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The Next Four Years: Debt and Rent are Among Top Issues for Young California Voters
Edward Henderson | California Black Media
and a slate of new elected officials at the local and state level — the voices of young voters in California are resounding as political campaigns and policy makers order their priorities and shape their messages to include their perspectives and respond to their concerns.
But what are those issues on the minds of the next generation of California’s electorate in 2024?
Power California, an organization that informs and empowers young voters, and Latino Decisions, a political research company, set out to answer this question in their Rising Electorate Survey, whose findings were released earlier this fall.
The survey polled 1,754 young Californians ages 18-30 on the issues they cared about the most. While many of the findings showed a growing stress and uncertainty surrounding rent control, housing, better wages and special interest groups being too involved in government, nearly half of the young Californians surveyed believed things will get better in the future.
“For us, there are several things we know and several things that we can expect in the next four years, including that young Californians, Gen Zs, and aging millennials will become the largest political voting bloc here in California,” said Saa’un Bell, Senior Associate Director of Power California.”
Among responders to the survey, 35% were Latino or Hispanic, 25% Black, 20% Asian American and Pacific Islander, 16% were White, nonHispanic. There were about 4% identifying with some other racial groups, which includes those who identify as Indigenous. In terms of geography, 28% of the participants surveyed came from Los Angeles County, followed by 16% from the Bay Area, 16% from the Central Valley. And the remainder of the sample, which was roughly 40%, came from
Will Gov. Newsom’s
other parts of the state.
Economic pressures were one of the areas covered in the survey. One in 4 young Californians have thought about leaving the state, taken on a second job or postponed bills. One in 5 is supporting friends and family or had to choose between rent and paying their bills. For young Black and Latino Californians, the impacts of economic insecurity were more significant. Young Black and Latino Californians are more likely to have a second job or
New Film
He’s counting on it to continue making diversity a priority.
Film and Television Tax Credit Program from its current $330 million annual budget allocation to $750 million. Gipson, who is chair of the Assembly Committee on Arts, Entertainment, Sports, and Tourism, says, historically, that tax credit has aimed to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion” as outlined in SB 132.
report postponing bills and 1 in 5 young Black Californians have moved back home with family.
Kaja Wilson, a youth member of Power California living in Fresno, spoke during a digital webinar organized by the organization. She shared her perspective on the priorities of young voters in the state.
“Young people are still having a hard time seeing ourselves reach milestones like home ownership, savings, investments, and personal development, all the while we deal with the
burden of debt, including student loans. Over the last year at Power California, I’ve seen the potential of young people to show our power. We’ve been working on a rent control campaign. I’ve been activated to get the Fresno community members to take action on local issues. It’s possible to create a better and affordable future for me and my community, and a world that’s easier for us all to navigate.”
Dr. Andrew Proctor, Senior
Analyst for Latino Decisions, was one of the leads facilitating the young voter survey and shared his analysis of the data collected during the Power California webinar.
“Many young Californians blame low wages, elected officials, and corporate landlords for the housing crisis. Things are so bad that one in four young Californians have considered leaving the state. Young Californians are also motivated by their experiences with economic insecurity as well as their commitments to social justice causes. Economic concerns, including inflation and housing, are top issues that they want the government to address, and those issues are motivating their decision to turn out and vote in 2024.”
The survey also found strong support for rent control laws and addressing climate change. Reproductive rights and gun control are also salient issues for young Californians, and they are active participants in several movements for social justice. However, individuals taking the survey also shared their belief that organizations and political parties are not reaching out and engaging the full potential of young Californians.
“There are many narratives that young people, young voters, are apathetic, pessimistic, and cynical. Those narratives are out of context – and not true,” said Bell.
and TV Tax Credit Prioritize Diversity?
“The Legislature finds and declares an overall trend toward increasing diversity based on existing research on diversity in the motion picture production and television industry,” the bill language states. In a statement, Gipson told California Black Media (CBM) the tax credit, “would allow our state to be more competitive against states with tax incentive programs of their own, such as Georgia, New York, and New Mexico.”
“The film and television industry is iconic to California, impacting thousands of jobs for below-the-line workers on film and television crews, as well as many others working in hair and make-up, food services and transportation, costume and set design, and more,” Gipson continued.
According to the Governor’s office, the increase would uplift the state for capped film incentive programs, surpassing other states. Gipson says he agrees with Newsom’s assessment and the notion that the program would bring more business back to California.
“California is the entertainment capital of the world, rooted in
decades of creativity, innovation, and unparalleled talent,” said Newsom on Oct 27 in L.A. at the unveiling of the tax credit.
“Expanding this program will help keep production here at home, generate thousands of good-paying jobs, and strengthen the vital link between our communities and the state’s iconic film and TV industry,” the Governor continued.
As chair, Gipson’s oversees programs and policies affecting the recording, motion picture, and other entertainment industries, tourism and arts programs, and museums.
His purview also extends to professional and amateur sports, including the State Athletic Commission and the regulation of athlete agents.
California’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program has generated over $26 billion in economic activity and supported more than 197,000 cast and crew jobs across the state since it was created in 2009, according to Newsom’s office.
The California Film and
Television Tax Credit 2.0, enacted in July 2015, has generated over $26 billion in economic activity and supported more than 197,000 cast and crew jobs across the state. Now, for the first time in 15 years, tax credits will become refundable, beginning with “Program 4.0” set to get underway on July 1, 2025. According to the Newsom Administration, between 2020 and 2024, data reveals that California experienced lower production spending due to limited tax credit funding and increased competition in other states and countries. This dip in production directly impacted California’s labor market and local economies Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass says she supports the proposal because California is the entertainment capital of the world and supporting a thriving film and television industry is key to the state’s economy. Bass said she was Speaker of
Sen. Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D- Los Angeles) and Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood) voiced their opinions during a news conference at the State Capitol on July 13, 2023. The lawmakers challenged Hollywood about its commitment to DEI programs after several Black women executives left leading Tinseltown companies. CBM photo by Antonio Ray Harvey.
Asm. Mike Gipson (D-Carson)
Thursday, November 7, 2024
64 SBCUSD Schools Earn PBIS Awards
SAN BERNARDINO, CA—
For the first time ever, California PBIS honored three San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) sites with a Platinum PBIS Implementation Award. An additional 61 SBCUSD schools were honored with gold, silver and bronze awards for successfully developing systems to create welcoming, safe and inclusive learning environments where all students can thrive.
PBIS stands for Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports and is a framework to equip students with the social skills to respond to situations in a safe, responsible and respectful manner. Staff teach and model good behavior and provide positive corrections to behavior when needed. School staff also use restorative practices to develop, maintain and repair relationships with students to ensure they stay connected.
“It’s gratifying when those at the state level recognize when an SBCUSD school SHINES,” said Superintendent Mauricio Arellano. “It’s even better when they recognize 64 of our schools for their efforts to create a campus where students and staff are kind and respectful to each other. It’s not just a PBIS goal, but it is also one of the goals of the Vision 2030: SBCUSD SHINES initiative.”
SBCUSD schools, as well as other PBIS schools across the state, are evaluated annually on how well they implement each of the three PBIS tiers using a nationally recognized evaluation method.
Tier 1 is aimed at stopping behavior problems before
they start through schoolwide procedures and activities. Tier 2 provides targeted support for small groups of students who need additional guidance. Tier 3 provides individual support for the few students who need intensive intervention. Based on this evaluation, schools in California may earn bronze, silver, gold or platinum recognition.
Platinum schools must prove that they are effectively implementing all three of the PBIS tiers. Schools must also meet data requirements, including that no more than 20% of the student body receive two or more major referrals. The three SBCUSD schools that earned the illustrious Platinum PBIS Implementation Award are:
Jones Elementary
Kendall-Harmon Elementary
Kimbark Elementary
Gold schools must demonstrate a structured approach to implementing both the Tier 1 schoolwide interventions and the Tier 2 targeted support for small groups. Schools must also show that no more than 20% of the student body received two or more major referrals.
The 29 SBCUSD schools that earned a prestigious Gold PBIS Implementation Award are:
Anton Elementary
Arrowhead Elementary
Arrowview Middle School
Barton Elementary
Bing Wong Elementary
Bradley Elementary
George Brown Jr. Elementary
Cajon High
Cesar E. Chavez Middle School
William J. Curtis Middle School
National Native American Heritage Month: Inland Empire Students Get Up Close Look at Sounds, Crafts and Culture from San Manuel Band of Mission Indians on Thursday, Nov. 7
Elementary students, parents and teachers share in the histories and cultures of regional Native American Tribes
WHAT: In honor of National Native American Heritage Month, local fourth grade students will take part in hands-on lessons covering aspects of Native American culture including basketry, ecology, music and lessons in the Serrano Indian language and history. Indigenous cultures will be in the spotlight during the annual California's First Cultures: A Celebration at Crafton Hills (Waa’t). The Waa’t Celebration brings together Redlands, Calimesa, Banning and Yucaipa elementary school students and Native American instructors with the San Manuel Education Department. In light of the landmark new California bill AB 1821, it will change the teachings of the Native American experience in California history.
