BISSELL Pet Foundation’s Empty the Shelters® 10th Anniversary Event

Adoption fees waived in Antioch May 1-17

By Becca Bryant

Today marks the start of National Pet Month, and the timing couldn’t be better.

BISSELL Pet Foundation’s Empty the Shelters® – the nation’s largest funded adoption event – returns May 1-17, 2026, marking the 10th anniversary of the Foundation’s signature program. This milestone event celebrates a decade of lifesaving second chances for shelter pets. Hosted in partnership with 335 animal shelters across 39 states, the initiative helps make adoption more affordable by sponsoring reduced adoption fees of $70 or less. All pets are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped—ready to go from kennel to couch.

As shelters face increased intake during the spring months and adoptions struggle to keep pace, this event provides critical relief by helping thousands of pets find loving homes. Since launching in 2016, Empty the Shelters has helped nearly 400,000 pets find homes through partnerships with 909 organizations across 49 states and Canada. 

BISSELL Pet Foundation, a leading national nonprofit founded in 2011 by Cathy Bissell, partners with animal welfare organizations by reimbursing adoption fees so that adopters pay $70 or less. Every pet is spay/neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped – ready to go from kennel to couch.

 “Ten years ago, Empty the Shelters® began with a simple goal—to bring awareness to the incredible pets in shelters,” said Bissell. “Today, it has grown into a national effort that has helped nearly 400,000 pets find families. Those adoptions have opened space for other pets to enter shelters, provided relief for shelter teams, and created the heartwarming joy that only adoption can bring. This impact has been made possible thanks to the commitment of shelters, adopters, donors and supporters across the country. As we celebrate 10 years, we encourage everyone to consider adoption and help more pets find the homes they deserve. It’s never too late to make a difference.”

Antioch Animal Services Participates Again

Antioch Animal Services is participating in the Empty the Shelters® 10th Anniversary Event. Stop by Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm at 300 L Street in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown.

Antioch’s staff says, “Come check out our amazing pets and perhaps find your new best friend!”

For more information check adoptable pets at https://24petconnect.com/AntiochAdoptablePets or call (925) 779-6989, Tuesday through Saturday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm.

Additional details & FAQs:

• Events take place quarterly, with emergency activations during shelter crises.
• Each shelter has its own process – contact them directly for applications, adoptable pets, and event hours.
• BISSELL Pet Foundation does not operate a shelter or offer individual pet grants.
• Follow @bissellpets on social media for updates and announcements.
• Adoption saves two lives – the pet going home and the one who takes their place

About BISSELL Pet Foundation:

BISSELL Pet Foundation is a charitable 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to help reduce the number of animals in shelters through pet adoption, spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchipping and emergency support. Founded in 2011 by Cathy Bissell, BPF is an extension of her long-standing love for animals and commitment to their welfare. BPF has since partnered with more than 6,025 shelters and rescues across the U.S. and Canada to help pets find loving homes. The foundation is supported by generous donors and BISSELL Inc. where every purchase saves pets. To learn more, visit www.bissellpetfoundation.org.

For more information about BISSELL Pet Foundation’s Empty the Shelters® visit www.bissellpetfoundation.org/programs/empty-the-shelters/#.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Donation Drawing Saturday, May 2nd

By Tammy Smith, Friends of the Antioch Library

The Friends of the Antioch Library (FOAL) hosted a heartfelt Volunteer Luncheon on Friday, April 24, honoring the dedicated individuals who give countless hours in support of the Antioch Library and its vibrant community.

The event recognized several long-time volunteers who recently retired from active service with FOAL. Merle Whitburn, Richard Angeloni, and Marian Ferrante were each presented with certificates of appreciation for their extraordinary contributions spanning three decades. Whitman served in numerous leadership roles, including President and Membership Director. Angeloni was the longtime editor of BookMark, the Friends’ official newsletter. Ferrante, a devoted board member and secretary, also brought joy to the luncheon with an entertaining storytelling and sing-along that delighted attendees.

FOAL Board President Walter Ruehlig introduced the current board members who continue to lead the organization’s fundraising efforts for the library. The board includes Secretary Rosanne Carey; Financial Secretary and long-time board member Patty Chan; Members-at-Large Linda Lawson and Joanna Delligatti; and Treasurer and Interim Membership Coordinator Tammy Smith.

Following the luncheon, Smith, alongside Member-at-Large Linda Lawson and Cashier Coordinator Leigh Smith, hosted FOAL’s first official cashier training. Volunteers were equipped with the tools and confidence needed to support book sale operations—ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience for the community, one book at a time.

