El Observador November 5th, 2021. by Angelica Rossi

VOLUME 42 ISSUE 45 | WWW.EL-OBSERVADOR.COM | NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021

COVER: PACO ROJAS RESOURCES: YOUSEF ALFUHIGI / UNSPLASH

OPINION

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com

LA HERENCIA PERVERSA DE TRUMP 1042 West Hedding St. Suite 250 San Jose, CA 95126

PUBLISHER Angelica Rossi angelica@el-observador. com PUBLISHER EMERITUS Hilbert Morales hmorales@el-observador. com ADVERTISING & SALES DIRECTOR Angelica Rossi angelica@el-observador. com ADVERTISING SALES JOB & RECRUITMENT ADVERTISING Justin Rossi justin@el-observador.com MANAGING EDITOR Arturo Hilario arturo@el-observador.com spanish.editor@el-observador. com CONTRIBUTORS Justin Rossi Mario Jimenez Hector Curriel OP-ED Arturo Hilario Arturo@el-observador ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLES AND LEGAL NOTICES Angelica Rossi frontdesk@el-observador. com GRAPHIC DESIGNER Francisco Rojas fcorojas@el-observador. com ABOUT US El Observador was founded in 1980 to serve the informational needs of the Hispanic community in the San Francisco Bay Area with special focus on San Jose, the capital of Silicon Valley. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be transmitted or reproduced by any form or by any means, this includes photo copying, recording or by any informational storage and retrevial systems, electronic or mechanical without express written consent of the publishers. Opinions expressed in El Observador by persons submitting articles are not necessarily the opinions of the publishers.

ADVERTISING LEGAL NOTICES SUBSCRIPTIONS INQUIRIES

408-938-1700 WWW.EL-OBSERVADOR.COM

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021

TRUMP'S PERVERSE HERITAGE

ESPAÑOL

ENGLISH

José López Zamorano La Red Hispana

Although President Biden correctly decided to remove those protocols, a Texas judge determined to revive them and forced the federal government to renegotiate them with the Mexican government.

onald Trump no sólo le dejó a Joe Biden las secuelas de su estrategia política racista y xenofóbica que se traducido en un incremento de los grupos supremacistas y en los crímenes de odio contra las minorías más vulnerables. También le heredó los Protocolos de Protección del Migrante, mejor conocidos como la política Quédate en México, que obligaron a más de 70,000 solicitantes de asilo, la mayoría centroamericanos, a esperar su turno en territorio mexicano. A pesar de que el presidente Biden decidió correctamente eliminar esos protocolos, un juez de Texas determinó revivirlos y forzó al gobierno federal renegociarlos con el gobierno mexicano. Hace unos días, la administración de Biden emitió un nuevo memorando que entrará en vigor una vez que se levante la orden judicial y que dejará por terminados los protocolos, qué pasarán a la historia como uno de los casos más vergonzosos de incumplimiento de Estados Unidos con sus obligaciones en materia de asilo.

Photo Credit: La Red Hispana

virtió en una “catástrofe humanitaria” pues resultó en casos de golpizas, secuestros y violaciones sexuales. Aunque los MPP mantendrán por el momento hasta que se levante la orden del juez texano, la administración de Biden tiene una oportunidad de establecer una política de asilo ejemplar, que reconozca sus obligaciones bajo la ley estadounidense y bajo el derecho internacional, y que ofrezca a los legítimos solicitantes pleno respeto del debido proceso, y el trato humanitario y digno que se merecen. Para más información visita www.laredhispana.com.

José López Zamorano La Red Hispana

onald Trump didn’t only leave Joe Biden the aftermath of his racist and xenophobic political strategy that resulted in an increase in white supremacist groups and hate crimes against the most vulnerable minorities. The current president also inherited the Migrant Protection Protocols, better known as the “Stay in Mexico” policy, which forced more than 70,000 asylum seekers, most of them Central Americans, to wait their turn in Mexican territory.

Apropiadamente, en un memorando oficial, el secretario de Seguridad Nacional, Alejandro Mayorkas, aseguró que Quédate en México estuvo plagado de fallas endémicas, injustificables costos humanos e ignoró las raíces que provocan la migración irregular en los Estados Unidos. “Reconozco que el MPP probablemente contribuyó a reducir los flujos migratorios. Pero lo hizo imponiendo costos humanos sustanciales e injustificables a las personas que estuvieron expuestas al daño mientras esperaban en México”, escribió.

Appropriately, in an official memorandum, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas asserted that Stay in Mexico was plagued by endemic failures, unjustifiable human costs, and ignored the roots that cause irregular migration in the United States. “I recognize that the MPP probably contributed to reducing migratory flows. But it did so by imposing substantial and unjustifiable human costs on people who were exposed to harm while waiting in Mexico,” he wrote. The DHS Memorandum recognized that, during the investigation of the program's effects, considerable evidence emerged that asylum seekers were subjected to “extreme violence” and insecurity at the hands of transnational criminal organizations that profited by exploiting the vulnerabilities of migrants. Organizations for the defense of the rights of migrants and lawyers working on the border have documented that a percentage of asylum seekers were forced to return to their countries of origin, after spending periods of up to more than a year waiting in Mexico in adverse humanitarian conditions, in the midst of the pandemic, living overcrowded and in many cases without access to minimum welfare.

El Memorando del DHS reconoció que, durante la investigación de los efectos del programa, surgió evidencia significativa de que los solicitantes de asilo fueron sujetos a “violencia extrema” e inseguridad de manos de organizaciones criminales transnacionales que lucraron explotando las vulnerabilidades de los migrantes.

As if that were not enough, a study conducted in 2019 by the Human Rights First organization documented that the program, which forced asylum seekers from countries such as Cuba, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Venezuela to wait in Mexico, became a "humanitarian catastrophe" as it resulted in beatings, kidnappings and rapes.

Organizaciones de defensa de los derechos de migrantes y abogados que trabajan en la frontera documentaron por su parte que un porcentaje de solicitantes de asilo se vieron obligados a regresar a sus países de origen, luego de pasar períodos hasta más de un año de espera en México, en condiciones humanitarias adversas, en medio de la pandemia, viviendo hacinados y sin acceso en muchos casos a mínimos de bienestar. Por si fuera poco, un estudio realizado en 2019 por la organización Human Rights First documentó que el programa, que forzó a esperar en México a solicitantes de asilo de países como Cuba, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua y Venezuela, se con-

A few days ago, the Biden administration issued a new memorandum that will go into effect once the court order is lifted that will terminate the protocols, which will go down in history as one of the most shameful cases of non-compliance by the United States and their asylum obligations.

Find more OCURRIELCIAS at

WWW.EL-OBSERVADOR.COM

Although MPPs will hold for now until the Texas judge's order is lifted, the Biden administration has an opportunity to establish an exemplary asylum policy, which recognizes its obligations under US and international law, and offers to the legitimate applicants full respect for due process, and the humane and dignified treatment they deserve. For more information visit www.laredhispana.com.

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com

21 en 2021

Aumentamos nuestro salario mínimo a $21 por hora en los EE. UU. y nos dirigimos hacia los $25 para 2025. En Bank of America aumentamos el pago mínimo de todos los empleados en los EE. UU. a $21 por hora, como el siguiente paso para llegar a los $25 en 2025. Durante los últimos cuatro años, hemos marcado el camino al aumentar nuestro salario mínimo por hora en un 40%. Para ofrecer un excelente lugar de trabajo comenzamos por invertir en las personas que atienden a nuestros clientes. Además, proporcionar un salario robusto y beneficios competitivos para respaldar a nuestros empleados y a sus familias, nos ayuda a atraer y retener talento sólido. Nuestras acciones demuestran nuestro compromiso continuo de seguir aumentando el empleo y la estabilidad económica de miles de personas que trabajan brindándose apoyo los unos a los otros, a nuestros clientes y a las comunidades donde trabajamos y vivimos. Seguimos adelante con nuestra labor de hacer la diferencia e incentivar a otros a seguir nuestros pasos. ¿Qué quiere lograr? TM

Raquel González Presidente de Bank of America en Silicon Valley

Conozca más en bankofamerica.com/siliconvalley (solo se ofrece en inglés)

EDUCATION

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021

ESPAÑOL

CAL STATE SE APRESURA A AUMENTAR LA TASA DE GRADUACIÓN Y REDUCIR LAS PRIMERAS CALIFICACIONES D Y F Mikhail Zinshteyn CalMatters

promesas de inscripción anticipada para conseguir las clases difíciles de conseguir para este otoño, quedó convencida.

Hay planes en marcha en Cal State San Francisco para revisar otros 64 cursos que inscriben a 16,000 estudiantes.

espués de que su primer año en Cal State San Francisco se vio interrumpido por la pandemia de COVID-19, Marissa Ledesma huyó del campus y prometió no regresar nunca.

Ahora vive en el campus, toma una carga completa de cursos y está en camino de graduarse en 2024, demasiado tarde para impulsar la tasa de graduación de cuatro años del estado de San Francisco, pero dentro de la ventana para apuntalar su tasa de graduación de seis años.

Entonces, ¿se bajó el rigor de los cursos? Rodríguez y Sovero insisten en que la respuesta es no. Los profesores tampoco se opusieron a las reformas, dijo Rodríguez. Sovero agregó que usa las mismas asignaciones de tarea que había emitido en clases anteriores y dijo que sus exámenes prácticamente no han cambiado en comparación con años anteriores.

No fue solo el coronavirus de rápida propagación lo causó problemas. Todo su primer año fue un fracaso, desde una saga emocional y agotadora con su compañera de cuarto hasta el pagar mucho más para vivir en un campus que ella llamaba “un lugar infeliz”.

Menos D y F Una señal reveladora de que los estudiantes pueden abandonar la escuela es si obtienen una calificación D o F en dos o más clases tempranas, dijo Gold de Cal State. Los analistas del sistema universitario encontraron que eso es especialmente cierto para los estudiantes de bajos ingresos y los estudiantes de color.

Cuando las clases se mantuvieron virtuales durante todo el año escolar 2020-21, Ledesma se inscribió en un colegio comunitario en línea mientras vivía en su casa en Bakersfield para, “permanecer en silencio mientras el mundo se estaba resolviendo”, explicó. Pero después de una ausencia de un año, vuelve a ser una estudiante de Cal State San Francisco este otoño, y una historia de éxito que la escuela, y todo el sistema del sistema de Universidades Estatales de California de 23 campus, esperan replicar por miles. El Cal State San Francisco es un ejemplo de un plan de todo el sistema para traer de regreso a la mayor cantidad posible de estudiantes que abandonaron durante la pandemia. El canciller de Cal State, Joseph Castro, nombró el mes pasado la reinscripción como uno de los pilares clave para cumplir con los ambiciosos objetivos de graduación para 2025 del sistema. Quiere que los campus a partir de la primavera se orienten a los estudiantes que dejaron de asistir a clases, con énfasis en los estudiantes de color y los de bajos ingresos. El sistema ha aumentado considerablemente sus tasas de graduación de seis años: en los últimos seis años, ha subido del 57% al 63%, con una meta del 70% para 2025. Pero los abandonos de la era COVID podrían hundir esos avances minuciosos. Otro pilar para impulsar las tasas de graduación: la revisión de grandes cursos vitales donde un mayor porcentaje de estudiantes de bajos ingresos y estudiantes de color reciben calificaciones D y F. Esa idea no está exenta de controversia, lo que genera preocupaciones en algunos sectores de que los profesores y los conferencistas puedan verse presionados para que se conviertan en calificadores más fáciles. Finalmente, los campus proporcionarán a cada estudiante un planificador de títulos digital. Cada uno aborda las razones por las que un estudiante podría no graduarse: abandonar la escuela a pesar de tener buenas calificaciones, reprobar una clase clave como estudiante de primer o segundo año que afecta su confianza, o perder tiempo y dinero al tomar las clases equivocadas para sus títulos. El rector del sistema universitario público más grande del país señaló que la tarea es enorme: “No se equivoquen”, dijo Castro, “este trabajo será uno de los más desafiantes de nuestras carreras”. Éxito tempranero en recuperar estudiantes A partir de febrero, Cal State San Francisco lanzó una campaña de divulgación para traer de regreso a 302 estudiantes con buena posición académica que se inscribieron en 2019 pero abandonaron durante la pandemia. Hasta ahora, 60 han regresado, una tasa de retorno del 20%, superando el modesto objetivo del campus de reinscripción del 10%. “Honestamente, si nunca me hubieran llamado, probablemente no hubiera regresado”, dijo Ledesma, quien todavía está en camino de graduarse en cuatro años. El campus ahora está aplicando las lecciones que ha aprendido para una campaña aún más grande: reinscribir al 15% de los 1,500 estudiantes que asistieron a clases la primavera pasada. “Honestamente, si nunca me hubieran llamado, probablemente no hubiera regresado”. -Marissa Ledesma, estudiante de Cal State San Francisco A nivel nacional, el porcentaje de los estudiantes de primer año que regresan para su segundo año de universidad disminuyeron en un nivel “sin precedentes” durante la pandemia, según un informe de julio de 2021 del National Student Clearinghouse Research Center que rastrea las tendencias nacionales de inscripción. Mientras que en los últimos años alrededor del 75% de los estudiantes regresaron, solo el 73% de los estudiantes regresaron en 2020, la caída más pronunciada en una década encontró el centro.

Cal State el otoño pasado tuvo 686 cursos, cada uno con al menos 100 estudiantes, en los que más del 20% obtuvo una D, F o se retiró, según EdSource.

La estudiante de la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco, Marissa Ledesma, trabaja en su computadora en el patio trasero de su casa en Bakersfield el 27 de octubre de 2021. Photo Credit: Larry Valenzuela / CalMatters Otras universidades Cal State ven una tendencia similar. “Estamos viendo ligeras disminuciones en todos los ámbitos en la retención del primer y segundo año”, dijo Jeff Gold, vicecanciller asistente de la oficina del canciller de Cal State. Los datos oficiales para los estudiantes que comenzaron en el otoño de 2019 no saldrán hasta dentro de algunas semanas. La retención Cal State San Francisco en realidad aumentó ligeramente durante la pandemia, pero la escuela quiere traer de regreso a tantos estudiantes como sea posible con la esperanza de alcanzar su meta de graduación para 2025, dijo Katie Lynch, vicepresidenta que administra la inscripción en el estado de San Francisco. Por qué volvieron dos estudiantes Los estudiantes recibieron correos electrónicos, llamadas telefónicas y mensajes de texto de un asesor académico o alguien de las oficinas de admisión o de ayuda financiera. Debido a que 15 estudiantes tenían retenciones financieras en sus cuentas, que iban desde $700 a $7,600 en matrícula y deudas por cuotas, el personal de ayuda financiera los llamó para elaborar un plan de pago. Eso incluyó pagos mensuales, una búsqueda de subvenciones o, para cinco estudiantes, ayudarlos a obtener préstamos federales para cubrir lo que debían. En otros casos, los estudiantes que se ausentaron durante dos semestres tuvieron que volver a solicitar la admisión, una regla del campus que afectó a Ledesma, por lo que los funcionarios de admisiones se acercaron y prometieron renunciar a las tarifas de solicitud, permitir admisiones tardías y superar otros obstáculos. Los correos electrónicos y las llamadas hicieron que Ledesma se sintiera querida, “como, oye, no soy una persona más en un correo electrónico masivo de spam”, dijo. Ese toque personal también hizo que Amanda Cangelosi regresara a Cal State San Francisco. Aunque obtuvo sobresalientes en su primer año en la universidad, el cambio a Internet y la casa de sus padres tuvo un impacto emocional en Cangelosi en su segundo año. Ella prospera con la validación de sus compañeros de clase y profesores para mantenerse motivada. En línea, sin embargo, tuvo poca interacción humana, ya que la mayoría de los estudiantes mantuvieron apagadas sus cámaras durante las clases y gran parte de su instrucción estaba pregrabada. Peor aún, sus amigos de la ciudad natal cerca de Los Ángeles estaban en otros estados donde se les permitía vivir en el campus mientras tomaban clases en línea. Sintiéndose sola, ansiosa y deprimida, abandonó el trimestre de primavera y aceptó un trabajo como barista en una librería de Barnes & Noble porque estaba hambrienta de interacción humana. “Me acostumbré al agujero de ansiedad que creé para mí”, dijo, “me sentí cómoda en él”. “Me acostumbré al agujero de ansiedad que me creé. Me sentí cómodo en eso “. -Amanda Cangelosi, estudiante de Cal State San Francisco Cuando los representantes Cal State San Francisco la llamaron y le enviaron un correo electrónico con

Para cambiar las cosas en el estado de San Francisco, más del 80% de los profesores desde 2019 han sido capacitados para rediseñar sus cursos para mejorar las calificaciones de los estudiantes. Los temas iban desde el desarrollo de las habilidades de estudio de los estudiantes hasta evitar asignaciones o interacciones de estudiantes con prejuicios o racistas. Se alienta a los profesores, especialmente a aquellos que enseñan cursos intensivos de escritura y matemáticas requeridos para todos los estudiantes, a tomar la capacitación y recibir hasta $1,250 cada uno en estipendios financiados por dólares de ayuda federal por el COVID. Cal State San Francisco todavía está calculando números para ver si los estudiantes obtienen calificaciones más altas en las clases impartidas por profesores que pasaron por la capacitación, dijo Maggie Beers, vicepresidenta de enseñanza y aprendizaje en el campus. Aún así, una encuesta de marzo mostró que el 82% de los profesores se sienten seguros de que lo que han aprendido está marcando una diferencia. Algunos Cal States están viendo caer la tasa de D y F al ofrecer más tutorías, modificar el plan de estudios o cambiar las políticas de calificación para adaptarse a los estudiantes que tienen horarios apretados como padres o trabajadores a tiempo completo. Otros usan signos tempranos de dificultades para referir a los estudiantes a la asesoría académica. En Cal State Dominguez Hills, la tasa de estudiantes que obtuvieron una D o F en un curso de introducción a la química disminuyó del 51% al 25% en dos años. La clase, Química 108, es un requisito para muchos estudiantes de ciencias. Gran parte de la mejora se debe al aumento de la tutoría, dijo el presidente del departamento de química, Kenneth Rodríguez. La universidad comenzó a contratar a estudiantes que anteriormente tenían buenos resultados en química para que tuvieran como tutores a los estudiantes actuales y guiaran las sesiones grupales. Ahora las clases químicas de la división superior están usando la misma estrategia. Un miembro de la facultad también mantiene abierta una hora semanal para que los estudiantes hagan preguntas o busquen ayuda. También hubo ajustes en el plan de estudios, señaló Rodríguez, como eliminar lecciones sobre gases que aprenderían en el próximo curso para centrarse más en conceptos algebraicos y nomenclatura química, partes del plan de estudios que los profesores encontraron que confundían a los estudiantes en cursos más avanzados.