WHO: 4TH graders and San Manuel Band of Serrano Mission Indians; Crafton Hills College; Redlands Yucaipa and Calimesa School Districts, Banning Title
VII programs and tribal members from the San Manuel, Cahuilla and Morongo reservations.
Sponsored by San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and the Crafton Hills College
DATE/TIME: Thursday, November 7, 9-11:30 a.m.
WHERE: Crafton Hills College 11711 Sand Canyon Road, Yucaipa, CA, 92399 Please Park in Lot N or Contact Kenneth Shoji for immediate event parking
VISUALS: Interaction between the students and Native American cultural educators Presentations on Native American language and music, ecology, arts and culture For more information, visit http://www.sanmanuel-nsn.gov.
Cypress Elementary
Graciano Gomez Elementary
Indian Springs High
Lankershim Elementary
Lincoln Elementary
Marshall Elementary
Muscoy Elementary
North Verdemont Elementary
Paakuma' K-8 School
Pacific High
Parkside Elementary
Ramona-Alessandro Elementary
Riley College Prep Academy
Rodriguez PREP Academy
Roosevelt Elementary
Salinas Creative Arts Elementary
San Andreas High
Sierra High
Wilson Elementary
To earn silver recognition, a school must be fully implementing Tier 1 systems to address schoolwide proactive and preventive supports and meet data requirements. The 31 sites that earned a Silver PBIS Implementation Award are:
Arroyo Valley High
Belvedere Elementary
Child Development Program
Cole Elementary
Davidson Elementary
Del Vallejo Leadership and
STEAM Academy
Emmerton Elementary
Fairfax Elementary
Golden Valley Middle School
Highland-Pacific Elementary
Hillside University
Demonstration School
Bob Holcomb Elementary
Jefferson Hunt Elementary
Inghram Elementary
Lytle Creek Elementary
Middle College High
Monterey Elementary
Mt. Vernon Elementary
Newmark Elementary
North Park Elementary
Bonnie Oehl Elementary
Richardson PREP HI Middle
School
Rio Vista Elementary
E. Neal Roberts Elementary
San Gorgonio High
Serrano Middle School
Shandin Hills Middle School
Thompson Elementary
Urbita Elementary
Vermont Elementary
Warm Springs Elementary
To earn bronze recognition, a school must begin a systematic approach to implementing the Tier 1 schoolwide interventions and support programs.
Dominguez Elementary School earned a Bronze PBIS Implementation Award.
In order to provide continued support for positive changes in school climate and culture and to recognize successful SBCUSD schools, the District provided PBIS Award-winning schools with funds ranging from $500 to $1,500 to purchase student incentives.
Students earn the incentives for meeting behavioral expectations. Additionally, staff from the District’s Student Wellness & Support Services (SWSS) department are assigned to support school implementation of positive climate and culture systems Districtwide.
To learn more about the Vision 2030: SBCUSD SHINES initiative, visit https:// www.sbcusd.com/about-us/ superintendent/vision-2030. To learn more about SWSS, visit www.sbcusd.com/departments/ student-services-division/ student-wellness-supportservices.
Why We Should All Celebrate Head Start’s Success
Khari M. Garvin, Director of the Office of Head Start, Administration for Children and Families at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Did you know that Head Start programs are more than just preschool? The program can be a lifeline for children ages birth to five and their families, helping them thrive through education, health, and community support. It is also a place built on the strengths of children, families, staff, and communities. Head Start programs support children’s growth from birth to age 5 through services centered around early learning and development, health, and family well-being. Head Start staff actively engage parents, recognizing family participation throughout the program as key to strong child outcomes.
Head Start services are available at no cost to children ages birth to 5 in eligible families.
Why We Should All Celebrate Head Start’s Success...continued
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Inclusion and belonging aren’t just buzzwords — they’re the foundation of everything the Head Start program does. Staff are committed to creating spaces where everyone, regardless of their background, can succeed — whether it’s recognizing each child’s unique abilities and ideas, valuing parents as experts on their own children and as program volunteers and leaders, or linking families with needed services. Take, for example, how programs recruit and enroll families.
Instead of using a one-sizefits-all approach, programs tailor their outreach to meet the unique needs of each community. This might mean offering materials in multiple languages to ensure accessibility for all, building upon civil rights laws requiring translation when necessary to facilitate understanding and participation. Programs are proactive in supporting families with disabilities, ensuring they have the necessary aids and services they need to participate in the program. The goal is to open doors and provide support for children and families furthest from opportunity and offer them a place to belong.
A Classroom That Reflects Every Child’s World
Head Start classrooms aren’t just places where children learn their ABCs — they are vibrant spaces where each child’s culture, language, and identity are celebrated. Teachers take the time to get to know each child’s strengths, interests, and challenges, crafting learning experiences that resonate with them personally.
In fact, Head Start staff are trained to recognize and address implicit biases, so no child is unfairly limited by preconceived notions about their background. Through updated resources like the Multicultural Principles for Early Childhood Leaders, program staff are equipped to create environments where diversity is not only acknowledged but embraced.
For children with disabilities, Head Start programs provide tailored support like visual aids and personalized learning tools that help them thrive alongside their peers. They ensure children get the aid and services they are entitled to under disability rights laws. Staff make sure no one is left out by ensuring every child can fully participate, whether they have a formal diagnosis. Research has shown that inclusive classrooms lead to better outcomes for all!
Health Equity Is a Critical Part of Belonging
Health is a key part of a child’s ability to learn and grow.
Head Start programs make health services a central part of children’s experiences. But here’s the thing: not everyone has equal access to health care. That’s why Head Start programs work hard to eliminate the barriers some families face. These barriers may include a lack of health insurance, language barriers, or limited access to doctors. Head Start health staff partner with families to help them navigate these challenges, ensuring every child starts school healthily and ready to learn. Through nutrition programs, mental health services, preventive and follow-up care, and more, each Head Start program works to close health services gaps and promote equitable outcomes for children.
Partnering with Families for Lasting Change
In Head Start programs, family is everything. Fundamental to the program is the belief that children thrive when families are fully engaged. That’s why the Head Start approach to family engagement goes beyond parentteacher conferences. It’s about building genuine, respectful partnerships with families from all walks of life.
In every interaction, Head Start staff are trained to meet families where they are — culturally, linguistically, and personally. Whether they are helping families experiencing homelessness acquire stable housing or supporting families facing economic challenges, Head Start programs ensure everyone has a seat at the table Through resources like the Family Economic Mobility Toolkit , programs help families build financial stability and create brighter futures for their children. By addressing not only the child’s needs but also the family’s, the Head Start program creates lasting, positive change for generations.
A Future Where Everyone Belongs
The Head Start mission has always been to break the cycle of generational poverty — providing children and families with a head start in life. The Head Start program is about so much more than academics. It’s about creating a world where every child — regardless of background, ability, or circumstance — feels confident and competent and knows they belong. These children will persist as they continue to grow and learn even after they leave their Head Start programs. Let’s celebrate every program’s commitment to serving the children and families furthest from opportunity and helping them thrive.
Head Start preschool services work with children ages 3 to 5 and their families. Early Head Start services work with families that have children ages birth to 3, and many also serve expectant families. Many programs operate both Head Start preschool and Early Head Start services. Head Start and Early Head Start grant recipients provide services in every U.S. state and territory, farm worker camps, and more than 155 tribal communities. It’s important to understand how our programs go above and beyond early learning to ensure every child and family is included, respected, and empowered.
What Does “Belonging” Look
Jones Elementary School Principal Crecia Sims (holding sign) and school staff members celebrate with members of the SBCUSD Board of Education for earning the Platinum PBIS Implementation Award from California PBIS.
(Photo by Corina Borsuk and provided courtesy of SBCUSD)
The Kendall-Harmon School staff were honored by Superintendent Mauricio Arellano and the Board of Education at the Tuesday, Oct.1 Board meeting for being among the first SBCUSD schools to win a Platinum PBIS Implementation Award from California PBIS. (Photo by Corina Borsuk and provided courtesy of SBCUSD)
Headstart
9 Tips to Practice Good Credit Health
By Birmingham Times
Good credit can help unlock the door to a brighter future.
