By Maxim Elramsisy
On March 28, one day after three children and three adults were shot at the Covenant School, a Christian elementary school in Nashville, Tenn., the California Senate Public Safety Committee heard arguments for and against Senate Bill (SB) 2, legislation proposing enhancements to California’s existing concealed carry permit law.
Editor’s Note: Expelled state lawmaker Justin Jones was reinstated to the Tennessee House early Monday evening, on April 10, 2023, after receiving all 36 council votes cast
“I am a 60-year-old white woman, and [the two ousted] are two young Black men,” Johnson asserted.
“God bless the families of those little kids,” said the bill’s author, Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank) at the hearing. “Gun violence inflicts a terrible toll on our communities. Last year, nearly 20,000 people were killed in gun related homicides in the United States. To put that in perspective, it’s enough people to fill forty Boeing 747s, and sadly, the number keeps rising.”
In the news: Black Caucus Chair Lori Wilson is receiving medical treatment for cancer, Weber running for state senate and Tennessee Three
On Friday, California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) Chair Lori Wilson (D-Suisun) announced that she is receiving treatment for Breast Cancer.
The lawmaker, who was elected last year, thanked supporters for all the love and support she has received and assured constituents that she will still be fighting for their interests.
“I remain steadfast in my dedication to serve the residents of the 11th Assembly District,” Wilson said.
On April 6, Assemblymember Akilah Weber (D-La Mesa) announced she is entering the race to replace Senate President pro tempore Toni Atkins, who is termed out at the end of this year.
Weber, who is also a physician, represents the 79 th Assembly District in the greater San Diego area.
“I have successfully fought to improve access to quality healthcare, strengthen our education system, protect our environment, and further economic prosperity,” Weber said in a statement. “As State Senator for District 39, I will continue this fight.”
Weber’s announcement came roughly a week after County Supervisor Nathan Fletcher withdrew from the race citing his battle with alcohol abuse and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Fletcher is also facing allegations of sexual harassment and infidelity.
American democracy took another stake through the heart in Tennessee, where Republicans in the state House of Representatives shamelessly ignored the will of voters and ousted two Black elected Democrats who joined a protest against gun violence.
The GOP supermajority in Tennessee declined to remove Rep. Gloria Johnson, a white Democrat who joined the protest.
“It’s pretty clear why,” she continued, insisting that the move primarily results from racism.
Reps. Justin Jones and Justin Pearson, along with Johnson, protested on the House floor after the murder of three 9-year-old students and three adults at an elementary school in Nashville.
The trio called for gun reform and led chants inside the House chamber.
Jones and Pearson were expelled. They said they were blocked from speaking about gun violence, and GOP leaders cut their microphones, leading them to use a bullhorn to get their message across.
Republican Reps. Bud Hulsey, Andrew Farmer, and Gino Bulso followed up by removing all three elected Democrats from their committee assignments and issuing three resolutions calling for their ouster from the state legislature.
NASA on Monday named the four astronauts who will fly around the moon late next year, including the first woman and the first African American assigned to a lunar mission.
In 2021, Weber won a special election to replace her mother, Shirley N. Weber, in the Assembly after the elder Weber was appointed Secretary of State by Gov. Gavin Newsom.
The Republican Majority in the Tennessee House of Representatives took the unprecedented move last week to expel two Black Democratic lawmakers, former Rep. Justin Jones and former Rep. Justin Pearson, for protesting for gun control during session.
The first moon crew in 50 years — three Americans and one Canadian — was introduced during a ceremony in Houston, home to the nation’s astronauts as well as Mission Control.
“This is humanity’s crew,” said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. The four astronauts will be the first to fly NASA’s Orion capsule, launching atop a Space Launch System rocket from Kennedy Space Center no earlier than late 2024. They will not land or even go into lunar orbit, but rather fly around the moon and head straight back to Earth, a prelude to a lunar landing by two others a year later.
The mission’s commander, Reid Wiseman, will be joined by Victor Glover, an African American naval aviator; Christina Koch, who holds the world record for the longest space-
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“Today is a very dangerous day for America,” Jones said. “A lynch mob assembled to not lynch me, but our democratic process.”
Henrell Remus, the chair of the Tennessee Democratic Party, said the expulsions amounted to a direct political attack on Democrats. He said the move sets a dangerous precedent for political retribution.
“The day that a majority can simply expel a member of the opposing party without legitimate cause threatens the fabric of democracy in our state and creates a reckless roadmap for GOP-controlled state legislatures across the nation,” Remus stated.
The expulsion of Jones and Pearson was also a move to hide the issue of gun control, said Rep. Sam McKenzie, chair of the Tennessee Black Caucus of State Legislators.
“This was not about that kangaroo court that happened yesterday. This was about those three young children and those three guardians, those three adults, whose lives were taken away senselessly,” McKenzie said.
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SB 2 would make 21 the required age to apply for a Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW), although existing state legislation restricts the sales of pistols to people under 21. A system of appeals would also be created for people initially denied the permit. The bill would also limit where people can carry firearms, creating locations called “sensitive sites” where guns would be prohibited. Property owners of sites where guns are off limits would have the authority to allow guns if they choose.
California’s prior concealed carry permit law, which required that applicants show reason for needing to carry a concealed firearm, was deemed unconstitutional by the U.S. Supreme Court last year in the case of New York State Rifle & Pistol Association, Inc. v. Bruen.
In a 6-3 vote, the high court’s conservative majority ruled that “may-issue” systems, like those used in New York, California and three other states using “arbitrary” evaluations of need, made by local authorities, are unconstitutional. States are, however, allowed to enforce “shall-issue” permitting, where applicants for concealed carry permits must satisfy certain objective criteria, such as passing a background check.
“Bruen affirmed the ability of states to keep firearms out of the hands of dangerous individuals and out of certain sensitive places. With SB 2, California does just that. It provides objective, reasonable guidance that prevents CCW permits from being issued to dangerous individuals and provides a list of places where weapons may not be carried,” said Portantino. “The presence of firearms in public increases the dan-
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flight by a woman; and Canada’s Jeremy Hansen, a former fighter pilot and the crew’s lone space rookie. Wiseman, Glover and Koch have all lived on the International Space Station. All four are in their 40s.
“This is a big day. We have a lot to celebrate and it’s so much more than the four names that have been announced,’’ Glover said.
This is the first moon crew to include someone from outside the U.S. — and the first crew in NASA’s new moon program named Artemis after the twin sister of mythology’s Apollo. Late last year, an empty Orion capsule flew to the moon and back in a long-awaited dress rehearsal.
“The world saw what happened. [The GOP] ought to be ashamed of themselves.”
President Joe Biden also chimed in, calling the move shocking, undemocratic, and without precedent.
The president noted that Jones and Pearson stood in solidarity with students and families “and helped lift their voices.”
Former President Barack Obama noted that America “was built on peaceful protest.”
“No elected official should lose their job simply for raising their voice, especially when they’re doing it on behalf of our children,” Obama stated.
“What happened in Tennessee is the latest example of a broader erosion of civility and democratic norms. Silencing those who disagree with us is a sign of weakness, not strength, and it won’t lead to progress.”
Only twice since the Civil War has the Tennessee State House expelled a member, the last time in 2016 when they removed Jeremy Durham for sexual misconduct. In 1983, the body voted to remove Robert Fisher for soliciting a bribe.
gers of intentional or accidental gun violence—at the workplace, at the movies, or on the road. One study showed that states with permissive right-to-carry laws experience 29% more workplace homicides than states with more restrictive licensing requirements.”
During the hearing, opposition came from handfuls of law enforcement groups, particularly from the southern part of the state, including the Los Angeles Police Officers Association and the Orange County Sheriffs Association.
“Addressing Bruen in this way is unnecessarily complicated and overly burdensome,” said California State Sheriffs’ Association Legislative Director Cory Salzillo. “Given what we’ve seen in other states, it is likely to be challenged and probably overturned in whole or in part.”
In the nation’s most populous county, the Los Angeles County Sheriff Department (LASD) is responsible for taking applications and issuing CCWs. Though the Sheriff did not endorse the bill publicly, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors did, and in a written statement to California Black Media (CBM) the LASD appeared to tacitly support the bill.
“Recently, several of our California Government leaders have joined together to announce new gun legislation which would enhance gun safety laws in California.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has partnered with the Board of Supervisors on the added gun safety measures and how we can bring awareness to the communities we serve,” the statement said.
Before the hearing, CBM asked Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna about the proposed bill.
“Am I excited? Absolutely,” Koch said to cheers from the crowd of schoolchildren, politicians and others. “But my real question is: ‘Are you excited?’” she said to more cheers.
The Canadian Space Agency snagged a seat because of its contributions of big robotic arms on NASA’s space shuttles and the space station. One is also planned for the moon project.
Hansen said he’s grateful that Canada is included in the flight.
“We are going to the moon together. Let’s go!” he said.
During Apollo, NASA sent 24 astronauts to the moon from 1968 through 1972. Twelve of them landed. All were military-trained male test pilots except for Apollo 17’s Harrison Schmitt, a geologist
Congressional Black Caucus Chair Steven Horsford (D-NV) called on Nashville and Shelby counties to immediately appoint Jones and Pearson back to their seats. Horsford also called on U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland to issue a determination under the Civil Rights Act on whether the move complied with federal law about non-discrimination and for corporations in Tennessee to publicly condemn the GOP’s action.
“Apparently, Tennessee Republicans care more about stopping certain Democrats from speaking than they do about stopping America’s kids from getting shot to death in schools,” Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) stated.
“Tennessee Republicans’ vindictive overreaction to a peaceful protest in support of gun control following the Nashville school massacre carries the stench of white supremacy,” Council on American-Islamic Relations National Deputy Director Edward Ahmed Mitchell said. “We condemn this unjustified and racially-charged vote, and we expect it to only embolden activists and voters to become more involved in the political process.”
“I believe we have to change the status quo when it comes to guns because there’s way too much gun violence,” he said. “I don’t want to take guns away from legal gun owners, but I always believe that there has to be a path to doing it right.”
