Central
stay connected: visit us on facebook • twitter • Pinterest
a unifying factor in the valley communities
Valley Voice a monthly minority publication
website: centralvalleyvoice.com
MARCH 2016
HE IS RISEN
Unifying Factor In The Valley’s Community
MJC Presents Eddings First African American “Black In America: Supervisor For Merced Court A Continuing Clerk Traffic Division Conversation” (Modesto, CA) – The Modesto Junior College Civic Engagement Project (CEP) invites the community to “Black in America: A Continuing Conversation” on Thursday, March 31 at 7 p.m. in Forum 110 on East Campus, 435 College Avenue, Modesto. The free event is part of the CEP Spring Film and Lecture Series. Campus parking is available for $2 in student parking lots. This conversation continues last semester’s discussion about the difficulties faced by young African-American men, especially given the growing tensions in today’s society between the po-
lice and communities of color. Based on the questions received from the audience at last semester’s event, community panel members will discuss specific issues related to accountability, implied bias, stress and trauma of policing events on minority citizens, law enforcement policies and procedures, and the role of the community. For more information on MJC’s Civic Engagement Project or the Spring Film and Lecture Series, contact Jason Wohlstadter, professor of English, at wohlstadterj@mjc.edu.
E&J AUTO REPAIR
Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
(209)725-0185
710 W. 14th St Merced, CA 95340
MORE THAN 15 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
SMOG CHECK COUPON
$
Gas & Deisel
26 75
PASS OR FREE RE-TEST
+ CERTIFICATE
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID 95340 PERMIT NO. 990
March is Women History Month and we salute Deana Eddings. Deana is the first African American female Supervising Merced County Court Clerk Traffic Division.
To Subscribe Today Call: (209) 357-3718 or Email Us: cvalleyvoice@sbcglobal.net
INSIDE PAGE
2 MARCH 2016
Merced County Parent Institute Conference By Charlotte L. Blevins Parents, Grandparents, Guardians and Caregivers, joined together at Golden Valley High school in Merced, CA on Saturday, February 27, 2016. The purpose of the Conference was to refine Natural Leadership Skills. This event provided the tools and resources to become change agents, addressing issues that impact the education, health, safety and development of children and youth, which will ultimately result in a healthier community. Elizabeth “Liz “Diaz was the guest speaker of the parent institution, she is currently Public Defender for Fresno County, with over 24 years of experience. Jim White, Former Coach of McFarland High School along with brothers David, and Danny Diaz, started the Cross Country Program at the McFarland High. David and Danny Diaz are brothers and former cross country runners. Their unlikely story of athletic and personal success was captured in the 2015 Disney film “McFarland, USA.” They still work in the fields; however, they are the owners, they farm almonds and now have their children run cross country. This event inspired and calls
attention to the important role you play in the lives of children, youth and the community. Workshops included: Stress Management Training, A Healthy Lifestyle for Success!, Computer/ Chrome books; using technology to enhance student learning; Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual and Transgender (LGBT) Youth in Merced County, Children’s Safety through Active Transportation, Parenting Style and Parent-Child (Teen) Connectedness, Homelessness Affects Families and Children, Silly Slime Science and the Art of Communication. Rosa Barragan chaired the parent institute, for more information for next year’s event; please call Rosa Barragan or Sol Rivas at (209) 381- 6793. Pictured above are former members of the McFarland High School Cross Country team, Danny Diaz, left, David Diaz, center, and Coach Jim White.
The Diaz Brothers shared their story and encouraged the Children and their families to “Dream Big”
www.mercedtilesupply.com
Merced Tile Supply has been in business since 1980 and with well over 50 years of combined experience we are confident we can assist you with all of your tile and stone needs.
JANITORIAL SERVICES & SUPPLIES FULLY STOCKED SHOWROOM • EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES EVERYTHING FOR YOUR CLEANING NEEDS!
• Dusters • Buffer Pads • Tissue • Brushes
• Bathroom Cleaners • Fresheners • Floor Wax • Window Cleaners • Brooms & Mops • Floor Stripper • Water Stain Remover
MAID SERVICE
• Window Washing • Wall Washing • Bathrooms • Carpet Cleaning • Stoves • Vacuuming & Much More!
• Buckets • All Purpose Cleaners & Much, Much More!
$AVE!! DO IT YOURSELF RENTALS • CARPET MACHINES • BUFFERS
Call for FREE Estimates!
Serving Merced County Since 1977
WARD ENTERPRISES
OPEN: MON. - FRI. 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
SERVICES & SUPPLIES
209.358.0445
2679 N. Buhach Rd. • Atwater, CA email: wenter8115@att.net
(Corner of Buhach/Bellevue Rd)
• Natural Stone • Granite • Ceramic • Porclelain Much More...
Visit Our Showroom Contact or Visit Us! Phone: 209.383.5448
Fax: 209-383-0549
3797 N. Hwy 59 • Merced, CA 95348
Issues & Views
CENTRAL VALLEY VOICE.COM 3
Poll Of Community Influencers Highlights Priorities And Mood Of Latino Voters In Primary Season WASHINGTON, D.C.—NCLR (National Council of La Raza), as part of its Latino Voter Summit held in Washington, D.C., released results of a poll of Latino community leaders conducted by Latino Decisions and sponsored by Telemundo. The findings were released during a Capitol Hill forum titled “Voices from Latino Community Influencers: Taking the Pulse of the Latino Vote,” featuring opening remarks by Sen. Robert Menendez (D– NJ) and a panel of community leaders from Ohio, Florida and Pennsylvania, three critical battleground states. Poll participants were part of NCLR’s Latino Voter Summit, which brought together 250 community influencers from 25 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, who are conducting nonpartisan voter engagement activities in their communities. Blanca Guillén-Woods, Senior Analyst and Evaluation Specialist at Latino Decisions, Central Valley Voice is published monthly
Felicia D.Roberts Publisher
Views expressed by writers, columnists and stories printed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of Central Valley Voice newspapers. Only when indicated as Central Valley Voice's or editorial views can it be interpreted as the views of this publication. The editorial team of Central Valley Voice reserves the right to edit, cut or piece any article, letter, statement, poem, report, ads, quotes and all other materials submitted before printing. Editorial Team Charlotte Marcelli Contributer/Photographers Greg Savage Charlotte L. Blevins Kelly Thomas Lisa Coelho
P.O. Box 1298 Winton, CA 95388 (209) 357-3718 Send your comments to:
cvalleyvoice@sbcglobal.net website:centralvalleyvoice.com
Serving Merced, Stanislaus, Madera and San Joaquin Counties
Since 1991
presented the poll findings: • Immigration reform was identified as the top issue, followed by education, economy/ jobs, health care, and race relations. • 72% think Washington lawmakers are doing a bad job in taking the Latino community perspective into account when they pass laws and debate the issues. • 71% think English-language media does a bad job at taking the Latino community perspective into account when they report on the issues. •86% think Spanish-language media does a good job (59% say somewhat good, 27% very good). • The political parties • 56% think the Republican Party is sometimes hostile toward Hispanics; 31% think it does not care too much about Hispanics. • 51% think the Democratic Party takes Latino voters for granted; 31% think the Democratic Party truly cares about Latinos. “The bottom line is Latinos and Latinas have an opportunity and a responsibility this year to once again demonstrate the voting force that we can be. And while there are certainly loud and angry voices who insist on spreading fear and stirring up hate against our community, the loudest voice on Election Day is always that of a single vote. That is why I stand with NCLR in reminding Latinos that one of the greatest rights we have is to let our voices be heard at the ballot box,” said Sen. Menendez in his remarks to open the forum. “These results are significant because they reflect the opinions of community influencers, highly engaged individuals who many in our communities rely on for information and who are
acutely attuned with the concerns and aspirations of those they serve. Nearly 100% of those eligible are already certain they will vote this November, and are working to ensure those around them are able to do so as well,” said Clarissa Martinez-de-Castro, Deputy Vice President, NCLR. Among the issues covered in the poll were raising the federal minimum wage (90% support), Medicaid expansion (96% support), comprehensive immigration reform (92% support), clean energy (97% support), and making college more affordable even if it means paying more taxes (90% support). Respondents show a willingness to put the broader interest above themselves, and illustrate they are fully vested in the future of the country. The forum and poll are part of a joint effort between NCLR’s #Latinos Vote and Telemundo’s #YoDecido campaigns to inform Latinos and provide those eligible with the tools they need to register and vote, including the new NCLR/mitú voter registration app Latinos Vote. Rocky Egusquiza, Vice President of Community Affairs for NBC Universal Telemundo Enterprises moderated the forum and commended community leaders for their commitment to help eligible Latinos become voters. “It’s time that as Latinos we recognize our power to make change,” said Lourdes Villanueva, Director of Farmworker Advocacy for the Redlands Christian Migrant Association (RCMA) in Florida. “And it starts with something as basic as knowing where your polling precinct is located. Making this type of basic information available to our community as part of our overall voter education efforts, will be extremely important in determining the impact of our vote in 2016.” RCMA is providing that basic information, as they take registration opportunities to the
rural communities they serve in Florida. “And it’s not enough in our community to just register voters,” added Veronica Dahlberg, Executive Director of Hispanas Organizadas de Lake and Ashtabula (HOLA) in Ohio. “Many people can be intimidated by the process, so voter education is critically important for us and is a major part of our focus this year, to help people be prepared to vote on Election Day.” In addition to registering voters, HOLA is partnering with local registrars to give new voters an opportunity to learn how to operate voting machines. “It’s important to talk about the impact we’re having as Latinos nationally, but we must also make sure our community is involved and engaged at the local level so that we can raise and most importantly resolve the concerns that affect the places
where we live, work and raise our families,” said Michael Toledo, Executive Director of Centro Hispano in Reading, Pennsylvania. His organization has been engaging Latino voters in the electoral process all the way to school board elections. •Full survey results can be found here. •Photos of the Latino Voter Summit here. •Latino Population Fact Sheets for the United States, all states, DC and Puerto Rico can be found on the NCLR website. NCLR—the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States—works to improve opportunities for Hispanic Americans. For more information on NCLR, please visit www.nclr.org or follow along on Facebook and Twitter.
WINTON HARDWARE Authorized Servicing STIHL Dealer
Lawnmower Chainsaw Sales & Service Gary & Corin Dusin Owners
(209) 358-5574
A fuel-efficient backpack blower that Store Hours: delivers professional-grade Mon-Sat: 8:00 a.m.- 5:30 p,m. Sun-Closed performance. website: www.WintonHardware.com
6852 Winton Way • Winton, CA 95388
4 MARCH 2016
NAACP Announces 2016 Convention Theme “Our Lives Matter, Our Votes Count”
Recipient of 101st Spingarn Medal is Ohio Native CINCINNATI – The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) today unveiled the theme for its 2016 National Convention to be held in Cincinnati, Ohio, July 16-20. Thousands of NAACP members are expected to attend this year’s convention under the theme, “Our Lives Matter, Our Votes Count.” The NAACP’s 107th National Convention will feature workshops, discussions and speakers highlighting voter education, voter protection and voter mobilization. “When the right of every citizen to vote is under threat in states across the nation, we must join together to respond and be heard,” Roslyn M. Brock, chairman of the NAACP’s National Board of Directors. “In towns and cities across this country, we are witnessing a new era of activism as a new generation rises to stand against police brutality and for the right to be heard in our democracy. We must harness that desire to be heard and mobilize our members to protect the vote and to get out the vote.” The convention theme was an-
nounced in Cincinnati with city officials, and marks a return to the city by the NAACP in a presidential election year. The 2008 convention in Cincinnati drew thousands of visitors, as well as appearances by presidential candidates John McCain and Barack Obama. “We are proud to once again have the opportunity to provide the backdrop for the NAACP’s National Convention, especially during such an important election year filled with impassioned political debates that strike at the core of civil rights issues in our country,” said Cincinnati Mayor John Cranley. “I look forward to being part of what promises to be a memorable convention and a thought-leading event for the country this year.” In addition to appearances by presidential candidates and other top national leaders, delegates from the organization’s more than 2,000 branches and chapters will debate resolutions for national action and discuss ways the organization can continue to advocate for criminal justice and economic reforms, protecting the right to vote and other issues. “The 2008 NAACP National Conven-
tion marked a critical turning point in our region’s history,” said Dan Lincoln, president and CEO, CincinnatiUSA. “By working together, we were able to bring important conversations to the table and change our destination’s narrative. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to do that again this summer, especially during such a critical election year.” The convention overlaps with the 2016 Republican National Convention scheduled July 18-21 in nearby Cleveland. The NAACP convention will also include celebrity appearances, community-based events and seminars with top activists, as well as the national competition of the NAACP’s Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO) program. NAACP officials also announced Tuesday that Ohio native and retired Judge Nathaniel R. Jones will be the recipient of the 101st Annual Spingarn Medal, recognizing him for his commitment equality and civil rights. Jones, a native of Youngstown, Ohio, served as general counsel for the NAACP from 1969 to 1979 and later worked with Nelson Mandela and the
post-apartheid South African government as they drafted the nation’s new constitution in 1993. “Judge Jones’ commitment to civil rights and social action embodies the spirit and mission of the NAACP,” said Leon W. Russell, vice chairman of the NAACP National Board of Directors. “His efforts to end school segregation, defend affirmative action and his continued work as a federal judge deserves the NAACP’s highest honor.” The Spingarn Medal is named for former NAACP Joel Elias Spingarn, an early founder of the NAACP who served as chairman, treasurer and president of the organization from 1913 until his death in 1939. The medal is awarded annually to a person of African descent for outstanding achievement. Past awardees have included Sidney Poitier, Colin Powell, Oprah Winfrey, Langston Hughes and the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. More information on the NAACP’s 2016 National Convention can be found at www.naacpconvention.org.
