SB American News Week Ending 2/28

THE SAN BERNARDINO

AMERICAN

“A Man In Debt is So Far A Slave” -R.W. Emerson

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NEWSPAPER A Community Newspaper Serving San Bernardino, Riverside & Los Angeles Counties

February 22, 2024 Thursday Edition

Volume 54 No. 45

Mailing: P.O. Box 837, Victorville, CA 92393 Office: (909) 889-7677 Email: Mary @Sb-American.com Clifton@Sb-American.com

Website: www.SB-American.com

Power concedes nothing without a demand. It never did and it never will. Find out just what people will submit to and you have found out the exact amount of injustice and wrong which will be imposed upon them and these will continue till they have resisted either with words or blows or with both. The limits of tyrants are prescribed by the endurance those of whom they suppress. —Fredrick Douglass (1849)

VOTE CLIFTON HARRIS SB COUNTY SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 1 WE NEED SOLUTION ORIENTED LEADERSHIP!

CLIFTON HARRIS FOR SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 1

X CLIFTON HARRIS

Dear Voter,

Private Ins,gator Inves,gator Privado

As your District 1, elected County Supervisor, I will demonstrate honor and integrity in all we do through our ethical behavior. I will adopt the following as my guiding principles to restore the public trust and respect you deserve.

MARCUS HERNANDEZ

School Board Trustee Fideicomisario de la Junta Escolar

GUIDING PRINCIPLES:

PAUL COOK

San Bernardino County Supervisor Supervisor del Condado de San Bernardino

I believe that life and individual freedoms are sacred.

I believe in fair and equitable treatment of all individuals.

RAFAEL A. PORRAS Pastor Pastor

I believe our role is to resolve problems through the law, not to judge or punish.

ESTABLISHMENT OF A LOCAL LEVEL 1 OR 2 TRAUMA CENTER

I view the neighborhood as the basic segment of the community.

BRING A CALIFORNIA STATE CAMPUS TO THE VICTOR VALLEY

I believe that we will not be able to carry out our responsibilities alone; we must be willing to involve the community in all aspects of building our community.

BRING CRITICAL LIFE SAVING CARE TO OUR COMMUNITY.

WE MUST PRIORITIZE HAVING A PUBLIC COLLEGE ACCESSIBLE WITHIN OUR COMMUNITY.

BRIGHTLINE WEST WILL HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON OUR COMMUNITY VIA BUSINESS GROWTH

WE MUST MAKE HOME OWNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES A REALITY FOR OUR FAMILIES AND LET INVESTORS AND CITY LEADERS KNOW WE WANT TO PLACE COMMUNITY INTEREST ABOVE THAT OF INVESTORS.

SAFETY FOR OUR SENIORS, WOMEN AND CHILDREN

I believe our fundamental responsibility to the community is quality service.

I believe that we, as employees, are our local governments most valuable assets.

I believe that employee involvement is vital to a productive environment.

PROTECT THEM AGAINST SEXUAL PREDATORS, SCAMMERS, AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE.

I am committed to the recognition of human dignity and enrichment of life through fair and equitable treatment of employees.

SUPPORT FOR OUR EDUCATORS

I must demand of us the utmost in honesty, integrity, and professionalism.

BETTER PAY, LOWER CLASSROOM SIZES, SAFER CLASSROOMS AND CAMPUSES

I will hold us to a higher standard of social and professional conduct.

www.Harrisforsupervisor.com

I will make the District 1 citizens we serve proud as its leader.

THIS ADVERTISEMENT IS PAID FOR BY THE HARRIS FOR SUPERVISOR COMMITTEE

Clifton Harris

Advocates call on Biden to meet with congressional leaders on “The Fruit from the Forbidden Tree” Murder by Incarceration, Systemic Racism racial justice initiatives Judicial Slavery David Dew C67417

BY CHEYANNE M. DANIELS A host of racial justice organizations is teaming up with Democrats in sending an open letter to President Biden demanding the White House help advance racial equity bills.

The Hill received an exclusive look at the letter, spearheaded

by Democratic Reps. Barbara Lee (Calif.), Sheila Jackson Lee (Texas), Cori Bush (Mo.) and Jamaal Bowman (N.Y.).

More than 150 organizations and people are also urging Biden to meet with congressional leaders and advocates to discuss a racial justice agenda ahead of November’s election.

“For far too long, the scars and trauma of racial inequity have marred the United States.

The time for change and action is now,” the letter, sent Monday, reads.

“In recent months, the U.S. Congress has introduced critical legislation addressing the systemic inequities entrenched in our society,” it continues. “We call upon the White House to lend its considerable power to these causes. We ask for executive actions and executive orders aligning with and supporting these legislative efforts to achieve racial equity and reparative justice.”

Greg Nash File – President Biden arrives at White House in Washington, D.C., on Monday, January 22, 2024 after spending the weekend in Delaware.

The letter lists 10 pieces of legislation for Biden to discuss with legislators, including the John. R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2023, the Commission to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals and Recommendations for African Americans Act, and a resolution to recognize Banned Books Week.

David Johns, CEO of the National Black Justice Coalition, one of the organizations to sign the letter, said the conversation is vital because of the systemic inequalities and discrimination Black Americans have faced for generations.

“As we confront the enduring

legacy of racial discrimination, it is imperative that our political leaders take decisive action to not only acknowledge the historical wrongs inflicted that have systematically subjugated minority communities but also to implement reparative measures that can catalyze transformative change,” Johns said in a statement.

The letter’s signers argue racial equity has been hindered by a host of challenges, including institutional racism, unequal access to education and job opportunities, discriminatory policing and disparities in health care.

When he was elected four

years ago, Biden promised racial justice would be at the forefront of his administration’s agenda.

More recently, the BidenHarris campaign launched a series of ads targeting Black voters in battleground states in an attempt to highlight promises the White House has kept to the Black community.

Dreisen Heath, founder of the Why We Can’t Wait National Reparations Coalition, which also signed on to the letter, said Biden now has a “historic opportunity” to take executive action and advance a racial equity and reparative justice agenda.

“To date, the United States has never fully or properly reckoned with the gross human rights violation of chattel slavery and the post-Emancipation racist policies that continue to impact Black people and our society at large,” said Heath.

“The solutions are right before us, waiting to be put in motion.

We do not have the luxury of kicking the can down the road, again. We urge President Biden to support existing legislative efforts and the people’s calls for justice because racial equity and reparative justice demand facing the fierce urgency of now.”

Worthy and indicative to the month of Black History, this article is a reminder to those in power throughout the United States of America of Abraham Lincoln which liberated slavery by proclamation in 1863, and the constant reminder still, that hatred and racism toward Black people still exists to this day in 2024.

Quoted, “So many African American leaders, celebrities, pastors, and politicians, speak about how far we have come as a people, and they also express their thoughts of the ongoing systemic racism. So, now I am asking the same people to imagine me, David Dew calling out from behind the prison walls for the past 35 years, for people to join with me not only in support of my release but in support of a National Movement of Love, which I believe will ultimately FREE US ALL” Some people have heard this story before, millions have not. David Dew has been wrongfully incarcerated for the past 41 years in a California state prison. (Currently @ California Men’s Colony, San Luis Obispo) David is from Pine Bluff Arkansas and traveled to California in 1982 to be closer

to his two sons. He was in the wrong place at the wrong time when he stopped in San Diego CA. Now before I continue, I should tell you that in 1982 there was a treaty signed between the white supremacists and the Black people, not to incarcerate, kill or maim, each other’s race. This was a headquarters for the Ku Klux Klan. A Bishop told this.

He was staying at a hotel when he met two gentlemen who would become his codefendants.

David was a performer, so he had a van that he traveled in.

These two gentlemen asked if he could help them move items from where one of them was continued on page 3

Thursday, February 22, 2024

Page 2

COMMUNITY/EDUCATION/FINANCIAL/ADVERTISING

Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum celebrates What’s Safer for Domestic Violence Women’s History Month 2024 with inaugural digital exhibition Survivors: Home or the Streets?

By Selen Ozturk and new initiatives

Domestic violence is among the leading causes of homelessness, as victims often face low funds, poor credit and police evictions.

By Black PR Wire

"Sewing a fine seam—finishing touches are applied to one section of the new spacesuit for NASA's Apollo lunar missions on this long-arm sewing machine, built specially for manufacturing the spacesuits."

Hazel Fellows, seated, machine-sewing pieces of an Apollo A7L spacesuit on the production line at International Latex Corporation (ILC), Federica (Dover), Delaware; released Aug. 9, 1968. (Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum.)

(Black PR Wire) – The Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum has announced an exciting lineup of new initiatives for Women’s History Month March 2024 that will further the museum’s mission to make women’s history more visible. These initiatives mark an important step as the museum enters the next phase of research and programming that will eventually inform the collection and a physical site in Washington, D.C. The museum’s headline program for Women’s History Month will be “Becoming Visible,” an interactive digital exhibition launching March 8 on International Women’s Day. The exhibition will invite audiences into the work of the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum that spotlights how women’s histories have been recorded, remembered, lost and recovered.

Five remarkable stories of women from the past will come to life through objects from the Smithsonian’s collection, archival records, recorded interviews and original illustrations and animations.

Curators will narrate each of the five stories, alongside an introduction narrated by actress, designer and producer Rosario Dawson, who serves on the museum’s advisory council.

The exhibition will demonstrate how women’s history is often obscured or forgotten—and the critical need to uncover these stories to create a more accurate

and inclusive record of American history.

The lack of women’s representation in major databases is another key obstacle to ensuring women’s history is not lost as less than 20 percent of biographies on Englishlanguage Wikipedia are about women. To confront this issue, the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum will host a Wikipedia Edit-a-Thon March 27 where attendees will edit and create Wikipedia articles about the women represented in “Becoming Visible,” among others.

“This Women’s History Month we are excited to introduce audiences to the future of what will truly be the first national museum to honor American women’s history,” said Melanie Adams, interim director of the museum. “While our museum is still in its early stages, we are already activating our digital platforms, championing new research and engaging the wider Smithsonian community to begin the critical work of making women’s history fully visible.

We invite everyone, from all backgrounds and walks of life, to collaborate with us as we build a museum that will inspire generations to come.”

The museum’s other initiatives throughout Women’s History Month include the launch of the Spotlight Program that will invite filmmakers to collaborate with the museum to share women’s stories from their communities and a charter membership

program for the public to get involved with the museum as it is built from the ground up.

Further details on the Women’s History Month initiatives are included below.

Charter Membership Program | Launching March 1: With this inaugural membership program, the public can help make history by becoming some of the first supporters of the museum’s mission. Charter Members will get early access to events and programs and be the first to know about the museum’s progress.

Learn more on the museum’s website.

Digital Exhibition: “Becoming Visible” | Launching March 8: Available on the museum’s website, the 10-minute digital experience created by the woman-led digital design firm Forum One will take audiences on a visual and emotional journey through five women’s lives, including Elizabeth Keckly, a memoirist and formerly enslaved woman who became a lauded seamstress and dressmaker to Mary Todd Lincoln; Margaret Knight, a 19th-century inventor who automated the production of flat-bottomed paper bags; Hisako Hibi, a Japanese American artist who lost much of her work after spending over three years in government detention during World War II; Isabel Morgan, a scientist who was instrumental in the development of the polio vaccine; and Hazel Fellows, a seamstress who worked on the Apollo space suits. A virtual inside look into the exhibition

with Smithsonian curators will take place March 14 at 3 p.m.

ET. Learn more on the museum’s website.

Spotlight Program | Launching March 18: The museum will invite up and coming filmmakers from communities across the country to develop short videos that document important histories of women and girls who have been underrecognized in the historical record. This program will be the first of several cocreation projects that will engage artists from a variety of backgrounds and disciplines to collaborate with the museum to tell women’s stories.

Wikipedia Edit-a-Thon | Launching March 27: Less than 20 percent of biographies in English-language Wikipedia are about women. The Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum is helping to change this with a Wikipedia Edit-aThon during Women’s History Month. Attendees will edit and create Wikipedia articles about American women represented in the museum’s digital exhibition, “Becoming Visible,” among others. New editors who have never contributed to Wikipedia before will receive on-site training. This event is presented with support from Wikimedia DC. About the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum The Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum expands the story of America through the often-untold accounts and accomplishments of women—individually and collectively—to better understand our past and inspire our future. Through new scholarship, diverse viewpoints and innovative forms of exhibition, storytelling and participation, the museum inspires the next generation to create a more equitable world.

