Vol. 63 No. 51| Thursday, December 21, 2023

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Vol. 63 No. 51 | Thursday, December 21, 2023

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Serving San Diego County’s African & African American Communities 63 Years

Merry Christmas!

CELEBRATING FRIENDSHIPS AND SOUL ON ICE

INSIDE THIS WEEK'S ISSUE:

BLUE HEART FOUNDATION CELEBRATES 10 YEARS

NEW VILLAGE ARTS’ “A BLACK FAMILY CHRISTMAS”

CHRISTMAS AT OCEANVIEW PARK

WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA SAN DIEGO

SEE PAGE 4

The Community Unites for Winter Fun at Liberty Station

SEE PAGE 9

SEE PAGE 9

SEE PAGE 12

BARBARA LEE FOR SENATE IN SAN DIEGO

By Voice & Viewpoint Staff

PHOTO: Darrel Wheeler and Shawn Smith-Hill

By Darrel Wheeler CONTRIBUTING WRITER

L ast Sunday C alifornia Secretary of State Dr. Shirley Weber and the United Domestic Workers Union were among the host sponsors of a fundraiser for Congresswoman Barbara Lee, now running for the U.S. Senate. She is seeking to fill both the remainder of the term of the late Diane Fienstein and a full term as the new Senator from the State of California. The event was well attended as UDW opened its space to host the occasion.

See LEE page 2

Last Sunday family’s were able to lace up a pair of ice skates and work their ice skating magic at Liberty Station’s popular ice skating rink, thanks to the friendship between Larry Price and Michael Peckham, a friendship that was established in 1987.

Their friendship has endured the test of father time and has led to countless opportunities and multiple business ventures for Mr. Price. In 1997 Michael Peckham of the PPI Incorporation purchased a popular ice skating rink in San Francisco and shipped it to downtown San Diego.

See ICE page 10

SOCAL MEDIA PARTNERS JOIN FORCES L to R: Chida Warren-Darby, Barbara Lee, and Dr. John Warren on December 17, 2023 in San Diego.

PHOTO: Rochelle Porter

SAN DIEGO ROTARY HOSTS DR. SYLVIA WHITLOCK (L to R): Ms. Chida Warren-Darby, Director of the City of San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria’s Boards and Commissions Office, Michael Brunker, President of San Diego Rotary Club, and Dr. Sylvia Whitlock on Thursday, December 14, 2023. Whitlock is pictured here accepting a Proclamation of Recognition award as presented by Ms. Warren-Darby, at a San Diego Rotary Club No. 33 luncheon held at the Liberty Station Conference Center in San Diego.

PHOTO: Screenshot by Voice & Viewpoint via YouTube.

See WHITLOCK page 2

IN STOP THE HATE INITIATIVE

By Macy Meinhardt VOICE & VIEWPOINT STAFF WRITER Last week, various grantee groups, including ethnic media branches and nonprofits affiliated with the California State Library’s ‘StopThe-Hate’ initiative, convened at the Asian Business Association.

The purpose of the meeting was to deliberate on the Stop the Hate (STH) program and explore collaborative efforts to leverage the media’s influence in raising awareness about the widespread issue of hate.

Community based organizations and ethnic media partners at a roundtable discussion at the Asian Business Association on Dec.14.

PHOTO: Macy Meinhardt, Voice & Viewpoint staff

See INITIATIVE page 2

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Thursday, DECember 21, 2023 • The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint

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ARTICLE CONTINUATION LEE Continued from cover

Congresswoman Lee is no stranger to California politics and she reminded the audience of that in her brief remarks. Originally from Texas, she has a rich history.

She was Chief of Staff to the late Congressman Ron Dellams from the Oakland area.

She later served in the State Assembly and organized the Legislative Black Caucus.

She was a friend to the Black press and all those concerned about California. While in the House of Representatives, her positions have been strategic. She has been the

PHOTO: Rochelle Porter

only Member of Congress serving on the House Agriculture Committee west of the Mississippi.

PHOTO: Rochelle Porter

She is a past Chairperson of the Congressional Black Caucus and well respected among her colleagues. But more important is the need for her in the United States Senate. The Secretary of State spoke of the importance of her election and the need for us to get out the vote at every level. The response of the crowd was certainly an early indicator of the need for Barara Lee in the Senate.

initiative Continued from cover

A critical prompt emphasized at the round table discussion was the need for more synergy between nonprofits and the media, as the two together create a powerful force when it comes to combating hate—non profits as the front line workers in providing on the ground services to victims of hate, and media as the entity that reports and brings awareness to the cases of hate.

“To combat hate, it takes everyone in all sectors and in all levels,” said Julian Do, with Ethnic Media Services, recognizing that hate is a universal issue that affects everyone from every race, ethnicity, and religion.

Media groups serving the Native American, Latino, Black, Asian and Pacific Islander, Middle Eastern communities in Southern California that came out included: Ethnic Media Services, Caribbean Press, Al Enteshar, Immigrant Magazine, Myanmar Gazette, El Informador, Filipino Press, and The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint.

Grantees from the community-based organization sector serving San Diego and the Imperial Valley area included: North County LGBTQ Resources Center, TranscenDANCE, the Somali Family Services of San Diego, Karen Organization, Little Saigon Foundation, Filipino Migrant Center, Outside the Lens, Universidad Popular, Pacific Arts Movement, The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), Catalyst of San Diego and Imperial Counties and CasaFamiliar.

About Stop The Hate Campaign As you may have seen in our coverage the past several months, Voice & Viewpoint is a part of many media branches across the state dedicated to bringing awareness and resources to victims of hate and their families. At a glance this year, V&V’s coverage on this topic has included hate crimes by the numbers utilizing statistical data tracked by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, the underreported nature of hate crimes, case studies on Sandy Close (standing, right) concludes the meeting with a sentiment on the significance in maintaining ethnic media and synergized partnership with local non-profits. PHOTO: Macy Meinhardt / Voice & Viewpoint

hate within book banning, religious hate crimes and more.

Furthermore, the lunch meeting allowed members in both sectors to get to know one another and identify opportunities for collaboration to enhance and amplify the work of everyone engaged in the campaign.

“What is so inspiring about this room is that, this is what inclusive communication looks like,” said Sandy Close, founder of Ethnic Media Services.

Ethnic media partnerships and non-profit groups look forward to having more discussions and ways to collaborate in the new year.

Look for our Stop the Hate special issue published on Nov. 30th by visiting our website at www.sdvoice.info.

Sharing of Resources, Second Gen Publisher Hector Felix representing his paper El Informador, “Information of the Valley”. PHOTO: Macy Meinhardt /Voice & Viewpoint Staff

This resource is supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library in partnership with the California Department of Social Services and the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs as part of the Stop the Hate program. To report a hate incident or hate crime and get support, go to https://www.cavshate.org/.

ROTARY Continued from cover

Last week San Diego Rotary Club No. 33, always introduced by its President Michael Bunker as one of the oldest and 10th largest Rotary Clubs in the world, hosted Dr. Sylvia Whitlock as guest speaker. With a mesmerizing presentation, Dr. Whitlock told her story as to how she got involved with Rotary while serving as an elementary school principal in Duarte, California in 1982. Her membership in that club led to a United States Supreme Court Decision on May 4, 1987 in the case of the Board of Directors, Rotary International vs. Rotary Club of Duarte, confirming a California lower Court decision supporting the inclusion of women in Rotary under California’s Unruh Civil Rights Act. Once Rotary International amended its charter to include women, the San Diego Club took full advantage by welcoming

women into San Diego Rotary and having several serve as Club President.

Dr. Whitlock’s background and story is as impressive as her Rotarian service. She earned a degree in Psychology from Hunter College and subsequently moved to California where she earned a Master’s Degree in Education from Cal Poly Pomona and a Ph.D. in Education from Claremont Graduate School, and later another Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University. She served as an educator for forty years before beginning a second career as a therapist.

But above all this, she was the first woman to serve as a Rotary President, clearing the path for all those who have followed her; and many were present when she appeared at San Diego Rotary Club

No. 33 last week. In appreciation for her visit, she was presented a Proclamation from Mayor Todd Gloria by Ms. Chida WarrenDarby, Director of the Mayor’s Boards and Commissions Office.

Dr. Whitlock is also a founder and continued supporter of the Pace Academy Foundation schools in Africa. She has supported an orphanage in Mexico, sunk wells in Nigeria and raised nearly $90,000 to educate girls in India. Among her many awards is the Rotary Foundation District Service Award. At the district level, she has chaired the Ambassadorial Scholarship Committee for 6 years; has been Assistant Governor, presenter at institutes and a speaker at Rotary clubs, conventions and meetings in the U.S. as well as overseas. She is also the author of a book describing women in Rotary entitled “Women Also Serve”. This was a great day for San Diego Rotary Club 33.

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The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint • Thursday, DECember 21, 2023

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EDITORIAL/COMMENTARY/OPINION

PUBLISHER’S CHRISTMAS MESSAGE which many of us profess. Neither do we require others to acknowledge or share in our beliefs. This is the beauty of the Freedom of Religion Clause in our Constitution. But the differences in faith does not stop the Spirit of Christmas and here is the reason why.

The Gospel of John, recorded in the Bible at 3:16, states that: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” The operative word is “gave”. It is the gift of Jesus that is responsible for the desire we all have to “give” gifts. It is because that with the gift of Jesus to mankind came the Spirit of giving which is released each time we celebrate His birth. The angel of the Lord that appeared to the shepherds that night over Bethlehem made a pronouncement that we still feel each Christmas. The angel said: “Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will toward men.”

By Dr. John E. Warren PUBLISHER, THE SAN DIEGO VOICE & VIEWPOINT

W

e at The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint would like to take this opportunity to extend our sincere desire for God’s blessings upon you and your families. It is also a time to remind each of us why we have and celebrate Christmas.

This country, and most of our lives, were founded upon Christian principles that are at the very essence of this season. The fact that those of different faiths are allowed to exercise their religious beliefs does not negate that

Consider that Christmas is the only time in the year that just about everything shuts down; it is the one time of the year that we see an outpouring of kindness not seen at any other time. That kindness is the “good will” toward men that the angel spoke of. It was that which the angels spoke of that caused what is called the Christmas Truce of December 24, 1914. It occurred when soldiers in the muddy trenches on the Western Front of World War I put down their weapons on both sides, stepped out of trenches, met each other face to face and sang Christmas songs because both sides missed being away from their families. In some areas the truce persisted until after New Year’s Day. That same Spirit of Peace continues to settle on each Christmas season as God honors our recognition of the birth of his Son.

There are still so many without food or shelter, especially this Christmas season with two major wars underway and a people by the thousands seeking shelter and refuge in our land. Those without the basic necessities and comforts so many of us have are knocking at our doors and so many of us are responding in every way possible. This is a time for us to be thankful for what we do have as opposed to complaining about what we want or don’t have.

To many, the stable at Bethlehem would be a welcomed shelter as compared to the streets on which they sleep.

For many of our families there are personal problems, an empty chair at a table because of a missing loved one, but we are still blessed and should find comfort in helping others through this dark time in their lives.

While many of us do not have the shelter, food or comforts that so many others have, yet we are blessed with health or family or the meeting of our basic needs, if not our wants. Our families might have their personal problems, or many of us have an empty chair at the table this season due to the pandemic or other tragedies, yet we are still blessed. Let us remember those who lost so much during the recent storms. Let us seek ways to be of help to others and by doing so help ourselves.

We give thanks for those among us seeking to help and feed and shelter so many others. Let us commit to seeking what each of us can do to make a difference in the lives of others and by doing so participate in the gift that keeps on living. May God bless and keep you, regardless of your circumstances. Let us offer up prayers of praise and thanksgiving and sing glory to God in the Highest as well as peace on earth and good will toward all men.

RACISM CASE OF MISSING MISSISSIPPI MAN DISMANTLING AND DISRUPTING UNDERSCORES NEED FOR EBONY INEQUALITY ALERT IN CALIFORNIA

By Sen. Steven Bradford SPECIAL TO CALIFORNIA BLACK MEDIA PARTNERS There is no greater pain than that of a mother who loses her child — or whose child goes missing.

Bettersten Wade has experienced both. Her 37-yearold son, Dexter Wade, disappeared on March 5 after visiting with her. She reported him to the police as missing the next week and began putting up fliers with his picture and going door to door to speak with neighbors.

For months, the police told her they had no information on his whereabouts.

But in August, the police brought her devastating news. Her son, a Black man and father of two had been killed the very night he went missing. Police say he was struck while crossing a highway by an off-duty Jackson Police officer.

The coroner identified Wade using a prescription medicine he was carrying as he had no identification. The coroner’s office claims to have shared his identity with the police, provided them with Wade’s mother’s contact information and asked them to notify her.

The Mayor of Jackson called the almost 6-month delay a “communications failure” between the coroner and the police. The el-

der Wade and her attorney say the way authorities handled the death of her son is a civil rights violation and they want the federal Department of Justice to investigate. Without the family's knowledge or consent, the county buried him in a pauper’s grave with only a small metal sign displaying the number 672.

Although Dexter Wade was a grown man, you can draw a direct line to why California needs and will benefit from the newly signed Ebony Alert notification law which will help locate missing Black children and young women ages 12-25.

Black people make up a disproportionate percentage of all missing persons in the United States. However, instead of receiving a greater share of the police resources to find them, Black lives get less. When a Black person goes missing, in a sense, they vanish twice. First, they disappear from their friends and loved ones.

Second, they disappear from the police detective’s workload and from the news media’s attention.

This case speaks to the insulting reality of how Black lives are not a priority when they are missing. In the Dexter Wade case, authorities were clearly not looking even as they physically held his body. Critics of the Ebony Alert say California should not have a special alert system just for African Americans. I would argue California should not need the Ebony Alert just for African Americans.

All people should be given equal value and equal resources should be utilized to find them. But that’s not happening. So, not only does California need the Ebony Alert, but the rest of the nation does as well.

Sen. Steven Bradford is Vice Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus. He authored SB 673, the Ebony Alert. He represents parts of southern Los Angeles County.

Six Questions for the California/Hawaii NAACP Conference

By Antonio Ray Harvey CALIFORNIA BLACK MEDIA

Ida B. Wells-Barnett (1862– 1931), a Black investigative journalist, women’s rights activist, and civil rights advocate, is renowned for her campaign against lynching. Wells-Barnett was instrumental in shaping public opinion against lynching through her newspaper editorials, pamphlets, clubs, and lecture tours across the northern United States. Wells held the position of secretary in the Afro-American Council, where she led its anti-lynching bureau.

Her efforts paved the way for the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People’s (NAACP) anti-lynching campaign.

