VOICE Issue April 30, 2020

Inland Southern California’s News Weekly

April 30, 2020 Volume 47 | Issue 41 theievoice.com

COVID-19, the 2020 Census and Risks of Undercounting People of Color

theievoice.com | APRIL 30, 2020 | VOICE Inside: California Drivers Should Get 50% Premium Refund During State Lockdown, Says Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara

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It’s Time to Get Off the Sidelines and Get in the Game PAULETTE BROWN-HINDS, PhD Publisher S.E. WILLIAMS Editor SUSAN MORRIS General Manager / Controller MARLA A. MATIME Project Director CHRIS ALLEN Creative Director CHUCK BIBBS Digital Director ALEXANDER BROWN-HINDS Social Media HASSAN BROOKS Distribution MONICA VICUNA VOICE Cares HARDY & CHERYL BROWN Co-Publishers Emeritus CONTRIBUTORS Gary Montgomery, Dr. Ernest Levister, Dr. Joseph Bailey, Jordan Brown, Benoit Malphettes, Kathy Malphettes, Laura Klure CONTACT US To submit an article, become a subscriber, advertiser, sponsor, or partner please contact the general manager at 951.682.6070 or email suzie@ voicemediaventures.com.

ESTABLISHED 1972

Voice Media Ventures Post Office Box 912 Riverside, California 92502 (951) 682-6070 Published every Thursday and distributed throughout the Inland Empire Adjudicated, a legal newspaper of general circulation on July 8, 1974 Case # 108890 by the Superior Court of Riverside County. Stories published do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Member of: National Newspaper Publishers Association, California Black Media and California News Publishers Association

“We can and must move U.S. politics forward by means of committed participation.” - Paul Wellstone ometimes it is challenging to ‘keep it real’ change—at least among our and still have your voice heard when, national representatives in as reporters, we now compete with so much Congress—who too often disinformation filling every communications lose focus on the needs of channel open to the public 24 hours a day. Yet, those who voted them into we must persist in our efforts. office and instead, place the During this time, when stress levels are majority of their attention elevated, uncertainty abounds and fear hovers on the wants and desires over the nation like a low-hanging cloud, citizens of their funders and party are hungry to break through the usual biased leaders. rhetoric in order to glean pearls of credible The two political parties are now about to information about square off as they the COVID-19 prepare to consider pandemic essential whether to provide to keeping emergency funding themselves and to assist cities and their families safe. states during this One hoped, unprecedented during this crisis, crisis. the president’s daily Even before “press” briefings the onset of on the status of the COVID-19, there nation’s response were a sprinkling of to the pandemic cities in the inland would be a source of region wrestling truth, and to some with tight budget extent, comfort. Yet, many among my peers who considerations and now, most cities are being courageously suffered through a few of them, stretched daily. To hear Republican Senate have turned away, feeling—for lack of a better leader, Mitch McConnell, proclaim, “I would term—unsettled. certainly be in favor of allowing states to use There continues to be brutal criticism of the the bankruptcy route. It’s saved some cities, and White House daily briefings and I am almost there’s no good reason for it not to be available,” certain few would argue with me regarding how was unsettling. the president has strayed in his presentation Certainly, citizens in the City of San from the realm of Huh? What did he say? To Bernardino can bear witness to the bankruptcy HUH!? WHAT DID HE SAY!? process being “no cakewalk.” Having recently Many have learned to take the president’s survived bankruptcy, those who made the tough bizarre ramblings with a grain of salt and decisions to lay some city employees off to protect look to the experts—doctors, scientists and essential service workers like firefighters, police, researchers—to guide their thinking through emergency medical technicians, etc., may still this crisis. feel the sting of those decisions; but certainly The good news here in the inland region— not as intensely as those who were laid off. and more broadly in the state of California—is McConnell has made his position known on we have a team of elected officials who appear this issue, calling any effort to send emergency to be working with earnest sincerity in the best dollars to states and municipalities as a “Blue” interest of their constituents during these trying state bailout. times.

Let us be clear, California contributes more It also appears however, this may be about to continued on page 17

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Debt Collectors Prevented From Garnishing Federal Stimulus Funds Sacramento - Effective immediately and retroactively, debt collectors are now prevented from garnishing federal stimulus dollars in California.

The newly signed executive order applies to most residents except those owing child support and/or alimony.

California Governor Gavin Newsom declared, "The executive order denies the ability for debt collectors to garnish your CARES Act dollars.”

Newsom continued, “It's also retroactive. So, if you are a debt collector, and you did garnish those checks, you have got to give them back."

On Thursday, April 23, 2020 the governor also announced the implementation of a “90-day forbearance period” on student loan debt has successfully negotiated with 21 of the 24 largest, student loan agencies in the state. Under the agreement, the governor explained, there will be no late fees or fines. In addition, borrowers’ credit scores will not be impacted.

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Limited Re-Opening of Parks and Other Recreational Areas San Bernardino

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his weekend parks, trails, rivers, lakes, and recreation areas— including parking lots—will reopen in San Bernardino County.

