Vol. 64 No 27 Thursday, July 04, 2024

Happy Independence Day!

Well before President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, and well before June 19, 1865, when news of freedom finally reached over 250,000 Galveston, Texas slaves, Frederick Douglass reflected on the paradoxical nature of the nation’s Fourth of July Independence Day celebrations in his July 5, 1852 speech “What, to the Slave, is the Fourth of July?” While change has come, there are still battles to be won for equal rights, equal access, and equal protections under the law. For Black people, the words of Frederick Douglass still resonate today. For some, the July Fourth holiday is cause for anticipatory celebration, others choose not to celebrate it all, while others celebrate the day with some reticence.

— Dr. John E. Warren, Publisher

THE WORDS OF FREDERICK DOUGLASS, JULY 5, 1852

What to Know about the Supreme Court Immunity Ruling

The Supreme Court’s ruling Monday, July 1st, in former President Donald Trump’s 2020 election interference case makes it all but certain that the Republican will not face trial in Washington ahead of the November election.

SDBCC Celebrates Black Excellence & Milestones

Black Excellence was the theme of the reception at the University Club last week sponsored by the San Diego County Black Chamber of Commerce. The event was to recognize and honor several outstanding African Americans who recently hit new milestones in their careers. At the top of the list was Mrs. Ebony Shelton, appointed as the Chief Administrative Officer for the County of San Diego. San Diego County is the 8th largest county in the nation, spanning over 4200 square miles with 20,000 employees and an 8 billion dollar a year budget. She is the first African American woman and the second African American to hold that position.

Fellow Citizens, I am not wanting in respect for the fathers of this republic. The signers of the Declaration of Independence were brave men. They were great men, too. Great enough to give frame to a great age. It does not often happen to a nation to raise, at one time, such a number of truly great men. The point from which I am compelled to view them is not, certainly, the most favorable; and yet I cannot contemplate their great deeds with less than admiration. They were statesmen, patriots and heroes, and for the good they did, and the principles they contended for, I will unite with you to honor their memory… …Fellow-citizens, pardon me, allow me to ask, why am I called upon to speak here to-day? What have I, or those I represent, to do with your national independence? Are the great prin-

ciples of political freedom and of natural justice, embodied in that Declaration of Independence, extended to us?

See FOURTH page 9

Californians Will Vote on “End Slavery in California Act” on November Ballot

By Bo Tefu

The California Senate voted 33-3 to approve Assembly Constitutional Amendment 8 (ACA 8), a proposition that would end involuntary servitude in state prisons.

See BALLOT page 2

United Women of East Africa put African Culture at the Center of Brain Health

By Emily Kim Jenkins CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Sometime around 2009, shortly after it was founded, Faiza Warsame started visiting the United Women of East Africa in San Diego. She was a young girl looking for community, who then became a teenage girl looking for an internship. Now, she works as the Community Engagement Specialist for the United

Women of East Africa Support Team (UWEAST, pronounced you-weest), approaching her tenth year on the team.

“It feels like home,” Warsame said of UWEAST. “It’s a place for families, or for you to be a part of a family.”

See HEALTH page 2

By Alanna Durkin Richer, Eric Tucker, and Michael Kunzelman ASSOCIATED PRESS

Excerpt from “What, to the Slave, is the Fourth of July”

IMAGE: Dale Stephanos

PHOTO: Associated Press

PHOTO: Brandon S. Johnson

ARTICLE CONTINUATION

IMMUNITY

Continued from cover

The Opinion The court’s conservative majority said former presidents have absolute immunity from prosecution for official acts that fall within their “exclusive sphere of constitutional authority” and are presumptively entitled to immunity for all official acts. They do not enjoy immunity for unofficial, or private, actions.

The ruling means that special counsel Jack Smith cannot proceed with significant allegations in the indictment — or must at least defend their use in future proceedings before the trial judge.

The justices, for instance, wiped out Smith’s use of allegations that Trump tried to use the investigative power of the Justice Department to undo the election results, holding that his communications with agency officials is plainly protected from prosecution.

The justices sent the case back to U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan, who must now “carefully analyze” whether other allegations involve official conduct for which the president would be immune from prosecution.

Among the issues for further analysis is Trump’s relentless badgering of then-Vice President Mike Pence to not certify the electoral votes on Jan. 6, 2021. The justices said it was “ultimately the Government’s burden to rebut the presumption of immunity” in Trump’s interactions with Pence.

The Fake Electors Scheme

Unlike Trump’s interactions with the Justice Department, the justices said, “this alleged conduct cannot be neatly categorized as falling within a particular Presidential function. The necessary analysis is instead fact specific,

Other honorees were Jared Burns, San Diego Community College Vice Chancellor, who comes here from Mississippi Gulf Community College; Monica Hardman, Assistant Department Director, City of San Diego Economic Development Department; Robert Logan, recently promoted to City of San Diego Fire Chief, a lifelong San Diego with more than 25 years of service in the Fire Department; and Henry Foster III, City of San Diego District Four City Councilmember. Foster is another lifelong member and product of the San Diego Southeastern communities.

The event, while social in nature, provided the kind of opportunity for those doing things in San Diego to meet and talk in a social atmosphere which does not happen often enough.

ballot

Continued from cover

The state senate approved the ballot measure on June 27, two years after a similar measure was rejected. ACA 8 would mostly impact all prisons in the state that currently use slave labor and indentured servitude as a punishment for crime.

The same day, the bill’s author and California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) Chair Lori Wilson made amendments to the legislation before the Senate voted 68-0, clearing the measure to appear as a ballot proposition for voters to decide in the November elections.

ACA 8 is part of a 14-bill package sponsored by the CLBC to implement policy recommendations from the state-funded reparations task force.

“It is a testament to our collective resolve to correct historical wrongs and ensure that every individual in California is treated with the dignity and respect they deserve,” said Wilson.

health

Continued from cover

UWEAST was formed in 2008 to provide, as its website describes, a “successful, linguistically appropriate, culturally competent and cost-effective physical and mental health intervention program.” Its incorporation was inspired by a lack of support tailored to East Africans in navigating healthcare. The organization has a focus on women and children of East African descent, but lately, the spotlight has been on a different demographic — the aging population facing Alzheimer’s and dementia.

“It hasn't always been a focus for us, but as of recently, I have noticed a rise in memory loss within the community, especially the elders,” Meshate Mengistu, Program Manager for UWEAST said.

Research shows that Black American adults are roughly twice as likely than White American adults to be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, but also less likely to receive an early diagnosis. When noticing a rise in age-related dementia and Alzheimer’s, UWEAST partnered with Take on Alzheimer’s to learn more and offer resources on a broader scale.

requiring assessment of numerous alleged interactions with a wide variety of state officials and private persons.”

The Dissenters

The three liberal justices — Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson — sharply criticized the majority’s opinion in scathing dissents. Sotomayor gave a dramatic speech as she read her dissent from the bench, at times shaking her head and gritting her teeth as she said the conservative majority wrongly insulated the U.S. president as “a king above the law.”

The dissenting justices said the majority decision makes presidents immune from prosecution for acts such as ordering Navy seals to assassinate a political rival, organizing a military coup to hold onto power or accepting a

bribe in exchange for a pardon.

“Even if these nightmare scenarios never play out, and I pray they never do, the damage has been done. The relationship between the President and the people he serves has shifted irrevocably. In every use of official power, the President is now a king above the law,” Sotomayor wrote.

In a separate dissenting opinion, Jackson said the majority’s ruling “breaks new and dangerous ground.”

“Stated simply: The Court has now declared for the first time in history that the most powerful official in the United States can (under circumstances yet to be fully determined) become a law unto himself,” Jackson wrote.

“Now, as we look ahead to the November 2024 ballot, let us continue to work with the same spirit of determination and unity that has brought us to this moment,” she said.

A section of California’s Constitution state, “slavery and involuntary servitude are prohibited.” However, state law makes an exception for incarcerated individuals.

Inmates can earn as much as 48 cents per hour for working as technicians. Inmates working as firefighters earn approximately $5.80 per day to contain fires statewide.

Lawrence Cox, a former inmate and policy fellow with nonprofit Legal Services for Prisoners with Children said forced labor prevents inmates from focusing on rehabilitation. He shared in front of the senate committee that California designates approximately 65,000 work assignments to inmates, including high risk job tasks.

Cox was incarcerated for 17 years and shared that he was often forced to work and had no right to refuse dangerous work assignments.

“I have been forced to work jobs and had jobs where I couldn’t get out,” said Cox. “When I wanted to take my on-site college courses to complete my degree, forced labor was prioritized over my rehabilitation.”

Depending on the outcome of the vote, the anti-slavery measure requires the state to pay inmates minimum wage $16 per hour for their job assignments. The California Department of Finance estimated that it would cost the state $1.5 billion to pay inmates at minimum wage.

If approved, California will join Alabama, Colorado, Oregon, Tennessee, Utah and Vermont in outlawing indentured servitude.

Jamilia Land, a Sacramento-based advocate who contributed to drafting ACA 8 and

serves as Coordinator of the End Slavery in California Act Coalition, called the passage of ACA 8 “exciting news.”

Encouraging all Californians to support the measure, Land said, “In November, voters will have the opportunity to support the End Slavery in California Act directly at the ballot box. Stay informed and help spread awareness on ways to contribute to ending slavery in California. Visit our website at www.abolishslavery.us to join the effort.”

ACA 8 was passed without requiring the approval of Gov. Gavin Newsom. The amendment qualified for the November ballot on June 28, the last day to finalize propositions for the November ballot.

“The biggest issues that we have are lack of education and lack of resources. A lot of our community members don't talk to the doctors or don't express the symptoms at an early stage,” Warsame said at a Take on Alzheimer’s San Diego County event.

Warsame also noted that a social stigma around talking about memory loss or aging contributes to later diagnoses, since pursuing care for early symptoms isn’t common.

“The hope is that we're able to have workshops and trainings for caretakers and community members that are interested and having doctors that have an East African background, or African background come out and just kind of talk about Alzheimer's and dementia,” said Mengitsu, posing some questions the organization wants to answer. “What does that look like? What is the beginning of it? What makes a person? What kind of care does a person need when they're going through that?”

Brain health, including Alzheimer’s prevention and care, is much like any other aspect of health — it isn’t accessible to everyone with-

out cultural competency in the forefront.

UWEAST has identified several tenets of cultural competency and offers resources to make it achievable for everyone.

“When it comes to people that identify as Black or African, a lot of the time, [healthcare professionals] definitely don't take you seriously,” Mengistu said. She said this issue is especially pervasive for clients on MediCal or Medicaid.

Cultural competency also includes more spheres than just ethnicity – issues such as not being aware of a woman’s religious beliefs and interactions with other men can deter a person from even seeking health consults. Language barriers can also be a deterrent, and a lack of research means that specialized, preventative care can be hard to come by, Mengistu said.

“All Africans are lumped up in one … [demographic], which makes it really difficult to know exactly which specific people have certain deficiencies or adhere to certain things. So if, [hypothetically] a majority of our Ethiopian community has schizophrenia, right? You wouldn't be able to know that, because they're

lumped up with somebody from Nigeria or Ghana, so they're not getting the proper, adequate attention,” she said.

UWEAST sends interpreters and translators to go with patients free of charge, with over eleven languages offered, including Arabic. The organization offers support to everyone, but there are highlighted, concerted efforts to reach women. “They're the pillar of the house. They're the ones that are keeping the whole family together. They're the ones who are supporting not only their husband, but also their children. Also the community, they're the ones that are making the changes. So it's very important that we're giving them the right resources,” Warsame said.

Education is at the forefront of the work. “We just want to empower the community — or inspire, not even empower, but inspire our community and outer community to be self-sustaining, rather than always needing someone or something and fully understanding the resources available to them,” Mengistu said.

PHOTO: Brandon S. Johnson

THE TRAGEDY OF MAINSTREAM MEDIA COVERAGE OF THE PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE

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

First, let it be said that the Black Press of America believes in our democratic process, and believes that the record of President Joe Biden is greater than a bad debate night with Donald Trump. Second, the bigger tragedy was the mainstream media’s effort to make their coverage of last Thursday’s debate a matter of who did the better “sound bites” and not the substance of the issues put before the American people watching the debate. As the Black Press of America, let it be said that we are appalled at the Editorial and News Broadcasts calling for the President to step down. It’s the media’s job to report the news and not initiate an orchestrated campaign to remove the President. Where is the media discussion about the issues, and who said what about them? Where was the major fact checking of

all the lies Trump told? The burden didn’t shift to Biden just because he chose not to respond to the issues the media had decided he should have addressed. It was not the job of the media to take the issue of the President’s age or push the issue of whether or not he should withdraw from the November 2024 election. But time and time again, on Fox News and Face The Nation, as well as the Editorial positions of the New York Times and Atlanta Constitution, just to name a few, there was the pushing of the idea that the President was too old and should step down. Then there was the generating of polling questions to support the withdrawal of the President, which was not the job of the media. Once again, it is the Black Press that emerges as the true “Trusted Messenger” not manipulating the news for ratings. “We the People” must not allow our silence to give consent to such media coverage.

THE CITY OF SAN DIEGO NEEDS A VACANCY HOUSING AUDIT

As San Diego continues to experience a monthly increase in homelessness and governmental entities pour millions of dollars into seeking to address the problem, it appears that the elephant in the room is the untapped number of vacant units already completed from Mission Valley to Downtown and beyond. We know that private developers own many of these buildings; that some are constructed as condominiums for sale or to be sold and that the rest which have been built as apartments for rent have monthly rates that exceed hourly wages for many.

If it has not done so already, perhaps it would be a good idea for the County Civilian Grand jury to investigate

By Darryl White

and prepare a report on whether developers and landlords need some regulation as to how they handle vacancies. A special look should be given to: (1) the use of security deposit requirements as a means of limiting who can afford housing, and (2) the use of public record notices of Evictions as a means of eliminating potential applicants because of past disputes with other landlords. It should be remembered that during the Pandemic, there was a surge in eviction proceedings leading to a moratorium. The moratorium did not cancel the eviction proceedings on record but simply stopped them for a period of time. The suggested audit could be conducted by the city by simply reviewing building per-

THE DARK LEGACY OF SLAVERY

STILL IMPACTS OUR BLACK CHILDREN

161 years after emancipation

As we [celebrated] the 159th anniversary of Juneteenth, I [could] not help but think of how far we still have to go to reach a level of equity in America. The cornerstone of slavery was illiteracy among enslaved populations. Slave owners did everything they could to keep slaves ignorant and illiterate, often imposing severe penalties for literacy among slaves and those who taught them. They realized early that knowledge meant power, and maintaining slavery required policies and laws that promoted high rates of illiteracy among enslaved populations throughout America.

