Vol. 63 No. 31 | Thursday, August 03, 2023

CONCERNS MOUNT AS BLACK VOTER TURNOUT DROPS

Biden’s reelection bid could be impacted

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA NEWSWIRE SENIOR NATIONAL CORRESPONDENT

Democrats are increasingly worried about a potential drop in Black voter turnout next year, particularly among Black men, their most loyal constituency, who played a pivotal role in securing President Biden’s victory in 2020 and are crucial to his bid for reelection.

The Washington Post analyzed the Census Bureau’s turnout survey and found that Black voter turnout saw a significant ten per-

centage-point decline in last year’s midterms compared to 2018, a more substantial drop than among any other racial or ethnic group. While Democrats initially downplayed these warning signals due to other victories in 2022, such as gaining a U.S. Senate seat in Pennsylvania and Senator Raphael G. Warnock’s reelection in Georgia, the decline in Black turnout has become a

SMARTER POLICY CAN END POVERTY

By Lila Brown CALIFORNIA BLACK MEDIA

A group of progressive California lawmakers — including three members of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) — have pledged to end poverty in California by advancing more effective policy during the next legislative session — and beyond.

Newly appointed Assembly Majority Leader Isaac Bryan (D-Los Angeles) announced the formation of the End Poverty in California Caucus at a Los Angeles screening of the documentary “Poverty and Power.” The film features former Stockton Mayor Michael Tubbs, an anti-poverty advocate who founded a non-profit that shares a name with the caucus, End Poverty in California (EPIC).

“We ’ re headed towards the end of the legislative session, but we're in the process of recruiting members to the poverty caucus,” Bryan, who is the chair of the new caucus, told California Black Media.

“We ’ ve got about a half dozen members already,” Bryan continued. “As we continue to do outreach in the legislature, I expect that number to grow. By the time we come back together in January to introduce new legislation, we should have everything ready to go, to focusing on criminal justice reform and the housing crisis’ systemic nexus to poverty in the state.” Bryan is the treasurer of the CLBC.

See POVERTY page 5

significant concern for the party as they look ahead to the next presidential contest in 2024. States like Georgia, which are crucial to Democrats’ strategy for mobilizing Black voters in significant numbers, saw lower turnout among younger and male Black voters in the midterms, according to internal party analysis.

See VOTER page 5

GENDER PAY GAP IS “MORE OBVIOUS” WITH BLACK WOMEN

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA NEWSWIRE SENIOR NATIONAL CORRESPONDENT

California First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom says, “gender discrimination is the oldest form of oppression,” and America must act urgently to fix it.

Although California has some of the strongest pay laws in the nation and the smallest gender pay gap, Siebel Newsom says the Golden State still has work to do to close the wage gap for all women.

For Black women, the first partner says, closing the wage gap is “most obvious.”

“Black women live at the intersection of racial and gender discrimination leaving them doubly impacted by the wage gap,” said Siebel Newsom. “Pay inequities and gaps in wealth and economic opportunity are deeply rooted in our country’s long-standing history of racism and misogyny.”

See GENDER page 5

Living relatives of Henrietta Lacks have reached a confidential settlement with Thermo Fisher Scientific, the multi-billion-dollar biotechnology company that has used regenerative cells taken from Lacks decades ago without her consent. The settlement sets a precedent, potentially leading to complaints seeking compensation and control

PHOTO: EKATERINA BOLOVTSOVA/Pexels

PHOTO: CBM

PHOTO: NNPA

Ronald Watts sells T-shirts on Election Day Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020, in Richmond, VA.

PHOTO: Bob Brown/Richmond Times-Dispatch via AP

EDITORIAL/COMMENTARY/OPINION

MORE THAN A SEAT ON THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

While some just see four candidates seeking a vacant seat, there is much more at stake. Currently, the Board is evenly divided between two Republicans and two Democrats. Nathan Fletcher was a Democrat and therefore created a 3 to 2 majority on the Board. The new Board will have to select a new Chief Administrative Officer for the County and will play a key role in shaping county policy on public health, homelessness, housing and much more. The new Board member will serve until the year 2027 and have tremendous impact on the County ’ s multi-billion dollar budgets.

Those seeking this vacant position must remember that they will be serving 12 communities within this district, inclusive of Clairemont, Bay Park, Linda Vista, Mission Valley, Hillcrest, City Heights, Lemon Grove, La Mesa, Spring Valley, Rancho San Diego, Encanto and the College Area. This means no one community can assume that their vote will be enough to control the outcome of this election. It is also estimated that no one candidate will get 51 percent of the vote and that the election will go to a November 7th General Election.

More Californians Should Know About Lifesaving COVID Meds

By Doug Moore EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, UDW HOMECARE PROVIDERS UNION/AFSCME LOCAL 3930

While I would like nothing more than to put the pandemic in the rearview mirror, I’ve accepted the fact that COVID-19 is still a part of our lives. We’re a far cry from where we were in the summer of 2020 — we now know what works to keep us safe and how to mitigate the worst of the virus. Tools like COVID-19 medications can help us keep the worst of the virus at bay, if only more people knew about them.

As we rapidly approach the August 15, 2023 Special Election for the San Diego County’s Board of Supervisors Fourth District seat, early projections says less than 5 percent of the 700,000 residents of that district are expected to vote. This is in spite of the fact that every registered voter in the district received a ballot by mail, with instructions for voting and return mail of said ballot to the County’s Registrar of Voters.

What does this mean for you who might or might not bother to vote? It means that if you don’t vote — and the system will know whether you didn’t — you should not have an opinion on what the government does or how you are impacted.

Your vote is your ticket to participation in what the local government does. Will you get your ticket or just wait to see what happens? Let's get involved and make a difference.

A Climate in Crisis

By Marc H. Morial PRESIDENT AND CEO, NATIONAL URBAN LEAGUE

When Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans in 2005, the city’s Black neighborhoods bore the brunt of the storm. Twelve years later, the Black districts of Houston were devastated by the full force of Hurricane Harvey. In both cases, these natural disasters exacerbated issues in neighborhoods that were already struggling.

For years, communities of color have had to struggle through the everlasting effects of structural racism, the legacy of enslavement and socioeconomic factors like redlining, segregation, and poverty, without considering that climate change is likely to exacerbate these existing racial disparities.

The most severe harms from climate change fall disproportionately upon

underserved communities who are least able to prepare for and recover from heat waves, poor air quality, flooding, and other impacts. As a result, they are at higher risk of climate-related health issues including respiratory and cardiovascular disease, heat stroke, and cancer.

Climate change and racism are arguably two of the biggest challenges of the 21st Century, which proves that this problem is systemic. When racism is systemic, it can operate without obvious intent. So, how does one address systemic problems? With systemic and equitable solutions.

In April, the National Urban League released its 47th State of Black America report titled, Democracy in Peril: Confronting the Threat Within, where ACORE, our nation’s foremost experts on environmental justice, energy policy, renewable energy, and civil rights, examine the past and present impacts of

fossil fuel and other pollution on Black, Brown, and underserved communities, and illustrate a realistic path forward toward realizing a truly just and equitable clean energy future.

This future is defined by Americanmade renewable energy. With the billions of dollars American companies plan to invest in new wind, solar and battery storage projects, this will greatly improve air and water quality, lower electrical bills, and create new career opportunities — all factors that will greatly improve the quality of life of the nation’s most underserved communities.

As the imminent threats of climate change continue to loom, we can no longer afford to ignore it. We have an opportunity to realize the clean energy transition in a way that creates a more inclusive and equitable economy, but we need to implement bold and innovative ideas to be part of it.

In my role as the Executive Director of UDW Homecare Providers Union/AFSCME Local 3930, a union fighting for the rights of domestic care workers, I’ve seen COVID-19 have a disproportionate impact on our members. Many come from vulnerable communities, and the fact that they were often given little to no protection and did not qualify as essential workers heightened the impact of the pandemic on them. Vaccines were essential in establishing safe homecare environments as the pandemic raged on. But domestic workers were (and still are) entering potentially dangerous settings every day, often without access to vital PPE, and we needed to find ways to keep themselves safe, even when they did test positive. COVID-19 medications have helped bridge that gap.

It can be hard to dodge COVID-19 even when we take precautions to stay safe, especially for workers whose workplaces are other people's homes. Fortunately, medications that treat COVID-19 became available in 2021. They are safe and effective at stopping the virus from multiplying in the body and scientific evidence shows that taking COVID-19 medications within the first week of testing positive can lower the rate of serious illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19 by half or more.

COVID-19 medications can mean the difference between life and death. That’s why I’ve been advocating tirelessly to make sure that domestic workers are getting vaccinated and tested, and that they’re aware of and can easily access COVID-19 medications if they test positive. Even though medications have been free and available, regardless of insurance or citizenship status, for over a year. Many people are surprised when they find out that they’re actually eligible for these medications, when in fact, they’re recommended for most adults.

At UDW Homecare Providers Union/AFSCME Local 3930, we’ve launched initiatives to educate and empower our workers — including resource fairs, clinics, and food drives — that provide information about and access to these medications. Our meetings have been vital times for us to spend time with the community and spread relevant treatment information. These membercentered, community-driven initiatives have created a united front against COVID-19 among the domestic worker community — allowing the people I represent to stay safe, protect their families, and continue their work helping others.

The public at large can benefit from COVID-19 medications, not just our union’s domestic workers, especially as life returns to a new normal. As we enjoy summer by traveling, attending events, and spending time with friends and family, it’s inevitable that people will continue to test positive for COVID-19. But the key is understanding how to move forward when you test positive. So, let’s continue doing the things that we love, worry-free, by normalizing testing and treating COVID-19.

By Dr. John E. Warren

PUBLISHER, THE SAN DIEGO VOICE & VIEWPOINT

Innovative Wellness Clinic Grand Re-Opening in Spring Valley

By Darrel Wheeler Contributing Writer

The Innovative Wellness Clinic Primary Care re-opened its doors last Saturday, July 29, 2023, and welcomed the community to a special meet and greet opportunity to check out their newest location at the Spring Valley Sharp Medical Building, 10225 Austin Dr 105, Spring Valley, CA 91978. Dr. Suzanne Afflalo is the Chief Medical Officer at Innovative Wellness and Dr. Danielle Jordan heads the team at this Black-owned clinic. Resource booths, plenty of free food, some good music (compliments to the DJ), and a welcoming administrator are how the IWC folks and friends celebrated at the shiny new facility.

