Vol. 63 No. 37 | Thursday, September 14, 2023

NEVER FORGET: HOW ONE BLACK FIREFIGHTER SURVIVED 9/11

THE SECRETARY OF STATE HOSTS BIG CITY MAYORS

By Dr. John Warren, Publisher SAN DIEGO VOICE & VIEWPOINT NEWSPAPER

Last Friday evening a very unusual and very special event took place in San Diego. The location was the home of the California Secretary of State, Dr. Shirley Weber, here in San Diego. The occasion was a fundraiser for San Francisco Mayor London Breed.

By Helen Bezuneh THE AFRO

Regina Wilson looked up from her position on the fire engine to find her vision clouded by billowing clouds of white smoke.

She couldn’t help but be stunned by what she was seeing: vehicles were ablaze, buildings were on fire, and screaming people covered in ashes ran through the streets of Lower Manhattan.

She’d never seen the city like this before — and she’d seen some emergencies. After all, she was a firefighter with the New York City Fire Department, at the dawn of a new millennium. But this was different. This was September 11, 2001.

See 9/11 page 5

INSIDE

THIS WEEK'S ISSUE:

What made the event special in addition to the people of San Diego in attendance was the fact that three Mayors of the three largest cities in the state of California were present and two of them were African American women: Mayor Karen Bass of the City of Los Angeles and the guest of honor, San Francisco Mayor London Breed. The third big city Mayor was Todd Gloria of San Diego. But the power women outnumbered the men.

See MAYORS page 11

MOTHERS IN MOURNING: MOMS, ALLIES PROTEST GUN VIOLENCE IN CALIFORNIA

By Aldon Thomas Stiles CALIFORNIA BLACK MEDIA

On Sept. 9, elected officials, community leaders and concerned citizens took to the streets of Watts in South Los Angeles to march against gun violence in California.

Dubbed the “Mothers in Mourning March,” the womenled event was organized by Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson), featured guest speakers and over 34 participating organizations. Participants marched from Jordan High School to Edwin Markham Middle School and walked back to Jordan in temperatures

BACK-TO-SCHOOLERS FACE TEACHER SHORTAGES, POLARIZATION AND LEARNING GAPS

By Selen Ozturk, ETHNIC MEDIA SERVICES

K-12 students returning to school this month face teacher shortages, pitched battles over curricula, and pandemic-era learning gaps, teachers and education officials explained at an August 18 briefing held by Ethnic Media Services.

that hovered up to the high 80s, shouting impassioned chants like “Put those guns down,” “Stop the killing,” and “Start the healing.”

“We are proud to be here at Jordan, and from the housing complexes to the highways we are making our voices known: Let our babies live,” Gipson posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

At a post-march rally, speakers shared personal accounts, some tearful, about their experiences with gun violence.

See MOTHERS page 5

Some 233,000 thousand public school teachers left the profession between 2019 and 2021 alone, according to a U.S. Government Accountability Office analysis, while 41 out of 50 states and two territories (D.C. and the Virgin Islands) report a shortage of teachers, particularly in STEM.

Dr. Tuan Nguyen, associate professor in the College of Education at Kansas State University, explained that “teacher supply, retention and shortage in the United States are pieces of the same puzzle,” comprising a Gordian knot of

United Airlines Flight 175 crashed into the south tower of the World Trade Center complex in New York City during the September 11 attacks.

PHOTO: Wikimedia Commons.

PHOTO: Aldon Stiles/CBM

(L-R) Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, San Francisco Mayor London Breed, California Secretary of State Dr. Shirley Weber, 79th State Assemblymember Akilah Weber, MD. PHOTO: Mike Norris.

“It looked like a war zone.”

EDITORIAL/COMMENTARY/OPINION

NEEDS THE SPIRIT OF 9/11

on the Capitol, carried out by supporters of a former President; a man who showed no respect for the very Constitution that he had sworn to “protect and defend”.

The Cannabis Social Equity Movement Reshaping Communities

By Demetrius Harrison SAN DIEGO RESIDENT

In California, on November 8, 2016, Proposition 64, the Control, Regulate, and Tax Adult Use of Marijuana Act (AUMA), received a resounding “yes” from the people. It marked the beginning of a vision to regulate cannabis, breaking down barriers to entry into legal markets.

By Dr. John E. Warren

PUBLISHER, THE SAN DIEGO VOICE & VIEWPOINT

Twenty two years ago, America was united in its grief over the 9/11 tragedies. There were no two Americas — Democratic and Republican. There was only America in a time of loss and grief. Today, that is no longer the case. Grief and loss have become commonplace and terrorists such as those who attacked all of us on 9/11, have now become “us”: neighbors and fellow Americans now taking to killing fellow Americans for no good or necessary reasons. This is a sharp contrast with the Spirit of 9/11, which had us “helping” each other, regardless of politics or the color of our skin.

The intended attack on the U.S. Capitol was aborted by the brave Americans on United Flight 93 who gave their lives as they crashed the plane in a field in Pennsylvania, to save fellow Americans. This was in sharp contrast to the January 6, 2020 attack

We have truly become the “Two Americas” that the National Advisory Commission on Civil Disorders Report identified when issued 55 years ago. That 431 page report became known as The 1968 Kerner Commission. It’s a document many Americans could stand to read again or, for many, the first time.

Yes. America needs to return to the collective spirit of 9/11 and its focus on the nation as a whole and not its obsession with one man and those who have joined him in making his quest for power greater than our Constitution and those of us it serves. We need the Spirit of 9/11 again and beyond just reading names and ringing the bell once a year for those we lost.

The solution is found in the words of the Bible, 2 Chronicles 7:14: “If my people, who are called by my name, shall humble themselves and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land”.

Our land needs a healing, and with that healing, a return to the Spirit of 9/11.

The California Social Equity Program promotes equitable ownership and employment opportunities in the cannabis industry, helping marginalized communities and individuals disproportionately impacted by the War on Drugs. Through the California Department of Cannabis Control (DCC), equity business owners receive support through waived license fees and technical guidance.

San Diego, a recent star in this narrative, received an $880,000 state grant from the Governor of California's Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz). This grant is part of a broader program designed to level the playing field in the local cannabis industry. Its aim? To uplift those who've been battered by the war on drugs, to usher them into the folds of the legal cannabis industry.

This is about justice, equitable opportunity, and making legal cannabis accessible to patients in marginalized communities. Behind this fight for equity are the members of the San Diego City Council President Pro-tem Monica Montgomery Steppe and the San Diego Diversity Cannabis group, which includes individuals with cannabis-related convictions, community leaders, patient advocates, and social justice warriors. They've been at the forefront, ensuring this program serves those most impacted by the failed war on drugs.

This is a movement, resonating not just in California but also in Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, New Mexico, Michigan, Vermont, Illinois, Connecticut, Arizona, and Virginia.

It’s about healing, inclusivity, and justice. San Diego’s Cannabis Social Equity Program represents a significant step towards righting past wrongs and building a fairer future. For more, email demetrius.harrison@gmail.com

Formerly incarcerated, Demetrius Harrison is a lifelong San Diego resident who now lives in Las Vegas, Nevada.

By Rev. Edgar Boyd CALIFORNIA BLACK MEDIA

Every Sunday, I look out at the faces of my congregation, and I am grateful that we have overcome the many challenges we have faced over the past few years. At the same time, I am also reminded of all the beautiful souls we have lost to COVID-19. The pandemic has upended the lives of many in our community, and the residual effects are still being felt.

As pastor of the First African Methodist Episcopal Church of Los Angeles (FAME), the oldest African American church in the city, I have always strived to lead my members to health and prosperity. But nothing could have prepared us for the challenges of the pandemic, which affected every aspect of our church — from how we conducted services to how we communed with people. But the church leadership and I knew it was our calling to take on COVID-19 and protect our flock. Over the years, we have continued to learn and evolve our approaches to address the overall health, social and educational needs of our parishioners and the larger South LA community.

Although we have made it through the most difficult period of the pandemic, COVID-19 remains a threat to our loved ones,

especially Black communities in California who have been disproportionately impacted by the virus.

According to the Los Angeles County Public Health Department, Black residents in Los Angeles County were twice as likely to be hospitalized with COVID-19 as white residents, and one-anda-half times more likely to die from the virus. These disparities are unacceptable, and we must work to reduce them. Now, with COVID-19 vaccines and treatments widely available, we have the tools we need to protect ourselves and our loved ones from serious illnesses and deaths. We can return to doing the things and seeing the people we love.

Our initial focus was to prevent COVID-19 exposure, but sometimes this was not always possible. Now, we are shifting priorities to making sure our members know what to do if they test positive. Although they are free, widely available, and effective, COVID-19 medications have been relatively unknown within my community. We are starting to integrate initiatives to raise awareness around COVID-19 medications into our other long-standing programs to support our community members who test positive. Scientific evidence shows that when COVID-19 medications are taken within the first week of testing positive, they can prevent serious illness, hospitalization, and death by half or more.

To address these issues, we have had to overcome many barriers, one of the biggest being my community’s mistrust of the medical system due to generations of racism and mistreatment.