That’s not just a metaphor –your credit score is one of the first pieces of information lenders review before approving you for a mortgage, business loan or other purchase requiring finance. A strong credit history could help position you as a more trustworthy borrower.
Think of building credit like practicing good hygiene. The more you maintain good financial habits and clean up past mistakes, the better your credit can be.
Here are nine important tips to help establish and maintain good credit health.
Check your credit reports
Reviewing your credit report is the first step in finding information that may be affecting your score. You have a credit report with the three major bureaus. You can access your
ExperianTM credit report for free with Chase Credit Journey®.
Monitor your credit score
This three-digit number can be key to your lender’s decision and helps determine the interest rate offer you’ll receive. With a higher credit score, you may be able to lower your interest rate. Keep in mind, credit score is just one of the many factors considered. The five main categories that determine your credit score are payment history (35 percent), amounts owed (30 percent), length of credit history (15 percent), new credit (10 percent) and types of credit used (10 percent).
Pay off delinquent accounts
Bring any delinquent accounts current, or work to pay them off when you are able. Delinquencies include past due payments, charge-offs, collections or
judgments.
Make payments on time
Every on-time payment is important as it helps demonstrate good financial behavior. It also takes time to rebuild your credit score after delinquencies and late payments.
Avoid new debt
Because hard inquiries can also affect your credit score, try to avoid applying for multiple lines of credit in a short period of time. Hard inquiries will appear on your report for two years.
Know your debt-to-income ratio
Debt-to-income ratio (DTI) is the percentage of your monthly income that goes toward paying off debts. Keep DTI ratios low, as this shows you’re more likely to be able to afford monthly loan payments.
Keep low balances
Paying off your revolving loans every month is beneficial for your payment history while lowering the total amount owed. Try to keep your balances at or below 30% of your credit limit to help your credit score.
Keep accounts open
Closing accounts lowers your total amount of available credit and increases the percentage of credit in use, which can have a negative impact on your score and credit history. Borrowers who have credit available but don’t use it all or pay it off every month likely appear more credible to lenders.
Know how much you can afford to spend
Understanding your personal finances helps avoid getting into debt you can’t pay off, which could potentially harm your credit. Knowing and maintaining your personal budget reduces the chances of missing payments.
Keep your credit clean
Building good credit is a gradual process. While it takes time for derogatory marks to disappear from your credit report, there are steps you can take now to start improving your credit score.
As with any healthy routine, once you’ve gotten started, it can be easier to maintain. Over time, you’ll be on your way to establishing healthy credit hygiene and solid financial health.
With Immigration Reform on the Table, Advocates Put Human Face on Calif’s Migrant Farmworkers
Edward Henderson | California Black
Media
(CBM) – About 99% of the commercially grown crops consumed by people across the United States come from California, according to data compiled by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA). Between half and one-third of the farmworkers who help to grow, tend, harvest and package these crops live in the Golden State. That’s about 500,000 to 800,000 workers.
Astonishingly, 75% of them are undocumented.
“People are very afraid,” said Manuel Ortiz Escámez, a sociologist, audio-visual journalist, and co-founder of Peninsula 360, a news organization based inRedwood City.
“I hold interviews with people who later call and say, ‘Please do not publish anything, because I’m afraid of what could happen,’” he added.
Escámez spoke earlier this month during a news briefing organized by Ethnic Media Services (EMS) that addressed the plight of migrant workers in California, particularly those who live in the United States without legal status.
During an election year when immigration is a polarizing issue with strong opinions on all sides, Escámez says the lives and critical contributions of
farmworkers have been reduced to soundbites or barbs in Left vs. Right talking points.
The fervent anti-immigration rhetoric these debates generate can brew hate and motivate hate crimes and hate incidents against migrants, creating an atmosphere of fear and danger among California’s farmworkers, advocates warn.
In these situations, the debate shifts from the virtues of legal vs. illegal immigration to politicians scoring political points by finding a group to blame for the country’s problems.
“Power in politics needs to invent a physically and morally repugnant enemy who wants to take what’s yours because the feeling of emergency creates unity and the need of a savior,” said Escámez. “That’s why migrants have always been the ideal enemy of some U.S. political campaigns … and the data shows that it works.”
No matter where Californians stand on immigration, the contributions migrant farmworkers make to California’s economy and the country’s food supply are undeniable.
In February 2024, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) calculated that immigration will generate a $7 trillion boost to gross domestic product over the next decade. A vast majority of these contributions come from
immigrants like California’s farmworkers who perform jobs and endure conditions many Americans choose not to.
“I’m undocumented with a sliver of privilege. I’m still in a precarious position, but millions of people would love to be in my shoes,” said Gustavo Gasca Gomez, immigration outreach specialist and a Stop the Hate coordinator at the Fresno-based Education and Leadership Foundation.
“I can work, and I have social security. But I can’t vote or leave the country and return without express permission. And before I was a DACA recipient in 2012 I was a farmworker right out of high school,” said Gomez. “The work is difficult. It’s hot, dirty and tedious. It makes your mind numb in many ways. But it’s a job that the entire country depends on.”
If the stress of enduring long hours and harsh working conditions weren’t enough, the added pressure stemming from the national political discourse surrounding immigration has impacted these communities even more.
“Ninety nine percent of the communities we’ve reached out to are farmworkers and all have expressed anxiety and fear. All feel their future is deeply impacted by this,” said Gomez. “They’re most concerned about public charge, about being deported if they access benefits like health care that they or their children — who are often U.S. citizens — qualify for.”
Escámez said, that until now, many of these farmworkers had built good relationships, including with the White population in the mostly rural areas where they work.
“Now, they tell me they’re more isolated. That they just go to church, to work, to the store, then stay home, because they
Will Gov. Newsom’s New Film and TV Tax Credit Prioritize Diversity?...continued from page 1
the Assembly when the tax credit program was first approved.
“I worked to support leaders like now-Councilman Paul Krekorian to create the film tax credit,” Bass said. “Despite the economy being in a difficult spot, we knew that the industry needed support, and if we could at least start the program, then we could grow it.”
Newsom’s tax credit proposal is expected to appear as a bill during the next legislative session, raising concerns about diversity, equity, and inclusion for some lawmakers and advocates.
Gipson’s CLBC colleagues Sen. Lola SmallwoodCuevas (D-Los Angeles) and Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood) led a faction of legislators who demanded answers from Hollywood last year after several Black women left highprofile executive positions in Hollywood.
A number of those Black executives who left those prominent roles were leading DEI initiatives at major entertainment companies such as Netflix, Disney, British Broadcasting Company, Warner Bros., and the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences.
Before the tax credit program was scheduled to sunset on June 30, 2025, on July 10, 2023, Newsom signed Senate Bill (SB) 132 to extend the state’s $1.65 billion or $330 million annually Film and TV Tax Credit Program for an additional five
years through fiscal 2030-31.
Speaking on behalf of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) employed in the industry, McKinnor and Smallwood Cuevas insist on holding television and film studio executives accountable as they benefit from taxpayer support but often appear reluctant to support Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives.
“I was highly offended to see the industry’s response to a $1.6 billion tax subsidy by quietly eliminating Black women from executive positions with a number of studios,” said McKinnor. “Many of these women were involved in their studios’ diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, which raises a serious question about their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the film industry.”
The legislation for this year’s tax credit program has not been written, but Gipson’s staff has indicated that he will not introduce it – even though the issue is close to his heart.
“The impacts of the entertainment industry go beyond movie theaters and television screens, with movies and shows drawing tourists to California from all around the world,” Gipson stated. “I applaud the work being done by the California Film Commission, the studios, and the entertainment unions, and I look forward to supporting this proposal next year as it moves through the legislative process.”
don’t know what could happen,” he said.
Arcenio Lopez, executive director of Ventura-based Mixtec Indigenous Community Organizing Project discussed the centuries-long history of oppression faced by indigenous communities and notes that they are the original people of the American continents and therefore are not immigrants.
“We talk about the politics, but the indigenous Mexican migrant communities we work with experience this hate daily,” explained Lopez. “We’re called ‘Oaxaquitas’ (‘little Oaxacan’) and ‘indito’ (‘little Indian’).
We’re told what we speak is a dialect, not a language. We hear ‘You’re brown,’ ‘You’re short,’ ‘You’re ugly’ … When this language takes the mic, it gives the green light for these actions.”
Around 84% of California farmworkers are born in Mexico and 9% identify as indigenous
“When we talk about this, we should also mention why people leave their lands to come here.
Many don’t want to,” he added.