“We outgrew our other facility. We were only there for a year. We just didn’t have enough space so we knew we had to do something,” IWC member Grady Godan shared. “After searching for a bigger place that could accommodate our growing clientele, we discovered this building that is

owned by Sharp. Joining forces with Sharp would be a perfect solution to our problem.”

“I contacted [Sharp. They] were very reluctant in the beginning to let us in, but

they finally came around. It’s been a blessing so far, and we thank them so much. The rest is history and here we are,” Godan continued.

JIREH Providers also showed up to share their health and awareness knowledge at the IWC Care Providers community open house.

PHOTOS: Darrel Wheeler

ARTICLE CONTINUATION

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W. Mondale Robinson, the founder of the Black Male Voter Project, highlighted the urgent turnout problem among Black men, telling the Post that many are “sporadic or non-voters” registered but haven’t voted in recent presidential elections. He expressed disappointment that the Democratic Party seems more focused on converting conservative-leaning white women in the suburbs, considering Black men as potential swing voters who need targeted efforts to be mobilized. In response to the growing concern, Biden’s political team acknowledged the issue and pledged to act, especially among younger Black men.

Cedric L. Richmond, a former Biden adviser now serving as a senior adviser at the Democratic National Committee, emphasized

POVERTY:

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The End Poverty Caucus says it will aim to “help lawmakers organize around key votes and issues and build power in order to advance bold policy change.” Other CLBC lawmakers who are members of the newly formed poverty caucus are Sen. Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D-Ladera Heights) and Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Alameda).

“Part of the reason over a quarter of our state’s residents live at or below the poverty level is because of California’s failed public policies,” said Smallwood-Cuevas in a statement. “Our State Legislature must fight for California’s working families by creating equitable access to quality jobs and doubling down on what Californians earn across the board, particularly for residents from marginalized communities of color.”

Bonta said bills she introduced this year have

GENDER:

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To mark Black Women’s Equal Pay Day [July 27, 2023,] Siebel Newsom released a video on July 27 along with Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, and PolicyLink Founder in Residence, Angela Glover Blackwell.

“Today is Black Women’s Equal Pay Day — a day set aside each year to shine a light on the disparity in pay for Black women in this country and the far-reaching impacts for families, communities, and our economy,” said Bass in the video.

“Economic injustice is a problem across the board, and to solve problems effectively and authentically, we have to focus on those most impacted. Together, we will work to close this gap,” the mayor of California’s largest city continued.

On average, women earn 84 cents for every dollar a non-Hispanic White man does. That breaks down to Black women earning 67 cents; Latinas and Native Americans 57 cents; mothers 74 cents; LGBTQIA women 87 cents and women in leadership positions 72 cents for every dollar a non-Hispanic White man earns.

lacks:

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of Lacks’ cells, famously known as “HeLa” cells, the world’s first cells capable of replicating outside the human body.

Represented jointly by attorney Ben Crump, renowned for his advocacy for Black victims of police violence, and attorney Chris Seeger, known for leading significant class action lawsuits in U.S. history, the family called a news conference in Baltimore on Tuesday, August 1, which coincides with what would have been Lacks’ 103rd birthday.

“The parties are pleased that they were able to find a way to resolve this matter outside of court and will have no further comment about the settlement,” Crump and Seeger wrote in a news release.

The Lacks family’s lawsuit addressed a prob-

to the Post’s researchers the need to connect with Black voters, highlighting the benefits they have received from Biden administration policies. The party aims to learn from past shortcomings and draw explicit connections between its policies and the well-being of Black communities.

The challenge is particularly acute among Black men who often feel alienated from the political process due to historical policies that increased incarceration and job losses in manufacturing sectors.

Many express disillusionment after experiencing upheaval from a global pandemic and witnessing escalating violence in urban areas. To win their support, Democrats must focus on highlighting specific policy benefits rather than solely concentrating on criticism of former President Trump and Republican extremism, the analysts found. Despite Black

prioritized the needs of children and families, but she looks forward to working with her colleagues to take bolder and broader action to address those problems.

“It’s clear that we need to advance stronger policies that will coordinate effective, placebased delivery of wrap-around services for people most in need to make significant progress in the fight against poverty,” Bonta said.

“I look forward to joining forces with our End Poverty Caucus to ensure that we strengthen our safety net and tackle the racial and economic inequities in our communities.”

Other members of the Caucus are Senators Nancy Skinner (D-Oakland) and Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) and Assemblymembers Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda), Matt Haney (D-San Francisco), Ash Kalra (D-Fresno), Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland) and Luz Rivas (D-Arleta).

Some critics have cautioned, however, that creating a caucus focused on poverty is polit-

Women are hired into lower paying roles at lower starting salaries and take longer to move into leadership roles.

Black women are overrepresented in industries that experience significant downturns. A report by the Department of Labor found that in 2020, 12% of Black women were employed in education and health services but a disproportionate number of them (14.9%) experienced job losses. Also, in wholesale and trade, the majority of losses were Black women. In that sector, Black women comprised 5.6% of the workforce but 14.6 % of the job losses.

According to the report, Black women lost out on $39.3 billion in potential wages due to differences in industry and occupations relative to White men.

Racism and sexism are two of the obstacles that Black women face in the workplace. More than half of Black women surveyed for a 2021 National Women Law Center reported facing gender and racial hurdles to opportunity at work.

In 2019, Siebel Newsom launched California for ALL Women, an initiative to address gender equity at the state level. Through the initiative, she has been an outspoken champion and

women historically showing more robust voting enthusiasm, concerns over Black voter turnout also extend to this group.

Biden’s reelection garnered a tepid reaction in a Washington Post/Ipsos poll of Black Americans, with only 17 percent expressing enthusiasm about another term. The poll also revealed that most Black Americans wouldn’t consider voting for Trump, but a significant portion is not enthusiastic about Biden’s reelection. Terrance Woodbury, chief executive of HIT Strategies, a polling firm focused on young, non-white voters, warned liberal groups of the urgency to convince Black voters that they have benefited from Biden’s time in office.

The messaging needs to shift from attacking Trump to emphasizing policy benefits and addressing the belief among Black Americans that their votes don’t matter—a significant

ical showmanship by Democrats that will have little impact on actual poverty reduction. Tim Anaya, vice president of the conservative leaning Pacific Research Institute, says “The new End Poverty in California legislative caucus is not going to foster a serious discussion about helping Californians climb the economic ladder. Rather, EPIC promotes policies that don’t work and would trap more Californians perpetually in poverty.”

Instead, Anaya proposes, lawmakers should support free market reform to support entrepreneurship and small business growth. In an op-ed titled “Ending poverty in California Requires Good Policy, Not Platitudes,” that several California news outlets published last week, the author, Steven Greenhut, Western Region Director for the R Street Institute, compared the California Legislature to a high school student council setting unrealistic goals they cannot achieve.

“Ending poverty is a large promise — and the Legislature is much better at passing laws

thought leader on pay equity, working to close the race and gender wage gaps.

That same year, Siebel Newsom announced the California Equal Pay Pledge under California for ALL Women to build upon California policies such as the Fair Pay Act.

In 2022, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed into law the Pay Transparency for Pay Equity Act, introduced by Senator Monique Limón (D-Santa Barbara). This law requires employers to disclose salary ranges on all job postings and to allow public access to pay data broken down by race, ethnicity and sex for direct employees and those hired through third-party staffing agencies.

“As there is more transparency in the hiring and promotion process there will be outcome in closing the pay gap across companies,” said Siebel Newsom.

Mitchell says she is proud to stand with the first partner and other women and allies around California and the United States to end racial and gender pay discrimination.

“Intentional and bold action on closing the wage gap among Black women and women of color is needed across every sector and will put us on a path to truly ensuring all women,

barrier to voter participation. Brittany Smith, executive director of the Philadelphia-based Black Leadership PAC, which mobilizes Black voters, said she has noticed a shift in how Black people respond to get-out-the-vote efforts.

Also, as much as Biden has praised Black voters and the Black Press, the campaign has done little thus far to utilize Black-owned newspapers and media companies to help reach African Americans.

“Everybody knows that there’s no path, whether it’s President Biden or any other Democrat, federal or state, there’s no path to win that does not involve massive turnout from Black voters,” Cliff Albright, co-founder and executive director of Black Votes Matter, told the Post. “But they can’t just think that it’s just going to happen on its own. They’ve got to invest in making that happen.”

that exacerbate poverty (minimum wage, anti-competitive union work rules, onerous licensing requirements) rather than reduce it,” Greenhut writes.

Although poverty, overall, in California has decreased over the last four years, the numbers are still dire. About 28 % of state residents (4.5 million people) are poor or near-poor, according to the Public Policy Institute of California. The state’s homeless and housing affordability crises also compound problems poor and low-income families face in the state, according to policymakers.

Bryan says he looks forward to working with leaders like Tubbs, who has been a leading proponent of progressive economic policies like Guaranteed Basic Income and Baby Bonds.

“The best policy solutions come from listening to the people who are the most affected. I am proud to lead a caucus that is dedicated to doing exactly that,” said Bryan.

their families and communities are no longer shortchanged from economic prosperity,” said Mitchell.

Recently, Siebel Newsom convened and moderated a panel on pay equity at Genentech in South San Francisco. Genentech was an early signatory of the Equal Pay Pledge. The panel included Genentech CEO Alexander Hardy, Interim Chief Diversity Officer Cari DeLoa, and representatives from other parts of the business.

In addition to Genentech, there are 130 other companies and municipalities in California that have signed the Equal Pay Pledge. While acknowledging that this is not a significant number, Siebel Newsom said that there are several major global companies, like Apple, Intel, Twitter, Airbnb, Salesforce and Gap, that “are committing to equity and fairness in their policies.”

