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Family Fun with Fudgsicles see page 5.
PERMIT NO 00005
Friday, May 22, 2020 Vol. 24 No. 40
‘Count All Kids’ Personal fears related to immigration status and overcrowded housing situations are considered common reasons why young kids are undercounted in the census. (Adobe Stock)
Building Trust Key to Ensuring All Kids are Counted in Census By Desert Star Staff The 2020 Census count has been delayed by the pandemic, but groups wanting to ensure that children are counted are getting their message out.
In Minnesota, efforts are underway to educate families in communities of color. The state has declared May 15 as “Count All Kids Day.” It’s estimated that 2% of children statewide were
By Desert Star Staff A US Navy air base in Corpus Christi, Texas, is on lockdown after an active shooter incident at the facility. Soon after the alarm was raised, officials said the shooter had been “neutralized.” The shooting was reported at around 6.15am local time Thursday. As Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) investigators and local law enforcement responded, airbase officials, warned anyone near the north gate of the base to “get out and away to safety.” “Execute lockdown procedures – remain indoors and away from windows,” they
added in a Facebook post about the unfolding incident. Corpus Christi Police Department, meanwhile, urged anyone outside the facility to “avoid the area entirely.” According to officials at the base, the shooter has been “neutralized.” Naval officials said that one security worker was injured. The Corpus Christi base, which is home to four training squadrons, was briefly placed on lockdown in December when a person making “verbal threats” was found in possession of a weapon and arrested.
missed in the 2010 count. Nationwide, children of color were missed at double the rate of their white peers. Camila Mercado Michelli is advocacy manager at CLUES, a Minnesota nonprofit that
serves Latinx families. She says they’re trying to dispel any myths that census takers are government workers up to no good. “There is, like, this distrust with a government agency,”
says Michelli. “And because the Census Bureau falls in that group, that’s one of the biggest challenges.” She says gaining trust will convince more families to participate in the process and include their children Continues on Page 2
Active shooter ‘neutralized’ at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi in Texas
Continues on Page 3
Several Pastors Planning To Ignore Coronavirus Restrictions NBC PS Taylor Martinez MURRIETA (CNS) – Several pastors in Riverside County are among hundreds throughout California who intend to ignore remaining coronavirus- related restrictions on in-person church services and open their doors to congregants at the end of the month. More than 1,200 clergymen and women have signed a “Declaration of Essentiality” stating their commitment to hold in-person services on May 31, the Day of the Pentecost. “This act of solidarity between members of the clergy from varying denominations, ethnic backgrounds and geographic locations is unprecedented in recent times,” said Robert Tyler, attorney and president of Murrietabased Advocates for Faith & Freedom. “These pastors are willing to stand against the state and face fines or penalties in order to fulfill their calling and the essential needs of those around them.” Gov. Gavin Newsom was put on notice about the undertaking in a letter bearing the signatures of Pastor Tim Thompson of 412 Church in Murrieta and Pastor Tom Hughes of 412 Church in San Jacinto, among others. The governor’s office did
not immediately respond to a request for comment. In his March 19 executive order stemming from the coronavirus emergency, Newsom excluded houses of worship from permissible activities under his list of “essential” operations. The prohibition against churches conducting any type of services, which was reinforced by a similar public health order in Riverside County that has since been annulled, was modified by the governor last month to permit so- called “drive-in church services.” Newsom, the state attorney general and other parties were federally sued to stop further enforcement of the executive order barring in-person worship, but the proposed civil injunction was rejected by a U.S. District Court judge in Riverside, who declared that a public health threat takes precedence over arguments in favor of public gatherings, particularly when livestreaming and other options are available. However, in Kansas last month, two churches filed a similar federal suit, challenging that state’s governor over bars to in-person worship, and in that case the judge granted a temporary injunction allowing services to proceed.
