Tiffany Stewart performs during the 2025 Brentwood Christmas parade. Photo courtesy of Virtuous Voices
By Allen D. Payton
During the Brentwood Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting on Saturday, November 29, 2025, Tiffany Stewart, founder of Antioch-based Virtuous Voices Music Academy, was a featured singer, delighting audiences at one of the community’s most beloved holiday events.
“Coach Tea”, as she’s referred to, performed Jesus is the Reason.
Her performance highlighted the growth of Virtuous Voices, a music program serving diverse students locally and nationwide through online and in-person voice training, group classes and the academy’s signature, Sing Theory program.
“Sharing my voice at the parade is a celebration of what music brings to our communities,” said Stewart. “I hope young singers feel inspired to step into their own musical journey.”
For more information about Coach Tea and Virtuous Voices Music Academy visit www.virtuousvoices.com or see their ad on the right side of this page.
Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker laughs as Freitas shrugs after she pretended to object to his appointment as the City’s new mayor pro tem at the end of the council meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025. Video screenshot
Torres-Walker jokingly objects; former mayor’s first time serving in role
By Allen D. Payton
2026 Antioch Mayor Pro Tem & District 3 Councilman Donald Freitas. Official photo
During their meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025, the Antioch City Council voted unanimously to elect District 3 Councilman Donald P. Freitas the new Mayor Pro Tem through 2026.
Antioch’s former mayor from 2000-2008, Freitas was first elected to the City Council in 1998. But this is the first time he has served as the City’s mayor pro tem.
According to the staff report for the item, #11 on the agenda, “the mayor shall preside at the meetings of the City Council. If the mayor is absent or unable to act, the mayor pro tempore shall serve until the mayor returns or is able to act…has all of the powers and duties of the mayor… and shall have all the duties and responsibilities specified in the California Government Code.”
Before council districts were created and the first elections were held in 2020, the council candidate with the most votes served as the mayor pro tem for the following two years. But on June 23, 2020, the City Council revised the selection process and term of office for mayor pro tem.
Selection Process
The staff report provided the selection process which under the ordinance reads as follows:
According to the City’s Code § 2-1.401 SELECTION (A), “At the first City Council meeting following each general municipal election, or at the first City Council meeting of December during every odd year commencing the City Council shall designate one of its members to be mayor pro tempore.”
The term is now for just one year.
(B) The City Council shall select the mayor pro tempore as follows:
The council member who has not previously served as mayor pro tempore shall be selected. If more than one council member has not previously served as mayor pro tempore, the City Council shall select the member who received the highest percentage of votes from his or her district in the most recent general municipal election at which the council member was elected. If the selected council member declines, the City Council shall select the next council member who has not previously served and has the next highest percentage of votes from his or her district.
(2) If all council members have previously served as mayor pro tempore, or if the council members eligible in accordance with subsection (B)(1) decline, the City Council shall select the council member who received the highest percentage of votes in his or her district in the most recent general municipal election at which the council member was elected. If the selected council member declines, or if the council member would serve two consecutive years if chosen, the City Council shall select the member with the next highest percentage of votes from his or her district in the most recent general municipal election at which the council member was elected.”
Freitas Accepts Role & Responsibilities
Since District 2 Councilman Louie Rocha just served as the City’s mayor pro tem, and both Councilwomen Tamisha Torres-Walker (District 1) and Monica Wilson (District 4) have previously served in the position, Freitas was the remaining council member who hasn’t served as mayor pro tem.
Interim City Attorney Derek Cole introduced the matter and said if Freitas declined, then the Council
would look to 2022 election results to determine the next eligible Councilmember, which was Wilson. But Freitas did not decline to serve in the role and accepted its responsibilities.
Before a vote took place, Torres-Walker, who was the only council member to speak on the item, started off saying, “Mayor, I object to Councilmember Freitas being sworn in as mayor pro…” before breaking off in laughter and leaning on Freitas.
“Go for it,” he said with a shrug.
“I’m kidding. I’m tired,” his council colleague responded.
Mayor Ron Bernal asked if there was a motion and Torres-Walker said, “So moved.” Rocha seconded the motion and it passed 5-0.
Bernal then said, “Congratulations, Mayor Pro Tem Freitas and thank you for your service, Mayor Pro Tem Rocha.”
While he didn’t offer any remarks during the meeting, since the vote was just after midnight, Freitas later said, “I’m honored to be unanimously chosen to be mayor pro tem. I’m looking forward to a very dynamic year filled with positive changes.”
