Vol. 63 No. 39 | Thursday, September 28, 2023

GRAND JURY INDICTS 17 DEFENDANTS FOR VIOLENT OCEAN BEACH ATTACKS

Hells Angels Gang Members Attacked Three Black Men

RACIST AND ANTISEMITIC REMARKS HURLED AT CITY COUNCIL

City Council's Zoom Platform Exploited for Targeted Hate Speech

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan announced today that 17 defendants have been indicted by a grand jury for their roles in an attack on three men in Ocean Beach this past summer. On June 6, 2023, a group of outlaw Hells Angels motorcycle gang members and their supporters viciously attacked the young men on a public sidewalk.

The victims, all African American men ages 19, 20 and 21, were on Newport Avenue enjoying a night out. Virtually out of nowhere—possibly because one of the men spoke to a biker’s girlfriend—they were chased and attacked by several Hells Angels and Hells Angels supporters. They

were repeatedly called a racial epithet and told they didn’t belong in the neighborhood.

One victim ran and escaped injury. Another victim was punched and kicked all over his body. The beating only stopped after he was sucker punched in the head and knocked unconscious. The third man was also beaten by multiple bikers and left helpless, curled up on the ground. Longtime Hells Angels leader, Troy Scholder, pulled out a knife, rolled the victim onto his side, and stabbed him in the chest, cracking the young man’s sternum. After trying to kill the victim, Mr. Scholder casually folded up his knife and walked away. The young man survived his injuries.

See ATTACKS page 5

HAITIAN REFUGEES SEEK SHELTER AT SAN YSIDRO

By Aryka Randall

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

As many of you know, San Diego has played a role in the aid of providing shelter and resources to Haitian refugees seeking asylum and resettlement here in the states. Today we spent time at the San Ysidro Civic Center where dozens of refugees are being transported after crossing the Tijuana border. From there, they are met with food, water, and information on shelters and transportation to their next destination. The atmosphere felt like a giant sigh of relief.

Among the group was a young man by the name of Souaré Guirassy who traveled from Haiti to Tijuana with a group of friends to find work in New York City. He said he was excited to rest after a long journey and he felt better making the trip with a group of friends.

“It took us one month to get to Mexico. We had to work in between and when we got to Mexico it took two weeks for us to come over the border. We’ve been here at the shelter for two days now. We’re waiting to go to New York to find work. Now all I want to do is sleep, eat and rest.”

See REFUGEES page 5

By Macy Meinhardt VOICE

In what appears to be a syndicated effort, a group of “racist” and “anti-semitic” callers took over public comment during last week’s San Diego City Council meeting.

“I am going to ask nicely first..please do not use words that are offensive to any particular part of our population San Diego. It will not be tolerated,” said Council Member Pro-Tem Monica Montgomery Steppe, in efforts to control the rampant dialogue.

See REMARKS page 5

REPORT: STATES MUST BAN GUNS AT PLACES WHERE PEOPLE VOTE

By Sunita Sohrabji EMS | SPECIAL TO CALIFORNIA BLACK MEDIA PARTNERS

Voting and elections have become the targets of threats and intimidation as the nation faces a proliferation of guns, more frequent gun violence, and fewer legal protections, noted Brennan Center for Justice and the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence in a report released this week.

The proliferation of guns in American homes has increased dramatically since 2008, when the Supreme Court ruled for the first time that the 2nd Amendment allows US residents to possess an operable handgun in the home for self-defense.

See GUNS page 5

HOUSE REPUBLICANS TARGET TITLE I EDUCATION GRANTS IN CONTROVERSIAL SPENDING CUTS

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA NEWSWIRE SR NATIONAL CORRESPONDENT

House Republicans are set to decide the fate of Title I education grants, a federal program providing critical support for low-income students nationwide. The proposed cuts, amounting to

nearly 80 percent, have raised concerns about the future of educational opportunities for disadvantaged children.

The vote, which hinges on a procedural motion to advance spending bills, represents a final play to appease hardline Republicans and demonstrate

See CUTS page 5

& VIEWPOINT STAFF WRITER

PHOTO: Courtesy of The San Diego

San Diego City Hall, PHOTO: City of San Diego

(L-R): Haitian immigrants Naby Laye Souw and Souaré Guirassy pictured here at the San Ysidro Civic Center. PHOTOS: Aryka Randall / Voice & Viewpoint

Meet the next generation of change-makers

For nearly two decades, our Student Leaders® program has helped prepare community-minded high school students to become successful in the workforce by connecting them to skills development, service and leadership training. Through paid internships with local nonprofits like Just in Time for Foster Youth and Reality Changers, they gain practical work and life experiences. It’s just one more way we’re working together with our communities to build a better future for all.

Rick Bregman President, Bank of America San Diego

Learn

By Dr. John E. Warren

OF THE SAN DIEGO COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY

The San Diego County District Attorney is to be applauded on the recent indictments of 17 Hells Angels Defendants in the brutal attack on three African American men in Ocean Beach, California on June 6, 2023. The attack on these three young Black men is once again proof that we do not live in the “post racial society” that many wanted to claim during the Obama years. The fact that the District Attorney was able to coordinate the efforts of multiple law enforcement agencies to bring about the arrest and indictment of these individuals is quite significant when one considers the num-

ber of hate crimes being carried out in this state, with African Americans suffering the greatest incidents.

Summer Stephan, as District Attorney, and one of this state’s strongest fighters against hate crimes, has once again demonstrated the seriousness with which she takes this issue. But the indictment is just a step in the process. There must still be a trial with jury selection which could include people agreeing with the defendants, if drawn from among their peers. Then, there is the trial itself. The bottom line is that if we care as much as the District Attorney, then we must

not turn down the call to Jury Duty if it comes to us because it could include jury selection for this particular case.

We the community have a role to play in this drama. We must become the eyes and ears that can lead to this kind of arrest and indictment where such hate incidents occur. We all have a role in attacking this problem wherever it occurs.

Yes, on this one, we thank you Madam District Attorney. But let us not forget, we still have a long ways to go on this issue and we, the community, will be with you.

THE BORDER: DUTY, PRIVILEGE, RESPONSIBILITY

It appears that those people flooding our borders by the thousands on a daily basis, have taken literally the inscription on the Statue Of Liberty in New York Harbor: “Give me your tired, your poor; Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me. I lift my lamp beside the golden door!” While they may have never heard of the statute or its inscription, it is clearly time to seriously close “the golden door.”

As the greatest nation on earth, our first duty is to the people of this nation. This flood gate of immigrants legal and

illegal, can not be sustained and it is the greatest dereliction of duty for the Federal Government to allow this illegal dumping of humanity on our cities and communities because of our innate compassion for all human life.

Congress, State and Local governments, the Courts and the White House, engaged in either permitting this illegal entry or permitting it to go unchanged, stopped or controlled, are guilty of Malfeasance in Office, meaning to fail to carry out the Oath Of Office that each official took. That was an oath swearing to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States. That Constitution is being trampled under the feet of both migrants and irresponsible officials more concerned about their political futures than this nation.

and peaceful society for the sake of future generations. Our nation has a long history of systemic violence, often linked to the use of firearms. Guns have been used against groups that our society has feared, such as Native Americans, British, Africans, people of color, women, and others. I commend President Biden for his efforts during this transitional period, but time is running out.

By Ben “BostonBen” Haith

While I greatly respect President Joe Biden, I believe that we need a human leader who will prioritize transforming our country into a non-violent

Some individuals within our nation seek to dismantle our democracy and control the people, as this has happened before in our history and in other countries. President Biden faces numerous challenges, including

It must be remembered that residency in this great nation, for those not born here, is a “Privilege” not a right. Providing shelter for such persons in need, including allowing them into this country, is only a duty because we have made it so by the laws we have adopted. This is clearly the case with our present immigration overflow. The present situation is beyond just change. It endangers the continuation of the very democracy we hold so dear.

Just as elected and appointed officials have a responsibility to act NOW to correct this problem, regardless of political differences, We as citizens, no matter what our color, have a responsibility to correct or remove those officials including the President, Congress and Justices on our courts, who can be removed by Impeachment.

climate change, cultural divisions, economic justice, racial justice, and more. Over the past two years, I have spoken with various groups and have emphasized the need for a national mental health evaluation to understand why our society has so many unhealthy aspects. Without addressing the root causes of our societal issues, we will continue to struggle for solutions. It is time to take action.

Ben “Boston Ben” Haith is an activist and creator of the official Juneteenth flag.

This article was originally published on in The Afro.

If we the people fail to take action, because someone we know has a relative seeking to illegally enter the country, no matter what the reason, then we are just as guilty as those who take no action.

While we fight among ourselves, squandering our resources in a cultlike support of one man who continues to present himself as more important than our Constitution, system of laws and government, we pave the way for our enemies to grow stronger against us. Let us not sit idly and watch history repeat itself. We have the legal power to reshape our duties, privileges, and responsibilities as a nation before we cease to exist. What will you do?

By David W. Marshall

Michael Jordan is arguably one of the best professional basketball players in the history of the NBA. Among his many accomplishments during his illustrious career, Jordan was Rookie of the Year, five-time NBA MVP, six-time NBA champion, six-time NBA Finals MVP, and NBA Hall of Fame inductee. Jordan’s final game as a player was on April 16, 2003, where he finished with 15 points in a loss to the Philadelphia 76ers.

PUBLISHER, THE SAN DIEGO

VOICE & VIEWPOINT

By Dr. John E. Warren PUBLISHER, THE SAN DIEGO VOICE &

Assisting Seniors in the Community: Elderly Love of San Diego

Ms. Debra Portee, Mrs. Joyce McBryde and Ms. Erica Robinson created a group called Elderly Love of San Diego on April 2, 2020. Considering the pandemic, Elderly Love became aware of the number of seniors in the community who didn’t have transportation or support to get their weekly groceries and other necessities. As a result, they volunteered to provide organic groceries weekly, blankets, companionship and much more.

Elderly Love recognized that there’s a large percentage of grandparents

within their group that provides financial support for their grandchildren. A major supporter, Mary Day Dewart, suggested that Elderly Love partner with BiA Cares. Since 2021, BiA Cares has provided backpacks and school supplies for the grandparents’ grandchildren.

One of the participants that received the backpacks stated, “This was truly a blessing and was much needed for grandparents who play a lead role within their grandchildren’s life.” Another participant expressed gratitude because his grandchild hadn’t had a new backpack in 5 years.

