Vol. 63 No. 10 | Thursday, March 9, 2023

By Stacy M. Brown

To protect one of America’s most precious liberties — the right to vote — 600 courageous people marched out of Selma, Alabama 58 years ago. However, their peaceful demonstration on the Edmund Pettus Bridge was met with brutal force. John Lewis, a young civil rights leader, and congressman, was beaten and had his skull fractured when he was 25.

“Those brave marchers were pushed back, but they continued to march forward,” Vice President Kamala Harris stated ahead of the March 5 commemoration ceremony at the foot of the famous bridge.

Harris said the courage of those civil rights marchers and their sacrifice inspired many to join the fight to put an end to poll taxes,

See ANNIVERSARY page 2

By Antonio Ray Harvey C ALIFORNIA BLACK MEDIA

This past weekend, the California Task Force to Study and Develop Reparations Proposals for African Americans received insight on how the state government might implement recommendations the panel submits in its final proposal due before July 1.

Chas Alamo, the principal fiscal and policy analyst at the California Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO), appeared remotely in front of the panel as an expert witness during the twoday meeting held March 3 in Sacramento.

Alamo offered “several paths that could be possible for ultimate recommendations” by the task force to “flow through the Legislature and

become state law” and how they can “apply” to the creation of the proposed California American Freedman Affairs Agency (CAFAA). The agency, if approved, would oversee compensation the state authorizes to Black California residents who are descendants of enslaved people in the United States.

The LAO is a non-partisan office overseen by the Joint Legislative Budget Committee (JLBC), a 16-member bipartisan team. It is the “eyes and ears” of the State Legislature ensuring that the executive branch is implementing legislative policy in a cost-efficient and effective manner.

See REPARATIONS page 2

By Yvette Porter Moore CONTRIBUTING WRITER

On February 17, 2023 , Our Genetic Legacy took a trip to Julian, CA to learn about the history of the Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) pioneers of the county. Our Genetic Legacy is a non-profit organization led by the founder and CEO. Her organization has a program for young women, who she has coined as “Herstorians.” The ladies are BIPOC, between the ages of 16-18, except for one who started the program at 13. The girls are learning how to fly drones, and by the time of their trip to Julian, 6 of the girls had already earned their drone pilot licenses.

By Stacy M. Brown

PHOTO: Courtesy of NNPA

PHOTO:

ARTICLE CONTINUATION

anniversary:

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literacy tests, and other forms of discrimination that blocked Black Americans’ access to the ballot box.

“They achieved passage of the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965, which enshrined critical protections for voting rights in federal law,” the vice president stated. But the Shelby County Supreme Court decision in 2013 undermined the Voting Rights Act, making it more difficult to prevent discrimination.

Harris argued that this has led to a renewed attack on the right to vote in the United States in recent years.

“Extremists have worked to dismantle the voting protections that generations of civil rights leaders and advocates fought tirelessly to win,” Harris said. “They have purged voters from the rolls. They have closed polling places. They have made it a crime to give water to people standing in line.”

Representatives Terri Sewell of Alabama and James Clyburn of South Carolina, as well as NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F.

Chavis Jr., Reverend Jesse Jackson, civil rights leader Charles Mauldin, and Martin Luther King III, were among the many dignitaries who attended the annual pilgrimage to the Pettus Bridge.

During the ceremony, President Joe Biden vowed that voting rights remains a top administration priority.

“The right to vote, to have your vote counted is the threshold of democracy and liberty,” Biden said.

“This fundamental right remains under assault. Conservative Supreme Court has gutted the

Voting Rights Act over the years.

Since the 2020 election, a wave of states has passed dozens, dozens of anti-voting laws fueled by the big lie,” he insisted. The President continued.

“We must redouble our efforts and renew our commitment to protecting the freedom to vote.

“We know that we must get the votes in Congress to pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, and the Freedom to Vote Act. I’ve made it clear: I will not let a filibuster obstruct the sacred right to vote.”

TRUMP:

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against former President Donald Trump.

In a case involving police officers who want to sue Trump, the federal appellate court in the District of Columbia asked the Department of Justice to weigh in on the matter.

“Such incitement of imminent private violence would not be within the outer perimeter of the Office of the President of the United States,” the DOJ wrote in a memo to the court.

Trump asserted that he can’t be sued for his role in organizing his supporters’ attack on the Capitol on January 6, 2021.

Lawmakers and Capitol Police officers have filed a lawsuit claiming that Trump incited the attack by falsely claiming in a speech that the 2020 election had been stolen and urging his supporters to march on the Capitol. The civil division of the Department of Justice filed a 23-page brief with the court of appeals, requesting that the court allow the lawsuit to move forward.

Harris said she and Biden have continued to call on Congress to pass federal legislation that protects voting rights, election integrity, and American democracy.

“And we will continue to implement the President’s Executive Order on Promoting Access to Voting, which enhances the federal government’s efforts to advance voter participation,” Harris stated.

“If we are to truly honor the legacy of those who marched in Selma on Bloody Sunday, we must continue to fight to secure and safeguard the freedom to vote.

REPARATIONs:

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Its biggest responsibility is analyzing the Governor’s annual budget.

Alamo explained to the task force how the recommendations they make will likely become state policy.

“The creation of a new agency would be initiated through the governor’s executive branch and reorganization process, but other options exist,” Alamo said. “Regardless of the path, to initiate a new agency or enact any other recommendation that makes changes to s tate law, fundamentally both houses from the state Legislature would have to approve the action and the governor will have to sign it.

During discussions at the Sacramento meeting, the task force began the process of clearly defining CAFAA’s role, focusing on adding clarity to the agency’s mission as overseer for other entities offering reparations in the form of assistance to Californians who qualify.

After a two-hour spirited debate at the meeting – the 13th convening of the task force so far -- all nine-members agreed that CAFAA would have specified powers and its structure would include an administrative body that guides implementation.

“The proposed entity would be an agency, independent agency, that would provide services where they don’t presently exist (and) provide oversight to existing (state) agencies,” task force chair Kamilah V. Moore said.

CAFAA would facilitate claims for restitution and would set up a branch to process claims with the state and assist claimants in proving eligibility through a “genealogy” department, the task force members said. A commitment to assist-

ing with the implementation and operation of policies and programs being considered for recommendation would also be in the purview of the agency.

The concept of CAFAA is based on the defunct federal Freedman’s Bureau. On March 3, 1865, Congress passed “An Act to establish a Bureau for the Relief of Freedmen and Refugees.” The bureau’s main objective was to provide food, shelter, clothing, medical services, and land to newly freed African Americans.

Ward Connerly, the African American political activist who led the ballot initiative that outlawed Affirmative Action in California in 1996, Proposition (Prop) 209, told FOX News one day after the task force’s Sacramento meeting that offering reparations was a “bad” and a “goofy idea.”

Connerly, former President of the California Civil Rights Initiative Campaign, has made objections to reparations for about a year now as California gets closer than any government in United States history to making amends for historical injustices committed against Black Americans.

“California is a progressive state but we’re not insane,” Connerly told FOX News on March 5. “So, I think that people of this state would rise up and say ‘no.’”

The two-day meeting in Sacramento was held at the Byron Sher Auditorium at the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA) in downtown Sacramento. Both days attracted crowds, mainly comprised of interested individuals and groups from Southern California and the San Francisco Bay Area.

Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg attended the second day of the meeting. Steinberg is one of 11 mayors who pledged to pay reparations for slavery to Black residents in their cities.

Similar to efforts in Los Angeles, Oakland, San Francisco, and Richmond, Sacramento is focused on developing a municipal reparations initiative through the city’s ongoing Sacramento Centered on Racial Equity (SCORE) initiative.

“I wholeheartedly support reparations and think everyone should,” Steinberg told the task force panel on March 4. “If government should stand for anything, it should stand for investing in communities and people who have been the victims of discrimination and disenfranchisement for far too long.”

The task force also recommended “appropriate ways” to educate the public about the task force’s findings and future reparations actions by the state.

The charge calls for building a collective base of knowledge to inform racially diverse communities in California about reparations, appealing to different ways of learning, expanding task force discussions into mainstream conversations, and inspiring reflection and action among all residents of California. Task force members Dr. Cheryl Grills and Don Tamaki presented the proposal.

The next two-day task force will return to Sacramento at the end of March. For more information on the next meeting, visit the California Department of Justice’s at https://oag.ca.gov/ab3121.

The DOJ said Trump’s incitement of the deadly insurrection fell outside the scope of his presidential powers and therefore disqualifies any immunity argument. The U.S. Supreme Court has previously decided that the Constitution protects presidents from being sued for their official actions.

“The District Court correctly rejected Trump’s categorical assertion ‘that whenever and wherever a President speaks on a matter of public concern he is immune from a civil suit,” the DOJ insisted.

“Speaking to the public on matters of public concern is a traditional function of the Presidency, and the outer perimeter of the President’s office includes a vast realm of such speech.

“But that traditional function is one of public communication. It does not include incitement of imminent private violence of the sort the district court found that the plaintiff’s complaints have plausibly alleged here.”

The lawsuits allege that Trump’s speech was responsible for inciting the attack, which the DOJ said begs the question of whether it is within the scope of his presidency to update his supporters on the results of the 2020 election. In a ruling made last year, Federal District Court Judge Amit P. Mehta allowed the lawsuits against the former president to proceed.

The judge concluded that Trump’s various communications leading up to and including January 6 amounted to a “call to action” and that he urged his supporters should “fight like hell” to prevent Congress from certifying President Joe Biden’s election victory.

Trump’s attorneys have appealed that ruling to the D.C. Circuit. They claimed presidents have always been protected from legal action for statements made in the course of their official duties because such statements are considered “speech on matters of public concern.”

Several Democratic lawmakers and Capitol Police officers have joined forces to file a lawsuit against Trump over the attack on January 6. Other groups not involved in the appeal, such as the Proud Boys and the Oath Keepers, are also named as defendants in the lawsuits.

By its very nature, “such conduct plainly falls outside the President’s constitutional and statutory duties,” the DOJ wrote.