Contra Costa County must prepare for significant reductions in Medi-Cal coverage and hundreds of millions of dollars in long-term funding loss as a result of recent federal and state policy changes, county officials said Tuesday.
New federal requirements under H.R. 1, the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” combined with state Medi-Cal eligibility and reimbursement changes, will make it harder for many residents to enroll in or keep healthcare coverage. While final details are still emerging, county estimates indicate that as many as 93,000 Contra Costa residents could be affected by 2029.
At the same time, Contra Costa Health (CCH) projects more than $300 million in cumulative state and federal funding reductions through 2029, driven by Medi-Cal disenrollment and cuts to supplemental funding that public hospitals rely upon. These impacts are expected to grow year over year and reflect a broader trend affecting counties and public health systems across California.
“These changes mean fewer people covered and fewer dollars coming into the system at the same time,” said Candace Andersen, Chair of the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors. “Our responsibility is to face that reality head-on, plan carefully, and ensure the county continues to provide essential care for residents who have nowhere else to turn.”
During a presentation to the Board on Tuesday, leaders of CCH and the county’s Employment & Human Services Department (EHSD) emphasized that the projected impacts are a result of external policy decisions, not local performance, and that significant uncertainty remains around timelines, enforcement and the response from California.
Federal guidance on several provisions of H.R. 1 has not yet been issued, and California’s approach to mitigating coverage losses is still evolving.
The presentation outlined how specific provisions of H.R. 1 and recent state Medi-Cal policy changes are expected to reduce enrollment, increase administrative barriers to coverage, and lower reimbursement to safety-net providers. It also reviewed projected enrollment losses, funding impacts to CCH and Contra Costa Health Plan, and the anticipated timing of changes, along with areas of ongoing uncertainty.
The Board directed CCH to return in early 2026 with a proposal to update and strengthen the county’s existing supports for people who are not eligible for Medi-Cal and have no other healthcare options.
Contra Costa County will share additional updates as federal and state guidance becomes available and planning continues.
To enhance DUI enforcement, pedestrian safety, reporting technology
By Jaden Baird, Public Information Officer, City of Antioch
ANTIOCH, CA — The City of Antioch has been awarded $158,000 in traffic safety grants from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), part of more than $140 million in statewide funding announced this week by Governor Gavin Newsom to improve bicycle and pedestrian safety and strengthen enforcement and education programs.
The Antioch Police Department received a $95,000 Police Traffic Services Grant to support impaired-driving enforcement, pedestrian-safety operations, and community education efforts. Funding will also support the department’s annual participation in the Every 15 Minutes program at local high schools, which provides critical education on the dangers of impaired and distracted driving.
This year, Antioch police officers have made 102 DUI arrests and responded to 26 pedestrian-involved collisions. The department will use this funding to expand prevention efforts, improve outreach, and increase targeted enforcement aimed at reducing these incidents.
“Traffic safety remains the number one complaint we receive from the community,” stated Police Chief Joe Vigil. “These grants allow us to expand DUI enforcement, strengthen our pedestrian-safety initiatives, and deepen our partnerships with local schools. We have a responsibility to use every available tool to reduce those numbers and make Antioch’s roadways safer for families, businesses, and visitors.”
A second award, a $63,000 Traffic Records and Roadway Safety Grant, will allow the department to modernize its reporting and data-tracking systems. This includes implementing Crossroads e-Citation technology, which replaces handwritten citations with digitally generated citations produced in the field, and improving data integration between Crossroads, the department’s Record Information Management System (RIMS) reporting software, and Contra Costa County courts. The upgrades are expected to reduce clerical and processing errors by up to 80% and improve Antioch’s statewide reporting compliance.
“This funding strengthens our ability to protect residents through better data, stronger prevention programs, and expanded enforcement capacity,” stated City Manager Bessie Marie Scott. “These investments directly support safer streets, improved tools for our officers, and more effective service to the community.”
For newborns – 17 year olds; Register by Dec 17 at 11 p.m.
La recolección de juguetes será el Domingo 21 de Diciembre
Puede registrarse antes del 17 de Diciembre a las 11 p.m.
Para recién nacidos hasta jóvenes de 17 años
Presented by One Day At a Time and Newberry’s B.L.O.C.K.
ANTIOCH — IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN!
Hope In Motion is back, and this year, we’re pouring even more love, purpose and community spirit into our holiday tradition! One Day at A Time is collaborating with Newberry’s B.L.O.C.K. to bring joy to kids in Antioch.