Los profesores, que enseñan una gran parte de los cursos de Cal State, en particular se sienten presionados para dar a los estudiantes calificaciones más altas de las que pueden merecer, dijo Meghan O’Donnell, profesora de Cal State Monterey Bay y representante de profesores en el sindicato de profesores del estado. Aunque ella no lo ha experimentado, dijo que otros profesores han expresado “una sensación de cierta presión para que los estudiantes avancen y apoyen la Iniciativa de Graduación”, especialmente en las clases donde la tasa de D y F es alta. Debido a que carecen de la seguridad laboral de los profesores titulares, los profesores pueden temer las evaluaciones negativas de los estudiantes si califican con demasiada dureza, evaluaciones que pueden determinar si son recontratados o no. La inflación de calificaciones es una realidad nacional; la calificación A ha sido la calificación más popular asignada durante más de dos décadas. Pero los estudiantes que obtienen D y F suelen ser aquellos que no entregan su trabajo o no se presentan a clase, dijo Rey Hernández-Julián, profesor de finanzas de la Universidad Estatal Metropolitana de Denver, quien ha estudiado la inflación de calificaciones. “Si un estudiante no entrega el trabajo, no puedes inflarlo”. Y si los estudiantes reciben más tutoría y simpatía por las tareas perdidas, eso puede tener la apariencia de inflación de calificaciones, aunque no lo sea, dijo. “El trabajo de mejorar los resultados de aprendizaje de los estudiantes nos desafía a reimaginar cómo enseñamos y apoyamos a nuestros estudiantes sin comprometer el rigor académico”, dijo Gold, el vicerrector. “Las investigaciones han demostrado que la implementación de actividades basadas en proyectos, el aprendizaje colaborativo y el apoyo mejorado a los estudiantes, como la instrucción complementaria, son formas de lograrlo. Este trabajo se lleva a cabo en los departamentos académicos de la CSU”. En opinión de Sovero, tener en cuenta las ajetreadas vidas de los estudiantes como trabajadores a tiempo completo o como padres puede, en última instancia, ayudarlos. Durante su primer semestre en el estado de San Francisco, Sovero programó horas de oficina los días en que la clase no estaba en sesión. No apareció nadie. Así que empezó a trabajar en horario de oficina los días en que se impartían clases. “Estos son estudiantes que viajan diariamente y no me di cuenta de que ellos…. solo vienen al campus el día que tienen clases, por lo que deben programar sus horas de oficina el mismo día”, dijo. Mantener a los estudiantes encaminados Cal State San Marcos comenzó a implementar una herramienta visual en línea conocida como planificador de títulos en 2014 y hoy en día alrededor del 95% de sus estudiantes de pregrado usan la herramienta, dijo Regina Eisenbach, decana de asesoría académica.

El departamento de economía del estado de San Francisco intentó algo similar, con resultados positivos para sus cursos de introducción a la economía que toman 1,000 estudiantes cada semestre.

Advierte a los estudiantes que un curso que planean abandonar retrasará su graduación porque es un requisito para varios otros cursos, pero solo se ofrece una vez al año. El planificador de títulos también puede visualizar a los estudiantes el semestre lleno que les espera si planean tomar una carga más liviana primero, y advertirles que retrasará la graduación.

Antes de la primavera de 2020, aproximadamente el 20% de los estudiantes obtuvieron una D, F o se retiraron de esos cursos. Desde la revisión, eso se redujo al 15%.

El de Cal State San Francisco es más nuevo en la idea; Aproximadamente dos tercios de los estudiantes de pregrado lo han usado este término, dijo la registradora del campus, Margo Landy.

Los cambios les dieron a los estudiantes más oportunidades para demostrar lo que saben, dijo Veronica Sovero, profesora asistente de economía en Cal State San Francisco que imparte cursos de introducción. Por un lado, los profesores de esos dos cursos de economía emitieron asignaciones más frecuentes y cada una contaba menos para la calificación de un estudiante en lugar de depender de unos pocos exámenes.

La herramienta abre el camino para conversaciones significativas con el asesor académico, a menudo difícil de programar.

Los profesores también fueron más indulgentes: los estudiantes podían entregar las tareas pendientes y pedir prórrogas. Algunos profesores quitaron la calificación más baja de un estudiante del promedio de su curso.

“Cuanto menos necesiten los estudiantes para trabajar en los aspectos prácticos… de obtener su título, más podrán hablar con los asesores sobre sus intereses académicos, posiblemente sus intereses profesionales”, dijo Landy. Es otra forma de asegurarse de que los estudiantes persistan y obtengan los títulos que necesitan para la vida que desean.

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com

EDUCATION

ENGLISH

CAL STATE RACES TO BOOST GRADUATION RATE AND CUT EARLY DS AND FS

Mikhail Zinshteyn CalMatters

a student’s grade instead of relying on a few exams. Professors also were more lenient: Students could turn in missed homework assignments and ask for extensions. Some professors dropped a student’s lowest grade from their course average.

fter her freshman year at San Francisco State was cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic, Marissa Ledesma fled from the campus vowing never to return.

Last spring, San Francisco State overhauled 64 other courses that enroll 16,000 students, and is now analyzing whether that led to a drop in D and F grades.

It wasn’t just the fast-spreading coronavirus that poisoned the well. Her whole first year was a bust, from an emotionally trying saga with her roommate to paying a lot to live on a campus that she called “an unhappy place.”

So did the rigor of the courses slip? Rodriguez and Sovero insist the answer is no. Nor did faculty oppose the reforms, Rodriguez said. Sovero added that she uses the same homework assignments she’d issued in past classes and said her tests are largely unchanged compared to previous years.

When classes remained virtual for all the 2020-21 school year, Ledesma instead enrolled at a community college online while living at home in Bakersfield to, as she said, “lay low while the world was figuring itself out.”

Lecturers, who teach a large share of Cal State courses, in particular feel pressure to give students higher grades than they may deserve, said Meghan O’Donnell, a lecturer at Cal State Monterey Bay and a representative for lecturers in the statewide faculty union.

But after a yearlong absence she’s again a San Francisco State student this fall — and a success story that the school, and the entire 23-campus California State University system, hopes to replicate by the thousands. San Francisco State is an exemplar of a systemwide plan to bring back as many students as possible who dropped out during the pandemic. Cal State Chancellor Joseph Castro last month named re-enrollment as one of the key pillars to meet the system’s ambitious 2025 graduation goals. He wants campuses starting in the spring to target students who stopped attending classes, with an emphasis on students of color and those who are low-income. The system has increased its six-year graduation rates considerably — in the past six years, it’s climbed from 57% to 63%, with a goal of 70% by 2025. But COVID-era dropouts could sink those painstaking gains. Another pillar to boost graduation rates: overhauling large vital courses where a higher percentage of low-income students and students of color receive Ds and Fs. That idea isn’t without controversy, raising concerns in some corners that professors and lecturers may be pressured to become easier graders. Finally, campuses will provide every student with a digital degree planner. Each addresses reasons a student might not graduate: dropping out despite having good grades, failing a key class as a freshman or sophomore that craters their confidence, or wasting time and money by taking the wrong classes for their degrees. The chancellor of the country’s largest public university system signaled that the task is huge: “Make no mistake,” Castro said, “this work will be among the most challenging of our careers.” Early success in bringing back students Starting this February, San Francisco State launched an outreach campaign to bring back 302 students in good academic standing who enrolled in 2019 but dropped during the pandemic. So far 60 have come back — a 20% return rate — beating the campus’s modest goal of re-enrolling goal of 10%. “Honestly if they never called me, I probably wouldn’t have come back,” said Ledesma, who’s still on track to graduate in four years. The campus is now applying the lessons it’s learned for an even bigger campaign: re-enrolling 15% of the 1,500 students who were attending class last spring. “Honestly if they never called me, I probably wouldn’t have come back.” -MARISSA LEDESMA, SAN FRANCISCO STATE STUDENT Nationally, the percentage of freshmen who return for their second year of college declined by an “unprecedented” level during the pandemic, according to a July 2021 report from the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center that tracks national enrollment trends. While in the past few years around 75% of students returned, just 73% of students came back in 2020 — the steepest drop in a decade — the center found. Other Cal States see a similar trend. “We’re seeing slight decreases across the board in first-year and second-year retention,” said Jeff Gold, an assistant vice chancellor at Cal State’s chancellor’s office. Official data for students who started in fall 2019 won’t come out for a few weeks. San Francisco State’s retention actually rose slightly

San Francisco State University student Marissa Ledesma at her home in Bakersfield, where she attends class remotely, on Oct. 27, 2021. Ledesma returned to San Francisco State University after taking two semesters to attend Berkeley City College during the pandemic. Photo Credit: Larry Valenzuela / CalMatters

during the pandemic, but the school wants to bring back as many students as it can anyway in hopes of reaching its 2025 graduation goal, said Katie Lynch, a vice president managing enrollment at San Francisco State. Why two students came back Students got emails, phone calls and text messages from an academic advisor or someone at either the financial aid or admissions offices. Because 15 students had financial holds on their accounts — ranging from $700 to $7,600 in tuition and fee debt — financial aid staff called them to work out a repayment plan. That included monthly installments, a search for grant aid or, for five students, helping them take out federal loans to cover what they owed. In other cases, students who were gone for two semesters had to re-apply for admissions — a campus rule that affected Ledesma — so admissions officers reached out promising to waive application fees, allow for late admissions and clear other hurdles. The emails and calls made Ledesma feel wanted, “like, hey, I’m not just another person on a mass spam send-out email,” she said. That personal touch also drew Amanda Cangelosi back to San Francisco State. Though she earned straight As in her first year at the university, the shift to online and her parents’ home took an emotional toll on Cangelosi her sophomore year. She thrives on validation from her classmates and professors to stay motivated. Online, though, she got little human interaction as most students kept their cameras off during classes and much of her instruction was pre-recorded. Worse, her hometown friends near Los Angeles were in other states where they were allowed to live on campus while taking classes online. Feeling alone, anxious and depressed, she dropped-out spring term and took a job as a barista at a Barnes & Noble bookstore because she was starved for human interaction. “I got used to the anxiety hole that I created for myself,” she said, “I became comfortable in it.” “I got used to the anxiety hole that I created for myself. I became comfortable in it.” -AMANDA CANGELOSI, SAN FRANCISCO STATE STUDENT When San Francisco State representatives called and emailed her with promises of early registration to snag the hard-to-get classes for this fall, she was sold. She’s now living on campus, taking a full course load and is on pace to graduate in 2024 — too late to boost San Francisco State’s four-year graduation rate but within the window to prop up its six-year graduation rate. Fewer Ds and Fs One tell-tale sign that students may drop out is if they earn a D or F in two or more early classes, said Gold of Cal State. Analysts at the university system found that to be especially true for low-income students

and students of color. Cal State last fall had 686 courses, each with at least 100 students, in which more than 20% earned a D, F or withdrew, according to EdSource. To turn things around at San Francisco State, more than 80% of faculty since 2019 has been trained in redesigning their courses to boost student grades. The topics ranged from developing students’ study skills to avoiding prejudiced or racist assignments or student interactions. Professors, especially those who teach writing-intensive and math courses required for all students, are encouraged to take the training and receive up to $1,250 each, stipends funded by federal COVID relief dollars. San Francisco State is still crunching numbers to see whether students earn higher grades in classes taught by professors who went through the training, said Maggie Beers, a vice president for teaching and learning at the campus. Still, a March survey showed that 82% of professors feel confident that what they’ve learned is making a difference. Pandemic rules add stress for campus RAs Some Cal States are seeing the rate of Ds and Fs drop by offering more tutoring, tweaking the curriculum or changing grading policies to accommodate students, including those who have packed schedules as parents or full-time workers. Others use early signs of struggle to refer students to academic advising. At Cal State Dominguez Hills, the rate of students earning a D or F at an introductory course in chemistry declined from 51% to 25% in two years. The class, Chemistry 108, is a requirement for many science majors. Much of the improvement is due to increased tutoring, said chemistry department chair Kenneth Rodriguez. The college began hiring students who previously did well in chemistry to tutor current students and guide group sessions. Now upper-division chem classes are using the same strategy. A faculty member also keeps a weekly hour open for students to ask questions or seek help. There were curriculum tweaks as well, Rodriguez noted, such as removing lessons on gasses that they’d learn in the next course to focus more on algebraic concepts and chemical nomenclature — parts of the curriculum that faculty found tripped students up in more advanced courses. The economics department at San Francisco State tried something similar, with positive results for its introductory economics courses that 1,000 students take each semester. Before spring of 2020, about 20% of students earned a D, F or withdrew from those courses. Since the overhaul, that dropped to 15%. The changes gave students more opportunities to prove what they know, said Veronica Sovero, an assistant professor of economics at San Francisco State who teaches intro courses. For one, professors of those two economics courses issued more frequent assignments that each counted less toward

Though she hasn’t experienced it, she said other lecturers have expressed “a sense of some pressure to move students forward to support the Graduation Initiative,” especially in classes where the rate of Ds and Fs are high. Because they lack the job security of tenured faculty, lecturers may fear negative student evaluations if they grade too harshly — evaluations that may determine whether they’re rehired or not. Grade inflation is a national reality; the A grade has been the most popular grade assigned for more than two decades. But students who get Ds and Fs are typically those who don’t turn in their work or show up to class, said Rey Hernández-Julián, a finance professor of Metropolitan State University of Denver who has studied grade inflation. “If a student doesn’t turn in the work, you can’t inflate that.” And if students are getting more tutoring and sympathy on missed assignments, that may have the appearance of grade inflation even though it’s not, he said. “The work of improving student learning outcomes challenges us to reimagine how we teach and support our students without compromising academic rigor,” said Gold, the vice chancellor. “Research has shown that implementing project-based activities, collaborative learning, and enhanced student support such as supplemental instruction are ways to do just that. This work is happening in academic departments across the CSU.” In Sovero’s view, being mindful of students’ busy lives as full-time workers or parents can ultimately help them. During her first semester at San Francisco State, Sovero scheduled office hours on days when class wasn’t in session. No one showed up. So she began holding office hours on days when classes were taught. “These are commuter students and I didn’t realize that they …. only come to campus on the day they have classes, so they need to schedule their office hours the same day,” she said. Keeping students on track Cal State San Marcos began rolling out an online visual tool known as a degree planner in 2014 and today about 95% of its undergraduate students use the tool, said Regina Eisenbach, dean of academic advising. It warns students that a course they plan to drop will delay their graduation because it’s a requirement for several other courses but is only offered once a year. The degree planner can also visualize for students the packed semester that lies ahead if they plan to take a lighter load first — and warn them that it will delay graduation. San Francisco State is newer to the idea; about twothirds of undergraduate students have used it this term, said campus registrar Margo Landy. The tool clears the way for meaningful conversations with the often hard-to-schedule academic advisor. “The less that students need to work through the nuts and bolts … of earning their degree, the more they can talk with advisors about their academic interests, possibly their career interests,” Landy said. It’s another way to make sure students are persisting and getting the degrees they need for the life they want.

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com

COMPARTIENDO Y APRENDIENDO ENTRE CUIDADORES Una presentación virtual gratuita presentada por la Alzheimer’s Association®

SÁBADO, 13 DE NOVIEMBRE 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM PRESENTACIÓN VIRTUAL VÍA ZOOM ESTE PROGRAMA SERÁ PRESENTADO EN ESPAÑOL

Temas/Expositores

Un evento que apoya a los cuidadores de personas con demencia. Únase a nosotros para aprender sobre técnicas prácticas para comunicarse con personas con demencia. Diviértase combinando creatividad, movimiento y música para ayudar a nuestra mente, cuerpo y alma. Además, los participantes recibirán consejos de familias reales que cuidaron o están cuidando de personas con demencia.

Muevete al ritmo de la actividad Margarita Partida Terapeuta de Actividades On Lok Lifeways

Estrategias de Comunicación Efectiva Yolanda Stowbunenko Educadora Comunitaria Alzheimer’s Association

Panel de Cuidadores Cuidadores compartirán sus experiencias, ideas y recursos que usan para apoyar a otros cuidadores de la comunidad.

Visite tinyurl.com/ShareLearnCare para registrarse GRATIS y recibir instrucciones de inicio de sesión. Para más información por favor llame a Liliana al 408.372.9959 Visit alz.org/CRF or call 800.272.3900 to explore additional education programs in your area.

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021

HEALTH

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com

ADVOCATES FOR OLDER AMERICANS DEFENSORES DE ESTADOUNIDENSES MAYPROMOTE ACA OPEN ENROLLMENT ORES PROMUEVEN LA INSCRIPCIÓN DE ACA

AARP research shows that as of 2019 about 10% of adults in California ages 40 to 64 were uninsured. Photo Credit: AARP

Una investigación de AARP muestra que, a partir de 2019, aproximadamente el 10% de los adultos en California de 40 a 64 años no tenían seguro. Photo Credit: CDC / Unsplash

ENGLISH

ESPAÑOL

Suzanne Potter California News Service

AC R A M E N TO , Calif. -- Now is the time to sign up for health insurance or hunt for a better deal, as this year's CoveredCA's open-enrollment period runs now through Jan. 31. Groups advocating for older Americans urged everyone, even those currently insured, to check out the CoveredCA website, which said more than 70% of consumers who get subsidies could choose health coverage for less than $10 per month.

According to CoveredCA, an estimated 1.1 million uninsured Californians could get financial help to pay for coverage through Medi-Cal or CoveredCA, and 85% of them, about 943,000 people, can get covered with no monthly premium.

"Our e-activists are contacting their members of Congress to take advantage of this monumental opportunity," Campillo emphasized. "To help a lot of people who are paying a lot of money for medications that are available cheaply in other industrialized nations."

For more information, go to CoveredCA.com or call 800-300-1506.

The plan to lower the cost of prescription drugs was part of President Joe Biden's original Build Back Better reconciliation proposal but was dropped from the framework released last week and is in danger of being left out of the final bill.

Campillo noted AARP is also mobilizing its 38 million members to support a proposal to allow Medicare to negotiate to lower the price of prescription drugs.