The federal jurist cited the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution validating the freedom of convening religious assemblies without government interference. Soon afterward, based on similar reasoning, the U.S. Sixth Circuit Court ruled in favor of a Louisville, Kentucky, Baptist church seeking to hold services in defiance of a state mandate tied to COVID-19. “California’s public gathering exemption includes a wide range of enterprises: airports, public transportation facilities, the entertainment industry, construction sites, news media facilities, childcare locations, marijuana dispensaries, liquor stores, cafeterias, big box stores, grocery stores, convenience stores, carry-out restaurants and other establishments where large numbers of people gather and assemble,” according to the letter sent to Newsom. “Why shouldn’t a church or synagogue be allowed to operate within appropriate health guidelines just as secular enterprises that engage in similar conduct?” the petitioners stated. “If it is okay to stand in line at Costco, it should be okay to stand in prayer at church.” The declaration says
public health authorities have performed a laudable service mitigating COVID-19, but the measures have gone too far, for too long. “The clergy of this state are convinced that they must reopen their ministries to fully serve the needs of their communities,” according to the declarants. “The spiritual services of ministries are absolutely essential to the health and welfare of the people of California.” They pointed to recent studies indicating major mental health impacts, including suicides, connected to stay-at-home orders and job losses as examples of
why positive reinforcement from churches is vital. “The closure of religious organizations is preventing the numerous ministries and social services provided by churches to the poor, unemployed and distressed,” according to the letter. “The humanitarian and spiritual support provided by ministries are innumerable.” The declaration includes a vow by clergy to “follow reasonable guidelines” from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to lessen the likelihood of COVID-19 exposure, using social distancing and other precautions during services. Source: NBC Palm Springs
Children’s Advocates Push Back on Proposed Cuts to Kids’ Programs
As a result of the coronavirus pandemic, California has taken a budget nosedive going
from a $5.6 billion budget surplus in January to a $54.3 billion deficit. No one argues the state is going to have to do some trimming. But Ted Lempert, president of the group Children Now, says big cuts to child care, preschool, and K-through-12 education would be devastating for children, especially in lower-income families. “It’s basically taking kids who weren’t getting the supports they needed before this pandemic hit, and really exacerbating these disparities,” he states. Kindergarten through grade 12 education is slated for a $19 billion cut over two years. But Gov. Gavin Newsom did set aside $4.4 billion in emergency federal aid, and also has given the schools $2.3 billion that was supposed
to be used to bolster the teachers’ pension fund. Lempert also objects to the idea of eliminating the crisis hotline for foster youth. He says he’s hoping the state and the federal government will work together to soften the blow. “Our next step is to work with the legislature to restore some of them and also, of course, pushing the federal government to provide more relief so some of these proposed cuts do not have to take place,” he states The legislature will have to vote on a final budget in June. The issue will likely return to the forefront in the mid-year budget revision in the fall. Disclosure: Children Now/ KIDS COUNT contributes to our fund for reporting on Children’s Issues, Youth Issues.
And as Congress considers providing more long-term help for pandemic recovery, she says a more accurate count will help young kids - who have already seen the effects of achievement gaps during the crisis. “Just reflecting on who
has access to reliable internet is really making a difference,” says Bertram, “in terms of how children can get access to their educational needs right now, and who has access to proper nutrition.” Advocates fear that the number of young children
missed could double in the 2020 count, if not enough awareness is raised. Disclosure: Children’s Defense Fund- Minnesota Chapter contributes to our fund for reporting on Budget Policy & Priorities, Children’s Issues.
Gov. Gavin Newsom met Friday with legislative leaders to work on the budget. (Clarissa Resultan/CA Dept. of Corrections and Rehabilitation) By Desert Star Staff SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- Children’s groups are speaking out against billions
of dollars in state budget cuts being proposed in California, saying programs that benefit children should be a priority.
‘Count All Kids’
will be protected. Jennifer Bertram, in the count. CLUES has KIDS Count coordinator been holding community at the Children’s Defense discussions that include Fund of Minnesota, says census representatives the undercount of young and immigration attorneys, children in the last census to help assure concerned cost the state nearly $200 residents that their information million in federal aid.
Continued from Page 1
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Practical Tips for Caregivers Facing a Pandemic By Desert Star Staff Whether your role as a caregiver has you looking out for an elderly relative, children or both, chances are good that you’ve worried about how the COVID-19 pandemic may continue to affect your ability to provide necessary care. Following the most up to date guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is the first step for caregivers who are looking after loved ones. As caregivers continue to adjust during the pandemic, keep these considerations in mind: • Contact health care providers to obtain extra necessary medications and stock up on overthe-counter drugs.