Under the limited reopening, golf, tennis, hiking, biking, boating and other non-contact outdoor activities will be permitted; however, the use of face masks and social distancing is required.

Beyond the use of face masks, the cautious re-opening includes some limitations. For example, members of one household engaging in open space is allowable, but two households in the same space means you have a gathering, which is not allowed.

The use of picnic tables and playgrounds, along with participation in team sports or other similar gatherings, continue to be prohibited to help reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19.

It is also important to note the restrooms at these locations will not be open for use. Camping, outdoor parties and BBQs are also not allowed. In most cases.

San Bernardino Board Chairman Curt Hagman advised, “Facilities will be re-opened gradually in order to properly staff and adequately maintain safe social distancing practices.” He continued on page 17

Calico Ghost Town Regional Park (Photo courtesy of San Bernardino County Regional Parks)

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Self-Employed in the IE Still Waiting to File for Unemployment Assistance House Passes Latest

COVID-19 Relief Package for Small Businesses

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ore than a month ago Governor Gavin Newsom closed all non-essential businesses in California. The state’s Employment Development Department was soon flooded with unemployment claims and continues working to keep pace with demand. One group of workers not included in the current backlog are the thousands of Californians who are self-employed. Like other Californians, many self-employed workers have been unable to work since the governor closed the state to all nonessential businesses on March 19. Unlike others in the state however, their claims will have to wait—at least, for now.

The CARES Act signed by President Donald Trump in late March included funding for unemployment benefits for those, like the self-employed, who are not usually eligible for regular state Unemployment Insurance benefits.

The legislation’s Pandemic Unemployment

Assistance Program (PUA) authorized the payment of benefits to self-employed workers who have lost income due to COVID-19. The 39 weeks of benefits authorized can be paid retroactively to February 2, 2020, however the online application portal will not be up and running until Tuesday, April 28, 2020., In the meantime—these individuals and their families continue waiting for a lifeline. For additional information about the Pandemic

Washington, DC – The U.S. House of Representatives followed the Senate in passing the lasted COVID-19 relief package. The Paycheck Protection Program and Healthcare Enhancement Act authorizes $484 billion in additional federal funding to support small businesses, hospitals and healthcare workers, and a national testing strategy. The legislation includes $310 billion to strengthen the small business Paycheck Protection Program and give more small businesses the ability to apply.

“I have heard from small business owners in Riverside County who are struggling and who were unable to receive any help after funds allocated for the Paycheck Protection Program ran dry,” said Rep. Mark Takano (D-CA) representing parts of Riverside County. “I have heard from small business owners who applied to access these funds to no avail, and then we learned that big banks prioritized their wealthy and well-connected corporate clients instead of the true small businesses that need our help right now.”

Takano stressed the importance of big banks being held accountable for disbursing these loans in a fair and inclusive way—however, until there is transparent oversight, many will continue to question the impartiality of this process.

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Black Men Wearing Coronavirus Masks Could Exacerbate Racial Profiling

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earing a mask to protect yourself during the Coronavirus-19 pandemic can protect you from disease, but the sad truth is, those masks can’t protect you from racism.

The CDC's guidance on wearing masks outside comes with an added burden for minorities. If you’re a person of color, you can’t just wear a mask.

Many people of color, particularly Black men, had grown accustomed, well before the coronavirus outbreak, to adjusting the way they present themselves in public so they don’t appear threatening to law enforcement or their white peers.

Yet, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recent guidance that all Americans should wear “cloth face coverings” outside to curb the spread of COVID-19, came with added considerations and fears that makeshift masks, especially bandanas, could intensify already widespread racial profiling in communities of color.

From walking with their pets and children, to only wearing medical masks, to forgoing masks all together, Black Americans, who have been

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disproportionately affected by the global pandemic and others, are taking precautions to ensure that following the CDC’s recommendation doesn’t put them at further risk.

According to Mark Anthony Neal, chair of the department of African and African American studies at Duke University, bandanas have historically been associated with violence against people of color and wearing certain colors “in the wrong context” has gotten people killed.

These fears about wearing homemade masks come as government data shows the outbreak is more concentrated in major US metropolitan areas, like New York City and in the Southeast, where greater percentages of African Americans and Latinos live.

Anxiety about mask-wearing is yet another factor complicating COVID-19’s already devastating impact in America’s Black communities. The lopsided death toll is likely due to longstanding healthcare inequalities, higher population density and other factors that have made Black and other minority continued on page 17

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Additional Hotel Rooms for Vulnerable Homeless Sacramento

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overnor Gavin Newsom announced Saturday California is continuing to acquire hotel rooms to house the homeless during the COVID-19 pandemic and it is moving closer to its goal of providing 16,000 rooms to get vulnerable people off the street.

Newsom explained at least 4,200 people have been moved out of shelters and off the streets into motel rooms and took the opportunity to scold leaders of unnamed cities for blocking efforts to house the homeless.