Current statistics continue to paint a stark picture of literacy proficiency among California’s Black third-grade students. Today, only 27% are meeting or exceeding the English language arts state standards. Even more disturbingly, since 2018, scores have plummeted by four percentage points. Clearly, the post-COVID era has exacerbated an already dire situation.

Reading develops essential skills necessary for participating in American society, democracy, and the capitalist system. It enhances concentration, intellectual development, higher-order thinking, imagination, and creativity. Moreover, it helps individuals understand the world around them, allowing them to take advantage of available knowledge and opportunities. Those who read well tend to function more effectively in American society and advance more quickly. Systems of advancement are often centered around testing. For instance, students must take the SAT and compete with others to enter higher education. Those who cannot not read well, regardless of their true aptitude, perform poorly on the SAT. Their scores reinforce the false belief that the SAT determines inherent intelligence.

Today, if high schools graduated highly literate Black students, graduation day would be a jubilant celebration akin to Juneteenth. Just as the Emancipation Proclamation and the 13th Amendment provided access to civil rights, high literacy rates empower individuals to fully exercise these

rights. Literacy opens doors to voting, fair trials, government employment, public facility access, housing, freedom of religion, and public education–transforming these rights from mere words into tangible opportunities. In this way, achieving high literacy rates is a modern emancipation, granting students the tools to realize the full promise of their civil rights.

In 2000, the National Reading Panel, a government-formed entity, conducted analysis to determine the most effective approach to teaching children how to read. Their findings–informed by rigorous, interdisciplinary scientific research from educators, psychologists, linguists, neuroscientists, and cognitive scientists–outlined five critical areas of reading instruction based on how a child best learns to read: (1) phonemic awareness, (2) phonics, (3) vocabulary, (4) fluency, and (5) comprehension. Moreover, the analysis advocates for the inclusion of evidence-based literacy instruction principles in teacher training programs to ensure educators are equipped to teach our children effectively.

See CHILDREN page 16

mits issued during the last five years for apartment and condo construction. Previous requests to the City have suggested that such record keeping is not available, which is not true.

The Tenant Protection Ordinance enacted by the City of San Diego in the past two years must not be viewed as having fully addressed the problem of Tenant Rights. Let us remember that 49 percent of the residents of San Diego County and its cities are renters. We need more than additional beds and shelters for the homeless. Let's get to the source of homelessness in San Diego, mainly the inability to afford rents and the segregation of “affordable” housing from “available” housing.

THE TIME IS NOW TO INVEST IN

BLACK WOMEN IN CALIFORNIA

By Kellie Todd Griffin

California prides itself on its progressive values and its commitment to diversity and inclusion. However, the economic disparities that Black women face in the state present a troubling contradiction to this self-image. With more than 1 million Black females living in the golden state, which is the 5th largest population in the country, it is important to cast a light on the inequities that we face. The data speaks volumes: Black women are systematically underserved and undervalued, challenged by wealth gaps, high poverty rates, and substantial economic burdens.

Consider the stark wealth gap: Black women hold a mere 10% of the wealth of their White male counterparts, with a median wealth of only $6,000. This is the lowest among all racial and gender groups in California. The economic obligations that Black women shoulder are overwhelming. They spend up to 50% of their income on housing and nearly 30% on childcare, far more than any other demographic. This dynamic is elevated with 67% of Black Californian households being headed by single mothers, which is highlighted in the California Black Women’s Collective Empowerment Institute’s Pay Me What I Am Worth, Black Women’s Wages Report

See WOMEN page 16

VOICE & VIEWPOINT

COMMUNITY

St. Paul's United Methodist Church Awards Five SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

St Paul's United Methodist Church recently announced the five scholarship recipients for the Ray and Janice Robinson Scholarship.

The students are:

> Shaina Walker (Morse High)

> DaNae Wright (Lincoln High)

> Blessyn Lavendar Williams (Lincoln High)

> Kendall Rollins (Lincoln High)

> Taylor Shields (San Diego High)

They received $5000 scholarships from the Ray and Janice Robinson Estate under the Estate Director, Mrs. Jacquelyn Jackson. Most plan to attend HBCUs in the fall.

The Church Pastor, Jeffery Grant, and the

Committee consisted of Dr. Sharon Whitehurst-Payne (Chair), Mrs. Louise Young, Mrs. Gloria Tucker, Mrs. Francine De-Witt Haynes, Mrs. Lynette Hayes, Ms. Frances Braxton, and Dr. Ida Barnes. The keynote speaker was Mr. T. Dion’te Goodlett from Los Angeles.

WANTED JOURNALIST & PHOTOJOURNALIST

The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint is looking for journalists and photojournalists, as independent contractors, for paid assignments. Additional position of Assistant to Editor available.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Professional writing experience required.

• Newspaper experience is desired.

We might be the answer, if you’ve experienced recent job loss. Email latanya@sdvoice.info

Valedictorian of Lincoln High School: Taniya Cooksey

By Curtistine Walker

Taniya Cooksey, an accom plished young AfricanAmerican woman, graduated from Lincoln High School with a remarkable 4.45 GPA, and earned the title of valedictorian. She has been recognized for ranking in the top 1% of the San Diego Unified School District.

During her high school years, she dedicated her time to volunteering with a mental health club, and participated in The Aaron Price Fellows Program, and the First Gen Scholars. She also led the girls basketball team as captain and completed three internship programs with The Neighborhood House Association, Inewsource, and Forever Balboa Park. Additionally, Taniya established her own photography busi ness, Taniya Cooksey Photography, in 2021.

She has also secured a full ride to the prestigious UCLA, the #1 Public University in America, through the Bill Gates Scholarship, where she plans to pursue a degree in Business Economics. Taniya has set her sights on elevating her photography skills while in Los Angeles and aspires to become a photographer for Vogue.

How to Raise a Rocket Scientist: Introducing Dr. Jasmine L. Sadler

By Spurgeon Thomas Contributing Writer

Ho urs before graduating from her Joint Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership at CSUSM/ UCSD, Jasmine L. Sadler stands with her parents and statue at the San Diego Fleet Science Center’s Monumental Women in STEM exhibit. As an infant, family friends announced she was special. Engineering and Arts were always embedded in Jasmine’s childhood. At 6-years-old, Jasmine first debuted as a ballerina at the YWCA. Years later, she manually kept score for her father’s bowling league. Relocated from a Black-owned, Christian-centered private school in Detroit to a gifted program in the suburbs, Jasmine has always been a problem-solving superhero. Jasmine was privileged with her mom preparing a daily breakfast and high expectations from both parents specializing in Information

Technology as they invested money into an Education Trust for her to attend Michigan’s Aerospace Engineering program. Struggling with breaking corporate glass ceilings, her academic pursuits expanded to an MBA at Point Loma Nazarene University while dancing at Bayview Baptist Church as a worship artist. She is grateful for her entrepreneurial start at the Elementary Institute of Science where she coached an all-girls robotics team. Jasmine now bridges informal education gaps with her organization, The STEAM Collaborative.

families around the world. Jasmine’s parents expect her to do anything she puts her mind to. They advise, “to raise a rocket scientist, you must put God first.”

Now, Dr. Jasmine Johnson bids farewell to San Diego as she relocates to Japan as a Marine wife where her vision of a STEAM University extends to Military

PHOTOS: Courtesy of Rochelle Porter

Pastor Jeffrey Grant signing certificates.

PHOTOS: Courtesy of Curtistine Walker

PHOTOS: Courtesy of Dwayne Hill

COUNTY NEWS YOU CAN USE

County Adopts New Budget

County Supervisors unanimously adopted a new $8.53 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2024-25 during a board meeting Tuesday. The budget will take effect July 1.

The adopted budget shows an increase of $364.5 million or 4.5% from last year. The new budget also adds 84 employees for a total of 20,471.25 staff years.

The recommended budget addressed County budget priorities to help those experiencing homelessness and behavioral health and substance use disorders. It did more to help people and families with housing, nutrition, health, financial and other needs.

The County put additional funding into affordable housing, roads, justice reform, public safety and environmental sustainability.

The Board of Supervisors built on the $8.48 billion recommended budget to include additional increases for infrastructure, justice reform, homelessness and housing, support services, public safety, and other priorities.

A revised budget posted on June 13 added $46.9 million or an increase of 0.6% percent to the May plan for the total of $8.53 billion. The revised budget also added another 12 positions.

County Reports Increase in Mpox Cases

County public health officials are reporting seven new Mpox cases in May and June and encouraging vaccinations ahead of summer festivals and events.

The revised plan includes:

• $8.5 million to support the caseload in the District Attorney’s Office

• $ 6 million for lease payments, programs and services to clients at the North and South County Family Justice Centers.

• $ 13.1 million in one-time costs for the Migrant Transition Day Center to support onward travel for asylum seekers released from Department of Homeland Security custody.

• $ 7.5 million for increased construction costs for Calavo Park in Spring Valley.

• $2.2 million to the Sheriff’s Department to support Medi-Cal Transformation PATH, law enforcement services requested by the City of Encinitas, forensic testing equipment, off-highway vehicle training and equipment.

• $0.6 million for the Grantville Safe Parking site for those at risk or experiencing homelessness.

The revised budget also specifies the use for enterprise costs to address capital, IT, emergency response or other efforts:

• $ 1.3 million for updates to the Battery Energy Storage System.

• $ 0.5 million to extend the regional ¡Mas Fresco! Plus food program.

• $ 0.25 million for enhanced drowning prevention efforts.

• $0.25 million to extend no-cost transportation services for seniors.

The rise in cases mirrors increases in Los Angeles which recently reported 10 new cases.

So far this year, the County has reported an average of one to two new Mpox cases per month. Four of the recent cases were among people who had not been vaccinated against Mpox.

What You Need To Know:

• A nyone can get Mpox as it is spread through close physical contact with someone who has Mpox.

• Mpox infections usually cause rashes or sores throughout the body that can last for two to four weeks.

• T he JYNNEOS vaccine provides protection against Mpox and is available at County public health clinics.

• People who have received only one dose of the JYNNEOS vaccine should get their second dose 28 days later for maximum pro-

tection. If past the 28 days, people should get the second dose as soon as possible.

People can also talk to their healthcare provider, visit myturn.ca.gov or call 211 for help finding the vaccine.

Other Ways to Protect Yourself From Mpox:

• A void close skin-to-skin contact with others who have a rash, blisters or scabs.

• Avoid objects or materials used by a person who has Mpox.

• W ash your hands often with soap and water especially before eating or touching your face.

• W atch for symptoms for 21 days after exposure and visit a healthcare provider.

For more information about Mpox including resources, local cases and more, visit sandiegocounty.gov/mpox. You can also sign up to receive weekly updates by texting COSD MPOX to 468-311.

Sup. Montgomery Steppe Proposes New Location for State's Sleeping Cabins

County to explore Lemon Grove location to keep State's donated sleeping cabins

On June 25, 2024,

Jamacha sleeping cabins. With today's vote, the County will pursue Lemon Grove as an alternative site to set up sleeping cabins.

• $ 0.25 million for the Workplace Justice Fund.

• $ 0.15 million for a pilot archery project at a County park.

• $ 0.059 million to help the Lake Hodges, Lake Sutherland and El Capitan reservoirs remain open.

Overall, the adopted budget shows smaller budget increases than previous years, limits the growth of staffing and reduces spending on capital projects.

County staff prepared the budget using community input collected throughout the year, an equity assessment to evaluate potential

In observance of Independence Day, all San Diego County offices, family resource centers, libraries and animal shelters will be closed to the public Thursday, July 4.

Law enforcement, emergency animal control response, and other essential services will continue through the holiday.

County parks, campgrounds and neighborhood day-use parks remain open 365 days a year. However, the following locations will be closed Thursday:

• Fallbrook Community Center

• Lakeside Community Center

• Spring Valley Community Center

• Spring Valley Gymnasium

• 4S Ranch Recreation Office only (all parks will be open)

• Community Teen Centers

• Valley Center Community Hall and Adams

impacts to vulnerable populations and additional data.

For a full budget report, visit the County website: sandiegocounty.gov.

A portion of this article originally appeared on TheCountyNewsCenter.com.

All

All County offices will resume normal business hours Friday, July 5.

Supervisor Montgomery Steppe issues the following statement:

“It is absolutely vital that our actions as a County reflect a commitment to ending homelessness, and there are many layers to implementing that action. Community members deserve to have their voices heard so that the County can make informed decisions about what is best for their community."

The Board of Supervisors previously accepted 150 Sleeping Cabins from the State, but after hearing concerns from the Spring Valley community, Chairwoman Vargas presented an item to rescind the Board's approval.

The amendment to today's item would direct the Chief Administrative Officer to assess alternative homeless solutions in Spring Valley and surrounding communities, including the site on Troy Street in Lemon Grove, and report to the Board on July 16, 2024, with recommendations, including an analysis of feasibility, cost, and timeline to develop the Lemon Grove site. The recommendation would also include options for the $8.5 million in ARPA funds previously allocated for this project for homeless solutions.

Supervisor Montgomery Steppe led the Board of Supervisors in a vote to allow the County to explore a new location in Lemon Grove for sleeping cabins.

Earlier this week, Supervisor Montgomery Steppe submitted a letter to Governor Newsom to preserve the $10 million in state funding that would have been used to set up the 150

Park Pool

Camping reservations can always be made online at the County’s Online Camping Reservations web page, but the Department of Parks and Recreation’s reservation phone line will not be staffed during the holiday.

County public health clinics will be closed Thursday.