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• Monitor needed medical supplies related to a loved one’s condition or treatments (oxygen, incontinence, dialysis, wound care, etc.) and common supplies such as tissues and cough syrup. • Those with a loved one in a long-term care facility should inquire about any positive COVID-19 cases in the facility, testing procedures for the residents and staff members and be aware of the facility’s protocol if there is an outbreak or positive tests among residents and staff. These additional tips can help caregivers reduce the pandemic’s impact: Make backup plans. Most caregivers have plans in place for temporary assistance when things go awry, but COVID-19 is putting many of those short-term solutions to the test. It’s a good time to pull in additional resources so you have extra help waiting if someone you’re counting on falls ill or can’t fill in as planned. A meal delivery service may be a good option if grocery shopping and meal preparation continue to be affected. Reduce exposure. Those who take care of loved ones in their homes or are regular care providers to family members and friends have concerns about exposing this vulnerable group to the virus. Many long-term care facilities have
Photo courtesy of Getty Images changed their visitation policies. You might be able to visit a loved one through a window, via a balcony or through video chat. It’s also important to minimize time spent out in the community where you could unknowingly contract the virus and pass it to a vulnerable loved one. Shop smart. Because supermarkets and stores with goods identified as “essential” are still bustling with people, it’s important to minimize extra trips and wear a mask when in public. If possible, drop groceries and essentials at the door or arrange for delivery. In addition, some major pharmacies, where AARP members get special benefits on health, wellness and beauty purchases, have
introduced special shopping hours for seniors and drive-thru shopping options to minimize person-to-person contact. Reschedule wellness appointments. Not only are doctor’s offices short on resources, a waiting room can be filled with germs that may cause illness. Try to arrange for telephone or video-based appointments when possible and cancel any appointments that aren’t urgently necessary. Keep germs away. Thorough handwashing with soap and water is critical. In addition to washing hands after eating and using the restroom, anyone entering and leaving the house should wash his or her hands. Also wipe down hightouch surfaces like doorknobs,
remotes and phone keypads. Combat boredom. Despite the good intentions of staying away, social isolation can be a real concern for seniors. Practicing social distancing is important for their health, but you can help keep them engaged by increasing phone, video and online interaction, and encouraging family and friends to do the same. If your loved one doesn’t already have a cell phone, contract-free plans are available with free activation and special rates for senior users. Many long-term care facilities also offer social distancing activities for residents. Find more resources for caregivers at aarp.org/ save. Family Features
Active shooter ‘neutralized’ at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi in TX
there are “multiple victims” moment of the shooting. apparently being shot. “My name is Armando The woman can be heard resulting from the incident. The December incident pleading with the attacker Junior Hernandez, and I’m A massive police came amid a spate of as he suggests his motives: going to be the shooter of presence has been reported shootings at US military bases. at the scene, with videos Westgate, 2020. That’s to get “Society is bulls**t. Society During the same week, a back to mean Society. Let’s is f**king s**t.” RT cannot showing dozens of police Saudi military student shot get this done,” the man says independently verify the cars rushing to the mall. and killed three people at casually in one of the clips. authenticity of the footage. Footage has surfaced Naval Air Station Pensacola Another video shows him Glendale Police said on social media purportedly in Florida. A sailor shot two filmed by the alleged gunman, firing rounds into a dark alley. that they were working with shipyard workers dead at the identifying himself as Armando The disturbing footage multiple agencies, including Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. Junior Hernandez. The video concludes with an interaction the FBI, to carry out searches Friday’s incident in Corpus consists of several edits, between the alleged gunman of nearby buildings and Christi came after a lull in businesses to ensure that showing a cache of weapons, and one of his victims mass shootings with much there are no other victims. Hernandez driving to the who is seen lying on the of the US locked down due site, as well as the alleged ground in a parking lot after to the coronavirus pandemic. However, hours before the Best Quality! Best Price! Guaranteed! base was locked down, At least three people have been shot after a gunman, reportedly wielding an ARCommercial • Residential • Mobile Homes 15 style rifle at the time of the attack, opened fire at a mall outside Phoenix, Arizona. The suspect has by Todd Gregory Young ED been apprehended. VOT The incident unfolded #1 IN Y • Shingles • Flat Roofs • Urethane Foam LIT about 7:25pm local time at QUA the Westgate Entertainment • Torch Down • Sno Coats • Leaks/Repairs District in Glendale, a city in • Tile Roofs • Waterproofing Maricopa County, Arizona, nine miles northwest of Phoenix. HI DESERT LOW DESERT At least three people were shot, including one critically, ABC reported, citing local police. Witnesses, SINCE 1987 Bonded • Insured • Lic# 764608 reliableroofingbytgy.com including Arizona State Sen. Martín Quezada, said that Continued from Page 1
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Find Inspiration in Award-Winning Home Design By Desert Star Staff Award-winning renovation projects aren’t just a way to identify top-notch contractors, they’re a chance for homeowners to gather ideas and learn from other home improvement success stories. One such source of inspiration is the National Contractor of the Year (CotY) Award Winners who are honored each year by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. A panel of industry experts anonymously selected winners based on the functionality, aesthetics, craftsmanship, innovation and degree of difficulty of their projects. Find inspiration in these 2020 residential project winners, and see the complete list at nari.org. Residential Exterior Under $50,000 The clients wanted to move the side entrance of this home to its original location in the front. City approval was contingent on returning specific historic architectural details, including replacing the brick columns with historically accurate wood columns and installing doors and windows
more in line with the 1910 era when the house was built. “In New Orleans, we are very sensitive to preserving the historic character of our houses, so this was an important goal for both the homeowners and the city,” said Chris Kornman of Entablature, LLC in New Orleans. “We learned that history often directs the design down a path the owner may not have been considering.” Residential Addition $100,000-$250,000 Ultimately, this two-story addition included a sunroom and a second-floor master bedroom and bathroom. However, due to problems with a previous contractor, structural issues with the existing framing needed correcting first. The result was an open living space and new 870-square-foot master suite upstairs. “This project taught me that customers are looking not only for a skilled contractor, but one that will listen, understand and empathize with them,” said Allen Deuschle with Kansas City Remodel & Handyman Allen LLC in Overland Park,
Kansas. “I spent extra hours prior to a signed contract listening to their needs, ideas, offering suggestions and assessing unresolved issues.”