“Closing the pay gap for Black women is an essential step for economic justice,” said Glover Blackwell. “When Black women and other women of color are paid equally, we'll see the benefits cascade throughout society.”

Jaya Padmanabhan is a freelance journalist and a consulting editor for Ethnic Media Services

lem that had persisted for 70 years following the unlawful removal of Henrietta Lacks’ cells while she was receiving cervical cancer treatment at Johns Hopkins Hospital. The family argued that the cells rightfully belong to Lacks and that companies like Thermo Fisher Scientific should pay for using them in research and product development.

In a 2022 interview, Crump called the situation “indicative of the Black struggle for equality and respect in America.”

“Because it’s a racial justice issue when you think about it in the purest form,” Crump asserted. “The children of Henry Ford, they’re able to benefit from his contributions to the world.”

Thermo Fisher Scientific, in its defense, contended that Lacks’ descendants waited too long to take legal action and that other companies worldwide also use HeLa cells without the family’s consent. Lacks’ cancer treatment

in 1951 was unsuccessful, and she tragically succumbed to the disease a few months after her diagnosis. Following her death, researchers at Johns Hopkins discovered that the cells sampled from Lacks’ cervix could regenerate outside the human body. They shared those groundbreaking cells, which were instrumental in developing polio and COVID-19 vaccines and the world’s most common fertility treatment.

Crump has noted that other companies besides Thermo Fisher Scientific sell Lacks’ cells, and biotech companies and labs globally use them for various types of research. The family has signaled that they also may act against those companies.

For decades, Lacks’ contributions to science remained unrecognized. However, Maryland Democratic Rep. Kweisi Mfume and fellow Maryland Democrats U.S. Sens. Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin have introduced legislation seeking to award Lacks a Congressional

Gold Medal posthumously. The lawmakers said the goal is to ensure her contributions are honored and acknowledged for generations, as the cells she unknowingly provided continue to benefit millions worldwide.

Lacks’ story has since become a best-selling book and, in 2017, Oprah Winfrey starred in the big-screen biopic, “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks.”

“It’s a real honor to have a family member that’s genetic makeup is that important to the world,” Lacks’ grandson, Ron Lacks, said in an earlier interview. “When people are profiting from her, and some of my family members can’t even afford proper medical [care], you know, it’s like she’s on the auction block,” he said.

“You know, as loving as my grandmother was, she would have definitely said, ‘Well, what about her family?’”

Dr. LaShae Sharp-Collins Launches 79th Assembly District Candidacy

By K.H. Hamilton Contributing Writer

On Saturday, July 29, 2023, Dr. LaShae Sharp-Collins announced her candidacy for the 79th Assembly District at the home of her

parents, Winston and Mary Sharp. Family, friends, advocates, community members and mentors, including California Secretary of State, Dr. Shirley Weber were present to show their support of Dr. Sharp-Collins.

An educator who is home grown in the community, Dr. Sharp-Collins believes it is critical to show her future constituents about her per sonal connection to the 79th Assembly District. She grew up in Southeastern San Diego, graduated from Lincoln High School and her parents still live in the Southeast community.

Earlier in the day she attended the Annual Backpack Giveaway, hosted in El Cajon by the current California State Assemblymember for District 79, Dr. Akilah Weber. Dr. Weber is currently running for California Senate District 39, which is Senate President pro Tempore Toni Atkin’s seat. Atkins is termed out.

With a commitment to improving education for all of her potential future constituents, Dr. Sharp-Collins and her team are excited about the upcoming months ahead. If you are interested in volunteering, or even donating to Dr. LaShae’s campaign, visit her website at www.lashaeforassembly.com.

Common Ground Theatre Celebrates 60 Years with Upcoming Production

Sixty years ago, the late Rufus DeWitt and the late Dr. Robert L. Matthews answered the community’s call for a theatre company performing works by and about Black People. Their efforts started during the Civil Rights movement, a time when Blacks sought many freedoms including freedom of expression. In 1963, the Southeast Community Theatre was established. In 2003, the theatre was renamed Common Ground Theatre (Common Ground) by the late Dr. Floyd Gaffney, a professor at the University of California, San Diego, and

a director with the theatre for over three decades.

It is significant that the play being showcased in celebration of Common Ground’s 60 years is George C. Wolfe’s Colored Museum , a satire set in a fictional museum where a collection of 11 “exhibits” have been mounted for public viewing. First performed in 1985, this award-winning play remains relevant as it deconstructs several Black stereotypes, exploring themes like slavery, Black identity, generational trauma, and inter-communal conflict.

“This is a unique time in our country. 65% of Black people believe that even with the increased attention to racial inequality not much has changed. My father, Rufus Dewitt worked to provide a stage where great performance art could occur. Colored Museum is a thought-provoking piece that explores what it is to be Black in America. He would agree with our decision to produce this play 60 years after the opening of the theatre.”

Stated Francine DeWitt-Haynes, President for the Board of Directors for Common Ground Theatre.

Actor and director Yolanda Marie Franklin

was appointed Executive Artistic Director of Common Ground Theatre in July 2020. Ms. Franklin will direct this important piece of theatre. “We continue to find new ways to express the goals of our mission, excite audiences and provide opportunities for emerging actors. Colored Museum is a classic, and I am excited about directing such an important piece at such an important time in the life of Common Ground Theatre,” said Ms. Franklin. Showtimes will cover two weekends this month at the La Jolla Playhouse “Shank Theatre” 2910 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla, CA: Friday, August 18 & 25 at 7:30 PM, Saturday, August 19 & 26 at 7:30 PM, and Sunday, August 20 & 27 at 2:00 PM. A special anniversary reception will be available on Saturday, August 19, at 6:00 PM. Tickets are $40 with $10 off for students, and seniors.

Contact Francine DeWitt-Haynes at the Common Ground Theatre at (619) 246-5350 or visit www.commongroundtheatre.com for tickets.

Get your tickets soon, this play is guaranteed to sell out!

Water Safety Reinforced on World Drowning Prevention Day

By Anita Lightfoot County of

Communications Office

Local leaders gathered poolside July 25, 2023, in Oceanside in observance of World Drowning Prevention Day. The County of San Diego, along with the Prevent Drowning Foundation of San Diego, City of Oceanside, and Black Star Water Polo were there to remind everyone that water safety saves lives.

Among San Diego County residents, the number of deaths from drowning was 31 in 2021, the most recent year with complete data. Also in 2021, there were 52 hospitalizations and 112 emergency room visits. The number of deaths in 2021 was down from 47 in 2018, but higher than the 29 in 2019 and 28 in 2020.

Each year in California, over 400 people die from drowning and more than 1,200 are

involved in non-fatal drowning incidents that require an emergency department visit or hospitalization. Drowning is the single leading cause of death in children ages 1-4, and the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children under 14.

“Forty-eight percent of all drowning deaths occur in June, July and August,” said San Diego County Supervisor, Jim Desmond. “And with so many of us enjoying the water to stay cool in these high temperatures, it is essential to prioritize water safety.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention tracks annual data on its Drowning Prevention website that supports the peak months of danger. Anyone can drown. No one should.

Drowning is preventable through water safety education, swim instruction and learning how to provide CPR with rescue breathing.

“Learning to swim is the best defense against drowning,” said Nicole McNeil, President, Prevent Drowning Foundation of San Diego.

“We provide a variety of swim lesson programs for individuals who have limited access and funding to this life-saving skill.”

Other drowning prevention actions include pool fencing with self-closing, self-latching gates and alarms, wear properly fitted life jackets for all water sports, never swim alone and always supervise children around water.

For more information about local swimming lesson resources visit preventdrowningfoundation. org/learntoswim.

Chida Warren-Darby (left) and Dr. LaShae Sharp-Collins (center).

PHOTO: Courtesy of K.H. Hamilton PHOTOS: Courtesy of K.H. Hamilton

The Colored Museum.

PHOTO: Courtesy of Common Ground Theatre

VOICE & VIEWPOINT NEWSWIRE

San Diego

PHOTO: Courtesy of the County News Center

Supreme Court Ruling Limits Challenges to Unlawful Convictions

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior Correspondent

In a 6-3 decision, the Supreme Court delivered a blow to the rights of federal prisoners, particularly those who may be completely innocent.

Black Lives Matter Movement has Dropped Considerably

Ten years after the #BlackLivesMatter hashtag first appeared on Twitter, 51% of U.S. adults say they support the Black Lives Matter movement, according to a new Pew Research Center survey of 5,073 U.S. adults conducted April 10-16, 2023. Three years ago, following the murder of George Floyd, two-thirds (67%) expressed support for the movement.

The vast majority of Americans say they have personally watched videos of police violence against Black people in the news, on social media or in some other way.

Support for the Black Lives Matter movement differs by race, ethnicity, age and partisanship. Black adults (81%) are more likely than Asian (63%), Hispanic (61%) or White (42%) adults to say they support the movement. Most Democrats and Democratic leaners (84%) support the movement, while a similar share of Republicans and those who lean to the GOP (82%) oppose it. And adults younger than 30 are more supportive than those in older age groups.

In assessing the impact of the Black Lives Matter movement, 32% say it’s been highly effective at bringing attention to racism against Black people. Smaller shares say the same

about increasing police accountability (14%), improving the lives of Black people (8%) and improving race relations (7%). Overall, 31% of Americans say they understand the goals of the Black Lives Matter movement extremely or very well.

A third of Americans say the word dangerous describes the Black Lives Matter movement extremely or very well, and 34% say the same about the word divisive . Smaller shares describe the movement as empowering (26%) or inclusive (18%).

The vast majority of Americans say they have personally watched videos of police violence against Black people in the news, on social media or in some other way. Roughly ninein-ten Americans (88%) say they have seen these videos. This includes large majorities across age, racial, ethnic and partisan groups. Among those who have watched videos of police violence against Black people, 60% say this has had a negative impact on their trust in the police. Smaller but sizeable shares say this has had a negative impact on their sense of safety (48%) and their mental health (45%). Most Black adults who have seen these videos say this has had a negative impact on their mental health (63%).

A majority of Americans say the increased focus on issues of race and racial inequality in the past three years hasn’t led to changes that have improved the lives of Black people. Four-in-ten say the increased focus on these issues has led to meaningful change.