The threat of legal challenges is almost certain.
“Any law that we passed through the Legislature, someone can bring a challenge to. That’s not a unique circumstance. This bill will probably be challenged,” said Portantino. “But do we believe it’s constitutional? Absolutely. We looked at the Bruen decision as a roadmap to create a constitutionally sound approach. The Supreme Court said you can’t be arbitrary, so this bill is not arbitrary. It’s creating concrete criteria of who should and shouldn’t be eligible to get this responsibility of having a concealed carry permit, that’s consistent with the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court said you can have prohibited places. This bill has prohibited places that make sense.”
The Bill was advanced through the committee after a 4-1 vote and will next be heard on April 10 by the Committee on Appropriations.
In 2022, California Gov. Gavin Newsom endorsed Senate Bill (SB) 918, also authored by Portantino with provisions similar to SB 2. That bill failed to pass in the Legislature.
In Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill last week making the Sunshine State the 25th state to allow concealed carry with virtually no extra permitting or stipulations. Newsom, who spent time in Florida during the week, strongly criticized the action. “Don’t be fooled by the @GOP lies. Permit-less carry does not make you safer. States with open carry laws have higher gun violence rates,” Newsom said on Twitter.
who closed out that moonlanding era alongside the late Gene Cernan. Provided this next 10-day moonshot goes well, NASA aims to land two astronauts on the moon by 2025 or so.
NASA picked from 41 active astronauts for its first Artemis crew. Canada had four candidates. Almost all of them took part in Monday’s ceremony at Johnson Space Center’s Ellington Field, a pep rally of sorts that ended with Wiseman leading the crowd in a chant.
President Joe Biden spoke with the four astronauts and their families on Sunday. In a tweet Monday, Biden said the mission “will inspire the next generation of explorers, and show every child — in America, in Canada, and across the world — that if they can dream it, they can be it.”
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The decision, which was widely criticized — even by members of the GOP — was met with widespread condemnation across the country, including several prominent Black leaders in California.
The California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) issued a statement.
“Our 12-member body of Black legislators representing Black Californians boldly stand with our Tennessee state legislative colleagues in the national fight to end the illegal use of guns and the devastating violence it brings onto our communities and families,” said CLBC Chair, Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun).
CLBC Vice Chair, Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Inglewood) says he and his Black colleagues in the California State Legislature would take the same approach.
“We are in solidarity with the two courageous brothers exercising their first amendment right. We would have taken the same approach in representing the people’s voices,” Bradford added.
Dezie Woods-Jones, President and founding member of Black Women Organized for Political Action (BWOPA) said the expelled Tennessee lawmakers were exercising their constitutional rights and fulfilling their duties as elected officials.
“BWOPA-CA proudly stands in solidarity with Tennessee representatives Jones and Pearson and call for their immediate reinstatement,” Woods Jones said. This is a stark reminder of the focused work that is before us to complete in dismantling systemic biases — even against our elected leaders.
Last week, California Attorney General Rob Bonta released a program report on the state’s Prohibited Persons System (APPS), the only resource of its kind in the United States created to track registered firearm owners whose rights to possess guns have been revoked by authorities.
Launched in 2006, the APSS database identifies gun owners who have fallen into prohibited status, including people convicted of felonies or violent misdemeanors and others under restraining orders for domestic violence or other offenses.
“I’m proud of the work our Special Agents do on behalf of the people of California,” said Bonta. “These brave agents are rarely in the spotlight, but they are working every day to prevent gun violence from ever happening by removing dangerous weapons from communities.”
According to the report, the California Department of Justice (DOJ) made significant progress over the course of 2022 identifying people who own guns illegally and recovering weapons in their possession.
“DOJ recovered 1,437 firearms — including 712 handguns, 360 rifles, 194 shotguns, 80 assault weapons, 54 ghost guns, 43 receivers or frames, 3 short-barreled shotguns, and 1 machine gun,” read a DOJ Press release. “Agents also seized 308 large-capacity magazines, 2,123 standard capacity magazines, and 281,299 rounds of ammunition through APPS enforcement actions. As of January 1, 2023, there were 3,347,221 known registered firearm owners in California of which 23,869 are prohibited from owning or possessing firearms, making up less than 1%.”
A bill making its way through the California Assembly is proposing a five-year pilot program that would temporarily legalize speed enforcement cameras in six California cities: Los Angeles, San Jose, Oakland, Glendale, Long Beach and San Francisco.
Introduced by Assemblymembers Phil Ting (D-San Francisco) and Laura Friedman (D-Glendale), Assembly Bill (AB) 645 to encourage safe driving and lower the incidents of car crashes that result in injuries or death.
“My city of San Francisco is committed to reducing traffic fatalities to zero,” Ting said in a press release explaining the proposal. “More than 70% of our city’s fatalities occur on just 12% of our streets.”
Legislations similar to AB 645 have met resistance both at the local and state level from privacy advocates who argue that the remote cameras will be intrusive and law enforcement organizations who fear automating that function would eliminate police officer jobs.
Last week, the White House approved major disaster support for California’s recovery from a series of severe storms that have battered the state.
According to a White House press release, the emergency aid is to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe winter storms, straightline winds, flooding, landslides, and mudslides beginning on February 21, 2023, and continuing.”
Gov. Newsom said California’s first responders have already been deployed to hard-hit areas of the state where the need for recovery aid is most urgent.
“We are committed to supporting our communities over the long haul and thank the Biden Administration for their continued partnership,” said Gov. Gavin Newsom. The Presidential Major Disaster Declaration will help Californians in impacted counties through eligibility for several programs and supports that can include housing assistance, food aid, counseling, and medical and legal services.”
The federal funds will benefit people impacted in Kern, Mariposa, Monterey, San Benito, Santa Cruz, Tulare, and Tuolumne counties, according to the governor.
To apply for assistance, residents and business owners in the impacted counties can register online at www. DisasterAssistance.gov or call 1-800621-3362 or 1-800-462-7585 TTY.
Last week, the California Democratic Party announced the theme for its 2023 convention, which will be held May 25 to May 28: “Don’t Agonize, Organize.”
During this year’s conference, which will be held in Los Angeles, the California Democratic Party Black Caucus (CDPBC) will hold elections and U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (D-CA-11) will be honored.
Assemblymember Corey Jackson (D-Riverside) is currently chair of the CDPBC.
Register online at cdpconvention.org and get a listing of events.
A number of vacancies are about to open in San Diego County politics. First the r esignation of Board of Supervisor, Nathan Fletcher. This vacancy must be filled by a special election, regardless of the cost. We cannot have political interest other than that of the people who are empowered to vote, and make such life-impacting decisions for all of us. There can be no special appointment of any individual for any interim period of time other than a duly elected person to carry out the balance of Fletcher’s term.
Next, this special election is already triggering other electoral shifts. With Fourth City Council District representative Monica Montgomery Steppe expected to announce that she will seek to fill the vacancy created by Fletcher’s resignation from the Fourth Supervisorial District seat, there will be a vacancy created on the San Diego City Council. While these positions are nonpartisan, no one should assume that the San Diego County Democratic Club has any special role or ability under either the City of San Diego Charter or the San Diego County Charter, with each charter governing the operation of its respective body. Therefore, neither the County nor any other political body should be allowed to determine for us who will fill any vacancy. At best, they can only make recom -
mendations and we as the community must not be persuaded by the early declarations of any group to fill vacancies.
Third, with State Senator Tony Atkins terming out in the 39th Senatorial District and Supervisor Fletcher no longer a contender to replace her, a decision has been made by State Assembly District Representative, Dr. Akila Weber, to run for the Senate seat to replace Atkins. Dr. Weber, who was elected in a special election to replace her mother, Dr. Shirley Weber, upon her appointment by the Governor to the position of Secretary of State. This shift means that the 79th Assembly District seat in the State legislature will be open as of the next election during which Assemblywoman Weber will be running to replace Senator Atkins.
All this movement can either create tremendous opportunity, a loss of opportunity or a major step backward for Black political advancement in San Diego County. The real question in all of this is what role will you, the potential voter, play? The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint in conjunction with Black Men & Women United will be open to a series of discussion groups to any who would like the opportunity to talk about these issues and the people who might present themselves to fill the expectant vacancies. If interested in such a discussion session, please contact the newspaper, either by email or telephone and leave your name and suggested dates you would be interested in such meetings. Collectively, we are interested in people who desire to serve rather than seeking the opportunity to be served. You may also send letters to the editor for publication of your views. All comments are welcomed.
(Letter Received from Concerned Community Member)
Dear Editor,
I am a member of the CARE Center’s stakeholders group and during a meeting with DA Summer, we asked if Grace’s replacement would be able to come from the outside. We were told by the DA – [District Attorney] there would be an external opportunity to become the next ED – [Executive Director]. We later had a meeting this month and were told that the Assistant DA Dwain Woodley decided to stay internal like they have been doing. We were told that the ED was Martin Arias. Then we went to the website and found out he is a Co-director with Deputy DA Heather Trocha.
Prevention and intervention program initiatives work with the community stakeholders to identify gaps we thought but we see where things change once the meeting is over. The co-executive directors of the Diversion and Community Programs/CARE Center will hopefully share the full scope of what our community can look forward to. We wanted to keep our community out of the system and now we believe they want to create programs once they are in the system.
Sincerely,
Francine Maxwell
The recent massacre of three students and three adults in Nashville is alarming. How and why did a former student invade the school locked and loaded with an automatic weapon and ruthlessly kill innocent students and their caretakers? While it is useless to speculate on the thought process that led someone to kill people, perhaps to make a statement, it is clear that the multiple school shootings that have taken place in the last several months have encouraged many to continue the trend by executing shootings of their own. In the wake of the March 27 Nashville shooting, we were treated to the usual rhetoric of “thoughts and prayers” and even calls for stronger gun legislation. But the gun lobby is so strong and gun-toting zealots so politically powerful that attempts to limit the availability of automatic weapons get caught in the political crossfire. Anyone can offer thoughts and prayers. Who is willing to change policy to protect our students?