Residential Addition Over $250,000 The goal of this project was to integrate a kitchen, dining and mudroom addition with an open floor plan to accommodate large gatherings while maintaining an intimate spatial feel. Varied ceiling treatments, including a coffered living room, a smooth kitchen ceiling and a custom vaulted dining room ceiling helped differentiate the spaces. “We encountered some interesting structural challenges that involved a complex weaving and concealing of steel beams and columns,” said Mike Fought with Nicholson Builders in Columbus, Ohio. “The new beams and columns took the place of load-bearing exterior walls, and this created visual connection through Over $250,000 the home, specifically upon This narrow, sloping entry at the front door.” site was made functional with a multi-terrace design Residential Landscape that added a pool, patio, Design/Outdoor Living deck and level natural turf yard in a compact space that was constrained by a steep hillside above and a marsh below. LED rope lighting on risers improved visibility and promoted stair safety while porcelain tile and plank decking cooled swimmers’ bare feet. “The work to create inspired spaces is highly collaborative and is driven by understanding, relationship and vision,” said James Sweeney of Mom’s Design Build in Shakopee, Minnesota. “If you can enjoy the journey, the end result will be even better.” Entire House $250,000-$500,000
In this project, an old, weathered beach cottage was transformed into a modern dream home with a complete overhaul of both the exterior and interior. Modern design elements were added throughout, including a kitchen with waterfall countertops, a fireplace with black brick and white stucco and a cable railing system surrounding the mahogany deck. “During this remodel we were reminded that each new project brings an opportunity to learn or to improve a current process,” said Fred Vazac with Vazac Contracting Corp. in Saint James, New York. “We opted to use a precast concrete diamond footing that was perfect in the sandy environment. We still use this type of footing on other projects.” Family Features
Working Hard to Count Communities During Pandemic
By Desert Star Staff Making sure that all residents are counted in the 2020 Census got a lot harder after the coronavirus pandemic forced Colorado communities into lockdown, and reaching hard-tocount communities became even more challenging. Lizette Escobedo is director of national census programs for the NALEO Educational Fund, which focuses on Latino communities. She says all of her group’s original plans for community-based outreach went out the window. “We also had to create all these opportunities for online surges, where you can get 50 to 100
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organizations to -- all on the same week -- just encourage everyone to participate in the census,” she states. Escobedo says her team has shifted focus to meeting people who have not yet filled out the form wherever they are, and these days that means on social media and streaming services. Escobedo says the stakes for getting an accurate count are high. Census data is used to determine political representation, and distributing $13 billion in Colorado each year for health, education, seniors’ programs and more. Escobedo says the controversy over a potential citizenship question on the
census remains a barrier for communities of color with a history of legitimate distrust of government. She points to a surveyshowing that half of all respondents did not know the question had been removed. “Making ourselves seen, making ourselves counted, it’s impossible to ignore our community and our priorities,” she stresses. “I think when we look back at history, we can say in a moment where there were all these attempts to make us invisible, to not make us heard, we did the opposite.” NALEO has trained more than 3,000 people at more than 200 events, including in Denver and Pueblo, reminding people that all data collected May 22, 2020
by the census is confidential and cannot be shared with other government agencies. Escobedo encourages anyone with questions about
the census to call a toll-free hotline at 877-EL-CENSO, or 877-352-3676. Census forms can be filled out online at www.my2020census.gov.
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Family Fun with Fudgsicles HOMEMADE FUDGSICLES
Recipe courtesy of Milk Means More Total time: 10 minutes plus 12 hours chill time | Servings: 12 Ingredients: 3 cups milk 1 cup sugar 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1/4 cup honey 1/4 teaspoon salt 12 Ice pop sticks Direcetions: In pot over medium heat, heat milk, sugar, cocoa powder, honey and salt, stirring often, until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature. Pour into ice pop molds and insert sticks then freeze until firm, about 12 hours. Remove ice pops from molds and place in freezer-safe bag until ready to eat. Family Features
By Desert Star Staff Planning snacks you can enjoy with your children is a winning parenting strategy for
spending more time together while creating tasty treats. Take it a step further with a recipe like these Homemade
By Desert Star Staff NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Tennessee is bracing for multiple elections this year, including a major statewide election on Aug. 6 and the general election on Nov. 3. Yet without a vaccine for the coronavirus, many voters are worried about the health risks involved in showing up at the polls. In many states, voting by mail is relatively easy, but Tennessee is one of 16 states that requires eligible voters to submit specific reasons for why they need to request absentee ballot. So far, Gov. Bill Lee has refused to use his executive power to expand vote by mail during the pandemic. Davidson County resident Ben Lay is a two-time cancer survivor, and his wife lives with an auto-immune disease. He says he’s being forced to make an unreasonable choice.