We have worked hard to educate about COVID-19 safety and rebuild trust in the medical system. We have also partnered with other trusted entities and organizations like the University of Southern California and Jewish congregations to share resources, materials, and knowledge to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. We have made it a priority to educate those close to us about the resources and tools available to stay safe and protect ourselves, including vaccines and treatments.

As COVID-19 remains present in our communities, we continue to step up to protect our community. The good news is that we know what works. Our church has worked to increase awareness, trust, and utilization of COVID-19 services, including hosting teachable Thursdays, that highlight influential medical professionals to discuss vaccination benefits, side effects, and other important information about COVID-19. Additionally, we opened a wellness center to create a welcoming and trusting environment for those in the community, operated by community members to provide necessary services that address COVID-19, such as vaccinations, testing, and education around COVID-19 medications.

Overcoming challenges that Black communities here in Los Angeles and throughout California have faced due to COVID-19 has not been easy. However, through hard work, listening to our community, and the power of prayer, we have found ways to win over the virus. After all, prayers are powerful, but even more so when paired with COVID-19 medications. To learn more about COVID-19 medications, visit YouCanBeatIt.org.

COMMUNITY

BLOCK PARTY Feed the Community

By Darrel Wheeler, Contributing Writer

The Feed the Community Block Party part two was held last Saturday at Jeremy Henwood Park for a day of praise, giving and celebration.

“God did it again he came and blessed his people, we gave him the honor and the glory” event organizer Pastor Cynthia Williams of God’s Embrace Homeless Care INC shared. “A very special thanks to Pastor David and his church Iglesia Casa de Alabanza for their very generous donations.”

Anyone who pulled up to the park on Fairmont Ave in City Heights could enjoy a free feast of Sunshine’s “gourmet” spaghetti. The free menu also included hamburgers, hotdogs, links, potato salad and more good food compliments of grill masters Sheryl and Brian Moore.

A Day of Celebration and Praise

The free stuff didn’t stop at the food table. Pastor Cynthia and her crew also gave away clothes, shoes, bicycles, skateboards, toys, books, games, canned food, diapers and other goodies at the joyful block party celebration day.

While the lucky people were dining on their free eatables, they were also treated to live performances by the Playground Preachers, Kingdoms Teenz, Ms. Pat and her dancers, the very tuneful sounds of gospel recording artist Ms. Kimberly Watts and DJ Mack.

“It is an honor to serve the community and a blessing to have such great help putting all of this together.” said the Powell’s “Thank you to everyone that participated in this day of laughing, singing, dancing and praising we love you very much.”

S i n c e S p r i n g , M e d i - C a l b e n e f i c i a r i e s h a v e b e e n g e t t i n g a l e t t e r e x p l a i n i n g t h e n e w r e n e w a l p r o c e s s . S o m e p e o p l e a r e l e a r n i n g t h e y h a v e b e e n r e n e w e d a u t o m a t i c a l l y , o t h e r s a r e b e i n g a s k e d t o p r o v i d e m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n .

I f y o u r e c e i v e a r e n e w a l p a c k e t , o r a n o t i c e a s k i n g f o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , p l e a s e s u b m i t t h e i n f o r m a t i o n b y m a i l , p h o n e , i n p e r s o n o r o n l i n e . T o m a n a g e y o u r b e n e f i t s v i s i t B e n e f i t s C a l . c o m s a n d

In Loving Memory

Osler L . C hildress

SUNRISE

March 3, 1943

SUNSET

September 11, 2005

While you are celebrating your eighteenth birthday in Heaven, we will be celebrating your eighteen years here on Earth. I can visualize you watching your favorite football team (LA Chargers) or dancing on the billowy clouds spreading your wings. You are greatly missed and will forever be in our hearts. Happy Eighteenth Birthday. We will always love you.

Love, Barbara Childress & Family

PHOTOS: Darrel Wheeler

“You had to dig deep for it in order to stay focused on what you were doing because there was so much uncertainty of what was gonna happen next — what’s gonna explode?” Wilson said, recalling the anxious questions running through her head. “Is anybody gonna shoot me? Is a building gonna fall? Is a car gonna explode? It was the weirdest feeling.”

Moments before, Wilson was just a second year employee with the fire department. She was at the fire station preparing to start a day on the fire truck when a coworker, John Chipura, asked if they could switch positions for the day.

It was a decision that saved her life.

As she moved her belongings from the truck to the engine, she heard her fellow firefighters loudly cussing in the kitchen. Working in a FDNY firehouse, it was initially passed off as normal. But then she walked into the room. There, she watched as a television newscaster explained: a commercial aircraft had just flown into one of the two towers that made up the World Trade Center.

Those on the truck were immediately dispatched to the burning buildings in Lower Manhattan’s Finance District. The engine followed behind roughly 40 minutes later.

The engine sped through the Brooklyn–Battery Tunnel and was approaching its end when Wilson says she and her colleagues felt their rig shake in a matter it had never done before.

The first building, the South Tower, had fallen. Still, they pressed toward the towers. Through the blinding smoke, a woman approached. She was covered in dust and having an asthma attack. The first respond -

MOTHERs

Continued from cover

“For (the) children we lost, we are their voices, and their voices will continue to be heard here and everywhere around this nation,” Mattie Scott, the California chapter leader of the advocacy organization Mothers in Charge, said. “We will stop the killing and start the healing because this is for all of us or none of us.” Scott reminded voters that they have the power to push anti-gun policies against the forces across the country that fiercely oppose them — from “our house, to the courthouse, to your house, to the White House.”

As of last year, firearms are the leading cause of death among children in the United States. While the Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports that California has the 8th lowest

BACK-TO-SCHOOLERs

Continued from cover

vacancy — whereby teaching positions are posted but unfilled — and underqualification — whereby states lower certification requirements to fill these positions or have qualified teachers teach out-of-subject. With a small team of researchers, Nguyen tracked teacher shortage data across states and found that, nationally, “There are at least 36,500 vacant positions in the United States and that’s nothing to say of underqualified teachers,” which he estimates at 160,000.

Compounding this shortage are twin issues of teacher supply and retention. On the supply point, “There has been a substantial decline in people’s interest in becoming teachers,” said Nguyen. He cited a 40% decline from 700,000 teacher prep program enrollees in 2009, to 400,000 in 2015. While this decline continues unchecked, the situation has become uniquely grim for teachers in the STEM fields of science, technology, engineering and math: in 2010 there were 32,000 teachers certified to teach STEM subjects; in 2019 there were 22,000. Teachers who do enter the profession, meanwhile, are also leaving sooner and in larger numbers than in previous years. Before the pandemic, explained Nguyen, about 8% of U.S. teachers left the profession annually, but since then the rate has skyrocketed nationally; current figures are, for example, 22% in

ers washed her face down and instructed her to walk away from Ground Zero. Then came a deafening noise: the North Tower was falling.

Wilson told the AFRO she feared she was living her last few moments on Earth.

“I was like ‘something’s gonna fall on us, we’re gonna die today.’”

“We had to draft water from the river in order to put fires out,” she said. “We spent most of the time trying to collect it and hook up with the marine units so that we could draft water to put out some of these building fires and car fires all over the place. You just didn’t even know where to start.”

The chaos unfolded on live television with viewers around the world watching. From Wilson’s point of view, the reality was grim: every single person on her company’s truck died at Ground Zero, including Chipura, the man who switched positions with Wilson.

Chipura was one of 343 firefighters who died that day.

As she lives in the shadow of that disastrous day, Wilson finds that her ability to cope changes from year to year. At times she is happy to remember the people and the good times, but there are darker moments.

“Year to year, it conjures up different

thoughts,” she remarked. “Sometimes the weight of the moment can get to me — just thinking about John and what his life could have been.”

Wilson said she lives life to the fullest because she doesn’t want to take for granted the fact that she is still here, when more 2,990 people perished on that day.

“I’m here from that switch. I was okay this year, last year I was a mess.”

Wilson’s firehouse has a memorial march every year, with firefighters coming from across the world to join. After they have breakfast together, they get on the subway with flags that represent every firefighter and officer who died in their battalion. They then march to the World Trade Center, do a final salute, have a moment of prayer, and walk their flags back to Brooklyn.

As the president of the Vulcan Society, a fraternal organization of Black firefighters in New York City, Wilson considers it especially pressing to improve public awareness of the Black firefighters who risked their lives on that fateful day.

“I think one of the biggest things as the president of the society is not only making sure that the members are prepared, but also making sure that we’re not forgotten,” she said. “There were 12 Black firefighters that died during 9/11 — but if we don’t speak

their names and don’t tell their story, they will be forgotten.”

Wilson said the 12 Black firefighters are remembered via a community garden in Brooklyn.

“Every year we go and pay our respects and pay homage to those Black members that passed away because the media doesn’t recognize their lives and their purpose.”

Wilson also aims to spotlight the more general experiences Black firefighters have on the job, day to day. On Sept. 11, 2001, she was the only woman in her firehouse, and was one of two Black people in a class of 300. As she moves forward in life, Wilson takes the lessons she learned on Sept. 11 along with her.

“There were a few lessons I learned: survivor skills and being okay with being alive — being purposeful about the meaning of the time that I have, and not wanting to dishonor myself or dishonor John.”

