By Brian Nash, PIO, Contra Costa Public Defender’s Office
MARTINEZ, CA — Stand Together Contra Costa (STCC), a program of the Contra Costa Public Defender’s Office (CCPD), will unveil a new Mobile Legal Clinic at a press conference at 1026 Escobar in Martinez on Thursday, January 29 at 11:00 am. This marks a major step forward in bringing trusted legal advice directly to communities across Contra Costa County.
The Mobile Legal Clinic is designed to remove barriers that often prevent people from accessing legal help — including transportation challenges, work schedules, childcare responsibilities, language access, and fear of state violence by federal immigration agents. Staffed by CCPD attorneys and support staff, the clinic will provide free legal guidance on immigration legal issues, navigating the legal system, and culturally responsive assistance. It will also provide navigation to other holistic services such as public benefits, housing support, clean slate, and more — helping residents address concerns early, before problems escalate into crises.
“This mobile legal clinic reflects a simple but powerful idea: justice works best when it’s accessible,” said Ali Saidi, a Deputy Public Defender in the CCPD and the Director of Stand Together Contra Costa. “By showing up directly in neighborhoods across the county, we’re removing barriers, building trust, and making sure people know they’re not alone when legal issues arise.”
The office is planning upcoming mobile legal clinic deployments throughout all five Contra Costa County supervisorial districts beginning in early February, with dates, times, and locations to be announced soon through Contra Costa Public Defender and Stand Together Contra Costa channels.
A Countywide Effort
“Our commitment to serving community members in Contra Costa County goes beyond our vigorous advocacy inside of the courtroom,” added CCPD Public Defender Ellen McDonnell. “Access to justice means making sure every community member — no matter their income, background, or neighborhood — understands their legal rights and is able to find help when and where they need it.”
The Mobile Legal Clinic was made possible through collaboration across county departments and community partners, reflecting a shared commitment to expanding access to justice.
“This initiative demonstrates what’s possible when county leaders and departments work together with the community,” Saidi continued. “We’re grateful to the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors and community partners for making this possible and want to particularly thank Supervisor Ken Carlson — whose support and leadership helped turn this idea into a critical service that will have real impact for families across the county.”
To honor 2025 Business, Citizen, Non-Profit & Youth of the Year
Nomination Deadline: Feb. 13
By Jim Becker, 2026 Board Chair, Antioch Chamber of Commerce
It’s time to celebrate excellence in our community! I invite you to nominate outstanding businesses, individuals, and nonprofits for our Business of the Year, Citizen of the Year, and Nonprofit of the Year awards. The winners will be honored at the annual Chamber Gala on March 27 at the Lone Tree Golf & Event Center.
This year’s theme is, “A New Chapter: Antioch’s Gala for Renewal & Opportunity.” We will also hold the Installation of the 2026 Antioch Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.
Your nominations help us recognize those who make a real difference in Antioch.
Submission Instructions: Return the forms to Antioch Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 1711 Antioch, CA 94509.
Thank you for helping us honor the best in our community. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at (925) 757-1800 or email frontdeskadmin@antiochchamber.com.
Annual Gala
The Annual Gala will include the Awards Ceremony, Silent Auction, Golden Tickets, 50/50 Raffle, No-host bar, Music by DJ GBaby and Dinner Buffet:
Fresh baked garlic rolls & garlic butter
Italian green salad with vinaigrette
Lone Tree Caesar salad with marinated tomatoes, croutons & shaved parmesan cheese
During their regular meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026, the Antioch City Council will consider approving $50,000 in Civic Enhancement Grants to 16 community groups. An additional $7,650 of in-kind contributions to two of the organizations for City facility uses are also recommended.
According to the City staff report for the Consent Calendar agenda item #5Q, “The FY25-26 Budget includes continued funding for the Civic Enhancement Grants Program to support community events and improvement projects that originate with Non-Profit organizations in Antioch. The City Council authorized $50,000 in FY25-26 to fund the civic enhancement grant program. The staff report shows the total amount of funding requested was $285,730 but the chart (below) shows a total of $308,890 in requests.
