Bak 4c 12 06 17

First African American Billionaire Honored

DJ Reed Could Face Bruins

Bentley’s Coffee House Opens

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News Observer Bakersfield

Volume 44 Number 14

Celebrating Our 40th Anniversary 1977- 2017

Observer Group Newspapers of Southern California

CBC Meets with FBI Director Over Report

‘Black Identity Extremists’

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Contributor FBI Director Christopher A. Wray failed to explain why the agency he leads changed the name of a domestic terrorism designation from “Black Separatist Extremist” to “Black Identity Extremist,” during a recent meeting with a group of Congressional Black Caucus members about a leaked FBI document.

Wray also refused to acknowledge that Black activists, including Black Lives Matter organizers, are being monitored by the FBI, according to CBC members present at the meeting.

The leaked FBI document, titled “Black Identity Extremists Likely Motivated to Target Law Enforcement Officers,” sparked a wave of controversy and sharp criticism of the FBI. At least one CBC member called the leaked document “COINTELPRO 2.0,” while another said that the report “calls for open season on Black activists.” The document was shared widely with local law enforcement agencies across the country.

According to Newsweek, following the “fatal attacks on police officers in Dallas and Baton Rouge, Louisiana in 2016, the bureau expressed concerns about ‘the threat of copycat attacks against law enforcement’ at the Republican and Democratic national conventions.”

Newsweek also reported that other documents showed that “the FBI has monitored Black Lives Matter protesters.”

Those documents were released, because of a lawsuit to expose the surveillance filed by the Center for Constitutional Rights and the civil rights group Color of Change.

On Wednesday, November 29, Congressional Black Caucus Chair Cedric Richmond (D-La.) and 2nd Vice Chair Karen Bass (D-Calif.), provided an overview of their meeting with Wray in a teleconference with National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) President Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis; NNPA National Chairman Dorothy Leavell; and a group of Black publishers, editors and reporters.

CBC members, who are also members of the House Committee on Homeland Security, the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and the House Committee on the Judiciary, were present at the meeting.

“Listening to [Wray], especially considering meetings and discussions we’ve had with Attorney General [Jeff] Sessions, he appeared to be a breath of fresh air,” Bass said.

According to Bass, Wray said the “Black Identity Extremists” report was completed prior to his taking the post, but he acknowledged that he “owns the document” now.

Wray also said that no one would be investigated or targeted, unless they met three points of criteria: there had to be credible evidence of federal crimes; a credible threat of force or violence; and both of those points had to exist in furtherance of a social or political goal.

Bass said the FBI uses that criteria to categorize people as domestic terrorists and, according to the leaked document, “Black Identity Extremists” fall into the category of domestic terrorism.

Wray also admitted that the policy wasn’t new, the name simply changed, Bass said.

“They used to call it ‘Black Separatist Extremists’ and they changed it to ‘Black Identity Extremists,’” said Bass. “[Wray] didn’t have a lot of rationale for why that change took place, except for the fact that the people that fall under the category ‘Black Identity Extremist’ don’t seem to be separatists in today’s world.”

CBC members raised major concerns about the report, one of which was how FBI even crafted the methodology to come up with the category of “Black Identity Extremists.” “[Wray] essentially said that they used ‘open source’ documents, which means news reports,” said Bass. “Lord knows what that means.”

Bass said that, based on what she heard from Wray, the methodology seemed “flimsy.”

“When we raised our concerns that a new generation of Black activists were being targeted [including the Black Lives Matter movement] for surveillance and harassment, [Wray] said repeatedly that there was no investigation of the Black Lives Matter movement,” said Bass.

Bass and the other CBC members let Wray know that they were “completely aware” that some activists in their communities were experiencing surveillance and harassment, even though they didn’t meet the requirements that Wray described that would lead to an investigation.

The CBC members asked the FBI to retract the document and issue a new message to local law enforcement agencies.

“One of the problems with this document is that it has been widely distributed to law enforcement agencies around the country,” said Bass. “Many of us referenced either our own personal experiences or experiences we were aware of during the ‘COINTELPRO’ years. when if you send a document like this out to local law enforcement, in many of our opinions, you can declare open season on Black activists, because, then local law enforcement agencies can use the document as justification for doing whatever they want to do.”

COINTELPRO, or the “Counter Intelligence Program” of the FBI, was designed in part to “expose, disrupt, misdirect, discredit, or otherwise neutralize the activities of the Black nationalists,” during the 1950s and 1970s.

Writing for the Huffington Post, G. Flint Taylor, a founding partner of the People’s Law Office in Chicago, said that hundreds of documents were uncovered during a court case in 1976 that revealed that the FBI also plotted to destroy a children’s breakfast program run by the Black Panther Party and “disrupt distribution of the BPP newspaper.”

The documents exposed in the 1976 court case also revealed, “massive wiretap overhears, including conversations between BPP members and their attorneys,” Taylor wrote.

“The FBI denies they are surveilling (sic) our groups like the Black Lives Matter movement, but we told them that we don’t believe it and our information tells us that” those groups are under surveillance, said Richmond.

Richmond said that the CBC members plan to present information to the FBI detailing surveillance and harassment of Black organizers.

The FBI director expressed interests in meeting with CBC members regularly because, “We are the eyes and ears on the ground,” and the CBC offers diversity that the agency lacks, said Richmond.

Bass asked the Black Press to put the call out to their readers to let lawmakers know if they have experienced harassment or surveillance, a request that Richmond echoed.

Chavis, the president and CEO of the NNPA, committed to working with Richmond and other CBC members to uncover stories of unwarranted government surveillance and harassment in the Black community.

“People may be more considerate in doing things, if they know that the Black Press will be on their case,” said Leavell, the chairman of the NNPA. “In addition, it certainly shows our strength, if we can have a great impact.”

FBI Director Christopher Wray denied that his agency is investigating the Black Lives Matter movement. In this photo, Wray speaks at the Intelligence and National Security Alliance Summit in Washington, D.C on September 7, 2017. (FBI/ Wikimedia Commons)

CBC Chairman Cedric Richmond (D-La.) and a group of CBC members met with FBI Director Christopher Wray about the “Black Identity Extremists” report. This photo was taken during a recent ceremonial swearing-in event for the 115th Congress in Washington, D.C. (Freddie Allen/AMG/NNPA)

Gerrymandering!

FREE!

Wednesday December 6, 2017

San Diego Opens Giant Tent to Contain Hepatitis Outbreak

By JULIE WATSON Associated Press SAN DIEGO (AP) _ San Diego on Friday opened the first of three industrial-sized tents to house the homeless as part of the city's efforts to contain a hepatitis A outbreak stemming from the deplorable conditions people were living in on the streets.

About 20 people made their way to a bunk bed Friday in the tent that will house 350 single men and women. Two other giant tents will open later this month _ one for families and one for veterans. The tents will house a total of 700 people.

The city turned to tents to get people off the streets and contain a hepatitis A outbreak that has killed 20 people in the past year, marking the worst epidemic of its kind in the US in 20 years. The virus lives in feces.

“There's going to be a marked different in what we see on the streets today and what we see at this time next year,” said Bob McElroy of the Alpha Project, the nonprofit group that will operate the tent that opened Friday.

More than 3,000 people have been living on the streets in the city. The city opened a temporary campground in October where 200 people lived in tents. They will now be moved into the new giant tents.

Verna Vasbinder, 47, was among the first to move from the campground. She rolled in with her little black dog, Lucy Lui, on the seat of her walker with a cardboard sign hanging off the back that read: “Don't Touch the Dog! The Human Bites!”

She plopped down on her bunk bed and already felt lucky to be finally under a roof.

“My bones were hurting very badly sleeping on the ground,” said Vasbinder, who has been homeless for six years.

“And the dew, moisture in the morning. Whew! I'm out of the cold, off the ground and I'll be feeling better in a few days.

All I need is to rest in a bed.”

Mayor Kevin Faulconer, who welcomed her to the tent, said the goal is to move 65 percent of the occupants into permanent housing. The city had to divert $6.5 million budgeted for permanent housing to fund the operation of the tents for seven months.

The tents will provide an array of services from mental health care to housing navigators.

But the city still faces an acute housing shortage for the poor. Faulconer has earmarked more than $80 million in funds to address the problem.

Gemma Librado lives a block away from the tent that opened Friday. She said she is glad to see the streets being cleaned up but she worries it may attract more homeless. Last Sunday, a homeless man high on drugs and with a bleeding hand ran into her apartment when she opened the door and locked himself in the bathroom. She and her 6-year-old son ran out and called police. The man broke things in her bathroom, left bloodstains on the floor and scared her.

“If this makes things more orderly than I support this,” she said. “But I'm worried. I don't want this to bring in more homeless to the area and people using drugs. There are families with children around here.”

High School Senior Pleads Not Guilty in LA Gang Killing LOS ANGELES (AP) _ An 18-year-old suburban high school senior who was freed from jail on $5 million bail and returned to classes has pleaded not guilty to his alleged role in a gang-related killing in South Los Angeles.

The Daily Breeze reports Cameron Terrell entered his plea Wednesday to one count of murder and two counts of attempted murder. The charges include gang allegations.

The newspaper says the white suburban teen allegedly joined a predominantly black LA street gang. Terrell is identified in the complaint with the moniker ``White Boy.’’ Police say he drove the car involved in the October shooting death of Justin Holmes. Two juveniles were also arrested and charged with murder.

Terrell’s family eventually pulled him from classes at Palos Verdes High after parents called him a danger to students. v

LAWSUIT CLAIMS PAST BOARD OF SUPERVISORS REDISTRICTING VIOLATES FEDERAL VOTING LAW

Emma Gallegos South Kern Sol Kern County diluted the voting power of Latinos when it drew district lines for the Board of Supervisors in 2011, according to a case that goes to trial in a federal court in Fresno today.

Attorneys with Mexican-American Legal Defense And Educational Fund (MALDEF), who filed the lawsuit on behalf of Kern County Latinos, say redistricting efforts in 2011 violated federal voting laws that protect minority voting rights. Dolores Huerta, the iconic labor leader who co-founded the United Farmworkers Union, will provide testimony to help make the case that Kern County’s boundaries should honor and preserve the unique political needs of farmworkers from northern Kern County to Arvin.

The county claims the 2011 process was legal and say plaintiffs are using this suit as a way to gain more political capital before the next round of redistricting in 2021. “[MALDEF] is saying, ‘They gerrymandered then, we’re going to gerrymander now, and we’re going to get a court to bless it,” Kern County Counsel Mark Nations said.

