Save the date and join us in Antioch’s historic downtown Rivertown Saturday, September 6, 2025, 5PM–9PM for line dancing, delicious food and excellent wine on the riverfront brought to you by:
The Pour Up Wine Bar, Monica’s Riverview, Country Kru Line Dancing and Antioch.Town.
We will have a combination of line dancing lessons, live walkthroughs and a request list.
This event is 18+.
Different ticket options available. So, please check out tickets now available on Eventbrite. See you sundown on the dance floor!
Located at 1 I Street #Unit C in Antioch on the pier.
Oakley Girls Soccer Team Fuego members and coaches with check from CashSwipe founder and CEO, Paul Alex (left). Photos by Allen D. Payton
From CashSwipe founder, a former Oakland cop
Will help fund travel, equipment, development for 10- & 11-year-olds building confidence, character through sport
By Ana Tackett
In a powerful show of community investment and full-circle mentorship, CashSwipe – a national fintech company founded by former Oakland police officer and Antioch resident Paul Alex – donated $10,000 to a competitive girls’ soccer team based in Oakley. The check was formally presented on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at Knoll Park in Antioch, recognizing the dedication of a team that’s as committed to personal growth as it is to the game.
The girls’ soccer team, Fuego of the Oakley Youth Soccer Club, is composed of 10- and 11-year-olds from diverse backgrounds with many from Oakley and Antioch. They travel to compete with other teams in the Nor Cal Premier Soccer League. It provides far more than athletic training. It creates an environment of support, empowerment, and discipline—helping young girls grow into confident leaders on and off the field. For many families, the financial burden of youth sports can be overwhelming. This donation will go directly toward travel to regional tournaments, high-quality uniforms, registration fees, and additional development opportunities such as clinics and camps.
“This donation means the world to our team. It’s more than just money—it’s a vote of confidence in these girls and their potential,” said Pedro “Coach Pete” Elias, head coach and also a former Oakland Police officer. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to give them experiences they’ll carry for life.”
Team Fuego practices at Knoll Park in Antioch.
Oakley’s girls’ team isn’t just playing to win—they’re playing for each other. The club’s philosophy centers around building strength of character through teamwork, accountability, and resilience. That shared mission resonated deeply with Alex, who once patrolled alongside both Coach Elias and Luis “Coach E” Espinoza. Coach Jesus “Chuy” Matinez rounds out the team’s leadership.
“This team is about more than soccer—it’s about heart,” said Espinoza. “These girls show up for one another, push themselves, and prove every day that leadership starts with integrity. I’ve known Paul since our law enforcement days, and it’s inspiring to see him invest in a new generation the way he does.”
For Alex, the donation represents more than philanthropy – it’s a reflection of purpose. After leaving a successful career in law enforcement, he launched CashSwipe to empower everyday people through passive income systems like ATM placement and merchant services. His commitment to mentorship and underserved communities has remained at the center of his work.
“Sports can be life-changing,” said Alex the company’s founder and CEO. “They teach leadership, discipline, and confidence. Every child deserves the chance to grow through those lessons—regardless of their financial situation. Supporting this team is not just about soccer—it’s about investing in future leaders and showing them what’s possible.”
Alex’s story is one of transformation. Once a police officer on the streets of the Bay Area, he saw firsthand how underserved communities—especially young people—often lack access to the very opportunities that could change their lives.
Coaches E, Pete and Chuy join CashSwipe founder and CEO Paul Alex for the donation check presentation on June 26, 2025.
Now a national entrepreneur and speaker, Alex hasn’t forgotten where he came from. His donation to the soccer team isn’t just a check – it’s a commitment to investing in young women who are striving for more despite financial barriers. The funds will cover critical needs such as uniforms, tournament fees, travel expenses, and training equipment – resources often out of reach for underfunded teams.
