By Allen Payton

After informing the Herald that for various reasons, they couldn’t attend the twice-rescheduled forum, sponsored by this newspaper, for Antioch School Board candidates in the November election, those same four candidates signed and sent a joint press release, on Thursday, announcing that now they will not participate in the forum, nor will they answer the questions sent to them and the other three candidates, because of a “perceived bias.”

The forum, includes opportunities for each candidate to answer questions prepared by me, those submitted by the audience, as well as to ask and answer questions of fellow candidates, plus two rebuttals. Also, the  forum is the only one for Antioch School Board candidates that has been announced, so far, which will be televised on local cable access channels.

Incumbent and board president Diane Gibson-Gray, former school board members Joy Motts and Gary Hack, and challenger and news website publisher Mike Burkholder, each signed the press release, which states:

“The undersigned have agreed that we will not be participating in the Antioch Herald Forum due to a perceived bias that has been displayed by the editor of this publication in this school board election. In addition, we will not be responding to the Antioch Herald’s questions that have been sent to us for a response.

As candidates for the school board, we are expected and more than willing to answer questions from the community. However, the forums should be objective, unbiased and fair. In this case, the editor has crafted the questions, is sponsoring the event, acting as moderator and will be critiquing the candidate’s responses in his publication. In our opinion, we feel that is inappropriate, unusual and is a conflict of interest.”

Herald Coverage of School Board Race

There have been five articles and one letter to the editor about the Antioch School Board race written by Herald staff and posted on our website. The first article listed all the candidates for Antioch Mayor, Council and School Board, which can be viewed, here. It was also published in the September print edition of the Herald.

The second one was about the candidates forum on Thursday, September 8 sponsored by the Friday Morning Breakfast Club, which could not be recorded. So it was based on handwritten notes. It can be viewed, here.

A third article was about Burkholder’s complaint about Navarro’s comments about the district at both that forum and in a private conversation with Mayor Wade Harper. It was edited after Burkholder offered a correction about the public comments, and then provided an audio of Navarro’s comments at the forum. That article can be viewed, here.

The fourth article (which can be viewed, here) was about the endorsement of Gibson-Gray by the Antioch Chamber of Commerce.  The fifth article included the endorsement of Burkholder by the Antioch Police Officers Association, can be viewed here.

Finally, the letter to the editor was from Burkholder and was published exactly as he sent it to us and can be viewed, here.

We encourage readers to view the articles and determine for themselves if they detect any bias.

Different Reasons They Couldn’t Attend

During efforts to reschedule the forum twice, to accommodate as many candidates as possible, these same four candidates said they couldn’t attend either Monday night or Friday night, this week, for various reasons.

Originally scheduled for Thursday night the 22nd, the forum was rescheduled to Monday night, September 19 to accommodate those candidates who said they were attending the 2016-17 County Teacher of the Year dinner in Concord, which would feature a speech  by outgoing 2015-16 County Teacher of the Year Maria McClain, a math teacher at Deer Valley High School.

Each of the candidates was sent an email on September 9 informing them of the date change.

Hack responded on Tuesday, September 13 in an email with “I have changed the date on my calendar to the 19th at 7:00 and look forward to being there.”  But, then last Friday, he wrote via email, ” I apologize.  I need to change my acceptance for the forum on the 19th.  When you changed the date from the 22nd to the 19th, I thought ‘no problem’.  However … this morning Diane [his wife] shared ‘her’ calendar with me … and a ‘reminder’ … that we have a family commitment that has been long standing.  So, I need to respectfully decline the opportunity to participate Monday evening.”

Gibson-Gray and Burkholder didn’t respond until Sunday, September 18 that they had previous commitments.

“I’m sorry for the late notice,” Gibson-Gray wrote in an email at 5:50 p.m. “I have a double header on Monday; first a work commitment, followed by a family commitment, so I will not be able to make the forum. I’ve been in Southern California last week and got home Saturday. I’m just now catching up on emails.”

When asked what his prior commitment was so I could inform those in attendance at the forum and who might watch the forum on TV, Burkholder did not answer.

Each of those who said they couldn’t attend were then offered the opportunity to send a surrogate to provide their opening and closing statements, but not participate in the forum.

However, at 7:47 p.m. on Monday night, during the time the forum would have been held, Burkholder was campaigning, posting a comment on his Facebook page “Getting out of my comfort zone is fun…Check out my video on Mike Burkholder for Antioch School Board.”

Ironically, in a post at 5:57 a.m. that day, Burkholder wrote on his Facebook page “My rant for Monday morning…SHOW UP!…half the battle is won when you simply show up to create the change you want to see.”

Asked if Friday night would work instead, Gibson-Gray responded via email Monday morning, “I’m sorry, I cannot attend. I have already made plans for Friday.” In response to an email offering her the opportunity to send a surrogate to provide her opening and closing statements, and that it would be good to let the public know what her plans were, she replied on Tuesday, “I will not be sending a surrogate. I have a prior personal commitment on Friday.”

Once it was learned on Monday morning, that the council chambers were available, the forum was rescheduled, again this time tonight, Friday, September 23 to accommodate the most candidates, as possible.

An email was then sent informing the candidates of the new date for the forum, with a list of questions attached, that will be asked at the forum, offering those candidates who could not attend that they could send a surrogate to provide their opening and closing statements, but could not participate in the rest of the forum, and the opportunity to answer the questions by 5:00 p.m. on Friday.

Motts responded, via text on Monday, “I am sorry but the 23rd does not work for me either…such a crazy busy time of year!”

Gibson-Gray responded via email, “I will try to make the deadline, but I have a full schedule this week due to an art opening on Saturday and events each evening. Is this a firm deadline? If I don’t get to you by Friday at 5 PM, would you still want it sent to you if I complete over the weekend?”

I responded that we needed her responses by 5:00 p.m. due to deadline issues and to “Please answer as many questions as you can. The ones at the bottom just require yes or no answers. It shouldn’t take you more than a half hour. The time we’ve allotted each candidate at the forum is 15 minutes.”

