To celebrate Small Business Week and support local entrepreneurs
By Nicole Holmes
The Bloom Market will debut this week as a community-centered event celebrating Small Business Week, beginning Sunday, May 3. Hosted in Antioch, the market is designed to uplift local entrepreneurs, connect residents to small businesses and activate community space through wellness, commerce, and engagement.
This first Bloom Market is free to the public (and vendors) and was made possible through a grant supporting community programming in Antioch.
Programming for the event includes a fitness session led by Coach Capri featuring an extreme hip-hop workout, live DJ entertainment throughout the day, and two rounds of community bingo at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Attendees can also expect a curated vendor marketplace, entrepreneur resource tables, light bites, and specialty beverages including dirty sodas.
Organizers emphasize that the Bloom Market is both a celebration and an experiment in community engagement, designed to assess interest and build momentum for future recurring markets throughout the summer.
Event Details:
Bloom Market – Small Business Week Kickoff
514 W. 2nd Street, Rivertown, Antioch (The Lemon Tree)
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Free and open to the public
Family-friendly event
For more information visit the Bloom Market Facebook page.
By Sgt. Rob Green, Traffic Division, Antioch Police Department
On Friday, April 17, 2026, at approximately 8:00 AM, Antioch Police Officers responded to a report of a vehicle versus pedestrian collision at the intersection of Country Hills Drive and Wolverine Way.
Upon arrival, officers located an 84-year-old female pedestrian from Antioch who had sustained major injuries. She was transported to a local hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.
The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and is fully cooperating with the investigation. The Antioch Police Department Traffic Unit has assumed responsibility for the case.
If you witnessed the collision or have any information that may assist investigators, please contact Officer Josh Egan at (925) 204-1587 or jegan@antiochca.gov.
Source: Sandra White for Antioch City Council District 4 2026
Will focus on economic growth, public safety, community investment & partnerships, fiscal accountability
Hoping third times’ a charm
By Sandra White for City Council campaign
Sandra White, human resources executive, current president of the Antioch Rotary Club and former Antioch Police Crime Prevention Commission Chair, announced her candidacy for Antioch City Council, District 4 during a campaign kick-off on April 18.
As a resident of Antioch, White has seen firsthand the challenges facing local families, small businesses, and public safety resources, and is committed to delivering practical, results-driven solutions.
She also currently serves as a Standby City Council Member for Mayor Ron Bernal. Her volunteer endeavors included serving on the Antioch Unified School District Advisory Board and previously the Contra Costa County Community Corrections Partnership Community Advisory Board, which focused on re-entry programs for formerly incarcerated individuals.
This will be her third attempt at replacing incumbent Monica Wilson, now serving in her fourth term on the council since first being elected in 2012, but who has yet to announce for re-election in November. White ran in both 2020 for the two-year term and 2022 for the current four-year term.
White brings extensive experience in business operations, workforce development and organizational leadership, with a campaign focused on economic growth, public safety and strengthening community investment and partnerships, and fiscal accountability.
“Antioch is at a critical turning point,” said White. “We have an opportunity to build a safer, stronger and more economically vibrant city. I’m running to bring accountable leadership, common-sense solutions and a stronger, safer future for our community.”
White works as Vice President of Human Resources for a multi-state organization, Center for Social Dynamics, providing autism services to children, where she has led initiatives focused on workforce growth, operational efficiency, and building high-performing teams. According to her bio on the organization’s website, “She loves volunteering in her community and racking up airline mileages. Sandra earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from California State University, East Bay, and a Master of Associate degree in Counseling Psychology from John F. Kennedy University.”
Her professional experience is complemented by a strong record of community involvement in Antioch, including efforts supporting public safety, education, and youth development.
White’s Campaign Priorities Include:
• Economic Development: Attract businesses, support small businesses, empower entrepreneurs, and create sustainable local jobs. Strengthen City leadership by hiring department heads and staff with proven economic development experience and measurable results.
• Public Safety: Support full police staffing, reduce response times, and maintain safe neighborhoods and thriving business districts.
• Community Investment & Partnerships: Expand youth programs, strengthen community services, and improve overall quality of life for Antioch residents.
• Fiscal Accountability: Ensure responsible budgeting, transparency and long-term financial stability while protecting taxpayer dollars.
“We cannot spend more than we bring in,” White added. “Antioch needs disciplined financial leadership, transparency and a high-performing team focused on delivering long-term economic success.”
White’s campaign will focus on engaging residents, listening to community concerns, and building practical solutions that reflect the needs of District 4 and the broader Antioch community.
“This campaign is about bringing people together, listening to our community, and making sure every voice in Antioch is heard.”
Residents interested in learning more, volunteering, or supporting the campaign are encouraged to contact Sandra White at sandra.white4antioch@gmail.com or by calling (510) 303-5880, and follow-on social media at Facebook: Sandra White for Antioch, on Instagram: @sandrawhiteforantioch and TikTok: sandrawhiteforantioch.
Antioch Police Community Engagement Team Officers Riosbaas (left) and Shipilov (center) check on Harry on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, who was given a job by 7-Eleven owner Mena. Photo by Antioch PD
By Antioch Police Department
On Thursday, April 23, 2026, officers with the Antioch Police Community Engagement Team responded to a report of an unhoused individual trespassing on private property. When Officers Riosbaas and Shipilov arrived, they made contact with a young man named Harry. During their conversation with Harry, he explained that he had been experiencing homelessness for an extended period of time and was making efforts to obtain employment, so he could afford housing and transportation, but had been unsuccessful so far despite applying to several local businesses.