Suzanne Potter California News Service

ACRAMENTO, Calif. -- Es el momento de inscribirse para un seguro médico o buscar una mejor oferta, ya que el periodo de inscripción de CoveredCA de este año se extiende desde ahora hasta el 31 de enero. Los grupos que abogan por los estadounidenses mayores están urgiendo a todos, incluso a los que actualmente están asegurados, a visitar el sitio web de CoveredCA, el cual dice que más del 70 por ciento de los consumidores que reciben subsidios, podrían elegir cobertura médica por

menos de 10 dólares al mes. Luis Campillo, de AARP California, dice que los legisladores aumentaron los apoyos financieros a raíz de la pandemia. "Con el Plan de Rescate Estadounidense recientemente promulgado, aumento la ayuda financiera para las primas de seguro de la ACA, y hay más californianos que pueden ser elegibles que en años anteriores," explica Campillo. Según CoveredCA, se estima que un millón de californianos sin seguro podrían obtener ayuda financiera para pagar la cobertura a través de Medi-Cal o CoveredCA,

Luis Campillo, Los Angeles regional manager for AARP California, said lawmakers increased the financial supports in the wake of the pandemic.

y el 85 por ciento de ellos, o alrededor de 943 mil personas, podrán obtener cobertura sin prima mensual. Para obtener más información, visite CoveredCA.com o llame al 800300-1506. Campillo dice que AARP también está movilizando a sus 38 millones de miembros para apoyar una propuesta que permita a Medicare negociar para reducir el precio de las recetas médicas. "Nuestros e-activistas están contactando a sus miembros del Congreso para aprovechar esta monumental oportunidad, enfatiza Campillo. "Realmente, para ayudar a mucha gente que está pagando mucho dinero por medicamentos que están disponibles a bajo precio en otras naciones industrializadas." El plan para reducir el costo de los medicamentos recetados era parte de la propuesta original de reconciliación Build Back Better del presidente Joe Biden, pero se eliminó del sistema la semana pasada y corre el riesgo de quedar fuera del proyecto de ley final.

"With the recently enacted American Rescue Plan, which increased financial help for ACA insurance premiums, there's certainly more Californians who may be eligible than in years past," Campillo explained. Red Line does not print. It represents the 3” safety area. Please verify critical elements are within the safety area.

TRAVEL

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com

AS PANDEMIC LINGERS, TIPS FOR SAFE HOLIDAY TRAVEL

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021

CONSEJOS PARA VIAJAR SEGUROS DURANTE LAS VACACIONES, MIENTRAS LA PANDEMIA CONTINÚA ESPAÑOL

mente vacunadas, es decir, dos semanas después de la última dosis. Mas allá de eso, dice que la gente debería seguir protegiéndose de la misma forma que lo han hecho.

Unlike last year, a COVID-19 vaccine is widely available this holiday season. Photo Credit: Jacob Lund / Adobe Stock

ENGLISH

Eric Tegethoff Public News Service

EATTLE -- As vaccination rates go up, people are more likely to be traveling this holiday season than they did last year, and a physician in Seattle has some tips for how families can travel safely. Dr. Avantika Waring of Kaiser Permanente, said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) still recommends people delay travel until they are fully vaccinated, meaning two weeks after their final shot. Beyond that, she said people should continue to protect themselves the ways they have been. "All of the things that we've been doing throughout the pandemic, even beyond vaccination, are still really important," Waring advised. "So, wearing a mask on the airline and also in any sort of indoor space. Trying to practice social distancing from people who aren't in our immediate family is still important. Washing our hands. Avoiding large crowds." Washington state recommends booster shots at least six months after their original Pfizer or Moderna shots for people 65 and older, also those with underlying medical conditions or who live in long-term care facilities. Waring noted people should also speak with their doctors about getting a flu shot. This week, the CDC's vaccine advisors voted to approve the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages five to eleven, giving the green light for children in this age group to get shots. Waring added it opens the door for them to travel safely over the holidays. "Having conversations with your kids, I think right now, is a great opportunity as we're heading into the next phase of vaccinations," Waring explained. "Just talk

to them about the importance of getting these shots and how it's hopefully going to change things for all us in the coming weeks and months." Parents can consult their kids' doctors about getting the COVID-19 vaccination. Waring also advised people to keep in mind the COVID-19 regulations of the places they'll travel. "The state and local guidelines might be different based on where you're going," Waring pointed out. "So always look into what the requirements will be when you arrive, as far as masking requirements, and also whether you'll need to have vaccination documents and that kind of thing."

A diferencia del año pasado, una vacuna contra la COVID-19 está ampliamente disponible durante esta temporada de vacaciones. Photo Credit: Claudia Altamimi / Unsplash

Eric Tegethoff Public News Service

EATTLE -- A medida que aumentan las tasas de vacunación, es probable que las personas viajen más en esta temporada de vacaciones que el año pasado. Una médica de Seattle tiene algunos consejos sobre cómo las familias pueden viajar de forma segura. La doctora Avantika Waring de Kaiser Permanente dice que el CDC todavía recomienda que las personas retrasen sus viajes hasta que estén completa-

"Todas las cosas que hemos estado haciendo durante la pandemia, incluso más allá de la vacunación, siguen siendo realmente importantes. Por ejemplo, usar una mascarilla en el avión y también en cualquier tipo de espacio interior. Tratar de practicar el distanciamiento físico de personas que no son de nuestra familia inmediata sigue siendo importante, así como lavarnos las manos y evitar grandes multitudes", añadió la doctora Waring. El estado de Washington recomienda las vacunas de refuerzo al menos 6 meses después de las vacunas originales de Pfizer o Moderna para las personas de 65 años o más, también aquellas con afecciones medicas crónicas o que viven en centros de atención permanente. Waring dice que las personas también deben hablar con sus médicos sobre la vacunación contra la gripe. Esta semana, los asesores de vacunas del CDC votaron para aprobar la vacuna Pfizer en niños de 5 a 11 años, dando luz verde a que los menores de este grupo de edad reciban vacunas. Waring agrega que esto les abre la puerta para viajar con seguridad durante las vacaciones. "Tener conversaciones con los hijos, creo que, en este momento, es una gran oportunidad ya que nos dirigimos a la siguiente fase de vacunaciones. Solo hábleles sobre la importancia de recibir estas vacunas y como, con suerte, cambiaran las cosas para todos nosotros en las próximas semanas y meses", comento también la médica de Seattle. Los padres pueden consultar al pediatra de sus hijos sobre la vacunación contra la COVID-19. Waring también aconseja a las personas que tengan en cuenta las regulaciones sobre la COVID-19 en los lugares a los que viajaran. "Las pautas estatales y locales pueden ser diferentes según el lugar al que se dirija. Siempre averigüe cuales serán los requisitos cuando llegue, en cuanto al uso de mascarillas, así como si necesitara tener documentos de vacunación y ese tipo de cosas", explico Waring.

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021

‘I DON’T RECOGNIZE MYSELF ANYMORE’; HOW THE PANDEMIC DROWNED A WORKING MOM IN DEBT ENGLISH

COMMUNITY

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com

Jesse Bedayn CalMatters

‘YA NO ME RECONOZCO’; CÓMO LA PANDEMIA AHOGÓ EN DEUDAS A UNA MADRE TRABAJADORA ESPAÑOL

Jesse Bedayn CalMatters

s president of a San Mateo County school board, Maybelle Manio had the privilege of delivering some lighthearted remarks at her son Jake Cruz’s 8th grade graduation.

omo presidenta de la junta escolar del condado de San Mateo, Maybelle Manio tuvo el privilegio de pronunciar algunos comentarios divertidos en la graduación de octavo grado de su hijo Jake Cruz.

“Today is a celebration. Today is an accomplishment,” she said during the ceremony earlier this year. “Today is a good day to ask for some money.”

“Hoy es una celebración. Hoy es un logro”, dijo durante la ceremonia a principios de este año. “Hoy es un buen día para pedir dinero”.

The crowd laughed. When Manio returned home, she found a white piece of paper labeled “Eviction Notice” tacked to her door. She had 15 days to leave her Daly City apartment. Manio, who had recently started a new career in commercial real estate, an industry devastated by the pandemic, recognized the irony of what she had told the audience. Suddenly, she was staring at her own financial abyss. While the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic devastated low-income families, middle-class households were not immune. Manio was one of many who turned to the government and friends and family for assistance for the first time in their lives, seeking help wherever she could. Samaritan House, a San Mateo charity offering food, rental assistance and counseling services, saw food distribution lines double, while rental assistance applications jumped five-fold. Manio was among those who got rental assistance. “There were an awful lot of middle-class and lower middle-class folks,” said Bart Charlow, CEO of Samaritan House. Some “apologized as if it was their fault,” he said. Others avoided eye contact. More than a few broke into tears. Many experienced “complete bewilderment and loss of pride in suddenly not being able to be independent.” The pandemic caps 40 years of a middle class squeeze in California, where the income of the state’s top earners has far outpaced that of the middle class, according to a 2020 report from the Public Policy Institute of California. The Golden State’s billionaires added $551.2 billion to their net worth, while more than 25 million Californians filed unemployment claims since March 1, 2020. When the state shut down last spring, Manio was inundated with phone calls as clients cut and ran. It was Manio’s first year in commercial realty, and she had no clue what to do. She scrambled to retain business by offering to review contracts for companies trying to get out of leases and even delivered groceries and medications for her elderly clients. But by early April, deals froze. “I was running on a track,” Manio said, “and then stepped in molasses.” Like many Californians, Manio’s biggest cost was her $3,225 monthly rent. Manio knew she could move in with her mother in the Central Valley in an emergency. But it was a last resort. Manio, a first-generation Filipina who had spent the last two years of high school in Los Angeles public housing, had managed a nonprofit assisting atrisk youth in San Francisco, patented environmentally friendly food packaging and had been making $90,000 in hospital finance before 2019. She moved into commercial real estate hoping to earn more and help pay for her son’s eventual college tuition. “I’ve always been independent and self-sufficient,” she said, and going to friends with open hands “was a very hard pill to swallow.” A few thousand dollars in loans from friends helped her pay the rent, her car loan and professional expenses. But with nearly $6,000 a month in expenses, Manio felt like Alice in Wonderland. “I’m falling deep into this financial hole,” she said. “I have no idea how I’m going to get back, and I have no idea where this is going to lead me.” In April 2020, she turned to food stamps, which provided about $200 a month, then unemployment. Manio, who now had drawn over $10,000 in loans from friends, began to dip into a college fund that her father had left for her son. Expecting the pandemic to subside, Manio strained her credit cards to attend extra real estate certifications, trainings and pay her

Maybelle Manio, right, and her son, Jake Cruz at their new apartment in San Mateo on Oct. 4, 2021. They moved into the new place in August. Photo Credit: Dai Sugano / Bay Area News Group

annual licensing fees. But the lockdowns dragged on. Early this year, she applied to Cornell University’s commercial real estate certification program in commercial real estate development. She paid half-off tuition — $6,000 that she put on her credit card in installments — and emptied her child’s college fund. Manio told her son it would help them bounce back, promising to put all of it back and then some. By January, the loans from one friend had reached $30,000, and her credit cards were stuffed with $40,000 in additional debt. Manio was now paying only 25% rent in keeping with the state’s eviction moratorium, but the back rent was growing. Manio put on a stoic face in public meetings in March and April while other board members spoke and shed tears over lost family members due to COVID-19. She couldn’t bring herself to air her problems publicly: What if voters thought she was unable to run a district, city or county, she thought, if she couldn’t get her finances in order? “It was a lot of saving face,” she said, and “having to hide the real me.” At night, when the public comments were over, her homework from Cornell completed, her son fed and the house cleaned, she would lie in bed with her own thoughts and shed tears. The breakdowns spilled into the mornings when she’d stare at herself in the mirror. “I didn’t recognize myself anymore,” she said. Manio’s hair was thinned by stress, with clumps falling out in the shower. With $70,000 in debt, she questioned her capabilities. “That’s part of the great American Dream and the great American culture,” Charlow said, “the idea that we’re fiercely independent, we take care of ourselves. In point of fact, throughout our history, it’s the community that’s often needed to take care of many of its members.” On the June day she was served the eviction notice, Manio’s mother had come to help celebrate Jake’s graduation with balloons, flowers and gifts. But the stress of eviction was too much. Manio yelled and didn’t speak to anyone that evening. She later learned her son cried that night. The following week, Manio’s mother paid the deposit and co-signed on a new apartment for Manio and Jake. It offered two months of free rent, and Samaritan House provided rental assistance. She also received government relief to help pay her debt to her former landlord. But the move meant she gave up her position as school board president. Clients began to come back, and she closed a deal for a gym, with 20% of her commission going to pay back friends. It’s a slow recovery, and she tries to stay positive. She can’t control the pandemic or commercial real estate market, “but I can control my own spirit,” Manio said. While stuffing clothes into the laundry machine, she dances, singing the chorus of Break my Stride by Matthew Wilder. Ain’t nothin’ gonna break my stride Nobody gonna slow me down Oh no, I got to keep on movin’ This article is part of the California Divide, a collaboration among newsrooms examining income inequality and economic survival in California.

La multitud se rio. Cuando Manio regresó a casa, encontró un trozo de papel blanco con la etiqueta “Aviso de desalojo” pegado a su puerta. Tenía 15 días para dejar su apartamento de Daly City. Manio, quien recientemente había comenzado una nueva carrera en bienes raíces comerciales, una industria devastada por la pandemia, reconoció la ironía de lo que le había dicho a la audiencia. De repente, se encontró mirando su propio abismo financiero. Si bien las consecuencias económicas de la pandemia de COVID-19 devastaron a las familias de bajos ingresos, los hogares de clase media no fueron inmunes. Manio fue una de las muchas personas que acudieron al gobierno y a sus amigos y familiares en busca de ayuda por primera vez en sus vidas, buscando ayuda donde pudiera. Samaritan House, una organización benéfica de San Mateo que ofrece alimentos, asistencia para el alquiler y servicios de asesoramiento, vio duplicarse las líneas de distribución de alimentos, mientras que las solicitudes de asistencia para el alquiler se quintuplicaron. Manio fue una de los que recibieron asistencia para pagar el alquiler. “Había muchísima gente de clase media y de clase media baja”, dijo Bart Charlow, director ejecutivo de Samaritan House. Algunos “se disculparon como si fuera su culpa”, dijo. Otros evitaron el contacto visual. Más de unos pocos rompieron a llorar. Muchos experimentaron “total desconcierto y pérdida del orgullo por no poder ser independientes de repente”. La pandemia culmina 40 años de una restricción de la clase media en California, donde los ingresos de las personas con mayores ingresos del estado han superado con creces a los de la clase media, según un informe de 2020 del Instituto de Políticas Públicas de California. Los multimillonarios del estado dorado agregaron $551.2 mil millones a su patrimonio neto, mientras más de 25 millones de californianos presentaron reclamos por desempleo desde el 1 de marzo de 2020. Cuando el estado cerró la primavera pasada, Manio se vio inundado de llamadas telefónicas cuando los clientes cancelaron y huyeron. Era el primer año de Manio en bienes raíces comerciales y no tenía ni idea de qué hacer. Se esforzó por mantener el negocio ofreciendo revisar los contratos de las empresas que intentaban salir de los arrendamientos e incluso entregar alimentos y medicamentos a sus clientes de edad avanzada. Pero a principios de abril, las ofertas se congelaron. “Estaba corriendo en una pista”, dijo Manio, “y luego pisé melaza”. Como muchos californianos, el mayor costo de Manio fue su alquiler mensual de $3,225. Manio sabía que podía mudarse con su madre en el Valle Central en caso de emergencia. Pero fue un último recurso. Manio, una filipina de primera generación que había pasado los últimos dos años de la escuela secundaria en viviendas públicas de Los Ángeles, había administrado una organización sin fines de lucro que ayudaba a jóvenes en riesgo en San Francisco, había patentado empaques de alimentos ecológicos y había estado ganando $90,000 en financiamiento hospitalario antes de 2019. Se mudó a bienes raíces comerciales con la esperanza de ganar más y ayudar a pagar la eventual matrícula universitaria de su hijo. “Siempre he sido independiente y autosuficiente”, dijo, y acudir a mis amigos con las manos abiertas “fue una píldora muy difícil de tragar”. Unos pocos miles de dólares en préstamos de amigos la ayudaron a pagar el alquiler, el préstamo del automóvil y los gastos profesionales. Pero con casi $6,000 al mes en gastos, Manio se sintió como Alicia en el país de las maravillas. “Estoy cayendo profundamente en este agujero financiero”, dijo. “No tengo idea de cómo voy a volver, y no tengo ni idea de adónde me llevará esto”. En abril de 2020, recurrió a los cupones de alimentos,

que le proporcionaban unos 200 dólares al mes, y luego al desempleo. Manio, que ahora había obtenido más de $10,000 en préstamos de amigos, comenzó a echar mano de un fondo universitario que su padre le había dejado a su hijo. Con la expectativa de que la pandemia disminuya, Manio tensó sus tarjetas de crédito para asistir a certificaciones de bienes raíces adicionales, capacitaciones y pagar sus tarifas anuales de licencia. Pero las órdenes de cierre se prolongaron. A principios de este año, se postuló para el programa de certificación de bienes raíces comerciales de la Universidad de Cornell en desarrollo de bienes raíces comerciales. Pagó la mitad de la matrícula ($6,000 que puso en su tarjeta de crédito en cuotas) y vació el fondo universitario de su hijo. Manio le dijo a su hijo que los ayudaría a recuperarse, prometiendo devolverlo todo y algo más. En enero, los préstamos de una amiga habían alcanzado los $30,000 y sus tarjetas de crédito estaban llenas de $40,000 en deuda adicional. Manio estaba pagando ahora solo el 25% de alquiler de acuerdo con la moratoria de desalojo del estado, pero el alquiler atrasado estaba creciendo. Manio puso una cara estoica en las reuniones públicas en marzo y abril mientras otros miembros de la junta hablaban y lloraban por los familiares perdidos debido al COVID-19. No se atrevía a ventilar sus problemas públicamente: ¿qué pasaría si los votantes pensaran que no podía dirigir un distrito, ciudad o condado, pensó, si no podía poner sus finanzas en orden? “Fue mucho para salvar las apariencias”, dijo, y “tener que ocultar mi verdadero yo”. Por la noche, cuando terminaban los comentarios del público, terminaba su tarea de Cornell, alimentaba a su hijo y limpiaban la casa, se acostaba en la cama con sus propios pensamientos y lloraba. Las averías se extendían por las mañanas cuando se miraba en el espejo. “Ya no me reconocía a mí misma”, dijo. El cabello de Manio se adelgazó por el estrés, con mechones cayendo en la ducha. Con una deuda de 70,000 dólares, cuestionó sus capacidades. “Eso es parte del gran Sueño Americano y la gran cultura americana”, dijo Charlow, “la idea de que somos ferozmente independientes, nos cuidamos a nosotros mismos. De hecho, a lo largo de nuestra historia, es la comunidad la que a menudo se necesita para cuidar de muchos de sus miembros”. El día de junio que recibió el aviso de desalojo, la madre de Manio había venido a ayudar a celebrar la graduación de Jake con globos, flores y regalos. Pero el estrés del desalojo fue demasiado. Manio gritó y no habló con nadie esa noche. Más tarde se enteró de que su hijo lloró esa noche. La semana siguiente, la madre de Manio pagó el depósito y firmó conjuntamente un nuevo apartamento para Manio y Jake. Ofreció dos meses de alquiler gratuito y Samaritan House brindó asistencia para el alquiler. También recibió ayuda del gobierno para ayudar a pagar su deuda con su antiguo propietario. Pero la medida significó que renunció a su puesto como presidenta de la junta escolar. Los clientes comenzaron a regresar y ella cerró un trato para un gimnasio, con el 20% de su comisión para pagar a sus amigos. Es una recuperación lenta y ella intenta mantener una actitud positiva. Ella no puede controlar la pandemia o el mercado inmobiliario comercial, “pero yo puedo controlar mi propio espíritu”, dijo Manio. Mientras mete ropa en la lavadora, baila, cantando el coro de ‘Break my Stride’ de Matthew Wilder. Nada va a romper mi paso Nadie me va a frenar Oh no, tengo que seguir moviéndome… (Ain’t nothin’ gonna break my stride Nobody gonna slow me down Oh no, I got to keep on movin’) Este artículo es parte de California Divide, una colaboración entre redacciones que examina la desigualdad de ingresos y la supervivencia económica en California. CalMatters.org es una organización de medios de comunicación sin fines de lucro, no partidista, que explica las políticas públicas y los temas políticos de California.

