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Opinion: The importance of early civic engagement for teens

May 1, 2023 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Anay Pant during his video presentation for the 2023 Youth Hall of Fame Awards. Video screenshot.

By Anay Pant

Last year I participated as a High School student poll worker in the 2022 November Midterm elections. This was the first time I felt civically engaged practicing democracy in some form in my country. In a couple of years, I can cast my vote!

Historically, youth voter turnout has stayed around the 25% mark in the USA. It does not indicate that the youth are averse to voting, however studies show that there are structural barriers for youth to participate.

One such barrier is early education and awareness. The USA high school curriculum requires at least 1 semester of American Government class. Topics include the constitutional framework, federalism, the three branches of government, bureaucracy, civil rights and liberties, political participation and behavior, and policy formation. However, the content is not realized in an interactive way, as most students stop at reading a few chapters or watching a documentary.

The reason I got inspired and action oriented was due to my teacher. My teacher gave us practical opportunities such as forums to hear from and interact with our elected representatives e.g., Rep. Mike Thomspon (CA-4), Monica Tranel (MT-02 runner up) and authors such as Mick Rappaport, who have written extensively on the subject.  We had lively discussions in class and homework assignments that did not feel like regular homework. We spoke about current events such as the Nov 2022 midterms, and the importance of student poll workers. I only wish I had been exposed to this subject and my teacher much earlier.

Another structural barrier is the individual themselves.  At home, early civic education largely depends on the motivation of parents and children’s interest in the subject.  Most teens spend little time (<120 minutes per day in the USA) with parents due to the many engagements and distractions.

Teens are constantly occupied (I know it firsthand!)  with daily activities such as schoolwork, sports, after school clubs, internships, hobbies, spending time with friends, social relationships, college admissions planning etc.  It is also a period of emotional growth and hormonal changes with ups and downs and mood swings. A smartphone is perhaps the biggest time sink. Research shows that 95% of US teens have access to smartphones today.

I am a second generation American, with interest in the subject. However, my parents are not well versed in this subject and are themselves learning their civic duties. Therefore, for the 7.2 million second-generation Americans, civic education at school might be the only option.

As an example, as a Junior, I spend about an hour with my parents daily, maybe two on weekends.  Our conversation is usually about academics, family, sports, our pet dog, a movie or food. In my case, my dad and I share a love of history and politics, so we occasionally talk about WWII or political satire from Saturday Night Live or John Oliver. For a second-generation teen like me, school becomes the most important and sometimes the only resource for civic education.

Considering these barriers, it makes sense to start civic education and engagement much earlier. I can also attest through experience that:

  1. Middle schoolers have more time than High Schoolers
  2. Middle schoolers are at the age where they start to form their own opinions about the world around them. Giving them a chance to get involved in their community can help them develop a sense of duty, ownership and responsibility.

Why is this so important?

It is important for each individual to understand their civic duty and make it a habit to vote. The habit should be inculcated in the younger years. Over time when diverse voices from all walks of life exercise their right to vote, it will lead to an equitable and just democracy that most communities can benefit from.

In the 2022 mid-terms, the youth (ages 18-24) turnout was the second highest in three decades6 and quite impactful. Young people across the country had their voices heard and were able to support causes they cared about. According to a Harvard poll around 40% of young voters indicated that they would vote in the election. Overall, around 27% youth ballots that were issued were cast in total.

So, in conclusion I urge my readers to advocate for civic education in Middle School and share the tips below with your school boards and community leaders.

What can schools do

  • Start civics education early – in middle school
  • Encourage students to participate as volunteers in polling stations – local or state-level
  • Expose students to experts, community leaders, and other activists
  • Allow students to organize and run creative programs such as podcasts, talks
  • Recognize students who participate in civic engagement programs

What can communities (Non-Profits, Community Leaders) do

  • Community leaders can create educational programs e.g. field visits to city hall, high courts, etc.
  • Recognize students who participate in Civic engagement programs
  • Nonprofits e.g. Campus Votes could expand their college programs to create school specific programs as well.

I would also love to hear more tips from the readers!