Officers used their contacts with Mena, the owner of 7-Eleven on Sunset Lane and Davison Drive, and gave Mena Harry’s contact information. Within 15 minutes Mena called Harry and set up a job interview while officers Riosbaas and Shipilov were still on scene. Harry was extremely grateful for the opportunity! Officers gave Harry some pointers for the interview and he aced it! Harry was hired and his first day of work was April 26, 2026.
Officers Riosbaas and Shipilov checked in on Harry on Tuesday, April 28 to congratulate him on his success and took the opportunity to pose with him and Mena.
These are the contacts that make a difference in our community. At the Antioch Police Department, our Community Engagement Team is committed to more than just enforcement. They’re here to build relationships, connect people with resources, and help create pathways to success.
This is just one example of how collaboration, compassion, and proactive policing can positively impact lives. We would like to thank Mena for being willing to give Harry an opportunity, and we wish Harry continued success in this next chapter.
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.
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.
Zahvon Hopson was charged with murder by the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office April 28, 2026. Photo: Antioch PD
22-year-old Zahvon Hopson charged with killing Dimon Lasly Commodore, held on $2.19 million bail
By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office
Martinez, California – The Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office has charged an Oakland man with the murder of a 20-year-old Antioch woman.
Zahvon Hopson, 22, was arraigned today, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, on a three-count criminal complaint stemming from the shooting death of Dimon Lasly Commodore. The charges include murder, possession of a firearm by a felon with a prior conviction, and unlawful firearm activity. The murder charge carries an enhancement for personally and intentionally discharging a firearm causing great bodily injury and death. The unlawful firearm activity count includes special allegations citing prior offenses in Contra Costa and Alameda counties.
As previously reported, Antioch police officers responded to a reported shooting in the 2200 block of Sycamore Drive on February 19, 2026, at 7:17 p.m. They arrived to find the victim suffering from two gunshot wounds. Despite life-saving efforts, she died at the scene. Hopson was later identified by Antioch Police.
Hopson fled before officers arrived. Also, as previously reported, following an extensive search, he was located in San Diego and arrested on April 10, 2026, with the assistance of local law enforcement.
Currently held at the Martinez Detention Facility on $2,190,000 bail, Hopson pleaded not guilty at today’s arraignment, denied all charges, allegations, and enhancements, and waived his right to a speedy trial. A preliminary hearing date is pending.
According to localcrimenews.com, Hopson was arrested on July 7, 2023, while a Richmond resident, for inflicting corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant and assault with any means of force likely to produce great bodily injury. As an Antioch resident, he was also arrested on April 17, 2025, for resisting, obstructing or delaying a peace officer and intoxicated in public.
Case No. 04-26-01519 | The People of the State of California v. Zahvon Hopson
The dedicated public servant and CPA with an MBA offers 14 years of experienced financial leadership, integrity
By Allen D. Payton
For more than 14 years, Peter Karumbi has proudly served the people of Contra Costa County through his work in the Auditor‑Controller’s Office. His career began as an entry‑level Accountant I, and through hard work, integrity and a deep commitment to public service, Karumbi advanced to his current role as Assistant Auditor‑Controller.
With current Auditor-Controller Joanne Bohren not running for election after being appointed to the position last year, Karumbi is seeking the position with her support.
He is committed to:
Protecting the fiscal integrity of the County’s financial records;
Ensuring compliance with the California Constitution, state codes and Board of Supervisors directives;
Providing accurate, timely financial information to the public and county partners; and
Supporting county departments, employees, special districts and regional agencies with professionalism and respect.
Karumbi is also endorsed by retired Contra Costa County Auditor-Controller Robert Campbell, Retired Assistant County Auditor-Controller Harjit Nahal and California State Treasurer Fiona Ma.
His journey reflects not only professional growth but also a genuine dedication to strengthening the financial foundation of our county.
“I understand the responsibility that comes with managing public resources, and I have devoted my career to ensuring accuracy, transparency and accountability in county financial operations,” Karumbi said. “I understand the responsibilities of this office because I’ve spent my career performing them.”
He also has experience in the private sector having worked for four-and-a-half years in Accounts Payable for Ross Stores, Inc. in Pleasanton.
Karumbi earned the designation of Certified Public Accountant in 2015 and earned a Master’s of Business Administration in 2013 from Cal State East Bay’s School of Business & Economics.
The first-time candidate for public office is married to Margaret Ng’ang’a and they have four daughters.
47-year-old man who lives in same home detained, questioned
By Acting Sgt. John Cox #5705, Antioch Police Investigations Bureau
ANTIOCH, CA. — Antioch Police Department is investigating a suspected homicide following a late-night incident on Saturday, April 25, 2026.
Officers responded at 11:16 p.m. to a residence in the 1900 block of Wilson Court to assist Emergency Medical Services with a report of an unresponsive man. The man, a 50-year-old Antioch resident, was found not breathing by EMS personnel and died at the scene despite life-saving efforts.
Preliminary information indicates the man became unresponsive following an altercation with another resident.
Crime Scene Investigators and detectives from the Antioch Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit are leading the investigation. A resident of the same home, a 47-year-old man, was detained and interviewed by detectives.
The case remains under investigation, and no further details are being released at this time.
The Investigations Bureau will provide additional updates as they become available. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Ibanez at (925) 779-6890 or ribanez@antiochca.gov.
