Also, fees waived at national parks and other federal public lands that day
By Amy Skalmusky, Vice President of Marketing & Communications, National Environmental Education Foundation
On Saturday, September 28, there are nearly 50 volunteer events throughout the state for National Public Lands Day (NPLD). Parks are seeking volunteers.
It’s also a great day to get outside because entry fees will be waived at national parks and other federal public lands, including national monuments, forests, recreation areas, seashores, wildlife refuges, historical sites, battlefields, and grasslands.
The National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) coordinates NPLD in partnership with the Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, USDA Forest Service, and other federal agencies, state and local parks, and non-profits. This year marks the 31st annual event. People can find hundreds of already-planned volunteer events and other cool activities in most states by searching the official NPLD Map, with more added every day.
Here are a few events happening in California on NPLD:
Volunteers can participate in various projects across the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. With habitat restoration, landscaping, nursery, and gardens programs, there is something for everyone.
Volunteers will address illegal dumping at Post Mountain within the Hayfork Ranger District. Supported by the CA Department of Fish and Wildlife, this cleanup effort aims to remove large dump sites and prevent further trash accumulation.
Volunteers will honor the 40th anniversary of the Mono Basin National Forest Scenic Area. Help with garden restoration at the Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center, then enjoy a panel presentation about the area’s rich history.
Join us on September 25-28, 2024, for National Public Lands Day– the nation’s largest volunteer effort for public lands! Established in 1994, this annual event celebrates the connection between people and green space in their community, inspires environmental stewardship, and encourages use of open space for education, recreation, and health benefits. With habitat restoration, landscaping, nursery, and gardens programs, there is something for everyone. Bring yourself, your friends, and your family! Registration required.
When: Wednesday, September 25 – Saturday, September 28, 2024.
Where: Project locations vary throughout the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA), see below for more details.
Groups of five or more require special arrangements and must be confirmed in advance. Please review the List of Available Projects and fill out the Group Project Request Form.
The Golden Gate National Parks Volunteer Program is a cooperative parkwide effort of the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy, the National Park Service, and the Presidio Trust.
Your public lands are in need of your helping hands. Join thousands of other Americans across the country along with the U.S. Bureau of Land Management and the National Environmental Education Foundation as we celebrate National Public Lands Day on Saturday September 28th!
A week-long small group self-guided cleanup which starts on California Coastal Cleanup Day (9/21) culminating in a community-wide Cleanup Event and party during National Public Lands Day (9/28)
Englebright Lake will be conducting a lake clean up to remove any litter that has accumulated throughout the recreation season. Come and join the Park Rangers for an exciting opportunity to be a good steward to the lands that we enjoy!
Volunteers are needed to help with native plant landscaping, seed and straw throw, invasive weed removal, native seed collection, oak care and watering, and trail maintenance work. Volunteers will work from 9:00-11:30 and then be treated to a free lunch, t-shirts and park entry passes hosted by Monument partners at FORT Friends and NEEF.
Join Point Reyes National Seashore in improving habitat for native flora and fauna by removing invasive plants. This is a FREE voluntary event.
Rangers will be on-hand at a localized area within the seashore to host a group event removing invasive Sea Fig, (Carpobrotus edulis), which crowds out native plants and decreases habitat for native species.
Help park rangers remove this lovely but invasive plant at the North Beach parking lot.
No experience necessary. Bring your own gloves, snacks, and plenty of drinking water; instructions on how to pull iceplant will be provided.
Limited to 25 volunteers. This event ends at noon. Bring your own lunch and enjoy a lunch on the beach afterwards!
Inverness, CA
Activities: Volunteer , Educational , Recreational , Health & Wellness
Bear Yuba Land Trust is joining South Yuba River Citizens League in uniting the community for the Annual River Cleanup! BYLT will be out with volunteers to clean up our host site, Sugarloaf Mountain & Trail, along with the general surrounding area.
Our group will be pulling trash and debris from Sugarloaf Mountain, with opportunities for all ages and abilities to get involved. Please bring gloves, a hat, comfortable shoes and water. We’ll provide snacks and a water refill station.
Nevada City, CA
Activities: Volunteer Audiences: Adult, Youth, Family, College
Please let me know if you are interested in getting details or if you would like any photos. Over 500 volunteer events are happening nationwide, with volunteering in nearly every state. In the past decade, over a million people have volunteered on National Public Lands Day, the single largest volunteering day for parks and public lands.
The City of Antioch urges residents to become involved in their local community! One way to do so is to serve on the various Boards, Commissions, and Committees. Any interested resident is encouraged to apply for the vacancies by 5:00 p.m. on the deadline below.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
EXTENDED Deadline: Friday, Sept. 27, 2024, at 5:00 PM
Two (2) vacancies, expiring June 2025
Three (3) vacancies, expiring June 2027
One (1) Chamber of Commerce vacancy, expiring June 2027
This Commission advises the city council on proposals and programs to help develop, retain, expand and attract businesses in and to Antioch and create jobs in the city. Commissioners hold one public meeting each month and work with the Economic Development Director.
PLANNING COMMISSION
Deadline: Friday, Oct. 25, 2024, at 5:00 PM
Two (2) vacancies, expiring October 2028
The Commission reviews and makes recommendations to the City Council on the physical development of the City: all provisions of the General Plan, land use, and zoning as specified by the Zoning Code, and as set forth in the State Government Code and the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The Commission also reviews site plans, architectural design, signs, or other exterior design features of new and remodeled buildings.
Commissioners hold two public meetings each month and work with City Planning Staff.
Please return the completed application by the deadline date listed above, by email to: cityclerk@antiochca.gov.