NCLR Applauds the Confirmation of Dr. John King to Serve as U.S. Secretary of Education WASHINGTON, D.C.—Yesterday in a 49-40 bipartisan vote, the U.S. Senate confirmed Dr. John B. King Jr. as U.S. Secretary of Education. NCLR (National Council of La Raza) applauds the Senate for the smooth confirmation of Dr. King. He is a superbly qualified candidate to lead the U.S. Department of Education, especially through the first year of implementing the Every Student Succeeds Act. “Throughout his decades-long career in education, Dr. King has consistently fought for educational equity, serving as an advocate and a voice for vulnerable children in our education system,” said Janet Murguía, President and CEO of NCLR. “Dr. King’s experience in the classroom and as an education leader at the local, state and federal
levels provides him with a unique perspective on the needs of students and teachers and on the best practices for implementing our education laws effectively. An Afro-Latino himself, Dr. King reflects the growing diversity of America’s student body, as more than half of all students are either Black, Asian American or Latino.”
NCLR—the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States—works to improve opportunities for Hispanic Americans. For more information on NCLR, please visit www.nclr.org or follow along on Facebook and Twitter.
VBC Valley Business Center
Kevin Kennedy Matt Kennedy
VBCMerced.com
Javier Flores
“Helping others get what they want”
Happy Easter Easy Financing
Office Furniture • Office Equipment • Office Supplies
Serving Valley offices with care since 1946!
1223 W. Main Street Merced, CA 95340 Ph: (209)722-6222 Fax:( 209)722.0328
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
SE HABLA ESPAÑOL
298 Bellevue Rd Atwater, CA 95301
(209) 357-3578 Fax (209) 357-8674
Trump’s Version of an African American Voter Outreach Campaign New America Media, Commentary, Earl Ofari Hutchinson It was one for the books. The sight of an African-American viciously assaulting a Trump protester at his Tucson campaign rally. The sight drew gasps and lots of expressions of puzzlement and disbelief. The assault came a few weeks after Trump’s photo-op meeting with some black ministers. He has also gotten some endorsements from an odd assortment of black names such as Mike Tyson. Before that he bragged that he could get lots of black votes. It drew guffaws and snickers since it was just Trump being Trump. The overwhelming betting odds were that Trump could do something that’s mathematically impossible and that’s top the percentage of black voter support that one poll gave 2012 GOP presidential candidate Mitt Romney during that year’s presidential election; namely 0 percent. Romney got his memorable 0 percent from black voters by doing what few GOP presidential tickets in modern times had done and that was to actively alienate black voters. He accomplished that feat with his plan to hack up Medicare, and Medicaid, downsize Social Security, gut the threadbare corporate and financial regulations, environmental protections, and their full throated assault on abortion rights that would’ve wreaked untold misery among African-Americans. Even more than Romney, Trump’s violence drive, race-baiting crusade that nakedly appeals to largely white lower income, less educated, rural and strongly male crowds drive the point home that blacks are not even an after-thought in his drive to snare the White House. But there’s more to the picture about Trump and black voters as the punches that the black assailant delivered to the Trump protester showed. The black vote in several ways is still very much a part of the GOP’s strategy and tactics to win the White House. GOP presidents and presidential contenders Nixon, Reagan, Bush Sr. and especially W. Bush took great pains to give the appearance that they
were not overt racists, and that blatant racism was not part of their appeal. This included highly orchestrated, stage managed, photo-ops with black celebrities and sports figures, a handful of key black pitch men and women on the campaign trail with them, and in the case of Bush loading up the Republican convention with a pack of show piece, African-Americans to provide entertainment and perfunctory speeches. With Trump it’s is no different. Besides the handful of comic endorsements he’s gotten from blacks, he’s front loaded his traveling campaign circus act from time to time with two black women—the “Stump for Trump Girls,” a black minister or two, and panned audience shots of black faces sprinkled through his rally crowds. The next tact is not Trump’s but the GOP’s. That’s to refine the ploy of voter suppression tactics that the GOP has traditionally employed, in times past, from felon bans to blatant intimidation of black and Hispanic voters at polling places. GOP governors and GOP controlled state legislators will continue to drum up a maze of rules and regulations from ending weekend voting to the rash of voter ID requirements. The aim is still the same to damp down the black vote total
all under the guise of combating voter fraud. Then there’s Trump’s subtle racial pander, which like the GOP’s voter suppression arsenal of tricks, is hardly Trump’s creation. This is the GOP’s standard use of code words and attack points such as tax and spend Democrats, out of control, wasteful government, and welfare freeloaders. This embeds the notion that minorities, and especially blacks, unfairly scam the system with the active connivance of Democrats and at the expense of hard-working, overtaxed blue-collar and middle class whites. If Trump bags the GOP presidential nomination, the GOP establishment will be forced to throw in the towel on its low intensity civil war with him, and resort to yet another favored ploy. That is to bankroll and promote a handful of visible and vocal black conservatives to recite all the stock criticisms of Obama, civil rights leaders, and Democrats. It’s already got failed presidential candidate Ben Carson and the National Black Republican Association on board. This creates the deliberate and false impression that a substantial number of blacks don’t support the Democratic Party despite the polls. Trump and his black surro-
CENTRAL VALLEY VOICE.COM 5 gates will pound on the tired theme that the Democratic Party has betrayed blacks and that it practices a modern version of plantationism; that is perennially taking the black vote for granted, while offering no tangi-
Atwater Glass DEAN LOUIS
(P} 209-357-7767 (F) 209-357-5767 302 E. Bellevue Road Atwater, CA 95301
Owner
LIC. #785641
REPLACEMENT WINDOWS • SHOWER DOORS MIRRORS • SCREENS • SLIDING DOORS • TUB ENCLOSURES FOR ALL OF YOUR GLASS NEEDS
THE SAW SHOP
Industrial Grinding & Sharpening • Band saws • Knives • Paper • Shear • Chipper Knives • Carbide Tip Saw
Pete’s Auto Body Serving You Since 1968
611 "G" Street Modesto, CA 95353
24 HOURS TOWING Painting • Towing • Fiberglass Body Repair • Complete Repairs
FREE ESTIMATES
(209)722-3565 or (209) 722-0643 1002 Martin Luther King Jr. Way • Merced, CA
ble programs for the black poor. Trump will couple that line with his boast that he can put create more jobs for blacks and more affordable health care, and that private sector growth, school SEE PAGE> 24
Phone: (209)579-1063 Cell: (209) 585-6433
HAPPY EASTER Chevron
Joe & Bernadette Esparza Phone: (209) 722-6071 Fax: (209) 722-9054
Merced Mall Chevron 1050 Olive Avenue Merced, CA 95348
6 MARCH 2016
UC Merced, Virginia Smith Trust Agree to Divide Land South of Campus MERCED, Calif. — The Management Committee of the University Community Land Company, LLC (UCLC), a 50-50 partnership between the University of California, Merced, and the Virginia Smith Trust (VST), said today they have agreed to divide the 1,256-acre tract of UCLC land into two separate parcels, one owned by the VST and one owned by UC Merced. The agreement is subject to final approval by the UC Office of the President and the usual conditions of closing. The parcel of land, known as “University Community North,” is situated just south of the UC Merced campus on North Lake Road. UC Merced will now own the northernmost portion of the land, which abuts the southern boundary of its campus. VST will own the southernmost portion. The parcels are approximately equal in size. The land was originally purchased by UCLC in 2002 from Merced rancher John Myers. It was acquired for the future construction and operation of a multi-use development, to be called the University Community, including housing, retail shops, commercial buildings, schools and other facilities in close proximity to the new UC campus. The undeveloped land is currently used for grazing. “This change will allow VST to use its portion of the land for revenue-generating purposes in support of its vital mission to provide scholarships to deserving college-bound students from the Merced area,” UC Merced Chancellor Dorothy Leland said. “We have a longstanding partnership with the Virginia Smith Trust and support their mission wholeheartedly.” Leland said the land split does not preclude a future partnership for the development of the University Community North, depending on the growth trajectory of the university and the economic conditions of the state and region. “The Virginia Smith Trust was
instrumental in getting the UC campus sited in Merced, and has enjoyed a close partnership with the university from the onset,” chair of the UCLC Management Committee Ralph Temple said. “This is a fair agreement that addresses the needs of both VST and UC Merced, and enables them to move forward as strong partners in advancing the welfare of the community.” Fred Honore, member of the Merced County Board of Education and trustee of the Virginia Smith Trust added, “Funding scholarships that help deserving local students achieve their dreams of attending college is the mission of the VST, and our ability to generate income from this land will help us expand the scholarship program.” “Enrollment is growing in the Merced schools, and we need to grow the VST scholarship program accordingly,” Merced County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steven E. Gomes
said. “More than 3,500 students have received VST scholarships totaling $4.5 million. “In the past 10 years, more than 40 UC Merced students received VST scholarships. UC Merced students are given additional consideration in the application process. This division of lands will enable the Virginia Smith Trust to generate more income and provide scholarships to more eligible students. The VST honors Virginia Smith’s memory and her desire to give scholarships to students deemed ‘worthy and deserving.’” Information on the Virginia Smith Scholarship can be found http://www.mcoe.org/smith/ Pages/Virginia-Smith-Trust.aspx. Sankofa Theatre Company would like to thank the Central Valley community and Gallo Center for the Arts, for the support we received during our production of August Wilson's "Fences." The case and crew felt the spirit every night! Thank you!