Wilson relies heavily on her faith and believes her life was spared for a reason. “God spared me for whatever reason. If there was a purpose to be had, then I want to find the purpose.”

“You have to love what you do, you have to love the community in order to serve them the way that’s done with firefighters,” she added. “One of the biggest things that I took away from that is that love and respect — when you come together — [can] be the most beautiful thing in the world.”

The post Never forget: how one Black firefighter survived 9/11 appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

death rate by guns and Los Angeles has seen a decrease between 2021 and 2022, Los Angeles County accounts for a majority of California's gun-related deaths, according to Hope and Heal Fund.

African Americans between the ages of 15 and 34 experience gun-related deaths more than any other group in the United States, according to the Center for American Progress.

Overall, Everytown Research & Policy reports that Black Americans “experience 12 times the gun homicides, 18 times the gun assault injuries, and nearly 3 times the fatal police shootings” as compared to White Americans.

Karren Lane, the Deputy Mayor of Los

Angeles, stressed the importance of all Californians getting involved in the legislative process to help stem gun violence. “Our commitment is to prevent that violence,” she said. “We cannot do that as a city without the organized political power of everyday people.”

Speakers also focused on explaining anti-gun violence bills that Gov. Newsom has signed and others the Legislature has approved. Assembly Bill (AB) 28, for example, which has been approved by the Legislature, would impose an 11% tax for sales for firearms and firearm-related items like ammunition and other “precursor parts.” Gov. Newsom signed AB 1621, authored by Gipson, last year. It bans ghost guns, which are “unserialized and untraceable

firearm” parts that can be assembled without any form of regulation or oversight.

LA Unified School District board member Tanya Ortiz Franklin, one of the speakers, encouraged Californians to vote to protect their children. “We have the power to change the world with the kids in our district. We have future presidents, we have future engineers, we have future public safety officers, we have future changemakers right here in our district. But they need to have a future and they have to live (up to) their potential and it's going to take all of us demanding that,” she said. Franklin’s voice echoed that of many of the women and allies attending the march who chanted at intervals, “No more silence, end gun violence!”

Alaska, 12% in Arkansas and Illinois, and 12% in North and South Carolina.

Compounding the challenges confronting the nation’s public schools is the increasingly intense fight over curricula, including the growing wave of book bans nationwide.

Dr. Shaun Harper, provost professor at the University of Southern California Rossier School of Education and the USC Marshall School of Business, pointed out that “44 states have introduced bills since January 2021 that have aimed to ban critical race theory” — despite the fact that CTR is not being taught in K-12 classrooms — with 18 of these states having passed such legislation.

Florida governor and GOP presidential candidate Ron DeSantis signed a bill in May banning public colleges and universities from funding DEI programs. The bill “has created a replicable blueprint for other states across the country,” said Harper. “It’s a serious threat to our democracy when we deny young people the educational opportunity to learn about America’s racial past and present.” Kasey Meehan, Freedom to Read program director at PEN America, said this replicable blueprint applies to the ongoing rise of book bans as well, which she called an “‘Ed scare’ campaign … interfering with students’ rights; undermining

the role of teachers, librarians, professors, other educators and administrators … and sowing division within our communities.”

Another Florida bill, in effect since July 2022, mandates that all classroom books be pre-approved by the Department of Education or vetted by a media specialist trained by the Department. Violating teachers risk losing their license or being charged with a felony. A Texas bill that went into effect September 1st requires public school book vendors to pre-rate all books as “sexually explicit material, sexually relevant material, or no rating” before distribution. Meehan said 71% of books involved in book-banning efforts like these “are intended for young adult audiences or even younger.”

PEN reports that the first half of the 2022-2023 school year alone saw “over 1,400 instances of individual books being banned. This equates to over 800 unique titles that are being removed from access for students in schools. This is an increase from the prior six months, and (in an upcoming September report) we expect to see increases in the next six months.”

During the pandemic, students lost about a third of the learning they would have received during a normal school year, a 2023 meta-analysis published in the journal Nature found — resulting in learning regressions, which are

severest among low-income youth. Evelyn Aleman is the founder of the LA County parent advocacy group Our Voice: Communities for Quality Education. She says student safety is directly tied to learning loss and ranks as the number one concern for Latino parents.

“They want safety from drugs on their campuses. … They want intervention and awareness campaigns … they live in communities that have high crime, and homelessness … and most of their children use public transportation or walk to school, but they don’t feel safe having their children walk home.”

Parents’ safety fears also extend to COVID, she added, given that the virus “is still around, and many families live in multigenerational households, and many have chronic illnesses.”

A perceived lack of safety by the parents worsens absenteeism on the part of students, said Aleman, adding the lack of open communication and at times open hostility by school staff or faculty toward parents also plays a role.

“I just had a mom say to me, ‘I feel like I was treated so badly… because I don’t speak the language.’ It was racism,” said Aleman, recalling her exchange with one LA Unified mother. “A lot of parents feel that way. School climate is a big one for us.”

There were a few lessons I learned: survivor skills and being okay with being alive — being purposeful about the meaning of the time that I have, and not wanting to dishonor myself or dishonor John.

– REGINA WILSON

Alex Haley (Murray) Family Reunion Wrap-up

The highly anticipated and long-awaited Murray-Haley Family Reunion was finally conducted from July 20th – July 23rd, 2023 in the Memphis, Henning and Ripley, Tennessee areas! Family members assembled in one area from as far as Florida, California and Washington State for this momentous occasion. This was the most significant family reunion conducted since July 1982 over 40 years ago held at the Peabody Hotel in Memphis, Tennessee and New Hope C.M.E. Church in Henning, Tennessee. The itinerary was planned for daily interaction and numerous activities focused on the heritage of the Murray-Haley family and other historical sites in the area.

Highlights of the itinerary that was conducted include the family games, auctions and giveaways, a visit to the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center & Tina Turner Museum in Brownsville, a picnic, a visit to Chicken George’s Headstone Monument and the Alex Haley Museum & Interpretive Center in Henning, and attendance at Reverend Al Green’s Church the Full Gospel Tabernacle Church in Memphis.

Although we experienced severe thunderstorms, flooding, fallen trees and power outages during the duration of the family reunion in the Memphis, Henning and Ripley, Tennessee areas, the event was blessed to be a success.

It fulfilled the overall goal of fellowship with family members not known, but known much better through active engagement and positive interaction. It further improved family relationships and continued onward carrying out the family’s ongoing rich history and great legacy. “Our Roots Run Deep, but Our Love Runs Deeper”.

Editor’s note: Clennon “Wayne” Murray and his son, Brandon Murray, are residents of Southeast San Diego

Board of Supervisors Unanimously Pass Childcare Policy

The San Diego County Board of Supervisors supported a policy by Supervisors Terra Lawson-Remer and Chairwoman Nora Vargas to advance the County of San Diego Childcare Blueprint by growing capacity for childcare centers, staffing and training, and creating a pilot County workers dealing with a childcare emergency.

After Tuesday’s unanimous vote, Chairwoman Vargas emphasized the importance of supporting childcare providers, predominantly women and women of color, in their small business endeavors. “We must value the entrepreneurial spirit of childcare providers and remove barriers to help them succeed,” Chairwoman Vargas said.

In June 2023, the Child Care Blueprint was provided to the Board of Supervisors, focusing on three priority areas:

1. The childcare workforce is well-trained, supported, valued

as a profession, and paid competitive wages. SUBJECT: COMBATTING THE CHILDCARE CRISIS (DISTRICTS: ALL) Legistar v1.0 2

2. Safe and quality facilities are developed and renovated to expand childcare programs, particularly in geographic areas where childcare is scarce, or family demand outpaces supply.

3. All families have access to childcare that meets their needs and preferences and supports their children's learning, physical and mental health, and social-emotional development.

Tuesday’s action requests that the CAO create a pilot program focused on licensing and facility needs that utilize American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to provide streamlined resources and infrastructure needed for local childcare services within identified childcare deserts.

To review the entire policy, visit bosagenda.sandiegocounty.gov.

Arkansas Ed. Dept Withdraws Credit for AP African American Studies

By Stacy M. Brown BLACK PRESS USA

The Arkansas Education Department has opted to strip course credit from the Advanced Placement (AP) African American Studies course, just a few months after Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders inked legislative measures curbing the scope of public school educators’ pedagogical offerings. The AP African American Studies course, a beacon of educational diversity and cultural enlightenment, will not be eligible for early college credit during the upcoming school year.

“The department encourages the teaching of all American history and supports rigorous courses not based on opinions or indoctrination,” Kimberly Mundell, the Education Department’s communications director, said in a statement.

“Arkansas law contains provisions regarding prohibited topics,” Mundell told local station KHBS, referring to state education restrictions. “Without clarity, we cannot approve a pilot that may unintentionally put a teacher at risk of violating Arkansas law.”

As several states undertake concerted efforts to circumscribe the boundaries of what educators can impart concerning race, gender, and sexuality, Arkansas has emerged as a new focal point in this ongoing dialogue. NBC News reported that Sanders had earlier championed limits on education in the state. The outlet noted that she signed the LEARNS Act into law in March, restricting classroom lessons about gender identity and sexual orientation. In January, the Republican governor signed an executive order banning “indoctrination and critical race theory” in schools.