“If you go to Oaxaca, you’ll see so many companies from the U.S., Canada and Europe extracting natural resources. How does that impact indigenous communities who can’t compete, who don’t have trees or clean water? What are the decisions that this government is making? Who is in power?”
This resource is supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library in partnership with the California Department of Social Services and the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs as part of the Stop the Hate program. To report a hate incident or hate crime and get support, go to CA vs Hate.
Feds: California Will Be Home to New National Semiconductor Technology Center
California was chosen by the U.S. Department of Commerce (Commerce) and Natcast, the operator of the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) to be home to the headquarters for the National Semiconductor Technology Center – as part of the BidenHarris Admin’s CHIPS and Science Act.
The CHIPS for America Design and Collaboration Facility (DCF) will be one of three CHIPS for America research and design (R&D) facilities and will also operate as the headquarters for the NTSC and Natcast.
“We are thrilled that the Department of Commerce and Natcast chose to locate this critically important facility in Sunnyvale, the heart of the Silicon Valley, alongside the world’s largest concentration of semiconductor businesses, talent, intellectual property, and investment activity,” said Dee Dee Myers, Senior Economic Advisor to Gov. Gavin Newsom and Director of the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz). “The
Newsom Administration and our partners across the industry know how important it is to shorten the timeframe from R&D to commercialization.”
According to GO-Biz, the DCF is expected to direct over $1 billion in research funding and create more than 200 employees in the next decade. The facility will serve as the center for advanced semiconductor research in chip design, electronic design automation, chip and system architecture, and hardware security. The CHF will be essential to the country’s semiconductor workforce development efforts.
As detailed in the released NSTC Strategic Plan, the DCF will suppress the obstacles to “semiconductor prototyping, experimentation,” and other R&D activities that will enhance the country’s global power and leadership in design, materials, and process innovation while enabling a vigorous domestic industr“Establishing the NSTC headquarters and design hub in California will capitalize on our state’s unparalleled assets to grow a highly skilled workforce and develop next-generation advancements,” stated U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.). “This CHIPS Act funding will propel emerging technologies and protect America’s global semiconductor leadership, all while bringing good-paying jobs to our state.”
The more you maintain good financial habits and clean up past mistakes, the better your credit can be.
(Chase)
Sponsored by JPMorganChase
Bo Tefu and Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media
ACA Marketplace Enrollment Opens with Expanded Options and Subsidies
By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
Photo: iStockphoto / NNPA
The Affordable Care Act
(ACA) Marketplace opens its 2025 enrollment season, offering millions the opportunity to secure or adjust health insurance plans. This year’s opening enrollment is vital, particularly if Donald Trump is re-elected. The twiceimpeached former president and MAGA Republicans have vowed to repeal the healthcare law, which would deprive an estimated 40 million Americans of coverage. Under Trump’s plan, millions of individuals with preexisting conditions would also lose health insurance.
In 2024, approximately 4.2 million Floridians enrolled in an ACA health plan, marking a more than 200% increase from 2020, according to White House data. Florida, one of 10 states that hasn’t expanded Medicaid, is seeing around 823,000 residents lose Medicaid coverage.
More than 418,000 Michigan residents signed up for new health plans through HealthCare. gov—a nearly 30% increase over 2023. In Wisconsin, over 250,000 residents secured ACA coverage, as state officials reported. Meanwhile, 1.26 million Georgia residents enrolled, reflecting a 206% rise from 2020, with about 96% receiving an advanced premium tax credit to help cover premiums.
Maryland also saw a 33% increase in Black enrollees and a 30% increase in Hispanic enrollees. In Virginia, 389,568 residents enrolled, marking a 67% increase since 2020, with 88% receiving advanced premium tax credits to help cover costs. Meanwhile, 11,910 District of Columbia residents enrolled, although enrollment has decreased by 26% since 2020 — about 22% of D.C. enrollees qualified for advanced premium tax credits.
With increased enrollment nationwide, this year’s Marketplace offers more options than ever. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF), consumers can choose from a broader array of plans, with benchmark silver plans averaging a 4% premium increase and bronze plans up by 5%. However, enhanced subsidies introduced under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) continue to make coverage affordable, capping monthly premiums at a percentage of income. Most enrollees on HealthCare.gov can find plans for under $10 per month, despite unsubsidized premiums reaching $497 for a 40-yearold on a benchmark silver plan. KFF researchers noted that some states, like Vermont, Alaska, and North Dakota, face double-digit premium hikes, while others, like Louisiana, see decreases in lowcost plans.
Under the Biden-Harris administration, the ACA
Legendary music producer Quincy Jones dies at 91
by Aria Brent AFRO Staff Writer
Music fans far and wide are mourning the death of legendary producer, composer and arranger, Quincy Jones’ death. Reports of Jones’ death came out on the evening of Nov. 3 from his publicist, Arnold Robsinson. The music icon, whose contributions spanned over seven decades, died at his Bel-Air home at the age of 91.
“Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing,” the Jones family said in a statement, sent to the Associated Press. “And although this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him.”
Known for his genre-defying work that included jazz, pop, rhythm and blues and hip-hop, Jones leaves behind a monumental legacy.
Born on March 14, 1933, in Chicago, Ill., Quincy Delight Jones Jr., moved to Seattle at age 10, where he first picked up the trumpet. His undeniable talent led him to study music at Berklee College of Music before launching into a career that would make him one of the most respected and decorated musicians in the music world. His early work as a jazz arranger for talents like Lionel Hampton and Dizzy Gillespie set the stage for his career as a giant in jazz and a plethora of other music genres. In the 1960s, Jones made
Marketplace has expanded to include more insurers, with an average of 9.6 participating insurers per state, allowing 97% of Healthcare.gov users to choose from at least three insurers. The range of options includes silver and bronze plans tailored to meet different healthcare needs. Silver plans, which serve as the basis for subsidy calculations, offer a balance of coverage and cost, while bronze plans provide lower premiums but higher deductibles.
Federal funding has also been allocated to ensure continued support for enrollees. The Biden-Harris administration committed $100 million to the Navigator program, providing more resources to help Americans understand and select the best health plan. Enhanced subsidies—initially introduced under the American Rescue Plan Act and extended by the IRA—are set to expire at the end of 2025 unless renewed by Congress. Without renewal, millions would face premium hikes in 2026, with costs doubling in some cases. A young family of four in Pennsylvania earning $125,000 would see an annual increase of $6,448, while a 45-year-old in Wisconsin with a $60,000 income would experience a $1,354 hike.
DACA recipients are eligible for ACA coverage for the first time, with subsidies that help reduce costs. Effective November 1, this new eligibility offers a special enrollment window for an estimated 100,000 DACA recipients despite ongoing
litigation. Additionally, states like California and New Mexico are leveraging federal tax credits to reduce deductibles, enhancing affordability for those with lower incomes.
KFF found that further safeguards and protections accompany this year’s enrollment. Stricter fraud protections require brokers to secure consent before making plan changes and respond to complaints about unauthorized plan modifications. Non-ACAcompliant short-term plans are now limited to four months and must display clear disclaimers noting they lack comprehensive health coverage. Similarly, fixed indemnity plans, which pay a set amount for specific medical events but lack ACA protections, now carry required disclaimers. New network adequacy standards for federal Marketplace plans also ensure timely access to care. Wait times are capped in 2025 at ten business days for behavioral health, 15 days for primary care, and 30 days for non-urgent specialty care. Compliance will be monitored through “secret shoppers” surveys to verify access.
Health officials said the ACA Marketplace’s enrollment success reflects expanded access under the Biden-Harris administration. However, political opposition from Trump and MAGA Republicans threatens these gains.
To register for health insurance for 2025, visit http://www. Healthcare.gov.
“The World is Preparing Itself for The Final Fulfillments of God’s Prophecies!”
By
history as one of the first Black executives at a major American record label, Mercury Records. His presence there opened doors for countless artists of color. As a producer he helped create timeless albums for musical greats such as Aretha Franklin, Frank Sinatra and Ray Charles. However, it was his collaboration with Michael Jackson that would impact the trajectory of the music industry for years to come.
Jones produced Jackson’s fifth studio album, “Off The Wall” in 1979 and followed up with “Thriller” in 1982. The nine-track album would go on to become the best-selling album of all time. Following the success of “Thriller,” Jone’s also helped produce Jackson’s seventh studio album, “Bad.” These albums not only pushed the boundaries of pop music, but also broke down racial barriers in the music industry.
The 28 time Grammy winner’s versatility went beyond the recording studio. He composed a total of 33 film scores including movies like “The Wiz,” “In the Heat of the Night” and “The Color Purple.” His creativity spread to television and print as well when he worked as a producer on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” and founded Vibe magazine in 1990.
