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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

Volume 54 No. 37

December 28, 2023 Thursday Edition

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)

Fontana’s Silent Tragedy: O’Day Short Family Legacy and a Time for Reconciliation

by S.E. Williams

Miki Rene Inbody, Superintendent of Schools Fontana Unified School District (L) and Dr. Daniel Walker (R) stand before the O’Day Short Family Unity Garden at Randall Pepper Elementary School in Fontana, CA, on Friday, December 15, 2023. The Unity Garden was dedicated to commemorate the lives of O’Day, Helen, Barry and Carol Ann Short. Credit: Hardy Brown

Article summary: The O’Day Short Family Unity Garden was established at Randall Pepper Elementary School in Fontana, CA, to commemorate the lives of O’Day Short and his family who were murdered by white racist extremists in 1946. The family was killed when their home was bombed by angry white people who used housing restrictions and restrictive covenants to keep Blacks and other minorities out of white neighborhoods. The incident is now viewed as an opportunity for dialogue about unity, growth, and reconciliation. The garden was inspired by Dr. Daniel Walker, who attended Randall Pepper Elementary School.

It was the mid-1940’s when white racist extremists terrorized and murdered a young Black family with a vitriol and animosity that rivaled any of the worst racebased atrocities experienced by Blacks in the depths of Dixie.

But, the incident did not occur in the deep south, this quadruple homicide happened right here in the inland region in the city of

Fontana when the family dared to move into a white’s only neighborhood.

When President Franklin Roosevelt passed the New Deal in 1933, the nation faced a housing shortage. According to Richard Rothstein, author of “The Color of Law”, this deal set the stage for a federally sanctioned program that was explicitly designed to

not only increase the nation’s housing stock, but also to intentionally segregate it. In essence, according to Rothstein, and as noted by NPR, the housing programs that flowed from the New Deal were nothing short of a “state-sponsored system of segregation.” Racists in America leveraged the concept of housing segregation to the extreme using

restrictive covenants to work their will.

It would be 15 years (1948) before the U.S. Supreme Court, in the case of Shelly v Kraemer, determined that the government could not enforce restrictive covenants and prohibitions placed on houses, a process continued in next 2 columns

5 Things You Need To Leave Behind In 2023

Fontana’s Silent Tragedy: O’Day Short Family Legacy and a Time for Reconciliation...continued that undergirded redlining and prevented Blacks and other minorities from buying homes and living in communities of their choice.

Before the high court’s decision, the housing restrictions– including covenants and prohibitions–were perceived as the easiest way to keep Blacks and other minorities out of white neighborhoods. When that failed, however, white homeowners and other community members often took extreme measures to ensure their neighborhoods remained all white. These measures– more often than not–involved violence.

This was the case in 1946, during the peak of redlining and two years before the Supreme Court ruling, a time when racists took extreme measures in the city of Fontana that O’Day Short crossed the color line and bought a home for his family in Fontana. As a Black man during a tumultuous time, his realization of the American Dream came at an unreasonable and extremely high price–it cost him his life and the lives of his wife and two young children.

After being threatened by the local sheriff, Short was not deterred and moved his family into their new home. Sadly within weeks of settling in, the family was killed when their home was bombed. Short’s wife and two young children died immediately but Short remained alive for about a month before he ultimately made his transition according to the Color Lines in San Bernardino project.

Credit-Shutterstock

Depending on the year you had in 2023, you might be relieved it’s almost over. This year had its ups and downs and you may have learned some difficult lessons but pat yourself on the back for surviving it all.

The start of a New Year brings hope, a sense of a new beginning, and a fresh start. Maybe you made resolutions of how you’ll change your life and achieve your dreams in the coming year, however, if you make the same

choices and continue unhealthy, self-sabotaging habits, chances are nothing will change.

What do you need to leave behind so you are truly ready and capable of living your best life in 2020? The list could be endless but let’s discuss 5 things that many of us need to ditch and not take into the New Year.

1. Toxic Relationships Disguised as Friendships

2. Ignoring Your Gut Our instincts are a gift to us. If used properly they could help us make better choices for our lives.

Choices which are consistent with our values and are in our best interests. Your inner voice will tell you when someone’s motives aren’t genuine. They

California receives $38 million from the USDA to support food and farm businesses at the middle of the supply chain Community Health News

3. Being Paralyzed By Fear

4. Negative Self-Talk continued on page 2

continued on page 7

CDFA awards $9 million to 103 Healthy Refrigeration Grant Program projects to expand access to healthy foods in underserved communities

will tell you when you need to rethink a decision you’ve made.

Your intuition will not lead you in the wrong direction.

The purpose of fear is to motivate us into action such as avoiding danger or being more prepared and focused on a task.

Fear is emotional energy that can be used to propel us, but for some, fear can lead to paralysis.

Fear of the future, fear of rejection, and even fear of failure can prevent us from taking risks and trying new things.

Let’s face it, we all deal with fear on some level and will never totally get rid of it, but we don’t have to. Successful people are those who act and go after their dreams despite being afraid. So, can you.

Dr. Daniel Walker, Board Chair/Arts Initiative Director of the Blu Educational Foundation was the inspiration behind the push to establish the O’Day Short Family Unity Garden to commemorate the lives of O’Day, Helen, Barry and Carol Ann Short at the Randall Pepper Elementary School.

In an exclusive exchange with Black Voice News, Walker shared what moved him to champion this initiative. “The fact that I attended [Randall Pepper Elementary School] and experienced some of the most hurtful things young people can do to one another was already a point of pain and anger for

Supporting Access to Healthy Foods and Resilient Food Systems

Community News

If you have relationships that drain all your energy and leave you feeling worse about yourself, you might need to let them go.

You deserve friends who support you and have your back.

We sometimes find ourselves in one-sided relationships where we’re the only ones putting in consistent effort. If you’re the one who’s always calling and arranging the dates or begging the other person to take more interest in you or your life, you should re-evaluate your relationship. It’s important in the new year to find relationships that bring out the best in you.

According to Dr. Daniel Walker, he has told the O’Day Short family story for 30 years wherever he went, especially in education settings given that the district allowed the KKK to use its school facilities for their meetings as late as the mid 1980s. (source: bluedfoundation. org)

Healthy Refrigeration Grant Program equipment in Oakland

SACRAMENTO – (12/22/23) Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted supports to expand access to fresh, healthy foods in underserved communities and boost the resilience of food and farm businesses throughout the state.

CDFA today announced $9 million in grants for 103 projects through the Healthy Refrigeration Grant Program, which helps address food deserts by funding energy-

efficient refrigeration and freezer equipment for corner stores, small businesses and food donation programs in lowincome or low-food access areas.

Grantees use the new equipment to stock California-grown fresh produce, nuts, eggs, meat and dairy products, as well as minimally processed foods and foods common in cultural dishes that are often not available in mainstream markets.

CDFA also recently received $38 million from the USDA for the new Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program, which will provide grants to agricultural producers and processors as well as non-profit organizations, local government entities, tribal governments and institutions that operate in the middle of the supply chain.

“These projects will help more families put healthy, Californiagrown food on the table, and support the hardworking food and farm businesses at the center of our food supply chain,” said continued on page 3

Thursday, December 28, 2023

Page 2

COMMUNITY/EDUCATION/FINANCIAL/ADVERTISING

OP-ED: Supporting HBCUs’ It's Your Favorite Time Of Year! 'Tis The Season For A Winter Refresh Sustainability in America

By Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. President and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association

The Rosendin Foundation provides financial assistance to community nonprofits across the country that promote emotional, nutritional, and occupational health programs. These organizations benefit from the Foundation's financial grants and donations of up to $50,000 per organization. Through volunteer efforts and donation drives in 23 cities, the nonprofit empowers and inspires people to be their best.

Since its inception, The

Community News

HBCUs truly know how to do more with less, but they cannot be saddled with costly regulations that pose an existential crisis to their ability operate and be given no help to deflect some of the costs.

Earlier this year the U.S. Department of Education sent all colleges and universities across the nation a notice, reminding them that they need to comply with the newly updated cybersecurity regulations published by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

The regulations – which include specifications such as implementing critical controls for information security programs, maintaining oversight of service providers, and designating an individual to oversee a school’s cybersecurity infrastructure – came in response to an uptick in ransomware attacks on schools around the United States.

While these regulations are certainly warranted in an age where personal data is becoming increasingly vulnerable to cyber-criminals, the penalties for failing to comply with the regulations – especially the withholding of federal needs-

based funding under Title IV – pose an existential threat to schools operating under tight budgets.

Take Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), which have throughout their existence struggled to find the substantial funding that many state and private predominantly white institutions (PWIs) of higher education enjoy and who are already steeling themselves to deal with an expected surge of applicants following the Supreme Court’s regressive decision to effectively end Affirmative Action admission programs. The loss of Title IV funding would drastically affect around 80% of the student bodies at HBCUs and would have a consequential negative impact on the future of these vital institutions of higher education.

Endowments at HBCUs pale continued on page 4

No Foul and You’re Out? Temecula School Board Sued for Unlawful Public Meeting Policies Community/ Education News

Left: Julie Geary, gesturing at the bottom left, is red-carded by Joseph Komrosky. Geary was escorted out by armed sheriff’s deputies (right).

Dear Friend of the First Amendment, A man is waving a red card at you, and you’re suddenly escorted out. What just happened?

No, you’re not a soccer player who has flagrantly fouled another player. You’re just a concerned community member at a Temecula Valley school board meeting, and the board president, Joseph Komrosky, did not like what you said. Now you’re being escorted out of the meeting by armed sheriff’s deputies.

Komrosky is now wellknown throughout Temecula as the school board president who ejects meeting attendees with a flip of the wrist and a flash of a red card for any speech or behavior he deems “disruptive” or threatening.

California law doesn’t allow this. And neither does the U.S. Constitution.

The Ralph M. Brown Act, the state’s open meetings law, permits the presiding board member to remove meeting attendees only if their behavior “actually disrupts, disturbs, impedes, or renders infeasible the orderly conduct of the meeting.”

With limited exceptions, the law also requires that the individual is first warned they’re being disruptive and can be removed if they don’t stop.

But at Temecula school board meetings, that’s not how it plays out.

Call a board member a “homophobe”? Red card, ejected.

Say another board member is “probably a Communist”?

Ejected.

But when a man actually starts making threatening comments against LGBTQ people? Next speaker.

That was the last straw for Julie Geary, a school teacher and Temecula resident for more than 25 years. She saw the double standard in Komrosky’s meeting conduct rules and called him out.

You guessed it: Red card, ejected.

Today, FAC and the ACLU of Southern California filed a lawsuit on behalf of Geary and a second Temecula resident, Upneet Dhaliwal, against Komrosky and the Temecula Valley Unified School District for violating their rights under the First Amendment and California law. Both Geary and Dhaliwal had been removed from school board meetings without causing actual disruption or first being warned.

This case isn’t just about one heavy-handed (or cardwaving) elected official. Public meetings are at the heart of civic engagement, and conduct like Komrosky’s chills speech and public participation, striking at the heart of our democracy.

We’re proud to fight for the rights of engaged community members like our clients.

Thank you for your interest in our work.

David Snyder, Executive Director First Amendment Coalition

The Rosendin Foundation Donates $5,000 to Local Nonprofit in Oak Hills...continued Rosendin Foundation has given over $1.87 million to nonprofit organizations in communities where Rosendin and MPS employees live and work.

Contributions from Rosendin Holdings, as well as employees, retirees, and Foundation fundraisers, are the primary sources of funding. Applications for grants and emergency grants are available on the foundation's website at https:// www.therosendinfoundation.org/ grants.