As such, it cannot be squared with the President’s customary role of addressing the nation on vital issues, they argued. The President has “extraordinary power to speak to his fellow citizens and on their behalf” in his role as the nation’s leader and head of state.

“But that traditional function is one of public communication and persuasion, not incitement of imminent private violence,” the DOJ continued. “To extend immunity to such incitement would contradict the ‘constitutional heritage and structure’ that have informed and justified the doctrine of presidential immunity.”

Khansa “Friday Jones” Jones-Muhammad, is the vice president of the Los Angeles Reparations Advisory Commission.

PHOTO: Antonio Ray Harvey/CBM

PHOTO: Courtesy of NNPA

CELEBRATING 196 YEARS OF THE BLACK PRESS

By Dr. John E. Warren Publisher, The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint

This month, the African American community of these United States celebrates 196 years of the Black Press, historically referred to as “Negro Newspapers”. It was on March 17, 1827, at a meeting of “Freed Negroes” in New York City, that Samuel Cornish, a Presbyterian minister, and John Russwurn, the first Negro college graduate in the United States, established the negro newspaper. The Black Press has been called many things during this 196 years of evolution. Its initial publication declared “there ought to be some channel of communication between us and the public through which a single voice may be heard in defense of five hundred thousand free people of colour.” What these two men started, initially known as “Freedom’s Journal and the Rights of All”, has spun off to more than 500 Black newspapers as many embraced the need to tell our story and not have someone else tell it for us. Today, the number of Black newspapers has dwindled to a little more than 200 with at least two, the Philadelphia Tribune at 130 years old, and the Afro American Newspaper in Baltimore at more than 125 years old, still owned by the families that founded it. At a time when few of us could read, these papers grew to be known nationally, long before the internet, social media and even the telephone itself. It was often the low-waged Black railroad worker, like the porter handling the bags of traveling white people, who threw out copies of the Chicago Defender as the trains passed through “no-stop” small Southern towns. Part of the success was that

we all knew we were Black thanks to “Jim Crow” segregation laws.

Today, thanks to the Black Press, we have histories we can read. The book and movie, “Hidden Figures”, about the Black women math experts that made the space program work, were based in large part on articles written in the Norfolk Journal and Guide newspaper and kept in the paper’s archives. Graphic pictures and articles about Black soldiers in World War I can be found at the Afro American Newspaper in Baltimore.

Today, with racist Whites seeking to ban all knowledge of the Black experience in America, we must protect and preserve the Black Press as our only “Trusted Messenger”. While we must use the internet and social media, let us not lose our souls and our knowledge of who we are in the process.

It is the Black Press that has written about “the stony road we have trod”; helped us feel the pain on our backs and that of our ancestors when we speak of the “Chastening rod”. It is the Black Press that has provided the steady beat, so that our “weary feet have brought us to the place for which our fathers sighed”. It is the Black Press that will help some of us return to the place where we met God before so many became drunk with the ways and wine of the world, which James Weldon Johnson spoke of when writing the Negro Natonal Anthem.

Let’s keep the Black Press where it belongs, in our heart and lives as our struggle for equality and fairness continues.

Pursuing Martin Luther King Jr.’s Beloved Community

By Congressman James E. Clyburn (D-SC)

Martin Luther King, Jr. visited Ghana in 1957 to participate in the celebration of the country’s independence from British colonialism. Upon returning home, he delivered a sermon called “The Birth of a New Nation,” and introduced his idea for a postJim Crow society in this country. He explained the concept saying, “the aftermath of nonviolence is the creation of the beloved community.” He equated a beloved community to a successful country.

According to Dr. King, the creation of a beloved community would require the American people to address three great evils of society: racism, poverty, and militarism. My friend and former colleague, the late John R. Lewis, arguably Dr. King’s most ardent disciple, often invoked the concept to buttress his calls for a “just society.” John was committed to the pursuit, but I always wondered if such were possible until recently.

Racism is a clear and present danger to the success of our “pursuit of a more perfect Union” and the Biden-Harris administration is confronting it. Recognizing the importance of environmental justice to marginalized communities, the Biden-Harris Administration launched the Justice40 Initiative, directing 40 percent of federal investments toward underserved communities disproportionately burdened by pollution.

Reducing poverty, King’s second great evil, is a priority for the Biden-Harris Administration. The American Rescue Plan, the Infrastructure bill, and the Inflation Reduction Act, have created millions of opportunities for the American people to achieve upward economic mobility. President Biden’s targeting of student loan debt relief will relieve the disproportionate economic burden of student loan debt from the shoulders of over 1.6 million vulnerable borrowers. It will also restructure repayment plans to make them borrower friendly.

Dr. King’s third evil, militarism, has not gone un-responded to by the BidenHarris administration. No one can forget the images of police outfitted with military-grade equipment in cities across the country during recent racial justice protests. The militarization of police is a phenomenon that endangers everyday citizens and precipitates violent policing.

In 2022, President Biden signed an Executive Order on Advancing Effective, Accountable Policing and Criminal Justice Practices to Enhance Public Trust and Public Safety. This order mandates the reporting of police misconduct and use-of-force incidents and orders all federal law enforcement agencies to revise their use-of-force policies. Now Federal agencies cannot transfer or sell military equipment to state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies, cutting down on the militarization of our local police departments.

As we pause to commemorate and celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Hopefully, as we move beyond this year’s celebration, we will revisit this idea of a beloved community and recommit ourselves to making his dream, the American Dream, a reality.

The Barbershop: Where Black Men Solve the World’s Problems

By Denise Rolark Barnes The Washington Informer

The role of a journalist is to write and report on information using credible sources to disseminate to the public. Journalists today must also listen to the public to determine what’s important to them when deciding what stories to write and disseminate.

Recently, my “listening” opportunity took place in a D.C. barbershop. It happens to be where my loctician (the person who makes sure my locs are properly maintained) operates. It’s not just any barbershop, however. It’s near Howard University and is seemingly the barbershop of choice for

many HU students, professors, staff, and the surrounding predominantly Black but gentrifying community.

On this unusually warm winter day, one of the six barbers entered late with a cup of coffee. The conversation heated up quickly. Beginning his day with an espresso and chasing it with another cup of coffee launched a discussion about caffeine, its impact on the body, how they were able to help wean him from drinking energy drinks, and explaining, once again, why drinking coffee at night was causing him to lose sleep. There were lots of jokes and laughs, but the conversation was lengthy and mostly serious.

Last week, D.C. experienced a record-breaking 80-degree day, while places across the country were hit by several record-breaking snowfalls. Two days later, snow fell in D.C.

With a bright sun beaming through the glass windows, one barber said, “You know, it’s been snowing a lot in other places.” The conversation among the men quickly turned from the effects of caffeine on the human body to the impact of shifting tectonic plates on the earth and climate change.

“Yeah, man, but I’ve got to send you this article about this white boy that’s suing Howard University,” another barber announced out of the blue. “Man,

read this whole article. It’s wild. It’s almost like they’re setting him up to win this $2 million lawsuit.”

It’s true. A former white law student who reportedly entered HULS in 2020 after receiving an annual $26,500 scholarship was expelled following his second year in September. He has filed a discrimination lawsuit against the university, claiming he suffered “emotional, mental, and economic harm.” He is seeking more than $2 million in damages.

This story clearly raised the ire of the barbers and their customers, who ranted at great length about the lawsuit and acknowledged the increasing number of white students enrolling in the histori -

cally Black university. Their prediction: He might win. He might get something, but he won’t get $2 million.

As a journalist, I left with a clean and simple hairstyle and trending story ideas that folks are discussing. I never announced that I am a journalist; maybe I should have. And, perhaps the next time, I will. Still, my job is to observe and listen and then to research, write and disseminate the stories and the solutions to issues our readers care about. I got an earful at the barbershop!

Denise Rolark Barnes is the publisher of The Washington Informer.

Local Youth “Herstorians” Capture Julian’s BIPOC History

Girl-led drone pilots map a Julian cemetery, tell stories of people of color

The purpose of the trip was for the girls to have the opportunity to map the Julian Cemetery. Over the course of the project the girls will research and develop the narratives of the lives of the BIPOC residents who are buried in the cemetery.

The first adventure was to meet up with David Lewis, a native of Julian going back 5 generations, and the caretaker and historian of the Julian Cemetery. Lewis gave the girls a tour of the cemetery pointing out the headstones of some of the Black Pioneers, such as Susan Tull, the mother of Margaret

Robinson, Martha Boyd, the daughter of Margaret and Albert Robinson, the husband of Margaret, who owned the Robinson Hotel, which is still operating today under the name of the Julian Hotel. The girls also had the opportunity to explore the Julian Museum and discover some the information they needed for their narratives.

The next day, the girls met with drone pilot instructors who gave a workshop on flying the drones in the cemetery, so they could map the Julian Cemetery. A drone with LiDar was used so that one could see what is not seen by the naked eye. Each girl

had the opportunity to fly the large LiDar enhanced drone. The girl’s interest in researching the history of the pioneers of Julian was impressive. The day after the girls mapped the cemetery, and there was a workshop led by Shellie Baxter. Th e girls searched through digital archives, viewing and documenting the community using census reports, n ewspaper articles, birth and death certificates, land records, and voting records. They all were methodical in their thought process, asking the right questions and developing the narratives of those they were researching.

Other adventures were had by the girls, as they took a tour of the Gold Mines in Julian.

The girls will have the opportunity to map the Nate Harrison Serenity Ranch later in the year, where Nathan Harrison was enslaved. He migrated to California during the Gold Rush in 1848. He was the first Black to have homesteaded in San Diego County on Palomar Mountain.

The “We the People Museum,” which is virtually located in Encanto, will display their exhibits from both research trips.