PHOTO: Courtesy of County News Center

County Offices to Close for Fourth of July Holiday

PHOTO: Courtesy of the County News Center

County Administration Center. PHOTO: Courtesy of the

PHOTO: Courtesy of CalMatters

THE NEW Oak Park Library

“A 50 Year Dream Coming True”

The Oak Park Library boasts a rich history of community service, evolving from its roots as a popular bookmobile stop in the 1950s to the establishment of a 5,200-square-foot building in 1969, following the City’s purchase of the land and building it for $152,364. Presently, the Oak Park Library is in need of a larger space to cater to the growing demands of its patrons.

The City of San Diego has given its approval for a transformative project—a new Oak Park Library spanning approximately 20,000 square feet. With an estimated budget of nearly $30,000,000, the envisioned library will encompass various dedicated areas, including a story room, children’s area, teen area, adult section, idea lab, study rooms, community room, courtyard, exterior deck,

and a 10,000-square-foot sorting facility. Situated in North Chollas Park, on College Grove Drive, east of 54th Street, the construction is anticipated to conclude by the summer of 2027.

State Senator Toni Atkins has fervently supported the project, securing $20,000,000 in state funds. Shouts of elation could be heard when the State committed an additional $9.1 million in January. However, due to budget constraints, the $9.1 million is now on hold pending budget discussions in the State Legislature. Senator Atkins’ office is actively engaged in efforts to restore the funding in March at the State Legislative Budget hearing. All support large or small to the New Oak Park Library will be greatly appreciated. Please contact Elida Chavez, President of the Friends of Oak Park Library, at elidachavez01@gmail.com or 619.838.4514.

New Student Board Trustees Take Oath of Office

Trustees officially begin duties July 1

Two new San Diego Unified Board of Education student trustees were sworn into office the evening of June 25th at the Eugene Brucker Education Center.

The two student trustees, Joseph Cruz of Morse High School and Quinton Baldis of Scripps Ranch High School, will represent their peers throughout the district at board meetings, voting on agenda items and helping to shape San Diego Unified policy.

Cruz describes himself as service-oriented. He is a member of several campus clubs and organizations, including the mock trial team and JROTC, where he says student mentorship attracted him. A lifelong San Diego Unified student, he’d like to be a voice for all students across the district.

Baldis, like Cruz, has attended San Diego Unified schools since kindergarten. He, too, has been a leader on his school’s mock trial team and plans to pursue a law degree.

In addition to volunteering at food banks, Baldis founded a not-for-profit organiza -

Taxpayers to Benefit from IRS Program

By Stacy M. Brown

NNPA Newswire Senior Correspondent

The Internal Revenue Service announced that its Direct File program will become a permanent option for federal tax returns start -

ing in the 2025 tax season. BidenHarris administration officials said the move follows a successful pilot program and positive feedback from a broad range of stakeholders.

The IRS plans to broaden Direct File’s availability to make more taxpayers eligible by 2025 and beyond. Officials said the expansion includes examining ways to cover more tax situations and inviting all states to partner with the program. Further details on the expansion are expected ahead of 2025.

“Improving the tax filing experience and helping taxpayers meet their obligations as easily and quickly as possible will be our guiding principles.”

Danny Werfel

The decision stems from a highly successful pilot during the 2024 tax season, in which 140,803 taxpayers from 12 states used Direct File. The IRS collected and analyzed data from the pilot, held numerous meetings with stakeholders, and received feedback from users, state officials, and representatives across the tax landscape.

Based on initial post-pilot analysis, the IRS determined that making Direct File permanent was viable.

Commissioner Danny Werfel recommended the move to Treasury Secretary Janet L. Yellen, who accepted. Werfel cited overwhelming user satisfaction and improved ease of filing taxes as critical reasons for the recommendation.

“The clear message is that many taxpayers across the nation want the IRS to provide more than one

tion called Equal Kicks, which collects soccer equipment and financial donations that are then supplied to under-funded communities.

Mental health awareness, and early intervention, is something Baldis would like to focus on as a student board member.

“I want to go after the root cause of mental health problems and work on preventative measures like getting students involved in clubs and communities on campus,” said Baldis. “Because once students are part of a home on campus, they’re going to have friends and common experiences and enjoy their academic career.”

Baldis and Cruz replace Lincoln High School graduating senior Blessyn Lavender Williams and San Diego High School’s Matthew Quitoriano, who was term-limited after two years. The board paid tribute to the outgoing student trustees, and shared a video highlighting their tenures.

As student board members elected to oneyear terms, Baldis and Cruz will officially begin their duties on July 1, 2024.

no-cost option for filing electronically,” Werfel said.

Building on the pilot’s success, which targeted taxpayers with relatively simple tax situations in 12 states, the IRS is exploring ways to expand eligibility nationwide.

For the 2025 filing season, the IRS will work with all states wishing to partner with Direct File, with no limit on participating states. Several new states are expected to join the program.

The IRS also plans to gradually expand the range of tax situations supported by Direct File. Over the coming years, officials said the goal is to accommodate the most common tax scenarios, focusing on those affecting working families.

Announcements about new state partners and expanded eligibility are expected soon.

“User experience—both within the product and integration with state tax systems—will continue to be the foundation for Direct File moving forward,” Werfel said.

“Accuracy and comprehensive tax credit uptake will be paramount concerns to ensure taxpayers file a correct return and get the refund they’re entitled to. Improving the tax filing experience and helping taxpayers meet their obligations as easily and quickly as possible will be our guiding principles.”

Officials stated that many taxpay -

ers expressed a desire for no-cost filing options throughout the review process. Millions of taxpayers from non-pilot states visited the Direct File website or requested the service for their state.

Direct File will become a permanent option among the various filing methods available to taxpayers. The IRS said it’s not intended to replace other services offered by tax professionals or commercial software providers, who remain essential partners with the agency. The IRS said it also continues its commitment to Free File Inc., having recently signed a five-year extension with the industry.

As the IRS expands Direct File, other free filing options will be enhanced, including the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program (VITA) and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly program (TCE).

Post-pilot analysis identified three key conclusions supporting Direct File’s permanent establishment, including, high user satisfaction, a simplified tax filing experience, and a catalyst for digital transformation.

“We’re mindful that the most important decision we made during the pilot was to focus on executional certainty,” Werfel said. “We will apply that same critical lesson for next year as we take a strategic approach to expanding Direct File’s availability and capabilities.”

PHOTO: Pexels

VOICE & VIEWPOINT NEWSWIRE

VOICE & VIEWPOINT NEWSWIRE

Board of Education. PHOTO: Courtesy of San Diego Unified School District

PHOTO: Courtesy of NNPA

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Macron And African Leaders Push For Vaccines For Africa

After Covid-19 Exposed Inequalities

By Nicolas Garriga And Jamey Keaten

Associated Press

French President Emmanuel Macron joined several African leaders on Thursday June 20 to kick off a planned $1 billion project to accelerate the rollout of vaccines in Africa, after the coronavirus pandemic exposed gaping inequalities in access to them.

“Africa

produces only 2% of the vaccines it uses” –Emmanuel Macron

Many African leaders and advocacy groups say Africa was unfairly locked out of access to COVID-19 treatment tools, vaccines and testing equipment — that many richer countries brought up in huge quantities — after the pandemic was declared in 2020.

WHO, advocacy groups, the European Union and others want to help Africa get better prepared for the next pandemic, which many health experts say is inevitable. When the coronavirus pandemic began, South Africa was the only country in Africa with any ability to produce vaccines, officials say, and the continent produced a tiny fraction of all vaccines worldwide.

“Africa produces only 2% of the vaccines it uses, and the goal that we have set is that by 2040 the production is increased to reach 60%," Macron said at the launch event.

"France and Europe have supported this ambition since 2021 with 1.3 billion euros (allocated), and we need to accelerate it.”

WHO failed in its efforts to help countries agree to a “pandemic treaty” — to improve preparedness and response to pandemics — before its annual meeting last month. The project was shelved largely over disagreements about sharing of information about pathogens that cause epidemics and the high-tech tools used to fight them.

Negotiators will resume work on the treaty in hopes of clinching a deal by the next WHO annual meeting in 2025.

June 20’s event in Paris also aims to give a funding boost to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, a public-private partnership that helps get needed vaccines to developing countries around the world.

Gavi says the project aims to make up to $1 billion available over the next decade to help increase Africa’s manufacturing base, to improve global vaccines markets and improve preparedness and response to pandemics and outbreaks like HIV, malaria, tuberculosis and COVID-19.

Officials say the project will explore issues like technology transfer — which has been resisted by some Western countries with powerful pharmaceutical companies — as well as the possible creation of an African medicines agency and tackling regulatory hurdles faced in Africa’s patchwork of legal systems.

Opposition Activists Arrested in a

Crackdown in Mali

Were Moved to Prisons, Families Say

Opposition politicians who were arrested in a crackdown in Mali were sent to prisons across the country last week, their families said, in a move rights groups decried as another step back for the country where the ruling junta has suspended all political activities.

Mali, a landlocked nation in the semiarid region of Sahel, has been embroiled in political instability that swept across West and Central Africa over the last decade. The nation has seen two military coups since 2020 as an insurgency by jihadi groups linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group worsened. The junta has ruled the country with an iron fist, and earlier this year suspended all political activities.

The eleven opposition politicians were arrested earlier this month during a meeting in a private residence, the Malian National Human Rights Commission, a government agency, said in a statement, denouncing what it called “arbitrary arrests” and “violations of private homes."

A family member of one of the detainees said Wednesday, June 26 that they were divided into two groups, one sent to Koulikoro prison, 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Bamako, and the other to a new prison 70 kilometers (43 miles) from Bamako. The family member spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of repercussions from authorities.

Ousmane Diallo, Dakar-based researcher on the Sahel region at Amnesty International, a rights group, said the arrests demonstrated “the pattern of abuse of civil and political rights" in Mali since February.

In April, the junta issued a decree suspending all activities by political parties and “associations of political nature” in the name of maintaining public order. The political parties appealed the decision to the Supreme Court, but it is not clear when the appeal would be considered.

It's becoming increasingly perilous to express dissatisfaction with the Malian authorities, experts said, with those who dare to speak out risking arrest. Journalists and activists have also disappeared, only to return later, while many media correspondents have left Mali because they were not allowed to work.

The junta is driving the country toward “a political impasse,” said Alioune Tine, the founder of the AfrikaJom Center, a research organization and U.N. expert on human rights in Mali. “The complex security crisis can be resolved by bringing Malians together, respecting political and democratic pluralism, but not by the dogmatic use of repression against all political dissent.”

Earlier this month, a coalition of political parties opposed to the junta, Appel du 31 Mars, called on citizens to demonstrate against the shortage of electricity in Bamako and the high living costs, and to demand a return of constitutional order.

Only one person showed up to cover the event — Yeri Bocoum, a young social media activist.

The next day, Bocoum wrote on Facebook that he was being followed by unidentified men and threatened. A day later, on June 8, as he was leaving his house in the city of Kati, the junta's stronghold, he was kidnapped.

The family reached out to the authorities but has not heard from him since, Bocoum said.

Adekunle Gold on Sickle Cell Advocacy

‘It’s Time to Learn My Voice – People are Dying’

By Larry Madowo and Lauren Lee

Award-winning Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold rose to international fame when his debut album

“Gold” reached number seven on the Billboard World Charts. Since then, the 37-year-old has released four more albums, amassing hundreds of millions of streams worldwide.

Behind the scenes, however, he has been quietly battling sickle cell disease, an inherited blood disorder that leads to abnormally shaped red blood cells, causing severe pain, anemia, and potentially life-threatening complications. It affects children who inherit two copies of the sickle cell gene, one from each parent.

The disease is most prevalent in Africa, which accounts for 66% of cases worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. Nigeria bears the highest burden, where as many as 150,000 babies are born with sickle cell disease annually – the most of any country.

Adekunle Gold first wrote of his woes with

sickle cell disease in 2022 in his song “5 Star.” Now, he is readying himself for a long-term commitment to advocacy, announcing the establishment of the Adekunle Gold Foundation, which will focus on addressing the needs of children battling sickle cell disease on the African continent.

Recently, the singer sat down with CNN’s Larry Madowo for his first in-depth interview about living with sickle cell.

This interview has been lightly edited for clarity and length.

Larry Madowo: Why are you speaking up about sickle cell disease now and especially being very aggressive about this awareness?

Adekunle Gold: I just really got the courage to come out and speak about it. You know, a lot of people can’t share their stories like I can. I was writing the song “5 Star” and reflecting on my life, the journey, and how I’m a miracle. I was reflecting on that song, and I thought, maybe it’s time to learn my voice. People are dying, people are going through it. People can’t

afford basic things that they need to sustain their health, and if the international organizations are not doing anything about it, it’s time to force their hands to do it.

Larry Madowo: What challenges have you had to overcome while living with sickle cell?

Adekunle Gold: I constantly put myself in situations that made me sick as a child. But I always knew that I didn’t want this thing to define me. So, if it means that I need to exercise more, take my drugs, eat well, rest well, and take more water, then I need to do that always.

Larry Madowo: Are there any memorable things that you’ve come through during your advocacy work when people are not even aware of what they’re facing?

Adekunle Gold: Just speaking up about it on social, I realized that a lot of people are ignorant about it. This is something that I inherited, and you’re trolling me for it. So, you realize people don’t even know these things. I just need more people to be aware.

Larry Madowo: What are some of the barriers to receiving proper care for sickle cell patients in West Africa? In Nigeria?

Adekunle Gold: Listen, people don’t have money, bro. The last outreach I did, people came to Lagos to take drugs, to check their BP (blood pressure), to check their children all the way from Ilorin [300 kilometers away from Lagos]. And I’m like, this is insane. We don’t have facilities where you can just be in your place. Other countries like the UK and Canada have policies for sickle cell. Where it affects us the most, we don’t have (accessible care). People can’t afford to buy folic acid and folic acid is the smallest of things that you should be able to get.

Larry Madowo: What do you hope to achieve by adding your voice to this, by speaking up publicly?

Adekunle Gold: I want everybody to, first of all, be aware of it and know how to treat people that have it. I also want people to understand that it is important to check your genotype.