Looking ahead, FOAL will host its second book sale of the year from Thursday, April 30 through Saturday, May 2 at the Antioch Library, located at 501 W 18th Street. As book sale revenues have declined in recent months, the demand for library services has surged, with full program rooms and increased community reliance on library resources. The need for support is greater than ever.

Community members are invited to shop the sale and discover incredible deals while supporting a vital cause:

• Thursday, April 30 – 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. (Members Only)
• Thursday, April 30 – 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. (Open to the public)
• Friday, May 1 – 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Saturday, May 2 – 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• $7 Brown Bag Sale – Saturday from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Shoppers will find fantastic bargains, with children’s books starting at just 25¢ and adult books beginning at only 50¢. All proceeds directly benefit Antioch Library programs, materials, and special projects that serve the entire community.

The Friends of the Antioch Library encourage everyone to get involved—whether by becoming a member, making a donation, volunteering, or simply shopping the book sale. Every contribution helps ensure the library continues to thrive for generations to come.

About FOAL

The Friends of the Antioch Library is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving library services in Antioch. Through membership donations and Book Sale earnings, the Friends provide the library with books, magazines, DVDs and CDs. We also provide children’s and cultural programs for the community.

For more information or to download a membership application, visit:
https://linktr.ee/FriendsAntiochLibrary or email friendsoftheantiochlibraryb@gmail.com.

By Antioch Chamber of Commerce

During the Antioch Chamber of Commerce’s annual Gala, held Friday night, March 27, 2026, S.H.A.R.E. Community was honored as the 2025 Antioch Non-Profit of the Year. S.H.A.R.E. stands for Sharing Hope, Abundance, Resources and Encouragement.

S.H.A.R.E. Community is a remarkable nonprofit organization dedicated to serving unhoused neighbors in our community. Their programs provide mobile showers, hygiene kits, and laundry vouchers, offering individuals an opportunity to feel confident again and helping to restore a sense of dignity that is often lost during times of homelessness.

“We’re super excited to be chosen Non-Profit of the Year for 2025 by the Antioch Chamber of Commerce,” said, Executive Director Ricka Davis-Sheard who was presented with a commemorative plaque by Chamber Chair Jim Becker.

Founded in 2019 with a mission centered on sharing hope, resources, abundance, and encouragement, S.H.A.R.E.  Community has become a lifeline for many. They work in partnership with a wide range of local agencies, including hair salons, pet food providers, veteran support services, and mental health organizations, ensuring that the needs of their clients are met in a holistic and compassionate way.

SHARE Community has provided over 9,000 showers and distributed 18,000 hygiene kits to individuals experiencing homelessness. Many participants in the program have gone on to secure stable housing and have returned as volunteers, creating a full-circle transformation that exemplifies the organization’s profound impact.

Despite operating with a small budget and limited resources, SHARE Community continues to expand its services and outreach, fueled by the dedication of its volunteers and the support of the local community. Their tireless efforts not only address immediate needs but also inspire hope, foster resilience, and empower individuals to reclaim their confidence and independence.

S.H.A.R.E. Community is more than a nonprofit—they are a beacon of compassion, demonstrating that with care, creativity, and community support, meaningful change is possible for some of the most vulnerable members of society.

See video about S.H.A.R.E. Community’s work by Executive Director Davis-Sheard. For more information visit www.thesharecommunity.com.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Deer Valley High Senior Class President also presented with $1,500 scholarship by local Rotary Clubs

By Antioch Chamber of Commerce

During the Antioch Chamber of Commerce’s annual Gala, Friday night, March 27, 2026, Amanda Brown was honored as Antioch’s 2025 Youth of the Year.

She is an exceptional student whose dedication, leadership, and passion for service truly set her apart. As senior class president at Deer Valley High School, she plays a pivotal role in planning and executing student activities, earning a reputation as a dependable leader and trusted mentor among her peers.

Amanda has become the school’s premier Master of Ceremonies for large events. Last year during the Deer Valley High School Special Olympics, she emceed the event with remarkable compassion, high energy, making every participant feel valued and celebrated. Her skill, poise and heart for service have made her the go-to emcee, admired for bringing joy and professionalism to every occasion.

Beyond her leadership at school, Amanda actively contributes to the community. She teaches cooking classes and leads youth enrichment activities at the Antioch Recreation Center, inspiring younger students and fostering a positive, supportive environment. Her dedication to helping others, combined with her excellent attendance, academic achievement and strong work ethic, demonstrates a rare combination of character, talent and service-mindedness.