You can also drop off the application (Attn: City Clerk), in the water billing drop-off box outside Antioch City Hall. The mayor will nominate those he chooses to the city council for a public vote during one of their meetings.
Enjoy sampling menu items from each of the 10 participating restaurants who are donating their food for this annual Kiwanis Club of the Delta-Antioch fundraiser on Sunday, Oct. 27, 2024, from 1:00-5:00 p.m. Tickets are $20 and proceeds from the event will benefit local charities.
“Kiwanis empowers communities to improve the world by making lasting differences in the lives of children.” – Kiwanis Mission
Kiwanis Club of the Delta-Antioch meetings are held on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 8:00 a.m. in-person at Denny’s, 4823 Lone Tree Way and on Zoom.
Antioch Police Investigations Lt. Desmond Bittner answered questions about the recent shootings during a press briefing on Monday, Sept. 23, 2024. Antioch Herald Facebook Live video screenshot by Allen D. Payton
“We can’t say for sure it’s gang related. I’m sure it probably plays a factor.” – Investigations Lt. Bittner
This month’s 15th shooting on Sunday was self-inflicted, possible suicide attempt
By Allen D. Payton
After Antioch Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe made a statement on his official Instagram account on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024, about the recent spate of 14 shootings in Antioch this month and claiming they “are being investigated as gang-rivalries” the Antioch Police leaders provided more accurate information and details on Monday. During an afternoon press briefing Lt. Desmond Bittner of the APD Investigations Bureau said, “We can’t say for sure it’s gang related. I’m sure it probably plays a factor.”
Following the briefing regarding the shootings, including four over the past week, Bittner repeated much of what he shared in a press release issued later Monday afternoon. It offers information about a previously unreported 15th shooting that occurred yesterday, Sunday, Sept. 22nd, which was a possible attempted suicide.
The police lieutenant wrote, “Over the past week, officers have responded to four additional shootings. Of the four shootings, one appears to be related to the shootings that began on September 2nd following the shooting death of Elijah Scales. The related shooting occurred on September 21st at 7:56 pm, in the 1100 block of Sycamore Drive. At least 17 bullets were fired, and three nearby businesses were struck by the gunfire. Fortunately, no one was struck (Report 24-8510).” (See related article)
Four Unrelated Shootings
“The three shootings listed below have no relation to the shootings that occurred September 2nd – 16th,” the press release continued. “We have also determined the shooting that occurred on Monday, September 16th at the Contra Costa County Fairgrounds has no relation to the string of shootings.
Sunday, 9/22, 5:27 am (Carpinteria Drive) – Report 24-8523. Self-inflicted gunshot wound. The man is currently in stable condition.
Sunday, 9/22, 9:21 am (20 E. 18th Street) – Report 24-8527. At least eight rounds fired. One man was shot and is currently in critical condition. One woman was also shot and has since been treated and released from a local hospital. (See related article)”
Bittner then shared the list of the other shootings and again asked for the public’s help to identify the suspects as they are currently unknown. (See related article)
Addington shared earlier that the shooting of the “18-year-old on Cavallo was an isolated incident, the shooting at Rite Aid (on E. 18th Street Sunday morning) is unrelated” to the others. About all the other shootings Addington added, “It’s a turf issue.”
Additional Details from Monday Press Briefing
During the press briefing, Investigations Lieutenant Bittner said, “I can’t say for certain that all the shootings are related to the initial homicide Elijah Scales that happened on September 2nd. But we believe that they’re related, not all of them. They’re still under investigation, all of them. We haven’t made any arrests on them. We can tell you…the shooting that occurred at the Contra Costa County Fairgrounds, that one is not related in any way.”
“And then the shootings that happened this past weekend…on Cavallo and Sunset, that we do not believe is related to anything from the Sycamore corridor from the Elijah Scales shooting,” he continued. “The same for the shooting that occurred on East 18th Street and A, that’s not related, either…to anything on the Sycamore corridor.”
“The shooting that happened the other night (Saturday) in the 1100 block of Sycamore…at least 17 rounds fired, nobody was struck,” Bittner stated. “Three of the businesses were hit by gunfire.” He was referring to the Sycamore Square shopping center.
“We did have a shooting on Cavallo. This was the 16th, I believe,” the lieutenant continued. “A male was shot at a memorial location for Elijah Scales. The last we were aware he was still in critical condition and that’s still under investigation.”
Asked for an update on the man shot at the shopping center on Sunday Bittner said, “He’s still in critical condition. That’s still under investigation.”
Asked by another reporter, “are we talking about feuding groups of gangs?” the lieutenant responded, “It’s hard to say. We can’t say for sure it’s gang related. I’m sure it probably plays a factor. That’s something we’re still investigating.”
Asked for any message he wanted to put out to the public Bittner said, “My message is pretty similar to what the chief said last week and that this isn’t going to be tolerated, and everybody deserves to live in a safe community, and we just want to keep things as safe as possible and all this needs to stop. So, we’re going to do all we can to make sure this comes to a stop.”
Asked by the other reporter if Elijah Scales was known to the police for any previous criminal activity, he said, “Not that I’m aware of.” Asked about the man who was shot at Scales’ memorial Bittner said, “I think he was in his late- to mid-40’s and he was an associate of Elijah Scales’ family.” Asked if the shooting was a drive-up, drive-by or walk-up the lieutenant responded, “I believe it was a drive-by.”
“All our officers on the patrol level are doing a great job responding quickly conducting thorough investigations,” Bittner stated. “And then if it rises to the level of where our investigators come out, our investigators are doing the same thing. Every case like this, every shooting we take seriously. We do very detailed, thorough investigations. We do all we can to try and identify the people responsible.”