“We represent thousands, or tens of thousands, of other Tennesseans who are going to be faced with that choice come this August and November,” Lay states. “Do I risk my life to get out and exercise my right to vote. Or do I forfeit having my voice heard so that I can stay safe?” Lay is a plaintiff in a lawsuit filed in a Nashville court by civil rights groups seeking to make absentee voting available to all eligible voters during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hedy Weinberg, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Tennessee, says her organization is asking the court to block the state from enforcing the excuse requirement for the 2020 election year, and to instruct local election officials to issue absentee ballots to all eligible voters. “It’s disappointing
Fudgsicles, which are an ideal example of an easy treat made with the goodness of real milk kids can help
make, giving them an added incentive to enjoy moments together. To help your children reach the recommended 2-3
servings of dairy each day, serve with a glass of milk. Find more snack recipes at milkmeansmore.org.
Tennessee’s Strict Absentee Ballot Rules Put Voters at Risk
More Americans are expected to vote by mail in the 2020 election year as the coronavirus pandemic continues. (Adobe Stock) to us right now that the governor has not chosen to use his executive power to expand use of the absentee ballot,” she states. “Without expanded use, we will be disenfranchising tens
of thousands of eligible Tennessee voters.” Weinberg emphasizes that polling places should remain open for those who do want to vote in person. Research has shown that
African-Americans are far less likely to vote by mail than other groups. In the 2018 midterm elections, around 11% of black voters nationwide voted by mail, compared with more than 23% of white voters.
Border Patrol Agents Seize Meth Hidden in Spare Tire
By Desert Star Staff NILAND, Calif. – El Centro Sector Border Patrol www.desertstarweekly.com
agents working at the Highway 111 immigration checkpoint arrested a woman
suspected of smuggling narcotics Friday afternoon. The incident occurred at May 22, 2020
approximately 12:15 p.m., when a 33-year-old woman driving a silver 2007 BMW sedan approached the checkpoint. A Border Patrol K-9 detection team alerted to the vehicle in the primary inspection lane. Agents directed the vehicle to enter the secondary inspection area for further investigation. While in secondary inspection, Border Patrol agents searched the trunk of the vehicle and discovered nine plastic wrapped bundles concealed inside of the spare tire that contained a white crystal like substance inside. The substance tested positive for the characteristics
of methamphetamine. The total weight of the methamphetamine discovered was approximately 9.2 pounds with an estimated value of $17,480. The woman, a United States citizen, the narcotics and vehicle were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Please visit www.cbp. gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. For all news, information and updates, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @USBPChiefELC.
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Coronavirus brings diamond sales to an almost complete halt By Desert Star Staff A leading global diamond producer, Russia’s ALROSA, is reporting that its sales were down tenfold in one month alone, as the impact of Covid-19 ripples through the global economy and supply chains. In April, ALROSA sold a total of just $15.6 millionworth of rough and polished diamonds. This is down from over $152 million a month earlier and from $400 million in sales in the beginning of the year. “Restrictions imposed to fight the coronavirus and a decline in demand for diamond jewelry have minimized the trade in rough and polished diamonds across the world,” Evgeny Agureev, Deputy CEO of ALROSA, said in a statement. The steep decline came as the company offered its clients a delay in purchases
initially scheduled for April, to offset the challenges the industry currently faces. However, ALROSA hopes that the crisis will be short-term and the demand for gems will start to rebound in the beginning of the third quarter. The deadly virus has resulted in massive production shut-downs worldwide, including in the diamond industry. India’s diamond cutting and polishing industry, where 90 percent of the world’s high-end stones are polished, is still shut due to its nationwide lockdown. Meanwhile, March imports of polished and rough diamonds to the key global diamond trade center, Antwerp in Belgium, fell by over 73 percent and 51 percent respectively, according to the Antwerp World Diamond Center (AWDC). ALROSA is the world’s largest diamond miner by
volume and accounts for over 90 percent of Russia’s diamond production. The pandemic forced the company to suspend production at some of its fields earlier this week. Despite the crisis, the company
has not asked for additional government aid so far, but said it may need such funds if the lack of demand persists for up to three or four months. In the midst of the 2008 financial crisis, the Russian
government purchased precious stones worth $1 billion for the state fund to help the company to stay afloat. Reportedly, similar measures are currently being discussed.