Hack responded on Wednesday, via email, with “Good Afternoon Allen! I appreciate your efforts to accommodate the candidates.  However – unfortunately for me – Friday evenings are always dedicated to family.  So I’ll have to pass on the forum this Friday evening.  Take care.”

Burkholder did not respond to the email but he and I spoke by  phone on Wednesday afternoon, and he didn’t say whether he would or would not be attending the Friday night forum.

Two Miss Two Forums

This will be the second forum that Gibson-Gray and Burkholder will not be participating in. Neither candidate attended the one sponsored by the Friday Morning Breakfast Club on Thursday, September 8 because they said they were attending the back-to-school night at Antioch schools, instead. Yet, two of the other candidates, Fernando Navarro and Alonzo Terry, both school board members, attended both the back-to-school night activities and the forum. Terry showed up late, but explained that he had previously committed to attending three schools, that night, which he fulfilled.

Questions Emailed to the Candidates

In a Word document attached to the email sent to the candidates on Monday, included the following:

Antioch Herald

2016 Antioch School Board Candidate Forum

September 23, 2016

7:00 p.m.

Panelist Questions

1. What should be done to address the district’s annual deficit spending and do you have a copy of the district’s latest budget and have you read and reviewed it?
2. What do you propose the district do to improve graduation rates?
3. What can be done to improve proficiency of Antioch students in both English and math?
4. How will you handle discipline problems and put the teacher back in control of the classroom?

Additional Questions (if there’s time)

1. What is your number one goal for the district?
2. What has been your greatest accomplishment for the students and schools in the district?

Lightning Round Questions (if there’s time) Yes or No responses

1. Do you support either televising the school board meetings live on the local cable access TV channel like the city council does and/or at least live streaming them on the school district’s website? And will you take action on this in your first year in office?
2. Do you support entrepreneurship classes in the high schools?
3. Do you support bringing back shop classes to the high schools?
4. Are you following the rules, have informed your volunteers to make sure your campaign is only placing your signs on private property where you have permission and no signs are in the public right-of-way which is illegal? And if not will you commit to following the rules for the remainder of the campaign?

Responses to Press Release

On Thursday, I emailed each of the candidates who are participating in the boycott, the following questions and information:

“How is it biased to ask the same questions of all the candidates, then use those responses as part of the basis for determining which candidates we will endorse?

I specifically have included our Associate Publisher in the forum to both ask the questions – since Paul Burgarino is not available, tomorrow night – and write the article about it, including the answers you give to both the questions I have developed, as well as questions from each other and those from the audience.

So, are you all lying to me, now or were you lying, before when each of you told me you were unable to attend the forum for your various reasons, either tomorrow night, tonight or Monday night?

This is very unfortunate for the voters of Antioch that you’ve chosen to play your game. But, go ahead and try to make this about me. It’s not. You’ll have to answer to the voters for what you’re doing.

If any (of you) had attended either of the forums on Tuesday night, you would have seen they were quite fair and unbiased.

Furthermore, how is asking you questions and getting your responses by this newspaper any different than an endorsement interview with the East Bay Times? Are those editors biased if they use your answers as the basis for determining their endorsements?

The answer is obvious.”

In another email, I wrote to the four candidates:

“The most ironic part of this is I thought I was being more than fair to each of you, and the other three candidates, by giving you four days to prepare your answers and send them back or provide them to the public at the forum.”

In another follow up email I wrote:

“Regardless of your press release, you are all still welcome to attend and participate in the forum, tomorrow night.

The funny thing is, I have been considering each of you for an endorsement for various reasons, including ensuring stability and experience on the board, because right now three of the current members have less than two years experience on the board, as well as bringing a new, fresh perspective to the board of a parent with young children who will be attending Antioch schools for many years.

An endorsement is still possible, if you will either participate in the forum or submit your answers by 5:00 p.m. on Friday.

Since your press release was received too late to make it into subscribers’ emails, today, you have until tomorrow, Friday at 12:30 p.m. to inform me of your participation in the forum or that you will be submitting your answers by the deadline, before I post the article containing your press release on our website, to make it into subscribers’ emails, tomorrow afternoon, and posted on our Facebook, as well.”

The final email on Thursday night sent to the four candidates, reads:

“In wracking my brain to try to figure out how any of you could perceive any bias in the Herald in the coverage of the school board race, it occurred to me that you might think I’m asking you to provide your answers by 5:00 pm so they can be shared with the other candidates, who are going to participate in the forum, prior to the forum, to give them an advantage.

While that would never happen and nothing could be further from the truth, to avoid even the appearance of the possibility that could happen, you now have until 8:00 pm, Friday night – at the time I expect the forum will end, at the latest – to provide your answers to the questions emailed to you and the other three candidates, on Monday.

Again, if you really can’t attend the forum for a legitimate reason, you’re welcome to send a surrogate to give your opening and closing statements, but not participate in the forum. Your answers will still be required by 8:00 pm to be considered for an endorsement.

Also, again, you have until 12:30 pm tomorrow (Friday) to let me know what you plan to do. Finally, if you plan to send a surrogate please provide their name for proper introduction.”

None of the four candidates responded to any of the emails sent in response.

The Real Reason – An Endorsement That Didn’t Happen

When contacted by the reporter for the Times, Friday morning, she said the reason the four gave her for boycotting the forum and the questions from the Herald was that they believe I have already endorsed Navarro for one of the school board seats. As I told her, that is not true. Neither I nor the Antioch Herald has endorsed any candidate for any office in the November election.

I also told the reporter that I have discussed the pros and cons about the candidates with some people who have asked my opinion. But, when they asked who I’m voting for and who I recommend they vote for I specifically told them I would not reveal who I’m supporting until it’s revealed in the endorsements in the October issue of the Herald.