Recognized for more than his professional accolades, Jones was celebrated for his philanthropy, commitment to humanitarian causes and his work as a mentor to younger generations. His passion for youth and arts education led him to found the Quincy Jones Music Consortium to promote music education in public schools.
In 2013, he was awarded the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s Ahmet Ertegun Award, solidifying his status as one of the most influential figures in music history.
Jones’ work will continue to resonate and influence future generations to create beyond the boundaries that’ve been set.
His legacy stands as a testament to the power of creativity and an unwavering commitment to excellence in all he produced.
Open your eyes! Everything is lining up just like Jesus said it would [Mark 13:28-37]. The signs are everywhere! Examine what has happened on the world scene to gain understanding of what it means in the larger context of Bible Prophecy and God’s purpose in history. Study the Book of Revelations for in it, Jesus allowed his disciple John to see many visions. Time after time, John says throughout this book, “And then I saw… “I turned and saw… “I saw…” things that are meant to reveal to God’s people the truth about what’s happening now. Where things are headed, and how they will all play out.
I tell you; The World is Preparing Itself for The Final Fulfillments of God’s Prophecies. What we are watching in today’s world events is more than a historic cycle of political and national interests. We are watching the concluding chapters of human experience leading to the moment when Jesus appears in the glory of his Second Coming. So, Pay Attention! Be alert! Be awake!
Final Fulfillments of God’s Prophecies -
Sign 1: The Rise of Great Britain and America - The Bible foretold that two powerful nations would rise. One nation would be the leader of a group of nations and become the greatest empire in history. The other nation would become the wealthiest and most powerful nation in history. This prophecy about the last days was fulfilled right on time by Great Britain and the United States of America [Genesis 35:9-11].
Sign 2: An Explosion of
“The World is Preparing Itself for The Final Fulfillments of God’s Prophecies!”...continued
[Matthew 24:4-5]. Fulfilled!
Sign 9: Wars, Famine, Disease, and Death – Among the sign that Jesus foretold would come before the end are wars, news of war, famine, disease, and death [Matthew 24:6-7; Revelation 6:8]. Fulfilled!
Sign 10: The Persecution of Christians – Jesus told His followers: At that time, they will hand you over to oppression and will kill you. And you will be hated by all the nations because of My name [Matthew 24:9]. Fulfilled!
Sign 11: The Gospel is Preached – Jesus said that shortly before the end of the age, the gospel of the Kingdom would be preached everywhere in the whole world for a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come [Matthew 24:14]. Fulfilled!
Sign 12: An Attack on Europe - In the Book of Daniel we find a prophecy about a war between the King of the South and the King of the North. This war marks the beginning of “the time of the end [Daniel 11:40]. The King of the North, coming out of Europe, will respond to this attack with an invasion of North Africa and the Middle East. He will conquer Egypt, invade many lands, and many of the countries of North Africa and the Middle East will submit to him. Fulfilled!
Sign 13: Sacrifices Stop in Jerusalem - Just 45 days after the war in North Africa the Middle East begins, the King of the North will stop the daily sacrifices in Jerusalem and set up an image in the holy place called the Abomination of Desolation
[Daniel 9:26-27;11:31; 12:11]. Fulfilled!
Sign 14: The Rapture – The Rapture occurs before the start of the tribulation. It is described in [1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Matthew 24:36-42; Revelation 3:10]
Sign 15: The Great Tribulation – [Matthew 24:21-22; Daniel 7:20 and Revelation 13:1]
Sign 16: The Day of the Lord – In [Joel 1:15; Zephaniah1:143:8; 2 Peter3:10; Jeremiah 23:10; 2 Corinthians 1:14].
Sign 17: The Return of Christ - Finally, at the end of the Day of the Lord, Jesus Christ will appear in the sky. Everyone will see Him, and everyone will hear the sound of a loud trumpet. At that time, Jesus will be proclaimed as the King of the earth. [1 Corinthians 15; 1 Thessalonian 4:13; 5:11].
Sign 18: Armageddon – Shortly after Christ appears in the sky; the nations of the world will form a plan to overthrow Him [Psalms 2]. Huge armies will gather at Mount Megiddo [Armageddon] in Northern Israel, and from there they will march toward Jerusalem to fight Christ.
Sign 19: The Kingdom of God is Established on Earth - [Revelation 11:15].
Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. So, you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near—at the door! [Matthew 24:32-34; see also Mark 13:2829; 32].
Companioning with a Stranger
Anissa Glaser-Bacon
Knowledge – There would be an increase in travel and knowledge [Daniel 12:4]. Fulfilled!
Sign 3: The Jews Return to the Land of Israel - In 1916, during World War I, Great Britain and France made a secret treaty to divide the Middle East and create a special international zone in the area of modern Israel. With help from the British, the Arabs began a revolt, and soon after the allied forces invaded Palestine. These events opened the way for the Jews to return to the land of Israel. [Jeremiah 30;1-3; Ezekiel 20:41-42 Jeremiah 29:14; Ezra 1:1]. Fulfilled!
Sign 4: The Rise of Germany - After World War II, most people were sure that Germany would never rise again. But those who understood end-time Bible prophecy confidently foretold that Germany would rise again to become the leading power in Europe and the world [Revelation 17]. Fulfilled!
Sign 5: The Decline of the USA and Northwestern Europe - The troubles in America, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, France and the rest of Northwestern Europe are obvious. The Bible predicts many specific troubles these countries are experiencing now and will experience in the next few years [Daniel Chapter 11]. Fulfilled!
Sign 6: Skepticism and Disbelief. The Bible foretells that in the last days, many people will scoff at Bible prophecies [2 Peter 3:3-4]. Fulfilled!
Sign 7: Widespread Selfishness – [1 Timothy 3:1-5]. Fulfilled!
Sign 8: The Rise of a False Christianity – When Jesus taught His followers about the end times, the very first thing He said was: Watch out so that no one misleads you. For many will come in My name, saying I am the Christ, and they will lead many astray
As a new pastor in a church in Amish country, I did not expect to be welcomed by all. I was female, single and, as we say in my home state of Maine, “from away.” When I walked down the street in my town or other nearby locations wearing my pastoral collar, men in black wide-brimmed hats with beards looked away and the women with them simply looked confused. I did not think I would be invited to converse with either group any time in my ministry there. That is why I was surprised when I heard a tap on my office window, which looked out over the sidewalk beside the church, and saw a woman’s face with a pure white bonnet standing there. This began a piece of my ministry in that place, a ministry I did not expect.
Like many, I believed in the stories of the Amish as members of idyllic tight-knit communities. While this is certainly true for many, no one experience can be true to all. The woman who came to my window was living in a community and family as a survivor of domestic abuse that included physical, mental and verbal abuse. Due to the way Amish communities were constructed, she felt they had no place to go. Yet when she found out I was at this church, she came to ask for help. She was only the first. Over the two years I was there, eight different women tapped on that window. They might not come into the church building (they never did) but somehow they knew I could be an ally. And, at first, I was at a loss as to how to help them.
I learned many things from these women. One of the most important was living with the limitations of my knowledge and understanding, while at the same time wanting to advocate
and protect another human being who was hurting. The reality was that I could not protect them and did not have the skills or tools to help them in their communities. What I could do was sit with these women as a supporter and companion as they navigated what was best for them in each situation. I learned where there were resources in the communities that they could access and gave them that information. But that was the least important thing that I did. The most important was listening, not judging, and setting aside everything I thought I knew about them and their lives.
Galatians 6:2 (CEB) asks us to “Carry each other’s burdens and so you will fulfill the law of Christ.” We are not always asked as allies to solve the problems of the world. Sometimes we are called to simply help another bear the load that they may carry. I have no idea where any of these eight women ended up. Maybe they are still in their homes. Maybe they have left. What I do know is that their tapping on a window was the bravest thing some of these women have ever done. I pray and have hope that my presence in that time helped them to see that, no matter what, they are never alone in carrying whatever burdens they bear. I have to believe that in my encounters with them, Christ was at the center, leading, guiding, listening and loving all of us into new ways of being.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
The Rev. Anissa GlaserBacon serves as the Minister for Ministers in Specialized Settings and Professional Endorsement Coordinator for the Ministerial Excellence, Support and Authorization (MESA) team in the national setting of the United Church of Christ.