In Loving Memory

Elderly Love recognizes that aging

increases the risk of chronic diseases such as dementia, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, and cancer. As the team became aware of the Elderly Love participants’ achievements within the community, they felt a great need to recognize and raise awareness of the vital contributions made to our society. They then created an award ceremony called “Honoring Pillars of the Southeastern Community”. This award ceremony is a great way to make sure elders’ voices are heard, and their achievements are celebrated. The principle behind this ceremony is to give them their “flowers” now and to show them how much they are appreciated for their excellent leadership, creative inventions and innovations.

Debra Portee Co-Founder

The Team

Joyce McBryde Co-Founder

Within the past two years 28 elders have been honored and are listed below.

The honorees that are now our ancestors are Theresa Mae “Mama

T” Saunders, Sharon Gibson, Edward Smith, Robert Tambuzi, Dr. Willie Lee Morrow, Dorothy E.

Van Dyke, Mary Killens, Mary E.

Williams, Aileen Ward, Cornelius

“Neal” Petties, and Mr. & Mrs. Cooper.

Last of all, we end the year with a

Gift Giveaway for Grandparents/ Elders. Mary Day and Dennice Rousey and friends expressed that the holidays is a festive time and offered to spread holiday joy for the grandparents/elders by collecting monetary donations to purchase gifts. The Elderly Love team had the pleasure of delivering these gifts to their homes and nursing facilities which brought great joy to their hearts.

The Elderly Love team expresses thanks for all the support they have received from the following: Rhonda Hunt-Phillips, Tony Hawkins of UC Safe Lives, Jackie Robinson YMCA, SD Hip Hop 5k, The Harvey Family Foundation, and Dr. Suzanne Afflalo and JIREH Providers. Elderly Love appreciates their sponsors’ generous ongoing devotion to their mission!

The Elderly Love groups challenge the community to make sure that our elders are healthy, happy, empowered and socially integrated. Please feel free to email us at Elderlylove2021@yahoo.com and follow us on Facebook at Elderly Love of San Diego.

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 i e g o c o u n t y g o v / m e d i - c a

Courtesy of Ms. Debra Portee

PHOTOS: Courtesy of Debra Portee

Mary Killens

Mr. & Mrs. Cooper Mary E. Williams Dorothy E. Van Dyke

Aileen Ward

Theresa Mae “Mana T” Saunders

Sharon Gibson

Dr. Wilie Lee Marrow Cornelius “Neal” Pettiet Robert Tambuzi Edward Smith

ATTACKS

Continued from cover

“In San Diego County, we cannot, and will not tolerate violence and racism of any nature, much less crimes like this hateful, vicious, and unprovoked attack,” said DA Stephan. “It is a testament to the cooperation and coordination of our law enforcement partners, working closely with our Gangs Division, that these defendants were identified and are being brought to face justice.”

The crime kicked off a large-scale investigation by the San Diego Police Department and the District Attorney’s Gang Unit. Deputy District Attorney Miriam Hemming and District Attorney Investigators Ross Umstot and Bryan Maddox worked relentlessly with SDPD to identify all the attackers and convene a grand

Continued from cover

The introduction of Zoom call-in access for virtual meetings, while intended to enhance accessibility for residents staying informed from home, has unintentionally enabled so-called “extremist” groups to exploit governmental platforms for spreading hate both locally and state-wide, reports show. In San Diego, offensive hate-speech has intensified across cyberspaces where governmental boards host virtual public comment, including city council, school boards, and board of supervisors. Despite numerous reminders for speakers to stay respectful at last week’s meeting, caller after caller flooded the queue to broadcast racial and anti-semitic remarks.

“I won’t repeat what was said but it was an entire day of the n-word, the c-word, racial slurs and calling Jewish people names, talking about burning down synagogues….I had to balance free speech, with ultimately cutting people off and saying I wont accept that,” said President Pro Tem Monica Montgomery Steppe, in a meeting at Rolando Community council.

While public comment is a resource for community members to exercise freedom of speech, city leaders face a challenge of delineating the boundaries of constitutional rights in the face of hate.

“You’re finding reasons to use excuses to shut down people’s free speech. And I expect you’ll try it again during my speech right now, but I'm warning you, you are under warning and you

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Excerpts of Conversation with Sanders:

What types of justifications are states using to allow concealed guns at polling sites and drop-off boxes?

The Supreme Court was unequivocal in its decision in Bruen that prohibiting firearms in polling places is constitutional. And so, while I can’t speak for why states have not filled the voids that we recognize in our report, what I can say is that we are offering policy proposals for states to enact laws that would better protect voters and election officials and workers from threats and help voters and the public remain confident that our elections will continue to be by and large peaceful.

Older adults traditionally account for the majority of election workers. Have you seen a drop-off of older adults choosing to work at the polls, given the uncertainty of protection from violence at those sites?

We were experiencing a global pandemic in 2020. And so there was a downturn in retired

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ARTICLE CONTINUATION

jury. On September 13, after hearing six days of testimony, the grand jury returned indictments against 14 defendants for assault likely to cause great bodily injury— all with a gang allegation and 11 of them with a hate crime allegation. The grand jury added three additional defendants because the trio helped drive the stabber from the scene and back to the Hells Angels Clubhouse in El Cajon.

“These disgusting hate-driven attacks have no place in our community. There is no stronger way to condemn this violence than to hold the perpetrators accountable to the fullest force of the law,” said Police Chief David Nisleit. “We committed every necessary resource to track down and arrest each person who was involved in these wanton acts of violence. I want to thank our detectives who solved this case, our partner law enforcement agencies for their help, and the District Attorney’s Office for their tireless work.”

are violating my civil rights, and I will sue your city,” argued one anonymous caller, after officials reminded him to curb his offensive language and stay on track with city matters.

When it comes to navigating hateful comments on speaker items, the city does implement certain meeting procedures. If a person veers off topic, council is allowed to step in and encourage the speaker to stay on topic. If they continue to violate direction, officials are authorized to end their speaking session on that particular item. Law enforcement is not permitted to get involved unless a speaker is over the line disruptive in instances such as screaming or yelling. In the case of the anonymous virtual callers, all city officials could do was mute their microphone.

“These eight to ten callers went, you know, really went off topic and used some vile and terrible language racist and bigoted language,” said Councilmember Campillo in an interview with Voice and Viewpoint.

As outrageous and hurtful as comments were, “the verbal utterance of opinions, no matter how disagreeable they are, cannot be criminalized. So what we can only do is run our meeting and follow the and enforce our rules for running the meeting,” said Councilmember Campillo.

Meanwhile after the meeting, city leaders swiftly took to social media to put out statements of condemnation towards the individual callers.

“While we welcome all people of the public to participate in City Council, we condemn the

or elderly folks serving as election workers due to the vulnerabilities related with COVID-19. But it is true that election officials have reported that it's been harder to recruit the more elderly folks to serve in that capacity.

Compared to anything prior, there was dramatically more harassment and threats lodged at election officials and poll workers over the last two election cycles. Poll workers have reported experiences of harassment and threats of abuse in recent years.

Are election workers of color more likely to face harassment, violence and intimidation?

We found that election officials serving what’s known as majority minority jurisdictions were more likely than election officials overall to report having been threatened, having been harassed or abused because of their job. And they were also considerably more likely to be concerned about being assaulted. This is alarming, it’s concerning, and it’s unacceptable in a democracy.

One out of every 3 election workers have reported harassment or threats, according to the report.

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All 17 defendants were arrested on September 21. Law enforcement seized 42 illegal firearms, as well as illegal drugs. Arraignments occurred today for the defendants. If convicted of all charges, the defendants face a range of possible sentences from three years to life in prison. A readiness hearing is set for November 3 at 8:30 a.m. in Department 1102 of the Superior Court downtown. Trial is currently set for November 14 in Department 102.

Several agencies worked together on the investigation and subsequent arrests, including the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department, El Cajon Police Department, Escondido Police Department, Chula Vista Police Department, La Mesa Police Department, Oceanside Police Department, National City Police Department and the Narcotics Task Force. The DA’s Office also received assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

participation that introduces outright hateful language against race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or any further identities that make up our region.”

“We speak in solidarity that there is no space for hate speech and violent misinformation in our city.”

San Diego City Council is celebratory of the fact that it is the most diverse council in the city’s history, however with that comes targeted offenses often hurled at the city council members directly. As the public comment moderator, and serving in the position President Pro-Tem, Councilmember Montgomery Steppe was subject to a handful of these remarks, specifically when she would politely ask the callers to stay on track.

In a study produced by the Anti-Defamation League on harassment against local officials, studies found that women officials were targeted at a higher frequency than others, totaling 42.5% of incidents.

“The sobering findings reinforce observed sexualized and gendered violent threats against women in politics, amplified under new levels of polarization and with social media tools,” the ADL states.

Further studies show that this is an excessive pattern particularly amongst Black women in positions of power. In 2021, a Women Mayors Network survey showed that political violence against mayors is common and “more prevalent for women mayors and mayors of color.”

As a result of the shifts in how our electoral process was being carried out, we started to observe trends in elected leaders and others who were spreading disinformation and misinformation about our elections as it relates to various methods of voting, including voting by mail and the use of drop boxes as a result of the uptick in mail voting.

And so based on that climate, we started to see an increase in threats and intimidation and threats of violence being lodged at election workers and officials. And that was also tied to the election denial movement that took hold at the time as well, where various elected leaders were sowing disinformation and misinformation about our elections and raising conspiracy theories about various methods of voting and really increasing the fear among the electorate that the voting process was insecure and was not fair. So, we think that’s what inspired this increase in the climate of threats and intimidation against election officials.

Could you talk about some of your policy recommendations?

One of the key findings in our report is that only 12 states and Washington, D.C. have laws

The Hells Angels are an international outlaw motorcycle gang with chapters across California and an active chapter in San Diego County. They gain strength in numbers by developing support or puppet clubs, including at least five in San Diego. The Hells Angels profit by trafficking in guns and drugs, as evidenced by search warrants executed last Thursday netting 35 firearms. In addition to running guns and drugs, the Hells Angels have been well-known to have a virulent streak of racism, demonstrated by their pervasive use of Nazi symbols and images.

In a separate case, the District Attorney’s Gangs Unit is also prosecuting a recent Hells Angels President for another unprovoked attack on a former Hells Angels associate at a crowded IHOP restaurant in Clairemont. That attack left the victim with broken bones in his face.

Furthermore, it appears these groups of callers may not be San Diego residents, but rather a group of individuals with similar targets and agendas stretching across the West Coast. Since last week, reports have spanned to this occurring in Sacramento, El Cerrito, Monterey, Sonoma and even Portland City Council.