COMMUNITY

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com

DEFENSORES PRESIONAN POR PROTECCIADVOCATES PUSH FOR LABOR ONES LABORALES EN EL PROYECTO DE PROTECTIONS IN RECONCILIATION BILL LEY DE RECONCILIACIÓN ENGLISH

ESPAÑOL

Suzanne Potter California News Service

ACRAMENTO, Calif. -- The Build Back Better reconciliation bill currently being negotiated among Senate Democrats would increase penalties on companies that violate labor laws, and unions are pressing for its passage.

ACRAMENTO, Calif. -- El proyecto de ley de reconciliación Build Back Better que se está negociando actualmente entre los demócratas del Senado aumentaría las sanciones a las empresas que violen las leyes laborales y los sindicatos están presionando para que se apruebe.

The bill would impose civil penalties of up to $100,000 for certain violations and make directors and officers personally liable.

El proyecto de ley impondría multas civiles de hasta $100,000 por ciertas violaciones y haría responsables personalmente a los directores y funcionarios.

Anthony Testa, a shop steward with Communications Workers of America Local 9510 in Orange County, said some companies become abusive when workers try to organize.

Anthony Testa, delegado sindical del Local 9510 de Communications Workers of America en el condado de Orange, dijo que algunas empresas se vuelven abusivas cuando los trabajadores intentan organizarse.

Union members demonstrate in favor of the PRO Act at the Los Angeles office of U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif. Photo Credit: CWA

"We've had workers that have wanted to form a union but were subjected to companies making disparaging comments, bringing people into separate meetings trying to basically discourage them or intimidate them into not joining a union," Testa recounted.

Hemos tenido trabajadores que han querido formar un sindicato pero fueron víctimas de empresas que hicieron comentarios despectivos, llevaron a la gente a reuniones separadas, básicamente intentando de desanimarlos o intimidarlos para que no se afiliaran a un sindicato", relató Testa.

Opponents argued the changes would be a burden on business and cost jobs.

Los opositores argumentaron que los cambios serían una carga para las empresas y costarían puestos de trabajo.

Labor groups are big supporters of the PRO Act, which passed the U.S. House in March but is stalled in the Senate. The bill would make it a violation of the National Labor Relations Act to require employees to attend so-called "captive audience" meetings, to permanently replace strikers, to lock out employees prior to a strike, or to misclassify certain workers as "non-employees." Dan Mauer, director of government affairs for the Communication Workers of America, said right now companies often just get a slap on the wrist for violations, and workers continue to suffer. "If we want to rebuild the labor movement and, in turn, rebuild the middle class, we've got to make sure those issues get corrected," Mauer asserted. The PRO Act would also make it a labor-law violation to discriminate against an employee who has offered to unconditionally return to work after a strike.

¡Clipper en su teléfono! Moverse por el área de la Bahía es fácil. Ahora usted tiene opciones. Administre su cuenta con la aplicación Clipper y añada Clipper a Apple Pay o Google Pay™ para pagar las tarifas.

Con la aplicación Clipper es fácil: • Administre su cuenta Clipper • Planee sus viajes • ¡Vea su historia de viajes y más! ¡Descargue la aplicación Clipper hoy!

¡Pague las tarifas con su teléfono! Transfiera una tarjeta plástica de Clipper existente o configure una nueva tarjeta de Clipper en su teléfono para pagar las tarifas con Apple Pay o Google Pay. Ahora puede pagar con

Comience en clippercard.com.

Los grupos laborales son grandes partidarios de la Ley PRO, que fue aprobada en la Cámara de Representantes de Estados Unidos en marzo pero está estancada en el Senado. El proyecto de ley convertiría en una violación de la Ley Nacional de Relaciones Laborales exigir a los empleados que asistan a las llamadas reuniones de "audiencia cautiva", reemplazar permanentemente a los huelguistas, bloquear a los empleados antes de una huelga o clasificar erróneamente a ciertos trabajadores como "no empleados." Dan Mauer, director de asuntos gubernamentales de Communication Workers of America, dijo que en este momento las empresas a menudo reciben un jalón de orejas por infracciones y los trabajadores continúan sufriendo. "Si queremos reconstruir el movimiento laboral y, a su vez, reconstruir la clase media, tenemos que asegurarnos de que esos problemas se corrijan", afirmó Mauer. La Ley PRO también convertiría en una violación de la ley laboral discriminar a un empleado que se ha ofrecido a regresar incondicionalmente al trabajo después de una huelga.

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com

COMMUNITY

FANTASY OF LIGHTS

A MAGICAL EVENING IN THE PARK

Fantasy Of Lights

et ready to bundle up you and yours in festive winter attire for a stroll through the holiday lights and displays of Vasona Lake County Park's spectacular Fantasy of Lights in Los Gatos. The Walk-thru weekend is set for Saturday, December 4 and Sunday, December 5 from 4pm to 9pm. The Drive-thru nights begin Tuesday, December 7 and runs through Thursday, December 30 from 6pm to 10pm. Photo Credit: Fantasy of Lights

This event sells out quickly for all Walkthru and Drive-thru nights. Buy your tickets early to secure your reservation. There will be some new displays for viewing along with the traditional favorites including an erupting volcano, the friendly dinosaur den, Santa shooting hoops, a pen of playful penguins, a tunnel of moving lights, a 90-foot twinkling tree and much more. Fantasy of Lights is approximately 1.5 miles long one way, 3-miles round-trip, so make sure your holiday attire includes comfortable walking shoes and warm clothing when attending the Walk-thru event. A pocket flashlight will come in handy.

Photo Credit: Fantasy of Lights

To round out the magical Walk-thru week-

end, enjoy tasty international food and beverages by Moveable Feast for purchase and fun holiday photo opportunities. There is no parking at the Walk-thru event. FREE parking and shuttle service are available at Netflix, 121 Albright Way, Los Gatos. Ridesharing with Lyft or Uber is highly encouraged. Admission with pre-paid tickets ONLY! Tickets are on sale now at www.parkhere. org. Walk-thru admission tickets are $10 ages 13 years old and up, $5 ages 4 thru 12 years old and FREE – 3 years old or younger and available online only. Standard Eventbrite processing fees will be applied at time of purchase. Visit www. parkhere.org for event information, directions, maps and photos.

Photo Credit: Fantasy of Lights

Purchase your Drive-thru tickets by selecting the day and time of entrance. The Drive-thru nights begin December 7 through December 30 (closed Christmas Day, 12/25), 6pm to 10pm nightly. No tickets will be sold at the gate. Fantasy of Lights is presented by the Santa Clara County Parks & Recreation Department. Information on volunteering for this event and other Park programs can be found at www.parkhere.org.

Photo Credit: Fantasy of Lights

GREEN LIVING

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com

EARTHTALK Q&A: ELECTRIC STOVES REVOLUTION?

EARTHTALK Q&A: ¿REVOLUCIÓN DE ESTUFAS ELÉCTRICAS?

If you are concerned about the health implications of indoor air pollution, maybe it's time to go electric in the kitchen. Photo Credit: Oleg Magni / Pexels

Si te preocupan las implicaciones para la salud de la contaminación del aire en espacios interiores, tal vez sea hora de usar electricidad en la cocina. Photo Credit: Mykola Makhlai / Unsplash

ENGLISH

ESPAÑOL

Dear EarthTalk: Should we all be ditching our gas stoves in favor of electric models? -- Mary R., San Francisco, CA

Roddy Scheer & Doug Moss EarthTalk

alking into your kitchen to make dinner appears relatively simple with a gas-powered stove readily available to cook your every desire. But while rotating the switch to turn on a gas stove, most people do not consider its health and environmental implications. According to a University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) report, over 90 percent of gas-powered appliances in California residences emit toxic pollutants such as carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter and formaldehyde. While gas furnaces and water heaters are big polluters no doubt, most of them are vented outdoors and are thus sending their CO and NOx emissions outside. But pollution from stoves and ovens are released indoors. The UCLA researchers found that in nine out of ten residences surveyed where gas ovens or stoves were in use, peak levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) inside the kitchen after cooking for one hour surpassed both state and national outdoor acute air quality standards. Such high concentrations of indoor air pollution are even more dangerous for smaller households—peak levels of NO2 in 98 percent of apartments surveyed exceeded state and national air quality standards. Such pollution from gas-fired appliances like furnaces, water heaters and stoves present a serious health threat, increasing the likelihood of respiratory illness, cardiovascular disease and premature death. For the elderly and children who are more susceptible to infections and diseases, elevated NO2 levels can be especially toxic. Additional risks of cooking with gas include increased risk of lung disease and vulnerability to novel viruses, not to mention the prompting of new allergies. Children risk a decreased IQ, learning deficits and asthma. In fact, a 2013 report analyz-

ing the impacts of indoor NO2 from gas stoves found that children who grew up in a home with a gas stove are 42 percent more likely to develop asthma than those who didn’t. Gas stoves are also a source of carbon monoxide, a pollution that is fatal at extremely high concentrations and can cause headaches, dizziness, vomiting and nausea. Though morbidity linked to accidental CO is quite low, frequent exposure can increase the risk of lethal heart disease. To avoid such health and environmental setbacks, gas appliances can be replaced by any number of zero-emission electric alternatives. The most common and effective stoves to replace gas stoves are induction cooktops and modern electric stoves. Electric stoves are powered by thermal conduction whereby electricity runs through a set of coils; induction cooktops are powered by electromagnetic currents that directly heat the cookware. Though initial installation costs of electric or induction stoves can be quite high, they consume much less energy than gas stoves and thus are more cost-effective in the long run. CONTACTS: Health Effects from Gas Stove Pollution, psr.org/wp-content/ uploads/2020/05/health-effects-fromgas-stove-pollution.pdf; Pollution from Gas Appliances Endangers Our Health. Going Electric Can Help, sierraclub.org/ articles/2020/05/cooking-gas-hurts-yourwallet-and-your-health; Gas Stoves: Health and Air Quality Impacts and Solutions, rmi. org/insight/gas-stoves-pollution-health. EarthTalk® is produced by Roddy Scheer & Doug Moss for the 501(c)3 nonprofit EarthTalk. See more at https://emagazine. com. To donate, visit https//earthtalk.org. Send questions to: question@earthtalk. org.

Querido EarthTalk: ¿Deberíamos cambiar nuestras estufas de gas por unos modelos eléctricos? -- Mary R., San Francisco, CA

Roddy Scheer & Doug Moss EarthTalk

ntrar en tu cocina para preparar la cena parece relativamente simple con una estufa de gas de fácil acceso para cocinar sus recetas favoritas. Pero al girar la perilla para encender una estufa de gas, la mayoría de la gente no considera las implicaciones para su salud y el medio ambiente. Según un informe de la Universidad de California en Los Ángeles (UCLA), más del 90 por ciento de los electrodomésticos de gas en las residencias de California emiten contaminantes tóxicos como monóxido de carbono (CO), óxidos de nitrógeno (NOx), partículas y formaldehído. Si bien los hornos de gas y los calentadores de agua son sin duda grandes contaminantes, la mayoría de ellos tienen ventilación al aire libre y, por lo tanto, sacan sus emisiones de CO y NOx al exterior. Pero la contaminación de estufas y hornos se libera en el interior. Los investigadores de UCLA encontraron que en nueve de cada diez residencias encuestadas donde se usaban hornos o estufas de gas, los niveles máximos de dióxido de nitrógeno (NO2) dentro de la cocina después de cocinar durante una hora superaron los estándares estatales y nacionales de calidad del aire al aire libre. Estas altas concentraciones de contaminación del aire interior son aún más peligrosas para los hogares más pequeños: los niveles máximos de NO2 en el 98 por ciento de los apartamentos encuestados excedieron los estándares estatales y nacionales de calidad del aire. Dicha contaminación de aparatos de gas como hornos, calentadores de agua y estufas presenta una amenaza seria para la salud, aumentando la probabilidad de enfermedades respiratorias, enfermedades cardiovasculares y muerte prematura. Para los ancianos y los niños que son más susceptibles a infecciones y enfermedades, los niveles elevados de NO2 pueden ser especialmente tóxicos. Los riesgos adicionales de cocinar con gas incluyen un mayor riesgo de una enfermedad pulmonar y la vulnerabilidad a nuevos virus, sin mencionar la aparición de nuevas alergias. Los niños corren el riesgo de tener un coeficiente intelectual disminuido, problemas de aprendizaje y asma.

De hecho, un informe del 2013 que analiza los impactos del NO2 en espacios interiores de las estufas de gas encontró que los niños que crecieron en un hogar con una estufa de gas tienen un 42 por ciento más probabilidades de desarrollar asma que los que no tuvieron estufa de gas. Las estufas de gas también son una fuente de monóxido de carbono, una contaminación que es fatal en concentraciones extremadamente altas y puede causar dolores de cabeza, mareo, vómito y náusea. Aunque la morbilidad relacionada con el CO accidental es bastante baja, la exposición frecuente puede aumentar el riesgo de enfermedad cardíaca letal. Para evitar tales contratiempos para la salud y el medio ambiente, los aparatos de gas pueden ser reemplazados por algunas alternativas eléctricas de emisión cero. Las estufas más comunes y efectivas para reemplazar las estufas de gas son las estufas de inducción y las estufas eléctricas modernas. Las estufas eléctricas funcionan por conducción térmica mediante la cual la electricidad pasa a través de un conjunto de bobinas; Las estufas de inducción funcionan con corrientes electromagnéticas que calientan directamente los utensilios de cocina. Aunque los costos iniciales de instalación de las estufas eléctricas o de inducción pueden ser bastante altos, consumen mucho menos energía que las estufas de gas y, por lo tanto, son más rentables a largo plazo. CONTACTOS: Health Effects from Gas Stove Pollution, psr.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/health-effects-from-gasstove-pollution.pdf; Pollution from Gas Appliances Endangers Our Health. Going Electric Can Help, sierraclub.org/articles/2020/05/ cooking-gas-hurts-your-wallet-and-yourhealth; Gas Stoves: Health and Air Quality Impacts and Solutions, rmi.org/insight/gasstoves-pollution-health. EarthTalk® es producido por Roddy Scheer & Doug Moss para la organización sin fines de lucro 501 (c) 3 EarthTalk. Vea más en https://emagazine.com. Para donar, visite https // earthtalk.org. Envíe sus preguntas a: question@earthtalk.org.

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com

REPORT: CRISIS-PREGNANCY CENTERS "MISLEAD" FOLKS

MAIN NEWS

INFORME: LOS CENTROS DE CRISIS DE EMBARAZO "ENGAÑAN" A LA GENTE

ENGLISH

ESPAÑOL

Eric Tegethoff Public News Service

que están proporcionando realmente es la prueba de embarazo de la farmacia y posiblemente un ultrasonido que es inútil, si no realmente dañino, en la medida que podría ser engañoso".

ORTLAND, Ore. -- A new report investigates facilities that dissuade women from getting abortions.

The Alliance: State Advocates for Women's Rights and Gender Equality se asoció con Legal Voice en el estudio, llamado "Diseñado para engañar". Según el informe, hay casi 3,5 veces más centros de crisis de embarazo en Oregon que clínicas de atención de abortos.

Known as crisis-pregnancy centers, the facilities have proliferated across the country. Kim Clark, senior attorney for reproductive rights, health and justice at the advocacy organization Legal Voice, said crisis pregnancy centers purposely deceive people.

A veces conocidos como centros de recursos para el embarazo, las organizaciones que los dirigen afirman que su propósito es proporcionar recursos médicos a las mujeres embarazadas.

"They draw people in by misleading folks and giving the false impression that they are full-service reproductive health clinics," Clark explained. "And then, really all they're providing is the drug-store pregnancy test and potentially an ultrasound that is useless, if not actually harmful, insofar as it could be misleading." The Alliance: State Advocates for Women's Rights and Gender Equality partnered with Legal Voice on the study, called "Designed to Deceive." According to the report, there are nearly 3.5 times more crisis-pregnancy centers in Oregon than there are abortion-care clinics. Sometimes known as pregnancy-resource centers, the organizations running them state their purpose is to provide medical resources to expectant mothers. On Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court heard challenges to a Texas law, which would essentially ban abortions after six weeks of pregnancy. Clark pointed out crisis-pregnancy centers are connecting and in contact with pregnant people, and the Texas law allows private citizens to sue abortion providers and people who aid women with getting abortions.

El lunes, la Corte Suprema de Estados Unidos escuchó impugnaciones a una ley de Texas, que esencialmente prohibiría los abortos después de seis semanas de embarazo.

Pregnancy tests were the most common services crisis pregnancy centers provided, according to a new report. Photo Credit: puhhha / Adobe Stock "Which creates an incentive for, basically, the surveillance of pregnant people," Clark contended. "And crisis-pregnancy centers are really in the ideal position to serve that function." Clark noted there are measures states can take if they are interested in reducing unintended pregnancies. "Expanding access to reproductive-health care and access to comprehensive medically accurate sexual health education, both would go a long way," Clark asserted. The report found some crisis-pregnancy centers have been able to secure public funding, although Clark said it is not the case in Northwest states.

