Refuses to answer questions about treatments

By Allen D. Payton

Last week, in response to new directions at the federal level under the Trump Administration, Kaiser Permanente issued the following statement on “Gender Affirming Care for Patients Under 19”:

Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to providing safe, high-quality, and evidence-based care to all our members, including adolescents. We are proud of the care and coverage we provide for transgender patients. Our work in this area and the inclusive care we provide for LGBTQ+ individuals and their families is recognized in the community.

Since January, there has been significant focus by the federal government on gender-affirming care, specifically for patients under the age of 19. This has included executive orders instructing federal agencies to take actions to curtail access and restrict funding for gender-affirming care, hospital inquiries by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and regulatory changes to coverage and broader federal agency review, including by the Federal Trade Commission. Most recently, the U.S. Department of Justice issued subpoenas to doctors and clinics providing gender-affirming care to transgender youth, as part of ongoing federal investigations.

In response to these federal actions, many health systems and clinicians across the country have paused or discontinued providing gender-affirming care for adolescents.

As the legal and regulatory environment for gender-affirming care continues to evolve, we must carefully consider the significant risks being created for health systems, clinicians, and patients under the age of 19 seeking this care.

After significant deliberation and consultation with internal and external experts including our physicians, we’ve made the difficult decision to pause surgical treatment for patients under the age of 19 in our hospitals and surgical centers. This pause is effective August 29, 2025. All other gender-affirming care treatment remains available. We continue to meet with regulators as well as our clinicians, patients, their families, and the community with the goal of identifying a responsible path forward. 

We recognize that this is an extremely challenging and stressful time for our patients seeking care, as well as for our clinicians whose mission is to care for them. We will work closely with each patient to support their care journey.

We will remain a voice and advocate for safe, high-quality, and evidence-based care for transgender patients.

Elissa Harrington, Senior Media Relations and Public Relations Representative for Kaiser Permanente Northern California was asked:

“Were those surgeries offered at Antioch, Walnut Creek and/or Richmond Kaiser hospitals?

Also, why does Kaiser continue to participate in and support the delusion that someone can change their gender with the labeling of the surgeries as “gender-affirming care”?

Why would Kaiser allow its doctors to participate in mutilating children and scaring them for life based on the confusion and mental disorder of gender dysphoria? According to the Mayo Clinic, ‘A diagnosis for gender dysphoria is included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)…published by the American Psychiatric Association.’

Furthermore, how can the doctors that performed such surgeries argue they were not violating the Hippocratic Oath, specifically to ‘do no harm’?

Is counseling offered instead to children and adults experiencing such confusion and a mental disorder?”

But Harrington did not respond. Please check back later for any updates to this report.

From city’s first church; fundraising goal almost met, still needs support

By Antioch Historical Society

The Antioch Historical Society hosted a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, on the museum grounds on W. 4th Street, to build a tower to house the 157-year-old First Congregational Church bell and restore it. The bell is said to be one of the oldest known artifacts in Antioch. (See related articles here and here)

City officials and staff, Historical Society and project team members were joined by construction company representatives for the event.

Thank you to all who attended.

Project leader Dwayne Eubanks said, “the bell rang out in 1871 a year before the City was founded. The bell stood as a symbol of unity in a city of diversity.”

If you’d like to support this worthy project, please make an online donation at our website: https://antiochhistoricalmuseum.org/unity-bell-tower…/

 “There will be a patio with benches or a concrete block wall around it,” Eubanks shared. “Almost $83,000 has been raised out of the $94,000 goal.”

Checks can be sent to: Antioch Historical Museum, 1500 West 4th Street, Antioch, CA 94509. Names of sponsors will be permanently inscribed at the exhibit site. Contributions are tax deductible. If you have questions, contact Dwayne Eubanks at the Antioch Historical Society Museum at (925) 757-1326.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

CCC Deputy Sheriff’s contribute $50K; Antioch Police Officers Association explains reasons for $5,000 contribution

By Allen D. Payton

In a post on Facebook on Monday, July 28, 2025, the Becton for DA campaign surprisingly announced new support for her recall from the Deputy Sheriff’s Association and two other “major law enforcement associations.” According to recall organizer Gwynn Gabe the other two are the Antioch Police Officers Association (APOA) and Concord Police Officers Association.

“She’s been keeping track of the people who are giving us money,” he added.

The post by “Team Becton” reads “They’ve launched their attack. Now it’s our turn,” in the header with the statement below:

“The recall against District Attorney Diana Becton just escalated.

Three major law enforcement associations, including the Contra Costa County Deputy Sheriff’s Association, just poured tens of thousands into the recall effort—including a single $50,000 donation. Even more telling? They’ve hired the strategist behind the recalls of DAs in San Francisco and Alameda County.

This isn’t just a warning. This is a coordinated, well-funded effort to undo the will of the voters and take Contra Costa backwards.

But here’s the truth they don’t want you to remember: we’ve already won twice. And with your help, we will again, because here’s what they’re underestimating: you. Us. This community.