PHOTO: Wikimedia Commons, CC-By 2.0

Members of the National Committee for the Salvation of the People, directory of the ruling junta in Mali. PHOTO: Wikimedia Commons

Associated Press

By Latanya West VOICE & VIEWPOINT MANAGING EDITOR

Frederick Douglass is arguably one of the most influential figures in American history. An internationally renowned orator, statesman, anti-slavery crusader, and author, the child born Frederick Augustus Washington Bailey, came to exemplify what is best and most enduring about American ideals and the promise of our country’s constitution.

Douglass used words to eloquently and unapologetically speak, write, and educate northern whites about American slavery. He unapologetically named in detail after detail slavery’s horrific injustices, white slavemasters’ and even religious abolitionists’ moral ineptitude, and called to task northern whites who turned a blind eye to slavery’s insidiousness. He called on all Americans to look directly and unflinchingly at slavery’s cost, not only for America’s slaves, but also for the entire nation.

At a time when freedom was only a vague promise on the horizon for most black Americans, Douglass was a resounding voice of hope, justice, and dignity for African Americans. He elevated the national discussion on slavery, helping to hasten its demise.

Here is a brief biography of the man known as the “Prophet of Freedom”:

EARLY LIFE

Douglass’ early life was lonely and tragic. Born a slave sometime in 1818 in Talbot County, Maryland, Frederick Douglass’ father was rumored to be his mother’s white slave owner. His mother, who was enslaved on a nearby plantation, would walk twelve miles to visit her son until her untimely death when Frederick was a young boy. Viewed as property to be bought, sold, or transferred in ownership, Douglass was hired out as cheap labor to a number of slave masters.

Long before his physical freedom, Frederick was liberated by the power of words. Ignoring the laws of the times, one of Frederick’s slave mistresses taught him the alphabet. It proved to be a transformative event in Douglass’ life.

FREDERICK DOUGLASS: Self-Made “Prophet of Freedom”

He recounts in his 1845 bestselling autobiography that “Learning the alphabet gave me the key to reading; I took that key and, with a little help from my friends, learned how to read, thus becoming a free man in my mind.” With an audacious sense of purpose that flowered as he matured into adulthood, the young Frederick convinced his white childhood friends to teach him to read and write in exchange for food. He read at every opportunity, even after being sold into hard slave labor in rural Maryland. His steely desire for knowledge never faltered. He soon organized a Sunday school for fellow slaves and quickly earned a reputation for being a headstrong troublemaker.

ence and powerful personal story that he enlisted him to lecture with the American Anti-Slavery Society at meeting halls across the Eastern and Midwestern United States. It was often dangerous work. Douglas became known for his clear, direct, and articulate oratory style. He spoke truthfully and eloquently about his life as a slave, sometimes inciting riotous mobs that weren’t ready to face the American south’s horrifying and morally inept

In 1836, Douglass impersonated a sailor and escaped to freedom during a time when abolitionist fervor was growing across the U.S. He married Anna Murray, a free black woman instrumental in his escape, and settled in New Bedford, Massachusetts. While working as a laborer to support his young family Douglass began to frequent anti-slavery rallies. He was soon up on stage, reluctantly but powerfully sharing his story.

VANGUARD OF THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT

1841 proved to be a fateful year for Douglass. He gave his first major speech at the Massachusetts AntiSlavery Society’s annual convention and launched his influential career as an antislavery crusader. The famed abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison was so moved by Frederick’s magnetic stage pres -

Frederick Douglass, that his home served as one of the Underground Railroad’s main stations and helped spirit runaway slaves to Canada and freedom.

Douglass’ fame and influence grew as the abolitionist movement and the political winds of change brought the issue of slavery to the forefront of American politics. His second autobiography, My Bondage and My Freedom, is a more detailed account of his life as a slave and his evolution as a thinking, self-made man who valued faith and literacy. When the Civil War broke out, Douglass’ morally persuasive arguments against slavery were at the vanguard of slavery’s demise.

African-American Civil War veterans during the Reconstruction era. Buoyed by the Civil War victory but bitterly disturbed by the failures of Reconstruction, Douglass was a vigorous opponent of Jim Crow segregation until his death from a heart attack in 1895.

ENDURING LEGACY

“peculiar institution.”

Douglass’ first autobiography, Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave, mentioned details about his life as a slave, including the name and residence of his former master. To avoid recapture, Frederick spent two years touring and lecturing to abolitionists in Great Britain. The tour earned him international fame and he returned to the States intent on helping African Americans gain the freedoms he enjoyed while abroad.

In 1847 he began publication on The North Star, his uniquely successful and influential anti-slavery newspaper, so named for the bright star said to guide fugitive slaves to freedom along the Underground Railroad. In numerous speeches, writings, and publications, Douglass doggedly promoted the end of slavery. During this time, Douglass was also a conductor on the Rochester, New York arm of the Underground Railroad.

He recounts in his 1882 autobiography, The Life and Times of

When Douglass spoke, national leaders paid attention. Douglass outspokenly called for the right of black men to fight for their freedom and boldly petitioned President Lincoln for the fair and equal treatment of African American men in uniform. He helped recruit troops for the first official Civil War infantry of free northern black men. Immortalized in the 1989 movie Glory, the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment significantly contributed to the war’s effort in the famed fight for Fort Wagner and helped legitimize black troops.

Never one to shy away from controversy, Douglass was also an early supporter of the women’s suffrage movement.

LATER YEARS

After the Civil War, the former slave continued his appointment with destiny. In the mid-1870’s, Douglass moved to Washington, DC and served in a number of prominent presidential appointments: U.S. Marshall (1877 –1881) and Recorder of Deeds for the District of Columbia (1881 –1886). He was chargé d’affaires for Santo Domingo and minister to Haiti (1889-1891). In 1874 he was appointed President of the Freedman’s Savings and Trust Company, popularly known as the Freedman’s Savings Bank, the first savings institution established by the U.S. government to assist former slaves and

Cedar Hill, Douglass’ family home, is maintained as a part of the National Park Service and was designated a National Historic Site in 1988. His great great granddaughter Nettie Washington Douglass established the Frederick Douglass Family Initiatives to preserve his legacy and create awareness about modern day slavery, which today affects an estimated 27 million people worldwide. Visit www.fdfi.org to learn more.

Cedar Hill Frederick Douglass’ Home in Anacostia, Washington, D.C., as it appears today. (photo credit NPS)

Douglass in his Cedar Hill library c1890. (NPS)

Washington, D.C.’s Metropolitan A.M.E. Church gave this Bible to Frederick Douglass in 1889. (PHOTO: NPS)

Left: Douglass’ Newspaper, The North Star. (NMAAHC)

The Frederick Douglass stamp, issued June 29, 1995 to honor the 130th Anniversary of the end of the Civil War.

The Frederick Douglass stamp, issued February 14, 1967 as part of the Prominent Americans Definitive stamp series.

Anna Murray Douglass (1813-1882) married Frederisk Douglass in 1838 shortly after helping him escape from slavery. (NPS)

Frederick Douglass, Jr. (1842-1892) was the third child of Anna and Frederick Douglass (NPS).

Charles Redmond Douglass (1844-1920) was the fourth child of Anna and Frederick Douglass. (NPS)

Lewis Henry Douglass (1840-1908) was the second child of Anna and Frederick Douglass. (NPS)

Rosetta Douglass Sprague (1839-1906) was the first child of Anna and Frederick Douglass. (NPS)

The Meaning of July Fourth for the Negro

The words of Frederick Douglass, July 5, 1852

Zion. We hanged our harps upon the willows in the midst thereof. For there, they that carried us away captive, required of us a song; and they who wasted us required of us mirth, saying, Sing us one of the songs of Zion. How can we sing the Lord’s song in a strange land? If I forget thee, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forget her cunning. If I do not remember thee, let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth.”

And am I, therefore, called upon to bring our humble offering to the national altar, and to confess the benefits and express devout gratitude for the blessings resulting from your independence to us?

Would to God, both for your sakes and ours, that an affirmative answer could be truthfully returned to these questions! Then would my task be light, and my burden easy and delightful. For who is there so cold, that a nation’s sympathy could not warm him? Who so obdurate and dead to the claims of gratitude, that would not thankfully acknowledge such priceless benefits? Who so stolid and selfish, that would not give his voice to swell the hallelujahs of a nation’s jubilee, when the chains of servitude had been torn from his limbs? I am not that man. In a case like that, the dumb might eloquently speak, and the “lame man leap as an hart.”

But such is not the state of the case. I say it with a sad sense of the disparity between us. I am not included within the pale of glorious anniversary! Your high independence only reveals the immeasurable distance between us. The blessings in which you, this day, rejoice, are not enjoyed in common. The rich inheritance of justice, liberty, prosperity and independence, bequeathed by your fathers, is shared by you, not by me. The sunlight that brought light and healing to you, has brought stripes and death to me. This Fourth July is yours, not mine. You may rejoice, I must mourn. To drag a man in fetters into the grand illuminated temple of liberty, and call upon him to join you in joyous anthems, were inhuman mockery and sacrilegious irony. Do you mean, citizens, to mock me, by asking me to speak to-day? If so, there is a parallel to your conduct. And let me warn you that it is dangerous to copy the example of a nation whose crimes, towering up to heaven, were thrown down by the breath of the Almighty, burying that nation in irrevocable ruin! I can to-day take up the plaintive lament of a peeled and woe-smitten people!

“By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down. Yea! We wept when we remembered

Fellow-citizens, above your national, tumultuous joy, I hear the mournful wail of millions! whose chains, heavy and grievous yesterday, are, to-day, rendered more intolerable by the jubilee shouts that reach them. If I do forget, if I do not faithfully remember those bleeding children of sorrow this day, “may my right hand forget her cunning, and may my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth!” To forget them, to pass lightly over their wrongs, and to chime in with the popular theme, would be treason most scandalous and shocking, and would make me a reproach before God and the world. My subject, then, fellow-citizens, is American slavery. I shall see this day and its popular characteristics from the slave’s point of view. Standing there identified with the American bondman, making his wrongs mine, I do not hesitate to declare, with all my soul, that the character and conduct of this nation never looked blacker to me than on this 4th of July! Whether we turn to the declarations of the past, or to the professions of the present, the conduct of the nation seems equally hideous and revolting. America is false to the past, false to the present, and solemnly binds herself to be false to the future. Standing with God and the crushed and bleeding slave on this occasion, I will, in the name of humanity which is outraged, in the name of liberty which is fettered, in the name of the constitution and the Bible which are disregarded and trampled upon, dare to call in question and to denounce, with all the emphasis I can command, everything that serves to perpetuate slavery-the great sin and shame of America! “I will not equivocate; I will not excuse”; I will use the severest language I can command; and yet not one word shall escape me that any man, whose judgment is not blinded by prejudice, or who is not at heart a slaveholder, shall not confess to be right and just.

acknowledge it when they punish disobedience on the part of the slave. There are seventy-two crimes in the State of Virginia which, if committed by a black man (no matter how ignorant he be), subject him to the punishment of death; while only two of the same crimes will subject a white man to the like punishment. What is this but the acknowledgment that the slave is a moral, intellectual, and responsible being? The manhood of the slave is conceded. It is admitted in the fact that Southern statute books are covered with enactments forbidding, under severe fines and penalties, the teaching of the slave to read or to write. When you can point to any such laws in reference to the beasts of the field, then I may consent to argue the manhood of the slave. When the dogs in your streets, when the fowls of the air, when the cattle on your hills, when the fish of the sea, and the reptiles that crawl, shall be unable to distinguish the slave from a brute, then will I argue with you that the slave is a man!

God speed the year of jubilee

The wide world o’er!

When from their galling chains set free, Th’ oppress’d shall vilely bend the knee, And wear the yoke of tyranny Like brutes no more.

That year will come, and freedom’s reign, To man his plundered rights again Restore.

God speed the day when human blood Shall cease to flow!

In every clime be understood, The claims of human brotherhood, And each return for evil, good, Not blow for blow; That day will come all feuds to end, And change into a faithful friend Each foe.

God speed the hour, the glorious hour, When none on earth Shall exercise a lordly power, Nor in a tyrant’s presence cower; But to all manhood’s stature tower, By equal birth!

That hour will come, to each, to all, And from his Prison-house, to thrall Go forth.

Until that year, day, hour, arrive, With head, and heart, and hand I’ll strive, To break the rod, and rend the gyve, The spoiler of his prey deprive -So witness Heaven!

And never from my chosen post, Whate’er the peril or the cost, Be driven.

Continued from Cover

argue the wrongfulness of slavery? Is that a question for Republicans? Is it to be settled by the rules of logic and argumentation, as a matter beset with great difficulty, involving a doubtful application of the principle of justice, hard to be understood? How should I look to-day, in the presence of Amercans, dividing, and subdividing a discourse, to show that men have a natural right to freedom? speaking of it relatively and positively, negatively and affirmatively. To do so, would be to make myself ridiculous, and to offer an insult to your understanding. There is not a man beneath the canopy of heaven that does not know that slavery is wrong for him.

What, am I to argue that it is wrong to make men brutes, to rob them of their liberty, to work them without wages, to keep them ignorant of their relations to their fellow men, to beat them with sticks, to flay their flesh with the lash, to load their limbs with irons, to hunt them with dogs, to sell them at auction, to sunder their families, to knock out their teeth, to burn their flesh, to starve them into obedience and submission to their masters? Must I argue that a system thus marked with blood, and stained with pollution, is wrong? No! I will not. I have better employment for my time and strength than such arguments would imply. What, then, remains to be argued? Is it that slavery is not divine; that God did not establish it; that our doctors of divinity are mistaken? There is blasphemy in the thought. That which is inhuman, cannot be divine! Who can reason on such a proposition? They that can, may; I cannot. The time for such argument is passed.

But I fancy I hear some one of my audience say, “It is just in this circumstance that you and your brother abolitionists fail to make a favorable impression on the public mind. Would you argue more, and denounce less; would you persuade more, and rebuke less; your cause would be much more likely to succeed.” But, I submit, where all is plain there is nothing to be argued. What point in the anti-slavery creed would you have me argue? On what branch of the subject do the people of this country need light? Must I undertake to prove that the slave is a man? That point is conceded already. Nobody doubts it. The slaveholders themselves acknowledge it in the enactment of laws for their government. They

Go where you may, search where you will, roam through all the monarchies and despotisms of the Old World, travel through South America, search out every abuse, and when you have found the last, lay your facts by the side of the everyday practices of this nation, and you will say with me, that, for revolting barbarity and shameless hypocrisy, America reigns without a rival....