“I know what it feels like to grow up without much – and I know what sports can do for a young person’s confidence, discipline and future,” said Alex. “This is about more than soccer. It’s about showing these girls that someone believes in them.”
He later shared that he played on the Oakland PD soccer team and said with a laugh, “I wasn’t very good but I played.”
In communities like Oakley and Antioch, access to resources such as travel, training, and tournament fees often determines whether a child can continue to play. CashSwipe’s contribution ensures these girls can compete at the highest level without being held back by financial hardship. It’s a reminder that when businesses choose to lead with purpose, they can change lives far beyond their industry.
About CashSwipe
CashSwipe is a fintech company that helps individuals build passive income through ATM placement and merchant services. Founded by former Oakland Police Officer Paul Alex, CashSwipe is now a national brand empowering aspiring entrepreneurs to take control of their financial future. The company remains rooted in its mission of community upliftment and impact-driven opportunity. For more information visit https://cashswipe.com.
About the Oakley Girls’ Soccer Club
The Oakley Girls’ Soccer Club is a competitive program for 10- and 11-year-old athletes committed to teamwork, growth, and integrity. Led by former law enforcement officers who bring a mentorship-driven philosophy to the field, the club offers a safe and supportive space for girls from diverse and often underserved backgrounds. The program aims to develop strong athletes—and even stronger young women. For more information visit https://oakleyyouthsoccerclub.com.
The 140-acre Freschi property was added to the Deer Valley Regional Park south of Antioch and west of Brentwood. Photo: EBRPD
Purchased from the John R. Freschi, Jr., 2018 Living Trust for $1.82 million; will be added to acreage sold by Jack Roddy and partners
By Dave Mason, Public Information Supervisor, Public Affairs, East Bay Regional Park District
The East Bay Regional Park District (Park District) is pleased to announce the acquisition of 140 acres adjacent to Deer Valley Regional Park in partnership with the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy (Conservancy). The property is located in eastern unincorporated Contra Costa County south of Antioch and southwest of Brentwood, within the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan/Natural Community Conservation Plan (HCP/NCCP) area.
The property was purchased from the John R. Freschi, Jr., 2018 Living Trust and is accessed from Briones Valley Road, approximately 1.3 miles west of Deer Valley Road. The property will become an addition to Deer Valley Regional Park.
Source: EBRPD
Consistent with other properties acquired in partnership with the Conservancy and conserved for the HCP/NCCP, a Covenant to Restrict Use of Property ensures that existing wildlife and habitat values are protected. The restrictive covenant permits public recreation compatible with habitat values.
The property is composed of oak woodland and oak savanna and includes sprawling grasslands, a segment of Marsh Creek riparian habitat, and a seasonal pond. No species studies have been completed yet, but habitat found on the Freschi property is known to support the California red-legged frog, the California tiger salamander, and a variety of raptors.
“This acquisition reflects the Park District’s ongoing commitment to protecting critical habitat and expanding access to nature for all,” says Park District General Manager Sabrina Landreth. “We’re grateful for our strong partnership with the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy and the support of state agencies that helped make this purchase possible. We look forward to incorporating this beautiful landscape into Deer Valley Regional Park and to preserve its ecological value for generations to come.”
“Preserving this land not only safeguards vital habitat but also furthers our vision of connecting people to open space in east Contra Costa County,” says Colin Coffey, Park District Board Member representing Ward 7, which includes parts of Contra Costa County. “Strategic acquisitions like this are a key part of building out a regional park network that serves both wildlife and the community. I’m proud to see this progress in a region I represent and care deeply about.”
“Land conservation in this region is made possible through strong, collaborative partnerships,” says Hugh Henderson, Board Chair for the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy and Vice Mayor of the City of Oakley. “The Conservancy and the Park District worked closely with the seller to secure the protection of this property. As habitat for endangered and threatened species, this land holds significant ecological value, and we are dedicated to its long-term stewardship and conservation.”