Following the racial violence of the 1908 Springfield massacre in Illinois, the NAACP was founded on Feb. 12, 1909.

The organization was established by over 60 founding members, including Wells-Barnett, W. E. B. Du Bois, Mary McLeod Bethune, William Bulkley, the Rev. Francis Grimke, and Mary Church Terrell, among others.

The NAACP’s principal objective is to secure political, educational, social and economic equality for minority groups in the United States and eradicate race prejudice. As a service organization, it aims to remove all barriers of racial discrimination through democratic processes.

See INEQUALITY page 16

Opinion articles do not necessarily reflect the views of The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint. We welcome reader essays, photos and story ideas. Submit to news@sdvoice.info

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Thursday, December 21, 2023 • The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint

COMMUNITY

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The Blue Heart Foundation Celebrates

of Community 10at TheirYears Annual Christmas Breakfast

By Aryka Randall Contributing Author

E

veryone’s blue heart was on their sleeve at this year's annual Blue Heart Foundation’s Christmas Breakfast. Hosted at the Jacobs Center to a crowd of over 200 attendees, the Blue Heart Foundation celebrated ten years of community within San Diego.

The ceremony opened with words from Dr. James Crawford who was also the recipient of the Mentor of the Year award. He spoke about the organization and his love for the community mentality that Blue Heart has created.

“I’m so proud of what this organization has become. We know with Blue Heart it takes a village, it takes all of us to play a role, to play our part,” Crawford said.

The program continued with Miss Tammy Blevins leading the young men of Blue Heart in song, and attendees chimed in to sing along to the Black National Anthem. Following their rendition of the Anthem was a heartfelt slide show honoring the journey of Blue Heart and it’s longtime leader Tracy Morris who

played a vital part in getting the program off the ground, and into a brick and mortar building where they could expand.

Blue Heart has done an amazing job preparing youth for adulthood while teaching them to be community oriented. As a result, the community has rallied around them and the organization itself. This year they recognized a number of people within the community who have made an impact on the lives of people around them. Some of the award recipients received awards for things like Father of the Year, Local Business of the Year, Community Activist of the Year, and the Shining Star Award.

The Blue Heart Christmas Breakfast also featured appearances by a number of the young men in Blue Heart, speeches and empowering insight from award recipients, a step show featuring Blue Heart, and of course a delicious breakfast for all to enjoy.

Another year, another generation of young men from San Diego who are ready to lead with education and confidence because of Blue Heart.

PHOTOS: Aryka Randall

It Takes a Village

Hosts Their Second Annual

CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR EVENT

By Malika Hollins, Founder It Takes a Village San Diego This year was It Takes a Village community organization’s second annual Christmas Spectacular and we collaborated with the TS Jordan Foundation. We provided toys, free food, new clothes, shoes, socks, diapers, wipes, hygiene kits, arts and crafts, hosted The Grinch , a photo booth, velcro wall astro jumps, and provided a safe space for families to come out and have a great time. Lots of items were donated from Shari's Closet. We served over 400 families and had different resource vendors and retail vendors. It Takes a Village also had forms for free California IDs and birth certificates.

Our mission is to empower youth, young adults and adults by providing equitable resources to encourage personal growth, foster self-esteem, to increase the quality of life in our communities, and assist with creating healthy lifestyles Our vision is to create a future in which every child and young adult has all the tools they need to grow and develop into an equipped, motivated, highly esteemed, and successful, self-sufficient adult by implementing culture and art.

Our Values: Integrity, Equity, Inclusiveness, Diversity, Impact, Respect, and Community.

Find out more about It Takes a Village at www.ittakesavillagesd.org PHOTOS: Darrel Wheeler

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The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint • Thursday, DECember 21, 2023

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IN MORE NEWS

MONTGOMERY BUS BOYCOTT AT 68:

L.A. EVENT REVISITS BLACK-JEWISH COLLABORATION

By Solomon O. Smith CALIFORNIA BLACK MEDIA

Yaroslavsky asked Lafayette about the connection between Jews and the Black community, mentioning activists like Rabbi Joachim Prinz, theologian Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel and the many Jewish men and women who participated as Freedom Riders.

Scholar, minister and activist the Rev. Dr. Bernard LaFayette Jr. was the guest speaker at L.A.’s Skirball Cultural Center’s “Perspectives on Black-Jewish Relations in The Fight for Civil Rights” discussion held Dec. 6, on the 68th anniversary of the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

He talked about historic collaboration between African Americans and Jews, and he participated in a conversation that focused on the ongoing struggle for civil liberties and the civil rights era of the 1960s.

Learning more about the strategic and impactful collaboration of Black and Jewish activists during the civil rights movement drew many in the Skirball audience to the talk.

Also recognized during the evening was the 2023 winner of the Howard I. Friedman Memorial Graduate Essay Prize, Erin Faigin, a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. The prize came with an award of $5,000.

The evening began at 6 p.m. with an afterhours viewing of “This Light of Ours: Activist Photographers of the Civil Rights Movement,” a photo exhibition that showcased the work of nine photojournalists who were embedded in the civil rights movement, providing an intimate look at the organizations which created leaders like Lafayette.

Los Angeles’ District 5 city councilmember Katie Yaroslavsky hosted the evening’s conversation with LaFayette.

Dr. Bernard LaFayette Jr. shares stories of his time in the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s with an eager crowd. Lafayette described his fellow Jewish activists as his "brothers and sisters." At the Skirball Cultural Center, Los Angeles, Calif. Photo by Solomon O. Smith

Lafayette described seeing Jewish men and women side by side with Black protesters, enduring the same violence.

“We found a strong bond that existed, and that developed,” LaFayette described the relationship between Black and Jewish leaders, intellectuals and activists during the civil rights movement.

“If it wasn't for the Jewish people, we’d have a different attitude towards White folks. Because we could relate to the Jewish people, therefore all White people weren’t the same,” he added.

The conversation between LaFayette and Yaroslavsky presented an alternate picture to the widespread portrayal of the history between African Americans and Jewish Americans as one that is ridden by conflict with tensions with Black Muslims and other religious groups, antisemitic scholarship, accusations of exploita-

tion in the entertainment industry, and numerous other examples.

Lafayette was a founding member of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), a member of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), a Freedom Rider and a scholar on nonviolent resistance.

Prompted by Yaroslavsky questions, Lafayette spoke about his upbringing, discussing how the guidance of strong Black female figures led him to a life dedicated to Christianity and activism, starting with his grandmother. Lafeyette credited her with his ordination as a minister.

LaFayette says he originally wanted to become a journalist, but his grandmother had other plans.

“My grandmother insisted that I was not going

to be anything but a preacher,” Lafayette said.

“She said ‘you have the mark of a preacher.’” The college she found for him was the American Baptist Theological Seminary in Nashville, where he met his roommate, John Robert Lewis, the former Georgia Congressman and civil rights legend who passed away in 2020.

Lewis was already active in the movement and was instrumental in LaFayette meeting one of his heroes and philosophical mentors.

“He was telling me about going to these workshops. I said ‘I ain’t got time for no workshops,” Lafayette said. “He was a very persuasive young man, so I decided to go just to shut him up.”

At that workshop, he would hear one of the leading proponents of the philosophy of nonviolence, James Morris Lawson, Jr.

After the discussion, a reception was held for Lafayette’s book, “In Peace and Freedom, My Journey in Selma,” which provides an insider perspective on the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s and Lafayette’s time in Selma, Alabama with Martin Luther King Jr. Lafayette was with King only hours before he was assassinated.

Lafayette left the audience with what he calls a key to being a nonviolent activist and the way he lives his life.

“The main thing is not how much you can gain for yourself, but how much can you give to others, because you're not going to be here that long. What we should do is figure out how much we can give,” he said.

This resource is supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library in partnership with the California Department of Social Services and the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs as part of the Stop the Hate program. To report a hate incident or hate crime and get support, go to CA vs Hate.

DIVERSITY IN PUBLISHING DEPENDS NOT ONLY ON WHO’S PORTRAYED BUT HOW

By Selen Ozturk ETHNIC MEDIA SERVICES

gory: Black creators, who were involved with 34 books (11.3%).

A new study of racial representation in U.S. school books by The Education Trust holds that numbers alone don’t cut it: To change unequal representation for people of color is to change not only how many are portrayed, but also how they’re portrayed.

Determining Complex Representation

It’s a uniquely qualitative approach. Racial diversity in books may and should increase over time, but if characters of color are represented simplistically, stereotypically, or negatively, these books disservice U.S. grade students, over half of whom are now nonwhite.

Representation Gaps The study, written by Drs. Tanji Reed Marshall and William Rodick, reports numbers to support this disservice: Among 300 U.S. grade school books — randomly chosen, evenly across grade levels, from publishers commonly used in English language arts curricula like Scholastic and Penguin Random House — nearly half of the people of color are portrayed negatively.

This portrayal takes many forms: Individually, people of color are often portrayed as “one-dimensional” or without agency, per the study; groups or cultures of color are often portrayed with associated stereotypes or as lesser than others; and historical or social topics are “almost always sanitized, told through a singular perspective.”

This imbalance extends to the creators of the books themselves: 232 of the 300 books had at least one white author or illustrator (77.3%), 6.8 times more than the next-highest cate-

The study divides the criteria it uses to determine complex, partial, or limited representation between three categories: historically marginalized individuals, groups or cultures, and historical or social topics. On the level of individuals, questions are suggested of their multidimensionality, agency, and (positive or negative) influence; those of groups or cultures include stereotypes, positive assets, and value in relation to other groups; those of historical and social topics include sanitization or oversimplification, inclusion of historically marginalized perspectives, and relation of the topic to students’ experiences.

280 of the 300 books had central characters, essential to the story or information. Of these, 124 had people of color (44%). Only 53% of these people were portrayed with complexity, however, while another 44% had limited representation.

118 of the books had groups of color (39%), with less than a third of these (31%) doing so with complexity “by avoiding stereotypes, immersing people in culture, and portraying groups of color positively and as equally valuable to other groups,” per the study. Over half did not (54%).

On the sociohistorical front, 137 books involved historical or social topics (46%), and few did so with complexity (16%) “by avoiding sanitization, including a marginalized perspective, and connecting the topic to student realities.” The vast majority did not (80%).

PEN America reports 1,477 individual U.S.

PHOTO: RDNE Stock project/Pexels

book bans during the first half of the 20222023 school year — 28% more than the prior six months. 40% of books banned from July 2021 to June 2022 had protagonists or prominent secondary characters of color; 21% had titles indicating race issues.

Although greater representation is an uphill battle on the legislative front, some states like Illinois — which, in June 2023, became the first to pass a ban on book bans — and California, which passed a similar bill in September — are making historic progress.

Balancing Limited Representation “An increase of Black characters in children’s

books is great,” said Rodick, “but we want to push beyond the count — not just whether they’re portrayed, but how often they’re portrayed in negative ways.”

“We don’t want anyone to remove or censor any books on the basis of their representation, or deem them bad or good; many which are limited are of indispensable value,” he continued. “We want to recognize the value of these limited books by adding more perspectives to them, to engage students with them more deeply. If a book presents a topic in a very problematic way, it’s not about whether the reader should approach it, but how they can approach it best.”

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Thursday, December 21, 2023 • The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint

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LOCAL NEWS SDCCE Scholarship and Rep. Peters Announces Key Support Awards Application Opens for Providing Care for Police VOICE & VIEWPOINT NEWSWIRE

T

he SDCCE Scholarship and Awards application is now available to students who have completed at least 100 hours of San Diego College of Continuing Education coursework since Spring 2023. Students have from now until Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 6:30PM to submit an application for consid-

eration to receive one of the scholarship or award opportunities which recognize student achievements for the 2023-24 academic year.

Last year, SDCCE distributed over $87,000 to over 200 students across all programs and campuses. Selected students will be honored at SDCCE’s scholarship and award celebration in April 2024. For more information visit sdcce.edu/scholarships to apply.

PHOTO: SDCCE

Sycuan Presents $180K to 25 Charities During 2023 Holiday Ceremony VOICE & VIEWPOINT NEWSWIRE On Thursday, December 7, Sycuan Casino Resort presented $180K to 25 different charities during its 2023 Holiday Gift Giving Ceremony.

PHOTO: Sycuan Casino

Each December, members of the Sycuan Tribal Council and the Sycuan Executive Team individually select a charity to donate to on behalf of Sycuan. The Holiday Gift Giving Ceremony has been held at Sycuan more than

Officers Act VOICE & VIEWPOINT NEWSWIRE

On Monday, December 18, Rep. Scott Peters (CA-50) announced the endorsement of the Congressional Problem Solvers Caucus for his Providing Child Care for Police Officers Act. Each session of Congress, only 2 to 3 percent of bills make it to the President’s desk, so securing the support of the caucus – which is com- Photo: Rawpixel/Freepik posed of an equal number of Repties, are less likely to use force, and are less freublicans and Democrats – makes the bill’s sucquently identified in complaints and lawsuits. cess more likely.

“Providing law enforcement officers with acIntroduced earlier this year, the bill will processible, affordable childcare will help with vide grants of up to $3 million to law enforcerecruitment, boost retention, and spur reform,” ment agencies to assist with the opening of said Rep. Peters at Monday’s press conference. child care centers. A key goal of the legislation is to make policing a more attractive profesSan Diego is home to a first-of-its-kind local sion for women. Research shows that women law enforcement child care facility, which is set officers develop deeper trust with communito open early next year.

10 times and has supported a variety of causes over the years ranging from social and health services to the arts and the environment.

“The Holiday Gift Giving Ceremony was founded in 2006 and is something we look forward to each year,” said Cody J. Martinez, chairman of the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation. “The event brings together many diverse organizations and change-makers that are making a major impact in the community. This year, we are honored to support more than 20 organizations with a variety of admirable causes.”

Charities Involved (A-Z): Alzheimer's Association of San Diego, Alzheimer’s San Diego, America’s First Policy Institute, Bichon FurKids, Big Brothers Big Sisters of

San Diego County, Children’s Book Party, Church of the Immaculate Conception – Music Ministry, ElderHelp San Diego, Garden of Innocence, Gary Sinise Foundation San Diego, Grossmont High Music Program, Monarch School, NAMI San Diego, Ocean Discovery Institute, Postpartum Health Alliance, Rady Children’s Hospital – Cancer Center, Rocking Horse Ranch, San Diego Youth Services, SAY San Diego, Sharp Guardian Angel – Shankar Sundaram, Skinny Gene Project, SOMBFAB – Some of My Best Friends are Bald, The Animal Pad, Thrive Outside San Diego/San Diego Foundation and Urban Street Angels.