The last time borders for the Board of Supervisors were drawn in 2001, Latinos represented 38 percent of the population of Kern County. In 2011, they represented 49 percent of the county population, yet Latinos have struggled to claim more than one of the five seats on the board.

“Latinos make up half of the population in Kern County and yet we only have 20 percent of the representatives,” said CSU Bakersfield Philosophy Professor Gerald Cantu. “Latinos are definitely not getting representation.”

Latinos in the county tend to have lower incomes, less education and poorer access to healthcare than the rest of the population. This hurts their ability to participate in the political process.

Cantu says addressing these inequalities is not a priority for the board leadership.

Currently, Leticia Perez is the only Latino supervisor on the board, and she is also the only representative who is not a white man. She represents District 5, which includes the heavily Latino communities of Arvin and Lamont.

According to 2010 Census data, other Latinos in Kern County are concentrated in the communities of north Kern County, such as Delano (72-percent Latino), Shafter (80 perContinued on A4

Vehicle in Kern River may be Related to Missing Person BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (AP) _ San Joaquin Valley authorities believe a vehicle spotted in the Kern River may be related to a missing person.

The Kern County Sheriff’s Office says it plans to recover the vehicle Saturday in an operation requiring heavy equipment and closures of Highway 178 in the Kern River Canyon.

Late Thursday, deputies received a report that personal property possibly related to the missing person, Lisa Harvey, was found in the canyon. Deputies then found a submerged vehicle nearby.

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BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER Serving Kern County since 1977

Wednesday December 6, 2017

World & Nation Seattle Police Chief to Step Down after Reforms SEATTLE (AP) _ Seattle Police Chief Kathleen O’Toole, who helped reform the department after federal officials found officers were too quick to use force against minorities, will step down at the end of the year, the mayor said Monday.

O’Toole took over as chief in 2014 as the city was struggling to carry out an agreement with the Department of Justice designed to curb how often officers use force.

The agreement followed questionable actions against minorities, including an officer’s fatal shooting of a Native American woodcarver in 2010.

The reforms were strongly resisted by the department’s brass at the time.

However, a monitoring team found the changes eventually led to a drop in how often officers use serious force, with no rise in crime or officer injuries.

During a 28-month span from 2014 to 2016, incidents in which Seattle officers used force that caused or could be expected to cause injury fell at least 60 percent from a similar period in 2009 to 2011.

New Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan said Deputy Chief Carmen Best will serve as interim chief beginning Jan. 1.

Former Mayor Ed Murray hired O’Toole, a former Boston police commissioner. She was the first woman to run Seattle’s department.

The court-appointed monitoring team overseeing new training and policies as part of the reforms has repeatedly praised O’Toole’s leadership on the issue. In a report filed in court last April, the team said she had been working tirelessly to ensure the

reforms take root.

“Her constant promotion of the new use of force policies as good for the men and women of the police department and the Seattle community has done much to cultivate buy-in and ongoing application by the rank and file,’’ the report said.

O’Toole, 63, joined the Boston police as a patrol officer in 1979 and worked her way through the ranks. She served as Boston’s police commissioner from 2004 to 2006 before completing a six-year term as chief of an oversight body responsible for reforms in the Irish national police force.

Questions over her future in Seattle arose during the mayoral campaign this year after it was announced that she had been named to lead a new agency called the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland, an unpaid position.

She was also part of a team seeking a multimillion-dollar contract to oversee police reforms in Baltimore. That prompted mayoral candidate Mike McGinn to publicly doubt her commitment to Seattle; O’Toole called that political theater.

“Oh God, that’s ridiculous,’’ she told The Seattle Times. “I have worked 24/7 for the past three years. I sleep with my phone next to my pillow every night.’’

Seattle Police Officers Guild President Rich O’Neill thanked O’Toole.

“Chief O’Toole guided the department through the very difficult task of completing all of the assessments required under the Department of Justice Settlement Agreement,’’ O’Neill wrote.

“This was done in record time and that is a testament to her persistence and her ability to put people in the right positions.’’

FILE - In this May 1, 2017 file photo, Seattle Police Chief Kathleen O’Toole, left, talks with an officer before a march for worker and immigrant rights at a May Day event in Seattle. O’Toole, who has helped guide the department’s changes under a consent decree with the U.S. Justice Department, is stepping down at the end of the year. New Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan made the announcement in a news release Monday, Dec. 4, 2017. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson, File)

Atlanta Mayoral Runoff a Test of Race, Gender and Grudges

FILE - In this Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2017, file photo, Atlanta city councilwoman and mayoral candidate Keisha Lance Bottoms talks to the press after voting at a polling site in Atlanta. Bottoms is in a runoff with Mary Norwood. (David Goldman, File/Associated Press)

By ERRIN HAINES WHACK AP Race & Ethnicity Writer The process of choosing Atlanta’s next mayor has come down to two candidates, one black, one white, after a campaign that laid plain the city’s sore spots of race, gender and political grudges.

Keisha Lance Bottoms and Mary Norwood square off Tuesday in a runoff that may give Atlanta its first white woman mayor ever if Norwood is elected. She would also be its first white mayor in 44 years. Aside from that, the ballot comes just after elections that gave New Orleans and Charlotte their first black women mayors ever, and amid infighting that severely tested Atlanta’s long-dominant black political machine.

Bottoms, 47, was endorsed by former mayor Andrew Young and current, term-limited Mayor Kasim Reed, who beat Norwood in a 2009 runoff by only 714 votes _ a large share of them from the black, middle-class southwest quadrant where Bottoms lives.

Norwood, 65, is backed by the city’s last white mayor, Sam Massell, and two prominent black officials: the city’s first female mayor, Shirley Franklin, and former City Council President Ceasar Mitchell _ endorsements that many perceived as a public rebuke of Reed, who hotly denigrated Mitchell and Norwood as ``losers.’’

Democrats have held the mayor’s office in Atlanta since 1879. As always, the race will come down to turnout, which has been historically low.

What black voters do on Tuesday is key. Some blacks, turned off by a city contracting corruption probe under Reed’s watch, are struggling with getting past race to back Norwood. Others look

askance at Norwood’s status as an independent, branding her a stealth Republican who seeks to serve City Hall up to Georgia’s otherwise deep-red political apparatus.

It is the type of dilemma that black voters don’t take lightly, said Andre Perry, a Brookings Institution research fellow. ``Being black in America brings a level of awareness around inequity that many other groups are just blind to,’’ Perry said. ``If you’re not of the community, it’s easier to dismiss it. That’s the fear of having white leaders, the idea that they’re disconnected.’’

In the past, Atlanta black leaders had a succession plan, according to Kelley Bass Jackson, whose former father-in-law, the late Maynard Jackson, was elected Atlanta’s first black mayor in 1973. This time, she said, there was no clear, hand-picked heir, touching off hard sparring between black candidates that caused ``so much anxiety and division among the citizens.’’ ``Atlanta’s identity has been defined by having a black mayor _ and not just any black mayor, but having excellent black mayors who were well-educated, civic-minded and who cared about lifting the race and building collaborations,’’ Jackson said.

Partisan infighting could also be a factor. Some speculate the race could become a referendum on the popular but prickly Reed, whose public feuds with Mitchell and other black candidates threatened to overshadow Bottoms’ efforts to woo voters. ``People are trying to penalize (Bottoms) because they believe that she is a puppet of the mayor or that she will do everything he tells her to do,’’ said Kwanza Hall, a former city councilman who ran in the general mayoral election and now backs Bottoms.

Bottoms, a former city councilwoman, was the top vote getter in November and the only black woman on the ballot. She

is backed by several state Democrats, including Jason Carter, grandson of former president Jimmy Carter. This weekend, U.S. Senator Kamala Harris of California, a rising Democratic star, is expected to stump for Bottoms in Atlanta.

Harris continuously pumped her fist in admiration of Bottoms in front of around 300 supporters who had just watched a live debate between Bottoms and Norwood during a rally Sunday evening. The senator told attendees she flew into town to tell them the importance of voting for Bottoms on Tuesday.

Harris said the election is important not just for Atlanta, but for the entire country.

“This is moment when so-called leaders are selling division and hate,’’ Harris said. “So we must fight to be the best at who we are. We must fight that we should be treated as equals. ... And we must fight to ensure that Keisha Lance Bottoms is the next mayor of Atlanta.’’

Mayor Reed also spoke during the rally.

Norwood lives in Atlanta’s wealthy, heavily white Buckhead enclave but established a reputation as responsive to residents across the city in her role as an at-large councilwoman.

Atlanta, Newark and Washington, D.C. are the only U.S. cities with four decades of unbroken black leadership. Atlanta’s streak could end because of changing demographics _ the next mayor inherits a city that is younger and more diverse, with some voters putting less emphasis on the importance of black leadership.

“Atlanta is not a city in distress,’’ said Emory University political scientist Andra Gillespie. “And (black voters) will still be the largest group. Whomever they prefer as candidate is going to be mayor.’’

Honoring the First African American Billionaire

Washington, D.C.—On November 30, 1987, Reginald Francis Lewis negotiated the $985 million leveraged buyout of Beatrice International Foods, which at that time, was the largest offshore transaction in the United States. The Wall Street move was celebrated around the world as the deal that made Lewis the first-ever African American billionaire business tycoon. Michael Milken was his investment banker, and the company made the Fortune 500.

To mark the 30th anniversary of the historic deal, Rep. Elijah Cummings of Baltimore, Maryland will be placing the financial transaction milestone in the United States Congressional Record in honor of Lewis’s work that changed the face of American business forever, opening the doors for more African Americans, women and minorities, to play in the billion-dollar-business league.

The event also marked the founding of TLC Beatrice International Holdings, Inc., the first African American-owned enterprise to break through the billion-dollar mark when it grossed $1.8 billion in sales on its first year.

Very recently, President Barack Obama said to Lewis’s daughter Leslie Lewis, “Your father had the work ethic, the skills and the knowhow. But beyond that, he had the temperament, the self-assurance, the confidence that he could do it and that he belonged there. Being the First of anything requires a certain mindset. Reginald Lewis had it.”

When Lewis died from brain cancer in 1993, he left behind a legacy that continues to inspire young African Americans, and all Americans of color. In his hometown, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History and Culture will be celebrating his 75th birth anniversary with an event called “Reginald F. Lewis, The Conversation: The $Billion Deal, The Lifestyle, The Man,” Thursday, Dec. 7, 2017, 10:00 a.m. in Baltimore, Maryland.