Research Links

[1] https://circle.tufts.edu/understanding-youth-civic-engagement/dispelling-myths-about-youth-voting#myth:-youth-voting-has-been-declining-for-decades

[2] https://circle.tufts.edu/understanding-youth-civic-engagement/dispelling-myths-about-youth-voting#myth:-young-people-are-all-liberal-college-students

[3] https://www.financialsamurai.com/the-average-amount-of-time-parents-spend-with-their-kids-a-day/

[4] https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2022/08/10/teens-social-media-and-technology-2022/

[5] https://cis.org/Report/ForeignBorn-Population-Hits-Nearly-48-Million-September-2022

[6] https://circle.tufts.edu/2022-election-center#youth-turnout-second-highest-in-last-three-decades

[7] https://iop.harvard.edu/fall-2022-harvard-youth-poll

[8] https://www.campusvoteproject.org/

About Anay Pant

I am a Junior at The Athenian High School in Danville, California. I got interested in civic engagement during the American Politics class I took last semester. The class had a profound effect on me. I was motivated to participate as a student poll worker in the Nov 2022 midterms. I wanted to continue with finding ways to motivate my peers to become aware and action oriented. I launched a civic engagement platform called Qrated (https://qrated.weblium.site/) last year with some success. I am working towards finding avenues to help me outreach my platform

On April 4th, I was awarded the Contra Costa County – Youth Hall of Fame Awards for Leadership & Civic Engagement by the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors. (See related article here)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/anay-pant/

 

Filed Under: Education, Opinion, San Ramon Valley, Youth

Contra Costa Supervisors honor 2023 Youth Hall of Fame Award winners

April 29, 2023 By Publisher 1 Comment

Source: Contra Costa County

During the 29th Annual César E. Chávez Commemorative Celebration

On April 4, 2023, the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors honored César E. Chávez’s legacy and a group of students as part of the Youth Hall of Fame Award during the 29th Annual César E. Chávez Commemorative Celebration. This year’s theme was Hope and Healing – Esperanza y Bienestar. (See event video here)

Mariachi Monumental & Ballet Folklórico Netzahualcoyotl perform during the Contra Costa Board of Supervisors meeting and 29th Annual César E. Chávez Commemorative Celebration on Tuesday, April 4, 2023. Photo by Glenn Kimball (ContraCostaTV)

The festival featured keynote speaker Genoveva Garcia Calloway, a community leader, former Mayor of San Pablo and behavioral health professional, who shared her perspective on César E. Chávez’s legacy. The event included a presentation of the 2023 Youth Hall of Fame Awards to students who have made outstanding community contributions, live performances by Mariachi Monumental and Ballet Folklórico Netzahualcoyotl, and celebratory remarks from members of the Board of Supervisors.

Four of the award winners were in attendance while five others provided videos offering thanks for the honor that were shown during the event.

2023 Youth Hall of Fame Award Winners

High School Awardees

Anay Pant. Video screenshot.

Leadership & Civic Engagement – Anay Pant

Anay Pant is an 11th grade student at Athenian School in Danville, and from the start, it was abundantly clear that he had a keen interest in being engaged with his community. Anay has been involved in a host of activities in which he has eagerly volunteered for.  

It started on Election Day 2022 when Anay volunteered to be a poll watcher in Contra Costa County and his engagement only gained momentum since.   With a keen interest in getting more young people tuned into what’s happening around them, he developed an app called Qrated, to keep his peers up to date on local events. Along with his app, Anay is planning a TEDx talk to promote the app to students around the Bay Area. Additionally, he will be hosting a Youth TEDx forum at Athenian to encourage his young peers to lean into civic engagement at the local level. 

Anay is a natural leader amongst his peers and inspires others with his energy and tenacity to do good in his community.

Teamwork – Prisha Purohit 

San Ramon Valley High School Junior Prisha Purohit is no stranger to working with others. She is actively engaged with several school and community organizations that are dedicated to the betterment of her peers and the community at large. Prisha serves on the executive board for the Golden Bear Foundation and as President of the Danville Chapter. GPF is a charitable organization, founded by high school students, that helps provide care to economically disadvantaged persons through charitable giving. Prisha worked alongside other members to organize clothing and school supply drives for local families in need.

Prisha supports other students at her high school by providing clarity and bringing them closer to their academic goals as a peer tutor. She provides a reassuring voice to students who start the year late, helping them catch up with their classmates. Prisha has also created a school club for lovers of tea and philosophy. Cleverly named Philosotea, members meet over lunch and are encouraged to sample new teas and discuss philosophical ideas, concepts, and media.

Outside of school, Prisha volunteers her time as part of the local library’s Teen Advisory Club. As a teen advisor, she works with library staff to develop teen programs, expand the young adult collections, and improve services the library can offer teens. No photo or video of Prisha was provided.

Anayely Arreola Caldera. Video screenshot.