Asked what he would say to residents who might be concerned or are scared the lieutenant responded, “I’d say try to be vigilant. If you see something that doesn’t look right, notify the police. If you do hear gunfire, do the right thing, call the police and let us know. Be a good witness.”
Bittner was also asked for any motive for the shooting on Sunday and said, “At this point we’re still working on it. We don’t have a motive identified.”
Asked about the suspects who were seen walking away from the scene of that shooting the lieutenant said, “I believe we have some strong leads as far as suspects, vehicles and so forth. So, that case is looking good. I’m pretty confident we’ll get it resolved.”
Anyone with information can contact Investigations Sergeant Bill Whitaker at (925) 779-6876 or wwhitaker@antiochca.gov or Detective Cox at (925) 481-8147 or by email jcox@antiochca.gov.
Was not provided to local media to promote and share with readers
Scathing comments directed at council
City staff provide questions, responses but won’t say how they guaranteed only Antioch residents participated, stats on hiring process, nor when Bessie Mae Scott will start, Ogorchock says Monday, Oct. 7th
By Allen D. Payton
During the council meeting on August 28, 2024, when the new city manager, Bessie Marie Scott was hired on a 3-2 vote, District 1 Councilmember Tamisha Torres-Walker said a survey had been taken as part of her argument that the hiring process had been transparent to the public. After waiting for three weeks to obtain information about the public survey the City of Antioch conducted, Human Resources Department Director Ana Cortez provided the details. They include the questions, responses and the number of participants provided through the Survey Monkey website. The greatest number of people who answered any of the six questions during the 10-day survey was just 21. The survey also allowed general comments to several of the questions, which included many that were critical of the mayor and the city council, and several complaints about the homeless, crime and lack of police. The responses were received between March 20th and 30th.
Following the council meeting that night, Cortez, City Attorney Thomas Lloyd Smith and members of his department staff were asked how many responses the survey received, how did it guarantee only Antioch residents participated, when and where was the public survey about the city manager position shared and for them to provide a copy of the questions and results. They were informed the Herald was not provided information about the survey so that it could be shared with our readers for greater participation.
They were also asked for Ms. Scott’s start date, how many candidates applied, withdrew from the process and were interviewed by the city council.
The questions were sent again on Wednesday, Sept. 18 and to Councilmembers Lori Ogorchock and Mike Barbanica asking for their assistance in obtaining the information and answers. The councilwoman responded simply, “Working on it”. On Thursday, Sept. 19, Cortez responded with the following: “Please see below the link to the survey for the City Manager search. You will find the questions that were asked and the results.”
Cortez also said, “The Survey was shared in our social media outlets – City of Antioch’s Facebook page, Instagram, and website. The survey with a QR Code was posted outside the City Council Chambers and on the HR front door.” But it was not shared with any of the local media that covers the City of Antioch.
Of the six questions with preselected multiple-choice answers included in the survey, 21 people answered four, 16 answered one and 15 provided additional comments. Following are the questions and all of the responses:
Q1 Which type of leader should Antioch have as its City Manager? (Please prioritize most important as 1 and least important as 5. Select up to 5.) Answered: 21 Skipped: 0
Chart of responses to survey Question 1. Source: City of AntiochResponses to survey Question 1. Source: City of Antioch
Comments (7)
“They not be a yesman to Thorpe. We’ve seen Con Johnson fired for leaking to DA. Kwame is a yesman. FORD says he will come back if Thorpes not in office… so that tells me Thorpe did or asked Ford to be unethical. Thorpe dictatorship should not have an iota of say in this hiring.” 3/30/2024 06:46 AM
“Leader- lead by example” 3/25/2024 09:01 PM
“Not influenced by Mayor and City Council” 3/25/2024 03:01 PM
“They are not aligned with any one individual (mayor) and vote their own mind and their actions speak louder than their words.” 3/23/2024 02:02 PM
“Someone who is not scared to go against others in order to make things right. Someone who is not in bed with dirty politicians or dirty authority figures. Someone who will call out when wrong is wrong. Someone who will stand up and fight against the petty theft’s, vehicle and home burglaries juvenile violence.” 3/20/2024 04:06 PM
“We need someone that cares about the residents. Making care of our roads and infrastructure a priority.” 3/20/2024 02:12 PM
“Antioch is facing so many pivotal moments right now- will we continue to be viewed as the new dump of the east bay or can we make a comeback? A city manager will need to act quickly to solve the most pressing problems we are facing.” 3/20/2024 12:22 PM
Chart of responses to Question 2. Source: City of Antioch
Q2 Which three of the following management styles do you believe are essential for the City Manager to successfully lead Antioch? Please prioritize most important as 1 and leat [sic] important as 3. Select up to 3). Answered: 21 Skipped: 0
Source: City of Antioch
Comments (5)
“City directives by council members.. if they are illegal, Unethical the City manager should report such incidents to the DA office.l” 3/30/2024 06:46 AM
“Be involved with other agencies in the City- bridge the gap” 3/25/2024 09:01 PM
“Find a way to get the mentally ill people wandering our streets vandalizing our businesses removed so law abiding citizens feel safe on our streets.” 3/20/2024 02:12 PM