For more information about Sycuan’s charitable contributions, please visit www.sycuan.com.

www.sdvoice.info

The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint • Thursday, December 21, 2023

7

LOCAL SPORTS

Chula Vista Martial Arts Academy Promotions

By Byron Mantack

O

n Saturday, December 16, 2023, some students from the Martial Arts Academy in Chula Vista, underwent a rigorous test in their quest to be promoted to higher ranks. The test was unlike any other martial arts test.

The students had to complete a written examination, which included translating Japanese into English, and vice versa, answering questions about human anatomy, as well as about the history and philosophy of martial arts.

Additionally, the students had to demonstrate various martial arts forms, (kata), including the long staff (Bo); furthermore, they had to demonstrate a battery of self-defense techniques and combinations. To top that off, they had to demonstrate their ability to summon their Ki (Chee) by breaking boards (In the case of the Black belt candidate, concrete tiles), engaging in free sparring (Kumite); and finally, answering open-ended questions from the panel of distinguished Martial Arts Masters, and Grand Masters who examined them.

The examiners who tested the students were comprised of top-ranking martial artists from around the State, including Grand Master Robbie Lee, Grand Master Michael Fugate, Grand Master Gustavo Martinez, Grand Master Jerry Baxter, Grand Master Reynaldo

Leal, Grand Master Larry Spears, Professor Orned (Chicken) Gabriel, Sensei Danilo Pasion, Sensei Enzo Pisano, and the distinguished, and talented, Professor Karen Sheperd (Star of many martial arts action movies).

Other martial artists who attended and witnessed the test were Grand Master Noel Languban, Master Evelyn Languban, and Kosa-Nim John Flemming. Grand Master Mantack asked those in attendance to stand and show their respect to Soke Great Grand Master Frederick Douglas Peterson, who is ninety-eight years old, but still gives seminars and demonstrations nationally. He is also one of the oldest living active martial artists in the country.

The students who tested were Luis Luquin, who tested for the first-degree Black belt; Caipora Luquin, who tested for the third class Brown belt; and Lavorus Williams, who tested for the Orange belt. They all performed excellently, and were given such good scores by the examiners, resulting in them passing the examination. Consequently, they were promoted to their respected rank in the Shorin-Jitsu karate discipline, a system of fighting derived from the fighting styles and philosophies of Okinawan Shorin-Ryu Karate, and Kodokan Judo. This system was developed eight years ago by Grand Master Byron Mantack, who holds high Black belt ranks in several martial arts disciplines, including Okinawan ShorinRyu Karate, Japanese Kodokan Judo, Korean Taekwondo, and American Kenpo Karate.

Sensei Danilo Pasion who began his martial arts journey in 1983, at the Gateway School of Karate under the tutelage of Grand

Master Mantack, was promoted to the rank of fourth-degree Black belt and was endowed with the title of Master. Grand Master Robbie Lee, presented Grand Master Mantack with the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award, on behalf of the President of the United States of America.

At the Martial Arts Academy, the whole person concept is emphasized. The achievement of the student's potential physically, mentally, spiritually, and academically is stressed, because karate combines the body, mind, and spirit, in harmony with the whole person, to approach perfection in the arts.

PHOTOS: Courtesy of Byron Mantack

SDSU Basketball Opens Its Season With an 8-2 Record

By Michael West Contributing Writer

Damarrion White on his official visit to the University of Arizona. PHOTO: Damarrion White profile image via X.

One of San Diego’s Finest High School Recruits: Damarrion White

By Michael West Contributing Writer One of the finest San Diego area High School football players resides in El Cajon. Damarrion White, from El Cajon, is a Three Star prospect nationally, and played for Granite Hills Eagles.

At 6-4 215 pounds, White has been a dominant force for the Eagles the past two years. Earning all city honors, the forceful Defensive End tallied 18 Tackles for Loss, 6 Sacks, 1 Forced Fumbles and 1 Fumble Recovery in 2022. His excellent play was a major factor in the Eagles' Division 2 Southern Section title run.

Once again, White was a force in defense his Senior Year. White led the team in sacks.

Granite Hills boasted a 12-0 record as the Eagles earned back to back titles this year.

The Eagles ended Lincoln High's 23 game winning streak, replacing it with a 21 consecutive win streak of their own- defeating the Hornets 27-26.The victory over Lincoln High earned the Eagles the CIF San Diego Section Open Division Championship.

The Eagles' 21 game winning ended on December 2nd however, as they lost a 14 point lead, and eventually succumbed to

the Mission Viejo Diablos- the Division 2 Southern Section Champions. Mission Viejo eventually became champions in California's second highest division.

Known for his ability to control his side of the field, White has demonstrated excellent pass rushing skills, as well as the ability to penetrate the line of scrimmage and tackle running backs for losses. He capped his Senior year with 59 Tackles, 9 Tackles for Loss, 3.5 Sacks and 20 QB Hurries.

He has earned so many accolades, that he garnered the attention of San Diego's KUSI, who featured White on their Prep Pigskin Report.

White has received scholarship offers from a range of schools, including PAC12 and Mountain West schools. Entering the 2023 football season, the talented Edge prospect named the University of Washington, Oregon State, and the University of Arizona his top three choices.

He took official visits to Arizona and Oregon State last summer, as well as Fresno State on December 8th. His last official visit was on December 15th at San Diego State.

White announced his commitment to Fresno State on December 18th.

Coming off a final four appearance in 2022, as the nation’s runner up, the Aztecs hope to continue the success they experienced last year. The Aztecs opened the season as the 17th ranked team in the country. They fell out of the top 25 this San Diego State opened its season against Cal State Fullerton. week, and are now ranked 36th, but con- PHOTO: Courtesy of YouTube sidered the 29th ranked team by Massey was challenging, as UC San Diego led 31-30 Ratings. They boast what is considered to be at halftime. UC San Diego held the lead most the 60th toughest schedule to date (according of the second half, and held a commanding to Massey Ratings), playing a total of five teams 55-43 lead until the Aztecs surged back to win considered to be top 100 caliber. with their only lead of the half at the buzzer.

Led by Senior Jaedon LeDee- the 7th leading scorer in the country- the Aztecs boast an 8-2 record. They average 76 points per game on offense, and 68 points per game on defense.

They debuted the year with a victory over Cal State Fullerton, then a loss to the 18th ranked BYU Cougars. Two of their November games were overtime victories against the University of Washington and the University of California.

They have played three games this month, winning two close victories over UC San Diego and UC Irvine, and an upset loss to Grand Canyon in Phoenix.

Entering as the 25th ranked team in the nation, the Aztecs opened December with a thrilling come from behind victory at host UC San Diego. Jaedon Lee grabbed a rebound off a 3-point attempt by Bryce Pope with 1.2 seconds remaining in the game, and scored at the end of regulation to nab the victory. The game

The Aztecs followed up their thrilling game with an upset loss to the unranked Grand Canyon Antelopes, a pesky team that has defeated top ranked teams before. Considered the 60th best team in the nation, Grand Canyon entered the game with a 6-1 record, and had their minds set on the upset, having played a tough South Carolina team three weeks earlier.

Grand Canyon also led at halftime, this time with a 35-28 lead. The Aztecs only led twice in the second half, holding a brief 43-42 lead before succumbing to the Antelopes 79-73.

San Diego State returned home from Phoenix to host their first game of December, a close 63-32 victory over UC Irvine. Micah Parrish hit a layup with 10 seconds left in the game, but missed his ensuing free throw. The Aztecs defended Justin Hohn’s three point shot as the game ended. Beginning the second half with a 36-24 lead, the struggling Aztecs held off an Irvine comeback midway through the half, before spending the last eight minutes of the game erasing a 55-50 deficit.

Micah Parish sealed the victory with a two foot layup with 10.4 seconds remaining.

Timeout huddle before the final shot to seal the win. PHOTO: Courtesy of YouTube

The Aztecs close out the month hosting both Saint Katherine and Stanford, followed by a trip to Spokane, HOW to play the tenth ranked Gonzaga Bulldogs.

Follow your San Diego Aztecs here at the San Diego Voice & Viewpoint!

8

Thursday, December 21, 2023 • The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS Israel Recruits African Youth for Farm Jobs Amid Ongoing Conflict

By Lisa Vives Global Information Network

T

housands of young Malawians are packing their bags for a chance to make serious money in Israel working on farms and orchards.

Some 15,000 Palestinian workers recently lost their jobs when they were barred from entering the occupied West Bank. An article in Malawi’s The Nation newspaper, quoting the Israeli ambassador, Michael Lotem, called the deal a “win-win” for both countries.

Malawian President Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera is reportedly planning to send more young people who, it is alleged, will get paid $1,500 a month - a fortune in a country struggling with inflation and poor management of the economy. Israeli recruitment agents have been advertising for people aged 25 to 35.

Chikumbutso Mtumodzi, director of Information in Malawi defended the transfer. The young people will be engaged in agricultural activities, which is part of the labor export, a private sector-driven initiative with the Malawi government coming in as a regulator of laborrelated issues, he said.

Sounds good? Kondwani Nankhumwa, leader

of the main opposition Democratic Progressive Party doesn’t think so. Nankhumwa, speaking in parliament, questioned the secrecy of the deal, which he described as “an evil transaction.” Leaders of the Human Rights Defenders Coalition and Center for Social Accountability and Transparency, among other groups, have demanded that the Malawian government release the agreement under which the recruitment drive is happening. Authorities from the two countries have made assurances that the recruits will not be involved in warfare. But some are wondering if Malawi can repatriate its citizens if anything goes wrong as the war continues.

According to the Israeli diplomat, foreign workers are needed to plug the gap created by 350,000 Israelis recruited into the military. This left a gap in some sectors, he said.

In addition, Malawi faces a foreign exchange shortage that has disrupted businesses and led to the scarcity of essential commodities like fuel. The country is also experiencing a cost-of-living crisis further exacerbated by the central bank devaluing the national currency, the kwacha, by 44 percent “to counter supply-demand imbalances”.

The deal with Israel is an attempt by the Chakwera government to create jobs for its

PHOTO: Courtesy of GIN

young people – half of Malawi’s 19 million people are 18 or below – and generate foreign exchange. According to the authorities, only 9 percent of its 20 million people are formally employed.

Last year, the U.S. came across with a gift a $350 million infrastructure grant from the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) for the Government of Malawi. “This agreement opens a new chapter in the partnership between the United States and Malawi,” said Secretary Antony Blinken, who chairs MCC’s Board of Directors. The money is supposed

to pay for the upgrade of more than 300 miles of roads to connect farmers to markets and strengthen the country’s land administration.

In a related development, Kenya's Labor ministry announced the country will also send 1,500 farm workers to Israel to be employed on three-year renewable contracts earning $1,500 per month. Further, the decision to send farm workers to Israel during the conflict was “irresponsible” citing safety concerns. Both Malawi and Kenya, however, insist that workers will be sent to safe areas.

Famed Congolese Guitarist Lokassa Ya M’Bongo Has Found His Rest

By Lisa Vives Global Information Network

the world's wealthiest singers.

The legendary musician whose real name is Denis Kasiya Lokassa, has died, age 77, after battling diabetes and complications from a mild stroke he suffered in 2020. He was one of DR Congo's best rhythm guitarists, but spent most of his career in Paris, where he led the Soukous Stars band since 1984.

PHOTO: Courtesy of GIN

Next Climate Confab Will Explore the Negatives of Eating Meat

By Lisa Vives Global Information Network As the Dubai conference on climate [concluded], some difficult issues may remain on the table for future debates - namely fossil fuel controversies to geopolitical tensions. The central debate among countries is whether to “phase out” or “phase down” fossil fuels. Despite their known impact on climate change, debates on the future of fossil fuels only became a fixture at the summit at COP26 in Glasgow two years ago.

The issue has become more contentious under the UAE Presidency, with the state oil company chief allegedly using this year’s summit to strike oil deals with foreign dignitaries. While regions like the EU have already pledged to support a “phase out” agenda, the head of OPEC on December 9 rallied members to oppose any resolution with the “phase out” wording.

The Climate Conference of the Parties (known as COP28) marked the first time the summit debated food systems, with more than 130 countries signing a resolution acknowledging the impact of meat production in greenhouse gas emissions.

After a months-long effort by the youth-led Food@COP coalition, the United Arab Emirates environment minister, Mariam Almheiri, announced in November that twothirds of the food served at the event will be plant-based.

“We know that our food systems are intrinsically linked to the fate of our natural world,

and so we have made the progressive decision to ensure that we explore how the catering provided across the event can be responsible and climate-conscious,” Almheiri said in a press release.

The resolution called on wealthier countries to encourage citizens to eat less meat as onethird of global greenhouse gas emissions can be attributed to food, with meat and dairy accounting for the lion’s share while providing just 18 percent of the world’s calories.

Meat and dairy production are also leading causes of deforestation, biodiversity loss, pandemic risk and water pollution. Despite the “long overdue” conversation, as one expert said, it’s unlikely that developed nations like the U.S. will actually implement the recommendations. Other observers argued the proposals “ignore the complexity of food systems,” including issues like power imbalances, industrial food production, and climate change’s disproportionate effect on the Global South. Meat and dairy are driving the climate crisis. So why won’t world leaders at COP28 do anything about it?

Meanwhile, the next climate summit is already shrouded in geopolitical controversy.

Per UN rules, COP29 should take place in Eastern Europe, but Russia has been blocking all EU member bids over their opposition to the war in Ukraine. The frontrunner is now Azerbaijan, but critics say that a Baku summit will only be another win for petrostates. And as Azerbaijan builds stronger ties with Russia, many are worried that Moscow’s own energy goals will dominate the conference.

Lokassa's body lay in a morgue in Kinshasa, the capital city, in accordance with his wish to be buried in his home country. The government reportedly promised to help organize a funeral that would be worthy of the music star’s name, but for months dragged its feet and did nothing. He moved to the US in 1996 where he lived until his death in March.

His body was flown to the Democratic Republic of Congo the following month.

When the family submitted a budget request of $75,000 to the government, it was not approved and the relatives were left in limbo.

"It is humiliation, if we must call it that," the artist’s son, Andre Marie Lokassa, said, adding that the delay had caused tension in the family.

Other Congolese musicians who have also waited for months to be buried after their death include composer and saxophonist Kiamuangana Mateta Verckys, who died in October last year and was buried in December and jazz star Lutumba Simaro Masiya, who died in March 2019 and was only laid to rest in May that year.

The proliferation of digital music platforms have made it simpler for African artists to connect with a global audience and gain recognition outside of their home countries.

This has fueled the expansion.