Former 49er Jeremy Newberry was in Antioch on Sunday, Dec. 15, 2025, for the annual Newberry’s BLOCK Toy Drive & Car Show at Lumpy’s Diner in Antioch. Photos by Allen D. Payton
This season, we’re wrapping support around the youth and communities throughout Antioch, not just to give toys, but to offer hope, connection and a reminder that none of us are in this alone.
In times when the world feels divided, we choose unity. When resources feel scarce, we choose generosity. This event is not about what we give it’s about why we give. It’s about building a community where every child feels seen, valued, and celebrated.
WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT
To make this year’s event possible, we are calling on individuals, organizations, and businesses who believe in investing in their community:
Donations of new or gently used toys
Clothing, warm wear, and accessories
Books that inspire, educate, and uplift
Volunteers ready to serve with heart
Business Sponsors who want to make a lasting impact
Whether it’s just support, in-kind contributions, or resources your business can provide, sponsorships help us expand our reach and multiply the joy we can deliver to local families. This is an opportunity for businesses to stand with Antioch, support our youth, and be visibly part of something meaningful.
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
Photos with Santa
Donuts & Light Beverages
Toy Distribution for Local Families
A joyful, uplifting, community-centered experience
Our mission is simple:
No child without a gift. No family left out. No community forgotten.
Hope is more than a word — it’s action.
REGISTRATION DETAILS
You do have to register for it by filling out the form at Toy Drive Distribution. Please fill out this form by December 17th at 11pm! This is open to Antioch Residents Only!
The toy pick-up will be on Sunday, December 21st between 2 – 5 pm at the Antioch High School Gymnasium at 700 W. 18th Street. Please make sure to bring your ID and proof of residency!
This is for newborns – 17 year olds.
For more information please contact John Mixon at (925) 339-3844 or John.mixon@odatec.org.
PORFAVOR LEA TODA LA INFORMACION DETALLADAMENTE.
One Day at A Time está colaborando con Newberry’s Block para llevar alegría a los niños de su comunidad. Tendremos una colecta de juguetes, ¡debe registrarse! Puede registrarse completando este formulario. ¡Complete este formulario antes del 17 de Diciembre a las 11 p.m.! ¡Esto está abierto solo para residentes de Antioch!
La recolección de juguetes será el Domingo 21 de Diciembre entre las 2 y las 5 p. m. en el gimnasio de la escuela Antioch High School, 700 W. 18th Street. ¡Asegúrese de traer su identificación y comprobante de residencia!
Esto es para recién nacidos hasta jóvenes de 17 años.
One Day at a Time provides Latino youth and young adults of color with Hope, Support, Healing and Opportunity to realize their strengths, their self-worth, and their power.
Your donations, your sponsorship, your service — all of it fuels change. Together, let’s create a season filled with dignity, joy, and unforgettable memories for the families of Antioch. For more information visit www.odatec.org/.
About Newberry’s B.L.O.C.K.
Newberry’s B.L.O.C.K. is a non-profit organization providing underprivileged children the opportunity to participate in sports by sponsoring scholarships & equipment to youth programs Benefiting Leagues Offering Children Kindness. For more information call (925) 783-6050, email newberrysblock@yahoo.com or visit www.facebook.com/NewberrysBlock.
Join us for Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day, where we will create a space to remember, honor and celebrate those in our community with a lived experience of homelessness who have died in the past two years. As part of the event, we will be reading their names and stories. You are invited to share the names of people whom you would like to be remembered here: https://forms.gle/ksauQ1dwxKT2j2rR7.
This hybrid (in person and online) event will take place:
Event co-hosted by Antioch Seventh Day Adventist Church, Bay Area Rescue Mission, City of Antioch, Contra Costa Council on Homelessness, NAMI Contra Costa, and Safe Organized Spaces Richmond.
At these events each year, we remember those who have died and we strengthen our resolve to work for a world where no life is lived or lost in homelessness. We state clearly, together with others in scores of communities across the nation, that no person should die for lack of housing.
About NAMI CC – Support. Educate. Advocate. Outreach.
Mission Statement – To provide support, outreach, education, and advocacy to individuals impacted by mental illness, their families, and the broader community.
NAMI Contra Costa is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization providing outreach, education, support and advocacy to individuals living with mental illness, their families, and the broader community. We have been serving in Contra Costa County and beyond for over 35 years. All our programs are free, so get involved today and help make a difference in your life, others’ lives, and in the local community.