Special guests include: Keith Perrin, the co-founder of FUBU and executive of The Shark Group with Daymond John; Jean S. Fugett Jr. (Lewis’s brother, former TLC Beatrice International CEO; Clarence “Tiger” Davis (Lewis’s high school classmate); author Lin Hart (classmate at Virginia State University); and William C. Slattery (classmate at Harvard Law School). Lewis’s widow, Filipino American lawyer Loida Nicolas Lewis, and his mother, Carolyn Fugett, will be present to help you really know the man.

Reginald Lewis was known for being the first (and still the only) person accepted to Harvard Law School without applying to the prestigious 148-year-old institution. As a testament to Lewis’s brilliance and generosity, The Reginald F. Lewis International Law Center stands at Harvard Law School today, as the first building on their campus named after an African American.

In 1987, Lewis founded his eponymous Foundation to carry out his vision and mission for philanthropy (supporting educational programs for minorities and underprivileged youth, as well as showcasing and preserving African American art and culture); this was continued by his family, even after his death. They also completed the autobiography that Lewis had begun (with co-author Blair S. Walker), which became the bestseller, “Why Should White Guys Have All The Fun? How Reginald Lewis Created a Billion-Dollar Business Empire.”

Now more than ever, his name is recognized by the younger generation as an inspiration and model for entrepreneurship.

Today, there is the Reginald F. Lewis High School of Business & Law in Baltimore, the Reginald F. Lewis High School of Business and Law in Baltimore, the Reginald F. Lewis College of Business at Virginia State University, and The Lewis College in Sorsogon City, Philippines, his widow’s hometown. In Baltimore, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History and Culture stands as a tribute to the man’s legendary achievements.

Lewis’s daughters are keeping his legacy alive by making invaluable contributions not only to the African American community, but also to American society as a whole. Leslie Lewis is a consummate performer and executive producer, most recently recognized for her moving one-woman show called “Miracle in Rwanda,” based on a true story of surviving violence, overcoming odds and the power of forgiveness.

Christina Lewis Halpern founded All Star Code, a not-forprofit organization that seeks to help young men of color with the tools they need to become a new generation of entrepreneurs, who will confidently navigate the multi-billion-dollar technology industry, and create more economic opportunity.

Highlights of Lewis’s exceptional life are also permanently displayed at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, and a documentary about his life is slated for release on WNET in February 2018.

News Observer Bakersfield

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Bulk Mailing Permit 724 Bakersfield, CA 93385 Published By Observer Group Newspapers of Southern California, Inc. Corporate Office 1219 20th St. Bakersfield, CA 93301 (661) 324-9466.

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Associated Press President: Ellen Coley Operations Manager: Jon Coley Editor: James Luckey Distribution Manager: James Childs

Congressman Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) will honor Reginald F. Lewis (pictured) by adding his historic, November 30, 1987 deal to the United States Congressional Record.

(Reginald F. Lewis Museum)

AIDS in Africa Matters to Black Americans

By Dr. Djibril Diallo Regional Director for Western and Central Africa, UNAIDS World AIDS Day (December 1) is fast approaching and a recently launched initiative aimed at ending HIV/AIDS, as a public health crisis in Africa, could be a catalyst to trigger discussions about HIV in the African American and African diaspora communities in the United States.

In recent months, several African heads of state have made public their commitment to support the goal of ending AIDS by 2030. In September, six African heads of state joined UNAIDS Executive Director Michel Sidibé at the “HIV Fast Track” side event organized during the 72nd United Nations General Assembly that was held in New York City and presided over by President Yoweri of Uganda. Earlier in July, during the African Union (AU) Summit, AU Chair, President Alpha Conde of Guinea convened the “AIDS Watch Africa Heads of State and Government Meeting” where the leaders endorsed the “Catch-Up Plan for West and Central Africa” and declared their commitment to providing the needed policy and resource changes to help achieve the target goals.

The Catch-Up Plan is an 18-month initiative that has been developed to accelerate the AIDS response and prevent a resurgence of the HIV epidemic in the 25-country region. Its focus is on testing, knowing one’s HIV status, treatment, and prevention of mother-to-child transmission; the initiative was crafted to complement existing health plans that the countries have been using to address HIV and AIDS. Today, thanks to advancements in medicine and increased access to antiretroviral medications for many people in Africa and around the world, being diagnosed with HIV/AIDS is no longer a death sentence. In so many cases, with treatment the disease can be managed like a chronic illness and kept under long-term control with medication.

However, at a time when the global response to HIV is accelerating, millions of people in Western and Central Africa are being left behind. There is a considerable gap when it comes to people knowing their HIV status, and for those who test positive

to receive the necessary treatment.

The same can be said for the populations most vulnerable to the disease in the United States, as well.

Many of the issues that continue to fuel the HIV/AIDS crisis on the continent are also the root cause for the high infection rates found in African American and Hispanic populations in the U.S. including some of the same barriers keep people from seeking to know their HIV status, having access to treatment and properly following up on treatment namely poverty, fear, stigma and discrimination.

On both sides of the Atlantic Ocean, the HIV/AIDS mirror reflects the same faces: the young, the poor, women, high-risk populations, as well as children. In the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, Ga., reported that “African Americans continue to experience the greatest burden of HIV compared to other races and ethnicities.” In 2015, data released earlier this year, the CDC noted that African Americans who represent around 12 percent of the U.S. population, but account for 40 percent of all people living with HIV/AIDS and nearly 45 percent “of all persons with newly diagnosed infection.” Latinos, who represent around 17 percent of the U.S. population, account for nearly 21 percent of people living with HIV and an estimated 24 percent of all persons with newly diagnosed infection.

The Catch-Up Plan for West and Central Africa initiative can serve as the entry point for talking about HIV/AIDs and related health issues in Africa globally and in particular, as it concerns African American and African Diaspora communities in the US. Djibril Diallo, the UNAIDS Director of the Regional Support Team for West and Central Africa, says that Black Americans need to get more involved in the global fight against HIV/AIDS. (UNAIDS)

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Wednesday December 6, 2017

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I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime This statement expires on Nov 8, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 15, 22, 29, Dec 6, 2017

This business is conducted by: Corporaton SIGNED: Gonzalo Gonzalez, President The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A This statement filed with the County Clerk of Kern county on: Nov 6, 2017MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: J Bojorquez, Deputy This fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk’s Office. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another to a trademark or trade name under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 ET SEQ., business and professions code).

I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime This statement expires on Nov 6, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 15, 22, 29, Dec 6, 2017

the father or mother of said minor person above named.

By order of this Court you are hereby cited and required to appear before the Judge Presiding in Department MC of the above entitled court on JAN 5TH, 2018, at 8:30 AM. of that day, then and there to show cause, if any you have, why said person should not be declared free from the control of her parents according to the petition on file herein.

For failure to attend, you will be deemed guilty of a contempt of court.

You are hereby notified of the provisions of Civil Code Section 237.5 which provide: “the judge shall advise the minor and the parents, if present, of the right to have counsel present. The court may appoint counsel to represent the minor whether or not the minor is able to afford counsel, and if they are unable to afford counsel, shall appoint counsel to represent the parents.”

Date:” Nov 7, 2017 (SEAL) TERRY McNALLY, County Clerk By: E. Trefz, Deputy NOTICE TO THE PERSON SERVED. You are served as an individual citee The time when a citation is deemed served on a party may vary depending on the method of service.

For example, see Code of Civil Procedure Section 413.10 through 415.40 NICOLE PAIGE RICHERT BUTLER 7429 Hooper Ave, Bakersfield, Ca. 93308 Telephone: (661) IN PRO PER BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 15, 22, 29, Dec 6, 2017

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2017-B7391 Doing business as: AV BEAUTY at 5701 Young St, Bakersfield, Ca. 93311 Mailing Address: 9007 Krug Bakersfield, Ca. 93312 County: Kern Full name of registrant: Amber Sherie Andrade, 9007 Krug Ct, Bakersfield, Ca. 93312 This business is conducted by: Indivdual SIGNED: Amber Sherie Andrade The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Oct 18, 2017 This statement filed with the County Clerk of Kern county on: Nov 2, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: J Garcia, Deputy This fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk’s Office. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another to a trademark or trade name under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 ET SEQ., business and professions code).

I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime This statement expires on Nov 2, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 15, 22, 29, Dec 6, 2017 STATEMENT OF WITHDRAWAL FROM PARTNERSHIP OPERATING UNDER FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME FILE NO: 2017-B4608 Business Name you wish to withdraw from: MERLE NORMAN COSMETICS 9500 Brimhall Rd #702 Bakersfield, Ca. 93312 County: Kern Mailing Address: Same Registrant(s) who wish to withdraw: Amber Sherie Andrade, 9007 Krug Ct, Bakersfield, Ca. 93312 SIGNED: Amber Andrade The statement was filed with the County Clerk of Kern County on: Nov 2, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk J BojorquezDeputy BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 15, 22, 29, Dec 6, 2017 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2017-B7441 Doing business as: WESTERN FLEET DETAIL at 5409 Trailhead St, Bakersfield, Ca. 93307 Mailing Address: Same County: Kern Full name of registrant: Clinton James Huckaby, 5409 Trailhead St, Bakersfield, Ca. 93307 This business is conducted by: Indivdual SIGNED: Clinton James Huckaby The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Nov 1, 2017 This statement filed with the County Clerk of Kern county on: Nov 6, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: D Chavez, Deputy This fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk’s Office. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another to a trademark or trade name under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 ET SEQ., business and professions code).

I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime This statement expires on Nov 6, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 15, 22, 29, Dec 6, 2017 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2017-B7460 Doing business as: WANA TRUCKING INC at 105 Wetherley Dr, Bakersfield, Ca. 93309 Mailing Address: Same County: Kern Full name of registrant: WANA TRUCKING, INC. CA 105 Wetherley Dr, Bakersfield, Ca. 93309

Legal Notices

BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER Serving Kern County since 1977 A3

STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME FILE NO: 2017-B5743 Business Name you wish to abandon: WANA TRUCKING Street address of business: 105 Wetherley Dr, Bakersfield, Ca. 93309 County: Kern Mailing address of business: Same Registrant(s) whose wish to abandon the business name: Gonzaleo Gonzalez Jr, 105 Wetherley Dr, Bakersfield, Ca. 93309 I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information, which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.)

Business was conducted by: Individual SIGNED: Gonzaleo Gonzalez Jr, Owner This statement of abandonment filed on: Nov 6, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: J Bojorquez Deputy BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 15, 22, 29, Dec 6, 2017 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2017-B7478 Doing business as: JUNK CAGE at 15311 Via Napoli Bakersfield, Ca. 93306 Mailing Address: Same County: Kern Full name of registrant: Brandon S Blair, 15311 Via Napoki Bakersfield, Ca. 93306 This business is conducted by: Individual SIGNED: Brandon S Blair The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A This statement filed with the County Clerk of Kern county on: Nov 7, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: C Valdez, Deputy This fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk’s Office. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another to a trademark or trade name under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 ET SEQ., business and professions code).

