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.

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.

By Antioch Chamber of Commerce

At the annual Antioch Chamber of Commerce Gala on Friday, March 28, 2025, Mike’s Pastry Shop was awarded the 2024 Antioch Small Business of the Year and Travis Credit Union was honored as the 2024 Antioch Large Corporate Business of the Year.

Small Business of the Year – Mike’s Pastry Shop

Congratulations to Mike’s Pastry Shop for being awarded the Small Business of the Year Award! This well-deserved recognition goes beyond their delicious pastries and warm, welcoming staff. It honors their unwavering commitment to the community. While they never seek the spotlight, Mike’s Pastry Shop quietly made and continues to make a difference by consistently donating to those in need, sharing their love for baking in the most meaningful ways.

Their generosity, done without expectation of praise, speaks volumes about their values and dedication to giving back. This award is not just for their exceptional baked goods but for the kindness and compassion they sprinkle into everything they do.

Thank you, Mike’s Pastry Shop for blessing us all with your kindness, generosity, and delicious treats.

Large Corporate Business of the Year – Travis Credit Union

Travis Credit Union continues to be recognized for its outstanding service and commitment to financial wellness, earning several prestigious awards. In 2024, they were named on the Newsweek’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions List, a testament to its excellence in banking. Additionally, they have been honored as a Forbes Best-In-State Credit Union for multiple years, showcasing its dedication to superior member service. Their impact extends beyond traditional banking, as seen in their recognition as the U.S. Air Force Distinguished Credit Union of the Year.

More than just a financial institution, Travis CU actively works to uplift communities by advocating for financial education, assisting the underserved, and investing in meaningful partnerships. Through its knowledge is Power Financial Education, Financial Literacy, and Financial Advocacy, they collaborate with organizations such as Opportunity Junction, The Lighthouse Mentoring Center, Antioch Parks and Recreation, and the Antioch Public Library.

With a passion for making a difference, Travis Credit Union continues to change lives and strengthen communities through financial wellness.

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.

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.

Three awards to be presented during luncheon including “Visionary Leadership” Award to Contra Costa DA Diana Becton

By Jennifer Adams, Senior Executive Assistant, President’s Office, Los Medanos College

Los Medanos College will host its 2nd Annual Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025. Three people will receive the 2025 Los Medanos College MLK Awards:
• “Visionary Leadership” Award – Diana Becton | District Attorney for Contra Costa County
• “Beloved Community” Award – Kolette Simonton | Director of Recreation for the City of Pittsburg
• “Emerging Leadership” Award – Annisha Geran | LMC Alumna, School Site Council Chairperson at MLK, Jr. Junior High School & School Site Council Vice Chairperson at Pittsburg High School
The awards will be presented during the luncheon that day.

The “Visionary Leadership” Award recognizes a member of the eastern Contra Costa County community who embodies Dr. King’s strengths as a transformational, servant leader. Dr. King inspired others to shape the future articulated in his vision. He focused on the well-being, growth, and empowerment of others and the community he served. Dr. King said, “Human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable … Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals.” This award recognizes local leaders who have demonstrated the courage to speak up when needed, to step up when no one else would, and to lift others whose efforts would serve the greater good.

The “Beloved Community” Award is inspired by the term popularized by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and is presented to a local resident who has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to service. As noted by The King Center, the “Beloved Community” is a global vision in which: all people can share in the wealth of the earth; poverty, hunger, and homelessness will not be tolerated; racism and all forms of discrimination, bigotry, and prejudice will be replaced by an all-inclusive spirit of sisterhood and brotherhood; and love and trust will triumph over fear and hatred.” Recipients of this award demonstrate agape love, which Dr. King described as “understanding, redeeming goodwill for all” – a love “seeking to preserve and create community.”

The “Emerging Leadership” Award is given to an LMC student or alumna/us who exemplifies the principles of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and, within the last year, has made a significant impact on the LMC campus or in the local community in the areas of advocacy and social justice. Dr. King once said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?” – and these emerging leaders are already demonstrating that commitment to service.

