Join us for the second event of the awareness and education series — a screening and community discussion of Fentanyl High, a powerful short film exploring the hidden dangers of fentanyl.
Monday, April 29 |  6–8 PM |  Antioch Community Center, 4703 Lone Tree Way
Register at https://bit.ly/3R2fOSQ

Please SHARE this! Together, we can educate, empower, and protect our youth.

It will be Eggstra Eggpic and Eggsciting! Eggsplore during three designated times

Eggstravaganza + Recreation Expo

Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025

Time: 11:00am-3:00pm
Location: Antioch Water Park at 4701 Lone Tree Way

Grab your baskets and get ready to eggsplore and eggscite as you join us for the 4th Annual Eggstravaganza and Recreation Expo at the Antioch Water Park. Participate in land AND water egg hunts, take part in spring crafts, and play games with staff! Don’t forget to view our activity showcase for upcoming and ongoing classes, take part in demonstrations and so much more when you and your family attend this eggcellent event!

Purchase A Ticket for $8 in advance online and $12 day of event, here: Antioch Water Park. Eggstravaganza & Rec Expo

How Our Egg Hunt Works:

Our staff will be dropping eggs around the waterpark, on land and in pools, at THREE designated times. Park signs, intercom announcements, and staff will be announcing when it is time for eggs to be dropped. After collecting your eggs, you must take them to the “Egg Exchange” station to have your eggs swapped out for candy.

Golden Eggs:

In addition to the egg drop times, there are 12 golden eggs hidden around the park with special prizes ranging from free park tickets, free meal vouchers, candy baskets and more! Find a golden egg and return it to the “Egg Exchange” station to receive your eggciting prize!

Please Note: We will not prefill eggs. With eggs being placed into the pools, this policy has been developed to protect the integrity and quality of our facility. As a water park, it is important that plastic and trash do not end up in our pools.

WHISTLE DISCLAIMER: Hearing a whistle within the park DOES NOT signal the time for egg hunts to begin. Our Lifeguards are trained to use their whistles to communicate for many different instances. Any whistles heard throughout the park should not signal time to cross boundaries and begin collecting eggs. We thank you for your cooperation.

Recreation Expo:

Will include Demos & Performances.

By Antioch Police Department

This evening, Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at approximately 6:00 p.m., the Antioch Police Department dispatch center received a call reporting that a three-year-old had suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound at a home on Clearbrook Road.

Tragically, the child did not survive. At this time, the incident appears to be an accidental shooting.

This is a heartbreaking event, and our thoughts are with the family and all those affected during this incredibly difficult time.

Additional details will be shared as they become available. We ask for the community’s patience and continued respect for the family’s privacy as the investigation continues.

The Antioch Rotary Club will hold its 9th Annual BunnyHop 5K fundraiser on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at the Corteva (formerly Dow) Wetlands in Antioch. Proceeds will go directly toward scholarships and sports programs at AUSD high schools. The race will happen rain or shine! 

All Finishers will receive a BunnyHop 5K Medal. First Place Overall in Men’s and Women’s divisions will receive a plaque, and a Gift Card. Age Group Medals will go to the Top 3 in each of these Age Groups: 9 and under, 10-14, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, & 70 and up.

Registration is $40 plus, fees. The fee for our Annual Kids’ Kwik Dash is still $0. To register visit 9th Antioch Rotary Club Bunny Hop 5K and click the Sign Up button.

Instructions

Race start time is 9:00 a.m. Please park in the Antioch Marina lot at 5 Marina Plaza at the foot of L Street. The Bunny Hop Start Line is about 3/4-mile from the parking lot – please plan on a 20–30-minute nature walk. Plan on arriving at the Antioch Marina by 8:00 a.m. – there will be plenty of parking and porta potties.

For participatnts from the Antioch Unified School District – please arrive at the Antioch Marina by 7:30 a.m. to pick up your Race Bibs and GoodyBags – There will be a special line for AUSD-sponsored runners.

For more information visit www.facebook.com/AntiochBunnyHop5K or www.antiochrotary.net.

We are so grateful for our Sponsors for our Antioch BunnyHop 5K!

David Despain for Most Impact, Ray Yaker for Lifetime achievement and Jimmy Bean recognized

By Antioch Chamber of Commerce

During the annual Gala on Friday, March 28, 2025, the Antioch Chamber of Commerce honored 2024/25 Antioch Veterans of the Year, David Despain for most impact and Ray Yaker for Lifetime achievement, and honored the late Jimmy Bean with a posthumous award recognizing him for years of service to the community. The event was held at the Lone Tree Golf & Event Center.