"Please consider the morality of those decisions, consider the moment we're in, and the ethical question you're being called and asked upon, consider your station in life and in history. All of us will be judged," The program to house the homeless during the current pandemic— Project Roomkey—was officially launched by the governor almost three weeks ago—the federal government is funding about 75 percent of the cost associated with this effort. Homeless people who test positive for COVID-19, those who may have been exposed to the virus, older people and those with underlying health conditions are eligible to participate in this initiative.

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U.S. Supreme Court to Hear Oral Arguments by Phone During COVID-19 Shutdown S.E. Williams Contributor

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he U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear oral arguments by telephone in ten cases previously postponed due to COVID-19.

Now, for the first time in the Court’s history, it has agreed to the live audio feeds being publicly available in real time.

The Court previously refused to allow video coverage or live audio of oral arguments.

Historically, recordings of the arguments were not placed on the Court’s website until the end of each week. The only exception to this process involved a limited number of high-profile cases, over the years, where the Court released the audio recording the same day.

The Brennan Center for Justice noted how, in years past, the Court has given several reasons for being open to live streaming arguments; including the possibility that some listeners might get the wrong impression from hearing various justices play devil’s advocate as attorneys presented their cases.

Among the cases the Court will hear remotely in May are cases that involve President Trump’s financial records and Chiafalo v. Washington, a case on “faithless electors.”

A “faithless elector” is someone who cast his/her electoral vote for someone other than the candidate of the party that they pledged to vote for; or who abstains from voting altogether.

The petitioner in this case is claiming, “[A] state has no power to legally enforce how a presidential elector casts his or her ballot and a state penalizing an elector for exercising his or her constitutional discretion to vote violates the First Amendment.”

Thirty-two (32) states, including California, have state laws regarding “Faithless Electors.”

Unlike some other states however, there is no penalty in California if an elector chooses to violate it.

The Chiaflo v. Washington case is significant because electors are expected to vote for their party’s presidential nominee, if he or she wins their state. Historically, however, there has always been a limited number of “Faithless Electors” who have voted different from their

parties as a form of protest.

For example, in 2016, a notable number of “Faithless Electors,” did not vote the party line— five Democrats did not vote for Hillary Clinton and two Republicans did not vote for Donald Trump. Also, three other Democrats who tried to defect were prevented from doing so by the laws in their states.

The problem with “faithless electors” is in a future election, where the race is very tight

and enough of them decide to defect, it could conceivably impact the outcome of the election.

The nonprofit organization, Fix the Court, recently polled 1,000 Americans and 71 percent of the respondents supported the Supreme Court justices convening remotely to hear oral arguments during the COVID-19 pandemic; and at least 61 percent supported televising the arguments.

Moreno Valley Leaders Act to Protect Renters

Moreno Valley, CA – On Tuesday April 21, 2020, Mayor Yxstian Gutierrez and members of the Moreno Valley City Council took action to protect residential and commercial tenants, in their community, currently having trouble paying rent on time due to the coronavirus crisis. Gutierrez led the council in adopting provisions detailed in an Executive Order signed by the governor which placed a moratorium on evictions and built on them. The council voted to forbid the charging of interest, fees or penalties for non-payment or late payment of rent.

Reasons deemed acceptable for late or non-payments by the city include sickness due to a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19; service as a caregiver to a household or family member sick with a confirmed or suspected case; a lay-off, loss of hours or other income reduction due to the pandemic; or a tenant’s need to miss work to care for a child whose school was closed in response to COVID-19. The resolution, retroactive to March 27, 2020, is scheduled to remain in effect through May 31, 2020.

“We want to make sure no one gets penalized when rent can’t be paid specifically because of coronavirus,” Gutierrez explained. “This crisis is beyond anyone’s ability to control.”

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California Drivers Should Get 50% Premium Refund During State Lockdown, Says Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara Sunita Sohrabji Contributor

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rivers should get a 50- to 70 percent refund on their auto insurance premium for the duration of California’s shelterin-place mandate, said state Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara on April 22.

"We feel 50- to 70 percent is fair,” Lara told reporters at a briefing organized by Ethnic Media Services. “You should be getting more of a refund because, frankly, you’re not driving.”

On April 13 Lara ordered the state’s auto insurance companies to refund premiums to drivers at least for April, and possibly May, if California continues its stay-at-home order.

According to a statement released by his office, Lara’s order extended to six types of insurance: private passenger automobile, commercial automobile, workers' compensation, commercial multiperil, commercial liability, medical malpractice, and any other insurance in which the risk of loss has fallen substantially because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“With Californians driving fewer miles and many businesses closed due to the COVID-19 emergency, consumers need relief from premiums that no longer reflect their presentday risk of accident or loss,” Lara said as he introduced the order. “Today's mandatory action will put money back in people’s pockets when they need it most.”

Some companies subsequently issued refunds or credits of 15- to 20 percent, but the insurance commissioner believes companies must go further: Risks have been dramatically reduced as the state’s roads remain far more untraveled.