RSVPs for the luncheon are no longer being accepted.

About LMC
Los Medanos College is one of three colleges in the Contra Costa Community College District, serving the East Contra Costa County community. Established in 1974, LMC has earned federal designations as a Minority-Serving and Hispanic-Serving institution. It offers award-winning transfer and career-technical programs, support services, and diverse academic opportunities in an inclusive learning environment. With exceptional educators, innovative curriculum, growing degree and certificate offerings, and state-of-the-art facilities, the college prepares students to succeed in their educational pursuits, in the workforce, and beyond.
• The Pittsburg Campus boasts 120 acres, a lake, advanced library, science, math and student union buildings.
• The Brentwood Center, which opened May 2022, is nestled on 17.5 acres along the rolling hills of the City of Brentwood.
• The college offers more than 90 transfer and career-technical programs of study to help students achieve a lifetime of higher earnings.
• Established in 1974, LMC has earned federal designations as a Minority-Serving and Hispanic-Serving institution.
LMC is located at 2700 E. Leland Road in Pittsburg. The Brentwood Center is located at 1351 Pioneer Square.

Lori Ogorchock, Mike Green are 2024 Citizens of the Year

By Allen D. Payton

The Antioch Chamber of Commerce has announced the winners of the annual awards for 2024.

• Citizen of the Year for Lifetime Achievement – Former Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock
• Citizen of the Year for Most Impact- Mike Green
• Small Business of the Year- Mike’s Pastry
• Large Corporate Business of the Year – Travis Credit Union
• Non-Profit of the Year – RCF Connects
• Student of the Year – Mina Aljanaby, Dozier-Libbey Medical High School student

More details on each winner will be provided by the Chamber later.

An additional Citizen of the Year for Lifetime Achievement will be posthumously to the late Jimmy Bean, a former business owner and community leader, who passed away in December. (See obituary, here)

All seven award winners will be honored at the Chamber’s Annual Gala at the Lone Tree Golf & Event Center on Saturday, March 28. Tickets are $85 per person or $680 for a table of eight and are available on the Chamber’s website at www.AntiochChamber.com.

One of 74 out of 429 in California

SACRAMENTO—State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced today that 74 schools throughout the state were recognized as Model Continuation High Schools (MCHS) for 2025. These schools provide comprehensive services to at-risk youth through exemplary instructional strategies, flexible scheduling, and guidance and counseling services. Continuation schools provide a high school diploma program for students who have not graduated from high school, are required to attend school, and are at risk of not completing their education.

Four of those schools are located in Contra Costa County:
• Antioch Unified School District, Bidwell High School in Antioch
• Mount Diablo Unified School District, Olympic High School in Concord
• San Ramon Valley Unified School District, Del Amigo High in San Ramon
• West Contra Costa School District, Sylvester Greenwood Academy in Richmond

“Today, we celebrate 74 commendable schools for their tremendous efforts as alternative campuses of learning,” said Superintendent Thurmond. “The priority of our Model Continuation High Schools is to give students more than a diploma. The teachers and administrators aim to provide students with a student-centered approach that meets their diverse academic, social, and emotional needs and opportunities to explore options beyond high school, preparing students for the future whether they choose to pursue further education or join the workforce.”

Currently, there are 429 continuation high schools who serve close to 49,000 students throughout the state. MCHSs excel and provide exceptional opportunities for their students to pursue academic and social success.

The Model Continuation High School Recognition Program is a collaborative partnership between the California Department of Education (CDE) and the California Continuation Education Association Plus (CCEA Plus). Schools operate their own exemplary programs, but Model Continuation High School–recognized educators commit to supporting and mentoring their peers in other local educational agencies.

The 74 schools selected as Model Continuation High Schools retain their designation for three years. They will be recognized at the CCEA Plus 2025 State Conference in April. For more information on continuation education, please visit the CDE Continuation Education web page.