Source: EBRPD
Will Be Added to Acreage Sold to Park District by Jack Roddy
The land is in addition to the acreage sold by Jack Roddy and partners which includes the former 18-hole Roddy Ranch Golf Course located off Deer Valley Road. In 2022, the Park District adopted a Habitat Restoration and Public Access Plan to restore native grasslands across the 230-acre golf course and provide facilities for passive recreation including walking, biking, horseback riding, and picnicking. This parkland is part of the Conservancy’s Preserve System, which emphasizes environmental restoration and preservation.
The next phase of Park development includes:
Restoring 84 acres of grasslands
Installing picnic areas, restrooms, and nearly four miles of multi-use trails
Building an interpretive pavilion for environmental education and history
Construction is anticipated to begin in 2026, pending permit approvals and funding.
A public ribbon cutting to celebrate the addition of the property to the Park District will take place later in the year.
The property was acquired in partnership with the Conservancy using a combination of grant funds from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife ($1.5 million) with additional funding ($320,000) provided by the Wildlife Conservation Board, both secured by the Conservancy.
The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, over 126,000 acres, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.
The Delta Veterans Group brings Contra Costa County (CCC) “Stand Down on the Delta” a Homeless Veterans’ “Hand Up” event every other year (2015, 2017, 2019….) DVG is proud to bring Stand Down on the Delta 2025, September 12-15, to the Contra Costa County Fairgrounds in Antioch.
This is a four-day event wherein U.S. military veterans receive services in Medical, Dental, Veterans Treatment Court, Housing, Job Placement, Mental Health and Drug and Alcohol Counseling.
To date the Stand Down on the Delta biennial event has helped thousands of veterans and their families, served thousands of meals, given away over 1,100 pairs of boots, over 1,500 sleeping bags, over 1,300 pairs of new jeans, $500,000 in dental care, taken over 200 veterans fishing on our Delta shores and helped many more find permanent housing.
We work with over 70 different organizations during our four day Stand Down on the Delta event. In September of 2019 over 850 Volunteers from around the State of California and even as far as South Carolina came to Antioch to help us provide these great services to our veterans.
About DVG
Delta Veterans Group is a 501(c)3 Veterans service non-profit that assists our Nation’s finest men and women with housing, employment, health, and education services. Founded in Contra Costa County in 2012 by Army veteran J.R. Wilson, DVG has now grown to provide services to surrounding Northern California areas including Alameda, Monterey, Napa, San Joaquin, San Francisco and Solano counties.
“The New TDT Network” brings community-driven changes to nearly all of the agency’s bus routes
By Leeann Loroño,Manager of Customer Service and Marketing, Tri Delta Transit
After canvassing East County for input from riders and residents over the last year, Tri Delta Transit (also known as East Contra Costa Transit Authority) is poised to launch a significant realignment of its transit system, offering service that is faster, more direct and more frequent beginning Aug. 10.
Dubbed “The New TDT Network,” this realignment brings sweeping changes to nearly every Tri Delta Transit route, informed by a blend of public feedback and data analysis. Bus routes across the system have been made faster and more direct, with better connectivity between buses and BART.
A brief video highlighting the major changes of the new network – and how they were determined – is available at revitalizetridelta.com.
Busier areas will see more frequent and consistent service, with improved weekend service across the board. The updated system introduces a brand-new route running every 15 minutes, along with four additional routes operating every 30 minutes, making morning commutes smoother for bus riders.
“We wanted to be sure these changes served local riders – particularly those who rely on transit for their morning commutes,” said Contra Costa County Supervisor Diane Burgis, who chairs Tri Delta Transit’s Board of Directors. “These updated routes – including Tri Delta Transit’s first route to run every 15 minutes – will not only greatly improve commutes for those who already ride but open up new possibilities for those whose schedules didn’t align with the previous system.”
Source: Tri Delta Transit
Integration with Tri MyRide has also been expanded to better serve the Brentwood, Antioch and Oakley areas, while maintaining existing coverage in the Pittsburg and Bay Point area.