I also said to her that I did speak with Burkholder on Wednesday and told  him that I hadn’t endorsed Navarro but, if I did end up supporting him it shouldn’t be a surprise since I was the one who recruited and encouraged him to apply for the appointment to the vacancy on the school board, last year. But, I also told Burkholder that I don’t agree with everything that Navarro has said or how he’s voted.

As I told the Times’ reporter, I have not told Navarro that I’m supporting him, voting for him or that I have endorsed or will endorse him.

Final Email to the Four Candidates

After learning the real reason for their boycott, I sent one final email message to the four candidates, at about 12:10 p.m., letting them know the bias they perceived is wrong and appealed to them one last time to encourage them to reconsider and either attend the forum or submit their answers to the questions, and to let me know what they planned to do by 12:30 p.m. before I posted this article on our website.

Following is that email:

“Candidates,

I was just informed by Rowena Coatsee of the Times what the real issue is. You all think I’ve already endorsed Fernando Navarro for election.

First, that is not true. I have not told him I would be voting for him or endorsing him in the race nor have I endorsed him or anyone else, yet.

While I have discussed the pros and cons of each of you in the race with Antioch residents who have asked my opinion, if they’ve asked me who I’m voting for or how I think they should vote, I’ve specifically told them I will not announce who I or the Herald – because I’m discussing the matter with our Associate Publisher to get her input – is endorsing until our endorsements appear in the October issue.

In a conversation with Mike Burkholder this Wednesday, I reiterated that, but I also said it might not be a surprise if I do end up supporting Navarro, since I’m the one who recruited and encouraged him to apply for the appointment to the vacancy, last year. But I also told Mike I don’t agree with everything Fernando says or how he’s voted.

But even if I had already endorsed him, there are two other seats up for election in the race, for which any one or two of you could get endorsed.

Why any or all of you couldn’t just have called and asked me about that I don’t know.

But I will say this, your press release was accurate, because it’s only a perceived bias. As I’ve said to others about the article our reporter wrote about Mike and Fernando, last week is I believe hurt both of them and Mayor Harper.

As for being fair, I edited the article after Mike pointed out something that my reporter got wrong about when he spoke at the board meeting. I also updated the article to add Fernando’s complete statement at the FMBC’s forum, after Mike provided the audio of it to me.

If I was going to be biased about it in favor of Fernando, I wouldn’t have published it. My reporter got both sides of the story and we published them in the article.

I encourage you to go back and look at that at article, the one about Diane’s endorsement by the Chamber, the one about the FMBC forum and the original article about all of the local candidates and please point out any bias you can detect in them. I’m always willing to correct the record it we get something wrong. In fact I edited Fernando’s quote I had for him in the article about the FMBC forum after receiving and hearing the audio of what he said exactly. As you know neither I nor anyone else was allowed to record the forum. So I had to take notes and write my article from them

Again, I hope you will reconsider and attend, tonight’s forum or submit your answers to the questions by 8 pm.

In the future, just call me. Come on, folks. We’ve all known each other for years. We all want to make Antioch and our schools better. While we may disagree from time to time on various issues, I don’t think any of us are that unreasonable that we can’t talk something out. What you’re doing is damaging our relationship and won’t reflect well on any of you.

Whether or not you attend or answer the questions is up to you. But I really don’t want to have to post the article about your boycott of the forum and the questions, as I’m afraid it will unfortunately further damage my relationship with each of you.

Again, please let me know by 12:30 what your plans are.

Thanks.”

Again, and unfortunately, none of the four candidates responded.

Reasons for this Article

I am in the newspaper business for a few reasons: to inform the public about their community and government, to hold the elected officials accountable and to help promote the businesses in Antioch so as to grow our economy, and to get the good and other news out about and to our community, and of course, make a profit, which allows us to remain in business.  The word “herald” means an announcer. Like the “herald angels” that pronounced Jesus’ birth, the Antioch  Herald is in business to announce what is happening. While that was the Good News, not all of our news is good, unfortunately.

The reason I wrote and published this article was because the integrity of the Herald, our reporters and specifically me were called into question and based on a false assumption and the record needs to be cleared. I will not sit by and have the integrity of the Herald or it’s reporters falsely accused in an attempt to either score political points or to undermine the effectiveness and credibility of this publication. Say what you will about me, as a Christian, I answer to the Highest Authority and do my best to live by His standards, as I have committed my life to do, and am willing to overlook an insult. We do our best to get the facts in our articles and ensure they are accurate. If and when we get something wrong, we are always willing to make corrections to articles, as we have done, when necessary.

We will continue to fulfill our mission, as long as the Lord allows us to remain in business and will continue to challenge, ask questions of and hold accountable our government officials and candidates running for office, and inform you, the readers and residents of Antioch.

Forum Will Happen As Scheduled

The forum for those candidates who wish to attend – and all are still welcome – and the same questions, provided via email to each of them, will be asked by the panelist, currently scheduled to be our Associate Publisher Connie Woods. Questions from the audience will also be asked, and the candidates can ask two questions of their competitors. The forum begins at 7:00 p.m. in the Antioch City Council Chambers at City Hall, 200 H Street, between 2nd and 3rd Streets in downtown regardless of how many candidates attend.

The forum will be televised beginning Sunday, October 2^nd on Delta TV (Comcast Channel 24 and AT&T U-verse on Channel 99) and the schedule is as follows: Sundays at 1 pm, Mondays at 11 am and Thursdays at 6 pm.

Pittsburg resident Fernando Sandoval is the seeking to oust incumbent Contra Costa Community College Board Trustee and Vice President, Greg Enholm in the Ward 5 race in the November election. Enholm is seeking his second term on the board.

In a press release sent Thursday from Sandoval’s campaign, it stated the following:

Fernando Sandoval is running for election as Contra Costa Community College Board Ward 5 serving the interests of Los Medanos College and Diablo Valley College.

He continues to meet with educators in the district, unions, college students, community members, non-profit organizations and elected officials to gather support and outline his position

A Pittsburg native, was raised and educated in East County. A Vietnam Veteran parent committed to improving the quality of education for all residents and for future generations in Contra Costa County. His experience and business background includes key roles in Finance, Collaboration, Financial Oversight, Innovation, Technology in the US and Internationally.