The June 22, 2023 ruling in Jones v. Hendrix establishes a significant hurdle for prisoners seeking to challenge their convictions in court.

The case revolved around Marcus DeAngelo Jones, a federal prisoner convicted in 2000 of possessing a firearm after a felony conviction. However, in a 2019 case called Rehaif v. United States, the Supreme Court declared that individuals could not be convicted under the felon-in-possession statute unless they were aware of their prior felony conviction at the time of possessing the gun.

Jones argued that he mistakenly believed his previous felony conviction had been expunged when he acquired the firearm, rendering his conviction invalid under Rehaif. He said because he was unaware of his felony status, federal law did not make his possession of the firearm illegal.

Unfortunately, the Supreme Court’s ruling, as outlined in Justice Thomas’s opinion, prevents Jones from challenging his conviction altogether.

The outcome is because of a federal law known as Section 2255, which generally bars federal prisoners from making multiple challenges to their convictions or sentences. Jones had previously succeeded in petitioning a federal court to vacate a portion of his sentence before the Rehaif decision, which Thomas argued extinguished his sole opportunity to challenge his conviction, even though Jones had no way of knowing that his claim of innocence would become potentially valid after Rehaif.

Although Section 2255 does include exceptions that allow for a second challenge under certain circumstances, Thomas narrowly interprets the provision, stating that the usual process is “inadequate or ineffective” to test the legality of a prisoner’s detention.

In her dissenting opinion, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson criticized Thomas’s restrictive construction

COVID-19 UPDATES

In weekly Tuesday morning Black Men and Women United (BMWU) meetings here in San Diego, our “Resident MD”, Dr. Jerome Robinson, reports on the COVID stats in San Diego County and other health-related news. In BMWU’s last two meetings, July 25, 2023, and August 1, 2023, Dr. Robinson shared hopeful commentary on the current COVID status for San Diegans and reminders to take preventative measures for COVID-19.

For anyone who tests positive for COVID, the FDA-approved Paxlovid prescription as well as JIREH Providers “can take care of you.” If exposed to COVID, Dr. Robinson notes that three separate tests are needed in order to prove a negative

result. Wait 48 hours in between each test.

Dr. Robinson reminds San Diegans that “COVID is still here” regard less of the lack of mask-wearing and other leniencies in COVID precau tions seen on a daily basis in the county. There is a lull in the summer months and a resurgence in the fall months. Asymptomatic COVID cases are also high, so testing is “very important.”

“Everybody needs to protect themselves, and the best way to do that is vaccinations,” Dr. Robinson noted in this week’s meeting.

and even mocks it by claiming that only a fire or mudslide could provide relief.

Thomas’s majority opinion extends the consequences beyond individuals like Jones, who hope to overturn their convictions due to developments like the Rehaif decision. Many other individuals who are entirely innocent and wrongfully convicted will also be denied the opportunity for second appeals and remain unjustly imprisoned.

Before Section 2255’s enactment in 1948, federal prisoners had to challenge their convictions in the judicial district where they were incarcerated. However, the system was impractical and burdensome for federal trial courts near prisons, as they often needed easier access to necessary records, evidence, and witnesses. Section 2255 addressed this issue by requiring prisoners to bring challenges to the court that initially tried and convicted them, ensuring a more equitable distribution of cases among federal district courts, and providing the court most familiar with the prisoner’s case to hear the habeas suits challenging their confinement.

Although Section 2255 ordinarily restricts prisoners from filing a second habeas challenge if they were previously denied relief, it permits a second challenge if the usual process is “inadequate or ineffective” to test the legality of their detention. However, Thomas characterized previous decisions allowing prisoners to file second challenges as an “end-run” around the limits set by federal law for habeas petitions.

He interpreted the “inadequate or

ineffective” provision so narrowly that very few cases would meet its requirements, leaving prisoners fighting unlawful convictions with limited recourse.

In response, Justice Jackson argued in her dissent that Thomas’s reading of Section 2255 is completely unsupported by the text. Both justices agreed on the historical purpose of Section 2255, which aimed to relieve the burden on district courts near federal prisons. However, the statute contains no language that aligned with Thomas’s interpretation of the “inadequate or ineffective” provision. Jackson asserted that Congress reenacted this exception in 1996, using identical language, and intended it to preserve prisoners’ ability to bring postconviction claims, including those based on statutory innocence, that might have been inadvertently barred by the language adopted in the amendment.

Experts said the outcome of the Jones case revealed not only the complexity of federal habeas law and the procedural challenges prisoners face but also a longstanding philosophical divide within the Supreme Court. Liberal-leaning justices argued that the criminal justice system should primarily focus on determining a defendant’s actual guilt and provide adequate safeguards for challenging wrongful convictions.

On the other hand, conservative justices, including Thomas, emphasized finality in criminal judgments, even if it meant potentially denying the innocence claims of prisoners.

Let’s all do our part to mitigate COVID-related deaths and hospitalizations to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.

PHOTO: NNPA

PHOTO: UnSpash

Nigeria's Leader Finally Proposes Cabinet Nearly Two Months into Term

northern region, the 71-year-old also promised to revive the economy, which has been struggling with surging inflation, high debt and job losses since the pandemic. But he has had a rough start in office with continued extrajudicial killings and economic hardship worsened by some of his policies. These include putting an end to gas subsidies that have been in place for decades but without social welfare programs in place to cushion the effect.

The list of ministerial nominees included several party loyalists who helped mobilize support for Tinubu during his presidential campaign.

Idayat Hassan, who leads the West Africa-focused Center for Democracy and Development, said the Nigerian president should discontinue the long tradition of rewarding loyalists with ministerial positions. “He must ensure that their appointments are fit to what their expertise really is,” Hassan said.

By Chinedu Asadeu

Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu on last Thursday forwarded 28 ministerial nominees to federal legislators for confirmation as he seeks to finally set up his Cabinet to lead Africa's most populous country.

The long-awaited list featuring six women was presented to the Nigerian Senate by Tinubu’s chief of staff Femi Gbajabiamila, a day before the deadline and nearly two months after the Nigerian leader took office.

On the list with no assigned portfo-

lios are four former governors and three presidential aides. It also features prominent professionals such as Muhammed Ali Pate, a former Nigerian health minister and former director at the World Bank who recently turned down an appointment to lead the global vaccine alliance Gavi.

Tinubu on May 29 took the reins of Africa’s largest economy, a nation of more than 210 million people, after promising to build on the achievements of his successor and end chronic bad governance that has stifled development.

In addition to his pledge to end the deadly violence in the hard-hit

She also urged the president to focus on Nigeria’s most pressing challenges in the security and economic sectors. “ There can’t be prosperity without peace and stability, so prioritizing security and the economy should go hand in hand,” Hassan said.

The date for the confirmation of the ministerial nominees has not been set by legislators. The process usually takes a few days and the current nominees are expected to be confirmed because Tinubu's party has a majority in the Senate.

Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved

in Guinea Gulf

Sierra Leone and Neighbors to Fight Piracy

By Kemo Cham

Sierra Leone said last Thursday it is working with neighboring countries to step up the fight against piracy in the Gulf of Guinea after a Chinese fishing vessel was hijacked in its waters earlier this week.

The area off the coast of West Africa is one of the world's most dangerous places for attacks on ships.

Twenty-three crew members on board Shenghai-2, including six Chinese nationals, were rescued a day after the hijacking last Sunday. The ship was sailing with another fishing vessel, Aliman, when both came under attack by heavily armed pirates, Sierra Leone’s Navy Chief Commodore Philip Juana told The Associated Press.

Aliman evaded seizure while the attackers sailed the hijacked vessel toward neighboring Liberia. The following day, the ship was freed and some of the pirates were caught by Liberian forces, Juana said.

“We are looking at how to curb the menace in the region,” he added.

Sierra Leone officials will engage with counterparts in Liberia on future “operational strategy ” against piracy, he added.

In June last year, the United Nations Security Council unanimously adopted a resolution condemning piracy, armed robbery and hostage -taking in the Gulf of Guinea. The area has recorded at least three pirate attacks in recent months, including in April, when pirates targeted a Chinese-run oil tanker.

In Liberia, the Ministry of National Defense said in an earlier statement the rescue effort lasted for more than 24 hours and ended last Monday. It included a coordinated operation that also involved the neighboring Cote d'Ivoire.

Two pirates were arrested while some weapons were recovered, the ministry said. An unspecified number of other pirates who were involved in the attack has evaded arrest.

Juana, the navy chief, said Sierra Leone and Liberia are investigating the hijacking.

“All Nigeriens Who Love Democracy and Freedom Will See to It”

By Chinedu Asadeu

Niger’s president defiantly declared last Thursday that democracy would prevail, a day after mutinous soldiers detained him and announced they had seized power in a coup because of the West African country's deteriorating security situation.

While many people in the capital of Niamey went about their usual business, it remained unclear who was in control of the country and which side the majority might support. A statement tweeted by the army command’ s account declared that it would back the coup to avoid a “murderous confrontation” that could lead to a “bloodbath.” It was not possible to confirm that the statement was genuine.

Meanwhile, President Mohamed Bazoum — who was elected in 2021 in Niger's first peaceful, democratic transfer of power since its independence from France in 1960 and is a key ally of the West — appeared to have the backing of several political parties.

“The hard-won achievements will be safeguarded. All Nigeriens who love democracy and freedom will see to it,” Bazoum tweeted early last Thursday.

Foreign Minister Hassoumi Massoudou issued a similar call on news network France 24, asking “all Nigerien democratic patriots to stand up as one to say no to this factious action.”

He demanded the president’ s unconditional release and said talks were ongoing.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who spoke to Bazoum by phone last Wednesday, said in a statement that he was “extremely worried" about the situation in Niger and warned of the “terrible effects on development” and civilians due to “successive unconstitutional changes of government in the Sahel region.”

The Economic Community of West African States sent Benin President Patrice Talon to lead mediation efforts.

Bazoum is a key ally in the West’s efforts to battle jihadists linked to alQaida and the Islamic State group in Africa's Sahel region. Extremists in Niger have carried out attacks on civilians and military personnel, but the overall security situation is not as dire as in neighboring nations.