Lara encouraged people who have lost their jobs to ask their auto insurance carriers to delay payments of premiums for up to two months.

To get help with such calls, people can call his office at 1 (800) 927-4357, where his staff speak multiple languages. His office also has asked insurance carriers to allow a 60-day grace period for paying premiums during California’s shelter-in-place mandate and even beyond, as the state re-opens its economy in stages.

State Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara

Lara has also asked insurance companies to extend coverage to drivers making deliveries with their personal cars. Typically, personal auto insurance does not cover those who use their cars for commercial purposes.

At the briefing, the state insurance commissioner — the son of undocumented parents — spoke about how immigrant workers benefit the nation’s economy.

“The broader community is finally realizing how essential they are,” said Lara, noting undocumented workers’ contributions to food production, processing, delivery, warehouse work and similar services. “Leaders across the country are recognizing the value of immigrant workers. We have demonstrated in our state that the sky doesn’t fall when you incorporate everyone into our economy.”

Lara added that the United States must “get (undocumented workers) out of the shadows, incorporate them into our economy as quickly

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as possible, and get their kids into school. Our economy will grow by embracing our immigrant community, rather than scapegoating them.”

In California, one out of every 10 workers is undocumented according to the Public Policy Institute of California. The Pew Research Center reports the state’s labor force includes about 1.75 million undocumented immigrants, the largest number of whom live in Los Angeles and Santa Clara counties.

Although undocumented workers were denied the $1,200 federal stimulus check mandated by Congress’ first COVID-19 relief package, here in California Governor Gavin Newsom announced a $125 million relief package for undocumented workers on April 16, the first of its kind in the nation.

Lara encouraged immigrant workers to apply for workers compensation if they become infected with COVID-19 on the job. He noted

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COVID-19, the 2020 Census and Risks of Undercounting People of Color S.E. Williams Contributor

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aximum participation in the 2020 Census is essential for the future of this region. Both counties have crossed the color line, meaning people of color are now the majority demographic in the inland region; however, people of color are historically undercounted in the decennial census.

Consider the undercounts in the 2010 Census—Blacks, Hispanics, American Indians and Asians were all undercounted by notable margins. The African American population alone in California was undercounted by 2.1 percent that year.

Such significant undercounts not only hurt people of color; they rob their broader

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F E A T U R E communities of access to much needed federal appropriations as a result. Looking to the future and considering the impact COVID-19 is having overall, it is even more important for every person to complete. This is because communities will be scrambling to recover from the economic devastation the virus has caused when the current crisis is over and most federal programs allocate funding based on Census data.

Estimates completed by George Washington Institute of Public Policy, Professor Andrew Reamer noted during 2017, about $1.5 trillion of federal spending was allocated based on the census.

Reamer explained to the Brennan Center for Justice how difficult it would be to quantify loss of funding due to the undercounting of African Americans (and other communities of color), even using a crude calculation like “dividing all that federal money per member of the

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planners however, an international pandemic loomed on the horizon that has since brought the nation to its knees, and in the process, threatened to derail community outreach efforts focused on encouraging participation in the 2020 Census process. However, organizers, census workers, church pastors, community leaders and others remain committed to this effort.

As 2020 Census employee Jennifer Simpson of Hemet told the IE Voice/Black Voice News recently, “Since we can’t go door to door right now, we are calling people on the telephone.

Once I explain to people how we need them to complete the census and be counted because when they don’t, we lose out on federal dollars coming to our community,” those who haven’t already done so, promise to complete it.

Simpson is correct in her explanation.

According to experts, data from the census is used—under normal conditions—to determine

in relation to a specific region. So, to have it applied nationally is unparalleled. The president subsequently declared major disasters for the states of California, New York and Washington, also under the Stafford Act. Responding to the coronavirus, Congress has authorized well over two trillion dollars through several stimulus bills to provide resources and business support.

Part of the approved funding, $150 billion, is being dispersed under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. According to the Tax Foundation, other than the eight billion dollars of that money set aside for tribal governments and the minimum $1.25 billion guaranteed to each state regardless of population size, the remaining CARES dollars are being allocated to state and local governments across the country by population— in other words, the allocation is based on census

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“By participating in the Census, you’re strengthening your community’s future.”

population.” Even based on such rough analysis Reamer valued the completion of every census form at roughly $4,000. In other words, every census form not completed costs the community in the long run.

For more than a year, leading to the 2020 Census and continuing to today and through its completion, there is an ongoing, organized and concerted effort in communities of color across the country by elected officials, minority leaders, community organizers, nonprofits, churches, the media and others, to ensure a complete and accurate 2020 Census count.

The goal is to reduce the undercounts projected to occur in 2020. For example, the Urban Institute estimated African Americans could be undercounted between 1.1 million and 1.7 million people.

Unbeknownst to 2020 Census organizers and

- The Brennan Center for Justice how the federal government allocates nearly half a trillion dollars in federal funds to state and local governments. These dollars are used for programs like Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, Head Start, programs for seniors, as well as highway planning and construction, to name a few.

