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NEWSPAPER A Community Newspaper Serving San Bernardino, Riverside & Los Angeles Counties Volume 51 No. 48

March 18, 2021- March 24, 2021

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

Your 2021 Stimulus Cash: Differences Between Your Federal and State Checks Thirty years ago, I watched Rodney King beaten...We thought our fight was finally over

Quinci LeGardye | California Black Media

By Rep. Karen Bass Texas Metro News

Direct cash relief is coming to Californians soon. Both the state and federal government have begun issuing stimulus c h e c k s t o A m e r ic a n s . The American Rescue Plan, which includes the third and largest round of federal COVID-19 stimulus of the pandemic so far, was signed into law by President Biden on March 12. According to several reports direct deposits began hitting peoples’ bank accounts as soon as March 14, with paper checks and pre-paid debit cards expected to follow soon. Low-income Californians can also expect a state-specific Golden State Stimulus check, which will be distributed over the course of 2021. Though both stimulus payments are dispensed automatically, they do have big differences when it comes to qualifications. For the federal stimulus payment, the full $1,400 amount will be distributed to individuals

with an adjusted gross income less than $75,000, heads of households earning less than $112,500 and married couples earning less than $150,000. Payments will gradually lower for people earning more than those amounts, with the cutoffs for payments being $80,000 for individuals, $120,000 for heads of households and $160,000 for married couples. This stimulus round will also include an additional $1,400 payment per dependent. Unlike previous rounds, this round will also include payments for dependents age 17 and above. The maximum amount possible is $5,600, for a couple with two adult children. The income thresholds for this federal stimulus round are based on the most recent tax return filed. Like the previous rounds, the money will be automatically distributed to people who have their tax information filed with

the IRS. All eligible recipients, including those who don’t typically file taxes, can use the IRS’ “Get My Payment” website to request a payment or check its status. California’s Golden State Stimulus relief package was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom on Feb. 23. The package includes onetime stimulus payments for Californians 18 years or over who receive the California Income Tax Credit (CalEITC) or file with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). An individual who is claimed as a dependent on another person’s tax filing is ineligible to receive a payment. The California stimulus payment will be either $600 or $1,200, based on the recipient’s eligibility. Californians who either receive the CalEITC, meaning they make under $30,000 in taxable income along with other qualifications, or file with an ITIN

and earn $75,000 or less will receive $600. Californians who meet both of these conditions will receive $1,200. For couples filing jointly, the ITIN requirement will count if at least one person in the couple files with an ITIN. The biggest difference between the Golden State Stimulus and the rounds of federal stimulus checks that have been issued so far is that eligibility in California is based on 2020 tax returns. The payments will be determined by tax returns filed by October 15, 2021, which is the deadline for filers who request an extension on the original Apr. 15 deadline. The payment itself expires on November 15, 2021. The Golden State Stimulus will go out automatically after 2020 tax returns are filed. The $1400 federal stimulus checks are based either on 2019 or 2020 tax returns.

Two African Americans on Team Advising Gov. Newsom on “Inclusive” Reopening Bo Tefu | California Black Media

Last week, Gov. Newsom appointed former Stockton Mayor Michael D. Tubbs, who is African American, as his Special Advisor for Mobility and Opportunity. In this role, Tubbs becomes one of two African Americans on the governor’s Council of Economic Advisors (CEA) -- a group Newsom has charged to help California recover from the economic downturn the coronavirus pandemic has caused. The other Black gubernatorial advisor is Renee Bowen, an

associate professor of economics at the University of California San Diego. Tubbs and Brown are serving along with 11 other experts Newsom says will help offer guidance on how to rebuild a state economy that is more sustainable and inclusive. The CEA team will help to build political will, championing policy changes that aim to promote equitable economic opportunities and fight poverty for all Californians, according to the governor’s office.

“As we fight the dual pandemics of COVID-19 and economic insecurity, I am honored to work with the Newsom Administration to bring forward innovative solutions that will lead to inclusive economic recovery for all Californians,” said Tubbs. On Friday, President Biden signed Congressional Democrats’ $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan. The federal economic package includes $1,400 stimulus checks for individuals nationwide. In his third State of the State Address, Gov. Newsom recapped the state’s plans to support small businesses, reopen schools, promote equitable vaccine distribution, and provide state stimulus funds. The recently appointed CEA will advise California lawmakers on directing state and federal funds toward programs and investments that soften the pandemic’s economic blow. Although the advisers are

not compensated for their roles, they will leverage their areas of expertise as well as their familiarity with business and industry in California to ensure that California families “have the opportunity to not just survive but thrive,” during the pandemic, state officials said. As a special advisor, Tubbs plans to recommend best-practices gleaned from various external stakeholders, including economic experts and business leaders to reform state policies that will benefit all Californians. “As I always say, poverty is a choice: a policy one,” Tubbs said. “I can think of no greater calling than to build upon my work with Mayors and community leaders across our state and nation to help advance big, bold policy solutions that are rooted in economic fairness, racial equity, and recognize the dignity of all continued on page7