The legislation creating the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum passed Dec. 27, 2020, and the museum is working with Congress to finalize a site for a building. Connect with the museum at womenshistory. si.edu.

Source: Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum

Domestic violence is among the leading causes of homelessness, is driving growing numbers of women to sake safety in the streets.

At a Friday, February 16 Ethnic Media Services briefing, domestic violence prevention advocates and a formerly unhoused survivor discussed how domestic violence often leads to homelessness and shared firsthand experiences of homelessness as a result of IPV.

before homelessness believed that a $300 to $500 monthly subsidy would have kept them housed for at least two years, while 83% believed that a onetime $5,000 to $10,000 lump sum would have, and 92% believed that a housing voucher limiting rental contributions to 30% of their income would have.

The impact of domestic violence on homelessness

In short, “Many IPV survivors are forced to choose between a rock and a hard place: enduring violence at home or risking homelessness,” said Hargrave.

“You can’t address the link between IPV and homelessness without addressing the need for permanent affordable housing.”

Domestic violence, also known as intimate partner violence (IPV), involves “violence, abuse or aggression committed by a former or current intimate partner,” said Dr. Anita Hargrave, Assistant Adjunct Professor at UCSF. Last month, to better understand the experiences of IPV survivors currently experiencing homelessness, the UCSF Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative released Toward Safety, a report analyzing IPV data from June 2023 in the California Statewide Study of People Experiencing Homelessness (CASPEH) — the largest representative study of homelessness since the mid1990s.

Dr. Anita Hargrave, Assistant Professor, UCSF and lead BHHI researcher of the report “Toward Safety: Understanding Intimate Partner Violence and Homelessness,” shares data on the availability of shelter for those fleeing domestic violence.

This new report found that 40% of participants reporting IPV in the six months before homelessness reported violence as a reason for leaving their last housing, while 20% said it was the primary reason.

“is particularly dangerous Keeping it Real: A Reflection on Black History, Black Present forIPVthose at the economic margins,” said Hargrave.

“Many survivors reported that and Black Future relatively modest amounts of

by S.E. Williams

Experts tell us the importance of history is that it gives us the opportunity to “examine and interpret human identities and transformations of society and civilizations over time.”

We are also told history helps us not only understand but also learn to come to grips with complex questions about how we present ourselves in the world today and to better understand the circumstances of the world we live in. We are supposed to gain this understanding by examining how what occurred in the past, helps shape not only our experiences today but also serves

as a guiding light or northstar to the future.

For us as Black people I believe it is important that we reach back, beyond the amazing accomplishments and contributions by Black Americans to this country and the world since 1619, and take a deeper, longer look at the history of civilizations that existed in Africa before colonization, before the slave trade. I propose this as a way to understand what inspired the evolution of religion, art and society of the great African nations so we can better understand the strength, spirit,

inventiveness, determination and creativity that sustained us here in America.

I say this because we know that only the strongest of the strong survived the march to the slave ships, the middle passage, the auction block, slavery, reconstruction, the lynching years, Jim Crow, the fight for Civil Rights and today’s continuing struggle for equity in every aspect of life. Our survival is a testimony to our tenacity, brilliance and determination.

Where did that originate and can it be magnified?

Within our very DNA we carry this wisdom, a wisdom of generations. We only need to examine the patterns of our broader history in ways that help us better understand what our forebears brought with them from the Motherland– those intangible attributes, the whispers of the ancestors, passed from generation to generation like the texture of our hair, the melanin in our skin, our height, our hips, our noses and our lips.

I believe this is where we find keys to understanding how to navigate current and future dilemmas as we continue to thrive as a people. Part of that, of course, is contingent on our relationships with other groups because here in America we are such a small percent of the total population. Therefore, we must strengthen alliances even as we strive for self reliance. In addition, we must be aware of what is happening to other Black people in the diaspora.

I know many of you might say this is a throwback to the thinking of the 1960s. To that I say and what if it is? The potential for progress through a greater understanding of Black history relative to Africa is as powerful today as it was 60 years ago.

In the meantime, let’s celebrate Black History today and everyday, we owe it to our ancestors and the seventh generation.

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

financial support could have helped them avoid homelessness — which left them even more vulnerable to increased violence, as 42% of IPV survivors prior to homelessness experienced it unhoused as well.”

73% of those who reported IPV

95% of all survivors said high housing costs were a barrier to regaining housing.

Rising IPV and homelessness in New York City Domestic violence has particularly been on the rise in New York City, where 40% of women and children in homeless shelters are there because of IPV. “Despite New York City making progress in reducing other forms of homicides, domestic violence homicides persist, and continues to disproportionately impact Black and Hispanic women,” said Jennifer White-Reid, Chief of Staff at Urban Resource Institute (URINYC), which provides transitional housing for thousands of domestic violence survivors and homeless families.

Between 2021 and 2022, IPV homicides increased 29% citywide, 225% in Brooklyn and 57% in the Bronx.

Jennifer White-Reid, Chief of Staff & Senior Advisor to the CEO at Urban Resource Institute in New York, discusses some of the tactics of economic abuse and explains why it is often the reason survivors return to an abusive relationship.

Key to stopping this cycle is education including “violence prevention and healthy relationship education programs for youth, and traumainformed behavioral intervention continued on page 8

Clifton Harris Editor in Chief Investigative Reporter sbamericannews@gmail.com Mary Martin-Harris Publisher mary@sb-american.com Clifton B. Harris / Audio Engineering Editor Legal /Display Advertising (909) 889-7677 The San Bernardino American News was established May 6, 1969. A legally adjudicated newspaper of general circulation on September 30, 1971, case number 15313 by the Superior Court of San Bernardino County.

The San Bernardino AMERICAN News offers online subscriptions. Your weekly newspaper will be delivered to your email for $1.00 for a period of 6 months.

The San Bernardino AMERICAN News is committed to serving its readers by presenting news unbiased and objective, trusting in the mature judgment of the readers and, in so doing, strive to achieve a united community.

News releases appearing in the San Bernardino AMERICAN News do not necessarily express the policy nor the opinion of the publishers.

The San Bernardino AMERICAN News reserves the right to edit or rewrite all news releases.

Thursday, February 22, 2024

Page 3

COUNTY/GOVERNMENT/BUSINESS/ADVERTISING

2024 California Presidential Primary Election: A Look at the Ramos announces 2024 bill package ...continued scores, and youth appropriate and Adolescent Psychiatry, Black Candidates housing and services. The bill California Youth Empowerment Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media

The ballot for the 2024 California presidential primary election, set for March 5 -- commonly called “Super Tuesday in political media speak -- features leading presidential candidates President Joe Biden (D) and former President Donald Trump (R). Black candidates for President include President R. Boddie (D), Eban Cambridge (D), Jasmine Sherman (Peace and Freedom), and Cornel West (Peace and Freedom).

Across California, voters will also be choosing candidates for one US Senate seat, 52 congressional seats, 80 State Assembly seats, and 20 State Senate seats. Additionally, there’s a statewide ballot measure, Proposition 1, which if passed, would allow the state to borrow $6.4 billion for mental health treatment beds and

revamp the law that funds mental health services through a tax on millionaires.

Voters will discover that Black candidates are overrepresented on their ballots for State and Federal office. Although African Americans comprise 6.5% of California’s population, Black candidates are contesting for 11.5% of California’s US House seats, 23.8% of State Assembly seats and 30% of State Senate seats.

According to California Black Media (CBM), 53 Black candidates are participating in 32 of the 154 statewide elections.

That’s about 21% of the races.

In eleven of these races, multiple Black candidates are competing. The party affiliations of these candidates include 42 Democrats, 7 Republicans, one Green Party, three Peace and

DOJ inspector general exposes critical failures in federal prisons leading to inmate deaths

Freedom Party and one from the American Independent Party. Among these candidates, 27 women are running for office – one for President, one for US Senate, 4 for Congress, 15 for State Assembly and 7 for State Senate. There are 27 men on the ballot – 3 for President, 8 for Congress, 9 for state Assembly and 7 for state Senate.

There is one Black candidate, Congressmember Barbara Lee (D-CA-12), running for the US Senate seat (both full and partial term) to succeed U.S. Sen. Laphonza Butler. If elected, Lee would be the third Black female U.S. Senator in state history. Despite lagging in both fundraising and the polls, she has consistently performed well in debates. Lee, has said throughout her political career that “representation matters.” If neither Lee nor Congressmember Katie Porter (D-CA-47), the leading female candidates, finishes in the top two for the general election, California would be without a female contending to be senator the first time in more than 30 years.

In the upcoming Congressional elections, 12 Black candidates are vying for 6 seats. For Congressional District (CD) 6 (Rancho Cordova), Craig J. DeLuz (R), a member of the Robla School Board, is in the

running along with 5 other candidates, including the current Congressmember, Ami Bera (D).

Kevin Lincoln (R), the Mayor of Stockton, is contesting for CD 9 (Stockton) against three other candidates, including the incumbent Congressmember, Josh Harder (D).

In CD 12 (Oakland), nine candidates are competing to succeed Lee. Among them, three are Black: Lateefah Simon (D), a nonprofit Foundation President; Andre Todd (D), a retired Navy officer and businessman; and Eric Wilson (D), an employee of a nonprofit organization.

Julie Lythcott-Haims (D), a Palo Alto councilmember, educator, lawyer, and parent, is among the 11 candidates running for CD 16 (Atherton) to replace the retiring Anna Eshoo (D).

Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D), one of the three incumbent Black Congressmembers from California, is seeking re-election in CD 37 (Los Angeles). John Thompson Parker (Peace and Freedom) is the other Black candidate in this race, which has a total of four contenders.

In CD 47 (Los Angeles), four out of five candidates are Black.

The incumbent representative is Maxine Waters (D). The other Black candidates are Gregory continued on page 6

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Ramos announces 2024 bill package County/Government News

A Justice Department report, covering the years FY 2014 through FY 2021, scrutinizes 344 deaths in federal prisons and points to a multitude of issues, notably suicides, homicides, accidents and a concerning number resulting from unknown factors. (Courtesy photo/ NNPA Newswire) (NNPA NEWSWIRE) – A scathing report released by the Department of Justice (DOJ) Inspector General Michael E. Horowitz unveiled a disturbing pattern of operational and managerial deficiencies within the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), shedding light on the alarming rate of inmate deaths.

The report, covering the years FY 2014 through FY 2021, scrutinizes 344 deaths in BOP institutions and points to a multitude of issues, notably suicides, homicides, accidents and a concerning number resulting from unknown factors.

Suicide epidemic: BOP’s alarming shortcomings revealed Suicides emerged as the predominant cause of death among inmates, constituting over half of the 344 cases investigated.

In fact, the report found that despite a significant drop in the overall inmate population, plummeting from 214,149 in 2014 to 144,448 in 2021, the number of suicides within the BOP system surged.

The DOJ Office of the Inspector General (OIG) identified recurring policy violations and operational failures contributing to those deaths. Among the highlighted deficiencies were lapses in staff completion of inmate assessments, inappropriate

mental health care level assignments, and the heightened risk associated with single-celled inmates. The report uncovered a lack of coordination among staff departments, hindering the provision of necessary treatment and follow-up for distressed inmates. Furthermore, a glaring oversight revealed that the BOP failed to provide evidence of completing the required mock suicide drills essential for staff readiness. Investigators said 67 out of the 194 BOP facilities were unable to provide evidence of running a single mock suicide drill between 2018 and 2020, violating the required three drills per year, one for each shift.

Insufficient emergency response: BOP staff’s failures exposed T h e O I G ’s f i n d i n g s underscored significant shortcomings in the BOP’s response to medical emergencies, with almost half of the inmate deaths reviewed reflecting inadequate reactions. From a lack of urgency and unclear radio communications to issues with naloxone administration in opioid overdose cases, the report paints a picture of systemic failures compromising the safety and well-being of inmates.

Information void hinders continued on page 8

SACRAMENTO— Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-Highland) announced his 2024 bill package that deals with issues ranging from public safety to youth homelessness to education to mental health services.

Ramos stated, “My legislative bill package tackles a range of issues important to the state as well as my constituents. As I enter my sixth year in the Assembly, I plan to continue the fight to address youth homelessness, mental health issues, retail theft, as well as the continuing crisis and tragedy of Missing and Murdered Indigenous People.

We have a lot of work ahead of us to get these bills to the Governor, and I look forward to a productive session this year.”

Ramos’s bill package includes: AB 1772 would tackle retail theft and would require jail time from one year to three years for perpetrators convicted of a third misdemeanor for petty theft under the state’s $950 limit.

