food security,” said Julie Teel, President of Food For Families Board of Directors. “By focusing on infrastructure, we’re strategically making funds available so these vital community partners can strengthen their ability to get food to those who need it most.”

Building on a Year of Impact

The new grant cycle builds on the success of the inaugural 2025 Infrastructure Grant Program, which distributed just over $340,000 to support critical needs identified by food banks and their partner agencies. The first funding round made a significant impact, including funds for refrigeration units, box trucks, forklifts, and pallet jacks, along with many smaller infrastructure items, such as shelving units.

“These investments directly translate to increased food access for families by allowing food bank staff and volunteers to work more efficiently, ultimately serving more people with the same resources. For example, a single pallet jack can save 76 manual trips per truckload,” said Teel. “The grant funding is a tangible example of the profound commitment Raley’s has made to the communities it serves.”

2026 Infrastructure Grant Cycle Details and Guidelines

The 2026 Infrastructure Grant Program will prioritize grants that directly increase food access rather than focus on food education. Eligible applicants include partner agencies, food pantries and closets affiliated with Raley’s Food For Families’ Feeding America food bank partners:

• Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano
• Alameda County Community Food Bank
• Central California Food Bank
• Food Bank for Monterey County
• Food Bank of Northern Nevada
• Feeding the Foothills
• Redwood Empire Food Bank
• Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services
• Second Harvest Silicon Valley
• Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County
• Second Harvest of The Greater Valley
• Yolo Food Bank

As a way to celebrate and recognize its long-term food bank partner network, Raley’s will also highlight the work of one partner food bank each month throughout 2026. For more information about the 2026 Infrastructure Grant Program food bank partners should reach out to their Feeding America food bank partner.

“We’re honored to mark 40 years of food security leadership and real-world impact,” said Teel. “Raley’s Food For Families has remained committed in its mission to alleviate hunger by providing nutritious food to those in need. The organization’s longevity reflects a deep-rooted belief that food security is foundational to community health and opportunity.”

About Raley’s Food For Families

Raley’s Food For Families is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit, which provides food to Feeding America Food Bank Members and their network of more than 2,400 partner agencies. The organization serves the communities of Northern and Central California and Northern and Central Nevada through Raley’s, Raley’s O-N-E Markets, Bel Air Markets and Nob Hill Foods stores. Since 1986, the organization has donated over 81 million dollars and 70 million pounds of fresh, wholesome food to its partners. With a long commitment to local communities, Raley’s Food For Families continues to grow and thrive as an organization dedicated to alleviating hunger by providing nutritious food to those who need it most. For more information and to learn how to donate, visit www.foodforfamilies.org. Raley’s Food For Families tax ID is 68-0195082.

About Raley’s

Raley’s is a family-operated customer experience grocery company. Founded in 1935, Raley’s stores are the destination for the best fresh products, affordable offerings and personalized service. The company’s commitment to infusing life with health and happiness by changing the way the world eats, one plate at a time, has made it a trusted source for food, nutrition, and wellness. Raley’s strives to enhance transparency and education in the food system in order to help customers make more informed, healthy food choices. Raley’s operates 119 stores under four banners: Raley’s, Bel Air Markets, Nob Hill Foods and Raley’s O-N-E Market. Making healthier offerings accessible to everyone, Raley’s has expanded beyond the store to operate grocery curbside pick-up and delivery in their nearby communities. Please visit at www.raleys.com for more information. Raley’s is a division of The Raley’s Companies.

Feb. 18th Board meeting agenda includes layoffs for 104 teachers, counselors, directors, vice principals and 193 classified staff to save $38 million

By Allen D. Payton

According to Danielle Watson, a parent of a child in the Antioch Unified School District, “as of Friday, Feb. 13, the District is allegedly pink-slipping Admin staff and plans to eliminate over 100+ teachers. They are also discussing proposed cuts to Special Education staffing, including classroom aides and support staff.”

As a result, a “Peaceful Protest is planned for Tuesday morning, Feb. 17 at the school district headquarters.