Fernando’s discussions in the community for serving and promoting the interests of the College District is resonating.

“We need fresh eyes, new ideas, and a leader who can bring people together in order to solve problems with practical ideas and future thinking”.

“Fernando has one of the most open and honest outgoing personalities I ever known, along with a people focused style and anyone who has the opportunity to meet and work with him will see that right away. I can say from personal experience with him that he brings his heart to the community and ideals to the table using his experience to bring a new wave of concepts to that organization”-  Valerie Romero Lopez

Fernando believes we need to:

– Support student success across the ward to enroll & complete their educational pursuits with access for education for all with ensuring financial sustainability, diversity and inclusion.

– Respond to our communities’ need for stronger collaboration with K1-K12, additional enrichment and vocational courses to prepare students for employment.

– Advocate for the inclusion of high demand Innovative and Emerging Technologies programs to prepare for the jobs of tomorrow for our community, today.

Fernando is listening to you, and your voice will be heard. Fernando has the education, experience, and commitment to bring needed change.

For more information about Sandoval visit www.fernando4collegeboard.com.

Ward 5 includes all or portions of the cities and communities of Concord, Clyde, Bay Point, Pittsburg, Antioch, Oakley, Brentwood, Bethel Island and Knightsen. View the ward boundaries map, here.

The election is November 8.

By Allen Payton

The Antioch Police Officers Association (APOA) announced via their Facebook page on Sunday, September 18, their endorsements for Antioch Mayor, City Council and School Board.

The statement reads:

“The Antioch Police Officer’s Association held a canidates [sic] night and invited all of the candidates running for Antioch Mayor and Antioch city council. Those who participated engaged with members of the APOA board in a Q&A type forum regarding; Public Safety, Economic growth, and a homeless resolution for our city.

The APOA has elected to support the following canidates,

Wade Harper (Mayor )

Monica Wilson (Council )

Mary Rocha (Council )

Additionally the APOA was contacted by Mike Burkholder regarding an open seat for Antioch School Board. The APOA has also decided to support Burkholder for Antioch School Board.

The APOA feels these incumbents can continue to address the serious issues which face the city of Antioch and with their hard work will make the city of Antioch safer.

Will Dee

Antioch Police Officer’s Association

President”

When asked which candidates the APOA interviewed for mayor and city council, Dee provided a list via email, of all four candidates for mayor, and five of the six candidates for city council, excluding Karl Dietzel.

In a comment on his campaign’s Facebook page on Sunday night, September 18, Dietzel wrote “…I was not contacted / invited to that round table.”

Asked which candidates for school board the APOA had interviewed, Dee responded via email, “Just Mike Burkholder.”

In a post on his personal Facebook page on Sunday night, Burkholder wrote, “I am truly honored to be supported by the men and women of the Antioch Police Officers Association!”

One more email was sent to Dee, but not until Wednesday evening, asking why did you just interview Burkholder and not the other candidates? And will you be endorsing for the other two seats?

In response via email, Sgt. Dee wrote, “Generally we do not get involved in the school races however Mike was the only candidate who approached the POA for an endorsement. Also we have had a long standing relationship with Mike and have sat down with him on numerous occasions regarding this race and shared ideas.”

By Allen Payton

The Antioch Chamber of Commerce, announced, today that the Board of Directors has voted to formally endorse Antioch School Board Trustee Diane Gibson-Gray for re-election in November.

“Diane has the experience and the leadership to move the Antioch Unified School District toward overall improvement and success as the primary educational resource for our City of Antioch,” said Richard Pagano, Chamber Board Chairman, President & COO. “Diane Gibson-Gray has provided critical leadership and direction as a Board of Trustee for the Antioch Unified School District for two terms and we endorse her re-election to that Board.”

In a press release from the Chamber, it offered additional reasons for their endorsement.

“Gibson-Gray has served as a board member for the Antioch Chamber of Commerce for the past six years. During that time she has been a part of reestablishing the Antioch Chamber of Commerce in both mission and effectiveness. The board has witnessed Diane’s dedication to the Chamber’s Gala, the summer concert series for the Arts & Cultural Foundation and her ability to understand and help oversee important financial decisions,” the press release stated.

Gibson-Gray is running for her third term on the school board.

The Antioch Chamber of Commerce is made up of about 350 Antioch area member businesses and organizations and is the largest Chamber in East County.

9/23/16 UPDATE: Asked if the board held interviews of any or all of the other candidates for school board, or if the Chamber will make any additional endorsements for the other two seats up for election, this year, Terry Ramus, chairman of the Chamber’s Government Affairs/Economic Development Committee responded.

“While the Chamber may make additional endorsements, it wasn’t our intent to interview all of the candidates,” he said.

The election is November 8.

By Allen Payton

In a rare injection of partisan politics into a race for Contra Costa County Supervisor, Diane Burgis candidate for Supervisor in District 3, announced she has the support of elected officials, and then listed them as either Democrat or Republican, including those in non-partisan offices. County Supervisor is a non-partisan office, as are the offices of city council and school board, and candidates don’t run as members of a political party.

However, the press release from Burgis’ campaign reads as follows:

Community leaders, including Democrats, Republicans and Independents, joined together today to announce their unified support for Diane Burgis for Contra Costa County Supervisor in District Three.

The broad coalition of endorsers includes Democratic Congressmembers Jerry McNerney and Mark DeSaulnier, current Republican County Supervisor Mary Nejedly Piepho, Democratic state leaders Assemblymember Susan Bonilla, Superintendent Tom Torlakson and Assemblymember Joan Buchanan (ret.), Republican Mayor Kevin Romick of Oakley, Town of Discovery Bay Directors Kevin Graves (R) and Chris Steele (D), and Democratic Antioch City Councilmembers Tony Tiscareno and Mary Rocha.