What happened is part of a larger trend, tracked by ADL Center on Extremism, of extremists using public forums like city council meetings to espouse antisemitic speech, according to the AntiDefamation league. However, the hate speech last week was not just targeted at jewish communities but rather all communities that are not white.

“On Monday, they then started making anti Black comments when Council President Pro Tem Montgomery stepped in to stop them from their vile comments, and it veered off into anti LGBTQ comments. And so this group of people might be using one message today, but they are fundamentally against each racial group that is not white,” said Councilmember Campillo.

In terms of if this pattern should intensify in the future, Councilmember Campillo claims that it is within the cities “toolbox” to eliminate the zoom call in feature, as they are not legally binded to host it.

However, in efforts to maintain the ability for abiding participants to speak and share their thoughts with city leaders, the virtual call-in feature will remain for now. In the meantime, San Diego leaders say they will remain vigilant for like-minded hate speech attacks in the future.

prohibiting open carry and concealed carry at polling places. And even fewer states have laws that prohibit guns where other sensitive election activity occurs, drop boxes as well as places like election counting facilities.

And while it is illegal to intimidate voters in all 50 states, neither federal law nor any state law explicitly acknowledges that guns in or around places where people are engaged in voting or conducting election activity can constitute illegal intimidation.

In our report, we offer two main policy proposals. One: we recommend that states enact laws to prohibit guns at and around all sites of voting and vote counting. And we recommend that states strengthen their laws, protecting voters and election workers and officials from intimidation and violence, but explicitly addressing the void that is currently present and addressing the intimidating effect of guns.

I would reiterate to voters that — because our elections have remained by and large peaceful — the proposals that we offer in our report are simply action items that states can take to further strengthen legal protections that are already in place.

ing for Title I education grants, a cornerstone of support for low-income schools, potentially saving $14.7 billion.

Out of 60-75 refugees present at the Civic Center, only about ten percent of them were Haitian which still begs the question, are they being given the same opportunity to enter the United States as everyone else? These questions come after several reports of Haitian refugees being mistreated and held up for months at the Tijuana border by the LA Times.

A second refugee we spoke with named Naby Laye Souw sat down to give input on the conversation as well. He expressed feeling relief to finally be in the U.S.

“I didn’t think this day would come. I’m glad to be here so I can work and make a living for myself. Some of the other people told me we might have to stay in Mexico. I’ll be going to Los Angeles on a bus tomorrow.”

The Tijuana border will continue to be a transitional hub for those seeking asylum in the United States. It remains to be seen if more aid and equality will be given to Haitian refugees as their long journey to new found personal liberation continues.

the party’s commitment to enacting sweeping, year-long spending reductions. However, experts caution that this move will do little to avert an impending government shutdown scheduled for Sunday.

An in-depth analysis by Bobby Kogan and Jean Ross of the Center for American Progress, a leading liberal think tank, reveals that Republicans had proposed 12 bills that would slash nondefense discretionary spending by an alarming $58 billion beyond the previously agreed amount between President Biden and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy in May when they brokered a deal to raise the debt limit. Notably, the analysis excludes Department of Veterans Affairs medical care spending.

The proposed cuts are far from uniform, with some government programs set to face more severe reductions than others. Surprisingly, several bills championed by House Republicans would result in increased spending rather than the anticipated reductions. Of particular concern is the analysis showing that a quarter of all projected savings from the House Republicans’ bills hinge on an unprecedented 80 percent reduction in fund-

Even the recommendations made by the Center for Renewing America, a think tank run by Russ Vought, the former director of the White House budget, are less drastic than the proposed cuts to Title I education grants. Title I is instrumental in providing essential financial assistance to local educational agencies striving to meet state content and performance standards in reading, language arts, and mathematics. The impact of such cuts would be felt nationwide. For example, District of Columbia Public Schools (DPS) have 88 Title 1 schools and campuses, which means each possess a poverty rate of at least 35%. According to DPS, Title I schools allocate 1% of the Title funding for parent and family engagement activities that strengthen the collaborative relationship between the school and the families.

“Title I funding helps fill in the gaps that have existed in all our systems for generations, especially in our public schools,” Becky Pringle, president of the National Education Association, told reporters. “It is unconscionable that House Republicans would try to strip away desperately needed funds from our most vulnerable, most marginalized students.”

Press Conference Concerning Elder Abuse at Terrace

CSA Fair Housing San Diego has opened an internal investigation

Last Thursday, Sept 21, at 1pm the CSA Fair Housing organization and residents of Terrace Gardens held a press conference to alert the public to alleged elder abuse at the senior living apartment complex located at 3281 College Place in Lemon Grove.

Gardens Held

edly illegal requests for monetary compensation for regular maintenance work.

“These acts are viewed as intimidation, neglect, and discrimination,” the statement released Wednesday, September 20th by CSA Fair Housing said. “It is known in the community that the residents of Terrace Gardens include a significant number of elderly individuals and persons with disabilities,” the statement continued.

CSA San Diego has reportedly shared a number of proposals to Terrace Gardens management to address residents’ concerns.

According to a CSA Fair Housing press release, on August 23, 2023, CSA San Diego County Fair Housing conducted a Fair housing meeting with Terrace Gardens residents. Approximately 26 elderly tenants, many suffering with mental or physical disabilities, met to discuss alleged improper treatment by their residential management.

It was reported that CSA San Diego previously requested that upper management conduct a thorough investigation into the behavior and actions of onsite management and take appropriate corrective measures, but CSA San Diego had yet to receive any response. At Thursday’s press conference, Terrace Gardens residents shared stories chronicling inappropriate, offensive and discourteous behavior towards themselves and their fellow elderly neighbors, instances of unaddressed or uncompleted maintenance requests, a general lack of courtesy when addressing residents' concerns, and report -

“There is a lack of transparency with management at Terrace Gardens. Because of the high demands of concerns and the negligence of management, CSA has initiated an internal investigation into the matter,” CSA San Diego stated in Wednesday’s release.

“It is immoral for our seniors to be going through this type of living and lifestyle. Everyone in this County is just one tragic incident away from living homeless on the streets. And yet our elders have to put up with this abuse and be quiet about it because they don’t want to be in that situation. CSA Housing is standing with our elders against abuse,” Yusef Miller, CSA Board member said on Thursday.

Estela De Los Rios, CSA Executive Director, also spoke at Thursday's press conference. “We are here to promote fair housing for all, especially here at Terrace Gardens, to respect and preserve dignity.”

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Check Yourself! Resources for Check Your Mood Day, October 5th

The County of San Diego’s Check Your Mood Day takes place on Thursday, October 5, 2023, in conjunction with National Depression Screening Day. The purpose of this annual event is to engage and encourage San Diegans to monitor and assess their emotional well-being, to take a free non-diagnostic screening, get mental health resources and raise awareness about mental health.

Get Connected & Learn More

Check your mood, for you or a loved one. Below are a few of the many groups who may provide additional support, resources, and/or informatin to assist individuals experiencing mental health difficulties:

2-1-1 San Diego - Visit www.211SanDiego.org ir call 2-1-1 for 24/7 assessments and services in over 200 languages for individual needs and referrals to appropriate community resources.

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline - Visit 988lifeline.org or call or text 9-8-8 for free and confidential support, prevention and crisis resources for individuals, and best practices for professionals. Calls from San Diego County area codes are routed to the Access and Crisis Line (ACL). San Diego Access & Crisis Line - Call 1-888-724-7240 for expert counseling and resources on suicide prevention, crisis intervention, community services, mental health referrals, alcohol and drug support services and more.

It's Up to Us - Visit www.UP2SD.org to talk openly about mental illness, recognize symptoms, utilize local resources, and seek help.

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might be the answer, if you’ve

The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint is looking for journalists and photojournalists, as independent contractors, for paid assignments.

CSA Board Member, Yusef Miller (foreground) with CSA Executive Director Estela De Los Rios (center, background) and Terrace Gardens residents on Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023.

PHOTO: Screenshot via Facebook/Voice & Viewpoint

PHOTOS: Courtesy of CSA San Diego County Fair Housing except where noted

Voice & Viewpoint Staff

“It is immoral for our seniors to be going through this type of living and lifestyle.”

–Yusef Miller

California Black Media Political Playback News You Might Have Missed

Henry and Joe W. Bowers Jr. California Black Media

Legislative Black Caucus Chair “Extremely Disappointed” by Gov. Newsom’s Veto of Child Gender Identity Bill

As semblymember Lori D. Wilson (D-Suisun City) says she’s extremely disappointed by Gov. Gavin Newsom’s decision to veto Assembly Bill (AB) 957, legislation that would have required judges in custody cases to consider a parents’ affirmation of their child’s gender identity in their application of the law. Wilson, who is the chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus and who has a transgender child said, “I know the Governor’s record. He has been a champion for LGBTQ+ rights even before it was popular to do so.”

“However, on this point, the Governor and I disagree on the best way to protect transgender kids,” Wilson continued. “I’ve been disheartened over the last few years as I’ve watched the growing hate and heard the vitriol towards the trans community. My intent with this bill was to give them a voice, particularly in the family court system, where a non-affirming parent could have a detrimental effect on the mental health and wellbeing of a child. Whether the roadblock comes from the opposition or even a supporter, it only hard -

ens my resolve. I'm far from done, this fight is personal! Not just for my family, but to all the trans kids that deserve a brighter and safer future.”

The Governor announced his decision in a press release his office sent out Friday that listed bills he has so far signed and others he has vetoed. Oct. 14 is the deadline for Newsom to sign bills lawmakers introduced during the 2023 legislative session.

Explaining his decision to veto AB

State Controller Malia Cohen to Chair State Task Force on Charter School Audits

California State Controller Malia Cohen announced last week that she will chair a “statewide multi-agency task force charged with developing audit criteria and best practices for identifying and preventing fraud in charter schools.

San Diego Superior Court Judge Robert Longstreth formed the task force after the state charged 11 defendants – including a school superintendent – for defrauding taxpayers of nearly $400 million by enrolling fictitious students in A3 Education, an online charter school, to collect state funds to educate each student.

Cohen says the leading defendants in the case Sean McManus and Jason Schrock have agreed to turn over all the assets of A3 Education and its subsidiaries to the state – and $215 million which will be put back in the “state’s coffers.”

“As the State’s chief fiscal officer and the office responsible for developing audit guidelines to be followed by auditors when auditing school district, I could not in good conscience allow this matter to proceed through the judicial system without offering my office’s assistance in drafting guidelines to detect

and prevent a recurrence of this untenable situation,” said Cohen. “To do otherwise would be to neglect the confidence placed in my office to safeguard taxpayers’ dollars.”