UPDATE: In a post on the Antioch Unified School District’s Facebook page on Thursday, Feb. 20, AUSD Director of Secondary Schools Lindsay Wisely was quoted as saying, “Bidwell High School has an array of programs that provide students with academic support, college/career exposure, and mental health resources. The educators and outstanding principal provide students with an exceptional small school experience. Students who attend there are proud of their campus.”

The post also included, “Big congrats to Principal LaTanya Williams and staff for continuing to serve their students so well.”

About Bidwell High School
Bidwell High School is one of two continuation high schools in the Antioch Unified School District (AUSD), serving students in grades 10 through 12, ages 16-18 years old. The purpose of Bidwell is to provide students who are deficient in credits with an alternative opportunity to improve their academic skills as they work toward graduating with their class.

Students typically have a four-period day, but more periods can be added based on a student’s proven commitment to quality work and a student’s particular graduation status. Grades and credits are issued on a quarterly basis. Almost all schoolwork is completed in small classes under the direction of the instructor. A high school diploma may be earned by meeting the Antioch Unified School District’s credit requirement of 180 credits for continuation schools.

Bidwell works continuously to develop programs that offer a unique and nurturing environment that includes a small community setting, an individualized graduation plan developed and monitored for each student, staff with a high level of experience, and a diverse student population. To learn more visit www.antiochschools.net/o/bhs.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Among 6 Kaiser Nor Cal hospitals ranked as nation’s Top Hospitals by The Leapfrog Group

By Antonia Ehlers, PR & Media Relations, Kaiser Permanente Northern California

Six Kaiser Permanente Northern California hospitals are among the top hospitals in the nation for providing safe, high-quality patient care, according to the Leapfrog Group’s 2024 Top Hospital award.

The highest-performing hospitals on the Leapfrog Hospital Survey are recognized annually with the prestigious Leapfrog Top Hospital award, considered one of the most elite and competitive honors a hospital can receive. In 2024, only 134 hospitals nationwide, or less than 6% of the nearly 2,400 eligible hospitals, were recognized.

The six Kaiser Permanente Northern California hospitals to receive the award include: Antioch, Manteca, Modesto, San Jose, San Rafael and South San Francisco. The Leapfrog Group also recently recognized 14 Kaiser Permanente Northern California hospitals with an “A” rating for patient safety.

Kaiser Foundation Hospital Antioch was recognized as a Top Teaching Hospital.

View this hospital’s full score.

View this hospital’s Leapfrog Hospital Survey Results

“Our hospitals are recognized consistently as among the best in the nation for providing safe, equitable, high-quality patient care, which is a top priority for our care teams and the staff and employees who support them,” said Carrie Owen Plietz, FACHE, president of Kaiser Permanente’s Northern California region. “Focusing on safety and quality enhances clinical outcomes and supports our patients’ journey toward improved health.”

Only 29 California hospitals received the Leapfrog Top Hospital award. Kaiser Permanente Northern California’s 6 hospitals represent more than 20% that were recognized.

The Leapfrog Top Hospital award is based on excellence in upholding quality standards across several areas of patient care including staffing, hand hygiene, infection rates, practices for safer surgery, maternity care, and error prevention. Hospitals must have also received an “A” Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade in the most recent round of scoring to be eligible for the Top Hospital award. 

“This recognition reflects the dedication of our highly trained clinical teams who provide exceptional quality care with compassion,” said Maria Ansari, MD, FACC, chief executive officer and executive director of The Permanente Medical Group. “Kaiser Permanente continues to be ranked among the best for providing high-quality care, focusing on the overall health and well-being of those we serve.”

The annual Top Hospital award is given to both teaching and general medical centers. Kaiser Permanente Antioch, San Jose, and South San Francisco are named top teaching hospitals and Kaiser Permanente Manteca, Modesto, and San Rafael are named top general hospitals.

The Leapfrog Group is an independent national nonprofit run by employers and other large purchasers of health care benefits. It is an independent advocacy group working with a broad range of partners, including hospitals and insurers.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.