This all comes on the heels of endorsements from District Attorney Mark Peterson and County Sheriff David Livingston, both Republicans, as well as the county’s deputy sheriffs and firefighters.

“Diane Burgis is a leader in our community who possesses the intelligence, integrity and compassion necessary to bridge gaps and represent the views of all East County residents,” said County Supervisor Mary Piepho, a Republican. “She’s approachable and knowledgeable, and supports investment in our transportation system, and our police and firefighters who work hard to make our communities safe.”

Diane currently serves as an East Bay Regional Parks District director and is the executive director of the Friends of Marsh Creek Watershed. Previously, she served as an Oakley City councilmember and spent over ten years as a small business owner. She highlights four priorities for her candidacy: improving public safety, attracting economic development, ensuring fiscal accountability and preserving the delta for future generations.

“Diane has a strong history of fighting to protect our water, our delta and the environment,” said Congressman Jerry McNerney, a Democrat. “Her leadership as head of the Friends of Marsh Creek Watershed and as a board member for the East Bay Regional Parks District exemplifies the steady, bipartisan leadership our region needs.”

Burgis, the only Democrat on the ballot, has also earned the official endorsement of the California Democratic Party, Democratic Party of Contra Costa County, Contra Costa Young Democrats and East Contra Costa Democrats for Action. But that doesn’t mean she will only represent Democrats.

“I examine each issue closely, hear all sides and then come to the decision that works best for East County,” said Diane Burgis, candidate for Supervisor in District Three. “One size doesn’t fit all. Our district deserves a representative who has proven that they can work together with every member of the community. I’m honored to have earned the trust and confidence of our current Republican County Supervisor, Mary Piepho, as well as a long list of local Democrats, Republicans and Independents who put community before party.”

Voters can learn more about her and her platform at www.dianeburgis.com.

When asked about making local office partisan, Burgis did not respond. The election is November 8.

Need for civic-minded citizens to help throughout the county in November

Kelly Davis and her fellow Contra Costa volunteers have an early wake-up call on Election Day, but most of them don’t mind the long hours.

Each of them has their own unique reasons for being poll workers. And the Contra Costa County Elections Division is looking for civic-minded men and women to join them on our Election Day Team.

Davis, of Orinda, is motivated to get out of bed on Election Day and stay energized throughout the day to raise money for foster children.

Monnie Segelke of Danville and Maude DiVictor of Richmond both find helping voters fulfilling and they enjoy seeing neighbors and familiar faces at their polling places.

Julie Southern of Antioch, like several volunteers, grew up in families who emphasized civic participation.

“I enjoy being involved in the democratic process, and there’s no better way than being a poll worker because you’re involved in the nitty-gritty,” Southern said. “I can say I’m a part of history.”

The November 2016 election will be an historic one as a new President and state Senator are elected. Voter turnout is anticipated to be the highest it has been in years.

As a result, Contra Costa Elections has more opportunities for volunteers to be poll workers than in years past.

No prior experience is necessary and training is provided.  Poll workers receive a stipend for their service, which includes attending a mandatory two-hour training and working 6:00 am to 9:00 pm on Election Day.

Participants receive a special pin denoting their service.  Serving as a poll worker does not have any bearing on Social Security or unemployment status, according to State law.

County and State employees are encouraged to apply.

Bilingual citizens are strongly encouraged to volunteer. High School students who are at least 16 and have a grade point average of 2.5 or above may serve as poll workers.  Student poll workers will receive a stipend and may fulfill community service requirements.

For more information, visit www.cocovote.us or text “cocoteam” to 28683.

Those who might be interested should email eo@vote.cccounty.us or call the Elections Division at (925) 335-7800, option 1.

By Nick Goodrich

During the regular meeting of the Antioch School Board on Wednesday, September 14th, Mike Burkholder, the publisher of eastcountytoday.net and a candidate for school board in the November election, had some particularly harsh words for appointed Board Trustee Fernando Navarro.

Toward the end of the public comments section of the meeting, Burkholder entered the room and stated his desire to make a comment. Board Vice President Walter Ruehlig, who was running the meeting in President Diane Gibson-Gray’s absence, allowed it.

Burkholder then proceeded to take issue with a statement that he said Navarro made at a debate last week for the school board candidates, hosted by the Friday Morning Breakfast Club.

According to Burkholder, Navarro said that the AUSD provides “services equivalent to the DMV.” Burkholder also said that he had been told by a local elected official who had met privately with Navarro to discuss the state of the schools, that Navarro had said, “If the District were to be graded, it would receive an F minus minus.”

Burkholder went on to say that, as a member of the School Board, Navarro should be “promoting the District and building it up, rather than shedding a negative light on it.”

“It’s simply bad rhetoric,” Burkholder said of Navarro’s comments.

With Antioch Unified already facing problems such as a high transfer-out rate, he said that one of the Board’s primary concerns should be to always promote the District in a way that attracts new students and those that are already here.

Burkholder called for Navarro to issue a formal apology to the District and the Board Members, while citing Antioch’s recent college fair – in which dozens of scholarships were issued and students accepted to schools – as a sign that the District is seeing some notable successes.

“When a member of the School Board is that negative,” he said, “It makes the District look bad and makes these problems worse.”

9/19/16 UPDATE: Burkholder did not participate in the candidates’ forum on Thursday, September 8. But, he did provide an audio of Navarro’s comments during the forum, which was surreptitiously obtained. The forum moderator, Ann Flynn of the League of Women Voters of Diablo Valley specifically stated that no unauthorized recording of the forum would be allowed. On Monday, September 19, Don Freitas, the leader of the Friday Morning Breakfast Club which sponsored the forum stated, “I didn’t authorized an audio recording. If there is one, it was done without the FMBC’s permission.”

Burkholder was asked how he obtained the audio, but didn’t respond.