5 Things You Need To Leave Behind In 2023...continued from page 1 Sometimes our biggest critics are our own selves. We’re all too familiar with that inner voice which tells us we’re not good enough or that we don’t have what it takes to succeed.

December 21, 2023During this time of year, make this season one to remember by setting aside your bags and boxes of gently used clothing, shoes, accessories, books, blankets, dishes, small appliances and other home goods and donate them to the Legacy Bridges Foundation, Inc. Clothing Donation Drive-Thru Event on Saturday, January 27th, 2024 from 11:00a.m. - 3:00p.m. on the campus of San Bernardino Valley College located at 701 S. Mount Vernon Ave. San Bernardino, Ca 92410. The event will be held at LOT#2 between Esperanza St. and Grant Ave. near Johnston St. right across from Baker's Drive-Thru.

"Drive-up and we'll unload your vehicles,” said Executive Director Melanee Stovall.

"During this time of year we make room in our closets and cupboards for new gifts and trinkets by removing clothing, shoes, accessories, dishes, blankets and other homegoods.

We present this tremendous opportunity to give those unwanted items a new home, all while supporting a noteworthy cause. Sort through your closets and cupboards and set aside your bags and boxs in preparation of this donation drive-thru event," she said.

The Legacy Bridges Foundation, Inc. (LBF) is a California 501(c)3 nonprofit public benefit corporation founded to support individuals and families who suffer from epilepsy and other seizure related disorders. LBF's mission is to raise awareness of the disease of epilepsy and other seizure related disorders, shine a light

for those individuals and families affected, and partner with other organizations to find a cure.

According to the Epilepsy Foundation, "About 1 out of 10 people may have a seizure during their lifetime, epilepsy affects 1 out of every 26 individuals; 3.4 million people nationwide, more than 65 million people globally, and 150,000 new cases are diagnosed in the United States each year."

“This is a unique two-fold opportunity that we strongly encourage you to participate in, as it will free up space in your homes and allow you to support a local nonprofit organization doing tremendous work,” said Volunteer Director Melody Solomon. "Items we accept include: gently used clothing, shoes, accessories, books, blankets, small appliances and other home goods. We cannot accept the following: encyclopedias, hazardous or construction materials, or weapons. Please use bags for clothes and textiles and tightly packed boxes for small household goods. All items must be in clean condition," she added.

For more information or to volunteer, call (951)3740933 or email us at admin@ legacybridgesfoundation.org.

To make a monetary contribution today, visit w w w. g i v e b u t t e r. c o m / LegacyBridgesFoundationDonations. Support the foundation's mission to raise awareness, shine a light and partner to find a cure. All contributions are fully taxdeductible to the extent of the law.

The Rosendin Foundation Donates $5,000 to Local Nonprofit in Oak Hills Community/ Education News Oak Hills, CA (December 21, 2023) – The Rosendin Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded to make a positive impact on communities through financial grants and volunteer work, celebrated its partnership with Black Locust Designs by presenting the community organization with a $5,000 grant.

The Rosendin Foundation is dedicated to providing financial assistance to community nonprofits in California and around the country.

Black Locust Designs is an Oak Hills-based organization dedicated to supporting singular arts, culture, or humanities nonprofits. Their mission is centered around assisting veterans coping with PTSD, primarily through woodworking.

"The Rosendin Foundation continues to stand by its commitment to support

community initiatives and organizations that resonate with our mission to positively impact communities, build and empower people, and inspire innovation," said Jolsna Thomas, President of The Rosendin Foundation.

"Our unwavering dedication to our community's well-being is a source of great pride, and we are delighted to have the privilege of supporting nonprofit organizations throughout the United States that work tirelessly to create meaningful change every day."

The Rosendin Foundation is the charitable arm of Rosendin Holdings, the parent company of California-based Rosendin, one of the nation's largest design-build specialty electrical contractors, and Modular Power Solutions (MPS), an offsite manufacturing solutions provider. continued in next 2 columns

However, what we say to ourselves is very important. It can determine if we achieve the goals we’ve set or if we remain stuck. So, in 2020, let’s silence the inner critic and be kinder to ourselves.

5. Living In The Past We rob ourselves of enjoying the present moment or having a better future when we fixate on situations that have already happened. We can’t go back in time and change what occurred, we can only move forward.

Being consumed with thoughts of who hurt you or what went wrong and rehearsing your pain will only prevent you from moving on. Leave the past in the past, your future can be better if you give it a chance.

Make this coming year your best one yet by letting go of the negative behaviors and people who held you back in 2019. No need to wait, you can start now!

Physician, Health and Wellness expert, Coach, Author and Speaker! Dr. Kelly Wood, MD is board certified in Internal Medicine as well as Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism. Beyond the stethoscope, Dr. Kelly is recognized as “The Bounce Back Coach,” helping high-performing women to bounce back from failed relationships, rebuild their self-esteem, and reclaim their identity. Follow me on social media @drkellywoodmd or connect with me at drkelly@ drkellywood.com We’re a few days into the new year and it’s possible you’ve already broken a resolution, or two. At the end of each year, over 40 percent of Americans set their New Year’s Resolutions, according to Forbes.

However, that same article states that only 8 percent of Americans actually keep their resolutions throughout the entire year. Even though most people give up on their New Year’s resolutions by the first week of

February, the good thing to know is that this process can change.

By making simple changes in your mindset and the way you set your goals for the New Year, you can maintain resolutions and see a change that will last the entire year and more.

Many people have an idea in their minds about what they would like to change over the next year but oftentimes, this idea is too generic and lacks enough detail to be executed thoroughly.

Take for example the common goal of losing weight. Just stating that you want to lose weight is not enough.

Even stating the amount of weight you want to lose is not enough. You have to get detailed and plan out how you’re actually going to lose the weight. Pinpoint what triggers your weight gain and work to demolish those areas. If food is a large factor, decide which foods you need to eat less to lose weight. If you need to work out more, write out exactly how many times a week you’re going to work out and decide which exercises you will do during that time.

Making a detailed plan decreases confusion when it’s time to get to work and motivates you to get started on improving yourself.accountable that is dedicated to seeing you grow and truly wants to help you during your process but be open to nosiness!

Be open and flexible to any changes that need to be made to your resolutions. You may get a new job that requires more of your time but you really want to stick to your goals. Be flexible enough to change the plan you made at the beginning of the year to fit your new circumstances.

Do not become frustrated and give up but adapt to new ways of reaching your goals.

You may become weary but keep working hard! Sometimes change requires the most consistent work so remember to keep working hard on the change you want to see in your life. Making these small changes to your New Year’s resolutions can be the difference between this year and last year. Remember to stay focused and keep working hard!

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, December 28, 2023

Page 3

COUNTY/GOVERNMENT/BUSINESS/ADVERTISING City of Rancho Cucamonga Issues a Call For Artists City Of Barstow Names New Prioritizing Equity and Accountability: Six Questions The for the African American Community Empowerment to Participate in the Utility Box Beautification Program... continued Director Of Finance Council...continued County/Government News

Consultant at the AACEC, about the organization’s successes, challenges and the impact of its work on California’s Black community.

What does your organization do to improve the lives of Black people in California?

Sydnie Harris new Finance Director BARSTOW, CA – Dec. 20, 2023 – The City of Barstow announced today it has hired Sydnie Harris as its new Finance Director.

In her role, Harris will oversee the following: Lead seven highly productive full-time employees within the Finance Department; coordinate, prioritize, and implement the City’s finances, budget initiatives, and strategic goals of the City; be a strong collaborative partner and respected leader with executivelevel skills in strategic visioning, innovation, problem-solving, decision-making, implementation of financial plans, financial acuity, negotiation, motivation, public speaking, resource allocation, and achievement of broad organizational goals and objectives; and create, modify, present, and explain City financial programs, policies, and services.

“We are pleased to welcome Sydnie Harris to our team,” said Barstow City Manager Willie Hopkins. “She has an advanced level of understanding and performance in areas that include governmental accounting, municipal operations, and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external clients.

As our city grows, she will be a strong asset to the City with her skill set and knowledge.”

Previously, Harris served as Director of Finance for the Town of Apple Valley, where she ran an 11-person department with general accounting functions and had oversight of treasury management services. In addition, she worked as Deputy Director of Finance for the City of San Bernardino, overseeing a staff of eight and managing fiscal recovery post-bankruptcy, among other duties. She also served as Interim Chief for Human Services Auditing for the County of San Bernadino.

In this position, she oversaw a department of 51, handled grants management and disbursements, and worked in conjunction with state and federal program integrity officers on regulation and policy compliance. She directed program compliance auditors and managed program disbursements of $580 million annually.

Harris has served as treasurer for the Association of Government Accountants for 10 years and as treasurer for the Inner City Youth Educational Athletic Association for 15 years.

She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and a Master of Science in Accounting degree with a concentration in Finance, with honors. She attended CSU Dominguez Hills and American Public University.

We have adopted pillars focused on economic development, educational improvement, judicial reform, homelessness -- issues that plague our community.

Black Californians make up the largest segment of the state’s homeless population. You have a lot of efforts to address the problem with churches and community groups working along with government. The question is: how much of that is getting to our community and improving the lives of Black folks?

So, for us, the bottom line is how do we help the African American community? We are not only interested in African Americans, but that is our focus because we believe our communities require a bit more attention and level setting for where we are economically.

What was your greatest success over the course of the last year?

The Council has made a concerted effort to hold meetings with the Governor and his appointment secretaries to increase judicial appointees throughout the state and within State government to achieve equity in representation. The results of these efforts have been fruitful so far.

We are also extremely proud of Pastor Amos Brown, Co-Chair of the AACEC and Co-Chair of the state reparations task force, and the recently published report on reparations.

The strategy is now shifting our focus to the legislature to ensure it implements the task Force recommendations. This is a great opportunity for all community associations to unify around solutions to this historical effort.

and opportunities. We need to find out strategies on how to do that. Black-on-Black crime has had a devastating effect on our communities and not only the issue of safety, but there’s the impact on businesses in the communities as well as housing prices. We treat that very seriously. We anticipate meeting with Attorney General Bonta to address these issues. We must have better management of our communities and rely more on our public representatives as we work toward solutions.

What was your organization’s biggest challenge?

The difficulties are getting results. That’s key. We recognize that the state’s budget is $240 billion annually for the general fund. There is going to naturally be a lot of money appropriated towards various solutions. But how much of this is getting to African Americans? What policy solutions can be in play that directly impact our community?

Working to make sure the African American communities are benefitting from state programs is our constant and biggest challenge.

Does your organization support or plan to get involved in the push for reparations in California?

Our focus is to make the task force’s reparations recommendations a reality and create solutions for what essentially is a generational event. There are numerous success stories. We are ready to unify around solutions for reparations and to see where that will take us. It is monumental, it’s generational, and from a historical perspective, what’s done on that issue will have ramifications for years and years.

How can more Californians of all backgrounds get involved in the work you’re doing?

We have monthly meetings that are open, and our registry is approximately 100 members.

Unless others start participating, there are no capacity limits.

People can see what the issues are, and we speak freely on Zoom calls. It is an open forum. You can see first-hand what occurs with our membership. To get involved, sign up online at AACEC-Cal. org.

Prioritizing Equity and Accountability: Six Questions for the African American Community Empowerment Council

In your view, what is the biggest challenge Black Californians face?

Edward Henderson | California Black Caucus

The City of Rancho Cucamonga Issues a Call For Artists to Participate in the Utility Box Beautification Program

Our community could be better informed on developments

County/Government News

The African American Community Empowerment Council of California (AACEC) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to ensuring government accountability in enhancing the participation of California’s African American communities in the state’s prosperity.

