It is time to grab your poles and set your sights on the pier! This Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, the 37th Annual Free Kids Fishing Derby will be taking place from 9am-12pm.
Held in memory of late Antioch resident Uril E. “Compy” Compomizzo, who inspired the mission statement: “Get kids hooked on fishing, not drugs or gangs,” the fishing derby will be held on the fishing pier named for him and in the adjacent Waldie Plaza.
It provides the opportunity to teach kids fifteen years and younger conservation and the basics of fishing competition that may spur an interest in future events.
Register the day of the event to join in on this exciting afternoon filled with great catches!
Note: If you have your own fishing poles, please bring them. For those who do not have fishing equipment, there will be poles for you to borrow.
This event is made possible through the great partnership between the California Striped Bass Association, West Delta Chapter and the City of Antioch Recreation Department. Learn more about the West Delta Chapter when you visit, striper-csba.org/West-Delta-Chapter/
Free to the public, during Rhythms by the River Fall Festival
By City of Antioch Recreation Department
Join us at the Nick Rodriguez Center Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown tomorrow for a morning of creativity on display.
With no cost for entry, you and your family are invited to stop by and enjoy the exhibit from 10:00am to 1:00pm. From live art demonstrations to hand crafted pieces, this event is a wonderful place to see Antioch’s artists across generations have their chance to shine!
Then stick around for the annual Rhythms by the River Fall Festival from 11:00am to 5:00pm. (Click here for details)
Part of the Golden State’s 175th Anniversary celebration
Vote Nov. 3-17for your favorite People’s Choice Award winners
By California Department of Parks and Recreation
Hey California State Parks fans,
Have you ever taken a breathtaking photo in one of California’s state parks and thought, “This is so good it could win a contest”? Well, now’s your chance. Inspired by the Golden State’s 175th anniversary earlier this month, California State Parks is holding a photo contest inviting Californians to celebrate the state’s natural beauty and history. You can submit photos taken in one of 280 state parks in up to five categories for a chance to win special prizes, including A Wild Ride, Living Wonders, Heroes and Helpers, Space for All and Landscapes and Legacy.
Photos must be taken in 2025. Be sure to submit yours by October 9, 2025.
5 People’s Choice Awards Winners, Vote for Your Favorite
Then, the public can vote for their favorite photos: Nov. 3-17
From Nov. 3 to 17, help choose the People’s Choice Award winners by voting for your favorite semifinalist photos. First, a panel of judges will pick the top 50 semifinalist photos in each category. Then, you can vote once per day on any photo—even your own. The photo with the most votes in each category wins the People’s Choice Award.
The California Department of Parks and Recreation, popularly known as State Parks, and the programs supported by its Office of Historic Preservation and divisions of Boating and Waterways and Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation provide for the health, inspiration and education of the people of California by helping to preserve the state’s extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valued natural and cultural resources, and creating opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation. Learn more at parks.ca.gov.
Lotto winner Bruce Hilliard celebrates on Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, with The 19th Hole co-owner Steve and is wife Marlene Scudero, Dorothy and co-owner Eddie Beaudin next to the machine that issued the winning ticket. Photos by Allen D. Payton
Purchased at The 19th Hole; one of 16 NFL $1M Scratchers available statewide; 2nd million-dollar winner in Antioch in 3 years
Will give some to family, pursue “bucket list”, continue to work at Lowe’s
By Allen D. Payton
According to Eddie Beaudin, co-owner of The 19th Hole, Antioch’s only cardroom, one of their patrons, long-time Antioch resident Bruce Hilliard, bought a winning $1 million Lotto Scratcher last Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, out of the machine at the business.
“It was a $10, 49er-themed NFL Scratcher ticket that won,” Beaudin shared. “It’s pretty exciting.”
Beaudin’s partner, Steve Scudero, their wives, other patrons and friends of Hilliard, as well as Mayor Ron Bernal, gathered at The 19th Hole Friday, September 26, to celebrate his winnings.
Erin, one of the bartenders, who is Irish, said, “I was here when he won. I was his lucky charm!”
Asked what he planned to do with the funds, Hilliard said, “I’m setting up my great grandsons for college and will help out a couple family members, set some aside and enjoy life a little bit.”
About his granddaughter he said, “She said, ‘No’. They’re doing real well. One way or another they’re going to get a chunk of it.”
Hilliard also said he will continue working at Lowe’s on Auto Center Drive.
“It keeps me on an even keel,” he stated.