March 3, 2021 when I first saw the tape of Rodney King being beaten in the middle of the street on March 3, 1991, I was not horrified or surprised. I was hopeful. I believed that now, finally, the public would believe what Black and Latino activists had been saying: that police brutality is real and continues a long history of treating Black people like their lives do not matter, while simultaneously attempting to hide that reality in plain sight. Activists had fought for years to get elected leaders to see and act on what was happening in Black communities across America. But officers who killed or brutalized Black people could say that they did it because they had been in fear for their life, whether or not the person was armed. But then, 30 years ago as we watched that video, we were convinced that justice would finally be served, and the truth would be exposed to the world. We were right to an extent. VIDEOS A MER ICA CAN’T IGNORE People across the country felt outraged at what they saw on the tape, but that anger did not translate into large-scale change. Los Angeles amended its city charter to rein in the largely unchecked chief of police, who around that time suggested that Black people were dying from chokeholds at the hands of police at disproportionate rates because our neck veins were different from “normal people’s” neck veins. While these local actions were significant at the time, the reforms pretty much stopped there. There had been a moment of understanding and an opportunity for change, but it passed. In what could now be viewed as a rigged trial (due to changed venue and a jury with no Black people on it), the jury didn’t convict any of the four police officers involved in the assault. After that verdict, I drove through the intersection of Florence and Normandie in South Los Angeles on my way to a meeting with other activists and saw our community begin to burn in anger and despair. Black and Brown people in this country have now endured 30 years of police brutality and violence since Rodney King was beaten. On May 25, 2020, the world witnessed yet another video, this time of the slow killing of George Floyd. Tens of thousands took to the streets demanding change, not

only in Minneapolis but in nearly every major U.S. city and in cities around the world. Thirty years later, I stand hopeful yet again. There is a systemic problem with policing in the United States. By enacting transformative reform on a national level, we have a chance to address it. W H AT R EA L POLICE R EFOR M LOOKS LIK E Though named in his honor, Congress must not pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act to honor one man — but to honor all the unarmed people who have been brutalized or killed by police since his death and the many more who were brutalized or killed prior. Last year I introduced this bill to act on these long overdue reforms. I developed it carefully in consultation with many stakeholders, including some police officials. The bill would introduce common sense reforms such as: requiring police officer accreditation; promulgating best practices; maintaining a registry of officers dismissed for excessive use of force; providing grants for communities to reinvasion public safety; and banning the chokeholds and no-knock warrants in federal drug cases, which have been at the root of recent high-profile tragedies. The House passed the bill last year, but it never got a vote in the Senate. The 117th Congress will take up the bill again this week with the opportunity to set us on a path towards finally addressing the issue of police brutality in a transformative way. This is a moment of understanding and an opportunity for change yet again and we cannot let it pass. When the police officers were acquitted at their trial for the beating of Rodney King, I felt hopeless and defeated. It felt like his life did not matter. That’s the feeling we will continue to have until we act. We cannot afford to wait another 30 years. Next week, Derek Chauvin will stand trial for second-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter in the death of George Floyd. At some point, our nation needs to make a decision about how many more instances of police brutality do we need to witness before. Rep. Karen Bass, D-Calif., represents Culver City and parts of Lost Angeles in the United States House of Representatives and is the former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. Follow her on Twitter: @RepKarenBass

March 18, 2021

Page 2 COMMUNITY/EDUCATION/ADVERTISING

As Stimulus Checks Go Out, Beware Scammers, Says FTC

Publisher’s Corner

Quinci LeGardye | California Black Media

New rounds of COVID-19 stimulus checks are either incoming or have already reached the pockets of eligible Californians -- either through the federal American Rescue Plan or the Golden State Stimulus. With the cash coming in, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is warning the general public about an expected wave of fraud targeting peoples’ stimulus cash. Reports of fraud have risen throughout the country over the last year since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. While fraudsters target the public atlarge, a 2016 FTC report found that African Americans and Latinos are more likely to become victims of fraud than Whites. The same report emphasized the importance of consumer education in Black and Brown communities, so that people can recognize fraud schemes before they lose money. The types of fraud are

wide ranging, according to Jennifer Leach, Director of the Division of Consumer and Business Education at the U.S. Federal Trade Commission. “There are definitely scams where people are pretending to be a government agency or your family member or somebody that you're in love with. They sometimes have just enough information about you to make it feel like it's real, or they try to threaten you and make it feel really urgent. They say that you're going to lose your social security number if you don't pay them, which is not going to happen, or that someone that you love is going to be in trouble,” says Leach. The pandemic may have also caused the general public to become more susceptible to fraud, according to Leach, possibly due to heightened levels of stress and anxiety. “It's hard to get the message about fraud across to people

when they're feeling alone or worried or just anxious about people they care about or their own financial security. People who are worried about their income or jobs, or how they're going to make rent, may be at greater risk for scams simply because they are worried, and so scammers who get hold of them and threaten them with things have a bigger impact on them,” says Leach. The FTC is already seeing fraud schemes related to the upcoming federal stimulus checks, which the IRS began distributing last weekend after President Biden signed the American Rescue Plan into law on Mar 12. “We're seeing that scammers are calling and texting, emailing and even messaging people on social media, to try to get people to pay to get their stimulus check. You don't have to pay to get the stimulus check, and you don't have to give your information

to anybody. It's all happening automatically,” says Leach. Non-stimulus specific fraud has also been on the rise during COVID, including fake COVIDrelated treatments, counterfeit personal protective equipment and fake work-from-home offers. According to Leach, one warning sign is the method of payment. “I think the other thing that's really important for people to know is that no one legitimate will ever demand that you have that you pay by gift card, by cryptocurrency, or by wiring money. It's always a scam. No matter what the story is, if they're saying you have to pay one of those ways, it’s a scam,” says Leach. Consumers who want to stay updated about fraud that has been reported and confirmed by the FTC can find information on the agency’s consumer website. As for people who have already fallen for fraud, Leach recommends both reporting the scammer to the FTC and talking with members of their community about the scheme. Leach says, “A lot of people know a lot about scams, they really do, but people get embarrassed. Scammers are professionals, they are really good at what they do. Talking about scams both helps protect you and your community. If you've gotten the call, half your friends have too. If you thought about paying somebody, half your friends did too. It's really valuable to let the light in on what's going on, because that helps slow down the scammers.”

