By Allen D. Payton

After the donation and relocation of the Red Caboose from the former restaurant of the same name, by the family of the late owners, Jim and Phyllis Boccio, to the Antioch Historical Museum, earlier this year, work continues on the old rail car to prepare it for public use.

Painting was done last month by Steve Corpuz of Redwood Painting Company in Pittsburg

“The next steps will be an ADA lift coming from Canada, plus the porch and fencing around it, TV’s inside showing railroad history and videos of the relocation from Fulton Shipyard Road,” said project coordinator Tom Menasco.

Once the work is completed, it will be available for “tours for school kids, and possible rentals including children’s birthday parties, business meetings and special occasions,” he added.

To date, contractors have donated and provided discounted services to the tune of over $200,000,” Menasco shared. “We’ve raised about $87,000, so far. It will be a $300-$350,000 project by the time it’s done.”

The dedication is expected sometime in early November. To donate to the effort visit www.antiochhistoricalmuseum.org/donations/. The museum is located at 1500 W. Fourth Street and is open for visitors on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. For more information call (925) 757-1326.

Due Oct. 23

Student and adult humanitarians to be recognized at 46th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Ceremony in January

Contra Costa County seeks nominations for Humanitarians of the Year to be recognized during the 46th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Ceremony.

The deadline to submit candidates for consideration is Monday, Oct. 23.

The event will commemorate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 16. In the spirit of Dr. King’s work, this year’s theme is “Beloved Community.”

The Board of Supervisors plans to recognize two individuals, (1) a community member and (2) a student leader, whose dedication to others embodies the spirit and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the January event.

Nominate a community member and/or student whose accomplishments and actions go above and beyond to positively impact Contra Costa County, its residents, and communities. Please nominate candidates who demonstrate leadership, commitment to the community, and personal integrity. 

To submit online nominations and learn more about the County’s celebration, visit the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Ceremony website.

Paradise Roller Rink in Antioch to host Learn to Skate Day Oct. 7, Cha Cha Slide Day Oct. 14 and Sock it to Cancer fundraising campaigns all month long

The Roller Skating Association (RSA) is thrilled to unveil its latest endeavor for National Roller Skating Month – the “Roll Model Program.” This initiative for National Roller Skating Month is poised to revolutionize communities across the nation. The RSA is a prominent advocate for anti-bullying, mental health awareness, and the myriad health benefits of roller skating, which continues to pave the way for positive change within the industry. Antioch’s Paradise Skate Roller Rink is participating in the month-long campaign.

The design, developed in collaboration with the pilot program Young Men United’s Major Sk8 Therapy Program in North Carolina, enables roller skating rinks to recognize and reward outstanding student role models within their local and national skating centers. In addition to fostering an inclusive and supportive skating environment, the program aligns seamlessly with the RSA’s commitment to addressing vital social issues.

But that’s not all! The RSA is gearing up for an action-packed October, with a series of events that promise to electrify the roller skating community from coast to coast. Mark your calendars for these exciting dates:

1. Learn to Skate Day on October 7: The first Saturday of October is destined to be a day of discovery as roller rinks nationwide welcome newcomers to experience the thrill of roller skating for the very first time.

2. Cha Cha Slide Day on October 14: Join us at 4  p.m.  on the second Saturday of October as we pay tribute to the late DJ Casper, the creative genius behind the Cha Cha Slide. Get ready to groove and slide your way to happiness!

3. Sock it to Cancer Fundraising Campaigns all month long: This nationwide fundraising campaign dedicates proceeds from sock sales to local cancer associations to support research and awareness.

Roller skating isn’t just a pastime; it’s a vibrant expression of individuality, an avenue for socialization,  a symphony of music, and a hub for forging lifelong friendships. Whether exploring new roller sports like artistic, speed skating, or roller hockey, or simply seeking the excitement of learning something fresh and exhilarating, roller skating has something for everyone.

Roller skating centers serve as havens for social interaction, promoting the creation of meaningful bonds and the release of endorphins, contributing to both physical and mental well-being. It’s a proven fact: roller skating makes you smile! This activity engages over 640 muscles, including the heart, offering a comprehensive aerobic workout. The RSA encourages people of all ages to embrace an active and healthy lifestyle through roller skating.

Discover your nearest roller skating rink by visiting www.rollerskating.org and using the locator feature. Parents are encouraged to explore www.kidsskatefree.com to secure two free roller skating passes per child each week and download the MyHownd app on their Android or Apple devices to access these weekly passes.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed sponsors for their unwavering support: Pepsi, JBL Trinity Group, Hownd, and Kids Skate Free.

About Roller Skating Association (RSA)

The Roller Skating Association (RSA) is a premier trade association dedicated to serving commercial (for-profit) skating center owner/operators and various stakeholders in the roller-related industry. Committed to the promotion of our members’ success through education and the advancement of the roller skating business, the RSA remains at the forefront of fostering positive change and innovation within the roller skating community. Join us in celebrating National Roller Skating Month and embrace the joy of roller skating!

Connect with Us

Website: www.rollerskating.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/rollerskatingassociation

Instagram: www.instagram.com/rollerskatingassociation

Twitter: www.twitter.com/rollersk8ing

#MoreSkatingLessHating #RollerSkating #RollModelProgram #NationalRollerSkatingMonth

For kids ages 4-15 at the Uril E. “Compy” Compomizzo Fishing Pier at the end of H Street near Waldie Plaza in historic, downtown Rivertown.

For more information visit www.gbofantioch.org.