The assault on critical race theory, which isn’t taught in grade schools, has been among the most controversial GOP initiatives across the country. In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis spearheaded initiatives to exert an overarching influence over academic viewpoints and curricula. His HB 999 has caused consternation throughout the academic community, epitomizing an audacious stride toward dictating the contours of education. HB 999 says that all colleges and universities must not spend money on education programs or other things that support diversity, equity, and inclusion.

“This bill is a road map for wrecking one of our great state systems of higher education,” University of Michigan Law Professor Julian Davis Mortenson tweeted. The bill eliminates Women’s and Gender Studies as a major or minor at state colleges and universities. It dictates that there can’t be a major or minor “based on the Critical Race Theory belief system.”

According to the bill’s text, the university president or board would do all faculty hiring. It asserts that they “may not delegate” any aspect of any hiring decision or hiring authority to any group or faculty, however constituted. Further, the bill asserts that they are “not required to consider the recommendations or opinions of faculty.”

Jeremy C. Young, Pen America’s senior manager of Free Expression and Education, called the bill “terrifying.” Pen America is a non-profit group that protects and promotes free speech worldwide by promoting literature and human rights.

“Florida HB 999 would enact the most Draconian and censorious restrictions on higher education in the history of this country,” Young stated. “The bill would make tenure and faculty hiring committees meaningless, ban diversity statements, and centralize control of core curricula and mission statements in the hands of political appointees. Unexpectedly, it would also ban gender studies majors.”

This article originally appeared in The Louisiana Weekly.

Courtesy of Clennon “Wayne” Murray & Brandon Murray

“The Story Behind the Search”

PHOTOS: Brandon Murray

PHOTO: Black Press USA

VOICE & VIEWPOINT NEWSWIRE

PHOTO: William Fortunato/Pexels

Murray-Haley Family group photo at Ripley City Park

Murray-Haley Family at Alex Haley's boyhood home in Henning, TN

Brenda and Wayne Murray at the Murray-Haley Live Auction

City Celebrates Immigrants and Refugees During Welcoming Week

La st Friday from 12 PM to 2 PM, the City of San Diego kicked off its annual Welcoming Week at the City Heights/ Weingart Library. City Council

President Pro Tem Monica Montgomery Steppe joined City staff and community members for the opening event to launch a week of activities that will highlight the importance of inclusion and diversity in our city.

Welcoming Week is an international campaign that aims to bring together worldwide communities to build places that celebrate all people, but especially immigrants. This year’s theme is government and community leadership. The celebration included remarks from local leaders, as well as re-

freshments and activities for children. As part of the Welcoming Week festivities, the City’s Office of Immigrant Affairs also hosted a welcome note station for San Diegans to decorate butterfly-themed notes for newly arrived refugees and immigrants. Once Welcoming Week is over, welcome notes will be delivered to partner community organizations, including the International Rescue Committee in San Diego, Jewish Family Service, Catholic Charities and Alliance for African Assistance. The organizations will distribute them to the individuals and families they assist through their immigration programs. Additionally, Balboa Park will be lit up in honor of Welcoming Week.

To find out about other Welcoming Week planned activities, visit sandiego.ca.gov/public-library.

Following recent weather events in the region, including a tropical cyclone and extreme heat, the City of San Diego’s Office of Emergency Services (OES) urges everyone to take time during National Preparedness Month to review safety procedures at home and work. Being prepared is the best way to lessen the impact of potentially life-threatening situations, such as wildfires, earthquakes, major storms and flooding.

Every September, the City highlights the importance of disaster preparedness for individuals, families and communities, but planning for emergencies can happen throughout the year. This includes taking measures to be prepared before, during and after an emergency or a disaster. With resources available to the public, San Diegans can review their personal emergency plans, create an emergency supply kit and stay informed. There are a number of preventative measures San Diegans can also take to help keep their families, pets, homes and businesses safe. Getting involved with community groups and organizations is an excellent way to remain prepared throughout the year.

Alert San Diego

The countywide Alert San Diego is a regional notification system that will send telephone notifi -

Report Shows Slight Increase In Suicide Deaths

By Anita Lightfoot County of San Diego Communications Office

After years of declines, confirmed suicide deaths in San Diego County rose to 360 in 2022, slightly more than the 358 recorded in 2021, which was the lowest number of deaths in 10 years.

Chairwoman Nora Vargas and Behavioral Health Services Director Luke Bergmann shared those findings and others last Thursday during the Suicide Prevention Council’s Annual Report to the Community press conference. The report is a compilation of the most recent data on suicide in San Diego County. Suicides are tracked by rates, which is the number of deaths per 100,000 population. Despite the downward trend in suicides overall from 2012 to 2021, death rates increased 7 percent for youth and young adults between the ages of 10 to 24, and 3 percent for adults between the ages of 25 to 44. In 2021, older adults 65 years and above had the highest suicide rate (16.4 per 100,000). In 2021, While white residents experienced the highest suicide rate in 2021 (16.5), Black residents experienced the second highest suicide rate in 2021 (7.6). For Hispanic residents, suicide

rates from 2012 to 2021 increased by 26 percent, from 4.5 to 5.6.

Speakers said the data trends highlight the need for continued and increased prevention efforts for populations who are especially vulnerable to suicide. Proactively seeking help and resources, talking openly and honestly, and staying connected as a community are crucial to reducing suicides in our region and ensuring everyone has the support they need.

To view the complete 2022 Report to the Community, visit www.spcsandiego.org.

Suicide can be prevented. If you or someone you know needs help, call the Access & Crisis Line at 888-724-7240, seven days a week/24 hours a day. Assistance is available in multiple languages. You can also call the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988. Suicide prevention training to recognize warning signs, provide resource information, and assist loved ones through open and direct communication are offered free of charge. To find out more please visit www.SPCSanDiego.org to sign up for or host a training.

Editor’s note: The suicide rates of Black San Diego residents in 2021 were added to this article to reflect our readership.

cations to residents and businesses within San Diego County in areas of expected or actual impact by an emergent event or disaster. Sign up at readysandiego.org.

Fire Safety

With increasing periods of hot and dry weather in San Diego, fire season is now a year-round potential for our region. The San Diego FireRescue Department encourages all San Diegans to use the Ready, Set, Go! guide to prepare their home and family for the possibility of a major fire. The Ready, Set, Go! action plan, found at sandiego.gov/ fire/safety, provides information, multiple checklists and suggestions for what you need to best prepare you and your family in the event a major fire threatens your home, including a printable contact information sheet and more.

Earthquakes

Because of its location on two tectonic plates, California is a highrisk area for earthquakes which can happen without warning and can result in injuries and damage to property and roads. The State of California offers a free Homeowners’ Guide to Earthquake Safety at ssc.ca.gov that can help you prepare for an earthquake and determine what to do after an earthquake occurs.

Flooding

The City provides Flood Insurance Rate Maps and National Flood Insurance Program information that can help property owners prepare in areas near the coast, along rivers and creeks and in low-lying areas. Also, people who live or work in areas downstream from reservoir dams could be impacted if a dam failed due to an earthquake or other catastrophe. Learn more about Floodplain Management tools at sandiego.gov.

Emergency Evacuations

In any emergency, it is important to follow the recommendations of our public safety professionals. The San Diego Police Department provides evacuation coordination for safe and expeditious clearing of residences and businesses during emergency situations when necessary. Listen and follow their instructions during an emergency evacuation order, it may save your life.

Learn more about the San Diego Office of Emergency Services at sandiego.ca.gov.

PHOTO:

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

The African Union is Joining the G20

A Powerful Acknowledgment of A Continent of 1 Billion People

By Cara Anna Associated Press

The group of the world's 20 leading economies is welcoming the African Union (AU) as a permanent member, a powerful acknowledgment of Africa as its more than 50 countries seek a more important role on the global stage.

U.S. President Joe Biden called last year for the AU's permanent membership in the G20, saying it's been "a long time in coming." Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the current AU chair, Comoros President Azali Assoumani, with a hug on Saturday at the G20 summit his country is hosting, saying he was "elated."

"Congratulations to all of Africa!" said Senegal President Macky Sall, the previous AU chair who helped to push for membership. The AU had advocated for full membership for seven years, spokesperson Ebba Kalondo said. Until now, South Africa was the bloc's only G20 member.

What We Know About the Morocco Earthquake

By Amarachi Orie and Rob Picheta CNN

Re scuers are searching through rubble and trying to reach isolated communities after a devastating earthquake struck Morocco, killing thousands and leaving more injured or unaccounted for. The quake is the strongest to hit the nation’s center in more than a century, and its epicenter was not far from popular tourist and economic hub Marrakech.

At least 2,497 people have been killed in the disaster and 2,476 have been injured, state media said Monday.

The earthquake struck at around 11:11 p.m. local time on Friday. Its epicenter was located in the High Atlas mountain range, about 72 kilometers (44.7 miles) southwest of Marrakech, a city of about 840,000 people. Its impact was felt far and wide, reaching as far north as Casablanca. But it most severely damaged towns and villages near the base of the Atlas Mountains, while also ripping through the center and suburbs of Marrakech.