2024/25 Antioch Veteran of the Year – David (Dave) Despain

I was born March 17, 1965, in Boulder, Colorado.I graduated from Niwot High School in Niwot Colorado in 1983 and enlisted in the Navy in July of 1983 as a Construction Mechanic in the Navy Sea Bees!

I attended Boot Camp in San Diego, then transferred to Port Hueneme for Construction Mechanic training and certification.

After completion of training my first set of orders were to Adak Alaska, where I spent 2 years working in Public Works supporting the snow equipment, aircraft refuelers and construction equipment to support the anti-submarine warfare efforts during the cold war.

After leaving Adak, I received orders to Navy Second Class Dive School in Coronado, Ca to eventually be assigned to UCT 2 (Underwater Construction Team 2) in Port Hueneme, CA.

After this assignment I transferred to NMCB 40 (Naval Mobile Construction Battalion) in Port Hueneme.  Where I was deployed to Yokosuka, Japan and then later to Rota Spain.

In 1987, I received orders to the Concord Naval Weapons Station, which brought me to Antioch.

Released from Active Duty in 1992, I began a career with Caltrans (Highway Department).

In late 1992, I enlisted into the navy Reserves and joined CHB-3 (Cargo Handling Battalion) in Alameda, California. While assigned to CHB-3 we were tasked with mobilizing, storing, supplying Mobile Navy Hospitals around the world.  This took me to several countries including, Turkey, Norway, Korea, and Guam.

I retired as a 1st Class Petty Officer in the United States Navy Seabees in August of 2006.

While in the reserves I joined the American Legion, Harding-Noia Post 161 in Antioch, CA. I worked with the American Legion in supporting youth programs by leading and sponsoring Cub Scout Pack 151 and Boy Scout Troop 151. In 2019 I became the Commander for Antioch’s American Legion Post 161 and am still serving as Commander.

2024/25 Antioch Lifetime Veteran of the Year – Ray Yaker

I was born in May of 1947 in Fresno Ca. to William & Martha Yaker, where I went to school and graduated from Roosevelt High in the spring of 1965. In January of ‘66 joined the Navy and later that year after completing a course at BT ‘A’ school was deployed on a West-Pac tour which included off the shore of Vietnam. In the middle of March of ‘67 while trying to assist the rescue of a downed pilot we received a direct hit from shore batteries which came seriously close to sending the entire ship and crew to Davy Jones Locker.

After that I applied to UDT (Navy Frogmen) and was sent back to San Diego and the infamous “Silver Strand” for training. Unfortunately, after five and a half weeks into the training I was in a bit of an accident that left me missing a couple of teeth and was unable to complete the course and transferred to a second ship where I finished my service in June of ’68. 

In March of ’69 I was married and later that year we had our first of two children. I worked in Fresno at various places till July of ’73 and relocated to Winters Ca and went to work for PG&E and played a little music on the side, till I became a truck driver in ’78 for 16yrs. It was during this time we met Paul and Winkie Scannell, who, were really the people responsible for us getting involved with helping others. At that time, it was the Make-A-Wish Foundation then later the American Legion.

I was already a member of the VFW but when joined the Legion I became a member of their Honor Guard and really got evolved with volunteering it was at that time we noticed that people allover were starting to recognizing Veterans and thanking us for our service to our country.

Over the years we have donated to as many service organizations as possible and have volunteered whenever we could. 

According to local veterans’ leader, J.R. Wilson, who assisted with the presentations, Mr. Yaker was unable to attend the dinner due to his wife being diagnosed with cancer and having her first chemo treatment that day. At Ray’s request, during the ceremony, J.R. spoke about the importance of cancer screening.

Posthumous Award Honoring Jimmy Bean

We are honored to present this Posthumous Award in memory of Jimmy, a devoted family man, community leader, and steadfast supporter of the Antioch Chamber of Commerce. Jimmy’s love and commitment to service and generosity left an incredible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A proud veteran, Jimmy served in the National Guard in North Carolina, demonstrating his dedication to his country. As a longtime member of the Lions Club, he played a pivotal role in organizing countless fundraisers, ensuring their success and impact on the community. His passion for service extended through his years as a business owner and Antioch Chamber member, where he was always willing to assist others in times of need.

Beyond his professional and community contributions, Jimmy was a man of many passions. He found joy in golf, photography, fine wine, and the music of Elvis Presley. His warmth, kindness, and generosity touched many lives, making him not only a respected leader but also a cherished friend. Jimmy’s legacy of service and compassion will forever be remembered. Though he is no longer with us, his impact will continue to inspire generations to come.

In loving memory of Jimmy—thank you for a life well-lived and a community well-served.

Bean passed away on December 26, 2024, at the age of 85. Read his obituary, here:

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

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.

He also served as the President of the Fairfield-Suisun Education Foundation.

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.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.