I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime This statement expires on Nov 7, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 15, 22, 29, Dec 6, 2017 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2017-B7511 Doing business as: WEST COAST GROWERS SUPPLY at 11711 Childress St, Bakersfied, Ca. 93312 Mailing Address: Same County: Kern Full name of registrant: Anthony David Josue, 11711 Childress St, Bakersfield, Ca. 93312 This business is conducted by: Individual SIGNED: Anthony David Josue The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A This statement filed with the County Clerk of Kern county on: Nov 8, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: J Bojorquez, Deputy This fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk’s Office. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another to a trademark or trade name under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 ET SEQ., business and professions code).

I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime This statement expires on Nov 8, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 15, 22, 29, Dec 6, 2017 CITATION Freedom From Parental Custody and Control (ABANDONMENT) Re: ADOPTION) Case Number BAT-17-003173 Superior Court of California, Count of Kern, 1415 Truxtun Ave., Bakersfield, Ca. 93301 In the Mater of RILEY QUINN GUARINO, Minor A person who should be declared free from the custody and control of her parent or parents.

To BRYAN GUARINO and to all person claiming to be

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER BCV-17-102547 Superior Court of the State of California, for the county of Kern, 1415 Truxtun Ave., Bakersfield, CA 93301 METROPOLITAN DIVISION PETITION OF: AMBER CASALMAN TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner: AMBER CASALMAN for a decree changing names as follows: Present name DYLAN DELONIA JAMES Filed a petition with this court Proposed name DYLAN DELONIA CASALMAN THE COURT ORDERS: that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted if no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING Date: Jan 8, 2018 Time: 8:30 a.m.

Dept: 12 The address of the court is: Same as noted above.

A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER Date: Nov 6, 2017 JUDEL COURT COMMISSIONER AMBER CASALMAN, 10221 Roehampton Ave, Bakersfield, Ca. 93312 Phone: (661) 302-9237 In Pro Per BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER(wtp) PUB: Nov 22, 29, Dec 6, 13, 2017 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2017-B7375 Doing business as: INTERO REAL ESTATE SERVICES – BAKERSFIELD at 9201 Camino Media Suite #100 Bakersfield Ca. 93311 Mailing Address: Same County: Kern Full name of registrant: LEVON DOUGLAS BARRISON INC. CA 9201 Camino Media Suite #100 Bakersfield, Ca. 93311 This business is conducted by: Corporation SIGNED: Levon Barrison, President The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A This statement filed with the County Clerk of Kern county on: Nov 1, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: J Garcia, Deputy This fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk’s Office. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another to a trademark or trade name under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 ET SEQ., business and professions code).

I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime This statement expires on Nov 1, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 8, 15, 22, 29, 2017 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2017-B7285 Doing business as: THE PHOENIX COMPANY at 6631 Ducan Way Bakersfield, Ca. 93308 Mailing Address: Same County: Kern Full name of registrant: PHOENIX TRANSMITTERS LLC CA 6631 Ducan Way Bakersfield, Ca. 93308 This business is conducted by: Limited Liability Company SIGNED Jacob Anderson, Mamber The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Sept 16, 2016 This statement filed with the County Clerk of Kern county on: Oct 27, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: D Chavez, Deputy This fictitious Business Name

PUBLIC NOTICE Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk’s Office. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another to a trademark or trade name under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 ET SEQ., business and professions code).

I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime This statement expires on Oct 27, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 22, 29, Dec 6, 13, 2017

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2017-B7552 2017-B7553 Doing business as: PURE TLC / CARI AND COMPANY at 11711 Childress St, Bakersfield, Ca. 93312 Mailing Address: Same County: Kern Full name of registrant: Cari Leanne Josue, 11711 Childress St, Bakersfield, Ca. 93312 This business is conducted by: Individual SIGNED Cari Leanne Josue The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Nov 7, 2017 This statement filed with the County Clerk of Kern county on: Nov 9, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: M Gutierrez-Hernandez, Deputy This fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk’s Office. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another to a trademark or trade name under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 ET SEQ., business and professions code).

I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime This statement expires on Nov 9, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 22, 29, Dec 6, 13, 2017 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2017-B7634 Doing business as: ADVENTIST HERMES at 1001 Mohawk St #5 Bakersfield, Ca. 93309 Mailing Address: Same County: Kern Full name of registrant: Justin Steven Wilson, 1001 Mohawk St #5 Bakersfield Ca. 93309 This business is conducted by: Individual SIGNED Justin Steven Wilson The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Jan 1, 2015 This statement filed with the County Clerk of Kern county on: Nov 13, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: M Gutierrez-Hernandez, Deputy This fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk’s Office. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another to a trademark or trade name under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 ET SEQ., business and professions code).

I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime This statement expires on Nov 13, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 22, 29, Dec 6, 13, 2017 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2017-B7289 Doing business as: WESTWARD SOLUTIONS TRANSPORTATION, LLC at 566 Yellow Meadow Ct #C Bakersfield, Ca. 93308 Mailing Address: Same County: Kern Full name of registrant: WESTWARD SOLUTIONS TRANSPORTATION, LLC CA 566 Yellow Meadow Ct #C Bakersfield, Ca. 93308 This business is conducted by: Limited Liability Company SIGNED Ryan Henry, CEO The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A This statement filed with the County Clerk of Kern county on: Oct 27, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: J Garcia, Deputy This fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk’s Office. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another to a trademark or trade name under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 ET SEQ., business and professions code).

I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime This statement expires on Oct 27, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 22, 29, Dec 6, 13, 2017 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2017-B7678 Doing business as: CITYVIEW CHURCH at 7001 Auburn St, Bakersfield, Ca. 93306 Mailing Address: Same County: Kern Full name of registrant: CANYON HILLS

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSEMBLY OF GOD CHURCH OF THE CITY OF BAKERSFIELD STATE OF CALIFORNIA CA 7001 Auburn St, Bakersfield, Ca. 93306 This business is conducted by: Corporation SIGNED Wendell Vinson, President/ CEO The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Sept 7, 2017 This statement filed with the County Clerk of Kern county on: Nov 15, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: J Garcia, Deputy This fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk’s Office. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another to a trademark or trade name under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 ET SEQ., business and professions code).

I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime This statement expires on Nov 15, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 22, 29, Dec 6, 13, 2017 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2017-B7571 Doing business as: DROP FITNESS at 15509 Clarisse St, Bakersfield, Ca. 93314 Mailing Address: Same County: Kern Full name of registrant: Joseph Michael Noel, 15509 Clarisse St, Bakersfield, Ca. 93314 Full name of registrant: Monica Marie Noel, 15509 Clarisse St, Bakersfield, Ca. 93314 This business is conducted by: Married Couple SIGNED Joseph Noel The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A This statement filed with the County Clerk of Kern county on: Nov 9, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: D Chavez, Deputy This fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk’s Office. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another to a trademark or trade name under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 ET SEQ., business and professions code).

I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime This statement expires on Nov 9, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 22, 29, Dec 6, 13, 2017 SUMMONS CITACION JUDICIAL NOTICE TO DEFENDANT (AVISO AL EMANDADO) LUIS E CALDERON, an individual; and Does 1-100, inclusive YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF: (Lo Esta Demandando El Demandante) CROWN ASSET MANAGEMENT, LLC CASE NUMBER (Numero del caso BCL-17-011907 You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this Summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will no protect you.

Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online SelfHelp Center (www.courtinfor.ca.gov/ selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form.

If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court.

There are other legal requirements.

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

Si no responde dantro de 30 dias, la corte puede decider en su contra sin escuchar su version. Lee la infomacion a constinuacion.

Tiene 30 DIAS DE CALENDARIOS despues de que le entregue esta citacion y papeles legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copla al demandante. Una carta o una llamada telefonica no lo protegen. Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte mas informacion en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfthelp/ espanol). En la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede ms cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentacion, pida al secretario de la corte que le de un formulario de exencion de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede preder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podra quitar su dueldo, dinero y bienes sin mas advertencia.

PUBLIC NOTICE Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que liame a un abogado inmedialamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede liamar a un servicio de remision a abogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, esposible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/ selfhelp/espanol/) o poniendose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de obogados locales. AVISO: Por lay.

La corte tiene daracho a raclamar las cuotas y los costoa exantos por imponer un gravamen sobra cuelquier racuperacion de $10,000 o mas de valor recibidea madiante un acuerdo o una concesion de arbitraje en un caso do daracho civil.

Tiene que pagar el gravamen da la corte antes de que la corte pueda desachar el caso.

The name and address of the court is El nombre y direccion de la corte es): Superior Court of the State of California County of Kern 1415 Truxtun Ave., Bakersfield, Ca. 93301 OSC Hearing is set for 03/20/2018 at 8:30 a.m. in Department 12 The name, address, and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney, is (El nombre la direccion y el numero de telefono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante que no tiene abogado, es) NADER SABAWI SBN 289731 The Resolution Law Group, APC 9301 Corbin Ave Ste 1650 Northridge, Ca. 91324 Telephone: (818) 534-3126 Date: (Fecha) Apr 12, 2017 Clerk (Secretario)J Benitez, Deputy (Adjunto NOTICE TO THE PERSON SERVED: you are served as an individual defendant.

BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 22, 29, Dec 6, 13, 2017 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2017-B7791 Doing business as: BUFFALO SOLDIERS at 9017 Winlock St, Bakersfield, Ca. 93312 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 81152 Bakersfield, Ca. 93380 County: Kern Full name of registrant: Anthony Wilbert Lee, 9017 Winlock St, Bakersfield, Ca. 93312 This business is conducted by: Individual SIGNED: Anthony Wilbert Lee The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A This statement filed with the County Clerk of Kern county on: Nov 21, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: C Valdez, Deputy This fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk’s Office. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another to a trademark or trade name under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 ET SEQ., business and professions code).

I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime This statement expires on Nov 21, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (K) PUB: Nov 29, Dec 6, 13, 20, 2017 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2017-B7730 Doing business as: GENE’S UPHOLSTERY at 4220 Parker Ave Bakersfield, Ca. 93309 Mailing Address: Same County: Kern Full name of registrant: Eugene Lamar Lothridge, 4220 Parker Ave, Bakersfield, Ca. 93309 This business is conducted by: Individual SIGNED: Eugene Lamar Lothridge The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: June 12, 1999 This statement filed with the County Clerk of Kern county on: Nov 17, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: J Bojorquez, Deputy This fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk’s Office. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another to a trademark or trade name under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 ET SEQ., business and professions code).