Russia and the West have been vying for influence in the fight against extremism in the region.

Bazoum was seen by many as the West’s last hope for partnership in the Sahel after Mali turned away from former colonial power France and sought support from the Russian mercenary group Wagner. Wagner appears to be making inroads in Burkina Faso as well.

Western countries have poured aid into Niger, and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited in March, seeking to strengthen ties. American, French and Italian troops train the country's soldiers, while France also conducts joint operations.

But the threat to Bazoum has raised concerns that Niger may also turn away from the West.

Last Thursday, several hundred people gathered in the capital and chanted support for Wagner while waving Russian flags. Later, they began

throwing rocks at a passing politician’ s car.

“If Mohamed Bazoum resigns from the presidency, Niger will probably move to the top of the list of countries where the Wagner Group will seek to expand,” said Flavien Baumgartner, an Africa analyst at Dragonfly, a security and political risk consultancy.

Wagner already had its sights set on Niger, in part because it’s a large producer of uranium. But Bazoum posed an impediment because of his pro-French and pro-Western stance, said Baumgartner.

Wagner’s head, Yevgeny Prigozhin, weighed in on last Thursday, describing the developments as part of Niger’s fight against the “colonizers.”

Underscoring the importance of Niger to the West, Blinken said last Thurs-

day that he had spoken with the president, saying that he “made clear that we strongly support him as the democratically elected president of the country.”

Blinken, who was in New Zealand, repeated the U.S. condemnation of the mutiny and said his team was in close contact with officials in France and Africa.

Members of the presidential guard surrounded Bazoum’s house and detained him last Wednesday morning.

The mutinous soldiers, who call themselves the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Country, took to state television and announced they had seized control because of deteriorating security and poor economic and social governance in the nation of 25 million people. They said they had dissolved the constitution, suspended all institutions and closed all the borders.

The coup was reportedly sparked because Bazoum was allegedly planning to fire the head of the presidential guard, Gen. Omar Tchiani, Niger analysts say. Military experts say some of the people who appeared on state television were high-ranking officers, including Gen. Moussa Salaou Barmou, the head of Niger’s special forces who has a strong relationship with the United States.

According to someone close to the president who spoke on condition of anonymity, because they were not authorized to discuss the situation, the president has not and will not resign and is safe in his residence.

PHOTO: Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu/Chatham House/Wikimedia Commons

PHOTO: Screenshot of Google Maps/Voice & Viewpoint

ASSOCIATED PRESS

President Mohamed Bazoum. PHOTO: Bogdan Hoyaux/Wikimedia Commons

4 Ways to Prevent Pain from Computer Slouching

By Voice and Viewpoint Staff

FIVE TIPS for a Safe and Healthy Summer

By Voice and Viewpoint Newswire

In today’s ever-growing digital world, slouching and its effect on our bodies has become a growing concern, especially in the workplace where so many of us spend so much of our time at a computer. To help, we here at the Voice and Viewpoint are offering some tips to help mitigate health issues along the line. 1

Adopt Good Posture

While sitting at your desk, sit up straight with your back aligned with your chair, relax your shoulders, and keep your feet flat. If it helps, you can also use a footrest! 2

Utilize and Implement Ergonomics

According to the Oxford Dictionary, ergonomics is “relating to or designed for efficiency and comfort in the working environment.” That being said, it’s a good idea to keep your computer at eye level and at about an arm’s length away from your body. There are also lots of ergonomic tools

made for your workstation such as ergonomic desks, chairs, keyboards and mice. 3

Take Breaks

Don’t be afraid to take short breaks throughout the day, especially if you feel signs in your body to get up and move around. Simple stretches to release tension and promote circulation in the body are uber-important and are often neglected while caught up in the loop of getting work done. Using your computer, phone, or physical timer to remind yourself when to take breaks is a great tool to ensure you’re moving around as much as you can while at work

4

Strengthen that Core

Adopting core-strengthening exercis es into your routine, whether you live an active lifestyle or not, will dramatically improve your comfort at work. Engage your core muscles while participating in your regular workout routine as well as incorporate exercises that specifically target your core such as Pilates, planks, and bridges. Incorporating diaphragmatic breathing, or to breathing deeply into your abdomen, is also a game-changer for optimal performance!

Whether you just started working a desk job or have been at it for years, it’s never too early or too late to improve your life with these simple tools and preventative measures!

Whether you are planning an overseas vacation, getting ready for a staycation, or will be working outdoors, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s latest health tips, alerts, and social media updates include practical advice for travelers, swimmers, and everyone who wants to beat the summer heat.

Travel Abroad Safely

Before traveling abroad, check out health and safety risks at your destination. Get needed vaccinations at least 4 to 6 weeks before you leave to ensure you’re protected by the time you travel.

CDC’s latest traveler’s health updates include information about measles and malaria. Many countries are experiencing measles outbreaks, including Brazil, England, France, Israel, Japan and Ukraine. New anti-malarial medications are available for travelers to parts of the Caribbean, Central and South America, Southeast Asia, and Africa. About 1,700 cases of malaria are diagnosed every year in U.S. travelers who go abroad.

Swimming safety

CDC recommends that everyone check out the latest inspection score of pools where you plan to swim. Look for inspection scores online or on site. Chemicals like chlorine are added to pool water to kill germs and stop them from spreading, helping to keep swimmers healthy. However, mishandling pool chemicals can cause injuries.

Beat the heat and rays

Heat kills more than 600 people in the United States each year. Preventing heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke and heat exhaus-

tion, is important for people of all ages, but extreme heat poses the greatest risk for people under age 4 and over 65, and anyone who has a pre-existing medical condition or who lives in a home without air conditioning. The best ways to protect yourself from heat include staying cool, hydrated, and informed.

Sunburn is a common summertime injury. CDC recommends staying out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when its UV rays are at their highest level. Sunscreen is recommended for anyone working and playing outside in the summer, even on cloudy days. Hats, sunglasses, and long sleeves are also recommended for outdoors activities.

Food safety

Food poisoning peaks during summer months due to warmer temperatures, which can let foodborne germs thrive. Each year, 1 in 6 Americans get sick from eating contaminated food. CDC also has advice for food safety when grilling.

Insect protection

Protect yourself and your family from insect bites by using Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents with active ingredients such as DEET.

PHOTO: Anna Shvets/Pexels

PHOTO: RDNE Stock project/Pexels

BACKPACK GIVEAWAY

By Darrel Wheeler and Voice & Viewpoint Staff

As the new school year approaches school supplies are a very important component to the educational experience. Last Saturday, 79th District State Assemblymember Akilah Weber, M.D. and her team did their part in helping school-age kids with free backpacks and school supplies at the Ronald Reagan Community Center in El Cajon.

Assemblymember Weber, M.D. hosted the district’s 11th Annual Backpack Giveaway and Family Resource Fair, with organizations coming together to raise thousands of dollars towards free school supplies for the new year. El Cajon is a new redistricted city to the 79th Assembly District. Families had to show some patience as they endured the long entry line that wrapped halfway around the block on East Douglas Avenue.

“I ’ve been working with Akilah and her mother Shirley Weber for years. This has to be one of

the biggest turnouts. I think this is definitely a very important event. You can’t go wrong when it comes to helping kids with their education,” State Assembly District 79 candidate Dr. LaShae Sharp-Collins shared.

“The joy on the students’ faces as they get their brand-new backpacks makes the months of planning all worth it,” said Assemblymember Akilah Weber, M.D.

Sponsors and supporters included the National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Delta Upsilon Chapter in San Diego, The San Diego Foundation, IBEW Local 569/NECA San Diego, Californians Allied for Patient Protection, UFCW Local 135, SDG&E, Barona Band of Mission Indians, The Automobile Club of Southern California, Davita, Amazon, and Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan.

“Thanks

PHOTOS: Darrel Wheeler

Anniversary

“GOSPEL ON THE MIDWAY”

By Voice & Viewpoint Staff

It was a great evening on the flight deck of the USS Midway, now anchored in the Harbor of the San Diego Bay. As the sun began to set, people could be seen flocking to this ship which has been transformed into the location of the Bayside Gospel Concert, hosted by M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records and G.O.D. Radio1.

The event was sold out, although some didn’t make it for reasons from parking to the heat. But this was a cool event with a breeze from the water the entire evening. The lineup included L.O.C.F. Worship, Foothills Praise and Worship Team, Grace Covenant Church Worship Team, North Park Worship and the fantastic Divine Praise Dancers.

Much appreciation was given to the Midway Diversity and Inclusion Committee which has been a partner in this event from the very beginning.

While the entire event was filled with praise and worship, one of the evening’s highlights was the recognition given to Walter Ko, who has co-hosted Gospel On Demand Radio (G.O.D.Radio1.com) with Dr. Michelle Thompson for more than a decade. Chida Warren-Darby presented a Proclamation from Mayor Todd Gloria declaring that day Walter Ko Day in the City of San Diego. Kudos to G.O.D.Radio1 and M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records for another year of great gospel music.

Uplifts

Fourth Supervisorial District, Special Primary Election.

Only registered voters residing in the Fourth Supervisorial District are eligible to participate in the election. VOTE CENTERS OPEN: Aug. 5 through Aug. 15

Complete your ballot in the comfort of your home. Sign and date your return envelope, seal your completed ballot inside, and return it through the U.S. Postal Service – no stamp needed!

Return your ballot to any of the Registrar’s official ballot drop boxes around the district through Election Day, Tuesday, Aug. 15.

Avoid long lines by taking advantage of early voting! Starting Saturday, Aug. 5, seven vote centers will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. On Election Day, Tuesday, Aug. 15, fourteen vote centers will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Find a ballot drop box or vote center near you at sdvote.com

BigFunatthe PHATCAMP LadiesSoftballGame

ByJaynaeRogersand VoiceandViewpointStaff

A for LaKeisha

Have you heard about PHATCAMP? Well, let me tell you all about it! PHATCAMP organization, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering women from adolescence to adulthood in a unique way inspires women and girls through the game of softball. Members of the organization choose a cause important to them and get together to play the game for that cause. This past weekend was no different as the PHATCAMP ladies could be seen at Oak Park making a positive noise in the community.