For the present, it is enough to affirm the equal manhood of the Negro race. Is it not astonishing that, while we are ploughing, planting, and reaping, using all kinds of mechanical tools, erecting houses, constructing bridges, building ships, working in metals of brass, iron, copper, silver and gold; that, while we are reading, writing and ciphering, acting as clerks, merchants and secretaries, having among us lawyers, doctors, ministers, poets, authors, editors, orators and teachers; that, while we are engaged in all manner of enterprises common to other men, digging gold in California, capturing the whale in the Pacific, feeding sheep and cattle on the hill-side, living, moving, acting, thinking, planning, living in families as husbands, wives and children, and, above all, confessing and worshiping the Christian’s God, and looking hopefully for life and immortality beyond the grave, we are called upon to prove that we are men!

Would you have me argue that man is entitled to liberty? that he is the rightful owner of his own body? You have already declared it. Must I

At a time like this, scorching irony, not convincing argument, is needed. O! had I the ability, and could reach the nation’s ear, I would, to-day, pour out a fiery stream of biting ridicule, blasting reproach, withering sarcasm, and stern rebuke. For it is not light that is needed, but fire; it is not the gentle shower, but thunder. We need the storm, the whirlwind, and the earthquake. The feeling of the nation must be quickened; the conscience of the nation must be roused; the propriety of the nation must be startled; the hypocrisy of the nation must be exposed; and its crimes against God and man must be proclaimed and denounced.

What, to the American slave, is your 4th of July? I answer; a day that reveals to him, more than all other days in the year, the gross injustice and cruelty to which he is the constant victim. To him, your celebration is a sham; your boasted liberty, an unholy license; your national greatness, swelling vanity; your sounds of rejoicing are empty and heartless; your denunciation of tyrants, brass fronted impudence; your shouts of liberty and equality, hollow mockery; your prayers and hymns, your sermons and thanksgivings, with all your religious parade and solemnity, are, to Him, mere bombast, fraud, deception, impiety, and hypocrisy -a thin veil to cover up crimes which would disgrace a nation of savages. There is not a nation on the earth guilty of practices more shocking and bloody than are the people of the United States, at this very hour.

...Allow me to say, in conclusion, notwithstanding the dark picture I have this day presented, of the state of the nation, I do not despair of this country. There are forces in operation which must inevitably work the downfall of slavery. “The arm of the Lord is not shortened,” and the doom of slavery is certain. I, therefore, leave off where I began, with hope. While drawing encouragement from “the Declaration of Independence,” the great principles it contains, and the genius of American Institutions, my spirit is also cheered by the obvious tendencies of the age. Nations do not now stand in the same relation to each other that they did ages ago. No nation can now shut itself up from the surrounding world and trot round in the same old path of its fathers without interference. The time was when such could be done. Long established customs of hurtful character could formerly fence themselves in, and do their evil work with social impunity. Knowledge was then confined and enjoyed by the privileged few, and the multitude walked on in mental darkness. But a change has now come over the affairs of mankind. Walled cities and empires have become unfashionable. The arm of commerce has borne away the gates of the strong city. Intelligence is penetrating the darkest corners of the globe. It makes its pathway over and under the sea, as well as on the earth. Wind, steam, and lightning are its chartered agents. Oceans no longer divide, but link nations together. From Boston to London is now a holiday excursion. Space is comparatively annihilated. -- Thoughts expressed on one side of the Atlantic are distinctly heard on the other.

The far off and almost fabulous Pacific rolls in grandeur at our feet. The Celestial Empire, the mystery of ages, is being solved. The fiat of the Almighty, “Let there be Light,” has not yet spent its force. No abuse, no outrage whether in taste, sport or avarice, can now hide itself from the all-pervading light. The iron shoe, and crippled foot of China must be seen in contrast with nature. Africa must rise and put on her yet unwoven garment. ‘Ethiopia, shall, stretch out her hand unto God.” In the fervent aspirations of William Lloyd Garrison, I say, and let every heart join in saying it:

Frederick Douglass (1994) by Lloyd Lillie. Museum of African American History, Boston & Nantucket

The Life and Writings of Frederick Douglass, Volume II, Pre-Civil War Decade 1850-1860

Philip S. Foner, International Publishers Co., Inc., New York, 1950

Frederick Douglass. National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution (CCO)

32nd Annual Ku

By Tihut Tamrat CONTRIBUTING WRITER

From June 28th to June 30th, the San Diego Urban Warriors, spearheaded by their CEO, Dajahn Blevins, partnered with the Far South Border North to host their 32nd Annual Kuumba Festival. Kuumba Festival celebrates the positive lifestyle changes made over the year, provides cultural resources in the African Market Place, positive powerful healing images, and spiritual celebrations for the entire family. This year the festival focused on Black II Restoration “Reclaiming Our Tools”. The festival featured Black culture, art, and talent, unique exotic vendors, dance showcases, an african drum and dance workshop, encouragement awards, and much more.

On June 28th at 6pm, the “Night of Positive Images” was first, with the opening of the African Market Pace, pre-show entertainment and shopping, and drum call. At 7pm, The Annual Night of African American Heritage commenced with the honoring of ancestors and empowering of the future through the pageantry of the Royal Court, the “Honors Spot Light Ceremony”; ancient Afri-

can history coming to life through the “Parade of the Ancestors”, from ancient Kemet to Paul Cuffe. During intermission, the “Best Dressed Contest” took place, with the award going to the outfit that received a lot of shouts, closing with a dynamic Keynote Speaker, Derrick Banks, on Reclaiming our Tools for Restoration. The room was filled with people of all ages there to witness true African artistry.

The next day, June 29th was the “Day & Night of Positive Challenges”. Mr. Black Culture Art & Talent San Diego opened the African Market Place in

cluding the Youth & Family Challenge Village: a special day of youth and family fun challenges. Next, was the African Martial Arts youth demonstration featuring the art of self defense of Capoeira. Shortly after, Kuumba Kidz Youth Play: The Principle of the Matter, performed on stage through music, dance, and drama. Later

Black Arts and Culture District

By Darrel Wheeler CONTRIBUTING WRITER

From 11AM until 8PM on the last Saturday of this June, music lovers were able to listen to a melody of free music compliments of the San Diego Black Arts and Culture District and their variety of sponsors at MLK Park on Skyline Dr. Event goers were treated to the live sounds of multiple recording artists featuring some of San Diego's finest local talent: Geminelle, Deneen Wilburn, Heartbeat Academy, Lyrical Groove, and Rebecca Jade.

Umbrellas, shade trees, lawn chairs, and coolers is how the cheerful and friendly crowd of concert goers posted up with their family and friends. Attendees were able to choose from a variety of vendors, eat some good food, indulge in some dance-therapy and win gifts and prizes at this year's free Music Festival.

Emotional Depth and Musical Brilliance: ‘The Color Purple’ Resonates Deeply in Every Note

By Tihut Tamrat CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Forgiveness, acceptance, sisterhood, and strong Black women are just a few of the themes “The Color Purple” exudes in this musical about love. In the heart of the theatrical landscape, where stories of triumph and adversity intertwine with soul-stirring melodies, “The Color Purple” reminds us that what we want most in the world is never so far out of our reach as long as we’re able to step into our power. This Broadway gem, adapted from Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, emerges not just as a musical but as a profound narrative of hope and empowerment on display at the Dea Hurston New Village Arts Center in Carlsbad.

Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century rural Georgia, the production unfolds with a rawness that grips the audience from the very first “Sunday Morning”. The play centers around Celie, an illiterate woman scarred by abuse and hardship, unable to break out of servitude to her husband, Mister. The only thing that keeps Celie there is her love for her sister, Nettie,and her not wanting

Nettie to go through the same hardship she did, encouraging her to pursue her dreams of being a schoolteacher. This all changes when Mister is struck with Nettie’s beauty, and in a huge twist of fate, tries to also abuse her, and then sends her far away from Celie, never to return home again—or so we are persuaded to believe.

The play, directed by Kandace Crystal, founded and artistically directed by Kristianne Kurner and produced by Kali Boston depicts the growth, endurance, loyalty, solidarity, and joy of all characters, nurtured by the strength of love. The ensemble’s vocal prowess, infused with blues, jazz,

and gospel originating from the church, serves as a powerful conduit of emotional expression for each character’s story, creating moments of breathtaking unity. From the introspective, “Somebody Gonna Love You”, to the exuberant “Shug Avery Comin’ to Town”, and the emotional tear-jerker, “Color Purple” lead by Celie, Musical Director Leigh Scarritt knew exactly how to get the audience tapping their feet and humming along to the sonically enriching melodies, elevating storytelling to the next level. Other themes of spirituality, resilience, social justice, and female solidarity, were all interwoven in every character, and especially enhanced in Act Two when the perspective lens shifts to discovering the whereabouts of Nettie. The fusion of African culture coupled with graceful choreography by Alyssa “Ajay” Junious,

Hosts

PHOTO: Jason Sullivan/DUPLA

PHOTO: Jason Sullivan/DUPLA

uumba Festival

that evening, “Najite & Olokun Prophecy” put on a concert that included drum, dance, afrobeats music, and celebration, getting everyone off their feet grooving with the music.

June 30th, closing day, was a day filled with spiritual rejuvenation and more uplifting music. The Royal Seasoned Elders Village spoiled

guests that are 60+ with pampering, massages, and special care. Over the course of the three days, guests were treated to fun, entertainment, and traditional African foods ending with the finale, presented by David Dredden & Undefeated, of hand clapping and foot stomping to call upon the spirits to rejuvenate, ending the fun and entertainment-filled weekend.

Hosts First Annual Black Music Festival

seamlessly weaves together powerfully intimate struggles of Black joy and love, existing across bounds of time and space.

“The Color Purple” is not merely a musical; it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It celebrates the power of forgiveness, the strength found in solidarity, and the beauty of individuality. It reminds us that through the character of Shug Avery, we can find our voices and emerge stronger, more compassionate beings. For anyone seeking an unforgettable journey through the depths of human emotion, “The Color Purple” offers an unparalleled theatrical experience that resonates long after the curtain falls —

PHOTOS: Darrel Wheeler

(L to R) Taylor Renee Henderson as Nettie, Nio Russell as Celie. PHOTO: Darren Scott

PHOTO: Jason Sullivan/DUPLA

PHOTOS: Tihut Tamrat

COMMUNITY

World Refugee DayCelebration

By Tihut Tamrat CONTRIBUTING WRITER

On Saturday, June 22, The San Diego Refugee Forum hosted World Refugee Day at Cuyamaca College, a free multicultural community event to celebrate the many diverse cultures that reside here in San Diego.

World Refugee Day, designed to celebrate and honor refugees from around the world, was first established on June 20, 2001 by the United Nations. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees(UN HCR), also known as the UN Agen cy, World Refugee Day is marked each year by a variety of events in many coun tries around the globe in support of refu gees. These activities are led by or involve refugees themselves, government officials, host communities, companies, celebrities, school children, and the general public, among others.

In San Diego this year, World Refugee Day was celebrated with presentations, offered in various languages, from Legal Aid Sociey of San Diego, Survivors of Torture, and the National Conflict Resolution Center, as well as various booths of support, resources, and fun and games for the whole family to enjoy. Entertainment includ ed cultural dances from the countries of Bur ma, Ukraine, and Haiti, with the Karen Orga nization Youth Dance Group, Ukrainian Satur day School: House of Ukraine, and Naurah-Lee “Jane” Joseph Haitian Cultural Dance. Music was also performed by the country of Mex ico with the Mariachi Victoria City Heights School of Music and DJ Music From Around the World.

Kicking off the event, Dr. Jessica Robinson, President of Cuyamaca College, represented by Victoria Marrón, Vice President of Student Services welcomed everyone to Cuyamaca College, and informed us about the rich history of the Kumeyaay, whose land upon which Cuyamaca College sits. The name “Cuyamaca” is a tribute to the land, acknowledging and honoring the people which have lived in the area for thousands of years. Marrón was proud to announce that Cuyamaca College “is the only college in the nation that provides a degree in Kumeyaay studies,” a testament to the Na tive-American immi grant population in San Diego.

Next to follow, Fourth District Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe, gave her remarks on world refugee day, commending the San Diego Refugee Forum, a professional associa tion of organizations that advocates serving all populations fleeing persecution and seeking refuge in San Diego, for all their hard work along with sponsors. Steppe also told of the various resources offered by the county to help aid in this effort, mentioning that as a County Supervisor she’s here, “to help [refugees] seek safety and economic and social inclusion.”

resources to alleviate the burdens of being a refugee in American society.

Reported by the UNHCR, as of June 13 2024, there are a total of 117.3 million people worldwide that were forcefully displaced at the end of 2023 as a result of persecution, conflict, violence, human rights violations, or events seriously disturbing public order. 43.4 million are refugees, 31.6 million refugees under UNHCR’s mandate, 5.8 million other people in need of international protection, and 6 million Palestine refugees under UNRWA’s mandate. 68.3 million are internally displaced and 6.9 are asylum-seekers.

Various organizations that came out in support of refugees included: Survivors of Torture, El Cajon Collaborative, Feeding San Diego, the Health and Human Services Agency, American Red Cross, Live Well San Diego, Molina Healthcare, Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District, World Relief, License to Freedom, San Diego County Foster and Adoptive Family Services, National Conflict Resolution Center, Legal Aid Society of San Diego Immigration Services, and Cuyamaca College, among others.

Each one of these organizations offered something unique and helpful for refugees seeking safety here in San Diego, providing them with

According to the Courthouse News Service in San Diego, a report gathered by the police states, “38% of the reported hate crimes were related to ethnicity.” Refugees, people who have been forced to leave their country in order to escape war, persecution, or natural disaster, are usually of different ethnicity. They face these hate crimes too. These organizations that came together on World Refugee Day are there to prevent hate crimes, and more alike from happening.

Protecting Refugees is a responsibility that we all share, we all can do more to show solidarity, no action is too small!

This resource is supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the

in partnership with the

Safeguard Your Home from Wildfires

As temperatures rise this summer, it’s important to consider safe-guarding your property from wildfires.

