By Allen D. Payton

The 382 graduates of the Deer Valley High School Class of 2026 celebrated with their faculty, family and friends during the school’s 30th year, Saturday morning, June 6th.

The class entered Wolverines Stadium to the traditional sounds of Pomp and Circumstance by the Deer Valley High School Band, led by Music Director Ryan Carr. The Deer Valley Jr. ROTC Cadets, under the leadership of U.S. Army Sgt. First Class Ronnie McGee, provided the Presentation of Colors.

The National Anthem was then performed by the Divine Voices, led by Choral Director Alivia Logan and Salutatorian Natalie Hill then asked her classmates to be seated.

House 2 Vice Principal Mike Green, once again, served as Master of Ceremonies. He mentioned that Hill “will attend UCLA in the fall on a full-ride scholarship to study political science. She plans to participate in the ROTC and become a military officer upon graduation.”

Earlier this year, Hill received a $180,000 college scholarship from the U.S. Marine Corps.

Green mentioned the Antioch Unified School District officials in attendance for the ceremony. They included Trustees Antonio Hernandez, Mary Rocha, Dee Brown and Olga Cobos Smith who each later handed out the diplomas. Also, in attendance was Dr. Camille Johnson, Associate Superintendent for Human Resources.

Green then introduced Principal Robert Bowers who spoke to the graduates saying, “You’re a special class. Over the past four years you’ve accomplished amazing things. You’ve created memories that have built a culture that will be remembered long after today.”

“This year marks the 30th anniversary of DVHS,” he continued. “I’ve been incredibly impressed by your kindness, resilience. The world you are entering needs exactly what you have to offer. Believe in yourselves the way I believe in you. Dream big, work hard, take chances and make a difference. Go change the world.”

Trustee Hernandez then shared about his own experience growing up in Antioch, graduating from Dozier Libbey Medical High School, going on to college and now, in med school.

Green introduced Senior Class President Amanda Brown saying, “She will attend (Cal State) Fullerton in the fall and study early childhood development. She has also been awarded the City of Antioch’s 2025 Youth of the Year.”

She then spoke about her and her fellow graduates’ time in school and compared it to a garden of flowers referring to a poem she quoted.

“We used it to grow. Every challenge made us stronger, and every supporter gave us life,” she stated. “To our parents and teachers, thank you. Thank you for helping water our garden.”

To her classmates she concluded, “My encouragement to you is to keep building your garden.”

Green introduced Valedictorian Emma Canales saying, “She will attend U.C. Berkeley on a full-ride scholarship in the fall to study electrical and computer engineering.”

She offered thanks to her family, “who have pushed me past my limits. To everyone else, friends, teachers and mentors…who have encouraged me to become the person I am today.”

Canales then spoke of “The multiverse” and mentioned her own upbringing including the fact, “the doctor gave me to the wrong mother. My grandmother advocated for me.”

“Push back against every barrier,” she encouraged her fellow graduates. “As you move forward in your journey, take a moment to realize how much you’ve been given and you’ve given to others. I’m confident your resilience and passion you’ve demonstrated will become your best assets. Give yourself grace and humility.”

Associate Superintendent Johnson accepted “the Class of 2026 of Deer Valley High School. I certify that each of you have completed the graduation requirements of the Antioch Unified School District. Henceforth you are to be considered graduates and alumni of Deer Valley High School.”

The Divine Voices then performed, “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday” and “Ad Astra” which was followed by the Reading of the Names of the graduates by DVHS Math Department Chair Maria McClain and Math Instructor Jessika Tate.

Class President Brown then led her classmates in the turning of their tassels to officially demonstrate they had graduated, as some tossed their caps in the air in celebration.

The graduates were then led off the field by Green and Bowers during the Recessional to the sounds of the DVHS Band.

Congratulations, Class of 2026 and God bless you in your future endeavors!

Watch the DVHS 2026 graduation video.

By Allen D. Payton

During their meeting on April 14, 2026, the Antioch City Council honored both the Cornerstone Christian School Cougars boys’ and girls’ varsity basketball teams for their state championships this year. In addition, on Thursday, May 28, 2026, the Antioch Sports Legends hosted and honored the teams, in their wing inside the Antioch Historical Museum.

The undefeated boys’ team won the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Boys Division III State Championship defeating the Birmingham Patriots of Lake Balboa, CA, 74-64 at the Golden One Center in Sacramento on March 13th. They ended their season with a 29-8 overall record and 12-0 for first place in league. (See game video)

The boys’ basketball team was also the 2024 North Coast Section (NCS) and Norcal State Champions.