The quake had a magnitude of 6.8, meaning it is classed as “strong.” It also struck at a relatively shallow depth, making it more destructive. Morocco has suffered earthquakes in the past, but few in its history have been so powerful. This quake is Morocco’s deadliest since 1960, when an earthquake killed more than 12,000 people. Earthquakes of this size in the region are uncommon, according to the US Geological Survey, but not unexpected. It noted that nine quakes with a magnitude of 5 or higher have hit the area since 1900, but none of them have had a magni -

tude higher than 6.

Nearly 1,500 people have died in the province of Al Haouz, where the quake was most devastating. The region, like many other badly affected locations, lies south of Morocco at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, and includes remote villages and settlements that have been difficult for rescuers to reach. Eyewitnesses in the foothills of the mountains said some towns are completely destroyed, with almost all the homes in an area of the village of Asni damaged.

Emergency workers were deployed to affected regions, despite some roads being damaged or blocked by debris. Some remote villages on the foothills of the mountain have been hard to access.

Inside and outside Marrakech, many residents have spent two nights on the streets, afraid to return to their homes. In the hardhit central village of Moulay Brahim, south of Marrakech in the Atlas Mountains, CNN found a family living in a makeshift camp on a soccer field, with authorities telling them it could be a week before they can go home. Firefighters are leading rescue efforts but some buildings are too dangerous to enter.

Morocco’s government said it had activated all available resources to tackle the quake and urged people to “avoid panic.” King Mohammed VI of Morocco ordered that a relief commission be set up to distribute aid to survivors, including orphans and people who lost their homes in the disaster. He also declared three days of national mourning and ordered mosques nationwide to hold funeral prayers, known as “Janazah” prayers, at noon on Sunday for those killed.

Permanent G20 membership signals the rise of a continent whose young population of 1.3 billion is set to double by 2050 and make up a quarter of the planet's people. The AU's 55 member states, which include the disput ed Western Sahara, have pressed for meaningful roles in the global bodies that long represented a now faded post-World War II order, including the United Nations Security Council. They also want reforms to a global financial system - including the World Bank and other entities - that forces African countries to pay more than others to borrow money, deepening their debt.

Africa is increasingly courting investment and political interest from a new generation of global powers beyond the U.S. and the continent's former European colonizers. China is Africa's largest trading partner and one of its largest lenders. Russia is its leading arms provider. Gulf nations have become some of the

continent's biggest investors. Turkey's largest overseas military base and embassy are in Somalia. Israel and Iran are increasing their outreach in search of partners.

African leaders have impatiently challenged the framing of the continent as a passive victim of war, extremism, hunger and disaster that's pressured to take one side or another among global powers. Some would prefer to be brokers, as shown by African peace efforts following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Granting the African Union membership in the G20 is a step that recognizes the continent as a global power in itself.

With full G20 membership, the AU can represent a continent that's home to the world's largest free trade area. It's also enormously rich in the resources the world needs to combat climate change, which Africa contributes to the least but is affected by the most. The African continent has 60% of the world's renewable energy assets and more than 30% of the minerals key to renewable and low-carbon technologies. Congo alone has almost half of the world's cobalt, a metal essential for lithium-ion batteries, according to a United Nations report on Africa's economic development released last month. African leaders are tired of watching outsiders take the continent's resources for processing and profits elsewhere and want more industrial development closer to home to benefit their economies.

Take Africa's natural assets into account and the continent is immensely wealthy, Kenyan President William Ruto said at the first Africa Climate Summit this week. The gathering in Nairobi ended with a call for fairer treatment by financial institutions, the delivery of rich countries' long-promised $100 billion a year in climate financing for developing nations and a global tax on fossil fuels. Now, as a high-profile G20 member, Africa's demands will be harder to ignore.

Niger Junta Accuses France of Amassing Forces for Military Intervention

By Chinedu Asadu Associated Press

Niger's new military leaders accused France of amassing forces for a possible military intervention in the country following the coup in July. French President Emmanuel Macron said Sunday that he would only take action at the demand of deposed Nigerien leader Mohamed Bazoum.

Niger's junta spokesman, Maj. Amadou Abdramane said that France is also considering collaborating in such an intervention with the Economic Community of West African States, a regional bloc known as ECOWAS. "France continues to deploy its forces in several ECOWAS countries as part of preparations for an aggression against

Niger," Abdramane said late Saturday in a statement broadcast on state television.

Macron said he wouldn't directly respond to the junta's claim when asked about it after the Group of 20 summit. "If we redeploy anything, it will only be at the demand of Bazoum and in coordination with him, not with those people who are holding a president hostage, " he said. Macron, however,

added that France "fully" supports the position of ECOWAS, which has said it's considering a military intervention as an option to reinstate Bazoum as president.

Since toppling Bazoum, the junta in Niger, a former French colony, has leveraged antiFrench sentiment among the population –asking the French ambassador and troops to leave – to shore up its support in resis

tance to regional and international pressure to reinstate the president. The country had been a strategic partner of France and the West in the fight against growing jihadi violence in the conflict-ridden Sahel region, the arid expanse below the Sahara Desert. The junta spokesman said that France has deployed military aircraft and armored vehicles in countries like Ivory Coast, Senegal and Benin for such aggression, a claim that The Associated Press couldn't independently verify. "This is why the National Council for the Protection of the Fatherland and the transitional government launch a solemn appeal to the great people of Niger to be vigilant and never to demobilize until the inevitable departure of French troops from our territory," he said.

French military spokesperson Col. Pierre Gaudilliere, meanwhile, said last Thursday that there is now "a little less" than its 1,500 troops in Niger who had been working with Nigerian security forces to beat back the jihadi violence. All French activities have been suspended since the coup, "therefore, declarations that have been made (earlier by the French) are about exploring what we're going to do with these capabilities," Gaudilliere said.

People work next to damage in the historic city of Marrakech, Morocco following the 6.8-magnitude earthquake.

PHOTO: Abdelhak Balhaki/ Reuters via CNN

G20 group photo, October 2021. PHOTO: Government of Brazil/Planalto Palace/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY 2.0

Col. Mohamed Toumba, Niger, 2018. PHOTO: USAFRICOM/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY 2.0

“If we redeploy anything, it will only be at the demand of Bazoum and in coordination with him, not with those people who are holding a president hostage.”

–Maj. Amadou Abdramane

Aug. 25 Proclaimed

‘Mother Curly Davis Day in San Diego

107-Year-Old Mother Curly Davis, the longest living African American resident of San Diego County, was honored on Sunday, Sept 3, 2023, at St. Stephen’s Cathedral Church of God in Christ located on Imperial Ave in the heart of San Diego. Mother Curly was born August 25, 1916. Resolutions, proclamations and plaques were bestowed upon her by the CA Secretary of State Dr. Shirley Weber; CA State Senate Pro Tem, Senator Toni Atkins; Congressman Juan Vargas; District 79 Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber; the San Diego County Board of Supervisors; Mayor Todd Gloria; City of San Diego COO Eric Durgan; District 4 City Councilwoman Monica Montgomery Steppe; Elderly Love member Debra Portee; Queen Mother Kathleen Harmon; Phenomenal Women Rochelle Porter and many others.

The retired seamstress and mother, who was accompanied by Tonyah Cross on Sunday, credits her longevity to God and her relationship with Jesus Christ. She was adorned in all white, including her curly locks, that she styles herself weekly because she has not found a stylist to do the job well! Also in attendance was Mother Curly’s 86-year-old son.

Challenged by the stairs to rise to the upper-level sanctuary, Mother Curly and the church are hoping to install a ramp for easier access for the disabled community. Donations can be addressed via mail to St. Stephen’s Cathedral Church of God in Christ, c/o Pastor Glenn McKinney, 5825 Imperial Ave, San Diego, CA 92114. For more information 619-262-2671.

PHOTOS: Rochelle Porter-Smith

Courtesy of Debra Portee Elderly Love

Elderly Love members and Mother Curly Davis

The Secretary of State Hosts Big City Mayors

By Dr. John E. Warren

Publisher, The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint Newspaper

San Diego City Council President Pro Tem, Monica Montgomery Steppe was present as well as Chairperson of the San Diego County Board of Supervisors, Nora Vargas. 79th State Assembly Representative, Akilah Weber, MD, was there along with her mother, the host of the event, Secretary Weber. The pictures reflect the excitement of the evening.

All Mayors spoke of the partnership they share with each other and how frequently they call upon one another in doing their jobs. Both Mayor Gloria and Mayor Bass had served together in the State Legislature. They also reflected on the influence and respect Secretary Weber commanded during her time in the Assembly before becoming the Secretary of State. The Southeastern

San Diego home of Dr. Weber was a fitting place for the gathering of some of the most influential and powerful women in the State of California.

The United States Conference of Mayors was meeting in San Diego last week, bringing Mayors to our city from across the nation.

Secretary Weber and all in attendance wanted to show support for Mayor Breed who is expecting a tough campaign for re-election next year in San Francisco. Mayor Gloria is also up for re-election and Mayor Bass is the “new kid on the block” only having been in office a mere nine months, but already making a noticeable difference in the City of Los Angeles.