Following is Navarro’s complete statement at the forum, which can be heard, here:

“Well I’d like to start with what I’m not. So, I’m not a politician. I’m not a polished orator. But, what I am, as I’ve stated before, I’m a parent with two children in the district, which gives me skin in the game. I’m a business owner, like I said for 20 years. I know customer service and I know quality control. Demographically, we’re losing 900-plus students between last year and the end of this year, projected. We’re dropping the ball on quality service to our customers, which are the kids and their parents. We’ve lost 25% of our student population in the last dozen years. If we were a for profit business, we’d be shuttered and closed down, by now. But because we are subsidized by the taxpayers we’re becoming a little tone deaf and we’re becoming equivalent in customer service with the DMV. For God’s sakes, let us not become the DMV.”

When asked for comments following the school board meeting, Navarro said that, although his comments were taken out of context, he stands by his assessment of the District’s condition. Noting that over 900 students have left the District in the last two years, and the exceedingly low state test scores by Antioch students in math and English, Navarro said the AUSD was failing the majority of its students.

“My point as a business owner was to underscore the dangers of not respecting where the incoming funds originate. We talk about the funds coming from the feds, or from the state. Ultimately, though, all funds come from the taxpayers,” he said. “Whenever a government body loses that perspective, becomes tone deaf, and suffers no consequences, we become just like the DMV. My actual statement during the debate was, ‘Folks, let’s not become like the DMV.’”

Navarro also said that he was surprised that the private conversation he’d had with Antioch Mayor Wade Harper had been passed on to the public, but that the statistics on student outcomes supported that statement, as well.

“When over 80% of our students are not proficient in math, and 70% are not proficient in English,” he said, “That certainly seems like a failure to me.”

Despite the backlash to his comments, Navarro was also appreciative. “I am open to any criticism, comments, and suggestions that can help improve the District,” he said. “This isn’t fun and games. We must be serious about it for the sake of the kids and the District…If we’re simply going to conceal our issues, we’re never going to solve them.”

When reached for comment to explain if and why he shared what Navarro had told him with Burkholder, Harper said he had “no comment.”

Allen Payton contributed to this story, specifically providing the 9/19/16 update, including Navarro’s complete comment at the forum.

By Allen Payton

At a forum for Antioch School Board candidates in the November election, hosted by the Friday Morning Breakfast Club on Thursday, September 8, 2016, five of the seven squared off, debating and discussing the issues facing the Antioch Unified School District.

Two candidates, incumbent Diane Gibson-Gray and news site publisher Mike Burkholder said they couldn’t attend due to a scheduling conflict with back-to-school night, at the same time as the forum. However, both appointed incumbents Fernando Navarro and Alonzo Terry attended the forum. Navarro said he visited one school and with his children’s teachers prior to the forum, and Terry arrived late to the forum in order to fulfill his commitment to visit three schools.

In addition, former school board trustees, Gary Hack and Joy Motts, along with substitute teacher and tutoring business owner Crystal Sawyer-White participated in the forum.

Don Freitas, the leader of the Friday Morning Breakfast Club, an invitation-only group of about 22 residents who meet on Fridays to discuss local issues, hosted the event in the Antioch City Council Chambers and Ann Flynn of the League of Women Voters of Diablo Valley served as moderator and asked the questions. She also stated that no unauthorized recording of the forum would be allowed, as was the same for the mayor and council forums hosted by the FMBC, last week.

Opening Statements

Seated, speaking and answering questions in random order, the candidates gave their opening statements with Hack speaking, first.

“I want to be on the board, yet again to help educate kids and make them a better person,” he said.

Sawyer-White said “I’m excited to be running for the Antioch School Board. As a parent in the 21st Century, I believe that every parent should have access to the best education possible.”

She then listed her experience and service on various committees, as well as being the owner of a tutoring business.

Motts spoke about being a “lifelong resident of Antioch and a product of Antioch schools.”

“We need school board members who have a detailed knowledge that is focused on our children,” Motts added.

Navarro spoke of his upbringing, as well.

“I’m a first-generation American of Mexican descent,” he said. “I know the problems of inner city youth. I’m fully bilingual and bicultural.”

“I’m a defender of the taxpayer and the bottom line,” Navarro continued.

“My frustration was the experience in the ELL (English Language Learners) program,” he said as one of the reasons that motivated him to apply for the appointment to the board vacancy, last year. He also said he wanted to “see how the sausage is made, if you will. To look under the hood.”

“The opportunity to rectify the school district is closing,” Navarro added.

Candidate’s Experience

Motts shared about her experience on the school board.

“It was a very difficult time,” she said. “We worked very strategically to get through the crisis.”

She spoke of “many reformations,” the “Antioch High restoration, Linked Learning and restorative justice, “despite the deep cuts.”

Hack said he’d “been a small business owner for more than 25 years” and “on the board for four years.”

“When I was on the board, it was the time of the recession,” he stated and spoke of “prudent husbandry of the budget we had.”

“The budget problems won’t disappear,” Hack added.

Navarro responded with “I’m not a politician. I’m not a polished orator.”

He shared that he has been “business owner for 20 years” and learning about “quality service and quality control.”

He mentioned the on-going drop in enrollment and that students were leaving the district.

“Because we are subsidized by the taxpayers, we’ve become a little tone deaf,” Navarro continued. “For God’s sake, let’s not become the DMV.”

Sawyer-White said she was “deeply concerned” about “crime” and “I feel unsafe in some situations.

“I feel I can make a difference,” she said and then mentioned “summer jobs” for students.

“Children have been diagnosed with” learning disabilities, Sawyer-White continued. “They’re not able to meet the Common Core standards.”

Motts used her first rebuttal in response to Navarro.

“The drop in enrollment is anticipated,” she stated. “Those children are now aging out. It appears there’s more of a problem than it is.”

“The good news is there’s new development coming into Antioch,” Motts added.

Handling Disciplinary Problems

Hack said he wants to “enhance the education experience” and about the “dichotomy of those who behave and those who don’t behave.”

“I met with the principal at Dallas Ranch” about “restorative justice that deals with kids who have been suspended and deal with them when they return to campus.”