San Bernardino County Sheriff Shannon Dicus and San Diego District Attorney Sumer Stephan are co-sponsors of the bill.

AB 1821 would require California public schools to teach the true history of the Spanish Mission and Gold Rush Eras and the impact of those periods on California Native Americans.

The bill is co-sponsored by San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians.

AB 1863 would make changes to the year-old Feather Alert based on suggestions from California’s tribes and law enforcement. The Feather Alert was created in 2022

through Ramos’s bill, AB 1314.

AB 2108, The Luke Madrigal Act would require notification to family members, court appointed counsel, tribes and tribal representatives and the court of jurisdiction when a child or non-minor dependent is missing from foster care. The bill is co-sponsored by the Alliance for Children’s Rights, California Tribal Families Coalition and Yurok Tribe.

AB 2138 would grant tribal police officers peace officer status, authorizing them to enforce state law outside of the tribal lands in certain circumstances. This bill bridges the divide between local law enforcement and tribal police in many parts of the state, while promoting public safety in many tribal communities. AB 2138 is sponsored by the Yurok Tribe.

AB 2478 mandates all state local and state correctional facilities to share mental health records amongst each other when incarcerated individuals are transferred between facilities.

This bill ensures that there is a continuation of care established during a transition and allows correctional facilities to be accurately informed about an incarcerated individual’s mental health. San Bernardino County Sheriff Shannon Dicus is sponsoring the bill.

AB 2520 would require Continuums of Care to include youth-specific entry points, assessment, and prioritization continued in next 2 columns

is sponsored by the California Coalition for Youth.

Network and Children Now are sponsoring the bill.

AB 2601 would require appliances being replaced by the Energy Saving Assistant Program to be electric-efficient.

AB 3008 would revise the “government salary exception” to include salary and benefits received from a Native American tribal government employer. The bill is sponsored by the Fair Political Practices Commission.

AB 2614 would amend the state water law section that requires that the state’s water resources be put to the greatest beneficial use to include tribal cultural water uses. This bill would also require local state water agencies to include tribal beneficial uses of water for their enforcement of the law. AB 2614 is sponsored by the Shingle Spring Band of Miwok Indians.

AB 2711 would revise school suspension and expulsion policies for drug-related infractions by requiring Local Education Agencies to develop public health approaches to support students in lieu of suspensions and expulsions to address underlying needs to prevent substance abuse among students. The California Alliance of Child and Family Services, California Academy of Child

AB 2948 would allow tribal children adopted through tribal court to continue receiving Adoption Assistance Program payments.

AB 3015 would allow Native American students who are members of multi-state, borderstraddling tribes and who reside in the bordering states to be eligible for in-state, resident tuition at the University of California, California State University and California community colleges.

The bill is sponsored by the University of California.

AB 3028 would ratify the gaming compact between the Tule River tribe and the State of California. This bill is sponsored by the Tule River Tribe.

“The Fruit from the Forbidden Tree” Murder by Incarceration, Systemic Racism Judicial Slavery...continued from page 1 living, he agreed. The owner of the home was there at the time and was not happy to see any of them when they arrived. He said, “Roy, I told you not to bring any more people to my home, guys I don’t want anyone in my home.” David turned around and went back to the van to listen to his music. He never entered the home. A few minutes later, the two men opened the back door of the van and began loading items from the home. David had no idea that the men had tied up and killed the occupant of the home, by blunt force trauma to the head with a trophy, in what was a lover’s gay rage. (keep this thought). David was not aware of the murder until after returning to the hotel. He began throwing items out of his van, some of which were stolen as well, that he was not aware of. There was a hooker, Ramona Smith who was associated by knowing all of them involved. However, she did not like David, he wanted nothing to do with her. David was a street hustler back then.

Two days later detectives came to question David, they never let him go and he was arrested, for second-degree murder.

During their investigation, all mishap of judicial errors begins with the case. Ramona Smith provided a note and testimony to the chief investigator of the crime, whom she had been sleeping with and conducted a “telephone” interrogation in a hotel room with the two codefendants who were “high as hell on something.” She also wrote a note and provided information about something she heard David say when in fact it was one of the codefendants.

This would eventually become hearsay and an inadmissible document as she never showed up in court. The two co-defendants fled and were found two weeks later. Philipsborn went to consult with David. During this time, Steve Raglan had spoken with an attorney and told him that he wanted to testify for David because he had no knowledge of the murder, nor did he take part in the struggle that led to the murder of the victim. The Attorney told him, “Write everything down on paper.” He did. He wrote two letters telling him David was not involved and gave them to him.

The Attorney provided those letters to Philipsborn before the preliminary hearing. David knew about Raglan writing and sending the letters to his public defender, so David asked him if he had received them. “Yes, he said. I

received the letters.” “Good then you will be able to get me out of here,” said David. A couple of months went by, and David was calling to find out what was going on, so Philipsborn returned to see David. “What is happening?

I thought you were going to get me out of here.” “Well,” he said. The judge wants to give you fifteen to life for second degree murder, you may be out in 7 years, or you may get the death penalty.” “What happened to the letters?” said David. “Well, the judge probably won’t even look at them, I don’t know what happened to them, I lost them.”

David was furious and changed his plea five times over the course of the next few weeks and even fired Philipsborn as his public defender. That did not faze him or the court. Right before court Philipsborn told David, “To shut the F…up, you are not changing your plea again and you are not firing me either.” David at this time had a fifth-grade education and a learning disability, which were compounded by the lifethreatening beatings he had endured during his childhood, from his father on a regular basis, so he was not fully aware of or understanding what was going on.

During court proceedings, David was “NEVER SWORN INTO COURT” Philipsborn told the judge that he had “extraordinary evidence” (the letters) that if presented to the court, could keep his client from being convicted.

The judge eluded that he was apprised of the situation and told David that he was making the right decision in taking the plea and they railroaded him into a fifteen to life plea. Philipsborn never argued for David. David was convicted and sent to prison within a five-week period. He is still incarcerated forty-one years later.

After being incarcerated David was asked to take part in the Atascadero Drug Rehabilitation Program, which was only offered to rich white boys and David would be the first African American to pave the way for others. Although he was never into drugs the counselor and the psychologist were both aware that David was not supposed to be in prison due to his comprehension and the fact that he was innocent.

There was also a fabricated rape charge in David’s jacket. Which meant other inmates would be made aware of this and make things worse for him in prison. It was at this time that a counselor continued on page 6

Thursday, February 22, 2024

Page 4

STATE/HEALTH//LIFESTYLE NEWS

Vice President Harris’s Fight for Reproductive Freedom

By Ben Jealous

Ben Jealous It matters deeply that America has a woman as our vice president. That has never been truer than at this moment.

Nothing makes this more clear than Vice President Kamala Harris’s courageous decision to champion reproductive freedom in the midst of a full-on assault on the right to choose.

Right now, Vice President Harris is traveling the country on an extensive Reproductive Freedom Tour.

As noted by the New York Times, "The vice president has been the administration’s most forceful voice for abortion rights in the year and a half since Roe v. Wade fell."

Even among those of us without a uterus, the impact of the vice president’s courage affects many of us personally in our lives.

It affects me as a girl dad, as a member of this country, and because the person who shaped me most as an organizer

is my grandmother, Mamie Todd, who started her career in social change at Planned Parenthood in Baltimore. Even though abortion was illegal then, the basic mission was the same: reproductive health and freedom. And while the work mainly focused on birth control, education, and some routine healthcare, it was not without its challenges – especially in a Catholic city in a Catholic state.

By the early 1940s when my grandmother was doing this work, things had come a long way since 1916 when Planned Parenthood founder Margaret Sanger was arrested for opening the nation’s first birth control clinic in Brooklyn.

But the Comstock Act was still on the books and enforced. That law defined contraceptives as obscene and made it a federal crime to send them through the mail or transport them across state lines.

In the pre-Roe v. Wade era, when abortions were illegal in most parts of this country, many still depended on them.

Some required them in order to extricate themselves from abusive relationships or avoid other dire consequences. Being illegal, the procedure was risky. Abortions, forced to be conducted in secret, frequently resulted in death or injuries that would leave women unable to bear children.

Adding to the risk back then was that many of the people who performed these abortions were terrible doctors … or not even doctors at all. Yes, there were abortion providers who displayed their own courage, taking great personal risks to ensure that women would not have to stay in dangerous situations. But the reality was the patients were desperate. And there was no system for review of, or accountability for, this type of medical care.

From 1973 until 2022, when the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, abortions were safe and legal.

Now, the Supreme Court’s decision in the Dobbs case has created a flood of laws threatening to send us back to the dark ages. This goes for women who are attempting to sever ties with dangerous men and those in other horrific situations many of us can only imagine. And it is not stopping. Just this month, the Missouri state Senate voted down two amendments to the state’s medieval abortion laws that would have allowed exceptions for rape and incest.

That’s why Vice President Harris’s leadership is so important. It is easy to imagine that whoever was vice president in these times would be fighting

these attacks … that a male with a similarly impressive resume as a litigator and advocate could too be a stalwart for this fundamental right. But the difference is evident when you watch Vice President Harris on the stump, speaking against these laws that would deny freedom to women who find themselves in the situation my mother was in back then. You cannot help but sense that she feels the urgency to help those women in her bones in a way that no man could.

Let me clear, however, about the responsibility that men have at this moment to be good allies.

The matriarch of my family, my grandmother, set a powerful example with her fierce advocacy for equality and reproductive freedom. But my parents taught me an important lesson as well.

Part of my parents’ bond has always been that my father understood men have a role to play in the fight against gender inequality and sexism. President Biden and Vice President Harris’s teamwork in pushing back against state-level assaults on the right to choose, to me, echoes that lesson.

It is time for all of us, regardless of our sex or gender, to stand together and push back against the callous disregard for the lives, health, and social equality of those of us for whom abortion must remain a fundamental right.

The legions of lawmakers who received, and are now acting upon, the Supreme Court’s signal to eviscerate reproductive freedom will not stop unless we stop them. Thank God we have a courageous woman in the vice presidency fighting to do just that.

Ben Jealous is executive director of the Sierra Club and a professor of practice at the University of Pennsylvania.

Health Care Advocates Unveil Historic Obesity Bill of Rights NNPA NEWSWIRE — Contrary to the common biases of people with chronic obesity, Dr. Fatima Stanford, an obesity medicine physician scientist and staunch supporter of the Obesity Bill of Rights, told The Informer that beyond poor eating habits, pathophysiology explains the root of chronic obesity, as food intake is regulated in the brain.

By Lindiwe Vilakazi | Washington Informer

Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford, an obesity scientist at Harvard Medical School, joins health care advocates to unveil the Obesity Bill of Rights in Washington, D.C. (Courtesy photo)

In efforts to create a supportive ecosystem for people facing chronic obesity nationwide, an influential collection of public health groups, aging experts, and leading consumer advocates introduced the Obesity Bill of Rights. The goal of the bill is to protect the dignity and autonomy of those battling obesity.

Spearheaded by the National Council on Aging (NCOA) alongside the National Consumers League (NCL), the initiative sets a plan of action to reframe obesity care in employer, federal, and state policies. Inspired by a yearlong effort of research and community feedback, the Obesity Bill of Rights is a landmark effort in targeting how the healthcare industry and legislators alike will address the chronic yet commonly undiagnosed disease.

“Our aim with the Obesity Bill of Rights is to designate quality obesity care as the inherent right of all adults, empowering those with the disease to demand unbiased treatment, regardless

of their size or weight,” Sally Greenberg, CEO of the National Consumers League, said in a statement.

The legislative proposal outlines eight key fundamental rights designed to ensure proper care and protection for individuals with obesity, including proper diagnosis, screening, counseling, and sufficient treatment under medical guidelines, while obliterating ageism and weight bias across the healthcare system.

Statistics show that out of 108 million adults who are living with obesity, only 30 million have been diagnosed, and only 2% of those individuals who are eligible for anti-obesity prescriptions have actually received medical treatments.

Further, officials highlight bleak outcomes for cases of untreated obesity, leading to over 230 medical conditions, including high blood pressure, heart disease, certain cancers, and diabetes.

Dorothea Vafiadis conducts obesity town halls across the

country to garner deeper analysis behind the experiences and concerns of individuals with obesity. As senior director for the National Council on Aging, Vafiadis shared the sentiments of many obese Americans, many of whom felt invisible and hopeless from a lack of support and proper treatment within medical spaces.