This is not the time to sit back. We need you on the front lines —because what’s at stake is bigger than any one election. It’s about protecting real public safety solutions, and standing up to those who want to take us backward. DA Becton has stood up for equity, justice, and real public safety. Now we must stand up for her.”

It then offers ways for opponents of the recall to “Take Action Now” including volunteering and donating through the Act Blue campaign fundraising website for Democrats currently under investigation for possible fraudulent political contributions.

The APOA Board issued the following statement about their contribution of $5,000 to the campaign to recall Becton: “The APOA was approached by members of the recall movement who asked if we would be willing to support them in their efforts to recall the DA. After careful consideration, we agreed as a board to support this endeavor in hopes that this would ultimately lead to a more transparent DA’s office that holds criminals accountable and keeps our streets safe. Whatever the outcome, we know the officers represented by the APOA will continue to work hard to keep our community safe and have a great working relationship with the DA’s office.”

Recall organizers have until 5:00 PM on Thursday, September 25, 2025, to submit 72,556 valid signatures to qualify the effort for the ballot.

“The New TDT Network” brings community-driven changes to nearly all of the agency’s bus routes

By Leeann Loroño, Manager of Customer Service and Marketing, Tri Delta Transit

After canvassing East County for input from riders and residents over the last year, Tri Delta Transit (also known as East Contra Costa Transit Authority) is poised to launch a significant realignment of its transit system, offering service that is faster, more direct and more frequent beginning Aug. 10.

Dubbed “The New TDT Network,” this realignment brings sweeping changes to nearly every Tri Delta Transit route, informed by a blend of public feedback and data analysis. Bus routes across the system have been made faster and more direct, with better connectivity between buses and BART.

A brief video highlighting the major changes of the new network – and how they were determined – is available at revitalizetridelta.com.

Busier areas will see more frequent and consistent service, with improved weekend service across the board. The updated system introduces a brand-new route running every 15 minutes, along with four additional routes operating every 30 minutes, making morning commutes smoother for bus riders.

“We wanted to be sure these changes served local riders – particularly those who rely on transit for their morning commutes,” said Contra Costa County Supervisor Diane Burgis, who chairs Tri Delta Transit’s Board of Directors. “These updated routes – including Tri Delta Transit’s first route to run every 15 minutes – will not only greatly improve commutes for those who already ride but open up new possibilities for those whose schedules didn’t align with the previous system.”

Integration with Tri MyRide has also been expanded to better serve the Brentwood, Antioch and Oakley areas, while maintaining existing coverage in the Pittsburg and Bay Point area.

“From the beginning of the New TDT Network initiative, our goal has been to ensure that the new network is able to better meet the needs of the communities we serve,” said Rashidi Barnes, CEO of Tri Delta Transit. “This new network is a direct result of that goal and aligns with everything we’ve heard from the public over the last year. Our riders can look forward to consistent bus service with lower wait times that offer faster, more direct routes to where they need to be.”

For details on specific route changes and other information about The New TDT Network, visit revitalizetridelta.com.

About Tri Delta Transit

Tri Delta Transit provides over 2,000,000 trips each year to a population of over 315,000 residents in the 225 square miles of eastern Contra Costa County. For additional information about the Tri Delta Transit, please visit www.trideltatransit.com.

33-year-old David Milburn held on $1 million bail; one victim in hospital

By CHP – Contra Costa

VALLEJO, Calif. – California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers arrested a 33-year-old Antioch man early Wednesday, July 23, 2025, after two freeway shootings spanning Contra Costa, Alameda, and Solano counties.

Officers took David Milburn (born 1/25/92) into custody around 1:35 AM. after spotting his white Chrysler Crossfire on eastbound Interstate 80 near Midway Road between Vacaville and Dixon. Milburn refused to stop, leading officers on a short pursuit before being arrested without incident. During the chase, officers saw him throw a firearm and two high-capacity magazines from the vehicle.

The arrest came after two other shootings just hours earlier. Around 8:07 P.M. Tuesday, a man was admitted to John Muir Hospital in Walnut Creek with a gunshot wound, stating he was shot while driving westbound on Highway 4 near Willow Pass Road. About five hours later, at 12:52 A.M. Wednesday, another driver reported his vehicle had been hit by gunfire on eastbound Highway 24 near Highway 13.

Detectives from CHP’s Golden Gate Division Special Investigations Unit linked all three incidents to Milburn with help from the Traffic Management Center, Communications Center, and Flock Safety data.

Milburn was booked into the Martinez Detention Facility on charges including attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, shooting at a vehicle, and multiple counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.

“Swift work by CHP personnel across the Bay Area directly led to the apprehension of another dangerous criminal who chose to endanger the general public with his reckless and careless behavior,” said CHP Golden Gate Division Chief Don Goodbrand. “From officers in the field to detectives and dispatchers, incredible teamwork is the key to successful outcomes in these investigations, and I applaud all of them for their hard work.”

This investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information or who may have been involved in incidents with a white Chrysler Crossfire is asked to call the CHP investigative tip line at (707) 917-4491.

The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.