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March 18, 2021

Page 3 STATE/GOVERNMENT/BUSINESS

George Floyd Family and House Majority Two African Americans on Team Advising Gov. Two African Americans on Team Advising Gov. Whip James E. Clyburn (D-SC) Newsom on “Inclusive” Reopening...continued Newsom on “Inclusive” Reopening...continued Receive the NNPAF 2021 Newsmaker from page 1 will be a reality soon. it is, “the right thing to do, and the of the Year Award NNPA Newswire

George Floyd Family Members- Brandon Williams (nephew), Philonise Floyd (oldest brother) and Rodney Floyd (youngest brother).

U.S. Congressman Dwight Evans (D-PA)

U.S. Congressman and House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn (D-SC)

The National Newspaper Publishers Association Fund (NNPAF) BLACK PRESS WEEK will honor the George Floyd Family and House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn (D-SC) with the Newsmaker Award for Leadership during its two-day virtual conference on Thursday, March 18 at noon. The NNPAF is honored to recognize the George Floyd Family for their collective effort for social justice, and their leadership on the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act recently passed in the U.S. House of Representatives. Majority Whip James E Clyburn, a former publisher and the highest-

ranking African American in Congress, will be awarded the Newsmaker of the Year Award for his pivotal role in galvanizing the Black vote across America. NNPA Fund Chair Pluria Marshall Jr., CEO of the Wave Publications, based in California, stated, “These two awardees are dedicated to advancing the progress of Black people. The Black Press of America is honored to recognize their achievements and express our gratitude for their heroic efforts to improve the quality of life of all Americans.” This year’s virtual Black Press Week theme is “BLACK

people.” Gov. Newsom said Tubbs has proved himself as a leader who cares deeply about his community and economic fairness. “I can think of no one more dedicated or better equipped to make recommendations to my team and help lead outreach efforts to increase opportunity and entrepreneurship to reduce poverty in California,” said Newsom. During his time as Mayor of Stockton, Tubbs implemented the first mayor-led Universal Basic Income pilot program in the country, and he launched the Stockton Scholars, a program that helps Stockton’s youth pursue higher education. “Tubbs expanded opportunity and hope in his hometown,” Newsom continued. According to state officials, California experienced recordlow unemployment before the pandemic -- a rate of 3.9 %. Gov. Newsom plans to resolve California’s fiscal problems, strengthen the state’s economy, and drive unemployment back down from just below 10 %, according to numbers the Employment Development Department released in December. “We need to invest for the future, adapt to a changing climate, and keep our budget balanced,” Gov. Newsom said. “This Council will keep its pulse on what’s happening in our economy while making policy recommendations to prepare us for what’s to come.”

continued on page 8

What the $1.9 Trillion American Rescue Plan Means for Californians Quinci LeGardye | California Black Media Last Friday, President Joe Biden signed the latest round of federal COVID-19 relief, the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan, into law. The broad scope of this stimulus package covers a wider range of national and state priorities as compared to previous federal government relief efforts. This one is aims to both prepare the country logistically to emerge from the pandemic and to recover from the economic strife of the past year. “This historic legislation is about rebuilding the backbone of this country and giving people in this nation, working people, middle-class folks, the people who built this country, a fighting chance,” President Biden said March 12. Lawmakers and policy analysts alike have shared their thoughts about the legislation, and how it will affect multiple areas of need for Californians. In his statement, Gov. Gavin Newsom focused on the aid that the state will receive from the legislation. Together, California state and local governments are set to receive over $40 billion dollars. "With this infusion of federal stimulus, California can make faster progress on responding to COVID, supporting small businesses, putting money in people’s pockets, and bolstering K-12 and higher education. All of these pandemic responses add up to a brighter future for California,” said Newsom. The governor says he looks forward to working with partners in the Legislature to identify “key

shared priorities” such as equity, housing affordability, education, and infrastructure, and to chart a path for the state to come “out of this pandemic as a stronger and more inclusive California.” Direct aid to Californians includes one-time $1,400 stimulus payments for people earning less than $75,000 and $300 supplemental weekly unemployment benefits through Sept. 6. The first $10,200 in unemployment benefits will also be nontaxable for households that earn under $150,000. The American Rescue Plan also provides aid for families with children through an expansion of the child tax credit. The one-year expansion increases the credit to up to $3,600 per child, distributed in monthly installments. According to projections by the Urban Institute, the child credit tax expansion will cut child poverty in half. “It is unacceptable that in the richest country in the world, millions of children continue to go to bed hungry and are deprived of basic resources they need to succeed. As Co-Chair of the Majority Leader’s Task Force on Poverty and Opportunity, I applaud this long overdue effort to dismantle the systemic inequality that keeps kids and families at the bottom of the economic ladder,” says U.S. Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-13). The American Rescue Plan also includes nearly $130 billion in grants to state and local educational agencies, along with