PHOTOS: Root Digger Genealogy

BACKGROUND

PHOTO: By Geonadir on UnSplash

Girls at Cemetery

Shellie Baxter and David Lewis

Girls Flying Drones

Flying Drone

Girl Flying Drone

Girls at Julian Museum

Girls at Gold Mine

California’s Big City Mayors Back Mental Health Reform Bills

By Jeremiah Sanchez

Contributing Writer

Mayors from the 13 largest California cities, known as the California Big City Mayors, a bipartisan coalition, have decided to back senate legislation offering their full support of two bills which were fashioned by state Sen. Susan Talamantes Eggman. Big City Mayors include Los Angeles Mayor, Karen Bass, San Francisco Mayor, London Breed, Riverside Mayor, Patricia Lock Dawson, and San Diego Mayor, Todd Gloria, among oth -

ers. The two bills would aid those in need, who are suffering from severe mental illness, making it easier for them to receive help, all while modernizing California’s mental health system.

Reformation is being sought in California’s LPS conservatorship law and Senate Bill 43 could do just that by updating the current criteria for determining whether or not a

person is “gravely disabled.” This determining factor is the standard for LPS conservatorship eligibility. Supporters of the legislation have argued that, while the current focus of the LPS act is the ability to provide for an individual’s clothing, food, and shelter, it ultimately fails to address the real problems and needs of those who are desperately ill, believing it to often lead to jail and criminalization rather than actual treatment.

Meet California’s Black Mayors: Acquanetta Warren, Fontana

By Maxim Elramsisy California Black Media

This profile is part of a series of 10 California Black Media articles capturing the stories of elected Black Mayors working to make a difference in the lives of Californians in large cities and small towns across our state.

When the City of Fontana hosted NASCAR Feb. 24, third-term Mayor Acquanetta Warren served as an honorary official for the final run of the Cup Series Pala Casino 400.

According to Warren, Auto Club Speedway, formerly California Speedway, will undergo reconstruction that will reduce its size from the current two-mile track to a half-mile one. One observation stood out for Warren as the mayor reflected on the final race on the racetrack that opened in 1996 in the city about fifty miles east of Los Angeles.

“I’m seeing way more African Americans working on the cars. They are more among the vendors, and I think in two more years, we’ll have even more,” she said.

“I’m constantly trying to get younger sisters and brothers that look like me to understand that you can have these dreams and they can be fulfilled,” Warren told California Black Media (CBM). “Don’t limit yourself.”

Although stock car auto racing has a wellknown lack of racial diversity, particularly among owners and drivers, former NBA great Michael Jordan bought a majority stake in NASCAR’s 23XI team in 2020. Driving the team’s “23 car,” a nod to Jordan’s Chicago Bulls jersey number, is Bubba Wallace, NASCAR’s only active Black racer.

Other racing teams are becoming more diverse, too. Lamar Neal, a 29-year-old Black man, was on the pit crew for Kyle Busch’s race-winning team.

“It’s a sport that’s waiting for young smart people, not just drivers or pit crew, but the analytical side, the engineers -- a whole world waiting for young, good people,” said Warren.

As the race cars revved up their engines to the thundering roars of the race spectators, Warren said she was reminded that inflation continues to skyrocket and that natural gas prices are r unning higher than normal -- a point many guests attending the series also pointed out.

Leaders must respond urgently to the high costs, Warren said. Enter

Fontana Eats, a program distributing gift cards for food to residents of the city.

When Warren was elected mayor in 2010, she was an experienced local politician, having served eight years on the city council. Like many places around the world, the COVID-19 pandemic presented new challenges.

“We probably had over a half a million free masks to give out,” Warren said, recalling a step the city took responding to price gouging by some businesses.

Measure EE, in San Bernardino County, narrowly passed in November 2022. It directed elected representatives for San Bernardino County to research and advocate for all methods (including secession from the state) for receiving an equitable share of state funding and resources.

“I really advocated for people to vote for [Proposition] EE, because it’s a study on whether or not we’re obtaining the funds fairly in this county. We always are the stepchildren,” said Warren. “San Bernardino County is the largest county in the United States by land mass. Yet, we can’t really make it work if we’re not getting adequate funding.”

For example, Warren says her city does not have enough courthouses and judges.

“People talk about fairness, equity and due process. Well, it would help if we could get them into court and get them out of jail. If you don’t have the resources, everybody has to wait,” she said.

In addition to advocating for funding and tackling food insecurity, Warren is pushing for more public parks. According to Warren, the city now has 59 parks to keep its

Another is SB 43, which would include updates mainly to the “gravely disabled.” The new definition includes any potential for serious mental and physical harm that can ultimately come from an individual’s inability to provide for themselves, whether that be personal or medical care, nourishment, shelter, and the inability to sustain their own self-protection. This is to include “personal safety due to a mental health, or a substance-use disorder.”

Lastly there is Senate Bill 363, which aims to establish an internet-based dashboard that would collect, combine, and display information about bed availability in a range of different substance abuse and psychiatric facilities, in real time. Those who support the bill argue that access to information such as an up-to-date database of bed availability will aid in assisting providers in finding and securing treatment quickly for clients, and ultimately reducing delays and extended visits to the emergency room.

San Diego’s Mayor, Todd Gloria, who is Chair of the Big City Mayors, has been outspoken in the matter, voicing his thoughts on what it means to back senate legislation.

“We must act on conservatorship reform for the thousands of families who struggle to get their loved ones life-saving health care. I stand with Senator Eggman and California’s Big City Mayors and wholeheartedly support efforts to modernize our mental health system,” Gloria in a statement.

For more information about Mayor Gloria, visit https://www.sandiego.gov/mayor.

220,000 residents active.

As she walked across the front straight away, Warren spoke with anyone who approached her, and she stopped by to a room full of teenagers from the Boys and Girls Club of Fontana. Warren says she moved to Fontana after the Rodney King riots in 1992 shook her neighborhood in Compton.

“When I got appointed to be the first African American on the council, people were making a really big deal, but I discounted it,” she said.

“For many residents though, it was a big deal. The Black pastors and a lot of the older African Americans in this community called me to a meeting and they let me have it. They let me know that I stood on their shoulders, and they were proud of me.”

Warren is an advocate for more diversity among people addressing the challenges all Californians face. This month she was named the Chair of the Southern California Water Coalition’s Board of Trustees.

“We need more African Americans in the water world. All these people are retiring,” she said. Although several heavy storms have hammered California over the past three months, including a historic storm disrupting the weekend race schedule, Warren doesn’t think California’s historic drought is over.

“The challenge will be, can we capture the water when it melts, and store it, and that’s where we fall short,” she said.

San Diego Mayor, Todd Gloria, discusses mental health care reform during a March Monthly Media Briefing. Screenshot via City of San Diego YouTube channel, March 2, 2023 / Jeremiah Sanchez

PHOTOS: Maxim Elramsisy /California Black Media

Mayor Acquanetta Warren greets JROTC volunteers at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, California on February 26, 2023.

NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace and Mayor Acquanetta Warren at Auto Club Speedway Fontana, California on February 26, 2023.

Mali’s Dr. Oulie Keita Gets Top Job At Greenpeace Africa

By Lisa Vives Global Information Network

At a time of monumental climate challenges - from floods and pollution to hunger and drought, a legacy organization has tapped Dr. Oulie Keita of Mali to lead the continent-wide activist group.

The new Executive Director of Greenpeace Africa was chosen after a competitive recruitment process. Under Ms. Keita, the group will continue its three major campaigns, namely illegal logging, overfishing in West Africa, and oil and gas expansion in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Dr Keita will lead the implementation of the organization’s new strategy which seeks to dismantle systems that have historically served only to benefit the colonial powers, still plundering Africa for its resources, according to the group.

(DRC) .

Keita responded: “We cannot continue following the rest of the world down the same path to climate catastrophe…. Africa is suffering the consequences of big polluters. Greenpeace Africa is fighting for climate change, showing that it is possible to change this trajectory, win environmental and social battles, and promote alternative futures that prize our connection with the planet and with each other.”

FILMS BY WOMEN A STANDOUT AT AFRICA’S FAMED FILM FESTIVAL

By Lisa Vives Global Information Network

In the bad old days of French colonial rule, Africans were forbidden from making films. As a result, one of the first films ever produced by an African “Afrique-surSeine” (Africa on the Seine), was made in Paris in 1955 by students. Among them was Paulin Soumanou Vieyra from Benin, now considered a pioneer of African cinema.

Then, in 1969, a group of cinema enthusiasts launched FESPACO in Burkina Faso (then known as the Republic of Upper Volta). The country had then only been independent for nine years.

People in Burkina Faso didn’t have much experience with cinema, but they were passionate about it.

terrorism, “The Culture was chosen as FESPACO’s 2023 motto.

“The world today is confronted with many problems, all due to social inequalities, exclusion, extremism and the arms race,” the f estival homepage states. Films could contribute to thinking together about how to secure peace and social cohesion.

This is also what Apolline Traore wants, who was in the race for the main prize, the Golden Stallion of Yennenga, for her film “Sira.” This trophy is also a tribute to strong women: Princess Yennenga was a warrior who went into battle on her stallion fearing nothing and no one.

opment field, working on policy, advocacy, and lobbying at various levels. She has a background in the nexus of development peace/security, with a focus on youth empowerment, gender issues, and the protection of the environment.

Last month, following news of a secret deal between Oil Minister Didier Budimbu, Nigerian gambling tycoon Chukwuma Ayodeji Ojuroye, and US consultancy GeoSigmoid, a coalition of NGOs and civil society groups called for the immediate cancellation of a massive oil and gas auction in the Democratic Republic of Congo

“African women and African youth deserve a safe and bright future. It is our essential challenge to ensure that governments, polluters, and profit-driven corporations are stopped in their tracks and prevented from undoing our collective future,” Dr Keita added.

Dr Keita has had 20 years of experience in the international devel -

For the past three years, Dr Keita worked as the Executive Director of YouthConnekt Africa, where she collaborated with partners to connect African youth for socioeconomic transformation. The Government of the Republic of Rwanda hosted their recent summit, along with the UNDP, the Bank of Kigali, Mastercard, Catholic Relief Services, UN Women, among others.

“We congratulate her for the great momentum YouthConnekt Africa has gained,” the group wrote on Facebook. “We wish her great success in what lies ahead.”