All three Mayors spoke of the crisis of homelessness confronting each of them as they seek housing for those most in need. They spoke of the efforts to make creative use of limited resources as well as the challenges they faced during the pandemic. This was a fundraiser that didn’t have to ask those attending for contributions. People gladly presented their envelopes upon arrival, knowing everyone was there to be of help and enjoy how special the evening really was.

(L-R) San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria, San Francisco Mayor London Breed and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass

Mayor London Breed (far left) and San Diego County Board of Supervisors Chairperson Nora Vargas (far right)

Photos: Mike Norris

Francine Maxwell, Mayor Karen Bass, and Executive Director of United Domestic Workers Douglas Moore s

Latanya West with California Secretary of State Dr. Shirley Weber and Dr. John E. Warren

(L-R) Mayor Gloria’s Deputy Chief of Staff Nick Serrano, Mayor Gloria’s Director of Boards and Commissions Chida Warren-Darby, Angela de Joseph, and Mayor Gloria

(Far right) Dr. Shirley Weber and San Diego City Council President Pro Tem Monica Montgomery Steppe (far left) in the crowd

Community Gathers for Karate-QueCelebration

By Darrel Wheeler Contributing Writer Voice & Viewpoint Staff &

On the last weekend of a very hot August, United Karate Federation alum Aramendia Rojas invited the community, her brothers and sisters from the UKF came out to the 49th Annual Karate-Que celebration at Tidelands Park in Coronado to celebrate instructor Orned “Chicken” Gabriel’s birthday. Rojas also used the gathering to honor the late great Steve "Nasty" Anderson.

"He was an amazing martial artist and an amazing person and instructor." Aramendia shared. "Nasty was recognized all over the world. He was feared and revered for his skills," he continued.

Other martial arts associations were also invited to kick it with the UKF family. People traveled from LA, New Jersey, North Carolina and San Jose to join in on the annual Karate-Que celebration.

The attendees were treated to a BBQ buffet, dancers, music, a raffle and prizes, and a tasty birthday cake for instructor “Chicken”. A select few were chosen and awarded certificates of recognition for their martial arts accomplishments. Memorabilia in the form of shirts were also sold at the event with the proceeds going towards at-risk youth for lessons, protective gear, and travel to tournaments.

OG Sandbox Celebrates Labor Day Picnic for Nearly

30 Years

By Darrel Wheeler

Contributing Writer Voice & Viewpoint Staff &

On Labor Day the OG Sandbox Association held their annual Community Picnic at Mt. View Park. The big day of togetherness included music from DJ Tony Wiggins, plenty of free food, backpack giveaways and a very impressive raffle, drawing compliments from the OG Sandbox crew.

"We raffled off two tablets to some lucky kids today. You know how we get down," OG Vice President Darnell Meals said. “Include some meaningful fellowshipping, some reminiscing and there you have it! (You’ve got) the Annual OG Sandbox Community get-together.”

"I think things went well today. It looked like it was going to rain. That's probably what prevented some people from showing up," OG President Aaron Gibson shared. "Anytime you can get friends and family together and give school supplies to the kids it's a win-win situation."

The OG Sandbox Labor Day picnic has continued for almost thirty years at Mt. View Park, with this year marking the twenty-sixth year of continued celebration in the Southeast San Diego community park.

PHOTOS: Darrel Wheeler

Three Things Mentally Sharp People Do As They Age

By Isabelle Philipe UCSD

Institute

Memory loss and cognitive decline are just a natural part of getting older, right? Wrong, actually.

Multiple scientific studies have now proven that our brains are more plastic than we think, and our memory and thinking abilities can even change for the better. However, this doesn’t just happen on its own. Older adults need to actively work at maintaining their brain health–and doing so takes a “lifelong learning” mindset. Here are three major but fairly simple things everyone can do to make sure they stay mentally sharp as they age.

Stay Physically Active and Find New Ways to Move

Multiple medical studies have shown that the more active you are as you age, the healthier you’ll be for longer. But did you know that staying physically active–especially if it’s

while you’re learning a new activity, sport, or type of exercise–can improve your brain function too? Plus, joining an exercise class, group activity, or sports team is a great social outlet.

Stay Social and Make New Friends

Strong social ties boost our brain function, whereas social isolation has been shown to increase the likelihood of dementia. The negative health effects of loneliness have been shown to be similar to smoking up to 15 cigarettes per day. But there are a number of ways to meet like-minded people if you feel like your social circle is shrinking. Meetup groups and organized social activities through your church or other community organizations

COVID-19 UPDATES

are a great place to start, as are adult education programs. Many universities offer nonacademic activities for seniors in addition to their adult education classes, such as theater

performances, concerts, and happy hours. Learn New Skills–and Maybe Even Continue Your Education.

Learning something new is the best way to keep your mind sharp, hands down–and the great news is, you’re never too old to do it. Even better news: whether you simply want to explore an interest or finish your degree, there are more continuing education options than ever before to fit your budget and schedule. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, for example, offers lectures and seminars by the faculty and researchers of the UC San Diego community, as well as local leaders, artists and musicians. These are available to Osher members both on campus and streamed simultaneously via Zoom.

We as humans have an amazing capacity to pick up new things as we age. Come check out some of the lifelong learning opportunities in your community and surprise yourself.

FDA Approves New COVID Vaccines

By Jacqueline Howard CNN

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) gave the green light Monday to update COVID19 vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech amid rising cases and hospitalizations. Both vaccine manufacturers have said testing shows that their vaccines are effective against EG.5, the currently dominant strain in the United States.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, a group of independent experts that advises the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on its vaccination decisions, will now weigh the safety and effectiveness of the updated vaccines and make recommendations for their use. After the CDC director signs off on those recommendations, the vaccines can be administered. The advisory group met Tuesday to discuss COVID-19

COVID-19 STATUS

vaccines, meaning the vaccines could become available within just a few days at certain pharmacies and doctor’s offices. Health officials are urging people to get vaccinated as soon as the shots are available. They’re debuting amid a late summer rise in COVID-19 hospitalizations in the United States and growing concerns about the effects that the triple threat of

PHOTO: RDNE Stock project/Pexels

Osher Lifelong Learning

on September 06, 2028

9/14, 9/21, 9/28, 10/05

NAME STATEMENT 2023-9018536

Fictitious business name(s): Embassy Church San Diego Embassy Church International Located at: 16234 Windpiper Poway, CA 92064 County of San Diego

P.O. Box 503680 San Diego, CA 92150 County of San Diego

This business is conducted by: A Corporation

The first day of business was: 08/17/2021

This business is hereby registered by the following:

Ambassadors International Ministries 16234 Windpiper Rd. Poway,

CLASSIFIEDS / LEGAL NOTICES

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: October 11, 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.

Clerk of San Diego County on August 03, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on August 03, 2028 8/24, 8/31, 9/07, 9/14

STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME 2023-9018011 Fictitious business name(s) to be abandoned: The Lady Fashion Located at: 415 Parkway Plaza W7 El Cajon, CA 92020 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: An Individual The Fictitious business name referred to above was filed in San Diego County on: 07/08/2021

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.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Request for Proposals Audiovisual Goods and Services

Solicitation No.: SOL1218423 CIP 8000190 Cost Code 2510 Federal Aid Project No.: N/A

The San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) is seeking consultants for Audiovisual Goods and Services. There is no DBE goal for this project. The optional Preproposal Meeting will be held via Microsoft Teams on September 25th, 2023, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM PST/PDT. The deadline for electronic proposal submittal is October 11th by 3:00 PM PST/PDT unless otherwise stated in an addendum. A copy of the solicitation documents and any communications or addenda can be accessed via www. bidnetdirect.com/sandag.

LEGAL NOTICES

of service must be filed with the court.

The address of the court is: 330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 9/14, 9/21, 9/28, 10/05

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA 330 W. Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 Hall Of Justice Central Divison 37-2023-00037046CU-PT-CTL

Petitioner or Attorney: Franklin Young Frank

To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Franklin Young Frank filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

PRESENT

NAME: Franklin Young Frank

PROPOSED

NAME: Cartier Young Frank 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.

DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date

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

The address of the court is:

330 W. Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 9/14, 9/21, 9/28, 10/05

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA

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

37-2023-00035650CU-PT-CTL Petitioner or Attorney: Anwar J. Shariff

To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Anwar J. Shariff filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

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

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

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

The address of the court is: 330 W. Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 9/07, 9/14, 9/21, 9/28

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

37-2023-00039055-PR-LACTL

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of Arnold Duane Harrison, aka Arnold D. Harrison

A Petition for Probate has been filed by Alana Harrison in the Superior Court of California, County of San Diego

The Petition for Probate requests that Alana Harrison be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

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

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

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Request for Proposals (RFP)

SANDAG Office Relocation – Project Management Services

Solicitation No.: SOL1202783 CIP 8000121 Federal Aid Project No.: N/A

The San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) is seeking consultants for SANDAG Office Relocation – Project Management Services. This project is federally funded and has a DBE goal of 2.48%.