Perseverance – Anayely Arreola Caldera

Anayely has been described as a fighter. She has not had an easy path in her young life. Through her encounters growing up she decided early on to see herself through adversity and was determined to become a success story. Anayely is in her senior year at Liberty High School in Brentwood and will be the first in her family to attend college.

Anayely is also the first in her family to play a competitive sport. She runs track on Liberty High’s team and always looks forward to training. She continues to push herself to do her best when she’s out on the track, for both her and her teammates. Participating and playing a sport is truly a privilege not lost on Anayely and she recognizes that not all kids have the opportunity to do so. Anayely can often be found spending her extra time in school clubs and sports as she is working to help support herself through college with a track scholarship.  

In addition to her love for track, Ana’s favorite subject is English. Her goal is to be a lawyer and she notes that the reading comprehension and critical thinking skills learned in English will be invaluable to her future career path. Anayely understands the power of being a role model to her younger sister. She strives to show her sister that you can achieve anything you set your mind to.  

Frances Kellman-Lima. Video screenshot

Volunteerism – Frances Kellman-Lima

Frances Kellman-Lima is a Senior at El Cerrito High School, where she consistently achieves top grades and is involved in a wide range of extracurricular activities. She acts as a Peer Counselor and Conflict Mediator, and was selected as a “Culture Keeper” mentor. Culture Keepers are youth leaders trained in dynamic mindfulness and restorative practices who work to transform the school’s culture and put an end to the “school-to-prison pipeline.”

For the last year and a half, Frances has been a standout voice on the topic of teen dating violence. She began as a member of a school-led support group, before joining Contra Costa County’s Youth Against Violence leadership group. She regularly goes out of her way to help other leaders in the group, presents great ideas, and displays strong leadership skills. Frances also takes time to volunteer at a preschool, specifically working with children who are living with intellectual and developmental delays.

Outside of school and volunteering, Frances has taken a Latino psychology class and was a teaching assistant for a cognitive neuroscience class at UC Berkeley, both of which she hopes to utilize for helping others.

Good Samaritan – Aria Capelli

Aria Capelli. Video screenshot.

Aria is co-founder of a non-profit called Meaningful Teens which connects teens with volunteer opportunities where they can make a real difference. Meaningful Teens offers a literacy and math platform Aria created which has been a wonderment in this time of COVID-19. Her compassion to help the underserved and to lead a group of young people from diverse backgrounds to reach a common goal has been remarkable.

Fueled by a passion to meet the needs of others, Aria saw opportunities in the distant learning modality even as others viewed its limitations. She recognized the hardships and life challenges that low-income families and immigrants face. Being open-minded, she brought her vision of bringing literacy and math instruction over a Zoom one-to-one platform to reality by tutoring underserved students in low-income housing, immigrants, and refugee communities. To ensure the quality of the lessons, she recruited credentialed teachers to roam the breakout rooms, while Aria aided anyone in need of help, thus providing on-the-spot solutions to problems.

Over the past three years Meaningful Teens has grown from a small project with four friends to a huge success with over 1,900 high school and college volunteer tutors from around the United States with almost 1,500 student-learners worldwide. As Meaningful Teens continues to expand and grow, Aria keeps the students, and their needs, at the forefront.

Rising Stars

Jered E. Clark. Photo courtesy of Office of Supervisor Diane Burgis.

Perseverance – Jered E. Clark 

Jered Clark currently attends Black Diamond Middle School in Antioch where he holds a 4.0 GPA and will be graduating with his 8th grade class at the end of this school year. He is a self-motivated person who is determined, outgoing, intelligent, and a stand-up scholar. He takes initiative to work on his assignments as well as his extracurricular activities which include volunteering with local nonprofits and playing volleyball.

At two years of age, Jered was a victim of child neglect and diagnosed with behavioral challenges. After tragically losing his parents to domestic violence, he entered the foster care system. Today he faces obstacles head on, remains focused and determined to overcome barriers. His perseverance at just 14 years old clearly shows he has a bright future ahead of him.

Teamwork – Zihan Cherry Chou

Zihan Cherry Chou speaks at the ceremony. Photo courtesy of Office of Supervisor Diane

Zihan Cherry Chou is an 8th grade honor student at Adams Middle School in Brentwood. She has been volunteering with NAMI Contra Costa for over 4 years and has been invaluable to their organization and the clients they serve. Cherry has a kind and gentle spirit and is always eager to assist where she can. She is a glowing example of the characteristics you hope to see in both youth and adults.