“Many people with obesity feel stuck because they don’t get the care that they need, especially people of color, but older adults with obesity face both ageism and weight stigma. In Jackson, Mississippi, at a faith-based organization, we had an older adult man stand up and say, ‘We live sick and we die quick,’ as he had lost several relatives to diet-related obesity, all dying around the age of 50,” Vafiadis told The Informer. “It was very powerful to hear the stories of older adults and their search for information to be recognized, to get the care that they need and to feel supported.”

The Obesity Bill of Rights highlights the severe disparities in chronic obesity seen in communities of color, particularly among the Black American community.

Nearly 48% of African American adults are clinically obese, with 37.1% of men and 56.6% of women, compared to 32.6% of white Americans.

The Office of Minority Health reports that roughly 4 out of 5 African American women are overweight or obese, while in 2018, 1.3 non-Hispanic Black people were more likely to be obese as compared to their nonHispanic white counterparts, largely explaining why obesity

is deemed a national crisis.

Contrary to the common biases of people with chronic obesity, Dr. Fatima Stanford, an obesity medicine physician-scientist and staunch supporter of the Obesity Bill of Rights, told The Informer that beyond poor eating habits, pathophysiology explains the root of chronic obesity, as food intake is regulated in the brain.

Stanford emphasized the crucial importance of reducing stigma and bias towards patients managing obesity in medical spaces, as obesity shows to be a complex chronic disease largely influenced by a multitude of factors including food insecurity, trauma, and psychological triggers outside of the common focus on dietary habits.

“A lot of people talk about biological or medical reasons, age-related changes. Those menopausal changes and perimenopausal changes will affect you. Genetics and epigenetics, something about us being Black [people] may affect us. Different medications that are prescribed to us, [or] sleep deficit may affect us, but we don’t ever hear about those things,” said Stanford.

She considered mental health as a contributing factor to many obesity struggles.

“What was mom’s stress? What was her obesity? What were all of mom’s issues when she was going through pregnancy? What is your trauma history? Are you dealing with emotional coping issues? We haven’t talked about those issues.”

The Obesity Bill of Rights continued in next 2 columns

Health Care Advocates Unveil Historic Obesity Bill of Rights...continued has received a collective endorsement from 36 leading organizations, including the American Nurses Association, the Academy of Nutrition, and the Obesity Action Coalition.

Likewise, the collective’s efforts are publicly backed by prominent policy makers such as Rep. Gwen Moore (D-WI), and Rep. Brad Wenstrup (R-OH), who are also leading the Treat and Reduce

Obesity Act (TROA) to push expansion of access to obesity treatments across the country.

“Obesity is a chronic condition – not a personal or moral failing.

We need to ensure our health care system treats it as a disease so that Americans with obesity can access holistic, high-quality care that meets the full spectrum of their needs,” Moore said.

Commentary: Vitamin D, prostate cancer and racism

By Leeland A. M. Jones, MD The prostate gland is making big headlines. This month O.J. Simpson received a prostate cancer diagnosis, while Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin’s struggle with the disease led to a second hospitalization. King Charles III, in England, recently disclosed information about his enlarged prostate. And with the Jan. 22 death of Martin Luther King Jr.’s son, Dexter King, this small sexual organ has made big news recently.

As men, we don’t like to talk about this organ, but it is a primary cause of cancer in men– and especially in Black men in America. Much suffering and death can be avoided if this topic is dealt with properly.

These are such passionate and intense topics for me, I could scream. Being a doctor for 50 years, believe me, I’ve seen a lot of stuff. I can tell you, keeping secret certain topics that should be taught in high school only adds to the mystery– and mortality.

The importance of Vitamin D First, let’s answer the question: “How is Vitamin D related to all these topics and how are they all connected to skin color?”

We need to understand that healthy vitamin D levels require sunshine– something hard to get enough of in the standard American diet (SAD Diet).

Vitamin D has many essential functions: it promotes healthy bones, teeth and muscles– it even acts as a hormone. When most people think of vitamin D deficiency, they think of thinning bones. But now we know there is much more to this essential nutrient.

Darker skin means more melanin, which has many health benefits, but also requires more sunshine. The skin of people of color was created for a sunnier climate than what is typically seen in parts of North America.

The fact that we spend most of our time indoors, using sunscreens and experiencing long winters only adds to the deficiency. Worse yet, not telling a person how to avoid cancers– when you know– I believe is a form of racism. It reminds me of the Tuskegee Experiments, Henrietta Lacks and the usage of her HeLa cells, and the high mortality of pregnant Black mothers and their newborns.

Vitamin D, cancer and COVID-19 The prostate gland is a small gland the size of walnut that sits just below the bladder and connects the flow of urine from the bladder to the penis. Its normal function is to take sperm from the testis and add it to the ejaculate of sperm during orgasm. It can be infected, enlarged and become a source of cancer, which isn’t uncommon in older men. Men– we need to know how this works, what leads to good health, what causes disease and how to keep ourselves and our sons healthy.

Vitamin D deficiency in Black Americans is as high as 76 percent. Low levels of vitamin D in the blood can be the cause of disease or a factor in a host of serious medical and

Dr. Leeland A. M. Jones weighs in on the link between Vitamin D and prostate cancer in the Black community. (Courtesy photo)

psychological conditions that could be easily prevented. One of these conditions is cancer of the prostate gland and even aggressive prostate cancer.

Vitamin D deficiency is related to frequent illness, slow wound healing, fatigue and bone thinning, dementia and even youth onset dementia and cancers of the stomach, colon, rectum and lung. Also related to a lack of vitamin D: Depression, the “Winter Blues,” poor sleep and poor energy.

For more information, I recommend checking out information from Dr. John Campbell on Youtube. He discusses at length the ties between vitamin D and prostate cancer, as well as vitamin D and COVID-19.

It is well known that low levels or deficiency of vitamin D lowers our ability to fight infections of all kinds. This is one reason you see many Black folks getting sicker and dying quicker with COVID-19. You should see the massive doses that are given to those suffering serious infection.

I also suggest checking out “The Colors of COVID” with Tyler Perry, Angela Bassett on YouTube.

Please! Know your vitamin D blood level!

Knowing how much vitamin D you have in your blood level is crucial! Ask your doctor or health care provider for a vitamin D blood test and if low, work with your provider to optimize your levels.

Know how much vitamin D you really need Sufficient blood levels of 25(OH)D, the measure of vitamin D status, are 20-30 ng/ ml. Roughly 41 percent of the American population is below 30 ng/ml. These are not goals, but the lowest levels to AVOID. Ideal levels may be 40-60 ng/ml, especially during tough times.

What is considered normal levels have changed and are now higher. We need more than we thought. What was believed to be normal 20-30 years ago are not high enough to ward off all these illnesses and cancers. We will need 2,000-3,000 IU/day of vitamin D to achieve these minimum levels. But even higher amounts during the long winters, and higher risk factors: race, health and many other factors.

Check with your doctor.

How can we get enough Vitamin D? continued on page 6

Thursday, February 22, 2024

Page 5

LEGALS/CLASSIFIEDS/NEWS FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN 20240001177 Date Filed: 02/06/2024 Filing Expires On: 02/06/2029 LIST FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME BELOW (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): GOLDEN EAGLE LUBRICANTS County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business (P.O. Box or PMB address NOT acceptable): 3919 E GUASTI RD STE D ONTARIO, CA 91761 Business Mailing Address: 3919 E GUASTI RD STE D ONTARIO, CA 91761 # of Employees: 1 Name of Individual Registrant (First Name) (Middle Initial only) (Last Name) Name of corporation or limited liability company as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.: LAJDM INC State of Inc./Org./Reg.: CA Inc./ Org./Reg. No, (Optional): 4587096 Corporation or LLC Street Address: 3919 E GUASTI RD STE D ONTARIO, CA 91761 This business is/was conducted by: A Corporation Registrant to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: (If registrant has not yet commenced to transact business, insert statement “Not Applicable.): Feb 01, 2024 Mohammad Ayaz Bazli, CEO, DECLARES THAT ALL INFORMATION IN THIS STATEMENT IS TRUE AND CORRECT. A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000).

NOTICE- IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920. WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORT IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper February 15, 22, 29, March 7, 2024.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN 20240000393 Date Filed: 01/12/2024 Filing Expires On: 01/12/2029 LIST FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME BELOW (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): KAYLA’S AUTO REPAIR & TIRES County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business (P.O. Box or PMB address NOT acceptable) 1799 N E ST. SAN BERNARDINO, CA 92405 Business Mailing Address: 1799 N E ST. SAN BERNARDINO, CA 92405 # of Employees: 1 Name of Individual Registrant (First Name) BERONICA (Middle Initial only) L (Last Name) CERVANTES This business is/was conducted by: An Individual Registrant to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: May 29, 2011 (If registrant has not yet commenced to transact business, insert statement “Not Applicable.)

Beronica L. Cervantes, Owner, DECLARES THAT ALL INFORMATION IN THIS STATEMENT IS TRUE AND CORRECT. A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000).

NOTICE- IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920. WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORT IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper February 8, 15, 22, 29, 2024.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN 20240001057 Date Filed: 02/02/2024 Filing Expires On: 02/02/2029 LIST FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME BELOW (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): MOSHI MOSHI County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business (P.O. Box or PMB address NOT acceptable): 6585 CENTER ST JOSHUA TREE, CA 92252 Business Mailing Address: 6585 CENTER ST JOSHUA TREE, CA 92252 # of Employees: 2 Name of Individual Registrant (First Name) (Middle Initial only) (Last Name) Name of corporation or limited liability company as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.: MIAMII ENTERTAINMENT LLC State of Inc./ Org./Reg.: CA Inc./Org./Reg. No, (Optional) Corporation or LLC Street Address: 6585 CENTER ST JOSHUA TREE, CA 92252 This business is/was conducted by: A Limited Liability Company Registrant to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: (If registrant has not yet commenced to transact business, insert statement “Not Applicable.): Not Applicable Gary Miamii, CFO, DECLARES THAT ALL INFORMATION IN THIS STATEMENT IS TRUE AND CORRECT. A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000).

NOTICE- IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920. WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORT IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper February 8, 15, 22, 29, 2024.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN 20240001066 Date Filed: 02/02/2024 Filing Expires On: 02/02/2029 LIST FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME BELOW (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): MARIA R SCHICK INSURANCE AGENCY County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business (P.O. Box or PMB address NOT acceptable) 5420 PHILADELPHIA ST SUITE E CHINO, CA 91710 Business Mailing Address: 5420 PHILADELPHIA ST SUITE E CHINO, CA 91710 # of Employees: 1 Name of Individual Registrant (First Name) MARIA (Middle Initial only) R (Last Name) SCHICK This business is/was conducted by: An Individual Registrant to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Aug 14, 2000 (If registrant has not yet commenced to transact business, insert statement “Not Applicable.)

Maria R. Schick, Agency Owner, DECLARES THAT ALL INFORMATION IN THIS STATEMENT IS TRUE AND CORRECT. A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is

guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000).

NOTICE- IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920. WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORT IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper February 8, 15, 22, 29, 2024.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN 20240001086 Date Filed: 02/05/2024 Filing Expires On: 02/05/2029 LIST FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME BELOW (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): ENVIROKLEEN County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business (P.O. Box or PMB address NOT acceptable) 10864 JOSHUA ST ADELANTO, CA 92301 Business Mailing Address: 10864 JOSHUA ST ADELANTO, CA 92301 # of Employees: 1 Name of Individual Registrant (First Name) CARRIE (Middle Initial only) L (Last Name) RUSTAD This business is/was conducted by: An Individual Registrant to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Feb 01, 2024 (If registrant has not yet commenced to transact business, insert statement “Not Applicable.)

Carrie L. Rustad, Owner, DECLARES THAT ALL INFORMATION IN THIS STATEMENT IS TRUE AND CORRECT. A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000).

NOTICE- IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920. WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORT IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper February 8, 15, 22, 29, 2024.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN 20240001425 Date Filed: 02/13/2024 Filing Expires On: 02/13/2029 LIST FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME BELOW (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): WADDELL TRUST PROPERTIES County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business (P.O. Box or PMB address NOT acceptable): 7247 TAGGART PLACE RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CA 91739 Business Mailing Address: 7247 TAGGART PLACE RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CA 91739 # of Employees: 1 Name of Individual Registrant (First Name) (Middle Initial only) (Last Name) Name of corporation or limited liability company as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.: AXIAL PHYSICAL THERAPY INC State of Inc./Org./ Reg.: CA Inc./Org./Reg. No, (Optional) 3096315 Corporation or LLC Street Address: 7247 TAGGART PLACE RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CA 91739 This business is/was conducted by: A Corporation Registrant to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: (If registrant has not yet commenced to transact business, insert statement “Not Applicable.): Not Applicable Bisi Wilton-Wadell, CEO, DECLARES THAT ALL INFORMATION IN THIS STATEMENT IS TRUE AND CORRECT. A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000).