“A committee comprised of Mayor Pro Tem Don Freitas, City PIO Jaden Baird, and three Park and Recreation Commissioners, Chair Dorothy Ellis, Mariah Williams and La Shan Hunt all reviewed, scored and made the final recommendations for grant approval to the City Council, which ultimately authorizes the grant allocations.”
Source: City of Antioch
A total of 13 organizations that also requested funds were not approved by the committee for grants, this year.
Proposed 2025-2026 Civic Enhancement Grants:
• $1,500 grant to the Antioch Historical Society for School educational programming
• $2,000 grant to the Antioch Police Activities League for Youth Sports programs;
• $2,500 grant plus approximately $2,300 of in-kind City facility services to the Antioch Rotary Club for the King’s Conference for Underserved Male Youth;
• $1,500 grant to Be Exceptional for Funds to Expand Youth Programs for people with disabilities;
• $1,000 grant to Cancer Support Community SF Bay Area supporting programs assisting Antioch families affected by cancer;
• $2,000 grant to Celebrate Antioch Foundation for organizing and supporting family safe community events. That’s in addition to the $5,000 economic development grant received last year;
• $4,500 grant to Delta Learning Center for enhancing educational outcomes for underserved students
• $5,000 grant to Delta Veterans Group for the Veterans Day/ Memorial Day Ceremonies and the Veterans Banner Program;
• $2,000 grant to Downtown Antioch Assoc. & Foundation for small Business Saturday to market downtown businesses. That’s in addition to the $22,500 economic development grant received last year;
• $1,500 grant to East Bay Forward Economic Development Association for a free community music festival;
• $5,000 grant to Grassroots Poetry to Open mic events for both youth and adults for creative expression;
• $5,000 grant to Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa for a hot meal program for unhoused and low-income residents;
• $1,500 grant to NAMI Contra Costa for Crisis Intervention;
• $2,500 grant plus approximately $5,350 of in-kind City facility services to New Generation Equity/STEM4Real for a STEM community Event;
• $2,500 grant to Rotary Club of the Delta for Support Antioch’s senior community with home repairs;
• $10,000 grant to Three Thirty-Three Arts for design and lead two crosswalk murals on 2nd street.
Antioch Council Meeting Details
A Closed Session begins at 5:00 p.m. to discuss employee group contracts and the regular meeting begins at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall located at 200 H Street in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown. It 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.
Caregiver OneCall, an Antioch-based nonprofit, will host the All Our Love for Caregivers Gala on February 26, 2026, bringing together community leaders, advocates, and supporters to raise funds and awareness for caregiver support and expanded respite care across East Contra Costa County and the greater region. The event will be held at Center Concord, 5298 Clayton Road.
Caregiver OneCall was founded to support unpaid family caregivers who provide daily care for loved ones with dementia, disabilities, chronic illness, or complex medical needs. While caregiving affects families of all ages and backgrounds, many caregivers experience exhaustion, isolation, and burnout with little access to relief or guidance.
Funds raised through the gala will directly support expanded respite services, caregiver training, and real-time support for caregivers. Respite care allows caregivers temporary relief so they can rest, work, attend appointments, or simply recharge, helping prevent burnout and family crisis.
The evening will be celebratory while centering on the serious realities caregivers face. The program will feature lived caregiver stories and the recognition of individuals who have made a meaningful impact on caregivers and families in the community.
The gala will be emceed by Dave Clark of KTVU, longtime Bay Area media personality and caregiver advocate. Christina Irving of Family Caregiving Alliance will deliver the keynote address, sharing insights on the importance of caregiver support and policies needed. Debbie Toth, CEO of Choice in Aging, will be honored for her leadership and dedication to aging, individuals with disabilities, and caregiver services. The evening will also include a special musical performance and caregiver story shared by Anastacia Downey, award-winning Bay Area neo-soul artist and caregiver.
While rooted in Antioch, Caregiver OneCall serves caregivers throughout the region through partnerships with community organizations, ensuring caregivers are supported, informed, and never left to navigate care alone.