Cherry is passionate about building mental health friendly communities and works to eliminate mental health stigma and discrimination. She is non-judgmental and recognizes love and compassion should be shown to those impacted by mental health challenges. Cherry is part of NAMI’s Outreach Team which provides services and supplies for those who are unsheltered. She helps distribute food, personal hygiene products, and aids with their pets as well.

Cherry has been a presenter at NAMI Contra Costa Suicide Prevention events and advocates for youth mental health in all her activities. While Cherry is warm-hearted and a happy child, she has also experienced an emotionally trying time in her life. She immigrated from China to the United States with her parents when she was 7 years old. Adapting to an unfamiliar environment, with language barriers and cultural differences was challenging. She experienced repeated bullying in elementary school. Remaining optimistic, she got through this time in her life with bravery and strength. She doesn’t want others to experience what she did, so she makes it a point to welcome new students and takes initiative to introduce them to their new school.

Leadership & Civic Engagement – Carter Considine

Carter Considine. Video screenshot

Carter Considine is a 9th grade student from Lafayette and has started three organizations with helping the community in mind, Teen Art Market, Meaningful Teen, and Humon.

When Carter started Teen Art Market, it was inspired by local youth artists needing to promote their work. Teen Art Market is an online platform that allows teen artists to share their work and connect directly with art enthusiasts, buyers, and other artists.

Carter also co-founded an online nonprofit called Meaningful Teens during the pandemic. Unable to continue the weekly in-person ELL tutoring program at the senior center in Walnut Creek, it became virtual. Since then, the program includes 1,800 + youth tutors and 800+ students, many of the tutors are based in Contra Costa County.  Now, tutors are paired up with other non-profits, educational institution serving low-income communities increasing their footprint and positively impacting the lives of many other young people.

Today, Carter is starting an app, Humon, linking people with different perspectives to come into community by identifying commonalities. This app works with a wrist device that lights up when people nearby have certain commonalities, expected to be available on the Apple app store very soon.

Makenzie Lee Foster speaks during the ceremony. Photo: Contra Costa County

Volunteerism – Makenzie Lee Foster

Makenzie is a homeschooled straight A 6th grade student who balances her school time with acting, writing books, and volunteering to read books to others. 

Makenzie has written three books, two of which have been published and available on Amazon. She embodies what she writes about in her books; Kickin’ it With Kenzie – What’s Meant for Me Will Be, Kickin’ it with Kenzie – Luckily My Luck is Me! And Seeing Me is Believing in Me!

Makenzie has partnered with First 5 of California and has visited over 20 classrooms as well as UCSF Children’s Hospital.  She visits with the children and reads her books to them, sharing how important it is to foster a love of reading and encouraging them to follow their dreams. With each visit, she donates copies of her book along with mini bookmarks and encourages kids to create their own stories.

Gianna Baglieri speaks during the event. Video screenshot.

Good Samaritan – Gianna Baglieri

Gianna is a 3rd grade student at Rio Vista Elementary in Bay Point. According to those who know her, Gianna demonstrates excellent problem-solving skills and leadership for such a young age. She is a kind friend and cares for others. She befriends new students, so they won’t feel alone. 

For more information see the 29th César E. Chávez  Program.

Filed Under: History, News, Supervisors, Youth

Student arrested for attempted murder and mayhem against another student at Northgate High School Tuesday

April 25, 2023 By Publisher 1 Comment

By Lt. Holley Connor, Walnut Creek Police Department

Walnut Creek Police are investigating a violent assault on a student at Northgate High School, 425 Castle Rock Road, that took place this afternoon, Tuesday, April 25, 2023. Walnut Creek Police Department officers and detectives arrived, detained the student believed to be responsible, and quickly determined this was an isolated incident between two students. Based on the initial investigation, the suspect was arrested for PC 664/187 – Attempted Murder and PC 203 – Mayhem. He was transported to Contra Costa Juvenile Hall and is being held without bail.

The victim is currently being treated for her injuries at a local hospital and her condition is unknown.

The names of the involved parties will not be released, as they are juveniles. No other details are available at this time because this is an active investigation.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Walnut Creek Police Department at 925-943-5844 or call the Anonymous Tip Line at 925-943-5865. Case #: 23-13721

Filed Under: Central County, Crime, Education, News, Police, Youth

Antioch teens win MLF High School Fishing Open on the California Delta

April 24, 2023 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Antioch residents Noah Nguyen and Tyler Petersen with their championship plaques. Photo by MLF

Presented by Tackle Warehouse

OAKLEY, Calif. (April 24, 2023) – The Liberty/Heritage High School Team of Noah Nguyen and Tyler Petersen, both of Antioch, California, brought five bass to the scale Saturday weighing 17 pounds, 12 ounces, to win the second, and final, MLF High School Fishing Presented by Favorite Fishing Open on the California Delta Presented by Tackle Warehouse event of the year in Oakley, California.