$39 billion in grants to higher education institutions and $15 billion to childcare facilities, to assist with safe school reopening. The package also provides increased funding for programs that help low-income earners. $25 billion will go to emergency rental assistance, with $5 billion set aside for emergency housing vouchers for unhoused people and survivors of domestic violence. Also, a provision in the package increases the value of cash vouchers for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Woman, Infants and Children (WIC). For business owners, the Small Business Administration (SBA) will receive $25 billion for a new grant program for restaurants, bars and “other food and drinking establishments,” with $5 billion targeted for businesses with lower revenue. Also, an extra $1.25 billion is set for the SBA’s Shuttered Venue Operators Grant, which supports live music and performance venues. In an online briefing held by Ethnic Media Services on Mar. 13, the panelists spoke about how the legislation could serve as a blueprint for future permanent legislation. "I should emphasize that all of the almost all of these are short term provisions, they are not permanent. But they provide guidance about the kinds of policies we might want to be enacting going forward on a permanent basis,” said Chad Stone, Chief Economist at the nonprofit Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.

Biden-Harris Administration’s $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act and vaccine expansion The Biden-Har ris Administration announced the passage $1.9 trillion in federal aid Friday, including $1,400 stimulus checks, to help people affected by the pandemic nationwide. California legislators continue efforts to boost small businesses as well as support K-12 and higher education as they wait for directives from the federal government on how to allocate the funds. “The American Rescue Plan will help California roar back from this pandemic,” Gov. Newsom said. “All of these pandemic responses add up to a brighter future for California.” State officials said they plan to use the funds on equity, housing affordability, education, and infrastructure to ensure that people come out of the pandemic, “as a stronger and more inclusive California.” In addition to stimulating the economy, the Biden-Harris Administration announced plans to increase access to coronavirus vaccines to all adults by the beginning of May this year. Newsom said President Joe Biden’s announcement indicates that “the light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter,” a sign, he says, that vaccinating everyone continued in next 2 columns

Despite the limited vaccine supply, Newsom says California’s distribution efforts are guided by equity. The state has prioritized those who are most exposed and at risk of contracting the coronavirus since

fastest way to end the pandemic,” said Newsom. California Black Media's coverage of COVID-19 is supported by the California Health Care Foundation.

More breweries, wineries and distilleries to reopen outdoors in Riverside County Local officials remind residents to wear masks, avoid gatherings and practice good hygiene to slow the spread State/Government News The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced this week that breweries, wineries and distilleries that do not serve meals may now reopen outdoors in the purple and red tiers of the state’s reopening framework. Safety precautions to reduce potential spread of COVID-19 include ensuring patrons make reservations and observe a 90-minute time limit. Riverside County is currently in the purple tier, however, is on track to enter the red tier as early as next week. Bars that do not serve meals remain closed until Riverside County enters the orange tier of the state’s reopening framework. “We welcome these loosening restrictions on our businesses and urge everyone to practice the necessary safety precautions,” said Board Chair Karen Spiegel, Second District Supervisor. “We’re getting closer to the red tier when even more businesses can reopen

or increase operations. We can safely do so when we’re wearing masks, avoiding gatherings and practicing good hygiene.” All residents are encouraged to take a PCR swab test to contain the disease. Anyone, with or without symptoms or health insurance, can take a free PCR swab test. Increasing the county’s tests also helps advance into future reopening tiers, paving the way for more businesses to reopen. Visit GetTested.ruhealth.org to make an appointment. Other testing options can be found online at: https://covid19.ca.gov/get-tested/. For more information on the guidance for wineries, breweries and distilleries, visit https:// covid19.ca.gov/industry-guidance/ and scroll down to the guidance for Restaurants, wineries and bars. For more information on business resources, visit https://rivcobcs. org/.

March 18, 2021

Page 4 RELIGION/LIFESTYLE

By: Lou Yeboah

“Public Service Announcement!”

Lou Yeboah Thus says the Lord God: ‘A disaster, a singular disaster; behold, it has come! An end has come, the end has come; it has dawned for you; behold, it has come! Doom has come to you, you who dwell in the land; the time has come, a day of trouble is near, and not of rejoicing in the mountains. Now upon you I will soon pour out My fury, and spend My anger upon you; I will judge you according to your ways, and I will repay you for all your abominations. My eye will not spare, nor will I have pity; I will repay you according to your ways, and your abominations will be in your midst. Then you will know that I am the Lord who strikes” [Ezekiel 7:2–9]. Nevertheless, speaking of that woeful time of trouble, I will not make a complete end of you [Jeremiah 30:11]. I will not utterly destroy you, but I will punish you severely—to shake you to the root of your very being in order to wake you up. For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. And unless those days are shortened

by Me, no flesh would be saved [alive]; but for the elect’s sake [for the sake of God’s repentant, obedient people] those days will be shortened.” [Matthew 24:21–22]. Listen, when Noah prophesied that a great destruction was coming, he was mocked by his generation. Throughout biblical history, watchmen walked the streets warning of coming judgments, prophesying to God’s people, but often the people shut their ears and gave themselves over to pleasures, to food and wine, to buying, selling and building. But, “Thus saith the Lord of hosts… to whom shall I speak, and give warning, that they may hear? Behold , t hei r ea r is uncircumcised, and they cannot hearken: behold, the word of the Lord is unto them a reproach; they have no delight in it…. But, I set a watchmen over you, saying, Hearken to the sound of the trumpet. But you said, you will not hearken” [Jeremiah 6:9–10, 17; Jeremiah 7:27-28]. Therefore, I indeed will deal with you in anger. My eye will have no pity nor will I spare; and though you cry in My ears with a loud voice, yet I will not listen to you. [Ezekiel 8:18]. “Sound the trumpet in Jerusalem! Raise the alarm on my holy mountain! Let everyone tremble in fear because the day of the Lord is upon us. It is a day of darkness and gloom, a day of thick clouds and deep blackness. Suddenly, like dawn spreading across the mountains, a great and

