At the Nick Rodriguez Community Center, 213 F Street in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown. Hosted by the Contra Costa Health Department’s Violence Prevention Program and Gun Violence Prevention Coalition, and Bridge Builders to the New Generation.
According the CCHealth’s website, The Violence Prevention Program uses a public health approach to prevent and reduce gun violence in Contra Costa County by providing high-risk populations with social support and services informed by evidence-based practices and equity principles. The program, established in October 2022, was made possible through a three-year grant from the U.S. Department of Justice Community-Based Violence Intervention and Prevention Initiative.
The Violence Prevention Program is partnering with community stakeholders to develop a Gun Violence Reduction Strategic Plan for the county. The plan will focus on developing social-emotional learning programs for at-risk youth, building workforce development opportunities and career paths, and working with communities to improve the physical environment, neighborhood appearance and community engagement.
Currently, the program is working with the nonprofit consultant on a landscape analysis of the county’s existing violence prevention efforts.
The Gun Violence Prevention Coalition is a diverse, community and multi-agency-driven collaborative supported by Contra Costa Health’s Violence Prevention Program. The Coalition seeks to increase collaboration among residents, community partners, and agencies who are interested in and are actively involved in reducing gun violence and advancing gun-violence prevention policies. The Coalition’s goal is to prevent and reduce the incidence of gun violence and its associated negative community and health impacts.
Please help us identify an unknown suspect who was recorded on video stealing a vehicle and later dumping it. The vehicle was recovered near East 6th Street and ‘A’ Street, and the suspect is seen on camera walking away from that area afterwards.
If you have any information on the identity of this suspect, please contact Community Service Officer Collazo at (925) 778-2441, or via email: jcollazo@antiochca.gov, and reference case #24-1991. Any individuals coming forth with information can remain anonymous.
Antioch School District’s bond Measure B barely passing
Incumbents lead in races for Congress, other Assembly districts
Berkeley Mayor, Oakland Councilman lead in West County State Senate race; former West Sacramento Mayor and Dixon Councilman lead in East County State Senate race
By Allen D. Payton
With the top two candidates heading to the November general election, the initial election results posted at 8:15 PM, 9:35 PM and 10:31 PM on the Contra Costa County Elections website for contested races with more than two candidates show the following:
Unofficial results as of 10:31 PM on Tuesday, March 5, 2024. Source: CCC Elections
In the 15th Assembly District race Democrat County School Board Trustee Anamarie Avila Farias and Republican Realtor Sonia Ledo are leading the other two Democrats in the race, Antioch Mayor Pro Tem Monica Wilson and former County Supervisor Karen Mitchoff who is in a distant fourth. As of the 10:31 PM update, Ledo had pulled within 99 votes of Avila Farias with just 0.2 percent of the vote separating the two.
When reached for comment Ledo said, “I’m honored that the voters have placed their trust in me for positive change in California. I think this is proof the candidates can run on their merits and the two candidates who ran the most positive race came out on top. Congratulations to Anamarie. I’m hopeful that the numbers we see will hold as we are uncertain at this time how many precincts have been counted.”
11:31 PM UPDATE: Ledo moved into the lead ahead of Avila Farias following the latest update from the Contra Costa Elections office. Ledo had 17,303 votes or 32.98% and Avila Farias had 15,877 votes or 30.26% of the vote.
Unofficial results as of 10:31 PM on Tuesday, March 5, 2024. Source: CCC Elections
In the 5th Supervisorial District race Antioch Councilman Mike Barbanica and Pittsburg Councilwoman Shanelle Scales-Preston are leading Pittsburg Vice Mayor Jelani Killings, followed by Realtor Iztaccuauhtli “White Eagle” Hector M. Gonzalez.
In the 14th Assembly District race which includes West County communities, Democrat incumbent Buffy Wicks and Democrat challenger Margot Smith lead their Republican opponent and in the 11th Assembly District race which includes Far East County communities, Democrat incumbent Lori Wilson and Republican challenger Dave Ennis leader their opponents.
In the 10th Congressional District, Democrat incumbent Mark DeSaulnier and Republican challenger Katherine Piccinini lead their opponents and in the race for the 9th Congressional District, which includes Discovery Bay, Democrat incumbent Josh Harder and Republican Stockton Mayor Kevin Lincoln lead their opponents.