“Stand up to the current mayor and not follow in his destructive path the city is on.” 3/20/2024 01:21 PM
“Just lead strong!!! And be honest! We are desperate for a change.” 3/20/2024 12:22 PM
Chart shows total answers to each of the responses for Question 3. Source: City of Antioch
Q3 Which five of the following abilities and skills do you believe are most essential to perform the work of the City Manager? Answered: 21 Skipped: 0
Answer Choices
Responses
Skill in conflict resolution and collective bargaining experience
71.43% 15
Skill in City finance
66.67% 14
Experience working on racial equity issues
14.29% 3
Ability to work with a City Council that sometimes have differing opinions and perspectives
66.67% 14
Ability and desire to really listen
52.38% 11
Ability to recruit and develop a diverse workforce
19.05% 4
Ability to work together and openly with members of the community
42.86% 9
Ability to build diverse teams within the organization
23.81% 5
Ability to remain focused on the City’s long-term goals
61.90% 13
Ability to challenge the status quo and view issues through a racial equity lens
“Ability to stand up and not allow a councilmember or mayor to wrongfully influence or threaten them.” 3/30/2024 07:49 AM
“Equity is just a term to not treat people Equal. I want a person who doesn’t use the race cardvas [sic] an excuse. Buy lifts up ALL citizens of Antioch.” 3/30/2024 06:46 AM
“Ability to recognize, retain great employees and promote.” 3/25/2024 09:01 PM
“All of the above.” 3/22/2024 09:01 PM
“Listen to all of the community no matter what race they are.” 3/20/2024 02:12 PM
“Someone who can focus on the task right now. Yes, the long-term goals, but we have so many urgent immediate problems to solve. Someone who can get to work quickly and make immediate changes for the better.” 3/20/2024 12:22 PM
Q4 What are the top three positive trends you see in Antioch that the next City Manager will encounter upon starting in their new role? Answered: 16 Skipped: 5
Answer Choice 1 (16 responses)
“Open mind.” 3/30/2024 08:41 PM
“Getting a new mayor.” 3/30/2024 09:04 AM
“Residents determined to see the city succeed.” 3/30/2024 07:49 AM
“Do not be a yes man to Thorpe.” 3/30/2024 06:46 AM
“Future planning.” 3/28/2024 05:08 PM
“New mayor.” 3/25/2024 11:27 PM
“Hopefully the transition of a new mayor.” 3/23/2024 02:02 PM
“Hiring qualified employees at all positions.” 3/22/2024 09:01 PM
“Hopefully new Mayor and council.” 3/21/2024 08:00 AM
“The developer, Sean McCauley.” 3/20/2024 07:45 PM
“A growing community.” 3/20/2024 04:06 PM
“Police staff strengthened.” 3/20/2024 02:21 PM
“There are no positives right now.” 3/20/2024 01:21 PM
“Homeless and their destruction.” 3/20/2024 12:22 PM
“Current mayors term being up soon.” 3/20/2024 11:06 AM
“Clean up the trash from the homeless.” 3/20/2024 09:25 AM
Answer Choice 2 (12 responses)
“Visionary.” 3/30/2024 08:41 PM
“New council members.” 3/30/2024 09:04 AM
“Treat people Equal.” 3/30/2024 06:46 AM
“Working with all department heads.” 3/28/2024 05:08 PM
“City folks ready for a change.” 3/25/2024 11:27 PM
“Hopefully the transition of a new dynamic city council.” 3/23/2024 02:02 PM
“Not to hire friends of elected people.” 3/22/2024 09:01 PM
“Community Events throughout the City.” 3/20/2024 07:45 PM
“New Mayor in 2025” 3/20/2024 02:21 PM
“Trash!!!!! Everywhere. Antioch is called the new dump.” 3/20/2024 12:22 PM
“City cleaning up homeless encampments.” 3/20/2024 11:06 AM
“Stopping the side shows.” 3/20/2024 09:25 AM
Answer Choice 3 (11 responses)
“Positive growth in equity for every citizens.” 3/30/2024 08:41 PM
“Get Police staffing levels back up.” 3/30/2024 09:04 AM
“Be the best qualified for the job, not hire due to skin one.” 3/30/2024 06:46 AM
“Forecasting budget.” 3/28/2024 05:08 PM
“Future growth.” 3/25/2024 11:27 PM
“Developing a better public persona and face for city of Antioch.” 3/23/2024 02:02 PM
“Safe Streets (speed bumps).” 3/20/2024 07:45 PM
“New council members in 2025.” 3/20/2024 02:21 PM
“Rebuilding the run down, boarded up, sad looking shopping centers and streets.” 3/20/2024 12:22 PM
“Police being fully staffed.” 3/20/2024 11:06 AM
“Getting the police department back up and running right. Backing the new police chief.” 3/20/2024 09:25 AM
Q5 What are the top three challenges you think will face the new City Manager? Answered: 21 Skipped: 0
Answer Choice 1 (21 responses)
“City Council.” 3/30/2024 08:41 PM
“Lamar Thorpe Hernandez.” 3/30/2024 09:04 AM
“the mayor.” 3/30/2024 08:57 AM
“Worst crime city has ever encountered.” 3/30/2024 07:49 AM
“Working with corrupt city council’s members.” 3/30/2024 06:46 AM
“Transition.” 3/28/2024 05:08 PM
“City council.” 3/25/2024 11:27 PM
“Violence in community.” 3/25/2024 09:01 PM
“Homelessness.” 3/25/2024 03:01 PM
“Bad representation on the city council.” 3/23/2024 02:02 PM
“Stop the racism that the black residents create.” 3/22/2024 09:01 PM
“Budget restrictions.” 3/21/2024 08:00 AM
“Reckless driving.” 3/20/2024 07:45 PM
“Not enough police staff.” 3/20/2024 04:06 PM
“Homeless.” 3/20/2024 02:21 PM
“Homelessness.” 3/20/2024 02:12 PM
“Thorpe.” 3/20/2024 01:21 PM
“Lamar Thorpe and his oppressive nature to others.” 3/20/2024 12:22 PM
“Member of the city council.” 3/20/2024 11:06 AM
“Deal with a dysfunctional city council.” 3/20/2024 09:49 AM
“The mayor and his groupies.” 3/20/2024 09:25 AM
Answer Choice 2 (21 responses)
“Police Officers Association.” 3/30/2024 08:41 PM
“Tamisha Walker Torres.” 3/30/2024 09:04 AM
“people caring more about the criminals than the law abiding citizens.” 3/30/2024 08:57 AM
“Lack of folks wanting to work for the city of Antioch due to current leadership.” 3/30/2024 07:49 AM
“Dealing with Antiochs deficit spending in a responsible way.” 3/30/2024 06:46 AM
“If he’s an outsider familiarity with us.” 3/28/2024 05:08 PM
“Loitering: contributing to majority of theft in the neighborhoods.” 3/20/2024 07:45 PM
