By Allen Payton

On the Fellowship Church Facebook page Thursday night, the following message was posted: Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update:

Due to the recent state mandate recommendation, we will be holding only services only this weekend.

Join us on YouTube and Facebook this Sunday at 10:00AM to worship with us!

We believe that the Church, not fear, can shine the brightest in times like these!

In addition, Pastor Shaun Nepstad shared a video with the following message:

“We’re taking the necessary precautions, during this time and we’re asking God, ‘God, what are you trying to say to us?’ Just like in every season when the world is looking for hope and healing, the Church can rise up and be that for them. Listen everyone, God is still on the Throne and he will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is staid on Jesus.

“Now, the virus is serious and we’re not acting out of fear. We’re acting out of love and wisdom. California has just placed a ban on gatherings over 250 people. So, in compliance with our government, our lead team has made the decision that we will be cancelling services for this weekend and we will be cancelling the launch of our Brentwood location.”

“Here’s the good news everybody. We’re going to be streaming our service at 10:00 am Sunday morning on Facebook Live and on YouTube.”

For more information visit www.thefellowshipchurch.com.

By Allen Payton

As of Friday, March 13, 2020, the schools in the Antioch Unified School District will close for the remainder of the month beginning Monday, March 16.

In a Facebook post Friday morning she wrote:

AN IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT FROM SUPERINTENDENT ANELLO REGARDING COVID-19 AND SCHOOL CLOSURES (3/13/20 @ 10:20 am)

Good Morning,

After careful consideration, the Antioch Unified School District will close all schools beginning Monday March 16th. School will resume following Spring Break on March 30th. However, we ask that families have a contingency plan for the week of March 30th should it be necessary to keep schools closed. At this time, we do not know if the missed days will need to be made up at a later date, but will keep our families informed once we confirm that.

Schools will remain open today. However, parents/guardians who feel more comfortable not sending their child to school and/or picking up their child can do so and the absence will be excused.

During the March 16th through March 27th closure of schools, students who receive free and reduced lunch can get meals Monday through Friday at any of the following locations and at the following times (please note the meals will be ‘grab and go’):

Belshaw Elementary: 8:00-8:30 am, 12:00-12:30 pm

Fremont Elementary: 8:00-8:30 am, 12:00-12:30 pm

Lone Tree Elementary: 11:30-12:30 pm

Marsh Elementary: 8:00-8:30 am, 12:00-12:30 pm

Muir Elementary: 8:00-8:30 am, 12:00-12:30 pm

Park Middle School: 8:00-8:30 am, 12:15-1:00 pm

Turner Elementary: 11:30 am -12:30 pm

We will provide an update to all families no later than Saturday, March 28th. At this time, please contact your child’s school should you have further questions. Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,

Stephanie Anello

Both Anello and Board President Diane Gibson-Gray were informed by this reporter Friday morning, before the decision was made, that the former director of the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, Dr. Scott Gottlieb recommended not closing schools.

“…closing schools has its own impact on social lives and an impact on public health that could be adverse and could potentially even worsen the epidemic,” he was quoted as saying by Congressman Dan Crenshaw (TX-2) in a post on Twitter. “…So broad preemptive school closures, I personally wouldn’t recommend.”

“That’s probably why all schools have not closed,” responded Gibson-Gray at 10:07 a.m. “Stephanie is working closely with the CDE (California Department of Education) before we make any decisions.” However, a short time later, Gibson-Gray sent a text with the message, “See my update on Facebook,” which was a post of Anello’s announcement

When reached for comment, later Gibson-Gray wrote, “Stephanie is the one whos been in contact with the CDC, so you should talk to her.”

When asked “who made the decision, you or the board and why,” Anello said, “I made the decision.”

When asked why, in light of the information shared with her this morning from the former director of the FDA, and what are the parents or guardians of the students who work are supposed to do with the children, Anello responded, “In light of the pace of the pandemic and as we continue to receive information regarding the spread of the virus, we do not want to risk having any children or staff members exposed to the health risks. We regret that this may have a negative impact on some of our families who may have child care issues, but we are doing what we believe is in the best interest of all students and staff at this time.”

She also shared Board Policy 3516.5 Emergency Schedules which gives the superintendent the authority to close the schools: “In order to provide for the safety of students and staff, the Board of Education authorizes the Superintendent or designee to close a school site, change the regular school day schedule, or take any necessary action when hazardous environmental or weather conditions or other emergencies warrant.”