The undefeated, number one seeded girls’ team won the NorCal Girls Division VI Championship by dominating and defeating the number two seed Redding Christian Lions 48-27 inside the Cornerstone Christian gym on March 11th. They ended the season with a record of 27-7 and 10-0 for first place in league. (See game video)

The girls’ team was also the 2023 NCS and Norcal State Champions.

The City Council’s proclamation reads as follows:

RECOGNITION HONORING CORNERSTONE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL’S

2026 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP BASKETBALL TEAMS

APRIL 2026

WHEREAS, Cornerstone Christian Center and Cornerstone Christian School have long served as valued institutions in the Antioch community, fostering spiritual growth, community engagement,

and a commitment to developing young people of purpose, integrity, and service;

WHEREAS, Cornerstone Christian School has built a strong reputation for providing an education that supports the development of students academically, spiritually, and athletically, while

encouraging excellence, discipline, leadership, and character;

WHEREAS, throughout the 2025–2026 basketball season, both the Cornerstone Christian School Girls and Boys High School Basketball Teams demonstrated extraordinary perseverance, teamwork, sportsmanship, and dedication, representing their school and the City of Antioch with pride and distinction;

WHEREAS, the Cornerstone Christian School Girls Basketball Team achieved an exceptional milestone by winning the 2026 CIF State Division VI Championship, reflecting the team’s resilience, unity, and unwavering commitment to excellence;

WHEREAS, the Cornerstone Christian School Boys Basketball Team achieved a historic accomplishment by securing the 2026 CIF State Championship, establishing a new legacy of excellence for the school and bringing great pride to the Antioch community;

WHEREAS, these accomplishments reflect not only the talent and hard work of the student-athletes, but also the invaluable leadership of coaches, the support of families, and the strength of the broader Cornerstone Christian School community; and

WHEREAS, the success of these teams has brought honor to the City of Antioch and serves as an inspiration to future generations to pursue excellence in athletics, academics, and character.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, RON BERNAL, Mayor of the City of Antioch, hereby proclaim April 14, 2026, as a day of recognition honoring the Cornerstone Christian School, Girls and Boys Basketball Teams for their 2026 CIF State Championship victories, and extend sincere congratulations to the student-athletes, coaches, school leadership, families, and the entire Cornerstone Christian School community.

APRIL 14, 2026

RON BERNAL, Mayor

(See council meeting video beginning at the 25:08 mark)

Antioch Sports Legends Also Honor Teams

According to a May 29th post on their Facebook page, the “Antioch Sports Legends had the honor of welcoming the Cornerstone Christian High School varsity basketball teams to the museum to celebrate an incredible season!

“The students-athletes had the opportunity to explore the Sports Legends Hall of Fame—many for the very first time.

“We proudly recognized two outstanding teams:

CIF Boys Division III State Champions the Cornerstone Christian HS Boys Team

NorCal Girls Division VI Champions the Cornerstone Christian HS Girls Team

“A special thank you to Gary Bras and Kris Del Monte for organizing this memorable event, and to Sports Legends co-founders Tom Menasco and Eddie Beaudin for presenting awards to these talented student-athletes.

“Congratulations to Cornerstone Christian High School on a remarkable year—we are proud to celebrate your success and dedication both on and off the court.”

Both teams were presented with plaques bearing the Antioch Sports Legends logo recognizing their accomplishments.

The Antioch Sports Legends is located inside the Antioch Historical Museum at 1500 W. 4th Street. For more information visit www.antiochsportslegends.com.

About Cornerstone Christian High School

Cornerstone Christian School provides a well-rounded academic, extra-curricular, and spiritual experience. The foundational purpose of our facilities, programs, curriculum choices, and most of all our dedicated teachers and staff is to inspire your child in the joy of learning and a love for God and His Son Jesus. We want to partner with you, the parent, to bring about the best in your child. The school is located at 1745 E. 18th Street in Antioch. For more information visit www.cornerstonechristianschool.net.

Social Media Team celebrates with City Manager, Department Director and staff

By Allen D. Payton

Antioch Parks & Recreation was recognized earlier this year for outstanding marketing and community outreach. They received the Excellence in Marketing Award from the California Park & Recreation Society (CPRS) District 3. This award highlights the team’s dedication to innovative communication and meaningful engagement with our residents.

With the theme of “Excellence in Bloom”, on February 26 at the Pleasant Hill Senior Center, the 2025 Awards and Installation Banquet was held to “celebrate the incredible achievements across our district, recognize outstanding leaders, and enjoy an afternoon of connection, recognition and inspiration.”