Wildfires are the biggest hazard in San Diego County and people should create 100 feet or more of defensible space around their homes and businesses.

Please note that during hot, dry conditions, such as when a red flag warning is issued, people should not attempt to use power tools to clear or reduce brush, as this could spark a fire that can

spread to grass and other brush.

How to Safeguard Your Home or Business:

• C utting grass down to a maximum of 4 inches high.

• Raking up lawn litter such as leaves and pine needles.

• Cleaning gutters of leaves and pine needles.

• Using fire-resistant plants.

• L eaving space between plants.

• Creating “fuel breaks” with gravel walkways, driveways or lawns.

• T hinning and pruning shrubs and tree limbs around your home, business.

• Removing lower tree branches, especially any dead ones.

• M oving flammable items such as wood stacks and propane tanks away from your home or business.

• D isposing of tree trimmings and debris piles quickly.

Six Tips to Preserve and Protect the Outdoors This Summer

Caltrans, Clean California, and California State Parks recommend a few simple tips to help keep public spaces and communities safe and free from litter and debris:

• Pack it in, pack it out. Leave no trace by bringing a trash bag, especially if visiting a remote area. For human waste, the use of waste alleviation gel (WAG) bags or other portable toilet options is recommended.

• Choose reusable over single-use items. Reusable containers keep harmful toxins out of our water and community recreation areas and are more cost-efficient in the long run.

• P ick up small, littered items to make a big impact. Keep an eye

out for bottle caps, food wrappers, cigarette butts, and other small items and be sure to properly dispose of them.

• P roperly dispose of large items, such as pop-up canopies, beach chairs, and coolers. Please haul back broken items and dispose of them properly at a local garbage site.

• Secure your load. Whether you live nearby or are traveling to reach your destination, be sure to properly tarp and tie down items in truck beds, trailers, and boats to ensure items make it to your destination and do not fly out during the trip.

Exercise Safety First When Hiking in the Heat

VOICE & VIEWPOINT

There are hundreds of hiking trails available to San Diego County residents and visitors, but it can be dangerous, and even deadly, to not take the heat into consideration before lacing up your boots.

The County routinely closes parks in remote areas due to excessive heat to protect hikers, but heat can be an issue on any trail. Often, CAL FIRE/San Diego County firefighters and sheriff’s deputies are called to help rescue people who have become ill or injured while on hikes. In 2024 to date, CAL FIRE/San Diego County Fire have responded to 50 hiker rescue/aid calls, though not all were heat-related.

Safety Tips to Help Prepare for Hiking in Warm Weather:

• Choose hikes that are appropriate for your skills and physical condition.

• Stay hydrated.

• Check weather forecasts and be familiar with the terrain for your trail.

• Bring more water than you think you’ll need — and even more water on longer or strenuous trails.

• N on-perishable items like dried fruit, energy bars, trail mix, peanut butter, canned tuna, whole grain crackers and jerky are a perfect, healthy snack.

• D on’t forget your hat and sunglasses.

• D ress in layers of breathable, light-colored, loose-fitting clothes.

• Good boots provide grip in rocky and slippery areas, but they also provide a thick layer of protection from the hot earth.

• Follow posted safety rules.

• P rint out a map of the trail to bring along to stay on track.

• Prevent wildfires and toxic pollution. The hotter and drier climate in the summer makes for optimal conditions for wildfires. Litter adds to this problem, especially cigarette butts, as they can start and fuel the spread of wildfire.

• L et someone know where you will be and when you plan to return.

• Hike with others, never alone.

More tips are available online at CleanCA.com. To find a state park close to you, visit Parks.ca.gov.

• B ring a backpack or bag with food and water, extra sunscreen to reapply and a flashlight, first aid kit, multipurpose tool or knife and a whistle.

• If you start to experience symptoms of heatstroke, stop and find a shady area along the trail where you can rest, drink water and refuel with a healthy snack. If symptoms persist, call 911.

• Leave your dog or dogs at home. This article originally appeared on TheCountyNewsCenter.com.

PHOTO: Courtesy of the County News Center

PHOTO: Courtesy of the County News Center

PHOTO: Pexels

Fictitious

CLASSIFIEDS / LEGAL NOTICES

05/01/2024

This business is hereby Jeremey Francis Hoffmann 33451 Celinda Drive Carlsbad, CA 92008

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on June 20, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on June 20, 2029 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9011553

Fictitious business name(s): Angelica's Cleaning Services

on June 26, 2029 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9013334

Fictitious business name(s): ProspectPro Located at: 11076 Portobelo Drive San Diego, CA 92124 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: An Individual Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the name(s) above

This business is hereby registered by the following: Suzanne Tara Fornario 11076 Portobelo Drive San Diego, CA 92124

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on June 26, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on June 26, 2029 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9009579

Fictitious business name(s):

Atypical Waffle

Located at: 3519 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104

County of San Diego

This business is conducted by:

A Limited Liability Company

The first day of business was: 03/25/2024

This business is hereby registered by the following: Mom Jeans Hospitality, LLC 3519 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104

State of Incorporation/ Organization: California

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on May 03, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on May 03, 2029 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9013298

Fictitious business name(s): BeautyMaestro.com

Located at: 8062 Clairemont Blvd. San Diego, CA 92111 County of San Diego

13521 Mora Circle Poway, CA 92064 County of San Diego

This business is conducted by:

An Individual

The first day of business was: 03/28/2019

This business is hereby registered by the following: Chanik Kim

13521 Mora Circle Poway, CA 92064

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on June 26, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on June 26, 2029 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9012872

Fictitious business name(s): Coastal Catio Consultant

Located at:

3451 Celinda Drive Carlsbad, CA 92008 County of San Diego

This business is conducted by:

An Individual The first day of business was:

Borroel's Cleaning Services

Located at: 5465 Olvera Ave. San Diego, CA 92114 County of San Diego

This business is conducted by:

An Individual Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the name(s) above

This business is hereby registered by the following: Angelica Borroel Ramirez 5465 Olvera Ave. San Diego, CA 92114

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on May 31, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on May 31, 2029 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9012925

Fictitious business name(s): EVAMMA LLC

EVAMMA Retail Store Located at: 1286 University Ave. San Diego, CA 92103 County of San Diego

6725 Parkside Ave. San Diego, CA 92139 County of San Diego

This business is conducted by:

A Limited Liability Company

Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the name(s) above

This business is hereby registered by the following: EVAMMA LLC 6725 Parkside Ave. San Diego, CA 92139 State of Incorporation/ Organization: California

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on June 20, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on June 20, 2029 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9013131

Fictitious business name(s): Hi Tech Lock and Key Located at: 6535 Mission Gorge Rd. San Diego, CA 92120 County of San Diego

This business is conducted by:

A Corporation

The first day of business was: 06/24/2024

This business is hereby registered by the following: Hi Tech Lock and Key 6535 Mission Gorge Rd. San Diego, CA 92120 State of Incorporation/ Organization: California

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on June 24, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on June 24, 2029 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9011209

Fictitious business name(s): Ray Of

to transact business under the name(s) above This business is hereby registered by the following: Kendall Stewart 2831 Camino Del Rio S. #201 San Diego, CA 92108

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on May 28, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on May 28, 2029 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9012838

Fictitious business name(s): Rock Star Garage Located at: 3601 Suffolk Dr. San Diego, CA 92115 County of San Diego This business is conducted by:

An Individual

The first day of business was: 06/18/2024

This business is hereby registered by the following: Thomas Charles Welch 3601 Suffolk Drive San Diego, CA 92115

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on June 18, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on June 18, 2029

6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

2024-9010775

Fictitious business name(s): Vineyard Grant James Located at: 25260 E. Old Julian Hwy. Ramona, CA 92065

County of San Diego

This business is conducted by:

An Individual

The first day of business was: 05/20/2024

This business is hereby registered by the following: Susanne Sapier 25260 E. Old Julian Hwy. Ramona, CA 92065

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on May 21, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on May 21, 2029 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9010993

Fictitious business name(s): Alignment Mental

Health

Located at: 2307 Fenton Pkway, #107 #602 San Diego, CA 92108 County of San Diego

This business is conducted by:

An Individual

The first day of business was: 05/01/2024

This business is hereby registered by the following: Melissa Kirsten McCormick MS. 2307 Fenton Pkway, #107 #602 San Diego, CA 92108 State of Incorporation/ Organization: California

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on June 17, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on June 17, 2029 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

2024-9012520

Fictitious business name(s):

C Star Enterprises

Located at: 3350 E Street San Diego, CA 92102

County of San Diego

This business is conducted by:

A Corporation

The first day of business was: 12/13/2002

This business is hereby registered by the

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on June 14, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on June 14, 2029 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9012521

Fictitious business name(s): Father Joe's Villages Located at:

3350 E Street

San Diego, CA 92102

County of San Diego

This business is conducted by:

A Corporation

The first day of business was: 11/01/1999

This business is hereby registered by the following:

S.V.D.P. Management, INC.

3350 E Street

San Diego, CA 92102

State of Incorporation/ Organization: California

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on June 14, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on June 14, 2029 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9012522

Fictitious business name(s): Village Place Apartments Located at: 3350 E Street San Diego, CA 92102

County of San Diego

This business is conducted by:

A Corporation

The first day of business was: 10/02/2013

This business is hereby registered by the following: S.V.D.P. Management, INC. 3350 E Street San Diego, CA 92102

State of Incorporation/ Organization: California

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on June 14, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on June 14, 2029 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9012527

Fictitious business name(s): Father Joe's Village Located at: 3350 E Street San Diego, CA 92102

County of San Diego

This business is conducted by:

A Corporation

The first day of business was: 08/09/2019

This business is hereby registered by the following: St. Vincent de Paul Village, INC. 3350 E Street San Diego, CA 92102

State of Incorporation/ Organization: California

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on June 14, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on June 14, 2029 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9012530

Fictitious business name(s): Toussaint Academy

Toussaint Academy of San Diego

Toussaint Academy of the Arts and Sciences

Toussaint Academy San Diego Located at: 3350 E Street San Diego, CA 92102 County of San Diego

This business is conducted by: A Corporation

The first day of business was: 04/08/2019

This business is hereby

INC. 3350 E Street San Diego, CA 92102

State of Incorporation/ Organization: California

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on June 14, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on June 14, 2029 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9012529

Fictitious business name(s): Village Health Center Located at: 3350 E Street San Diego, CA 92102

County of San Diego

This business is conducted by: A Corporation The first day of business was: 04/08/2019

This business is hereby registered by the following: St. Vincent de Paul Village, INC. 3350 E Street San Diego, CA 92102

State of Incorporation/ Organization: California

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on June 14, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on June 14, 2029 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9012528

Fictitious business name(s): Joan Kroc Center Located at: 3350 E Street San Diego, CA 92102

County of San Diego

This business is conducted by: A Corporation

The first day of business was: 04/13/2017

This business is hereby registered by the following: St. Vincent de Paul Village, INC. 3350 E Street San Diego, CA 92102

State of Incorporation/ Organization: California

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on June 14, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on June 14, 2029 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9010466

Fictitious business name(s): American Financial Located at: 7825 Fay Ave. Suite 200 La Jolla, CA 92037 County of San Diego 22797 Bayview Avenue Hayward, CA 94541

This business is conducted by: An Individual The first day of business was: 09/12/2000

This business is hereby registered by the following: Teva Perrizo 22797 Bayview Avenue Hayward, CA 94541

State of Incorporation/ Organization: California This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on May 15, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on May 15, 2029 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9012472

Fictitious business name(s): 619 Drone Zone

619 Drone Foundation Located at: 4091 Newton Ave. San Diego, CA 92113 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: An Individual

Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the name(s) above This business is hereby registered by the following: Rachelle Marie Ivy 4091 Newton Ave. San Diego, CA 92113 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on June 13, 2024 This fictitious business name will expire on June 13, 2029 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9011227 Fictitious

This fictitious business name will expire on May 28, 2029 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9012826

Fictitious business name(s): Charles's Mobile Auto Mechanics CMAM Of San Diego Located at: 7784 Cedar Lake Ave. San Diego, CA 92119 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: An Individual The first day of business was: 07/17/2019 This business is hereby registered by the following: Lisma Charles 7784 Cedar Lake Ave. San Diego, CA 92119 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on June 18, 2024 This fictitious business name will expire on June 18, 2029 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9012756

Fictitious

ADVERTISEMENT FOR 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: CC25-0189-05-00-00 REPLACE LIGHTING AT HENRY HIGH SCHOOL AND TEMPORARY LIGHTING AT PORTER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

A mandatory site visit is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024, outside the main office of Porter Elementary School (North Campus), 445 S. 47th Street, San Diego, CA 92113. Upon completion of the first site, contractors shall proceed immediately to Patrick Henry High School , 6702 Wandermere Drive, San Diego, CA 92120. Prime contractors must be present at both sites in order to bid this project. All attendees 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 via PlanetBids before 1:00 p.m. on JULY 25, 2024. Prime contractors interested in submitting a bid must go to tinyurl.com/ SDUSD-PlanetBids then search under “Bid Opportunities” for “Invitation number” CC25-018905-00-00 Replace Lighting at Henry High School and Temporary Lighting at Porter Elementary School. For new vendors, please register under “New Vendor Registration.” The project estimate is between $420,000 and $470,000, inclusive of allowances. This is not a PSA project and does not require 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: C-10, 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 CC25-0189-05-00-00.