Following the decision by AUSD, leadership for Rocketship Delta Prep charter school in Antioch also decided to close their school, along with the rest of their schools nationwide, according to Marie Issa Gil, Rocketship Bay Area Regional Director. “Rocketeer Families – In alignment with our local districts, school will be closed as of Monday, 3/16,” was the announcement to parents, Friday morning.

Suspect Daiveon Allison. Photo from APD.

By Sergeant James Stenger #3604, Antioch Police Violent Crimes Unit (Investigations Bureau)

On Friday, Jan. 31, 2020 following a basketball game at Deer Valley High School against Antioch High School, 16-year-old Jonathan Parker, a DVHS student, was shot in the school’s parking lot. 15-year-old Pittsburg Resident, Daiveon Allison was identified as the shooter in this incident. On February 7, 2020 this case was presented to the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office. Allison was charged in juvenile court with murder and having a firearm on school grounds. A warrant was issued for Allison’s arrest. (See related article)

It is believed Allison fled the area after this murder and is currently being sought by the Antioch Police Department and the U.S. Marshals Service. Allison should be considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached by the public. If anyone knows Allison’s whereabouts, or if he is seen please call 911 immediately. It is believed Allison may be receiving assistance in avoiding apprehension. Anyone associated with harboring Allison may be arrested for being an accessory to murder after the fact. This information is being released per Welfare and Institution Code 827.6.

On February 1, 2020, 16-Year-Old Jonathan Parker succumbed to his injuries and died at John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek.

Original News Release

On January 31, 2020 at about 8:44 PM, Antioch Police Department patrol officers were dispatched to the north parking lot of Deer Valley High School for shots being fired in the parking lot. A16-year-old male was located in the parking lot suffering from three gunshot wounds. The male was transported by ground to a local hospital and is currently in critical condition. It was determined the victim is a current student at Deer Valley High School.

At the time of the shooting there was a basketball game between Deer Valley and Antioch High Schools just letting out from the Deer Valley High School gym. A large group of juveniles started fighting in the parking lot when the shots were fired.

The Antioch Police Department Investigations Bureau responded and took over this investigation. This investigation is in its infancy and a suspect has not been identified.

No further information will be released regarding this case at this time. Any further updates will come from the Antioch Police Department Investigations Bureau.

Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Smith at (925) 779-6876, or the Antioch Police Department non-emergency line at (925) 778-2441. You may also text-a-tip to 274637 (CRIMES) using the key word ANTIOCH.

Golden Hills Community Church leaders have decided to cancel all activities at both their main campus in Brentwood, as well as their campus in Antioch through the end of March due to concerns over the coronavirus (COVID-19). They sent out an email to members on Tuesday and then again, today, with greater restrictions. Following is today’s email:

March 12, 2020

Hello Church,

Tuesday evening, we sent out an all-church email regarding the developing situation with the Coronavirus and our church’s response. At that time the suggestions from state and local authorities were taken into account and we were planning accordingly. As you no doubt have heard, those suggested restrictions on public gathering have changed. Today the State of California has asked that there be no assemblies over 250 in number and has suggested that smaller gatherings only be held if appropriate precautions can be put in place.

In light of this request, we as a church will be making the following changes for the remainder of the month of March. Given the rapidly changing nature of this concern, we are certain that further updates will be necessary, and we will keep the church informed through email, website, and social media.

1. Worship services will be available online only for the next three weeks. You can go to the goldenhills.org website at the same time you would normally attend church.
2. All other gatherings at the church facility will be canceled for the remainder of March as well. This includes but is not limited to meetings of Kid’s Ministry, Student Ministries, Men’s and Women’s Bible Studies, choir, etc.
3. Small groups are asked to individually decide if they will gather or postpone. Those meeting should use normal precautions.
4. As always, we encourage each individual to use wisdom in deciding what they will be involved in. Knowing personal and extended family risk is important and is encouraged.

Below is a recap of the letter from Pastor Phil and the Elders. It is worth a second look.

Pastor Phil Hill, Executive Pastor On behalf of Pastor Phil Ward & the Church Leadership

“Hello Church,

As you well know, the Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a developing situation. It continues to be a concern in the minds of many. We have been monitoring the progress of the virus and will continue to do so in the days ahead. The uncertainty of this outbreak has caused anxiety about our workplaces, schools, and dayto-day activities. Please join us in praying for those who are affected by this illness, and for all those affected by the fear this virus is causing. Yet we remain confident of God’s steadfast presence and careful attention to all that is happening.