Hairstylists bring out the beauty in you
TULUZ BEAUTY SALON
I'll Take Care Of Your Hair SHANITHA SCOGGINS/TULU Owner/Hairstylist Weaves (sewn/glued) Braids Nails ~ Press ~ Extentions ~Twist Cornrows ~JeriCurls ~UpDos "I do eyelashes as well" 209 230-6948 1634 Canal St. Downtown Merced website: tuluzhair.mayvenn.com
“We Have A Barber Inside” New Location 1036 W. 18th St. Merced, CA
Reflections Call For Appt Ask for Glenda
(209)723-3404
Specializing In: • Curls • Updated Hair Cuts • Perms OPEN: WED - FRI.•10 a.m.-5 p.m. SAT• 9:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
1721 “M” Street •Merced, CA 95340 (Located Downtown Meced)
HEALTH NEWS
Study Exposes Health Struggles for ‘Hidden Poor’ California Elders A new report from the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research shows that one in four Californians age 65 or older, who live alone or with only their spouse or partner, “had income in 2013 in the limbo of unofficial poverty.” “Hidden Health Problems Among California’s Hidden Poor” is the center’s new Health Policy Fact Sheet showing that above the 50-year-old federal poverty level (FPL) but below a newer, more accurate measure of how much people actually need to make financial ends meet. African American, Latino and Asian seniors particularly have to struggle, according to the findings. Care Unaffordable, But Help Inaccessible “These older adults—the ‘hidden poor’—have substantially more health problems and less access to care than those with higher incomes, but they cannot afford to pay privately for assistance and often do not qualify for public programs that could help them manage their health problems. Planners and policymakers need to pay more attention to this hidden poor population,” the report says. Not only was the health status “substantially worse among the hidden poor than among those with higher incomes,” those with lower incomes were about twice as likely to rate their health as only fair or poor. Not only do these seniors suffer disproportionately from ill health, but they face barriers to care. They were almost twice as likely as better off elders living above the Elder Index to report “they never or only sometimes got timely appointments when needed,” the study found. In addition, says the report, “Mental health problems are also higher among those living below the Elder Index.” As a result, the research team found, “Older adults with higher health care needs are also more likely to face barriers to meeting their health care needs.” The analysis compares the FPL to the alternative Elder Econom-
ic Security Standard Index (the Elder Index), which the State of California now uses as an official planning tool for programs serving seniors. Rather than try to update the FPL, which was created in the early 1960s using 1955 data, the Elder Index pinpoints what seniors actually need to make “decent minimum standard of living,” say the report’s authors. For each of California’s 58 counties, UCLA used the index to calculate the cost of such necessities as housing, food, health care and transportation. The new measure shows that the national average is about double the official poverty level of $11,770 in 2016--and triple that sum in many urban areas. UCLA’s analysis found California has 655,000 "hidden poor" elders living alone or residing only with a spouse or partner. Seniors in the Golden State who fall between the official poverty line and the higher Elder Index threshold are almost twice as likely to identify as being in poor or fair health, feel depressed, and say they cannot get timely health care compared to more affluent seniors, says the study. Choosing Food, Medicine or Rent Furthermore, the researchers report, “Latino, African American and Asian older adults who lived alone or with only their spouse/ partner had the highest rates of being among the hidden poor (35.4, 30.6 and 29.2 percent, respectively). Adding these figures to those falling under the official poverty line exposes that about half of Latino, African American and Asian elders struggle to get by. And older non-Hispanic whites aren’t all that well off, either. Whites are at almost three times their official poverty rate--21.5 percent versus the government’s 8.1 percent, according to the study. A related study by the UCLA Center published last fall found, “In terms of sheer numbers, whites make up more than half of elders in the financially pinched group (482,000). Pro-
portionately, grandparents raising grandchildren, older adults who rent, Latinos, women, and the oldest age group (75 and over) were the groups most affected.” D. Imelda Padilla-Frausto, a researcher for both studies, wrote, “Many of our older adults are forced to choose between eating, taking their medications or paying rent,” said. “The state might be emerging from a recession, but for many of our elder households, the downturn seems permanent.” The 2015 study revealed the three-quarter million of California’s elderly heads of households were among the hidden poor--or about one-fifth of seniors in the Golden State. That’s more than double the number (342,000) counted by using the FPL. Unlike the “official” poor, those in unseen poverty often do not qualify for public assistance. To crunch the number, UCLA’s center partnered the Insight Center for Community Economic Development. They based their finding on data from the U.S. Census American Community Survey and 2013-2014 California Health Interview Survey. Depending on the county [http://tinyurl.com/ht8rq6s], Padilla-Frausto found, 30-40 percent of those 65-plus who are single and 20-30 percent of older couples were among the hidden poor. Elders with particularly high rates of impoverishments were in rural counties. Grandparents Among Most Vulnerable The research showed that groups with large proportions of hidden poor seniors included grandparents raising their grandchildren, older adults housing their adult children, single women who head households, single elders age 75 and older who head households and single elders who are renters or homeowners. According to the study, “Older couples whose adult children live with them were six times more likely to qualify as being among the hidden poor according to the Elder Index than those
CENTRAL VALLEY VOICE.COM 7
New America Media, News Report, Paul Kleyman considered poor according to capacity and are living right on the federal poverty level (25.7 the edge of a cliff,” said Steven P. percent vs. 4.1 percent, respec- Wallace, associate director of the UCLA Center for Health Policy tively).” “Older adults raising grand- Research and co-author of both children or housing adult chil- reports. “They have few options, dren have taken on more finan- and one unexpected expense cial burdens with limited earning can put them right over.”
Pharmacy Technician Program Information Meeting Offered Modesto Junior College Workforce Development has scheduled a Pharmacy Technician Training Program information meeting on Wednesday, March 30 at 6 p.m. in the Center for Advanced Technologies, room 116, on East Campus. The meeting is free and open to the public, and campus parking is $2 without a permit. The training program prepares students for an entry-level position as a licensed technician for a retail or hospital pharmacy. The next training program will begin in May 10, 2016 and runs through January 31, 2017. The cost of the course is $6,363 which includes all textbooks, lab coat, background check, drug screening, insurance, BLS certifi-
cation, National PTCB exam fees, and National Pharmacy Tech Association membership fees. The information meeting will review new prerequisites and current admission requirements, which include passing a math exam, meeting a reading requirement and submitting an application packet. The 90 minute pre-qualifying math exam will be offered at 6 p.m. on March 16, April 5, April 14, and June 3. For a complete listing and explanation of program information please visit our website athttp://www.mjc.edu/instruction/teched/workforcedev/ pharmacy_technician.php Questions may be directed to Martha Rice at (209) 575-7889 or ricem@mjc.edu.
8 MARCH 2016
RELIGIOUS COMMUNITY
Explaining The Confusion Surrounding Easter And Christmas
The two most important holidays of the Christian faith are Easter and Christmas. But why is there so much confusion over these two holydays? The problem is there is a lot of man made traditions mixed in with what scripture says. A casual glance at the Bible will only lead you astray. The Bible says in II Timothy 2:15, "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the world of truth." Instead of being like the Berean Christians in Acts 17:11 who searched the scriptures daily to see if what the leaders were saying was true, too many Christians, and especially Catholics accept what a priest or preacher says from the pulpit. We should hold them accountable and check God's word to see if it stands up
to scriptural scrutiny. For example, one of the biggest errors that comes from the pulpit is that Jesus was crucified on Friday. The reason for this error is that all the gospels state that Jesus died before the Sabbath. (Matthew 27:57 implied, Mark 15:42, Luke 23:54, John 19:14 & John 19:31). So, people assume this Sabbath was a regular Sabbath which we all know is Saturday on the Jewish calendar. However upon closer study of John 19:31, he explains that Jesus died before a High Sabbath. What is a High Sabbath? A High Sabbath was one of the seven holydays that God gave to Israel to celebrate in Leviticus chapter 23. These seven holydays were also considered Sabbaths. Jesus died during the week of Passover,
WHO CRUCIFIED JESUS?
By Barry M. Grider While preaching the gospel to Cornelius, Peter said of Jesus, ...[He] went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him" (Acts 10:38). Truly, no one lived a more noble, selfless life than the Christ. His very reason for coming to this earth was motivated by His uncomprehending and unconditional love for lost humanity (John 3:16). Yet Matthew records, "And they crucified him..." (Matt. 27:35). Who would crucify Jesus? It is good to consider that question occasionally and ask ourselves if we bear any responsibility in regard to His death. First, Roman soldiers actually nailed Jesus to the tree. Skilled in carrying out executions by crucifixion, these brutish beasts inflicted the severest of pain with minimal mercy. In fact, crucifixion was so horrifying, one who witnessed such take place was sure to come away saying, "I'll never do anything worthy of such a death." Yet, Jesus was perfect, the innocent Son of God, and he still endured crucifixion. Second, the Jewish leaders crucified Jesus. They so despised His teaching and so rejected His
Messiahship they were willing to release Barabbas, a thief and a murderer, and have Jesus put to death. In fact, these Jews admitted they were responsible, for they said, "His blood be on us, and on our children" (Matt. 27:25). Third, Judas was responsible for the death of Christ. Whatever caused the heart of this disciple of the Lord to become so calloused, perhaps we shall never know. Was it money or popularity? Did he become disillusioned? All we know is that for 30 pieces of silver he betrayed his Lord (Matt. 26:15). Fourth, Pilate was responsible for the Lord's death. He had the power to release Him, yet he lacked the moral courage to do so. "When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it" (Matt. 27:24). He can wash his hand until judgement day, but he is still guilty. Fifth, the Devil was responsible for Jesus' crucifixion. Psalm 22 is Messianic and verse 21 reads, "Save me from the lion's
which was also a High Sabbath. Therefore, Jesus didn't die before a regular Sabbath, which is Saturday, but he died before a High Sabbath. So Jesus didn't die on a Friday. There were two Sabbaths the week that Jesus died. There is no way that a Friday crucifixion could equate three days and three nights that Jesus prophesied about his own death in Matthew 12:40. Friday night and Saturday night equates to only two nights in the grave. We get a lot of this Friday crucifixion stuff from Catholic tradition with the celebrating of "Good Friday." Jesus was in the tomb of Joseph of Arimathema Wednesday night, Thursday night and Friday night. He lay in the tomb on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. He arose around sunset
mouth..." the Devil is likened unto a devouring lion (1 Pet. 5:8). Although the cross was a fatal blow to Satan, the cross was exactly where he wanted Jesus. The destruction and misery that the Devil brought into this world necessitated the cross. Sixth, Jesus suffered, and I say this with all reverence, at the holy hand of God. According to Peter, Jesus was "delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God" (Acts 2:23). Our Lord had to die that he might appease God's wrath. Jesus prayed that there might be another way (Matt. 26:39), but there was no other way. Finally, each one of us is responsible for the death of Jesus. Peter said to the Pentecostians, "ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain" (Acts 2:23). We were in the crowd that day, for Jesus died on the cross for our transgressions. "For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly" (Rom. 5:6). So every time I look in the mirror I see one who is responsible for Jesus' death. Every first day of the week when I partake of the Lord's Supper, even though I SEE PAGE >9
which would be early Sunday. In the Jewish culture a day actually started in the evening. See Genesis l:5, 1:8, 1:13. The Bible clearly shows here that a day starts in the evening. Too often preachers add the word, "morning," when saying when Jesus rose from the dead. Mark 16:9 states, "Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils." The ladies and the disciples arrived at the tomb early in the morning. Jesus had already risen from the dead early on Sunday which starts at sunset (evening). Now let's switch to some of the confusion concerning Christmas. In my experience the biggest mistake that happens at Christmas plays is that the wise men show up at the manger scene in Bethlehem. Only the shepherds showed up at the manger scene. (Luke 2:15-16) The wise men arrived approximately two years later at Jesus's house. Matthew 2:11 clears this up. "And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down and worshipped him....." Jesus was almost two years old. That 's why Herod issued a decree killing children two years old and under. (Matthew 2:16) "Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the
Dr. Eric Haley coasts thereof from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently enquired of the wise men." A second bone of contention is, "Why do we celebrate Christmas on December 25 when we know Jesus wasn't actually born on this date? Flavius Aurelius Constantine became the first Roman emperor to become a Christian. During this time in history the pagans celebrated to the Sun god on December 25. He felt the people should be celebrating the birth of the Son of God instead. Therefore he issued a decree in 336AD that the world would now celebrate the birth of Jesus on December 25th. He did this because before going into a bloody battle against his main enemy Maxentius, he saw a vision of the cross superimposed on the Sun. In addition to his decree, a few years later Pope Julius I officially declared that the birth of Christ would be celebrated on December 25th. Thus we have been celebrating Christmas on December 25 since the fourth century.
• Flowers • Weddings • Gifts
Mother's Day is May 8th This Mother's Day, you're sure to touch Mom's heart with this lavish floral arrangement from ATWATER ALOHA FLORAL! Pour you heart out and send your mother a bouquet that's as sunny as her smile and as warm as her heart. Call or order online today!
Call our flower shop or order flowers online, anytime! PREMIER FLORIST ATWATER CALIFORNIA & SURROUNDING AREA
$105.00, $120.00, $135.00 Shown at $120.00
Order Flowers Online 24/7 from Our Website!