Navarro said “I think we should have zero tolerance for interruptions in the classroom.”

He wants to “reinstill a respect for fellow classmates and teachers” and spoke about “better class management.”

“Students work more individually than in group seating,” Navarro added.

Sawyer-White mentioned “PBIS,” referring to positive behavior implementation strategies, then spoke of her experience at a school where she taught.

“We had a tracking device instead of sending the student home, but out of the classroom.”

She spoke of having the students “meet with the school psychologist, parents, teachers.”

“If you build rapport with students…they can excel academically,” Sawyer-White added.

Motts said “many students come into the classroom in crisis” due to being “hungry or challenges at home.”

She also mentioned PBIS and said “we reach out to every child to get the services and counseling they need.”

Truancy

The next question was how the candidates could turn around the chronic truancy in the district, which is as high as 40% at Antioch High School.

Sawyer-White responded with her knowledge of what is done in other school districts, how the “classroom is rewarded for high attendance and no tardies” and “if late a number of times it can add up to an absence.”

“There needs to be more of a text message tracking system,” she continued and wanted to “get the parents involved.”

Navarro took a different tack, saying “stop blaming parents and students” and “start accepting blame as a district.”

He cited “boredom and not feeling safe” and when the schools “promote students prematurely.”

Navarro suggested an “all hands on deck” approach and working “with the city council and police department.”

Motts said “I have to agree with Fernando on one point. Our children need to be engaged.” She then mentioned linked learning at the secondary schools.

“Truancy is the responsibility of parents and students,” she continued. “It affects our bottom line. Our ADA” referring to average daily attendance which determines the amount of per pupil funding the district receives from the state.

“The district can’t tolerate it,” Motts added.

Hack said “there are positive programs” and that “what happens in the class needs to be relevant to students.”

“Truancy won’t go away,” he continued, then spoke of “communication with parents, family and the kid taking responsibility” as his solution.

Alonzo Terry, arrived in time to answer the question.

“Mr. Hack is correct,” he stated. “Truancy can come in so many ways. Some time circumstances cause people to be late or not even show up.”

“Together, it’s about communication and tell them how important it (school) is,” Terry added.

Programs for Academic Achievement

When asked which programs are translating into academic achievement, Navarro said “I would pick the Math Intensive. It shows data driven results.”

“The class structure,” he continued. “It goes back to old school mentality.”

“The business of schools is education,” Navarro stated. “I am a believer in all the different career paths.”

Terry said “it’s not one fit for all. I went to visit several math programs.”

He then stated there are “three different ways people learn in English and math. We need to put them all together.”

Hack said “options are good. One system doesn’t work for everyone.”

“Give kids different approaches to be successful,” he continued. “It’s very different than when we were in school. It’s better. Kids are learning stuff and we don’t have to rely on test scores.”

Sawyer-White said “I don’t think one size fits all. A career path is a good beginning for the Antioch school district.”

She then mentioned “robotics, STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) programs in Pittsburg, computer technology and engineering.”

Motts said “with the LCAP (Local Control and Accountability Plan) you get to go back each year and review. It’s really about equity. Our children have different needs.”

“We need to make sure the children remain in school, are engaged and perform,” she added.

Biggest Issue

When asked what the biggest issue facing Antioch schools, Terry replied “that question is really hard. What is 9-11 to one person is 4-11 to others. It’s like asking someone would you rather have a bullet or a knife.”

“I don’t know how to answer that question, because they’re all important,” he continued. “They all need to be addressed with the same amount of energy.”

Sawyer-White spoke of “graduation rates at 77%. We can improve that.”

“After graduation the job opportunity is bleak,” she stated, then suggested Antioch schools be “linked with community college for classes.”

Motts said “providing a quality education is job one. It encompasses a whole bunch of things.”

Hack didn’t like the question, then rephrased it.

“It’s a negative connotation,” he said.

“What is the biggest priority?” Hack asked. “It’s personnel. Everything flows from that.”

He then mentioned the “new members on the board” and the district having “a rookie superintendent.”

“We lost over 100 teachers, this year,” Hack continued, then spoke of “paying regular wages.”

He said it’s about “dealing with the best humans we can put in place.”

Navarro said it’s “the demographics” and that “77% of our students are not proficient in English.”

He then mentioned the “truancy issue at our high schools” and that “33% are barely making it.”

“We’re graduating kids but they’re undercooked,” Navarro continued. “The colleges have to pick up the slack.”

“We need to rethink our fad tactics,” he added.

Common Core

When asked about Common Core, Navarro read a statement from legal counsel that it was a state requirement and the policy of the district, then crumbled up the page the statement was on and tossed it to his side.

“Top down ties hands. The hands of our district and parents,” he stated. “It cattle prods our students.”

“We can do better,” Navarro continued. “We can go beyond the mandate.”

Sawyer-White first said “I feel it is a challenge” but then said “I think it prepares the student in the proper way in math and English.”

“If parents were more involved at home, working with their student, with the teacher, they can succeed,” she stated. “It prepares us better for college prep.”

Terry said “Common Core is good for some people, not for everyone” but, if it’s “not working you have to find another avenue.”

Motts said “the data is still out a bit on it.”

“But teaching to the test was failing our students,” she added. “It’s raising the bar which will lead to higher achievement for our students. I fully support it.”

Hack said “things need to change to the modern world.”

“I also think it’s a dynamic and different approach,” he stated. “It’s in its infancy. It’s a living and ongoing process.”

“Education is always changing,” Hack continued. “I’m in favor of it, now.”

Navarro used one of his rebuttals to respond, saying he wanted to “point out over time, truth comes out” and that Common Core is a “bill of goods that was sold to us.”

“They pulled it out of a hat,” he continued. “We’re seeing a gap between high schools and colleges which I think was intentional.”

Hack used one of his rebuttals, as well and said there are “three parts of any program, staff and teachers, the board trains and supplies, monitors and adjusts it,” and that “students and parents need to do their part.”