California, the 5th largest economy in the world, boasts a $3.6 trillion GDP that accounts for 14.3 % of the total U.S. economy.

A basic tenet of the council is that California’s success is built on the strengths and contributions of all its residents. The state’s economic power can only be maintained by acknowledging what makes California strong: the strength of its diversity and the state’s commitment to inclusion. Therefore, the AACEC believes no resident should be left behind or denied access to

the state’s prosperity.

Even though California faces a projected deficit of nearly $68 million in next year’s budget, the state is still on relatively strong footing, considering its cash reserves of nearly $38 billion, the largest of any state in U.S. history.

Nonetheless, policymakers and state budget experts expect deep cuts to spending during the next legislative session.

In light of this challenge, the AACEC says it will continue to devise strategies to ensure critical funding reaches African American communities, and that state programs positively influence the lives of the families who need it most.

California Black Media spoke with Michael Carter, Chief continued in next 2 columns

Rancho Cucamonga, California – Get ready to unleash your creativity! The City of Rancho Cucamonga is issuing a Call For Artists for their Utility Box Beautification Program. As a dynamic initiative under RC Public Art, we're on a mission to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. The program focuses on expanding art in infrastructure and enhancing people’s experiences in public spaces, covering mundane utility boxes with vibrant public art that reflects our community.

The City is seeking artists to design four (4) utility boxes that will bring a new level of color and creativity to the city. The project will transform blank canvases into functional artwork and highlight the work of local artists to help create a more vibrant, attractive cityscape while contributing to the character of the neighborhood. The chosen art designs will be printed on vinyl and installed on the box.

Local emerging artists are invited to showcase their talents, while promoting eye-catching public art throughout the city.

The submission period runs until January 4, or until 100 applications have been received.

The four (4) utility box locations are: Wilson Ave. and San Sevine Rd. Hermosa Ave. and Feron St. 6th St. and The Resort Pkwy.

Church St. and Elm St. West Artists selected for this project will work closely with City staff and a third-party vendor to finalize designs and install their artwork on the utility boxes. Artists that have been selected will receive a $750.00 stipend for the design and completion of the project.

The City of Rancho Cucamonga is committed to supporting the arts and promoting creativity in the community. The Utility Box Beautification Program is an exciting opportunity for local artists to showcase their talent and make a lasting impact on the city's public spaces.

For more information on the project and how to apply, please visit the city's website at continued in next 2 columns

CityofRC.us/PublicArt. About the City of Rancho Cucamonga: Rancho Cucamonga encompasses nearly 47 square miles and is located 40 miles east of Los Angeles; considered to be the premier city in the Inland Empire, Rancho Cucamonga is one of the fastest-growing

metropolitan areas in Southern California with a current population of over 175,000 residents. Information regarding the City and the program and services provided to the community can be found at www.

CityofRC.us, via Facebook, X, and Instagram.

Submission Deadline is MONDAYS by 5pm & 12 noon TUESDAYS when holiday falls on Monday Email Press Releases to: mary@sb-american.com Submit legals to website: sb-american.com

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Supporting Access to Healthy Foods and Resilient Food Systems ...continued from page 1 Governor Newsom.

Healthy Refrigeration Grant Program equipment in Oakland CDFA will use up to $3 million of the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program funding for technical assistance to farmers and food businesses, and up to $1 million to support

supply chain coordination.

CDFA will fund projects that benefit historically underserved or socially disadvantaged farmers, small disadvantaged businesses, women-owned businesses, or veteran-owned businesses; enhance worker safety; and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase water savings, among other priorities.

“My Truth” Dear…

By Cheryl Smith Publisher of I Messenger Media Texas Metro News

If you didn’t get it done in 2023.

Well as this year winds down, some of you may be thinking back to this time last year, when you were making resolutions.

Please don’t feel like a failure because some of your hopes and dreams didn’t come to fruition.

It’s time to look toward the future! When all is said and done, you can put 2023 in the history books.

That’s right. 2023 is Black History. So what’s up for the future? Much of what will happen is dependent upon your actions and the rest is really out of your control. As you plan for 2024, take time to reassess the past year. What did you like about it and what would you change if you could?

While we know you can’t change the past, you have a darn good chance to make yourself better in the future — as long as you have a breath in your body.

Now, are you happy with where you are? Do you feel like there are things you could have done better? Or, do you want to be in the same place next year this time?

Which brings me to my truth.

There were some trials and triumphs in 2023. There were also tears of joy and sorrow. The year had me on a roller coaster

of emotions. And I survived. I tried to learn from situations that eventually challenged me to be a better person and I am still amazed at some things that people will do to one another.

And just when I think I have enough friends or special people in my life, the door opens and someone new walks in and they prove to be wonderful and special! I oftentimes would tell students that they are not “grown” because they are actually “growing.”

Each day they get up they are in a position to grow a little more, do things a little better, and better enjoy this thing we call life. This year, I also shared some last moments with quite a few people. So, I found myself thinking about others who have transitioned in previous years.

I reminisced about the impact they had on my life. Whatever they did, whatever their purpose, they too are now history. One day, people will say the same about you. Just make sure that you have made this time account for something. Make sure that you use at least some of this time wisely and that you left this place better than it was when you were born.

Is that too much to ask?

Cheryl Smith is the owner, Publisher and Editor of I Messenger Media LLC the umbrella for Texas Metro News, Garland Journal, and I Messenger digital magazine. Email her at www.penonfire2@gmail.com

Thursday, December 28, 2023

Page 4

STATE/HEALTH//LIFESTYLE NEWS

Meet the UAB Student Who Earned Nursing Degree at Age 77

By Pareasa Rahimi UAB News

Donald Diltz was in Colombia on the Venezuelan border volunteering in the Peace Corps in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. When he was evacuated and returned home, he had some time to think about what he wanted to do next and how he could continue to serve others.

The then 75-year-old former educator, volunteer and business executive decided it was not too late to start a new journey. He decided he wanted to become a nurse and set his sights on the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Nursing.

Three years later, the now 77-year-old graduated from UAB on Dec. 8, over 55 years after receiving his first degree.

“I decided I didn’t want to stay home and watch television — I knew that for sure,” Diltz said.

“I feel that I’m a blessed person and have had a wonderful life with so many opportunities.

Teachings in spirituality are quite clear that you can only expect to continue with that if you help other people.”

Diltz had always been interested in human and health services; but his previous degrees were a bachelor’s in English, a master’s in economics and a master’s in business administration. He was thrilled when he discovered UAB’s Accelerated Master’s in Nursing Pathway — a pathway that allows those with bachelor’s degrees in non-nursing fields to become nurses.

“This pathway was made for me,” Diltz said. “It’s the best educational program I’ve been in, and I’ve been in some great

ones. It has been even more than I dreamed of.”

While initially uncertain of what to expect as the oldest student in his cohort, Diltz has formed tight-knit friendships with other students as they have spent the past three semesters learning and growing together.

“As a senior, I wasn’t entirely sure how I would be accepted with so many younger people; but we’ve all supported each other throughout the year, working together in labs, clinicals, through tests and studying. Beyond that, we’re friends,” Diltz said.

Diltz wants those thinking about pursuing a different path or making a career change to know that it is never too late to try something new.

“When I thought about trying to become a nurse, I was overwhelmed because I knew there would be a big hurdle and I just wasn’t sure I was up for it,” Diltz said. “Here we are, one year later, undergoing an intense education, and I’ll be sitting for the NCLEX in a month. I would encourage anybody to just give it a try.”

After graduation, Diltz will begin an internship with UAB Medicine that will allow him to work in and learn about different units. He plans to get at least two years of experience as a bedside nurse before exploring leadership opportunities.

“This pathway is just the beginning of becoming a great nurse,” Diltz said. “There are things I haven’t done, and this internship will allow me to test the waters to decide what direction I want to go.”

Holiday Heart Syndrome: What is it? How Can You Prevent It?...continued people are more prone to binge drinking.”

With increased alcohol consumption, there are changes in the molecular signaling in the heart and abnormalities in calcium handling within the heart. Calcium enters the heart with each heartbeat and contributes to the electrical signaling that helps with heart function. These abnormalities in calcium handling can trigger an irregular heartbeat. Alcohol consumption also leads to electrolyte disturbances and can lead to changes in the autonomic nervous system — a network of nerves that control involuntary functions of the body such as lung and heart function. Alcohol also has a direct toxic effect on heart tissue and can cause stress and injury to the cells.

In addition to alcohol consumption, overindulging in holiday feasts and a diet high in saturated fats and sodium have been linked to heart conditions and an increased risk of AFib. Large meals have been shown to increase excessive vagal nerve stimulation, which controls specific body functions such as digestion, heart rate and immune system. Eating large meals can increase blood levels of hormones that raise blood pressure and heart rate.

Symptoms And Risks “The most common symptom is usually the sudden onset of palpitations, where someone feels like their heart is beating fast or irregularly. These palpitations can be intermittent or continuous,” Smith said.

“Holiday heart syndrome may be associated with shortness of breath, dizziness or chest pain, especially if the heart rate is significantly elevated.”

If someone is experiencing these symptoms, and they are severe or last for more than a few minutes, Smith recommends seeking medical attention.

“If you seek medical attention, testing would likely be done to rule out any underlying heart disease or other causes of arrhythmia,” Smith said.

“Depending on how fast the heart rate is and symptom burden, specific treatment may be needed, including medications to help slow the heart rate or a cardioversion procedure to restore normal rhythm.”

AFib caused by holiday heart syndrome usually resolves by stopping alcohol consumption. In most cases, episodes will resolve within 12-24 hours; but in some cases, AFib may persist. If this is the case, other treatment may be required.

“AFib puts patients at an increased risk of stroke, especially in the setting of other risk factors, like high blood pressure and diabetes,” Smith said. “Depending on the type of treatment needed or associated risk factors, patients may need to be started on a blood thinner medication to help reduce the risk of stroke. It is important to be evaluated if you think your heart is out of rhythm to avoid missing a diagnosis that may need long-term management.”

Prevention “The best way to avoid holiday heart syndrome is to avoid binge drinking,” Smith said. “In general, it is recommended to not exceed more than one drink per day for women, or two drinks per day for men.”

Smith also recommends limiting fatty, sugary and salty foods and avoiding overeating.

While caffeine has not been proved to increase AFib if consumed in normal amounts, Smith also says it would be better to avoid excessive caffeine intake, especially for people who may be sensitive to caffeine’s effects.

“While enjoying the holidays is important, moderation is key to keeping it heart-healthy,” Smith said. “Staying hydrated and not neglecting regular physical activity will also help.”

Smith urges people to not delay seeking medical attention if something appears to be wrong.

“When it comes to the heart, timely evaluation and treatment can make a big difference,” Smith said.

Seniors in Care Facilities Have More Protection Available This Year: CDC Encourages Vaccination Against Flu, Holiday Heart Syndrome: What is it?

COVID-19 and RSV

How Can You Prevent It?

By Anna Jones UAB News

A UAB expert is offering some of their top tips on how to avoid holiday heart syndrome and enjoy a heart-healthy holiday season.

The holiday season can be a time filled with friends, family and, of course, holiday food and beverages. While it is perfectly fine to indulge in one’s favorite food and beverages this holiday season, it is best to avoid overindulging in these items, which can potentially lead to a condition known as holiday heart syndrome — also known as atrial fibrillation, or an irregular heartbeat that is associated with binge drinking. AFib caused by holiday heart syndrome can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure and even heart attacks.