Witness For Justice#1038

Does Theology Matter? Brooks Berndt Recently, I hosted a webinar in which a presentation by one of the panelists left me wondering whether theology really mattered when it came to addressing the climate crisis. As a logical extension of this, one might then ask, “If theology doesn’t matter with the climate crisis, then how much does it matter in general?” Before jumping further into such a thorny theological thicket, let me first explain how I—as a minister of the Christian faith no less—got this point. As part of a webinar entitled “Evangelical Christianity and the Climate Crisis,” the presentation that sent me into brooding contemplation was given by Robin Veldman, an Assistant Professor of Religious Studies at Texas A&M University who authored a book entitled The Gospel of Climate Skepticism: Why Evangelical Christians Oppose Action on Climate Change. Because evangelicals are often misunderstood or conflated with categories such as the “religious right,” Veldman was careful to begin by defining evangelicals— who comprise 26% of the U.S. population—as generally placing an emphasis on adherence to the letter of the Bible, conversion experiences, sharing the Gospel, and Jesus Christ’s redemptive death on the cross. For myself and others in the progressive environmental audience whom Veldman addressed, another character istic com monly associated with evangelicalism is a reading of the Genesis creation story that regards humankind’s “dominion” over creation as license for various ills such as the burning of fossil fuels. We need only think of former

EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt and countless others who have espoused such beliefs. While it is true that theology is thoroughly enmeshed with particular political views, Veldman persuasively problematized a simplistic equation whereby evangelical theology inevitably leads to climate denialism, doubt, and skepticism. Consider how evangelicals from previous eras, such as Francis Schaeffer, once extolled an evangelical environmentalism. Consider how evangelicals of color, in contrast to white evangelicals, exhibit high levels of belief in climate change. Further consider how young evangelicals exhibit higher levels of climate belief than their parents. Finally, additionally note that lurking in the background of the recent historical trend toward climate skepticism is the hugely biased and widely consumed perspective of evangelical mass media which regularly ridicules and attacks climate belief. As I pondered all of this and considered how people on both sides of the climate fence can passionately believe that they have a responsibility to care for God’s creation, I came to the question with which I began: does theology even matter? The answer I believe is yes and no. It is clear that theology is not always determinative of crucial beliefs related to the wellbeing and fate of the world. Upon even a little reflection, surely our world contains too mixed and messy a stew of competing and combing ideas for such easy reductions. Still, there is no denying that, for myself and billions of continued in next 2 columns

mighty army appears. Nothing like it has been seen before or will ever be seen again. Fire burns in front of them, and flames follow after them. Ahead of them the land lies as beautiful as the Garden of Eden. Behind them is nothing but desolation; not one thing escapes. They look like horses; they charge forward like warhorses. Look at them as they leap along the mountaintops. Listen to the noise they make — like the rumbling of chariots, like the roar of fire sweeping across a field of stubble, or like a mighty army moving into battle. Fear grips all the people; every face grows pale with terror. The attackers march like warriors and scale city walls like soldiers. Straight forward they march, never breaking rank. They never jostle each other; each moves in exactly the right position. They break through defenses without missing a step. They swarm over the city and run along its walls. They enter all the houses, climbing like thieves through the windows. The earth quakes as they advance, and the heavens tremble. The sun and moon grow dark, and the stars no longer shine. The Lord is at the head of the column. He leads them with a shout. This is his mighty army, and they follow his orders. The day of the Lord is an awesome, terrible thing. Who can possibly survive?” [Joel 2:1-11]. Yet even now, declares the Lord, "Return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and

with mourning; and rend your hearts and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love; and he relents over disaster. Who knows whether he will not turn and relent, and leave a blessing behind him, a grain offering and a drink offering for the Lord your God? Blow the trumpet in Zion; consecrate a fast; call a solemn assembly; gather the people. Consecrate the congregation; assemble the elders; gather the children, even nursing infants. Let the bridegroom leave his room, and the bride her chamber. Between the vestibule and the altar let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep and say, "Spare your people, O Lord, and make not your heritage a reproach, a byword among the nations. Why should they say among the peoples, 'Where is their God?” [Joel 2:12-17]. I can almost hear the tears in Joel’s voice as he pleads... “Repent and return to God. Repent and plead for God’s mercy. Change the direction you are going. Stop walking away from God and start walking toward God. Turn to God with your whole heart. Change your mind, reconsider your actions, and orient yourself entirely toward God. For NOW is the accepted time, NOW is the day of salvation. [Isaiah 49:8; 2 Corinthians 6:2]. REPENT! REPENT! REPENT!

Does Theology Matter?...continued other persons of faith, theology matters a great deal. It is how we fundamentally make sense and meaning out of life regardless of our climate stance or political leanings. Yet, theology does not take place in a vacuum. It exists in a world pervaded with racism, beholden to media giants, and systemically structured to not only disempower young people but to also jeopardize their future in the

face of enormous threats. In short, theology exists in a matrix of power. Much is needed to bring down this matrix to create a just world, but without question one of the keys to liberation is a conscious awareness of this context as we consider the God who gives so many of us meaning. Brooks Berndt is the Minister for Environmental Justice for the United Church of Christ.