Yet, this is only part of how the government uses census data.

During national disasters and emergencies like the nation is currently experiencing with the COVID-19 Pandemic, a president will typically declare a State of Emergency under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, as President Donald J. Trump did, in response to the current circumstances on March 13, 2020. Such declarations are normally

data.

In addition, the CARES Act includes a provision making local governments with populations of 500,000 or more also eligible for aid. These municipalities can claim 45 percent of the state allocation and the state maintains control of the remaining 55 percent.

The Tax Foundation lists the CARES Act allocation for California as $15.3 billion. For Riverside County, the amount is $431.1 million and for San Bernardino County, $380.4 million. A list of allocations for other qualifying municipalities in the state is available here.

Again, this demonstrates how important it is for everyone in the community to be counted.

No less than fifty-two data sets, according to experts at George Washington University, are continued on page 13

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2020 Point-In-Time Yields Disappointing Results S.E. Williams Contributor

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he San Bernardino annual Point in Time Homeless Count for 2020 occurred January 23, 2020.

The results revealed a 19.9 percent increase in the county’s homeless population compared to the 2019 count, when 2,607 people were found to be homeless. This year the number totaled 3,125, and of those 518 additional homeless over the previous year, 470 were unsheltered while the 48 additional who were sheltered were temporarily housed in shelters, motels or through some other form of transitional housing.

In addressing the county’s growing homeless crisis, Vice Chair of the county Board and Third District Supervisor Josie Gonzales said, “Our efforts to end homelessness must remain a top priority county wide.”

Adding, “Yes. These numbers are disheartening; but, the Point-In-Time Count data is the realistic key to helping us adjust our strategies to combat this pervasive problem.”

Gonzales explained how the data gives county officials the evidence of the actual state of homelessness, and serves as the impetus for them to be innovative in their plans to provide the needed wraparound services and housing while, “Aggressively going after any and all funding available that

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will enable them to get individuals and families—especially those at high risk—off the streets.”

Gonzales also expressed appreciation to those who facilitated this year’s Point-In-Time count. “I am especially grateful to all of the cities, the San Bernardino County Sheriff Department’s Homeless Outreach Proactive Enforcement (H.O.P.E.) Team and the volunteers for their participation and dedication to Point-In-Time year after year,” she proclaimed.

This was the second year San Bernardino County used ESRI Survey 123 for ArcGIS technology to gather the homeless data real-time. Nearly 600 volunteers used targeted mapping provided by H.O.P.E. to identify homeless encampments, to connect with the homeless and to conduct the online interviews.

Data from the interviews identified how many persons became homeless for the first time during the 12 months preceding the count, as well as those who have a life-threatening health condition, and/or were released from jail or prison in the last year.

The team conducted 1,517 interviews and found a total of 434 continued on page 16

F E A T U R E derived from the Census and used to guide the geographic distribution of federal funding. The American Community Survey also plays a big role in supplying data down to the neighborhood level.

Herein lies the connection between participation in the census, the grievous historical undercounting of people of color and the overall relationship between these issues and the current COVID-19 crisis.

Across the country, African Americans are succumbing to COVID-19 in alarming numbers.

These communities, many already dealing with socio-economic circumstances most conducive to the underlying health conditions, which leaves so many of them vulnerable to COVID-19. Their plight is further exacerbated by the high numbers employed in the kinds of jobs that preclude one’s ability to work from home, thus placing them more at risk for contracting the virus. Not being counted in the 2020 Census could once again shortchange these communities of the resources they will needed to recover.

Never has being counted—or should I say not being counted—had the potential to cost

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communities more than in this moment. The 2020 Census provides a ‘once in every ten years’ opportunity to set the record straight, by everyone in a community standing up and being counted.

There are so many reasons members of minority communities shy away from the census and much of it has to do with mistrust of the government. There are, however, federal laws to protect individuals in this regard. The law provides strong and detailed protections against any and everyone, including the federal government, from abusing/misusing information collected by the Census Bureau.

In the meantime, the economy is upside down, millions of people are out of work, the healthcare system is taxed beyond capacity in many places, and people—especially Black people, Brown people and the elderly—are dying in unbelievable numbers. For example, African Americans are six percent of the population in California and to date, account for 12 percent of COVID-19 deaths in the state.

Participation in the 2020 Census will determine the future of communities across the

country for the next decade. Unless everyone— especially people of color—are fully counted, communities will forgo millions if not billions of dollars in federal funding that could be misallocated for another decade, away from the communities that need it most. And in the process, limiting a better quality of life outcome for future generations.

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classifieds&publicnotices VEHICLE SALE NOTICE OF SALE OF VEHICLE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to Section 3071 of the Civil Code of the State of California.