A field of 33 teams competed in the no-entry fee tournament, which launched from Russo’s Marina in Bethel Island. In MLF High School Fishing competition, the top 10% of teams competing advance to the High School Fishing National Championship.

The top three teams that qualified for the 2023 High School Fishing National Championship are:

1st: Liberty/Heritage High School – Noah Nguyen and Tyler Peterson, both of Antioch, Calif., five bass, 17-12

2nd: Casa Roble Fundamental – Ian Peatross and Preston Schweiger, both of Citrus Heights, Calif., four bass, 17-5

3rd: Lake County High School Fishing Club – Tyler Bryant and Joey Gentle, both of Kelseyville, Calif., five bass, 16-9

Rounding out the top 10 teams were:

4th: Lake County High School Fishing Club – Payton Lyndall, Kelseyville, Calif., and Kaine Navarro, Glendora, Calif., five bass, 16-6

5th: Hughson High School – Logan Dekleva and Landon Mason, both of Hughson, Calif., five bass, 14-8

6th: Delta Saints Bass Team – Jax Soto, Courtland, Calif., and Nathan Tritt, West Sacramento, Calif., five bass, 14-1

7th: Delta Saints Bass Team – Zachary Carli, Ryde, Calif., and Jake Feldheim, West Sacramento, Calif., five bass, 13-11

8th: Liberty High School – J.D. Farage, Discovery Bay, Calif., and Fisher Perkins, Rocklin, Calif., five bass, 13-7

9th: Hughson High School – Hunter Cook, Hickman, Calif., and Cooper Scarbrough, Hughson, Calif., five bass, 13-4

10th: Oakdale High School – Troy Cox and Zane Ravalin, both of Oakdale, Calif., five bass, 11-12

Complete results from the event can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com

MLF High School Fishing Presented by Favorite Fishing tournaments are free, two-person (team) events for students in grades 7-12 and are open to any MLF and TBF Student Angler Federation-affiliated high school club. The top 10% of teams at each Open event, along with the TBF High School Fishing state championships, will advance to the 2023 High School Fishing National Championship. The 2023 MLF High School Fishing National Championship will be held on the Mississippi River in La Crosse, Wisconsin, June 20-24, and is hosted by Explore La Crosse.

The High School Fishing National Champions will each receive a $5,000 college scholarship to the school of their choice and advance to the 2023 MLF Toyota Series Championship to compete as co-anglers.

Proud sponsors of the 2023 MLF High School Fishing Presented by Favorite Fishing include: 4WP, 13 Fishing, Abu Garcia, B&W Trailer Hitches, Black Rifle Coffee Company, E3, Favorite Fishing, Fox Rent a Car, General Tire, Grundens, Lawless Lures, Lew’s, Lowrance, Mercury, Mossy Oak, Onyx, Phoenix, Polaris, Power-Pole, Strike King, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Wiley X and YETI.

For complete details and updated tournament information, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com

. For regular High School Fishing updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF5’s social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

About Major League Fishing

Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, the Discovery Channel, the Outdoor Channel, CBS Sports Network, the World Fishing Network and on-demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 13 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.

Major League Fishing – WE ARE Bass Fishing™

Filed Under: East County, News, Sports, Youth

Hosts needed for international high school students throughout San Francisco Bay Area

April 5, 2023 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Source: AFS

Experience the world without leaving your home

By Meaghan Airey, AKCG – Public Relations Counselors

NEW YORK, New York – In an age when international relations are often tenuous, AFS-USA Intercultural Programs, a leader in international high school student exchange for 75 years, is focused on providing opportunities for intercultural exchange that can help lead to a more just and peaceful world. 

AFS-USA invites families and individuals from the San Francisco area and surrounding communities to become hosts for international students for 12 weeks, a semester, or an academic year.

Hosting provides individuals, families, high schools, and communities with opportunities to learn about the unfamiliar by exploring a diversity of cultures, all while sharing their own culture with a young person from a different country.