California’s Congressional Delegation Urges President Biden to Grant Gov. Newsom’s Request for Major Disaster Aid

In a letter dated Sept. 19, California’s delegation to the United States Congress – including the state’s two Democratic Senators, Dianne Feinstein and Alex Padilla, and Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Kevin McCarthy (R-CA-20) – urged President Biden to “expeditiously” approve Gov. Newsom’s request for a major disaster declaration after Tropical Storm Hilary. “The heavy precipitation caused dangerous debris flows that threatened lives, businesses, and critical public infrastructure such as roads and waterways,” wrote the lawmakers. “In response to these dangerous conditions, the State of California marshaled all

available resources to respond to this storm. However, the severity and intensity of this storm require additional federal coordination and resources to effectively support the ongoing recovery efforts.”

According to the lawmakers, residents of the following counties are in dire need of public assistance: Imperial, Inyo, Kern, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Siskiyou, and Ventura. They also asked the feds for emergency and disaster loans that will benefit affected Californians from the U.S. Small Business Administration and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

957 in a message, Newsom said people could point to the legislation as precedent to “diminish the rights of vulnerable communities.”

“I am returning Assembly Bill 957 without my signature,” Newsom wrote. “I appreciate the passion and values that led the author to introduce this bill. I share a deep commitment to advancing the rights of transgender Californians, an effort that has guided my decisions through many decades in public

Last week, San Francisco’s Mayor London Breed issued a statement that reparations – particularly cash payments – for past injustices suffered by Black Americans who are descendants of enslaved people are best handled at the federal level.

Breed issued the statement after the San Francisco Board of Supervisors’ endorsement on Sept. 19 of a reparations plan submitted in June by an advisory board of Black leaders in the city. The 400-page plan lists 115 recommenda-

office.”

“That said,” the Governor continued in his message, “I urge caution when the Executive and Legislative branches of state government attempt to dictate - in prescriptive terms that single out one characteristic - legal standards for the Judicial branch to apply.”

tions, including individual payments of up to $5 million per eligible Black resident. It also calls for investments in Black-owned businesses, education, housing and attracting more Black residents to the city.

In her statement, Breed committed to undertake certain city initiatives to address inequity like a guaranteed income program and implementing a plan to allocate $60 million every year for investment in the Black community.

California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara Announces Plan to Strengthen Industry

California has the largest home insurance market in the country, but, this year, large private companies like Allstate and State Farm have been making plans to pull out of it, citing too many regulations and the frequency of natural disasters like wildfires and extreme winter storms in the state. Seven major companies have either decided to no longer sell insurance in California or they have announced plans to place restrictions on where they provide coverage in the state.

Last week, California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara unveiled a state plan, the California’s Sustainable Insurance Strategy, to improve insurance options for Californians while strengthening and modernizing the market as the state continues to face intensifying climate threats.

“The current system is not working for all Californians, and we must change course,” said Lara.

Last Thursday, Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an executive order calling for immediate actions to sustain and stabilize the market and expand insurance options for Californians.

It is critical that California’s insurance market works to protect homes and businesses in every corner of our state,” said Newsom. “A balanced approach that will help maintain fair prices and protections for Californians is essential. The California Mortgage Bankers Association said homebuyers, who are mandated to buy insurance when they sign up for mortgages, deserve better options.

“The agreement that Commissioner Lara has reached to expand insurance availability across our state means more Californians can be able to achieve the dream of homeownership knowing they will have better access to the insurance they need,” he said.

Former L.A. County Prosecutor Christopher Darden Announces Run for LA County Superior Court Judge

Last week, Christopher Darden, an attorney, bestselling author, law professor and former L.A. County prosecutor announced his candidacy for L.A County Superior Court judge. The elections will be held next March.

Darden, 67, a Richmond native, gained national prominence when he served as a co-prosecutor in the 1994 O.J. Simpson murder trial.

Supporters of Reparations Urge San Francisco to Push Forward

By Janie Har Associated Press

Reparations advocates urged San Francisco supervisors last Tuesday to adopt recommendations aimed at shrinking the racial wealth gap and otherwise improving the lives of Black residents as atonement for decades of discriminatory city policies, including the granting of a lump-sum $5 million payment to

every eligible adult.

San Francisco's Board of Supervisors was expected to vote last Tuesday to accept the final reparations plan issued by the city's African American Reparations Advisory Committee. The city has set aside $4 million to open an office of reparations, but it has not acted on major recommendations.

Supervisors have expressed enthusiasm for reparations but stopped short of backing individual proposals. The office of Mayor London Breed, who is Black, said in a statement Tuesday that she will "continue to lift up" marginalized communities but she believes that reparations are best handled at the federal level. San Francisco embraces its image as a sanctuary for people living in the

country illegally and members of the LGBTQ community. But it is also a city that pushed out thousands of Black families from their homes in the 1950s and 1960s. Black residents are now only 6% of the population, down from 13% in 1970.

More than 200 people rallied outside City Hall before Tuesday's board meeting, demanding that

(L to R) Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City) Gov. Gavin Newsom.

PHOTO: CBM

Tanu

S.F. MAYOR LONDON BREED: Reparations “Best Handled at Federal Level”

African Leaders Show New Militancy Amid Growing Environmental Crises

By Lisa Vives Global Information Network

US Gifts $80M to Zambia During President’s Visit to China

By Lisa Vives

During his recent visit to China, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema met with his Chinese counterpart President Xi Jinping in Beijing where the two held talks at the Great Hall of The People.

The communique said the Chinese government is ready to support upgrading and renovating the Tanzania Zambia Railway and ZambiaChina Mulungushi Textiles.

The leaders upgraded their ties to a "comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership", Chinese state news agency Xinhua said. Xi said China hopes to work with Zambia to expand cooperation covering infrastructure, agriculture, mining and clean energy. Zambia is seeking to restructure its external debt with China and find more trade opportunities with the world's second-largest economy.

Hichilema thanked China for supporting the African Union's accession to the Group of 20 major economies at its September summit in New Delhi, and for its positive role in resolving Zambia's debt problem, Xinhua said. Both countries are expected to push for greater use of local currency settlement in their trade and investment, China's Xinhua state news agency quoted the joint statement as saying. The move would help enterprises in both countries reduce exchange costs and exchange rate risks.

Hichilema also met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Zhao Leji, chairman of the standing committee of the National People’s Congress of China. During the visit, Hichilema visited Shenzhen, Jiangxi and Fujian, where he inspected projects in the motor and tech industries. Several memoranda of understanding were also signed between the two countries, including an agreement within the framework of China’s Belt and Road Initiative and the 21st century maritime Silk Road initiative signed in 2018.

The communique said the Chinese government is ready to support upgrading and renovating the Tanzania Zambia Railway and Zambia-China Mulungushi Textiles, in line with market and commercial principles. China takes about one fifth of Zambian exports, predominantly copper. The nations agreed to strengthen cooperation in mineral exploration and hold high-level exchanges between their militaries.

Meanwhile, General Michael Langley of the U.S. Africa Command flew into Zambia for a brief 2-day trip to announce an $80 million grant that will supply four Bell 412EP helicopters to the Zambia Air Force with three years of service, parts, and training for the helicopters. General Langley met with Zambian Minister of Defense Ambrose Lufuma to discuss strengthening the U.S.Zambia security partnership. He also met members of the Zambia Defense Force (ZDF) to discuss women, peace, and security efforts in the Zambian military and to learn how the ZDF has been so successful in integrating women into all ranks and career fields.

“We must make up for time lost to foot-dragging, arm-twisting and the naked greed of entrenched interests raking in billions from fossil fuels,” stated Antonio Guterres, Secretary General of the U.N. to world leaders at a General Assembly symposium at United Nations headquarters this month. The world still has the capacity to course correct if only global leaders would take action and support developing countries in addressing the crises, he added.

Meanwhile, in speeches before the U.N., African leaders presented a new and militant message: The continent is done being a victim of a post-World War II order. It is a global power and must be partnered with — not sidelined. Kenyan President William Ruto urged countries in the Global South to pool together their trillions of dollars in collective resources to independently finance climate initiatives. Ghana's President Nana AkufoAddo blamed Africa's present-day challenges on "historical injustices" and called for reparations for the slave trade. President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa said the continent is poised to "regain its position as a site of human progress" despite dealing with a "legacy of exploitation and subjugation."

"Africa is nothing less than the key to the world's future," said Nigerian leader Bola

Tinubu, who leads a country that, by 2050, is forecast to become the third most populous in the world.

With the largest block of countries at the United Nations, it is understandable that African leaders increasingly demand a bigger voice in multilateral institutions, said Murithi Mutiga, program director for Africa at the Crisis Group. "Those calls will grow especially at a time when the continent is being courted by big powers amid growing geopolitical competition."

"Africa has no need for partnerships based on official development aid that is politically oriented and tantamount to organized charity," President Felix-Antoine Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo said. "Trickling subsidies filtered by the selfish interests of donors will certainly not allow for a real and effective rise of our continent." Tshisekedi's country has the world's largest reserves of cobalt and is also one of the largest producers of copper, both critical for clean energy transition.

What Africa needs instead, according to Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi, is a more inclusive global financial system where Africans can participate as "a partner that has (a) lot to offer to the world and not only a warehouse that supplies cheap commodities to countries or international multinational corporations."

What Uganda’s War on Second-Hand Clothes Means for Fashion

By Sarah Kent CNN

Things didn’t work out quite the way he imagined. Though the raw material is one of the country’s key export crops, Uganda’s textile industry has struggled since the 1970s. The country had just two textile mills that could process cotton fabrics. So Kolade turned to something that was available in abundance: second-hand clothes. In his Kampala studio, old clothes are washed, picked apart and transformed into paneled dresses and patchworked sweats for his Buzigahill brand. Under his tongue-in-cheek “Return to Sender'' concept, those designs are then sold back to the countries that originally discarded them.

It’s a subversive move designed to highlight and reclaim a local clothing industry that has suffered from a flood of secondhand clothes and cheap imported textiles from countries like Turkey and China. But Kolade’s efforts to build a new kind of fashion ecosystem operates on the fringes of a broader and increasingly politically fraught global debate over what happens to fashion’s growing waste footprint, and who ends up paying for it.

Late last month, Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni announced a plan to ban used clothing imports to the East African country in a speech, saying the trade

stifles the development of the local textile industry. “I have declared war on second-hand clothes to promote African wear,” the President said during the opening of 16 factories at an industrial park late last month, according to Ugandan newspaper Daily Monitor.