We want to care for our congregation in all respects, including the physical well-being of our community. But we also want to be shaped by what we know to be true about God’s concern for our daily needs and how our lives are ultimately in His hands. We can trust that God, who cares even for sparrows, also cares about us—but more so (Mt. 10:29-30)! So Jesus reassures us that “even the hairs of [our] heads are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.” God is sovereign; He is in control. Let us not succumb to fear, but let us entrust ourselves to our faithful Creator.

Here are the recommendations from the CCHS for how best to reduce your risk of becoming infected:

• Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue or the crook of an elbow
• Stay home from school or work when you are sick
• Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
• Use a barrier, such as a paper towel or tissue, to touch commonly touched surfaces, such as bathroom door handles and elevator buttons
• Bump elbows or bow instead of shaking hands
• Regularly clean frequently touched surfaces
• Get vaccinated against the flu if you haven’t already

Many people are much concerned about this virus. God may grant us the opportunity to talk with neighbors, family, and friends about our thoughts concerning this outbreak. Our prayer is that we will make use of every opportunity to speak about the unbreakable hope of the gospel, for we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken. Our hope is in God, who upholds the universe by the word of His power. Let us live wisely, love boldly, and pray confidently—for God’s glory and our joy!

Pastor Phil & the Elders

To watch the Sunday services visit www.goldenhills.org.

The following was sent out by the Antioch Chamber of Commerce Thursday afternoon:

Dear Chamber Supporters and Friends of the 2019 Awardees,

It is with understanding and regret that we must reschedule the March 13, 2020 Inaugural Gala.  We have been closely monitoring the State and County updates with regard to the COVID-19 Virus.  In order for us to participate in the health and safety of our community, and comply with the state recommendations, we have made the decision to postpone this incredible event.

We thank you for your understanding and look forward to celebrating with you on Friday, September 25, 2020 at Lone Tree Golf Course to honor our award recipients.  We hope that you will allow us to apply your tickets to the upcoming event.  This will help us cover the cost of food and flowers associated with cancelling the March 13th event and for the September 25th celebration.

Sincerely,

Richard Pagano, President and CEO

Antioch Chamber of Commerce

Directs Californians to follow public health directives including canceling large gatherings more than 250 people

Order removes waiting period for unemployment and disability insurance for Californians who lose work as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak

Readies state to commandeer hotels & medical facilities to isolate & treat COVID-19 patients

Allows local and state legislative bodies to hold meetings via conference calls while still meeting state transparency requirements

SACRAMENTO (March 12, 2020) – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a new executive order further enhancing California’s ability to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Governor’s order:

• Waives the one-week waiting period for people who are unemployed and/or disabled as a result of COVID-19;
• Delays the deadline for state tax filing by 60 days for individuals and businesses unable to file on time based on compliance with public health requirements related to COVID-19 filings;
• Directs residents to follow public health directives and guidance, including to cancel large non-essential gatherings that do not meet state criteria;
• Readies the state to commandeer property for temporary residences and medical facilities for quarantining, isolating or treating individuals;
• Allows local or state legislative bodies to hold meetings via teleconference and to make meetings accessible electronically; and
• Allows local and state emergency administrators to act quickly to protect public health
• The full executive order can be found here.
• Last night, Governor Newsom and state public health officials announced that gatherings should be postponed or canceled across the state until at least the end of March. Non-essential gatherings must be limited to no more than 250 people, while smaller events can proceed only if the organizers can implement social distancing of 6 feet per person. Gatherings of individuals who are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should be limited to no more than 10 people, while also following social distancing guidelines.
• “Each of us has extraordinary power to slow the spread of this disease,” said Governor Newsom in announcing the state’s new policy last night. “Not holding that concert or community event can have cascading effects — saving dozens of lives and preserving critical health care resources that your family may need a month from now. The people in our lives who are most at risk – seniors and those with underlying health conditions — are depending on all of us to make the right choice.”
• State Efforts to Assist California Workers
• California will continue acting swiftly to help workers hurt by COVID-19. Affected workers can visit the Labor & Workforce Development Agency’s website to review what benefits are available to them. For instance,
• If you’re unable to work because you are caring for an ill or quarantined family member with COVID-19 you may qualify for Paid Family Leave (PFL).
• If you’re unable to work due to medical quarantine or illness, you may qualify for Disability Insurance. Those who have lost a job or have had their hours reduced for reasons related to COVID-19 may be able to partially recover their wages by filing an unemployment insurance claim.
• If a worker or a family member is sick or for preventative care when civil authorities recommend quarantine, workers may use accrued paid sick leave in accordance with the law.
• If workers are unable to do their usual job because they were exposed to and contracted COVID-19 during the regular course of their work, they may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. All information and resources can be found at Gov/Coronavirus2019