Among the top African musician millionaires are Fally Ipupa of the Congo ($13.6 million), Burna Boy of Nigeria, net worth $16 million, designated among the 100 most influential people globally by Time Magazine; Wizkid, the second African musician to generate over a million dollars in a single event with his performance at Madison Square Garden, net worth $26 million; and Davido of Nigeria, founder of the music label DMW (Davido Music Worldwide), net worth $27.6 million and owner of 12 luxury cars that include 2 Range Rovers, 2 Bentleys, 2 Audis, 2 Mercedes and a Toyota Land Cruiser.

Women artists are also breaking the glass ceiling, among them: Oumou Sangare, Mali (net worth $12 million); Akothee of Kenya (net worth $10 million); Vanessa Mdee of Tanzania (net worth $8 million) and Angelique Kidjo of Benin(net worth $8 million).

Within less than a week after the death of Lokassa, the Congolese music fraternity found itself mourning the passing of another legendary singer and composer - Saak “Sinatra” Sakul. Both men were aged 80 and had been sidelined due to long illnesses.

What was once considered a dead-end career for African musicians with their works copied copiously by artists in the West, today there are many millionaires and billionaires in the African music world. Now one of the fastest-growing industries in the world, African music boasts an ever-increasing number of gifted singers heralding the scene's arrival. As a consequence, the earning potential of these artists has increased and the richest musicians in Africa now compare favorably with their international peers classed in the upper echelons of

PHOTO: Courtesy of GIN

www.sdvoice.info

The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint • Thursday, December 21, 2023

9

COMMUNITY

C

hristma

s

at Ocean View Park PHOTOS: Darrel Wheeler

By Darrel Wheeler Contributing Writer

T

he OG Sandbox 619 Organization held their annual Christmas toy giveaway on Saturday the 16th at the historical Mountain View Park, also known as Oceanview Park.

Over a hundred toys including bicycles were given to kids in the community on a first come first serve basis with no pre-registration necessary. All the eager youngsters needed to do was get in line and have some patience!

"We want to do our part as community leaders and help when and where we can," OG President Aaron Gibson said. " I the The

"I think today was a good day. We had way more people show up this year than we did last year, but we had plenty of gifts to accommodate everybody thanks to our friends and donors that appreciate our Mission. Seeing kids joy, and when they say “thank you”, that's what it's about,” Gibson said.

OG Sandbox 619 and their partners proved once again action speaks louder than words.

all that

Happy Holidays!

New Village Arts Center’s

“A Black Family

Christmas” Musical Production

By Arsema Habte Contributing Writer

torical context that reinforced negative stereotypes and objectification of black individuals.

It’s an exciting year for Christmas musicals! Yes, we have the Willy Wonka Chocolate Factory remake airing now in theaters. But the musical buzzing in our community is 1222 Oceanfront: A Black Family Christmas, showing at the reopening of the New Village Theaters in Carlsbad. Now newly named Dea Hurston: New Village Arts Center.

“Charlie’s Chocolate Boy” (original title) seems to be how painful it is for a black person to be reduced to an object and treated with violence, and then the Oompa Loompas are all objects.” As mentioned in the New York Times article, “The Real Story Behind Roald Dahl's “Black Charlie.”

The play was written by Dea Hurston, playwright, and philanthropist, who received an Honorable Mention in the Script Tease of One Acts by The Scripteasers [Supporting San Diego Playwrights Development Since 1948] for her play “I Want to Marry Stevie Wonder". And director Kandace Crystal, who also directed "Welcome to Sleepy Hollow: A Haunting Musical Thriller", which showcased this year at Oceanside Theater Company: At the Brooks, debuted the Christmas musical, "1222 Oceanfront: A Black Family Christmas." in 2021.

Hurston has been contributing to the arts for over three decades and was recently recognized in the San Diego community. This year's performance of the musical will be the first time under the theater's new name which makes it a special anniversary.

Black people have been repeatedly excluded from positive artistic spaces, perpetuating a harmful stereotype. The current showing of the classic tale of Willy Wonka in theaters serves as a prime example.

The movie-musical franchise was created with a his-

1222 Oceanfront: A Black Family Christmas, challenges the norms that we see in the theater industry.

This Christmas musical introduces a black family brought together by a Christmas tradition that is held every year without fail! The main protagonist Dorothy Black, played by Milena Phillips, is the centerpiece of the tradition who faces a challenge putting the tradition in jeopardy.

With every family, this Christmas musical introduces intersectionality in parenthood, siblings, marriage, and grievances. All artistically set in a non-stereotypical space where the black and brown community can showcase their stories through diversified lenses!

According to the Box Office attendant of NVA, the showing on the 16th was only 24 seats away from being a sold-out show! The musical will be showing from December 20th until the 24th. Dates will differ for the showtimes. Thursday – Saturday showing is at 7:30 pm and Wednesday, Saturday – Sunday showing is at 2:00 pm. View newvillagearts.org for more details on tickets.

PHOTOS: Arsema Habte

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Thursday, DECember 21, 2023 • The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint

www.sdvoice.info

s p i h s d n e i r F g n i Ce le brat On Ice l u o S d an

CONTINUED FROM COVER

The Community Unites for Winter Fun at Liberty Station

As the new owner of the skating rink, Peckham used the rink to put on a Christmas spectacular every year downtown in Horton Plaza featuring live bands, food, and all the holiday fixings. They eventually moved the rink to its current location at Liberty Station. The move put an end to the big spectacular Christmas production but still allowed families to enjoy some Holiday ice skating.

“Thanks to Mike, all the proceeds go to the Rady’s Children’s Hospital,” said Larry Price. “He’s also involved in numerous other charities and organizations. He’s always making a positive difference in people’s lives. He’s awesome,” Larry remarked.

PHOTOS: Darrel Wheeler and Shawn Smith-Hill

By Darrel Wheeler CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Every year Larry and his Never Leave One Behind organization are allowed to invite as many people as he wants, and they can skate for as long as they want, for the last 25 years and counting.

Against the backdrop of Liberty Station’s historic architecture, the atmosphere was filled with laughter and the sounds of happy visitors gliding over the ice, as families, friends, and community members of all ages came together for an afternoon of winter fun and entertainment. Not only did the event serve as a festive escape, but it also highlighted the importance of community engagement and philanthropy. Funds raised during the ice skating event will directly benefit Rady Children’s Hospital, supporting critical medical services, research, and initiatives that enhance the lives of children and their families.

As the sun set over Liberty Station, the glow of holiday lights and the joyful sounds of the community resonated throughout the area, creating memories that will linger long after the ice has melted. The Liberty Station ice skating event stands as a shining example of how a community, when united, can bring warmth and happiness to even the coldest of days.

Our contributing writer, Shawn Smith-Hill, contributed to this article.

N.L.O.B Strikes Again for the Holidays

By Darrel Wheeler CONTRIBUTING WRITER The front sidewalk at St. Stephen’s Church of God in Christ was transformed into a Toys ‘R Us station for a select, and luckygroup of kids last Saturday at 5825 Imperial avenue. Once again the Never Leave One Behind organization and their benefactors stepped up to the challenge and successfully delivered.

More than 100 plus youngsters from Porter Elementary and St, Stephens Church were able to receive toys and or gift cards to add to their Christmas experience.

Porter Elementary Principal Vincent Anthony, NAACP member Francine Maxwell and the good Pastor Glen McKinney were also available with others to lend a helping hand passing out Christmas blessings.

“Thank you!” was heard quite often from the youngsters at the big toy giveaway.

PHOTOS: Darrel Wheeler

Thanks to N.L.O.B. and their donorship friends included The Church of Nativity, Mike Orlando’s trust, Thomas Norman, Ann and Rodney Carroll, Joe and Dorthey Lowery, Mr. Michael Turner, Coast Income Properties and their super amazing team.

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The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint • Thursday, DECember 21, 2023

11

The Fourth District Senior Resource Center Hosts Their 17th Annual Holiday Gala

By Aryka Randall CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Another highlight of the Gala was the holiday music tribute by Carmelia “Toot” Bell and her band, who kept attendees entertained with holiday classics. Carmelia also brought an adorable friend from the youth choir to the stage to perform “Mary Did You Know?” for the crowd.

On Friday December 15th, the senior community in San Diego had a chance to celebrate the holidays amongst family and friends at the George L. Stevens Senior Community Center. Adorned with Christmas decor and trinkets from histories past, the center played host to hundreds of seniors from San Diego, four of whom were honorees of the occasion.

Chida Warren-Darby, Director of the Office of Boards and Commissions for Mayor Todd Gloria, and Henry L. Foster III, Office of Council District 4 Representative, took the floor to express their gratitude for the senior community. Honoring each Gala Honoree with a plaque and certificate of appreciation, attendees learned of the history of everyone awarded who all had interesting stories to tell. From love, to loss, to being one of the heroes in the Vietnam war, each awardee played a pivotal role in the narrative of their lives.

Before highlighting the Gala honorees, FDSRC Executive Director Rosemary W. Pope gave a brief introduction of herself and an overview of the program before bringing FDSRC Board member Thomas Van to the floor to share the history of the Senior Resource Center.

The celebration closed with a prayer from Dr. John Warren before Christmas dinner was served to guests.

As always, a beautiful day to remember at The Fourth District Senior Resource Center.

PHOTOS: Aryka Randall

“There’s so much history here and so much work that had to be done.

The Fourth District Senior Resource was originally known as the Gateway United Senior Services Center founded in 1989 by Dr. Charlie Johnson MD,” Van noted for the crowd.

He went on to highlight the history of how George L. Stevens became involved in creating space for the center and how the Fourth District stepped in to bring a resource for seniors to the area.

VERIFIED SPEED: Ookla® Ranks Cox as Fastest Provider of Internet Speeds in U.S. and San Diego Cox Communications’ high-speed fiber-powered broadband service has been recognized by Ookla® Speedtest® (speedtest.net) for offering America’s – and San Diego’s – fastest download speeds for the third quarter of 2023, achieving median speeds of 260.09 Mbps in the U.S. Ookla is a global leader in connectivity intelligence.

“The enhancements we continue making to our fiber-powered network are helping us deliver a world-class experience to our customers, with an eye on immense value and equipping home networks for the technologies of tomorrow,” said Ingo Hentschel, Cox’s market vice president for San Diego. “This recognition from Ookla, the standard bearer for reliable internet speed testing, is a testament to investments we’ve made and will continue to make for our customers in the coming years.”

Investments and network upgrades In the past 10 years, Cox has invested more than $11 billion nationally in network upgrades to deliver some of the most powerful internet, TV, phone, smart home, and mobile services and will continue making multi-billion-dollar annual infrastructure investments over the next several years.

This year, the company: • Increased speeds for the majority of its customers, more than 75% of whom now enjoy download speeds of a half-GIG or greater; • Expanded fiber-to-the-home connectivity; • Expanded multi-GIG speed capabilities, which will be available to approximately half of Cox customers by the end of 2023. All customers already have access to GIG speeds or greater.

Internet speed test results can vary based on several factors such as the devices themselves, the location of the equipment and sharing connections with other users.

Most individual devices like smart phones, tablets and laptops aren’t capable of supporting super-fast speeds.

The age and capabilities of the modem or router from which the test is run can also impact results. Newer model modems can better leverage available network capacity.

Device network interface is also important. For speed tiers above 100 Mbps, your router, modem or hardwired device must have a 1 Gbps Ethernet Port. It’s important to remember that most households can connect multiple devices at one time seamlessly with 250 Mbps download speeds.

Based on analysis by Ookla® of Speedtest Intelligence® data for fixed median download speeds, United States and San Diego, Q3 2023. Ookla trademarks used under license and reprinted with permission.

About Ookla® Ookla is a global leader in connectivity intelligence that provides consumers, businesses, and other organizations with data-driven insights to improve networks and connected experiences. We help our clients efficiently solve their biggest connectivity challenges and drive forward innovation.

Ookla is a division of Ziff Davis (NASDAQ: ZD), a vertically focused digital media and internet company whose portfolio includes leading brands in technology, entertainment, shopping, health, cybersecurity, and martech. Ookla s worldrenowned brands include Speedtest, Downdetector, Ekahau, RootMetrics, and more.

About Cox Communications Cox Communications is committed to creating meaningful moments of human connection through technology. As the largest private broadband company in America, we operate fiber-powered networks in more than 30 states, providing connections and advanced cloud and managed IT services for nearly seven million homes and businesses nationwide. We're dedicated to empowering others to build a better future and celebrate diverse products, people, suppliers, communities and the characteristics that make each one unique. Cox Communications is the largest division of Cox Enterprises, a family-owned business founded in 1898 by Governor James M. Cox. Visit cox.com for more information.

Getting the most accurate speed test Cox customers seeking to measure the speed of a connected device while at home should download the Ookla Speedtest app for their desktops and mobile devices. Ookla Speedtest can also be run from a web browser at www.speedtest.net.

Bringing us closer

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Thursday, December 21, 2023 • The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint

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COMMUNITY Voice & Viewpoint Staff

T

Wreaths Across America at Greenwood Memorial Park

Annual Event Honors San Diego Veterans

he volunteers and staff were there at 6am preparing to participate in Wreaths Across America at Greenwood, one of such activities held around San Diego, and across the nation on Saturday morning, December 16th. This was the 9th Annual event at Greenwood with scores of volunteers and observers who would participate in placing thousands of wreaths on the graves of fallen heroes and loved ones.

The call went out weeks before for both volunteers and sponsors to purchase and place a wreath. Ms. Dee Sanford and Mrs. Gloria James were the official Greenwood CoCoordinators of the event. Ms. Sanford served as moderator and host of those pres-

PHOTOS: Voice & Viewpoint

ent, which included service organizations like the American Legion, the San Diego Unified School District’s Jr. ROTC units, the Boy Scouts of America, the Girl Scouts of America Troop 6923, San Diego County Women Marines Association, the San Diego Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Military Order of World Wars.

There was a brief program at the beginning of the event with some very important historical notes. US Army Chaplain Major Ret. Anselmo Brillon Jr. gave the invocation, followed by a Moment of Silence for our fallen heroes. Welcoming remarks were given

by Chida Warren-Darby from San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria’s office, military remarks by CAPT Laurie Scott and a history of WAA by Veteran Advisor Sonia McClister. USN Retired Chief Joey Jerome gave the history of the Medal of Honor and the history and importance of the Purple Heart and highlighted the fact that there are five Medal of Honor honorees buried at Greenwood. The late Mr. Tayari Howard, U.S. Coast Guard Veteran, was among those acknowledged and held in memory throughout the program.