One expert in the University of Alabama at Birmingham Division of Cardiovascular Disease is offering some of their

top tips on how to avoid holiday heart syndrome and enjoy a heart-healthy holiday season.

Causes “The term ‘holiday heart syndrome’ was first described almost 50 years ago,” said Blake Smith, M.D., a cardiac electrophysiologist at the UAB Cardiovascular Institute. “It was noted that multiple patients were being hospitalized with cardiac arrhythmias, particularly atrial fibrillation, after binge drinking alcohol. These events were noted to be more frequent around weekends and holidays, when continued in next 2 columns

Health News New research in this week’s MMWR finds that most nursing home residents haven't received an updated COVID-19 vaccine or the new RSV vaccine.

This year, for the first time, vaccines are available to protect older adults in the United States against all three fall/ winter respiratory illnesses: flu, COVID-19 and RSV. Older Americans who are not vaccinated are at greater risk of serious illness.

Leading up to this virus season, and throughout the fall, CDC has worked with other federal agencies, state and local health departments, and health care partners to address vaccine access issues and encourage uptake.

CDC was a key participant in the Long Term Care Facility Summit on October 18, 2023, which was co-hosted by the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Director of the Office of Pandemic Preparedness and Response Policy. In addition to other activities, CDC regularly: Monitors all reports and data about the safety and effectiveness of these vaccines.

Convenes bi-weekly calls with long-term care partners to address challenges/develop solutions.

Works to improve equitable access to vaccines by connecting manufacturers with long-term care pharmacies to prioritize

vaccine distribution for the Bridge Access Program.

Distributes a weekly newsletter with respiratory virus resources and information specific to long-term care providers. (e.g., toolkits, FAQs, clinical resources, vaccine confidence resources) Supports the education of partners through participation in speaking engagements and webinars.

Engages with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to identify solutions to address feedback from long-term care partners around billing and reimbursement challenges which have been a barrier to vaccine administration. As a result, CMS issued a letter to plans and pharmacy benefit managers to outline the concerns and provide guidance on ways to improve practices.

Health care providers can continue to do their part by offering recommended vaccinations to residents.

Nursing homes are encouraged to collaborate with state, local and federal public health, and long-term care pharmacy partners to address barriers contributing to low vaccination coverage. Vaccination is a key way to prevent severe disease, hospitalization, and death from flu, COVID-19 and RSV.

Beauty Products Are Hurting the Climate — and Black Women

By Lauren Wolfe

Credit: Shutterstock

What do beauty products have to do with climate change?

There’s the obvious answer: They are laden with petrochemicals that are produced from fossil fuels. But if you’re a woman of color, there’s a more insidious answer.

Social constructs placed on Black women have long led to the use of chemical hair relaxers, many of which contain lye, which is so corrosive, “it almost always damages the skin of people who are having their hair permed,” writes Victoria St. Martin, a reporter for Inside Climate News.

“Chemical burns on a young Black girl’s scalp,” Heather McTeer Toney, a former regional administrator with the Environmental Protection Agency, said in an interview with the outlet, “was a rite of passage.”

Decades of the use of relaxers — or even skin lighteners — can have severely adverse effects on health, according to new research from Boston University’s Black Women’s Health Study. The research suggests that even the moderate use of chemical relaxers may increase Black women’s risk of uterine cancer as they reach menopause. Women who reported using relaxers more than twice a year for more than five years, the study found, had a greater than 50 percent risk of uterine cancer.

Now add in the fact that there are racial disparities in

how women are geographically impacted by climate change.

Many studies have found that Black women, in particular, are disproportionally more likely to live near noxious fuel plants and therefore more likely to suffer the increased risks of respiratory and other illnesses, and even death.

These disparities are due to many factors, including racism within the housing market (redlining) and a lack of access to health care in poorer communities.

Then consider that often shampoos and lotions loaded with petrochemicals are used to treat skin issues caused by the chemicals’ very production, and you begin to see how sinister the environmental harms to Black women truly are.

“If you live right in the shadow of a plant, not only are you dealing with the pollution that’s coming from that plant, but it could have an impact on your skin,” said McTeer Toney.

“And then the products that you need to treat that include toxic chemicals.”

And even as the world attempts to turn away from the fuels that feed climate change, “essentially fossil fuel companies are putting more investment into petrochemicals, which then show up as plastics, and trying to increase plastic consumption,” said Columbia University professor Ami Zota in another interview with Inside Climate News.

The harmful loop goes on and on.

Editor's note: This article has been corrected to reflect that Victoria St. Martin is the author of the two Inside Climate News stories, and Ami Zota's name has been changed.

OP-ED: Supporting HBCUs’ Sustainability in America...continued from page 2 in comparison to those at the U.S.’s top ranked colleges and universities, with the overall endowments at all the country’s HBCUs accounting for less than a tenth of Harvard’s.

The gap in funding between PWIs and HBCUs isn’t just because of smaller endowments, it’s also because state lawmakers keep funds off HBCU campuses – in North Carolina, for example, legislators awarded N.C. State an extra $79 million for research while N.C. A&T – the nation’s largest HBCU – was given only $9.5 million.

When it comes to access to technology, HBCUs also face an uphill battle with 82% of HBCUs being located in socalled “broadband deserts.”

Despite their struggles with funding, and the fact that these schools constitute only 3 percent of four-year colleges in the country, HBCU graduates account for 80 percent of all Black judges, 50 percent of Black lawyers, 50 percent of Black doctors, 40 percent of Black members of Congress, and our country’s current vice president.

HBCUs truly know how to do more with less, but they cannot be saddled with costly regulations that pose an existential crisis to their ability operate and be given no help to deflect some of the costs. Fortunately, however, there are businesses and individuals who see the importance of HBCUs to the Black community and are willing to lend their hands – and their dollars – to support them.

The Student Freedom Initiative (SFI), a non-profit chaired by philanthropist and entrepreneur Robert F. Smith and funded by major tech companies like Cisco, has raised millions of dollars to help HBUs comply

with the Education Department’s mandates. Cisco alone donated $150 million to the SFI with $100 million allocated to bringing HBCU cybersecurity system upgrades and $50 million going to establish an endowment to offer alternative student loans.

With $89 million already distributed to 42 HBCUs across the nation, the initiative has already saved around $1.5 billion in needs-based funding to these colleges and universities and is making strong inroads to helping these institutions meet the new cybersecurity regulations, but more is required if all HBCUs are to be saved.

Given the empowering impact HBCUs have on the nation’s Black community and the future promise of a more inclusive America, it is imperative that more companies support the work the Student Freedom Initiative is doing to ensure these vital higher education schools can continue to educate and inspire future generations.

As Vice President Harris said, “What you learn at an HBCU is you do not have to fit into somebody’s limited perspective on what it means to be young, gifted and Black.”

We in the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO) https:// www.nafeonation.org/ stand in strong support of the Student Freedom Initiative. We all should work together to ensure the sustainability of HBCUs in America.

Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., Chairman of the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO) and President and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA).

Thursday, December 28, 2023

Page 5

LEGALS/CLASSIFIEDS/NEWS FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN 20230012511 Date Filed: 12/19/2023 Filing Expires On: 12/19/2028 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): LAST CALL INSURANCE SERVICES County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business: 621 E MAIN ST BARSTOW, CA 92311 Name of Individual Registrant: JULIE FUENTES Residence Street Address: 1251 W BUENA VISTA ST BARSTOW, CA 92311 This business is/was conducted by: An Individual Registrant has commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Nov 02, 2006 Julie Fuentes, Owner, declares that all information in this statement is true and correct.

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 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper December 28, 2023, January 4, 11, 18, 2024.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN 20230012276 Date Filed: 12/13/2023 Filing Expires On: 12/13/2028 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): X&E CLEANING SERVICES County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business: 16606 SHOLIC ST VICTORVILLE, CA 92395 #of Employees: 2 Name of Individual: ESTEFANIA A TORRES Residence Street Address: 16606 SHOLIC ST VICTORVILLE, CA 92395 This business is/was conducted by: An Individual Registrant has commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Not Applicable Estefania A. Torres, declares that all information in this statement is true and correct.

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 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper December 21, 28, 2023, January 4, 11, 2024.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN 20230012287 Date Filed: 12/13/2023 Filing Expires On: 12/13/2028 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): POETIC PLUMBING County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business: 1272 CLINTON CT UPLAND, CA 91786 Mailing Address: 1272 CLINTON CT UPLAND, CA 91786 Name of Individual Registrant: TYLER B CLARK Residence Street Address: 1272 CLINTON CT. UPLAND, CA 91786 This business is/was conducted by: An Individual Registrant has commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Not Applicable Tyler B. Clark, declares that all information in this statement is true and correct.

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 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper December 21, 28, 2023, January 4, 11, 2024.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN 20230011560 Date Filed: 11/20/2023 Filing Expires On: 11/20/2028 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg APLUS CARPET County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business: 11561 FOOTHILL BLVD STE 103. RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CA 91730 #of Employees: 1 Name of corporation or limited liability company as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.: PRIMO FLOORING AND MORE State of Inc./ Org./Reg.: CA Inc./Org./Reg. No.: C4711052 Residence Street Address: 11561 FOOTHILL BLVD STE 103 RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CA 91730 This business is/was conducted by: A Corporation Registrant has commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Apr 02, 2021 Bilal Bechara, President, declares that all information in this statement is true and correct.

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 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper December 7, 14, 21, 28, 2023.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN 20230011926 Date Filed: 12/01/2023 Filing Expires On: 12/01/2028 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): AUTO KINGS County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business: 1697 N. 2ND AVE UPLAND, CA 91784 #of Employees: 1 Name of corporation or limited liability company as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.: ANETICA INTERNATIONAL LLC State of Inc./ Org./Reg.: CA Inc./Org./Reb No.: Residence Street Address: 1697 N 2ND AVE UPLAND, CA 91784 This business is/was conducted by: A Limited Liability Company Registrant has commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names

listed above on: Nov 30, 2023 Amir Jafari, President, declares that all information in this statement is true and correct.

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 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper December 7, 14, 21, 28, 2023.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN 20230011764 Date Filed: 11/27/2023 Filing Expires On: 11/27/2028 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): ALL AROUND SERVICES County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business: 15055 BEAR VALLEY ROAD SUITE #F HESPERIA, CA 92345 Mailing Address: 7850 KENYON AVENUE HESPERIA, CA 92345 #of Employees: 3 Name of Individual Registrant: RITA L. CAMARGO Residence Street Address: 7850 KENYON AVENUE HESPERIA, CA 92345 This business is/was conducted by: An Individual Registrant has commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Nov 27, 2023 Rita L. Camargo, Owner, declares that all information in this statement is true and correct.

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 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper December 7, 14, 21, 28, 2023.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN 20230011992 Date Filed: 12/04/2023 Filing Expires On: 12/04/2028 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): SILVERWOOD RANCH HOUSE RESTAURANT County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business: 13910 HIGHWAY 138 HESPERIA, CA 92345 Name of Individual Registrant: JIM J KIM Residence Street Address: 5191 US HIGHWAY 138 PHELAN, CA 92371 This business is/was conducted by: An Individual Registrant has commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Feb 26, 2006 Jim J. Kim, declares that all information in this statement is true and correct.

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 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper December 14, 21, 28, 2023, January 4, 2024.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN 20230011182 Date Filed: 11/06/2023 Filing Expires On: 11/06/2028 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): LISAS MARKET County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business: 600 E D STREET ONTARIO, CA 91764 Name of corporation or limited liability company as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.: SHIV DADA CORPORATION State of Inc./Org./Reg.: Inc./Org./Reg. No.: Residence Street Address: 600 E D STREET ONTARIO, CA 91764 This business is/was conducted by: A Corporation Registrant has commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Feb 28, 2019 Bhavi Patel, President, declares that all information in this statement is true and correct.