IN MEMORIAM: Boxing Great ‘Marvelous’ Marvin Hagler Dies at 66 NNPA NEWSWIRE — “I am sorry to make a very sad announcement,” wrote Hagler’s wife, Kay. “Today, unfortunately, my beloved husband Marvelous Marvin passed away unexpectedly at his home here in New Hampshire. Our family requests that you respect our privacy during this difficult time.” By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

IN MEMORIAM: Boxing Great ‘Marvelous’ Marvin Hagler Dies at 66...continued division. Although the media and fans showered much love on fighters like Hearns, Sugar Ray Leonard, Roberto Duran, and others, Hagler was largely ignored. Even inside the ring, judges appeared to view Hagler with a skewed eye. That was no more apparent than his bouts with Vito Antuofermo. Despite Hagler brutalizing the then-champion in their first bout at the old Boston Garden in 1979, judges declared the lopsided contest a draw. T he decision allowed Antuofermo to retain his WBC and WBA Middleweight titles. Antuofermo subsequently lost the titles to Alan Minter, whom Hagler destroyed in a September 1980s bout. In the 1981 rematch with Antuofermo, Hagler punished his foe, scoring a fifth-round TKO. Still, Hearns, Leonard and Duran – each a welterweight that would ultimately move up in weight class to challenge Hagler – were the media darlings and the sport’s favorites. Hagler agreed to a 1983 bout with Duran, who was coming off his infamous “No Mas” loss to Leonard. Duran went the distance with Hagler, who won the decision, but the media still scolded him. “Hey, how about giving me some credit?” Hagler pleaded after beating Duran. “I beat a legend. I thought I did a good job. I have to give myself a pat on the back.” The 1983 Ring Fighter of the Year, Hagler had little competition in his division and contenders too afraid to offer up a challenge. Then came the fight that finally earned Hagler the recognition he rightly deserved. Hearns, the tall and powerful puncher from the Motor City, challenged Hagler for the Middleweight Championship on April 5, 1987. It was billed as “The Fight,” but in boxing lore, it remains known as “The War.” Although the match lasted only three rounds, it was arguably one of the most violent fights in boxing history. Hearns and Hagler traded vicious blows, never taking a break. Both fighters were bloodied and, after an accidental head-butt that caused the ring referee Richard Steele to consider stopping the fight in Hearns’ favor, Hagler

unleashed a nonstop flurry to finish his foe. After several more title defenses, Hagler sought the biggest of paydays, and there was just one name that could fulfill that desire for the Broxton, Mass.based warrior, and to quench his thirst for acceptance as the sport’s premiere superstar. That person was ‘Sugar’ Ray Leonard, who had retired in 1982 after suffering a detached retina. Always calculating, Leonard had intently watched and even served as a commentator for HBO during several of Hagler’s bouts. Last year, Leonard told NNPA Newswire that he spotted Hagler’s weakness and wanted to fight him. “I called my business partner, Mike Trainer, and told him I wanted to fight Marvin Hagler, and he asked me had I been drinking,” Leonard reminisced about the time leading up to his April 6, 1987 bout with Hagler. “When I told my brothers that I wanted to fight Hagler, they couldn’t believe I would even think of it,” Leonard recalled. “They asked, ‘Who would be my tune-up (for Hagler)?’ and I told them, ‘Hagler.’ I fought Kevin Howard before fighting Hagler, and he knocked me down, and people thought Hagler would kill me. Back then, I was on the wrong side of the street, doing cocaine and drinking heavily,” Leonard revealed. Hagler was regarded as a brawler with incredible power and the sport’s most dominant slugger. Leonard needed Hagler to believe that he had to prove to the world that he could also box. However, Leonard went on to win a 12-round decision over Hagler and claim the world middleweight championship. Hagler, who never fought again after the Leonard loss, was still named the Boxer of the Decade. In retirement, he finally received a measure of acclaim that escaped him during his memorable career. Hagler is survived by his five children, Charelle, Celeste, James, Marvin Jr., and Gentry. He and his widow, Kay, met in Hagler’s adopted hometown of Milan, Italy. “Marvelous Marvin Hagler has gone, a true great, a chin made from granite, the winner of the greatest fight of all time. RIP Champ,” Hagler fan Robert Kelly posted in a Twitter tribute that featured a video of Hagler’s demolition of Thomas Hearns.

Should America “be less white” Is Coca-Cola’s Training Right? Lifestyle News

Marvelous Marvin Hagler, who ruled the middleweight boxing division in the 1980s, yet never received the recognition he deserved as an all-time great, has died. Hagler was 66. Before Hagler’s death, former boxer Thomas “Hit Man” Hearns posted on Instagram that the legend had “taken ill.” “A real true warrior,” Hearns wrote. Later, Hagler’s wife appeared to confirm his death in a post to the boxer’s Facebook fan club page. “I am sorry to make a very sad announcement,” Kay Hagler

wrote. “Today, unfortunately, my beloved husband Marvelous Marvin passed away unexpectedly at his home here in New Hampshire. Our family requests that you respect our privacy during this difficult time.” A member of the boxing hall of fame, Hagler had a career record of 63-2 with 52 knockouts – many of them of the devastating variety. He turned pro in 1973 and was arguably the most feared fighter in the 160-pound middleweight continued in next 2 columns

I can understand how being told to be less white hits you in your identity, because I was told be less Black. “I understand people’s anger at being told to be less white,” said internationally recognized cross-cultural trainer Kathleen Dameron. “Be less white. What are the qualities? (Paris, France) Americans should not get upset over reports saying Coca-Cola was asking its employees to “be less white” as part of its mandatory diversity training. “I understand people’s anger at being told to be less white,” said internationally recognized cross-cultural trainer Kathleen Dameron. “Be less white. What are the qualities?