I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime This statement expires on Nov 17, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 29, Dec 6, 13, 20, 2017 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2017-B7787 Doing business as: HOPE (HELPING OTHER PEOPLE EVERYDAY) at 14712 Plumeria Ct Bakersfield, Ca. 93314 Mailing Address: Same County: Kern Full name of registrant: Teresa Jo Massey, 14712 Plumeria Ct Bakersfield, Ca. 93314 This business is conducted by: Individual SIGNED: Teresa Jo Massey The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A This statement filed with the County Clerk of Kern county on: Nov 21, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: D Chavez, Deputy

PUBLIC NOTICE This fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk’s Office. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another to a trademark or trade name under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 ET SEQ., business and professions code).

I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime This statement expires on Nov 21, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 29, Dec 6, 13, 20, 2017 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2017-B7820 Doing business as: SWEET DESIGNS at 100 N El Rio Dr #25 Bakersfield, Ca. 93309 Mailing Address: Same County: Kern Full name of registrant: Estela M Padilla, 100 N El Rio Dr #25 Bakersfield, Ca. 93309 This business is conducted by: Individual SIGNED: Estela M Padilla The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Nov 21, 2017 This statement filed with the County Clerk of Kern county on: Nov 22, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: J Garcia, Deputy This fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk’s Office. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another to a trademark or trade name under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 ET SEQ., business and professions code).

I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime This statement expires on Nov 22, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 29, Dec 6, 13, 20, 2017 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2017-B7766 Doing business as: CREATIVE REALTY PROFESSIONALS at 5601 Truxtun Ave #150 Bakersfield, Ca. 93309 Mailing Address: Same County: Kern Full name of registrant: CORTEZ MANAGEMENT INC. CA 5601 Truxtun Ave #150 Bakersfield, Ca. 93309 This business is conducted by: Corporation SIGNED: Arligh Cortez, CEO The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Aug 1, 2017 This statement filed with the County Clerk of Kern county on: Nov 20, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: J Bojorquez, Deputy This fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk’s Office. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another to a trademark or trade name under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 ET SEQ., business and professions code).

I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime This statement expires on Nov 20, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 29, Dec 6, 13, 20, 2017 SUMMONS CITACION JUDICIAL ON FIRST AMENDED COMPLAINT NOTICE TO DEFENDANT AVISO AL DEMANDADO) UNIVERSAL BUSINESS SERVICES; STOCKER STREET DEVELOPMENT; BCS INTERNATIONAL; RAMSGATE INC., a California corporation; BLUELINE FUNDING GROUP; JANIK NETWORK; and DOES 1 through 20, inclusive; You are being sued by plaintiff (Lo Esta Demandando El Demandante) CHRISTIAN HALL, Trustee of the Hall Revocable Trust dated December 15, 2011 CASE NUMBER (Numero del caso BCV-17-101678 NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days, Read the information below.

You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this Summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will no protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfor.ca.gov/selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court.

There are other legal requirements.

You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for fee legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Web site (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org). the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), or be contacting your local or county bar association.

Tiene 30 DIAS DE CALENDARIOS despues de que le entregue esta

PUBLIC NOTICE citacion y papeles legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copla al demandante. Una carta o una llamada telefonica no lo protegen. Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte mas informacion en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www.courtinfo. ca.gov/selfthelp/espanol). En la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede ms cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentacion, pida al secretario de la corte que le de un formulario de exencion de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede preder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podra quitar su dueldo, dinero y bienes sin mas advertencia.

Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que liame a un abogado inmedialamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede liamar a un servicio de remision a abogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, esposible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services (www.lawhelpcalifornia. org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www.courtinfo. ca.gov/selfhelp/espanol/) o poniendose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de obogados locales.

The name and address of the court is (El nombre y direccion de la corte es): Superior Court of the State of California County of Kern Metropolitan Division 1415 Truxtun Ave., Bakersfield, Ca. 93301 The name, address, and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney, is (El nombre la direccion y el numero de telefono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante que no tiene abogado, es) ANDREW K SHEFFIELD BAR # 220735 CHELSIE L MORGAN BAR # 294209 LeBeau – Thelen, LLP 5001 E Commercenter Dr, Suite 300, Bakersfield, Ca. 93309 Telephone: (661) 325-8962 Fax: (661) 325-1127 Date: (Fecha) Oct 31m 2017 Clerk (Secretario) Can Not Read Signiture, Deputy (Adjunto NOTICE TO THE PERSON SERVED: you are served as an individual defendant.

BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 29, Dec 6, 13, 20, 2017

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF GEORGE DIMITROV KIOSEF CASE NUMBER: BPB-17-003108 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of GEORGE DIMITROV KIOSEF A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by CHRIS KIOSEF in the Superior Court of California, County of KERN 1215 Truxtun Ave Bakersfield, Ca. 93301 THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that CHRIS KIOSEF be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate.

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

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval.

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

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: Date: Dec 28, 2017 Time: 9:00 a.m. Dept: P located at 1215 Truxtun Ave., Bakersfield, Ca. 93301 IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the deceased, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within four months from the date of first issuance of letters as provided om Probate Code section 9100. The time for filing claims will not expire before four months from the hearing date noticed above.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. IF you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (for DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate code section 1250.

A request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for petitioner: THOMAS S. MCINTOSH, ESQ (State Bar # 77388) LeBeau-Thelen, LLP 5001 E Commercenter Dr Ste 300 Bakersfield, Ca. 93309 Telephone: (661) 325-8962 Fax: (661) 325-1127 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 29, Dec 6, 13, 2017 NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF CARLOS DANIEL JIMENEZ

A4

PUBLIC NOTICE CASE NUMBER: BPB-17-003093 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of CARLOS DANIEL JIMENEZ A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by APRIL VEGA in the Superior Court of California, County of KERN 1215 Truxtun Ave Bakersfield, Ca. 93301 THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that APRIL VEGA be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate.

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

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the

BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER Serving Kern County since 1977

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval.

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

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: Date: Dec 21, 2017 Time: 9:00 a.m. Dept: P located at 1215 Truxtun Ave., Bakersfield, Ca. 93301 IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by

your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the deceased, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within four months from the date of first issuance of letters as provided om Probate Code section 9100. The time for filing claims will not expire before four months from the hearing date noticed above.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. IF you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (for DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate code section 1250.

A request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for petitioner: CHARLES DES ROCHES

Legal Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE NOLAND, HAMERLY, ETIENNE & HOSS 333 Salinas St Salinas, Ca. 93901 Telephone: (831) 424-1414 Fax: (831) 424-1975 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Nov 29, Dec 6, 13, 2017 STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME FILE NO: 2017-B7788 Business Name you wish to abandon: RESURRECTED ORDER OF BUFFALO SOLDIERS Street address of business: 9017 Winlock St, Bakersfield, Ca. 93312 County: P.O. Box 81152 Bakersfield, Ca. 93380 Mailing address of business: Same Registrant(s) whose wish to abandon the business name: Anthony Wilbert Lee, 9017 Winlock St, Bakersfield, Ca. 93312 I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A

registrant who declares as true information, which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.)

Business was conducted by: Individual SIGNED: Anthony Wilbert Lee, Owner This statement of abandonment filed on: Nov 21, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: J Bojorquez Deputy BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (K) PUB: Dec 6, 13, 20, 27, 2017 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2017-B7566 Doing business as: DUKE ELECTRIC at 3809 Rio Viejo Dr, Bakersfield, Ca. 93313 Mailing Address: Same County: Kern Full name of registrant: Juan Manuel Sanchez, 3809 Rio Viejo Dr, Bakersfield, Ca. 93313 This business is conducted by: Individual SIGNED: Juan Manuel Sanchez

Wednesday December 6, 2017

PUBLIC NOTICE The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A This statement filed with the County Clerk of Kern county on: Nov 9, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: J Garcia, Deputy This fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk’s Office. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another to a trademark or trade name under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 ET SEQ., business and professions code).

I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime

LAWSUIT CLAIMS PAST BOARD OF SUPERVISORS REDISTRICTING VIOLATES FEDERAL VOTING LAW Continued from page A1

cent), McFarland (92 percent) and Wasco (77 percent). But those heavily agricultural and Latino communities are split in two by district borders, diluting their voting power. That means Wasco voters are grouped in with the white, affluent voters of Bakersfield’s west side in District 4, represented by David Couch. And voters in Delano, Shafter and McFarland are represented by Mick Gleason in District 1, along with voters in the mountain and Mojave communities of Ridgecrest (77-percent white), Lake Isabella (89 percent) and Kernville (90 percent).

At the time the lines were drawn in 2011, Eastern Kern residents were very vocal about ensuring the area had two districts, as they historically have. All of the map options presented to the board preserved that division.

“You can’t say the community of Ridgecrest has the same interests and economic drivers as Tehachapi,” Nations said. “They’re in two very different districts.”

However, those communities are sparsely populated, and in order for them to have enough voters, their districts reach far west. District 2, represented by Zack Scrivener, stretches from Boron to Highway 99. And District 1 stretches from Ridgecrest to all the way past Highway 43.

It is this western border that “cracks” the northern Latino community in two, MALDEF claims. Those communities have been advocating for a seat that joins them together since at least 1991, says Tanya Pellegrini, a staff attorney at MALDEF. “They’ve been saying, ‘We’re really similar, we should all be in the same district,’” she said.

This case will in large part hinge on the statistics and demographics available in 2011. The Voting Rights Act takes into account several different factors when deciding whether a minority community’s voting power is being diluted. When drawing district lines, the court considers the entire population—including minors and undocumented immigrants who are ineligible to vote. But the court also looks at the population of eligible voters and voting patterns to decide whether a group votes cohesively, Pellegrini says.

MALDEF’s case takes all those factors into consideration and hope to prove that Kern County is racially polarized. Their evidence? They say statistics indicate Latino candidates tend to be supported by Latino voters, but white voters don’t support Latino candidates. Morgan Kousser, a history professor at Caltech whose research focuses on the Voting Rights Act, conducted an analysis of 22 racially contested elections in Kern County from 2004 to 2014. He will testify that Latino political candidates are stymied by non-Latino voters.

Not only do Latino candidates not win majority-white districts, but they often don’t even make the runoff, Pellegrini says.

She points to the candidacy of Sam Ramirez, the mayor of Delano and city councilman who ran for a seat in District 1 in 2012.