Vuelva de manera segura a la vida que ama. El condado de Santa Clara tiene muchas clínicas de vacunación sin cita previa con horarios los fines de semana, por la noche y de día para cubrir sus necesidades. Simplemente vaya cuando pueda o programe una cita que le convenga. Las vacunas del COVID-19 son gratuitas y seguras, y están disponibles para mayores de 12 años. Protéjase y proteja a sus seres queridos: ¡vacúnese hoy! Obtenga más información: scfhp.com/vacuna-covid19

Eric Tegethoff Public News Service

ORTLAND, Ore. -- Un nuevo informe investiga a las instalaciones que disuaden a las mujeres de abortar.

Conocidos como centros de crisis de embarazo, las instalaciones han proliferado en todo el país. Kim Clark, abogada principal de derechos reproductivos, salud y justicia de la organización de defensa Legal Voice, dijo que los centros de crisis de embarazo engañan deliberadamente a las personas. "Atraen a las personas engañándolas y dando la falsa impresión de que son clínicas de salud reproductiva de servicio completo", explicó Clark. Y luego, todo lo

Clark señaló que los centros de crisis de embarazo se están conectando y en contacto con personas embarazadas, y la ley de Texas permite a los ciudadanos privados demandar a los proveedores de servicios de aborto y a las personas que ayudan a las mujeres a abortar. "Lo que crea un incentivo para, básicamente, la vigilancia de las personas embarazadas", sostuvo Clark. „Y los centros de crisis de embarazo están realmente en la posición ideal para cumplir esa función ". Clark señaló que hay medidas que los estados pueden tomar si están interesados en reducir los embarazos no deseados. "Ampliar el acceso a la atención de la salud reproductiva y el acceso a una educación integral en salud sexual médicamente precisa sería de gran ayuda ", afirmó Clark. El informe averiguó que algunos centros de crisis de embarazo han podido obtener fondos públicos, aunque Clark dijo que no es el caso en los estados del noroeste.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021

OUTSIDE LANDS 2021: MUSIC, FOOD, DRINKS & COSTUMES PROVE TO BE A SPOOKY GOOD TIME The Long-Running San Francisco Music Fest Returns Successfully for One-time Halloween Edition

Arturo Hilario El Observador

simple one-hour flight away in his current Los Angeles residence. [I’m assuming they have these emergency backup performers informed and on speed dial just in case, if not what an impressive turnaround]

or the first time since August 2019, or around 26 months ago, Golden Gate Park’s Polo Fields and adjacent areas were transformed into the annual Outside Lands Music Festival, a few months removed from its usual Summer timeslot. This time around the festival went for a Halloween theme, taking advantage of its irregular scheduling the weekend of October 29-31st. This was due to caution from festival promoter Another Planet, who most likely wanted to avoid any type of COVID Summer spike affecting the fate of the fest. In March they announced the move, saying, “To ensure this year’s festival will be the safest possible environment for all fans, staff, artists and the world at large, we have made the decision to shift Outside Lands 2021 to October 29-31, 2021.”

The lineup included most of the artists that had been secured for the original 2020 lineup, such as Tame Impala, Tyler the Creator, Lizzo, J Balvin and The Strokes, with such additions as Flo Milli, Kaytranada and Glass Animals being added in 2021. Outside Lands Music Festival made its return after a hiatus in 2020, with a one-time Halloween themed weekend on October 29-31st, 2021. Photo Credit: Outside Lands / Alive Coverage

A Foodie, Boozy, Tune-filled Haunt Onto the good stuff: the Music, the art, the weed and the food. All the things that

A specter of the still ongoing pandemic was visible in the dates of the festival this year, as well as the requirements for proof of vaccination or proof of negative test, along with all the non-costume masks visible during the three days in the park.

Attendees had the opportunity to try some of the best of local restaurants and food trucks in the Bay Area, with highlights including Alicia’s Tamales, Curry Up Now, World Famous Hotboys and my personal favorite, a simple but effective smashburger from popular pop-up restaurant Smish Smash. It’s definitely worth the price of admission for the music alone, even more so if you’re willing to take up a food adventure throughout the three days.

And another highlight, which might be a one-off since October Lands goes back to August next year: The costumes and general Halloween vibe – which was lively and went perfectly with the chillier aura in the air during late October.

Although the total amount of people was another big adjustment to this version of the festival, with the usual 90k average tickets per day whittled down to 70k, still enough people to give some heebie-jeebies. Regardless, measures were taken and the event seemed to go down with any major hitches, except for a few artists dropping out hours before their stage time.

The replacements for these two seemed to be very welcome by fans, for Rebillet it was Reggie Watts, who is currently the house musician for “The Late Late Show With James Corden”. For Young Thug’s replacement came Portland’s Aminé, a Grammy-nominated rapper who was a

Back for its 3rd year and second as a marketplace, was Weed Lands, where people could purchase cannabis products, and even consume them there and hang out in viewing areas. Most likely those participating would eventually go catch some of the incredible food available at the festival.

Cheese Lands and Wine Lands added onto the “finer things” vibe that Outside Lands has crafted over the years, where you could grab some delicious cheese spreads and a glass of wine from many of the wineries within the wooden marketplace of the land. Speaking of craft, Beer Lands and the craft cocktails within the Cocktail Magic section of the festival provided custom drinks (including a whole Golden Girls themed cocktail bar???) and tried and true options from various breweries. One that quickly sold out when I checked on Sunday was the ACE Pumpkin cider, which makes sense given the time of the season.

It being the biggest event in San Francisco post-beginning-of-pandemic (it’s not yet “post-pandemic” unfortunately) there were many eyes on how it would work and if it would be a potential disaster – but due to the timing, the precautions and general location in one of the most vaccinated cities in the world, Outside Lands 2021 was a roaring success, with very few hiccups. It was more music, tasty food and spooky vibes, a celebratory return for the San Francisco staple.

Marc Rebillet, the DJ and producer known as “loop daddy” who became famous through his fascinating comedy-tinged YouTube and Twitch performances, was unable to perform to due injury. Young Thug, the rapper known for hits such as “pick up the phone” and a frequent collaborator on many top 40 artists’ songs did not give a reason as of writing.

make Outside Lands a wholly North Bay music festival

PRESENTED BY

PRESENTED BY IN ASSOCIATION WITH

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

MAY 7 - DEC 17 IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SOUTH FIRST STREET

between San Salvador & William streets

Park in the Second & San Carlos Garage. Parking is free for the first 90 minutes. ParkSJ.org

Building Better Communities

A SAN JOSE DOWNTOWN ASSOCIATION PRODUCTION

sjdowntown.com

From the hilarious to the expertly crafted, to the artists who actually came and performed in costume, the vibe was perfectly spooky through the weekend. Arizona, the band, dressed up as Arizona Tea cans, while one of the main headliners for Sunday, Tame Impala, dressed up as the legendary Australian children’s entertainment group The Wiggles (Tame Impala’s sole multi-instrumentalist visionary is also Australian). And finally, as a Latina/o/x publication, we definitely have to give a shout out to J Balvin’s explosive performance, which happened to be the first Outside Lands Latino headliner. With the charisma, music and pyrotechnics galore, he had thousands of audience members dancing until the end of this unique return for Outside Lands. Here’s to many more. OSL 2022 is coming back to its regularly scheduled time, from August 5-7.

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021

FOR PRINT - Pedivax_5-11_NewspaperPrintAd-10.37x11.5-ES_04NOV21.pdf 1

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com

11/4/2021 12:25:41 PM

JOBS / CLASSIFIEDS / LEGALS

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com

Almaden Lake Apartments, a 144-unit affordable community in San Jose is opening up its waitlist on November 8, 2021! This property offers affordable 1-, 2- & 3-bedroom apartments with rents from $1,044-$1,434 per month. Pre-applications for the waitlist will be distributed and accepted starting Monday, November 8, 2021 at 9 AM. Preapplications will be available starting Nov. 8th by phone request, contactless pick-up at the property, or on-line at bridgehousing.com/properties/almaden-lake/. The office is located at 978 Almaden Lake Dr. in San Jose. Office hours are Mon-Thur. from 9 AM-5 PM. Amenities include community room with kitchen, laundry facilities, Swimming pool and outdoor play areas. For more information call us at (408) 323-8020. Income and other restrictions apply. Section-8 welcome. EHO.

Se buscan Conductores de tiempo parcial (Gane $25 - $30 por hora) Entrega de alimentos de 10 a.m - 2 p.m., de lunes a viernes. Debe ser un no-fumador, hablar inglés con fluidez (ESL está bien), tener un teléfono inteligente Aplique en: Waiter.com/jobs

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 680101 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Northern California Technical Sales, Inc., 101 S. Santa Cruz Avenue, #1363, Los Gatos, CA 95030, Santa Clara County. This business is owned by a Corporation. The name and residence address of the registrant(s) is (are): NORTHERN CALIFORNIA TECHNICAL SALES, INC. 101 S. Santa Cruz Avenue, #1363, Los Gatos, CA 95030. The registrant began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on 1/4/1994. This filing is a first filing. “I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.” (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) /s/ Asif Subedar NORTHERN CALIFORNIA TECHNICAL SALES, INC. President/CEO Article/Reg#: C3234958 Above entity was formed in the state of CA This statement was filed with the Co. ClerkRecorder of Santa Clara County on 11/3/2021. Regina Alcomendras, County Clerk Recorder

Buscamos contratar de inmediato a trabajadores de almacén en un almacén de alimentos secos en Fremont, California. Póngase en contacto con Gayathri@ fyvelements.com. Teléfono: 917 328 3331. 1 año de experiencia en manejo de almacén, levantando pesos pesados y montacargas. Idiomas: Inglés/Español

By: /s/ Corinne Vasquez, Deputy File No. FBN 680101

By: /s/ Elaine Fader, Deputy File No. FBN 679705

November 5, 12, 19, 26, 2021

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 679705 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Twinkle Twinkle Home Daycare, 1571 Nuthatch Ln, Sunnyvale, CA 94087, Santa Clara County. This business is owned by an Individual. The name and residence address of the registrant(s) is (are): Maria Rebeca Esquivel Villanueva, 1571 Nuthatch Ln, Sunnyvale, CA 94087. The registrant began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on 10/06/2021. This filing is a refile [Change(s) in facts form previous filing] of previous file #: . “I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.” (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) /s/ Maria Rebeca Esquivel Villanueva This statement was filed with the Co. ClerkRecorder of Santa Clara County on 10/18/2021. Regina Alcomendras, County Clerk Recorder

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 679868 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Anago of Northern California, 1460 Koll Circle, Ste B, San Jose, CA 95112, Santa Clara County. This business is owned by a Corporation. The name and residence address of the registrant(s) is (are): TOFF, INC., 1460 Koll Circle, Ste B, San Jose, CA 95112. The registrant began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on N/A. This filing is a first filing. “I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.” (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) /s/ Matthew J. Sole TOFF, Inc. President Article/Reg#: C2815273 Above entity was formed in the state of CA This statement was filed with the Co. ClerkRecorder of Santa Clara County on 10/22/2021. Regina Alcomendras, County Clerk Recorder By: /s/ Nina Khamphilath,

Deputy File No. FBN 679868 November 5, 12, 19, 26, 2021 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 679924 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: MAA KA KHANA, 326 Commercial St, San Jose, CA 95112, Santa Clara County. This business is owned by a Married Couple. The name and residence address of the registrant(s) is (are): Piyushkumar Shah, 138 Marylinn Drive, Milpitas, CA 95035. Priti Shah, 138 Marylinn Drive, Milpitas, CA 95035. The registrant began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on 10/25/2021. This filing is a first filing. “I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.” (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) /s/ Piyushkumar Shah This statement was filed with the Co. ClerkRecorder of Santa Clara County on 10/26/2021. Regina Alcomendras, County Clerk Recorder By: /s/ Elaine Fader, Deputy File No. FBN 679924 November 5, 12, 19, 26,

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021

Almaden Lake Apartments, comunidad de 144 unidades para familias, ubicada en San Jose abrirá su lista de espera el 8 de Nov. del 2021. Propiedad ofrece vivienda asequible con rentas de $1,044-$1,434 por mes, para unidades 1-, 2- y 3-habitaciones. Las comodidades incluyen una sala comunitaria con cocina, lavandería en el lugar, piscina y gestión profesional en el lugar. Las Pre-Solicitudes para la lista de espera estarán disponibles a partir del Lunes 8 de Nov. 2021 a las 9 AM. Podrá obtener la Pre-Solicitud sin contacto en la propiedad o solicitar la por teléfono o en internet en bridgehousing.com/properties/almadenlake/. La dirección es 978 Almaden Lake Dr. en San Jose y su horario es de Lunes a Jueves de 9 AM a 5 PM. La oficina está cerrada al público durante COVID-19. Para más información llámanos al (408) 323-8020. Se aplican restricciones de ingresos y otras. Se acepta Sec-8.

Immediately looking to hire warehouse workers in a dry food stuff warehouse in Fremont, California. Contact Gayathri@ fyvelements.com. Phone no. 917 328 3331. 1 year experience in handling warehouse, lifting heavy weight, and riding forklift. Languages – English/Spanish 2021 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME NO. 21CV389397 Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara-In the matter of the application of: Ricardo Javier Seminario. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner(s) Ricardo Javier Seminario has filed a petition for Change of Name with the clerk of this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Ezio Rowee Almacen to Ezio Rowee Seminario Almacen 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 2/01/2022 at 8:45 am, Probate Dept., located at 191 N. First

Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. A copy of the Order to Show cause shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in El Observador, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Santa Clara. Oct 27, 2021 Julie A. Emede Judge of the Superior Court November 5, 12, 19, 26, 2021 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME NO. 21CV389626 Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara-In the matter of the application of: Robabeh Panahy. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner(s) Robabeh Panahy has filed a petition for Change of Name with the clerk of this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Robabeh Panahy to Sima Panahy 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file written objection that

includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 2/08/2022 at 8:45 am, Probate Dept., located at 191 N. First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. A copy of the Order to Show cause shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in El Observador, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Santa Clara. Nov 01, 2021 Julie A. Emede Judge of the Superior Court November 5, 12, 19, 26, 2021 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME NO. 21CV387307 Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara-In the matter of the application of: Cara Lee Ayala. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner(s) Cara Lee Ayala has filed a petition for Change of Name with the clerk of this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Cara Lee Ayala to Cara Lee DiMaria Ayala 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show

cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 1/11/2022 at 8:45 am, Probate Dept., located at 191 N. First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. A copy of the Order to Show cause shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in El Observador, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Santa Clara. Oct 05, 2021 Julie A. Emede Judge of the Superior Court November 5, 12, 19, 26, 2021 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME NO. 21CV389810 Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara-In the matter of the application of: Hanson Yip & Le Truc My Tran. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner(s) Hanson Yip & Le Truc My Tran has filed a petition for Change of Name with the clerk of this court for a decree changing

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com

Contratando Agentes de Seguridad Responsable de realizar los servicios de seguridad según se define en las órdenes postales específicas del sitio y según las indicaciones de la gestión de seguridad. Observa atentamente las irregularidades, como infracciones de seguridad, peligros en las instalaciones y la seguridad, y situaciones de emergencia; se comunica con los servicios de emergencia, como la policía, los bomberos y / o el personal de ambulancias, según sea necesario. Todos los turnos disponibles: tiempo completo y tiempo parcial La compensación es de $ 24 por hora El personal asignado proporcionará servicios que no se limitan a los siguientes: Realizar patrullas de seguridad continuas para proporcionar una presencia visible y disuadir el vandalismo y la entrada no autorizada. Hacer cumplir los procedimientos de control de acceso a las piscinas y las áreas de lavandería fuera del horario de atención. Responder rápida y adecuadamente a todos los problemas relacionados con la seguridad. Proporcionar informes electrónicos diarios Hacer cumplir la política de estacionamiento Excelente oportunidad para aquellos que buscan tener una carrera en la aplicación de la ley. Requisitos Debe ser bilingüe, tanto verbal como escrito (español / inglés) Debe tener una tarjeta de guardia de CA válida Debe tener una licencia de conducir de CA válida Debe tener un certificado de la PTA Ofrecemos beneficios como médicos, dentales, de la vista y 401k. Envíe su currículum a egarcia@genesissecurity.org

names as follows: a. Uy Tan Diep to Wayland Leo Yip 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 2/15/2022 at 8:45 am, Probate Dept., located at 191 N. First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. A copy of the Order to Show cause shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in El Observador, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Santa Clara. Oct 04, 2021; 10:19AM Julie A. Emede Judge of the Superior Court November 5, 12, 19, 26, 2021

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME NO. 21CV389804 Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara-In the matter of the application of: Pin Ting & Hsiuju Tsai. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner(s) Pin Ting & Hsiuju Tsai has filed a petition for Change of Name with the clerk of this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Wei Ting to Sheena Wei Ting b. Yu Ting to Yulissa Yu Ting 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 2/15/2022 at 8:45 am, Probate Dept., located at 191 N. First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. A copy of the Order to Show cause

shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in El Observador, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Santa Clara. Sep 29, 2021; 8:51PM Julie A. Emede Judge of the Superior Court November 5, 12, 19, 26, 2021 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME NO. 21CV389747 Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara-In the matter of the application of: Vikash Ruhil & Jyoti Rani. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner(s) Vikash Ruhil & Jyoti Rani has filed a petition for Change of Name with the clerk of this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Vikash Ruhil to Ranveer Singh b. Jyoti Rani to Isha Rani 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file written objection that includes the reasons for

the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 2/08/2022 at 8:45 am, Probate Dept., located at 191 N. First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. A copy of the Order to Show cause shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in El Observador, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Santa Clara. Nov 02, 2021 Julie A. Emede Judge of the Superior Court November 5, 12, 19, 26, 2021 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME NO. 21CV389914 Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara-In the matter of the application of: Mahboobeh Farhani. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner(s) Mahboobeh Farhani has filed a petition for Change of Name with the clerk of this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Mahboobeh Farhani to Sophia Farahani. 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 2/08/2022 at 8:45 am, Probate Dept.,

located at 191 N. First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. A copy of the Order to Show cause shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in El Observador, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Santa Clara. Nov 04, 2021 Julie A. Emede Judge of the Superior Court November 5, 12, 19, 26, 2021 Notice of Petition to Administer Estate of  GLORIA G. MARQUEZ Case No. 21PR191019 1.To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may be interested in the will or estate, or both, of Gloria G. Marquez, Gloria Marquez. 2. A Petition for Probate has been filed by Nicholas Marquez in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara. 3.The Petition for Probate requests that by Nicholas Marquez be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. 5. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administer of Estate Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take any 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 consent to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person Files and objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. 6. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: December 8, 2021, at 9:01am, Dept. 5, located at 191 North First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 7. If you object to the granting of this petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written