Keynote speaker, CAPT. Veronica Armstrong-

Evans, gave an impassioned speech. She is a Board Member at USS MIDWAY MUSEUM, where she also serves as Chair of the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion comittee. Prior to that, she was with the Joint Commission for three years, the Office of the Medical Inspector General for four years, the Naval Medical Center San Diego for five years, the Navy Personnel Command for three years, and US Navy for 24 years.

“Let us remember the fallen and those who bear the hidden wounds of war. Freedom is never free. Let us strive for a world where peace prevails,” Armstrong-Evans remarked.

Following the ceremony, there were instructions given on how to place the wreaths, explained by Greenwood Mortuary Assistant Funeral Home Manager Liza Padilla; and a Marine Rifle Detail and the playing of Taps. There were a couple of hundred people present altogether. Some volunteers came from Sharp Hospital, some came from our churches like Bayview and St. Stephens, some came because they had served and wanted their children to learn of the importance of those who died that we might remain free. It was a good morning for such an event.

www.sdvoice.info

The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint • Thursday, December 21, 2023

13

HEALTHY LIVING Treating Cancer with The Controversial Relationship Between The Hairstylist & The Client Pills, Not Chemo

By Kim Norris

I

magine taking a pill to battle lung cancer—no need for chemotherapy or radiation treatments. As recently as mid-November, the FDA approved a pill to specifically treat ROS1-positive lung cancer, which is one of more than a dozen types of lung cancer with an identified biomarker.

Asking your doctor for biomarker testing can lead to a definitive diagnosis, allowing for more treatment options that involve “just taking a pill.”

Dr. Tejas Patil, Assistant Professor of Medical Oncology at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, says biomarker testing opens the door to understanding your cancer and providing therapies that don’t require chemotherapy.

ROS1 cancer is one of more than a dozen types of lung cancer with an identified biomarker. This is why every lung cancer patient must ask their doctor, “What is my lung cancer’s biomarker?”

“What you’re telling a patient when you say you need to get biomarker testing is you need to have the genetic makeup of your tumor. You need to understand that so that we can know how to give you the most appropriate targeted treatments. And specifically for ROS1, this is import-

ant because they’re pill-based treatments. These are not chemotherapy,” said Dr. Tejas Patil, Assistant Professor of Medical Oncology at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.

Biomarker testing is the gateway to understanding this cancer. Several effective treatment options may become available after a definitive diagnosis through biomarker testing. In cases where the cancer has not yet spread and is in an early stage, surgery may be a viable option to remove the tumor altogether. For advanced stages, treatments in the form of oral medications have proven highly effective.

Clinical trials are also valuable for ROS1 lung cancer patients, as they provide access to investigational drugs. Depending on the trial phase, patients may receive the experimental drug or the best standard of care that represents the current optimal treatment available. The financial burden of care within clinical trials is typically covered by the trial sponsor, offering a chance to access potentially groundbreaking treatments.

For more information on ROS1 lung cancer, biomarker testing, and new therapies, please visit lcfamerica.org.

The post first appeared on Chicago Defender.

By Tunisha Newton Contributing Writer

Let's talk about it! As you may already know, the drama between hair stylists and clients is a hot social media topic. Many clients have been exposing their negative experiences with stylists via TikTok, Instagram, etc. While many of their points are valid, I believe the stylists also have valid points.

There are rights and wrongs on both ends that need to be brought to light.

We’ll start with a client’s POV. The most common complaints I’ve heard from clients are, why are the new stylists charging a deposit? These booking policies are outrageous and these prices are way too high!

Back in the day booking sites and deposits didn’t exist. You used to be able to call your stylist for an appointment and she would put you down on her books. However, just like how hairstyles have changed over time, so does the way stylists operate their businesses. We also evolve with time.

Hairstylists are working with their hands all day. They don’t always have the time to stop and reply to texts or take phone calls. The booking site is an easy and effective way to schedule an appointment. The deposit was created to eliminate the number of no-call no-shows and ensure that your stylist will be available for you on your scheduled day/time. It should only be a fraction of the cost and go towards your remaining balance. I do believe it’s fair to say that some booking policies are outrageous. Not including a shampoo/blow-dry is unsanitary and lazy. It is unfair to charge high prices but only provide partial service. Clients should not have to do your job for you.

Unfortunately, some stylists do take advantage of their rights as business owners which leads me to the high prices. Now clients, hear me out! Hairstylists can rightfully charge their worth. Remember that they’re standing on their feet for

PHOTO: NNPA Black Press

PHOTO: Freepik

hours at a time and as these hairstyles continue to evolve, it only gets harder. The price should be aligned with the length and quality of the service as well as the longevity of the hairstyle. While $250 for a silk press is crazy, I do think $250 for box braids is fair.

Now from a hairstylist's POV. The most common complaints I’ve heard from stylists are that clients don’t book correctly because they aren’t fully reading the booking site. They aren’t respectful of the stylist's time and clients forget that hairstylists are people too. It is extremely important to read through the booking policy and the service description before scheduling an appointment. I get that some booking policies are lengthy but 9 times out of 10 all your questions will be answered there, and this prevents you from showing up unprepared and potentially being canceled/losing your deposit.

Respect the stylist's time the same way you want your time to be respected. Time management is key ladies! Most stylists have a grace period but that doesn’t mean it's okay to show up late because of it consistently, and then to walk in with Starbucks in hand is wild. Were you running late, or did you just prioritize that caramel macchiato

over your appointment? This creates a domino effect and causes the stylist to run late for the next client resulting in getting off late.

Also, keep in mind that time fluctuates in the salon. Many factors can make an appointment take longer than expected such as the density/ length of your hair, or complicated braid designs. Give your stylist grace in return, rushing them only puts the stylist under pressure and trust me, you don’t want your hairstyle to look rushed. Lastly, remember that stylists are people too. Don’t be inconsiderate of their personal life or show up with an attitude. That only creates a hostile environment.

In conclusion, we all need to do better ladies. Let’s stop forcing client/stylist relationships to work, but instead, find the client/stylist that best aligns with you. Clients, research and ask questions when you do not understand something.

Communicate with your stylist respectfully and come prepared. Stylists, always remain professional!

Do not take advantage and do not be afraid to set and stand on their boundaries. Getting your hair done is supposed to be a positive experience. A place to unwind, relax, and come out feeling beautiful. Let’s work together to create a healthy salon environment.

Inside the Heart Disease Epidemic with Dr. Lipi Roy & Neil DeGrasse The Covid-19 Vaccine does not cause cardiovascular issues

By Voice & Viewpoint Staff Dr. Neil DeGrasse is a renowned American Astrophysicist who studied at Harvard University, the University of Texas Austin, and Columbia University. His podcast ‘Startalk' features topics on topics regarding science and pop culture and has amassed a large following on Youtube.

In a recent interview with Dr. Lipi Roy published on November 10th co-hosted by Chuck Nice and Gary O’Reilly, the group sat down to discuss how heart disease is impacting

Americans along with some of the most interesting facts and myths about heart disease that most people are unaware of.

Five fast facts Dr. Lipi shared about heart disease that Dr. DeGrasse found particularly interesting are as follows:

Heart Disease is the number one killer in America and as of 2019, over 17 million people have died from heart related health reasons.

Some of the factors that play a part in creating an environment for heart disease are smoking, poor diet, obesity, alcohol and a lack of exercise. Stimulants like cocaine and certain medications can also negatively impact your heart.

1 A good majority of heart attacks happen on Monday mornings because of elevated stress levels and a release of stress hormones.

EDUCATION

2. Men and women have varying symptoms of a heart attack. Women's symptoms have a tendency to show up more quietly in the form of nausea and heart palpitations.

3. Sneezing won't cause your heart to stop.

17 Year-old Suspended Over Hairstyle

By AP News

5. There are over 60 thousand miles in blood vessels in your heart which is equivalent to taking three trips around the earth.

Dr. Lipi also answered questions about the Covid vaccine and rumors surrounding whether it’s hard on your heart or not. She made it clear that while Covid can cause cardiovascular issues, the vaccine itself does not.

Interested in learning more about

PHOTO: Startalk Radio

Dr. Neil DeGrasse and Startalk radio? Get the NEW StarTalk book, 'To Infinity and Beyond: A Journey of Cosmic Discovery' on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3PL0NFn

SAN DIEGO COUNTY

COVID-19 STATUS TEST POSITIVITY

8.9%

Darryl George, left, a 17-year-old junior, and his mother Darresha George, right, talks with reporters before walking across the street to go into Barbers Hill High School after Darryl served a 5-day in-school suspension for not cutting his hair Monday, Sept. 18, 2023, in Mont Belvieu.

George will spend the remainder of the year in in-school suspension, extending a punishment that was first imposed in August over his hairstyle that district officials maintain violates their dress code policy. A referral given to George Tuesday, Dec. 5, said his hair is “out of compliance” with the dress code at Barbers Hill High School in Mont Belvieu, Texas.

4. Laughing is great for your heart as it promotes healthy blood vessels.

TOTAL HOSPITALIZED

130

7-day average daily census; 4.0 (per 100k) TOTAL DEATHS

152

fiscal year-to-date; 5.0 (4-week average); 1.7 (per million) PHOTO: AP Photo/Michael Wyke

SOURCE: County of San Diego, Last updated 12/14/2023

14

Thursday, December 21, 2023 • The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint

www.sdvoice.info Classified ads can be placed in person, by phone, fax, or email Monday-Thursday 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

P:619-266-2233 F:619-266-0533 E:ads@sdvoice.info

NOTICE TO BIDDERS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of San Diego (City) is seeking to receive Electronic Bids for the below named Public Works project.

The solicitation, including plans and specifications, may be obtained from the City's website at: https://www.sandiego.gov/cip/ bidopps Contractors intending to submit a Bid must be prequalified. Please refer to the solicitation for instructions.

Project Name: San Ysidro Activity Center Improvements Project Number: K-24-2246DBB-3 Estimated Values: $3,140,000.00 Bid Open Date: 2/1/2024, at 2:00 P.M. License Requirement: A It is the policy of the City of San Diego to encourage equal opportunity in its Construction and Consultant contracts. Bids or proposals from local firms, small, minority-owned, disabled, veteran-owned, and womenowned businesses are strongly encouraged.

Contractors are encouraged to subcontract with and/or participate in joint ventures with these firms. The City is committed to equal opportunity and will not discriminate with regard to race, religion, color, ancestry, age, gender, disability, medical condition or place of birth; and will not do business with any firm that discriminates on any basis.

Bids shall be received no later than the date and time noted above at: City of San Diego's Electronic Bidding Site PlanetBids at: https://www.planetbids.com/p ortal/portal.cfm?CompanyID= 17950 Claudia C. Abarca, Director Purchasing & Contracting Department December 8, 2023 12/21/23 CNS-3764016# VOICE & VIEWPOINT NEWS

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME NAME STATEMENT 2023-9025000 Fictitious business name(s): Dr.Quassy Al Kaissey DDS INC Located at: 236 Jamacha Rd. Ste. 101 El Cajon, CA 92019 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: A Corporation The first day of business was: 12/01/2023 This business is hereby registered by the following: Dr.Qussay Al Kaissey DDS INC 236 Jamacha Rd. Ste. 101 El Cajon, CA 92019 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on December 14, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on December 14, 2028 12/21, 12/28, 1/04, 1/11 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9024598 Fictitious business name(s): Our Infinite Nature Located at: 3441 Arborview Dr. San Marcos, CA 92078 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: An Individual Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the name(s) above This business is hereby registered by the following: Rachael Adira Cohen 3441 Arborview Dr. San Marcos, CA 92078 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on December 07, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on December 07, 2028 12/21, 12/28, 1/04, 1/11 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9024631 Fictitious business name(s): Stucco Maestro Top of the Line Everytime Located at: 7560 Central Ave.

• Full Name • Billing address • Date(s) you want the ad to appear • Contact phone number

All classified ads are prepaid.

CLASSIFIEDS / LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Include the following information:

Deadline is Tuesdays by NOON to run that week.

• Name Change:$85.00 (4 weeks) • Standard Classified: $3.75 a line • Summons: $130.00 (4 weeks) • Fictitious Business Name: $25.00 (4 weeks)

WE ACCEPT:

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

Lemon Grove, CA 91945 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: An Individual The first day of business was: 09/24/2013 This business is hereby registered by the following: Marcus A. Ojeda 7560 Central Ave. Lemon Grove, CA 91945 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on December 07, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on December 07, 2028 12/21, 12/28, 1/04, 1/11 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9024852 Fictitious business name(s): Breaking Black Consulting --Breaking Black Merch --Breaking Black Acadeny --Imarketplace --Lily's Custom Designs --Breaking Black Ventures Located at: 2287 Dunlop St #12 San Diego, CA 92111 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability The first day of business was: 12/12/2023 This business is hereby registered by the following: Breaking Black Ventures LLC 2287 Dunlop St #12 San Diego, CA 92111 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on December 12, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on December 12, 2028 12/21, 12/28, 1/04, 1/11 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9024684 Fictitious business name(s): Elite Botanicals Located at: 920 Rangeview St Spring Valley, CA 91922 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: An Individual The first day of business was: 11/28/2023 This business is hereby registered by the following: Marvin Angelo Vasquez 918 Rangeview St Spring Valley, CA 91922 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on December 08, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on December 08, 2028 12/21, 12/28, 1/04, 1/11 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9024247 Fictitious business name(s): NJ Cleaning Services Located at: 2842 Boston Ave San Diego, CA 92113 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: A Married Couple Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the name(s) above This business is hereby registered by the following: Norma Alvarez 2842 Boston Ave San Diego, CA 92113 --Javier Macedo 2842 Boston Ave San Diego, CA 92113 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on December 04, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on December 04, 2028 12/14, 12/21, 12/28, 1/04 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9024225 Fictitious business name(s): C Bingham Trucking LLC Located at: 5939 Chaumont San Diego, CA 92114 County of San Diego This business is conducted by:

A Limited Liability Company The first day of business was: 11/11/2023 This business is hereby registered by the following: C Bingham Trucking LLC 5939 Chaumont Dr. San Diego, CA 92114 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on December 01, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on December 01, 2028 12/14, 12/21, 12/28, 1/04 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9023936 Fictitious business name(s): Gerson Located at: 3550 Ruffin Rd 257 San Diego, CA 92113 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: An Individual The first day of business was: 06/01/2022 This business is hereby registered by the following: Axelia Cordero 3550 Ruffin Rd 257 San Diego, CA 92113 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on November 29, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on November 29, 2028 12/14, 12/21, 12/28, 1/04 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9024541 Fictitious business name(s): Aim Real Estate Services Located at: 10620 Treena St. Ste 230 San Diego, CA 92131 County of San Diego --40034 Gibraltar Dr. Murrieta, CA 92562 County of Riverside This business is conducted by: An Individual Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the name(s) above This business is hereby registered by the following: Bradley Weathers Dotson 40034 Gibraltar Dr. Murrieta, CA 92562 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on December 06, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on December 06, 2028 12/14, 12/21, 12/28, 1/04 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9023522 Fictitious business name(s): Cal Budget Livescan --Cal Budget Insurance Services Located at: 5935 Balboa Ave. San Diego, CA 92111 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: A Corporation The first day of business was: 11/21/2023 This business is hereby registered by the following: Cal Budget Services, Inc 5935 Balboa Ave. San Diego, CA 92111 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on November 21, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on November 21, 2028 12/14, 12/21, 12/28, 1/04 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9023390 Fictitious business name(s): Tax Season Located at: 16981 Acena Dr. San Diego, CA 92128 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: An Individual Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the name(s) above This business is hereby registered by the following: Shahin Setayeshgar 16981 Acena Dr. San Diego, CA 92128 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on November 20, 2023

This fictitious business name will expire on November 20, 2028 12/14, 12/21, 12/28, 1/04 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9023775 Fictitious business name(s): Surf Mafia San Diego --Central Surf San Diego Located at: 12017 Wintercrest Dr. #319 Lakeside, CA 92040 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: An Individual The first day of business was: 11/26/2023 This business is hereby registered by the following: Constance Denise Graham 12017 Wintercrest Dr. Apt #319 Lakeside, CA 92040 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on November 28, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on November 28, 2028 12/7, 12/14, 12/21, 12/28 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9024250 Fictitious business name(s): Pwees Mechanics & Vending Located at: 10606 Camino Ruiz Ste 8-216 San Diego, CA 92126 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company The first day of business was: 11/8/2023 This business is hereby registered by the following: Pee Wees Mobile Mechanic LLC 10606 Camino Ruiz Ste 8-216 San Diego, CA 92126 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on December 04, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on December 04, 2028 12/7, 12/14, 12/21, 12/28 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9021655 Fictitious business name(s): Encinitas Dental Designs Located at: 740 Garden View Ct Suite 215 Encinitas, CA 92024 County of San Diego --2119 Flint Ave Escondido, CA 92027 This business is conducted by: A Corporation The first day of business was: 8/3/2023 This business is hereby registered by the following: Le Greenfield Dental Group INC 2119 Flint Ave Escondido, CA 92027 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on October 23, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on October 23, 2028 12/7, 12/14, 12/21, 12/28 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9024175 Fictitious business name(s): La Jolla Sedan --SD County Limo Located at: 9095 Sydney Court Unit 10116 San Diego, CA 92122 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company The first day of business was: 1/13/2013 This business is hereby registered by the following: La Jolla Sedan LLC 9095 Sydney Court Unit 10116 San Diego, CA 92122 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on December 01, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on December 01, 2028 12/7, 12/14, 12/21, 12/28 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9023866

Fictitious business name(s): SUHNTOUCHED FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS AND SERVICES --SUHNTOUCHED FINANCIAL GRANTS/ SPONSORSHIPS AND ASSISTANCE Located at: 1419 Duval San Diego, CA 92102 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the name(s) above This business is hereby registered by the following: Suhntouched Financial Solutions 1419 Duval San Diego, CA 92102 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on November 28, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on November 28, 2028 12/7, 12/14, 12/21, 12/28 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9023659 Fictitious business name(s): Lubrun Myrlene Family Child Care Located at: 4238 54th Place Apt #12 San Diego, CA 92115 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: An Individual Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the name(s) above This business is hereby registered by the following: Myrlene Lubrun 4238 54th Place Apt #12 San Diego, CA 92115 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on November 22, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on November 22, 2028 12/7, 12/14, 12/21, 12/28 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9022561 Fictitious business name(s): Agau Private Security Located at: 551 E. San Ysidro Blvd.

San Diego, CA 92173 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: A Corporation The first day of business was: 11/01/2023 This business is hereby registered by the following: Aps Payment Services, INC 551 E. San Ysidro Blvd.

San Diego, CA 92173 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on November 03, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on November 03, 2028 12/7, 12/14, 12/21, 12/28 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9023668 Fictitious business name(s): Aguilar Landscaping Located at: 5488 Santa Margarita St. San Diego, CA 92114 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: A Married Couple The first day of business was: 01/05/2011 This business is hereby registered by the following: Jose Antonio Aguilar Neyra 5488 Santa Margarita St. San Diego, CA 92114 --Glenda Xochitl Valdovinos Diaz 5488 Santa Margarita St. San Diego, CA 92114 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on November 27, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on November 27, 2028 11/30, 12/7, 12/14, 12/21 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9022935 Fictitious business name(s): Our Story Gift Guide Located at: 8690 Aero Dr. Ste 115-7 San Diego, CA 92123

County of San Diego This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company The first day of business was: 10/16/2023 This business is hereby registered by the following: Our Story Candle Co LLC 8690 Aero Dr. Ste 115-7 San Diego, CA 92123 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on November 13, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on November 13, 2028 11/30, 12/7, 12/14, 12/21 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9023565 Fictitious business name(s): L Massage Located at: 6933 Federal Blvd.

Lemon Grove, CA 91945 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: A Corporation The first day of business was: 03/28/2016 This business is hereby registered by the following: L Massage INC 6933 Federal Blvd.

Lemon Grove, CA 91945 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on November 22, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on November 22, 2028 11/30, 12/7, 12/14, 12/21 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9023352 Fictitious business name(s): DJ King Majesty Located at: 4178 Ocean View Blvd.

San Diego, CA 92113 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: An Individual The first day of business was: 11/17/2023 This business is hereby registered by the following: Kenneth Earl Long Jr. 4178 Ocean View Blvd.

San Diego, CA 92113 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on November 17, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on November 17, 2028 11/30, 12/7, 12/14, 12/21 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9023590 Fictitious business name(s): Eir Wellness and Massage Located at: 12117 Via Hacienda El Cajon, CA 92019 County of San Diego This business is conducted by: An Individual The first day of business was: 10/13/2023 This business is hereby registered by the following: Melissa Lynn Roa 12117 Via Hacienda El Cajon, CA 92019 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on November 22, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on November 22, 2028 11/30, 12/7, 12/14, 12/21 ----------------------------------NAME STATEMENT 2023-9021601 Fictitious business name(s): Sura BBQ Located at: 1980 Optima St. Chula Vista, CA 91915 County of San Diego --3860 Convoy St. Ste 113 San Diego, CA 92111 This business is conducted by: A Corporation The first day of business was: 10/17/2023 This business is hereby registered by the following: Sura BBQ Group INC 1980 Optima St. Chula Vista, CA 91915 This statement was filed with the Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on October 21, 2023 This fictitious business name will expire on

October 21, 2028 11/30, 12/7, 12/14, 12/21

information on obtaining certified copies.

NAME CHANGE

If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions.

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA 330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 Hall Of Justice Courthouse 37-2023-00054424CU-PT-CTL Petitioner or Attorney: Kathleen Marie Sax AKA Kathleen Marie Barbera To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Kathleen Marie Sax AKA Kathleen Marie Barbera filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Kathleen Marie Sax AKA Kathleen Marie Barbera PROPOSED NAME: Caterina Marie Barbera THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted.

Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING Date: January 30, 2024 Time: 8:30 A.M. Dept. C-61 (To appear remotely, check in advance of the hearing for information about how to do so on the court's website. To find your court's website go to www.courts.ca.gov/find-mycourt.htm) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120).

If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One copy of the Order Granting the Petition will be mailed to the petitioner.

To change a name on a legal document, including a birth certificate, social security card, driver license, passport, and other identification, a certified copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree Changing Name and Order Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be required. Contact the agency(ies) who issue the legal document that needs to be changed, to determine if a certified copy is required.

A certified copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree Changing Name and Order Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be obtained from the Civil Business Office for a fee. Petitioners who are seeking a change of name under the Safe at Home program may contact the assigned department for the

If a timely objection is filed, the court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions.

A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date.

Any Petition for the name change of a minor that is signed by only one parent must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other nonsigning parent, and proof of service must be filed with the court.

The address of the court is: 330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 12/21, 12/28, 1/04, 1/11 ----------------------------------SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA 330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 Hall Of Justice 37-2023-00053804CU-PT-CTL Petitioner or Attorney: Abby L. Ertz 256803 The Ertz Law Group To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Taylor Gothard and Timothy Humphrey filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Isaiah Amir GothardHumphrey PROPOSED NAME: Isaiah Amir Humphrey THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING Date: January 25, 2024 Time: 8:30 A.M. Dept. C-61 (To appear remotely, check in advance of the hearing for information about how to do so on the court's website. To find your court's website go to www.courts.ca.gov/find-mycourt.htm) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120).

If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without

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The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint • Thursday, December 21, 2023

ADVERTISMENT FOR BIDS

LEGAL NOTICES

Advertisement for Bids Notice is hereby given that the San Diego Unified School District, acting by and through its governing board, will electronically receive bids for the furnishing of all labor, materials, transportation, equipment, and services for: SINGLE POINT OF ENTRY AT MIRA MESA HIGH SCHOOL AND CHALLENGER MIDDLE SCHOOL A mandatory site visit is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 2024, outside the main office of Challenger Middle School, 10810 Parkdale Avenue, San Diego, CA 92126.

Upon completion, all contractors will proceed to Mira Mesa High School, 10510 Marauder Way, San Diego, CA 92126. Contractors and subcontractors must preregister with the District prior to attending the site walk at sandiegounified.org/sitewalks. The Bid and Contract Documents may be downloaded free of charge at the District’s online Planroom at sandiegousdplans.com.

All bids must be received electronically at or before 1:00 p.m. on JANUARY 25, 2024. Firms interested in submitting a bid package must go to tinyurl.com/SDUSD-PlanetBids then search under “Bid Opportunities” for “Invitation number” CC24-0699-52-00-00 Single Point of Entry at Mira Mesa High School and Challenger Middle School. For new vendors, please register under “New Vendor Registration.” The project estimate is between $165,000 and $180,000. This is not a PSA project and does not require prequalification. The District requires that Bidders possess any of the following classification(s) of California State Contractors License(s), valid and in good standing, at the time of bid opening and contract award: B, or other appropriate license, subject to District approval. SAN DIEGO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT, George A. Harris III, Director, Fiscal Controls and Information Systems, Facilities Planning and Construction CC24-0699-52-00-00

above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Request for Proposals (RFP) Regional Plans: Public Outreach & Engagement SANDAG is seeking consultants that specialize in outreach, marketing, communications, and media support to aid their Public Affairs Team in an engagement campaign for the Regional Plan, from March 2024 through March 2027, with the option to continue work for four additional years.

Estimated range: 0% to 25%. DBE goals will be set at the time Task Order proposals are requested, based upon the Scope of Work, applicable North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Codes, subcontracting opportunities, and funding source(s) of the Task Order.

For Task Orders with FHWA funds, the Task Order DBE goal may exceed this range.

Proposal Due Date: Proposals must be submitted via SANDAG’s vendor portal, hosted by BidNet Direct, at https://www.bidnetdirect.com/sandag no later than 4:00 p.m. PT on January 12, 2024. A copy of RFP# SOL1191725 along with other related documents can be obtained using the BidNet portal, or by contacting: Jennifer Howell, Jennifer.Howell@sandag.org, SANDAG, 401 B Street, Suite 800, San Diego, CA 92101.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Request for Proposals (RFP) Legislative Management Software Solicitation No.: SOL83828 The San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) is seeking a consultants for Legislative Management Software.

There is no DBE goal for this project. The deadline for electronic Bid submittal is December 19, 2023 by 4:00 PM PST/PDT unless otherwise stated in an addendum. A copy of the solicitation documents and any communications or addenda can be accessed via www.bidnetdirect.com/sandag.

a hearing. One copy of the Order Granting the Petition will be mailed to the petitioner.

To change a name on a legal document, including a birth certificate, social security card, driver license, passport, and other identification, a certified copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree Changing Name and Order Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be required. Contact the agency(ies) who issue the legal document that needs to be changed, to determine if a certified copy is required.

A certified copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree Changing Name and Order Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be obtained from the Civil Business Office for a fee. Petitioners who are seeking a change of name under the Safe at Home program may contact the assigned department for the information on obtaining certified copies.

If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions.

If a timely objection is filed, the court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions.

A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date.

Any Petition for the name change of a minor that is signed by only one parent must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other nonsigning parent, and proof of service must be filed with the court.

The address of the court is: 330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 12/21, 12/28, 1/04, 1/11 ----------------------------------SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA 330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 Hall Of Justice Courthouse 37-2023-00053585CU-PT-CTL Petitioner or Attorney:

Ho Long Pham; Thi Thuan Le on behalf of minor To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Ho Long Pham; Thi Thuan Le on behalf of minor filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a.PRESENT NAME: Le Vi Pham PROPOSED NAME: Ellie Le Pham b.PRESENT NAME: Le Quyen Pham PROPOSED NAME: Annie Le Pham THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted.

Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING Date: January 24, 2024 Time: 8:30 A.M. Dept. C-61 (To appear remotely, check in advance of the hearing for information about how to do so on the court's website. To find your court's website go to www.courts.ca.gov/find-mycourt.htm) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120).

If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One copy of the Order Granting the Petition will be mailed to the petitioner.

To change a name on a legal document, including a birth certificate, social security card, driver license, passport, and other identification, a certified copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree Changing Name and Order

Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be required. Contact the agency(ies) who issue the legal document that needs to be changed, to determine if a certified copy is required.

A certified copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree Changing Name and Order Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be obtained from the Civil Business Office for a fee. Petitioners who are seeking a change of name under the Safe at Home program may contact the assigned department for the information on obtaining certified copies.

If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions.

If a timely objection is filed, the court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions.

A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date.

Any Petition for the name change of a minor that is signed by only one parent must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other nonsigning parent, and proof of service must be filed with the court.

The address of the court is: 330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 12/14, 12/21, 12/28, 1/04 ----------------------------------SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA 330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 Hall Of Justice Courthouse 37-2023-00052225CU-PT-CTL Petitioner or Attorney: Elizabeth Larios Valenzuela on behalf of minor To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Elizabeth Larios Valenzuela on behalf of minor filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Abraham Isai LariosValenzuela PROPOSED NAME: Abraham Isai Valenzuela Larios THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted.

Any person objecting to the name changes described

NOTICE OF HEARING Date: January 17, 2024 Time: 8:30 A.M. Dept. 61 (To appear remotely, check in advance of the hearing for information about how to do so on the court's website. To find your court's website go to www.courts.ca.gov/find-mycourt.htm) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120).