06/18/2018

This business is hereby registered by the following: Sambo Mao 739 Baylor Ave. Bonita, CA 91902

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on May 24, 2024 This fictitious business name will expire on May 24, 2029 6/13, 6/20, 6/27, 7/04

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9011934

Fictitious business name(s): Elevated Cleaning Co. Located at: 4671 Home Ave. Apt. 53 San Diego, CA 92105 County of San Diego

This business is conducted by:

An Individual

The first day of business was: 06/06/2024

This business is hereby registered by the following: Becky Diaz 4671 Home Ave. Apt. 53 San Diego, CA 92105

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on June 06, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on June 06, 2029 6/13, 6/20, 6/27, 7/04

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9011708

Fictitious business name(s): Legacy Inspections Located at: 978 Armacost Rd. San Diego, CA 92114

County of San Diego

This business is conducted by:

A Limited Liability Company

The first day of business was: 06/03/2024

This business is hereby registered by the following:

AYM Legacy Home Inspections LLC. 978 Armacost Rd. San Diego, CA 92114

State of Incorporation/ Organization: California

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on June 04, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on June 04, 2029 6/13, 6/20, 6/27, 7/04

7/11

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9010964

Fictitious business name(s):

E W Billing Services Located at: 5116 Palin St. San Diego, CA 92114 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company Registrant

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9010971

Fictitious business name(s): #ExtentionsByLee

Braid Like A CEO

Located at: 6312 Rancho Mission Rd. #219 San Diego, CA 92108 County of San Diego

This business is conducted by:

A Limited Liability Company

The first day of business was: 06/01/2018

This business is hereby registered by the following: #ExtentionsByLee

6312 Rancho Mission Rd. #219 San Diego, CA 92108 State of Incorporation/ Organization: California

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on May 22, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on May 22, 2029 6/13, 6/20, 6/27, 7/04

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9011722

Fictitious business name(s): Native Games Located at: 2287 Dunlop St. #112 San Diego, CA 92111

County of San Diego

This business is conducted by:

A Limited Liability Company

The first day of business was: 12/12/2023

This business is hereby registered by the following:

Breaking Black Ventures LLC P.O. Box 880515 San Diego, CA 92168

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on June 04, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on June 04, 2029 6/13, 6/20, 6/27, 7/04

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9011557

Fictitious business name(s): Baby Girl Snow Cones Located at: 8737 Lake Murray Blvd. Apt. 11 San Diego, CA 92119

County of San Diego

This business is conducted by:

An Individual

The first day of business was: 05/31/2024

This business is hereby registered by the following: Rena Brown 8737 Lake Murray Blvd. Apt. 11 San Diego, CA 92119

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on May 31, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on May 31, 2029 6/13, 6/20, 6/27, 7/04

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2024-9011729

Fictitious business name(s): Arts Landscaping Located at: 760 Rytko St. San Diego, CA 92114

County of San Diego

This business is conducted by:

An Individual

The first day of business was: 10/06/2015 This business is hereby registered by the following: Arturo Gonzalez

760 Rytko St. San Diego, CA 92114

This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on June 04, 2024

This fictitious business name will expire on June 04, 2029 6/13, 6/20, 6/27, 7/04

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA

325 S. Melrose Dr. Vista, CA 92081

North County Division 37-2024-00029611CU-PT-NC

Petitioner or Attorney: Matthew Miller

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

PRESENT NAME: Asher Lawrence Edwards

PROPOSED NAME: Asher Lawrence Miller

THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING

Date: August 09, 2024

Time: 8:30 A.M. Dept. N 25 (To appear remotely, check in advance of the hearing for information about how to do

so on the court's website. To find your court's website go to www.courts.ca.gov/find-mycourt.htm)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 S. Melrose Dr. Vista, CA 92081 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA

330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 Hall of Justice

37-2024-00030253CU-PT-CTL

Petitioner or Attorney:

Sherly Anne Licerio Testado & Jefferson Santos

To All Interested Persons: Petitioner

Sherly Anne Licerio Testado & Jefferson Santos filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

PRESENT NAME: a. Jefferson Santos b. Sherly Anne Licerio Testado

PROPOSED NAME: a. Jefferson Santos Evangelista b. Sherly Anne Licerio Testado Evangelista

THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described

above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING

Date: August 13, 2024 Time: 8:30 A.M. Dept. C-61

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The address of the court is: 330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA 1100 Union St. San Diego, CA 92101

Superior Court of California County of San Diego Central Courthouse 37-2024-00029061CU-PT-CTL Petitioner or Attorney: Benjamin John McConkie

To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Benjamin John McConkie filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

PRESENT NAME: Benjamin John McConkie

PROPOSED NAME: Benjamin John Killpack

THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING

Date: August 06, 2024

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

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

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

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

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: 1100 Union St. San Diego, CA 92101 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA

330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101

Hall of Justice Courthouse

37-2024-00028119CU-PT-CTL

Petitioner or Attorney: Diemtrang Thi Pham; Thanh Phong Vo on of minor child

To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Diemtrang Thi Pham; Thanh Phong Vo on of minor child filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

PRESENT NAME: a. Anhthu Vo Pham b. Tiep Khac Pham

PROPOSED NAME: a. Amyla Anh Thu Vo b. Jayden Tiep Vo

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: July 30, 2024 Time: 8:30 A.M. Dept. C-61

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

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

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

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

may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING Date: July 17, 2024 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)

(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

6/13, 6/20, 6/27, 7/04

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA

325 South Melrose Drive Vista, CA 92081 North County Regional Center

37-2024-00026162CU-PT-NC

Petitioner or Attorney: Julia Alix Curtiss

To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Julia Alix Curtiss filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

PRESENT NAME: Julia Alix Curtiss

PROPOSED NAME: Julia Alix Lord

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: July 12, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Changing Name and Order

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

A certified copy of Decree

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

Changing Name and Order

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

If all the requirements have

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

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

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

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

The address of the court is:

325 South Melrose Drive Vista, CA 92081 6/13, 6/20, 6/27, 7/04

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA

330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 Central

37-2024-00026166CU-PT-CTL

Petitioner or Attorney: Faye Ying Zhu

To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Faye Ying Zhu filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

PRESENT NAME: Faye Ying Zhu

PROPOSED NAME: Faye Angel

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: July 18, 2024 Time: 8:30 A.M. Dept. C-61

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

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

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

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

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

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

A certified copy of Decree

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

Changing Name and Order

Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance

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

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

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

A RESPONDENT

OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE MUST FILE A WRITTEN

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

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

The address of the court is: 330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 6/13, 6/20, 6/27, 7/04

SUMMONS

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO 500 3rd Ave. Chula Vista, CA 91910

Petition For Dissolution (Divorce) of: Marriage Case Number: PETITIONER: Kiara Renae Woods

RESPONDENT: Carlos Raul DiazMendez

1. LEGAL RELATIONSHIP: We are married

2. RESIDENCE REQUIREMENTS: Petitioner has been a resident of this state for at least six months and of this county for at least three months immediately preceding the filing of this Petition. (For a divorce, unless you are in the legal relationship described in 1b., at least one of you must comply with this requirement.)

3. STATISTICAL FACTS

(1)Date of marriage (specify): December 22, 2019

(2)Date of separation (specify): August 31, 2020

(3)Time from date of marriage to date of separation (specify): 9 months

4. MINOR CHILDREN There are no minor children

5. LEGAL GROUNDS (Family Code sections 22002210, 2310-2312): a. Divorce of the marriage or domestic partnership based on 1.irreconcilable differences

8. SPOUSAL OR DOMESTIC PARTNER SUPPORT

b. Terminate (end) the court's ability to award support to Petitioner & Respondent

9. SEPARATE PROPERTY Confirm as separate property the assets and debts in Property Declaration (form FL -160)

10. COMMUNITY AND QUASI- COMMUNITY PROPERTY

b. Determine rights to community and quasicommunity assets and debts. All such assets and debts are listed in Property Declaration (form FL -160)

Date Filed: September 28, 2023

8:oo AM

By: J. Rennen, Deputy

SUMMONS (Family Law)

NOTICE TO RESPONDENT (AVISO

Petitioner's name:

(Nombre del demandante): Kiara Renae Woods

Case Number:

You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and Petition are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the petitioner. A letter or phone call will not protect you.

If you do not file your Response on time, the court may make orders affecting your marriage or domestic partnership, your property, and custody of your children. You may be ordered to pay support and attorney fees and costs.

For legal advice, contact a lawyer immediately. Get help finding a lawyer at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www. courts.ca.gov/selfhelp), at the California Legal Services website (www.lawhelpca.org) or by contacting your local county bar association.

NOTICE-RESTRAINING

ORDERS ARE ON PAGE 2:

These restraining orders are effective against both spouses or domestic partners until the petition is dismissed, a judgment is entered, or the court makes further orders. They are enforceable anywhere in California by any law enforcement officer who has received or seen a copy of them.

FEE WAIVER: If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the clerk for a fee waiver form. The court may order you to pay back all or part of the fees and costs that the court waived for you or the other party.

Tiene 30 días de calendario después de haber recibido la entrega legal de esta Citación y Petición para presentar una Respuesta (formularlo FL -120) ante la corte y efectuar la entrega legal de una copia al demandante. Una carta o llamada telefónica o una audiencia de la corte no basta para protegerlo.

Si no presenta su Respuesta a tiempo, la corte puede dar órdenes que afecten su matrimonio o pareja de hecho, sus bienes y la custodia de sus hijos. La corte también le puede ordenar que pague manutención, y honorarios y costos legales.

Para asesoramiento legal, póngase en contacto de inmediato con un abogado. Puede obtener información para encontrar un abogado en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www.sucorte. ca.gov), en el sitio web de los Servicios Legales de California (www. lawhelpca.org) poniéndose en contacto con el colegio de abogados de su condado.

AVIS-LAS ÓRDENES DE RESTRICCIÓN SE ENCUENTRAN EN LA PÁGINA 2: Las órdenes de restricción están en vigencia en cuanto a ambos cónyuges o miembros de la pareja de hecho hasta que se despida la petición, se emita un fallo o la corte dé otras órdenes. Cualquier agencia del orden público que haya recibido o visto una copia de estas órdenes puede hacerlas acatar en cualquier lugar de California.

EXENCIÓN DE CUOTAS: Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación, pida al secretario un formulario de exención de cuotas. La corte puede ordenar que usted pague, ya sea en parte o por completo, las cuotas y costos de la corte previamente exentos a petición de usted o de la otra parte.

The name and address of the court is:

(El nombre y dirección de la corte son): Superior Court of California, County of Chula Vista 500 3rd Ave. Chula Vista, CA 91910

The name, address, and telephone number of the petitioner's attorney, or petitioner without an attorney, are:

(El nombre, la dirección y número de teléfono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante que no tiene abogado, son): Kiara Renae Woods 400 E. H St. Apt. 1512

Chula Vista, CA 91910

T: (559) 371-5122

Date: (Fecha): 09/28/2023

Clerk, by (Secretario) J. Rennen 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO 1100 Union St. San Diego, CA 92101

Central Division Central Courthouse

Petition For Dissolution (Divorce) of: Marriage Case Number: 22FL010863C

PETITIONER: Angela Catreese Carrillo

RESPONDENT: Antonio Camillo Cecena

1. LEGAL RELATIONSHIP:

a. We are married

2. RESIDENCE REQUIREMENTS:

a. Petitioner has been a resident of this state for at least six months and of this county for at least three months immediately preceding the filing of this Petition. (For a divorce, unless you are in the legal relationship described in 1b., at least one of you must comply with this requirement.)

3. STATISTICAL FACTS

a. (1) Date of marriage (specify): April 20, 1996 (2) Date of separation (specify): 2006

(3) Time from date of marriage to date of separation (specify): 10 years

4. MINOR CHILDREN

a. There are no minor children

5. LEGAL GROUNDS (Family Code sections 22002210, 2310-2312):

a. Divorce of the marriage or domestic partnership based on 1. irreconcilable differences

8. SPOUSAL OR DOMESTIC PARTNER

SUPPORT

b. Terminate (end) the court's ability to award support to Petitioner & Respondent

9. SEPARATE PROPERTY

a. There are no such assets or debts that I know of to be confirmed by the court.

10. COMMUNITY AND QUASI- COMMUNITY PROPERTY

a. There are no such assets or debts that I know of to be divided by the court.

Date Filed: September 16, 2022

By: K. Angulo, Deputy 6/20, 6/27, 7/04, 7/11

IN 1881

BOOKER T WASHINGTON FOUNDS THE TUSKEGEE INSTITUTE

Booker T. Washington, born April 5, 1856, was an educator and reformer, the first president and principal developer of Tuskegee Normal and Industrial Institute, and the most influential spokesman for Black Americans between 1895 and 1915.

In 1881, July 4th, Washington opened a newly established normal school for African Americans at Tuskegee, believing that the best interests of Black people in the post-Reconstruction era was education in the crafts and industrial skills. He included this curriculum in the institute and urged Blacks to cultivate their industrial and farming skills so as to attain economic security. At his death 34 years later, it had more than 100 wellequipped buildings, 1,500 students, a faculty of nearly 200 teaching 38 trades and professions, and an endowment of approximately $2 million.

1910

JACK JOHNSON DEFENDS HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Jack Johnson, first Black Heavyweight Champion, defended his heavyweight against James J. Jeffries. The fight took place on July 4, 1910, in front of nearly 20,000 people, at a ring in downtown Reno, Nevada. By the 15th round, after Jeffries had been knocked down twice for the first time in his career, Jeffries’ corner threw in the towel to end the fight.

Johnson later remarked he knew the fight was over in the 4th round when he landed an uppercut and saw the look on Jeffries's face, stating, “I knew what that look meant. The old ship was sinking.”

ARTICLE CONTINUATION BLACK HISTORY

children

Continued from page 3

Across seventeen states (and counting), legislation has been introduced to embrace the principles supported by the National Reading Panel and other literacy experts. Now, California stands poised to follow suit. The Black Parallel School Board fully supported Assembly Bill 2222 (Rubio), which introduced legislation in February 2024 requiring all California public elementary schools use evidence-based reading instructional materials and train educators on providing evidence-based early literacy instruction.

Unfortunately, the 2024 version of the bill died in the Assembly without a hearing. We will again support the 2025 version of the bill because the cause is too important. Our children deserve nothing less.

Learning to read is a civil right.

WOMEN

Continued from page 3

Despite educational achievement, Black Women still find themselves making less than their White and Asian female counterparts with the same education. These expenses cripple their ability to save, invest, or gain economic stability, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and financial insecurity. Black women in California face significant housing challenges, particularly in the rental market. Black women in California face the highest unemployment rates among women at over 6%. They are also disproportionately represented in low-wage service jobs. Compared to their White and Asian peers. Black Women only represent 4% of executive positions in the top 100 companies in California.

Educational attainment further complicates this picture, with only 13% of Black women holding a least a bachelor’s degree, which only represents 4% of all women. The entrepreneurial landscape is no more encouraging. Black women own just 7.7% of women-led businesses in California.

