Easter Egg Hunts, photos with the Easter Bunny and Petting Zoo, plus, Stuffed Animal Giveaway!
Join us for an afternoon of Easter Egg Hunting and pictures with the Easter Bunny, Saturday, April 9, 2025.This is a free and fun, family-friendly event for the public. Rivertown businesses have a Merchant-2-Merchant egg hunt from 12:00 to 4:00 pm.
Events at Waldie Plaza, on W. 2nd Street across from City Hall, include a Petting Zoo from 1:00 to 3:00 pm, photos with the Easter Bunny at Rivertown Treasure Chest at 306 G Street from 11:00 am to 2:00 p.m. sponsored by Jim Lanter State Farm, then at Waldie Plaza plus, another Easter Egg Hunt from 3:00 to 4:00 pm.
K-911 Animal Rescue kindly donated 600 stuffed animals to be distributed throughout Rivertown Merchant stores, so every child gets one while supplies last.
Visit the following Participating Merchants in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown: Almost There Travel • Royal Banquet • Abuelita’s House Pastries & Deli • Guadalajara Taqueria • Sweets on Second • Flying Dutchman Tattoo • Antioch Chamber of Commerce • Jim Lanter State Farm Insurance • Rivertown Community Church • Feral Unicorn Snack Emporium • Chef Jeff’s Smash Burgers • Ellie’s Grooming • TNT Smoothie & Juice Bar • The 4 Seasonings Steakhouse • Rivertown Treasure Chest • HIMC Hair Studio • Studio B Dance Studio • La Plazuela Restaurant • Antioch Community Federal Credit Union • Willow Park Mercantile.
Presented by Celebrate Antioch Foundation and the Rivertown merchants. Learn more at www.celebrateantioch.org and www.downtownantioch.com. Follow the Rivertown merchants, events and activities at www.facebook.com/antiochrivertown or on the Downtown Antioch Assocation page on Facebook.
Dozier-Libbey Medical High School student and 2024 Antioch Youth of the Year Mina Aljanaby is joined by Mayor Ron Bernal (left) and Tom Hartrick of the Delta-Antioch Rotary Club (right). Jim Becker, Executive Director of RCF Connects offers his gratitude for the organization being honored as the 2024 Antioch Non-Profit of the Year. Photos by Kord Holland
Mina Aljanaby, RCF Connects receive awards
Teresa Glenn is the 2025 Chamber Board Chair
By Antioch Chamber of Commerce
During the annual Gala on Friday, March 28, 2025, the Antioch Chamber of Commerce honored 2024 Youth of the Year Mina Aljanaby, a Dozier-Libbey Medical High School student, and Non-Profit of the Year RCF Connects. In addition, Teresa Glenn of TreVista Senior Living Antioch was installed as the Chambers new Board Chair for 2025. The event was held at the Lone Tree Golf & Event Center.
Youth of the Year Award – Mina Aljanaby Mina exemplifies excellence in academics, leadership, and service, making a profound impact on both peers and the community.
As a lead teacher CPR instructor for middle school students, Mina has demonstrated outstanding mentorship and a commitment to educating younger students in life-saving skills. She has also played a key role in organizing medical field days, ensuring that students gain exposure to the healthcare field.
Additionally, Mina helped organize and host bone marrow donation programs, showcasing an incredible dedication to health advocacy and service. Beyond academics, she has excelled in leadership, serving as the Vice President for two years, fostering a positive school environment.
Mina’s hard work has been recognized through the Barbara James Service Award and the Red Cross Merit County Award. Her dedication, initiative, and compassion make her a truly deserving recipient of this award.
During the ceremony, Mina was presented with a scholarship funded by the Antioch and Delta-Antioch Rotary Clubs.
Over 300 guests attended the Chamber’s annual Gala at the Lone Tree Golf & Event Center. Photo by Kord Holland
Non-Profit of the Year – RCF Connects RCF Connects has been an exceptional champion for positive change in the Antioch community, exemplifying its commitment to creating opportunities and addressing pressing community issues. Since 2018, RCF has partnered with local government, community leaders and organizations like the Robin Hood Foundation to raise $1.5 million in support of the Sycamore Drive neighborhood, helping to transform it through projects such as renewed community parks, college and career pathways, and pilot programs like guaranteed income.
The foundation has also made impact in homeownership accessibility by bringing a down payment assistance program to Antioch, raising $1.8 million to help low- to moderate -income first time homebuyers.
The Equity for Black Women and Girls initiative has empowered 24 local women entrepreneurs with a comprehensive business development program, helping to launch 21 new businesses in Antioch in just two years
As RCF continues to address critical needs like transportation gaps and the development of community economic strategies, their impact on Antioch residents’ lives is undeniable. Their efforts to connect people with resources and opportunities truly make them deserving of the Non-Profit of the Year Award.