Every year, millions of hand-me-down T-shirts, jeans and dresses make their way from donation bins in the US and Europe to East Africa. It’s a trade that supports tens of thousands of jobs in both exporting and importing countries, where second-hand markets host an ecosystem of retailers, cleaners, tailors, upcyclers and other related jobs. But the flow of goods — mostly from countries in the Global North to those in the Global South — has also been politically contentious for decades, largely on the grounds that it threatens domestic industries. The Philippines has prohibited imports of used clothing since 1966, while more countries, from Indonesia to Rwanda, have followed suit in the last decade.

This isn’t the first time Uganda has made moves to control the controversial trade. In 2016, the East African Community, a regional economic grouping of seven partner states that includes Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and Uganda, agreed to complete a prohibition on used clothing imports by 2019. But amid pressure from the US, which threatened to pull countries’ access to preferential trade terms, Rwanda was the only country to follow through. But banning the trade raises its own complexities. According to the Uganda Dealers in Used Clothing and Shoes Association, there are a huge number of jobs

directly and indirectly involved in the second-hand clothing supply chain. Orders are typically placed well in advance so a sudden prohibition would leave traders out of pocket. Many consumers also rely on the second-hand trade for affordable fashion. And even without used clothing, domestic industries would still struggle to compete with cheap imports from China.

Whether Uganda’s proposed ban will be implemented remains to be seen. With no tangible action plan, it’s likely nothing will happen, said Lakuma. None of Kolade’s partners are seriously worried, he said. Even if a ban were put in place, enforcing it could prove a challenge. In countries like the Philippines and Indonesia, which have had prohibitions in force for years, the trade often still operates. Nonetheless, the move is the latest sign that what happens to old clothes is becoming an increasingly contentious political issue.

Advocates say that opens an opportunity to start a conversation around how to develop new industries linked to the circular economy in the countries that already manage most of the world’s clothing waste by default. In the meantime, The Or Foundation’s co-founder and executive director Liz Ricketts worries that second-hand clothing bans are a distraction that both damage existing jobs and ignores the fundamental issue of overproduction that fuels the trade.

This article was originally published by The Business of Fashion, an editorial partner of CNN Style.

In 2018, fashion designer Bobby Kolade moved from Berlin back to Uganda’s capital Kampala with the ambition of creating a home-grown fashion brand using Ugandan cotton.

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema PHOTO: GIN

Global Information Network

United Nations General Assembly hall in New York City, 2006.

PHOTO: Patrick Gruban/Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

PHOTO: Nasirumbi/Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

SOUTHEASTERN LIVE WELL CENTER Celebrates Formal Grand Opening

By Tracy DeFore COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE

Elected leaders, County officials and community members formally opened the Southeastern Live Well Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Wednesday, September 20. The two-story, 65,000 square-foot building and adjacent four-level parking structure anchors the corner of Market Street and Euclid Ave. The site covers nearly five acres.

The event celebrated the opening but also marked a new era. The center was built for the community but more importantly, by the community. Residents had a say in the design, color, look, layout and the public art. They requested and received certain amenities. Local businesses and workers helped build the project. And the area’s history and culture were incorporated into the center.

The community was brought in at the beginning of the $79 million project. Residents could join one of four advisory committees, attend more than 30 community outreach events, take tours of another Live Well center and keep up to date on project details through a website.

In the end, the center reflects the community’s wants and needs, and offers County health and social services for a wide range of people in the area.

The services include medical insurance coverage, food and nutrition assistance, family strengthening services, financial

and employment assistance, public health, behavioral health, child support, restorative justice, services for older adults and people with disabilities, and military and veterans’ services.

Input from residents led to a wellness and meditation garden, a 4,000 square-foot conference center that can be used for community meeting space, an outdoor area for a coffee cart, dedicated workspace for community organizations, a shared elected official office for meetings with the community, a play area for children in the Family Resource Center waiting area and a walking path along Chollas Creek.

Residents asked for a community cultural display marking the site’s history. A display titled the Tubman Chavez Story is featured inside the building. And they wanted local art representing the area’s history and culture. Fifty pieces of artwork from 33 artists now grace the premises. The building itself was built to LEED Gold standards which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. Solar panels on the roof and parking structure will produce more energy than the building consumes over the course of a year making the facilities Zero Net Energy. EV chargers are available for both the public and County vehicles.

The Live Well Center is now the sixth community service hub in San Diego County. Others Live Well centers are in National

City, Chula Vista, Escondido, Lemon Grove and Oceanside. The Southeastern Live Well Center will hold a community open house next month. Residents are invited to attend from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 14.

PHOTOS: Mike Norris

0Exceptional 4 Inspires

Black Business Owners Under 40” Event

A Night to Remember

By Aryka Randall CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Thirty four floors up atop the Symphony Towers in Downtown San Diego, The San Diego Black Chamber of Commerce and Black San Diego hosted its first 40 Exceptional Black Business Owners Under 40 Event. The first event of many, the SDBCC and BSD curated a magical evening creating a space for community, opportunity and celebration.

The evening started with SDBCC Chairman Bruce Mayberry giving attendees an overview of the goal of the organization. Their mission is to help local entrepreneurs not only create sustainable businesses that help the Black community in San Diego thrive, but to create generational wealth for local entrepreneurs moving forward.

Mayberry also introduced attendees to Tinicia Smith and Sheri Jones, the creators of the Facebook group and business directory, Black San Diego. The dynamic duo expressed a love for connecting Black San Diegans with one another while creating visibility for Black-owned businesses in the city. Their efforts serve as a go-to guide for all things Black in San Diego County.

Donna DeBerry, President and CEO of the SDBCC, playfully kicked off her introduction with a selfie with the crowd before pivoting to a powerful word on her dreams for the education and future of San Diego.

“You all look so wonderful and if I have to tell you all what my dream is, my dream is to turn this organization over to you. Because you are the next generation of wealth. It is our mission statement and so, I am so proud of you.”

The last guest speaker for the evening was Chida WarrenDarby, Director of Boards and Commissions for Mayor Todd Gloria. The crowd listened intently as the young

multi-hyphenate spoke passionately about “doing it scared” and knowing when to let go of personal endeavors to create space for new, more aligned opportunities.

“Sometimes these businesses that we have and lessons we learn in business are stepping stones to the next one. So I would encourage you to be ok with letting go.”

A night to remember would be an understatement. The spirit of community is alive and well and the future of Black San Diego is looking bright. Congratulations to all the recipients of the 40 Exceptional Black Business Owners Under 40 award!

PHOTOS: Aryka Randall

Big Lincoln Dominates Inglewood on Homecoming Night

By Darrel Wheeler

Big Lincoln's undefeated Hornets celebrated another victory last Friday night under the bright-lights at Vic Player stadium. The Sentinels of Inglewood, Los Angeles came to town with intentions of snatching Lincoln's-O (5-0) on Homecoming night in front of a huge and lively crowd of the current and former Lincoln student body and other curious looky-loos.

"This was awesome to see this kind of support tonight, there was a whole lot going on," Lincoln Head Coach David Dunn said. “I loved our opponents. Rapper "Mitchy Slick" performed for us. The cheerleaders and drill teams' battles were off the chain, [and] the lowriders escorting the homecoming court. It was a great atmosphere and it was good to let people see how we can have a good time without drama," he continued. On the field, Lincoln put on a display of total domination. However, Inglewood did show flashes of talent. Nevertheless, the Hornets were too fast, resilient and prepared. Final score: Hornets-56 Sentinels-6.

"We were definitely prepared for this game and this was a “getback” game for me because I didn't have a good game last week, Hornet QB Akili Smith shared. "I made sure I was ready for this game and so was the rest of the team. Everybody put in work," Smith said.

A whole lot of soul-power was on display at the place called The Hive. "You know how we get down over here," Hornet alum Sanchez Birdsong shared.

PHOTOS: Darrel Wheeler

Navigating Extreme Heat as an Expecting Mother and Beyond

By Ashley Williams, Press Secretary CA Office of Community Partnerships and Strategic Communications

I’ve always loved summertime, but this year feels different for me now that I’m expecting during a year when California is experiencing recordhot temperatures.

As a Black woman and soon-to-be mom navi gating her first pregnancy, extreme heat has taken on new meaning. I've come to understand that I’m at greater risk during extreme heat events. And now, beyond the normal preparations for my first child, my days are filled with thoughts about how I can best protect my growing family.

Staying healthy while expecting is no joke, especially as a Black woman. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that Black women are three times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause than our white counterparts. Sometimes we forget that pregnant people are more vulnerable to the impacts of extreme heat because carrying children disrupts the body’s ability to regulate sudden changes in temperature. Knowing how to navigate extreme heat when rocking a baby bump isn’t something to be played with. This is definitely true for me. Once I feel overheated, I’ve discovered that it takes me much longer to cool back down.

However, I have found ways to manage these changes by developing a plan to ensure my well-being. I started by switching things up to fit the evolving needs of my growing child. Now I keep an extra vigilant eye on weath er forecasts and heat advisories. When I’m out and about, you can find me in the shade and in loose, lightweight clothing. My walks happen during the cooler hours of the day, usu ally in the mornings, or I exercise in environments with air conditioning or that prioritize comfort and safety such as at home in my living room. My spouse and I made sure to learn the signs of heat exhaustion, which include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headaches. It helps to have someone else nearby who is aware and can help spot the signs of heat ill ness. Lastly, I always have a bottle of water by my side to stay hydrated and a damp towel for a quick cooldown to help prevent heat illness symptoms.

As I look forward to welcoming my child into the world and embracing motherhood, I’ve also taken proactive steps to better understand the impacts of extreme heat on young children, particularly those ages 0-4 years old. After becoming pregnant, I learned that infants and children don’t sweat like adults do, reducing their ability to cool down on their own. And since infants can’t tell us why they’re uncomfortable, it’ll be my

responsibility to watch for any signs of heat illness. Signs to look for in young children include less urine, no tears when crying, dry or sticky mouth, crankiness, and fatigue. I also understand the need to be hyper-vigilant about car safety. Once I learned that temperatures in a parked car can rise almost 20 degrees in minutes, I decided that there’s absolutely no way I will ever leave my child in the car unattended, even for a quick stop with the window cracked open. The risk is simply not worth it.

I recognize that as my child grows, I’ll need to continue being an observant and engaged parent, but that this journey won’t be taken alone. It requires a village and will involve the child’s future doctors, teachers, and coaches. By understanding all the strategies for handling extreme heat and integrating them into my child's daily experiences along with my own, I can help ensure a balanced and safe environment. The reality is that extreme heat is becoming more common, so everyone must understand how to assess their risk for heat-related illnesses and take the proper precautions to keep themselves and their families safer from extreme heat. As my personal journey has shown, expectant mothers and families with young children must be on top of it.