“AFS-USA nurtures active global citizens who make the world a better place,” AFS-USA President and CEO Tara Hofmann said. “Every new AFS student is another global citizen in progress—an individual primed to help build a more just world that reflects peace and fellowship. The impact doesn’t stop with the students. Host families’ lives are transformed by students from across the globe and host communities gain greater cultural diversity.”

Exchange students represent nearly 80 countries and cultures, including Kenya, Ukraine, Egypt, Türkiye, Italy, Germany, Chile, Thailand and more. They are among the more than 1,000 international AFS students hosted in the U.S. each year.

AFS-USA host families represent a broad range of U.S. cultures, including individuals and families of multi-national/ethnic backgrounds, those with and without children, those who are members of the LGBTQ+ community, and more.

In addition, AFS-USA has a more than 50-year partnership with the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), which offers numerous sponsored scholarships for international students to study abroad in the U.S. including the following programs:

  • Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (KL-YES): Through the U.S. Department of State’s YES program, high school students from countries with significant Muslim populations live and study for an academic year in the United States. Participants live with a host family, attend an American high school, acquire leadership skills, and engage in activities to learn about U.S. society and values; they also help educate Americans about their home country and culture. 
  • Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX): Jointly funded and managed by the U.S. Department of State and German government, CBYX provides full scholarships for German students to live and study abroad in the U.S. for an academic year. Participants live with a host family, attend an American high school, acquire leadership skills, and engage in activities to learn about U.S. society and values; they also help educate Americans about Germany and German culture.
  • Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX): Through the U.S. Department of State’s FLEX program, high school students from Europe and Eurasia live and study for an academic year in the United States. Participants live with a host family, attend an American high school, acquire leadership skills, and engage in activities to learn about U.S. society and values; they also help educate Americans about their home country and culture. 

Once students and host families are matched, they receive ongoing support from trained staff and are welcomed into their local chapter of dedicated volunteers, alumni, and fellow host families. One thing that sets AFS-USA apart is the network of almost 3,000 volunteers throughout the U.S. Many volunteers have hosted international exchange students or studied abroad with AFS and will support families, students, and schools in gaining the most from their hosting experience.

Hosts are expected to provide their student(s) with a bed, meals and support and encouragement throughout their program. Students arrive with their own spending money and medical coverage.

“These students attend local high schools, participate in local community life, and are encouraged to share aspects of their culture,” Hofmann said. “They also discover first-hand what it’s like to live in America and form lasting friendships that create enduring links between the U.S. and other countries. In many cases, the bonds that form between AFS students and their host families last a lifetime.”

AFS-USA is the largest organization within the international AFS network that includes 54 partners around the globe.

For More Information 

Those interested in hosting an AFS Exchange Student are encouraged to contact 1-800-AFS-INFO or visit www.afsusa.org for more information. For those interested in studying abroad please browse our programs and apply now to start your journey. You can also get involved as an AFS-USA Volunteer. Visit www.afsusa.org/volunteer to get started or learn more about opportunities to make a difference.

Filed Under: Education, International, Youth

Public’s help needed in legal action against Christopher George Miller

March 30, 2023 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Arrested for sex crimes against minors in Contra Costa

By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office

As the seven-count felony case against Christopher George Miller continues in Superior Court in Martinez, the investigative team who arrested him in a sting operation for arranging to engage in sex acts with a minor are asking the public for help.

The investigation into Miller started in 2022 when he was employed at Deer Valley High School in Antioch as a campus supervisor. A parent of a student reported to school officials that Miller was sending inappropriate texts to the student regarding marijuana use at the school, as well as sexually suggestive messages. (See related article)

The Contra Costa County Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) adopted the case about three weeks ago to see if Miller (who was then a former employee at the high school) would sell marijuana and arrange to meet for sex. Posing as a 13-year-old girl on a chat app Miller used, a Detective with the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office started communicating with him. At one point while exchanging texts, Miller offered to sell the fictitious teen marijuana — and later the chats became more sexual in nature.

Miller arranged to meet the teen for sex at a park in Martinez on March 16th, 2023. Participating ICAC members from the Sheriff’s Office, Concord Police, Danville Police, Pittsburg Police, and the District Attorney’s Office met him at the park and arrested Miller on marijuana possession with the intent to sell to a minor and other charges related to contacting and arranging to engage in lewd and lascivious acts with a minor. He was booked into the Martinez Detention Facility and arraigned on a total of seven felony charges on March 21st. His preliminary hearing is set for April 3rd at 8:30 am in Department 25 in Martinez.