1253 Winton Way • Atwater, CA 95301 • (209) 358-0231
CENTRAL VALLEY VOICE.COM 9
Scripture & Science For Kids
Antioch Missionary Baptist Church
JESUS' BETRAYAL AND ARREST
By Brad Harrub Have you ever been sent to your room to await a punishment? Sometimes the waiting and the anticipation are worse than the actual punishment. Consider how Christ must have felt the closer He got to His own crucifixion. As Jesus was instituting the Lord's Supper (Matthew 26:26-29), we learn that He was already thinking about His upcoming agony and death (Luke 22:15). Shortly thereafter, Christ and His disciples went out to the Mount of Olives into the Garden of Gethsemane. This grove of olive trees was a place where Christ had retreated many times before, and a place where He probably received a great amount of joy. However, this practice of spending time at night in the Mount of Olives also meant Judas---His betrayer--knew where He would be. The name "Gethsemane" comes from the Aramaic words Gat Shmanim meaning "oil press." Not coincidentally, it was within this place that Christ would feel the crushing weight of the things yet to come---so much so that an angel was required to strengthen Him (Luke 22:43). It is also significant that this is one of the few places where the word "agony" is mentioned in the Bible. It is because of this agony of things to come that we learn that during His prayer "his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground" (Luke 22:44). And yet, we should remember that at any moment, Jesus could have called 12,000 angels to take Him far away from this agony. As the night inched toward dawn, Jesus finally allowed the disciples to sleep (Matthew 26:43-44; Mark 14:41). However, He found no sleep Himself prior to His betrayer's arrival. Soon after midnight, Christ was greeted with a kiss by one of His disciples---Judas Iscariot---who, for 30 pieces of silver, sold information to the chief priests about where Christ could be found. The kiss was a sign to the multitude of angry people who wanted to kill Jesus. They came with
swords and spears, and seized the Son of God---taking Him away to endure a fake trial at the hands of the Jewish authorities. Imagine the love that Jesus must have for us to have been falsely arrested and then crucified! Member, Merced church of Christ * (209) 722-2852 * 3848503 (Discovery Bound Volume--2004, Vol. 15:9, Apologetics Press, Inc., September)
HAPPY EASTER
Rev. Dr. Sterling Kyle, Jr.
Pastor
CRUCIFIED CHRIST
Behold, I stand at the door.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8
rejoice over what He did for me, I am reminded that I am the one who crucified Christ. Dear reader, let us not become so proud and arrogant that we forget that Jesus died for our sins. On the contrary, may we humble ourselves and bow in submission to the Savior's will, realizing that without his suffering, none of us could be saved.
Rev. 3:20
Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. Worship Service: Sunday 11:00 a.m. Bible Study: Wed. 6:00-7:00 p.m.
Rev. Dr.Sterling Kyle, Jr. and Sister Sandra Kyle
Pastor Study: (209) 722-9806 Church: (209) 383-9758
404 W. 6th St. Merced CA 95340
Member, Merced church of Christ * (209) 722-2852 * 3848503 (The Forest Hill News, Vol. 31, No. 38, September 23) www.foresthillcofc.org * www. msop.org * www.gbntv.org * www.tftw.org * www.mercedchurchofchrist.org
VISIT THE CHURCH OF CHOICE Pastor Gerald E. Harris
Loving God” Loving Others” Serving The World” www.bethanyc.com
Weekly Schedule Sunday Worship Services Sunday School @ 8:30 a.m. 7449 Elgleberry Street Holy Communion Every 1st Sunday Intercessory Prayer Every Tuesday 12:00-1:00 p.m. 7449 Elgleberry Street Gilroy, CA 95020 Wednesdays @ 7:00 p.m. Family Bible Study with Pastor G.E. Harris
Welcome to the Services of the
Merced church of Christ
2050 Yosemite Parkway at Edwards Ave. MERCED, CALIFORNIA 95341 Phone: 209-722-2852 A Church with More than a Welcome A Message of Life for Dying Men and Women! Making and Maturing Disciples
VISIT US SOON! SUNDAY: Bible Study...... 9:30 a.m. Morning..........10:30 a.m. Evening............ 6:00 p.m. WEDNESDAY: Mid-Week Bible Study...... Bible Study 7:00 p.m. www. mercedchurchofchrist.org FREE!! WVBS Online Bible School www.school.wvbs.org
Psalm 119: 105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
Pastor: Rev. Dr. Fletcher E. Reed
Wednesday Bible Study: 7:00 p.m. - 9: 00 p.m. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. - 10: 00 a.m. Sunday Praise & Worship: 11 a.m. HELP US LIFT UP THE NAME OF
503 Scenic Blvd. Modesto, CA 95350
JESUS
209.568-2168
The Truth in Love and Good News Today Sundays-Comcast #95 @ 8:00 a.m. & Thurs. 9:00 p.m. Direct TV: #323 Dish TV: #9407 5:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. daily International Gospel Hour on AM Radio Sunday Morning 8:00 a.m., #770, 9:00 a.m. #1180, 9:00 p.m. @ 880 In Search of the Lord’s Way Sunday, Comcast channel 13 Fresno 7:30 a.m. & channel 95, Thurs. 8:30 p.m. Direct TV channel INSP channel Sunday 4:30 a.m. Direct TV channel 53 Sundays 7:30 a.m.
10 MARCH 2016
EVENTS
0F THE MONTH
CALENDAR EVENTS
4.01.2016
Fitness Lab Membership
Want a gym membership without the application fee and yearly contract? Join the Merced College Fitness Lab with membership available for a one month period. Dates: Monday-Friday, April 1-April 29, 5:30-7:30 a.m. Location: Merced College, GYM-5 Cost: $25 par participant (Register for multiple sessions & save $5/session)
4.03.2016
The Annual Cesar Chavez March
Saturday, April 3, 2016 2:00 p.m.to 6:00 p.m. The Annual Cesar Chavez March Organizing Committee is extending an invitation to the community and general public of all ages to help celebrate the Second Annual Cesar Chavez March and Celebration on Sunday, April 3, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. The celebration will commence with a March at 2:00 p.m. from the corner of M and 16th Streets to the McNamara Youth Center located on 11th and Canal Street in Merced. There will be a “Viva La Huelga Youth Art Contest” (ages 24 and below), speakers, performers, Kids arts and crafts, music, information tables and free food will be available.
4.03.2016 This Ain’t Your Mama’s Church
Sunday, April 3, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. Location: The Corner of G Street & Yosemite Ave. Ride Season is here! And you are invited to join “This Ain’t Your Mama’s Church”, a community Bikers Church, for “Sunday Ride” on Sunday, April 3, 2016. Please meet at the Corner of G. Street & Yosemite Ave in Merced. We will ride up to Mariposa and eat lunch at the Happy Burger located at, 5120 Highway 140 at 12th Street in Mariposa, California,95338. Bikes, Cars & Trucks are all welcome to join us for our Sunday Rides! For complete details, please check our website at www.bikechurch.org or like us on Facebook at This Ain’t Your Mama’s Church. For more information, please contact our Event Coordinator, Melody Coates at 209-726-6123.
For complete calendar information and regularly scheduled activities, visit www.centralvalleyvoice.com
4.09.2016
First Nation Indigenous Student Organization to host 25th Powwow
Saturday, April 9, 2016 at 11 a.m. Fresno State’s First Nations Indigenous Student Organization hosts its 25th Annual Fresno State Powwow celebration on Saturday, April 9, in Fresno State’s O’Neill Park (Barstow Avenue at Woodrow Avenue). The free, public event will begin with the Gourd Dance at 11 a.m., followed by the Grand Entry at 12:30 p.m. The closing ceremony will be at 9 p.m. Food, arts and crafts, along with information booths, will be featured. Registration to sell or set up an information booth at the Powwow is now available. Info: Brandy Jaramillo at (559) 9744-3777 or branbran@mail.fresnostate.edu.
4.4.2016 Medical and Nursing Scholarships Offered
The Stanislaus Medical Society Alliance is offering scholarships to Stanislaus County graduating high school seniors and college students who are entering the fields of either medicine or nursing. To apply, contact your academic counselor, financial aid office or the Stanislaus Medical Society. For more information, call (209) 527-1704. Applications must be received by April 4, 2016.
4.09.2016
Free Youth Baseball and Softball Competition April 9th, 2016 Beyer Community Park Pre Check-in: 9 a.m.-11 a.m. (Competition takes approximately 10 minutes to complete) Registration is done in 2 steps 1. Present Copy of Birth Certificate and complete 2016 Official Registration Form 2. Register in Modesto Parks and Recreation Class System (it’s free) Class #: 61302 Pitch Hit & Run™ is the official skills competition of Major League Baseball®. This grassroots program is designed to provide youngsters with an opportunity to compete, free of charge, in a competition that recognizes individual excel-
lence in core baseball/softball skills. Boys and girls are divided into four age divisions: 7/8, 9/10, 11/12, 13/14, and have the chance to advance through four levels of competition, including Team Championships at Major League ballparks and the National Finals at the 2016 MLB™ All-Star Game®. The individual Pitching, Hitting and Running Champions, along with the All-Around Champion in each division age group at the Local Competition will be awarded and advance to the Sectional Level of Competition.
4.10.2016
Sunday April 10, 2016 2:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m. National Council of Negro Wo m e n ( N C N W ) S o u l Fo o d gathering Sunday April 10, 2016 from 2-4 p.m. at the Merced Senior Community Center 755 W 15th St., Merced, CA 95340, (209) 385-8803. Families are welcome. Introducing Local Poet Joyce Dale and special guest "'Chosen Generation" Donation $10.00. For tickets info call (209) 756-7620.
4.16.2016
Stop The Violence
Saturday, April 16 10 a.m.- 1 p.m. Wood Ward Park Fresno, CA. 93720 Its time for our city to come together. United. We need Victory over Violence & Peace in Fresno! Stop the Violence-Fresno has a plan but your HELP is needed! Form your teams! Join hundreds of walkers & runners at Woodward Park. FREE for All children 14 & under. Register at: http:// stoptheviolencefresno. com/5k-walkrunrace/]. For more information about our Programs, Serivces and Events go to: http://stoptheviolencefresno.com/] All proceeds will fund the programs, services and events that we provide the community in 2016. The focus for 2016 is to raise money for the creation of "The Safe Place" (a project of Stop The Violence Fresno ™). We are a 503(c) nonprofit organization therefore donations are tax deductable. Sponsors, vendors, walkers, & supporters are needed!
4.18.2016 Dancing for Birth
Mondays, April 18-May 9, 6:307:30 p.m. Come have fun and learn how expectant moms can move to music before, during, and after the birthing process, using specific dance movements to help get more comfortable during pregnancy, encourage babies into an optimal position for birth, and promote healing in the post-partum period. So tie a scarf around your hips, and spend an hour of fun bonding with your baby, as we dance and talk about birthing. Post-partum moms and newborns welcome! Check it out at www.dancingforbirth.com. Location: Merced College, GYM 4 Cost: $25/participant
4.23.2016 Golf for All Ages
Saturdays, April 23-May 14, 2016 9-11 a.m.
Bogie, par, fore! Whether you are a beginner or advanced player, your game will improve. This golf lesson course will cover full swing, short game, basic rules, and general golf etiquette. Gary Olson played on the PGA tour for 10 years, participated in 11 national championships as well as 2 major championships, and has been teaching golf for 48 years. Bring your own clubs or borrow one of ours. Date: Saturdays, April 23May 14, 9-11 a.m. Location: Rancho Del Rey Golf Course Cost: $55/participant
AARP 2nd Wednesday of each month Atwater AARP Chapter 2194 meets on 2nd Wednesday of each month at 12:00 (noon). They have potlucks and play bingo, etc. and then starts the meeting at 1:00 p.m. If you are interested, please come join, them at the Atwater Community Center.
