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  • 🍬 Candy-Looking Danger, Hydrogen Lights & AV Happenings You Need to See!

🍬 Candy-Looking Danger, Hydrogen Lights & AV Happenings You Need to See!

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AV Weekly
October 26, 2025

💌 Hey AV Fam! Fall’s here, and the Antelope Valley is packed with action. Lancaster is keeping it safe, Palmdale is growing jobs, and Acton residents are celebrating a win. Add beer festivals, live shows, spooky Halloween fun, and farmers markets, and you’ve got a week that’s impossible to sit out.

Let’s get into it ⤵️

🚨 Top Stories: Looks Like Candy, But Not So Sweet: Lancaster cracks down on illegal smoke shops and rolls out hydrogen-powered traffic lights.
🌹 Community News: AS Aerospace breaks ground on new AV facility, adding 150 jobs.
🍴 AV Eats: Cantarito Restaurant - Pupusas, ceviche, and fresh juices that hit the spot.
⚽ Sports News: Alta FC ties, AVC 6‑1, local high schools dominate!
🎭 AV Happenings: Beer and wine festivals pour, live concerts rock the stage, Halloween fun thrills the kids, and farmers markets keep the Valley fresh.

Top Stories

🍬 Looks Like Candy, But Not So Sweet: Lancaster Cracks Down Illegal Smoke Shops

Credit: City of Lancaster

Lancaster is stepping up to keep the community safe. This week, the City teamed up with local and state law enforcement to shut down unlicensed smoke shops selling dangerous and untested products.

In just four days, the sweep led to 20 inspections, 17 citations, and multiple seizures. Officers confiscated unlicensed cannabis, sketchy hemp products, flavored vapes, and even weapons.

What looked like candy wasn’t candy at all. Investigators say some of the seized cannabis and hemp products were untested and filled with unknown chemicals. With bright colors and snack-style labels, they were designed to catch a kid’s eye, and that’s exactly what makes them so dangerous.

“These products might look like candy or snacks, but they’re not. They’re dangerous,” said Vice Mayor Marvin Crist. “If you’re selling products that put our community at risk, we’re coming for you. Lancaster is a City that protects its own, especially our kids.”

Investigators also uncovered illegal gambling setups and evidence of unlicensed and untaxed product sales. Officials say many of these products come from illegal supply chains that threaten both consumers and legitimate local businesses.

“This isn’t a one-time sweep,” Crist said. “This is an ongoing effort to protect our community and make sure every store in Lancaster operates responsibly. We’re proud to stand with our law enforcement partners and the residents who help us keep Lancaster safe.”

City leaders are encouraging residents to stay alert and speak up. Check product labels, avoid unlicensed retailers, and report any shops selling unsafe or suspicious items.

👉 To report a violation, contact the Lancaster Police Department at (661) 723-6063.

Lancaster is standing firm on safety. And when it comes to protecting families, this city is standing on business.

🚦 Hydrogen-Powered Traffic Lights Debut in Lancaster

Credit: City of Lancaster

Big moves in Lancaster! The city just lit up a whole new level of backup safety with hydrogen-powered traffic signals. Yep, you read that right. Thanks to a new collab between the City of Lancaster, First Public Hydrogen Authority (FPH2), and Western Systems, intersections across town will now stay powered even when the grid goes down. Whether it’s wildfire season, high winds, or a blackout, these HyMax fuel cells kick in to keep traffic lights running smooth and steady.

Mayor R. Rex Parris put it best: this is smart, forward-thinking infrastructure that’s all about safety, sustainability, and keeping things moving. No diesel fumes, no loud generators, just clean, reliable hydrogen power ready when it’s needed most. Lancaster’s been leading the charge on renewable energy for a while now, and this is just another step toward a more resilient, future-ready AV.

Community News

⚖️ Acton Residents Defeat Massive Battery Project

Big news out of Acton: a Superior Court judge just struck down a massive 543-megawatt battery storage project after finding LA County broke its own zoning rules by greenlighting it without a full environmental review. The facility, proposed by energy developer Hecate (now rebranded as Fulcrum), would have sat near the town’s water basin and wildfire-prone areas.

The grassroots group Save Our Rural Town (SORT) led the fight, and their legal win now sets a precedent for other California communities facing similar projects. It’s a huge victory, but it may not be the end. Fulcrum hasn’t yet said whether they plan to appeal the decision, so Acton residents are celebrating, while staying watchful.