“Huge rise is petty crimes, burglaries of homes and cars, juvenile delinquency.” 3/20/2024 04:06 PM
“Crime.” 3/20/2024 02:21 PM
“Crime.” 3/20/2024 02:12 PM
“Wilson.” 3/20/2024 01:21 PM
“Not having the freedom to clean up the city (too much red tape and not enough support).” 3/20/2024 12:22 PM
“People who don’t care about the state of the city.” 3/20/2024 11:06 AM
“Deal with a community that is not proud of its city anumore [sic].” 3/20/2024 09:49 AM
“The crime.” 3/20/2024 09:25 AM
Answer Choice 3 (19 responses)
“Back the Blue advocates.” 3/30/2024 08:41 PM
“Lack of Police.” 3/30/2024 09:04 AM
“Homeless.” 3/30/2024 08:57 AM
“A Mayor who continually ‘strong arms’ the City Manager.” 3/30/2024 07:49 AM
“Dealing with policies presented to council that is not good for the whole of Antioch.” 3/30/2024 06:46 AM
“Staffing city office with decent people.” 3/25/2024 11:27 PM
“Economy in Antioch.” 3/25/2024 09:01 PM
“Businesses leaving.” 3/25/2024 03:01 PM
“Economic development of a dying city.” 3/23/2024 02:02 PM
“Business closures.” 3/21/2024 08:00 AM
“Homelessness.” 3/20/2024 07:45 PM
“Homelessness and city up keeping.” 3/20/2024 04:06 PM
“Blight.” 3/20/2024 02:21 PM
“Economic development.” 3/20/2024 02:12 PM
“Walker.” 3/20/2024 01:21 PM
“The city council not supporting the new city manger [sic].” 3/20/2024 12:22 PM
“Crime.” 3/20/2024 11:06 AM
“Deal with money being wasted.” 3/20/2024 09:49 AM
“Finding good people to work for the city.” 3/20/2024 09:25 AM
Q6 Do you have any other comments related to the recruitment for Antioch’s next City Manager? Answered: 15 Skipped: 6. Following are the 15 responses:
“We need a woman in this position.” 3/30/2024 08:41 PM
“pretty bad when I can’t see anything positive that this city council and mayor has done,” 3/30/2024 08:57 AM
“we have a corrupt City council, that have conspired to gerrymander, that don’t care about Brown Act Violations. Good freaking luck.” 3/30/2024 06:46 AM
“Some people can have the ambition and desire to make the city anew without a college degree. We have all seen the past folks with a degree it doesn’t mean nothing. Find someone willing to grow and learn with the community and some experience but is passionate about the job. That makes a difference.” 3/25/2024 11:27 PM
“I want someone who will be able to bring someone that can work with the community. Gap or bridge the City with other agencies in the community to help our youth, elder community, single moms, by bringing jobs, create programs for youth, community, sustainability grants to continue growing our city. We need to turn around Antioch. Antioch is becoming a hard community to live where all you see and hear about in the news is crime, death. We want to be able to have someone that can hear the community’s needs and make something happen.” 3/25/2024 09:01 PM
“Get someone who has experience with turning around a blighted and dying city. Someone who will not be influenced by the Mayor or the City Council but will just do what is right and be tough. All of the innovative programs and projects don’t matter because our city is overrun by gun violence, gang violence, drug dealing, sideshows, idiots racing through the streets on dirt bikes, shoplifting, burglary, and homeless camps everywhere! Businesses are leaving, good citizens are leaving, we are going to leave if the Mayor is reelected because he’s a bully and people can’t get things done at the City, Find a mature and tough, experienced, city manager of ANY race and ANY gender; just someone who knows how to fix these problems that are literally killing our beautiful city, don’t listen to the idiots in the city council, just tell them to pipe down and get Antioch back on its feet!! Pittsburg did it, we can too.” 3/25/2024 03:01 PM
“Good luck!” 3/23/2024 02:02 PM
“Antioch has become a hot mess. The new City Manager will have his work cut out for him. Hopefully he will get to work with a new mayor and city council that will have the city in their best interest both economically and financially. Money needs to be spent wisely and Antioch needs to be cleaned up.” 3/21/2024 08:00 AM
“This City used to feel like home and now it’s just where I live. It’s so sad to see the deterioration of this once beautiful family oriented community.” 3/20/2024 07:45 PM
“If we could please recruit someone who isn’t scared to go against the grain. Someone who isn’t a yes man. Someone who has a vision for Antioch and wants to charge those that contribute to torment of the residents. Someone who reinforces the police department and wants the best for the department to flourish and serve its residents. Someone who will utilize funds to clean the city up and make it was it was 20 years ago. Someone who will bring businesses back to life and encourage tourism. People are moving out of Antioch because of the violence and no follow through of crimes by our DA’s office. We need someone who isn’t scared and stands up against anyone in the wrong. Be a voice for us long time Antioch residents.” 3/20/2024 04:06 PM
“First and foremost we need a Mayor that stays in his own lane so the City Manager and City staff can do their jobs.” 3/20/2024 02:12 PM
“We have all been waiting a very long time. We feel broken, tired, frustrated and hopeless. Let’s hope this doesn’t end up another dead end and disappointment.” 3/20/2024 12:22 PM
“Would prefer someone not associated with any member of the current council” 3/20/2024 11:06 AM
“Be tough and not be intimidated by anything or anyone” 3/20/2024 09:49 AM
“Some one that has common sense” 3/20/2024 09:25 AM
More Questions for City Staff
Because no answers to the other questions posed to Cortez, City Attorney Smith and his staff, they were again asked the same as well as some additional questions. Those included, “Since it doesn’t show any details about the residency of the participants how did the survey ensure only Antioch residents participated? Did they have to provide their home address or mark a box confirming they are an Antioch resident? Who developed the questions?”