JOBS / CLASSIFIEDS / LEGALS

objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. 8. If you are a creditor or 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. 9. 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.    10. Attorney for Petitioner:   Shahram Miri 80 Gilman Avenue, Suite 27 Campbell, CA 95008 (408)866-8382 November 5, 12, 19, 2021 Notice of Petition to Administer Estate of  LINDA STUART Case No. 21PR191018 1.To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may be interested in the will or estate, or both, of Linda Stuart, Linda Darnell Stuart, Linda D. Stuart, Linda Granada. 2. A Petition for Probate has been filed by George Granada in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara. 3.The Petition for Probate requests that by George Granada be appointed as personal representative to ad-

minister the estate of the decedent. 5. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administer of Estate Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take any 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 consent to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person Files and objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. 6. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: December 8, 2021, at 9:01am, Dept. 5, located at 191 North First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 7. If you object to the granting of this 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. 8. If you are a creditor or 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. 9. 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.    10. Attorney for Petitioner:   Shahram Miri 80 Gilman Avenue, Suite 27 Campbell, CA 95008 (408)866-8382 November 5, 12, 19, 2021 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 678977 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Grocery Outlet of Gilroy, 333 E 10th Street, Gilroy, CA 95020, Santa Clara County. This business is owned by a Limited Liability Company. The name and residence address of the registrant(s) is (are): Hum Char LLC, 333 E 10th Street, Gilroy, CA 95020. The registrant began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on N/A. This filing is a refile [Change(s) in facts form previous filing] of previous file #: FBN582272. “I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.” (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) /s/ Aaron McGinley Hum Char LLC Corporate Officer Article/Reg#: 202124610581 Above entity was formed in the state of CA This statement was filed with the Co. ClerkRecorder of Santa Clara County on 09/22/2021. Regina Alcomendras, County Clerk Recorder By: /s/ Elaine Fader, Deputy File No. FBN 678977 October 15, 22, 29 and November 5, 2021 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 679809 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: SELECTIVE DENTAL, 3151 S. White Rd., Suite 203, San Jose, CA 95148, Santa Clara County. This business is owned by a Corporation. The name and

CLASSIFIEDS / LEGALS

residence address of the registrant(s) is (are): Victoria L. K. Vuong, DDS., Inc, 3151 S. White Rd., Suite 203, San Jose, CA 95148. The registrant began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on N/A. This filing is a first filing. “I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.” (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) /s/ Brandon Ho Victoria L. K. Vuong, DDS., Inc Secretary Article/Reg#: 4770680 Above entity was formed in the state of CA This statement was filed with the Co. ClerkRecorder of Santa Clara County on 10/21/2021. Regina Alcomendras, County Clerk Recorder By: /s/ Corinne Vasquez, Deputy File No. FBN 679809 October 29, November 5, 12, 19, 2021 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 679889 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: DORELEX, 1515 Emperor Way, Sunnyvale, CA 94087, Santa Clara County. This business is owned by a General Partnership. The name and residence address of the registrant(s) is (are): Amos Dor, 1515 Emperor, Sunnyvale, CA 94087. Daphna Dor, 1515 Emperor, Sunnyvale, CA 94087. The registrant began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on 9/01/2021. This filing is a first filing. “I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.” (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) /s/ Amos Dor This statement was filed with the Co. ClerkRecorder of Santa Clara County on 10/25/2021. Regina Alcomendras, County Clerk Recorder By: /s/ Sandy Chanthasy, Deputy File No. FBN 679889 October 29, Novem-

ber 5, 12, 19, 2021 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 679200 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: La Fonda Michoacana, 1309 Vine St, San Jose, CA 95110, Santa Clara County. This business is owned by an Individual. The name and residence address of the registrant(s) is (are): Miguel Tello Lara, 1309 Vine St, San Jose, CA 95110. The registrant began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on 09/01/2021. This filing is a first filing. “I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.” (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) /s/ Miguel Tello Lara This statement was filed with the Co. ClerkRecorder of Santa Clara County on 9/29/2021. Regina Alcomendras, County Clerk Recorder By: /s/ Elaine Fader, Deputy File No. FBN 679200 October 29, November 5, 12, 19, 2021 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 679853 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Montana Janitorial, 1495 Bluebonnet Wy, Morgan Hill, CA 95037, Santa Clara County. This business is owned by an Individual. The name and residence address of the registrant(s) is (are): Jose Jesus Ortiz, 1495 Bluebonnet Wy, Morgan Hill, CA 95037. The registrant began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on 11/17/2018. This filing is a refile [Change(s) in facts from previous filing] of previous file #: FBN656668. “I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.” (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) /s/ Jose Jesus Ortiz This statement was filed with the Co. Clerk-

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com Recorder of Santa Clara County on 10/22/2021. Regina Alcomendras, County Clerk Recorder By: /s/ Elaine Fader, Deputy File No. FBN 679853 October 29, November 5, 12, 19, 2021 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 679930 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Economical Employee Benefits, 208 S 1st St, Campbell, CA 95008, Santa Clara County. This business is owned by an Individual. The name and residence address of the registrant(s) is (are): David Ernesto Juarez, 208 S 1st St, Campbell, CA 95008. The registrant began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on 10/25/2021. This filing is a first filing. “I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.” (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) /s/ David Ernesto Juarez This statement was filed with the Co. ClerkRecorder of Santa Clara County on 10/26/2021. Regina Alcomendras, County Clerk Recorder By: /s/ Elaine Fader, Deputy File No. FBN 679930 October 29, November 5, 12, 19, 2021 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 679096 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: ARTACBD, 1901 South Bascom Ave, Ste 1410, Campbell, CA 95008, Santa Clara County. This business is owned by a Corporation. The name and residence address of the registrant(s) is (are): GREENEDGE TECH, 1901 South Bascom Ave, Ste 1410, Campbell, CA 95008. The registrant began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on 05/19/2021. This filing is a first filing. “I declare that all information in this statement

is true and correct.” (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) /s/ Orang Kamkar GREENEDGE TECH CEO Article/Reg#: C4735686 Above entity was formed in the state of CA This statement was filed with the Co. ClerkRecorder of Santa Clara County on 09/28/2021. Regina Alcomendras, County Clerk Recorder By: /s/ Elaine Fader, Deputy File No. FBN 679096 October 29, November 5, 12, 19, 2021 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 679753 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: SPECTRUM DYNAMICS, 4666 Tango Way, San Jose, CA 95111, Santa Clara County. This business is owned by a Limited Liability Company. The name and residence address of the registrant(s) is (are): SPECTRUM DYNAMICS L.L.C., 4666 Tango Way, San Jose, CA 95111. The registrant began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on 09/30/2021. This filing is a first filing. “I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.” (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) /s/ Michael Valenzuela SPECTRUM DYNAMICS L.L.C. Member Article/Reg#: 202128010031 Above entity was formed in the state of CA This statement was filed with the Co. ClerkRecorder of Santa Clara County on 10/19/2021. Regina Alcomendras, County Clerk Recorder By: /s/ Nina Khamphilath, Deputy File No. FBN 679753 October 29, November 5, 12, 19, 2021 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

NO. 679962 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Friendship House, 1511 Princeton Dr, San Jose, CA 95118, Santa Clara County. This business is owned by an Individual. The name and residence address of the registrant(s) is (are): Elizabeth Solorio, 1511 Princeton Dr, San Jose, CA 95118. The registrant began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on 01/01/2013. This filing is a first filing. “I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.” (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) /s/ Elizabeth Solorio This statement was filed with the Co. ClerkRecorder of Santa Clara County on 10/27/2021. Regina Alcomendras, County Clerk Recorder By: /s/ Elaine Fader, Deputy File No. FBN 679962 October 29, November 5, 12, 19, 2021 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME NO. 21CV388811 Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara-In the matter of the application of: Sandra Jo Smith. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner(s) Sandra Jo Smith has filed a petition for Change of Name with the clerk of this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Sandra Jo Smith to Sandra Jo O’Donnell Martell 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed,

the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 1/25/2022 at 8:45 am, Probate Dept., located at 191 N. First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. A copy of the Order to Show cause shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in El Observador, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Santa Clara. Oct 21, 2021 Julie A. Emede Judge of the Superior Court October 29, November 5, 12, 19, 2021 AMENDED ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME NO. 21CV384345 Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara-In the matter of the application of: Kum Soon Cho. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner(s) Kum Soon Cho has filed a petition for Change of Name with the clerk of this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Kum Soon Cho to Kum Christina Soon Cho 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 12/01/2021 at 8:45 am, Probate Dept., located at 191 N. First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. A copy of the Order to Show cause shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021 in El Observador, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Santa Clara. Oct 25, 2021 Julie A. Emede Judge of the Superior Court October 29, November 5, 12, 19, 2021 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME NO. 21CV386814 Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara-In the matter of the application of: John Seañez. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner(s) John Seañez has filed a petition for Change of Name with the clerk of this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. John Anthony Seañez to Angie Veronica Seañez 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 12/21/2021 at 8:45 am, Probate Dept., located at 191 N. First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. A copy of the Order to Show cause shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in El Observador, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Santa Clara. Sep 20, 2021 Julie A. Emede Judge of the Superior Court October 29, November 5, 12, 19, 2021 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE

OF NAME NO. 21CV388796 Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara-In the matter of the application of: Enrique Arturo Sanchez Gonzalez. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner(s) Enrique Arturo Sanchez Gonzalez has filed a petition for Change of Name with the clerk of this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Enrique Arturo Sanchez Gonzalez to Henry Arturo Sanchez 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 1/25/2022 at 8:45 am, Probate Dept., located at 191 N. First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. A copy of the Order to Show cause shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in El Observador, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Santa Clara. Oct 21, 2021 Julie A. Emede Judge of the Superior Court October 29, November 5, 12, 19, 2021 Notice of Petition to Administer Estate of  GLORIA G. MARQUEZ Case No. 21PR191019 1.To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may be interested in the will or estate, or both, of Gloria G. Marquez, Gloria Marquez. 2. A Petition for Probate has been filed by Nicholas Marquez

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021 in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara. 3.The Petition for Probate requests that by Nicholas Marquez be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. 5. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administer of Estate Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take any 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 consent to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person Files and objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. 6. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: December 8, 2021, at 9:01am, Dept. 5, located at 191 North First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 7. If you object to the granting of this 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. 8. If you are a creditor or 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. 9. 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.    10. Attorney for Petitioner:   Shahram Miri 80 Gilman Avenue, Suite 27 Campbell, CA 95008 (408)866-8382 Rune Date: October 29, November 5 and 12, 2021 Notice of Petition to Administer Estate of LINDA STUART Case No. 21PR191018 1.To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may be interested in the will or estate, or both, of Linda Stuart, Linda Darnell Stuart, Linda D. Stuart, Linda Granada. 2. A Petition for Probate has been filed by George Granada in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara. 3.The Petition for Probate requests that by George Granada be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. 5. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administer of Estate Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take any 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 consent to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person Files and objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. 6. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: December 8, 2021, at 9:01am, Dept. 5, located at 191 North First Street, San Jose,

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com CA 95113. 7. If you object to the granting of this 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. 8. If you are a creditor or 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. 9. 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.    10. Attorney for Petitioner:   Shahram Miri 80 Gilman Avenue, Suite 27 Campbell, CA 95008 (408)866-8382 Rune Date: October 29, November 5 and 12, 2021 Notice of Petition to Administer Estate of  MICHAEL KEVIN SPLANE Case No. 21PR190916 1.To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may be interested in the will or estate, or both, of Michael Kevin Splane. 2. A Petition for Probate has been filed by Susan Splane in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa

Clara. 3.The Petition for Probate requests that by Susan Splane be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. 4. The petition requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. 5. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administer of Estate Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take any 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 consent to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person Files and objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. 6. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: December 1, 2021, at 9:01am, Dept. 5, located at 191 North First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 7. If you object to the granting of this 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. 8. If you are a creditor or 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. 9. 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.    10. Attorney for Petitioner:   Robert P. Bergman 3535 Ross Avenue, Suite 308 San Jose, CA 95124 Telephone: (498)2470444 Rune Date: October 29, November 5 and 12, 2021 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 679795 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: TOPETE’S FAMILY RENTAL, 4943 Zeppelin Dr., San Jose, CA 95111, Santa Clara County. This business is owned by an Individual. The name and residence address of the registrant(s) is (are): Pedro Topete, 4943 Zeppelin Dr, San Jose, CA 95111. The registrant began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on 10/1/2021. This filing is a first filing. “I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.” (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) /s/ Pedro Topete This statement was filed with the Co. ClerkRecorder of Santa Clara County on 10/20/2021. Regina Alcomendras, County Clerk Recorder By: /s/ Sandy Chanthasy, Deputy File No. FBN 679795 October 22, 29, November 5, 12, 2021 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 679709 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: ESTESON CO., GYROS PRODUCTS,

2038 Concourse Drive, Unit B, San Jose, CA 95131, Santa Clara County. This business is owned by a: Corporation. The name and residence address of the registrant(s) is (are): ESTESON CORP, 2038 Concourse Drive, Unit B, San Jose, CA 95131. The registrant began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on: 01/01/1999. This filing is a first filing. “I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.” (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) /s/ Jim Tsiboukis, VP ESTESON CORP. Article/Reg#: C2023792 Above entity was formed in the state of CA This statement was filed with the Co. Clerk Recorder of Santa Clara County on 10/19/2021. Regina Alcomendras, County Clerk Recorder By: /s/ Elaine Fader, Deputy File No. FBN 679709 October 22, 29, November 5, 12, 2021 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 679572 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: JIREH HANDYMAN, 3240 Cadillac Dr Apt #1, San Jose, CA 95117, Santa Clara County. This business is owned by an Individual. The name and residence address of the registrant(s) is (are): Luis Antonio Torres, 3240 Cadillac Dr Apt #1, San Jose, CA 95117. The registrant began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on 10/13/2021. This filing is a first filing. “I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.” (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) /s/ Luis Antonio Torres This statement was filed with the Co. ClerkRecorder of Santa Clara County on 10/13/2021. Regina Alcomendras, County Clerk Recorder By: /s/ Elaine Fader, Deputy

CLASSIFIEDS / LEGALS File No. FBN 679572 October 22, 29, November 5, 12, 2021 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME NO. 21CV388078 Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara-In the matter of the application of: Thuy Thi Nguyen. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner(s) Thuy Thi Nguyen has filed a petition for Change of Name with the clerk of this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Thuy Thi Nguyen to Lucia Nguyen 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 1/18/2022 at 8:45 am, Probate Dept., located at 191 N. First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. A copy of the Order to Show cause shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in El Observador, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Santa Clara. Oct 14, 2021 Julie A. Emede Judge of the Superior Court October 22, 29, November 5, 12, 2021 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME NO. 21CV387868 Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara-In the matter of the application of: Felix Hwan-Hsin Jan. TO ALL INTERESTED PER-

SONS: 1. Petitioner(s) Felix Hwan-Hsin Jan has filed a petition for Change of Name with the clerk of this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Felix Hwan-Hsin Jan to Hwan-Hsin Jan 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 1/18/2022 at 8:45 am, Probate Dept., located at 191 N. First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. A copy of the Order to Show cause shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in El Observador, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Santa Clara. Oct 12, 2021 Julie A. Emede Judge of the Superior Court October 22, 29, November 5, 12, 2021 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME NO. 21CV386576 Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara-In the matter of the application of: Bradley Allen Arnold. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner(s) Bradley Allen Arnold has filed a petition for Change of Name with the clerk of this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Bradley Allen Arnold to Bradley Allen Shipnuck 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated

CLASSIFIEDS / LEGALS

below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 12/07/2021 at 8:45 am, Probate Dept., located at 191 N. First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. A copy of the Order to Show cause shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in El Observador, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Santa Clara. Sep 09, 2021 Julie A. Emede Judge of the Superior Court October 22, 29, November 5, 12, 2021 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME NO. 21CV388409 Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara-In the matter of the application of: Bryan Steven Delgado. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner(s) Bryan Steven Delgado has filed a petition for Change of Name with the clerk of this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Bryan Steven Delgado to Voltaire Steven Castro 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing

to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 1/25/2022 at 8:45 am, Probate Dept., located at 191 N. First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. A copy of the Order to Show cause shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in El Observador, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Santa Clara. Oct 18, 2021 Julie A. Emede Judge of the Superior Court October 22, 29, November 5, 12, 2021 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME NO. 21CV387113 Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara-In the matter of the application of: Samantha McClain. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner(s) Samantha McClain has filed a petition for Change of Name with the clerk of this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Samantha Mia McClain to Samantha Mia Ibarra. 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 1/04/2022 at 8:45 am, Probate Dept., located at 191 N. First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. A copy of the Order to Show cause shall be published at

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in El Observador, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Santa Clara. Oct 18, 2021 Julie A. Emede Judge of the Superior Court

de haber recibido la entrega legal de esta Citación y Petición para presentar una Respuesta (formulario FL-120) ante la corte y efectuar la entrega legal de una copia al demandante. Una carta o llamada telefónica o una audiencia de la corte NO basta para protegerlo.

October 22, 29, November 5, 12, 2021

Si no presenta su Respuesta a tiempo, la corte puede dar órdenes que afecten su matrimonio o pareja de hecho, sus bienes y la custodia de sus hijos. La corte también puede ordenar que pague manutención, y honorarios y costos legales.