If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One copy of the Order Granting the Petition will be mailed to the petitioner.

To change a name on a legal document, including a birth certificate, social security card, driver license, passport, and other identification, a certified copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree Changing Name and Order Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be required. Contact the agency(ies) who issue the legal document that needs to be changed, to determine if a certified copy is required.

A certified copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree Changing Name and Order Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be obtained from the Civil Business Office for a fee. Petitioners who are seeking a change of name under the Safe at Home program may contact the assigned department for the information on obtaining certified copies.

If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions.

If a timely objection is filed, the court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions.

A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date.

Any Petition for the name change of a minor that is signed by only one parent must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other nonsigning parent, and proof of service must be filed with the court.

The address of the court is: 330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 12/14, 12/21, 12/28, 1/04 ----------------------------------SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA 330 W. Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 Central Division Hall Of Justice 37-2023-00051116CU-PT-CTL Petitioner or Attorney: Shante Clincy on behalf of minor To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Shante Clincy on behalf of minor filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

LEGAL NOTICES a.PRESENT NAME: Josiah Lamar Sharpe PROPOSED NAME: Josiah King Dyer b.PRESENT NAME: Jayden Jeremiah Clincy PROPOSED NAME: Jayden Jeremiah Dyer Jr. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted.

Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING Date: January 10, 2024 Time: 8:30 A.M. Dept. 61 (To appear remotely, check in advance of the hearing for information about how to do so on the court's website. To find your court's website go to www.courts.ca.gov/find-mycourt.htm) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120).

If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One copy of the Order Granting the Petition will be mailed to the petitioner.

To change a name on a legal document, including a birth certificate, social security card, driver license, passport, and other identification, a certified copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree Changing Name and Order Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be required. Contact the agency(ies) who issue the legal document that needs to be changed, to determine if a certified copy is required.

A certified copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree Changing Name and Order Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be obtained from the Civil Business Office for a fee. Petitioners who are seeking a change of name under the Safe at Home program may contact the assigned department for the information on obtaining certified copies.

If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions.

If a timely objection is filed, the court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions.

A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date.

Any Petition for the name change of a minor that is signed by only one parent must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other nonsigning parent, and proof of service must be filed with the court.

The address of the court is: 330 W. Broadway

15

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

San Diego, CA 92101 12/07, 12/14, 12/21, 12/28 ----------------------------------SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA 330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 37-2023-00049045CU-PT-CTL Petitioner or Attorney: Hayley Dawson

change of a minor that is signed by only one parent must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other nonsigning parent, and proof of service must be filed with the court.

parties by mail with further directions.

To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Hayley Dawson filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Hayley Nicole Dawson PROPOSED NAME: Hayley Martins Mota THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted.

Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING Date: January 16, 2024 Time: 8:30 A.M. Dept. 61 (To appear remotely, check in advance of the hearing for information about how to do so on the court's website. To find your court's website go to www.courts.ca.gov/find-mycourt.htm) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120).

If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One copy of the Order Granting the Petition will be mailed to the petitioner.

To change a name on a legal document, including a birth certificate, social security card, driver license, passport, and other identification, a certified copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree Changing Name and Order Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be required. Contact the agency(ies) who issue the legal document that needs to be changed, to determine if a certified copy is required.

A certified copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree Changing Name and Order Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be obtained from the Civil Business Office for a fee. Petitioners who are seeking a change of name under the Safe at Home program may contact the assigned department for the information on obtaining certified copies.

If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions.

If a timely objection is filed, the court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions.

A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date.

Any Petition for the name

The address of the court is: 330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 12/07, 12/14, 12/21, 12/28 ----------------------------------SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA 330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 Hall Of Justice Courthouse 37-2023-00050754CU-PT-CTL Petitioner or Attorney: Ferdowsa Mohamud; Hassan Omar on behalf of minor child To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Ferdowsa Mohamud; Hassan Omar on behalf of minor child filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Asma Hassan PROPOSED NAME: Asma Hassan Abdi THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted.

Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING Date: January 04, 2024 Time: 8:30 A.M. Dept. 61 (To appear remotely, check in advance of the hearing for information about how to do so on the court's website. To find your court's website go to www.courts.ca.gov/find-mycourt.htm) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120).

If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One copy of the Order Granting the Petition will be mailed to the petitioner.

To change a name on a legal document, including a birth certificate, social security card, driver license, passport, and other identification, a certified copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree Changing Name and Order Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be required. Contact the agency(ies) who issue the legal document that needs to be changed, to determine if a certified copy is required.

A certified copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree Changing Name and Order Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be obtained from the Civil Business Office for a fee. Petitioners who are seeking a change of name under the Safe at Home program may contact the assigned department for the information on obtaining certified copies.

If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions.

If a timely objection is filed, the court will set a hearing date and contact the

A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date.

Any Petition for the name change of a minor that is signed by only one parent must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other nonsigning parent, and proof of service must be filed with the court.

The address of the court is: 330 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 12/07, 12/14, 12/21, 12/28 ----------------------------------SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA 330 W. Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 Central Division Hall Of Justice Courthouse 37-2023-00050676CU-PT-CTL Petitioner or Attorney: Alyssa Cozzo To All Interested Persons: Petitioner Alyssa Cozzo filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME: Alyssa Cozzo PROPOSED NAME: Alyssa Cerda THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted.

Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING Date: January 04, 2024 Time: 8:30 A.M. Dept. 61 (To appear remotely, check in advance of the hearing for information about how to do so on the court's website. To find your court's website go to www.courts.ca.gov/find-mycourt.htm) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120).

If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One copy of the Order Granting the Petition will be mailed to the petitioner.

To change a name on a legal document, including a birth certificate, social security card, driver license, passport, and other identification, a certified copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree Changing Name and Order Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be required. Contact the agency(ies) who issue the legal document that needs to be changed, to determine if a certified copy is required.

A certified copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree Changing Name and Order Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be obtained from the Civil Business Office for a fee. Petitioners who are seeking a change of name

16

Thursday, December 21, 2023 • The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint

TODAY IN

LEGAL NOTICES

BLACK HISTORY

under the Safe at Home program may contact the assigned department for the information on obtaining certified copies.

1959

If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions.

Florence “Flo-Jo” Griffith Joyner, born Florence Delorez Griffith on December 21, 1959, was an American sprinter who made an extraordinary impact. Growing up in the Los Angeles neighborhood Watts, a young Joyner would begin her competitive sprinting career at seven years old.

A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date.

The address of the court is: 330 W. Broadway San Diego, CA 92101 11/30, 12/07, 12/14, 12/21

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Special Edition January 11, 2024 Reserve Your Space Now Ad copy due January 05, 2024 Phone: (619) 266- 2233 Email: ads@sdvoice.info

Merry Christmas ~ Wishing Everyone A Safe And Happy Holiday Season

1948

FLORENCE GRIFFITH JOYNER BORN

If a timely objection is filed, the court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions.

Any Petition for the name change of a minor that is signed by only one parent must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other nonsigning parent, and proof of service must be filed with the court.

www.sdvoice.info

In 1979, coach Bob Kersee discovered Joyner working as a bank teller and encouraged her to train at UCLA. While she gained attention for her flamboyant style at the 1984 Olympics, it was the 1988 Olympics where she etched her name in history. Setting world records in the 100m (10.49 seconds) and 200m (21.34 seconds), her feats remain unmatched 35 years after her victorious run at the South Korean Summer Olympics. Joyner retired from track racing in February

SAMUEL L. JACKSON BORN

of 1989, discussing in an interview with Ann Liguori that she retired because “I could no longer train 100%, in which I'm used to training. If I can't give it my all, I don't want to give it at all," as NPR reports.

Remembered for her speed, distinctive one-legged running suits, and vibrant style, Joyner's legacy encompasses athletics, fashion, and advocacy. Despite her untimely passing at 38 in 1998, her influence lives on, with an elementary school in Los Angeles bearing her name.

Samuel Leroy Jackson, a famously talented American actor born on December 21, 1948, in Washington, D.C., encountered a challenging upbringing marked by his father's abandonment and subsequent struggles with alcohol. Relocating to Chattanooga, Tennessee, with his mother, Jackson's early education at Riverside High School showcased his musical talents with the trumpet and French horn.

Transitioning to higher education, he pursued a major in dramatic arts at Morehouse College in Atlanta. Notably, Jackson established the Just Us Theater and participated in campus protests, facing a temporary expulsion in 1969 but ultimately graduating in 1972.

His relocation to Harlem in 1976 marked the beginning of his journey into stage acting. A pivotal moment

occurred in 1981 with his role in Charles Fuller's A Soldier’s Play. Despite facing personal challenges, including addiction, Jackson's career soared with notable performances in films like Coming to America (1988), Jungle Fever (1991) and the breakthrough role of "Jules Winnfield" in Quentin Tarantino's Pulp Fiction (1994).

ARTS & CULTURE Lenny Kravitz Sets the Record Straight on Black Awards Controversy conic rock star Lenny Kravitz has clarified his comments regarding his absence from Black Awards programs, emphasizing that his concerns were not directed at Black-owned media companies. In response to his comments to Esquire, the National Newspaper Publishers Association’s Let It Be Known digital news broadcast had taken Kravitz to task, questioning whether Kravitz or his publicists and handlers were ignoring Black media.

The National Newspaper Publishers Association is the trade association of over 230 African American-owned newspapers and media companies comprising the 197-year-old Black Press of America. The show also tweeted at Kravitz on X, inviting him to explain why he chose to take his beef to mainstream media if he had been concerned about the Black Press.

importance of setting the record straight. “It is important to me to set the record straight on recent media reports based on an interview I did,” Kravitz asserted. “My Black musical heritage means a lot to me, and I owe my success to my supporters who have taken this journey with me over the span of my career.” He went on to clarify the specific nature of his comments, stating, “The comment I made was not about ‘Black media’ or the ‘Black community.’ I was specifically referring to black award shows in particular.” Kravitz, whose biggest hits include “American Woman,” and “It Ain’t Over Til It’s Over,” insisted that his comments were meant to express concern about ensuring that Black artists are recognized for their work in what is now being called ‘non-traditional’ Black music. “Rock and Roll is the music we were instrumental in creating and is a part of our history,” he stated. “We must retain our heritage and celebrate that together.”

In a statement, Kravitz expressed the

In his comments to Esquire that ini-

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Sr. Newswire Correspondent

I

PHOTO: NNPA Newswire

tially raised comments, Kravitz, a fourtime Grammy winner, questioned why Black entertainment publications didn’t celebrate his success and expressed disappointment at never receiving invitations to events like the BET or Source Awards. “Here is a Black artist who has reintroduced many Black art forms, who has broken down barriers—just like those that came before me broke

down. That is positive. And they don’t have anything to say about it?” he stated in the interview. Kravitz later acknowledged the contributions of networks like BET and others. “BET and countless others have paved the way for this type of recognition,” Kravitz asserted.

“I hope that by sharing my concern, a spotlight will be shone on this issue.

Love and peace.”

T.I. and Tiny Open Affordable ARTICLE CONTINUATION Housing Complex in Atlanta

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Sr. Newswire Correspondent Hip-hop power couple T.I. and Tiny celebrated the grand opening of their long-awaited affordable housing complex, The Intrada Westside, during a ribbon-cutting ceremony in Atlanta.

The complex is in the northwest of the city. According to HipHopDX.com, it shows how committed the couple is to community development, and it has personal meaning for T.I. because it was once a grocery store where his grandmother shopped.

The Intrada Westside boasts 143 apartments and 25 unique units to house homeless youth. T.I., known for hits like “Whatever You Like,” expressed gratitude for the support from the arts and entertainment industry, citing its profitability to offer much-needed resources to the community. In a nod to the project’s roots, T.I. shared, “The arts and entertainment industry in this city has been able to collaborate and be, I guess, profitable enough to offer the community so many things

From ~The Voice & Viewpoint~

PHOTO: NNPA Newswire

that are much needed.”

This venture is reportedly not the first time T.I. has invested in revitalizing his Atlanta community. In 2020, he urged his social media followers to shift their focus from luxury items to real estate. The rapper highlighted the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on consumer behavior and encouraged responsible spending. HipHopDx.com said T.I. had been actively involved in community initiatives through his Buy Back the Block initiative, investing over $2.7 million since 2017 to acquire six properties and plots of land in his Center Hill neighborhood. The website said his philosophy emphasizes the potential for individuals to thrive financially while positively contributing to their communities.

“The Black Press of America salutes both the creative genius of T.I. and his concrete commitment to the economic development of Black communities,” National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. proclaimed. The NNPA is the trade association of America’s more than 230 Blackowned newspapers and media companies. “The affordable housing development in Atlanta is an innovative and positive pathway forward,” Chavis declared. “I know T.I. personally, and his character and integrity are impeccable.”

INEQUALITY: Continued from page 3

The NAACP is America’s oldest and largest civil rights organization and today comprises a network of over 2,200 affiliates spanning all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Japan and Germany. Headquartered in Baltimore, its membership exceeds 500,000.

The NAACP California-Hawaii State Conference, with its 72 branches and youth units, is actively engaged across both states to promote racial justice and equality.

Rick L. Callender serves as the President of the NAACP’s California/ Hawaii State Conference. He also is a member of the National NAACP Board of Directors.

California Black Media spoke with Callender about the work his conference is doing and how it impacts the lives of Black Californians.

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

We're committed to dismantling racism and disrupting inequality to create a society where all people can truly be free. Our efforts encompass active civic engagement, systematically fostering racial equity, and championing policies and institutions that urgently address the spe-

cific needs of Black communities, who bear the brunt of race-based discrimination.

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

The NAACP CA/HI State Conference’s greatest success has been sticking to our long-lived goal of fighting for justice and prioritizing our community ’s needs. In the past year, we notched up some significant victories with Gov. Newsom signing three of our priority bills into law, namely Assembly Bill (AB) 1327, Senate Bill (SB) 673, and Assembly Bill 1165.

AB 1327 addresses a standing problem that many California high school student-athletes of color have dealt with: racism during high school sporting contests. The bill mandates the California Department of Education, in collaboration with relevant community organizations, to create a standardized form for recording hate violence and hazing incidents at high school sporting events, with results to be posted on their website.

SB 673, authored by Sen. Steve Bradford (D-Inglewood) guarantees that Black children and young Black women will receive the attention and protection they need when they are reported missing.

