I'm always interested in hearing about the latest pack of Antioch Sports Legends.

As an Antioch native and, of course, Antioch High grad, many of the honorees I know or are very familiar.

Happy for all, I'm most excited to see a lifelong friend on the list.

As a kindergartner, Mike Shaw was one of the first friends I made at Kimball Elementary. I thought he was funny and charming; even as a 5-year-old. I can clearly picture him zipping around the playground at recess. Clearly, the athletic foundation had been set.

Being named to Sports Legends must be slightly bittersweet. Mike's father, the legendary Worth Shaw, passed away earlier this year. The elder Shaw was also an honoree and is responsible for countless boys -- and girls -- getting the chance to hit the field.

Obviously, Worth Shaw had a major influence on Mike and supported his athletic endeavors. Mike is being honored for his talent on the football field.

The other 2012 inductees are Randy Autentico, all-around athlete; Sharon Christianson, all-around female athlete; Perry Anderson, Rudy Viramontes and Jesse Smith, individual male athletes; Vanessa Selden, individual female athlete; Norm Bitter, Rich Elliott and Carl Pantle, football; Art Regoli and Jeff Siino, baseball; John Whitman, baseball coach; Ed Burke, community sports leader; 1971 Antioch High School Cross Country, outstanding team.

The 14 sports legends will be honored at an Oct. 13

HOSPITAL HELP: Sutter Delta Medical Center is looking for a few good retirees.

Volunteer positions are available to help with delivering files, lab specimens and kitchen trays, helping patients with dietary needs, and working at the hospital gift shop. For more info, call Wendy Kitt at 925-779-3575 or email kittw@sutterhealth.org.

DROP-OFF DONATIONS: Josie Monaghan is getting the East County Veterans Thrift Store in fine shape.

But the store's founder is hoping to get donations on a regular basis.

Proceeds from the Antioch shop, at 708 Second St., benefit veterans programs and care packages for troops.

Donations are accepted from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursdays at the store.

Monaghan said on her website that "donations are very much appreciated," accepting all house hold items; kitchen, living room, bedroom and tools, in addition to clothing, home décor and furniture.

Store hours are from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays.

For more information, visit www.eastcountyveterans.org or email ecveterans@eastcountyveterans.org.

Contact Trine Gallegos at trineg@att.net.