Community members, caregivers, leaders, and philanthropists are invited to attend, learn more about the importance of respite care, and support an organization strengthening families across the region.
Event Details
Event: All Our Love for Caregivers Gala
Date: February 26, 2026
Location: Center Concord, 5298 Clayton Road
Organization: Caregiver OneCall
Purpose: Fundraising and awareness to expand respite care and caregiver support
Service Area: East Contra Costa County and surrounding communities
The SF Bay Area KYDS Club of Kiwanis is doing free gift wrapping until Dec. 24 at the Somersville Towne Center in Antioch. Donations accepted to help the Key Clubbers attend their yearly District Educational Convention in April. Look for the Holiday Gift Wrap sign near the security desk on the east end of the mall.
In partnership with Showers of Blessings Prayer and Outreach Ministries
By Allen D. Payton
Najee Harris, L.A. Chargers running back. Photo source: Da Bigger Picture Foundation
Join NFL football running back and Antioch High School standout, Najee Harris on Saturday, Dec. 20 for Da Bigger Picture Foundation’s Christmas Toy Drive in partnership with Showers of Blessings Prayer and Outreach Ministries.
“Come join us this holiday as we will be partnering up and passing out toys,” Harris said. “Limited toys so come early.”
In college, Najee played for the national champions Alabama Crimson Tide then was drafted by and played for the Pittsburg Steelers in the NFL. He is currently a running back for the Los Angeles Chargers on a one-year contract but has been out for the season since September due to a torn Achilles.
About Da Bigger Picture Foundation
Formed in 2021, according to greaterthanthegame.org, Da Bigger Picture Foundation is “a non-profit that focuses on assisting underserved families in reaching their potential and goals. The foundation’s hope is to provide tools and assistance to families facing challenging times. Some of the key areas of focus will be education, homelessness, addressing hunger, and utilizing sports as a platform to develop life skills.”
About Showers of Blessings Prayer and Outreach Ministries
We are an outreach ministry that feeds those in need. We give out free groceries on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Learn more at www.facebook.com/thereshallbeshowers.
Groups of ladies participated together in the Christmas House Tour and enjoyed the homes at 309 W. 4th Street (left) and 1001 A Street (right) on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025. Photos by Allen D. Payton
Participants enjoy decorations, a taste of hors d’oeuvres, desserts and local history
By Allen D. Payton
This year’s Christmas House Tour fundraiser by the GFWC Woman’s Club of Antioch with the theme “Victorian Christmas” was a success. The tour, held on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, included six homes and three businesses, plus the clubhouse, all decorated for the season and offered participants a taste of hors d’oeuvres, desserts and local history.
Club members volunteered inside the decorated Clubhouse, while members and tour participants enjoyed cookies, fellowship and photos with Santa. Photos by Allen D. Payton
The Clubhouse
Participants on the tour began at the Woman’s Club of Antioch Clubhouse, located at 509 G Street across from the Antioch Unified School District Offices. Members and tour participants enjoyed cookies and photos with Santa.
The Antioch Disney House was featured on The Great Christmas Light Fight Dec. 11, 2025. Photo by K. Vistalli
Homes on the Tour
The homes included Antioch’s, now, nationally famous Disney House, owned by Gary and Kristen Vistalli, which was recently featured on ABC’s “The Great Christmas Light Fight” last week. It’s located at 3732 Colonial Court and the display of 40,000 lights and 80 home-made cutouts can be seen through January 1st.
For 25 years now, the Vistalli family has decorated their home for the holidays with a special Disney theme. Gary stated, “It just sort of evolved and every year I add something to it. Every year a few more lights go up, or a new character shows up.” Why Disney? The family says it’s their passion. Gary shared, “I fell in love with it as a kid,” and “I knew that when I got my own house that someday I would start sharing my love for Disney.”
Photos by Woman’s Club of Antioch
The “tourists” also enjoyed the home of Duane and Nancy Savioni at 3335 Fraser Road. Built in 1977, this lovely home is nestled in a homey Contra Loma neighborhood. The spirit of Christmas is enjoyed by this family each year. “It’s the most wonderful time of year.” They take pleasure in their fairly large Santa collection. Even their dog Gus gets in on the action as you can see in the photo.