According to the charging document filed on March 20 by the CCDA’s Office, Miller was charged with seven felonies, including P0288.3(a), Contact with Minor for Sexual Offense on or about June 14, 2022; PC288.4(b), Meeting Minor for Lewd Purposes between March 10 and 16, 2023; PC288.3(a), Contact with Minor for Sexual Offense on or between March 10 and 16, 2023; PC288.2(a)(2), Distributing Or Showing Pornography To A Minor on or about March 14, 2023; PC288.2(a)(2), Distributing Or Showing Pornography To A Minor on or about March 15, 2023; PC 664/PC288(a), Attempted Lewd Act Upon A Child on or about March 16, 2023; PC 664/HS11360(a), Attempted Sale/Offer To Sell/Transportation Of Marijuana on or about March 16, 2023.

ICAC Senior Inspector Darryl Holcombe notes that Miller may have been in contact with other victims. He’s asking the public to email him at the District Attorney’s Office if they have information related to Miller’s case. He can be reached at: DHolcombe@contracostada.org.

Case No. 01-23-00820 | The People of the State of California v. Miller, Christopher George

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Filed Under: Concord, Crime, District Attorney, Education, News, Police, Sheriff, Youth

Contra Costa Supervisors to honor 2023 Youth Hall of Fame during 29th annual César E. Chávez Commemorative Celebration April 4

March 22, 2023 By Publisher Leave a Comment

By Kristi Jourdan, PIO, Contra Costa County Office of Communications & Media

Ballet Folklórico Netzahualcoyotl dancers will perform accompanied by Mariachi Monumental. Photo: Contra Costa County

The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors will honor César E. Chávez in a celebration recognizing his commitment to social justice and respect for human dignity. The 29th Annual César E. Chávez Commemorative Celebration will be 11 a.m., Tuesday, April 4, in Board Chambers at 1025 Escobar Street in Martinez. Community members can also join the event live on Contra Costa Television channels and the County’s website.

“We honor César E. Chávez and recognize his legacy of fighting injustice and improving the lives of farmworkers, their families, and their communities. We are inspired to commit ourselves to service to others,” said Board Chair Supervisor John Gioia. “We also recognize our 2023 Youth Hall of Fame awardees whose commitment to service and community are to be applauded and are the force moving forward Cesar Chavez’s legacy.”

The theme for this year’s celebration is Hope and Healing – Esperanza y Bienestar. The festival will feature keynote speaker Genoveva Garcia Calloway, community leader and former City of San Pablo Mayor and behavioral health professional, who will share her perspective on César E. Chávez’s legacy.

The event will include presentation of the 2023 Youth Hall of Fame Awards to students who make outstanding community contributions, live performances by Mariachi Monumental and Ballet Folklórico Netzahualcoyotl, and celebratory remarks from members of the Board of Supervisors.

Following are the County’s 2023 Youth Hall of Fame Awards winners:
High School Awardees:

Volunteerism: Frances Kellman-Lima, El Cerrito High School, 12th grade

Teamwork: Prisha Purohit, San Ramon Valley High School, 11th grade

Perseverance: Anayely Arreola Caldera, Liberty High School, 12th grade

Leadership & Civic Engagement: Anay Pant, Athenian School, 11th grade

Good Samaritan: Aria Capelli, Athenian School, 11th grade

Middle School Rising Stars:

Volunteerism Rising Star: Makenzie Lee-Foster, Visions in Education, 6th grade

Teamwork: Zihan Cherry Chou, Adams Middle School, 8th grade

Perseverance: Jered E. Clark, Black Diamond Middle School, 8th grade

Leadership & Civic Engagement Rising Star: Carter Considine, Head Royce, 9th grade

Good Samaritan: Gianna Baglieri, Rio Vista Elementary School, 3rd grade

The annual celebration honors the diversity and richness of our community. To learn more about the César E. Chávez Ceremony, visit https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/6039 on the Contra Costa County website. The community can also watch the event live online at www.contracosta.ca.gov/6086 or www.contracostatv.org. The celebration will broadcast live on Contra Costa Television channels: Comcast Cable 27, ATT/U-Verse 99, and Astound 32 and 1027.

Filed Under: Community, News, Supervisors, Youth

Alice in Winter Wonderland ballet in Brentwood Dec. 18

November 29, 2022 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Fabulous Feet Dance Studio presents their Winter Ballet Performance of “Alice in Winter Wonderland” Sunday, Dec. 18 at Heritage High School in Brentwood. The ballet begins at 4:00 p.m.

Artistic Directors Kimberley Karbowski and Denise Williams.