The Optional Pre-Bid OR Pre-Proposal Meeting will be held in person at 401 B Street, San Diego CA 92101 and virturaly on September 6, 2023 , from 1:30 to 2:30 PM PST/PDT. The deadline for electronic Proposal submittal is September 25, 2023 by 3:00 PM PST/PDT unless otherwise stated in an addendum. A copy of the solicitation documents and any communications or addenda can be accessed via www.bidnetdirect.com/sandag.

on the other nonsigning parent, and proof of service must be filed with the court.

The address of the court is:

330 W. Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 9/14, 9/21, 9/28, 10/05

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA

330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 Hall Of Justice

37-2023-00037391CU-PT-CTL

Petitioner or Attorney: Kathryn Marie Becker

To All Interested Persons:

Petitioner Kathryn Marie Becker filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

PRESENT NAME: Kathryn Marie Becker

PROPOSED NAME: Kathryn Marie Monroe

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: October 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

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: October 11, 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.

PRESENT NAME: Anwar J. Shariff

PROPOSED NAME: Anwar Hero Shareef

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: October 03, 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.

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA 330 W. Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 Civil 37-2023-00035983CU-PT-CTL Petitioner or Attorney: Linglin Tian, Sheng Yuan on behalf of minor

To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Linglin Tian, Sheng Yuan on behalf of minor filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

PRESENT NAME: Xianqian Yuan

NAME:

PROPOSED

Ryan Xianqian Yuan

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: October 04, 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

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

The address of the court is: 330 W. Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 8/24, 8/31, 9/07, 9/14

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF HANOVER COUNTY Plaintiff ESTHER GORDON DAVIS VS Defendants

ARLENE K. LEE, et als

Case No.CL22003225-00

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to effect partition amongst the owners by sale or otherwise of the real property located in South Anna District, Hanover County, Virgina, now containing 2.34 acres, more or less, designated as Hanover GPIN 7748-79-8651 and being Lot 6 containing 3.34 acres shown on plat of survey recorder in Plat Book 23 page 195, less and except 1.00 acre conveyed out by deed recorded in Deed Book 174 page 589, and that portion taken by the Commonwealth for road improvements,

An affidavit having been made and filed that the defendant, Charles Cosby, died May 28, 1998 and last lived at 3937 Hamilton Street, San Diego, CA 92104-2801, and the Unknown Defendants are the heirs of Charles Cosby. The names and post office address of his spouse, heirs, devisees and successors in title, if any such there be other than those named in this cause, are unknown, such parties being made defendants by the general description of PARTIES UNKNOWN.

It is ORDERED that the Unknown Defendants who are the heirs of Charles Cosby believed to be dead and the names post office address of his spouse, heirs, devisees and successors in title, if any such there be other than those named in this cause, are unknown, such parties being made defendants by general description of PARTIES UNKNOWN do appear before this Court on or before October 18, 2023 at 9: a.m. and do what is necessary to protect their interest.

It is further ORDERED that the foregoing portion of this order be published once a week for four successive weeks in Voice & Viewpoint, a newspaper published in or having circulation in the City of San Diego, California.

Grayson S. Johnson, Esq VSB #12636 Johnson & Johnson Attorneys at Law PC P.O. Box 100 Rockville, Virginia 23146 804 749-3241 grayson@johnsonlawva.com

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

A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: on November 29, 2023, at 1:30 PM in Dept. 502 located at the Superior Court of California County of San Diego 1100 Union Street San Diego, CA 92101 Central Division Central Courthouse

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

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

You may examine the file kept by the court.

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

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

Attorney for Petitioner:

Edward B. Fischel, LL.M. 459 West 4th Street San Bernardino, CA 92401 (909) 388-0050 9/14, 9/21, 9/28

AFRO FUTURE CON 3.0:

Bigger, Better, and More Inclusive

Afro Future Con, formerly known as Afro Con, made a triumphant return to the San Diego Jackie Robinson YMCA on the weekend of Saturday, September 9th, and Sunday, September 10th, and it surpassed all expectations. Each year, this event undergoes significant improvements, and this year was no exception, with a dedicated focus on inclusivity and innovation.

Afro Future Con 3.0 introduced a diverse range of workshops, carefully selected through an open call process, transforming the event from the brainchild of a few into a collective vision shared by many. In addition, special attention was given to cater to attendees of all ages, with activities for children, an array of vendors offering delectable food, cultural art, comic books, and valuable resource information. Prominent participants included the Malcolm X Library, as well as the SoCal Black Scuba Divers and Snorkelers.

The event served as a melting pot of experiences, wisdom, and futuristic insights from a diverse range of industries. Notably, student interns from Lincoln High School played a pivotal role by capturing video footage for a content development project, adding a unique and dynamic dimension to the event’s offerings. Prestige Appearance Agency contributed to the magic of the screen by featuring actors from beloved productions such as The Lion King, Sons of Anarchy, Cop and A Half, Boy Meets World, All That, and Totally Raven.

Paragon Universe elevated the experience with the inclusion of Charlie Reign, who introduced attendees to the disruptive technologies and systems reshaping transportation, construction, and energy industries on a global scale. Titmouse, the renowned animation studio behind projects like Star Trek: Lower Decks, Black Panther, Afro Samurai, Beavis and Butthead, and Rick and Morty, not only served as a sponsor but also curated and hosted a thought-provoking panel discussion on Afrofuturism in Current Animation. The panel, moderated by Aubree Van Sluytman of Broken Chalice Studios, featured industry luminaries including Tendayi Nyeke, Executive Producer of Kizazi Moto (Disney+), Kai Akira, Director of My Dad the Bounty Hunter (Netflix), and Nikita Calame, the Voice of Young Nala in The Lion King (Disney) and Sebastian Van Sluytman of Broken Chalice Studios.

Professor Ajani Brown, a Founding Member of the Center for Comic Studies at San Diego State University, led an enlightening discussion on “Creators Building Worlds in the Comic Universe” with panelists Keithan Jones, Tony Washington, Marcus Newsome, and Eugene Young, who generously shared their experiences, insights, and invaluable lessons.

Ted Womack of Alliance San Diego delivered a compelling workshop titled “Black in This

on the importance of human dignity. The Southeast Art Team from San Diego lent their support to the event by providing stunning artwork and offering face painting services, adding an artistic touch to the ambiance. A dedicated room was set up with a wide array of activities for children, allowing them to unleash their creativity by designing costumes complete with masks, capes, wands, stickers, and more.

The UC San Diego Indigenous Futures Institute continued to play an indispensable role in supporting the event, joined by Footsteps in the Sand, who facilitated seamless registration and check-in processes, as well as the diligent cleanup crew responsible for dismantling everything once the event concluded. Representatives from the San Diego Black Panther Party and San Diego Black Professionals showed strong support, with many of their members in attendance and even on hand to assist.

Obichukwu Udeh presented the “5 Gates,” offering insights into the best ways to explore Africa. He also served as a panelist alongside Tendayi Nyeke and Dr. Terry Sivers, Professor at San Diego Mesa College, for a panel discussion on “Afrofuturism Through African and African American Lenses.”

Saturday night at Afro Future Con 3.0 was an absolute highlight as Maxx Moses welcomed attendees to Graffiti Gardens for the 1st Annual CosPLAYERS BALL. Guests enjoyed an array of wine, water, and light refreshments while DJ Kutz masterfully spun vinyl records. The evening featured an electrifying CosPLAY contest, followed by an enthralling performance from Kahlil Nash, and DJ Kutz took center stage once more. Ok Comedian Kay skillfully served as the MC, infusing the event with infectious energy and non-stop laughter. Notably, Matthew Gordon of the Blue Heart Foundation emerged as the winning contestant with his impressive cosplay of Kang from AntMan and the Wasp: Quantumania.

Afro Future Con 3.0 served as a testament to the remarkable power of community, creativity, and for ward-thinking ideas, leaving attendees pro foundly inspired and eagerly antic ipating the next install ment of this extraordinary event.

Aubree Van Sluytman and Dr. LaWana Richmond

Right: Carter and Nyele

Charlie X. Reign, Paragon VTOL

Above: Kahlil Nash at Graffiti Gardens

L to R: Brandon Hammond, Norman D. Golden II, Dr. LaWana Richmond, Giovannie Samuels, Nikita Calame, and Joyce McBryde

CosPlay Contestants

Terece Moret, Matthew Gordon, Spshelle Faith and Pam Fletcher-Rice

Search: Pastor John E. Warren San Diego

We

Thomas Edward Logans

THOMAS EDWARD LOGANS

Sunrise 07/01/1942 - Sunset 07/19/2023

Thomas Edward Logans made his earthly transition on July 19, 2023, in Houston, Texas. Tommy was born on July 1, 1942, the second youngest of nine children, to Richard L. Logans and Paulina Barker Logans in San Diego, California.

Though he resided in Houston, Texas, for nearly five decades, he never forgot his roots: his beloved native home, San Diego, California, to which he has returned for one last time to end his journey where it all began.

Please join us for a memorial service honoring Tommy’s life on September 29, 2023 at high noon, to be held at:

Bethel Baptist Church

1962 Euclid Avenue

San Diego, California, 92105

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

Until all that remains

Is the warmth of the memories

And the love.