“Parents are raising concerns about student safety, IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) compliance, and the impact on early grades (K–5), particularly for Black and Latino students who already lag in test scores (per CAASPP – California California Assessment of Student Performance – data from prior years),” Watson continued.

“Nearly one in five AUSD students has an IEP (Individual Education Plan). Parents are asking the Board to re-evaluate cuts and share a public impact analysis prior to finalizing any decisions at the Feb. 18 Board meeting,” she shared. “They are no longer negotiating with Special Education staff.”

Proposed Cuts on Board Meeting Agenda

The Board’s agenda for Wednesday night’s meeting confirms Watson’s concerns showing a total of 297 staff cuts to save almost $38 million in the annual budget.

Under Board meeting agenda Item 11.C. entitled, “Resolution 2025-26-44 Reduction or Discontinuance of Classified Services for Lack of Work or Lack of Funds” the proposed staff reductions include 192.725 FTE (full-time equivalent) positions, which “would reduce expenditures by approximately $17,881,838.79.”

Under Item11.D. entitled, “Resolution 2025-26-45 Reduction or Discontinuance of Particular Kinds of Certificated Services,” (which is numbered incorrectly) includes 60 teachers and 16 vice principals, plus counselors, directors and others. The reduction of 104 FTE would reduce expenditures by approximately $20,107,219.33.

The cuts are proposed by Superintendent Dr. Darnise Williams and Associate Superintendent for Human Resources Dr. Camille Johnson. According to the staff report for the items, “In the event classified – and certificated – services need to be reduced or discontinued due to lack of work and/or lack of funds, the Education Code requires that the Board take action to reduce/eliminate positions and that affected employees be provided written notice no later than March 15.  The District will consider bumping rights, retirements, resignations, releases, and other attrition and give notice only to those employees who, according to seniority and Board-adopted tiebreak and competency criteria, are appropriate for layoff.”

“I would like for Dr. Williams to break this barrier of distrust among parents, staff and the broad community,” Watson stated. “This is her opportunity.”

Her greatest concern is about the cuts to special education teachers and para-professionals, and the safety of the students, especially those who have already demonstrated behavioral challenges.

“It’s concerning to think about the risk to teachers they’ll be causing, by forcing them to mitigate situations by themselves,” Watson said.

Several parents have sent emails to the Board and Superintendent. But as of today, Monday, February 16th, no response has been received from anyone, she shared.

The protest begins at 10 A.M. at the AUSD offices, 510 G Street, in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown.

By Dawn Kruger, Community and Media Relations Coordinator, Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder-Elections Department 

The Contra Costa County Clerk’s Office will be open to perform in-office wedding ceremonies on Valentine’s Day, Saturday, February 14, 2026.  All 47 ceremony appointments have been reserved at this time due to the popularity of our Valentine’s Day Event.

“We know there is high demand for weddings on Valentine’s Day and we are grateful to our employees for being willing to work on a Saturday to create this opportunity for dozens of couples,” said Kristin B. Connelly, Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder and Commissioner of Marriages. “Last year our team performed 52 Valentine’s Day ceremonies at our office on a Friday and this year we have already booked all 47 appointments for this special Saturday event.”

Typically, the County Clerk’s Office officiates Valentine’s Day ceremonies as part of the Destination Weddings program in a picturesque or historic location. Because Valentine’s Day is on a Saturday this year, the staff will open the office for wedding services only to provide a memorable experience for couples wanting to get married on this sentimental day. 

A marriage license must be obtained before a ceremony can be performed. Couples may purchase a marriage license the same day, prior to their Valentine’s Day ceremony at the County Clerk-Recorder’s office at 555 Escobar Street in Martinez. The fee for a public marriage license is $95, while a confidential license is $100. The Marriage Ceremony fee is $75. Couples who only wish to purchase a marriage license are invited to come to the office as this is one of our wedding services.

For more information about this event or other Clerk’s Office services, please visit http://www.contracostavote.gov or call 925-335-7900.

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.