Healthcare access is yet another hurdle. Economic disparities significantly impact the health of Black women. Many Black women are employed in low-wage jobs that do not offer employer-sponsored health insurance, which exacerbates their health vulnerabilities. In addition, Black women often face barriers that complicate their pregnancies and birthing experiences resulting in a three times higher mortality rate when trying to have children.

The picture is not always gloomy. Black Women have seen strides on the political front. We have more than 100 Black Women serving in elected office throughout the state and at various levels. California leads the nation with four Black Women in Congress (although that will change after the November elections).

The roadmap to improving the lives and health of Black women must include closing the wage and wealth gap; supporting entrepreneurship with tailored financial and mentorship support to foster scalable, sustainable business ventures; expanding educational opportunities through scholarships and targeted support programs to address the unique challenges faced by Black females from Pre-K to higher education; improving health access by focusing on barriers to access to high quality care without causing financial hardship; and addressing housing affordability with specialized housing assistance programs particularly for single income families.

The time for real change is now. The state of California, along with its educational institutions, businesses, and community organizations, as well as policymakers, philanthropy and labor must collaborate to dismantle the barriers that Black women face. Investing in Black women is investing in the future of California, promoting a prosperous, fulfilling life for all its residents. Kellie Todd Griffin is the President & CEO of

CHURCH DIRECTORY

OBITUARIES

Sylvia Jeannette

Billingslea

SUNRISE 01/20/1968

05/25/2024

ARRANGEMENTS BY PREFERRED CREMATION & BURIAL

Sylvia Jeannette Billingslea was born on January 20, 1968, to Erlinda Cortez and Dorian Billingslea in Detroit, Michigan. She moved with her family to San Diego as a young girl, where she lived the rest of her years.

Blessed with a beautiful voice, Sylvia loved to sing and dance and had the most vibrant personality. Her laugh was infectious and she was always the life of the party. She cared deeply, loved deeply, and always gave whatever she could.

Sylvia met and then married Michael Andrew Jackson on June 12, 2012, and this union continued until her passing on May 25, 2024.

Sylvia will truly be missed as she has left behind her husband Michael A. Jackson (San Diego, CA), her sons; Carlton Billingslea (Wendy) of Billings, MT, Jordon Billingslea of Spokane, WA, and Mario Billingslea, brothers; Steve Billingslea (Tiffany) of San Diego, CA, and Daniel Billingslea (Tonya) of Perris, CA, sister LaLenia McClaron (Terrence) of San Diego, CA, and 8 nieces and

May Time Soften Your Pain

In times of darkness, love sees…

In times of silence, love hears...

In times of doubt, love hopes…

In times of sorrow, love heals...

And in all times, love remembers.

May time soften the pain

Until all that remains

Is the warmth of the memories And the love.

Dr. Robert Delwin Kirk

ARRANGEMENTS BY PREFERRED CREMATION & BURIAL

Dr. Robert Anderson was born on July 1, 1937. He lived a life deeply rooted in faith and spiritual growth. His dedication to his calling to serve others had a profound impact on the apostolic community.

Known for his meticulous and methodical approach, Dr. Anderson engaged in a lifelong pursuit of true understanding. His love for learning was evident in his vast library, which boasted an impressive collection of over 5,000 books. Dr. Anderson’s commitment to teaching was unparalleled. He devoted no less than 20 hours a week to studying biblical texts, encyclopedias, and references, ensuring a thorough breakdown and comprehension of the context.

Dr. Anderson dedicated himself to imparting biblical knowledge and guiding others in their spiritual journeys. For a remarkable span of over 40 years, he served as a teacher in various capacities. Recognizing his expertise, Bishop Charles E. Taylor entrusted Dr. Anderson with teaching the esteemed Senior Adult class. Among his students were revered figures such as Mother Skinner, Mother Lowe, Mother Ivy Robinson, and Mother Maud Reed. Later, Dr. Anderson took on the responsibility of mentoring aspiring Apostolic Pastors, leading the ministers’ class and imparting his teachings to future generations who would carry on his legacy.

In his role as a teacher of ministry classes, Dr. Anderson had the privilege of mentoring and guiding numerous individuals who would go on to become influential Apostolic Pastors in their own right. Among the pastors who benefited from his teachings are well-known names such as Bishop Benson, Bishop Bowser, Pastor Brunson, Elder Johnson, Elder Rickett, Bishop McGriff, Pastor Franks, Pastor Williams, and many others. These pastors, who have made significant contributions to the apostolic community, were fortunate to have learned from Dr. Anderson’s wealth of knowledge and wisdom.

Dr. Anderson’s passion for teaching extended beyond the confines of the classroom. He generously shared his expertise in Homiletics and Hermeneutics, the art of preaching, by teaching at Aenon Bible College. Through his dedicated instruction, he equipped aspiring preachers with the necessary skills and techniques to effectively deliver sermons that resonate with congregations and convey the divine message.

Dr. Anderson faithfully taught Bible classes, using his extensive knowledge and deep understanding of scripture to enlighten and inspire his students. His passion for sharing the teachings of the Bible extended beyond the classroom as he also devoted his time to teaching Sunday school, nurturing the faith of young minds and instilling in them the values of love, compassion, and righteousness.

Dr. Anderson was called home on June 4, 2024. He wil be deeply missed.

09/17/1958

06/04/2024

ARRANGEMENTS BY PREFERRED CREMATION & BURIAL

Delwin Kirk Glover, loving referred to as “D.K”, was born on September 17, 1958, at Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla, California. He was the third of six children to John and Bertha Glover. He grew up in the Southeast San Diego Skyline neighborhood and attended Valencia Park Elementary and O’Farrell Junior High School before graduating from Morse High School in 1976.

Delwin enjoyed being a member of the ROTC during his high school years. His commitment to service led him to the Marine Corps 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, where he served from June 24, 1976, to June 27, 1980, at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC), also known as 29 Palms—the largest U.S. Marine Corps base. As a Lance Corporal, Delwin Glover was trained as a Motarman and earned both the Rifle Marksman Badge and the Good Conduct Medal. His tours included MCRD, Okinawa, Japan; 29 Palms, California; and Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. He continued his service to his country in the Marine Corps Reserve Forces with an honorable discharge in 1982.

Beyond his military service, Delwin had a passion for the San Francisco 49ers football team and enjoyed playing video games. Whether in downtown San Diego or Mission Valley, he loved going out to catch a movie or visit bars and restaurants for music, food, or sports. Dancing brought him joy, and he relished dressing up for special occasions. After leaving the Marines, Delwin pursued higher education at City College, earning his AA degree while playing football. He also earned his Associate Degree in Nursing at Merritt College and worked as a nurse. He cherished moments at the beach, concerts, and the simple pleasure of a good cigar. His loyal companion was his beloved dog. On June 4, 2024, Delwin was called to rest.

He was preceded in death by his parents; Johnny L.C. Glover and Bertha Mae Glover, as well as his brother-in-law Kenneth Woods Sr. Delwin leaves behind a legacy cherished by his siblings; Lawrence Glover, Kathy Woods, Anita Mitchell, Johnny Glover Jr., and Eric Glover, his sister-in-laws; Dottie Glover, Barbara Glover, Tina Castro, and Sandi Glover, aunt Carolyn Riley, nephews and nieces; Darcel Glover, Lisa Glover, La’Roi Glover Sr., Spring Glover, Kanita Glover, Kenneth Woods Jr., Robert Mitchell Jr., Ashauntaye Mitchell, James Mitchell III, JuNae Glover, Michael Mason, Desi Mason, Langston GloverCastro, Maya Glover-Castro and Jeremy McKee, and a host of great-nephews, great-nieces, cousins, and dear friends.

May Delwin Kirk “D.K.” Glover rest in peace, leaving behind a legacy of service, love, laughter, and cherished moments.

Memories Build a Special Bridge

Our memories build a special bridge when loved ones have to part to help us feel we’re with them still and sooth a grieving heart.

Our memories span the years we shared, preserving ties that bind, They build a special bridge of love and bring us peace of mind.

Emily Matthews

I get up every day and take a breath. And start another day without you in it.

To Honour You

By Connie F. Kiefer Byrd

To honour you... I laugh and love with those who knew your smile And the way your eyes twinkled with mischief and secret knowledge. To honour you... I take the time to appreciate everyone I love, I know now there is no guarantee of days or hours spent in their presence.

To honour you... I listen to music you would have liked, And sing at the top of my lungs, with the windows rolled down

To honour you... I take chances, say what I feel, hold nothing back, Risk making a fool of myself, dance every dance. You were my light, my heart, my gift of love, from the very highest source. So every day, I vow to make a difference, share a smile, live, laugh and love. Now I live for us both, so all I do, I do to honour you.

California’s Small Businesses to Become Stronger, Greener With Climate Funding

By Lila Brown California Black Media

The state of California, in conjunction with the federal government, has allocated millions of dollars for small businesses in California to help them become greener and to strengthen their resilience to climate change.

of the resources.”

To identify what it would take to help businesses like Perry’s Joint, The Center by Lendistry, a non-profit focused on helping to close the racial wealth gap by connecting small businesses to financial and other resources, has launched a new effort.

However, many Black business owners across California say there is an information gap -- they have never heard of those climatefocused grants and other funding opportunities.

“In my community, we struggle to access information about available programs. Historically, by the time we hear about these opportunities, the funds are usually all gone, or the programs have ended, said Perry Bennett, the owner of Perry’s Joint, a “handcrafted gourmet sandwich shop” in Pasadena.

“We are always eager to grow our businesses, but we just don’t know what's available. I've been in business for 30 years, and the cost of doing business has only increased,” Bennett added. “We want to use energy-efficient equipment, but we are a momand-pop operation. Help us out. We don’t even have the resources to take advantage

In partnership with the City of Pasadena's Economic Development Division, The Center by Lendistry hosted a ‘Small Business Green Survey Crawl’ in Northwest Pasadena on May 30.

Small teams of volunteers visited local businesses to survey their efforts and challenges in becoming more resilient to climate impacts.

The Center by Lendistry’s efforts in Pasadena are part of a larger movement by local cities and municipalities, nonprofit organizations (Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) to ensure that Black businesses and other minority-owned enterprises are not left behind as America and the world transition to a green economy.

The Center volunteers assessed awareness and accessibility of existing programs that assist businesses in improving energy efficiency and upgrading equipment. The information collected will help The Center and the City to create strategies to ensure small businesses benefit from federal, state, and local programs designed to support climate resiliency.

Northwest Pasadena was selected for the Crawl because it is the only area in Pasadena designated as a California Disadvantaged Community

If you’re hesitant to buy a home right now due to high interest rates, you can use this time to learn how interest rates work, and to take steps to secure a lower interest rate when you are ready to buy.

Defining Mortgage Rates

A mortgage rate is the interest rate you pay on the money you borrow to buy your house, and a lower rate increases your purchasing power. Even a small difference in your interest rate can make a big difference in your payments over the life of your loan. That’s why it’s important to watch mortgage rates closely when house hunting.

Lenders set a mortgage rate for each individual based on several factors, including current market rates and individual credit history.

Improving Your Loan Application

Boosting your credit score is one of the best ways to improve your chances of qualifying for a loan and lowering

by the state. This historically Black neighborhood and its distinct commercial districts is home to a diverse range of minority- and women-owned businesses, including both legacy establishments and emerging enterprises.

This year, the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began distributing funds from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF). GGRF is a $27 billion federal program to address the climate crisis. The fund will use financing and private capital to support clean energy and climate projects that reduce pollution, with a focus on benefiting low-income and disadvantaged communities.

Climate change poses significant challenges for small businesses, including damage from extreme weather events and financial losses. Regulatory compliance with new environmental standards often requires costly upgrades, and limited access to capital for resilience investments makes it difficult for small businesses to thrive.

Early survey results from the Crawl show that small business owners want to make their buildings more energy efficient but find it challenging to do so.

the interest rate you are offered. Some proactive steps you can take to build and maintain your credit include:

• Making payments on time.

• Using as little of your credit limit as possible.

• P aying the full amount due, or at least more than the minimum amount due, on your credit cards.

• Opening and maintaining credit accounts in your own name.

• Keeping only a few credit cards or credit accounts open.

• Paying down debts.

tal burdens.

“By prioritizing these communities for climate resilience funding and support, we are working to reverse decades of inequity and ensure that the benefits of the green economy are equitably distributed,” read a statement from the Center.

“The insights from the 'Green Survey Crawl' in Pasadena will inform strategies and programs that can be replicated in communities not only in the state, but across the country, amplifying the impact of our work.”

“I’m constantly looking for ways to cut back. I looked into solar but the program I found only allows you to put in enough panels to deal with the current load. I couldn’t cover the whole roof,” one Pasadena business owner who asked to be anonymous shared.

The Center also recently partnered with the City of San Fernando to extend climate resilience support and resources to local businesses.

The Center is also supportive of Blue Sky Center of Cuyama Valley located in rural north Santa Barbara County. That project is actively engaged in several resilience projects. Their cutting-edge hydro panels pilot project delivers pure drinking water from the air, bypassing the need for groundwater or bottled water deliveries. This initiative not only tackles environmental concerns but also aims to empower residents in a drought-affected community, reducing utility bills, upgrading homes, and ensuring a dependable source of clean drinking water.

Advocates say Black communities throughout California have historically faced disproportionate environmen -

• Reviewing your credit reports annually.

• Disputing inaccuracies in your credit report.

• Trying to have credit inquiries made strategically within a limited time period when comparison shopping for mortgages and loans.

Lenders will also look at your debtto-income (DTI) ratio when making a decision about your loan application, as

it is an important marker of your overall financial health. As a guideline, your monthly debt-to-income ratio should be 33% to 36% or less.

Shopping Around

If you’re in the market to buy a home, watch mortgage rates carefully. And when you are ready to buy, don’t take the first mortgage offered. Be sure to shop around and ask about opportunities to secure a lower rate.

Statepoint

Perry Bennett, owner, Perry’s Joint PHOTO: Courtesy of CBM

PHOTO: Pexels

Tunua Thrash-Ntuk, President & CEO of The Center by Lendistry, speaks with a small business owner during the Small Business Crawl. PHOTO: Lila Brown/CBM