While I am wondering how students are reacting to the ever-present school shootings, the American Association of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), and the Children’s Hospital Association declared a national emergency in children’s mental health two years ago, citing the severe toll of the COVID-19 pandemic on top of existing challenges. While their report does not explicitly reference school shootings as part of the problem, Lee Savio Beers, AAP President, said, “Young people have endured so much throughout this pandemic, and while much of the attention is often placed on its physical health consequences, we cannot overlook the escalating mental health crisis facing our patients.” The mental health crisis shows up through increasing incidences of child suicide, the second leading cause of death for young people 10-24 in 2018.
The number has likely increased since we have experienced much disruption since the COVID epidemic that shifted life paradigms between 2019 and 2021. If adults have problems handling this disruption, how do we think our children and young adults are faring? “We are caring for young people with soaring rates of depression, anxiety, trauma, loneliness, and suicidality that will have lasting impacts on them, their families, their communities, and all of our futures,” said AACAP President Gabrielle A. Carlson, M.D. “This is a national emergency, and the time for swift and deliberate action is now.”
The 2021 report noted that young people in communities of color had been impacted by the pandemic more than others and how the ongoing struggle for racial justice is inextricably tied to the worsening mental health crisis. When young people witness the heinous killings of Black motorists or people simply “walking while Black,” how does it affect their mental health? While our attention is focused on young people who are students, we have often ignored the children who, as young as twelve or thirteen, are working in unsafe environments. There are federal child labor laws that restrict the hours that those under 16 can work, especially during school hours. Too many employers ignore the rules and are rarely held accountable.
See CHILDREN page 15
Dear Editor,
The policy board didn’t renew Peter’s contract but he still gets paid until June and the lawsuit moves forward. The interim CEO is out so the public is waiting to hear from the Workforce Development Board who hasn’t shared when the public can come and make any comments about what is taking place with our taxpayers dollars. With two boards deciding a variety of funding decisions and priorities, we would think that they could have hired a consultant locally and not from Maryland (Pamela J. Green). Maybe at the next board meeting on May 18th at 8am - when most of San Diego is at work - we will learn who will be running the organization. We hope that the Policy Board will ask some hard questions like why is Intesa on retainer for $7k-$8k month? Why is the consultant getting $12k a month and what has she done already? What is her scope of work and has she deviated from it? The public needs to be informed as we wait for a possible settlement in the lawsuit as well.
Sincerely, Concerned Community Member
Search: Pastor John E. Warren San Diego
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.
In times of darkness, love sees…
In times of silence, love hears...
In times of doubt, love hopes…
In times of sorrow, love heals...
And in all times, love remembers.
Until
And
Services will be held Monday, 9 a.m. at Exodus Church. Final arrangements are in the care of California Cremation and Burial.
Hinson Richard Hicks Sr. was born December 5th, 1924, in Madison, Florida. He was the ninth of ten children born to Margaret Ann and William Alexander Hicks.
Although he only had a limited education, he did not let that hold him back. If you have ever sat and talked to him or asked for advice, you’d quickly realize that education is not just gained through books.
He attended Saint John’s Missionary Baptist Church in Live Oak, FL and when Hinson was 14, he was baptized. Hinson was a loyal member of Exodus Church in San Diego and on September 22, 2007, he was ordained a Deacon. Hinson joined the United States Navy in 1946. He served in 3 wars – WWII, Korean and Vietnam Wars, before retiring after 22 years as a 2nd Class Petty Officer in 1965. Military life was very different for him and he often spoke of passing exams but being overlooked for promotions, despite being a ‘squared away sailor.’ Upon retiring, Hinson began working for the Federal Civil Service at 32nd Street Naval Station. Retiring again in 1986, after another 20-year career.
Hinson was married to Margaret Elizabeth Williams. The marriage lasted 59 years until her passing in 2005 from cancer and bore 10 children – 5 boys and 5 girls.
Hinson was active in the military community. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion Post 310 in San Diego and the VFW Post 5179. He was a proud sailor!
Hinson passed March 22, 2023, and leaves behind a legacy. Left to mourn are his children Hinson Richard Jr. (Helen), Dolores Spear, Ronald, Glorietta Frasier (Eric), Calvin (Ynez), Pamela, Marjorie McPike (LaMonte); sisters in law Betty Newby and Grace Dixon, 25 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, 7 great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nephews, nieces, extended family members and friends.
ou’ve selected your insurance plan for the year. Now, it’s time to start using your benefits, beginning with an annual wellness exam.
An annual wellness exam with a healthcare provider is important for everyone, but especially for older adults. As we age, we are more likely to develop chronic health conditions, according to Dr. J.B. Sobel, chief medical officer for Cigna Medicare, which serves hundreds of thousands of older adults through its products. An annual wellness exam can help detect potential health issues early so they can be addressed before they worsen, he added.
“By meeting with your primary care provider early in the year, you can highlight the things that are important to you, and work together to develop a plan for your care for the year ahead,”
Sobel said. “This will ensure you live each day with vitality, happiness and improved health.”
Many providers will reach out to schedule an annual wellness exam. If your provider doesn’t contact you, make sure to call them.
A number of annual check-ups are available at no extra cost to those with Medicare. They include a “Welcome to Medicare” visit for customers who have just reached Medicare eligibility and an “Annual Wellness Exam” for existing customers. Many Medicare Advantage (MA) plans offer more extensive annual visits at no extra cost. Some even offer incentives for completing a visit. Talk with your provider and Medicare insurer about your benefits. Each annual exam may be a little different. Regardless of the type, Sobel offers the following tips to ensure you get the most from your visit.
Prepare. Before you go, write down anything you’d like to discuss with your healthcare provider, including changes to your health over the past year. Bring your prescription and over-the-counter medications with you. Ask plenty
of questions and take notes. You might even want to take along a family member, trusted friend or caregiver to ensure you understand everything your provider has shared.
Be open and honest. It’s tempting to make things look rosier than they are when talking to your healthcare provider, but minimizing what you are feeling can lead to an incorrect diagnosis or prescription. Speak openly about unhealthy habits, like smoking or lack of exercise. Your provider won’t judge you. Being honest is the only way your healthcare provider can help you reach your goals.
Mind mental health. Your emotional health impacts your physical health. Many people think depression is a natural part of aging, but it doesn’t have to be. Talk to your doctor if you are feeling sad, anxious or hopeless. Treatments, such as talk therapy, medication or both, may be covered by Medicare. Monitor medications. Adults aged 65 and older tend to take more medications than other age groups, increasing the risk for adverse reactions, such as cognitive impairment and falls. It’s a good idea to take your medications to your annual wellness exam
and discuss any potential problems or side effects you’re experiencing. Don’t forget about over-the-counter drugs, vitamins or nutritional supplements you take. Schedule screenings and get vaccines. There are a number of important health screenings and vaccines that you may need depending on your age and gender, such as colon cancer screening, bone density test, mammogram, flu shot or COVID-19 immunization. Ask your provider about the screenings and vaccines you’ve had already and schedule any you need as soon as possible. You may even be able to do that before you leave the office. Also, don’t forget to visit your eye doctor and dentist. These visits are covered by many MA plans as well.
TYhe Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
In 2022, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra implemented actions to improve maternal health and reduce health disparities, and this year, the Biden-Harris Administration has continued to champion policies to improve maternal health and equity. Vice President Kamala Harris convened a meeting with Becerra and other Cabinet leaders amplifying a whole-of-government approach to reducing maternal mortality and morbidity.
On Monday, April 10, President Biden issued another proclamation to begin Black Maternal Health Week. The president called the week a reminder that so many families experience pain, neglect, and loss during what should be a joyous occasion.
Biden called it urgent that all act.
“Black women in America are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white women,” the president remarked. “This is on top of the fact that women in America are dying at a higher rate from pregnancy-related causes than in any other developed nation.”
He insisted that tackling the crisis begins with understanding how institutional racism drives these high maternal mortality rates. Studies show that Black women
are often dismissed or ignored in hospitals and other health care settings, even as they suffer from severe injuries and pregnancy complications and ask for help, the president reminded.
He said systemic inequities are also to blame.
“When mothers do not have access to safe and stable housing before and after childbirth, they are at
gerous consequences for pregnant women and newborns. And when families cannot afford nutritious foods, they face worse health outcomes.”
He claimed his administration has penned the blueprint for addressing the maternal health crisis, an agenda that lays out specific actions the federal government would take to improve maternal health and secured funding from Congress to help implement it.
“Vice President Kamala Harris has been a leader on the issue of maternal mortality for years and led the charge to improve maternal health outcomes, including by issuing a call to action to address disparities in maternal care,” Biden stated.
“She continues to elevate the issue nationally, convening State legislators, medical professionals, and others so all mothers can access the care they need before, during, and after childbirth.”
The president continued:
“Additionally, my American Rescue Plan gave States the option to provide a full year of postpartum coverage to Medicaid beneficiaries — up from just 60 days of coverage.
greater risk of falling ill,” Biden exclaimed. When women face barriers traveling to the hospital for prenatal and postpartum checkups, they are less likely to remain healthy. Air pollution, water pollution, and lead pipes can have dan -
“As a result, my Administration has approved requests from 30 States and Washington, D.C. to provide women with Medicaid coverage with a full year of postpartum coverage, and we have made this
option permanent for every State that extends Medicaid postpartum coverage.
“My Administration has helped facilitate Medicaid expansion in four States since I took office, and I continue to call on the Congress to close the Medicaid coverage gap.
“We are also working to expand and diversify the maternal health workforce, helping health care providers hire and train diverse and culturally competent physicians, certified nurse midwives, doulas, and community health workers to support women during pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum care.”
The president’s budget includes $471 million to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity rates,
improving access to care in rural communities, expanding implicit bias training for health care providers, and further supporting the perinatal health workforce.
“This week, as we continue our work to make pregnancy and childbirth safe, dignified, and joyful for all, let us remember that health care should be a right and not a privilege,”
Biden continued:
“Let us give thanks to the extraordinary maternal health care workforce, which serves its patients and their families every day. And let us join in common cause to end the tragedy of maternal mortality once and for all.”