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 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper December 7, 14, 21, 28, 2023.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN 20230011146 Date Filed: 11/03/2023 Filing Expires On: 11/03/2028 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): HI-TECH COMPUTERS County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business: 15247 ALEXANDRIA ST ADELANTO, CA 92301 #of Employees: 0 Name of Individual: BREANN BUNDA Residence Street Address: 15247 ALEXANDRIA ST ADELANTO, CA 92301 This business is/was conducted by: An Individual Registrant has commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Feb 01, 2016 Breann Bunda. Owner, declares that all information in this statement is true and correct.

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 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper December 14, 21, 28, 2023, January 4, 2024.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN 20230011935 Date Filed: 12/01/2023 Filing Expires On: 12/01/2028 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): VALLEY VIEW SPA County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business: 1833 MENTONE BLVD. MENTONE, CA 92359 #of Employees: 1 Name of Individual Registrant: JOSHUA A FLORES Residence Street Address: 1319 STEVENS AVE SAN GABRIEL, CA 91776 This business is/was conducted by: An Individual Registrant has commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Nov 28, 2023 Joshua A Flores, Owner, declares that all information in this statement is true and correct.

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 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper December 28, 2023, January 4, 11, 18, 2024.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN 20230012030 Date Filed: 12/06/2023 Filing Expires On: 12/06/2028 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): LOXROXX County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business: 2999 KENDALL DRIVE SUITE 204 SAN BERNARDINO, CA 92407 Name of Individual Registrant: LORENA RODRIGUEZ Residence Street Address: 2999 KENDALL DRIVE SUITE #204. SAN BERNARDINO, CA 92407 Name of Individual Registrant: MARK A TORRES Residence Street Address: 2999 KENDALL DRIVE SUITE #204. SAN BERNARDINO, CA 92407 This business is/was conducted by: Copartners Registrant has commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Not Applicable Lorena Rodriguez, General Partner, declares that all information in this statement is true and correct.

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 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper December 14, 21, 28, 2023, January 4, 2024.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN 20230012142 Date Filed: 12/11/2023 Filing Expires On: 1211/2028 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): ZOE LEARNING CONCEPTS County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business: 1942 SOUTH E STREET. SAN BERNARDINO, CA 92408 Mailing Address: 7438 BEAR CREEK CT HIGHLAND, CA 92346 #of Employees: 1 Name of Individual: NORMAN D JONES Residence Street Address: 7438 BEAR CREEK CT HIGHLAND, CA 92346 This business is/was conducted by: An Individual Registrant has commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Nov 01, 2023 Norman D. Jones, declares that all information in this statement is true and correct.

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 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper December 21, 28, 2023, January 4, 11, 2024.

PUBLISH YOUR LEGAL OR CLASSIFIED WITH THE SAN BERNARDINO

AMERICAN NEWS CALL US TODAY 909-889-7677

PETITION/PROBATE NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

DAVID EUGENE KEITH COBB DECEDENT CASE NO: PROVA 2300298 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both of: DAVID

EUGENE KEITH COBB

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by FREDDA COBB in the Superior Court of California, County of SAN BERNARDINO THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that: FREDDA COBB 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: Jan 03, 2024 Time: 9:00 a.m.

Dept: F1 FONTANA SUPERIOR COURT 17780 Arrow Blvd.

Fontana, CA 92335 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.

Attorney for Petitioner: Edward G. Operini SB#130541 Law Offices of Edward G. Operini 16820 Ivy Avenue Fontana, CA 92335 (909)822-5041 Published in The San Bernardino American Newspaper December 14, 21, 28, 2023.

SUMMONS SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL) CASE NUMBER (Número del Caso): CIVSB2220781 NOTICE TO DEFENDANT (AVISO AL DEMANDADO): BRANDY N GREEN, 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 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. 568481) DATE (Fecha): OCT 24 2022 Clerk (Secretario), by SAMANTHA BECERRA, Deputy (Adjunto) (SEAL) 12/28/23, 1/4, 1/11, 1/18/24 CNS-3767882# THE SAN BERNARDINO AMERICAN SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL) CASE NUMBER (Número del Caso): CIVSB2216020 NOTICE TO DEFENDANT (AVISO AL DEMANDADO): MANOACH SHULMAN, 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 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): Angelika Sidoruk Esq., (CA Bar No.: 338048), REESE LAW GROUP, 3168 Lionshead Avenue, Carlsbad, CA 92010; 760/842-5850 (File No. 568055). DATE (Fecha): Aug 18, 2022, Clerk (Secretario), by Robert Miranda, Deputy (Adjunto) (SEAL) NOTICE TO THE PERSON SERVED: You are served .

12/14, 12/21, 12/28/23, 1/4/24 CNS-3762194# THE SAN BERNARDINO AMERICAN

PUBLIC NOTICES VB BTS II, LLC would like to place on notice the following: 1) the proposed construction of a 51’ (61’ including all appurtenances) temporary ballast tower known as Floyd (1154’ ground elevation), located at 34°5’53.26” north latitude and -117°34’26.59” west longitude, ASR File # A1262666. This tower will be deconstructed and swapped with 2) the proposed construction of a 51’ (61’ including all appurtenances) monopine tower known as Floyd (1153.6’ ground elevation), located at 34°5’53.4” north latitude and -117°34’25.96” west longi- tude, ASR File #A1262616. Both towers will be near 8548 Utica Ave, Rancho Cucamonga, California 91730. If lighting is required the applicant will request the use of dual red/ white, medium intensity lighting (but will ultimately use lighting/ marking required by the FAA).

The applications for the proposed proj- ects can be viewed at www. fcc.gov/asr/applications by entering the ASR file number.

If you have environmental concerns about the proposed structures, a Request for Environmental Review may be filed with the FCC at www.fcc. gov/ asr/environmentalrequest or by writing to FCC Requests for Environmental Review, ATTN: Ramon Williams, 445 12th St SW, Washington, DC 20554.

The FCC strongly encourages interested parties to file Requests for Environmental Review online.

Requests for Environmental Review may only raise environmental concerns and must be filed within 30 days of the date that notice of the project is published on the FCC's website.

If you have any concerns regarding historic properties that may be affected by this proposed undertaking, please contact: Jordan Braden, Lotis Environmental, LLC, at Legals@ TheLotisGroup. com or (417) 839-3701. In your response, please include the proposed undertaking’s location and a list of the historic resources that you believe to be affected along with their respective addresses or approximate locations. Published in The San Bernardino American News December 28, 2023

Don’t Miss Out On Timely News!!

Visit The San Bernardino AMERICAN News Website: sb-american. com

A Comprehensive Guide to the Buy Now, Pay Later Trend

by Finances FYI | Presented by JPMorgan Chase

Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) has emerged as a widespread and disruptive consumer purchasing and finance trend in recent years. This payment mode allows consumers to make purchases immediately and defer the payment in installments.

While BNPL has gained immense popularity, it brings with it advantages and potential pitfalls for consumers and businesses. This comprehensive guide defines BNPL, the latest trends, and how consumers and businesses can use this payment revolution to their advantage.

What is Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL)?

As the name suggests, Buy Now, Pay Later is a payment model that allows consumers to make purchases at the point of sale and choose to pay for them later in scheduled installments. These installments can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the terms offered by the BNPL provider. Unlike traditional credit cards, BNPL services typically do not charge interest on the payments, making it an attractive option for many consumers.

The BNPL process is straightforward and includes: 1. Selection. When available, a customer selects the BNPL option at the online or physical store checkout.

2. Approval. The customer can complete the purchase if the customer’s eligibility for BNPL is approved after assessment.

3. Payment Plan. The customer agrees to a repayment plan, often specifying the number of installments and their due dates.

4. Payments. The customer pays for their purchase in equal or customized installments, usually over a few weeks to several months.

How Popular is BNPL? According to GlobalData’s report, The Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) market is expected to grow at an annual growth rate of 25.5% through 2026. Insider Intelligence forecasts that much of this growth will be in younger generations, with 59% of Gen Z and 53% of millennials making a BNPL payment in 2026, compared to 41% of Gen X and 24% of Baby Boomers.

Pros of BNPL for Consumers Financial Flexibility. BNPL allows consumers to spread out the cost of their purchases, making expensive items more affordable over time.

Interest-Free. Most BNPL services don’t charge interest, making it more cost-effective than credit cards for those who can manage their payments responsibly.

No Credit Check. Many BNPL providers don’t perform credit checks, which can be appealing to consumers with limited or poor credit history.

Convenience. The application process is often quick and straightforward. The approval usually happens at the point of purchase.

Cons of BNPL for Consumers Overspending. The convenience of BNPL can lead to overspending and accumulating debt if consumers are not disciplined.

Late Fees. Failing to make payments on time can result in late fees, which can add to the overall cost of the purchase.

Impact on Credit. While BNPL might not negatively affect credit scores directly, late payments could have an indirect impact.

Pros of BNPL for Businesses Increased Sales. Offering BNPL can boost sales by attracting consumers who might not have made the purchase otherwise. Buyers may also purchase highervalue items when they can make payments over time.

Reduced Cart Abandonment. BNPL can help reduce cart abandonment rates, as consumers are more likely to complete a purchase when they know they can defer payment.

Easy Integration. Many BNPL solutions are easy to integrate into e-commerce platforms, making them accessible to businesses of all sizes.

Customer Loyalty. Businesses may experience increased customer loyalty when shoppers return to their site knowing they can use a BNPL payment. It can also provide a competitive advantage over other companies without this option.

Cons of BNPL for Businesses Fees. BNPL providers charge businesses fees for each transaction, which can eat into profit margins.

Risk of Chargebacks. In case of customer disputes or fraud, businesses may face the risk of chargebacks, leading to potential financial losses.

Competition. As BNPL gains popularity, the market becomes increasingly competitive, potentially lowering profit margins.

Buy Now, Pay Later is a convenient and popular payment model with benefits and potential pitfalls for consumers and businesses. Consumers enjoy its flexibility and affordability, but they must exercise discipline to avoid overspending and late fees. BNPL can boost sales and increase businesses’ customer loyalty, but it comes with fees and potential risks. As the popularity of BNPL continues to rise, it’s crucial for both consumers and businesses to carefully evaluate its implications and make informed choices regarding its use.

Thursday, December 28, 2023

Page 6

WORLD/POLITICAL NEWS/LEGAL/CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

The Idea of the Beloved Community

PETITION/PROBATE

The creative friendship of Martin Luther King Jr. and Thich Nhat Hanh

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: DAVID EDWARD HUGHES DECEDENT CASE NO: PROVA2300284

January 13, 2023 | Susan M Pollack Psychology Today

ML King and Thich Nhat Hanh - May 1966 Chicago Sheraton Hotel

KEY POINTS The idea of the Beloved Community originated with Harvard philosophy professor Josiah Royce.

Martin Luther King Jr. developed the idea as vision for how we could all live in harmony.

Zen monk and meditation teacher Thich Nhat Hanh expanded on the concept to include all forms of life.

The world we’ve built feels increasingly fragile as we face new and more severe forms of climate change, political upheavals, and ongoing wars. As I reflect on Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, I am inspired by his focus on the importance of joining together to work for common humanity, what he called the “Beloved Community.” Without community, we can’t go very far. And without a harmonious community, he stated, we won’t be able to realize our dream.

The Work of Josiah Royce Where did the idea of the “Beloved Community” originate?