I strongly encourage everyone to visit Heat-ReadyCA.com to create a personalized extreme heat plan that fits their unique needs to create a safer environment for ourselves and our vulnerable loved ones. Together, we can build a heat-resilient, healthy community.

SAN DIEGO COUNTY COVID-19 STATUS

TEST POSITIVITY

11.9%

TOTAL HOSPITALIZED

176

7-day average daily census; 5.3 (per 100k)

TOTAL DEATHS

59

fiscal year-to-date; 5.3 (4-week average); 1.6 (per million)

SOURCE: County of San Diego, Last updated 9/21/2023

PHOTO: Ivan Samkov/Pexels

Ashley Williams. PHOTO: LAGRANT Communications

NOTICE TO PROPOSERS

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVENthat the City of San Diego (City) is seeking to receive Electronic Proposals for the below named Request for Proposal (RFP).

Contract Number: H2326266

RFP Title: Design of Fairmount Avenue Bridge

Rehab East/West Consultant Fee Range:

Between $1,000,000 and $1,400,000

Pre-Proposal Meeting Date:

Monday, September 25, 2023, at 11:00:00 AM

Proposal Due Date: Thursday, October 19, 2023, at 4:00 P.M. The solicitation may be obtained from the City's website at: https://www.sandiego.gov/cip/ bidopps

It is the policy of the City of San Diego to encourage equal opportunity in its Construction and Consultant contracts. Bids or proposals from local firms, small, minority-owned, disabled, veteran-owned, and womenowned businesses are strongly encouraged. Consultants are encouraged to subcontract with and/or participate in joint ventures with these firms. The City is committed to equal opportunity and will not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, gender expression, gender identity, religion, national origin, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, or disability; and will not do business with any firm that discriminates on any basis.

Proposals shall be received no later than the date and time noted in the solicitation which can be found at the following site: City of San Diego's Electronic Proposal Site – PlanetBids at: https://www.planetbids.com/p ortal/portal.cfm?companyID=1

7950.

Claudia Abarca, Director Purchasing & Contracting

Department

Thursday, September 14, 2023 9/28/23

CNS-3739007# VOICE & VIEWPOINT NEWS

CLASSIFIEDS / LEGAL NOTICES

was: 08/20/2023

This business is hereby registered by the following: Kassandra Isabella Heyer 31985 Arlington Circle Bonsall, CA 92003 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on August 21, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on August 21, 2028

9/28, 10/05, 10/12

NAME STATEMENT 2023-9018656

Fictitious business name(s): Air Sensations Located at: 3502 Quail View St. Spring Valley, CA 91977 County of San Diego

This business is

NOTICE OF BIDS

Advertisement for Bids

Notice is hereby given that the San Diego Unified School District, acting by and through its governing board, will electronically receive bids for the furnishing of all labor, materials, transportation, equipment, and services for: JOINT USE FIELD, FENCING, AND OFF-SITE

IMPROVEMENTS AT WILSON MIDDLE SCHOOL

A mandatory site visit is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on THURSDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2023, in front of the main office of Wilson Middle School, 3838 Orange Avenue, San Diego, CA 92105. Contractors and subcontractors must preregister with the District prior to attending the site walk at sandiegounified.org/sitewalks. The Bid and Contract Documents may be downloaded free of charge at the District’s online Planroom at sandiegousdplans.com. All bids must be received electronically at or before 1:00 p.m. on OCTOBER 26, 2023. Firms interested in submitting a bid package must go to tinyurl.com/SDUSD-PlanetBids then search under “Bid Opportunities” for “Invitation number”

CC24-0119-24-00-00 Joint Use Field, Fencing, and Off-Site Improvements at Wilson Middle School. For new vendors, please register under “New Vendor Registration.” The project estimate is between $11.5 million and $12.2 million. This is a PSA project and requires prequalification. The District requires that Bidders possess any of the following classification(s) of California State Contractors License(s), valid and in good standing, at the time of bid opening and contract award: A, or other appropriate license, subject to District approval. SAN DIEGO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT, George A. Harris III, Director, Fiscal Controls and Information Systems, Facilities Planning and Construction CC24-0119-24-00-00

(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.

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

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.

días, la corte puede decidir en su contra sin escuchar su versión. Lea la información a continuación.

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA

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

37-2023-00037223CU-PT-CTL

Petitioner or Attorney:

Vanessa Valdez

The Optional Pre-Proposal Meeting will be held virtually on September 27, 2023, from 10:30AM to 11:30AM PST/PDT. The deadline for electronic proposal submittal is October 20, 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.

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: November 07, 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.

the Order Granting the Petition will be mailed to the petitioner.

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).

(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)

Plaintiff/Petitioner:

Vanessa Valdez

TO THE CLERK:

Please dismiss this action as follows: Entire action of all parties and all causes of action

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

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

The address of the court is: 330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 9/28, 10/05, 10/12, 10/19

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA

325 South Melrose Dr. Vista, CA 92081 North County Regional Center 37-2023-00039977CU-PT-CTL Petitioner or Attorney: Chad A. Speck

To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Chad A.Speck and Marnaie Gonzales filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

PRESENT NAME: Lennon Olivia Gonzales

PROPOSED NAME: Lennon Olivia GonzalesSpeck 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: November 17, 2023

Time: 8:30 A.M. Dept. 25

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A certified copy of Decree

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

Changing Name and Order

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

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

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

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

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

The address of the court is: 330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 9/28, 10/05, 10/12, 10/19

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.

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.

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.

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).

NOTICE OF HEARING

Date: October 03, 2023

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

The court did waive court fees and costs for a party in this in this case.

Date: 9/21/2023

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

Court's Recovery of Waived Court Fees And Costs

To change a name on a legal document, including a birth certificate, social security card, driver license, passport, and other identification, a certified copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree

Changing Name and Order

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

A certified copy of Decree

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

Changing Name and Order

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

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

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

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

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

The address of the court is:

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

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA

330 W. Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 Hall Of Justice Central Division 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. Any person objecting to the

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

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

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

Changing Name and Order

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

A certified copy of Decree

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

Changing Name and Order

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

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

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

A RESPONDENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Changing Name and Order

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

A certified copy of Decree

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

Changing Name and Order

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

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

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

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

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

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

If a party whose court fees and costs were initially waived has recovered or will recover $10,000 or more in value by way of settlement, compromise, arbitration award, mediation settlement, or other means, the court has a statutory lien on that recovery. The court may refuse to dismiss the case until the lien is satisfied.

Declaration Concerning Waived Court Fees

The court waived fees and costs in this action for: Vanessa Valdez

The person named in item 1 is not recovering anything of value by this action.

All court fees and court costs that were waived in this action have been paid to the court 9/28, 10/05, 10/12, 10/19

SUMMONS (Citacion Judicial)

NOTICE TO DEFENDANT (AVISO AL DEMANDADO) Joshua Danilo Drummond; and Does 1 to 10, inclusive

Tiene 30 DÍAS DE CALENDARIO después de que le entreguen esta citación y papeles legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia al demandante. Una carta o una llamada telefónica no lo protegen. Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte y más información en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www.sucorte. ca.gov), en la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede más cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación, pida al secretario de la corte que le dé un formulario de exención de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podrá quitar su sueldo, dinero y bienes sin más advertencia. Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que llame a un abogado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede llamar a un servicio de remisión a abogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services, (www. lawhelpcalifornia.org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www. sucorte.ca.gov) o poniéndose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales. AVISO: Por ley, la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobre cualquier recuperación de $10,000 ó más de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesión de arbitraje en un caso de derecho civil. Tiene que pagar el gravamen de la corte antes de que la corte pueda desechar el caso.

YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF: (Lo Esta Demandando El Demandante): Jose Manuel Luna Case Number: CVPS2301948

NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS PROBATE

You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online SelfHelp Center (www.courtinfo. ca.gov/selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court.

There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Web site (www.lawhelpcalifornia. org), the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/ selfhelp), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. The court's lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case.

¡AVISO! Lo han demandado. Si no responde dentro de 30

The name and address of the court is: (El nombre y dirección de la corte es): Superior Court of California, County of Riverside 3255 E Tahquitz Canyon Way Palm Springs, CA 92262

The name, address, and telephone number of the plaintiff's attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney, is: (El nombre, la dirección y número de teléfono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante que no tiene abogado, es): Hilda H. Zamora 283449 Zamora Law Boutique., PLC 45-915 Oasis Street (760) 347-1108 Indio, CA 92201 Clerk, by (Secretario) Christina Mckee 9/21, 9/28, 10/05, 10/12

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE

OF Arthur Raymond Farrington Case Number: 37-2023-00039266-PR-PWCTL

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of Arthur Raymond Farrington

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

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

The petition requests the decedent's will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative

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

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

on February 6, 2024, at 10:30 AM in Dept. 504 located at the Superior Court of California County of San Diego

1100 Union Street 3rd floor San Diego, CA 92101

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: Joseph W. Creed 11120 NE 2nd St. Ste. 1000, Bellevue WA, 98004 (800) 679-4202 9/14, 9/21, 9/28

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF Aaron Boyt, aka Aaron J. Boyt aka Aaron Joseph Boyt Case Number: 37-2023-00035089-PR-PWCTL

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of Aaron Boyt aka Aaron J. Boyt aka Aaron Joseph Boyt

A Petition for Probate has been filed by Margaret E. Boyt aka Margaret Boyt in the Superior Court of California, County of San Diego

The Petition for Probate requests that Margaret E. Boyt aka Margaret Boyt be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

The petition requests the decedent's will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate.

The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

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.

authority.

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

on November 2, 2023, at 1:30 PM in Dept. 503 located at the Superior Court of California County of San Diego

1100 Union Street San Diego, CA 92101 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.

Petitioner: Margaret E. Boyt aka Margaret Boyt 2881 Dartmouth Drive Oceanside, CA 92056 (412) 716-3398 9/21, 9/28, 10/05

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF Arnold Duane Harrison, aka Arnold D. Harrison Case Number: 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.

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

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

1918

FREDDIE STOWERS PASSES

Freddie Stowers, recognized posthumously for his heroism and bravery during the decisive Hundred Days Offensive in France in 1918, was the first Black soldier awarded the Medal of Honor, the highest U.S military decoration, for serving during World War I.