Lou K. Coleman
Lou K. Coleman
Quincy Jones Shutterstock
FILM REVIEW: So Amazing: Dawn Porter Brings Luther Vandross to Life in New Doc
By Nsenga K. Burton Ph.D.
image from the
“Ain’t nothing perfect in this world other than Jesus and Luther Vandross’s first album.” – Ruby (Jenifer Lewis), Blackish In the world of documentary filmmaking, few names shine as brightly as Dawn Porter. Known for her poignant explorations of political and social issues (Good Trouble, Power of the Dream, Gideon’s Army), Porter has taken a bold step into the realm of music documentaries with her latest film, Luther: Never Too Much, which celebrates the life and legacy of legendary singer
Never Too
Luther Vandross. In a recent interview, Porter discussed her motivations for choosing Vandross as her subject, the emotional journey of making the documentary, and her hopes for what audiences will take away from the film.
When asked why she chose to focus on Luther Vandross, Porter explained her passion for telling stories that resonate with themes of joy and creativity. “I do a lot of political films and films about injustice,” she noted. “But with Luther, he seems joyous. I wanted to
stretch myself and explore a music documentary for the first time.” The abundance of archival materials available through Sony made the project irresistible. “We had so many different materials to work with; it was heavenly for a documentary person,” she said, emphasizing her desire to let Vandross tell his own story.
While there are countless narratives surrounding Vandross’s upbringing, Porter chose to concentrate primarily on his illustrious career. “His siblings and mother have
Even Amidst the Stresses of
passed, so there wasn’t a lot we could authentically explore,” she explained. “I thought about the audience and what they want to know. The origins of his songs are what truly matters.”
With Vandross’s roots in New York City, Porter felt that focusing on his professional journey would best serve his legacy.
Porter set out to tell a story about Vandross that would satisfy fans and teach those who may not know the artist the significance of his role in Black music. Vandross was a workhorse from writing and producing the music, handling all business dealings, and being the creative lead on the shows, including the costumes. “He wrote music, composed music, arranged music, directed, sketched costumes,” says Porter. “I want viewers to think about his brain – I want people to see the work and his work ethic and how much he cared about his fans. He was doing this work because he was appreciating the audience,” the Sundance Film Festival winner adds.
Racism, Joy is Among the Best Medicines for Brain Health
By Hazel Trice Edney
Joy. The Oxford Dictionary describes it as “a feeling of great pleasure and happiness.”
Merriam-Webster says it is “the emotion evoked by wellbeing, success, or good fortune.” Thesaurus.com gives a string of synonyms for joy, including elation, humor, bliss, and cheer.
How ever one chooses to describe or define, “joy”, medical doctors, psychologists, counsellors and preachers say it can be the world’s best medicine – especially for brain health.
“Growing up in the Black church, we used to say, ‘This joy I have; the world didn’t give it, and the world can’t take it away,’” writes New York pastor, author and educator Gabby Cudjoe-Wilkes. “What we were saying was that the conditions of this world didn’t produce joy for us; rather, something within us created the joy that the world continually tried to steal. Time and time again, systems of this world tried to steal our joy, our dignity, our hope and our future.”
In America's Black community, the "conditions of this world" that Pastor Cudjoe-Wilkes writes about often comes as a result of systemic racism and societal attitudes of White supremacy. These historic racial attitudes toward African-Americans simply because of the color of their skin often cause traumatic assaults to their emotions and their psyche. Those assaultswhether emotional or physical - can result from a number of activities, including race discrimination, racial profiling, and even racial violence.
These deeply personal experiences are often compounded by news accounts of such horrific incidents also happening to other people. Spiritual reinforcement and a lifestyle of faith can heal these mentally stressful and sometimes
depressing reactions, authorities say, because lifestyles of faith can inspire joy.
“Joy is unspoken hope that floods your being. It’s that ‘It is well with my soul’ that resonates deeply within your spirit,” writes Cudjoe-Wilkes, who is co-lead pastor of The Double Love Experience Church in Brooklyn.
Medical doctors agree. A Harvard School of Medicine article reports that joyful laughter can actually stimulate brain chemicals that gives a feeling of happiness and well-being.
“A good belly laugh can do wonders for your state of mind,” as it releases levels of dopamine, a chemical released by the hypothalamus of the brain, which provides an “intense feeling of
reward,” the article states.
At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic as George Floyd was publicly asphyxiated by now imprisoned Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin in 2020 and mass protests spread throughout the nation, psychologists began looking closer at brain health and the impact of racial trauma on those who observe it or experience it.
“Living While Black: Using Joy, Beauty, and Connection to Heal Racial Trauma" is a book written by veteran psychologist Guilaine Kinouani during the height of that season. Kinouani highly recommends self-care that increases levels of joy.
“Based on her findings, Kinouani has devised tried-and-
tested strategies to help protect Black people from the harmful effects of verbal, physical, and structural racism. She empowers Black readers to adopt self-care mechanisms to improve their day-to-day wellness to help them thrive, not just survive, and to find hope and beauty—or even joy—in the face of racial adversity,” states a review of the book by Beacon Press. “With the rise of far-right ideologies and the increase of racist hate crimes, Living While Black is both timely and instrumental in moving conversations from defining racism for non-Black majorities to focusing on healing and nurturing the mental health of those facing prejudice, discrimination, and the lasting effects of the violence of white supremacy.”
An article published by AARP, also during the COVID-19 pandemic, gave a list of ways to bring joy to the mind. The article, titled, "9 Simple Habits to Make You Happier: Easy ways to spark joy today", in a nutshell, includes the following suggestions: Watch the dawn, the sunset, enjoy nature or just listen to some birds; Get some ice cream with a friend or treat yourself to a dessert, a delicious meal or your favorite beverage; Play a game with other people during which you can let your guard down; Engage in a hobby like art, dancing or other fun activities; or spend time gazing at a baby, a puppy or something else that causes you to feel happy.
There are hundreds of ways to invoke joy in one's life, depending on the individual.
Even amidst civil rights battles, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, "The surest way to be happy is to seek happiness for others."
This article is part of a series powered by AARP for the purpose of brain health education. Here's more information.
L E G A L / C L A S S I F I E D S G O H E R E
Promotional
documentary, “Luther:
Much,” directed by Dawn Porter.
Pastor Gabby Cudjoe-Wilkes is one of many authorities who say that joyful activities can help people through difficult circumstances.
3 Ways to Stop Yourself From Over-Eating
It can happen to the best of us. You’re out with friends, enjoying a meal, and suddenly you realize you’ve overeaten! But don’t worry – there are ways to prevent yourself from overeating in the future.
People have come up with homegrown strategies for limiting their calorie intake, but science has three surefire ways to get it done. With that said, here are three tips to help you avoid this problem:
Drink More Water
Water is an essential nutrient for our bodies, and drinking enough water can help us eat less. When we don’t drink enough, our bodies become dehydrated, leading to cravings and hunger.
A study in the National Library of Medicine found that subjects who drank water before a meal ate an average of 40 fewer grams of the test food. Drinking water can also help give us a feeling of fullness, making us less likely to reach for unhealthy snacks that we would otherwise eat if we were thirsty.
If you want to start drinking more water, there are some simple steps you can take. Start by carrying a reusable water bottle with you to always be on hand. You can also set reminders during the day to drink more water or add extra flavorings like lemon, lime, cucumber or mint to give your beverage an extra kick.
Eat More Protein and Fat
Eating more protein and fat has
been linked to greater fullness and satisfaction. So if you’re looking for a way to eat less, try increasing your intake of both nutrient-rich proteins and healthy fats. Doing so will help keep you feeling fuller for longer, allowing you to reduce the amount of calories you consume overall. You don’t have to give up carbohydrates completely, but try to focus on complex carbs, such as whole grains and legumes, rather than simple carbohydrates like white bread or sugary sweets. Eating more protein and fat will also help you get the essential vitamins and minerals your body needs without having to rely heavily on processed foods. Remember that quality is key when adding protein and fat sources to your diet. Choose lean proteins like fish or chicken breasts and healthy fats from plant-based sources such as nuts, seeds, avocados, olives and extra virgin olive oil. Eating these types of food will help you feel fuller for longer, so you can enjoy satisfying meals without overeating or feeling deprived.
Eat Slowly
Eating slowly is a key component of eating less. Eating quickly makes it easy to consume more calories than your body needs before feeling full. That’s why eating slowly can be so beneficial – it gives your body time to feel satisfied, which keeps you from overeating and consuming too many calories.
When you sit down for a
FTC Sends More Than $17 Million to Consumers Harmed by Brigit’s Deceptive Claims, Junk Fees, and Confusing Cancellation Process
The Federal Trade Commission is sending more than $17 million in refunds to consumers harmed by online cash advance provider Brigit, which the agency says deceived consumers with false promises of “instant” cash advances and locked consumers into a monthly membership they couldn’t cancel.