It turns out that Josiah Royce, a philosophy professor at Harvard, developed the idea. In 1913, Royce wrote, “My life means nothing, either theoretically or practically, unless I am a member of a community.” He observed that, besides the actual communities we experience in our daily lives, there was also an ideal “beloved community” made up of all those who were dedicated to the cause of loyalty and truth. Royce did not see the community as a static object but as an all-embracing, radical idea of unity for the whole human race.

The Impact on Martin Luther King Jr. King, who trained in philosophy, continued this idea when writing “Facing the Challenge of a New Age” in 1956.

“But the end is reconciliation; the end is redemption; the end is the creation of a beloved community. It is this type of spirit and this type of love that can transform opposers into friends.

It is this kind of understanding and goodwill that will transform the deep gloom of the old age into the exuberant gladness of the new age. It is this love which will bring about miracles.”

It turns out that just as King extended the insights of a great philosopher, the Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh, who was a friend of King’s, further extended and developed this idea. Thich Nhat Hanh, a philosopher and visionary in his own right, is often called “the father of mindfulness.”

In a new book by Marc Andrus, Brothers in the Beloved Community, he describes the friendship between these two men who inspired each other.

Thich Nhat Contribution

Hanh's

Thich Nhat Hanh was devastated by King's assassination. After King’s murder, Thich Nhat Hanh committed himself to building a Beloved Community. He wrote, “When I heard the news, I was devastated. I could not eat. I could not sleep. I made a deep vow to continue building what he called the Beloved Community, not only for myself but for him also.”

At the core of Thich Nhat Hanh's teaching was the philosophical idea of non-duality, the connection of all life and of all things. For example, he believed that as peace flowers in your heart, it also flowers in the universe. He began to see the Beloved Community from this perspective. As the Beloved Community is built, repaired, and manifested in our hearts and our consciousnesses, so it is healed for all beings.

There were times when Thich Nhat Hanh fell into despair. It was hard for him to remain hopeful about the future. He wrote, “They killed Martin Luther King, they killed us. I’m afraid the root of violence is so deep in the heart and mind and manner of this society. They killed him.

They killed my hope. I do not know what to say. He made so great an impression on me. This morning, I have the impression that I cannot bear the loss.”

Yet as he processed this great loss, he drew on King’s optimism and took strength from it. Over time, he came to understand death differently. “When you lose a loved one, you suffer. But if you know how to look deeply, you have a chance to realize that his or her nature is truly the nature of no birth, no death.”

Despite great darkness and violence, King had always remained hopeful.

“When our days become dreary with low-hovering clouds and our nights become darker than a thousand midnights, we will know that we are living in the creative turmoil of a genuine civilization struggling to be born.”

Thich Nhat Hanh, who died just a few months ago, came to believe that the work of enlightened beings doesn’t end with death—that they continue to be with us, helping us manifest the Beloved Community. And his idea of community continued to expand, eventually including all of life, not just human life.

As we step back and look at the evolution of this inspiring idea, we realize that, at its core, it is about all of us. It is about relationships and their depth. It means that we all matter. And that we are all Beloved.

References Andrus, M. (2021). Brothers in the Beloved Community.

Berkeley: Parallax Press. ____

L E G A L S & C L A S S I F I E D S

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

EDWARD HUGHES

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by JOEL HUGHES in the Superior Court of California, County of SAN BERNARDINO. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that: JOEL HUGHES 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: 01/04/2024 Time: 09:00 a.m.

Dept: FS-Fontana Room: F3 SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO 17780 Arrow Blvd.

Fontana, CA 92335 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.

Attorney for Petitioner: Don M. Ross II, Esq. 57382 29 Palms Hwy Yucca Valley, CA 92284 (760)999-2095 Published in The San Bernardino American Newspaper December 14, 21, 28, 2023.

SUMMONS SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL) NOTICE TO DEFENDANT (AVISO AL DEMANDADO): VICTORIA HUNTER, DOES 1 through 50, Inclusive, and ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN CLAIMING AN INTEREST IN THE PROPERTY YOU ARE BEING SUED

BY PLAINTIFF (LO ESTÁ DEMANDANDO EL DEMANDANTE): BNSF RAILWAY COMPANY, a Delaware corporation 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 Self-Help 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.

Ti e n e 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.

CASE NUMBER (Número del Caso): CIVSB 2306278 The name and address of the court is (El nombre y dirección de la corte es): SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT 247 W. Third St. San Bernardino, CA 92415 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): Robin L. Thornton (SBN 255736)/ Matthew C. Maler (SBN 343580) Fennemore Wendel 1111 Broadway, 24th Floor Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 834-6600 DATE (Fecha): May 24, 2023 Clerk of Court (Secretario),

by Leanne Landeros, Deputy (Adjunto) (SEAL) NOTICE TO THE PERSON SERVED: You are served Published in The San Bernardino American Newspaper December 14, 21, 28, 2023 January 4, 2024.

PROPERTY DESCRIPTION PARCEL NO. 1 PORTION OF THE NORTHEAST 1/2 OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF SECTION 34, TOWNSHIP 9 NORTH, RANGE 3 WEST, SAN BERNARDINO BASE AND MERIDIAN, IN THE COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, ACCORDING TO THE OFFICIAL PLAT OF SAID LAND ON FILE IN THE DISTRICT LAND OFFICE, DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4; THENCE NORTH ALONG THE SAID FRACTION LINE 390 FEET TO THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE CONTINUING ALONG THE SAID FRACTION LINE 270 FEET; THENCE WESTERLY PARALLEL TO THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 34, TOWNSHIP 9 NORTH, RANGE 3 WEST, A DISTANCE OF 300 FEET; THENCE SOUTH EASTERLY IN A DIRECT LINE TO A POINT WHICH IS WESTERLY AND PARALLEL TO THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 34, A DISTANCE OF 60 FEET FROM THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE EASTERLY 60 FEET TO THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING. APN: 421041-41-0-000 PARCEL NO. 2: THAT PORTION NORTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 34, TOWNSHIP 9 NORTH, RANGE 3 WEST, SAN BERNARDINO BASE AND MERIDIAN, IN THE COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, ACCORDING TO THE OFFICIAL PLAT OF SAID LAND ON FILE IN THE DISTRICT LAND OFFICE, DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 , OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 SECTION 34, TOWNSHIP 9 NORTH, RANGE 3 WEST, SAN BERNARDINO BASE AND MERIDIAN, IN THE COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, ACCORDING TO THE OFFICIAL PLAT OF SAID LAND ON FILE IN THE DISTRICT LAND OFFICE; THENCE NORTHERLY ALONG THE EASTERLY LINE OF SAID NORTHEAST 1/4, OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4, 390 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE NORTHERLY 270

FEET ALONG THE EASTERLY LINE SAID NORTHEAST 1/4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF SAID SECTION, 270 FEET; THENCE EASTERLY 20 FEET ALONG A LINE WHICH IS AT RIGHT ANGLES TO THE EASTERLY LINE OF SAID NORTHEAST 1/4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF SAID SECTION; THENCE S O U T H E A S T E R LY 2 0 0 FEET TO A POINT WHICH IS NORTHEASTERLY AND 200 FEET DISTANT FROM THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTHWESTERLY 200 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. APN: 421041-38-0-000 PARCEL NO. 3: ALL THAT PORTION OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 34, TOWNSHIP 9 NORTH, RANGE 3 WEST, SAN BERNARDINO BASE AND MERIDIAN, IN THE COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, ACCORDING TO THE OFFICIAL PLAT OF SAID LAND ON FILE IN THE DISTRICT LAND OFFICE, DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT THE MOST EASTERLY CORNER OF THAT CERTAIN PROPERTY CONVEYED TO HERBERT C. JOHNSTON, ET UX., BY DEED RECORDED AUGUST 8, 1960, IN BOOK 5207, PAGE 182, OFFICIAL RECORDS, SAID POINT BEING IN THE NORTHERLY LINE OF U.S. HIGHWAY 66; THENCE NORTHERLY ALONG THE NORTHEASTERLY LINE OF SAID JOHNSTON PROPERTY TO ITS INTERSECTION WITH THE SOUTHEASTERLY LINE OF THAT CERTAIN PROPERTY CONVEYED TO STANLEY H. HALL, ET UX., BY DEED RECORDED JUNE 30, 1960, IN BOOK 5175, PAGE 242, OFFICIAL RECORDS; THENCE NORTHEASTERLY ALONG THE SOUTHEASTERLY LINE OF SAID HALL PROPERTY TO THE MOST EASTERLY CORNER THEREOF; THENCE SOUTHERLY ON A DIAGONAL LINE ACROSS SAID SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 TO BISECT SAID U.S. HIGHWAY 66, AT A POINT HALFWAY BETWEEN WHERE THE EAST LINE AND THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SOUTHWEST 1/4 OP THE NORTHWEST A OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 ACROSS SAID HIGHWAY; THENCE SOUTHWESTERLY ALONG THE NORTHERLY LINE OF SAID HIGHWAY TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. APN: 0421-041-40-0-000 PARCEL 4: THAT PORTION OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 34, TOWNSHIP 9 NORTH, RANGE 3 WEST, SAN BERNARDINO MERIDIAN, IN THE COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, ACCORDING TO THE OFFICIAL PLAT THEREOF, DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE NORTHERLY LINE OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SAID SECTION 34, DISTANT 20 FEET EASTERLY OF THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SAID SECTION 34; THENCE CONTINUING EASTERLY A DISTANCE OF 289.55 FEET; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY TO A POINT ON THE NORTHWESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF STATE HIGHWAY, U.S. NO. 66, 80 FEET WIDE, SAID POINT LYING 66 MINUTES SOUTHWESTERLY FROM THE INTERSECTION OF THE EASTERLY LINE OF SAID SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SAID SECTION 34 AND THE NORTHERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF SAID HIGHWAY NO. 66; THENCE SOUTHWESTERLY ALONG THE NORTHERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF SAID HIGHWAY NO. 66 TO A POINT MIDWAY BETWEEN THE POINT WHERE SAID HIGHWAY CROSSES SAID SOUTH LINE OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF THE EAST LINE OF SAID SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 (116 FEET, MORE OR LESS); THENCE NORTHWESTERLY 738.05 FEET, MORE OR LESS, TO THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING. APN: 0421-04133-0-000.

Published in The San Bernardino American Newspaper December 14, 21, 28, 2023, January 4, 2024.

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Page 7

INLAND EMPIRE/ ENTERTAINMENT/RELIGION NEWS

Ask Rusty: Simple guidance about Social Security benefits

By Russell Gloor AMAC and AMAC Foundation you claim later. The earnings test no longer applies after you reach FRA. Regarding benefits from your ex-husband, you cannot collect his instead of yours. What you may be able to do, when you claim your own benefit, is to get an additional amount which brings your monthly payment up to 50 percent of his. In order for that to happen, you would need to satisfy the following criteria: • You are not currently married.

Rusty response to general questions about social security benefits and the best way to make the program work for you.

Credit: Unsplash/Neel

Dear Rusty: I turned 65 earlier this year, and I still work full time. I was divorced four years ago after 38 years of marriage, but my ex-husband has been collecting Social Security for at least 10 years now. Can I start collecting Social Security and still work full time? And can I collect my ex-husband’s amount if it is more than mine (and what is the best way to achieve this)?

When I went to my local SSA office, they said they had no way of knowing that.

-Signed, Working Divorcee Dear Working Divorcee: Although you are eligible to claim Social Security at age 65, because you are working full time you may wish to wait a bit longer to do so. That’s because Social Security has an “earnings test” which applies to anyone who collects benefits before full retirement age, and you have not yet reached yours.

