Sam and Gwen Johnson. Photo by Antioch Sports Legends Museum
Service to be held Sept. 25 in Pittsburg
By Antioch High School
A standout and beloved Antioch High coach passed away on Sept. 15.
In the 1990s, Sam Johnson led the Antioch High girls basketball team for more than 10 years. He and his wife, Gwen, produced two Antioch Sports Legends Hall of Fame inductees – Stacy Johnson (HOF 2014) and Courtney Johnson (HOF 2015.)
The couple also often volunteered at the sports museum.
John Whitman, legendary AHS coach, wrote in a post: “We have lost a true role model in the passing of Sam Johnson … (He) was a a great coach and teacher in life and all who crossed paths with him are better for it! His mild-mannered approach was always evident in the heat of battle while making the whole experience a learning opportunity and fun for all. I am a better coach and person having Sam as my mentor.”
Said former player Kelli Phillips Bryson (Class of 1997): “He was a mentor, a role model, and a steady presence who shaped us on and off the court.”
Coach Johnson’s service will be held Sept. 25 with the viewing from 10-11am and funeral at 11am at First Baptist Church in Pittsburg.
By City of Antioch Economic Development Department
The City of Antioch received funding from the National League of Cities (NLC) to pilot a grant program aimed at advancing local jobs through collaboration between Antioch businesses and nonprofits. The City invites teams of three or more Antioch-based small businesses and/or nonprofits to propose creative projects that will help residents, especially those with low incomes, find and grow in meaningful employment.
This is a pilot grant program. A total of $20,000 will be split between 2–4 selected teams ($5,000-$10,000 per team). All grant funds must be spent by June 1, 2026.
All of Antioch would be moved into Congressional District 9 and combined with most of San Joaquin County if Prop 50 passes. Source: California State Assembly Elections Committee AB604
Presented by League of Women Voters of Diablo Valley
Learn the Pros and Cons of Proposition 50, the Election Rigging Response Act, a temporary redistricting measure on the statewide election scheduled for November 4. The League of Women Voters of Diablo Valley will sponsor three in-person events and one online session for the public to hear arguments and funding for and against the measure, which has potential nationwide impact.
Ballots will be mailed October 6.
Antioch is currently split between Congressional District 10 combined with most of Contra Costa County and District 8 combined with Western Contra Costa County and most of Solano County Source: California Citizens Redistricting Commission
Background
Proposition 50 was a response by Governor Newsom and the California State Legislature to Texas Legislature’s recent mid-cycle redistricting. But the California ballot measure was approved and signed into law on Aug. 21 before Texas’ new congressional district were approved on Aug. 29, which was done in response to a lawsuit by the Biden Administration’s Department of Justice.
According to a report by Democracy Docket, the lawsuit was “filed in 2021 by the DOJ under the Biden administration that alleged the state’s new redistricting plans drawn with 2020 census data violated Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act because they ignored the Lone Star State’s growing minority population and instead diluted the voting strength of voters. The lawsuit was later consolidated with several other similar lawsuits.”
While in March the Trump Administration’s DOJ “dropped its claims against Texas that its…state legislative and congressional maps violate the Voting Rights Act, litigation is ongoing, with a coalition of pro-voting groups — including the League of United Latin American Citizens, the Southwest Voter Registration Education Project, Mi Familia Vota and others — continuing their legal efforts for fair maps in Texas.”
Under Proposition 50, five Republican-held congressional districts would shift to become more Democratic, based on presidential election results from 2024. Kamala Harris (D) would have won three—District 1, District 3, and District 41—with margins above 10%. District 48 would lean Democratic, with a margin of 3%. District 22 would have shifted four percentage points toward Democrats; however, Donald Trump (R) would have won the district with a margin of 2%. The table above provides additional information about these five districts. Source: Ballotpedia
Later, according to a July 15th report by Politico, President Trump told reporters he wanted Texas to attain five additional Republican congressional seats in the 2026 election through redistricting, in order to maintain a Republican majority in the U.S. House of Representatives.