Born on January 12, 1896, in Sandy Springs, South Carolina to Wylie and Annie Stowers, Freddie Stowers was the fourth of ten children and grew up on his family’s farm. Later, he married Pearl Stowers and the couple had one daughter, Minnie Lee Stowers. The United States formally entered World War I in April 1917, and by October, 21-year-old Stowers was drafted into the U.S. Army and trained at Camp (now Fort) Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina.

More than half of Black soldiers were assigned to supply and service battalions whereas Stowers was assigned to the allBlack 93rd Division and Company C of the 371st Infantry Regiment as a combat soldier, and was promoted to Private First Class within two months.

In March 1918, General John Pershing, the commander of the American Expeditionary Force, which was created to support Allies in Europe, ordered the 371st and other Black Regiments to support the French military. By the next month, Stowers was sent overseas and attached to the 157th French Army, Red Hand Division, under General Mariano Goybet. This decision symbolically removed the French-trained, Frenchweapon-supplied Black American soldiers

from the U.S. Army. It also effectively maintained the segregation policies of the U.S. Armed Forces at the time.

Black soldiers, however, soon learned that they enjoyed more civil rights due to the lack of similar discriminatory laws in France than they did in the United States. Stowers, building on his military expertise and training by the French, was promoted to Corporal in May 1918 and served as Squad Leader of Company C, less than a year after his conscription.

On September 28, 1918, he led his squad to capture Côte 188, a hill defended by German forces in the Ardennes region of France. The Germans resisted, firing off mortars, machine guns, and rifles, while his squad advanced. Not long into this attack, the Germans ceased fire and signaled their defeat. But, as Company C moved closer, they resumed firing with machine guns, killing or wounding half of Stowers’ company instantly, including the Lieutenant and higher-ranked officers.

Corporal Stowers, suddenly in charge of the Platoon, crawled under heavy fire, leading his men to target a machine gun nest in the first German trench line. Once that gun was destroyed, he led the assault to the second trench, and was critically injured by machine gun fire in the process. Still, he urged his troops to continue their advance. Emboldened by his fortitude, they persevered and successfully captured the hill. Stowers died from his wounds that day at 22-years-old and was buried with 133 of his fellow soldiers at the Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery and Memorial in Romagne-sous-Montfaucon, France.

France awarded the entire 371 Regiment the Croix de Guerre for valor and Stowers was recommended for the Distinguished Service Cross, the second-highest U.S. military decoration, by his commanding officer. This recommendation was raised to the Medal of Honor in December 1918. An official investigation into the lack of Black Medal of Honor recipients in the 1980s revealed his original said-to-bemisplaced application in 1918. Seventythree years later, on April 24, 1991, Georgiana Palmer and Mary Bowens, Stowers’ surviving sisters, accepted the Medal of Honor on his behalf from President George W. H. Bush at a White House ceremony. Stowers’ great-grandnephews, Senior Sergeant Douglas Warren and Technical Sergeant Odis Stowers of the U.S. Air Force, also attended.

Today, the Corporal Freddie Stowers Complex at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, and Stowers Elementary School in Fort Benning, Georgia are named after Stowers.

ARTICLE CONTINUATION

LEADERS

Continued from page 3

“Now I guess it hits me that I’m not going to be in a uniform anymore—and that’s not a terrible feeling,” Jordan said afterward. “It’s something that I’ve come to grips with, and it’s time. This is the final retirement.”

Jordan was a phenomenal athlete with a thrilling combination of grace, speed, power, artistry, and competitive desire. Yet Father Time was the only opponent the then-40-year-old Jordan could never overcome. There are current players, like Jordan, who are competitive past their basketball prime, but physical skills will eventually decline, and all players will suffer the same fate: retirement. While a 40-year-old Jordan is considered old by professional sports standards, he would be regarded as relatively young as an elected politician. But Father Time respects no one, and he ultimately catches up with all of us. Just as Jordan concluded it was time to “hang it up,” Utah Sen. Mitt Romney made the same decision as he recently announced that he will not seek a second term. Romney emphasized the need for a new generation of leadership. “At the end of another term, I’d be in my mid-80s,” Romney, 76, said in an interview. “Frankly, it’s time for a new generation of leaders. They’re the ones that need to make the decisions that will shape the world they will be living in.”

A true leader understands they cannot be held captive by their pride, ego, fame, and thirst for power when an influential and productive career has run its natural course, and it becomes time to pass the baton to the next generation. In a rare move, former Justice Stephen Breyer retired from the Supreme Court, allowing President Biden to appoint a successor who could serve for decades.

There was not a major ideological shift when the 51-yearold Ketanji Brown Jackson replaced the 83-year-old Breyer, but rather a critical generational and cultural shift that gives a fresh voice speaking on behalf of a diverse nation. It is the generational and cultural shift that causes Republicans to feel threatened. Young people can be a formidable voting bloc in elections if they mobilize across racial and party lines. Unsurprisingly, young conservatives feel abandoned by the Republican Party when evidence shows they are targets of the same voter suppression tactics used against minority voters.

REPARATIONS

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

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.

Continued from page 7

the city start addressing the enormous disparities for Black San Franciscans. Rev. Amos C. Brown, who sits on the advisory committee, said that the "bill is due" and the city needs to "just do it." The committee's recommendations include helping Black families own homes, supplementing household incomes and the creation of a historically Black university. Advocates say Black people are owed for unpaid labor, property taken through eminent domain and policies that denied them mortgages and access to education.

In Texas, Republicans introduced a bill that would ban all college voting centers and drop boxes. In Florida, the governor approved a bill making it more difficult for third-party voter registration organizations to conduct outreach to young people. And in Idaho, Republicans passed a bill to ban student IDs from being used to register to vote.

We no longer live in times where each generation will do better than the previous one. As our nation moves from one era to the next, the idea of the infamous American dream is seen only as a pipe dream by many millennials and members of Generation Z. They have a right to feel cynical about their future with the current generational divide and the baby boomers who maintain political and economic power while holding little interest in the future quality of life for younger generations. The skyrocketing cost of college tuition and houses make future homeownership and higher education unattainable for many Gen Zers.

The future safety of our schools is no longer treated as a national tragedy and is often addressed by prescribing guns in the hands of teachers. Our communities are facing more intense flooding, extreme heat, and vanishing mountain forests and wildlife due to decades of ignoring climate change warnings out of allegiance to the fossil fuel industry. Millennials and Gen Zers are likely stuck with climate change’s effects becoming a natural way of life in the future. The fight for affordable healthcare and decent wage growth are reasons we are seeing a comeback of the labor movement, as evidenced by the United Auto Workers having gone on strike. Even with the increase in corporate profits, corporate greed will always force future generations of workers to fight for inflation-adjusted wage growth.

As baby boomer lawmakers like Mitt Romney continue to age out, will members of Gen Z commit to public service and be trusted defenders of their generation? Will they have enough political opportunities to serve effectively when older elected officials on the state and federal levels don’t know when it is time to pass the baton?

With the election of Rep. Maxwell Frost of Florida as the first Gen Z member of Congress, he became an example for others to follow.

David W. Marshall is founder of the faith-based organization, TRB: The Reconciled Body.

Critics say the city's reparations plans are unconstitutional and would ruin the city financially. Richie Greenberg, who ran for mayor in June 2018 and received less than 3% of the vote, said in an email to the board that the reparations plan "is unlawful, and pursuing the plan regardless of this fact is a clear and purposeful wasting of the city's taxpayers' money."

California's first-in-the-nation reparations task force completed its work this summer, and its recommendations are with lawmakers for consideration.

Search: Pastor John E. Warren San Diego

We

OBITUARIES

V’Ctorea Ja’Neise Sanders

SUNRISE 09/12/2000

SUNSET 08/26/2023

ARRANGEMENTS BY PREFERRED CREMATION & BURIAL

What a leader and a queen she would prove to be.

She absolutely loved fashion, make-up, hair styling, and most of all singing. V'Ctorea cherished her parents and grandparents. She was close to all of her siblings, but especially, to her brother Tory. Jer’Miaine and Kryst’na were very special to her as well.

bright child. She learned quickly and declared early-on that she wanted to be a nurse and work in either OB/GYN or Pediatrics. Bayview Baptist Church had a school called Nubia that specialized in education, training, and career pathways for school-age children. V’Ctorea completed the program, honorably, and received her first stethoscope in the 6th grade!

Basketball, and the Drill teams. She was instrumental in the creation of a study hall so that the team members could play and maintain their GPA’s. She graduated a year early from Lincoln High School at age 17 and enrolled at Southwestern College.

The year was 2000. It was the turn of the Century, and all the world was waiting with bated breath to see what this new decade would hold. Some were wondering if their computers and electronic gadgets would work after midnight. Others were nervous about their financial investments or economic status.

By the Fall of the year, Victor and Angela Sanders were concerned with just one thing … the birth of their first baby daughter. There were still a couple of weeks before her due date, around the end of September, so all was well. At least that's what the parents and the doctor thought; but that little girl had other plans. On September 12th, she made her early arrival, on her own terms, in the hospital waiting room! They named her V’Ctorea Ja’Niese.

V’Ctorea was a happy, well-adjusted child, and she had a smile that could light up a room. At the age of two, she received her first miracle. One day she saw her dad standing outside, across the street. She ran out into the traffic to cross the street to be with him. A speeding car rounded the corner and stopped when it touched her chest. Her Mom declared that the Lord sent an angel that day to save her life. It was, indeed, a miracle.

As you might expect, V’Ctorea was a Daddy’s Girl. One day she asked her mother if she was “spoiled.” Her mother replied, “Yes, you are!”

V’Ctorea vehemently denied the possibility of being spoiled. Soon, however, she came to see the advantages and blessings of being a Daddy’s Girl.

In elementary school, it didn’t take long for the teachers to recognize that V’Ctorea was a very

From a child up, V’Ctorea cared deeply for those in need, serving the less fortunate at St. Vincent DePaul at every opportunity. At age 15, she had the courage to speak up for the poor and challenged the adult staff to not serve food with expired dates to the needy. If they wouldn’t eat it themselves, they shouldn’t serve it to others. They agreed.

Throughout middle school and high school, V’Ctorea continued to excel, finishing classes and exams early, doubling up on AP courses and excelling in virtually everything she attempted. By the 10th grade, at age 16, she had aced AP Biology, AP History, AP English, and completed all her high school credits. Needless to say, she found time to balance her studies with extracurricular sports and activities. Throughout her high school career, V’Ctorea was a member of the Volleyball,

ARTS & CULTURE/SPORTS

Kaiser Permanente sponsored a Hippocratic Oath program. V’Ctorea was accepted into that program and finished rearming her a certificate and a stethoscope. RN labs were completed at Grossmont College. Her dream was to attend Howard University, an HBCU. She was industrious and always had a strategic plan.