The earnings test imposes a limit on how much you can earn before SS takes away some of your benefits. If you exceed the annual earnings limit ($22,320 for 2024), Social Security will want back $1 in benefits for every $2 you are over the limit and you will need to repay that, usually by having future benefits withheld.

If you significantly exceed the limit, you may even be temporarily ineligible to receive SS benefits until you either earn less or reach your full retirement age (FRA) of 66 years and 8 months. So, if your earnings from working will significantly exceed the annual earnings limit (which changes yearly), it’s likely that your wisest move would be to wait longer to claim your Social Security. As a bonus for doing so, your monthly payment will have grown and will be higher when

• The personal benefit you are entitled to at your FRA must be less than 50 percent of your exhusband’s FRA entitlement.

If the above are true, when you claim your own SS retirement benefit you will also get a “spousal boost” to bring your payment up to what you’re entitled to as an ex-spouse. The amount of the spousal boost, if you claim Social Security at your FRA, will be the difference between half of his FRA entitlement and your FRA entitlement. If you claim your benefit before your FRA, not only will your own benefit be reduced for claiming early, but the amount of your spousal boost will also be reduced (benefits claimed before FRA are always reduced).

Whenever you decide to claim Social Security, you will be automatically deemed to be filing for benefits from your exhusband as well (you shouldn’t need to apply separately). You’ve already satisfied the basic criteria of at least 10 years married to get benefits from an ex-spouse and, if you satisfy the above criteria as well, you will be entitled to a spousal boost when you claim.

But your current earnings from working full time will likely affect your eligibility to collect Social Security benefits at this time, so waiting until your full retirement age to claim may be your best choice.

If Social Security will be a major part of your retirement income, then waiting to get a higher monthly benefit may be a prudent strategy for you.

If you will only slightly exceed the annual earnings limit you can consider claiming earlier, as long as you are comfortable with receiving a permanently reduced amount, and the prospect of not getting benefits for a number of months if you exceed the earnings limit (the number of months you will go without benefits depends on how much you exceed the limit by).

Dear Rusty: I am 64 years old and having difficulty working due to my arthritis, but I can continue part time as a podiatrist.

I do not know the best way to determine when to retire. What is the formula or a way to determine which is a better choice?

–Signed, Undecided Dear Undecided: There is a difference between deciding when to retire from working and deciding when to claim your Social Security benefits. For the former, you should consult with a certified financial advisor, but I’ll provide you with how Social Security fits into your personal circumstances. In deciding when to claim Social Security, you should look at your financial needs, your life expectancy, your work status, and your marital status. There is no one formula right for everyone because everyone’s circumstances are different, but here are some things to help decide what is right for you: • Social Security has an “earnings test” which applies to anyone who collects Social Security before reaching their full retirement age (FRA). Your FRA is 66 years and 8 months, and that is the point at which you get 100 percent of the SS benefit earned from a lifetime of working. If you collect SS before your FRA and continue to work, there is a limit to how much you can earn without jeopardizing your benefits. For example, the earnings limit for 2023 is $21,240 and, if that is exceeded, SS will take away benefits equal to $1 for every $2 you are over the limit. They “take away” benefits by withholding future payments until they recover the penalty for exceeding the limit. If your earnings are substantially over the limit, you will be ineligible to collect Social Security until either your earnings are less, or you reach your FRA. • If you claim SS before your FRA your benefit amount will be permanently reduced. If, for example, you claim SS to start at age 65 your monthly benefit will be about 89 percent of what it would be at your FRA. That reduced benefit would not change thereafter except for Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) usually granted annually.

• If Social Security will be a major part of your retirement income, then waiting to get

a higher monthly benefit may be a prudent strategy for you.

The longer you wait to claim the more your benefit will be.

Your SS benefit will continue to grow until you are 70 years old, and at 70 your monthly benefit will be about 27 percent more than it would be at your FRA. Your maximum SS benefit will be attained at age 70 but waiting until age 70 to claim is only prudent if you anticipate a long life expectancy.

• Life expectancy is a very important factor in deciding when to claim SS. If you claim at age 70 instead of at your FRA, you will need to live until you are about 83 to breakeven moneywise. If you live even longer than that, then waiting until 70 will yield the highest monthly amount and the most in cumulative lifetime benefits. But if your anticipated life expectancy is less, claiming earlier may be a better choice.

• If you are married and expect your wife to survive you, consider that the benefit your wife can get as your widow will be based on your SS benefit when you die, thus the longer you wait to claim the more your wife’s benefit as your widow may be. If you predecease your wife, her benefit will be based on the amount you were receiving at your death if that is more than her personally earned SS benefit.

So, as you can see, deciding when to claim Social Security Is a decision to be made after carefully evaluating your personal circumstances as described above. I hope this provides what you need to make an informed decision, but if you have further questions, please contact us at SSAdvisor@ amacfoundation.org, or at 1 (888) 750-2622.

Russell Gloor is the national Social Security advisor at the AMAC Foundation, the nonprofit arm of the Association of Mature American Citizens.

This article is intended for information purposes only and does not represent legal or financial guidance. It presents the opinions and interpretations of the AMAC Foundation’s staff, trained and accredited by the National Social Security Association (NSSA).

NSSA and the AMAC Foundation and its staff are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Social Security Administration or any other governmental entity.

To submit a question, email ssadvisor@amacfoundation.org.

Fontana’s Silent Tragedy: Christmas tree recycling highlights O’Day Short Family Legacy and a Time for Reconciliation...continued from page 1 composting in Riverside County Inland Empire News

The holiday season always ends with plenty of returns, and your Christmas tree is no exception. Return your natural Christmas tree to the ground it grew in by dropping it off at a Riverside County landfill to be recycled into a nutrient-rich soil amendment.

Through the free Christmas tree drop-off program, natural trees collected at the Badlands and Lamb Canyon landfills will be chipped and combined with other organic waste to make compost or mulch. Recycling organic material is an innovative way to ensure that organic waste is diverted away from landfill burial, recycled and turned into

a valuable soil amendment.

Natural Christmas trees must be prepared for recycling by removing all decorations, lights, tinsel and tree stands. Flocked trees cannot be recycled through this program and need to be cut up and placed in your regular trash container.

Other natural Christmas trees that are recycled at free drop-off sites, or at the curb, will be taken to local green-waste processors to be recycled into compost or mulch. Most trash haulers will collect Christmas trees curbside for two weeks after Christmas.

Place the prepared tree next to or inside the green-waste container on your regular pick-up day.

Trees over four feet tall should be cut in half. Contact your waste hauler for more details.

For those without a curbside pickup program, several drop-off locations will accept up to three properly prepared residential Christmas trees for FREE through Jan. 6: continued on page 8

me,” he began when asked to share about his involvement with the O’Day Short Family Unity Garden and why he felt it was so important for the community to have this memorial.

Years later, when Walker attended college at San Diego State University he introduced himself as being from Fontana in a class taught by California’s current Secretary of State, Dr. Shirley Weber. “She asked me if I knew the story of O’Day Short and his family.”

Walker said when he told Weber he knew nothing about the incident, she sent him to the library to research the story.

“When I read more, I knew that the spirits that were working so hard against my existence in that school at that time were the same spirits that killed O’Day, Helen, Carol Ann and Barry Short.”

Walker explained how he couldn’t figure out which part of the tragedy riled him the most.

“Was it the murder of an entire family for simply wanting to live the American Dream? Was it that Barry and Carol Ann were elementary school-aged

children and that the Fontana Unified School District bought the land and put an elementary school right on top of their ashes?

No, I know what it was. . . It was the almost 80 year silence and erasure of their lives,” he declared.

For 30 years Walker said he’s been telling the O’Day Short family story wherever he went, especially in education settings given that the district still allowed the KKK to use its school facilities for their meetings as late as the mid 1980s.

In 2016, a group of concerned residents including Eduardo Gil, Ipyani Lockhart, and the descendants of Jesse Turner, a Fontana organizing legend, began pushing the school district to acknowledge the crime committed there, to memorialize the family, and to begin a process of using this incident as an opportunity for dialogue and deep programming about unity, growth, and reconciliation, according to Walker.

“In 2020, during COVID, I was continued in next 2 columns

Fontana’s Silent Tragedy: O’Day Short Family Legacy and a Time for Reconciliation...continued...continued the orientation day speaker for all of the employees in the district via zoom and I highlighted the story. When many in the district heard it for the first time.” Walker noted how they did their research, began to take action. It was these actions, from the ground up, that resulted in the Unity Garden.

“For me, to speak at this dedication exorcized 40+ years of hurt, and replaced it with deep hope for my community, the nation, and the world,” Walker concluded.

Despite the Supreme Court ruling in 1948, racists and restrictive practices in housing persists, though they often rest on more subtle means like mortgage denials for example.

To learn more about redlining in the Inland Empire (including additional information regarding O’Day Short) explore the Black Voice News three part series titled The Thick Red Line: A History of Redlining in Southern California’s Inland Empire.

“America is Going to War!”

By Lou K. Coleman

Lou K. Coleman

For thus saith the Lord. I am about to do a shocking thing.

I am going to carry out all my threats. For the days will come upon you, when your enemies will set up a barricade around you and surround you and hem you in on every side and tear you down to the ground, you, and your children within you. And they will not leave one stone upon another in you. [Luke 19:43–44] I raised up many prophetic voices to call you to repentance and to warn you that continued rebellion will lead to doom, but naw, you refused to listen.

Instead, you stiffened in your rebellion against Me. The result is that America has passed the point of no return, the point of “dread release,” from judgment to destruction.

Brutal defeat of America in War Prophecy - “Unites States of America [USA]. You have rejected the One who made you.

The One who made you strong, mighty in battle, a stumbling block to many, the One whom your fathers knew. You have gone after a stranger, a strange woman. Is the wrath of the Lord not revealed upon you? For you will be given out to a war, a battle with one who was once feeble before thee. Your weaponry will fall from your hands. Your nuclear weapons will fail before your enemies. A brutal defeat you will face America, and the whole world will look at who was once mighty in battle, once feared strong, and mock you.

The strange woman whom you defile yourself with will look at you as you lie down defeated and laugh at you mockingly. For I have set a war before thee.”

America is doomed! [Christian Truth Center].

Noah preaching. Noah warned everyone of the coming judgment. Noah begged people to believe God, to repent, and flee from the wrath to come for there was only one way to escape [Matthew 7:13,14] and only a short opportunity to get onto the Ark – don’t wait until it’s too late, judgment is coming.

God’s warnings always precedes His judgment. America is going to war!

WITNESS FOR JUSTICE Issue #1183

Injustice is Heavy: Let There be Light Sherry Warren Minister for Women’s and Gender Justice A quick glance at the news and I almost shut down completely. There are so many social problems, acts of violence, and injustices that I cannot even begin to list them, let alone analyze them or find a meaningful response other than spiritual despondency. It is the hopeful season of Advent, but hopelessness penetrates my psyche almost as deeply as the journalists’ descriptions of the horrors they report on.

It's the holly, jolly season of Christmas, but I feel as hollow as tinny muzak blaring through shopping malls and office parties and television ads.

Amidst the noise and anxiety, I go quiet to ponder what I hold dear. What God would say to me were God here to speak their vision into existence? Would I be able to hear God over the harmonies of the carolers?

Would God swear when the tape dispenser cuts into their fleshless fingers while wrapping a gift?

Would God cry out as molten sugar from a bubbling pot of corn-syrupy divinity glubs out on the back of their hand? Does God holler when the ladder used to hang lights on the eaves slips a little and sinks into the mud?