In an email to City of Antioch Recreation Department staff on February 19, 2026, the CPRS District 3 Board wrote: “Congratulations! Our panel of seven Past Presidents served as judges, and your application for the Excellence in Marketing Award has been selected as a winner. Congratulations! Cheers!”

Asked who attended the event, Parks & Recreation Director Shahad Wright said, “We had almost our whole team there.”

That included City Manager Bessie Scott, Administrative Analyst Emily Reinard, Recreation Supervisors Jun Gandia, Jaylyn Valenzuela and La’Nae Jackson, Coordinator Victoria Alvarado and Wright.

Posts on the City’s Instagram account read, “We’re proud of the work being done to connect Antioch to programs, events, and opportunities year-round. What an amazing award for the department for the wonderful team that works daily to keep Antioch residents informed, entertained and inspired.

“A special thank you to each and every recreation employee that helps support the marketing team in their efforts and an extra special thank you to each marketing team member that are often behind the lens capturing moments of laughter, enjoyment, and community for Antioch residents to enjoy. Way to go, team!”

Wright shared a “video made by our social media team, the real stars of the team who take the photos and create the videos.”

According to the organization, the “CPRS District 3 Awards are an opportunity to recognize outstanding programs, projects, and individuals in the field of Parks and Recreation. Celebrate innovation, creativity and excellence by submitting nominations showcasing our field’s best of the best.” The Excellence in Marketing is a new and competitive award which celebrates outstanding achievements in developing and implementing innovative and effective marketing campaigns, materials, or strategies that enhance the visibility, engagement and impact of parks and recreation services.

The 2025 CPRS District 3 Award Program categories included:

AGENCY AWARDS (non-competitive)

● Outstanding Volunteer in Parks & Recreation

● Outstanding Non-Profit Organization Partner in Parks & Recreation

● Outstanding Business Partner in Parks & Recreation

AGENCY SHOWCASE AWARDS (competitive)

● Outstanding Facility/Park

● Outstanding Recreation Program/Special Event

● Outstanding Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Impact Award Program/Training

● Excellence in Marketing *new*

PROFESSIONAL SERVICE AWARDS

● RISING STAR *new* (non-competitive)

● LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT (non-competitive)

● MVP (competitive)

Each agency could submit up to one entry per category.

—————

In an email to his fellow department staff the following day, Gandia wrote, “WE DID IT! We have been honored with the CPRS Excellence in Marketing Award, a recognition that reflects our collective hard work, creativity, and determination!

“This incredible achievement was made possible by the outstanding teamwork of our Social Media and Marketing Committee, who brought ideas to life with passion and innovation. A huge shoutout to our talented photographers, videographers, and graphic designers, whose visual storytelling elevated our campaigns to new heights

“I’d like to extend a special thanks to La’Nae (Jackson) for helping me with application compiling all the data and analytics. Your dedication and expertise were pivotal in presenting our achievements in the best light.

“This award is not just a trophy on the shelf; it’s a testament to what we can accomplish together. ‘Teamwork makes the dream work,’ and this recognition is proof that our collaboration and commitment can lead to extraordinary results.

“Thank you once again to everyone for your contributions, creativity, and enthusiasm. Let’s celebrate this win and continue pushing forward.”

Organization

The California Park & Recreation Society is proud to serve a vibrant community of professionals through our 15 geographic Districts and 8 Sections that focus on areas like aquatics, aging services, recreation, administration, and more. CPRS District 3 is part of Region 1 andincludes 35 cities, districts and agencies in Contra Costa and Alameda counties.

Among 13 Kaiser Permanente Northern California hospitals named by Newsweek magazine as “America’s Best Maternity Hospitals”

By Elissa Harrington, Sr. Media Relations & PR Representative, Kaiser Permanente Northern California

OAKLAND, Calif. – With a commitment to providing safe, high-quality maternity care to parents and newborns, 13 Kaiser Permanente Northern California hospitals are being recognized by Newsweek magazine as among the best in the nation.

According to Newsweek’s list of “America’s Best Maternity Hospitals 2026,” Kaiser Permanente Northern California hospitals met rigorous standards for maternity care, such as low rates of elective early deliveries and adherence to important safety protocols to protect new parents and their babies.

The 13 hospitals to receive the prestigious honor include: Antioch, Fresno, Oakland, Redwood City, Roseville, San Francisco, San Jose, San Leandro, Santa Clara, Santa Rosa, South Sacramento, Vacaville, and Walnut Creek.

This is the seventh year Kaiser Permanente Northern California hospitals have been recognized by Newsweek.