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The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint • Thursday, December 21, 2023

17

CHURCH DIRECTORY Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church of San Diego

Bethel Baptist Church

3085 K Street San Diego, CA 92102

1962 Euclid Ave. San Diego, CA 92105

719 Cesar E. Chavez Pkwy San Diego, CA 92113

619.232.0510 • www.bethelamesd.com

619.266.2411 • www.bethelbc.com bethel@bethelbc.com

619.233.6487 • www.calvarybcsd.org calvarybaptist1889@gmail.com

10:00 A.M. Sunday Service In Person, Live Stream on Facebook, Youtube and on bethelamesd.com

Minister Donald R. Warner Sr.

Rev. Dr. Obie Tentman, Jr.

Rev. Jared B. Moten, Senior Pastor

Dr. John W. Ringgold, Sr. Pastor

Church of Christ

The Church of Yeshua Ha Mashiach Hebrew for “Jesus the Messiah”

580 69th Street, San Diego, CA 92114

1819 Englewood Dr. Lemon Grove, CA 91945

619.264.1454 • warnerdt1@aol.com

619.724.6226 • www.coyhm.org

Sunday Bible Study 8:45 a.m.

Sunday Morning Service 10:00 a.m.

Sunday Bible Class 5:00 p.m.

Sunday Evening Worship 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday Bible Class 7:00 p.m.

Friday Video Bible Class 7:00 p.m

Sunday In the Know Bible Study 8:00 a.m.

Sunday Worship Service 9:00 a.m.

Saturday Shabbat Service 1:00-2:30 p.m.

Pastor Dennis Hodges First Lady Deborah Hodges

“A Church Where Family, Faith & Fellowship Matters”

Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church Interim Pastor Rev. William Jones

1728 S. 39th Street San Diego, CA 92113 619.262.6004 • Fax 619.262.6014 www.embcsd.com

Sunday School 9 :30 a.m.

Sunday Worship 11:00 a.m.

Wednesday Prayer & Bible Study 12 p.m. & 6:00 p.m.

“A Life Changing Ministry” Romans 12:2

Lively Stones Missionary Baptist Church

Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church

Mesa View Baptist Church

605 S. 45th Street San Diego, CA 92113-1905

625 Quail Street San Diego, CA 92102

13230 Pomerado Road Poway, CA 92064

619.263.3097 • t.obie95@yahoo.com

619.263.4544

Sunday School 9 :00 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday Prayer 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon Wednesday Bible Study 7:00 p.m.

Sunday School 9 :30 a.m.

Sunday Morning Service 11:00 a.m.

Tuesday Bible Study & Prayer Meeting 12:00 noon & 6:00 p.m.

858.485.6110 • www.mesaview.org Email: mvbcadmin@mesaview.org

Pastor Melvin A. Watts

Pastor Dr. Darrow Perkins Jr.

We are using YouTube under our website of www.mesaview.org or www.YouTube.com 8:45 A.M. Sunday School Class - Via Zoom Call Contact Office for details 10 A.M. Sunday Service • 7 P.M. Wednesday Bible Study Visit our site for previous sermons: www.mesaview.org

New Assurance Baptist Church

New Hope Friendship Missionary Baptist Church

Phillips Temple CME Church

7024 Amherst Street San Diego, CA 92115

2205 Harrison Avenue San Diego, CA 92113

5333 Geneva Ave. San Diego, CA 92114

619.469.4916 Email: newassurancebaptistchurch@yahoo.com

619-234-5506 • Fax 619 234-8732 Email: newhopeadm@gmail.com

619.262.2505

Sunday School: 9:30 a.m.- In person & Live Stream Sunday Morning Worship: 11:00 a.m.- In person & Live Stream Wednesday Night Bible Study & Prayer: 6:30 p.m.- In person & Live Stream

10 A.M. Sunday Service Live Stream on Facebook, Youtube, Sunday School Lesson Immediately following service.

“A new Hope, A new Life, A new Way through Jesus Christ 2 Corinthians 5:17 A change is coming”

Pastor Donnell and First Lady Sheila Townsend

Sr. Pastor Dr. Kevin E. Stafford First Lady Margina Stafford

Sundays Bible Discovery Hour 9 :30 a.m.

Mid Morning Worship 11:00 a.m.

Wednesday Noon Day Bible Study 12:00 noon Wednesday Discipleship Training 7:00 p.m.

Pastor Milton Chambers, Sr. & First Lady Alice Chambers

12 P.M. Wednesday Bible Study Live Stream on Facebook, 2P.M. on Youtube

Pastor Keith Eric Ellison

I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the LORD!” Psalms 122:1

Sunday Breakfast @ 8:00 AM Church Service 9:00 AM In-Person and on, Live Stream Facebook.com/PTCSanDiego & YouTube - Zoom Go to ptcmesd@gmail.com Sunday School @ 10:30 Wednesday Bible Study @ 6:00 PM In-Person and On Zoom ID: 81144203904 P: 867104

Pilgrim Progressive Baptist Church

St. Paul United Methodist Church of San Diego

Total Deliverance Worship Center

4995 A Street San Diego, CA 92102

3094 L Street San Diego, CA 92102

138 28th Street San Diego, CA 92102

619.264.3369

619.232.5683

Sunday School 9 :00 a.m.

Morning Service 10:45 a.m.

New Membership Orientation BTU 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday Eve Prayer Service 6:00 p.m.

9:30 A.M. Sunday Service In Person, Live Stream on Facebook - www.facebook.com/stpaulsumcsd

www.totaldeliverance.org Fax: 619.303.2008 Mail: 7373 University Ave. Suite 217, La Mesa, CA 91942

Rev. Jeffery L. Grant, Sr. Pastor

Food Distribution Thursday Noon – 3:00 PM Diaper Program Thursday Noon – 2:00 PM

“Come Worship With Us”

“To Serve this present age” Matt: 28:19-20

Suffragan Bishop Dr. William A. Benson, Pastor & Dr. Rachelle Y. Benson, First Lady

Sunday Early Morning Worship Service 9:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

“It Takes Team Work to Make the Dream Work”

Eagles Nest Christian Center

True Light Apostolic Church

3619 College Ave. San Diego, CA 92115

5400 Division Street San Diego, CA 92114

619.266.2293 • jwarren@sdvoice.info www.facebook.com/EaglesNestChristianCenter

Sunday Services: Bible Study: 9 :00 a.m. • Worship: 11:00 a.m.

Pastor Dr. John E. Warren

Join Us via Zoom Meeting: Online or Dial: 1(669) 900-6833 Meeting ID: 747 601 3471 • Passcode: 626024

—

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7476013471?pwd=O GdGbnVMZ0xORzVGaENMa203QWVNQT09 Meeting ID: 747 601 3471 • Passcode: church

YOU CAN NOW EXPERIENCE EAGLE’S NEST TEACHINGS ON YOUTUBE!

619.262.6924

Search: Pastor John E. Warren San Diego

Pastor Asa A. McClendon

We are a non-denominational full fellowship of believers dedicated to reach our community with the gospel and providing a place for believers to workship, learn, fellowship, serve and grow into the fullness of Christ Jesus. This ministry is to build people of Purpose, Prayer, Power, Praise and Prosperity.

This mandate is being fulfilled by reaching the reality of the gospel in a simplistic fashion, and a result, learning how to apply it in everyday life.

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Acts 2:38

“We are waiting for You”

Voice &Viewpoint

12:00 P.M. Sunday Service In Person, Live Stream on Facebook Follow us on Facebook @ True Light Apostolic Church Saints every Wednesday & Friday at 7:30 P.M.

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Rev. Harvey L. Vaughn, III

Sunday Morning Prayer 6:00 & Worship 7:30 a.m.

Sunday School 9 :30 a.m.

Morning Worship Youth & Children’s Church 11:00 a.m.

Community Prayer (Hemera) Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri., Sat. 7:30 a.m.

Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 7:30 p.m.

Mid Week Prayer Wednesday 12:00 noon and 7:00 p.m.

Calvary Baptist Church

18

Thursday, December 21, 2023 • The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint

Our Negro National Anthem Something That Everyone Should Know?

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The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint • Thursday, DECember 21, 2023

19

BUSINESS DIRECTORY “If it Isn’t Flowing Right, We Didn’t Do It!”

FLOW-RITE PLUMBING Service & Repairs • Commercial & Residential Ask About Water Heaters

(619) 266-2208 Rinnai Tankless Certified

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Financial Telesis Network 7227 Broadway, Ste 404, Lemon Grove, CA 91945 619-644-1040  619-644-1015 Fax

We Also Provide:  Notoray Services  Electronic Filing  IRS Audits  OFFER IN COMPROMISES

Mae C. Tucker Enrolled Agent BS Degree - SDSU

BUSINESS / FINANCE

A Leader Helping to Train Future Black Business Owners

By Bria Overs WORD IN BLACK According to the most recent official numbers from the U.S. Census Bureau, there are nearly 3.6 million Black-owned businesses. An estimated 1.3 million people are employed by 4% of those companies. Despite having millions of businesses, there are still long-standing hurdles to entrepreneurship. Lack of access to capital, education, networking, and mentoring opportunities keeps potential founders from taking the steps needed to build something great.

A partnership between the Black Economic Alliance Foundation and two distinguished Historically Black Colleges and Universities seeks to solve this for the next generation of Black entrepreneurs. Their solution: the Center for Black Entrepreneurship (CBE).

Launched in 2021 with a $10 million grant from Bank of America, the CBE builds on Atlanta’s Morehouse College and Spelman College’s respective entrepreneurship programs and initiatives.

Since its start, the program has received $5 million from Mastercard’s Impact Fund, $5 million from the Visa Foundation, and $4 million from Cisco.

Word In Black[’s Bria Overs] spoke with [Grant Warner, director of the CBE,] about the future

of the CBE, how to prepare future Black business owners and leaders, and his outlook on the future of Black entrepreneurship.

Bria Overs: This sounds like a large effort to fill a gap that exists around Black entrepreneurship. Both that there aren’t enough Black entrepreneurs, but also the gap in access to pursue entrepreneurship.

Grant Warner: I think that’s absolutely accurate.

We completed a study on entrepreneurs who are looking at federal opportunities, but I think the results of it speak largely to the Black experience in entrepreneurship. What you find is things like a lack of access to funding.

You look at things like the SBIR program, which is called America’s Seed Fund, and you look at who’s funded. Oftentimes, it doesn’t look like America. The statistics around Black startups that are funded by venture capital is around 1%.

It’s not representative of our slice of the population. There are all dynamics that need to change.

What can we all be doing to support entrepreneurs and even the talent coming out of the [entrepreneurship] minor, out of colleges, and the certificate program?

One, it does mean investment. We have insti-

tutions that are the leading producers of Black doctors, Black investors, people in finance, etc. Activating them to support and invest in burgeoning Black busi- Grant Warner (center) is the director of the Center for Black Entrepreneurship nesses is important. at Spelman College and Morehouse College. PHOTO: Courtesy of Word In Black The other way you get capital is through customers. There’s a whole Buy Black initiative, and sites have popped up that really try to aggregate Black vendors. Being conscious about how we spend our dollars will be helpful.

Then, look at the companies we’re working for.

What do their supply chains look like right now? Are you making sure your company has a diverse set of suppliers because that’s another access to capital?

How does the center help prepare students for facing challenges [when they start their own companies]?

What we try to do is evidence-based action.

The reality of it is that as recently as the first half of 2021, 1% of venture funding went to Black people — that’s just the reality. You should be armed with that knowledge. But

then, looking under the hood, what drives some of that differentiation? It really is the behavior that investors have when they look at Black companies.

What does the future of Black entrepreneurship look like?

It has to be bright because we’re producing new entrants into that market equipped with new skills and relationships that we think will help them be successful. But they’re also entering a landscape that’s very different. A lot of new funds with Black fund managers, and data shows that Black fund managers do invest their money differently.

How do we close the wealth gap? This is not something where we can be dejected or something that we can stop. We need to actually attack this and win.

Millennial Money: 2024 Social Security COLA and Your Retirement Security Administration provide maximum benefits for longer.

PHOTO: Freepik

By Dalia Ramirez NERDWALLET Social Security benefits for millions of people will rise by an average of over $50 a month starting in January, thanks to the Social Security Administration’s 3.2% annual cost of living adjustment for 2024, announced on Oct. 12. The change will immediately put more money in current retirees’ pockets, but it also could have a considerable effect on payouts to future retirees.

The 2024 increase is much smaller than last year’s 8.7%, the largest since 1981. But because the COLA reflects inflation, a smaller increase is not necessarily a bad thing; it suggests that inflation is more stable and may help the Social

The COLA has been relatively volatile in recent years, however, and future retirees are understandably concerned about the health of the Social Security benefits program.

Here’s what the cost of living adjustments really mean and how to factor Social Security benefits into your future retirement budget.

A LOWER COLA IS A GOOD SIGN The SSA increases the COLA in response to inflation, which means that a hefty COLA jump — like last year’s 8.7% — reflects a serious bump in the costs of goods and services.

“We want to be conservative when we’re projecting Social Security income,” says Elaine Floyd, a certified financial planner. Even this year’s increase may not be the most accurate predictor of what your benefits might look like decades in the future.

FOCUS ON WAGES The COLA isn’t the only annual change to Social Security benefit amounts. Yearly changes to the lesser-known national average wage index can also significantly impact current and future retirees. The SSA applies the index to your 35 highest-earning years in the workforce as part of its benefits calculation.

“Wages tend to rise faster than prices,” Floyd says. The most recent increase in the average wage index is 5.32%, more than the 3.2% COLA. “I really want younger people to understand the connection between their own earnings and their eventual Social Security benefits,” Floyd adds. She suggests thinking about that connection throughout your career, especially when making decisions about sabbaticals or job choices.

“Your eventual benefits will reflect the rise in wages over your career,” she says. “Ask for those raises.”

DON'T DISCOUNT SOCIAL SECURITY ENTIRELY Many workers set to retire after 2034, when the SSA currently expects to deplete the reserves it holds in the Social Security trust fund, are concerned about whether they can count on Social Security benefits. Social Security benefits now make up, on average, 30% of retiree income, according to the SSA, a significant chunk.

But Randall Holcombe, a certified financial planner, says he reminds wary clients that most of the Social Security program is funded directly from current employee and employer taxes, explaining that the fund works as a buffer to ensure retirees receive full benefits despite declining taxpayer funding.

There are ways to prepare for volatility or major changes, especially if you have a while to go before retirement. Individual retirement accounts and a well-rounded investment portfolio can balance out some of that uncertainty over the course of decades.

20

Thursday, DECember 21, 2023 • The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint

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SAVE THE DATE!

Friday, February 2, 2024 6-8PM JOE & VI JACOBS CENTER 404 Euclid Avenue San Diego, CA 92114 For More Information and to Purchase Your Tickets, Scan Code or Visit: https://bit.ly/47fhTkc