SUMMONS (Family Law) (FL-110) NOTICE TO RESPONDENT (Name): Prince Arbal Rodrigo Labra AVISO AL DEMANDADO (Nombre): You have been sued. Read the information below. Lo han demandado. Lea ia información en la pagina siguiente. Petitioner’s name is: Jennifer Jinky Agbayani Labra Nombre del demandante: Case Number (Número de caso): 21FL002067 You have 30 calendar days after this Summons and Petition are served on you to file a Response (form FL-120) at the court and have a copy served on the petitioner. A letter, phone call, or court appearance will not protect you. If you do not file your Response on time, the court may make orders affecting your marriage or domestic partnership, your property, and custody of your children. You may be ordered to pay support and attorney fees and costs. For legal advice, contact a lawyer immediately. You can get information about finding lawyers at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courts.ca.gov/ selfhelp), at the California Legal Services Web Site (www.lawhelpca.org), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. Tiene 30 DIAS DE CALENDARIO después

Para asesoramiento legal, pónganse en contacto de inmediato con un abogado. Puede obtener información para encontrar a un abogado en el Centro de ayuda de las Cortes de California (www.sucorte.ca.gov), en el sitio Web de los Servicios Legales de California (www.lawhelpca.org) o poniéndose en contacto con el colegio de abogados de su condado. NOTICE; The restraining orders are effective against both spouses or domestic partners until the petition is dismissed, a judgment is entered, or the court makes further orders. They are enforceable anywhere in California by any law enforcement officer who has received or seen a copy of them. AVISO; Las órdenes de restricción están en vigencia en cuanto a ambos cónyuges miembros de la pareja de hecho hasta que se despida la petición, se emita un fallo o la corte de otras ordenes. Cualquier agencia del orden publico que haya recibido o visto una copia de estas ordenes puede hacerlas acatar en cualquier lugar de California. FEE WAIVER: If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the clerk for a fee waiver form. The court may order you to pay back all or part of the fees and cost that the court waived for you and the other party.

Exención De Cuotas: Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación, pida al secretario un formulario de exención de cuotas. La corte puede ordenar que usted pague, ya sea en parte o por completo, las cuotas y costos de la corte previamente exentos a petición de usted o de la otra parte. 1. The name and address of the court is (el nombre y dirección de la corte son): Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara Family Justice Center Courthouse Street Address: 201 N. First Street. San Jose, CA 95113 2. The name, address, and telephone number of petitioner’s attorney, or the petitioner without an attorney, are: (El nombre, dirección, y número de teléfono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante si no tiene abogado, son): Jennifer Jinky Agbayani Labra 297 Grecia Court San Jose, CA 95116 (669)236-9660 Date (Fecha): June 4, 2021 Clerk, by (Secretario, por) /s/ J. GAMEZ, Deputy (Asistente): STANDARD FAMILY LAW RESTRAINING ORDERS Starting immediately, you and your spouse or domestic partner are restrained from 1. Removing the minor child or children of the parties from the state or applying for a new or replacement passport for those minor children without the prior written consent of the other party or an order of the court; 2. Cashing, borrowing against, canceling, transferring, disposing of, or changing the beneficiaries of any insurance or other coverage, including life, health, automo-

bile and disability, held for the benefit of the parties and their minor child or children: 3. Transferring, encumbering, hypothecating, concealing, or in any way disposing of any property, real or personal, whether community, quasi-community, or separate, without the written consent of the other party or an order of the court, except in the usual course of business or for the necessities of life; and 4. Creating a nonprobate transfer or modifying a nonprobate transfer in a manner that affects the disposition of property subject to the transfer, without the written consent of the other party or an order of the court. Before revocation of a nonprobate transfer can take effect or a right of survivorship to property can be eliminated, notice of the change must be filed and served on the other party. You must notify each other of any proposed extraordinary expenditures at least five business days prior to incurring these extraordinary expenditures and account to the court for all extraordinary expenditures made after these restraining orders are effective. However, you may use community property, quasi-community property, or you own separate property to pay an attorney to help you or to pay court costs. NOTICE - ACCESS TO AFFORDABLE HEALTH INSURANCE: Do you or someone in your household need affordable health insurance? If so, you should apply for Covered California. Covered California can help reduce the cost you pay towards high quality affordable health care. For more information, visit www. coveredca.com Or call Covered California at 1-800-300-1506. WARNING – IMPORTANT INFORMATION

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021 California law provides that, for purposes of division of property upon dissolution of a marriage or domestic partnership or upon legal separation, property acquired by the parties during marriage or domestic partnership in joint form is presumed to be community property. If either party to this action should die before the jointly held community property is divide, the language in the deed that characterizes how title is held (i.e. joint tenancy, tenants in common, or community property) will be controlling, and not the community property presumption. You should consult your attorney if you want the community property presumption to be written into the recorded title to the property. ORDENES DE RESTRICCION NORMALES DE DERECHO FAMILIAR En forma inmediata, usted y su cónyuge o pareja de hecho tienen prohibido: 1. Llevarse del estado de California a los hijos menores de las partes, o solicitar un pasaporte nuevo o de repuesto para los hijos menores, sin el consentimiento previo por escrito de la otra parte o sin una orden de la corte; 2. Cobrar, pedir prestado, cancelar, transferir, deshacerse o cambiar el nombre de los beneficiarios de cualquier seguro u otro tipo de cobertura, como de vida, salud, vehículo y discapacidad, que tenga como beneficiario(s) a las partes y su(s) hijo(s) menor(es); 3. Transferir, gravar, hipotecar, ocultar o deshacerse de cualquier manera de cualquier propiedad, inmueble o personal, ya sea comunitaria, cuasicomunitaria o separada, sin el consentimiento escrito de la otra parte o una orden de la corte, excepto en el curso

habitual de actividades personal o para satisfacer las necesidades de la vida; y 4. Crear o modificar una transferencia no testamentaria de manera que afecte la asignación de una propiedad sujeta a transferencia, sin el consentimiento por escrito de la otra parte o una orden de la corte. Antes de que se pueda eliminar la revocación de una transferencia no testamentaria, se debe presentar ante la corte un aviso del cambio y hacer una entrega legal de dicho aviso a la otra parte. Cada parte tiene que notificar a la otra sobre cualquier gasto extraordinario propuesto, por lo menos cinco días laborales antes de realizarlo, y rendir cuenta a la corte de todos los gastos extraordinarios realizados después de que estas órdenes de restricción hayan entrado en vigencia. No obstante, puede usar propiedad comunitaria, cuasicomunitaria o suya separada para pagar a un abogado o para ayudarle a pagar los costos de la corte. AVISO-ACCESO A SEGURO DE SALUD MÁS ECONÓMICO: ¿Necesita seguro de salud a un costo asequible, ya sea para usted o alguien en su hogar? Si es as¡, puede presentar una solicitud con Covered California. Covered California lo puede ayudar a reducir el costo que paga por seguro de salud asequible y de alta calidad. Para obtener mas información, visite www. coveredca.com. O llame a Covered California al 1-800-300-0213. ADVERTENCIA – INFORMACION IMPORTANTE De acuerdo a la ley de California, las propiedades adquiridas por las partes durante su matrimonio o pareja de hecho en forma conjunta se consideran propiedad comunitaria para los fines de la división de bienes que ocurre cuando se produce una

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021 disolución o separación legal del matrimonio o pareja de hecho. Si cualquiera de las partes de este caso llega a fallecer antes de que se divida la propiedad comunitaria de tenencia conjunta, el destino de la misma quedará determinado por las cláusulas de la escritura correspondiente que describen su tenencia (por ej. tenencia conjunta, tenencia en común o propiedad comunitaria) y no por la presunción de propiedad comunitaria. Si quiere que la presunción comunitaria que registrada en la escritura de la propiedad, debería consultar con un abogado. October 22, 29, November 5, 12, 2021 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 678624 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Let’s All Stand Together (LAST) LLC, 822 Viceroy Way, San Jose, CA 95133, Santa Clara County. This business is owned by a Limited Liability Company. The name and residence address of the registrant(s) is (are): Let’s All Stand Together (LAST) LLC, 822 Viceroy Way, San Jose, CA 95133. The registrant began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on N/A. This filing is a refile [Change(s) in facts from previous filing] of previous file #: 678359. “I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.” (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) /s/ Chantal Let’s All Stand Together (LAST) LLC CEO/Founder Article/Reg#: 202125010229 Above entity was formed in the state of CA This statement was filed with the Co. ClerkRecorder of Santa Clara County on 9/14/2021. Regina Alcomendras, County Clerk Recorder By: /s/ Corinne Vasquez, Deputy File No. FBN 678624 October 15, 22, 29,

November 5, 2021 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 678794 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Tacos La Esmeralda, 326 Commercial St, San Jose, CA 95112, Santa Clara County. This business is owned by a General Partnership. The name and residence address of the registrant(s) is (are): Janet Juarez, 256 E. Younger Ave, San Jose, CA 95112. Jose Fermin Ramirez, 256 E. Younger Ave, San Jose, CA 95112. The registrant began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on 9/07/2021. This filing is a first filing. “I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.” (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) /s/ Janet Juarez This statement was filed with the Co. ClerkRecorder of Santa Clara County on 9/16/2021. Regina Alcomendras, County Clerk Recorder By: /s/ Regina Alcomendras, Clerk File No. FBN 678794 October 15, 22, 29, November 5, 2021 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 679075 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: KISSED BY THE ORISHAS LLC, 822 Viceroy Way, San Jose, CA 95133, Santa Clara County. This business is owned by a Limited Liability Company. The name and residence address of the registrant(s) is (are): KISSED BY THE ORISHAS LLC, 822 Viceroy Way, San Jose, CA 95133. The registrant began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on N/A. This filing is a first filing. “I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.” (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) /s/ Chantal Williams

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com KISSED BY THE ORISHAS LLC Founder/CEO Article/Reg#: 202125910557 Above entity was formed in the state of CA This statement was filed with the Co. ClerkRecorder of Santa Clara County on 9/27/2021. Regina Alcomendras, County Clerk Recorder By: /s/ Corinne Vasquez, Deputy File No. FBN 679075 October 15, 22, 29, November 5, 2021 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 679460 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: XIANGYU CHINESE FOOD COMPANY, 1530 S De Ana Blvd, San Jose, CA 95129, Santa Clara County. This business is owned by an Individual. The name and residence address of the registrant(s) is (are): Zhiyu Lu, 1775 Flickinger Ave, San Jose, CA 95131. The registrant began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on 9/28/2021. This filing is a first filing. “I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.” (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) /s/ Zhiyu Lu This statement was filed with the Co. ClerkRecorder of Santa Clara County on 10/06/2021. Regina Alcomendras, County Clerk Recorder By: /s/ Sandy Chanthasy, Deputy File No. FBN 679460 October 15, 22, 29, November 5, 2021 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 679518 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Leoarcely Services Cleaning, 2869 Mcbryde Ave, Richmond, CA 94804, Santa Clara County. This business is owned by an Individual. The name and residence address of the registrant(s) is (are): Edelmira Esteban, 2869 Mcbryde Ave, Rich-

mond, CA 94804. The registrant began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on 10/08/2021. This filing is a first filing. “I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.” (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) /s/ Edelmira Esteban This statement was filed with the Co. ClerkRecorder of Santa Clara County on 10/08/2021. Regina Alcomendras, County Clerk Recorder By: /s/ Sandy Chanthasy, Deputy File No. FBN 679518 October 15, 22, 29, November 5, 2021 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME NO. 21CV387314 Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara-In the matter of the application of: Joseph Michael Sanchez. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner(s) Joseph Michael Sanchez has filed a petition for Change of Name with the clerk of this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Joseph Michael Sanchez to Joseph Jay Banks b. Kayden Michael Sanchez to Kayden Michael Banks 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 1/11/2022 at 8:45 am, Probate Dept., located at 191 N. First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. A copy of the Order to Show cause shall be published at

least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in El Observador, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Santa Clara. Oct 04, 2021 Julie A. Emede Judge of the Superior Court October 15, 22, 29, November 5, 2021 AMENDED ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME NO. 21CV384393 Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara-In the matter of the application of: Abigail Wu. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner(s) Abigail Wu has filed a petition for Change of Name with the clerk of this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Abigail Wu to Jing Guo 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 11/16/2021 at 8:45 am, Probate Dept., located at 191 N. First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. A copy of the Order to Show cause shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in El Observador, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Santa Clara. Oct 13, 2021 Julie A. Emede Judge of the Superior Court October 15, 22, 29, November 5, 2021

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME NO. 21CV387652 Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara-In the matter of the application of: Pei Ling Lee. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner(s) Pei Ling Lee has filed a petition for Change of Name with the clerk of this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Pei Ling Lee to Amanda Pei Ling Lee 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 1/11/2022 at 8:45 am, Probate Dept., located at 191 N. First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. A copy of the Order to Show cause shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in El Observador, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Santa Clara. Oct 07, 2021 Julie A. Emede Judge of the Superior Court October 15, 22, 29, November 5, 2021 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME NO. 21CV387688 Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara-In the matter of the application of: Leandro Regis Ferreira Magalhaes. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner(s) Leandro Regis Ferreira Magalhaes has filed a petition for Change of

CLASSIFIEDS / LEGALS Name with the clerk of this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Leandro Regis Ferreira Magalhaes to Leandro Magalhaes 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 1/18/2022 at 8:45 am, Probate Dept., located at 191 N. First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. A copy of the Order to Show cause shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in El Observador, a newspaper of general circulation, printed in the county of Santa Clara. Oct 07, 2021 Julie A. Emede Judge of the Superior Court October 15, 22, 29, November 5, 2021 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME NO. 21CV387288 Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara-In the matter of the application of: Frank Norman Bates, Umid Calvert. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner(s) Frank Norman Bates, Umid Calvert have filed a petition for Change of Name with the clerk of this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Frank Norman Bates to Frank Norman Pfister b. Umid Calvert to Umid Calvin Pfister 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated

NATIONAL

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021

ESPAÑOL

EL CUIDADO INFANTIL EN CALIFORNIA NO SE HA RECUPERADO: ¿POR QUÉ MUCHOS TRABAJADORES NO REGRESAN?

Grace Gedye CalMatters

pagando más de lo que pueden pagar. La tasa del mercado regional también suele estar desactualizada. El estado realiza el análisis de mercado cada dos años; En este momento, California está reembolsando a algunos proveedores de cuidado infantil según las cifras de 2018.

ara Tonya Muhammad, que dirige la guardería familiar Lil Critters en Hawthorne, la primavera de 2020 la puede describir en una palabra: “horrible”. La prisa temprana por encontrar los suministros de limpieza significó que ella y su esposo tuvieron que atravesar Los Ángeles para encontrar desinfectante, obteniendo botellas de Lysol de una compañía de suministros dentales y aloe vera de un vivero local para hacer un desinfectante de manos casero.

Muhammad dijo que para ella, incluso ese aumento del 15% en el sindicato de proveedores de cuidado infantil en el hogar no hará una diferencia significativa. El cuidado infantil no ha recibido fondos suficientes durante tanto tiempo, dijo Buthee, director de Every Child California, que los aumentos de tarifas deben ser enormes para marcar la diferencia. Completar el sistema en California costaría alrededor de mil millones de dólares, continuó. “Cuando miras el presupuesto, es como ‘¡vaya! ¡Eso es demasiado dinero!”, Dijo, pero “eso es lo que cuesta ponerse al día”.

Pero eso no fue lo peor. La asistente de Muhammad se fue, temiendo por la salud de su abuela, con quien vivía. Eso fue en marzo de 2020, y Muhammad no ha podido encontrar un reemplazo desde entonces, a pesar de publicar el trabajo en Indeed, Facebook Jobs y en un colegio comunitario cercano. “Incluso pagué por las huellas dactilares de un par (de solicitantes) y luego simplemente no hubo seguimiento”, dijo Muhammad. Sin la mirada atenta de un segundo adulto, ha tenido que reducir el número de niños que cuida de 14 a 6, y ha pasado de ser una guardería las 24 horas a operar de 6 am a 5:30 pm Ella estima que los ingresos de la guardería se han reducido a más de la mitad.

puestos al virus. Los padres sacaron a sus hijos de la guardería, lo que provocó déficits presupuestarios y cierres.

California perdió alrededor de 27,800 trabajadores de cuidado infantil entre febrero y abril de 2020, o aproximadamente un tercio de su fuerza laboral, según datos de la Oficina de Estadísticas Laborales. Desde entonces hasta septiembre de 2021, han regresado alrededor de 19,600. Aun así, la fuerza laboral es aproximadamente un 10% más pequeña de lo que era antes de la pandemia.

Los fondos de ayuda federales y estatales ayudaron a mantener abiertas las instalaciones de cuidado infantil. Un estudio de educadores de la primera infancia realizado por la Asociación Nacional para la Educación de Niños Pequeños a principios del verano encontró que casi la mitad de los 1.200 encuestados en California dijeron que habrían tenido que cerrar si no fuera por la ayuda.

Incluso antes de la pandemia, sin embargo, no había suficiente cuidado infantil disponible en California para satisfacer las necesidades de las familias. Los problemas laborales que durante mucho tiempo surgieron bajo la superficie ahora están generando una aguda escasez de personal: salarios bajos, largas horas de trabajo y beneficios limitados. Eso dificulta ganarse la vida en la industria que sustenta al resto de la economía.

Pero los fondos federales, dijo Montoya, “por importantes y fabulosos que sean, realmente son un recurso provisional a corto plazo para evitar el colapso total del sistema”.