RICH MULTINATIONALS PROFIT WHILE HUNGER SOARS

By Lisa Vives Global Information Network

Global hunger, once on the decline, has reversed course over the last 10 years, as multinational food companies increasingly replace domestic production and leave populations “food insecure.”

According to Greenpeace International in a recent report, food imports from factory farms have jumped 650 percent in Kenya alone, making huge profits for a handful of corporations and generous dividends for their shareholders.

Twenty agribusiness corporationsthe largest in grain, meat and dairy - gave as much or more in divi -

dends to their shareholders than could have fed the entire world’s most vulnerable people in a year.

“This reflects how, with the support of many African governments, the global food system forces imports on Africans, when they could be producing and profiting from a higher proportion of their own food,” Greenpeace found.

Multinational food corporations gave $53.5 billion to their shareholders in 2020 and 2021 - or more than enough to fund the basic needs of the world’s most vulnerable people in that year, according to the U.N.

Four companies in the U.S. and Europe – Archer-Daniels Midland, Cargill, Bunge and Dreyfus – control 70% to 90% of the world’s grain trade, but are under no obligation to disclose what they know about global markets, including their own grain stocks.

This allows companies to withhold information that would help to stabilize prices, were it published with full transparency, Greenpeace alleged.

“This is the new colonialism,” declared the group’s Communication and Story Manager, Hellen Dena.

“Africa’s governments have allowed the ultra-rich of the US and Europe to retain too much power over

“African cinema is the youngest in the world,” Apolline Traore told the German news service DW. “It was completely financed by the West for a long time. Meanwhile, we try to raise the money for our films ourselves.” She adds that she has the impression that “in the West they have used up all the stories; the audience now wants to see ours.”

This year, there were many outstanding African filmmakers, especially among women. Of the 170 films — works from Egypt, Angola, Kenya, Morocco and Senegal, among others that were submitted to FESPACO to compete - about half were directed by women.

“I’m not surprised at all,” Tunisian jury president Dora Bouchoucha told DW. “And I don’t think it surprises anyone in all of Africa - only outside the continent. I made my first film 25 years ago and my team was almost all women. The best production managers are women. Filmmaking is all about details. And everyone knows that women are more aware of details. Also, women care less about their ego. We make films our way — and we do it very well.”

Despite — or perhaps because of all the problems that Burkina Faso, Mali and other African countries have had to face, especially with

After a review of the films, Youssef Chebbi, 38, was chosen for the prize – the Golden Stallion of Yennenga for his film “Ashkal” - a murder mystery set in his native Tunisia.

The film sees a male-female police duo unravel a dark and puzzling case in the Gardens of Carthage.

Sira, the tale of a woman’s struggle for survival after being kidnapped by jihadis in the Sahel, won Burkinabè director Apolline Traoré second place in the fiction category. And third place went to Kenya’s Angela Wanjiku Wamai for Shimoni.

In her closing remarks at Saturday’s awards ceremony, Fespaco jury head and producer Dora Bouchoucha, made apparent reference to racist remarks by Tunisia’s president about sub-Saharan Africans changing his country’s demographics as part of “plot” by foreign powers.

“I am deeply saddened and at the same time grateful for my actions in terms of promoting African cinema are recognized in Burkina Faso,” said Ms Bouchoucha.

The Pan-African Film & TV Festival of Ouagadougou runs until March 4, 2023.

Africans and our food system,” explained Dena “It’s because of them that war and plague lead to famine – and to the rich getting richer.”

Ghana, for another example, imports rice, wheat, soybean meal, and poultry. Even bananas are imported from the U.S. Nigeria relies on $10 billion of imports to meet its food and agricultural production shortfalls (mostly wheat, rice, poultry, fish, food services, and consumer-oriented foods) and in 2021, food inflation rose to 22.95% with wide-ranging price increases across items such as cereals, yam, meat, fish, and fruits. Europe, Asia, the United States, South America, and South Africa are major sources for agricultural imports from commercial food exporters.

“But it doesn’t have to be this way,” continued Dena. “Africans are rising up to demand change. Smallholder farmers have filed a case in court over a punitive seed law that criminalizes farmers for selling and sharing seeds… Limiting farmers from sharing and selling seeds will reduce diverse seed access thus further aggravating food insecurity and over-dependence on imports in the country,” she said.

“Kenya’s government must promote sustainable farming methods such as ecological farming that are resilient to climate shocks and help producers and consumers control the food chain. Ecological farming will ensure that Kenyans have better access to food, it will protect jobs, reduce the emissions that cause extreme weather and protect the biodiversity we depend on,” Dena concluded.

PHOTO: Courtesy of GIN

PHOTO: Courtesy of GIN

PHOTO: Courtesy of GIN

“We cannot con tinue following the rest of the world down the same path to climate catastrophe ”

–Dr. Oulie Keita

Black Vietnam Vet Finally Honored With Medal of Honor

By Darlene Superville Associated Press

Nearly 60 years after he was recommended for the nation’s highest military award, retired Col.Paris Davis, one of the first Black officers to lead a Special Forces team in combat, received the Medal of Honor on Friday for his bravery in the Vietnam War.

At a crowded White House ceremony, Davis emphasized the positive of the honor rather than negative of the delay, saying, “It is in the best interests of America that we do things like this.”

Thanking President Joe Biden, who draped a ribbon with the medal around his neck, he said, “God bless you, God bless all, God bless America.”

The belated recognition for the 83-year-old Virginia resident came after the recommendation for his medal was lost, resubmitted - and then lost again.

It wasn’t until 2016 - half a century after Davis risked his life to save some of his men under fire - that advocates painstakingly recreated and resubmitted the paperwork.

Biden described Davis as a “true hero’’ for risking his life amid heavy enemy fire to haul injured soldiers under his command to safety. When a superior ordered him to safety, according to Biden, Davis replied, “Sir, I’m just not going to

“Right now I’m overwhelmed,” he told The Associated Press in a recent interview, on the eve of the medal ceremony.

“When you’re fighting, you’re not thinking about this moment,” Davis said. “You’re just trying to get through that moment.”

“That moment” stretched over nearly 19 hours and two days in mid-June 1965.

Davis, then a captain and commander with the 5th Special Forces Group, engaged in nearly continuous combat during a pre-dawn raid on a North Vietnamese army camp in the village of Bong Son in Binh Dinh province.

He engaged in hand-to-hand combat with the North Vietnamese,

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Black Advocates Celebrate Women’s History Month

leave. I still have an American out there.’’ He went back into the firefight to retrieve an injured medic.

“You are everything this medal means,” Biden told Davis. “You’re everything our nation is at our best. Brave and big hearted, determined and devoted, selfless and steadfast.”

Biden said Davis should have received the honor years ago, describing segregation in the U.S. when he returned home and questioning the delay in awarding him the medal.

“Somehow the paperwork was never processed,” Biden said. “Not just once. But twice.”

Davis doesn’t dwell on the delayed honor and says he doesn’t know why decades had to pass before it finally arrived.

called for precision artillery fire and thwarted the capture of three American soldiers - all while suffering wounds from gunshots and grenade fragments. He used his pinkie finger to fire his rifle after his hand was shattered by an enemy grenade, according to reports.

Davis repeatedly sprinted into an open rice paddy to rescue members of his team, according to the ArmyTimes. His entire team survived.

“That word ‘gallantry’ is not much used these days,” Biden said. “But I can think of no better word to describe Paris.”

Davis, from Cleveland, retired in 1985 at the rank of lieutenant colonel and now lives in Alexandria, Virginia, just outside Washington. Biden called him several weeks ago to deliver the news.

He says the wait in no way lessens the honor.

Davis’ commanding officer recommended him for the military’s top honor, but the paperwork disappeared. He eventually was awarded a Silver Star, the military’s third-highest combat medal, but members of Davis’ team have argued that his skin color was a factor in the disappearance of his Medal of Honor recommendation.

“I believe that someone purposely lost the paperwork,” Ron Deis, a junior member of Davis’ team in Bong Son, told the AP in a separate interview.

Deis, now 79, helped compile the recommendation that was submitted in 2016. He said he knew Davis had been recommended for the Medal of Honor shortly after the battle in 1965, and he spent years wondering why Davis hadn’t been awarded the medal. Nine years ago he learned that a second nomination had been submitted “and that also was somehow, quote, lost.”

“But I don’t believe they were lost,” Deis said. “I believe they were intentionally discarded. They were discarded because he was Black, and that’s the only conclusion that I can come to.”

Army officials say there is no evidence of racism in Davis’ case.

In early 2021, Christopher Miller, then the acting defense secretary, ordered an expedited review of Davis’ case. He argued in an opinion column later that year that awarding Davis the Medal of Honor would address an injustice.

“Some issues in our nation rise above partisanship,” Miller wrote.

“The Davis case meets that standard.”

Davis’ daughter, Regan Davis Hopper, a mom of two teenage sons, told the AP that she only learned of her dad’s heroism in 2019. Like him, she said she tries not to dwell on her disappointment in how the situation was handled.

“I’m just proud of him.”

Last week, the Black Women’s Collective kicked off Women’s History Month with an event organized to help build an Economic Action Plan for Black Women. It brought together experts in policymaking, labor, economic development, and entrepreneurship.

Californians Impacted by Winter Storms Get Extended Tax Deadline

Both the state and federal governments are offering some relief to Californians impacted by winter storms in January and February. In addition to allowing qualifying state residents to make deductions for disaster losses, last week Gov. Gavin Newsom announced that the state tax deadline for those affected by the winter storms will be October 16, 2023.

For filing instructions and more details on eligibility, visit the California Franchise Tax Board.

It was a history-making moment as Malia M. Cohen was inaugurated as the 33rd California State Controller at Los Angeles City Hall on Feb. 23. During the swearing-in, she was flanked by her husband Warren Pulley while Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass administered the oath.

Mayor Karen Bass Endorses Rep. Barbara Lee

Last week, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass endorsed her former colleague and “friend for decades,” Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA-12), in her bid to replace Sen. Dianne Feinstein who is not seeking another term.

SoCalGas Customers Can Apply for Hardship Assistance

Responding to spiraling inflation and a winter hike in gas prices, SoGalGas is offering hardship assistance to its customers that have been hit hardest.