“From the beginning of the New TDT Network initiative, our goal has been to ensure that the new network is able to better meet the needs of the communities we serve,” said Rashidi Barnes, CEO of Tri Delta Transit. “This new network is a direct result of that goal and aligns with everything we’ve heard from the public over the last year. Our riders can look forward to consistent bus service with lower wait times that offer faster, more direct routes to where they need to be.”
For details on specific route changes and other information about The New TDT Network, visit revitalizetridelta.com.
About Tri Delta Transit
Tri Delta Transit provides over 2,000,000 trips each year to a population of over 315,000 residents in the 225 square miles of eastern Contra Costa County. For additional information about the Tri Delta Transit, please visit www.trideltatransit.com.
Closed Antioch, Pittsburg/Bay Point Stations; police seek suspects
By Allen D. Payton
According to Jim Allison, BART Media Relations Manager in a message at 9:30 p.m. Sunday, July 6, 2025, “Antioch station is closed and there is no service between Pittsburg/Bay Point Stations and Antioch Stations due to police activity at Antioch Station. The
“BART police are investigating a shooting that occurred at about 8:15 p.m. in the bus zone near the station,” he continued. “One adult male victim was transported to John Muir Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.”
BART Police are searching for suspects and the Antioch Police Department have been assisting in the investigation, as well.”
“There is no indication that the shooting victim was a BART rider,” Allison added.
Antioch Police posted a message on their Facebook page informing the public of the investigation and to avoid the station area.
No additional information has been provided as of Monday afternoon.
FREE admission to Sonic the Hedgehog 3 from June 2–5
By Greg Heckmann, Marketing Director, Maya Cinemas of North America, Inc.
Maya Cinemas is excited to welcome families back to its popular Summer Kids Camp, beginning Monday, June 2, 2025. This fun-filled summer tradition offers a lineup of beloved family films for just $3 per ticket, every Monday through Thursday at 10:30 a.m., a perfect way to enjoy a movie indoors during the warmer months.
To kick off the season, Maya Cinemas will offer FREE admission to Sonic the Hedgehog 3 from June 2–5 at 10:30 a.m. These special screenings are limited to six tickets per person, available in person at the box office only. Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Source: Maya Cinemas
Full Summer Kids Camp Schedule
$3 Tickets • All Shows at 10:30am, Monday-Thursday
The Bad Guys • June 9-12
Shrek • June 16-19
Minions: Rise of Gru • June 23-29
Kung Fu Panda 4 • June 30-July 3
Migration • July 7-10
Trolls Band Together • July 14-17
Puss ‘n Boots: The Last Wish • July 21-24
Despicable Me 4 • July 28-31
The Wild Robot • August 4-7
The Land Before Time • August 11-14
Maya Cinemas will offer a $20 Passport for 10 Summer Kids Camp movies. This is a savings of $10.
$2 from every Kid’s Combo purchased during the Summer Kids Camp shows will benefit the Maya Community Foundation.
Bakersfield – 1000 California Avenue, Bakersfield, CA 93304
Delano – 401 Woollomes Avenue, Delano, CA 93215
Fresno – 3090 East Campus Pointe Drive, Fresno, CA 93710
Salinas – 153 Main Street, Salinas, CA 93901
North Las Vegas – 2195 North Las Vegas Blvd., North Las Vegas, NV 89030
ABOUT MAYA CINEMAS
Founded in 2000, Maya Cinemas was created to bring high-quality, first-run movie experiences to underserved and family-oriented communities, particularly those with a strong Latino presence. In addition to mainstream Hollywood films, Maya Cinemas offers unique programming through its Canal Maya series, all presented in modern, state-of-the-art theaters. Through its Maya Community Foundation, the company remains committed to enriching the communities it serves. For more information and showtimes visit www.mayacinemas.com.