4.23.2016 Merced Relay For Life Saturday, April 23, 2016
The Merced Relay For Life will be held on April 23, starting at 9 a.m., and ending on April 24 at 9 a.m. This 24-hour event consists of relay teams walking the track at Merced College as a way to symbolize the determined fight against cancer that never sleeps. Registration begins at 8 a.m. on the 50-yard line of the field. The first lap will start at 9 a.m. All registered cancer survivors will receive a free Relay For Life T-shirt, and a chance to win a raffle gift. This is a free family event. There are activities and entertainment for all ages. You can purchase and personalize a luminaria bag to honor or remember someone who has fought cancer. For more info, call Shelley Chapman, at (209) 756-4137.
4.23.2016 Earth Day in the Park Festival
Saturday, April 23, 2016 Modesto’s 27th annual Earth Day in the Park Festival is almost
here, and we are looking forward to seeing everyone there as we share ideas on how we can Reduce-Reuse-Recycle at home, school and work. With education and practical applications we all can work together and make a real positive impact towards zero waste. This FREE community event will be held at Graceada Park, located in downtown Modesto on the corner of Needham & Sycamore from 10a.m. to 4p.m. A FREE StaRT Shuttle bus to and from Graceada park beginning at CrossPoint Church parking on Needham will be running every 20 minutes for the convenience of the vendors and attendees. As an additional highlight all the Modesto NUTS mascots; Al, Wally and Shelley will be available to ride along in the afternoon and give out complimentary baseball tickets. Please take advantage of this fun transportation alternative and at the same time help reduce our carbon footprint. This unique event offers many opportunities to learn about the environment in a family-friendly atmosphere, as well as many community organizations will be on site highlighting the exceptional work their non-profits are doing. There will be over 100 exhibitors showcasing their products and detailing what they can offer to our community in order to make it a vibrant place to live, work and play. It’s an entire day of “green education”, unique entertainment performances, delicious food, kid’s art and crafts, a Trash-Formation art contest, tree climbing demos, prizes and even a petting zoo! Be sure to attend the FREE Boyett B-Green Recycling event held on Stoddard Avenue between Park and Sycamore Avenues. This is a convenient drive thru event where all recyclables donated are matched dollar for dollar by Boyett Petroleum. 100% of the funds are applied to the City of Modesto “Adopt A Park” Program which is currently raising money to replace the seating at Mancini Bowl in Graceada Park. Items accepted for recycling include: · On site document shredding (limit 5 file boxes or grocery bags per person) · CRV bottles, cans, plastic & scrap Metal · E-Waste (TV’s, computers, laptops, video games, electronics, etc.) · Ink Jet, toners, cartridges · Household batteries and cell phones This year’s entertainment includes interactive play by Bubblemania & Company, the Silly String Band, a petting zoo, tree climbing demonstrations by the City’s Forestry Department and ongoing music and games by TNT Productions.
CENTRAL VALLEY VOICE.COM 11
4.26.2016
Business Plan Design (English or Spanish)
Come learn how to turn your business ideas into a solid plan worthy of financing and long-term success. Discover what needs to go into a successful business plan with strategic focus on an executive summary, company description, products and services, marketing plan, operational plan, management and organization, personal financial statement, startup expenses and capitalization, and a financial plan. Hear from financial experts on how to break down the process of obtaining a business loan and explore import or export of products to assist with your business goals. Date: Tuesdays, April 26-May 24, 6:30-8:30 p.m. (English) or Wednesdays, April 27-May 25, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Location: Business Resource Center. 630 W. 19th St. Cost: $75 per participant
4.26.2016 Aikido
Tuesdays and Thursdays, April 26-June 16, 5:30-7 p.m.
Through the understanding of the fundamentals of emotional and physical conflicts and by implementing basic Aikido techniques including basic body movement, synthesis of breathing, physical and mental applications, the student will gain an overall understanding of the philosophy of Aikido and how it relates to both self-defense and conflict resolution. Sensei Ron Duran holds the rank of Shodan and has over a decade of experience in Aikido. In addition, he has been a student of Ninkage Ryu Aikijutsu for the past eight years. Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays, April 26-June 16, 5:30-7 p.m. Location: Merced College, GYM 4 Cost: $65 per participant
5.07.2016 VFW Fund-raiser
Saturday, May 07, 2016
The Winton VFW is attempting to raise money for upgrades and repairs to equipment within their facility, and they’re planning a fund raiser on May 7. It is a dinner/dance with a live band. “Los Amigos.” The event will also have a 50/50 drawing, door prizes, and raffle. The cost is $20 per person if the tickets are purchased at the door. Tickets and information can be obtained by calling the Winton VFW at (209) 358-8138.
5.21.2016
U.S Poet Laureate Herrera to keynote Chicano/Latino Commencement
Saturday, May 21 Juan Felipe Herrera, U.S. poet laureate and former Chicano and Latin American Studies professor and chair, has been selected to serve as keynote speaker for Fresno State’s Chicano/Latino Commencement Celebration on Saturday, May 21 when the university will commemorate the 40th anniversary of the event.
For complete calendar information and regularly scheduled activities, visit www.centralvalleyvoice.com
12 MARCH 2016
CITY-BY-CITY
MERCED-ATWATER-WINTON MADERA-CHOWCHILLA DOS PALOS-LOS BANOS
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
CENTRAL VALLEY
COMMUNITY
CITY-BY-CITY
LIVINGSTON-TURLOCKMODESTO-STOCKTON
News From across the Central Valley
Concern Men Cook Friendship Women held Prayer Breakfast for Education This year’s Concern Men Cook for Education event is even more special than ever, as many of you know we lost Mr. Denard Davis. Mr. Davis was one of the original organizer of the event. This year also marks the first time we will be funding a scholarship for El Captain High School., which is celebrating their first Senior Class. I want to invite you all to participate in this event by buying a ticket $25 (admits 2 people)
Once you enter the event you get to sample (as many dishes, as many times as you like) all the dishes at the event. The event dishes include, meats (chicken, beef, pork, fish), chili’s and soups, gumbo, casseroles, salads, appetizer, breads, desserts and more. The event features over 30 local chefs and over 40 dishes to sample. All the dishes are judges and prizes are award to the top 3 chef’s in each categories.
California Northwest Stockton District Meeting
Guest speaker Sharon Wilson. She is the First Lady of New Beginnings Community Baptist Church in Fresno, CA.
Rose Storey, left, Nicole Cochran, center, and Sharon Wilson at the Friendship Baptist Church Prayer Breakfast held on February 26, 2015 in Merced, CA. The theme was “Submitting Yourselves one to Another in the Fear of God” Ephesians 5:21. Pastor Rod Cochran is the pastor of Friendship. we will attend the downtown kick-off at 8 am (This portion is optional for students). After the Marshall Elementary School. kick-off, we will head to ShackelSee more here: https://www. ford School at 9:30 a.m. to begin youtube.com/watch?v=HO6IOthe clean up and site improveLuX8BM ments. Last year we cleaned and AFJ is very excited to anmade site improvements to nounce that the first 20 students Modesto High School. in 7th grade and above that See more here: https://www. pre-register to assist AFJ in our youtube.com/watch?v=Dh-q“Love Modesto” clean-up event ukxIwk on April 23, 2016 will be eligible This year AFJ will clean and to attend AFJ’s Yosemite trip the make site improvements to following day (April 24, 2016), so Shackelford Elementary School, long as the student has a signed located at 100 School Avenue, permission slip from his or her Modesto, CA 95351. parent(s) and pre-registers with As part of “Love Modesto”, SEE PAGE 23>
Love Modesto, & Yosemite
Bishop Nathaniel A. Bullock, right, with Superintendent Dr. G.E. Harris at California Northwest Stockton District Meeting, held March 2-4, at Greater White Rose (COGIC), Stockton, CA.
Tell Our Advertisers You saw it In Central Valley Voice
SAVE THE DATES (April 23 & 24, 2016)! AFJ, Love Modesto, & Yosemite Events: Don’t miss out on all the fun. Please join Advocates for Justice (AFJ), City of Modesto Councilman Tony Madrigal, Mentors, Students, Parents, Community Leaders, and many more on April 23, 2016. On this special day, we will clean up Shackelford Elementary School as part of “Love Modesto”. We need your help. We are seeking the following donations: 1. Paint (Brown for fixtures), 2. Paint (White for goals), 3. Trash bags, 4. Plywood, 5. Fill Dirt, and 6. Sod (for new lawn area at the school). AFJ is a 501(c)(3) so your donation is tax deductible, and we will provide you with a donation receipt. This will be AFJ’s third year participating in “Love Modesto”. Our first year, we cleaned and made site improvements to James
CENTRAL VALLEY VOICE.COM 13
Valley Harvest Black History Month Celebration
Happy Easter
Shirley Brown, right, with Stacey Barber-Johnson. Sister Brown is chairperson of the Valley Harvest Church Black History Program. She paid special tribute to Johnson by Celebrating-”One Black Woman, Her Struggles to Victory in Jesus Christ.” Lorenzo Gilliam at the Black History Program held February 27 at Valley Harvest Church in Atwater, CA. Lorenzo topic was on “Sacrifices”.
“My summary would be are you taking advantages of all the sacrifices that have been made for you? From African American, Parental and Christian heritage sacrifices... They were made for us to gain. Made for us to gain something, right? Do you know what’s meant to be gained and are you gaining from it?” -Lorenzo Gilliam
The Valley Harvest Church celebrated Black History Heritage Month was February 27, 2016. Shirley Brown was the Master of Ceremony. Deacon Darryl Davis and Deacon Rice presented the Black History-” The Great Debate”, Lorenzo Gilliam topic was “Sacrifice, Peter Herrera~ shared“The
V.P. Auto Repair Smog Check & Repair
True Vine” John 15:4-7. Pastor Robert Morris concluded the program with Words of Wisdow to the congregation. A delicious Soul Food Dinner followed the event.
espanol
Shop N Save
Your Neighborhood Grocery & Market Hot & Cold Deli
Complete Diagnosis Service & Repair of Motor Vehicles Electrical, Electronics, A/C, Emissions, etc.
“Mexican Food To Go”
Open Monday thru Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Rosendo Pacheco/Owner
Call In For Your Smog!
Call Today
(209) 385-3895
1030 W.15th Street • Merced, CA 95340 Fax: (209) 385-3451
HOT & TASTY! Fried Chicken Much More...
(209) 384-2807 1055 Child Ave • Merced, CA 95340
14 MARCH 2016
2016 Volunteer Liberty Fellowship celebrated Recognition Program Black History Month
Liberty Fellowship’s Black History Month Honoree Brenda Pannell-Attorney of Law, center, with James Bethune-Treasure of Merced NAACP, left, and Merced County Supervisor Daron McDaniel. Pannell a former Merced High graduate was honored for her accomplishments and community services. The celebration was held February 27 in Atwater, CA.
National Volunteer Recognition Week is April 10-16, 2016. The Deadline to Submit is Friday, April 1, 2016 at 5:00 PM Recognition before the Board will be on Tuesday, April 26, 2016 at 10:00 AM in the Board Chamber. What is it? The Merced County Volunteer Recognition Program, established by the Merced County Board of Supervisors on November 2, 1999, provides an opportunity for recognizing groups or individual volunteers of Merced County for their contribution and dedication within our communities. Recognizing the greatest gift a person gives is one’s self and one’s time, it is important that our Board promote the value and appreciation of volunteer involvement through the recognition of volunteers who, for a prolonged period of time, have made significant contributions and enhanced the quality of the community of Merced County.
Volunteers are an essential part of the community. Residents are encouraged to nominate groups or individuals who exemplify the volunteer spirit and have made outstanding contributions throughout the year. Honor a volunteer who made a difference in your life. The awards are based on service given above and beyond the job asked of them, enhanced the quality of the community program, and service rendered for longevity. Volunteers, who will be selected by committee, will be recognized at a regular Board of Supervisors meeting during National Volunteer Week. The Merced County Board of Supervisors would like to extend a special thanks to all the volunteers in the community. "If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else"
Applications for scholarships at Merced College will be accepted through March 31. “Through the generosity of our donors, we will be providing $178,000 in scholarships awards to deserving students,” announced Foundation Executive Director Robin Shepard. Applicants are encouraged to go online to review the scholar-
ship booklet and to download the application by visiting http:// www.mccd.edu/services/finaid/ scholarships.htm. Applications must be submitted to the Scholarship Office, located in the Lesher Student Services Center, by March 31 at 4 p.m. For more information, contact the Scholarship Office at 209.384.6220.