The assistance will be distributed through three channels: $5 million through the Gas Assistance Fund administered by United Way for “Income Qualified Customers”; $4 million through the company’s Fueling our Communities program, a community feeding program organized by local food banks and nonprofits; and $1 million to restaurant owners through its Restaurant Cares Resilience Fund.

Malia M. Cohen Sworn in as Top State Accountant

Regan Hopper, the daughter of retired Army Col. Paris Davis, speaks during an interview with the Associated Press, Thursday, March 2, 2023.

PHOTO: Andrew Harnik/AP

PHOTO: Evan Vucci/AP Photo

PHOTO: Leroy Hamilton

Malia Cohen (left), with her husband Warren Pulley (center), was sworn in as California State Controller by Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass (right) at Los Angeles City Hall on February 23, 2023.

PHOTO: Maxim Elramsisy/CBM

Tanu Henry and Maxim Elramsisy California Black Media

COMMUNITY

High School 67-57.

In a semi-final game played on March 5, Culver City edged Mission Prep 52-50 and will play Buena

on March 7 for the CIF Southern California Regional Championship. The winner will advance to the CIF State Championship on Friday, March 10.

EDUCATION

Lincoln finished 30-3 with junior Kyelin King leading all scorers with 28 points. In other Division III second round games held in San Diego, top seed La Jolla Country Day School lost to eightseed Buena High School 48-44 and third-seed Mission Bay High School fell to eleven-seed Mission College Preparatory Catholic

12Pts

By

#10 Jamier Sykes 8Pts

ENCOURAGES Students to Read Black Authors

THIS PROGRAM

Michelle Rankins has hosted African American Read-Ins for 12 years.

Rankins brought the Read-In to her campus in 2015 to improve student engagement. Since it started, she has seen more students get involved, share their stories, and ensure their voices are heard.

The AARI was established in 1990 by the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English, of which Rankins and Gordon are both members. The goal was to make literacy a significant part of Black History Month.

Since its inaugural year, the program has reached over six million participants worldwide.

“It has grown to be this global initiative that people have taken up and are excited about,” Gordon says.

In 2022, about 213,000 people participated in the African American Read-In around the country. Over half of all U.S. states participated, with Maryland in the lead, hosting a whopping 83 Read-Ins.

But, even though the event is growing, it isn’t being met without resistance.

As the history of Black Americans in this country continues to experience erasure in school curriculums across the nation, the African American Read-In is more important than ever this year.

In April 2022, Georgia joined other Republican-led states in banning schools from teaching “divisive” concepts about race and racism — namely critical race theory. This means that, though Georgia State is supporting the event on paper, it seems like the university would rather not attach its likeness to the literacy event this year.

Although some educators feel the administration’s stance puts pressure on them to be quiet, Gordon says, she feels the opposite. Instead, she feels more driven and values the importance of the Read-In even more.

“We have to keep telling the stories where we have the opportunity, and understanding that when we are telling stories, we are participating in a centuries-old tradition of the oral tradition,” Rankins says. “Books themselves are critical and important, and I don’t think they will ever go away.”

One of Rankins’ favorite things about the Read-Ins is that you never know what will happen or what special moment you’ll take away from it.

For her, a standout memory is from her 2016 Read-In that gave Black men a space to read and discuss Black authors. She said, after discussing the literature, the men began reflecting on their relationships with their sons and how it felt to be a Black man in America at the time.

But what truly stuck out to her was that, after the event, one of her students asked to check those same books out of the library.

“Moments like that, where your students are really engaged and ask for a book afterwards — I mean, it doesn’t get any better than that,” Rankins says.

When Gordon was a Ph.D. student studying language and literacy education, she said she was still learning so much about her own culture that she’d often leave class and feel like the world looked new. It compelled her to make sure the generation behind her was not only aware of their culture’s literary traditions and histories but proud of them — something that didn’t happen for Gordon until she was a Ph.D. student.

The full circle moment came for her in 2016 after a Black thirdgrader read “I’m a Pretty Little Black Girl” at an event. Her mother reached out to Gordon later to say that her daughter was being bullied at school over her appearance. And when her mom asked what she thought at that moment, her daughter replied, “I don’t care because I’m a pretty little Black girl” — a reference to the book she read at Gordon’s event.

This article originally appeared on Word In Black.

Photograph Courtesy of Dr. Michelle Rankins for WIB

Maya Pottinger Word In Black

#2 Darrion Manson

#1 Sebastian Flores 7Pts

In a CIF SoCal Division III Second Round Regional game on March 2, 2023, second-seeded Culver City High School beat visiting No. 10 seed Lincoln High School 82-77 in overtime. A jumper by Emmanuel Barnett at the end of regulation tied the score at 70. The standing room only crowd saw a fiercely contested battle with eight lead changes from the opening tip to the end of overtime.

Lemon Grove’s Celebration

At Treganza Heritage Park

By Malachi Kudura CONTRIBUTING WRITER

On Saturday March 4, 2023, a Black History Celebration was held at the Treganza Heritage Park in Lemon Grove. This event had spoken word, drumming, African Dancers, music artists, local vendors, Soul Food trucks and more. The celebration was sponsored by Thrive Lemon Grove, House “Gone Wild International”, SDG&E, EDCO, Sam’s Club and Sycuan Casino Resort.

Most of the vendors were local businesses promoting their products and brands.

“We’re here to promote Black businesses and Black entrepreneurship. This is letting our community know we’re out here. Malcolm X said, ‘We need to buy and sell in our own communities,’” said Patrick Harris, owner of PST T-Shirts, when asked about the importance of community events

“These celebrations are important for our community because it allows us to see what’s out there for us and to see “us”. It’s nice to see everyone out here in unity and it’s good to see the young people out here. They need to see the positive, because it’s so negative in the news media. We’ve got to support “us” and do “us”, said attendee Granelle Robinson.

“My mother, Diana Tucker, and I collaborated to create this children’s affirmation book entitled “You Are…”, to encourage children to love themselves for who they are. It’s not just aimed at children, but also adults who may need encouragement in their lives. This book includes things we want to hear for ourselves, and we wanted to share that positivity to the community,” said Kyonna Henderson, book illustrator. Black History should always be celebrated by our community. It is important to stay connected to the past, but it’s equally important to be present today to secure our future.

Greater Life Church Holds Second “Know Your Rights” FORUM

By TJ Dunnivant

At the new church location last Saturday, the Social Justice Ministry at Greater Life Church, along with Pillars of the Community (POTC), held one of its “Know Your Rights” community events. This was the second time Pillars of the Community worked together with Greater Life’s Social Justice Ministry to bring awareness to young people in the Southeastern community.

With about 20 people in attendance, POTC gave pertinent information to the audience about their rights in the event that they have a runin with the San Diego Police Department. Malcolme Muttaqee from POTC once again gave stories of others he’d helped through the program and reassured them that the POTC office, and his door, would be open to anyone that wanted to file a complaint after any illegal interaction with SDPD.

“Even though 97% of complaints on police come back unfounded by the department, it is still important to file the complaint,” Malcome said.

One grandmother was in attendance with her grandchildren. She explained that the reason she brought

them there was so that they can hear what their rights are ahead of any interaction they may run into in the future.

“Today they learned how to file a complaint,” she said. “A lot of times, they don’t have the opportunity to proclaim their rights in the middle of being [detained], but it is good for them to know what they can do after.”

Pastor Nate Stewart and head of the Social Justice Ministry, Makayla Blackmon, both explained that Greater Life Church would continue to hold the “Know Your Rights” seminars about every four to five months. They both said that having more seminars, more often, would enable more people to be in attendance and help them obtain knowledge of their rights as well as how and when to use them.

From the left Pastor Nate Stewart and attendees. PHOTO: TJ Dunnivant

Teens and their grandmother.

PHOTO: TJ Dunnivant

Malcome from Pillars of the Community (center) and attendees. PHOTO: Mike Norris

PHOTO: Mike Norris

Forum Attendees. PHOTOS: Mike Norris

PHOTO: Mike Norris

Makayla Blackmon, Head of Social Justice Ministry at Greater Life Church. PHOTO: Mike Norris

Greater Life Church.

PHOTO: Mike Norris

Solidarity, Wisdom & Wit at UC San Diego Scholarship Brunch

Dr. Mary Frances Berry was keynote speaker for the annual Black History event

Voice & Viewpoint Staff

It was a packed crowd at UC San Diego’s 21st Annual Black History Month Scholarship Brunch. Held Saturday, February 25th at the Price Center West Ballroom, it was the university’s first post-pandemic brunch and it was evident from the mood in the room that everyone was glad to be back, and in-person.

Author, activist, educator and historian, Dr. Mary Frances Berry, was the event’s keynote speaker, who touched on the national Black History Month theme as designated by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, “Black Resistance.”

“I hope what students are learning in this wonderful

place is how to become more resilient as we go along, and to deal with the world as it has become and will be during their lifetime,” Berry said to the enthusiastic crowd. She treated the audience to a history lesson in the earliest forms of Black resistance from 1619, Jim Crow, California’s Compromise of 1850 to current achievements and what is left to be done in a post-Civil Rights Movement world.

“Protest is an essential ingredient of politics. You cannot make political change just by voting,” Berry insisted, as she encouraged those gathered to consider the issues of our time. The “definition” of systems of oppression and inequity “ought to be carefully

considered,” Berry said, “And [we must] figure out what form of resistance we should take?”

The event was coordinated by the Black History Month Planning Committee, including Pamela Fruge. Professor Dennis Childs, Ph.D, Associate Professor of African American Literature and the Director of UC San Diego’s newly established Black Diaspora and African American Studies Program was present to hand out the awards.

The scholarship awardees were the following: De’von King, Eleanor Roosevelt College, Major: International Studies, Philosophy; David

Boateng, Thurgood Marshall College, Major: Cognitive Science with a Specialization in Neuroscience; and Solange Jackson, Eleanor Roosevelt College, Major: Human Biology.