NOTICE- IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920. WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORT IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper February 22, 29, March 7, 14, 2024.

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CIVSB 2400806 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner: FANNY KAREN AGUILAR filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: a. FANNY KAREN AGUILAR to Proposed name: b. KAREN BARRERA THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall 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 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: 4/02/2024 Time: 8:30 a.m.

Dept.: S14 The address of the court is: SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY 247 West 3rd St. San Bernardino, CA 92415-0210 Civil Division of the San Bernardino District A Copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each 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: The San Bernardino American Newspaper P.O. Box 837 Victorville, CA 92393 Date: Gilbert G. Ochoa Judge Of The Superior Court Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper February 8, 15, 22, 29, 2024

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CIVBA 2400044 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner: JULIA R. SANCHEZ filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: a. NATHALIA ROSE PRECIADO to Proposed name: b.

NATHALIA ROSE SANCHEZ THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall 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 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: 3/12/2024 Time: 1:30 p.m.

Dept.: B1 The address of the court is: SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY 235 E. Mountain View St. Barstow, CA 92311 Barstow District A Copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each 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: The San Bernardino American Newspaper P.O. Box 837 Victorville, CA 92393 Date: Jan 24, 2024 James R. Baxter Judge Of The Superior Court Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper February 1, 8, 15, 22, 2024

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CIVSB 2400467 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner: LAILANIE OCBUS PARAN filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: a. LAILANIE OCBUS PARAN to Proposed name: b. LAILANIE PARAN DAPIAOEN THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall 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 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: 3/01/24 Time 8:30 a.m. Dept.: S30 The address of the court is: SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY San Bernardino District-Civil 247 West Third Street San Bernardino, CA 92415-0210 A Copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each 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: The San Bernardino American Newspaper P.O. Box 837 Victorville, CA 92393 Date: Jan 19, 2024 Gilbert G. Ochoa Judge Of The Superior Court Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper February 1, 8, 15, 22, 2024

SUMMONS SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL) CASE NUMBER (Número del Caso): CIVSB2220580 NOTICE TO DEFENDANT (AVISO AL DEMANDADO): LANCE E DIAZ, YOU ARE BEING SUED

BY PLAINTIFF (LO ESTÁ DEMANDANDO EL DEMANDANTE): WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. 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 not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response.

You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www. courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court.

There are other legal requirements.

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

NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case.

The court's lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case. ¡AVISO! Lo han demandado. Si no responde dentro de 30 días, la corte puede decidir en su contra sin escuchar su versión. Lea la información a continuación.

Tiene 30 DÍAS DE CALENDARIO después de que le entreguen esta citación y papeles legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia al demandante. Una carta o una llamada telefónica no lo protegen.

Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte y más información en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www. sucorte.ca.gov), en la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede más cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación, pida al secretario de la corte que le dé un formulario de exención de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podrá quitar su sueldo, dinero y bienes sin más advertencia.

Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que llame a un abogado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede llamar a un servicio de remisión a abogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro.

Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services, (www. lawhelpcalifornia.org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www.sucorte.ca.gov) o poniéndose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales. AVISO: Por ley, la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobre cualquier recuperación de $10,000 ó más de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesión de arbitraje en un caso de derecho civil. Tiene que pagar el gravamen de la corte antes de que la corte pueda desechar el caso.

The name and address of the court is (El nombre y dirección de la corte es): SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO, 247 West Third Street, San Bernardino, CA 924150210 The name, address, and telephone number of plaintiff's attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney, is (El nombre, la dirección y el número de teléfono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante que no tiene abogado, es): HARLAN M. REESE, ESQ. (CA BAR NO.: 118226), REESE LAW GROUP, 3168 Lionshead Avenue, Carlsbad, CA 92010; 760/842-5850 (File No. 568748) DATE (Fecha): DEC 12 2022 Clerk (Secretario), by MICHELLE GOMEZ-CASILLAS, Deputy (Adjunto) (SEAL) 2/22, 2/29, 3/7, 3/14/24 CNS-3785312# THE SAN BERNARDINO AMERICAN

abogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro.

Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services, (www. lawhelpcalifornia.org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www.sucorte.ca.gov) o poniéndose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales. AVISO: Por ley, la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobre cualquier recuperación de $10,000 ó más de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesión de arbitraje en un caso de derecho civil. Tiene que pagar el gravamen de la corte antes de que la corte pueda desechar el caso.

The name and address of the court is (El nombre y dirección de la corte es): Superior Court of California, County of SAN BERNARDINO 247 West Third Street, San Bernardino, CA 92415-0210 The name, address, and telephone number of plaintiff's attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney, is (El nombre, la dirección y el número de teléfono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante que no tiene abogado, es): Harlan M. Reese, Esq. (CA Bar No.: 118226), REESE LAW GROUP, 3168 Lionshead Avenue, Carlsbad, CA 92010; 760/842-5850 (File No. 569496) DATE (Fecha): MAR 14, 2023, Clerk (Secretario), by Gilberto Villegas, Deputy (Adjunto) (SEAL) NOTICE TO THE PERSON SERVED: You are served .

2/1, 2/8, 2/15, 2/22/24 CNS-3777200# THE SAN BERNARDINO AMERICAN

PETITION/PROBATE NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF PAMELA GAIL SILLS DECEDENT CASE NO: PROVV2400001

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

GAIL SILLS

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by GLENNISE HURT in the Superior Court of California, County of SAN BERNARDINO THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that: GLENNISE HURT be appointed as personal representative

to administer the estate of the decedent.

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

A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: Date: 3/26/24 Time: 9:00 a.m. Dept: V12 SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA County Of San Bernardino 14455 Civic Drive Victorville, CA 92392 IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code.

Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

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

Petitioner: Glennise Hurt 34007 Winterberry Ln Lake Elsinore, CA 92532 (626)381-8571 Published in The San Bernardino American Newspaper February 8, 15, 22, 2024.

NOTICE INVITING BID SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL) CASE NUMBER (Número del Caso): CIVSB2301146 NOTICE TO DEFENDANT (AVISO AL DEMANDADO): ADAM A LUCERO, YOU ARE BEING SUED

BY PLAINTIFF (LO ESTÁ DEMANDANDO EL DEMANDANTE): WELLS FARGO BANK, N. A. 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 not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response.

You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www. courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court.

There are other legal requirements.

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

NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case.

The court's lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case. ¡AVISO! Lo han demandado. Si no responde dentro de 30 días, la corte puede decidir en su contra sin escuchar su versión. Lea la información a continuación.

Tiene 30 DÍAS DE CALENDARIO después de que le entreguen esta citación y papeles legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia al demandante. Una carta o una llamada telefónica no lo protegen.

Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte y más información en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www. sucorte.ca.gov), en la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede más cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación, pida al secretario de la corte que le dé un formulario de exención de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podrá quitar su sueldo, dinero y bienes sin más advertencia.

Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que llame a un abogado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede llamar a un servicio de remisión a

VALLEY-WIDE RECREATION AND PARK DISTRICT NOTICE INVITING BIDS NOTICE IS HERE BY GIVEN that Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District, herein referred to as “District”, will receive prior to 2:00 pm on the 21st day of March, 2024 sealed bids for the award of a contract for the following: VALLEY-WIDE SPORTS CENTER AND WINCHESTER PARK ACCESSIBILITY PROJECT PHASE II (2024-138) CDBG # 3.199-22 & 3.198-22 Sealed bids will be received in the main office of the Valley-Wide Recreation & Park District (“District”), 901 West Esplanade Avenue, San Jacinto, CA 92582, and shall be opened publicly and read aloud at the above stated time and place. Any bids received after the time specified above shall be returned unopened.

The work generally consists of but is not limited to accessible site improvements, removal of architectural barriers within restrooms. All finished work to conform to Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and California Building Code (CBC).

MANDATORY PRE-BID WALK-THROUGH Date: Monday, March 11, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.

First Location:

Valley-Wide Regional Park 901 W. Esplanade, Ave. San Jacinto, CA 92583

Second Location: Francis Domenigoni Community Center 32665 Haddock St. Winchester, CA 92596 Bids must be accompanied by cash, a certified or cashier’s check or a Bid Bond in favor of the Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District in an amount not less than ten percent (10%) of the submitted Total Bid Price, as a guarantee that the bidder will enter into the contract for the work, the full amount of such guarantee to be forfeited to the District should successful bidder fail to enter into said contract as set forth in Section 20160 et seq. of the Public Contract Code of the State of California.

This project is being financed with Community Development Block Grant funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (24 CFR Part 570) and subject to certain requirements including: compliance with Section 3 (24 CFR Part 75) Economic Opportunities requirements; payment of Federal Davis-Bacon prevailing wages; Federal Labor Standards Provisions (HUD 4010); Executive Order #11246; and others. Information pertaining to the Federal requirements is on file with the County of Riverside Department of Housing Homelessness Prevention and Workforce Solutions.

Bidders on this work will be required to be licensed by the State of California as Class A General Engineering Contractor, Class B General Building Contractor or Class C-36 Plumbing Contractor at the time of the bid and at the time of award as such license is defined in Section 7056 and/or Section 7058 of the Business and Professional Code and Section 732 of the California Administrative Code.

Copies of the Plans and Specifications are available for inspection at no cost at www.GoRecreation.org/bids-anddocuments. No bid sets will be available for purchase. Plans and Specifications are also available at the following plan rooms: Bid America at www.BidAmerica.com and AGC San Diego at www.agcsd.org/Departments/PlanRoom.

All inquiries shall be directed to Justin Schweitzer at Justin@ GoRecreation.org or at (951) 654-1505.

Published in The San Bernardino American Newspaper February 22, 2024.

State of California – The Natural Resources Agency CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE PUBLIC WORKS NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS Mojave River Hatchery State Owned Housing Rehabilitation San Bernardino County, California Invitation for Bid Number: P2399019 Sealed proposals will be received at the office of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), Lands and Facilities Engineering Branch, 1010 Riverside Parkway, West Sacramento, California, 95605, until 2:00 p.m. March 19, 2024 at which time and place they will be publicly opened and read for the work as follows: Provide all labor, tools, equipment, materials, permits and taxes necessary to Rehabilitate state owned housing units R6-59, R6-60, R6-62, R6-71, R6-72, R6-108, R6-61 Garage, and Replace Walk-In Freezer located in hatchery warehouse building and other miscellaneous work.

License Required: A or B Engineers Estimate: $ 1,000,000.00 Prospective bidders may examine and obtain the bid forms, specifications, plans, and addenda (if any) by downloading this bid package from the California State Contracts Register website at https://caleprocure.ca.gov/pages/Events-BS3/eventsearch.aspx. At the website on the left-hand side of the page under the SEARCH pane, enter the following Invitation for Bid Number: P2399019 and select the “Search” button. Select “Description” to view the full advertisement. Any discrepancies, omissions, ambiguities, or conflicts in or among the contract documents or doubts as to meaning shall be brought to the State’s attention by email to CDFW Plan Room at planroom@ wildlife.ca.gov or FAX to 916-371-0349 no later than 5 P.M., seven (7) calendar days prior to bid opening date.

It is the responsibility of the bidders to download any addendum as needed from DGS website address stated above.

Pursuant to Section 1770 of the Labor Code, the Department of Industrial Relations has ascertained the general prevailing wage rates to be as listed in the “Prevailing Wage Data Base”, located at www.dir.ca.gov, or is available for inspection by interested parties at the address shown above.

Pursuant to Public Contract Code Section 10115 et seq., State law requires that contracts have a participation goal of 3% for Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises (DVBE's) for all contracts of $10,000 or more. Bids will only be accepted from those bidders who certify that they have achieved the goal as outlined in the instructions with the bid forms.

To qualify for the DVBE Incentive Preference, the bidder must achieve a minimum DVBE participation goal of 3%.

The project’s bid award is subject to the “Small Business Procurement and Contract Act” five (5) percent bid preference rules.

A bidder's bond of at least 10% of the bid amount shall be submitted with bids of $5,000 and over.

For bid awards of $5,000 and over; a 100% performance bond and 100% payment bond is required.