According to the LWV, “The California measure’s stated intent is to counteract Texas’ actions and help ensure that the 2026 U.S. mid-term elections are conducted on a level playing field, without an unfair advantage for either party.” While California’s Prop 50 puts the decision in the hands of California voters the new district lines were drawn and approved by the Democrats in the state legislature and Governor Newsom.
UPDATE: Unlike California’s redistricting requirements included in Article 21, Section 2 of the state’s constitution which, by a vote of the people, mandated the creation of the independent Citizens Redistricting Commission to redraw district lines each decade following the Census, according to the State of Texas redistricting website, “No Texas constitutional or statutory provisions address congressional redistricting…Unlike legislative redistricting, congressional redistricting does not come within the authority of the Legislative Redistricting Board if the legislature fails to enact a valid plan during the regular session that is meeting when the decennial census is published. The issue may be taken up in a subsequent special session of the legislature or, if the legislature fails to enact a congressional plan or if the governor does not call a special session, the districts may ultimately be drawn by a state or federal district court.” So, the Texas legislature is responsible for redrawing congressional district lines to create new maps.
California voters will decide in November whether or not to confirm the proposed, new Congressional district maps for our state.
Thursday, October 9, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.–Virtual; this event will have simultaneous Spanish translation and will be recorded for future viewing online. Registration is required to receive the link. Register for this event.
The League of Women Voters is a non-partisan, grassroots organization working to protect and expand voting rights and ensure everyone is represented in our democracy. We empower voters and defend democracy through advocacy, education, and litigation at the local, state and national levels. For more information visit www.lwvdv.org.
Gail Murray and Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
Rendering of proposed G Street restaurant dining deck and City parking lot with view of river. Source: Sean McCauley Investments
Just like the deck at Monica’s Riverview; similar to previous lease to Sean McCauleyof City-owned land next to Smith’s Landing for new patio
Will also discuss two ongoing lawsuits
By Allen D. Payton
During a Closed Session meeting beginning at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025, the Antioch City Council will consider the use of the City-owned parking lot at the north end of G Street by Sean McCauley, owner of the adjacent property at 113 G Street, which is planned to be a restaurant. The area for the proposed outdoor dining deck, like the one he built at Monica’s Riverview, is approximately 1,275 square feet.
Renderings of the Smith’s Landing Patio. Source: Sean McCauley Investments
Smith’s Landing Patio
Previously, the Council approved the rental of land near the Antioch Marina adjacent to Smith’s Landing Seafood Grill to McCauley for an outdoor dining patio for that restaurant. It is also approximately 1,300 square feet in size.
Renderings of the Smith’s Landing Patio and marina point concept with beach umbrellas and seating that are not included. Source: Sean McCauley Investments
He said the “concept for the Smith’s Landing Patio took over three years to approve and plans were submitted for permits earlier this month. We are excited about it and wanted to share it with the public.”
“We are planning to open the patio in spring of 2026,” McCauley added.
Rendering of proposed G Street restaurant dining deck. Source: Sean McCauley Investments
G Street Parking Lot Needs Improving
“It will cost about $100,000 to improve the G Street parking lot,” he shared. The costs of the deck are separate and part of the restaurant improvements.
“There will still be parking there,” McCauley explained. “We’re only taking five stalls.”
The council previously rejected his proposal during their meeting on Aug. 9, 2025, he said.
Interim City Attorney Derek Cole reported out from that Closed Session meeting simply that “Direction was given to the City’s negotiators.”
Will Discuss Two Lawsuits
The Council will also discuss two lawsuits during the Closed Session meeting, including one by the California Resources Pipeline Corporation v. City of Antioch regarding use of the natural gas pipeline which was blocked by the previous council majority. The case is being heard in Superior Court in Contra Costa County. The other, a federal lawsuit against the City, six cops and former police chiefs, was brought by murder suspect Trent Allen and others. The case is labeled Trent Allen, et al. v. City of Antioch, et al., and is being heard in U.S. District Court Northern District of California.