6

Ways to Build Lasting Healthy Habits

Starting on a path toward healthy habits is often easier than maintaining them long term. This year, you can avoid a major pitfall of healthy resolutions and build healthy habits that stick by working small, positive steps into your daily life.

In fact, healthy habits are the first suggested treatment strategy for people whose blood pressure and cholesterol levels are creeping higher than normal, according to an American Heart Association scientific statement.

“The current guidelines for managing high blood pressure and cholesterol recognize that otherwise healthy individuals with mildly or moderately elevated levels of these cardiovascular risk factors should actively attempt to reduce these risks, and increasing physical activity is a great place to start,” said Bethany Barone Gibbs, Ph.D., chair of the statement writing

COVID 19 updates

san diego county COVID-19 STATUS

984,855

TOTAL HOSPITALIZED 39,269

group and chair of the department of epidemiology and biostatistics at West Virginia University School of Public Health.

These six ideas from the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good Habit Coach can help.

Bust Common Habit-Building Myths

You may be surprised to learn the truth about creating and sticking to healthy habits. One myth is getting healthy means doing things you don’t like. Research shows positive emotions make habits stick, so set your intentions on something you enjoy. Another misconception is big results require big changes, which may lead to overly ambitious habits. However, the simpler the routine is, the more likely it is to become habit.

Work With Your “Brain Loops”

Your brain creates “loops” for habits made up of three things: a cue,

a routine and a reward. Each time the loop is repeated, it becomes more routine and may become automatic. Knowing this, you can design cues for developing new, healthy habits, such as setting walking shoes by the bed to start a walking habit. The routine is putting on the shoes and walking around the block, and the reward is the pleasant sensations and brighter mood from a morning stroll.

Create Cues That Work for You

Most successful health habits begin with a cue. The cue can be external in your environment or internal in terms of your mindset. The more consistent the cue, the more likely it is to trigger the habit. Hacking your brain’s reminder system can help you remember your cue. Some examples of visual

Do We Need Masks?

Three experts review the latest findings

By Jeremiah Sanchez Contributing Writer

Cochrane, an international health research group, recently released a study that went on to doubt just how efficient the use of P2 respirators and N95 masks actually are when used to protect against the Coronavirus infection. The data comes from 10 studies, and based on the information received, wearing a mask may actually do little to nothing in regards to protecting against the Coronavirus, and other flu-like illnesses.

5,786

13,352,330

2,496

With that being said, some experts say that if used properly, masks can be quite effective in combating the spread of the virus, as well as other experts in the field stating that in terms of the best possible method of prevention, the vaccine stands above all else, and that masks are unneeded.

A recently released study from Cochrane casts doubts on the efficacy of N95 masks and P2 respirators as effective safeguards against Covid infections. Wearing a mask may make little to no difference in how many people caught a flu-like illness/COVID-like illness, state the researchers, drawing on data from 10 studies.

a webinar bringing together three experts: Dr. William Schaffner, Dr. Monica Gandhi, and Dr. Mina Hakim. Each expert brought their thoughts to the table, regarding the study done by Cochrane, and whether or not they believed that masks are worth wearing or not.

When discussing Cochrane’s findings, Dr. Schaffner made sure to give the organization their proper credit, regarding them as “extremely meticulous” in their studies. However, he also went on to mention how these investigations are generally done.

“The best quality data comes from controlled, prospective, double blind studies. Those guarantee the objectivity of the patients of those who are receiving the medication. You can’t do that with the mask study,” Schaffner said.

Schaffner also stated that he is “on the recommending side” of wearing a mask, and believes them to b e a helpful tool, however minor. Another worthwhile note that he spoke of regarding these studies is that most of the studies that were done revolved around influenza, and not COVID-19.

So masks aren’t necessarily the problem. Moreso, it is user error that causes the masks to lose

cues are placing a sticky note where you’ll see it often, keeping a water bottle on your desk or refrigerating fresh veggies at eye level.

Build A Routine That Supports Your Goals

Positive and consistent habits are important to achieve your personal goals. Small habits done consistently can add up to big results. To create a new healthy habit, think through the steps that could lead to your desired outcome. Ask yourself whether you want to do it, if it’s easy and if it’s high impact. It’s important to choose habits that make a difference and move you closer to your goals.

For example, if one of your goals is improving your heart health, a meaningful habit might be to move more. Increasing physical activity can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol along with many other health benefits, Gibbs said.

“Every little bit of activity is better than none,” she said. “Even small initial increases of 5-10 minutes a day can yield health benefits.”

Use Rewards to Make Habits Stick

Start by choosing a habit you enjoy that’s rewarding by itself. If you’re more of a dancer than runner, increase your physical activity with an upbeat dance class. You might also look for a more enjoyable version of a new habit, such as getting more fruits and veggies by sipping on a delicious smoothie.

Understand Resets are Part of the Process

New habits are experiments. If they don’t stick, you haven’t failed. Instead, you’ve learned what doesn’t work, which is useful. Get curious and ask yourself which part of the habit didn’t work for you. Maybe the cue was ineffective. Maybe the steps of the routine were too ambitious and you need to split them into smaller, easier steps. If you realize you don’t enjoy the habit, stop doing it and try something else.

Find more inspiration and ideas to jumpstart healthy habits this year at heart.org/habits

(Family Features)

their effectiveness.

So what is the best possible defense?

Dr. Monica Gandhi stated that, “Vaccines are the strongest form of protection against severe disease from COVID-19, and I’ve been very impressed with the vaccine effectiveness.”

While believing that mask mandates should no longer be enforced on the public, Dr. Gandhi went on to clarify that Cochrane didn’t say that masks themselves are ineffective, but rather that imposing them on populations didn’t provide the level of data that proved they were meaningfully reducing transmission. This ultimately boils down to human error, or just people using non-medically graded masks in general.

Dr. Mina Hakim, though not a researcher, is a primary care doc-

tor, and a pediatrics specialist at the South Central Family Health Center in Los Angeles, California, and was able to provide his take on how this affected future generations to come: the children.

We all know how unruly children can be, it comes with being young. Getting them to keep on their shoes or coats, let alone a mask can be difficult.

Dr. Hakim himself said, “Kids are the worst at keeping things on.” He did not believe that forcing children to wear masks would be beneficial, stating, “We shouldn’t force them to wear masks. We should educate them that masks are a small piece to a very large puzzle.”

For more information, the full webinar can be watched online on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ EthnicMediaServices.

PHOTO: Julia Larson/Pexels

PHOTO: Nathan Cowley/Pexels

Dr. William Schaffner, on an Ethnic Media news briefing on March 3, 2023, discussing his thoughts on a new study exploring the effectiveness of masks and Covid-19 transmission. Screenshot via Zoom by Jeremiah Sanchez

This business is hereby registered by the following: Uncle Jacks Southern Soul Food LLC 702 Broadway San Diego, CA 92101

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on February 3, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on February 3, 2028 2/23, 3/02, 3/09, 3/16

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT 2023-9003450

Fictitious business name(s): Creative Concepts Located at: 4851 73rd

San Diego, CA 92101

2/23, 3/02, 3/09, 3/16

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA

County of San Diego

330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101

Hall of Justice Courthouse

37-2023-00005415CU-PT-CTL

Petitioner or Attorney:

Ojulu Damene on behalf of minor child

To All Interested Persons: Petitioner

Ojulu Damene on behalf of minor child filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

PRESENT NAME:

Moses Ojulu Gezhgn AKA

Moses Ojulu Gezahegn

PROPOSED NAME:

Moses Ojulu Gezahegn

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 a 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: March 23, 2023

Time: 8:30 A.M. Dept. 61

The address of the court is:

330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101

(To appear remotely, check in advance of the hearing for information about how to do so on the court's website. To find your court's website go to www.courts.ca.gov/find-mycourt.htm)

NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE.

The court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120).

If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One copy of the Order Granting the Petition will be mailed to the petitioner.

To change a name on a legal document, including a birth certificate, social security card, driver license, passport, and other identification, a certified copy of Decree

Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree

Changing Name and Order

Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be required. Contact the agency(ies) who issue the legal document that needs to be changed, to determine if a certified copy is required.

A certified copy of Decree

Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree

Changing Name and Order

Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be obtained from the Civil Business Office for a fee. Petitioners who are seeking a change of name under the Safe at Home program may contact the assigned department for the information on obtaining certified copies.

If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions.

If a timely objection is filed, the court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions.

(excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date

Any Petition for the name change of a minor that is signed by only one parent must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other nonsigning parent, and proof of service must be filed with the court.

The address of the court is:

330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101

2/16, 2/23, 3/02, 3/09

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA County of San Diego

330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 Hall of Justice Courthouse

37-2023-00005420CU-PT-CTL Petitioner or Attorney: Misipa Ojulu Gezhgn

To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Misipa Ojulu Gezhgn filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

PRESENT NAME: Misipa Ojulu Gezhgn

PROPOSED NAME: Mizpah Ojulu Gezahegn 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 a 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: March 23, 2023

Time: 8:30 A.M. Dept. 61

The address of the court is: 330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101

(To appear remotely, check in advance of the hearing for information about how to do so on the court's website. To find your court's website go to www.courts.ca.gov/find-mycourt.htm)

NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE.

The court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120).

If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One copy of the Order Granting the Petition will be mailed to the petitioner.

To change a name on a legal document, including a birth certificate, social security card, driver license, passport, and other identification, a certified copy of Decree

Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree

Changing Name and Order Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be required. Contact the agency(ies) who issue the legal document that needs to be changed, to determine if a certified copy is required.

A certified copy of Decree

Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree Changing Name and Order Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be obtained from the Civil Business Office for a fee. Petitioners who are seeking a change of name under the Safe at Home program may contact the assigned department for the information on obtaining certified copies.

If all the requirements have

not been met as of the date specified, the court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions.

If a timely objection is filed, the court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions.

A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date

Any Petition for the name change of a minor that is signed by only one parent must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other nonsigning parent, and proof of service must be filed with the court.

The address of the court is:

330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 2/16, 2/23, 3/02, 3/09

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF Doris Jean Savage

Case Number: 37-2022-00009851-PR-LACTL

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of Doris Jean Savage

A Petition for Probate has been filed by Christopher L. Savage in the Superior Court of California, County of San Diego

The Petition for Probate requests that Christopher L. Savage be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act.