In the 3rd State Senate District race, which includes Far East County communities, Democrat former West Sacramento Mayor Christopher Cabaldon and Republican Dixon City Councilman Thomas Bogue are in the lead over their rivals.
In the 7th State Senate District race, which includes West County communities, Democrat Berkeley Mayor Jesse Arreguín and Democrat Oakland Councilman Dan Kalb lead their rivals.
All Local Measures Passing as of the 10:31 PM Update
Measure A in Martinez, which changes the City Clerk from an elected to appointed position was passing 67.08 to 32.92 percent of the vote. The measure requires a simple majority to pass.
The Antioch Unified School District’s Measure B bond measure for school improvements was passing 56.83 to 42.6 percent and requires a vote of at least 55% to pass.
Measure C in the Martinez Unified School District, which renews the $75 annual parcel tax for eight years and requires a 2/3rds vote to pass, had more than enough with 72.94 percent of the vote in favor and 27.06% of the vote opposed.
Finally, the Moraga School District Measure D bond, also requiring a 55% vote to pass, had 65.91% support and 34.09% of the vote opposing.
Please check back later for more election updates on this website.
Please check back later for more election updates on this website.
The Warriors are hosting a day of fun, excitement and education focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (S.T.E.A.M.) in addition to cheering on the Santa Cruz Warriors, their G-league team as they take on the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. The game is LIVE at the Chase Center this Sunday, March 10th, tipoff is 12:30pm.
Seats are in sections 126, 127, 128 starting at row 6. This is a great opportunity to engage your kids in S.T.E.A.M.-related activities throughout the Main concourse and enjoy an afternoon of some great basketball.
DVHS sophomore Jaelyn Wilkins with her winning MLK essay contest check and certificate from AUSD. All photos courtesy of Shar’ron Johnson-Wilkins
Wolverines’ student athlete Jaelyn Wilkins recognized by state, federal representatives
12 other students win essay, art contests; Dozier Libbey senior honored with Reggie Moore Memorial Community Service Award
Carmen Dragon students win all 3 for both Elementary School essay and art contests
By Allen D. Payton
(Publisher’s Note: Apologies for the delay in publishing this article, but the information was not provided to the Herald until last week.)
During this year’s Antioch Unified School District Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration held in January, awards and checks were presented to a variety of elementary, middle and high school students who won the contests for the best essay and art. The submission topic for this year was, “Shifting the Culture Climate through the Study and Practice of Dr. King’s Nonviolence.” Students were invited to submit either a written entry of a poem or essay, short story, etc. or a visual entry including a story told through video, photographs, music, drawings, paintings, collages, etc.
Jaelyn was honored by congressional and state representatives for her winning essay.
Deer Valley High School sophomore scholar athlete, Jaelyn Wilkins, won first place in the high school essay contest and received a check for $250.00, as well as certificates of recognition by Congressman Mark DeSaulnier and Assemblyman Tim Grayson.
Jaelyn during track competitions and with all of her medals.
Wilkins also runs on the cross country and track teams for the Wolverines. In 2022 she was honored to be part of the Cross Country Second Team All-League by the coaches of the Bay Valley Athlete. Wilkins was also honored as the 2022-23 Deer Valley cross country team’s Freshman Phenom and the track team’s Most Valuable Player with the Most Points.
Jaelyn Wilkins’ 2022-23 DVHS Cross Country Freshman Phenom and Track and Field Most Points – MVP plaques, and 2022 BVAL Cross Country 2nd Team All-League certificate.
Following is Jaelyn’s winning 2024 MLK contest essay:
“Dr. King’s incredible legacy has a profound impact on me, even at the age of 15.
Embracing the 2024 theme, I am determined to make a difference in my own unique way. Through acts of kindness, understanding, and empathy, I strive to create a world where everyone is treated with respect and equality.
Inspired by Dr. King’s unwavering dedication, I am committed to standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.
Whether it’s advocating for social justice, promoting inclusivity in my school and community, or raising awareness about important issues, I believe that every action, no matter how small, can contribute to a brighter future.
As a young person, I recognize the power of my voice and the impact I can have on those around me. By educating myself and others, fostering dialogue, and encouraging empathy, I hope to inspire my peers to join me in creating positive change. Together, we can break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and build a more equitable society. Dr. King’s dream of equality and justice serves as a guiding light for me and my generation.