PHATCAMP, is an acronym meaning “Pushing Hard Advocate Team", and was founded in 2007 by local San Diego rapper Melissa Hernandez, also known as Cuban Memee. She has been able to provide a safe space for women of all ages to come together every summer to play a game of softball. PHATCAMP provides youth and peer leadership, resourceful information, event coordination, outreach programs and volunteer opportunities aimed to help assist those in need, specifically those affected by domestic violence, child abuse and discrimination towards men, women and children.

Catch PHATCAMP next year for Season 17 at Oak Park. For more information, visit www.PHATCAMP.org.

LaKeisha Powell celebrated her 44th Birthday during a joyous occasion with loved ones last weekend. LaKeisha had this to say, “As a family we have lost so much over the past 4 years. My son, my mother, my friends… It felt great to have a true moment of joy with everyone.”

A warm “Happy Birthday” to you, LaKeisha!

PHOTOS: Mike Norris

PHOTOS: Mike Norris

/ LEGAL

business is conducted by:

An Individual

The first day of business was: 8/14/2004

This business is hereby registered by the following: Thao Giang 3558 Glade St. San Diego, CA 92115

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on July 17, 2023

This fictitious business name will expire on July 17, 2028

7/27, 8/03, 8/10, 8/17

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT 2023-9014945

Fictitious business name(s): Defuego Located at: 1593 Mesa

PROPOSED NAME: Judi Laverne Clayton Patterson

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

Diego County ***Federal Determination TBD

• DIR Registration: You must be registered with the Department of Industrial Relations. Click link below for DIR registration completion or renewal. https://www.dir.ca.gov/Public-Works/Contractor-Registration.html

• Section 3 Requirements: This project has HUD Section 3 requirements (24CFR135) Skilled and Trained workers.

• All trades will be required to meet STW standards, and all contractors (whether union on non- union) will be required to sign a Letter of Assent to perform this project under the terms of the PLA

• Bids Due Date: August 18, 2023 by 2 pm (PST)

• Trade Scopes Include (but not limited to): Brick/Block Layers, Finish Carpenters, Insulation Installer, Cement Mason, Drywall, Electrician, Elevator Mechanic, Glaziers, Ironworkers, Laborers, Painter, Plaster, Plumber/pipe-fitter, Roofer, Fire Sprinkler, Floor Layer, Sheet Metal, HVAC, Tile Layer, Truck Driver, Fence Erector, Operator Eng, Cabinet Installer, Framer, Landscape etc. Though bids are welcomed from all appurtenant & applicable trades.

• HA Builder Group, LLC hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, ancestry, or national origin in consideration for an award.

****Bid Delivery & Questions: Pre-bid RFI’s, contractual questions, and bid submissions should be directed to Brady Cahill via email at brady@habuilders.com (858).650.9050****

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: September 12, 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).

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.

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

The address of the court is:

330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 8/03, 8/10, 8/17, 8/24

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA

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

37-2023-00026859CU-PT-CTL

Petitioner or Attorney: Walter Sylvester Lam

To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Walter Sylvester Lam filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

PRESENT

NAME: Walter Sylvester Lam

PROPOSED

NAME: Walter Otira Lam

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: August 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).

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

or Decree

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: September 05, 2023

Time: 8:30 A.M. Dept. C-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).

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: September 06, 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)

Hoang Phan filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

a.PRESENT NAME: Khang Vinh Le

PROPOSED NAME: Joshua Khang Vinh Le

b.PRESENT NAME: An Phan Hoang Le PROPOSED

San Diego, CA 92101 7/27, 8/03, 8/10, 8/17

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA

330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 Hall Of Justice Courthouse 37-2023-00029032CU-PT-CTL

Petitioner or Attorney: Anabel Francogalvan

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:

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

A certified copy of Decree

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

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

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

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

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

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

The address of the court is: 330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 8/03, 8/10, 8/17, 8/24

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA 330 W. Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 Hall Of Justice

37-2023-00030263CU-PT-CTL

Petitioner or Attorney:

Zena Jolagh

To All Interested Persons: Petitioner

Zena Jolagh filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

PRESENT NAME:

Zena Jolagh

PROPOSED NAME:

Zena J Hanna

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

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

To change a name on a legal document, including a birth certificate, social security card, driver license, passport, and other identification, a certified copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree Changing Name and Order Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be required. Contact the agency(ies) who issue the legal document that needs to be changed, to determine if a certified copy is required.

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

If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions. If a timely objection is filed, the court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions.

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

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

The address of the court is:

330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 7/27, 8/03, 8/10, 8/17

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA

330 W. Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 Hall Of Justice

37-2023-00030529CU-PT-CTL Petitioner or Attorney: Samir P Hanna

To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Samir P Hanna filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Samir P Hanna PROPOSED NAME: Sam Hanna

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

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

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

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

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

Changing Name and Order

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

A certified copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree

Changing Name and Order

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

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

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

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

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

The address of the court is: 330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 7/27, 8/03, 8/10, 8/17

COURT OF CALIFORNIA

NAME: Junia An Phan Hoang Le 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: August 31, 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).

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

To change a name on a legal document, including a birth certificate, social security card, driver license, passport, and other identification, a certified copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree Changing Name and Order Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be required. Contact the agency(ies) who issue the legal document that needs to be changed, to determine if a certified copy is required.

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

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

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

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

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

The address of the court is: 330 West Broadway

To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Anabel Francogalvan filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

PRESENT NAME: Anabel Francogalvan

PROPOSED NAME: Anabel Galvan

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: August 24, 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).

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

330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 7/20, 7/27, 8/03, 8/10

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA

325 South Melrose Dr. Vista, CA 92081 North County Division 37-2023-00028177CU-PT-NC

Petitioner or Attorney:

Lisa Marie Fowler

To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Lisa Marie Fowler filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

PRESENT NAME:

Lisa Marie Fowler

PROPOSED NAME:

Lisa Marie Loya Brochard

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: August 25, 2023

Time: 8:30 A.M. Dept. 25 (To appear remotely, check in advance of the hearing for information about how to do so on the court's website. To find your court's website go to www.courts.ca.gov/find-mycourt.htm)

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

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

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

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

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

Changing Name and Order

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

A certified copy of Decree

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

Changing Name and Order

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

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

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

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 South Melrose Dr. Vista, CA 92081

7/13, 7/20, 7/27, 8/03

SUMMONS

SUMMONS (Request For Order)

Party without Attorney Jennifer Ahumada

2359 Cambria Dr. Stockton, CA 95205

Superior Court of California, County of San Joaquin

180 E Weber Ave Stockton, CA 95202

Petitioner: County of San Joaquin

Respondent: Anthony Aguilar

Other Parent/ Party: Jennifer Ahumada

Request for Order:

Child Custody, Visitation, Other(specify): passport/ travel issue

Case Number FL 20181496

Notice of Hearing to: Anthony Aguilar (respondent)

A Court Hearing will be Held as Follows: September 18, 2023 at 8:15am Dept 4A

Warning to the person served with the request for order: the court may make the requested orders without you if you do not file a responsive declaration to request for order (form FL-320), serve a copy on the other parties at least nine court days before the hearing (unless the court has ordered a shorter period of time), and appear at the hearing. (See form FL-320INFO for more information.)

Request for order child custody visitation(parenting time)

Child's Name

Nicholas Joseph Aguilar

Date of Birth

2/09/18

Legal Custody to (person who decides: health, education, etc): Jennifer Ahumada

Physical Custody to (person with whom child lives): Jennifer Ahumada

The orders requested for child custody, visitation (parenting time), as follows(specify): legal and physical custody to mother no visits to father.

Other Orders requested (specify): passport/travel issue mother shall obtain passport for the minor child Nicholas born 2/09/2018 without fathers signature and consent. 8/03, 8/10, 8/17, 8/24

SUMMONS (Family Law)

NOTICE TO DEFENDANT (Fil Paulo Sy Marcelino)

AVISO AL DEMANDADO (Fil Paulo Sy Marcelino):

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): Sharie Jarsulic

Case Number: 22FL008697S

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.

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 ollamada 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.

AVISO—LAS ÓRDENES DE RESTRICCIÓN SE ENCUENTRAN EN LA

PÁGINA 2: Las órdenes de restricción están en vigencia en cuanto a ambos cónyuges omiembros de la pareja de hecho hasta que se despida la petición, se emita un fallo ola corte dé otras órdenes. Cualquier agencia del orden público que haya recibido ovisto 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 South County Division, 500 3rd Ave Chula Vista, CA 91910

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):

Sharie Jarsulic 1506 L Ave National City, CA 91950 Tel No. (619) 900-5762

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

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.

ÓRDENES DE RESTRICCIÓN ESTÁNDAR DE DERECHO FAMILIAR

En forma inmediata, usted y su cónyuge o pareja de hecho tienen prohibido:

1.llevarse del estado de California a los hijos menores de las partes, o solicitar un pasaporte nuevo o de repuesto para los hijos menores, sin el consentimiento previo por escrito de la otra parte o sin una orden de la corte;

2.cobrar, pedir prestado, cancelar, transferir, deshacerse o cambiar el nombre de los beneficiarios de cualquier seguro u otro tipo de cobertura, como de vida, salud, vehículo y discapacidad, que tenga como beneficiario(s) a las partes y su(s) hijo(s) menor(es);

3.transferir, gravar, hipotecar, ocultar o deshacerse de cualquier manera de cualquier propiedad, inmueble o personal, ya sea comunitaria, cuasicomunitaria o separada, sin el consentimiento escrito de la otra parte o una orden de la corte, excepto en el curso habitual de actividades 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.