NAMI Contra Costa is an affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. We are unique in our independence with long history of supporting individuals living with mental illness, their families, and the broader community.
NAMI CC has a commitment to serve the needs of all impacted by mental illness. We have staffed our agency to be reflective of those who are unserved, underserved, and inappropriately served. We have many support groups, classes, and services for these communities. Additionally, to help reach much of the homebound community, we provide almost all of our groups and classes via Zoom, and now more are in-person. So please visit our calendar page for group dates and times.
NAMI Contra Costa was named the 2023 California Nonprofit of the Year.
About the Delta Bay Wellness Hub
NAMI CC is committed to ensuring ALL individuals impacted by mental illness have their needs met and no one is left behind. We, therefore, lifted the 40 Voices Campaign to advocate for an African American Holistic Wellness & Resource Hub to improve outcomes for the African American community. Despite 40 Voices’ successful advocacy for a total of $8.9 million dollars from the Contra Costa Board of Supervisors, we have been asked to wait until 2029 for the physical site of the hub to be realized. We cannot afford to wait. NAMI CC CEO and Founder of the 40 Voices Campaign, Gigi Crowder, decided to move forward with the hub – primarily using her own personal funding and securing donations from others.
If you would like to support this important effort, you can Zelle a payment (510-990-2670) or mail in a check (2151 Salvio Street, Suite V, Concord, CA 94520) or simply go to ww.namicontracosta.org/donate to make a donation. All donations are tax deductible. Donations of $40 dollars or more will be recognized on a poster as a “Founding Contributor” of the 40 Voices African American Holistic Wellness & Resource Hub at Delta Bay. The renovations have resulted in a beautiful healing space.
Family raising funds for funeral, memorial expenses
By Allen D. Payton
According to reports on Next Door and by a reader of the Herald, a woman’s body was found near the Antioch Water Park on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. According to Contra Costa County Deputy Coroner Dasia Pickett, “The decedent was Latisha Moore, 39 years old. Moore was an Antioch resident.”
Other residents mentioned she was shot, and a gun was found next to her and did not know if it was a suicide or homicide. When asked if she could share the cause of death, Pickett responded, “I cannot at this time. Thank You for understanding.”
However, when asked if the cause of death was suicide and if some kids discovered her body as other residents had reported, Antioch Police Lt. Bill Whitaker responded, “Yes, it was a suicide which we try not to publicize for the family, and she was found by a group of young adults.”
“Our family is heartbroken as we prepare to say goodbye to our beloved one Latisha Moore who passed away December 6th, 2025. Our hearts are saddened and we’re loss of words. Losing someone you love is never easy, and we’re trying our best to navigate this emotional time while also facing the financial burden of funeral and memorial expenses.
We want to give Latisha the beautiful and dignified farewell she deserves, one that reflects the love, kindness, and strength she showed throughout her life. Any contribution, no matter the amount, will help lighten the weight on our shoulders as we make these arrangements.
If you aren’t able to donate, please share this page or keep our family in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your love and support.”
To Donate contact: Richonda Redd
Zelle/ApplePay : (925) 752- 1183
Venmo: @Richonda-Redd
Cashapp : $Richonda40
Source: Facebook
In addition, a GoFundMe page has been created entitled, “Support for Latisha’s Memorial Service” on which the same information is shared.
It’s community building at its best. In partnership with Antioch High School and Rebuilding Together East Bay Network, the Big Skills Tiny Homes program is a hit.
Brandy Mazariegos, site manager, said the project (which started in the fall) is “going wonderfully! The students are doing an amazing job and showing off their new skills every day.”
Big Skills students build Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as part of their hands-on learning experience, gaining real-world construction skills while contributing to affordable housing solutions. These student-built ADUs are then placed in local communities, showcasing the power of youth, craftsmanship and community impact.
The program provides students with “meaningful skills while also creating affordable housing for low-income community members,” she shared. The goal for Brandy and the 26 AHS woodshop students is to finish the two wee homes by June of 2026.
Brandy said “As site manager, I have the privilege of supporting the students on the job site, guiding them through hands-on learning, and keeping the project running smoothly. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see their growth — not just in technical abilities but also in teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.”
We look forward to following this amazing construction project over the next few months and sharing the final product with everyone this summer.
About Rebuilding Together East Bay Network
Rebuilding Together East Bay Network is a non-profit organization based in Berkeley, California serving the San Francisco Bay Area. We coordinate donors and volunteers to meet critical needs for our neighbors to receive repairs, renovations, safety modifications, housing and workforce development.