We carry his message in our hearts and are committed to continuing his work. With passion, determination, and a belief in the power of unity, we can make a lasting impact and create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Let’s continue to honor Dr. King’s legacy and work towards a future filled with love, compassion, and equality.”
The following AUSD students were the winners in each contest category and the prize money amounts they received:
High School-Essay:
1st place: Jaelyn Wilkins, 10th grade, Deer Valley High School – $250.00
2nd place: Daniela Edeh, 10th grade, Dozier Libby High School – $150.00
3rd place: Jae’la Falls, 10th grade, Deer Valley High School – $100.00
After Election Day, it takes time for County Elections Officials to count all the votes and make sure that all the votes have been counted. Counties have 28 days to complete the official canvass of an election. There are many steps that must be completed to ensure the integrity of the election, and in its essence, the purpose of the canvass accomplishes the following critical tasks:
Ensure every eligible ballot is counted
Ensure voters only voted once
Ensure proper procedures were followed on Election Day
Ensure the vote tabulation system is properly counting ballots
Processing Vote by Mail ballots takes time. Each signature is verified prior to preparing the ballot for counting. Vote by Mail ballots postmarked on or before Election Day and received up to seven days after Election Day must go through this process as well.
During the canvass, voting records are updated based on whether a registered voter voted by mail or in person. During this process, the number of voters is reconciled to the number of ballots cast for each voting location. This is a critical step in ensuring that all ballots are accounted for from each voting location. The statewide voter registration database linking up all 58 counties helps staff ensure voters only voted once.
During the canvass, counties are required to conduct audits of the ballot counting system, by performing the One Percent Manual Tally. This involves randomly selecting at least one percent of the precincts of ballots cast in person, as well as Vote by Mail ballots, and performing a manual hand count of each set of ballots, then comparing them to the machine count results.
“Canvassing votes involves more than just scanning ballots and tallying results,” said Kristin B. Connelly, Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters. “There are many steps to ensure that ballots are counted properly, the equipment is counting correctly, and the integrity of the election is intact.”
As with all activities related to an election, the canvass is open to the public for observation. Please contact your county elections office for more details on how to observe election activities. Information on this topic as well as direct links to local elections offices can be found on our website, BayAreaVotes.org, or our Facebook page, Bay Area Votes.
Over 400,000 have signed petitions to place the measure that will stop theft and fentanyl crimes onto the November 2024 ballot
Gains support of Californians Against Retail and Residential Theft, over 30 mayors & local leaders
Get petition to help gather signatures below
Over 400,000 California voters have signed the petition to place the Homeless, Drug Addiction, Retail Theft Reduction Act on the November 2024 ballot.
“We have seen a record number of voters seeking to sign the petition to place this measure on the ballot – sometimes waiting in line to do so,” said campaign chair Greg Totten who is also chief executive officer for the California District Attorneys Association. “This is consistent with polling that has shown that 70% of likely California voters support the Homeless, Drug Addiction, Retail Theft Reduction Act. The measure is commonsense and injects accountability back into our laws for repeat offenders of theft and for crimes involving fentanyl and other serious drug crimes.”
Californians Against Retail and Residential Theft endorses proposed initiative to reform Proposition 47
Californians Against Retail and Residential Theft (CARRT) announced last week its support for the proposed initiative called the Homeless, Drug Addiction and Theft Reduction Act.
“Our current system puts Californians at risk as crime continues to rise without any real repercussions. That is why Californians Against Retail and Residential Theft is supporting the Homeless, Drug Addiction and Theft Reduction Initiative,” said Matt Ross, spokesman for Californians Against Retail and Residential Theft.
“The initiative focuses on repeat offenders of retail crime. It provides an opportunity for those with substance abuse and mental health problems to seek help through diversion programs. At the same time, it also ensures that there are real consequences for individuals who continue to break the law.”
“Moreover, this initiative is a significant step towards putting an end to retail and residential theft in both Main Street and neighborhood areas.”
According to data from the Public Policy Institute of California, there has been a significant increase in commercial shoplifting, with a 28.7% rise in 2022 alone. Commercial burglary and robbery have also seen an increase of 5.8% and 9%, respectively. Furthermore, a recent survey revealed that 88% of retailers are experiencing more aggressive and violent shoplifters compared to the previous year.