Photo by Woman’s Club of Antioch
The home owned by Mark and Terri Hamilton at 2872 Dandelion Circle was third on the tour. Built in 1982, this cozy home has been filled with love, laughter and Christmas spirit since the beginning, they are proud to be the original owners. Each room is decorated with treasured holiday pieces, many of which carry special memories of adventure, family, and travel!
They offered a festive Santa scavenger hunt, supporting the local Antioch Animal Shelter, while adding a little extra fun to each participant’s visit.
922 Orchard Lane. Photo by Woman’s Club of Antioch
The fourth home on the tour, owned by David and Mary Jean Brink at 922 Orchard Lane, was built in 1952 by Clarence Brink, David’s dad. It was built with redwood he bought from the Antioch Lumber Company in downtown Antioch, now known as Rivertown. Clarence built five houses around town. The first house he built was in 1940. He worked on the houses on weekends as he held a full-time job at Dow Chemical. This house was the fifth and last house he built. The home was built mostly by hand using only one electrical tool. David and Mary Jean have lived in the home for the last 25 years.
922 Orchard Lane. Photo by Woman’s Club of Antioch
David took up after his dad being handy building things. In 1975, fifty years ago, he designed and made four wooden Peanuts characters. Mary Jean and her girls painted them. They will be decorating the lawn Christmas.
1001 A Street. Photos by Allen D. Payton
The home of Lisa Perry at 1001 A Street, on the corner of Beede Way, was the fifth on the tour. It was built in 1938 and custom designed for John and Lucille Sutton. John was the brother of Marion Sutton Beede and Antioch’s City Attorney at the time. Sadly, John served in WWII as an Army Sergeant and was killed in action.
1001 A Street. Photos by Allen D. Payton
Lisa has tried to keep the vintage charm of the home, while adding her own style and love of cottage chic. She has lived in the home since 1998, was a single parent for 22+ years raising her two daughters, who are now grown and live on their own. The home has been truly lived in, hosting many children’s birthdays, holiday parties, and family gatherings over the years. Lisa loves entertaining and decorating for all the holidays, especially Christmas, crafting many of her own decorations. She hopes that the love she has put into her home will be felt when visiting her residence.
309 West 4th Street. Photo by Allen D. Payton
The sixth and final home on the tour, owned by Susan Welch, is located at 309 West 4th Street in Antioch’s historic Rivertown District. The Craftsman bungalow, built in 1919, is a 1,650 square-foot home with three bedrooms, one bath and a very large basement that extends under the front porch. The basement has cement walls and floors with nine-foot ceilings. The first homeowners 106 years ago were Lawrence Kinnear and Edith Lutz. Lawrence was the owner of the Kinnear Drug Co., opened in 1920 and located at 618 2nd Street. Lawrence, born in Ohio, met Edith from Antioch while working in San Francisco as a pharmacist.
309 West 4th Street. Photos by Allen D. Payton
In 1960, forty years later, they sold the house to Charles and Ruth Rodrigues. Lawrence Kinnear used a room in the basement to develop film, probably for his drug store. The Rodrigues family used the basement as bedrooms for their four sons. The kitchen and bathroom were remodeled in a 1950’s style, the remainder of the house was original but buried under shag carpet. In addition, all the natural wood trim was painted. Susan removed almost everything in the kitchen and bath and rebuilt them using the craftsman style minus the clawfoot tub, which is original. The two doorways in the back of the dining room were widened, and I kept the original craftsman style. An interesting feature of the detached garage is a 2’x8’ foot rectangular hole in the center of the cement floor, possibly used for working on cars. The whole is now covered with planks.
Prime Vintage Realty in the former Antioch Lumber Company building at 340 W. 2nd Street. Photo by Allen D. Payton
Rivertown Businesses on the Tour
The first business on the tour was the former Antioch Lumber Company building, now occupied by Prime Vintage Realty owned by brokers Rodney and Ursula Lal, who improved the building after purchasing it several years ago. Located at 340 West 2nd Street on the corner of E Street, the Lals maintain their business in a piece of local history in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown.