Published in The San Bernardino American Newspaper February 22, 29, 2024.

PUBLISH YOUR LEGAL OR CLASSIFIED WITH THE SAN BERNARDINO AMERICAN NEWS CALL US TODAY @ (909) 889-7677

Thursday, February 22, 2024

Page 6

WORLD/POLITICAL NEWS/LEGAL/CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

2024 California Presidential Primary Election: A Look at the Black Candidates... Commentary: Vitamin D, prostate cancer and racism...continued from page 4 continued from page 3 Edward Jackson Cheadle (D), a program evaluator; Chris B. Wiggins (D), a state caucus chair; and Steve Williams (R), a small business owner.

Out of 40 State Senate seats, 20 are up for election this year.

Five of these seats are being sought by 14 Black candidates.

In Senate District (SD) 3 (Napa), five candidates are competing for an open seat as the incumbent, Bill Dodd (D), is term-limited in 2024. The Black candidates in this race are Jackie Elward (D), a councilmember, educator, and mother, and Jimih Jones (R), an automotive parts advisor.

SD 7 (Oakland) has six candidates running to succeed Nancy Skinner (D), who is termed out at the end of 2024. The Black candidates are Jovanka Beckles (D), an AC Transit Director, and Sandre R Swanson (D), a youth foundation president and former Assemblymember. Jason O’Brien (D), a police detective and businessman, is among four candidates vying for an open seat in SD 29 (San Bernadino).

Eight candidates are on the ballot for SD 35 (Inglewood) to replace the term-limited Sen. Steven Bradford (D).

The six Black candidates are Michelle Chambers (D), a community justice advocate; Lamar Lyons (D), a financial consultant; Alex Monteiro (D), a Councilmember and nonprofit director; Laura Richardson (D), a former Congressmember, businesswoman, and housing advocate; and Jennifer

Trichelle-Marie Williams (D), an accountant and small businessowner. Dr. Akilah Weber (D), an Assemblymember and medical doctor is a candidate for the open SD 39 (San Diego) seat being vacated by Sen. Toni Atkins, former Senate President pro Tempore. She is running against one other candidate.

Out of 80 Assembly seats on the ballot, 24 Black candidates are contesting for 19 seats.

In Assembly District (AD) 6 (Sacramento), 10 candidates are on the ballot to succeed Kevin McCarty (D), who is running for Mayor of Sacramento.

Among them, Emmanual Amanfor (D), a Sacramento Housing Commissioner, is the sole Black candidate. Porsche Middleton (D) is contesting for AD 7 (Citrus Heights) against two others, including incumbent Josh Hoover (R). In AD 11 (Suisun City), incumbent Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson (D) is seeking re-election.

She faces three opponents, one of whom is Black: Wanda Wallis, a real estate agent. Rhodesia Ransom (D), a businessowner and mother, is running for AD 13 (Stockton) against two other candidates. Monica E. Wilson (D), an Antioch City Councilmember, is contesting for AD 15 (Concord) against three opponents. Incumbent Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D) is seeking re-election for AD 18 (Oakland). Among her three opponents, one is Black: Andre Sandford, a housing program manager. Waymond Fermon (D), a peace officer and Indio

councilmember, is running for the open seat in AD 36 (Antelope Valley) against six other candidates. Phlunté Riddle (D), a public safety commissioner, is on the ballot for AD 41 (Pasadena).

The incumbent, Chris Holden (D), who is term-limited, is running for the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.

Three other candidates are also on the ballot. Carmenita Helligar (D) is one of eight candidates for AD 44 (Burbank), as incumbent Laura Friedman is running for the U.S. House. Jamie Swain (D), a truck driver, is running for AD 47 (High Desert) against two opponents, including incumbent Greg Wallis (R). In AD 50 (San Bernardino), DeJonae Marie Shaw, a licensed vocational nurse, is running against two other candidates. The incumbent, Eloise Reyes (D), is running for State Senate. Shannel Pittman (Green Party), a national diversity chair, is running for AD 52 (San Gabriel Valley) against nine other candidates.

The incumbent, Wendy Carrillo (D), is running for Los Angeles City Council. Isaac G. Bryan (D), the incumbent Assemblymember for AD 55 (Ladera Heights), has one opponent.

In AD 57 (Los Angeles), five candidates are running to replace Reggie Jones-Sawyer, who is term-limited and running for Los Angeles City Council.

The three Black candidates are Greg Akili, an educator and nonprofit director; Sade Elhawary, an education and community organizer; and Tara

Perry, a reparations advocate.

Corey A Jackson (D), the incumbent Assemblymember for AD 60 (Riverside), is running for re-election against two opponents, one of whom is Black: Ron Edwards (R), a small business owner. Tina Simone McKinnor (D), the incumbent Assemblymember for AD 61 (Inglewood), is running for re-election against one opponent. Mike Gipson (D), the incumbent Assemblymember for AD 65 (Compton), is running for re-election. Dom Jones (D), a businesswoman and TV personality, is running for AD72 (Huntington Beach) against incumbent Diane Dixon (R).

LaShae Sharp-Collins (D), a county education professional, is running for AD 79 (La Mesa).

The incumbent, Akilah Weber, is running for State Senate. Two other candidates are also on the ballot.

All active registered voters in California will receive a vote-by-mail ballot. Mailing of ballots began Feb. 5 and dropoff locations opened on Feb. 6.

The last day to register to vote is Feb. 20. Vote centers for early in-person voting open on Feb. 24. Vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked on or before Election Day and received by March 12.

In California, the order of races on ballots goes from local to federal, and the state’s primaries have a top-two system, meaning the top two vote getters in a given race advance to the general election, regardless of political party.

“The Fruit from the Forbidden Tree” Murder by Incarceration, Systemic Racism Judicial Slavery...continued from page 3 encouraged David to start a foundation and Save America’s Children, The Movement of Love & The Movement of Good was born. After two years of incarceration David met and married Nancy, she was a doctor and helped David by finding undercover personnel to go into Philipsborn’s office and find the letters he said were lost.

We have them, they were just never presented to the court. She also paid an attorney to remove the false allegation of rape. It was also during this period that David was asked to become the president of the program by the director. He learned how to love himself and share unconditional love for others, even saving the life of an officer, restraining the person until personnel arrived.

David created Gangs Anonymous to help educate and rehabilitate prisoners, and other programs that the prison system still uses to day for recidivism. His IQ started to rise as he began to take part in every program available to him and read every book. The Carter administration was preaching “lock everyone up” David began trying to rehabilitate everyone.

They would throw David in the hole for months at a time trying to break him. This was the era of mass incarceration.

During David’s incarceration he would write letters to express his innocence and plead for help to Presidents, Pastors, Senators, assembly people, celebrities even Pope Francis. He caught the attention of Senator Alan Cranston who became an incredibly good friend, and he would continually visit David and they would hold conversations for hours about how a world movement for peace and love could happen around the world. Pope Francis replied and offered his forever blessing upon the foundation and his release.

The Senator introduced his good friend Ex Supreme Court Justice Cruz Reynoso to David to help in his fight for freedom, He was an American civil rights lawyer and jurist. Reynoso was the first Chicano Associate Justice of the California Supreme Court; A parole hearing was held in

1997 for David, but San Diego denied David’s due process and disallowed Senator Cranston from speaking on David’s behalf and he was not released. David also made a “whistleblowing act” toward a gentleman who was going to be reappointed back to the prison board, David had information that he should not be, and the facts were shared during this hearing. The gentleman was not reappointed, and David was told, “You will never get out of this prison unless you are in a pine box and for years while he was in Soledad 5 correctional officers made life hell for him including setting him up at different times, medically torturing him in the dental chair and waterboarding him, even trying to transfer him to Lancaster where he was told that once he arrived there they would kill him. Told to him by two correctional officers who overheard conversations.

David became aware that he was in prison for a purpose by God to do a Movement of Love and Peace around the world.

Senator Alan Cranston also introduced Pastor Cecil “Chip” Murray to David. He pastored the FAME Episcopal church which he grew to a congregation of 18,000 in Los Angeles, CA and brought almost a billion dollars of revenue to the city.

He became actively involved in issues of job-training, providing home loans, affordable housing, Aids/Hiv awareness, distribution of condoms and focusing on economic development. He became nationally known during the wake of the 1992 riots in Los Angeles fueled by the beating of Rodney King. He opened the church doors as a haven. David just knew he was in the company of “History Makers” and Pastor Murray became his faith father for 25 years, but to no avail, still unable to see David free.

David is the prime example of how one can disappear in a criminal justice system, brought before many people who all claim to be intelligent personnel who all took personal oaths to uphold the law and to defend it with truth and honor. Naively, he put his trust in a court appointed public

defender and an unforgiving judge. David ultimately fell victim to incompetence, apathy, and corruption. The question is still asked to this day, “Is David suitable for society?” Well, the answer is, this world would be a better place with David in it. GOD! rehabilitated him to perfection. You really must wonder why a man who has been through so much evil would have the tenacity to want Love and Peace in the world. It is because he has always had love in his heart. David was in front of the parole board nine separate times.

Each time a psychiatrist would present his evaluation, it was soon decided that David would never be suitable for release, the parole board kept finding him unfit for society. An evaluation which was prepared in 1995 and were hidden in a separate confidential file along with other documents and used over, and over, only changing the date. So, it looked as if David never evolved. One evaluation was so bad the judge asked the psychiatrist to go back and do it over. David did not need rehabilitation, he needed education and a purpose to sustain him through these years and keep him sane and alive.

Being a creator, David began to do paintings which were sold, and the proceeds helped the children in underprivileged schools. He created a bracelet, as a lifesaving device to be used as a deterrent, to help save the lives of children. Free fundamental bullying programs for educators and schools. He wrote four anti-bullying movement songs to change the trajectory of hate around the world. Pillows with four hands to portray diversity and inclusion. Videos were made for bullying and others, to keep the focus on freedom for David by these history makers and keep their promise alive to David.

I was introduced to David in the latter year of 2014 over the phone. I am the CEO, Director & Producer of the MDK Radio Show. I wanted to link my show to a children’s foundation to give back to the children and the community. Over the course of two months, I was completely

unaware of his incarceration in prison. He spoke only of Save America’s Children and The Movement of Love. He was highly intelligent and intriguing, and he was very enthusiastic about children and society. I was then made aware of his life taken away by a system that completely failed him. Soon after I was asked to be the president of his foundation. Immediately I started asking questions and doing research as to why all these high-profile professional people were unable to help him.

I quickly became introduced to Pastor Murray, Lynn Crandall of the USC IGM Art Gallery, and Ex Supreme Court Justice Cruz Reynoso.

David and I created the Superhero show where I gave my show to the kids twice a month.

By the kids, for the kids. They would come on to share their stories of bullying and ridicule, speaking about how to overcome their experiences and how to help their classmates overcome what they were experiencing as well.

Some mothers came as guests sharing the overwhelming loss of their child to suicide because of bullying. It was immensely powerful and heartfelt. I made the children superheroes and presented plaques. I shared everything about the foundation and aired David’s movement songs as well and produced videos. In 2016 we produced a Movement of Love & Reconciliation with the community and all leaders, pastors and USC at the City of Refuge church in Inglewood, CA. We reached the community with love and introduced the school programs. It was at this time that David was able to offer his voice and ideas to President Obama about the police ambushes that were taking place when the college student was shot and sparked violence once again. It was an honor to speak on stage in front of four thousand parishioners and receive awards from the city of Los Angeles for our efforts. David directed everything, and it was a beautiful continued on page 8

Now for some really good news: vitamin D is very very cheap! Foods high in vitamin D include egg yolks, fish, cheese and beef liver. These foods probably won’t be enough to maintain high enough blood levels– especially in the winter– maybe not even in the Spring and Fall either.

Supplementation is cheap and science based.

Vitamin D3 is cheap online. A bottle of 5,000 IU can be bought

for $10 on Amazon. That’s enough for a family of three— for a year— if taken most days in the winter months.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice. But you are advised to consult your personal physician regarding specific health questions. The viewpoints expressed in this commentary are those of the author, not the AFRO American Newspapers.

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Thursday, February 22, 2024

Page 7

INLAND EMPIRE/ ENTERTAINMENT/RELIGION NEWS

Hip Hop Icons Head Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Nominees “Sudden, Unexpected, Destruction With Devastating Force is On the Horizon Get in the Ark NOW!”