Public Comment will be received on all three meeting agenda items before the Council adjourns into Closed Session. That meeting will be followed by a Special Meeting at 5:30 p.m. to appoint a new City Clerk and the Council’s regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. The meetings will be held in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 200 H Street, in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown. They can also be viewed via livestream on the City’s website and the City’s YouTube Channel, on Comcast Cable Channel 24 or AT&T U-verse Channel 99.
Will interview former councilwoman, former county supervisor’s chief of staff, AT&T technician, parking enforcement officer and barber
By Allen D. Payton
During a special meeting beginning at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday night, Sept. 23, 2025, the Antioch City Council will interview five applicants and appoint one to fill the vacant City Clerk position for a little more than one year. An election will be held in November 2026 to fill the remaining two of the four-year term.
As previously reported, on July 30, 2025, City Clerk Melissa Rhodes, elected last November, submitted her written resignation effective immediately. At its meeting of August 12, 2025, the City Council directed that the vacancy be filled by appointment rather than by special election. State law requires that the appointment be made within 60 days of the vacancy, or no later than September 30, 2025. Then during it’s Aug. 26th meeting, the Council adopted the appointment process with applications due Thursday, September 11.
According to the City staff report for the agenda item #SM-1, a total of 14 Antioch voters picked up the application packet; two withdrew. As of the close of the application period, the City received five applications…submitted by (in alphabetical order by last name):
• Michael J. Mandy, an AT&T Premises Technician and 31-year Antioch resident;
• Vincent Manuel, the former Chief of Staff, Contra Costa County Supervisor Federal Glover, who worked for four months as an Administrative Analyst in the Antioch City Clerk’s Office and is a 35-year Antioch resident. He also has served on the Antioch Planning Commission, as Chair of the Antioch Police Crime Prevention Commission and on the Antioch Board of Administrative Appeals.
• Eric Bao Xuan Nguyen, a Parking Enforcement Officer and six-year Antioch resident;
• Lori Ogorchock, former three-term Antioch Councilwoman, a retired, self-employed real estate agent, and 54-year Antioch resident; and
• Jerome Terrell, a barber and 12-year Antioch resident.
Staff is recommending that the City Council take the following action to fill the City Clerk vacancy:
1. Receive applicant presentations (up to five minutes). Each applicant will be called up (in alphabetical order) and given the opportunity to speak.
2. Once each applicant has spoken, the applicant will be escorted to the HR interview room.
3. Applicants will be called back into the chamber in alphabetical order to take
questions from the Council.
4. Each councilmember will ask one question, as indicated below.
5. After the conclusion of Council questions, public comment will be opened.
6. Upon conclusion of public comment, the Council will deliberate and will select a candidate upon motion approved by a simple majority.
7. The City Council will adopt the resolution appointing [name of appointee] as City Clerk through November 2026.
Proposed Interview Questions
Staff is suggesting is that, during the interviews, each Councilmember and the Mayor ask one question of each candidate. The following are five questions the City Council may consider asking:
• How does the applicant view the role of City Clerk?
• What knowledge does the applicant have of computer systems and electronic platforms that might be used in the City Clerk position?
• What is the specific role of the City Clerk under the Brown Act, California Government Code, and California Elections Code?
• How would the applicant balance outside interests, including other civic, community, and political interests, with their work as City Clerk?
• What assurance can the applicant provide that they will timely carry out their duties for the remainder of the term?
Following this question-and-answer period, the City Council should then open the matter for public comment. Upon the conclusion of public comment, the matter shall be before the City Council for its consideration and a vote.
The special meeting will be preceded by a Closed Session meeting at 4:00 p.m. and followed by the regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. The meetings will be held in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 200 H Street, in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown. They can also be viewed via livestream on the City’s website and the City’s YouTube Channel, on Comcast Cable Channel 24 or AT&T U-verse Channel 99.