Amanda Brown is more than a student leader—she is a remarkable young person whose compassion, initiative, and integrity continue to impact everyone around her. She exemplifies the very best of youth leadership, and her contributions promise a bright future of meaningful service and community engagement.

During the Gala ceremony, Amanda was presented with a scholarship for $1,500 from $750 contributed by each the Antioch Rotary Club and Rotary Club of the Delta (Antioch).

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Important Race Update!

By Antioch Rotary Club

Attention Participants:

The location for the Antioch Rotary Bunny Hop 5K Run/Walk race has changed! The event will now be held at the Worth Shaw Community Park, 801 James Donlon Blvd., Antioch.

Please update your plans accordingly.

Registration will be open until Race Day. Special Thanks to the Rotary Club of the Delta for preparing a free Pancake Breakfast for everyone on Race Day! If you like to be part of community video, please email your picture to rdeloso@yahoo.com.  Like us and see up to date notices on Facebook @AntiochBunnyHop5K.

For more information about the race scan the QR code in the flier above or visit 10th Antioch Rotary Club Bunny Hop 5K a.k.a. Antioch Rotary BunnyHop “X”.

For more information about the Antioch Rotary Club visit antiochrotary.net.

By the Antioch Rivertown Jamboree Board of Directors

Dear Community Member:

On behalf of the Antioch Rivertown Jamboree Board of Directors, we invite you to support our community work—a mission that has benefited our neighbors since 1985. To continue these efforts, we are hosting our Annual Crab Feed Fundraiser on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 6435 at  815 Fulton Shipyard Road, Antioch.

Tickets are $70 per person (or $75 at the door if not sold out) and includes crab or tri-tip (by special request), clam chowder, salad, pasta, garlic bread and dessert. Drinks begin at 4pm and Dinner will be served 6pm-8pm. Click here: Rivertown Jamboree 2026 Crab Feed Ticket Registration

Donors Needed

We’re currently seeking donations for our auction and raffle. Donating by April 11th ensures we can feature your name/business name in our event program! We are particularly interested in securing some of these items:

● Electronics & Tech: A 65” Smart TV, Cricut “Joy” or “Silhouette” machine, sports binoculars, iPad, Apple AirPods, a Nintendo Switch.

● Experiences: Hotel stays, vacation packages, local outings, or event tickets.

● Themed Gift Baskets: A great way to feature your business, culture, or a hobby. Please list the basket’s contents and notate the estimated $ value of the whole basket. Food must be sealed and unexpired.

● Gift Cards/Certs: Please include a sheet with name of donor & the dollar amount

We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit (Tax ID: 68-0159140). Please consult with your tax preparer and the IRS about how your contribution may be tax-deductible. Beyond that, you’ll have the satisfaction of supporting a local cause. To confirm a donation please email Sara at kmittens@gmail.com or if you don’t have email, call Betty at (510) 305-3770.

Thank you for your consideration. We look forward to partnering with you!

Antioch Chamber of Commerce announces other community award winners including Businesses, Non-Profit, Youth and Veterans of the Year

To be honored at 2026 Gala & Awards Dinner

By Allen D. Payton

The Antioch Chamber of Commerce has announced Allison Norris and Joanne Bilbo as the 2025 Antioch Citizens of the Year as well as other winners of the annual community awards. Honorees will be celebrated at the 2026 Gala & Awards Dinner, Friday, March 27th.

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR 2025

Most Impact 2025

Allison Norris

Lifetime Achievement

Joanne Bilbo

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR 2025

Small Business

Almost There Travel Agency

Large Corporation

US Bank

NON-PROFIT OF THE YEAR 2025

SHARE Community – Homelessness Resources

YOUTH OF THE YEAR 2025

Amanda Brown – Deer Valley High School

ANTIOCH LIFETIME VETERAN OF THE YEAR 2025-2026

U.S. Army Veteran Bob Franchetto

ANTIOCH VETERAN OF THE YEAR 2025-2026

U.S. Army Veteran Ricky Diaz

The Veterans of the Year winners were announced, previously, during the Antioch Veterans Day ceremony on Nov. 11, 2025.

Annual Gala & Awards Dinner

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
• Antipasto platter
• Sauteed Italian vegetables
• Cheese tortellini with shrimp & alfredo sauce
• Steak marsala
• Chicken piccata
• Penne in house-made marinara sauce
• Dessert
• Tiramisu
• Complimentary beverages included with dinner
• Tea, Coffee, & Water

Tickets are $100 per person and available for purchase at Antioch Chamber of Commerce Gala.

For questions, contact the Chamber office at (925) 757-1800 or email frontdeskadmin@antiochchamber.com.