“Our hospitals are consistently recognized as among the top in the nation for the high-quality maternity care we provide and the personalized support we provide to our new families,” said Mike Bowers, FACHE, president of Kaiser Permanente’s Northern California region. “Our clinical teams provide these new families with a seamless experience throughout every stage of their journey from prenatal to postpartum care.”

Kaiser Permanente delivers exceptional care

The national designation was awarded to only 460 hospitals in the United States with 65 of those in California. Kaiser Permanente has a total of 29 hospitals that received the elite designation in California, or about 45% of hospitals recognized in the state.

Newsweek and Statista, one of the world’s leading statistics portals and industry-ranking provider, partnered on this prestigious list, given that maternity care provided from pregnancy through birth and into postpartum is key to the long-term health of newborns and their mothers.

“Our physicians, midwives, nurses, and teams are proud to be recognized for providing comprehensive, patient-centered maternity care,” said Maria Ansari, MD, FACC, chief executive officer and executive director of The Permanente Medical Group. “Kaiser Permanente patients in Northern California are 20% less likely to require a cesarean section than those receiving care elsewhere in the state — a reflection of our use of evidence-based practices and our commitment to honoring each family’s needs and preferences.”

Last year, nearly 40,000 babies were delivered in Kaiser Permanente Northern California hospitals.

A focus on comprehensive maternity care

Kaiser Permanente Northern California’s comprehensive maternity care focuses on safe, high-quality care from prenatal to postpartum, including midwife services, prenatal classes, and support for breastfeeding and mental health.

Members are encouraged to focus on their health even before pregnancy. If a pregnant patient has a high-risk pregnancy or a chronic condition such as high blood pressure or diabetes, we tailor their care – including providing remote monitoring tools – to reduce risks, helping to keep mom and baby safe.

At Kaiser Permanente Northern California, we also partner with new parents to ensure they have the birthing experience they desire through a coordinated birthing plan that addresses everything from their delivery preferences to whether they want to breastfeed.

Support for mental and emotional health is another key component of maternity care at Kaiser Permanente. Regular screenings for prenatal and postpartum depression are part of every care plan, so we can connect those who are struggling with the care and support they need.

About Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America’s leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.6 million members in 9 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health. For more information, go to about.kp.org. 

By Antioch Chamber of Commerce

The 2025 Antioch Large Corporate Business of the Year award goes to U.S. Bank, a company with a legacy of over 100 years and a longstanding commitment to supporting communities across the nation, including Antioch. Honored during the Antioch Chamber of Commerce’s annual Gala, Friday night, March 27, 2026, Antioch Branch Manager Jesse Ingram, the Chamber’s Co-Chief Ambassador, accepted the award on behalf of the bank during the ceremony.

U.S. Bank has been a tremendous partner to the Antioch community, providing not only financial support but also dedicating the time and energy of its staff through volunteering and community engagement. Their contributions have touched countless lives, from generous donations to hands-on participation in local programs and initiatives that strengthen the social and economic fabric of the city.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. Bank stepped forward to support the local community in numerous ways. They provided critical relief assistance for customers, launched premium payment programs for frontline employees, and expedited their community giving initiatives to respond to urgent needs. Additionally, the bank played a vital role in helping local small businesses access Paycheck Protection Program loans, assisting more than 108 small businesses in navigating the challenges of the pandemic and ensuring their continued operation.

U.S. Bank’s dedication to housing and financial stability has also made a lasting impact. In 2025, the bank partnered with RCF Connects to provide $1 million in down payment assistance grants to first-time homebuyers in Contra Costa County, helping 78 low-income families achieve the dream of homeownership. The majority of these families purchased homes in Antioch, directly contributing to the growth and vitality of the local community.

Beyond financial contributions, U.S. Bank’s staff have been active participants in the Antioch Chamber of Commerce’s events, generously donating their time and funding the events. Their support reflects a true partnership with Antioch, demonstrating a corporate culture that prioritizes giving back and strengthening the communities in which they operate. U.S. Bank chooses Antioch as a focus of their philanthropy and for their continued commitment to improving lives through financial assistance, volunteerism, and community engagement.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

By Antioch Chamber of Commerce

During the Antioch Chamber of Commerce’s annual Gala, held Friday night, March 27, 2026, S.H.A.R.E. Community was honored as the 2025 Antioch Non-Profit of the Year. S.H.A.R.E. stands for Sharing Hope, Abundance, Resources and Encouragement.

S.H.A.R.E. Community is a remarkable nonprofit organization dedicated to serving unhoused neighbors in our community. Their programs provide mobile showers, hygiene kits, and laundry vouchers, offering individuals an opportunity to feel confident again and helping to restore a sense of dignity that is often lost during times of homelessness.