2025 Chamber Board Chair Teresa Glenn with MC Rick Marchoke. Photo by Kord Holland
New Chamber Board Chair Teresa Glenn of TreVista Senior Living Antioch was installed as the 2025 Board Chair for the Antioch Chamber of Commerce. She moves up from the position of Ambassador Committee Chair and takes over from Michael Gabrielson of Willow Park Mercantile.
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.
Organizers hope Diana Becton’s luck has run out; have 160 days to gather signatures of 73,000 voters; election may not happen until next March
By Allen D. Payton
With less than two years left in her term and over a year after posting about their effort on social media, organizers announced on Monday, March 17, 2025, Contra Costa District Attorney Diana Becton was served with recall papers. They cite a “persistent cycle of unaddressed criminal activity” and “empty promises to victims and their families.”
Source: Recall District Attorney Diana Becton (Redacted by organizers)
In an announcement on their website on Tuesday, organizers wrote, “District Attorney Diana Becton has been served with the Notice of Intent to recall her from office on March 17, 2025. This recall notice was delivered in person, as shown in a video recording, while she was entering the back entrance of the DA’s office. Furthermore, the notice of intention was filed with the Contra Costa County Elections office today. Out of the 121 signatures collected, 103 were validated, exceeding the recall group’s requirement of 100 valid signatures for the initiative to proceed. Diana Becton now has seven days to respond to the Notice of Intention.
The petition declares, ‘We, the victims of crime, their families, local business owners and employees, as well as residents of Contra Costa County, have reached our limit and are initiating the recall of District Attorney Diana Becton. We are increasingly concerned about the persistent cycle of unaddressed criminal activity. We are frustrated by her continuous empty promises to victims and their families that justice will prevail while she permits criminals to roam free. Her lack of transparency regarding crime in this county and her attempts to keep offenders out of jail have left us disheartened. We stand for the residents of Contra Costa County because everyone deserves to live in a safe environment. We advocate for all crime victims who feel ignored, exasperated, and hopeless in their pursuit of justice for themselves or their loved ones. We support the business owners who endure constant thefts and burglaries from repeat offenders while Becton turns a blind eye. District Attorney Diana Becton is compromising the safety of our community and failing to address the needs of victims. We are committed to restoring justice, starting with the urgent recall of District Attorney Diana Becton.’
The organizers of the recall will be arranging a press conference soon. For any questions or inquiries, please reach out via email to recalldianabecton@gmail.com or info@recalldianabecton.org.”
The brief video on the website shows Becton being served with the recall papers as she walked into a building.
Source: Recall District Attorney Diana Becton
In addition, the website reveals a photo and list of the 10 recall organizers as promised to the Herald in an email dated Sept. 6, 2024, as well as the victims they represent. They include: Top Row 1. Zelma Johnson – Grandmother of Damond Lazenby Jr. 2. Stephen Arellano – Father of Thomas Arellano 3. Gwyn Gabe – Father of Alexis Gabe 4. Kelly Melton – Aunt of Allie Sweitzer 5. Monte’ Corley – Brother of Stacy Dewayne Corley Jr. 6. Emileigh Faulkner – Cousin of Allie Sweitzer Bottom Row 7. Carol Ann Sherman – Granddaughter of Carmen Vasquez 8. Erica Esperanza Cano – Ex-Wife of Anthony Hernandez 9. Jessica Frances Gabe Zuasola – Cousin of Alexis Gabe 10. Christopher Rodriguez – Stepfather of Allie Sweitzer
According to a December 2024 report by Richmondside, “Contra Costa County’s Registrar of Voters told Richmondside there are about 729,500 registered voters in the county, so the recall team will need to gather, at minimum, about 73,000 signatures,” or 10 percent as required in local jurisdictions with 100,000 or more registered voters.
In addition, the procedures require, “If there are more than 500 signatures to verify, the elections department has 60 days to determine if there are enough valid signatures, and the elections department can use random sampling techniques. However, if the elections department determines that a 60-day window “could cause the recall election to be ineligible for consolidation with the next regularly scheduled election,” the process must be finished in 30 days instead of 60.
“The relevant governing body (Board of Supervisors) must call for an election within 14 days after the meeting at which the certificate of sufficiency for the recall petition was presented. If the governing body fails to issue the order within 14 days, the county elections official, within 5 days, shall set the date for holding the election.
“The election shall be held not less than 88 nor more than 125 days after the issuance of the order. However, the election may be conducted within 180 days after the issuance of the order so that the election may be consolidated with a regularly scheduled election.” The latest the recall election could occur is next March.
CORRECTION: A previous version of this report claimed Becton was up for re-election in 2026. However, a state law passed in 2022, AB-759 aligns elections for county district attorneys and sheriffs with the presidential election, and all those who were elected that year had their terms extended by two years until 2028.
Due to new state laws passed by the legislature and signed by Newsom in 2022, local recalls no longer include a simultaneous replacement election. Instead, should Becton be recalled, then her position will remain vacant until the Board of Supervisors appoints her replacement or holds another election. If appointed or elected, that person would fill the remainder of Becton’s term until December 2028.