🚀 Palmdale Takes Off: AS Aerospace Breaks Ground on New Facility

Palmdale just made another power move. AS Aerospace broke ground this week on a brand-new 90,000-square-foot manufacturing facility, and it's the first major win under the city’s Aerospace Incentive Program. The new site at Division Street and Grand Cypress Avenue is set to bring 150 quality jobs to the AV, putting even more fuel behind Palmdale’s rise as a serious aerospace hub.

Originally based in Santa Clarita, AS Aerospace is relocating and expanding its operations right here, thanks to the city’s push to attract high-tech businesses with real room to grow. The program offers up to $250,000 in job-creation incentives and supports companies looking for a better launchpad than LA can offer. Mayor Pro Tem Laura Bettencourt called the project a sign of a brighter, more innovative future for the AV. This is just the beginning, and Palmdale’s sky-high vision is starting to take shape.

LA County Updates

🥫 Guard on the Ground: Gov. Newsom Deploys CA National Guard to Support Food Banks

Credit: ABC7

On October 22 2025, Governor Gavin Newsom announced that California would deploy the California National Guard and the California Volunteers to assist food banks statewide in response to an anticipated delay in federal food assistance due to the ongoing government shutdown. The move is paired with a fast‑track of $80 million in state funding to bolster food banks in nearly every county.

The mission is already underway: by October 25 about 30 Guard members were stationed at the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank helping with food sorting, packaging and distribution. State officials emphasized the troops will not act as law enforcement—this is a humanitarian mission focused on food security and community care.

For folks in the AV and greater LA County this means relief is arriving before benefit delays hit in November. It’s a reminder that when federal systems falter, local leadership can still step in to keep food on the table.

AV EATS

Cantarito Restaurant: Bold Bites, Fresh Flavors & a Taste of El Salvador

Tiny spot, giant flavors! Cantarito is serving up pupusas that will make your taste buds dance. Think cheesy, melty pupusas, zesty ceviche, and fresh juices that hits the spot every. single. time! Every bite bursts with flavor and a little taste of El Salvador. The colorful, cozy space is perfect for a quick lunch escape, a dinner hangout, or a quick grab-and-go fix when life calls for a good meal.

Stop by, grab a seat and upgrade your food game forever! Best enjoyed with a cold beer, a creative cocktail, or a glass of wine. You can thank us later.

📍Location: 730 W Lancaster Blvd, Lancaster, CA 93534
🔗Learn More

Sports News

⚽AV Alta FC Plays to 2‑2 Draw at Portland Hearts of Pine — Playoff Hopes Hinge on Luck

AV Alta FC battled hard but came away with a 2‑2 draw on October 25 at Portland, with two free kicks from Eduardo Blancas giving them hope though not a win. Portland secured their playoff berth with the point, while AV Alta, now at 35 points with the result, remain just outside the top eight cutoff for the USL League One postseason. A little luck is needed to determine if they will make it or not this season.

Current USL1 Standing : 8th/10 Place
Record: 8-11-10
🔗 Get Tickets

🏈AVC College Football

AVC 69 Vs. LA Valley 13
Record: 7 - 1
Upcoming Game: AVC @ Desert - Nov 08 at 1pm

🏫High School Sports

AV High Football Scores:
Paraclete (7-2) 42 Vs. St. Francis 35
Eastside (1-8) 10 Vs. Palmdale (4-5) 48
Antelope Valley (0-9) 7 Vs. Quartz Hill (5-4) 41
Lancaster (7-2) 42 Vs. Highland (4-5) 7
Little Rock (3-6) 14 Vs. Knights (3-6) 26

🗓️Event Spotlight

🍻 Day of the Drafts Beer & Wine Festival – Nov 1

Credit: City of Lancaster

Calling all beer lovers, wine sippers, and good-time chasers, this one's for you. Day of the Drafts is taking over the AV Fair & Event Center on Saturday, November 1, with a full afternoon of live music, local pours, and festival fun.

Your taste buds are in for a treat with a huge selection of brews and wines from across the region. Kick back with live sets from The Pistol Blonde, DJ Angie Vee, and Son Doux Band as you sip, snack, and soak up that Lancaster sunshine. Connoisseur ticket holders get early access at noon, while general admission gates open at 1 PM. Parking is just 10 bucks when you prepay.

This is a 21 and over event, so bring your crew but leave the kids and pets at home. Last pour is at 4:30 PM, so come early and pace yourself. Drink responsibly and don’t forget to lock in a designated driver — security will be on hand if anyone needs to leave a car overnight.