“Be less oppressive. Where’s the problem? Listen more. What’s the problem? Be less defensive. where’s the problem?” she asked. “But people get upset the minute they hear, ‘Be less white,’ because it hits them in their identity. It hurts and they reject it.” Dameron said it might be more effective to say, “We’re asking you to create a JEDI society, to create Justice, Equality, Dignity and Inclusion.” The training course at the center of the Coca-Cola backlash was titled “Confronting Racism.” It advised whites to listen more and be less oppressive, less arrogant, less certain, less defensive and less ignorant,” according to the New York Post. continued on page 6

March 18, 2021

Page 5 LEGALS/CLASSIFIEDS/NEWS FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20210001736 Date Filed: 02/22/2021 Filing Expires On: 02/22/2026 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): IN HIS GRACE DANCE COMPANY County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business:13802 RED HILL PL. VICTORVILLE, CA 92395 Name of Individual Registrant: REBEKAH M. LAWRENCE Name of corporation or limited liability company as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.: State of Inc./Org./Reg.: Inc./Org./Reg. No.: Residence Street Address: 13802 RED HILL PL. VICTORVILLE, CA 92395 This business is/was conducted by: An Individual Registrant has commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Not Applicable Rebekah M. Lawrence, Owner, declares that all information in this statement is true and correct. NOTICE- IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920. WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORT IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper March 18, 25, April 1, 8, 2021. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20210001334 Date Filed: 02/10/2021 Filing Expires On: 02/10/2026 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): LIVESTOCK EVENT SERVICES County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business:7979 FOLEY ROAD HESPERIA, CA 92345 Name of Individual Registrant : KELLY L. O’BRIEN-SECORD Name of corporation or limited liability company as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.: State of Inc./Org./Reg.: Inc./Org./Reg. No.: Residence Street Address: 7979 FOLEY ROAD HESPERIA, CA 92345 This business is/was conducted by: An Individual Registrant has commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Feb 01, 2021 Kelly L. O’Brien-Secord, Owner, declares that all information in this statement is true and correct. NOTICE- IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920. WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORT IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper February 25, March 4, 11, 18, 2021. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20210001834 Date Filed: 02/24/2021 Filing Expires On: 02/24/2026 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): ANAHUAC TRANSPORT County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business: 2635 E. PALM PASEO, #1257 ONTARIO, CA 91764 Name of Individual Registrant: GABRIEL VILLASENOR Name of corporation or limited liability company as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.: State of Inc./Org./Reg.: Inc./Org./Reg. No.: Residence Street Address: 2635 E. PALM PASEO #1257 ONTARIO, CA 91764 This business is/was conducted by: An Individual Registrant has commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Feb 15, 2021 Gabriel Villasenor, declares that all information in this statement is true and correct. NOTICE- IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920. WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORT IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper March 4, 11, 18, 25, 2021. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20210000721 Date Filed: 01/26/2021 Filing Expires On: 01/26/2026 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): BLEEDMONEY CLOTHING County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business:11611 VILLA ST. ADELANTO, CA 92301 Name of Individual Registrant: LADALE E. WILLIAMS JR. Name of corporation or limited liability company as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.: State of Inc./Org./Reg.: Inc./Org./Reg. No.: Residence Street Address: 11611 VILLA ST ADELANTO, CA 92301 This business is/was conducted by: An Individual Registrant has commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Jan 21, 2021 Ladale E. Williams Jr., Owner, declares that all information in this statement is true and correct. NOTICE- IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920. WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORT IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper February 25, March 4, 11, 18, 2021. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20210001429 Date Filed: 02/11/2021 Filing Expires On: 02/11/2026 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): ABC AUTO REGISTRATION County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business: 228 E. 40TH ST. SAN BERNARDINO, CA 92405 Name of Individual Registrant : FADI YEHIA