All Community Guidance Released from CDPH:

The California Department of Public Health has consolidated state guidance on how to prepare and protect Californians from COVID-19 in a single location. This includes guidance for:

• Health care facilities, including long-term care facilities
• Community care facilities, including assisted living facilities and child care
• Schools and institutions of higher education
• First responders, including paramedics and EMTs
• Employers, health care workers and workers in general industry
• Health care plans
• Home cleaning with COVID-19 positive individuals
• Gathering Guidance
• Guidance for Using Disinfectants at Schools and Child Cares
• Laboratories
• Health care facilities from Cal/OSHA
• Homelessness Providers

What to Do if You Think You’re Sick:

Call ahead: If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and may have had contact with a person with COVID-19, or recently traveled to countries with apparent community spread, call your health care provider or local public health department first before seeking medical care so that appropriate precautions can be taken.

All 26 Contra Costa County libraries will remain open for regularly scheduled hours

By Brooke Converse, Library Public Information Officer

Beginning tomorrow, March 13, the Contra Costa County Library will cancel all library programs and events, including community use of meeting rooms in County-owned facilities, through March 31. Additionally, we will be working with our partners to determine plans for city-operated community rooms. This comes in response to the recommendation by the County health department strongly urging the cancellation of any gathering that may include 50 or more people and in an abundance of caution for the cross-section of populations who visit the libraries.

All 26 community libraries will remain open for regularly scheduled hours.

“Our first priority is the safety of our patrons and staff,” said County Librarian Melinda Cervantes. “Canceling programs will allow the library to focus on core services which include keeping our facilities open, lending materials and making computers and the internet available.”

All programs including storytime, author events, Lego clubs, knitting circles, book clubs and all others will be canceled for the remainder of the month. The situation will be re-evaluated on a regular basis.

For the latest information about COVID-19 in Contra Costa County and tips on staying healthy, visit contracostahealth.org.

The Library offers a number of services online including access to eBooks and eAudiobooks with Overdrive/Libby, streaming movies through Kanopy and Video Storytime.

For library hours and more information about library services, please visit ccclib.org.

Martinez, CA – As more cases of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) are identified in California, the Contra Costa Community College District (CCCCD) has provided additional guidance to its three colleges, two centers and District Office in an effort to protect students, faculty, employees and visitors. To date, there are no confirmed cases of the Coronavirus at any CCCCD location.

Consistent with guidance provided by the California Department of Public Health and Contra Costa Health Services, CCCCD confirmed that all colleges and centers will remain open, and instruction and operations will continue, with modifications, as listed below.

Effective immediately, and through April 30, 2020, unless otherwise noted, CCCCD is taking action in the following areas:

Travel – CCCCD is curtailing all non-essential travel for students, faculty and employees.

Events – CCCCD locations will cancel or postpone gatherings of 50 or more people, especially events attended by older adults and people of all ages with compromised immune systems.

Employee Leave – CCCCD is encouraging students, faculty and employees to stay home if they are sick and adhere to any quarantine guidance provided by a physician in consultation with county health services.

Instruction – CCCCD, in consultation with the Academic Senate and United Faculty leadership, is reviewing remote instruction options for lecture-based classes targeted for March 16, 2020, with evaluations and adjustments made accordingly thereafter.

Student Services – Student Services will continue on-site at campuses, and CCCCD is reviewing technologies and tools to provide remote access as necessary.

“We are monitoring the situation closely and will continue to provide updates to our campus communities when any new relevant information warrants a change in our response to this issue,” said Eugene Huff, Interim Chancellor. Additionally, a centralized District Coronavirus web page is now available at www.4cd.edu/covid19 and will be updated regularly to reflect the latest public health guidance.”