She says he enjoyed broad support in Wasco, Shafter and Delano, but during the primary he placed fourth behind three white men: Gleason, Roy Ashburn and Daures Stephens.

One recent vote by the Kern County Board of Supervisors throws the lack of Latino representation into stark relief: the board voted to oppose SB 54. That is better known as “Sanctuary State” bill, which limits local law enforcement’s ability to collaborate with federal immigration officials to violent offenders.

“That’s a slap in the face of the Latino of the community, which is half of the population of Kern County,” Cantu said.

Latinos largely support sanctuary bills, because it makes it easier for undocumented immigrants to come forward to report crime. Perez cast the lone dissenting vote.

MALDEF’s legal team will also be arguing that Latino communities are connected together not just by race, but by culture, religion, the way they shop, their history and the issues they face, including infrastructure and environmental concerns.

The Voting Rights Act takes into account a history of discrimination against minority groups.

MALDEF will bring in Dr. Albert Camarillo, a professor at Stanford who specializes in Mexican-American history, to testify about the long history of racial discrimination up to the present day that Latinos have faced in Kern County and California. In Kern County, Richland School District at one point refused to admit Latinos. And schools in Shafter and Buttonwillow used corporal punishment to discipline students for speaking Spanish.

Latinos in California were once barred from voting with poll tests that required them to read the California Constitution in English.

Latinos faced voter intimidation in Los Angeles County and Orange County as recently as 1988.

MALDEF’s experts will also argue about the issues facing Latinos in contemporary Kern County, such as low graduation rates and environmental pollution in their communities.

MALDEF will argue that while giving eastern Kern County two seats has been local tradition, it doesn’t legally override the obligation—enshrined in the Voting Rights Act of 1965—to give the Latino community a chance at proportional representation.

The organization has drafted two alternative maps that groups the Latino communities of North Kern together. The maps are suggestions meant to show that it is possible to create majority-Latino districts that would give them at shot at proportional representation on the Board. Both of these drafts combine the East Kern County into one district, so that the communities of the Mojave and the mountains are grouped together.

One of the alternative Maps combines Arvin with those northern agricultural communities, and then links Lamont with East Bakersfield. Another alternative map groups those northern agricultural communities with East Bakersfield. MALDEF argues that there is an argument to be made that farming communities both north and south of Bakersfield have a strong cultural connection to the Latinos of East Bakersfield. Huerta will provide testimony meant to highlight the economic and labor patterns that connect Arvin to cities in northern Kern County. She will discuss how farmworkers “follow the crops” throughout the county, depending on the season.

However, Nations says that the statistics available in 2011 will show that there weren’t enough voters to create a second majority-minority district as MALDEF contends. He says the attempts at offering up alternative districts proves his point; trying to create a district that includes cities north of Bakersfield, like Wasco and Delano, with cities south of Bakersfield, like Arvin, is gerrymandering.

He says that there might now be a larger Latino population in Northern Kern that could get its own district based on contemporary statistics, but he says that wasn’t true in 2011. He says when redistricting happens in 2021 that might be a possibility.

He says the Latino communities aren’t the only ones unhappy with the way the district lines were drawn. Oildale was also split into two districts.

“They didn’t get what they wanted either,” he said. “What we need is seven supervisors.”

Nations says none of the maps presented to the board would create a second majority-minority district, “There had been a talk, but no one brought forward a map.”

However, MALDEF says that it will present evidence that Allan Krauter, Senior Administrative Analyst in the Kern County Administrative Office, created such a map based on discussions with the Latino community. It wasn’t a part of the initial presentation he made to the board, so the community lobbied him to present it at the next meeting, which he did. He also presented one more new map that the board ratified, and which represents the county today.

According to a trial brief, community members asked the

board to delay their vote until they could have more time to consider the implications of the lines. They were particularly concerned that none of the maps had data about the number of Latinos who were citizens eligible to vote—crucial data for the Voting Rights Act. That data will be presented at trial.

Nations said he doesn’t understand why MALDEF is filing this suit so many years after redistricting.

“Even if we redraw them now by court order, they’re going to be redrawn two years from now,” Nations said.

“The plaintiff felt forced to get the county to hear their concerns,” Pellegrini says. “They could have avoided this, but this lawsuit was the only recourse.”

Lynette Monroe, a guest columnist for the NNPA Newswire, says that it’s okay to march for Meek Mill, but thousands of Black men and women, who are jailed for technical parole violations, deserve your support, too.

stories go untold in the absence of media coverage, sometimes, because they don’t fit the narrative that establishes purity as a prerequisite for grace.

The support for Meek Mill in the Black community wasn’t unanimous; Blacks seem to have a much harder time forgiving these transgressions than their White counterparts.

In August, when an 8-year old biracial Black boy was hung by a rope in Claremont, New Hampshire by several older, White children, Claremont Police Chief Mark Chase said that the culprits should be protected. HYPERLINK “http://www. theroot.com/new-hampshire-police-refuse-to-release-information-on-c-1803054596” “Mistakes they make as a young child should not have to follow them for the rest of their life,” he stated in response to inquiries about the investigation.

In September, when 26 year-old Katie Layne Quackenbush of Tennessee was charged with attempted murder for exiting her vehicle and shooting 54-year old Gerald Melton, her attorney and father, Jesse Quackenbush claimed she and her friend were being harassed and threatened with sexist remarks. “She didn’t try and kill this guy, she had no intention of killing him. She didn’t know that she hit him,” he said immediately after her arrest.

Why can’t we, as Black people defend our family and friends with matching zeal? Why must we send our young men and women into the belly of the beast to “learn a lesson” we couldn’t teach them at home? Why have we accepted the disproportionate incarceration of Black Americans as the norm? Some still view incarceration as a subconscious right of passage to adulthood for Black youth in America?

Take a few minutes and think about the number of people that you know who are currently incarcerated, have been incarcerated or on probation. Now, did you march in the streets for them? Did you sign a petition for them? Will the FBI investigate the judges who sentenced them? Hell, did you offer to put money on their books? Did you accept a collect call? If so, probably not as much as you could have. Not as much as you should have. But, I bet you were at the “welcome home” party.

Anyway, I’m really happy for y’all. I’ma let y’all finish marching for Meek, but remember, according to a study by The Marshall Project, as of April 2017, an estimated 61,250 Americans are incarcerated for technical parole violations. They deserve your support, too.

Hundreds Rallied for Meek Mill

By Lynette Monroe NNPA Newswire Guest Columnist Recently, hundreds of fans and supporters held a rally outside a Philadelphia courthouse, chanting for Robert Rihmeek Williams a.k.a. Meek Mill, to be released. The rapper was sentenced to two to four years in prison for violating his parole, stemming from 10 year-old charges, including drug possession and carrying a firearm without a license. Several media outlets have reported that the presiding Judge Genece Brinkley is now under investigation by the FBI. In the United States, there are more than 61, 000 people incarcerated for parole violations. So, to all of a sudden see thousands of people chanting and tweeting #FreeMeekMill is ironic to say the least. Mass incarceration is a part of the rudimentary diet of Black people, appearing on the menu alongside predatory lending and housing discrimination. It is difficult to find a Black person who has been exempted from interaction with the criminal justice system; either through the incarceration of family and friends, an overnight stay for traffic violations, or extended restrictions due to parole or probation agreements. I have a brother, cousin, and boyfriend incarcerated, right now. In Meek Mill’s case, I agree with the sentiment that the two- to four-year sentence is unwarranted, however, our sole concern should not be whether or not the subsequent consequence for the violation of these terms is fair; he agreed to them and has violated those terms several times. The issue is a system that does not carry out justice equally, a system where if Meek Mill were White, statistically he would less likely be arrested or incarcerated in the first place.

Now, I know we protest for unarmed civilians murdered at the hands of police. It’s easy to yell, “F--k the Police!” standing in a crowd of thousands of people, but where was that same outrage when Kalief Browder was held in Rikers Island for three years without a trial. He later committed suicide and Jay-Z produced a documentary about Browder’s tragic life. And what about the millions of Black men and women trapped in a system of injustice that don’t rap or rise to the attention of people like Jay-Z? Their

PUBLIC NOTICE This statement expires on Nov 9, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Dec 6, 13, 20, 27, 2017 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2017-B7811 Doing business as: MNZ UNLIMITED SUPPLY COMPANY at 3700 Tracey Ct, Bakersfield, Ca. 93311 Mailing Address: Same County: Kern Full name of registrant: Noel Zachary Santiago Da Silva, 3700 Tracey Ct, Bakersfield, Ca. 93311 Full name of registrant: Myrna Hidalgo Da Silva, 3700 Tracey Ct, Bakersfield, Ca. 93311 This business is conducted by: General Partnership SIGNED: Noel Zachary Da Silva The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Aug 21, 2017 This statement filed with the County Clerk of Kern county on: Nov 22, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: C Valdez, Deputy This fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk’s Office. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another to a trademark or trade name under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 ET SEQ., business and professions code).

I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime This statement expires on Nov 22, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Dec 6, 13, 20, 27, 2017 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2017-B7614 Doing business as: ARTURO MEDINA MUFFLES SALES at 310 Brundage Ln, Bakersfield, Ca. 93304 Mailing Address: Same County: Kern Full name of registrant: Arturo Medina, 2730 S Union Ave Bakersfield, Ca. 93307 This business is conducted by: Individual SIGNED: Arturo Medina The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A This statement filed with the County Clerk of Kern county on: Nov 13, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk

PUBLIC NOTICE By: J Garcia, Deputy This fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk’s Office. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another to a trademark or trade name under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 ET SEQ., business and professions code).

I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime This statement expires on Nov 13, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Dec 6, 13, 20, 27, 2017 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2017-B7864 Doing business as: PACIFIC TIRE & WHEEL CALIFORNIA & CHESTER at 1501 California Ave, Bakersfield, Ca. 93304 Mailing Address: Same County: Kern Full name of registrant: Isabel Cristina Gonzalez, 1501 California Ave, Bakersfield, Ca. 93304 This business is conducted by: Individual SIGNED: Isabel Cristina Gonzalez The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A This statement filed with the County Clerk of Kern county on: Nov 28, 2017 MARY B BEDARD County Clerk By: C Valdez, Deputy This fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk’s Office. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another to a trademark or trade name under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 ET SEQ., business and professions code).

I declare that all information in this Statement is true and correct. (A) Registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false, is guilty of a crime This statement expires on Nov 28, 2022 BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Dec 6, 13, 20, 27, 2017

For Sale

One lot in a Ridgecrest Neighborhood. By Owner $20,000.00 or best offer.