Arizona Refuses to Name Care Facilities with COVID-19 Outbreaks
By Desert Star Staff TUCSON, Ariz. -- Despite calls for more transparency over COVID-19 outbreaks in long-term care facilities, Arizona officials are refusing to release details of those establishments. AARP Arizona and others have called on the state to name facilities
with significant coronavirus outbreaks and deaths. The Arizona Department of Health Services cited privacy laws, but several news-media outlets are suing the state, arguing the information is public. AARP Arizona State Director Dana Kennedy said
the response to outbreaks has been much too slow, causing unnecessary deaths. “We can’t hit the reset button, but testing dollars need to go to our long-term care facilities immediately,” Kennedy said. “That means long-term care, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, group
homes, anywhere that there is congregate housing.” As of Monday, there were more than 14,000 coronavirus cases in Arizona, with 686 deaths. Statewide, 86% of those deaths were in the vulnerable 65+ age group. And in metro Phoenix, 188 of 233 virus-rated deaths were residents of care facilities. Retiree and Tucson resident Jeannie Tucker recently brought her 97-yearold mother home from a longterm care facility. A long-time advocate for senior rights, Tucker said even before the pandemic, facilities were often understaffed, had poor training and failed to provide proper sanitation. She said since the COVID-19 crisis began, things have gotten worse. “The state is not providing me with the information that I can then turn around and make those decisions with,” Tucker said. “That’s not OK. That, to me, is almost a breach of our contract, to where if I’m going to do my job, you have to give me information for which I can do that job.”
Tucker said when care homes go into lockdown, families often are shut off from information about their loved ones. “I’m so offended, angered and disappointed in more words than I can name at the state of Arizona Department of Health Services and the governor for not being transparent with the information of who has infection, how many, what facility, whether it’s staff or residents and all of that,” she said. State health officials declared a COVID-19 “testing blitz” across Arizona during May, with an emphasis on testing staff and residents at the state’s 147 nursing care facilities. However, a national survey out Monday showed Arizona 49th among the 50 states for the number of tests performed. Disclosure: AARP Arizona contributes to our fund for reporting on Budget Policy & Priorities, Consumer Issues, Health Issues, Senior Issues.
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Desert Star Weekly Legals PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
City of Desert Hot Springs NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING AND ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council will conduct a Public Hearing to consider Development Permit No. 20-3. The Public Hearing will be held as follows: DATE: Tuesday, June 2nd, 2020 TIME: 6:00 P.M. (or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard) LOCATION: Video Conference CASE(S): Development Permit No. 20-3 LOCATION: The project is located at the northwest corner of Pierson Blvd and Golden Eagle Way within the Residential Low (R-L/SP) District.
APPLICANT/REPRESENTATIVE: Andrew Washington, Eagle Pointe PROPOSAL: The applicant has filed an application to develop 15 single-family residences on vacant lots in Tract Map No. 30540 within the Residential Development Eagle Pointe Specific Plan. ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION: In accordance with the provisions of the Pursuant to Section 15162(a) of the CEQA regulations, once an mitigated negative declaration (MND) has been adopted for a project, no subsequent environmental review needs to be completed unless there are substantial changes in the project that warrant additional review. The planning commission only needs to make a finding that the request is consistent with the original MND and no further analysis is required. On June 2nd, 2020, the City Council, at the public hearing or during deliberation, may recommend to City Council to approve, deny, or propose changes
PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
to the project or to the environmental determination. INTERESTED PERSONS MAY be heard or written comments may be submitted prior to the Public Hearing(s). Written comments will be made a part of the public record. If you challenge this matter in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of Desert Hot Springs, at or prior to, the public hearing. Notice Regarding COVID-19 and Public Participation at Planning Commission Meetings Pursuant to California Governor Newsom’s Executive Orders N-25-20 issued on March 4, 2020 and N-29-20 issued on March 18, 2020, the City Council regular meeting will be conducted remotely through Zoom and broadcast live on the City’s YouTube channel. Access to the zoom meeting will be available with the published agenda. Pursuant to the Executive Orders, and to ensure the health and safety of the public by limiting human contact that could spread the COVID-19 virus, the Carl May Center/Council Chamber will not be open for the meeting. The City Council and Staff will be participating remotely and will not be physically present in the Council Chamber. All information regarding the proposed project is available for public review by appointment at the City of Desert Hot Springs City Hall, 65950 Pierson Boulevard, during regular business hours (Monday through Thursday, 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM). QUESTIONS AND INQUIRIES regarding this matter or to review information for the above-described project: Contact Person: Patricia M. Villagomez Mailing Address: Community Development Department 65950 Pierson Boulevard Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240 Phone: (760) 329-6411, Ext. 243 Email: pvillagomez@cityofdhs.org. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (760) 329-6411 or via email at jsoriano@cityofdhs.org. Notification at least 48 hours prior to the scheduled meeting(s) will enable the City to make reasonable accommodations to ensure accessibility. Publish May 22, 2020 DSW20-5088 NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: DANIEL HENRY AKA DANIEL PATRICK HENRY, PAT HENRY CASE NO. PRIN2000428. To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of DANIEL HENRY AKA DANIEL PATRICK HENRY, PAT HENRY. A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by MERIDITH MORFIN in the Superior Court of California, County of RIVERSIDE. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that MERIDITH MORFIN be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act . (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 07/16/20 at 8:45AM in Dept. PS3 located at 3255 E. TAHQUITZ CANYON WAY, PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262. Notice of Telephonic Hearing. Department PS3: The courthouse is temporarily closed. This hearing must be attended by telephone: Call 1-213-306-3065 and enter meeting number:
PUBLIC NOTICE
May 22, 2020 PUBLIC NOTICE
286482510, or Visit https://riversidecourts.webex. com/meet/ljcdept3webex, type in your name and click join meeting. It is important to call in promptly. Otherwise, there may be a delay before you are able to speak during the hearing. IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner JENNIFER N. SAWDAY SBN 228320 , Publish May 22, 27, 29, 2020. DSW20-5087 T.S. No. 085169-CA APN: 614-163-027-6 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE IMPORTANT NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST, DATED 10/26/2006. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER On 7/21/2020 at 3:00 PM, CLEAR RECON CORP, as duly appointed trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust recorded 10/31/2006 as Instrument No. 2006-0801830 of Official Records in the office of the County Recorder
PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
of Riverside County, State of CALIFORNIA executed by: JAMES AMADOR, A SINGLE MAN WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH, CASHIER’S CHECK DRAWN ON A STATE OR NATIONAL BANK, A CHECK DRAWN BY A STATE OR FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, OR A CHECK DRAWN BY A STATE OR FEDERAL SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATION, SAVINGS ASSOCIATION, OR SAVINGS BANK SPECIFIED IN SECTION 5102 OF THE FINANCIAL CODE AND AUTHORIZED TO DO BUSINESS IN THIS STATE: AT THE FRONT STEPS TO THE ENTRANCE OF THE FORMER CORONA POLICE DEPARTMENT, 849 W. SIXTH STREET, CORONA, CA 92882 all right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property situated in said County and State described as: MORE FULLY DESCRIBED ON SAID DEED OF TRUST The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 82418 REBECCA DRIVE INDIO, CA 92201 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be held, but without covenant or warranty, express or implied, regarding title, possession, condition, or encumbrances, including fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust, to pay the remaining principal sums of the note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale is: $136,342.94 If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee, and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. The beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The undersigned or its predecessor caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to
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PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
be recorded in the county where the real property is located. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (844) 477-7869 or visit this Internet Web site WWW.STOXPOSTING.COM, using the file number assigned to this case 085169CA. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. FOR SALES INFORMATION: (844) 477-7869 CLEAR RECON CORP 4375 Jutland Drive San Diego, California 92117. Publish May 15, 22, 29, 2020. DSW20-5085
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Asian-Americans Embrace Culture During Pandemic to Fight Racist Attacks By J.S. Lee As a kid growing up in White America, learning to embrace my Asianness has often felt like rebellion. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it feels more political than ever. Added anxiety over the rise in anti-Asian violence has shaken my community’s sense of security. I’ve heard and seen plenty of advice on how to stay physically safe -- most of which prescribes assimilation and exceptionalism, which has proven ineffective for BIPOC throughout history. Rather than performing useless acts that take us further away from ourselves, I recommend practicing a form of radical acceptance. We can and should call out racism, defend ourselves, and work towards policy change to improve racial justice. But with radical acceptance, we let go of the idea that it’s our job to prove our worth as humans; to change who we are, or how we’re perceived. It can help relieve pressure, remove victim blame and shame, and allow emotional safety that coincides with living authentically. It’s what makes sense to me, and many other Asian Americans, as we navigate the additional backlash of the pandemic. This feels especially poignant in a month set aside to celebrate Asian culture and heritage. May was chosen as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, to commemorate the first Japanese immigrants’ arrival to the U.S. on May 7, 1843, as well as Chinese immigrants’ work that completed the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869. As with all BIPOC in the U.S., our history is rich with oppression