—Booker T. Washington
Merced College Foundation Announces Availability of Scholarships
LEE INSURANCE AGENCY
Auto • Property • Life • Commercial Liberty Fellowship’s Black History Month Honoree David Denson Sr., right, with son Dr. David Denson Jr., left, and daughter-in-law Lorrie. Mr. Denson was honored for his years of community services and being the first African American Firefighter in Merced County. Dr. Denson Pastor/Founder of Burning Bush Baptist Church, was the keynote speaker at the 7th Annual Black History Celebration.
Eric Lee AGENT/BROKER leeins79@att.net
(209) 358-6441 (888) 358-6441
Lic#: 0577069
1199 Atwater Blvd Atwater, CA 95301
CENTRAL VALLEY VOICE.COM 15
Academics, Career Technical Education Courses Prepare Students to Be Life-Ready Unlike any generation in modern education, students in today’s classrooms need to have a solid academic foundation while possessing real-world skills that are marketable and can lead to a good job. That’s why the Merced Union High School District is focusing on Career Technical Education (CTE) to prepare students for the real world, whether that represents a job straight out of school or enrolling in a college or university. CTE is dramatically different from its predecessor, vocational education, according to Tammie Calzadillas, assistant superintendent of Educational Services with MUHSD. "The mindset that CTE is 'vocational education' consisting of low-level courses, job training and single electives is erroneous. The CTE courses today are academically rigorous, integrated and aligned to a sequenced program of study that can lead to a career or postsecondary education opportunities," Calzadillas said. Constantino Aguilar, the district's executive director of Technology and Innovation, said students are craving for the application component in lessons. It has been missing for years because of the old system of school accountability. "Those days are over," Aguilar said. "Students must use skills to apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems. Students have had to memorize and retain facts and content for multiple-choice tests, which does not allow for students’ skills to be recognized and valued.'" Aguilar said that CTE is defined as providing a relevant, skillsbased education for all students. "We are not asking students to memorize volumes of content. We are asking them to apply the skills they are being taught within content. We are using the CTE platform to teach marketability skills and develop leadership, critical thinking, creativity and collaboration skills," Aguilar said. He added there are 27 established
career pathways in MUHSD. Calzadillas said that CTE is the part of the California Common Core State Standards that speaks to the career-ready student. "We have always known what a college-ready student looks like," Calzadillas said. "The college-ready student completes his or her A-G admission requirements, takes pre-advanced placement and advanced-placement courses and is on the college track. Knowing the college-ready piece of the California Common Core and accountability equation hasn't been difficult, but the career-ready piece is a different story — it requires a shift in mindset." CTE courses appeal to students because it gives them a chance to demonstrate their learning in a non-traditional way. Many students who struggle in a typical academic or core classroom can be the students who thrive in a CTE environment, Calzadillas commented. "We have many quality CTE courses and pathways in the district. The CTE programs provide students with an opportunity to acquire an important skill set desperately needed in today's workforce. Employers are looking for career-ready students who are critical thinkers, who can collaborate with diverse groups of their peers and who can communicate effectively in order to solve problems and come up with innovative solutions," Calzadillas said. Next year many freshmen will take a required career exploration class as part of their social studies. "We don't often ask students what they want to do, what they want to be and how they are going to achieve their goal," Aguilar said. "As career pathways are developed, students will see more relevancy to their education. Educators want students to create a six-year plan for their high school courses and post high school education. This includes looking at what their interests are, either in a career or field of study or both," said Aguilar. Additionally, numerous articulation agreements exist
between the high school district and Merced College where the two agencies share curriculum allowing students to start accumulating college credit in high school. Calzadillas said the district has to help its stakeholders see that CTE is no longer just about teaching students a narrow set of skills sufficient for entry-level jobs. It is about preparing students for careers, or better yet, equipping them with the skill set that is important for being more than college or career-ready; the skills learned equip students to be lifeready.
Class of 2016 Commencement
Over 1000 students will be awarded an associate degree from Modesto Junior College on Friday, April 29, 2016. The festivities include the Graduation Luncheon at 12:00 p.m. in the Mary Stuart Rogers Student Learning Center, West Campus, the Commencement Ceremony at 6:00 p.m. in the MJC Stadium, East Campus, and the Commencement Reception is in the East Campus Student Center immediately following the ceremony. Graduates, families, and faculty
MERCED MALL CAR WASH (BEHIND THE MALL)
are invited to attend this reception. Caps, Gowns, and Honor Cords Caps, gowns, and honor cords will be available for pickup beginning March 21, 2016 in the East Campus Bookstore. The graduation cap and gown package includes the tassel; tassels are available separately as well. ASMJC is sponsoring the cost for cap and gown packages for all graduates!! No advance measurements are necessary. For more information about class
and graduation souvenirs, call 575-6840. Commencement Speaker Auditions The Student Commencement Speaker is chosen through a Commencement Speaker Audition. Any student can apply to be Commencement Speaker. Applications can be picked up and returned to the Arts, Humanities, and Communications Division Office in PAC, room 205. Applications are due by 5 p.m. SEE PAGE 23>
LePearl’s Boutique Gifts & Collectibles
Visit Le Pearl's Boutique
We have one of a kind items! Hand Washing • Complete Detailing “Put A Shine on Your Car” •
(Please call for an appointment)
Hours of Operations Winter Hours Monday-Saturday 8:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. Summer Hours Monday-Sunday
(209) 723-7900
Le Pearl Butcher Owner
•Gifts •Apparel •Unique Jewelry •Scarves •Purses •Not Your Mother's Jeans
BUS: 209. 358.7803
701 Broadway • Atwater, CA 95301 lepearl701@sbcglobal.net
16 MARCH 2016
MJC THEATRE DEPARTMENT STAGES DRAMA THE ELEPHANT MAN KENNY G
KENNY G Tuesday, April 5, 2016 7:30 p.m. Mary Stuart Rogers Theater Grammy award-winning Saxophonist Kenny G will make his way to the Gallo Center for one
unforgettable night. He will perform a number of his hits from his extensive career such as “Songbird,” “Forever In Love” and “Silhouette.” Kenny G has collaborated with some of the biggest names in the business during his legendary career, ranging from Whitney Houston to Weezer and also appeared in pop superstar Katy Perry’s video for her single “Last Friday Night.” The performance will also feature tracks off his newest album “Brazilian Nights.” In a recording career that spans almost three decades and 23 albums, Grammy® Award-winning saxophonist Kenny G has grafted elements of R&B, pop, and Latin to a jazz foundation solidifying his reputation as the premiere artist in contemporary jazz. Since the early ‘80s, his combination of unparalleled instrumental chops and indelible melodies has resulted in sales of more than 75 million records worldwide (45 million in the U.S. alone) and more than a dozen climbs to the top of Billboard’s contemporary jazz chart.
SMOKE & VAPE (Located in Save Mart Shopping Center/Near Sonic)
WE SELL MOST KINDS OF CIGARETTES • Premiums Cigars • Hookahs • Pipes • Vapor Pens & Juices
Ladies Purses & Many Gift Items 1855 BELLEVUE RD. • Atwater, CA 95301
(209) 358-2155
Comedy tour stops in Fresno May 14 Tickets On Sale March 25 A group of well-known comedians with “The Comedy Get Down” tour will perform at the Save Mart Center at Fresno State at 8 p.m. Saturday, May 14. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday, March 25. The show features comedians Cedric the Entertainer, Eddie Griffin, D.L. Hughley, George Lopez and Charlie Murphy. Prices are $49.75, $67.75 and $89.75. Tickets can be purchased at select Save Mart Supermarkets, online at ticketmaster.com, at the Save Mart Center Box Office or by phone at 1.800.745.3000. INFO: 559.347.3400.
D.L. Hughley
Merced College Theatre Department Presents American Idiot Described as a “punk rock opera,” Green Day’s American Idiot is coming to Merced College. The theatrical musical event, presented by the Merced College Theatre Arts Department, will be performed on April 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, at 7:30 p.m. and on April 17 at 2 p.m. The performance is for mature audiences only, and no one under 16 will be admitted without an adult. American Idiot features original music by Green Day, with lyrics by Billie Joe Armstrong and the book by Armstrong and Michael Mayer. The production is directed by Carin Heidelbach with musical direction by Joel Scott Shade. Based on Green Day's 2004 Grammy Award-winning album
of the same name, this punk rock opera follows the story of three longtime friends and their battles with "rage and love," American expectation and drugs. The three young friends, bored with their suburban "Jingle Town," struggle with choosing their respective paths in a post 9/11 world. Johnny (the Jesus of Suburbia) takes his chances in the city, while Will stays home and faces life as a parent. Tunny is swept off to face war in the desert. The cast includes Forrest Lark as Johnny, Jeshamon Volkerts as Tunny, Adrian Quezada as Will, Rachel Rodrigues as Whatsername, Kim Carpenter as Heather, Kayla Ann Sonnenfeld as Extraordinary Girl, and Manuel Moreno
as St. Jimmy. Playing multiple roles in the ensemble are Isaiah Beebe, Aaron Vasquez, Jannett Aguilar, Amber Fowler, Teddy Snyder, Seska Gimlin, Brittney Marcelli, Querenhapuc Casillas, Anthony Ortiz, Emma Hundley, Lupita Pineda, Jordyn McMurry-Owens and Isaiah Wright. Tickets are available at the Merced College Theater Box Office, the Merced College Bookstore, and at the door on the day of performance. Tickets are $15 for general admission, $12 for students, seniors and military. A special $5 student price is offered on Thursday, April 14 only. For more information, contact the Merced College Arts Division at 209.386.6644.
CENTRAL VALLEY VOICE.COM 17
CENTRAL VALLEY HEALTHY EATING FABULOUS FOOD Get More Potassium With Potatoes H&W Fast Food - Take Out Restaurant Drive-In Happy Easter! Visit Us at Barbecue Pit
1720 G St, Merced,CA 95340 (209) 383-2558
Delicious Hambugers w/fries
Payment Types Accepted AMEX, ATM, VISA, MASTER CARD
121 W 16th St., Merced, CA • (209) 722-8595
(NAPSI)—If you’re like most people, you’re missing out on an important nutrient—but there’s a simple and simply delicious way to overcome that deficit. The problem is lack of potassium. A potassium-rich diet has been linked, in several studies, to reduced risk for heart disease and stroke—the two leading causes of death among adults in the U.S. Yet an estimated 97 percent of adults are falling short of the recommended intake. Fortunately, one of the best sources of potassium is a tasty Idaho® potato. It contains nearly twice the amount of potassium per serving as a banana—and provides roughly one-quarter of your average daily recommended amount of potassium. In fact, Idaho® potatoes are the only fresh potatoes that have been certified heart healthy by the American Heart Association. One great way to increase your potassium intake is with this
This hearty White-on-White Idaho Potato Cauliflower Soup packs a healthy dose of potassium White-on-White Idaho Potato Cauliflower Soup. This satisfying meal is easy to make and great for busy and blustery nights: White-on-White Idaho Potato Cauliflower Soup
La Nita’s Restuarant MEXICAN DINNERS WINE -IMPORTED MEXICAN BEERS
-ORDERS TO GO-
MON.-SAT.10:00 a.m.- 9:30 p.m.
SUN. 9:00 a.m. -9:00 p.m. 2684 Shaffer Road Atwater, CA 95301
(209) 358-8891 Rudy & Debbie Perez Family Owned
Maria’s Taco Shop Delicious-Fast Mexican Food
Open 7 days a week The hottest place in town! 1750 ‘R’ Street • Merced, CA • (209) 383-4424 350 Bellevue Rd • Atwater, CA • (209) 358-2654
1 cup finely chopped onion 2 medium Idaho potatoes (about 1 pound total), peeled and cut into ½-inch cubes 32-ounce carton low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth 1 teaspoon garlic powder ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary 2 cups cauliflower florets Coarsely ground black pepper 1−2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil Heat a large saucepan coated with cooking spray over medium heat. Add the onions and cook for 3−4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft. Add the potatoes, broth, garlic powder and rosemary; bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 20 minutes. Add the cauliflower and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, until the cauliflower is soft. Serve as is or puree with an immersion blender before serving. Sprinkle with pepper and basil; drizzle oil evenly over all. Estimated Nutritional Analysis per Serving: 168 calories, 0 mg cholesterol, 4 g fat, 104 mg sodium, 9 g protein, 27 g carbohydrates For more recipes, visit www. idahopotato.com.