(This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: on April 4, 2023, at 1:30 PM in Dept. 504 Judge Daniel S. Belsky located at the Superior Court of California County of San Diego 1100 Union Street San Diego, CA 92101 Probate Division

If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file

with the court a REQUEST FOR SPECIAL NOTICE (form

DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided

Petitioner: Christopher L. Savage 2363-2 Adirondack Row San Diego, CA 92139 (619) 731-1608 3/09, 3/16, 3/23

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF William Joseph O'Brien, aka William J. O'Brien, William Joseph Obrien and William J. Obrien Case Number: 37-2023-00007377-PRLA-CTL

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of William Joseph O'Brien, aka William J. O'Brien, William Joseph Obrien and William J. Obrien

A Petition for Probate has been filed by Susan Lynn Obrien in the Superior Court of California, County of San Diego

The Petition for Probate requests that Susan Lynn Obrien be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act.

(This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval.

Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows:

on June 27, 2023 at 10:30 AM

in Department 504 located at the Superior Court of California County of San Diego 1100 Union Street San Diego, CA 92101 Central - Probate Division

If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

You may examine the file kept by the court.

If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a REQUEST FOR SPECIAL NOTICE (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250.

A REQUEST FOR SPECIAL NOTICE form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner: Antoinette Middleton, Esq. Law Offices of Antoinette Middleton 1761 Hotel Circle South, Suite 115 San Diego, CA 92108 (619) 235-9501

BLACK HISTORY

1895

DR. REBECCA DAVIS LEE CRUMPLER DIES

Dr. Rebecca Davis Lee Crumpler was the first African American woman doctor in the United States. She completed medical school at the New England Female Medical College and received her M.D. in 1864. She was born free on February 8, 1831, to Absolum and Matilda (Webber) Davis in Christiana, Delaware. In 1883, Dr. Crumpler published a medical guidebook, Book of Medical Discourses, which primarily gave advice for women on the health care of their families.

Dr. Crumpler died on March 9, 1895. She was 64 at the time of her death. In 1989, she was honored for her achievements when Saundra Maass-Robinson, M.D. and Patricia Whitley, M.D. founded the Rebecca Lee Society, an organization that supports and promotes black women physicians.

2004

COLERIDGE-TAYLOR PERKINSON DIES

Musician, composer, and conductor Coleridge-Taylor Perkinson was born on June 14, 1932, in Manhattan, New York City. Perkinson’s mother, a talented pianist, organist, and theater director in the Bronx, named her son after the Afro-British composer, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor.

Perkinson had a long and successful career in the music industry. He worked as a music director and arranger for many famous jazz and soul artists including Marvin Gaye, Barbara McNair, Lou Rawls, Donald Byrd, Max Roach, Melvin Van Peebles, and Harry Belafonte. Perkinson also composed numerous musical scores for the stage, film, and television.

Coleridge-Taylor Perkinson passed away on March 9, 2004, in Chicago, Illinois.

Spring Cleaning: Don’t Toss That ‘Junk,’ It May Be Valuable!

It’s time to hit the garage, basement, attic and closets for that age-old task of spring cleaning!

Before hauling unwanted possessions to the curb, you may be surprised to learn they might be valuable -- especially if you have sports cards and memorabilia gathering dust.

With prices of sports cards rising in recent years, take time to determine if yours are valuable and how to best sell them.

“Older sports cards and memorabilia aren’t just highly collectible; they can be worth lots of money. Recent sales of scarce vintage cards have topped anywhere from thousands of dollars to tens of thousands, even hundreds of thousands. And really rare cards can go higher,” says Al Crisafulli, Auction Director at Love of the Game Auctions, an internet sports auction house that helps families identify and sell valuable items.

The key is understanding what makes old sports collectibles valuable. To help, Crisafulli is sharing some tips:

Older is Usually Pricier

Cards from the 1960s and earlier are collectible, and those from before the 1940s can be worth a lot of money, especially those depicting stars. Do you have cards of Hall of Famers, such as Mickey Mantle, Babe Ruth, Honus Wagner or Ty Cobb? Even non-stars from the early days of a sport can be worth big bucks, especially if the cards have no creases and retain sharp corners and original gloss.

If you have very old cards from the 1880s through the 1930s, look for tobacco, gum and candy brands, such as Old Judge, Piedmont, Sweet Caporal, Goudey or American Caramel.

If you want to sell sports items for the most money, consider a specialty auction, such as Love of the Game, which has the expertise to properly research sports ephemera and maintains bidder lists of collectors specializing in sports. More information is available at loveofthegameauctions.com.

Postcards and Photographs

We all have keepsakes of vacation destinations, but most aren’t valuable. However, photographs and postcards depicting sports stars and ball-

parks can be significant. Look for early “real photo” postcards from the 1900s through the 1940s, which are photographs printed on postcard backs.

As with sports cards, star power matters, so preserve those Babe Ruths as opposed to images of your great grandma’s baby cousin once-removed. And when it comes to photos, look for old markings on the back, such as photographer, publication and date stamps.

Memorabilia

Set aside old advertising posters depicting sports stars and food, tobacco or sporting goods brands. Ads from magazines aren’t valuable, but those used as store displays and for other marketing purposes can be pricey. Tin signs from the 1960 and earlier can be highly prized, but reproductions aren’t.

Your family’s sporting goods, such as balls, gloves and bats, can be valuable. Pre-1950s uniforms and catcher’s masks, helmets and other equipment are highly collected, especially when endorsed by star players. Top condition brings the highest prices, but even used equipment can be valuable.

“The golden rule is the older the sports card or item, the more valuable it usually is. Pre-1975 pieces start to get interesting and are worth researching,” says Crisafulli.

Don’t just clean out your “junk” this spring, examine it closely to potentially maximize its value.

StatePoint

PHOTO CAPTION: (c) liquidlibrary / Getty Images Plus

Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church

Eagles Nest Christian Center

Search:

We are a non-denominational full fellowship of believers dedicated to reach our community with the gospel and providing a place for believers to workship, learn, fellowship, serve and grow into the fullness of Christ Jesus. This ministry is to build people of Purpose, Prayer, Power, Praise and Prosperity. This mandate is being fulfilled by reaching the reality of the gospel in a simplistic fashion, and a result, learning how to apply it in everyday life.

“We are waiting for You”

Martha Andre Darrell

Dale Mathis

SUNRISE 02/02/1940

SUNSET 02/02/2023

ARRANGEMENTS BY ANDERSON-RAGSDALE MORTUARY

Funeral services were held on 02/22/2023 at Memory Chapel of Anderson Ragsdale Mortuary, with a burial following at Mt. Hope Cemetery. Final Arrangements were entrusted to Anderson Ragsdale Mortuary.

Martha “Dale” Mathis was born on February 2, 1940, to parents Aaron Mahone and Okie Mae Adams in Alma, Arkansas. She was the baby sister of six brothers: Thurman, Curtis, Howard, Palmer, John Neal, and Aaron (Billy Ray).

Dale attended Lincoln High School in Fort Smith, Arkansas. While in school, she met Robert James Mathis. In 1957 they married and welcomed their first daughter, Monica Dee. In 1959, the family settled in Pasadena, California. The sunny California life served them well. In 1961 they would welcome their second daughter, Vicki. Dale was an amazing mother. She spent time reading, playing games, and introducing other hobbies with her girls. Their tight union would persist until her death.

Having the opportunity to travel as a military family, they resided in multiple places which included Florida, Virginia, Seaside, California and ultimately San Diego, California. She was able to secure employment with a military contract working in food service. Dale forged many friendships that she would love and cherish for many years. In 2017, after 47 years of service, she would hang up her apron to enjoy her retirement.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Aaron Mahone and Okie Mae Adams, both of Arkansas; brothers Thurman Mahone, Curtis Mahone, Howard Mahone all of Arkansas, Aaron Mahone “Billy Ray” of San Diego, California, and Palmer Mahone of San Bernardino, California.

Martha Dale Mathis went home to be with God on her birthday February 2, 2023. She is survived by her beautiful daughters, Monica Ratcliffe of San Diego, California and Vicki Mathis of Winchester, California; her three adoring grandchildren Hugh Ratcliffe Jr and his wife Adrianna, Monya Morrow and her husband Marcus, and Abdul Ratcliffe all of San Diego, California, and James “Tre” Young III of Winchester, California; her four great-grandchildren Mariah Morrow, Marcus Morrow Jr, Markell Morrow and Makayla Morrow all of San Diego, California; her ride or die siblings John Neal Mahone of San Diego, California and Regina Gale Johnson of Arkansas; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Moss

SUNRISE 03/22/1960

SUNSET 01/27/2023

ARRANGEMENTS BY ANDERSON-RAGSDALE MORTUARY

Funeral services were held on 02/24/2023 at Memory Chapel of Anderson Ragsdale Mortuary. Final arrangements were entrusted to Anderson Ragsdale Mortuary.

Andre Darrell Moss was born March 22, 1960, to the late Joe Moss and Ruth Ann Williams in Pine Bluff Arkansas. Andre graduated from Dollarway Sr. High School, and shortly after joined the U.S. Navy in 1979, and served his country very proudly for 20 years.

Petty Officer First Class Moss’s awards included Navy Commendation Medal; Navy Achievement Medal, two gold stars; Joint Meritorious; Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation; Navy “E” Ribbon; Good Conduct Medal, four stars; Navy Expeditionary Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal; Sea Service Deployment Ribbons; Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist (EAWS); and Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist (ESWS).

After his honorable Military service, he was employed with Life Cycle Engineering San Diego, CA, Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) San Diego, CA. until his passing.

Andre loved to ride his motorcycle. When you saw his bike, leather jacket, helmet, and flags it would be a little confusing because you couldn’t tell if he loved the Military or the Raiders the most. He was proud to say he had love for both. After a ride or a long day, he would relax with a cigar and his favorite beverage.

Andre met his wife Trish in San Diego and united in holy matrimony in May 1999.