Tickets are $20 each and available at Eventbrite.

For more information about the studio visit Fabulous Feet Dance Studio or their Facebook page.

Filed Under: Arts & Entertainment, East County, Youth

St. Vincent de Paul, De La Salle Lacrosse “Team-Up” to provide Thanksgiving dinners for needy Concord families

November 23, 2022 By Publisher Leave a Comment

DLS Lacrosse Team supports SVdP – St Francis Turkey Drive on Saturday, Nov. 19, 2022. Photo: St. Vincent de Paul

By Brian Boyle, Communications & Development Associate, St. Vincent de Paul of Contra Costa County

On Saturday, November 19, 2022, the St. Vincent de Paul branch at St. Francis Assisi church in Concord, and the coaches and players on the De La Salle Lacrosse teams provided over 100 turkeys and over 100 volunteer hours to help hungry Concord families.  As a result, these 100 families, (over 400 individuals), will have a special holiday meal to serve their family this Thanksgiving.

Isabel Lara, the leader of the St. Vincent de Paul volunteer team in Concord said that they would not be able to extend this program to the needy without the help of the De La Salle Lacrosse teams.

“The kindness and support of the DLS Lacrosse players and coaches at the Thanksgiving distribution was a gift to the community!” she shared. “The happy faces from the parents and their children as they received their turkey, and the bags of food was a beautiful expression of their gratitude.”

The St. Vincent de Paul branch at St. Francis of Assisi operates a food pantry, provides home visits to extend basic needs assistance, (rental & utility assistance), and other services for the needy.

The De La Salle Lacrosse teams have provided this assistance to St. Vincent de Paul for 12 years, distributing over 1,650 turkeys, raising over $35,500 and contributing over 1,230 volunteer hours.

If someone needs help, please contact SVdP at www.svdp-cc.org, or (925) 439-5060.

About St. Vincent de Paul

The mission of St. Vincent de Paul: A network of friends, inspired by Gospel values, growing in holiness and building a more just world through personal relationships with and service to people in need.

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul of Contra Costa County provides help to neighbors in need regardless of gender, national origin, race, or religion. It is part of an international non-profit, organized locally to bring concrete aid and comfort to those who are poor and suffering in Contra Costa County. The Society collaborates with other people and organizations of good will in mitigating need and addressing its causes, making no distinction in those served.

 

Filed Under: Central County, Community, Concord, Faith, Sports, Youth

Friday is deadline for non-profits to apply for Youth of Promise Fund micro-grants

October 27, 2022 By Publisher 1 Comment

Source: Youth of Promise Fund

Must serve Eastern Contra Costa County

The Youth of Promise Fund, a partnership between the Contra Costa County Probation Department and the Antioch Community Foundation, is now open to accept applications for micro-grants of up to $10,000 for non-profit organizations serving Eastern Contra Costa County youth and families and to support priority program/service areas described below for the period: October 1, 2022 – September 30, 2023.

Priority Program/Service Areas Include:

  • Academic success, mentoring, and tutoring;
  • Leadership development
  • Civic engagement/social justice;
  • Prevention;
  • Youth employment, internships, or work-ready skills training; and

Among others that support and promote strategies and best practices that effectively prevent or reduce juvenile crime and provide youth and their families with opportunities to achieve, grow, and thrive.

Application Process and Timeline

Non-profit (501c3) organizations serving justice-system involved youth and/or youth at risk of justice-system involvement in East Contra Costa are eligible to apply. (A pool of $85,000 has been allocated for this grant application cycle.)

Applications must be submitted to the Antioch Community Foundation via online or by email at grants@acfcommunityimpact.org. See the link below for the application.

Applications are due no later than 5:00pm Friday, October 28, 2022.

  • No mailed or faxed documents will be accepted.
  • Funding decisions will be finalized by the ACF Board by Monday, November 14, 2022, and notification to organizations of grant funding status will be made by Friday, November 18, 2022.
  • Organizations that are awarded a grant must confirm acceptance and provide any revised documentation to the Antioch Community Foundation by 5:00 pm, Tuesday, November 29, 2022
  • Grant awards will be mailed by Friday, December 2, 2022.
  • To be considered for future funding, grantees must submit a grant report for 2022-23 by Friday, September 1, 2023, or within 2 months of completion of any one-time event for which the award is given.

For questions, please send your inquiry to grants@acfcommunityimpact.org or contact Keith Archuleta at 925-584-5944/ keith@emeraldhpc.com.

 

Filed Under: Community, East County, Youth

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