18 MARCH 2016
#1 Seed Knocks Off Women's Basketball
T
he University of California, Merced fell to the number one team in the country in the first round of the 2016 NAIA DII Women's Basketball National Championship Tournament Wednesday afternoon by a score of 93-64. Although Morningside College showed why they are the favorites to repeat as national champions, the Bobcats showed that they are a team who one day might be on that same level. Senior guard Shelby Howard led all scorers with 18 points in the loss. Freshman Aubrey Hayes packed her jump shot for the trip, going a scorching 5-7 from the floor, including 4-5 from threepoint range. Jecenia Trinidad, who, like Howard, was playing in her final game as a Bobcat, had a classic do-it-all game, finishing with eight points, a game-high five assists, ten rebounds, and a pair of steals. Brittany Martinez, who started the game with a massive blocked shot, had six points, 13 rebounds, and three blocks. UC Merced announced their presence early, not allowing Morningside to get off to a hot start and trailing just 18-12 at the end of the first quarter. Unfortunately the #1 overall seed caught fire from the floor in the second and managed to lead UC Merced 49-26 at halftime on
50% shooting from the floor. The Bobcats managed their most productive quarter in the third, and actually won the fourth quarter 18-16, but the large gap created in the second and third quarters was just too much to overcome. It was really a story of two halves for the Bobcats. In the first half, UC Merced was uncharacteristically cold from downtown, going just 3-16. Then in the second half, the Bobcats got back to their long-range ways, converting on six of their 13 threes for a 46% mark. UC Merced were also the quicker defensive team, forcing Morningside into 17 turnovers
compared to their 11. With the loss, the Bobcats put a wrap on their season, finishing with an 11-15 record. The Bobcats' season was filled with highs never reached before in program history. The team went undefeated in conference, won their second straight Cal Pac Conference Tournament Championship, put three players on the All-Conference First Team, and brought home the Conference MVP award, Defensive Player of the Year award, and Coach of the Year award. As far as Bobcat basketball is concerned, next season can't start soon enough.
Announcing 2016 Junior Giants' Baseball Registration The City of Modesto Parks Recreation and Neighborhoods Department is glad to announce our 2016 Junior Giant League on-line registration for girls and boys ages 5-13 is now open. For those who need internet access, visit Maddux Youth Center at 615 Sierra Dr. Modesto Monday-Thursday: 12:30-6:30 p.m., Friday: 12:30-5:00 p.m. and Sat. 11-3:00 p.m.. This FREE six week non-competitive baseball program focuses on the fundamentals of baseball through the “Junior Giants’ four Bases of
Support Your Local Sports
Character” - Confidence, Integrity, Leadership and Teamwork. On-line registration may be done at: www.jrgiants.org. Parents and players will meet at our First Pitch meeting Wednesday June 1, 2016 at the Modesto Senior Citizens Center (Time TBA), League starts June 13th. COACHES NEEDED! If there are additional questions about 2016 Junior Giants League, please contact Stephanie Smith at ssmith@ modestogov.com or (209) 5775450.
We have been in business for the last 92 years, proudly serving the community. Our unparalleled service, competitive prices, and overall value are why our customers keep returning. We look forward to your patronage.
Dan McNamara HOURS: O P E N 7 D AY S Wilson Solution $59.99 NEW Sport-Tek® Shield Ripstop 1/2Zip Pullover. JST84
Competitive Prices On: Tees, Sweat, Jackets, Caps Sreen Printing Team Uniforms/Equipment No order too small or Large In house printing and embroidery guarantees two week turnaround
NIKE Football Cleats
“Same Great Service & Low Prices”
2820 N "G" Street, Ste 105 • Merced, CA
(Bear Creek GaIlaria Corner of Bear Creek /G Street)
209. 722-3593 • Fax 209.722.9912 mcnamarasports@sbcglobal.net www.mcnamarasports.net
Payment: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover
SPORTS NEWS
Merced College Football Supporters Create ‘Blue Devil Blitz’ Fundraising Program
I
magine waking up one morning and finding blue and gold pitchforks on your front lawn. It could happen! During the month of April, friends and supporters of the Merced College Blue Devil football team will be visiting local neighborhoods in an effort to raise money through a unique challenge called “Blue Devil Blitz.” In an effort to raise funds to support their team, volunteers will place blue and gold pitchforks on lawns of potential donors with a “You Have Been Blitzed” packet of instructions on how to get them removed. “The idea is to have someone who has already donated through the Blitz to choose someone they think would also like to support Blue Devil football,” said event spokesperson Lee Anne Hobbs. “Then we’ll place the pitchforks on that person’s yard and challenge them to also make a donation.” The campaign hopes to raise $10,000 by the start of the 2016 season, most of which is anticipated to come through the month of April. The idea for the short fundrais-
ing campaign was hatched between Hobbs her brother Steve Hobbs, who is the principal of Buhach Colony High School and a Blue Devil alumnus. The inspiration, however, comes from their father the late Bob Hobbs, a longtime Merced College coach and counselor. “We literally grew up in that stadium. Being a part of the Blue Devil football family in the 80’s made a great impact on both of us.” Lee Anne Hobbs said. “This fundraising effort is a first step in what we hope will bring the community back to the stadium. It is also a way for us to honor our dad, who loved the sport and Merced College. It is a little full-circle too, as dad recruited Bob Casey to play football here and now he is the head coach. He would be proud of how Casey is rebuilding the program.” “As a player, the one thing that always stood out to me about Merced College football was the amount of community that was part of the experience,” said Coach Bob Casey. “It’s exciting to see that coming back to Blue Devil Football and Merced College. We have two extended travel weekends this season
in our schedule and, of course, equipment standards to maintain. The financial support is greatly appreciated.” Those who are “blitzed” will be encouraged to make a suggested donation to the football program. The pitchforks will be removed and rotate to other front yards around the community. All donations will be received by the Merced College Foundation and all donations are tax deductible. Donors will also have the option of making their contributions with their credit card by going to the Foundation’s website at www.mercedcollegefoundation.org and using the Foundation’s secure PayPal account. “This should be a fun challenge. You don’t even have to be ‘blitzed’ to donate nor do you have to live in Merced. You can donate directly to the program,” Hobbs said, “All of the money we raise will be used to support our team this year, and it’s going to be a great season.” To participate in the Blue Devil Blitz, contact Lee Anne Hobbs at 209.384.6255 or the Merced College Foundation at 209.381.6470.
CENTRAL VALLEY VOICE.COM 19
3D Aligment Up to 8 tons • New & used tires • Auto Repair • Accessories JESUS & ADRIANA GARZA OWNER
garzatire@yahoo.com
ROAD SERVICE & TOW SERVICE
Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday Closed
6886 N. Santa Fe., Winton, CA
(209) 357-2023 • Fax: (209) 357-1824
Ruben’s
Auto Body Domestic & Custom Paint Office: (209) 722-0126 Mobile: (209) 756-0126 Fax: (209) 722-7646
641 West Ave • Merced, CA 95341
QUALITY SERVICE AND REPAIR FOREIGN AND DOMESTIC Automobile Diagnostic Service
A Full Service Automotive & Repair
1325 ANGIE AVE Modesto, CA 95351
(209) 537- 4066
20 MARCH 2016
California’s Unemployment Rate Decreases To 5.7 Percent SACRAMENTO – California’s unemployment rate decreased to 5.7 percent in January, and nonfarm payroll jobs decreased by 1,500 during the month for a total gain of 2,086,100 jobs since the recovery began in February 2010, according to data released today by the California Employment Development Department (EDD) from two separate surveys. The U.S. unemployment rate also decreased in January to 4.9 percent. In December, the state’s unemployment rate was 5.9 percent, and in January 2015, the unemployment rate was 6.8 percent. The unemployment rate is derived from a federal survey of 5,500 California households. Nonfarm jobs in California totaled 16,272,600 in January, a decrease of 1,500 jobs over the month, according to a survey of businesses that is larger and less variable statistically. The survey of 58,000 California businesses measures jobs in the economy. The year-over-year change, January 2015 to January 2016, shows an increase of 444,900 jobs (up 2.8 percent). EMPLOYMENT AND UNEMPLOYMENT IN CALIFORNIA The federal survey of households, done with a smaller sample than the survey of employers, shows an increase in the number of employed people. It estimates
the number of Californians holding jobs in January was 17,930,000, an increase of 52,000 from December, and up 295,000 from the employment total in January of last year. The number of people unemployed in California was 1,089,000 – down by 35,000 over the month, and down by 189,000 compared with January of last year. PAYROLL EMPLOYMENT DETAIL (SEASONALLY ADJUSTED) EDD’s report on payroll employment (wage and salary jobs) in the nonfarm industries of California totaled 16,272,600 in January, a net loss of 1,500 jobs since the January survey. This followed a gain of 47,700 jobs (as revised) in December. Seven categories (construction; manufacturing; trade, transportation and utilities; information; educational and health services; leisure and hospitality; and government) added jobs over the month, gaining 25,400 jobs. Educational and health services posted the largest increase over the month, adding 9,500 jobs. Four categories (mining and logging; financial activities; professional and business services; and other services) reported job declines over the month, down 26,900 jobs. In a year-over-year comparison (January 2015 to January 2016),
nonfarm payroll employment in California increased by 444,900 jobs (up 2.8 percent). Ten categories (construction; manufacturing; trade, transportation and utilities; information; financial activities; professional and business services; educational and health services; leisure and hospitality; other services; and government) posted job gains over the year, adding 449,400 jobs. Educational and health services posted the largest gains on a numerical basis, adding 100,700 jobs (up 4.2 percent). Construction posted the largest gains on a percentage basis, up 6.5 percent (adding 45,700 jobs). One category, mining and logging, posted job declines over the year, down 4,500 jobs (a 14.5 percent decrease). UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE CLAIMS (NOT SEASONALLY ADJUSTED) In related data, the EDD reported that there were 410,293 people receiving regular Unemployment Insurance benefits during the January survey week. This compares with 393,350 in December and 397,142 in January of last year. At the same time, new claims for Unemployment Insurance were 53,682 in January, compared with 53,248 in December and 40,989 in January of last year.
Study: Madera, Fresno Counties Among Best Places To Own Home In California
According to a new study from SmartAsset, a New York Citybased financial technology company, Madera and Fresno counties are among the best places to own a home in California. The company’s second-annual study compares average rent and home prices in counties across the U.S. in order to find the places where buying rather than renting makes the most sense. Madera County came in third in the study and Fresno County was ranked the fifth-best city to
own a home in the Golden State. The SmartAsset study calculated that it takes a Madera County homeowner 3 years to break even in terms of the overall costs of buying a home versus paying rent, with the average monthly mortgage payment pegged at $938 compared to an average monthly rent of $1,366. The study said the average home price in Madera is currently $231,291, giving the county a 79.9 score on its rent vs. buy index. Sierra County, which ranked
first in the study, had a breakeven score of 2.1 years and an index score of 89.4. For Fresno County’s newest homeowners, the study calculated that it will take 3.3 years to break even, using an average monthly mortgage payment of $823 versus an average monthly rent cost of $1,266. According to the study, the average home price in Fresno County currently stands at $203,117, giving the county a rent vs. buy index score of 77.1.