Andre passed on January 27, 2023. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe Moss Sr. and Ruth Ann Williams; and two brothers, Joe Moss Jr. and Ronald Holt Moss.

Andre’s precious memories will be cherished by his wife, Trish Moss; five children, Stacy Hill, Justin Randolph, Shaunte Wade, Etienne Thomas, and Andre Moss Jr.; eight sisters, Sheila Baines, Sharon Thompkins, Arlene Moore (Lee), Pamela Holt, Connie Logan, Lameco Butler, Yolanda Moss (Braswell), and Tiffany Hawkins; ten grandkids, Erik Magueyal, Trinity Williams-Hill, Passion Hill, Prince Hill, Patience Hill, Stacy Hill Jr., Timothy Tucker, J’Nya S. Sharpe, Jaleel Randolph, and Kye Farrow; one great-grandson, Noah Mercado; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will miss him dearly.

Doris June

ARRANGEMENTS BY PREFERRED

CREMATION & BURIAL MORTUARY

Funeral Services were held on February 2, 2023 at Bethel.

Doris June Bell was born on March 16, 1936, in Dallas, Texas to the union of Elzie Bell and Tessie Cola-Lorraine Friend-Brown.

Doris attended Memorial Jr. High and graduated from San Diego High School.

Doris later went on to obtain her nursing degree at Maric College of San Diego in 1996 at the young and ambitious age of sixty.

It was in the Summer of 1954 that Doris joined Claudell Beaner, Sr. in matrimony. This union produced five children. Doris’s purpose was vast and she fulfilled it as her career ranged from a retail clerk at F.W. Woolworth & Co., switchboard operator for Geico and National Steele and Shipbuilding, and retired from In-Home Supportive Services, as a Certified Home Health Nurse for over twenty years.

Doris in her early years was far from traditional. She would wake up and if she wanted to go to Fisherman’s wharf in San Francisco, she would go. She exposed her children to field trips that would sometimes find them out of state without notice and on adventures rich in history. Doris loved music of all genres and encouraged her children to find their musical talent. When not on an adventure, they spent their weekends reading books. Doris loved her family, laughter, and food. Mother also represents the “last man standing” on both paternal and maternal sides of her family.

Most importantly, Doris loved the Lord and lived for Christ. She was baptized at an early age at Bethel Baptist Church on 29th and Clay Streets under the late Reverend Charles H. Hampton and remained a faithful and dedicated servant of Christ under Dr. John W. Ringgold until her passing.

On February 9, 2023, God answered mother’s call and brought Doris home. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother Verdell Bell; and sister Carlee J. Daniels; twin nephews Melvin and Delvin Daniels; sons Gregory Lavaughn Beaner, Claudell Beaner, Jr., and Elzester Rodney Beaner Doris leaves to cherish her legacy her devoted daughters Dorinda Elaine Beaner and April Bathsheba Morgan; son-in-law Kerry Neville Morgan; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and her granddoggies Serjio and Sammzin. Doris also leaves her sister’s three children; and a host of family and friends.

ARRANGEMENTS BY PREFERRED CREMATION & BURIAL MORTUARY

Funeral Services were held on February 21, 2023, at Preferred’s Chapel.

Classie Rose Williams née Chappel was born on October 11, 1926, in Annona, Texas, to Josephine Ross and Thomas Chappel.

Classie Rose migrated to San Diego, California in the late 1950s with her mother, Josephine; her sisters, Corene, Claudie Mae and Catherine; and her four children, Adell, James, John and Herman. Her family’s migration is consistent with African-American migration patterns out of Texas (and other parts of the United States South) to various parts of the country, including California, for better social and economic opportunities. During a very difficult time in African-American history, Classie courageously pursued a better life for herself and her children.

She met her loving husband, Chris Williams, in San Diego and married him in 1970. Together, they fearlessly challenged racially restrictive covenants that imped

ed Black homeownership in San Diego and purchased a home in Sherman Heights in 1972. This home would quickly become a family and community pillar. It was in this domestic space that Classie Rose tended with deep care and precision to her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, pets, and beautiful flower and vegetable gardens. Classie’s home was a space where one could come enjoy a hot bowl of turnip and mustard greens, an earful of wisdom, a deep belly laugh, a sweet place to rest for a while, or even a vintage outfit. Classie’s house was a physical and spiritual manifestation of all that she was and endeavored to be: strong, beautiful, eclectic and righteous. She was a devout Jehovah’s Witness attending the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, San Diego. Classie Rose, as her family and community would lovingly come to refer to her, was called home at the fortified age of 96 on February 14, 2023. Notwithstanding all of her triumphs, Classie was no stranger to navigating and surviving grief and loss. She was preceded in death by her parents, Josephine and Thomas; her siblings, Willie, Corene, Nella, Tullie, Shepard, HP, Mary, Rufus, Claudia, James, Robert, Catherine, and Clarence; her children, Adell J. Walker-Scott, James M. Rose, and Herman C. Henderson; and grandchildren, Tonya Yavette Judge, Letisha Ruth West-Scott, and Timothy Lanore. She is deeply mourned by those she left behind: her son, John H. Henderson; grandchildren, Lelisha A. West, Angelique Rose, Issac Johnson, Stefania Rose-Evans, James Rose Jr., Tiffany Lanore, Antoinette P. Henderson, Johntae R. Henderson, Camesha L. Henderson, Michelle Williams, Deetta Williams, and Stephanie Mathis; great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

“

Memory is a way of holding on to the things you love, the things you are, the things you never want to lose.

Vi

ctorville Business woman Kisha Collier, of Funded w/Lady K, was recently selected to serve on the National Small Business Association (NSBA) Leadership Council. NSBA is the nation’s oldest small-business advocacy organization and operates on a staunchly nonpartisan

Question:

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basis. Collier, a recognized leader in the small-business community, joins the NSBA Leadership Council alongside other smallbusiness advocates from across the country as they work to promote the interests of small business to policymakers in Washington, D.C.

“As a small-business owner, I see daily the importance of being involved and active when it comes to laws and regulation,” stated Collier. “Joining NSBA’s Leadership Council will enable me to take our collective small-business message to the people that need to hear it most: Congress.”

As a Philanthropreneur, who has been an entrepreneur since the age of 19, it is important to Collier that her work builds a legacy that impacts the broader community. As the CEO/Founder of Funded w/ Lady K, it is her mission to support nonprofits and small businesses to increase their impact to achieve social change that is both scalable and sustainable through service, support, and advocacy.

Collier joined the NSBA Leadership Council as part of her efforts to tackle the many critical issues facing small business, includ -

ing tax reform, regulatory restraint, health care costs, and how access to capital will impact small business. The NSBA Leadership Council is focused on providing valuable networking between small-business advocates from across the country, while ensuring that small businesses have a seat at the table as Congress and regulators take up key small-business proposals.

By Lagrant Communications

Essential Health Access welcomes Roger B. Sweis to their Executive Leadership Team as a Chief Financial Officer. Roger will lead the Essential Health finance team in fulfilling the commitment to equity in expanding and protecting sexual and reproductive health care for all.

groups with a proven track record of successful government grant and contract management

As Essential Access Health’s CFO, Roger will lead and oversee the organization’s financial, accounting, tax compliance, employee benefits, contracts and facilities. He will be responsible for the strategic leadership of the finance, accounting and administrative functions, and provide financial strategy, budget management and forecasting needs to the organization. This drives the Essential Access mission to advance health equity through a wide range of programs and services including clinic support initiatives, provider training, advanced clinical research, advocacy and public awareness campaigns.

Roger is an award-winning Chief Financial Officer with 20 years of leadership experience. In his career, he has helped missiondriven organizations take their operations to the next level. He is a Founder/Co-Founder of 13 social enterprise organizations and special assistant to founders of over 100 organizations, nonprofits and real estate investment

Most recently, Roger served as the CFO of Community Health Councils in Los Angeles. In this role, he successfully managed a multidisciplinary team and the organization’s first large-scale federal audit. In addition, he led business process improvements in the HR, IT and Legal & Compliance divisions to help navigate 300% growth in revenue. Roger has also held CFO positions for organizations like Startup For America, SmarterHealth.io and The Wheelhouse Project, in addition to serving as Executive Vice President or Co-Founder. Team awards Roger has been recognized with

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“I am proud to have Kisha Collier as part of our Leadership Council,” stated NSBA President and CEO Todd McCracken. “She came to us highly recommended, and I look forward to our coordinated efforts for years to come.”

Funded w/Lady K is a one-stop concierge service to starting, managing, funding, and scaling mission-driven organizations. Collier says her service provides sustainable solutions to running a high impact BIPOC & WomenOwned nonprofits and small businesses so

the visionaries, founders, and entrepreneurs can go out there and solve some of the world’s most pressing problems. Her business motto is “Bridging the Gap Between Wealth and Equity Through Entrepreneurship”.

For more information visit www.fundedwithladyk.com and www.nsba.biz.

include American Health Data Conference’s Top 5 AHIMA Startup of the Year, Robinhood Foundation’s Social Impact Award and PepsiCo Challenge’s Innovation Grant Award.

Roger received his bachelor’s degree in Finance and Psychology from the University of Illinois. He received his master’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance & Entrepreneurship from the University of Chicago, where he was a Capstone Award Recipient. Roger is a founding team member of Impact Hub Nashville and a member of the Nashville Social Enterprise Alliance and Disruptive Innovation.

For more information on Essential Access Health, please visit www.essentialaccess.org.

About Essential Access Health

Essential Access Health champions and promotes quality sexual + reproductive health care for all. We achieve our mission through a wide range of programs and services including clinic support initiatives, provider trainings, advanced clinical research and advocacy + consumer awareness. Essential Access leads the Title X federal family planning program in California

and Hawaii. Essential Access was established in 1968, grounded in the belief that the ability to plan our families and futures and make informed, autonomous choices about our sexual and reproductive health are essential for overall health and well-being. More than fifty years later, Essential Access is committed to making access to high-quality, comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services and information a reality for everyone – regardless of income, race, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, or health insurance or documentation status.