CARRT is a diverse coalition consisting of over 200 business associations, local groups, and victim organizations. Their main goal is to advocate for California officials to take action and equip law enforcement with the necessary tools to reduce theft. Prominent members of the coalition include local Chambers of Commerce, California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce, California Business Roundtable, California Black Chamber of Commerce, California Grocers Association, California Peace Officers Association, Crime Victims United, Klaas Kids Foundation, and the National Federation of Independent Business.
CARRT has been engaging in discussions with local officials, law enforcement, and legislators to ensure that they comprehend the true impact of retail and residential crime. They aim to provide public safety officials with additional resources to effectively address this problem. For more information about CARRT, please visit their website at www.carrt.org.
Over 30 mayors and local elected leaders endorse Prop 47 reform initiative
Bipartisan support continues to grow with over 30 mayors and local elected officials from across the state have endorsed the Homelessness, Drug Addiction, Retail Theft Reduction Act. The measure will increase community safety by holding those who repeatedly steal or traffic hard drugs accountable. The measure has collected 75% of the needed signatures from California voters to place it on the November ballot.
“Our city has continued to prioritize safety for our residents, businesses and visitors. We realize that the laws must adapt to the circumstances we see on our streets today. Retail theft and drug offenders repeat their crimes without any accountability or consequence which is why I am supporting this ballot measure,” said Santa Monica Mayor Phil Brock. “We need smart changes to Prop 47 so that we can stop crime and hold repeat offenders accountable. Consequences act as a deterrent while at the same time, this measure prioritizes effective drug treatment and rehabilitation programs. This ballot measure will provide the tools our city needs to improve community safety.”
Local mayors and elected officials from every region across the state continue to endorse a measure that balances accountability and rehabilitation programs.
Bay Area Elected Leaders
Mayor Matt Mahan, City of San Jose
Mayor London Breed, City and County of San Francisco
Mayor Lily Mei, City of Fremont
Mayor Carmen Montano, City of Milpitas
Vice Mayor Renee Golder, City of Santa Cruz
Councilmember Shebreh Kalantari-Johnson, City of Santa Cruz
Former Mayor Ryan Coonerty, City of Santa Cruz
Vice Mayor Sherry Hu, City of Dublin
Councilmember Liang Chao, City of Cupertino (title for identification purposes only)
Councilmember Kitty Moore, City of Cupertino(title for identification purposes only)
Mayor Yan Zhao, City of Saratoga
Councilmember Rishi Kumar, City of Saratoga
Councilmember Javed Ellahie, City of Monte Sereno
Northern & Central CA Elected Leaders
Mayor Jerry Dyer, City of Fresno
Mayor Karen Goh, City of Bakersfield
Supervisor Rich Desmond, Sacramento County
Southern California Elected Leaders
Mayor Phil Brock, City of Santa Monica Mayor Mark Arapostathis, City of La Mesa Mayor Richard Bailey, City of Coronado Mayor Keith Blackburn, City of Carlsbad
Mayor John Franklin, City of Vista Mayor Lesa Heebner, City of Solana Beach Mayor Rebecca Jones, City of San Marcos Mayor Tony Kranz, City of Encinitas Mayor John McCann, City of Chula Vista Mayor John Minto, City of Santee
Mayor Ron Morrison, City of National City Mayor Esther Sanchez, City of Oceanside Mayor Steve Vaus, City of Poway Mayor Bill Wells, City of El Cajon Mayor Dane White, City of Escondido
A survey of likely California voters found that 70% of voters support the title and summary of the Homeless, Drug Addiction, Retail Theft Reduction Act. The overwhelming support was consistent across every demographic and geography including the Bay Area and Los Angeles. Furthermore, 89% of likely voters support amending Proposition 47 for stronger penalties for those engaged in repeated retail theft and trafficking hard drugs like fentanyl. The measure also includes incentives to complete drug and mental health treatment for people who are addicted to hard drugs. The survey was conducted online from November 8-November 13, 2023, with a margin of error of +/- 2.28%.
To qualify the measure for the November 2024 ballot, the law requires 546,651 valid signatures. The campaign is required to notify the Secretary of State after 25% of the signatures from California voters have been collected.