“Is a total of 21 participants an adequate sampling out of approximately 115,000 residents in Antioch? How many responses were you hoping for? Did the city council direct you to conduct the survey? When? Was it during public or closed session?
Finally, they were asked, “Since so few people participated, do you think in the future it would be best to send out an announcement with a link to the survey to the local media to inform the public so more people will know about it?”
But they did not respond.
When asked later for the new city manager’s start date, Ogorchock said, “October 7th is what she shared with us.”
Please check back later for any updates to this report.
OTHER UNRELATED QUESTIONS FOR THOMAS RE Former City Employees and Comments Made About Them by Councilmembers Following Separation of Employment
Thomas, regarding the comments by the mayor about both Ron Bernal and Con Johnson in which he disclosed some information regarding their employment and separation, did what he say violate their rights?
Can councilmembers speak publicly about former city employees and things that were said and done while they were still employed with the City or the reasons for their separation from employment?
The bicyclist and victim of the fatal hit-and-run was 29-year-old mother of two, Linda Woolridge. Herald file photo
By Sgt. Rob Green #3639, Antioch Police Traffic Unit
The Antioch Police Department traffic unit has continued to work diligently over the past several weeks on the investigation of a fatal hit-and-run traffic collision that took the life of a 29-year-old female bicyclist on July 27, 2024. It occurred in the area of Lone Tree Way and Sagebrush Drive. (See related article).
The case has been filed with the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office. Charges are as follows: Vehicular Manslaughter – PC 192(C)(1)-Felony, DUI causing death – VC 23153(a)-Felony, Hit and Run causing death – VC 20001-Felony.
NCQA rates Kaiser Permanente Northern California’s Medicare and commercial health plans highest in California, among highest in nation
By Antonia Ehlers, PR and Media Relations, Kaiser Permanente Northern California
OAKLAND, Calif.– Kaiser Permanente Northern California’s health plans are once again recognized as the highest rated in California – and among the highest in the nation – for providing expert, coordinated care, and exceptional service.
Kaiser Permanente’s Medicare and commercial health plans in Northern California each received 4.5 out of 5 stars, according to the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) 2024 Health Plan Ratings. This is the ninth ratings period that Kaiser Permanente Northern California has been the highest-rated plan in the region and among the highest in the country. Nationally, only 8% of the health plans are rated 4.5 stars or higher.
NCQA also ranks Kaiser Permanente Northern California health plans as best in the state for overall treatment, prevention, equity, and patient experience.
“Kaiser Permanente Northern California is a national leader when it comes to putting patient care first, and ensuring we are exceeding our members’ needs with a focus on providing high-quality, safe, and equitable care,” said Carrie Owen Plietz, FACHE, president of Kaiser Permanente’s Northern California region. “This NCQA recognition reiterates our commitment to delivering world-class service to those who entrust us with their care.”
Source: NCQA
For 2024, NCQA analyzed more than 1,000 plans – commercial, Medicare, and Medicaid – for quality and service nationwide. All of Kaiser Permanente’s commercial and Medicare plans received the highest rating, or were tied for the highest rating, in all of the geographic regions we serve. Kaiser Permanente had more 5-star or 4.5-star plans than any other health care organization for the ninth ratings cycle in a row.
“This exceptional rating from NCQA is yet another testament to the expert and coordinated care provided by our clinical teams in Northern California,” said Maria Ansari, MD, FACC, CEO and executive director of The Permanente Medical Group. “Our highly skilled physicians and dedicated care teams continue to deliver innovative and equitable care that translates to healthier lives for our 4.6 million patients.”
Source: NCQA
NCQA is a national, private not-for-profit organization that surveys health plans for performance in a wide range of clinical service measures including consumer experience, prevention, equity, and treatment.
NCQA primarily used the 2023 Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set, or HEDIS®, to establish its ratings. HEDIS is the most widely used performance measurement tool in health care.
The 2024 ratings and methodology are posted on the NCQA’s website at https://www.ncqa.org/.
Antioch Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe announced on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024, that the recent shootings are part of “gang rivalries”. Sources: The mayor’s Instagram & Herald file photos
Informs public instead of police chiefabout efforts, requests following violence ending in deaths of two men
Also suggests possibly “restricting access” to the city’s two high-crime neighborhoods, a “curfew”, asking “governor to send the National Guard“
“There are gang overtures to this 100%. But I do think there are other motives,” – Interim Chief Brian Addington who has already requested help from DA, CHP.