Los proveedores de cuidado infantil se encuentran atravesando una brecha entre lo que los padres pueden pagar y los salarios que deben ofrecer para atraer y retener al personal. El estado de California juega un papel aquí: reembolsa a algunos proveedores de cuidado infantil que atienden a familias de ingresos bajos y moderados, a tasas que, según los defensores, han sido demasiado bajas durante mucho tiempo. En junio, un nuevo sindicato que representa a los proveedores de cuidado infantil en el hogar que trabajan con familias que reciben subsidios estatales ganó para los trabajadores un aumento del 15% del estado. Aun así, la mayor parte del cuidado infantil en California se proporciona a través del mercado privado. Y ese sistema ha fallado estrepitosamente, dice Elena Montoya, investigadora principal y asociada de políticas en el Centro para el Estudio del Empleo en Cuidado Infantil de UC Berkeley. “La actual escasez (de mano de obra) es el resultado de colocar la carga de pagar por el cuidado infantil en los padres, en lugar de reconocer que el cuidado infantil es un bien público”. Una pandemia era lo último que necesitaban los proveedores de cuidado infantil. Las guarderías no estaban seguras de cuáles serían las reglas de COVID-19 para ellos y estaban luchando para asegurar el equipo de protección, dijo Cecilia Rojas, gerente de recursos y referencias de Crystal Stairs Inc., una organización con sede en Los Ángeles que ayuda a las familias a encontrar cuidado de niños. Algunos trabajadores de cuidado infantil renunciaron para cuidar de sus propios hijos en edad escolar, que de repente se quedaron atrapados en casa. Otros se fueron porque les preocupaba estar ex-

Tonya Muhammad en su guardería en Hawthorne el 28 de octubre de 2021. Photo Credit: Zaydee Sanchez / CalMatters

California hizo una gran inversión en la transición de Kindergarten en julio, comprometiendo $2.7 mil millones para expandir el Kindergarten de transición gratuito a todos los niños de 4 años en todo el estado para el año escolar que comienza en 2025. Los defensores consideran que eso cambia las reglas del juego; algunos operadores de cuidado infantil temen que pueda socavar su modelo de negocio, ya que pierden niños de 4 años cuya matrícula ayuda a cubrir el mayor costo del cuidado de los bebés. Mientras tanto, muchas instalaciones de cuidado infantil no pueden cubrir sus vacantes laborales. “Los programas en realidad tienen que cerrar durante el día o la semana, y no es porque no tengan niños a quienes atender”, dijo Nina Buthee, directora ejecutiva de Every Child California, una organización que apoya a los educadores de la primera infancia. Es porque tienen poco personal. Buthee dice que es la primera vez que se entera de que eso sucede en los 20 años que lleva trabajando en cuestiones relacionadas con el cuidado de los niños. Los trabajadores de cuidado infantil ganan salarios más bajos que los maestros de prekínder, quienes a su vez ganan menos que los maestros de kindergarten, según datos del Centro para el Estudio del Empleo en Cuidado Infantil en Berkeley. Hay varios factores que impulsan la brecha salarial. Una es que los maestros de kindergarten deben tener una licenciatura, mientras que los proveedores de cuidado infantil generalmente no lo son. Pero también hay factores menos cuantificables. “Hemos infravalorado y mal pagado la prestación de cuidados”, dijo Kristin Schumacher, analista senior del Centro de Políticas y Presupuestos de California, “mientras ha sido una elección de carrera, y esto tiene raíces sexistas y racistas que se remontan a la esclavitud.” El salario más bajo para los trabajadores de cuidado infantil también crea una disparidad salarial racial entre los educadores de la primera infancia, ya

que las mujeres negras y latinas tienen más probabilidades de trabajar con bebés y niños pequeños que sus pares blancos, dice Montoya. Los investigadores del centro de Berkeley calcularon que, a nivel nacional, los educadores negros reciben un salario medio de 0,78 dólares menos por hora que sus homólogos blancos. Los salarios son tan bajos que muchos trabajadores de cuidado infantil tienen trabajos complementarios o segundos trabajos para llegar a fin de mes. Muhammad escribió un libro sobre cuidado infantil y también trabaja como consultor, asesorando a otros proveedores. Ahora obtiene aproximadamente la mitad de sus ingresos de esos otros esfuerzos. Tonia McMillian, propietaria de un negocio de cuidado infantil familiar en Bellflower y participó activamente en el esfuerzo por sindicalizar a los trabajadores del cuidado infantil, también imparte clases de reanimación cardiopulmonar y dirige un negocio de catering. En un momento, dijo, estaba pagando a su personal el salario mínimo, pero solo ganaba $4.15 por hora, después de cubrir todos los costos de funcionamiento del negocio. “Algo (está) mal con esa imagen”, dijo. Los bajos salarios también significan que los trabajadores de cuidado infantil terminan recibiendo asistencia pública. En 2018, el centro de Berkeley descubrió que el 58% de las familias de trabajadores de cuidado infantil en California están en uno o más programas de asistencia pública, como CalFresh. De una forma u otra, hay dinero público destinado a los trabajadores de cuidado infantil, dice Gemma DiMatteo, directora de investigación de la Red de Referencias y Recursos de Cuidado Infantil de California. “Es a través de estos servicios de apoyo social, o simplemente puede financiar el cuidado infantil y asegurarse de que el personal reciba el pago adecuado”. Un factor que frena los bajos salarios de los proveedores de cuidado infantil: la tasa de reembolso estatal para el cuidado de familias de ingresos bajos y moderados. El estado usa dos tarifas, dependiendo del programa de subsidios. Uno, conocido como tasa de mercado regional, se utiliza para subsidiar la atención de los padres que tienen ingresos más bajos y están trabajando o buscando empleo. Esa tarifa no se basa en lo que cuesta brindar cuidado infantil de alta calidad y pagar bien al personal, sino en un estudio estatal de lo que los proveedores de cuidado infantil en diferentes regiones cobran a las familias. Pero la tasa de mercado no es necesariamente representativa de la cantidad que realmente necesitan los proveedores de cuidado infantil; refleja lo que creen que pueden cobrar razonablemente a los padres que, en muchos casos, ya están

Harmit Pabla, propietario de Genius Kids, un centro de cuidado infantil en el condado de Sacramento que atiende a más de 100 niños, ha tenido seis de sus 16 empleados ausentes durante el último año. Tres se fueron por razones directamente relacionadas con la pandemia y tres encontraron trabajos diferentes, incluso en los centros de distribución de Amazon y Walmart. Esas empresas ofrecieron beneficios ligeramente mejores, dijo Pabla. Como grandes corporaciones, tienen más poder adquisitivo para negociar tarifas más bajas con las compañías de seguros. “No podemos competir con los grandes”, dijo Pabla. Recibe consultas de los padres sobre las vacantes, pero dijo que no acepta más niños porque no puede encontrar personal. En todo California, el 77% de los educadores de la primera infancia encuestados identifican los salarios como el principal desafío de contratación. Pero a diferencia de otras industrias, donde los dueños de negocios pueden cubrir el aumento de los salarios aumentando los precios, muchos propietarios de cuidado infantil saben que sus clientes, los padres, no pueden pagar más. Si bien los niños regresan a la escuela en persona y la variante delta del coronavirus parece estar en declive, el sistema de cuidado infantil de California no está claro. La encuesta de la Asociación Nacional para la Educación de Niños Pequeños encontró que el 47% de los encuestados en California estaban considerando dejar su programa o cerrar el lugar de cuidado infantil en el hogar durante el próximo año. Eso puede ser especialmente cierto para los trabajadores que acababan de comenzar antes de que el virus hiciera el trabajo más arriesgado y complicado. “¿Perderemos a esos nuevos educadores entusiasmados que podrían haberse convertido en contribuyentes realmente experimentados y sorprendentes en el campo?” preguntó Krista Olson, asociada de investigación y políticas del Centro de Berkeley para el Estudio del Empleo en el Cuidado de Niños. McMillian, que tiene 62 años, espera retirarse pronto del cuidado infantil. “Es extremadamente difícil alejarse, especialmente si no tienes ahorros”, dijo. Comenzó a trabajar como consultora de cuidado infantil y acaba de firmar un contrato de arrendamiento para abrir un bar deportivo. Muhammad también está planeando su salida. Una vez que termine su negocio de cuidado infantil, dependerá de sus otros trabajos: su consultoría, un curso de cuidado infantil y un libro que escribió, una línea directa que dirige para responder las preguntas de los proveedores, presentaciones de conferencias y más. Tomará algún tiempo asegurarse de que esos proyectos generen suficientes ingresos estables. “Ojalá fuera ayer”, dijo, “pero me voy a dar un año”.

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021

NATIONAL

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com

ENGLISH

CHILD CARE IN CALIFORNIA HASN’T REBOUNDED — WHY MANY WORKERS AREN’T COMING BACK

Grace Gedye CalMatters

The regional market rate also is often out-ofdate. The state conducts the market analysis every couple of years; right now, California is reimbursing some child care providers based on numbers from 2018.

or Tonya Muhammad, who runs Lil Critters Family Daycare in Hawthorne, spring of 2020 was, in a word, “horrible.” The early rush on cleaning supplies meant that she and her husband had to criss-cross Los Angeles to find disinfectant, sourcing bottles of Lysol from a dental supply company and aloe vera from a local nursery to make homemade hand sanitizer.

Muhammad said that for her, even that 15% increase the home-based child care providers union negotiated won’t make a meaningful difference. Child care has been underfunded for so long, said Buthee, director of Every Child California, that rate increases need to be huge to make a difference. Making the system whole in California would cost about a billion dollars, she continued. “When you look at the budget it’s like ‘whoa whoa whoa, that’s too much money’” she said, but “that’s just how much it costs to catch up.”

But that wasn’t the worst of it. Muhammad’s assistant left, fearing for the health of her grandmother, whom she lived with. That was in March of 2020, and Muhammad hasn’t been able to find a replacement since, despite posting the job on Indeed, Facebook Jobs and at a nearby community college. “I’ve even paid for fingerprints for a couple (of applicants) and then there’s just no follow up,” said Muhammad. Without the watchful eyes of a second adult, she’s had to reduce the number of kids she looks after from 14 to 6, and has gone from being a 24-hour day care to operating from 6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. She estimates that her income from the day care has fallen by more than half. California lost about 27,800 child care workers between February and April of 2020 — or roughly a third of its workforce — according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. From then through September of 2021, about 19,600 have come back. Still, the workforce is about 10% smaller than it was pre-pandemic. Even before the pandemic, however, there wasn’t enough child care available in California to meet families’ needs. Labor issues that long bubbled below the surface are now driving acute staffing shortages: low pay, long hours and limited benefits. That makes it hard to earn a living in the industry that supports the rest of the economy. Child care providers find themselves stretching across a gap between what parents are able to afford and the wages they need to offer in order to attract and retain staff. The state of California plays a role here: It reimburses some child care providers who care for low and moderate income families, at rates advocates argue have long been too low. In June, a new union representing home child care providers who work with families receiving state subsidies won workers a 15% raise from the state. Still most Californian child care is provided through the private market. And that system has failed miserably, says Elena Montoya, a senior research and policy associate at UC Berkeley’s Center for the Study of Child Care Employment. “The current (labor) shortage is a result of placing the burden of paying for child care on parents, rather than acknowledging that child care is a public good.” A pandemic was the last thing child care providers needed. Day care centers weren’t sure what the COVID-19 rules would be for them and were struggling to secure protective gear, said Cecilia Rojas, resource and referral manager at Crystal Stairs Inc., a Los Angeles-based organization that helps families find child care. Some child care workers quit to take care of their own school-aged children, who were suddenly stuck at home. Others left because they were worried about being exposed to the virus. Parents pulled their kids out of day care,

During the early morning, Tonya Muhammad walks through the playground of her child care in Hawthorne, making last inspections before children arrive on Oct. 28, 2021. Photo Credit: Zaydee Sanchez / CalMatters

leading to budget shortfalls and closures. Federal and state relief funds did help keep child care facilities open. A survey of early childhood educators conducted by the National Association for the Education of Young Children in early summer found that nearly half of the 1,200 respondents in California said they would have had to close were it not for the aid. But the federal funds, said Montoya, “as important and terrific as they are, they really are a short-term stopgap to avoid the total collapse of the system.” California did make a large investment in transitional kindergarten in July, committing $2.7 billion to expand free transitional kindergarten to all 4-year-olds across the state by the school year that starts in 2025. Proponents consider that a game-changer; some child care operators fear it could undercut their business model as they lose 4-year-olds whose tuition helps cover the higher cost of caring for infants. In the meantime, lots of child care facilities can’t fill their job openings. “Programs are actually having to close for the day or for the week, and it’s not because they don’t have children to serve,” said Nina Buthee, executive director of Every Child California, an organization that supports early childhood educators. It’s because they’re short staffed. Buthee says it’s the first time she’s heard of that happening in the 20 years she’s been working on child care issues. Child care workers earn lower wages than pre-K teachers, who in turn make less than kindergarten teachers, according to data from the Center for the Study of Child Care Employment at Berkeley. There are several factors driving the pay gap. One is that kindergarten teachers are required to have bachelor’s degrees, whereas child care providers typically are not. But there are less quantifiable factors too. “We’ve undervalued and underpaid caregiving” said Kristin Schumacher, a senior analyst at the California Budget and Policy Center, “for as long as it’s been a career choice, and this has sexist and racist roots that can be traced back to slavery.” The lower pay for child care workers also creates a racial pay disparity among early child-

hood educators, since Black and Latino women are more likely to work with infants and toddlers than their white peers, says Montoya. Researchers at the Berkeley center calculated that nationally, Black early educators are paid on average $0.78 less per hour than their white counterparts. The wages are so low that many child care workers have side gigs or second jobs to make ends meet. Muhammad wrote a book about child care and also works as a consultant, advising other providers. She now makes about half of her income from those other endeavors. Tonia McMillian, who owns a family child care business in Bellflower and was active in the effort to unionize child care workers, also teaches CPR classes and runs a catering business. At one point, she said, she was paying her staff minimum wage but only making $4.15 per hour herself, after covering all the costs of running the business. “Something (is) wrong with that picture,” she said. The low wages also mean that child care workers end up on public assistance. In 2018, the Berkeley center found that 58% of child care workers families’ in California are on one or more public assistance programs, like CalFresh. One way or the other, there’s public money going to child care workers, says Gemma DiMatteo, research director for California Child Care Resource and Referral Network. “It’s through these social support services, or you could just fund the child care and make sure that the staff is getting paid adequately.” One factor holding down child care providers’ low wages: the state reimbursement rate for care to low and moderate income families. The state uses two rates, depending on the subsidy program. One, known as the regional market rate, is used to subsidize care for parents who have lower incomes and are working or seeking employment. That rate isn’t based on what it costs to provide high quality child care and pay staff well — it’s based on a state study of what child care providers in different regions charge families. But the market rate isn’t necessarily representative of how much child care providers actually need; it reflects what they think they can reasonably charge parents who are already, in many cases, paying more than they can afford.

Harmit Pabla, who owns Genius Kids, a child care center in Sacramento County that serves more than 100 kids, has had six of his staff of 16 leave over the last year. Three left for reasons directly related to the pandemic and three found different jobs, including at Amazon and Walmart distribution centers. Those companies offered slightly better benefits, said Pabla. As large corporations, they have more buying power to negotiate lower rates with insurance companies. “We can’t compete with the big boys,” Pabla said. He’s getting inquiries from parents about openings, but he said he’s not accepting more children because he can’t find staff. Across California, 77% of early childhood educators surveyed identify wages as the main recruitment challenge. But unlike other industries, where business owners can cover increasing wages by raising prices, lots of child care owners know their customers — parents — can’t afford to pay more. While kids are heading back to in-person school and the coronavirus delta variant appears to be in decline, California’s child care system is not in the clear. The survey by the National Association for the Education of Young Children found that 47% of respondents in California were considering leaving their program or closing their home child care location within the next year. That may be especially true for workers who had just gotten their start before the virus made the job riskier and more complicated. “Will we lose those excited new educators who could have gone on to become really seasoned, amazing contributors to the field?” asked Krista Olson, a research and policy associate at the Berkeley Center for the Study of Child Care Employment. McMillian, who is 62, hopes to retire from child care soon. “It’s extremely hard to walk away, especially if you don’t have a nest egg,” she said. She’s started working as a child care consultant, and just signed a lease on space to open a sports bar. Muhammad is planning her exit too. Once she winds down her child care business, she’ll be relying on her other gigs—her consulting, a child care course and book she wrote, a hotline she runs to answer providers’ questions, speaking gigs and more. It will take some time to make sure those projects bring in enough steady income. “I wish it was yesterday,” she said, “but I’m giving myself a year.”

VIBRAS

EL OBSERVADOR | www.el-observador.com

NOV 05 - NOV 11, 2021

EL CULTO Y AMOR AL AGUA

Mario Jiménez Castillo El Observador

urante los últimos años se viene haciendo un llamado, para que logremos conservar el agua. No solamente en California sino en diferentes partes del mundo, se han producido sequías, muchas de éstas debido a la deforestación indiscriminada que ocurre todos los días. Incendios forestales en Australia y en la selva amazónica también han provocado sequías y una tremenda disminución de la flora en esos sitios. El agua, ese elemento vital sin el cual ningún ser viviente podría subsistir, es frecuentemente víctima de negligencia, desperdicio y contaminación. Según informes de las Naciones Unidas, el preciado líquido podría escasear durante los próximos años, debido al despilfarro, al aumento de la población mundial, y a la contaminación de ríos, lagos y manantiales. Si la situación actual no cambia, es muy probable que en las próximas décadas no haya agua suficiente, ni siquiera para la tercera parte de la población mundial. Existen grupos de ecologistas alrededor del mundo, quienes se encargan de limpiar las aguas de los bosques y parques, retiran la basura que dejan allí los insensatos que suelen contaminar todo a su paso. En las cercanías del Río Titicaca que comparten Bolivia y Perú, muchos de sus pobladores realizan todos los meses un culto al agua, realizan ceremonias y consagra-

mienza a sufrir la falta que ésta les hace. Aún estamos a tiempo para lograr que una inminente falta de agua afecte a toda la humanidad. Lastimosamente los gobiernos aún no se ponen de acuerdo y la mayoría de la gente no le da el valor que el agua merece, creen que nunca faltará y que por ello puede desperdiciarse.

Photo Credit: Unsplash

ciones al líquido maravilloso fuente de vida en nuestro planeta. Grupos similares han surgido en Europa y en la rivera del Río Amazonas, Río Orinoco y Río Magdalena, todos en Suramérica. Gracias a Dios, existen personas que son conscientes del grave problema que representa la falta de agua. Naciones como Haití y otras en el centro de África, ya sufren los embates provocados por la escasez del preciado líquido. En dichas naciones se está acabando el agua. Pero esto es un problema que debe

Photo Credit: Unsplash

preocuparnos a todos, cada uno de nosotros podemos hacer algo al respecto; comenzando por no desperdiciarle a la hora de lavarnos los dientes, a la hora de tomar nuestra ducha diaria y al momento de lavar los platos y utensilios de cocina. Se imaginan ¿Qué sucedería si el agua llegara a faltar y no tuviésemos la cantidad suficiente para beber o para nuestra higiene personal? Es responsabilidad de cada uno hacer pequeños cambios que puedan ayudar a preservar el agua. Ya en diversas naciones no hay agua suficiente para todos los ciudadanos, la gente co-

Linda Soriano quien es perteneciente al grupo “Por amor al agua” allá en su natal Argentina, nos comentó que ella y los integrantes del grupo, han ingeniado diversas formas para no desperdiciar ni una gota de agua. “Lo principal es sentir amor y aprecio por este líquido primordial, agradecer que le tenemos, dar gracias a la naturaleza cada vez que tomemos una ducha, y cada vez que calmamos la sed al beberle. Es necesario que los ríos sean descontaminados, es urgente que las personas no tiren desperdicios en lagos y manantiales. Es necesario que se tomen medidas, de lo contrario, nos espera un futuro lleno de calamidades, en donde sobrevivirán solamente aquellos ciudadanos que habiten en naciones que cuenten con reservas enormes de agua, y éstos son muy pocos. La vida sin el agua simplemente dejaría de existir. Yo cada día que toma mi ducha le doy gracias a Dios por este líquido esencial.” Señaló Linda. Cuidemos el agua, conservémosle y no le desperdiciemos. Aún estamos a tiempo, si no lo hacemos el futuro será sombrío y decadente. Decretemos un sí "Al amor al agua".