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

By Lou K. Coleman

NNPA NEWSWIRE — The complete list of nominees comprises Mary J. Blige, Mariah Carey, Cher, Dave Matthews Band, Eric B. & Rakim, Foreigner, Peter Frampton, Jane’s Addiction, Kool & the Gang, Lenny Kravitz, Oasis, Sinéad O’Connor, Ozzy Osbourne, Sade, and A Tribe Called Quest. The 2024 induction ceremony will stream live on Disney+, with an exclusive airing on ABC later and availability on Hulu the following day, officials announced in a news release.

Graphic courtesy of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foundation and Alison Brod Marketing + Communications

In a harmonious blend of iconic lyrics, Mary J. Blige’s soulful anthem “No More Drama,” Eric B. & Rakim’s timeless declaration in “Paid in Full,” and A Tribe Called Quest’s rhythmic wisdom from “Can I Kick It?” intertwine to create a symphony of musical mastery.

Showcasing a diverse lineup of influential artists, the trio of hip-hop icons heads the list of nominees for the 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Indeed, Mary J. Blige’s impassioned plea for liberation

from turmoil has always set the stage among hip-hop and R&B royalty. At the same time, Eric B. & Rakim’s poetic verses on pursuing success resonate powerfully in rap. A Tribe Called Quest’s laid-back groove and infectious call to action infuse the narrative with unity and selfexpression. Hip-hop has taken a front seat in the Hall, which has become a celebration of popular music from all genres.

The complete list of nominees comprises Mary J. Blige, Mariah

Carey, Cher, Dave Matthews Band, Eric B. & Rakim, Foreigner, Peter Frampton, Jane’s Addiction, Kool & the Gang, Lenny Kravitz, Oasis, Sinéad O’Connor, Ozzy Osbourne, Sade, and A Tribe Called Quest.

The 2024 induction ceremony will stream live on Disney+, with an exclusive airing on ABC later and availability on Hulu the following day, officials announced in a news release.

Eligibility for nomination requires an artist or band to have

released their first commercial recording at least 25 years before the year of nomination.

Ten out of the 15 nominees are on the ballot for the first time, introducing a fresh wave of talent to the prestigious recognition.

John Sykes, Chairman of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foundation, expressed enthusiasm for the diverse list of nominees, emphasizing the impactful contributions of hiphop artists. “This remarkable list reflects the diverse artists and music that the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame honors and celebrates. These hip-hop artists have created sounds that have impacted generations and influenced countless others,” he stated.

The nominees were unveiled in partnership with ABC/Disney+ at the TCA in Los Angeles and through the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s social channels.

Nominee ballots will be sent to an international voting body comprising over 1,000 artists, historians, and music industry members. The evaluation criteria include an artist’s musical impact, influence on peers, career length and depth, and innovation in style and technique.

Inductees for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Class of 2024 will be announced in late April. The induction ceremony is scheduled to take place in Cleveland this fall.

Billy Dee Williams Shares His Glorious Life in ‘What Have We Here?’

By Brenda C. Siler | The Washington Informer

NBC Washington Anchor Jummy Olabanji (left) interviews Billy Dee Williams for the release of his autobiography "What Have We Here?: Portraits of a Life" at the MLK Jr. Library in D.C. on Feb. 15. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer) Excitement was in the air as the audience waited to hear Billy Dee Williams, the beloved actor from stage, screen, and television. He was at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library in Northwest D.C. to share moments captured in his autobiography “What Have We Here?: Portraits of a Life.”

Before NBC Washington anchor Jummy Olabanji began the conversation with Williams, a film montage offered a glimpse into the superstar’s storied career.

The biggest reactions came when Williams was seen in a clip where he portrayed Lando Calrissian in George Lucas’s “Star Wars Episode 5: The Empire Strikes Back” and then when he was the smooth pitchman for Colt 45 malt liquor.

Williams entered to a standing ovation, sat down across from Olabanji, and began singing “Our Love is Here to Stay,” the George and Ira Gershwin standard.

The actor’s career started at 7 years old, when his mother encouraged him to try out for a stage production. Williams was cast in many theatrical roles before being seen on screen in “Brian’s Song,” the awardwinning 1971 television film about the life of Chicago Bears player Brian Piccolo, played by actor James Caan, and his friendship with teammate Gale Sayers, portrayed by Billy Dee Williams.

Williams explained his agent

felt he was perfect to play Sayers.

“We had the same sensibilities.

We were both very shy and introverted, but the movie touched many people,” Williams said.

“What Have We Here?: Portraits of a Life,” the autobiography of Billy Dee Williams, was released on Feb. 15. (Courtesy of Penguin Random House) “What Have We Here?: Portraits of a Life,” the autobiography of Billy Dee Williams, was released on Feb. 15. (Courtesy of Penguin Random House) The Motown Years After “Brian’s Song,” Williams received a multi-year contract with Berry Gordy and Motown.

That relationship put Williams in two movies with Diana Ross, “Lady Sings the Blues” in 1972 and “Mahogany” in 1975. People began calling Williams the “Black Clark Gable.”

“I became a matinee idol,” Williams acknowledged. “I am a romanticist.”

At a point in his career, Williams’s film success did not bring him the same caliber of roles being offered to other actors.

“You realize you’re living in a world that was created by the European Western values system,” Williams said.

“What Have We Here?: Portraits of a Life,” the autobiography of Billy Dee Williams, was released on Feb. 15. (Courtesy of Penguin Random House) Instead, Williams took a practical look at how to move ahead.

“Rather than spending time being pissed off, you just find your way around and through it and come up with ideas to make a difference. I just don’t want to spend my time being pissed off,” he explained.

Painting has always been in Williams’ life and was one way that he diverted his attention from being frustrated with Hollywood.

He studied art in high school and a few years after graduating.

Williams’ paintings are highly regarded and he has received a few commissions.

Star Wars and Beyond “The Empire Strikes Back” intrigued Williams. He wanted to see what could be done with Lando Calrissian’s role. Plus, he loved the idea of that character having a cape.

“I said, let me do something bigger than life,” said Williams when offered the Star Wars role.

“Lando was dubious. There is nothing more interesting than a dubious hero of fear.”

In the mid-1980s, Williams was the face and voice of Colt 45. The commercials played off his smooth demeanor and deep voice. He said the tagline “It works every time” before the library audience, which garnered a huge celebratory reaction.

The evening with Williams kept this image intact. He is still fine, funny, and flirtatious – flirting with us all.

“What Have We Here?: Portraits of a Life,” the 288page book about the remarkable life of Williams, age 86, is now available from your favorite bookseller.

The post Billy Dee Williams Shares His Glorious Life in ‘What Have We Here?’ appeared first on The Washington Informer.

Lou K. Coleman

While people are saying, "Peace and safety", destruction will come suddenly... [1 Thessalonians 5:3]. Do not be deceived. Sudden, unexpected, destruction with devastating force is on the horizon. Get in the ark NOW! For the most dangerous of all delusions is that there is plenty of time to prepare. NOT! Look around you.

Are we not living in days similar to Noah? The end is near! Get Ready, Get aboard! Get into the safety of God’s ark before it’s too late!

Out in the open wisdom calls aloud, she raises her voice in the public square; on top of the wall she cries out, at the city gate she makes her speech: “How long will you who are simple love your simple ways?

How long will mockers

delight in mockery and fools hate knowledge? But since you refuse to listen when I call and no one pays attention when I stretch out my hand, since you disregard all my advice and do not accept my rebuke, I in turn will laugh when disaster strikes you; I will mock when calamity overtakes you—when calamity overtakes you like a storm, when disaster sweeps over you like a whirlwind, when distress and trouble overwhelm you. “Then they will call to me but I will not answer; they will look for me but will not find me, since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the Lord. Since they would not accept my advice and spurned my rebuke, they will eat the fruit of their ways and be filled with the fruit of their schemes. For the waywardness of the simple will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them, but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm.”

[Proverbs 1:20-33].

Get into the Ark, NOW! “The end of all things is at hand” [1 Peter 4:7]

WITNESS FOR JUSTICE Issue #1191

Setting Intentions Together Bentley de Bardelaben-Phillips February is Black History Month. Over the course of these 28/29 days, it is my annual practice to intentionally learn something new, expand my knowledge base regarding my ancestors, including, but not solely focused upon, America’s darkest chapter, it’s original sin: chattel slavery and the long history of racial injustice.

Over the weekend, my husband and I experienced filmmaker, writer, and director Ava DuVernay’s importantly provocative biopic, Origin.

Inspired by Pulitzer Prizewinning author Isabel Wilkerson’s New York Times bestselling book, Caste: The Origins of Our Discontent, Ava’s film invites the viewer to take a journey through Isabel’s character, who eventually discovers that a caste system, not a system based on one’s skin color, is what America carefully instituted and still benefits from.

In short, a caste system demands that a hierarchy of human beings exist. Some humans are categorized as superior, others inferior. All the while, propaganda messages, subtle and not subtle, espouse that “this is the natural order of things”. Still today, laws are enacted and religious views espoused to support the absurd claim.

As the film’s arc develops, Isabel carefully weaves together three vastly different people groups. Featured are the German Nazis’ hatred of Jews, the Dalit people of India (aka the “untouchables”), and the constant and systematic terrorizing of African-descendant Americans, all of whom are psychologically harmed generationally by the caste system set up in their country. Even worse, people are murdered to maintain it.

The film highlights Ms. Wilkerson’s travels and findings for research. She draws upon data outlined by Allison Davis, Burleigh, and Mary Gardner from their 1941 book, Deep South: A Social Anthropological Study of Caste and Class, archival research discovered in Germany connecting the Nuremberg Laws to Jim Crow in the United States, personal interviews, learnings revealed when spending time with Indian scholar, Dr. Suraj Yengde, and so much more. As Isabel tediously wades through

her sources, she makes a strong case. Her book is finished.

As the film progresses, and her hypothesis substantiated, my soul breaks open. As a person of African descent and an ordained minister, I have facilitated for decades conversations regarding race for communities of faith and non-faith. Based on our current political landscape, especially with “race and racism” as a topical point, this film will not break box office records.

Origin is not a revolutionary movie, and still it (and the book which inspired it) offers a lens through which people of all ethnicities can come together and intentionally begin to deconstruct the toxic issue of “race hatred” in America. Is it possible that people who see Origin become open to the possibility that America has a caste system of its own that continues to go unexamined and unchecked? Will they join in a cause to dismantle it? Can anyone see that it hides in plain sight?

During my years of employment at the United Church of Christ’s (UCC) denominational headquarters, multiple resources have been developed to assist congregations find an entry point into often uncomfortable conversations regarding race, racism, and reconciliation from biblical, theological, anthropological, and sociological frameworks.

Join the Movement toward racial justice (JTM) is a UCC campaign designed to grow our capacity as human beings for interdependence and to nurture connections that value difference and promote equity for all through a faith lens.

To conclude, I encourage you to visit the JTM homepage to learn more about this groundbreaking initiative. Furthermore, I urge you to see Origin or read the book. At a minimum, it may change your perspective. Lastly, I invite you to join me and set an annual intention to learn more Black history, no matter your ethnic heritage. Black History is American History.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Bentley deBardelaben-Phillips is Executive Associate and Team Leader of the Education for Faithful Action Plus (EFA+) Team in Love of Church unit for the United Church of Christ.

Thursday, February 22, 2024

Page 8

LOCAL/NATIONAL/NEWS/ADVERTISING

Celebrating Black History Month

By Dr. John E. Warren

Dr. John E. Warren, publisher and CEO of the San Diego Voice and Viewpoint Newspaper, weighs in on Black History Month.

(Courtesy photo) This year, perhaps more than ever, we need to be especially mindful of Black history.

This is a time of banning books from local libraries– especially those that tell of the history and struggle of Black Americans against slavery and racism; creating a threat to both our presence and our future. It has often been said that if you don’t know where you come from, you will have no idea of where you are going. Well, African Americans in particular must remember that we are here today because of strong ancestors who did not allow the circumstances under which they lived, to snuff out their dreams of a future for themselves and their descendants.

We must remind ourselves that we are not to be defined by others; that we are not disadvantaged, or handicapped; that we are born with a right to equality and that we have always demanded equity even though others have tried to deny it to us. We are “We The People.”

We must not allow the changes that have been removed from our

bodies to be placed on our minds.

We have the ability to remove ourselves from poverty by using the tools in our hands. We must remember that we now possess everything that Dt. Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke of when in his 1957 speech he said “give us the ballot and we will place the right people in office to, in essence, further our cause. Today, so many of us have not because we will not use that which we do have.