“We can’t say for sure it’s gang related. I’m sure it probably plays a factor. That’s something we’re still investigating.” – Investigations Lt. Desmond Bittner
By Allen D. Payton
In a post on his official Instagram account on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024, Antioch Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe said the spate of recent shootings in the city are due to a gang war. As of Sunday morning, there have been 14 shootings this month, two that resulted in the deaths of two young men, ages 20 and 18, and are now being investigated as homicides, and one of businesses and a vehicle. The mayor made the announcement while standing alone at the podium inside the Council Chambers and reading from prepared remarks. He’s asking the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office, regional law enforcement partners and CHP to help the City’s depleted police force which is currently down 40 sworn officers from 115 approved by the council. Hernandez-Thorpe also said, “if the violence does not subside,” he is “calling on the governor to send the National Guard”.
The mayor wants a multiple-agency effort to stop the gun violence including possibly the National Guard.
In his announcement he said, “My fellow Antioch residents, I’m Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe. No resident should live in fear. Absolutely no one. Especially in the city of Antioch. Unfortunately, residents in the Sycamore corridor and off of Cavallo Road have experienced an unprecedented level of gun violence as a result of a man who was killed on September 2nd.” However, the individual shot on September 2nd died of his injuries while in the hospital on Sept. 5th. (See related articles here and here)
“Those communities have experienced over two weeks, two weeks of unnecessary shootings. We believe that the shootings are retaliatory in nature and are being investigated as gang-rivalries,” the mayor stated. “As a result of the violence, we’ve added extra patrols to the Sycamore community at undisclosed times.”
“Since this appears to be retaliatory in nature, yesterday, another individual was a victim of gun violence around Cavallo Road,” Hernandez-Thorpe continued. (See related articles here and here)
“These gangs, let me be very clear. These gangs have no regard for human life, they have no regard for law enforcement, and they have no regard for you or me,” he stated. “Therefore, I’m calling on the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office to support the Antioch Police Department, through the Safe Streets Task Force. We need your help, both immediately and for long-term eradication of these gangs.”
“We also need to hold these gang members accountable to the fullest extent of the law.
“I’m also calling for mutual assistance from our regional law enforcement partners so that we can continue to add more patrols to both the Sycamore and Cavallo Road.
“Lastly, I’m calling on Governor Newsom for more CHP support to again, support our efforts in Cavallo Road and in the Sycamore corridor.
“Since the start of the wave of gun violence, I’ve been in constant communication with the Antioch police chief and Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker who represents both these communities.
“I’m also in constant communication with local leaders and faith leaders who I will be meeting with tomorrow to see if we can develop community-led solutions to some of these challenges and to reassure the public that we’re working on this.
“If the violence does not subside, I will continue to push for tougher action and tougher measures to end the violence. That will include restricting access to the Sycamore community and restricting access to Cavallo Road.” However, the most recent shooting, which injured a man and a woman on Sunday morning, occurred in the parking lot of the Antioch Square shopping center located on the corner of W. 18th and A Streets. (See related article)
The mayor also proposed “a curfew and calling on the governor to send the National Guard so we can bring an end to the gun violence.”
“I can’t reiterate that no community, no resident in the city of Antioch should live in fear. We will work hard to bring an end to this violence,” he concluded.
In addition to the 13 shootings of individuals in September resulting in two deaths, a 14th shooting occurred Saturday night of businesses and a vehicle on Sycamore Drive. (See related article)
Regarding the Safe Streets Task Force the Contra Costa DA’s Office shares, “In collaboration with the FBI, the Office has formulated a countywide task force to fight violent crime on a countywide basis. The task force includes several FBI agents, investigators from the District Attorney’s Office, and officers from the Pittsburg, Antioch, and Richmond Police Departments, and the Sheriff’s Office. This task force will operate throughout the county in innovative ways to reduce violent crime.”
Ogorchock Not Aware of Gang War or Mayor’s Announcement, Barbanica Said He Knew, Wanted Chief to Provide Proper Information
Asked if she was aware of the mayor’s announcement, District 3 Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock said, “I had no idea. I don’t know this is a gang war.”
District 2 Councilman Mike Barbanica said he was aware, but the former police lieutenant shared, “Do I have some information about the shootings? Of course. There’s a reason I haven’t gone public with it. I want to be very careful…I want it coming from the police department because they know what they can and can’t release and to not interfere with the investigations.”
“I told the mayor the general public needs to understand what’s occurring, here,” he continued. “There are people out there in fear and we need to calm down the fear and have the police department let the public know. What does he do? He goes out and does his own press release. That’s not how it’s done.”
“As politicians we’re given information prior to it going to the public,” Barbanica stated. “I’m not going to comment on a gang war or anything, because I don’t want to interfere with the investigations.”
“If the police department has information they want to share that’s fine,” the councilman continued. “Not a local politician who doesn’t have all the information. The last thing we want to do is hamper an investigation by releasing the wrong information. I’m all for the public being informed but by the right source, with what is deemed appropriate for the public to know at this point. It’s a balancing act.”
Questions for Hernandez-Thorpe
Questions were sent to Hernandez-Thorpe was Monday morning asking who told him that the recent shootings are part of a gang war and when did you learn it, if the information was shared with all the council members and if has contacted District Attorney Diana Becton about the matter and what shared in his announcement.
The mayor was also asked if he still believes the shootings from this gang war are due to a lack of jobs for the individuals involved, as he mentioned in a TV news interview last week.
He did not respond prior to publication time.
Questions for City Manager, Police Chief
In addition, a link to the mayor’s Instagram video and questions were sent to Acting City Manager Kwame Reed and Interim Police Chief Brian Addington asking to confirm what Hernandez-Thorpe announced, that the shootings are part of a gang war.
They were also asked where he obtained his information, when was it shared with him, and if it was also shared with all the council members. The two city staff leaders were also asked if they knew Hernandez-Thorpe was going to announce it and did they want the public to know that information.