Lotto winner Bruce Hilliard (center) celebrates at The 19th Hole with the owners and those of the liquor store that had the last million-dollar winner in Antioch, Mayor Ron Bernal, employees and friends on Friday, Sept. 26, 2025.
Asked how much he’d spent on the Lotto over the years Hilliard said he’s “been playing the Lotto forever. A lot of years.”
But it was his first $20 that day. He spent $10 on another Lotto ticket and $10 on the winner. He had to go the state Lottery’s district office in Richmond to cash it in. They said he’ll be receiving a check within four to six weeks.
“The federal government will take out $250,000,” he said. “That’s what they told me.”
Asked what else he’s going to spend the money on, a new car or a trip, Hilliard said, “I’m just taking it day by day. My truck is running good. I’m remodeling my house myself.”
“I’ll start doing some of my bucket list. Maybe take a cruise. Play Pebble Beach,” the avid golfer added. “It’s something The 19th Hole has never experienced,” Beaudin stated. “Steve and myself have known Bruce for about 50 years, since the 1970’s. He always comes back and says ‘Hi’ to me and Steve. Bruce gives back to the community.”
He volunteered for the Stand Down on the Delta, earlier this month as an example.
“What a thing,” Beaudin continued. “I’m just glad it’s somebody here.”
“I just wish it was my wife,” he added with a laugh.
“I had to verify this with the state police. An officer came to visit me on Monday morning,” Beaudin explained. “He wanted to see footage of Bruce buying the ticket. We have 17 cameras in the place.”
Describing what he saw on the videos, the co-owner said, “Bruce had to validate it. He walks three steps. There’s no look on his face. Let’s go to another camera. He took three more steps and goes, ‘Yeah. Yeah!’” as Beaudine raised his hands.
“The biggest winners, here, before were $10,000, twice,” Beaudin shared. “We’ve been here 40 years in May as long as the Lottery,” which is celebrating it’s 40th anniversary this year.”
Lotto winner Bruce Hilliard (49er shirt) is joined by (L-R) Steve Scalise, Mayor Bernal, Ajit Singh Sooch and Jagjit Singh Chawla owners of the liquor store where the other million-dollar winner in Antioch bought the ticket three years ago, and Eddie Beaudin.
Second Million Dollar Winner in Antioch in 3 Years
“Three years ago the owner of the liquor store next door had a million dollar winner,” Beaudin stated. “
Owners Ajit Singh Sooch and Jagjit Singh Chawla of the liquor store next to The 19th Hole and the one in the 7-11 shopping center at Hillcrest Avenue and E. 18th Street, which had the other $1 million Lotto winner, attended Friday’s celebration.
“There are 16 million NFL team ticket winners statewide. We’re the first ones,” Beaudin exclaimed. Scudero said in amazement, “He put just $10 in there. That’s a first. He plays more scratchers than anyone else. I just want to say congratulations, Bruce. It couldn’t happen to a better guy. I’m just happy it was a regular.” Hilliard shared a few words to those in attendance saying, “I just want to say thank you all, especially to The 19th Hole and to the Lottery for loading the ticket.”
Representatives of the state Lottery, who were on hand said, “We didn’t load the machine. They did,” pointing to Beaudin and Scudero.
“And you’re a true Niner fan!” Eddie said.
“Congratulations Bruce. I’m just glad it wasn’t more money,” Bernal said with a laugh. “That ruins people. It was just the right amount of money.”
He will receive a check for $750,000 in about four to six weeks, Hilliard reiterated. The state doesn’t receive any of his winnings. The business that sold the ticket receives one-half percent of the winnings or $5,000, Sooch shared.
My family moved here in 1964. Except for 16 years in Oakley, he’s been here ever since.
“Bruce was a 1973 Antioch High grad and played wide receiver on the 1972 league championship Turkey Bowl team,” Beaudin shared about the winner.
“The game was played on Thanksgiving against Miramonte at DVC,” Scudero added.
Then all who wanted took photos with Hilliard next to the Lotto banner and machine which issued the winning ticket. The 19th Hole is located at 2746 W. Tregallas Road behind the Main Post Office.
Fall into fun this October! Coyote Hills Camptoberfest is the perfect place for kids ages 5–12 to stay busy, have fun, and make new friends during their quick break from school! From relay races to scavenger hunts, with Coyote Hill’s there is plenty to keep everyone active! Sign up your little one today when you visit antiochca.gov/register
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.
Have you ever wanted to design your own flower arrangements? Grab your shears and join us for hands on workshops, where you’ll learn tips and techniques to design your very own unique floral designs!