ADVERTENCIA— IMFORMACIÓN

IMPORTANTE

De acuerdo a la ley de California, las propiedades adquiridas por las partes durante su matrimonio o pareja de hecho en forma conjunta se consideran propiedad comunitaria para fines de la división de bienes que ocurre cuando se produce una disolución o separación legal del matrimonio opareja de hecho. Si cualquiera de las partes de este caso llega a fallecer antes de que se divida la propiedad comunitaria de tenencia conjunta, el destino de la misma quedará determinado por las cláusulas de la escritura correspondiente que describen su tenencia (por ej., tenencia conjunta, tenencia en común o propiedad comunitaria) y no por la presunción de propiedad comunitaria. Si quiere que la presunción comunitaria quede registrada en la escritura de la propiedad, debería consultar con un abogado.

8/03, 8/10, 8/17, 8/24

SUMMONS (Citation for Freedom from Parental Custody and Control)

ATTORNEY OR PARTY WITHOUT ATTORNEY

Leigh A. Kretzshimar

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO 2851 Meadow Lark Drive, San Diego, CA, 92123

IN THE MATTER OF Ayden Christopher Hill

A Minor Date of Birth 09/14/2013

RESPONDENT(S)

Christopher Curtis Hill

JUDGE

Tilisha T. Martin

DEPT JC-02

CASE NUMBER 23AD000097C

To (name): CHRISTOPHER CURTIS HILL

You are ordered to appear in the Superior Court of the State of California, County of San Diego, in Department JC-02 at the court location indicated above on August 11, 2023, at 1:30 PM, to show cause, why (names) AYDEN CHRISTOPHER HILL should not be declared free from parental custody and control (for the purpose of placement for adoption) as requested in the petition.

This hearing will be conducted by video or telephone through the 2851 Meadowlark Drive SAN DIEGO, CA 92123. See attached instructions and call the court to have the video link emailed to you.

IMPORTANT: CHRISTOPHER CURTIS HILL please call the court promptly for instructions on how to attend this hearing.

(858)634-1671 M-F 8:30am11:30 PST

At the hearing, the judge will read the petition and, if requested, will explain the effect of the granting of the petition, any term or allegation contained

therein and the nature of the proceeding, its procedures and possible consequences, and may continue the matter for not more than 30 days for the appointment of counsel or to give counsel time to prepare.

The court may appoint counsel to represent the minor whether or not the minor is able to afford counsel. If any parent appears and is unable to afford counsel, the court shall appoint counsel to represent each parent who appears unless such representation is knowingly and intelligently waived.

Someone over the age of 18 - not the petitioner - must serve the other party with all the forms and complete a proof of service form, such as Proof of Service of Citation (Adoptions) (SDSC Form #JUV-300), telling when and how the other party was served and file that with the court.

If you wish to seek the advice of an attorney in this matter, you should do so promptly so that your pleading, if any, may be filed on time.

Acclaimed Actor Hill Harper Seeks U.S. Senate Seat

Hill Harper, the well-known actor recognized for his roles in hit television shows such as “CSI: NY” and “The Good Doctor,” has declared his candidacy for Michigan’s vacant U.S. Senate seat. Harper’s bid for the Democratic nomination sets him on a direct collision course with U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin.

With Harper’s entry into the race, he becomes the sixth Democratic contender vying for the seat left open by retiring Democratic Sen. Debbie Stabenow. A four-term senator, Stabenow announced her decision not to seek re-election in 2024, adding to the significance of the battleground state’s upcoming election.

Although born in Iowa, Harper has established strong ties to Michigan. He owns a residence in Detroit and made a notable investment in the city’s business landscape by purchasing Roasting Plant Coffee in 2017. Before pursuing an acting career, Harper attended Brown University and Harvard Law School.

Harper’s involvement in public service extends beyond the entertainment industry.

In 2012, President Barack Obama appointed Harper to his cancer panel because of his personal experience as a cancer survivor. Harper’s background as a small-business owner, union member, and activist positions him as a unique candidate who emphasizes his status as a non-career politician.

He declared that his campaign would be “powered by the people, for the people,” hoping that this trait would give him an advantage in Congress. In an interview with The Associated Press leading up to his announcement, Harper stressed the importance of representing the people rather than focusing on party lines. He said he believed Michigan residents desired an independent voice in the U.S. Senate.

Harper faces the daunting challenge of catching up to Slotkin’s impressive fundraising efforts and established campaign. Slotkin, who has garnered endorsements from fellow U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens, has raised $5.8 million in just over four months, with $3.6 million remaining unspent.

Initially, many prominent Democratic candidates considering a Senate run chose not to compete after Slotkin’s announcement in February. However, in recent months, the field of Democratic candidates has expanded. State Board of Education member Pamela Pugh, former Detroit state Rep. Leslie Love, businessman Nasser Beydoun, and attorney Zack Burns have all thrown their hats into the ring.

Michigan holds significant importance for the Democratic Party, as the state represents a must-win for maintaining control of the Senate. Democrats anticipate tough races in other battleground states like Ohio, West Virginia, Montana, Nevada, and Pennsylvania.

In the 2020 election, Republican John James narrowly lost to incumbent Democratic Sen. Gary Peters, who now serves as a U.S. representative.

While two GOP candidates, including state Board of Education member Nikki Snyder, have declared their intentions to run, Republicans have yet to field a high-profile contender for the seat. Notable figures like former U.S. Rep. Peter Meijer are reportedly considering bids.

Republicans have been successful in only one of Michigan’s last 15 Senate races, securing an open seat victory in 1994.

PHOTO: NNPA By Stacy M. Brown NNPA NEWSWIRE SENIOR NATIONAL CORRESPONDENT

Eagles Nest Christian Center

Search: Pastor John E. Warren San Diego

We are a non-denominational full

This

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.

Gail A.

Parker

SUNRISE 06/20/1964

SUNSET 07/28/2023

Dearest family and friends, Please join us in a memorial to celebrate the life of our loving mother Gail A. Parker. She is survived by 3 sisters, 3 brothers, 2 daughters, 1 son, and 4 grandchildren.

Saturday, August 5, at 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm.

Lola Ree Ellis

ARRANGEMENTS BY PREFERRED

CREMATION & BURIAL MORTUARY

Lola Ree Tate born in Forest, Mississippi on April 23, 1920, to Viola and Elijah Denham. She is one of four children. She had three brothers.

She accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at the age of 12 and was baptized by Rev. J.J. Overstreet, Pastor of Concord Baptist Church. She received her education at the local schools in Forest, Mississippi.

On May 15, 1935, Lola met Robert P. Tate, and on December 4, 1939, they got married in Jasper, Alabama. Lola and Robert resided there until 1942 when Robert was called to active duty in the United States Army. After he was called to active duty, they moved to Indianapolis, Indiana and resided there from 1942 to 1950.

Goodlow

ARRANGEMENTS BY PREFERRED CREMATION & BURIAL MORTUARY

Barbara Ann Goodlow was born April 12, 1947 in St. Louis, Missouri to Helen Armenta (Williams) Terry and Charles Terry. The family moved to California, and Barbara attended the San Diego School District. She graduated from Lincoln High School.

Barbara married Willis Edwin Goodlow III and raised two children, Willis Edwin Goodlow IV and Cynthia Michelle Goodlow (Ajani).

Barbara attended Church of Christ on 61st and Division Street, where she was later baptized.

Barbara enjoyed singing, word searches, Kit-Kat chocolate bars, and was a champion bingo player at her residential home. Affectionately known to her family as "Baba", she will be remembered for her resilience, kindness, and quick wit.

Barbara was called home on July 20, 2023.

Preceding her in death were her parents and her brother, Daniel Terry.

Barbara leaves to cherish her memory, son Willis E. Goodlow IV, daughter Cynthia M. Ajani (Erren Lee Ajani), grandchildren; Willis E. Goodlow V, Devon Goodlow, Tamara Nicole Goodlow, Kapri Leechelle Pollard, (Devante) Khea Janae Pollard, one great-granddaughter, Kalani Aaliyah Gustavis, and two half sisters.

Lola and Robert moved to San Diego, California in 1950 and united with Greater Trinity Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor W. L. Gayton. Lola served in various positions in the church. She organized the Visitation Committee, the B Sharp Organ Club, and taught Sunday School and Mission Lessons for the Esther Circle. Lola served as Vice President of the Mission. She served as Membership Clerk and Financial Secretary for twenty-two years. She was the personal Secretary to Pastor Gayton. Lola was the last living member whose name is on Greater Trinity’s Cornerstone. She served at Greater Trinity Baptist Church faithfully until 2009, when Lola joined her son, Rev. Dr. Donald Owens at Exodus Church. Mother Lola Tate attended faithfully up to the age of 101, when her health would not permit her to attend. Lola was a charter member of the Agnes Knight Study Charity & Social Club and Honorary Charter Member of Exodus Church.

In 1957, Lola attended Grossmont School of Nursing and was the first African American Nurse at Grossmont Hospital. She spent her entire Nursing Career at Grossmont Hospital in La Mesa, California until she retired in 1981 to care for her husband.

Lola was preceded in death by her husband Robert Paul Tate, her mother and father Elijah and Viola Denham, and her three brothers. Lola had no biological children.

She leaves to mourn her adopted son Rev. Dr. Donald (Beverly) Owens, grandchildren, Monee (Andre) Bell, Tanya Reynolds, Roman Owens (Andrea) and great-grandchildren; Aarrion Allison, NaJae Reynolds, Grayson Owens, Andre Bell Jr., and Monet Bell, cousins Rosa Davis (San Diego), Shirley Ann Wilson (San Diego), John E. Forte (Los Angeles), Henry C. Forte and Gregory Forte (San Diego), Brenda Pierce and Preston Pierce (San Diego), Danielle Jackson and Marley Jackson (New York), and a host of adopted children; Pearl (Ed) Andrews, Larry Wilson, Stephanie Wilson, Vermell Cannie, Cynthia Forsythe, Maretta Frierson, Dr. Mary Cannie, Princess (Daniel) Stewart, Donald Flemister, and many other young people who referred to her as Mother Tate. She also leaves behind her special friends, the 5:30 a.m. Gym Friends, her special friend Jackie, who did her nails, special friend Sis. Delores Caldwell and former landlord Thomas and residents at 415 D Street, Chula Vista, CA.

ARRANGEMENTS BY PREFERRED CREMATION & BURIAL MORTUARY

Ellis Benjamin “Bull” Love, Jr. was born on January 9, 1943 in El Centro, California to Geraldine Love and Ellis B. Love, Sr. The Love family moved to San Diego, and he attended Kearny High School.