and rising through it. Like a lot of people these days, I’ve been spending more time in the kitchen. Instead of baking sourdough bread, I’m perfecting my soondubu jjigae. The spicy, savory broth nourishes and nurtures me from the inside. One sip transports me back to Korea, creating the sense that I’m more at home in my body. Feeding myself my culture is a soothing act of racial healing. I’ve also been reading more Asian and diaspora novelists, too, and taking my time with Helen Zia’s Asian American Dreams: The Emergence of an American People. To unwind, I’ve streamed Kim’s Convenience, a cute sitcom about a Korean-Canadian family that sometimes broaches racial dynamics with a light touch. Although zombies aren’t typically my thing, I binged all three seasons of Kingdom, awestruck by the costumes. No matter the genre, listening to the cadence of the Korean language repairs some of the disconnect I have as an Asian person living in the West. Other Asian people tell me they’re also further embracing their culture and people having more open discussions with family, digging into their history, and studying the language of their homelands. CY, the co-founder and chef of S+M Vegan tells me she’s been taking time to perfect her family’s bak chang recipe. I’ve been a huge fan of the Oakland eatery for years - for both its Teochew-Singaporean food and social consciousness. Like me, CY is reading more Asian-American authors, plus WeChating with family abroad. The necessary sheltering orders disrupted S+M Vegan’s business, but through take-
out, they’re rolling with the times. They’ve been using their social media platforms to share Asian American and Pacific Islanders content and historical facts of our plight and resistance as a way to fight back against the heightened anti-Asian sentiments. I’ve also noticed a lot of cross-promotion with other Asian businesses and causes. CY says, “We seek each other out. We often go out of our way to connect. I think we all understand that we’re stronger together.” She and her partner, Shane, have been organizing food trades with other local AAPI businesses. After all, food is love, and a thread that weaves back through to our ancestors. CY adds, “We try to be more open about our feelings than our parents’ generation but in the end, a Tupperware of dumplings or a head of Napa cabbage speaks a thousand words.” Through a friend, I’ve recently become acquainted with Rupert Estanislao, a
Pinoy Punk musician and cofounder of Aklasan Records. Estanislao is Filipino and relayed how three White people recently shouted racist slurs at him while trying to throw him off a bus in San Francisco on his way to his essential job. When I asked how he was managing the aftermath, he said he’s fired up to write more songs about how Asians-and immigrants of color-are often scapegoated. When it comes to anti-Asian violence, he says, “No [Asian]’s exempt. We should get angry” and funnel it through our art. While he’s always been proud of his heritage, I admire how his reaction to what happened has him even further embracing his identity. He’s speaking more Tagalog with friends and family. His wife will give birth any day, and they’ve already chosen a Filipino name. He’s amped up to support and release more music from Filipino American bands that speak to the politics of our time. He says, “Art shows we
contributed something to this society,” not that we need to do more than the rest. There’s no upside to the uptick in anti-Asian violence, but I’m glad to see more of us awakened and speaking out. There’s less talk of White adjacency and how it “protects” us. And many of us who weren’t previously moved to explore our histories or take our place in the community are doing so now. J.S. Lee wrote this article for YES! Magazine. J.S. Lee is a Korean American author who writes about trauma, race, and adoption. Her forthcoming novel “Everyone Was Falling” (Pent-up Press) is out September 2020 and her novel “Keurium” (Pent-up Press) was published May 2018. Disclosure: YES! Media contributes to our fund for reporting on Human Rights/Racial Justice, Native American Issues, Social Justice.
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Food Trucks Open for Business at California Rest Stops
NBC PS- Regina Yurrita With a face mask, hand gloves and hand sanitizer Tacos el Javi, a local food truck is open for business. They are feeding hungry truckers
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DesertSTAR
that remain on the road for hours during the pandemic. “sometimes it’s slow, but customers come in waves. The hardest part was opening after being closed for two
months,” said Javier Martinez, the owner of the food truck. At the White-water Rest Area on the west-bound side of the ten freeway, truckers are stopping at this food truck as May 22, 2020
a permit, allowing them to serve food in rest areas. Caltrans mentioned this is a win-win situation since truckers now have more options for food and local many dining options are shut down. With only curbside pick- businesses get some business. “A lot of food industries up and drive thru’s available are not working right now, it makes it impossible for and a lot of the food trucks workers to eat on- the- go. are not allowed to work in “It’s really a safety issue certain areas,” said Kassinga. when our workers or truckers Now workers and drivers are driving and they have are able to enjoy a lunch nowhere to go to the restroom other than fast food. or even to eat,”said Terri “We just stopped to rest, Kasinga who works for California and we saw the tacos and Department of Transportation. were excited. We don’t have The trucking industry to anywhere else. Now we has had to adjust the new can drive straight home,” said norm, but many of them Brian Medina, who stopped have had to go hours without in the area with his family eating while working. after traveling from Arizona. “we can’t get in the truck These Permits will be valid with a drive-thru and if we go until the end of June. Here is walking, they won’t take our more information to apply for order either,” said Javier Urusula, the permit. https://dot.ca.gov/ a trucker from Brawley. programs/traffic-operations/ Governor Gavin Newsom food-trucks-rest-areas gave the order allowing food trucks to stay open if they obtain Source: NBC Palm Springs www.desertstarweekly.com