The undersigned will sell the following vehicle(s) at lien sale at said time(s) on: 05/08/2020 AT: 10AM Make/Yr. 2012 DODGE Lic.: 8LGV807 Vin. 3C4PDCBG1CT336178 Location: 1046 E. CALIFORNIA ST. ONTARIO, CA Said sale is for the purpose of satisfying lien of the undersigned for towing, storage, labor, materials, and lien charges, together with costs of advertising and expenses of sale. p. 4/30//2020 ______________________________ NOTICE OF SALE OF VEHICLE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to Section 3071 of the Civil Code of the State of California.

The undersigned will sell the following vehicle(s) at lien sale at said time(s) on: 05/11/2020 AT: 10AM Make/Yr. 2014 NISSAN

Vin. 3N1AB7APXEY227375 Location: 17007 KITCHING, MORENO VALLEY, CA Said sale is for the purpose of satisfying lien of the undersigned for towing, storage, labor, materials, and lien charges, together with costs of advertising and expenses of sale. p. 4/30//2020 ______________________________ NOTICE OF SALE OF VEHICLE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to Section 3071 of the Civil Code of the State of California.

The undersigned will sell the following vehicle(s) at lien sale at said time(s) on: 05/11/2020 AT: 10AM Make/Yr. 2015 JEEP Vin. 1C4RJEAG7FC668382 Lic: 7KZB094 Location: 190 N MAIN ST, RIVERSIDE, CA Said sale is for the purpose of satisfying lien of the undersigned for towing, storage, labor, materials, and lien charges, together with costs of advertising and expenses of sale. p. 4/30//2020 _______________________________

__ PUBLIC NOTICES RECORDING REQUESTED BY Premium Title of California AND WHEN RECORDED MAIL TO: Western Progressive, LLC Northpark Town Center 1000 Abernathy Rd NE; Bldg 400, Suite 200 Atlanta, GA 30328 _____________________________ SPACE ABOVE THIS LINE FOR RECORDER'S USE T.S. No.: 2019-02159-CA

A.P.N.:437-142-009-0 Property Address: 570 South Camino Los Banos, San Jacinto, CA 92583 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE PURSUANT TO CIVIL CODE § 2923.3(a) and (d), THE SUMMARY OF INFORMATION REFERRED TO BELOW IS NOT ATTACHED TO THE RECORDED COPY OF THIS DOCUMENT BUT ONLY TO THE COPIES PROVIDED TO THE

TRUSTOR. NOTE: THERE IS A SUMMARY OF THE INFORMATION IN THIS DOCUMENT ATTACHED IMPORTANT NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 11/01/2006. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. Trustor: ROSA CIBRIAN, A Widow Duly Appointed Trustee: Western Progressive, LLC Deed of Trust Recorded 11/16/2006 as Instrument No. 2006-0848287 in book ---, page--- and of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Riverside County, California, Date of Sale: 06/03/2020 at 09:30 AM Place of Sale: T H E BOTTOM OF THE STAIRWAY TO

THE BUILDING LOCATED AT 849 W. SIXTH STREET, CORONA, CA 92882 Estimated amount of unpaid balance, reasonably estimated costs and other charges: $ 307,672.96 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE THE TRUSTEE WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH, CASHIER’S CHECK DRAWN ON A STATE OR NATIONAL BANK, A CHECK DRAWN

BY A STATE OR FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, OR A CHECK DRAWN BY A STATE OR FEDERAL SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATION, A SAVINGS ASSOCIATION OR SAVINGS BANK SPECIFIED IN SECTION 5102 OF THE FINANCIAL CODE AND AUTHORIZED TO DO BUSINESS IN THIS STATE: All right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described as: More fully described in said Deed of

Trust.

Street Address or other common designation of real property: 570 South Camino Los Banos, San Jacinto, CA 92583 A.P.N.: 437-142-009-0 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above.

The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, under the terms of said Deed of Trust, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale is:

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publicnotices $ 307,672.96.

Note: Because the Beneficiary reserves the right to bid less than the total debt owed, it is possible that at the time of the sale the opening bid may be less than the total debt.

If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee, and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse.

The beneficiary of the Deed of Trust has executed and delivered to the undersigned a written request to commence foreclosure, and the undersigned caused a Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property is located.

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself.

Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on this property.

NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (866)-960-8299 or visit this Internet Web site http://www. altisource.com/MortgageServices/ D e f a u l t M a n a g e m e n t / TrusteeServices.aspx using the file number assigned to this case 2019-02159-CA. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to

verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale.

Date: April 3, 2020 Western Progressive, LLC, as Trustee for beneficiary C/o 1500 Palma Drive, Suite 237 Ventura, CA 93003 Sale Information Line: (866) 960-8299 http://www.altisource. com/MortgageServices/ D e f a u l t M a n a g e m e n t / TrusteeServices.aspx _________________________________ Trustee Sale Assistant WESTERN PROGRESSIVE, LLC MAY BE ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. p. 4/16, 4/23, 4/30/2020 _________________________________ FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAMES The following persons) is (are) doing business as: NEW GENERATION ROOFING EQUIPMENT RENTALS 82375 Market St Indio, CA 92201 RIVERSIDE COUNTY 81110 Paludosa Dr Indio, CA 92201 Benjamin – Martinez Jr 81110 Paludosa Dr Indio, CA 92201 Ricky – Acosta 81110 Paludosa Dr Indio, CA 92201 This business is conducted by: General Partnership Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above.