“We’re super excited to be chosen Non-Profit of the Year for 2025 by the Antioch Chamber of Commerce,” said, Executive Director Ricka Davis-Sheard who was presented with a commemorative plaque by Chamber Chair Jim Becker.

Founded in 2019 with a mission centered on sharing hope, resources, abundance, and encouragement, S.H.A.R.E.  Community has become a lifeline for many. They work in partnership with a wide range of local agencies, including hair salons, pet food providers, veteran support services, and mental health organizations, ensuring that the needs of their clients are met in a holistic and compassionate way.

SHARE Community has provided over 9,000 showers and distributed 18,000 hygiene kits to individuals experiencing homelessness. Many participants in the program have gone on to secure stable housing and have returned as volunteers, creating a full-circle transformation that exemplifies the organization’s profound impact.

Despite operating with a small budget and limited resources, SHARE Community continues to expand its services and outreach, fueled by the dedication of its volunteers and the support of the local community. Their tireless efforts not only address immediate needs but also inspire hope, foster resilience, and empower individuals to reclaim their confidence and independence.

S.H.A.R.E. Community is more than a nonprofit—they are a beacon of compassion, demonstrating that with care, creativity, and community support, meaningful change is possible for some of the most vulnerable members of society.

See video about S.H.A.R.E. Community’s work by Executive Director Davis-Sheard. For more information visit www.thesharecommunity.com.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

“We’re one of the very last brick and mortar travel agencies” – Tammy Larsen, owner

By Antioch Chamber of Commerce

During the Antioch Chamber of Commerce’s annual Gala, Friday night, March 27, 2026, Almost There Travel was recognized as the 2025 Antioch Small Business of the Year, an honor that reflects their dedication to exceptional service, personalized travel experiences and meaningful community impact.

This award is a testament to the passion and hard work of owner Tammy Larsen and her team, who go above and beyond to help clients explore the world with ease, creativity, and care. Their commitment to excellence has earned the trust and loyalty of their clients, making every journey not just a trip, but an unforgettable experience.

Beyond their success in the travel industry, Almost There Travel plays a vital role in the local community. They proudly offer annual Chamber Travel discount trips, making travel more accessible to community members. The owners are actively involved in the revitalization of downtown Antioch and are strong supporters of local events.

Their dedication extends even further through volunteering their time to help plan and coordinate community events, ensuring they are well-organized, engaging, and well-attended. Their generosity also includes providing travel discounts to support and give back to the community they serve.

Almost There Travel, located at 506 W. 2nd Street, truly embodies what it means to be a small business with a big impact, and this recognition is well deserved.

“Our passion is travel. We love to travel, ourselves. Please come visit us. We’re one of the very last brick and mortar travel agencies,” said Larsen. “So, come down to Rivertown. Just stop in. It doesn’t cost you anything. Thank you.”

See video of Tammy Larsen’s speech during the Gala Awards ceremony.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Deer Valley High Senior Class President also presented with $1,500 scholarship by local Rotary Clubs

By Antioch Chamber of Commerce

During the Antioch Chamber of Commerce’s annual Gala, Friday night, March 27, 2026, Amanda Brown was honored as Antioch’s 2025 Youth of the Year.

She is an exceptional student whose dedication, leadership, and passion for service truly set her apart. As senior class president at Deer Valley High School, she plays a pivotal role in planning and executing student activities, earning a reputation as a dependable leader and trusted mentor among her peers.

Amanda has become the school’s premier Master of Ceremonies for large events. Last year during the Deer Valley High School Special Olympics, she emceed the event with remarkable compassion, high energy, making every participant feel valued and celebrated. Her skill, poise and heart for service have made her the go-to emcee, admired for bringing joy and professionalism to every occasion.

Beyond her leadership at school, Amanda actively contributes to the community. She teaches cooking classes and leads youth enrichment activities at the Antioch Recreation Center, inspiring younger students and fostering a positive, supportive environment. Her dedication to helping others, combined with her excellent attendance, academic achievement and strong work ethic, demonstrates a rare combination of character, talent and service-mindedness.

Amanda Brown is more than a student leader—she is a remarkable young person whose compassion, initiative, and integrity continue to impact everyone around her. She exemplifies the very best of youth leadership, and her contributions promise a bright future of meaningful service and community engagement.

During the Gala ceremony, Amanda was presented with a scholarship for $1,500 from $750 contributed by each the Antioch Rotary Club and Rotary Club of the Delta (Antioch).

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.