MaryAnn Elize

White

SUNRISE 06/21/1957

SUNSET 09/01/2023

ARRANGEMENTS BY CALIFORNIA

CREMATION & BURIAL

MaryAnn Eliz White was born June 21, 1957, in San Diego, CA, to KC and JoWillie Henry. She was the 7th of 10 children. MaryAnn gained her wings and departed to heaven on September 1, 2023.

MaryAnn graduated from Hoover High School. She then attended San Diego City College and received her Associate of Arts degree. MaryAnn was employed at Vons Grocery and retired after many years of working there.

She joined in holy matrimony with her beloved husband, Lewis White, on June 21, 1999, and lived happily until his passing on July 23, 2023.

MaryAnn enjoyed spending time with her husband, family, and friends. MaryAnn also enjoyed traveling and visiting family in other states, shopping, attending church, reading, and relaxing in retirement.

She accepted the Lord at an early age, growing up in the church, St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church pastored by Pastor D. Morrow. MaryAnn served on the Youth Usher Board and Youth Choir as a lead singer. She then joined St. Stephens Church of God in Christ, pastored by Bishop George D. McKinney. There, she rededicated her life to Jesus Christ, and was baptized.

As MaryAnn grew in Christ, she then joined Revival Time Church Of God In Christ under the leadership of Bishop Lonnie Lynch. During her time, she served as the Purity Class teacher, on the usher board, and on Revival Times TV ministry. MaryAnn was a good and faithful servant to the Lord and his people.

MaryAnn loved her family, such as her brothers and sisters, and really loved all of her nieces and nephews. She was known for her kind, giving, loving, and supportive spirit. MaryAnn is and was a true gem, one of a kind.

One thing is for sure, all of her family and friends will truly miss her. MaryAnn is joined in Heaven by her parents KC and JoWillie Henry, sister Catherine Henry, and brother Jay Dorsey.

Maryann is survived by her six siblings; Kenny Charles Henry (Rachel), Annie Warren, Claudie Henry (Debbie), Joe Henry (Cena), Yvonne Morgan (Dean), Maxine Mitchell (James), and David Henry. MaryAnn also had a host of nieces and nephews who will never forget her.

1941

DC POLICE BRUTALITY RALLIES

On Sept. 14, 1941, four marches from different points in the City of Washington, D.C. got underway, involving an estimated 2,000 total participants. Each march was dedicated to one of the four recent African-American victims of police brutality.

Signs carried by protesters included, “Old Jim Crow Has Got to Go,” “Protect Our Civil Rights” and “Police Brutality is a Disgrace to the Nation’s Capital.” A hearse and an undertaker’s automobile carried signs in memory of persons shot in recent months by the police.

This description is from Washington Area Spark.

1970

JUDGE KETANJI BROWN JACKSON BORN

Ketanji Onyika Brown was born September 14, 1970, in Washington, D.C. Her parents later moved to Miami, Florida, where her father, Johnny Brown, became chief attorney for the Miami-Dade County School Board, and her mother, Ellery Ross Brown, became a school principal at New World School of the Arts.

On February 25, 2022, President Joe Biden nominated United States Court of Appeals Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to fill the vacancy on the U.S. Supreme Court created by the resignation of Associate Justice Stephen Breyer. Two months later on April 7, she was confirmed by the U.S. Senate to be the 116th Associate Justice of the Court and the first Black woman to serve on the high bench in its 233-year history. Scheduled to take her seat on the Court at the beginning of its term on October 3, she is only the third African American, after Thurgood Marshall and Clarence Thomas, to serve on the highest court in the United States.

ARTICLE CONTINUATION VACCINES:

Continued from page 13

respiratory viruses – coronavirus, flu and respiratory syncytial virus – may have this fall and winter season.

The updated vaccines are approved for people 12 and older and are authorized under emergency use for individuals 6 months through 11 years old. As part of the FDA’s update, the bivalent Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines are no longer authorized for use in the United States.

According to the FDA, babies and young children ages 6 months through 4 years who have not been vaccinated against the coronavirus are eligible to receive three doses of the updated Pfizer/BioNTech shot or two doses of the updated Moderna booster. For those in that age group who have been vaccinated, the number and timing of doses depend on the doses they’ve previously received.

According to the FDA, people 5 and

older are eligible to receive a single dose of the updated vaccines at least two months after their last dose of any COVID-19 shot, regardless of previous vaccination.

The benefit of the updated COVID19 vaccines “will be greatest” in people at the highest risk of disease, Dr. Dan Barouch, director of the Center for Virology and Vaccine Research at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center said. The mRNA vaccines have been updated to teach the body to fight the XBB.1.5 Omicron subvariant of the coronavirus and other closely related strains that are circulating. The FDA has not authorized an updated COVID-19 vaccine from Novavax, but the company said an updated version of its protein-based vaccine is currently under review by the FDA for authorization in people 12 and older.

Under the Affordable Care Act, most insurance plans are covering the full cost of vaccines, without co-pays. So most insured people will be able to get the updated COVID-19 vaccine at their doctor’s offices or pharma -

cies, such as CVS or Walgreens, at no cost. People who are uninsured or underinsured may access the updated vaccine for free through the CDC’s Bridge Access Program. The new government program allows the CDC to purchase and distribute COVID-19 vaccines and allocate them through its network of state and local health departments. Vaccines for federally qualified health centers as well as certain pharmacy chains will be supported through both government and manufacturer-supplied resources. The Bridge Access Program is temporary. According to the CDC’s website, free vaccines through the program will not be available after December 2024. Although vaccines were previously provided for free by the government, this is the first time they will be provided through the commercial market. During a Pfizer investor call in October, officials said a potential US list price for the updated vaccine could be between $110 and $130 per single dose for adults.

“

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

CNN’s Brenda Goodman and Deidre McPhillips contributed to this report.

A crowd gathers at 10th & U Street NW on Sunday, September 14, 1941, to protest police brutality in Washington, D.C. PHOTO: D.C. Public Library.

The Future of AI and the Workplace

By Michael Liedtke AP TECHNOLOGY WRITER

Salesforce founder and CEO Marc Benioff has become something of a vanishing breed during the nearly quarter century he has been running the company that pioneered the concept of selling software as an online subscription. While Benioff remains in charge at Salesforce, other billionaire founder/CEOs such Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, Google’s Larry Page and Netflix’s Reed Hastings have all stepped away from groundbreaking companies born during the 1990s.

Benioff, 58, isn’t ready to leave Salesforce yet, even though he has amassed an $8 billion fortune and just went through a challenging stretch that might have caused many CEOs to head for the exit. In January, Benioff decided to lay off 8,000 Salesforce employees after overseeing a pandemic-driven expansion that included a nearly $28 billion acquisition of the popular workplace tool Slack and then grappled with an investor backlash triggered by a nearly 50% drop in the company's stock price last year. The shares have recovered most of their losses so far this year on the strength of a revived revenue growth.

The Associated Press recently sat down with Benioff for an interview that has been lightly edited for clarity.

How does the landscape look to you as the pandemic fades into the rearview mirror?

When I look back at 2019, we had really gone through three huge waves of technology: cloud computing, mobile and social. And now we are going into the fourth wave, which is probably the most important one in AI (artificial intelligence), which is not just the most important technology of our lifetime, but probably the most important in any lifetime. It’s going to be a new world of technology that’s as exciting as all the other worlds put together.

Is this on the scale of the development of nuclear bombs back in World War II?

Technologies are never good or bad, it’s what we do with them that matters. Nobody wants a Hiroshima moment to understand how dangerous AI is. We want to be able to kind of get our heads around the tremendous conse-

quences of the technology that we are working with. And that’s going to require a multi- stakeholder approach — companies, governments, non-governmental organizations and others to put together the guidelines for this technology.

Have you been surprised or alarmed by how quickly things seem to be advancing since the release of the ChatGPT bot late last year?

We are moving from the generative ChatGPT phase, which is phase one, into a stage where we are about to see agents that are quite alive and aware and able to take these kinds of massive actions. These are called multimodal agents, that is they can move from text to speech to video. And then we are going to move into something that is maybe more multisensory, where these agents are going to be more aware of us and we are going to be more aware of them.

None of us are really ready for this because none of us have had this experience before. We are on the threshold of a dramatic change in the way we work with computers. We are going to work side by side with them. And, in many cases, they are going to augment or extend what we have been doing. They are going to be taking actions without our knowledge.

Salesforce is one of many tech companies that now allow employees to work remotely at least a few days a week. How has the pandemic changed the nature of work?

We are all using technology to find more freedom in our lives. Things are back to normal, but people do go to the office less. And that is not going to change. We are never going back to they way it was.

The tech industry expanded rapidly during the pandemic and then abruptly reversed course with a waves of layoffs that included Salesforce. What happened?

Companies were too optimistic, including ours. And we unfortunately had to make adjustments, some that we did not want to make. I think everyone got hypnotized during the pandemic that that was what the future was going to look like. And when the pandemic was over, there was a snapback.

Salesforce CEO Shares His Predictions for AI and the Future of Work