$1.1M
San Diego Foundation announced April 6 it has awarded $1,130,000 in grants to local nonprofit organizations to increase the number of underrepresented students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) careers.
The 2023 grant recipients include: California State University San Marcos Foundation (CSUSM) - $70,000 to engage underrepresented and first-generation college students in research and professional devel opment activities.
Groundwork San Diego – Chollas Creek$70,000 to strengthen career pathways for low-income Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) high school students.
MiraCosta College Foundation - $70,000 for a learning training program that fosters talent among undergraduate biotechnology students.
San Diego State University Research Foundation - $70,000, engaging underrepresented, low-income and first-generation students with summer research internships.
Scripps Research Institute - $70,000, providing high school students interested in health sciences, math/statistics and computational solutions with projects and faculty mentorships in genomics, digital health, data science and biomedical research.
University of California San Diego Center for Research on Educational Equity, Assessment & Teaching Excellence (UCSD CREATE) - $70,000 to provide paid industry/research summer internships, workshops and training to community college students.
UCSD ENLACE - $70,000 to encourage the participation of high school students in sciences and engineering research conducted in Latin America and the U.S.
UCSD PATHS - $70,000 to build a diverse cohort of future leaders, contributing their perspectives in solving scientific/technological challenges.
University of San Diego - $70,000 to connect
high school/college students with hands-on internships that develop the skills needed by employers.
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance - $60,000 to give underrepresented undergraduate/graduate San Diego students studying computer science, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering the opportunity to learn/work in the SDZWA Conservation Technology Lab. Miramar College Foundation - $50,000 to provide subsidized academic internships to underrepresented and/or low-income young adult college students to gain hands-on work experience.
Salk Institute for Biological Studies$50,000 to host an 8-week internship in biological research labs for high schoolers to conduct research under the guidance and mentorship of Salk’s community of scientists.
Elementary Institute of Science - $35,000 to provide college preparation assistance to underserved BIPOC high school students interested in STEM majors/careers.
San Diego Squared - $25,000 to connect students from underrepresented backgrounds with leading STEM companies through paid internships, hands-on laboratory training, mentorship and work-readiness skills preparation.
For more information about the SDF Science & Technology Program, visit SDFoundation. org/STEM.
Continuing its efforts to expand the supply of affordable housing, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors has made $25 million available for affordable housing developments. In addition to these funds, Project Based Housing Choice vouchers and Project Based Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing vouchers are also available.
The latest round of funding available is through the Innovative Housing Trust Fund. It will be administered by the County’s Housing and Community Development Services (HCDS).
Developers can access the Notice of Funding Availability through the County Buynet system [at buynet.sdcounty.ca.gov] and HCDS website [at sandiegocounty.gov]. The deadline to apply is June 5, 2023. Proposals to be considered will support housing for seniors, transition-aged foster youth, veterans, persons experiencing homelessness, low-income families and other at-risk groups.
“This is a huge step forward to continue expanding permanent affordable housing options for our most vulnerable neighbors and our heroes who served,” said HCDS Director David Estrella. “We will continue chipping away at the housing crisis, getting more people off the street and into a place they can feel safe calling home.”
This funding is available for affordable developments across the county, and Project Based Housing Choice vouchers and Project
Based Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing vouchers (VASH PBV) are available in all areas, except the incorporated cities of San Diego, Carlsbad, National City, Oceanside, and Encinitas which operate their own housing agencies.
County of San Diego Housing and Community Development Services is helping more than 42,000 people a year through various affordable housing programs. Since 2017, the County has invested more than $240 million in affordable housing, including using County excess property and its Innovative Housing Trust Fund. Efforts since then have resulted in the opening of 1,125 new units with an additional 3,144 units on the way. When all upcoming developments under construction or in planning are complete, the total number of affordable units supported by the County will reach nearly 7,600, providing homes to more than 16,700 people.
This new funding availability and other endeavors are part of the County’s ongoing response to the region’s housing affordability crisis. Efforts also are underway to create a roadmap, or Housing Blueprint, to guide our ongoing response. Community input remains vital to the County’s efforts to address the crisis to date. People are encouraged to review the Housing Blueprint to help inform final recommendations for its goals and objectives before it is presented later this year to the Board of Supervisors.
State Controller Malia M. Cohen headlined a standing room-only breakfast reception at Housing California’s 2023 Annual Conference held at the newly remodeled San Diego Town and Country Hotel. The conference is Housing California’s premier event and drew over 2,000 professionals from around the state.
The Black Developers Forum
(BFD) hosted this signature event bringing together many of California’s Black developers as well as professionals from all facets of the housing industry including affordable, multi-family, and market rate real estate developers, land use planners, financial investors and lenders, housing advocates, and government officials.
“I want to take the personal privilege to recognize and acknowledge the Black Developer’s Forum,” said Controller Cohen. “I am aware of the advocacy, sweat equity, and
courage you demonstrated in establishing the state of California’s BIPOC affordable housing pool.”
The BIPOC affordable housing pool is a $115 million fund focused on increasing the engagement of Black and Indigenous people of color in the development of affordable housing in California. BDF takes pride in partnering with the former California Housing Financing Authority Director, Tia Boatman, and the California Tax Credit Allocation Committee (TCAC) in creating this historic fund which has at its core diversity, equity, and inclusion within the affordable housing space.
Controller Cohen also emphasized the importance of the BDF partnering with the state leaders to close the 2.5 million housing gap by 2030 while simultaneously
ensuring a full spectrum of housing opportunities in California.
As CA’s newly elected State Controller and a mem ber of the TCAC and the Debt Limit Allocation Committee, she committed to working with developers across CA, and in particular the BDF, to identify necessary tools and resources to incentivize the development of new housing in CA.
Many breakfast attendees applauded the BDF for hosting such a meaningful and informative event that showcased the diversity of the housing development business that is often overlooked in mainstream conference events.
Local developer and a founder of BDF, Reese A. Jarrett of E. Smith & Company, and Chairperson and a founder, Cherene Sandidge, also addressed the breakfast reception
attendees.
BDF is a non-profit organization anchored in affordable housing and community development, with a to represent Black real estate developers in advocating for policies, funding, access to capital, professional development, research and data, and collaborative opportunities to ensure their development of housing in California while simultaneously building vibrant and economically thriving communities. BDF also advances member achievements across all business sectors.
Morse, Mission Bay, Hoover, Madison, UC, and Chula Vista high School’s were some of the teams invited to compete in an all day 7-on-7 All The Smoke football tournament last Saturday on Hoover High School’s turf. Quarterbacks and clever route runners were able to sharpen their skills and perfect their timing while thrilling onlookers with their gifts of toss and grab.
“We bring the kids out here to compete in these tournaments to keep them busy and get them in playing shape and have some fun,” Morse Coach Brian Wilson shared.
“A lot of people only associate me with basketball but at Morse we are supportive of all our team sports: track, ball, baseball. You name we support it at Morse 7-on-7 is no excepWilson continued.
“That’s right,” said Morse’s head football coach Tracy McNair. “We look out for each other, that’s how
Morse players and staff had their share of shining moments. However.
when the smoke finally cleared from the 7-on-7 All The Smoke Tournament at 4474 El Cajon Blvd’s Herbert Hoover High School, Mission Bay’s much too great Buccaneers defeated University City for all the SMOKE!.
A day before the big Easter Day celebration, families in the S outheast San Diego community were invited to spend the day with the SDPD and associ ates for a day of fun in the sunshine.
At Mountain View Park, the Peace in the Park celebrants welcomed the opportunity to fellowship with peace officers, neighbors and rub elbows with local community leadership. There were plenty of information booths spread across the park’s center lawn featuring information on job opportunities, education, games, health and well ness, and much more.
A car show featuring some of San Diego’s flashiest low-rider cars, an Easter Egg Hunt, a very-live band, bouncy jump ers (of the big kind), and plenty of other fun activities were a large part of the day’s celebration.
Community leaders, amongst others, took to the open microphone and spoke words of en couragement, healing, partnership and much more to the large crowd of Peace in the Park participants. Councilwoman Monica Montgomery Steppe could be seen and heard representing her district, as well.
A whole lot of community bond ing was definitely in full effect the Saturday before Easter Sunday.
The California Black Chamber of Commerce (CBCC) is joining hands with state government to help narrow the Golden State’s Digital Divide for nearly two million houses without access to broadband.
In partnership with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and the California Department of Technology (CDT), the CBCC will help push the state’s Middle-Mile Broadband Initiative – a $3.25 billion effort to enhance internet connectivity --under the “Broadband Technology Small Business Initiative.”
The initiative was created to provide a durable, open-access network that would bring high-speed broadband service to unserved and underserved communities, regardless of technology used, on equal economic and service terms.
“We are the lead agency working with Caltrans,” said Jay King, the President and CEO of CBCC. “We’re front of the line making sure small businesses are included, matchmaking is taking place, and that we meet the goal and the deadline of making sure that every Californian has access to digital connections.”
The initiative connects CBCC’s statewide membership of 5, 500plus small African American business firms and non-Black entities to the benefits of broadband technology, according to King.
The state also allows small businesses to bid as contractors for projects related to strengthening
puting device at home.
In addition to a lack of functional units for computation, access was especially limited among low-income (23%), less-educated (16%), Black (15%), and Latino (15%) households, PPIC presented in its June 2022 fact sheet.
So far, California has invested $6 billion through the legislation that created the Middle Mile Broadband Initiative, Senate Bill (SB) 156.
The legislation, which Gov. Gavin Newsom signed in 2021, expands broadband infrastructure, addresses affordability, and promotes digital literacy. California will receive approximately $100 million more to enhance its broadband infrastructure through the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
Middle-mile refers to the fiber optic infrastructure that makes internet connections possible by transmitting large amounts of data over long distances at high speeds through high-capacity cables. The complete design features a proposed system of 10,000 miles of infrastructure, covering the entire state.