Where is God among the bustling shoppers and police sirens that echo through the streets? Can I be quiet enough to hear God’s tears as they slip off a damp cheek and drop onto the keyboard while reading about another shooting, another bombing, and another court decision that is based in fear instead of love?

It is so heavy to witness the injustices of our world. It is heavier to experience the injustices directly. Against the

heaviness, I muster strength. I must speak up for those whose existence and decision-making capacities are challenged over and over and over again by lawmakers making ill-informed decisions. I must lift myself out of the shadows of trauma being inflicted around the world and turn to the light – pink and purple and burning brightly– flickering hope, peace, joy, and love into the uncertainty that encloses us. My heart warms and my spirit soars as I recognize God’s presence amidst all the chaos.

If I listen closely, I hear God in the tinkling piano keys and the chiming bells, in the slightly off-key carolers’ voices raising a joyful noise as I hum along.

I can smell God in the fresh cuttings of evergreen hanging in the shops and in the cinnamon mixed with hot apple cider, that tastes so sweet and spicy on my tongue. I see God when I give my attention to people-watching, seeing the kindness that is shared among strangers holding doors for each other. I feel God, when I witness a young girl speak truth to powerful legislators, asking them to give her the same rights they afford to her brother, simply by the nature of biology.

When I pause long enough to let my feelings actually feel, I am aware of God’s presence all around me, calling me to greater good, reminding me to love more loudly and visibly because this world – God’s world and our world– desperately needs it. And so this is Christmas.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Sherry Warren is the Minister for Women’s and Gender Justice for the United Church of Christ.

Thursday, December 28, 2023

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LOCAL/NATIONAL/NEWS/ADVERTISING Want More Black Californians Involved in Leading With Lawmaking: Six Questions for the Advocates State’s Transition to EVs...continued California Legislative Black Caucus Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media for justice for all Californians.

During the 2024 legislative session, the CLBC hopes to secure funding for critical programs and organizations working to improve the lives of Black Californians.

In addition, the CLBC will continue to support programs that encourage academic excellence.

Two examples are the caucus’s Frederick M. Roberts college scholarship program, which provides scholarships to collegebound students, and the African American Leaders For Tomorrow program, a training institute for high school aged students.

California Black Media spoke with Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson (D-Suisun City), chair of the CLBC, about the organization’s priorities, challenges and plans for the next legislative session.

CLBC members: (top row l to r) Asm. Reggie Jones Sawyer, Sr., Asm. Tina McKinnor, Asm. Chris Holden, Asm. Dr. Akilah Weber Second row: Sen. Steven Bradford Asm. Dr. Cory Jackson, Asm. Mike Gipson, Asm. Kevin McCarty Thrid row: Asm. Mia Bonta, Asm. Isaac Bryan, Asm. Lori Wilson and Sen Lola Smallwood-Cuevas The California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) was established in 1967 when African American members of the California Legislature, under the leadership of former State Sen. Mervyn Dymally, came together to address issues faced

by Black Californians.

The origins of the CLBC date back to 1918 when Frederick M. Roberts was elected to the California State Assembly.

Roberts was the first African American to serve in the California State Legislature. In those early years, legislative efforts focused on abolishing laws and policies that restricted African Americans from fully exercising their civil, social and political rights.

Among these initiatives was a bill authored by Roberts in 1921 that prohibited the publication of education materials that

portrayed negative images of people of color. Roberts also authored landmark civil rights legislation in 1919 and 1923, guaranteeing African Americans access to public accommodations.

During the 1960s, members believed that a caucus representing concerns of the African American community would provide political influence and visibility far beyond their numbers.

Today, the CLBC consists of 12 members.

Throughout its history, the CLBC and African American members of the legislature have been instrumental in crafting and supporting legislation that fosters racial and gender equality as well as advancing an agenda that assures quality health care for all, focuses on employment and economic security, and advocates

What does your organization do to improve the lives of Black people in California?

The 12 members of the California Legislative Black Caucus collaboratively develop and advocate for policies addressing economic justice, education, healthcare, criminal justice reform, and other issues impacting Black Californians. In 2024, the Caucus is prioritizing a reparations legislative package in response to the historic two-year Reparations study and report.

What was your greatest success over the course of the last year?

college scholarship program, which supported 150 students this year with $3,500 awards, and our annual African American Leaders for Tomorrow program at California State Dominguez Hills.

CBM: In your view, what is the biggest challenge Black Californians face?

Housing, education, public safety and equity across the board remain the most significant challenges.

What was your organization’s biggest challenge?

Despite our best efforts to pool resources and collaborate with strategic partners, the ongoing challenge is the insufficient funding to address the breadth of issues faced by Black communities.

Does your organization support or plan to get involved in the push for reparations in California?

Absolutely. We are actively preparing for the 2024 legislative fight for reparations.

Two of our caucus’s seasoned legislators, Sen. Bradford and Assemblymember Jones-Sawyer, served on the reparations task force. From the two-year study, we have created a framework to achieve legislative and budget wins as well as to work collaboratively with strategic partners up and down the state.

In 2023, the Caucus achieved legislative success by securing significant investments for institutions and programs supporting Black lives and advancing justice totaling more than $320 million dollars.

Additionally, we introduced 10 legislative priorities, with three chartered into law.

Our nonprofit arm raised close to $3 million, funding our signature events and programs, like our annual Frederick Roberts

How can more Californians of all backgrounds get involved in the work you’re doing?

Speaking on the sidelines of the car show in a meeting room tucked away from showgoers, Dorsey engaged in a lively policy discussion about California’s clean energy future.

“My hope is that this is also an opportunity for us to make a decision to do business with small and growing businesses, understanding that you're going to have to work with them, so they can get to the same place; and that can be a metric for [success],” Dorsey said. “How many small businesses did we rock with until they became medium businesses because of the contracts that we are intentionally delivering there?”

With an average price of around $58,000 per vehicle, affordability is a significant hurdle for potential EV buyers despite a federal tax credit of $7,500. Concerns about the availability and access to charging stations -- often referred to as range anxiety – may also impede adoption, especially in underserved markets where electric infrastructure is less available or apparent.

Advocates for equity say they are hopeful that there will be opportunities for Blacks and others to participate in the clean car value chain.

Plans to build charging stations and related infrastructure to support electric cars are creating new industries and opportunities for labor and manufacturing in

the Golden State, they say, and positioning California as a leader in the EV market.

Los Angeles County has the highest number of chargers and EV registrations in the state, and the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) is actively collaborating with businesses and residents to try to bring electrification infrastructure to areas across the region.

In another conference room at the auto show, the LADWP and the California Electric Transportation Coalition discussed their progress and shortcomings.

“We’ve been meeting with faith and community leaders about and listening to their feedback and needs. At the LA Department of Water and Power, we feel that we have resources and experts to do anything,” said LADWP representative Emil Abdelshehid, after acknowledging the need for substantial growth.

“The Leaders that came to us and talked about how there are no electric vehicle charging infrastructure in their neighborhoods,” Abdelshehid said. “[They asked] what can we do to get that infrastructure into those neighborhoods because a lot of these locations in the city of Los Angeles have space.”

Currently, there are federal incentives for domestic

manufacturing and purchasing of domestically manufactured EVs. With EVs now being more than a quarter of all cars sold in California, policymakers, advocates and industry experts agree that the California automotive economy will be a significant driver of economic transition to zero emission vehicles (ZEVs).

The federal Inflation Reduction Act, which was enacted in 2022, uses tax credits to incentivize EV manufacturers to begin building an end-to-end domestic pipeline so that their vehicles will qualify for the tax credit available to buyers.

Those incentives to spur domestic manufacturing appear to be working.

In just one year since the bill passed, areas not normally associated with the auto industry are getting involved in the production of batteries and the assembly of vehicles as domestic production ramps up. Billions of dollars of investments are creating green industry jobs across the country.

“These incentives complement investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and other federal initiatives that are spurring the domestic

manufacturing of EVs and batteries and the development of a national EV charging network that provides access to low income and disadvantaged communities,” said a statement from the Whitehouse.

Demand for EVs in California is driving much of the ZEV market. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) estimates that California ZEV sales are 34% of all national clean car sales.

Gov. Gavin Newsom has taken several steps that signal strong support for the state’s full transition to EVs, which include continuing to develop electrification infrastructure.

California currently has 93,855 public and shared private electric vehicle chargers, but equity of access remains a concern.

“It's important that we look at jobs in targeted low-income communities -- everything from the innovation and design to manufacturing, production, a s s e m b l y, c o n s t r u c t i o n , installation of these assets. All of those have job components,” said Larry Rillera of the California Energy Commission, speaking during a panel discussion at the car show.

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We encourage all Californians to support Black legislators and join the movement to advocate for a better California for all, ensuring fair, just, and equitable representation. Participation is crucial for creating positive and transformational change in California.

The San Bernardino AMERICAN News Covers Advocates Want More Black Californians Involved in State’s Community, Local, County, National News & MORE! Transition to EVs Maxim Elramsisy | California Black Media

November 16, LA Auto Show Maxiam Elramsisy CBM When Los Angeles hosted its annual car show a little over a month ago at the LA Convention Center, it not only showcased the latest in automotive technology, but the event also transformed into a policy forum on clean energy, previewing what lies ahead for California’s electric vehicle (EV) future.

Battery-powered cars took center stage. They accounted for the majority of the over 1000 vehicles on display, ranging from cars and trucks to motorcycles, recreational vehicles, and semitrucks.

For Black and other minority advocates in attendance, several

concerns emerged. Among them were the impact of the transition to zero emissions vehicles (ZEVs) on Black Californians and how the state will equip low-income neighborhoods with the infrastructure needed when California bans the sale of all gas-powered vehicles in 2035.

“It's not enough to build the infrastructure in low-income neighborhoods, the people in those neighborhoods need to have access to the jobs installing and maintaining that infrastructure,” said Charles Dorsey of The Dorsey Group, a Black-ownedand-operated Long Beach-based consulting firm.

continued in next 2 columns

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Christmas tree recycling highlights composting in Riverside County...continued from page 7 A Lua Wood Recycling, 18938 Mermack Ave., Lake Elsinore (accepting until Jan. 6) B P John Recycling, 28700 Matthews Road, Romoland (accepting until Jan.6) Burrtec/Coachella Transfer Station, 87011 Landfill Road, #A, Coachella (Burrtec customers only) Burrtec/Edom Hill Transfer Station, 70100 Edom Hill Road, Cathedral City (Burrtec customers only) Burrtec/Robert A. Nelson Transfer Station, 1830 Agua Mansa Road, Riverside (Burrtec customers only) CR & R, 1706 Goetz Road, Perris (CR & R customers only) El Sobrante Landfill, 10910 Dawson Canyon Road, Corona (accepting until Jan. 6) Riverside County Badlands Landfill, 31125 Ironwood Ave., Moreno Valley (accepting until Jan. 6) Riverside County Blythe Landfill, 1000 Midland Road, Blythe (accepting until Jan. 6)

Riverside County Lamb Canyon Landfill, 16411 Lamb Canyon Road, Beaumont (accepting until Jan. 6) Riverside County Oasis Landfill, 84-505 84th Avenue, Oasis (accepting until Jan. 3) Trees that are not recycled at drop-off locations or through curbside pick-up will only occupy valuable space in our landfills. Make the last gift you give this year to the Earth… recycle Christmas trees! These programs are offered to educate residents about the ease and advantages of organic material recycling and how composting preserves valuable space in county landfills.

For more information on this program, please call the Riverside County Department of Waste Resources (951) 4863200 or visit the waste guide on our website for additional green holiday suggestions: https:// rcwaste.org/green-holidaysuggestions.