“Being stagnant in education does not solve the issue,” he added.

Budget Deficit

When asked about the $2 million deficit spending in the current budget, Motts responded “that’s inaccurate. Adjustments have been made.

“I’ve been through deficit situations,” she continued. “It’s about efficiency. Retiring teachers can cut costs.”

“We’re 47th in the nation in per pupil spending,” Motts added, referring to state spending.

Motts is correct. The figure in the question is incorrect. The 2016-17 budget approved by the district in June includes deficit spending of $1.2 million. But, it projects a deficit of $2.1 million next year and $2.4 million in Fiscal Year 2018-19.

Terry said “we have to cut from the top and work our way down, because I think we’re top heavy.”

“Right now, we are in a hole and it’s not going to be easy and some people are going to be hurt,” he added, then referred to the decline in enrollment. “We’re losing numbers.”

Navarro said “we need to start with a ‘come to Jesus’ moment.”

“The funds come from the taxpayers,” he stated and proposed a budget “review, line item by item.”

“I’d like to see a larger vendor pool,” Navarro continued. “We’re paying through the nose top dollar.”

“We’re getting about a quarter of a billion dollars and we still have teachers paying for pencils and tissues?” he asked.

Hack said “every year, in June, we have those discussions.”

“You may not be rich, but you’re solvent,” he stated. “Maybe not with a capital ‘S’.”

He then spoke of the “dichotomy of how much do we keep in reserves. I think it’s very viable.”

Sawyer-White said “Again, I’m new to this,” then suggested “maybe have a long-term forecast” and what was done to save money at the school where her son attends.

“We decided not to get a $25,000 electronic sign,” she said.

“Maybe we don’t need so many consultants,” Sawyer-White stated, regarding the AUSD. “And vendors, I agree with Mr. Fernando.”

Trade & Technology Education

Terry was first to answer, stating “we need to bring back all the trades that we can do with our hands.”

Motts said “not every child is on a pathway to go to college.”

“The good news is they are starting to work with the trades and trying to integrate those into the schools,” she stated. “I would definitely support that.”

Sawyer-White said “I am very supportive of vocational training.”

She then suggested adding “coding classes” and that they “prepare you for developing websites,” and then also proposed “entrepreneurship classes…mechanics, maybe dental training.”

Navarro said “I believe in vocational education” and suggested “aviation engineering” and also mentioned coding.

However, he said “if we don’t get back to basics, it’s all a moot point.”

Hack said “one fallacy in education is that everyone’s going to college. Not true.”

He proposed “coming up with new classes that we don’t have in the district, already.”

Teacher Complaints

When asked what board members should do if teachers complain that they’re not being listened to by administration, Sawyer-White responded “In Sweden, the principal has to teach a class, once a year.”

“They’re not aware of what’s happening in the classroom because they haven’t taught,” she said.

She then suggested “multi-disciplinary teams to meet more often.”

Terry said “I don’t think anyone should be denied form going to whomever, whenever they want.”

“That should be changed,” he continued. “Teachers need to know they will be heard.”

Hack said “as a board member, you have to be open to communication. But we have to work through the proper channels.”

“There’s a danger there for board members to try to deal with individual problems,” he added.

Navarro said “the role of the board” is to “represent voters, taxpayers and the district teachers.”

“But you only have one vote,” he stated. “The role of the board members is to be a conduit. Because the board only has one employee, the superintendent.”

“Feel free to call me or text me,” Navarro continued. “I’m an open book.”

Motts said “teachers are on the front line. I think it’s imperative the board members are out in the schools.”

“Healthy organizations have open communication,” she added.

Parent Involvement

On this subject, Motts spoke about her experience in the PTSA (parent, teacher, student association).

“The good thing about LCAP is it requires parental communication and involvement,” she said. “Teachers need to reach out to parents.”

Hack said “I like to talk to teachers. You find out what’s going on with parents.”

He suggested “going to PTA meetings.”

Sawyer-White said “parental involvement is a challenge. I think the first day of school should be an orientation, so you don’t have an open house a week later.”

“There’s no excuse not to communicate with parents,” she added.

Terry said “I’m the wrong person to ask that question. You can’t make nobody do anything.”

“We all do what we can to get them involved,” he continued. “Especially the parent. Because every parent is not a parent.”

“I have 380 kids I work on a regular basis,” Terry shared. “It’s hard to get parents involved.”

Navarro said “I echo some of what Alonzo said. It’s plant that seed with parents.”

“They are the single most important first responders. We’re just surrogates,” he stated. “I do a lot of outreach to the Hispanic community.”

Corporal Punishment

Responding to a “lightning round question” of should the district “bring back corporal punishment,” they all said “no” with Navarro responding with a joke, “introducing the old board of education? No.”

Closing Statements

Navarro went first with his closing statement saying “Antioch is a crossroads of many dynamics. We have demographics of a small town” and “a new dynamic of an urban center with its challenges.”

“I humbly ask for you vote,” he concluded.

Motts said “the school board is one of the toughest jobs there is” and spoke of “educational excellence.”

“I have that knowledge,” she stated. “Now, more than ever, we need experience and knowledge on the board.”

Sawyer-White said “I am the candidate who will fight on behalf of our children” and that she’s “committed to continue improvements in the classroom.”

Hack said “the educational landscape in Antioch has changed. That’s not a negative statement, nor is it a positive one. It’s simply a fact.”

“The school board of which I was a member for four years” did “far more than any other previous board had done,” he continued. “Great responsibility, awesome opportunity.”

“Two years later much still needs to be done,” Hack stated.  Then, sounding a bit like Donald Trump, he concluded “We can make this good district great, yet again.”

Terry used his closing remarks to explain his tardiness to the forum

“I was committed to going to three schools for back-to-school night,” he shared. “I apologize for being late, but not for putting students first.”

The next forum of the candidates for school board will be hosted by the Antioch Herald and held Monday, September 19 at 7:00 p.m., also in the Antioch City Council Chambers at City Hall.