🎟️ Tickets
📍 2551 W Avenue H Lancaster, CA 93536

Upcoming Events

🎶 Upcoming Concerts & Live Events 🎤

  • Blind Boys of Alabama - Oct 26

    📍LPAC - 750 West Lancaster Blvd., Lancaster, CA 93534
    🕓 Oct 26th at 7PM
    🔗 Event details 

  • R&B Wednesdays with RJMRLA - Oct 29

    📍1255 West Avenue I Lancaster, CA 93534
    🕓 Oct 29th at 9PM
    🔗 Event details 

  • Club Juke: A Sinner’s Juke Joint – Friday, Oct. 31

    📍31880 Aliso Canyon Road Acton, CA 93510
    🕓 Oct 31 at 5PM-10PM
    🔗 Event details 

  • Metal For the Master featuring - Human Code and Death Protocol - Oct. 31

    📍1011 East Avenue I Lancaster, CA 93535
    🕓 Oct 31 at 7PM - 11PM
    🔗 Event details 

  • Halloween with Houdini: The Life and Work of the Great Harry Houdini – Oct. 31

    📍 38334 10th St. East, Palmdale, CA 93550
    🕓 Oct 31 at 6PM
    🔗 Event details 

  • Gibson Music Studio's 2025 Fall Concert - Nov 1

    📍 38334 10th St. East, Palmdale, CA 93550
    🕓 Nov 1 at 4PM
    🔗 Event details 

  • Día De Los Muertos Celebration - Nov 2

    📍 38334 10th St. East, Palmdale, CA 93550
    🕓 Nov 2 at 4PM
    🔗 Event details 

☀️ Upcoming Events

  • Spooky R&Booo Brunch - Oct 26
    ⏰ 12PM - 5PM
    📍 40125 10th Street West #suite p Palmdale, CA 93551
    🔗 Event details

  • Underwater Pumpkin Carving – AV Desert Divers - Oct 26
    ⏰ 9AM - 12PM
    📍 Courson Park Pool - 38226 10 Street East Palmdale, CA 93550
    🔗 Event details

  • Holloween Night Event at Lancaster Honda - Oct 29
    ⏰ 3:30PM - 7PM
    📍 Honda Lancaster - 43243 10th St W, Lancaster, CA
    🔗 Event details

  • Howl-O-Ween Dog Costume Contest - Oct 30
    ⏰ 5PM - 7:30 PM
    📍 Sam Yellen Dog Park, 5100 E. Ave. S
    🔗 Event details

  • Jazz @ The Alley: Harlem Nights Edition - Oct 31
    ⏰ 8:30 PM
    📍 706 West Lancaster Boulevard #102 Lancaster, CA 93534
    🔗 Event details

  • Trunk or Treat at LCC - Oct 31
    ⏰ 3PM - 6PM
    📍 44611 Yucca Ave, Lancaster, CA 93534
    🔗 Event details

  • Lancaster Reptile and Exotic Pet Expo – Nov 8 & 9

    ⏰ 8AM - 10AM & Nov 9, 8AM - 4PM
    📍 2551 West Avenue H Lancaster, CA 93536
    🔗 Event details

  • Monster Truck Nitro Tour Hits Lancaster – Nov 8

    ⏰ 1:30 PM & 7:30 PM
    📍 AV Fairgrounds - 2551 West Avenue H, Lancaster, CA
    🔗 Event details

  • 2025 Thanksgiving Turkey Drive – Nov 15

    ⏰ 1:30 PM & 7:30 PM
    📍 LCC - 44611 Yucca Ave, Lancaster, CA 93534
    🔗 Event details

  • Operation Pop Con - Nov 22
    ⏰ 11AM - 5PM
    📍 2551 West Avenue H Lancaster, CA 93536
    🔗 Event details

☀️ Recurring Events

  • Spotlight Cafe - Open Mic Night 
    📍 MOAH: CEDAR - 44857 Cedar Ave, Lancaster, CA 93534

    📅 Every Friday | 5PM - 9PM
    ℹ️ Description: Show off your skills! Enjoy a night out where poets, singers, comedians, and performers of all kinds take the stage for an unforgettable night of creativity.
    🔗 Event details 

  • Friday Night Lights at Rancho Vista
    📍 Location: Rancho Vista Golf Course
    📅 Date & Time: Fridays | 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

    ℹ️ Description: Join the community for Friday Night Lights at Rancho Vista, where you can swing the night away at the driving range while enjoying live music, laughs, and fresh air. Whether you’re an experienced golfer or just in it for the fun, this event is all about chill energy and great company.
    🔗 Event details 