BUSINESS NEWS Peter Padilla State Farm Insurance Agent Insurance, Auto Insurance, Homeowners Insurance, Life Insurance, Property & Casualty Insurance, Renters Insurance
240 E. Yosemite Ave. • Merced, CA 95340 Peter Padilla
(209) 383-5843
website: http://www.peterpadilla.com e-mail: peter.padilla.b9c7@statefarm.com
CENTRAL VALLEY VOICE.COM 21
FINANCIAL CORNER
ACCIDENT AND INJURY ATTORNEY A FORMER “INSIDER” NOW SERVING YOU
*FORMER CLAIMS ADJUSTER *FORMER DEFENSE ATTORNEY FOR INSURANCE COMPANY *FORMER MEDICAL MALPRACTICE DEFENSE ATTORNEY FOR COUNTY HOSPITALS IN LOS ANGELES
Representing Clients in the Central Valley and throughout the State of California. • Personal Injury (Car Accidents, Slip and Falls) The Law Offices Of • Medical Malpractice/Wrongful Death Brenda J. Pannell Call toll-free for a free consultation • Nursing Home Neglect
Most cases handled on contingency.
(T) (866) 942-3557
HELP WANTED County Administration Bldg 2222 M Street Merced, CA 95340 (209) 385-7682 Jobline (209) 385-7516
Hearing Impaired (800) 725-2929
For a complete job listing and to apply visit: www.co.merced.ca.us
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER MINORITIES, WOMEN AND DISABLED ENCOURAGED TO APPLY
Report: More Valley Homeowners Regaining Equity Written by Business Journal Staff A new analysis released today by real estate tracking firm CoreLogic shows 1 million borrowers across the country regained equity in 2015, bringing the total number of mortgaged U.S. residential properties with equity at the end of Q4 2015 to approximately 46.3 million, or 91.5 percent of all mortgaged properties. Nationwide, borrower equity increased year over year by $682 billion in Q4 2015, according to the report, which also indicates approximately 120,000 properties lost equity in the fourth quarter of 2015 compared to the third quarter of 2015. The total number of mortgaged residential properties with negative equity stood at 4.3 million, or 8.5 percent, in Q4 2015. This is an increase of 2.9 percent quarter over quarter from 4.2 million homes, or 8.3 percent, in Q3 2015 and a decrease of 19.1 percent year over year from 5.3 million homes, or 10.7 percent, compared with Q4 2014. In Fresno, 24,455, or 16.2 percent, of all residential properties with a mortgage were in negative equity as of Q4 2015 compared with 28,792, or 19.1 percent, in Q4 2014 and 23,332, or 15.4 percent, in Q3 2015. An additional 4,481 properties, or 3.0 percent, were in near-negative equity for Q4 2015 compared with 4,723, or 3.1 percent, in Q4 2014 and 4,198, or 2.8 percent, in Q3 2015. In the Visalia-Porterville area, 8,183, or 11.8 percent, of all residential properties with a mortgage were in negative equity as of Q4 2015 compared
with 11,774, or 17.1 percent, in Q4 2014 and 8,330, or 12.0 percent, in Q3 2015. An additional 1,886 properties, or 2.7 percent, were in near-negative equity for Q4 2015 compared with 2,329, or 3.4 percent, in Q4 2014 and 1,935, or 2.8 percent, in Q3 2015. Negative equity, often referred to as “underwater” or “upside down,” applies to borrowers who owe more on their mortgages than their homes are worth. Negative equity can occur because of a decline in home value, an increase in mortgage debt or a combination of both. For the homes in negative equity status, the national aggregate value of negative equity was $311 billion at the end of Q4 2015, increasing approximately $5.5 billion, or 1.8 percent, from $305.5 billion in Q3 2015. On a year-over-year basis, the value of negative equity declined overall from $348 billion in Q4 2014, representing a decrease of 10.7 percent in 12 months. Of the more than 50 million residential properties with a mortgage, approximately 9.5 million, or 18.9 percent, have less than 20 percent equity (referred to as “under-equitied”) and 1.2 million, or 2.3 percent, have less than 5 percent equity (referred to as near-negative equity). Borrowers who are under-equitied may have a difficult time refinancing their existing homes or obtaining new financing to sell and buy another home due to underwriting constraints. Borrowers with near-negative equity are considered at risk of moving into negative equity if home prices fall. SEE PAGE >24
22 MARCH 2016
Visit Us For Your Automotive Services
Automotive Services Corner
Atwater Blvd. Auto Repair Getting There Starts Here
•EMISSION DIAGNOSIS •CHECK ENGINE LIGHT •COMPETITIVE PRICES •AND MUCH MORE
3542 ATWATER BLVD. SHOP:(209) 358-2558 Atwater, CA 95301 CELL: (209) 846-5043 atwaterautorepair@gmail.com
Keep Track Of Open Recalls Remember, to keep your car safe, it pays to pay attention to auto recalls. (NAPSI)—If you’re like most people, car safety and performance are important to you. But you might be surprised to hear that over 47 million vehicles have unfixed safety recalls—vehicles you might be sharing the road with or driving yourself. Alarmingly, family-oriented vehicles like SUVs and minivans are the least-often fixed. An auto recall usually occurs when the manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration finds that a car has a defect or fails to meet federal safety standards. While repeated attempts are made to reach the owners, the stats suggest that people aren’t well-enough informed about recalls, and may not know where to start. To help you stay informed, you can use the free myCarfax. com service to get e-mails or text alerts about current and future recalls on your car. Fixing recalls helps maintain the safety and value of your car, makes roads safer, and is normally free. Plus, most recall fixes are completed in less than a day. Remember that only a manufacturer’s dealer is authorized to fix recalls. If your car is recalled, call your local dealer immediately. Learn more and sign up at www.mycarfax.com.
Mainstreet garage@facebook
Main Street Garage Auto Repair & Smog
“Pass or free retest” 843 W. Main Street Merced, CA 95340 Bus. 209-349-8307 Fax. 209-349-8314
Bob’s
Ron & Betty Cornacchini (209) 723-9291
Auto Works QUALITY AUTO REPAIR-Since 1981 Open: Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Automotive Tune Up Service, Auto Repair & Service, Auto Oil & Lube & Brake Repair cash, discover, mastcard, visa
610 E. Main Street Merced, CA 95341
Remembering the Dream of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Over 20 Years Experience, No Job Too Big or Too Small Automotive Our shop is staffed with trained mechanics to service and repair your auto. We provide great service at a great price for the following automotive repairs and services.
1640 W 13th St. Merced, CA 95341• (209) 722-4944
Former Condell Radiator location, near “V” St. and Hwy 140 & Hwy 99, next to ARCO AM/PM Gas Station, near Home Depot
The Women's Auxilary "2016 Jazz in the Valley"
Photo by: Audrey Spearman Margie Lee, member of the Modesto Women’s Auxilary with husband Roger at 2016 Jazz in the Valley event on March 8. The event was held at the Century in Modesto, CA
Jacinta Lee Groves
August Wilson's "Fences”
CENTRAL VALLEY VOICE.COM 23
LOVE MODESTO...CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 Renaldo Rucker, Jr., at ruck5301@ mail.chapman.edu, Rosalinda Vierra at rosevierra@yahoo.com or Jacq Wilson at attyjacq@yahoo. com no later than April 15, 2016. Please don’t procrastinate. Seating will be limited. Why Yosemite? Yosemite is not just a dream location. It is a place where you can come “Face-toFace” with geologic wonders, awe-inspiring waterfalls, and living monuments, including, but not limited to: 1. The largest living organisms on the planet – Giant Sequoias (some weigh 6 tons), 2. The largest known exposed block of granite on the earth – El Capitan, 3. The most recognized granite face in the planet – Half Dome, 4. The 2nd tallest single water fall in the world – Ribbon Fall (1,612 ft.), and 5. The tallest cascading water fall in North America – Yosemite Falls (2,425 feet). We are seeking additional drivers and sponsorship donations for the Yosemite trip to cover the cost of transportation and food for the students. With your donation, we will include your name or company name on our event pictures and videos. Again, your donation is tax
deductible, and we will provide you with a donation receipt. I am attaching a link to my family’s 2015 Yosemite vacation for those of you who have never experienced the wonder that is Yosemite. See more here: https://youtu. be/BoQTZ474chQ I will create a similar video for our AFJ-Yosemite trip. Imagine your name or company’s name on the video because you cared enough to invest in the youth and community of Modesto. As a reminder, AFJ will have a community meeting on April 23, 2016 at 3:00 p.m. at 608 Spenser Avenue, Modesto, CA. At the meeting, we will discuss our conversations with the MCS district regarding AFJ’s 10-point plan, upcoming AFJ events, and the future. In conclusion, please join us as we work together to clean up Shackelford Elementary School as part of “Love Modesto”. Together we can make a positive difference in our community. Your friend/advocate, JACQ M. WILSON, ESQ. Advocates for Justice http://www.advocates4justice. org/ (415) 608-9579 - phone attyjacq@yahoo.com – email
COMMENCEMENT...CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15
Sankofa Theatre Company would like to thank the Central Valley community and Gallo Center for the Arts, for the support we received during our production of August Wilson's "Fences." The case and crew felt the spirit every night! Thank you!
on February 29, 2016. Graduation Luncheon The Graduation Luncheon will take place from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Mary Stuart Rogers Student Learning Center (West Campus) on Friday, April 29, 2016. It is a delightful celebration of music, awards, and recognition. All faculty, graduates, and guests are invited to the luncheon. Luncheon tickets are $12 and will be available in the Bookstore beginning March 21,2016. Alumni Modesto Junior College Alumni Association, part of the MJC Foundation, offers a variety of benefits. As a graduate you are automatically a member of the Alumni Association. For more information contact us at 575-6619 or visit modestojcfoundation.org. In Case of Rain If it rains, Commencement will
be relocated to the East Campus Gym, and guest tickets are required and limited to two per graduate. (The Gym has limited seating and tickets are accepted at the doors on a first come first serve basis until Gym is filled to capacity. Turned away ticket holders can watch via live feed in the Main Auditorium. When Commencement is held in the Stadium, tickets are not required and graduates may invite as many guests as they would like. Rain tickets for the ceremony will be issued in the Bookstore when picking up caps and gowns. (Do not lose rain tickets, replacements will not be issued.) In the event of rain, the 4:30 p.m. Student Line-Up will take place in Founders Hall instead of the Gym.
24 MARCH 2016 HOMES
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21 “In Q4 of last year home equity increased by $680 billion or 11.5 percent, the 13th consecutive quarter of double digit growth,” said Frank Nothaft, chief economist for CoreLogic. “The improvement in equity reflects positive home prices and continued deleveraging of mortgage balances by households.” “The number of homeowners with more than 20 percent equity is rising rapidly,” said Anand Nallathambi, president and CEO of CoreLogic. “Higher prices driven largely by tight supply are certainly a big reason for the rise, but continued population growth, household formation and ultralow interest rates are also factors. Looking ahead in 2016, we expect home equity levels to continue to build, which is a good thing for the long-term health of the U.S. economy.”
WOODY’S BAIL BONDS
24 Hour Services — Night and Day
AYALA’S BODY SHOP www.ayalastires.com Se Hablo Espaniol
Free Towing For Estimates
• Fast • Confidential • Free Information • Efficient
Insurance Work Welcome
We Pay Your Deductible Fee
(209) 524-5291
Kimberly L. Gambrell LeRoy Gambrell Kellee Gambrell
1218 “H” St. • Modesto, CA • 95354
FREE ESTIMATES
(209) 620-8844 (209) 564-8902
• Collison Repair • Work On All Makes • Frame Work • Color match Specialist
510 Lander Ave. • Turlock, CA • 95380
TRIUMPH
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 choice, and further shredding welfare, is the path to economic well-being and uplift for blacks. Trump’s aim is not to get any substantial support from blacks, since that’s an impossibility, but to sow seeds of doubt, confusion, and even a little hostility toward Clinton among just enough blacks to keep them from the polls in the must win battle ground states. Judging from the punches thrown by a black at the Trump protester, it may have worked in at least once case.
• Complete Cooling & Exhaust • Catalytic Conver ters• Hitches
1330 N. Lander, Stevinson, CA
(209) 667-0191
2136 Daubenberger Rd., Turlock, CA
(209) 632-7500 • TOWING • REPAIR SERVICES Used Auto Parts Discount Used Auto Parts • Motors • Transmissions • Rear Ends Starters • Body Parts • Brake Rotors and MUCH MORE.....
Hours: Open Mon-Fri 8:00-5:00 p.m.
“Serving all your Radiator and Muf fler needs” 775 Atwater Blvd. • Atwater, CA 95301
(209) 358-2638