(619) 565-0740

Macy’s to Hire 7,000 Extra Seasonal Workers

By ANNE D'INNOCENZIO AP Retail Writer NEW YORK (AP) _ Macy's is hiring an additional 7,000 seasonal associates this holiday season, saying traffic in its department stores nationwide has been high.

The company said Friday that the hires will work on the sales floors of its stores as well as fulfill online and pick-up-in-store orders and do other operational jobs. Most of the jobs are part-time.

They are in addition to the 80,000 temporary holiday workers Macy’s said it expected to hire early in the fall.

The news is encouraging and is in line with overall retail industry reports that have indicated a strong start to the season, with shoppers buying more than last year.

Macy's needs a good holiday season after suffering 11 straight quarters of sales declines for a key measure. Macy's, like many of its department store peers, has been hit hard from shoppers' shift away from clothing and more toward experiences. And when shoppers do buying clothing, they’re going increasingly to so-called off-price chains like T.J. Maxx or online to Amazon.

com. That has helped reduce customer traffic in the stores.

Macy's has cut jobs and closed stores as well as embraced lots of strategies to differentiate itself. That means offering more exclusive fashions, expanding an off-price brand, and adding more gadgets to its stores. In October, it launched a loyalty program that it hopes will bring more shoppers through its doors.

“Macy’s has had a great start to this holiday season with high customer volume across our business,” said John Harper, Macy's chief store officer, in a statement. “We are excited to be further expanding our seasonal workforce.”

Macy's CEO Jeff Gennette told The Associated Press on Black Friday morning that customer counts were higher and business was better in the North and Northeast even with fewer promotions from a year ago. Last year, Macy's had a lot of unsold merchandise from the third quarter that needed to be liquidated.

And cold weather helped fuel sales of items like coat and

boots. He predicted that Macy's would sell more than a million cold weather items on Thanksgiving and Black Friday combined.

However, Macy’s did suffer a glitch processing some gift and credit cards later on Black Friday, one of the busiest shopping days of the year. It resolved the problems at the end of the day, but shoppers took to social media to complain about long lines or difficulties paying online.

Earlier in the fall Macy’s announced it would hire more temps for distribution centers and warehouses, but that overall holiday hiring would decline nearly 4 percent from last year.

Macy’s Inc. operates more than 700 stores under its namesake brand and Bloomingdale's as well as more than 100 specialty stores.

Shares of the company, which has corporate offices in New York and Cincinnati, were up 48 cents to $24.28 in morning trading.

Sports

Wednesday December 6, 2017

BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER Serving Kern County since 1977 A5

Roadrunners Ready for Two Tough Road Games BAKERSFIELD, Calif. – The CSU Bakersfield women’s basketball team (3-4) will look to bounce back from a tough loss at SMU this weekend with two road games at UC Riverside and South Dakota.

The `Runners and UC Riverside will be a preview of a Big West Conference matchup in 2020 when CSUB will enter the Big West. The `Runners lost 71-66 to Riverside last year in Bakersfield in a game that saw CSUB win three of the four quarters, but a 23-8 run by the Highlanders in the second quarter was the difference.

The Highlanders come into the game on Wednesday, Dec. 6 with a 2-7 record overall, having lost four of their last five and are winless at home. UC Riverside is led by senior Michelle Curry at almost 14 points a game and sophomore Skyler Lewis is averaging a little more than eight points and eight rebounds a game.

The `Runners will then travel to Vermillion for a game against the 4-4 South Dakota Coyotes on Saturday, Dec. 9. The `Runners fell to South Dakota 75-60 last season at the Icardo Center in Bakersfield.

South Dakota is led by junior Allison Arens averaging 10 points a game. Junior Jaycee Bradley is averaging a little more than eight points a game and three rebounds a game. Bradley scored 26 points and had 7 rebounds in the victory in Bakersfield last season.

Aja Williams has really found her rhythm in the last few games for CSUB and now leads the team in scoring and rebounds. The senior is now averaging 11.6 points a game and grabbing 6.6 boards a game.

Tipoff at Riverside is an 11 a.m. start and it will be the Highlanders Education Day game. The game at South Dakota will start at 1 p.m. Central time, 11 a.m. West Coast time.

(Mark Nessia/Mark Messia Photography Photo)

Former Bakersfield Standout -DJ Reed Could Face Bruins

By Earl Heath Contributing Sports Writer When UCLA takes on Kansas State 7-5 (5-4 Big 12) in the Cactus Bowl December 26 there will be a familiar face opposite the Bruins.

Former Bakersfield (Independence high) stand-out D J. Reed has earned spot on the K-State roster and has made a name for himself in the Big-12 .

An undisclosed injury has sidelined him for the final two games of the season and its unknown if he will play in the Cactus Bowl.

The 5-9 -190 pound Reed got off to a good start this season helping lead the Wildcats to a 5-5 record.

Reed has been known to study film for hours upon hours. He studies his old game films like most accomplished DB’s he studies himself and opponents.

“We get the real film, the same exact thing NFL Coaches get,” Reed told the Kansas City Star. “ Two hours everyday. Instead of watching TV, I go to the facility and watch film. That’s my TV time.”

The film watching has paid off as this season he was sixth on the team in tackles with 43 with 27 of them solo. He also had 4 interceptions in10 games..

In 2016 he came to K-State from Cerritos College. He was suppose to add depth to the defense instead his athleticism and work ethic were hard to overlook . He started 12 games defended sixteen passes and intercepted three of them. He added 75 tackles.

The Big 12 coaches named him defensive Newcomer of the Year.

Reed and teammate junior Bryan Pringle have made their mark on special teams as he is number one in the conference averaging 17 yards per punt return. When teams kick-off to Reed he averages 35.3 yard per return, enough to also make top of the list in the conference.

“Its funny because me and Bryan will be back there like man who mare they going to kick to? “Its cool to know you have someone back there who can dynamite back there with you.

Pringle is a star on offense having 28 catches for 742 yards and six touchdowns this season.

Reed played at Independence under head coach Sean McKeown.

He earned all-league honors for two-straight years when he had six interceptions and five forced fumbles, while he totaling 1,150 yards and 13 touchdowns on offense. He became the first person in school history to earn team MVP honors in both football and basketball.

His work ethic helped get him a head start at K-state. I came in knowing everything about the play book before I even practiced.

Learn the playbook is the most important thing you could do.

Workouts and stuff you can always work hard and do all that, but you have to learn the playbook to get on the field. Your going to move much faster that way.”

Former Independence High Stand-out DJ Reed returns a kick. (courtesy photo)

Trojans Beat Stanford for PAC-12 Crown

By Earl Heath Contributing Sports Writer The USC football team won its first Pac 12 title since 2008 by defeating Stanford 31-28. Sam Darnold completed 17 of 24 passes for 325 and 2 touchdowns.

The steady Ronald Jones II had 140 yards on 30 carries to and two touchdowns led the ground game, that help lead a Trojan offense that rolled up 501 yards.

Sophomore wide receiver Michael Pittman had seven catches for 146 yards. “Donald (Sam) made it easy for me, I am blessed to have him on my team.” The 146 receiving yards are a Pac12 Championship game record.

Stanford was no softy as the Cardinal ha 353 tough yards with 135 yards coming from Bryce Love on 22 carries. Love played the game with a sore ankle had a 55 yard run..

Stanford QB KJ Costello of Santa Margarita Catholic completed 10 of 22 for 192 yards and 2 TD passes.

On the defensive side for USC senior DB Chris Hawkins

led the team with a career high 13 tackles. Cameron Smith had 5 and john Houston chipped in with4.

The crowd of 48,032 appeared to be spilt down the middle between Trojan fans and Stanford. The win helped pun a ticket to the Cotton Bowl in Dallas for a meeting against Ohio State.

Stanford 9-4(7-2PAC12) win take on TCU in the Alamo Bowl.

ADD USC: The night before the game Trojan Senior Captain Chris Hawkins learned his mother lost her four year battle with cancer. ”It broke my heart to know how much his grandmother meant to him,” Said USC Head Coach Clay Helton. He woke up with tear in his eyes and I just told him to honor his family. Hejust played his best game as a Trojan on the brightest stage.That’s what captains do .That’s what Trojans do. They fight on. That’s a performance I will never forget”

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Mossi Johnson (21) of UCLA (Crenshaw High) and Chris Hawkins of USC (4) share a moment as they both are headed to Bowl Games. UCLA to Cactus Bowl Dec 26 in Phoenix and USC to Cotton Bowl in Dallas Dec 29. (Earl Heath Photo) Trojans Beat Stanford for PAC-12 Crown

A6

BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER Serving Kern County since 1977

Wednesday December 6, 2017

Entertainment Core DJs Group Hosts Annual Summit in Phoenix

By Arizona Informant Staffers Arizona Informant/NNPA Member More than 700 of the nation’s most influential DJs, artists, publicists, models and program directors came together for The Core DJs 28th annual retreat in Phoenix, Ariz. The summit was full of networking, compelling discussions about the industry, showcase performances and club appearances.

“I love it here in Phoenix, we just gotta get people to realize that Phoenix is a viable market,” said Tony Neal, the CEO of The Core DJs, one of the largest coalitions of DJs in the world.

The Core is known for developing partnerships with influential companies in the Southwest. So, it was no surprise that the Arizona Informant, KNRJ 101.1 The Beat’s “Beatlocker Show” and Krankz Audio played major roles in supporting and promoting the conference.

“The Core DJ retreat was a tremendous success, an important win for the state of Arizona and the Southwest, in general. KNRJ 101.1 The Beat’s ‘Beatlocker Show’ couldn’t be more proud to be a part of it,” said Pokafase, a Phoenix radio personality. “The wealth of knowledge and experience brought to the table by such esteemed industry professionals is truly invaluable to any artist, producer, manager, or DJ looking to create a lane for themselves in the music industry.”

Pokafase continued: “Judging by the engagement, interaction, and overall reception of The Core DJs 28th annual retreat in Phoenix, this won’t be the last Arizona sees of the Core.”

According to industry insiders, one of the biggest challenges for up-and-coming artists is getting airplay on FM radio. Neal has developed a movement that acts as a one-stop shop at these annual retreats in different cities that gives artists access to established DJs, producers and program directors.

During the retreat, there were six DJs inducted into The Core DJs family: the world famous DJ Marvel; DJ Plaz; DJ Webby and DJ Charlie of Phoenix, Ariz.; DJ Law of Wyoming; and DJ Cadence of Wichita, Ks. One of the most important events during the retreat was the radio panel, which consisted of program directors and on-air personalities. There was a wealth of knowledge and information shared across the board from individuals in different markets throughout the nation.