V’Ctorea passed away on August 26, 2023. “V’Ctorea, you lived your life with a passion that allowed you to dream, to soar and pursue your purpose on God’s accelerated timeline. My sweet “Nurse T’orea”, you can slow down and rest now. You are our champion! We will soon reunite on the other side.” -Mom and Dad With his wings he carries you

In his arms he holds you

Tight to avoid a mistake

While on this earth

A place often called a life .

Grammy Museum to Launch 50 Years of Hip-Hop Exhibit

By Maria Sherman AP Music Writer

The Grammy Museum announced that it is launching the "HipHop America: The Mixtape Exhibit", celebrating 50 years of the music and culture's global impact.

The 5,000 square foot exhibit will include rare artifacts such as Tupac Shakur's handwritten 1992 essay "Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death" – in which the young hiphop superstar found paral-

lels between one of the bestknown speeches in American history, a cry for freedom given by founding father Patrick Henry at the Second Virginia Convention, and the experiences of being a minority in the U.S. The exhibit also includes Notorious B.I.G.'s red leather pea jacket, worn in the music video for Junior M.A.F.I.A.'s "Players Anthem," and LL Cool J's red Kangol bucket hat.

"Hip-Hop America" goes beyond simple chronology:

visitors will explore the music, choreography, fashion, business, activism, car culture, and the history of hip-hop by navigating displays dedicated to regional music scenes, technological advancements, formative media engines like "Yo! MTV Raps" and beyond. It will open Oct. 7 and run until September 4, 2024.

Two outfits designed by hiphop fashion legend Dapper Dan can be found on display: the black leather jacket Melle Mel wore during a performance at the 1985 Grammy Awards and Busy Bee's characteristic blackand-yellow leather bucket hat and jacket. "Hip-Hop

America: The Mixtape Exhibit" will also feature an interactive "Sonic Playground," which will allow visitors to experiment with DJing, sampling, and rapping.

"The exhibit has been carefully curated to reach everyone from hip-hop connoisseurs to uninitiated novices," says co-curator Jason King, dean of the University of Southern California's Thornton School of Music. "And we've thrown in a few left curve surprises like sections on hip-hop sonics and car speakers, and on the connections between hip-hop and partner genres like R&B."

He told The Associated Press: "Hip-Hop America is an in-

triguing look at a thunderous form of 'can't stop won't stop' culture that has contin-

Racial Bias in NFL Draft Black Quarterbacks Undervalued, Investigation Reveals

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

An extensive investigation by the West Coast news organization SFGate has shed light on a troubling trend in the National Football League (NFL). From 2010 to 2022, NFL teams consistently underestimated the potential of Black quarterbacks during the draft selection process. The investigation, which analyzed draft data and player performance, exposed a pattern of racial bias that may have profound implications for the league.

The investigation’s findings are stark and unmistakable, Journalist Marc Delucchi affirmed. According to SFGate, the statistics paint a damning picture: Black quarterbacks drafted during this period had a staggering four times better chance of achieving at least one Pro Bowl selection than their non-Black counterparts. At every draft stage, Black quarterbacks consistently outperformed their non-Black counterparts. Astonishingly, the data revealed that an average Black quarterback was

more likely to secure at least one Pro Bowl selection than an average nonBlack quarterback selected much earlier in the draft, approximately 66 picks or roughly two rounds earlier.

These findings strongly suggest that racial bias has influenced NFL teams’ decision-making processes during the draft, ultimately leading them to favor less capable quarterbacks if they are not Black. In the words of the investigators, “Black quarterbacks are penalized in the draft solely for being Black, our analysis suggests, and it’s a penalty that reverberates years into their professional careers.” The NNPA reached out to both the NFL and the NFL Players Association, but neither entity responded to comment requests.

It is essential to emphasize that these results do not reflect the players’ abilities or potential but point to shortcomings within the scouting departments and executive decision-makers responsible for the draft process, SFGate asserted. Instead, the findings underscore longstanding allegations that Black quarterbacks are held to double

ued to shift and push the envelope of innovation for the past 50 years."

standards, leading NFL teams to undervalue them during the draft.

For decades, the NFL has featured a significant representation of Black players, though this proportion has slightly declined in recent years. However, the discrepancy becomes evident when examining the number of Black quarterbacks drafted from 2010 to 2022, which accounts for less than a quarter of all selections.

The report found that the consequences of this bias are not limited to missed opportunities but also extend to compensation. The NFL operates on a tiered pay scale based on draft position, making players more money the higher they are selected. This also leads teams to invest more in developing players chosen early in the draft and retaining them for extended periods.

PHOTO: Benoît Prieur/Wikimedia Commons CC0 1.0

LA Chargers vs. the Baltimore Ravens, October 2021.

PHOTO: Maryland GovPics/Wikimedia/CC BY 2.0

Federal Judge Upholds

Fearless Fund’s Grant Program

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA SENIOR CORRESPONDENT

U.S. Judge Thomas Thrash has ruled that the Fearless Fund, a venture capital firm based in Atlanta, can continue its grant program exclusively tailored for Black women entrepreneurs. The judge said the lawsuit challenging the practice, which argued it unlawfully excluded individuals of other races, was unlikely to succeed.

The Fearless Fund, while a relatively small player in the global venture capital market, has come to symbolize the broader debate surrounding corporate diversity policies. However, the lawsuit against the organization may set a precedent as discussions on race considerations evolve within the workplace, particularly in light of the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent ruling in June ending affirmative action in college admissions.

Edward Blum, an anti-affirmative action activist wellknown for his involvement in the Supreme Court’s June college admissions cases, is the head of the nonprofit American Alliance for Equal Rights, which requested the preliminary injunction. Blum has expressed plans to appeal the decision, claiming that civil rights laws prohibit racial distinctions based on overrepresentation or underrepresentation.

The Fearless Strivers Grant Contest, which awards $20,000 to Black women entrepreneurs, remains at the center of the lawsuit. Blum argues that this contest violates a section of the Civil Rights Act of 1866, which prohibits racial discrimination in contracts. He claims that members outside the specified racial category are excluded.

Judge Thrash contended that the grants constituted “charitable donations” aimed, in part, at acknowledging the discrimination faced by Black women business owners. He asserted that such donations are protected as “expressive conduct” under the First Amendment. The judge criticized the alliance’s attempt to alter the fund’s intended message.

YouTube Unveils New AI-powered Tools for Creators

By Catherine Thorbecke CNN

YouTube on Thursday, September 21 unveiled a slew of new artificial intelligence-powered tools to help creators produce videos and reach a wider audience on the platform, as companies race to incorporate buzzy generative AI technology directly into their core products.

“We want to make it easier for everyone to feel like they can create, and we believe generative AI will make that possible,” Neal Mohan, YouTube’s CEO, told reporters Thursday during the company’s annual Made On YouTube product event.

“AI will enable people to push the boundaries of creative expression by making the difficult things simple,” Mohan added. He said YouTube is trying to bring “these powerful tools” to the masses.

The video platform, under the Alphabet-Google umbrella, teased a new generative AI feature dubbed Dream Screen specifically for its short-form video arm and TikTok competitor, YouTube Shorts. Dream Screen is an experimental feature that lets creators add AI-generated video or image backgrounds to their vertical videos.

Dream Screen is being introduced to select creators and will be rolled out more broadly next year, the company said. YouTube also unveiled new AI-powered tools that creators can access to help brainstorm or draft outlines for videos or search for specific music using descriptive phrases. YouTube said it was bringing an AI-powered dubbing tool that will let users share their videos in different languages.

The rise of generative AI has animated the tech sector and broader public — becoming the latest buzzword out of Silicon Valley since the launch of OpenAI’s ChatGPT service late last year.

Some industry watchers and AI skeptics have argued that powerful new AI tools carry potential dangers, such as making it easier to spread misinformation via deepfake images, or perpetuate biases at a larger scale. Many creative professionals — whose works are often swept up into the datasets required to train and power AI tools — are also raising the alarm over potential intellectual property rights issues.

Gilbert Dickey, an attorney for the alliance, pointed out that the grant program does not extend to other racial minorities, including Hispanics. He argued that privileging one race over others violates First Amendment protection. The Fearless Fund maintains that its objective is to remove the obstacles that keep companies run by women of color from getting venture capital funding.

“We will continue to run the nation’s first venture capital fund that is built by women of color for women of color,” declared Fearless Fund CEO and co-founder Arian Simone. “We realize there is still a long road ahead, but today we remain fearless and steadfast in creating pathways that empower women of color entrepreneurs.”

Data from the nonprofit advocacy group Digital Undivided shows that less than 1% of venture capital funding goes to businesses owned by Black and Hispanic women. Founded in 2019, the Fearless Fund conducts the grant contest quarterly, with eligibility criteria stipulating that a business must be at least 51% owned by a Black woman, among other requirements. The Fearless Fund has invested over $26.5 million in businesses run by women of color with the support of industry titans like J.P. Morgan Chase and Mastercard. They have also awarded grants exceeding $3 million to Black women-owned businesses.

The NAACP Legal Defense Fund, the National Women’s Law Center, and the Gibson, Dunn, and Crutcher law firm have supported the Fearless Fund in fighting Blum’s lawsuit. Prominent figures, including civil rights advocate Ben Crump, have rallied to defend the Fearless Fund against allegations of discrimination.

Jason Schwartz, a partner at Gibson Dunn, stressed the importance of offering grants to Black women small business owners to achieve economic freedom. Alphonso David, another of the Fearless Fund’s lawyers, president, and CEO of the Global Black Economic Forum, condemned Blum’s claims as baseless attempts to subvert existing law. He affirmed their commitment to defend the Fearless Fund and its crucial work vigorously.

“Today, the playing field is not level — that is beyond dispute,” David asserted in an earlier statement. “Those targeting Fearless Fund want to propagate a system that privileges some and shuts out most. They want to pretend that inequities do not exist. They want us to deny our history.”

And some prominent figures inside and outside the tech industry even say there’s a potential that AI can result in civilization “extinction” and compare its potential risk to that of “nuclear war.”

PHOTO: NNPA

Matthew Simari, Senior Director of Product Management for YouTube's Generative AI team, announces Dream Screen on stage at Made On YouTube at Pier 57 on September 21, 2023 in New York City.

PHOTO: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for YouTube, Courtesy of CNN

YouTube's Dream Screen tool, which allows users to create AI-generated video or image backgrounds by typing an idea into a prompt. PHOTO: YOUTUBE