  • Friday Nights in Palmdale: Dinner with Strangers
    📅 Date & Time: Friday Night (Recurring Dates)
    📍 Locations: Surprise restaurant (shared with registered guests)
    ℹ️ Description: A casual and welcoming evening out where strangers become friends over a shared meal.
    🔗 Event Details: Lancaster or Palmdale

  • Sunday’s Jazz & Champagne Brunch at Bloom Ranch 
    📍 Bloom Ranch, 31880 Aliso Canyon Rd, Acton

    📅 Every Sundays | Two seatings: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM or 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
    ℹ️ Description: Spend your Sunday surrounded by music, food, and fresh country air at Bloom Ranch of Acton
    🔗 Event details 

  • Turf Club Bingo

    📍 AV Fairgrounds
    🕓 Wed - Sat (9am Wed, 3pm Thu, 4pm Fri & Sat)
    ℹ️ Description: Get ready to shout “Bingo!” at the Turf Club!
    🔗 Event details 

  • Food Truck Special
    📍 George Lane Park | Quartz Hill
    🕓 Tuesdays at 4:00 PM
    ℹ️ Description: Local food trucks gather weekly – tasty bites and community vibes.
    🔗 Event details

  • Monday Night Bites
    📍 Sgt. Steve Owen Memorial Park
    🕙 Monday nights, 5 PM - 9 PM
    ℹ️ Description: Local food trucks, Music and good family Vibes
    🔗 Event Details

  • Board Game Night
    📍 Lucky Luke Brewing Company | 610 W Ave O, Ste 14 Palmdale, CA 93551
    🕙 Every Tuesday from 4 PM to 7:30 PM
    ℹ️ Description: Tuesdays Game Night! Borrow or Bring your own board game! Free Entry.
    🔗 Event Details

🚸 Youth Events, Sports & Recreation

  • Young Artist Workshops at ECIC - Oct 19

    📅 Sunday Oct 19
    🕔 12pm
    🔗 Registration

  • YMCA Halloween Boo Bash - Oct 31

    📅 Friday Oct 31
    🕔 4PM - 8PM
    📍43001 10th Street West Lancaster, CA 93534
    🔗 Registration

  • Young Champions Karate: Orange Belts & Above (Ages 4-18 | Co-Ed) - Nov 9

    📅 Tuesdays until January 13th, 2026
    🕔 6:55PM - 7:35PM
    🔗 Registration

  • Excel Tennis Youth (Ages 11-19 | Co-Ed) - Nov 9

    📅 Nov 9, 2025
    🕔 5:45PM - 6:30PM
    🔗 Registration

  • Caravan Tap and Ballet (Ages 4-7 | Co-Ed) - Dec 3

    📅 Dec 3, 2025
    🕔 Wednesdays | 5:45PM - 6:30PM
    🔗 Registration

  • Excel Tennis (Ages 7-17 yrs.) - Start Oct 4

    📅 Oct 4, 2025 - Nov 1, 2025
    🕔 Saturdays | 9AM - 10AM
    🔗 Registration

  • Judo (Ages 5-13)

    📅 9/30 - 11/6

    🕙 Tue, Thu 6PM - 7PM | Sat 9AM - Noon
    📍716 W. Oldfield St.
    🔗 Registration

🧑‍🌾 Weekly Farmers Markets

  • The BLVD Farmers Market
    📍 Thursdays | Lancaster Blvd (Fern to Ehrlich)

    🕓 4 PM to 9 PM
    Fresh produce, crafts, and food vendors
    🔗 More details

  • AV Winery Farmers Market
    📍 Saturdays | Antelope Valley Winery - 42041 20th St W Lancaster, CA

    🕓 9 AM - 12 PM
    🔗 More details

  • Palmdale Farmers Market
    📍 Fridays | Palmdale Oasis Park - 3850 E. Ave. S Palmdale, CA

    🕓 5 PM - 9 PM
    🔗 More details

Weekly Weather

📅 Sun, Oct 26 – ☀️ Sunny | High: 78° / Low: 52°
📅 Mon, Oct 27 – ☀️ Sunny | High: 79° / Low: 50°
📅 Tue, Oct 28 – ☀️ Sunny | High: 85° / Low: 52°
📅 Wed, Oct 29 – ☀️ Sunny | High: 85° / Low: 51°
📅 Thu, Oct 30 – ☀️ Mostly Sunny | High: 85° / Low: 50°
📅 Fri, Oct 31 – ☀️ Sunny | High: 83° / Low: 54°
📅 Sat, Nov 1 – ☀️ Sunny | High: 85° / Low: 54°
📅 Sun, Nov 2 – ☀️ Mostly Sunny | High: 81° / Low: 51°

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