According to the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Department, the five-feet, eight-inch tall, 180-pound Milburn is listed as Non-Hispanic but also as Black and is being held on $1 million bail.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Community embraces restoration of 157-year-old bell from First Congregational Church of Antioch

By Tom Menasco & Carla Baker Marymee

The Antioch Historical Museum is excited to announce a groundbreaking ceremony to restore the 157-year-old First Congregational Church Bell and construction of the Unity Bell Tower. The ceremony is scheduled for July 23, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. The community is invited to attend.

The 700-pound brass bell, donated by First Congregational Church Board member Paul Fish, is one of the oldest artifacts from the settling of Antioch by early Americans. The church bell is said to have brought early members of the church together as it rang loudly across the city. It was heard by Antioch’s founders; Rev. W.W. Smith and Captain George W. Kimball, as well as Thomas Gaines, the first known Black settler who was a sexton of the church.

“The First Congregational Church of Antioch traces its roots to June 12, 1865, when it was founded as the city’s pioneer church under the United Church of Christ (UCC) banner.

“Over its 150-year history, the church has prioritized hospitality—welcoming all without exception, including African Americans as early as 1875 and children of Chinese laborers building the Delta levees,” Dwayne Eubanks, Antioch Historical Museum board member said.

“Antioch is the third largest city in Contra Costa County with a population of more than 117,097 residents. Over the decades the demographics of Antioch have changed. We are a diverse community with an amazing history and story to tell. Our goal is to become a reflection of an inclusive, multiracial, and multicultural city that embraces all people. It is our wish that this bell and the Unity Bell Tower will symbolize growing appreciation for all people,” he said.

“We thank the Antioch community for recognizing the importance of preserving this valuable piece of the city’s history. Because of generous donations, we were able to raise $85,000.00,” Eubanks added.

Work on the Unity Bell Tower is being accomplished by Wayne E. Swisher Cement Contractor, Evan & Son Masonry, and Drill Tech who have made significant in-kind contributions to this project.

The project has also been generously supported by individual donors, the Antioch City Council, local businesses, and non-profit organizations including: Delta Veteran’s Group and Antioch Veterans Banner Program, St. Ignatius Catholic Church, Fontana Family Foundation, Antioch Rotary Club, Kiwanis Delta Antioch, and Class of ’66 Antioch High School.

Individuals, businesses and nonprofit organizations individuals who would still like to support this project, can make online donations at our website: https://antiochhistoricalmuseum.org/unity-bell-tower-donation/

There are eight sponsorship levels, providing a range of giving opportunities – diamond, gold, platinum, silver, bronze, copper, sapphire, and ruby. Names of sponsors will be permanently inscribed at the exhibit site. Contributions are tax deductible.

The project’s dedication is expected by Fall 2025, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the society’s creation and the 25th year being located at the 1910 Riverview High School site.

The Antioch Historical Museum resides within the 1910 Riverview High School, a site listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum, located at 1500 W. 4th Street, is also home of the Antioch Sports Legends Hall of Fame program. The Sports Legends Hall of Fame showcases and honors the achievements of 253 individual athletes and 17 teams.  

For more information and construction updates, visit our website http://antiochhistoricalmuseum.org/. Check out our Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/antiochhistoricalmuseum/

For additional information contact: Dwayne Eubanks at the Antioch Historical Society Museum at (925) 757-1326 or AntiochHistoricalSociety@comcast.com.

Arrests of adults up 63%, juveniles down 25%

By Allen D. Payton

In a post on the Antioch Police Department’s Facebook page on Friday, July 18, 2025, it was reported that many Part 1 Crimes including murder and total Offenses Against Property are down in the first six months of the year over 2024. However, some crime has increased, including rape, aggravated assault and total Offenses Against Persons. In addition, adult arrests have increased 63% while juvenile arrests are down 25% for an increase in total arrests by 54%.

The post reads, “While we recognize there’s still work to do, we’re seeing significant reductions in major crime categories this year:

January – June 2025 over 2024

• Homicide: Down 71%
• Robbery: Down 44%
• Burglary: Down 41%
• Theft: Down 38%
• Auto Theft: Down 35%

These improvements reflect the impact of proactive policing, thorough investigations, and strong community support.

We are continuing to increase staffing and build on this progress to further enhance public safety.

‘You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.’ – Martin Luther King, Jr.”

However, while total Offenses Against Property is down 37% over 2024, according to the statistics chart APD shared, total Offenses Against Persons are up 38% due to the increases in the following crimes:

• Rape: Up 47%
• Aggravated Assault: Up 41%

Click here for the complete list of Antioch Police Crime Statistics.

9th shooting in city this year

By Lt. Joe Njoroge #7052, Antioch Police Field Services Division

On Wednesday, July 16, 2025, just before 2:00 p.m., Antioch Police Department officers responded to a report of a shooting in the 4000 block of Timberbrook Way. Upon arrival, officers located a 25-year-old woman suffering from a gunshot wound.

Officers immediately provided medical aid until personnel from Con Fire arrived. The victim was transported to a local hospital, where she was treated for injuries determined to be non-life-threatening.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Antioch Police Department at tips@antiochca.gov.

It’s the second shooting in the city this month and the ninth this year, not including the accidental shooting of a toddler in April

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.