On Monday, Sept. 22, 2025, at 7:30 AM the Antioch City Council will hold a special, closed session meeting on the recruitment of a permanent City Attorney. The new hire will replace current Interim City Attorney Derek Cole who has been serving in the position since Thomas L. Smith resigned the position in January, following a two-and-a-half hour Closed Session meeting by the council.
The meeting will begin in the Council Chambers at 200 H Street in Antioch’s downtown Rivertown and public comments will be heard before the Council adjourns to closed session. The Council will later return, and Cole will publicly state any reportable action.
DA Diana Becton in Feb. 2025. Source: CCCDA’s Office
On September 18th, 2025, a federal jury in Oakland, CA found a former Antioch police officer guilty of conspiracy against rights, marking another step toward accountability in a painful chapter for Antioch and Pittsburg. (See related article)
This case is part of a broader investigation that began in 2021 into misconduct by several officers entrusted to protect the public, including actions that fall under the broad category of crimes involving moral turpitude.
When a law is broken—especially by those sworn to enforce it—it is not just a legal violation, but an offense against the entire community. That is why in every criminal case, the District Attorney represents The People of the State of California. The harm caused by these individuals was felt by the public at large, and it is our duty and responsibility to pursue justice on behalf of all those affected.
I am grateful to our federal partners, our state and local investigators, and prosecutors who worked tirelessly on these cases on behalf of the residents of Antioch and Pittsburg. Thanks to these combined efforts, both cities have begun to rebuild trust and take meaningful steps toward restoring integrity in their public institutions. These efforts are crucial to ensuring safer, more just communities for all. Our office remains firmly committed to that mission.
Antioch, CA – Paradise Skate Roller Rink is excited to join the Roller Skating Association (RSA) in celebrating National Roller Skating Month this October with the theme: “Lace Up, Wheels Down, Let’s Skate!”
This year’s campaign is all about encouraging people of all ages to discover—or rediscover—the fun, fitness, and community that roller skating brings. From beginners to lifelong skaters, October is the perfect time to get rolling!
Upcoming Events
Learn to Skate Day – October 4, 2025
The first Saturday of October is dedicated to newcomers! Rinks nationwide, including Paradise Skate Roller Rink, will welcome first-time skaters to experience the thrill of roller skating.
Cha Cha Slide Day – October 11, 2025
On the second Saturday of October, join us at 3 p.m. local time as we honor the late DJ Casper, creator of the “Cha Cha Slide.” Skaters across the country will come together to dance, slide, and celebrate.
Unity Day – October 22, 2025
In partnership with PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center, rinks will recognize Unity Day, a nationwide anti-bullying awareness initiative. Skating centers are encouraged to promote kindness, acceptance, and inclusion.
Why Roller Skating?
Roller skating is more than just fun—it’s a lifestyle that promotes fitness, friendship, and joy. Skating works over 640 muscles, including the heart, providing an incredible aerobic workout while boosting mental health and reducing stress. Whether it’s artistic skating, speed skating, roller derby, or simply a night out with friends, roller skating has something for everyone.
Join the Fun!
Find your local rink at www.rollerskating.org. Parents can also join the Kids Skate Free Club at www.kidsskatefree.com to receive two free skating passes per child each week through the myHownd app.
About Paradise Skate: Since 1969, Paradise Skate Roller Rink (formerly Roller Haven) has been the place to roll, laugh, and make memories! Started by the Doolettle family, we’ve been bringing the joy of skating to the community for 56 years — from casual skate sessions to exciting lessons and even competitive skating. Whether you’re lacing up for the first time or chasing that perfect spin, Paradise Skate is where the fun never stops. Come skate with us and keep the tradition rolling — connect with us today!
The Roller Skating Association (RSA) is a premier trade association dedicated to serving commercial (for-profit) skating center owner/operators and various stakeholders in the roller-related industry. Committed to promoting our members’ success through education and the advancement of the roller skating business, the RSA remains at the forefront of fostering positive change and innovation within the roller skating community.