We have freedom of movement, of thought and how we use our minds. Yet, so many choose to squander these freedoms on how others tell us we should think and dress and what we should be with the few dollars that so many of us waste on things that are not necessary. We have freedom of worship, yet so many of us don’t bother to pray until we find ourselves in crisis.

In addition to Black history, Dr. Carter G. Woodson, left us a most valuable book, “The Miseducation of the Negro.” It’s time to honor his gift of Black history with our own personal contributions to the times in which we live and those we share this life experience with. Only when we engage in this level of thought and activity, while making Black history a daily experience, can we truly honor what we have been given beyond the month of February each year.

Where do you stand and what are you doing with what you have been given? Let’s move beyond complaints and expectations by others to what each of us can do right where we stand. Let’s get back to defending ourselves and not allowing others to do it for us.

“The Fruit from the Forbidden Tree” Murder by Incarceration, Systemic Racism Judicial Slavery...continued from page 6 God driven day. And we are looking forward to continuing upon his release.

All the attention and focus now was directed to David in the prison. The correctional officers quickly jumped into play and began focusing again on transferring David and once again he was being targeted. He and I had just finished part 1 of his book “Factually Innocent” Available on Amazon which depicts his childhood, his once lifestyle, and his wrongful incarceration. However, the laws began to change as well favoring towards David’s freedom. Senator Nancy Skinner started writing bill sb1437. If a convicted prisoner was not the main participant of a crime, he/she would be suitable for resentencing or release. San Diego Courts quickly made it known that they were not going to abide or adhere to the new law. District Attorneys, Attorney Generals and Judges began vocalizing their thoughts to Governor Brown and were outraged. This was a blessing for David. It took us three attempts and finally we were able to get commutation paperwork to Governor Brown’s attorney Groban. There was a mole who interfered and even called Cruz Reynos trying to halt the paperwork from reaching him.

It finally got through.

Fast Forward…To date. In 2021 was David’s first 1437 Evidentiary hearing. MaryEllen Attridge came out of retirement for David’s case. The Judge denied David’s 1437 allowing one note to go through which was hearsay from Ramona Smith who never showed up in court and it was thrown out at the preliminary hearing forty-one years ago.

Remember? The Judge also changed the arrest report, and the transcript in three separate places. MaryEllen was yelling at him that what he was doing was against the law, but he didn’t care. She said David’s 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th & 6th amendments

were all violated. She did not use the letters written by the codefendant; she thought her brief was sufficient.

May 2022…The Appellate Hearing. After a year Christopher Nalls vacated the case because he did not want to ruin his reputation and he couldn’t cover up what the Judge did in the evidentiary hearing. His brief mirrored MaryEllen’s. 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th & 6th amendments all violated, with a question. “Why was this man rushed through his conviction and sentenced to prison within a 5-week time period?” The Attorney General argued to the court that David should not be released because he was a main participant of the crime stabbing the victim to death. “The victim was hit over the head with a blunt object, a trophy.” They also allowed the one note of hearsay again to go through and denied his release.

June 2023…A Re Evidentiary hearing with Jenerra Crenshaw (an African American PD) Thank you Jesus. Again, in front of the 1st evidentiary Judge. A conflict of interest as the Public Defender who set David up and didn’t argue for him fourty-one years ago, is a huge Criminal Defense Attorney in San Francisco and they are very good friends.

Jenerra was not understanding all of David’s innocence as she was listening to her predecessors, so she hired an undercover investigator who found all the primary attorney’s from the beginning. he obtained four sworn testimonies of innocence and a sworn testimony written in 2005 by Philipsborn who said that he was aware that David was not part of the struggle that took the life of the victim. He asked her not to use that declaration but another that was written in 2018 when David and I called him.

This is where he contradicted himself. As they sat in court Jenerra directed the judge to note the four sworn testimonies continued in next 2 columns

“The Fruit from the Forbidden Tree”Murder by Incarceration, Systemic Racism Judicial Slavery... continued but then also directs him to look at the preliminary transcript from fourty one years ago and she reads from the transcript and points out that David, “was never sworn into court” the Judge turned three sheets of RED, he was furious and he sunk down in his seat and said, ”I don’t care if it was 1982 the Judge then would have never let that happen.” She said, “Well he did your honor it is right here, in his own words.”

The judge stood up looked at the DA and looked back at her and said, “this is postponed and walked out of the court room.”

As I am drafting this story today, we are awaiting another Appellate hearing with another African American attorney.

Hallelujah God is Good!! She is reviewing with Jenerra all the evidence and information.

David and I are calling out to all media and activists to review the information that I have just provided and know that everything is true and factual. David still awaits his freedom and is calling out for a civil law firm to provide legal representation to help in his decades-old case. David is highly intelligent and has every

piece of evidence since day one. San Diego never thought that he would still be alive, or this day would come when they would have to answer to their actions of what is being called an at least a fifty-year corruption.

Who else besides David and how many other families have been affected after his wrongful incarceration?”

Please take the time to write to David. He awaits your letters and encouragement for freedom and speaking on many platforms.

He is also looking forward to advocating for others. I thank you for reading his story and we both look forward to meeting many of you who are in understanding that our dying world of hatred needs A National Movement of Love not only for ourselves today but for our generations of children to succeed and thrive in a better world. “Seek The Good That Lies Within” Written by Karen Marine California Men’s Colony PO Box 8101 ATTN: David Dew C67417 San Luis Obispo, CA. 93409

DOJ inspector general exposes critical failures in federal prisons leading to inmate deaths... continued from page 3 prevention: BOP’s limited understanding of inmate deaths A critical revelation emerged regarding the lack of available information about inmate deaths, hampering the BOP’s ability to prevent future fatalities. The report exposed the BOP’s inability to produce required documents following an inmate’s death, limiting their understanding of circumstances leading to deaths and impeding the identification of preventative measures. The OIG also highlighted the absence of in-depth action reviews for inmate homicides or fatalities resulting from accidents and unknown factors, further limiting the BOP’s capacity to learn from these tragic incidents.

Operational challenges: A recipe for disaster Long-standing operational challenges such as contraband interdiction, staffing shortages, outdated security systems and staff non-compliance with policies were identified as contributing factors in nearly one-third of inmate deaths. The report concluded that chronic understaffing contributed to multiple failures in the BOP. The report also singled out 70 inmates who died from drug overdoses, emphasizing the pressing need for comprehensive reforms to mitigate these risks.

Recommendations for reform: BOP’s pledge to change The OIG proposed 12 recommendations to address the root causes of inmate deaths. In a rare show of unity, the BOP has pledged to implement all the recommendations, signaling a commitment to rectify these systemic issues, and upholding its duty to ensure inmates’ safe and humane management.

“The report is an urgent call to action. No family should ever have to receive a call that a loved one has died while incarcerated simply because a facility was understaffed, under-resourced or out of compliance with BOP policy,” Inimai Chettiar, deputy director for the Justice Action Network, said in an emailed statement.

“There is strong bipartisan support for comprehensive oversight of our nation’s prisons, and it is long past time for Congress to enact the kind of transparency and accountability that will prevent deaths like these in the future. We are encouraged

by Senator [Dick] Durbin’s prompt commitment to hold a hearing in the wake of the report’s release. Families of the deceased, and those whose sons, daughters, brothers, and sisters are being detained in federal facilities right now deserve immediate attention.”

What’s Safer for Domestic Violence Survivors: Home or the Streets?...continued from page 2 accountability programs for individuals who have caused harm,” said White-Reid.

In February 2023, URINYC advocated for the passage of a state bill redefining domestic violence under the New York City Human Rights Law to include economic abuse, which includes coerced debt and gives victims expanded protections.

Just as crucial is economic investment, including housing support and IPV-related debt prevention, she explained: “Economic abuse, experienced by 98% of survivors, often serves as a primary reason they stay or return to an abusive partner.”

URINYC also offers workforce development, employment assistance and affordable housing services including People and Animals Living Safely (PALS).

“We learned that 50% of survivors would not leave a dangerous situation if they could not take their pets with them,”

said White-Reid. “PALS is the only dedicated program in New York City, and among a few nationally, allowing domestic violence survivors to live and heal together with their pets as they work to achieve economic stability.”

A firsthand experience Without resources like these, “I chose homelessness over returning to abuse,” said Desiree Martinez, who was unhoused for five years in Fresno, California until 2016 due to IPV. Desiree Martinez, Executive Director of We Are NOT Invisible, shares what she learned after being unhoused and how it motivates her to advocate for better services for people experiencing homelessness.

“Lacking insurance after a mental breakdown, I was continued in next 2 columns

What’s Safer for Domestic Violence Survivors: Home or the Streets?...continued desperate for assistance at a local mental health office but ended up being confined as they deemed me at-risk,” continued Martinez, who is now Executive Director of homelessness advocacy nonprofit We Are NOT Invisible.

“National hotlines directed me to county resources, yet there was limited local support.

After not meeting the criteria for a bed at a domestic violence shelter, I found myself at a homeless shelter sleeping on the floor amongst others,” added Martinez, who suggested that shelters reserve beds for domestic violence survivors, given the high prevalence of homelessness among them.

“It’s especially dangerous for women to survive the streets,” she said. “In Fresno County there was a lot of sex trafficking, a lot of drugs. You stay up all night in order not to be raped. You have nowhere to change, no shower, no heat. You don’t feel like a female. You’re scared constantly

and all you want is shelter — no wonder a lot of people choose to go back home.”

“The shelter ’s gender restrictions left me exposed to the streets once again, surviving on a fixed disability income while facing steep rents,” Martinez explained. “If it wasn’t for a 30% income affordable housing voucher, I would still probably be on the streets, and who knows what would have happened to me. Yet, I’m nervous every year because the rent continues to increase, but the voucher does not.”

“You flee an abusive relationship because you want safety, but being unhoused makes you vulnerable to thousands of strangers. For a time, I’d ended up going back because I’d rather be abused by one I knew,” she added. “We need to educate people about what’s happening to us in the streets — that we’re good people too who just want a permanent home.”

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Historic White House Gathering Celebrates Descendants of Civil Rights Icons

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

Vice President Kamala Harris praised the descendants as “extraordinary American heroes” who embody the promise of the nation and the Constitution.

“They’ve passed the baton to us,” Harris remarked during her address.

In a Black History Month event at the White House on Tuesday, Feb. 13, Vice President Kamala Harris addressed the descendants of some of the most influential civil rights leaders from the 1950s and ’60s, along with other foundational historical figures.

The gathering marked the first time many of those families convened in the same room.

Prominent figures such as Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, Booker T. Washington, Ida B. Wells, Malcolm X, Rosa Parks, Emmett Till, Thomas Jefferson, and Sally Hemings were scheduled to attend.

Harris praised the descendants as “extraordinary American heroes” who embody the promise of the nation and the Constitution. “They’ve passed the baton to us,” Harris remarked during her address.

Stephen K. Benjamin, the director of the White House Office of Public Engagement, outlined the administration’s initiatives, including an executive order related to police accountability and President Joe Biden’s signing of the law establishing Juneteenth as a federal holiday.

The group, known as “The Descendants,” gathered to pay homage to their familial legacies in celebration of Black History Month. One of the coordinators, Joshua Jordison, revealed that discussions to bring this diverse group together began several years ago. “It was amazing that many of them had never met,” he said.

While invitations were extended to other notable families, some could not attend due to scheduling conflicts and other factors. According to Kenneth B. Morris Jr., a descendant of Frederick Douglass and Booker T. Washington, the goal of The

Descendants is to lead the nation in a spirit of collaboration and community.

“This historic event marks the beginning of coalescing The Descendants’ families and likeminded leaders and organizations to catalyze transformative positive societal change amongst the most significant challenges faced by our country,” Morris emphasized.

Beyond the White House reception, a series of activities were planned for the descendant families in Washington on both Tuesday and Wednesday. The itinerary included stops at the U.S. Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, the Supreme Court, and a tour of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Additionally, there were dinners and opportunities for group dialogue.

Ernestine “Tina” Martin Wyatt, a great-great-great-grandniece of Harriet Tubman, was among those to express excitement about meeting the descendants of fellow freedom fighters. “It’s an equal collaboration. We are all coming together,” Morris asserted.

Nearly 100 other guests, including members of the Congressional Black Caucus and administration officials, attended the event. Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Ala.), a featured speaker, commended the families for their personal sacrifices and tireless work to preserve and protect their ancestors’ legacies. “At a time when our fundamental freedoms are once again under attack, we are grateful to President Biden not only for convening this event but for his commitment to furthering the progress that our foremothers and forefathers fought and died to achieve,” Sewell stated.