Although federal dollars are involved in the project, King stated that state projects are “race neutral” to stay in compliance with California’s Prop 209 law that prohibits “preferential treatment” based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin.
“We know the importance (of closing the gap) not just in the Black community but in all marginalized communities,” King said. “The digital divide will only continue to hurt our country and state if we don’t ensure that everybody has
CBCC’s Director of Small Business Willard “Will”
McClure said that the struction of the
itored by the Middle-Mile Advisory
Committee (MMAC). The MMAC monitors the development and construction.
According to McClure, the California Emerging Technology Fund (CETF), an organization pro
viding leadership in expanding broadband access statewide, offers “five strategies” to close the digital divide. These include Civic Leader Engagement, Venture Philanthropy Grantmaking, Public Policy Initiatives, Public Awareness and Education, and Strategic Partnerships.
CETF’s network of more than 100 grantees have delivered digital literacy training to more than 800,000 residents and has assisted in providing internet connections to more than 250,000 low-income households in rural and remote areas, urban disadvantaged neigh
borhoods, and people with disabil
ities.
McClure said that the Middle-Mile project will be completely implemented by December 2026 but the work to close the gap really starts after the last fiber optic is installed. All participants must be “logged on with confidence,” he said.
“Once the access is available the problem is not over,” McClure said. “There’s confidence that comes with getting people to understand how to use it. Grandma doesn’t know how to download ZOOM.”
Last month, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel joined Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass to announce the campaign to increase enrollment in the Affordable Connectivity Program in Los Angeles at the Pio Pico-Koreatown Branch Library.
Qualifying households are eligible for a discount of up to $30 a month for internet service and discounts on devices through the Affordable Connectivity Program. The households can also get a one-time discount of up to $100 to buy a laptop, desktop computer or tablet from qualifying providers.
“For many households, the cost of groceries, gas and rent can eat up the monthly budget, putting internet access out of reach,” Rosenworcel said. “We want to do more to get out the word about this powerful program and reach families that may not know about this benefit.”
By Stacy M. BrownBlack workers prioritize their mental well-being more than any other racial group, according to a survey by the employment platform Oyster.
The platform surveyed more than 2,500 desk-based – or so-called knowledge employees – and found that more than 58% of Black workers globally chose their mental well-being as their top priority. Asian respondents came in second at 37.7%.
“Bearing the brunt of systemic racism, prejudice, and societal injustice, perhaps Black knowledge workers must put more energy into protecting their mental health and can less afford to spend it elsewhere,” the report stated.
Study authors found the ability of Black knowledge workers to focus has suffered because of external factors like the rising cost of living and health concerns, particularly in America, Western Europe, and Canada.
For instance, 60.1% of Black workers struggle with the cost of living, the survey found. About 9.5% of respondents were Black knowledge workers, and the authors called it disheartening to see that they’re disproportionately affected by the ever-rising costs of living.
“In fact, Black workers are more affected by pretty much every category than other racial groups, notably by global health concerns –41.6% of Black workers (compared to 14.8% of white workers) were very concerned about this, compared office in many cases, against their will,” the authors wrote.
But nothing came close to spiraling living costs and personal concerns when factoring in the top external stressors, which the authors said was true across genders and geographies. White workers reported being least affected in nearly every category – an example of privilege in practice, the authors concluded. “What privilege does do is protect certain populations from being as negatively affected when taken as a group,” the authors noted.
They said the racial wage disparity present at many companies (and in society in general) means it’s logical that Black workers are more affected by rising costs of living.
Systemic racism in healthcare and legislative environments means it’s logical that Black workers are more affected by health concerns and political instability.
Additional findings of the report:
• 55% of Black workers see a safe, inclusive work environment as very important, almost 14 percentage points higher than their white colleagues.
• 63% of Black employees indicated that regular raises affect their well-being at work, compared to 48.3% of white workers.
• Black employees value access to mental health support (64%) more than their white colleagues (22%).
Across all genders and geographies, the rising cost of living (75%) and personal worries or concerns (74%) are the top stressors impacting employees’ ability to focus on work, followed by:
• Global health concerns (61%)
• E conomic downturn (55%)
• War and conflict (35%)
• Political instability (34%)
• C limate change (23%)
African stars in the pantheon of world music have followers today on almost every continent. We have the albums, the DVDs, videos and tapes of such great singers as Miriam Makeba, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, Youssou N’Dour, and Angelique Kidjo to name just a few
Less familiar are the classical music composers from Africa and the African Diaspora. Yet their works are so numerous that they filled a five volume anthology of sheet music for piano, collected by William Chapman Nyaho, a GhanaianAmerican of Seattle, Washington, and himself a concert pianist, teacher and scholar.
A recent list of African classical composers put Sister TsegueMaryam Guibrou at the top 5 of those named by Kenyan composer and sound artist Nyokabi Kariuki. Guibrou was described as a gifted composer for the piano, seamlessly mixing forms such as jazz, chamber music and rhythms from her homeland, Ethiopia.
Sister Guebrou, whose compositions were described as a genre-defying blend of Western and Ethiopian influences, abandoned the secular world in 1984 to live in a single room in the Ethiopian Monastery of Debre Genet, or Sanctuary of Paradise, in Jerusalem. She passed away there on March 26. She was 99.
Her works - four albums and various compilations since the 1960s - were brought to a larger audience in recent years on the soundtrack for the Oscar-nominated documentary “Time” (2020) - a film about a New Orleans woman’s fight to get her husband out of prison; and for the Netflix race-and-prejudice drama “Passing” (2021).
Alex Westfall, writing in Pitchfork about that movie and its soundtrack, called the music “the sonic equivalent to infinity — untethered by conventional meter or rhythm, as if Guèbrou’s instrument holds more keys than it should.”
While an admirer of the European classical canon of Frédéric Chopin and Johann Strauss, Guebrou stayed rooted in the five-note melodic runs common in Ethiopian music. Offered a scholarship to London’s Royal Academy of Music, Sister Guebrou found herself blocked for reasons she would not discuss. It was a devastating development for the young artist who refused to eat for two weeks and nearly died.
After that near death experience that left her weak and ailing, she left music behind, joining at age 19 the Gishen Mariam Monastery in Ethiopia’s northern highlands.
When Italian forces under Benito Mussolini invaded Ethiopia in 1935, Sister Guebrou and her diplomatic family were placed under house arrest and later sent to POW camps in Italy for two years. She composed the 1963 piece “The
Ballad of the Spirit,” for three brothers who were killed in the fighting.
Outside of Ethiopia, Haile Selassie enjoyed enormous prestige and respect but human rights under Selassie’s regime were poor. Civil liberties and political rights were low with Freedom House giving Ethiopia a “Not Free” score in the last years of Selassie’s rule.
Emperor Selassie was overthrown in a coup by the Derg, a committee of low-ranking military officers and enlisted men. He was assassinated on August 28, 1975.
By the 1960s, Sister Guebrou had returned to her family and was recording some of her music. She made several other records over the next 30 years, donating the proceeds to the poor.
In the mid-1980s she left Ethiopia and settled into an Ethiopian Orthodox monastery in Jerusalem, spending the rest of her life there.
She impressed the musician Norah Jones who, after hearing the album “Éthiopiques 21,” - a collection of Sister Guèbrou’s piano solos that was part of a record series spotlighting folkloric and pop music from Ethiopia, called the album “one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever heard - part Duke Ellington, part modal scales, part the blues, part church music,” Ms. Jones told The New York Times in 2020.
“Hers were some of the most extraordinary 99 years ever lived on this earth,” Kate Molleson, who wrote about Sister Guèbrou in her book “Sound Within Sound: Radical Composers of the 20th Century” (2022), said on Twitter.
“We can’t always choose what life brings,” Guebrou told the BBC. “But we can choose how to respond.”
Navdeep Jassal has been traveling in South Africa for the last five months and recently had the opportunity to review a play in Johannesburg. Presented by Africa Creations Production Company, the play reveals the nature of African indigenous spirituality.
“The Rise and Fall of the African Gospel: Nongqawuse” was created, written and directed by Mbongeni Moroke who was inspired by the historic events of 1856-7 and the miseducation that followed.
The play is about two well-known historical figures for the Xhosa: Their young maiden prophetess, Nongqawuse, and South Africa’s first Black Christian Presbyterian minister, Tiyo Soga.
Africa and Moroke speaks from and uses the African indigenous spiritual lens in his work as playwright, director, actor, and musician, demonstrating that spirituality in ancient Africa was powerful.
Through entertainment, Moroke strives to re-educate Black South Africans on the value of their own history, valor and spirituality. “There are three things which control the world: economics, politics and religion,” said Moroke. “When a nation is ruling well within these three sectors, that nation becomes the most powerful nation in the world. So, white Christian missionaries took charge in Africa in these three sectors and used religion through the Bible to destroy and rule us.
“Every generation has its mandate and the last generation had politics as its mandate,” Moroke said. “As someone representing the current generation, the mandate is to revisit indige -
Rage is brewing, trust is lost and national elections have not only been rigged, but done so in such a shoddy, shabby manner that it insults the intelligence of Nigerians.
Those were the uncensored words of noted writer Chimamanda Adichi, winner of numerous prizes and awards including the PEN Open Book Award, the National Book Critics Circle, the Women’s Prize for Fiction as well as a MacArthur Fellowship.
This time, she aimed her slings and arrows at U.S. media, the U.S. President and the State Dept. for their unqualified praise of the highly-flawed Nigerian polls while claiming the mantel of democracy around the world.
The election, on Feb. 26, was rife with infractions, with numbers crossed out and rewritten, some originally written in black ink then rewritten in blue, some blunderingly covered in White Out.
“Why would the United States, which prioritizes the rule of law, endorse a president-elect who has emerged from an unlawful process?” she asked. “American intelligence surely cannot be so inept.”
“A little homework and they would know what is manifestly obvious to me and so many others: The process was imperiled not by technical shortcomings but by deliberate manipulation.”
nous and spiritual history and go back to the core problems which led to apartheid. I am trying to answer a question of this generation in terms of what went wrong, and why are we here after all the struggles and voting in 1994.”