“Bull” was a gentle giant. He was an athlete who played little league baseball, football, and basketball at the Linda Vista Recreation Center. He loved playing dominoes with the fellas and spending time with his children, as well as his many nieces and nephews.

His favorite saying was “Hey”. He playfully called his buddies “Jack” and was good for flexing his muscles.

“Bull” was called home to be with the Lord on July 14, 2023. Ellis was preceded in death by his brother Robert Eugene Love, and his nephews; Lafayette and Maurice, all from San Diego, California.

Ellis leaves to cherish his memory, siblings; Etta Faye and David, daughter Mia Danielle, son Benjamin, grandchildren; Elijah, Jeramiah, Breanah, and Aaliyah, nieces; Salani, Ursula, Shasa, and Tamika, nephews; Marcell and Andre, a host of great nieces and nephews, and other relatives and friends.

May Time Soften Your Pain

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. May time soften the pain

Love Lives On A. Bradley

For everywhere their special love lives on.

Those we love are never really lost to us we feel them in so many special ways through friends they always cared about and dreams they left behind, in beauty that they added to our days… in words of wisdom we still carry with us and memories that never will be gone… Those we love are never really lost to us

Black Business Month is celebrated in August — it’s a time to acknowledge and appreciate Black-owned businesses across the nation and all that they represent in the country’s continual striving for diversity and equality.

When we celebrate the contribution of Black business owners and entrepreneurs, it pays homage to them and their legacies, especially since celebrating this month recognizes the importance of Blackowned businesses when it comes to contributing to the nation’s economy as well.

HISTORY OF BLACK BUSINESS MONTH

Since the late 1700s, both free and enslaved Black people began to open their own small businesses, from barbershops to tobacco shops and shoemaking. As emancipation grew, so did the establishment of Black-owned businesses, and this led to the period between 1900 to 1930 being labeled as the ‘golden age’ of Black-owned businesses. Segregation saw entire districts becoming Black-owned, such as Black Wall Street in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

In 1915, with the establishment of The National Negro Business League, there was widespread support of African-American entrepreneurship, with The National Business League spreading to over 34 states. By 2002, 1.2 million of the United States’ 23 million businesses were owned by Black people, bringing in a revenue of over $150 billion! How’s that for booming business?

Black Business Month can be traced back to the year 2004, when engineering entrepreneur Frederick E. Jordan partnered with the president and executive editor of the scholarly publishing company eAccess Corp, John William Templeton, to start this annual event. The intention of the pair was to “drive the policy agenda affecting the 2.6 million African-Amer-

ican businesses,” in order to highlight and empower Black business owners all over, especially given the unique challenges faced by minority business owners.

WHY BLACK BUSINESS MONTH IS IMPORTANT

It champions equity

Black Business Month ensures that Black-owned businesses get the recognition and patronage they so richly deserve, especially if any of them are struggling to stay afloat. To celebrate Black-owned businesses is to empower more people from the African-American communities to dream big and begin their own entrepreneurial journeys.

It supports minorities

Since African-Americans belong to the category of minority communities, their businesses are more likely to be hard-hit as opposed to White-owned businesses, perhaps simply because systemic racism is still prevalent in the nation — whether latent or blatant. Supporting these businesses is a way of acknowledging and celebrating the struggle and encouraging Blackowned businesses to keep boom -

Don't Let Your Credit Scores Retire

Getting rid of debt before retirement is often a good idea. Getting rid of your credit scores? Not so much.

People who stop using credit also stop generating enough data to produce credit scores, the three-digit numbers used to gauge creditworthiness. Not having scores can make it harder and more expensive to get loans. Even if you're sure you'll never borrow again, lacking credit scores also can make insurance, cellphone plans and security deposits more expensive.

Fortunately, you don't have to be in debt to have good credit scores. You do have to use credit, however.

Older people are more likely to have mortgages, car loans, credit card balances and other debt in retirement compared with a generation ago, according to Federal Reserve statistics. Seventy percent of households headed by someone age 65 to 74 had debt in 2019, the latest year available from the Fed's Survey of Consumer Finances. That compares with 51.4% in 1998. Among households headed by someone 75 and older, 51.4% had debt in 2019 compared with 24.6% in 1998. But that still leaves a large population of older people who don't have debt and may

not be actively using credit. Leading credit scoring firm FICO has found 7.4 million people are "credit retired," with good credit histories but no active accounts, says Ethan Dornhelm, FICO's vice president for scores and predictive analytics. Some were younger people who may have switched to a cash-only lifestyle, but most were older: The median age of the credit retired was 73, Dornhelm says.

And credit scores can get "retired" relatively quickly. The FICO scoring formula used in most lending decisions needs at least one account on someone's credit report to have been updated in the previous six months, Dornhelm says.

Having a paid-off mortgage and no other debt can be helpful when you're retired on a fixed income. You won't have to draw down your savings or use your limited income to make debt payments. But maintaining good credit can be helpful if you need to borrow to pay an unexpected expense, finance a latein-life move or deal with a cash flow crunch, among other situations.

Even if your borrowing days are truly behind you, nonexistent credit scores could cost you in other ways:

• In most states, insurers use credit information to set premiums for auto and home insurance.

• G etting a cellphone plan can be tough with poor or nonexistent credit, and cellphone providers often reserve their best deals for people with good credit scores.

• Utility companies may demand larger security deposits for people without scores.

• Senior housing including assisted living facilities, continuing care retirement communities and even some nursing homes may require applicants to pass a credit check.

Fortunately, you don't have to go back into debt to maintain good credit scores. Using a credit card or two, and paying off the balances in full every month, should suffice. Card issuers report payments to the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) each month, keeping your accounts updated so your reports can continue to generate credit scores.

Try not to charge too much on a card, however, even if you pay in full. Using too much of your available credit can hurt your scores. The fewer active accounts you have, the more damage you could do.

ing.

Inclusivity and diversity

If there are two terms that define our current generation's entire zeitgeist, they are inclusivity and diversity. The best part is that these will never go out of fashion, as we make leaps and strides into making sure that institutional racism and prejudice go out of style for good. Since Black-owned businesses are what bring in more diversity, our job is to support these to make sure that all minority communities can be inspired to enter the fray and contribute to the nation's economic and sociological well-being.

The odds are still not in favor of Black entrepreneurship. To push for equity in the business spaces and to celebrate those who are thriving despite the challenges, Black Business Month is a monthlong celebration of entrepreneurs who beat the odds.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Check out the next issues of the Voice & Viewpoint for more information on Black business and Black Business Week throughout August.

If you've already let your credit scores retire, it's not too late to get them working for you again. Being added as an authorized user to someone else's credit card can be enough to revive your scores. Another option is a secured credit card, which requires a cash security deposit that's usually equal to the credit limit you get. Finally, some credit unions and online lenders offer credit-builder loans. These loans put the amount you borrow into a savings account that you can tap after you make all the monthly payments. Good credit scores are worth the effort regardless of your age.

PHOTO: RDNE Stock

PHOTO: RDNE Stock project/Pexels

BLACK HISTORY

1964

JOAN

E. HIGGINBOTHAM BORN

Joan Elizabeth Higginbotham, the third Black woman to go into space, was born on August 3, 1964, in Chicago, Illinois.

Higginbotham attended Southern Illinois University Carbondale and received a Bachelor of Science in 1986 and continued her education at the Florida Institute of Technology, where she received a Masters of Management in 1992 and a Masters in Space Systems in 1996.

Although Higginbotham did not finish her education until 1996, she started her career in 1987 at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. She participated in 53 space shuttle launches during her first nine years at Kennedy Space Center. After nine years at the Kennedy Space Center, Higginbotham was selected as an astronaut candidate in April of 1996 by NASA.

Higginbotham’s last assignment as the Lead for the International Space Station Systems Crew Interfaces Section led her to be part of the crew of STS-116 in 2006 where she logged over 308 hours in space during the mission, making her the third Black woman to go into space.

Higginbotham has received many rewards such as the Adler Planetarium Woman in Space Award and the Black Rose Award by the League of Black Woman both in 2007, and an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters in 2017 from the University of New Orleans, Louisiana.

1832

EDWARD WILMOT BLYDEN

BORN

Edward Wilmot Blyden, revered as the father of PanAfricanism, was born on August 3, 1832, to a free, literate family in Saint Thomas (U.S. Virgin Islands).

Blyden challenged the arguments about black inferiority, with scriptures, science, and examples of successful people of African descent. Between 1856 and 1887 Blyden authored four books including A Voice From Bleeding Africa (1856) and A Vin- dication of the African Race; Africa for the Afri-cans (1872). He also wrote countless articles to help prove his points. Blyden also challenged black and mulatto elites in Liberia who hoped to monopolize political power.

During the 1860s and early 1870s Blyden served as Liberia’s Secretary of State and Professor of Classics at Liberia College where he called for the emigration of skilled and intelligent Black West Indians and African Americans to Liberia.

Edward Wilmot Blyden exiled himself to Sierra Leone after losing the running for Liberian president. He died there on February 7, 1912.

1936

JESSE OWENS WINS FIRST OF FOUR GOLD MEDALS

Edward Wilmot Blyden, revered as James Cleveland “Jesse”

Owens is best known for his remarkable athletic performance at the 1936 Berlin Olympics where he won four gold medals. Owens was born near Oakville, Alabama, on September 12, 1913, the twelfth and youngest child

The 1936 Olympic Games were scheduled for Berlin and Adolf Hitler used the setting to promote Nazi theories of Aryan supremacy and the reemergence of Germany on the world political scene. Between August 3, 1936, and August 9, 1936, 22-year-old Owens unexpectedly won four gold medals in the 100 meter sprint, the long jump, the 200 meter sprint, and the 4 x 100 meter relay team. Despite his triumphs proven to the entire world at such a critical point in history, Owens returned to America to the cruel face of racism.

Jesse Owens died of lung cancer in Tucson, Arizona, on March 31, 1980.

t” Bell & Friends “Musi cally You rs In Song”