I declare that all the information in this statement is true and correct.

(A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code, that the registrant knows to be false, is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1000) s. Benjamin – Martinez Jr The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (sec. 1440 et. seq. b &p code) Statement was filed with the County of Riverside on 03/17/2020 I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office.

NOTICEIn accordance with subdivision (a) of section 17920, a fictitious business name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except, as provided in subdivision (b) of section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A new fictitious business

name statement must be filed before the expiration. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 et seq., business and professions code).

I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office.

Peter Aldana, County Clerk, FILE NO. R-202004073 p. 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30/2020 _________________________________ The following persons) is (are) doing business as: WHATLEY STRATEGIES 1243 Columbia Avenue, Suite B-4 Riverside, CA 92507 RIVERSIDE COUNTY Rebecca Ann Whatley 3243 Brockton Avenue Riverside, CA 92501 This business is conducted by: Individual Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above.

I declare that all the information in this statement is true and correct.

(A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code, that the registrant knows to be false, is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1000) s. Rebecca Ann Whatley The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (sec. 1440 et. seq. b &p code) Statement was filed with the County of Riverside on 03/13/2020 I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office.

NOTICEIn accordance with subdivision (a) of section 17920, a fictitious business name statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the county clerk, except, as provided in subdivision (b) of section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before the expiration. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 et seq., business and professions code).

I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office.

Peter Aldana, County Clerk, FILE NO. R-202003919 p. 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30/2020

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Community Foundation Announces New Name, New Logo San Bernardino

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he nonprofit Community Foundation, which serves both Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, has a new name, logo, and website, www.iegives.org.

Just as the Foundation prepared to launch its new look, however, the nation was struck by COVID-19.

“COVID-19 struck, and suddenly people found themselves out of work and struggling to feed and protect their families,” said the Foundation’s President & CEO Michelle Decker. “We informed our donors and supporters of our change around the holidays, but we hadn’t done much promotion externally because the website wasn’t ready.”

Responding to the Pandemic, Decker explained how the organization worked fast to complete its transition because they know how critical online platforms are for raising much needed dollars to help families living in San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, including the Coachella Valley.

The Community Foundation is now the Inland Empire Community Foundation (IECF).

The organization’s new identity reflects its ongoing work to strengthen communities in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties alongside its community of generous donors.

According to Decker, IECF manages charitable assets of nearly $113 million from more than 394 funds.

Community foundations, like IECF, are built for responding to crisis situations Decker explained, because they know where the help is needed and how to get it there. As such, the Foundation established the IECF COVID-19 Resilience Fund to respond to COVID-19.

To date, the IECF COVID-19 Resilience Fund has raised $350,000 from local donations and major corporate partners to address the negative impacts of COVID-19 on our region’s nonprofits and vulnerable populations. Donations can be made online here: www.iegives.org/ covid-19.

IECF is also managing the IE Funders Alliance Rapid Response Fund created in collaboration with the IE Funders Alliance of Riverside & San Bernardino Counties. To date it has secured $825,000 from local and regional funding partners, and most recently distributed $482,500 to 36 local nonprofit organizations working on the frontlines of the pandemic.

For more information and/or to make an online donation, visit Inland Empire Community Foundation’s website at www.iegives.org.

2020 Point-In-time, continued from page 12

individuals or 28.6 percent were homeless for the first time; 310 or 20.4 percent have a chronic health condition, and 346 of the respondents or 22.8 percent were recently released from jail or prison.

The data further revealed a human services crisis with certain high-risk homeless populations like seniors, where the county recorded a 95 percent increase of homeless individuals over the age of 55 since 2017. According to the Chair of the Point-In-Time Committee Kent Paxton, many of these homeless seniors have life-

threatening health conditions.

“We must have long-term housing solutions for those who are most vulnerable,” he declared.

The county has compiled a list of 11 recommendations to address homelessness in the area rooted in the responses received during the homeless interviews. The recommendations are broad in scope and range from recognizing homelessness as a human services crisis and using a wide range of services to mitigate issues that lead to individuals being homeless; to creating a Strike Force Team to treat factors

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leading to the physical and mental decline of the homeless population; to increasing Rapid Rehousing assistance—including a focus on households living in vehicles.

Despite the county’s discouraging homeless numbers this year, it has made progress in some areas related to homelessness including permanently housing 1,295 veterans since announcing its initiative on homeless veterans in July 2016; and since 2017, 463 chronically homeless people with mental illness were successfully housed by the county.

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SB County Parks, continued from page 5

further asked that residents check in advance with any facility you plan to visit to confirm operational hours and procedures.