Although I could not piece it all together due to language barriers and lack of context, as I sat in the audience, I knew what I was watching was very moving and powerful.
There were some audience members crying because the play resonated with their backgrounds as African people. And, for others, the play resonated in terms of family whether it was family dysfunction or affection.
Two Xhosa people said that when the ‘king’ was coming onto the stage, they had a vision of that actual king coming. Another sangoma said she learned many things from Moroke’s character about the discipline of a sangoma.
For more information direct message Africa Creations on social media: Facebook Africa-Creations; Instagram @africa_creations; Twitter @Afric_Creations; or email africacreationsmail@gmail.com and watch YouTube videos @africacreations8130.
This article originally appeared in Post News Group.
“You have spoken of the importance of a ‘global community for democracy,’ and the need to stand up for ‘justice and the rule of law,” Adichi said addressing President Biden. Yet in this case, the election “had been not only rigged but done in such a shoddy, shabby manner that it insulted the intelligence of Nigerians… The discontent, the despair, the tension in the air have not been this palpable in years.”
Finally, Chimamanda tore into the Washington Post for using what she called an infantilizing tone. “As though intended to mollify the simpleminded, we are told that technical glitches, not sabotage, were the issue,” that “much good” came from the Nigerian elections, which are worth celebrating because, among other things, “no one has blocked highways, as happened in Brazil after Jair Bolsonaro lost his reelection bid.”
“We are also told that “it is encouraging, first, that the losing candidates are pursuing their claims through the courts,” though any casual observer of Nigerian politics would know that courts are the usual recourse after any election. Chima then turned on the paper with both barrels. “The editorial has the imaginative poverty so characteristic of international coverage of African issues—no reading of the country’s mood, no nuance or texture.
“But its intellectual laziness, unusual in such a rigorous newspaper, is astonishing… There is a kind of cordial condescension in both the State Dept. and The Washington Post’s responses to the election. That the bar for what is acceptable has been so lowered can only be read as contempt.”
“A global community for democracy cannot thrive in the face of apathy from its most powerful member. Why would the United States, which prioritizes the rule of law, endorse a president-elect who has emerged from an unlawful process?”
“There is a kind of cordial condescension in both the State Department’s and The Washington Post’s responses to the election. That the bar for what is acceptable has been so lowered can only be read as contempt.”
Adichie concludes: “Congratulating (the election’s) outcome, President Biden, tarnishes America’s self-proclaimed commitment to democracy. Please do not give the sheen of legitimacy to an illegitimate process. The United States should be what it says it is.”
Is the secret to happiness a warm puppy? A good marriage? A rewarding career? Or something else entirely?
By StatePoint Media
Mo ving is a big job – and it can be a wasteful one, too, considering all of the packing material required. Make moving more sustainable with these eco-friendly tips:
Space Saving
Using thinner sustainable wrapping to secure your breakables avoids the need for excess storage and boxes.
Flourish Brand Honeycomb Cushion Wrap, made with 40% recycled content, offers a customizable way to pack boxes efficiently. The diecut honeycomb stretches easily with interlocking paper that attaches to itself, so no tape is needed. Once you unpack, the paper can be directly recycled, or stored to be reused.
Folding In
Instead of using tape, fold your box tops in an interlocked, neat manner. They’ll stack up easily inside your vehicle, maximizing packing space, plus you won’t need
to use any additional materials. Unpack your items without tearing or ripping your box, then recy cle or fold it flat to store for future use.
Stacking Up
Ensure your plates and serving ware stay scratch-free by using a protective layer between each item. Made of recycled content, Flourish Brand 100% Recycled Kraft Paper provides lasting security for traveling to your new home.
Blanketed
Oversized or uniquely shaped home décor can be exceptionally fragile and isn’t always easy to squeeze into standard storage containers. When packing your vehicle, incorporate padding by wrapping these items in spare blankets, comforters or oversized towels. You’ll minimize the risk of damage to the items and have zero waste.
California teachers could get a lastminute reprieve from a law that requires them to take additional courses to teach transitional kindergarten.
Assembly Bill 1555, authored by Assemblymember Sharon QuirkSilva, would give transitional kindergarten teachers, hired after July 1, 2015, two more years to either take at least 24 units in early childhood education, earn a child development teacher permit or early childhood education specialist credential, or prove they have adequate experience teaching preschool-age children. The current deadline is Aug. 1 of this year.
“Teachers are having a difficult time completing 24 credit units, while also teaching full time as well as all the other responsibilities they have in their life,” Quirk-Silva said in her author’s statement.
California, already in the midst of a teacher shortage, will need 15,000 additional teachers to fill transitional kindergarten positions as the grade is expanded across the state to include all 4-year-old children by 2025.
The bill delaying the requirements will help to ensure there are enough teachers to fill the TK classrooms, Quirk-Silva said at an Assembly Education Committee meeting Wednesday.
“I’m very interested in making sure we have the teachers with the background they need for early childhood education, but that we don’t discourage them from moving down (to TK classes),” she said.
The bill passed the Assembly Education Committee Wednesday and was sent to the Assembly Appropriations Committee for further review.
This article originally appeared in Post News Group.
Happiness means different things to different people, but a growing body of research suggests keeping a smile on your face may help add years to your life by lowering the risk for cardiovascular disease and death from all causes.
Not feeling it? Health experts say there are daily habits that might just make a difference. Here are five:
Keep it moving
Granted, the words “physical cise’’ don’t
ly still, being mindful also can contribute to less stress and a more positive outlook, Hernández said. Being mindful is about letting go of the stress from past or future events, she said. “Being in the present moment without judgment allows you to interrupt harmful ruminations’’ and reduce stress hormones. “Take the time to let your brain relax.’’
Whited said many people assume mindfulness means meditation, but, like exercise, being mindful can look different to different people. He thinks of it as a way to clear his head and finds even taking the dog for a five-minute walk can accom -
“Just focus on that moment you are in and leave the last one behind,’’ he said. “Don’t be checking your phone or texting.’’
halls.’’
“Sometimes it’s big, sometimes it’s little stuff,’’ he said. “You can’t dismiss the little stuff.’’
Be grateful
Good things happen every day, and it helps to take the time to recognize them, Hernández said. “Instead of just focusing on what you don’t have, focus on what you do have.’’
She recommends making a short list of things to be grateful for each day or writing a letter of gratitude to someone and then reading it to them. “Well- being goes up for both the recipient and the writer,’’ she said.
Eat more plants
“When you engage in physical activity, you see benefit in the form of emotional well-being,’’ said Rosalba Hernández, a member of the American Heart Association’s Lifestyle and EPI Behavioral Change for Improving Health Factors committee. Hernández is an associate professor and associate dean for equity and inclusion at the University of Illinois Chicago’s College of Nursing.
And the better you feel, the more likely you are to stay active, she said. “It’s a cyclical relationship.’’
When the body engages in exer cise, the brain releases dopamine, serotonin, endorphins and endo cannabinoids, which relieve stress, improve mood and help you sleep better. Research shows exercising in groups also can help social bonding and increase the motivation to move more, further fueling good feelings.
But if a trip to the gym doesn’t make you smile, don’t worry, said Matt Whited, a clinical health psycholo gist and associate professor of psy chology at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina.
“Physical activity can look like whatever works for each person and their lifestyle,’’ he said. “Walking is a fantastic option, but any thing that keeps your interest and feels good will work.’’
The AHA recommends adults get 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic physical activity or at least 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week.
Be mindful
Whether moving or sitting perfect-
Create a happy space
“There’s so much research showing our environment is a key factor in our health,’’ Whited said. “Do a little something for your environment each day that will create and sustain happiness.’’
That can be as simple as decluttering or cleaning a workspace, he said. Or it might be more involved, like setting boundaries to prevent toxic
Something Whited does for himself every day is to make sure he’s eating enough fruits and vegetables, an important component of good cardiovascular health. Research shows people who eat more than three portions of fruits and vegetables per day are happier than those who don’t. Whited, who likes to snack on carrot sticks, said many people forego fruits and vegetables as snacks because “they worry they won’t fill them up.’’
But he finds it easy to grab an apple or a couple of carrots after a long
Menifee, CA 92584
of
Diego This
is conducted by:
Individual Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the name(s) above
This business is hereby registered by the following:
Marvan Clemons 2533 Ulric St. San Diego, CA 92111
This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on March 29, 2023
This fictitious business name will expire on March 29, 2028
4/06, 4/13, 4/20, 4/27
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT 2023-9006089
Fictitious business name(s): Salva Center Located at:
6255 University Ave.
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
Lemon Grove, CA 91945
This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on February 27, 2023
This fictitious business name will expire on February 27, 2028 4/06, 4/13, 4/20, 4/27
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9004460 Fictitious business name(s): My Craft Shop SD Located at: 2616 Meadows Trail Ln. Chula Vista, CA 91915 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: A Married Couple Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the name(s) above This business is hereby registered by the following:
Mayra Jones 2616 Meadows Trail Ln. Chula Vista, CA 91915 James Anthony Jones 2616 Meadows Trail Ln. Chula Vista, CA 91915
This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on February 28, 2023
This fictitious business name will expire on February 28, 2028
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT 2023-9005761
Fictitious business name(s): KINGME SUPPLY Located at: 2347 Camino De Las Palmas Lemon Grove, CA 91945 County of San Diego This business is conducted by:
A General Partnership Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the
Toni Leann Estrada 3503 Glade St. San Diego, CA 92115
This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on March 24, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on
This fictitious business name will expire on March 20, 2028 3/23, 3/30, 4/06, 4/13
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9003972
Fictitious business name(s): Pirys Located at: 3929 Vista Grande Dr. San Diego, CA 92115 County of San Diego
This business is conducted by:
An Individual
The first day of business was: 2/22/2023
This business is hereby registered by the following:
Janette Chavez
3929 Vista Grande Dr. San Diego, CA 92115
This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on February 22, 2023
This fictitious business name will expire on February 22, 2028
3/23, 3/30, 4/06, 4/13
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT 2023-9002993
Fictitious business name(s):
My True Canvas Reach 365 Located at: 9570 Via Zapador, Apt. 104 Santee, CA 92071 County of San Diego
This business is conducted by:
An Individual Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the name(s) above
This business is hereby registered by the following: Vanessa Moore 9570 Via Zapador, Apt. 104 Santee, CA 92071
This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on February 8, 2023
This fictitious business name will expire on February 8, 2028 3/23, 3/30, 4/06, 4/13
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT 2023-9002764
Fictitious business name(s):
Father Joe's Villages Online Thrift Store Located at: 815 33rd St. San Diego, CA 92102 County of San Diego 3350 E St. San Diego, CA 92102 County of San Diego
This business is conducted by:
A Corporation Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the name(s) above
This business is hereby registered by the following: S.V.D.P. Management, Inc. 3350 E Street San Diego, CA 92102
This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on February 6, 2023
This fictitious business name will expire on February 6, 2028 3/23, 3/30, 4/06, 4/13
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT 2023-9005683
Fictitious business name(s):
Koffeeing
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 W. Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 4/13, 4/20, 4/27, 5/04
SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA County of San Diego 330 W. Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 Civil 37-2023-00013944CU-PT-CTL Petitioner or Attorney:
Tasha Marie Bonutti
To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Tasha Marie Bonutti filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:
PRESENT NAME: Tasha Marie Bonutti
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 W. Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 4/13, 4/20, 4/27, 5/04 SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA County of San Diego 330 W. Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 Hall of Justice
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: May 22, 2023
Time: 8:30 A.M. Dept. 61
(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)
FICTITIOUS
PROPOSED NAME: Tasha Grace Bonutti
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
330 W. Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 Hall of Justice
(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) 4/13, 4/20, 4/27, 5/04
SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA County of San Diego 325 S. Melrose Dr. Vista, CA 92081 North County Division
37-2023-00013285CU-PT-NC
Petitioner or Attorney: Solveig Kathrine Henn
To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Solveig Kathrine Henn filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:
PRESENT NAME:
Solveig Kathrine Henn
PROPOSED NAME: Solveig Kathrine Kinzel
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: May 30, 2023
Time: 8:30 A.M. Dept. 25
The address of the court is: 325 S. Melrose Dr. Vista, CA 92081 (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.
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: 325 S. Melrose Dr. Vista, CA 92081 4/13, 4/20, 4/27, 5/04
SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA County of San Diego 330 W. Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 Hall of Justice 37-2023-00012482CU-PT-CTL Petitioner or Attorney: Jasmine Peter Wilson
To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Jasmine Peter Wilson filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:
PRESENT NAME: Jasmine Peter Wilson
PROPOSED
NAME: Jasmine Mary Wilson
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: May 10, 2023
Time: 8:30 A.M. Dept. 61
(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).
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 W. Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 3/30, 4/06, 4/13, 4/20
SUMMONS (Family Law)
NOTICE TO RESPONDENT (Name) AVISO AL DEMANDADO (Nombre): Cesar Payunan Robea Jr
You have been sued. Read the information below and on the next page. Lo han demandado. Lea la información a continuación y en la página siguiente.
Petitioner's Name is:
(Nombre del demandante): Carina Cruz Quilatan Case Number: 21FL001535C
You have 30 calendar days after this Summons and Petition are served on you to file a Response (form FL-120) at the court and have a copy served on the petitioner. A letter, phone call, or court appearance will not protect you.
If you do not file your Response on time, the court may make orders affecting your marriage or domestic partnership, your property, and custody of your children. You may be ordered to pay support and attorney fees and costs.
For legal advice, contact a lawyer immediately. Get help finding a lawyer at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www. courts.ca.gov/selfhelp), at the California Legal Services website (www.lawhelpca.org), or by contacting your local county bar association.
en cuanto a ambos cónyuges o miembros de la pareja de hecho hasta que se despida la petición, se emita un fallo o la corte dé otras órdenes. Cualquier agencia del orden público que haya recibido o visto una copia de estas órdenes puede hacerlas acatar en cualquier lugar de California.
FEE WAIVER: If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the clerk for a fee waiver form. The court may order you to pay back all or part of the fees and costs that the court waived for you or the other party.
EXENCIÓN DE CUOTAS: Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación, pida al secretario un formulario de exención de cuotas. La corte puede ordenar que usted pague, ya sea en parte o por completo, las cuotas y costos de la corte previamente exentos a petición de usted o de la otra parte.
The name and address of the court are (El nombre y dirección de la corte son): Superior Court of California, County of San Diego Central Division, Central Courthouse, 1100 Union St. San Diego, CA 92101
The name, address, and telephone number of the petitioner’s attorney, or the petitioner without an attorney, are: (El nombre, dirección y número de teléfono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante si no tiene abogado, son):
Carina Cruz Quilatan 7541 Goode St. San Diego, CA 92139 Tel No. (619) 434-3189
Clerk, by (Secretario, por)
A. Puerto, Deputy (Asistente)
STANDARD FAMILY LAW RESTRAINING ORDERS
Starting immediately, you and your spouse or domestic partner are restrained from:
1. removing the minor children of the parties from the state or applying for a new or replacement passport for those minor children without the prior written consent of the other party or an order of the court;
2. cashing, borrowing against, canceling, transferring, disposing of, or changing the beneficiaries of any insurance or other coverage, including life, health, automobile, and disability, held for the benefit of the parties and their minor children;
3. transferring, encumbering, hypothecating, concealing, or in any way disposing of any property, real or personal, whether community, quasicommunity, or separate, without the written consent of the other party or an order of the court, except in the usual course of business or for the necessities of life; and
37-2023-00013067CU-PT-CTL Petitioner or Attorney: Alan W. Cheung, Esq. 185615
To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Cyrus Shahadi filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:
PRESENT NAME: Cyrus Shahadi
PROPOSED NAME: Kourosh Shahedi 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.
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.
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
Tiene 30 días de calendario después de haber recibido la entrega legal de esta Citación y Petición para presentar una Respuesta (formulario FL120) ante la corte y efectuar la entrega legal de una copia al demandante. Una carta o llamada telefónica o una audiencia de la corte no basta para protegerlo.
Si no presenta su Respuesta a tiempo, la corte puede dar órdenes que afecten su matrimonio o pareja de hecho, sus bienes y la custodia de sus hijos. La corte también le puede ordenar que pague manutención, y honorarios y costos legales.
Para asesoramiento legal, póngase en contacto de inmediato con un abogado.
Puede obtener información para encontrar un abogado en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www. sucorte.ca.gov), en el sitio web de los Servicios Legales de California (www.lawhelpca. org) o poniéndose en contacto con el colegio de abogados de su condado.
NOTICE—RESTRAINING
ORDERS ARE ON PAGE 2:
These restraining orders are effective against both spouses or domestic partners until the petition is dismissed, a judgment is entered, or the court makes further orders. They are enforceable anywhere in California by any law enforcement officer who has received or seen a copy of them.
4. creating a nonprobate transfer or modifying a nonprobate transfer in a manner that affects the disposition of property subject to the transfer, without the written consent of the other party or an order of the court. Before revocation of a nonprobate transfer can take effect or a right of survivorship to property can be eliminated, notice of the change must be filed and served on the other party.
You must notify each other of any proposed extraordinary expenditures at least five business days prior to incurring these extraordinary expenditures and account to the court for all extraordinary expenditures made after these restraining orders are effective. However, you may use community property, quasi-community property, or your own separate property to pay an attorney to help you or to pay court costs.
En forma inmediata, usted y su cónyuge o pareja de hecho tienen prohibido:
1. llevarse del estado de California a los hijos menores de las partes, o solicitar un pasaporte nuevo o de repuesto para los hijos menores, sin el consentimiento previo por escrito de la otra parte o sin una orden de la corte;
2. cobrar, pedir prestado, cancelar, transferir, deshacerse o cambiar el nombre de los beneficiarios de cualquier seguro u otro
tipo de cobertura, como de vida, salud, vehículo y discapacidad, que tenga como beneficiario(s) a las partes y su(s) hijo(s) menor(es);
3. transferir, gravar, hipotecar, ocultar o deshacerse de cualquier manera de cualquier propiedad, inmueble o personal, ya sea comunitaria, cuasicomunitaria o separada, sin el consentimiento escrito de la otra parte o una orden de la corte, excepto en el curso habitual de actividades personales y comerciales o para satisfacer las necesidades de la vida; y
4. crear o modificar una transferencia no testamentaria de manera que afecte la asignación de una propiedad sujeta a transferencia, sin el consentimiento por escrito de la otra parte o una orden de la corte. Antes de que se pueda eliminar la revocación de una transferencia no testamentaria, se debe presentar ante la corte un aviso del cambio y hacer una entrega legal de dicho aviso a la otra parte.
Cada parte tiene que notificar a la otra sobre cualquier gasto extraordinario propuesto por lo menos cinco días hábiles antes de realizarlo, y rendir cuenta a la corte de todos los gastos extraordinarios realizados después de que estas órdenes de restricción hayan entrado en vigencia. No obstante, puede usar propiedad comunitaria, cuasicomunitaria o suya separada para pagar a un abogado que lo ayude o para pagar los costos de la corte.
NOTICE—ACCESS TO
AFFORDABLE HEALTH
INSURANCE: Do you or someone in your household need affordable health insurance? If so, you should apply for Covered California. Covered California can help reduce the cost you pay towards high quality affordable health care. For more information, visit www.coveredca.com. Or call Covered California at 1-800-300-1506.
AVISO—ACCESO A SEGURO DE SALUD MÁS
ECONÓMICO: ¿Necesita seguro de salud a un costo asequible, ya sea para usted o alguien en su hogar? Si es así, puede presentar una solicitud con Covered California.
Covered California lo puede ayudar a reducir el costo que paga por seguro de salud asequible y de alta calidad. Para obtener más información, visite www.coveredca.com. O
llame a Covered California al 1-800-300-0213.