One of the key points that was mentioned during the panel discussions was the need to build meaningful relationships with industry professionals, which includes the DJs, program directors and radio personalities.

According to one of the panelists, Brandon Hickman, who is the program director for 97.3 WMNX and 98.5 WBAI, many “artists have developed a preconceived notion [about the industry] that has them caught up in the ‘fame’ instead of putting in the important steps that consist of their sound, fan base and, of course, relationships that would make them timeless artists.”

Neal recommended that artists focus on only one or two songs instead of submitting 20 tracks to DJs and industry professionals. He also voiced the importance of having key branding in all products.

Long-time Core DJs member DJ Detroit noticed that some of the artists that were in attendance were taking heed to the knowledge presented by the veterans in the industry.

“One artist in particular approached me and told me that Neal validated everything that I have been saying from the beginning and personally thanked me for mentoring him over the years,” said DJ Detroit.

Veterans like Neal didn’t have the pleasure of growing up on the

(From left-right) Cloves Campbell Jr., the publisher of the Arizona Informant, Jeff Weiland, the CEO of Krankz Audio, and Tony Neal, the CEO Of The Core DJs, at the Core DJs 28th annual retreat in Phoenix, Arizona. (Shawn Canon/Arizona Informant)

Internet when pursuing his craft as a DJ; he had to solely rely on relationships that he built through networking and traveling the world.

“You get more out of people when you build meaningful relationships that are not just based off of what they can do for you,”

said Dorian Washington, a Core DJ member and consultant.

DJ John Blaze of Ikon Radio expressed his appreciation for the Core for bringing the retreat to Arizona.

“I had the opportunity to connect with so many established DJs and other industry professionals that helped me expand my

knowledge in an industry that is changing by the second,” said Blaze.

The Arizona Informant is a member publication of the National Newspaper Publishers Association. Learn more about becoming a member at www.nnpa.org.

‘Coco’ Tops Box Office for 2nd Straight Week w/ $26.1M

By JAKE COYLE AP Film Writer NEW YORK (AP) _ In a sleepy post-Thanksgiving weekend at the box office, Pixar's “Coco” remained the top film for the second straight week while a number of Oscar contenders packed theaters in specialty release. ``Coco'' again easily led all films with $26.1 million in the U.S. and Canada, according to studio estimates Sunday. The acclaimed animated tale based on the Mexican holiday Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) has dominated new releases both domestically and abroad. It has already racked up a global gross of $280 million, including record-breaking totals in Mexico and an impressive $75.6 million in China.

With no major wide releases, Warner Bros.’ “Justice League”also held in second place with $16.6 million in its third weekend. With a domestic total of $197.3 million in three weeks, the DC Comics superhero team-up release isn't going to catch Marvel's “Thor: Ragnarok.” The better-received “Thor” sequel has proved far mightier, with nearly $300 million in five weeks of release.

The family film “Wonder,” about a fifth-grade boy (Jacob Tremblay) with facial abnormalities, likewise stayed in third with $12.5 million. The sleeper hit of the season, also starring Julia Roberts and Owen Wilson, has taken in $88 million in three weeks for Lionsgate.

Among new releases, most successful was James Franco's “The Disaster Artist.” The comedy opened with $1.2 million on 19 screens, good for a per-screen average of $64,254. The film, directed by and starring Franco, is about the making of the infamously bad cult movie “The Room.”

With most studios staying clear ahead of the impending release of “Star Wars: The Last Jedi” (which some forecasts peg for a $200-million debut), much of the weekend's action was with awards-season releases. They helped drive the weekend to the biggest post-Thanksgiving weekend in five years, according to comScore.

Greta Gerwig's “Lady Bird,” which spent the week collecting honors from the New York Film Critics Circle, the Gotham Awards and the National Board of Review, added 403 theaters, for a total of 1,194. The A24 release, starring Saoirse Ronan and Laurie Metcalf, earned $4.5 million, bringing its total to $17.1 million.

Fox Searchlight's “The Shape of Water,'' an acclaimed monster-movie fantasy from director Guillermo del Toro, opened in two New York theaters with $167,000. (The $83,400 per-screen average ranks as among the best of the year.) Searchlight's “Thee Billboards Outside of Ebbing, Missouri,'' also expanded to 1,630 screens and grossed $4.5 million. The Frances McDormand-led film has grossed $13.7 million.

The coming-of-age tale “Call Me By Your Name,” which topped the Gotham Awards on Monday, remained in very limited release _ four theaters _ and pulled in an excellent per-screen average of $67,000. The Sony Pictures Classics last weekend debuted with the highest screen-average of the year. The film's young star, Timothee Chalamet, has emerged as one the leading best-actor contenders.

Also of note: Woody Allen's latest, “Wonder Wheel,” opened with $140,555 in five theaters; Focus Feature's Winston Chur-

chill biopic “Darkest Hour” took in $106,000 in four theaters; and the 20th anniversary release of ``Titanic'' grossed $415,000 in 87 theaters.

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to comScore. Where available, the latest international numbers for Friday through Sunday are also included. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.

1. “Coco,'' $26.1 million ($69 million international).

2. “Justice League,'' $16.6 million ($35.7 million international).

3. “Wonder,” $12.5 million ($7.8 million international).

4. “Thor: Ragnarok,” $9.7 million ($6.5 million international).

5. “Daddy's Home 2,” $7.5 million ($15.6 million international).

6. “Murder on the Orient Express,” $6.7 million ($23.1 million international).

7. “Lady Bird,” $4.5 million.

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8. “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri,” $4.5 million.

9. “The Star,” $4 million.

10. “A Bad Moms Christmas,” $3.5 million ($3.7 million international).

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at international theaters (excluding the U.S. and Canada), according to comScore: 1. “Coco,” $69 million.

2. “Justice League,” $35.7 million.

3. “Murder on the Orient Express,” $23.1 million.

4. “Daddy's Home,” $15.6 million.

5. “Fireworks, Should We See it From the Side or the Bottom,” $10.7 million.

6. “Wonder,” $7.8 million.

7. “Thor: Ragnarok,” $6.5 million.

8. “Paddington 2,” $6.2 million.

9. “The Swindlers,” $6.1 million.

10. “Furious,” $4.2 million.

Wednesday December 6, 2017

BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER Serving Kern County since 1977 A7

Local

A8

BAKERSFIELD NEWS OBSERVER Serving Kern County since 1977

Owner Susan Salvucci

Stockdale Fashion Plaza 4903 Stockdale Highway, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Bentley’s Coffee House Many years ago, I had a vision of sitting with a friend chatting and relaxing, in front of a roaring fire in a spectacular fireplace. We were in the most comfy leather chairs. I never found such a place in reality though I never forgot the vision. After developing a vocal condition which made my career of litigation attorney incredibly tiring and difficult to continue, the conditions seemed right to turn the vision into a reality. Bentley’s Coffee House came into being after three years of research, planning and, finally, construction. We opened doors on November 25, 2017.

We are adjusting operations but welcome you to come and enjoy!

The vision was to create an inviting atmosphere that encourages customers to spend time together instead of rushing in and out. According to a study in the journal Frontiers in Psychology, “sharing food increases interpersonal closeness.” Some call this “breaking bread together.” When you share a meal or a snack with someone, you relax, enjoy life, and connect with them. This is also what I experienced when traveling in Europe. The European Style café or coffee house is a culture – a place where guests can be social. It isn’t about speed and ordering coffee to go. Rather, the coffee is an excuse to meet with friends, hear local news, catch up with old friends and family, take a break from the responsibilities and duties of your day. Few customers, if any, bring their laptops.

This is an opportunity to escape from laptops! The concept is one where customers can sit as long as they like in peace, either alone or with others. Some of the oldest recorded coffeehouses date back to the 18 th century in Venice or Rome.

They were everywhere in Amsterdam and surrounding area,

Germany, Sweden and Denmark when I visited those countries.

Little has changed since the 1700’s! Traditional cafes still share ample seating of typically small tables and chairs to maximize space, good coffee, and a diverse menu. The intention is to sit and enjoy for some time. The menu varies but the food is not the point – the point is for the customers to feel the invitation to stay, and no pressure to turn tables quickly. Linger and relax, and help create a thriving social spot.

Bentley’s has a 24’ x 24’ dance floor, along with an espresso-cappuccino machine, plenty of regular coffee that is smooth, not bitter, and various snacks, cookies, muffins, cupcakes, treats, and small meals such as homemade heart healthy vegetable soup, sometimes an excellent homemade chili, garden salad, simple sandwiches, and a variety of other items. Again, the point is not the food – the point is the ambience and social nature. This includes an opportunity to dance if you wish, even during daytime if you just want to Move. Dancing is excellent low impact aerobic exercise for body and mind. Bentley’s is open from 1100 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. with dancing from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday evenings. Closed Wednesdays and Sundays, which are available for party rentals. Please call for reservations for evening hours. Call us at (661) 805-4234.

Come sip coffee, savor a sweet or enjoy a sandwich, and share time with the ones you love. It’s a wonderful way to destress, and create memories.

Proprietor: Sue Bentley Salvucci remains an active attorney and is available for paid legal consultations on an appointment-only basis.

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Wednesday December 6, 2017

Decomposed Body Found in Car Pulled from Kern River BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (AP) _ Authorities will try to identify a body found in a car pulled from a California river that investigators say may be related to a missing person.

Crews recovered the white Toyota Solara from the Kern River near Highway 178 in the San Joaquin Valley on Saturday.

The Bakersfield Californian says the body found inside was so badly decomposed it was impossible to immediately identify

the gender.

The Kern County Sheriff's Office says deputies last Thursday received a report that personal property possibly related to the missing person, Lisa Harvey, was found in Kern River Canyon.

Deputies then found the submerged vehicle nearby.

The newspaper says investigators believe the car belonged to Harvey.

Recipe of the Week

Nothing is more satisfying than a warm roasted tritip on a cold crispy today.

Usually I will put this in my crock pot, but this time I decided to put it on the oven on low for about three hours, at 325 degrees. So I guess you can imagine the aroma that was permeating through my house.

To make this I started with a 2.5 pd. Tri-tip (for flavor I put garlic I side the meat), then I used two packages of Grill-mate seasonings (Montreal steak) and topped it with rosemary which adds more flavor. Once everything is seasoned you then want to put it in a plastic bowl or bag and place in the refrigerator for at least a couple of hours or overnight for more tenderness and flavor.

Once you are ready to cook place near in a pan and cook until done and the meat is no longer pink inside.

Enjoy with a baked potato or whatever side dish you prefer. I think I’m going to add bar-b-que sauce to mines and make myself a

sandwich!

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