Prime Vintage Realty. Photos by Allen D. Payton
In 2015 the Antioch Chamber of Commerce honored Rodney and Ursula with the Community Champion Award. Rodney stated then, “The reason I got into real estate was to buy buildings and improve them.”
“It’s unique. It’s built with tender loving care. It’s just so beautiful. You haven’t seen the best, yet,” he shared. “Our city will prosper. You will see this building prosper. You will see people drive by here. The river has so much to offer. My goal is to beautify this city. I just love it.”
Willow Park Mercantile at 205 G Street. Photos by Allen D. Payton
Willow Park Mercantile, owned by Michael Gabrielson and Brandon Deshawn, was the second business on the tour. Located at 205 G Street on the corner of West 2nd Street in Rivertown, the store was created in 2015, and they recently celebrated the store’s 10-year anniversary. It’s an enchanting shopping destination where the store is beautifully arranged. Their eclectic and ever-changing inventory boasts a wide variety of treasures new and old. They feature over 20 vendors who showcase their eye-catching and wide array of furniture, home decor, gifts, handmade, vintage and antique items.
Owners Brandon Deshawn and Michael Gabrielson. Photo courtesy of Woman’s Club of Antioch
The store is a real treat during the holiday season as they have an amazing selection of holiday ornaments and décor. This is also a wonderful place to purchase gifts for your loved ones. Stop by and immerse yourself in their beautiful displays and get into the Christmas Spirit.
Rivertown Treasure Chest is located at 306 G Street. Photos source: Facebook
The final business and stop on the tour was Rivertown Treasure Chest at 306 G Street. Owners Debbie Blaisure and Toni Lincks received the 2022 Small Business of the Year Award from the Antioch Chamber of Commerce. They were recognized for operating a successful business, but also contributing to local organizations serving students, stray animals, special needs children and the elderly. The Chamber noted, “Debbie and Toni… are true ambassadors of the city of Antioch.” Recently they helped found the Downtown Antioch Association (DAA), hosted the meeting and Christmas mixer on Tuesday, December 16th.
Owners Debbie Blaisure and Toni Lincks. Photo courtesy of Woman’s Club of Antioch
Rivertown Treasure Chest has something for all ages. Amazing vendors, offer collectible comic books, pop culture items, vinyl records, CDS, vintage/new clothing, accessories, jewelry, housewares, CBD items, furniture, retro/new toys and much more. They are also an exclusive Dixie Belle Paint dealer.
If you’re looking for that “special” item, you can find it at their store. The eclectic inventory is ever changing. A large variety of one-of-a-kind pieces are offered, including some hand-made by Toni. They have a “Wish Book” you may write your wished-for item(s) down and they will do their best to find what you are searching for.
About the GFWC Woman’s Club of Antioch
PLEDGE (Mission)
“To improve and beautify the town, to do any business which shall promote the educational, industrial, benevolent, social or political welfare of its members or the community at large.”
The GFWC Woman’s Club of Antioch has been an active participant in both shaping and improving our community for over 120 years. The founding members set an example for us to use our strengths and influence as women to promote the welfare of our community and its citizens. We are called to do no less. Collaborating with our fellow members throughout the world, we are enhancing our lives not only in Antioch, but statewide, nationally, and even internationally. We promote good work, altruism, and friendship. The projects we undertake help build a better future for us all. We are resilient and determined. Working together we can and will make a difference.
Our emphasis has been on making a difference in our public schools with both students and educators. We founded an emergency food closet for an Antioch elementary school and donated over 2,500+ items in 2025. With the support of the community, we donated $5,000 to Antioch High School’s students for scholarships for 2025. We will continue our many and current projects and begin others to support our local schools. There will be something for everyone to participate in! Small or large, our individual contributions of time and talents, added together, is what makes a difference. I am excited to see what we will accomplish, to continue the strong tradition of service that has been the pledge of the GFWC Woman’s Club of Antioch down through the years.
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.