WARNING—IMPORTANT
INFORMATION
California law provides that, for purposes of division of property upon dissolution of a marriage or domestic partnership or upon legal separation, property acquired by the parties during marriage or domestic partnership in joint form is presumed to be community property. If either party to this action should die before the jointly held community property is divided, the language in the deed that characterizes how title is held (i.e., joint tenancy, tenants in common, or community property) will be controlling, and not the community property presumption. You should consult your attorney if you want the community property presumption to be written into the recorded title to the property.
De acuerdo a la ley de California, las propiedades adquiridas por las partes durante su matrimonio o pareja de hecho en forma conjunta se consideran propiedad comunitaria para fines de la división de bienes que ocurre cuando se produce una disolución o separación legal del matrimonio o pareja de hecho. Si cualquiera de las partes de este caso llega a fallecer antes de que se divida la propiedad comunitaria de tenencia conjunta, el destino de la misma quedará determinado por las cláusulas de la escritura correspondiente que describen su tenencia (por ej., tenencia conjunta, tenencia en común o propiedad comunitaria) y no por la presunción de propiedad comunitaria. Si quiere que
During a press junket held in a ropedoff lawn area near the famous Walt Disney World Parade, a little girl named Mila experienced a dream moment.
“The Little Mermaid” star and Grammynominated singer Halle Bailey spotted Mila in a crowd of onlookers as Bailey spoke to the media during an event that kicked off the Disney Dreamers Academy, where 100 students receive mentorship during a fourday educational and entertainment excursion.
Mila wouldn’t let the star go, and Bailey reacted in the most superstar way: she held on and even shed a tear.
Those unscripted moments helped to underscore why the Disney Dreamers Academy has meant so much to so many children for 16 years. Bailey, like the 2022 celebrity ambassador, singer Kelly Rowland, found time not only to mentor the 100 Academy students, but step from
behind the parade ropes to embrace fans.
This year, Bailey is joined by other celebrities like H.E.R., Quest Love, and Marsai Martin. But clearly, Bailey won over the high school students, their parents, and others with gawkers surrounding Disney Coronado Springs Resort where cast and crew gathered for the daily events that took place in the large ballrooms.
On Day 2 of the Academy, Bailey left two aspiring teen filmmakers speechless when she surprised them with a personal invitation to join her on the red carpet at the movie’s world premiere in Hollywood.
Dylan Jones of Atlanta and Madison Henderson of Los Angeles were in the middle of a movie production training session Friday morning during Disney Dreamers
Academy when Bailey, the program’s celebrity ambassador, made a surprise appearance and delivered the personal invitation to come to Hollywood.
For the students it was a truly magical dream come true moment.
The movie’s world premiere takes place just before the film officially hit theaters nationwide on May 26. Bailey is one of several celebrities who took part in the program.
That moment when your child receives an acceptance letter to a coveted college is a time to feel pride in their achievements and excited about their future. It’s also a time to make sense of the school’s price tag. That’s where financial award letters come into play.
“You’ll receive an award letter from each school your student was accepted to listing all the details of the financial aid package,” says Angela Colatriano, College Ave Student Loans. “This information helps you figure out what’s covered and how much your family is expected to pay.”
Unfortunately, if you’re like many parents, you may not be prepared for everything you read in these award letters. In a recent College Ave Student Loans survey, only 30% of parents who received a ward letters said they received as much aid as they expected, and 74% said they found the expected family contribution s urprisingly high. Colatriano also notes that because the layout of these letters varies from school to school, it can be hard to compare their terms.
To help you decipher your financial aid award letters and figure out how to pay for college this fall, consider these tips and insights:
1Sort grants and scholarships from other aid: If your child was awarded a federal grant or scholarships from the college, they will be listed on your award letter. These do not need to be repaid and are applied directly to the school’s tuition. You can also pursue outside scholarships. Encourage your student to apply for scholarships yearround, as every little bit helps.
continued from page 10
Black knowledge workers’ ability to focus on work is disproportionately affected by these external factors, more than any other racial group. Most critically:
● 60% of Black employees report struggling with the rising costs of living, compared to their Hispanic (46%), Asian (39%), and white (30%) colleagues.
● Global health concerns impact 42% of Black workers, compared to 15% of white workers.
continued from page 3
The National Child Labor Coalition (https:// stopchildlabor.org/) has documented the reckless use of children in manufacturing plants, especially automobile manufacturing plants in Alabama (Kia and Hyundai are especially egregious violators). Nearly half of all employed children work in agriculture, where they are exposed to, among other things, life-threatening pesticides.
While laws prevent child labor, enforcement is lax when regulatory agencies are under-
● Younger generations are almost twice as affected by rising living costs and personal concerns than their Gen X colleagues.
“Our data broken down by race was also very revealing. Black employees valued a safe working environment almost 14 percentage points more than their white colleagues and were 20 percentage points more in favor of check-ins with their manager,” the study revealed.
“These employees also placed far more emphasis on regular raises (63.0% compared to 48.3% of white workers), which tracks given that our data also found Black
staffed. Louis Hine photographed jarring images of children working in agriculture, mines, and other dangerous places.
His work, much of which was documented at the turn of the twentieth century, was responsible for the child labor legislation from 1912, and was part of the Fair Labor Standards Act in 1938. Our nation is moving backward in protecting children, but that is no surprise since we are going backward using legislation to prevent exploitation.
Still, too many of us mouth the platitude that we believe that children are the future while ignoring our children’s mental health in the
2 Delve into federal aid: The award letters will show you if your student qualified for the Federal Work-Study program. Likewise, schools will list any federal student loans you’re eligible to receive. Don’t forget to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year to qualify.
3 Meet the gap: If after accounting for grants, scholarships and federal aid there is still a gap between school costs and what you can afford, consider how you can reduce costs or get more funding. For example, you may reconsider your choice of school or have your student take on a part-time job. You might also want to shop around for a private student loan. If you do so, make sure you borrow only what y ou need. Also, look for a lender offering fa vorable terms, repayment options and interest rates.
4 Look before you leap: Remember that most types of financial aid come with terms and conditions. For example, a scholarship may require a student to maintain a certain GPA for it to be renewed the following semester. Federal and private loans will have interest rates and repayment terms. Before accepting or pursuing any type of financial aid, be sure you understand what’s involved.
5 Get assistance: When in doubt, don’t be afraid to reach out to your school’s financial aid office for assistance. They are a great resource to help you and your family navigate the financial aid process.
workers were the most concerned with rising costs of living.”
The authors concluded:
“What we’re seeing is a greater need to support, include, and create equitable work environments so all employees can thrive. At the very least, managers should be aware that Black employees on their team may appreciate more face time and encouragement and be ready to provide this support as needed.”
classroom, the workplace, and the world. Our indifference to our young people will likely result in their indifference to us a decade or two from now.
Can we expect the young people we have ignored to protect our Medicare or Social Security?
Why should they care for us when we have not cared for them?
Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an economist, author, and Dean of the College of Ethnic Studies at Cal State LA. She can be reached at juliannemalveaux.com.
YVONNE YOUNG
CLARK BORN
Yvonne Young Clark, a pioneer in the field of science and engineering, was born April 13, 1929, in Houston, Texas.
She was the first African American to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering at Howard University in 1951. She was the first woman to receive a Master’s degree in Engineering from Vanderbilt University in 1972; and, she was the first female faculty at the College of Engineering at Tennessee State University [TSU], endearing her with the title “TSU’s First Lady of Engineering.” Clark worked on recoilless weapons at Frankfort Arsenal; on Saturn 5 engines where she identified hot spots for the NASA division in Huntsville, Alabama; and receptacles for returning moon specimens to Earth at the NASA Manned Spacecraft Center in Houston.
AL GREEN BORN
Albert “Al” Green, born on April 13, 1948, in Forrest City, Arkansas, is known as one of the great rhythm and blues singers of the 1970s. Greene and some of his siblings were part of a family gospel quartet called the Greene Brothers when Greene was nine and toured around the South until the mid-1950s. Greene was kicked out of the band by his father when he was caught listening to Jackie Wilson, a popular R&B artist. Green’s second album, Al Green Gets Next to You, at the end of 1970 featured his first hit single, “Tired of Being Alone.” In 1972, Green released “Let’s Stay Together.’
In 1995 Green was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Ohio, in 2004 he was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and in 2009 he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from BET.
FOURTH DISTRICT SENIORS RESOURCE CENTER’s 17TH Annual Older Americans Celebration
“HONORING OUR SEASONED COMMUNITY ELDERS AGED TO PERFECTION”
Keynote Speaker California Secretary of State
The Honorable Dr Shirley N Weber
DOROTHY ASHBY PASSES
Jazz harpist-composer
Dorothy
Ashby was born Dorothy Jeanne Thompson in Detroit, Michigan, on August 6, 1932, the daughter of self-taught guitarist Wiley Thompson. Raised in the jazz community in the city and tutored by her father to learn harmony and musical instruments, she occasionally provided piano accompaniment for musicians visiting their homes. In 1952, Ashby purchased her first harp and had her first professional engagement at a nightclub in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She endeavored to promote the harp as deserving of a place in jazz ensembles.
In its 1962 annual survey, Ashby was picked by Down Beat magazine as one of its “All-Star” jazz performers. Her albums in the 1960s were Dorothy Ashby (Argo, 1961), Soft Winds (Jazzland, 1961), The Fantastic Jazz Harp of Dorothy Ashby (Atlantic, 1965), Afro-Harping (Cadet, 1968), and Dorothy’s Harp (Cadet, 1969). With the assistance of singer Bill Withers, who referred her to Stevie Wonder in the 1970s, she participated in recording sessions with such premier artists as Diana Ross, Dionne Warwick, Barry Manilow, Stanley Turrentine, Freddie Hubbard, Billy Preston, Bobby Womack, and Earth Wind & Fire. Dorothy Ashby died of cancer in Santa Monica, California, on April 13, 1986. She was 53.