To learn more about COVID-19 decisions and updates in San Bernardino County visit http:// sbcovid19.com or call the county’s COVID-19 hotline at (909) 387-3911 for general—not medical—information and resources about the virus. The hotline is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Riverside County issued a similar order opening parks, golf clubs, hiking trails, etc. on Monday, April 20.

Additional Hotel Rooms, continued from page 6

To date, the governor has secured 11,000 rooms and Motel 6 recently committed to provide an additional 5,000 rooms in 19 counties.

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the Trump administration’s public charge enforcement has scared away many immigrants from applying for benefits to which they are entitled. Workers should also advocate for personal protective equipment at their job sites, he said, and they should call his office if adequate protections aren’t provided.

K E E P I N G in federal tax dollars than any other state in the union. What makes McConnell’s comments so galling is the state he represents, Kentucky, is rated the fifth (5th) most dependent state in the nation. This makes his ‘let them eat cake’ type comment about “Blue” states not only disingenuous, it also flies in the face of bipartisan efforts to date regarding the COVID-19 crisis including efforts to date by Congress to act in the best interest of the country over party.

The question now becomes what will the House Representatives from the inland region do? Some are Democrat and the expectation is they will fight to secure funding support for this region; others are Republican, who will be called upon to make a hard choice. Will they follow the dictates of their leader McConnell, or will they vote in the best interest of their community… our community?

It is still relatively early in the legislative process related to this and there is time to let our representatives in both parties know what we expect on this issue. It is important not to assume they will do the right thing and/or vote the right way when the time comes. We all know what happens when we assume.

R E A L

We should engage with this issue early on.

Everyone is encouraged to reach out to our U.S. Senators and Congressional representatives by email or telephone as frequently as possible until this is settled. These are unprecedented times and we expect our legislators to do the right thing for our state, our cities, our communities, our families and ourselves.

Contact Senator Kamala Harris’ office at (202) 224-3553 or email at www.harris.senate. gov/contact; You can email Senator Dianne Feinstein at www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/ index.cfm/e-mail-me or reach her office by phone at (202) 224-3841. You can reach out to your Congressional representative via the Congressional switchboard at (202) 224-3121; or enter your zip code here to confirm your representative’s name and get a direct telephone number to his/her office. ‘We the people’ have a lot of work to do as the country continues to move through this crisis.

Of course, this is just my opinion, I’m keeping it real.

S.E. Williams Editor Forced to Wait, continued from page 5

Unemployment Assistance Program visit edd.ca.gov/about_edd/coronavirus-2019/ pandemic-unemployment-assistance.htm.

Sunita Sohrabji reports for California’s Ethnic Media Services.

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communities more vulnerable to the outbreak.

The pattern that we’re observing with COVID-19 is not surprising. The degree of the difference is great concern.

While many American cities remain under varying states of lockdown, the time will eventually come for a gradual return to normal.

Some people are worried that, if mask-wearing remains part of everyday life, it could result in a spike in racially-motivated incidents as more people are out together in public again.

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Surgeries on Hold Due to COVID-19, May Soon Resume

S.E. Williams Contributor

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alifornians, whose surgeries were put on hold to accommodate hospitals’ anticipated surge in patients due to COVID-19, may soon get calls from their healthcare providers to reschedule.

On Wednesday, April 22, 2020, Governor Gavin Newsom gave a green light for hospitals to resume surgeries such as heart valve replacements, angioplasty and tumor removals, and other key preventive care services, such as colonoscopies, etc.

Newsom said his decision was based on progress the state has made toward preparing California hospitals and health systems to handle the influx of COVID-19 patients, one of the six critical indicators he deemed necessary as part of his six-point strategy before he will authorize reopening the state.

Some, however, like longtime Beaumont resident Alicia H. Christian, who had her hysterectomy procedure placed on hold due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, shared with the IE Voice/Black Voice News, why she questions whether the governor was acting too soon.

“We are still getting new cases in Riverside County,” she pointed out.

“Will there be a second wave?” she questioned. “I agree that the most critical patients should have surgeries, if you have a heart condition,

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cancer, etc.” She affirmed, but went on to stress her belief, “The surgeries that can wait, should.

California is part of a Western State Pact with Washington and Oregon, committed to sharing best practices on how to allow hospitals and medical providers to resume delayed medical care in areas that have sufficient hospital capacity, while also ensuring the safety and health of healthcare workers and patients. The governors of the three states previously shared how they are mutually committed to a science-based vision for gradually reopening their economies and controlling COVID-19 into the future.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis, Newsom has held his decisions for the state will be guided by science, not politics, and that Californians’ health comes first. “Thanks to the work our health care delivery system has done expanding hospital capacity and reducing the rate of spread of COVID-19, hospitals and health systems can consider resuming medical care that residents have delayed during this crisis . . . when such care can be delivered safely and with appropriate protections for health care workers.”

He concluded, “It’s in the best interest of the overall health of our state to allow these procedures to resume when they can be done safely.”

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