3 Ways to Stop Yourself From
continued
meal, take your time to chew each bite thoroughly and savor the flavors and textures of the food on your plate. Take regular breaks during the meal, such as putting down your fork or having conversations with those around you. Doing so will help keep you mindful of what and how much you’re eating rather than mindlessly shoveling food in without noticing.
Studies suggest that a slower approach to dinner can make you feel fuller in the long run.
Over-Eating...
Remember, it takes about 20 minutes for your body to register feelings of fullness after eating. So try and enjoy each bite of food and think about how it makes you feel rather than just getting through the meal quickly. By slowing down at meals and focusing on quality proteins, fats, and complex carbohydrates, you’ll be able to consume fewer calories and enjoy your food more – all without going hungry. So give it a try and see how eating slowly can benefit you!
The 5 Times You Should NEVER Use Apple Cider Vinegar
by Dr. P. Gould
We hear it all the time from people who say apple cider vinegar is great for this and great for that. But did you know that taking this magical spoonful can also have some serious side effects?
While apple cider vinegar has numerous potential health benefits, it’s also essential to be aware of its potential risks and side effects. Topical application of undiluted apple cider vinegar can lead to burns, irritation and discomfort due to its high acidity. And for those with stomach ulcers, consumption of acidic foods, like apple-cider vinegar, can exacerbate the condition.
Consumption of ACV may result in lower potassium levels, reports a 2020 review in the European Journal of Nutrition, which can result in heart-health concerns. ACV may also interact with certain types of drugs, potentially altering their effects on the body. Particularly, it may affect diabetes medications, diuretics and certain heart disease medications, according to the National Library of Medicine.
Before we get into who and when you shouldn’t take it, let’s find out what’s really in ACV.
What’s In Apple Cider Vinegar?
Raw apple cider vinegar contains:
Acetic acid, which can kill harmful bacteria. ACV is about 5% to 6% acetic acid.
Natural probiotics (good bacteria), which can improve your immune system and gut health.
Antioxidants, naturally occurring substances that can prevent damage to your body’s cells.
Both pasteurized and raw apple cider vinegar are sold in stores, but for health purposes, most people use the latter — the kind that’s a little bit cloudy. The cloudy sediment in the bottom of the bottle, sometimes known as “the mother,” contains more natural bacteria and yeasts.
Who Should Not Take Apple Cider Vinegar?
Certain groups of people should exercise caution when considering the use of apple cider vinegar. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, for instance, should use it sparingly
DPSS Military-Serving Agencies ‘Go Green’ To Support U.S. Veterans And Families
DPSS Military-Serving Agencies ‘Go Green’ To Support U.S. Veterans And Families...continued trauma from combat exposure, substance abuse issues, and many other challenges, also expressed appreciation.
Operation Green Light is held in conjunction with the National Association of Counties’ and County Veterans Service Officers’ annual campaign to inform veterans about services. In 2023, over 300 counties participated in Operation Green Light nationwide. The initiative sets the stage locally for the many other observances and celebrations leading up to Veterans Day. These county agencies will
continue to collaborate with countywide veteran-serving organizations serving veterans to ensure that veterans are well informed and have access to the vital resources and services needed to thrive.
DPSS is encouraging veterans who need access to food, shelter, medical services, clothing, or employment training, to visit the DPSS website, MVA website, or call the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Veteran Support Line at (800) 854-7771 *3 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., 7 days a week – interpreter services available.
Submission Deadline
MONDAYS by 5pm & 12 noon TUESDAYS (when Monday is holiday ) Email Press Releases to: mary@sb-american.com
The 5 Times You Should NEVER Use Apple Cider Vinegar...continued
since there’s insufficient research to confirm its safety during these periods. Individuals with diabetes, particularly those on insulin or other glucose-lowering medications, should monitor their blood sugar levels closely due to the vinegar’s potential to reduce blood sugar. People with a history of gastric ulcers or acid reflux may find that apple cider vinegar exacerbates their symptoms.
Here are 5 times you should never take apple cider vinegar.
1. If You Are Having Trouble Swallowing
The inside of the mouth, the throat and the esophagus, the tube that leads to the stomach, are lined with mucus membrane, a type of tissue that can burn when exposed to acid.
While apple cider vinegar has benefits, it could also cause an increase in episodes of hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, in diabetics.
If you have diabetes, ask your doctor about how to take apple cider vinegar and monitor blood sugars carefully to avoid hypoglycemia.
If you already take blood thinners or if you have problems with blood clotting, do not take apple cider vinegar without your doctor’s approval.
4. If You Have Gastrointestinal Problems
Since ACV is high in acidic content, it can cause serious diarrhea, indigestion and heartburn.
The Commission’s interactive dashboards for refund data provide a state-by-state breakdown of refunds in FTC cases. In 2023, FTC actions led to $330 million in refunds to consumers across the country. The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and protect and educate consumers. The FTC will never demand money, make threats, tell you to transfer money, or promise you a prize. Learn more about consumer topics at consumer. ftc.gov, or report fraud, scams, and bad business practices at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
The FTC first took action against Brigit in 2023, alleging that the company deceptively advertised that customers who subscribed to the company’s service would have access to “instant” cash advances of up to $250 “whenever you need it” and could cancel anytime. According to the FTC, the company then charged fees to get the cash quickly and failed to deliver the promised amounts. In many cases, consumers were not able to receive a cash advance at all. The FTC’s complaint also alleged the company used manipulative design tricks to create a confusing and misleading cancellation process that made it difficult for consumers to cancel their subscriptions. The FTC plans to send payments to 1,818,930 Brigit members who paid for instant cash advances. Consumers who are eligible for a payment will get an email between now and November 15, 2024. The FTC will begin sending PayPal payments on November 18. Recipients should redeem their PayPal payment within 30 days. Consumers who have questions about their payment should contact the refund administrator, Rust Consulting, Inc., at 833-637-5800, or visit the FTC website to view frequently asked questions about the refund process. The Commission never requires people to pay money or provide account information to get a refund.
More than 100 Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) employees joined partner organizations serving military veterans in the County of Los Angeles to launch the countywide observance of Operation Green Light, an annual initiative to honor and support veterans who served to protect the rights and freedoms of U.S. citizens.
During a building-lighting ceremony, county officials illuminated the front entrance of the DPSS Headquarters in green to highlight the core mission of Operation Green Light, honoring veterans, and their family members by assisting servicemembers returning from active duty with their difficult transition back to civilian life. Of the approximately two million veterans in California, 25 percent reside in L.A. County.
“Today, we shine a reflective light on the essential services our veterans need to succeed. We owe it to them and their
families,” said DPSS Director Dr. Jackie Contreras. “For military personnel, a green light signifies permission to proceed or go ahead. We’re telling veterans to come to us, we want to connect them to affordable medical care, housing, and nutritious food.”
Contreras was joined by Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Director (MVA) James Zenner; Department of Mental Health Deputy Director - Veterans & Military Family Services, La Tina Jackson; and several employees who served in the armed forces. The ceremony also recognized 10 DPSS reservists, currently serving on active duty.
Zenner, a U.S. Army veteran, thanked the DPSS staff in attendance for their assistance to veterans seeking vital services. Jackson, whose department provides mental health treatment to veterans for
Taking apple cider vinegar every day, especially if you don’t drink enough water when taking it in tablet form or if you don’t adequately dilute the liquid, can cause throat pain and make it difficult to swallow.
There have been reports that apple cider vinegar tablets can cause burns, which can cause permanent damage to the throat or esophagus.
Heartburn and nausea are also possible side effects.
2. If Your Potassium Level Is Low
Apple cider vinegar can cause potassium levels to fall. Low potassium, medically termed hypokalemia, can cause heart arrhythmias, muscle weakness or breakdown, constipation, fatigue or paralysis that can interfere with breathing. If you take medications that can cause low potassium levels, such as diuretics, do not take apple cider vinegar without talking to your doctor first.
3. If You Have A History Of Blood Clots Or Diabetes In Your Family
If you’re using ACV for detoxification, these side effects are very common. According to experts, consuming unrefined ACV with a Ph level of 5-7 restricts these side effects.
If these side effects do not seem to evade overtime, discontinue or lower your dosage.
5. If You Have Sensitive Teeth/Oral Health Problems
The high acidic level of undiluted ACV can destroy your tooth enamel when consumed orally.
Besides giving a yellowish tinge to your teeth, it increases your dental sensitivity as well.
In order to avoid direct contact with your teeth, consider consuming liquid ACV using a straw.
Mix the ACV with juice or water before consuming that way you’ll be able to lower the possible side effects of vinegar consumption.
A viable option to lower the potential damage to your tooth enamel is to brush your teeth soon after vinegar intake.