Finally, they were asked what can be done with the DA’s Office and the Governor’s office to help.
Police Chief Says More Officers Assigned to Sycamore Area, Has Asked CHP, DA’s Task Force for Help
In response, Addington said, “It’s no secret that we’ve been in contact with the CHP and they’ve sent in patrols three times. We post it every time on our social media. They’ve come out three different days and worked a 10-hour shift. I believe it’s been six CHP Officers. But they haven’t been able to send anyone out for the past couple months. So, I reached out to them to let them know we’ve had several shootings and asked for their assistance.”
“They’re also doing this in Oakland and San Francisco,” he added.
Asked about the Safe Streets Task Force, the chief said, “That’s always been an option. It used to be the FBI’s but now it’s run by the DA’s office. I’ve been in contact with them on Friday and on Sunday.”
“They’re move of an investigative task force. Due to staffing levels, we haven’t been able to have an Antioch officer assigned there. So, we’re looking to do that.
“I don’t want to say the DA’s office doesn’t work collaboratively with us on these violent crimes because they do,” Addington stated. “We just are asking what else they can do. If we assign one of our investigators to their task force, what else does that bring. They said, it brings additional investigatory resources.”
Asked about additional information on the shootings the chief said, “Anything official on the cases will come from the police department. There are gang overtures to this 100%. But I do think there are other motives. We’re actively investigating and making progress. This information changes as we investigation. These are all very fluid. We corroborate and eliminate information pretty rapidly in these investigations.”
“The officers that we have assigned to Sycamore on Friday have already reduced the shootings, there,” he said. “We’ve had meetings with our faith-based leaders, as well.”
“If the community has any information about the shootings, please contact Detective Cox,” the chief added. His contact information is (925) 481-8147 or by email jcox@antiochca.gov.
Addington said the police department will provide more information about the shootings Monday afternoon.
Department Staffing Update
About department staffing and the addition of sworn officers he shared, “We’re doing everything we can to get things under control. We have seven new officers in the Field Training right now, and some of them are laterals. Our numbers are improving but it takes time. We have 17 total in or are scheduled to go to the academy. I guarantee we will have more who will go before the academies start.”
Antioch Police Investigations Lieutenant Desmond Bittner during a press briefing on the shootings on Monday, Sept. 23, 2024. Facebook Live video screenshot by Allen D. Payton
UPDATE 1: During the press briefing Monday afternoon, Lt. Desmond Bittner said, “I can’t say for certain that all the shootings are related to the initial homicide Elijah Scales that happened on September 2nd. But we believe that they’re related, not all of them. They’re still under investigation, all of them. We haven’t made any arrests on them. We can tell you…the shooting that occurred at the Contra Costa County Fairgrounds, that one is not related in any way.”
“And then the shootings that happened this past weekend…on Cavallo and Sunset, that we do not believe is related to anything from the Sycamore corridor from the Elijah Scales shooting,” he continued. “The same for the shooting that occurred on East 18th Street and A, that’s not related, either…to anything on the Sycamore corridor.”
“The shooting that happened the other night (Saturday) in the 1100 block of Sycamore…at least 17 rounds fired, nobody was struck,” Bittner stated. “Three of the businesses were hit by gunfire.”
“We did have a shooting on Cavallo. This was the 16th, I believe,” the lieutenant continued. “A male was shot at a memorial location for Elijah Scales. The last we were aware he was still in critical condition and that’s still under investigation.”
Asked for an update on the man shot at the shopping center on Sunday Bittner said, “He’s still in critical condition. That’s still under investigation.”
Asked by another reporter, “are we talking about feuding groups of gangs,” the lieutenant responded, “It’s hard to say. We can’t say for sure it’s gang related. I’m sure it probably plays a factor. That’s something we’re still investigating.”
Asked for any message he wanted to put out to the public Bittner said, “My message is pretty similar to what the chief said last week and that this isn’t going to be tolerated, and everybody deserves to live in a safe community, and we just want to keep things as safe as possible and all this needs to stop. So, we’re going to do all we can to make sure this comes to a stop.”
Asked by another reporter if Elijah Scales was known to the police for any previous criminal activity, he said, “Not that I’m aware of.”
Asked about the man who was shot at Scales’ memorial Bittner said, “I think he was in his late- to mid-40’s and he was an associate of Elijah Scales’ family.” Asked if the shooting was a drive-up, drive-by or walk-up the lieutenant responded, “I believe it was a drive-by.”
“All our officers on the patrol level are doing a great job responding quickly conducting thorough investigations,” Bittner stated. “And then if it rises to the level of where our investigators come out, our investigators are doing the same thing. Every case like this, every shooting we take seriously. We do very detailed, thorough investigations. We do all we can to try and identify the people responsible.”
Asked what he would say to residents who might be concerned or are scared the lieutenant responded, “I’d say try to be vigilant. If you see something that doesn’t look right, notify the police. If you do hear gunfire, do the right thing, call the police and let us know. Be a good witness.”
Bittner was also asked for any motive for the shooting on Sunday and said, “At this point we’re still working on it. We don’t have a motive identified.”
Asked about the suspects who were seen walking away from the scene the lieutenant said, “I believe we have some strong leads as far as suspects, vehicles and so forth. So, that case is looking good. I’m pretty confident we’ll get it resolved.”
Addington also added, the shooting of the “18-year-old on Cavallo was an isolated incident, the shooting at Rite Aid (on Sunday morning) is unrelated” to the others and “one of the shootings had a domestic aspect to it.”
About the other shootings Addison added, “It’s a turf issue.” (See related article)
Please check back later for any other updates to this report.