November 4, 2024 by Chauncey Simmons
Thursday, November 7, 2024
LeBron shows us Trump’s true colors — without saying a word
By Joseph Williams
The Lakers legend and NBA icon made his final argument on who to vote for in the presidential election next week — and why Donald Trump isn’t it.
Nov. 5 is the presidential election, His Highness — a.k.a.
LeBron James, the legendary Los Angeles Lakers guard — dropped a video that blew up social media.
In roughly 1 minute 15 seconds, and without appearing in a single frame, James made an eloquent, hard-hitting argument about why Donald Trump is an existential threat to Black America.
LeBron James’ Instagram post backing Kamala Harris — and portraying Trump as a racist — racked up more than half a million likes in less than 24 hours. Credit: Instagram/@ KingJames
And he did it with Trump and his supporters’ own words.
In political terms, James — a four-time NBA champion and a Hall of Fame lock when he ends his astonishing, 21-year-career — is openly endorsing Kamala Harris, poised to become the first Black woman president.
Culturally speaking, however, the G.O.A.T., an influential Black man, is quietly arguing
anymore.
In just under 20 hours, the Instagram post has racked up nearly half a million likes.
In the professionally-produced video, Trump and his supporters’ racist statements are smashcut with images of civil rights protests, news headlines, videos of Trump’s speeches, and the violence that links them both.
Trump says, “I’m not a racist;” the next image is a headline: “David Duke, KKK Support Donald Trump.” As a smirking Trump walks to a lectern, Trump supporters shout, “We love Hitler! We love Trump!”
Trump is heard supporting police, calling for a no-rules day of law-enforcement violence, and telling an audience he has no problem with racism. His statements: “It’s all about the genes, isn’t it?” “Ah, I love the old days,” ‘I’d like to punch him in the face.” “If he did that in a
place like this, he’d be leaving here on a stretcher.”
The images flash by: blackand-white footage of civil rights protesters, then immigrants in color, both marching; authorities fire-hosing Black teenagers in the 1950s; a white man at a recent rally punching a Black man with dreads in the face; police dragging away John Lewis, then a young civil rights protester; another unidentified man hauled away, hog-tied.
The video closes with more audio of Trump — “Of course I hate these people. Let’s all hate these people. Maybe hate is what we need” — alongside powerful images of a flaming house, Mamie Till weeping over the open coffin of her son
At the end of the video, a black screen with bold white type: HATE TAKES US BACK.
James put on an exclamation mark in the video’s caption.
“What are we even talking about here??” he wrote. “When I think about my kids and my family and how they will grow up, the choice is clear to me.
VOTE KAMALA HARRIS!!!”
‘Nuff said. Long live The King.
This article was originally published on WordinBlack.com.
New Mr. and Miss Cardinal City Royalty Announced
SAN BERNARDINO, CA— San Bernardino City Unified School District’s (SBCUSD) San Bernardino High School (SBHS) crowned the 2024–2025 Mr. and Miss Cardinal City and Court on Sept. 21.
“As a proud alum of San Bernardino High School, I know firsthand the deep-rooted pride and tradition that our flagship school represents for our entire District and our community at large,” said Superintendent Mauricio Arellano. “The Mr. and Miss Cardinal City pageant embodies that spirit by instilling a strong sense of community, leadership and service in our students. It’s a powerful reminder of the incredible potential within our students when they embrace their school’s legacy and rise to become leaders in their community.”
More than just a pageant, the event provides invaluable life skills to participants, helping
them hone public speaking, poise under pressure and leadership abilities. The experience also encourages teamwork, goal setting and self-discipline –qualities that will serve all participants well in future endeavors both academically and professionally.
The Mr. and Miss Cardinal City pageant was conceived and founded by Bilingual School Outreach Worker Jaime Rios, who hopes to foster confidence and inspire positive values in the young men and women of SBHS through the promotion of civic engagement and personal development.
Throughout the competition, contestants dedicate significant time to rehearsals and mock interviews. They volunteer their free time to read to young children and help those experiencing homelessness. Even before the young men and women take the stage for the on-stage portions
of the competition, they have all proven their dedication to SBHS and the broader San Bernardino community.
It is with pride that SBCUSD announces the Cardinal City Court and Recognitions:
Mr. and Miss Cardinal City and Court
Mr. Cardinal City 2024–2025: Robert Sanchez
Mr. Cardinal City 2024–2025 First Runner Up: Christofer Ramirez-Zuniga
Mr. Cardinal City 2024–2025
Second Runner Up: Charles Angelo Madrid
Mr. Cardinal City 2024–2025 Ambassador: Luis Montiel Verduzco
Miss Cardinal City 2024–2025: Jasmine Estrada
Miss Cardinal City 2024–2025 First Runner Up: Briana Arroliga
Miss Cardinal City 2024–2025
Second Runner Up: Krystal Castellanos
Miss Cardinal City 2024–2025 Ambassador: Emily Marquez
Special Pageant Awards
Mr. Cardinal Director’s Award: Luis Montiel Verduzco
Miss Cardinal Director’s Award: Emily Marquez
Family Assistance Program combating hate crimes in San Bernardino County
Mr. Photogenic: David Gomez-De La Rosa
Miss Photogenic: Krystal Castellanos
Mr. Congeniality: Robert Sanchez
Miss Congeniality: Briana Arroliga
Mr. Cardinal People's Choice: Robert Sanchez
Miss Cardinal People's Choice: Krystal Castellanos
Mr. Cardinal Contestant with the Highest GPA: Christofer Ramirez-Zuniga (4.71 weighted G.P.A.)
Miss Cardinal Contestant with the Highest GPA: Jasmine Estrada (4.33 weighted G.P.A.)
Mr. Cardinal Contestant Best in Interview: Christofer RamirezZuniga
Miss Cardinal Contestant Best in Interview: Krystal Castellanos
Mr. and Miss Cardinal City are eligible for college scholarships when they graduate from SBHS. To donate to the Cardinal City Pageant scholarship fund, contact Student Services at (909) 384-1471 or visit https:// www.mightycause.com/SBCSA and designate “Cardinal City Pageant” when you complete the donation form.
Victorville- Many community based organizations throughout San Bernardino county have joined forces with the state to combat hate crimes throughout California and the high desert is home to an amazing organization that is doing their part to stop the hate in California. The Family Assistance Program was founded in 1985 and began as the high desert domestic violence program and primarily focused on victims of domestic violence. Over the years the program evolved and began working with runaways and homeless youth and also women and youth coming out of probation and parole. The family assistance program has matching centers in the high desert and throughout San Bernardino county. Two runaway youth shelters in San Bernardino and Redlands and two shelters in the high desert.
Jim Bolas, Chief Program Officer, is the leader of the Stop The Hate Campaign that FAP is currently running and they focus on LGBTQ and BIPOC youth hate crimes happening throughout the high desert. Jim is currently working with Dr. Steven Merrill at Cal State San Bernardino on teaching students how to review policies and make change in society. FAP is also assembling a human rights coalition to give the community a voice in reporting hate crimes. FAP is currently in the public schools doing workshops on safety planning and giving
children self esteem to speak out and report hate crimes to prevent violent crimes. Hate crimes are very under reported in San Bernardino county and the programs purpose is to give young people and under represented groups the courage to speak out on what they experience or witness. The FAP needs your help with under represented groups having a voice in the community and you can join their human rights coalition to change the narrative. If you would like to share your voice or join the coalition go to https://familyassist.org/stophate/ . Go to “Get Involved” and you can join the fight in stopping the hate in your local community. Also, feel free to call 1-833-8-NoHate (1-833-8-66-4283) you can report anonymously if you wish. If you’re in need of help in the Victorville area, feel free to visit the Family Assistance Program office on 15075 7th street in Victorville. This resource was supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library via California Black Media as part of the Stop the Hate Program. The program is supported by partnership with California Department of Social Services and the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs as part of the Stop the Hate program. To report a hate incident or hate crime and get support, go to CA vs Hate.
Local/State News
All hail King James.
to the Black men who admire him — and who pundits say are drifting to Trump — why they shouldn’t vote for a man who has always been a racist and doesn’t even try to hide it
Emmitt, white people marching with confederate flags, and a Black man on his knees, crying, at a Black Lives Matter protest.
Newly crowned Miss Cardinal City Jasmine Estrada (left) and Mr. Cardinal City Robert Sanchez (right).
(Photo by Corina Borsuk and provided courtesy of SBCUSD)
Jim Bolas, Chief Program Officer of the Family Assistance Program in Victorville speaking at the anti-hate forum at Valley College in San Bernardino on October 21st.