Name of corporation or limited liability company as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.: State of Inc./Org./Reg.: Inc./Org./Reg. No.: Residence Street Address: 2150 S. GLENWOOD AVE. COLTON, CA 92324 This business is/was conducted by: An Individual Registrant has commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Not Applicable Fadi Yehia, Owner, declares that all information in this statement is true and correct. NOTICE- IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920. WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORT IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper February 25, March 4, 11, 18, 2021. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20210001752 Date Filed: 02/22/2021 Filing Expires On: 02/22/2026 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): JULIO’S AUTO CENTER County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business: 25436 E. 3RD ST. SAN BERNARDINO, CA92410 Mailing Address: 5383 PARK LN. SAN BERNARDINO, CA 92404 Name of Individual Registrant: JULIO C. OROPEZA Name of corporation or limited liability company as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.: State of Inc./Org./Reg.: Inc./Org./Reg. No.: Residence Street Address: 5383 PARK LN. SAN BERNARDINO, CA 92404 This business is/was conducted by: An Individual Registrant has commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Not Applicable Julio Oropeza, Owner, declares that all information in this statement is true and correct. NOTICE- IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920. WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORT IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper March 4, 11, 18, 25, 2021. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20210002078 Date Filed: 03/02/2021 Filing Expires On: 03/02/2026 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): TUNJIA FASHION County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business:16218 SOLITUDE AVE. CHINO, CA 91708 Name of Individual Registrant: STELLA K. TUMENTA-HASHEMI TARI Name of corporation or limited liability company as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.: State of Inc./Org./Reg.: Inc./Org./Reg. No.: Residence Street Address: 16218 SOLITUDE AVE. CHINO, CA 91708 This business is/was conducted by: An Individual Registrant has commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Feb 23, 2021 Stella K. Tumenta-Hashemi Tari, Owner, declares that all information in this statement is true and correct. NOTICE- IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920. WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORT IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper March 11, 18, 25, April 1, 2021. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20210001362 Date Filed: 02/10/2021 Filing Expires On: 02/10/2026 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): R & I COMPUTER County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business: 9431 HAVEN AVE. SUITE 100 RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CA 91730 Mailing Address: 14332 MOUNTAIN AVE. CHINO, CA 91710 Name of Individual Registrant: ROBERTO L. DE BELEN Name of corporation or limited liability company as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.: State of Inc./Org./Reg.: Inc./Org./Reg. No.: Residence Street Address: 14332 MOUNTAIN AVE. CHINO, CA 91710 This business is/was conducted by: An Individual Registrant has commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Feb 03, 2021 Roberto De Belen, Owner, declares that all information in this statement is true and correct. NOTICE- IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920. WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORT IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper March 4, 11, 18, 25, 2021. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20210001515 Date Filed: 02/16/2021 Filing Expires On: 02/16/2026 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.): SILVER STAR AUTO II County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Street Address of Principal Place of Business: 224 E. 4OTH ST. SAN BERNARDINO, CA 92404 Name of Individual Registrant: FADI YEHIA Name of corporation or limited liability company as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.: State of Inc./Org./Reg.: Inc./Org./Reg. No.: Residence Street Address: 2150 S. GLENWOOD AVE. COLTON, CA 92324 This business is/was conducted by: An Individual Registrant has commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Not Applicable Fadi Yehia, Owner, declares that all information in this statement is true and correct. NOTICE- IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY

EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920. WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORT IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET. SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE.) Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper February 25, March 4, 11, 18, 2021.

SUMMONS SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL) CASE NUMBER (Número del Caso): CIVDS 2007145 NOTICE TO DEFENDANT (AVISO AL DEMANDADO): BRIAN JOHN MADSEN aka BRIAN J. MADSEN aka BRIAN MADSEN aka BRIAN KERRY MADSEN aka BRIAN K. MADSEN aka BRIAN MODSEN aka BRIAN S. CANMADSEN aka BRIAN S. MADSEN and Does 1 through 100, inclusive YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF (LO ESTÁ DEMANDANDO EL DEMANDANTE) BOPTI FEDERAL CREDIT UNION: NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below. You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www. courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court. There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Web site (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org), the California Courts Online SelfHelp Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/ selfhelp), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. The court's lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case. ¡AVISO! Lo han demandado. Si no responde dentro de 30 días, la corte puede decidir en su contra sin escuchar su versión. Lea la información a continuación. Tiene 30 DÍAS DE CALENDARIO después de que le entreguen esta citación y papeles legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia al demandante. Una carta o una llamada telefónica no lo protegen. Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte y más información en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www. sucorte.ca.gov), en la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede más cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación, pida al secretario de la corte que le dé un formulario de exención de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podrá quitar su sueldo, dinero y bienes sin más advertencia. Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que llame a un abogado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede llamar a un servicio de remisión a abogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services, (www. lawhelpcalifornia.org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www.sucorte.ca.gov) o poniéndose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales. AVISO: Por ley, la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobre cualquier recuperación de $10,000 ó más de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesión de arbitraje en un caso de derecho civil. Tiene que pagar el gravamen de la corte antes de que la corte pueda desechar el caso. The name and address of the court is (El nombre y dirección de la corte es): SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINOUNLIMITED JURISDICTION 247 West Third Street San Bernardino, CA 92415 San Bernardino Courthouse The name, address, and telephone number of plaintiff's attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney, is (El nombre, la dirección y el número de teléfono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante que no tiene abogado, es): A. Lysa Simon, SBN 94884 9846 White Oak Avenue, Suite 205 Northridge, CA 91325 DATE (Fecha): 3/02/2020 Clerk of Court (Secretario) by, Felix Garza Deputy (Adjunto) (SEAL) NOTICE TO THE PERSON SERVED: You are served Published in The San Bernardino American Newspaper February 25, March 4, 11, 18, 2021.

PETITION/PROBATE NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: MARK STEVEN GAYLORD aka MARK S. GAYLORD CASE NO : PROPS 2100197 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both of: MARK

STEVEN GAYLORD aka MARK S. GAYLORD

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by: JANICE GAYLORD in the Superior Court of California, County of SAN BERNARDINO. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that: JANICE GAYLORD be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: Date:04/19/2021 Time: 9:00 a.m. Dept: S37 SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO 247 West Third Street San Bernardino, CA 92415 Central Probate IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for petitioner: William M. Nassar, Esq. 1461 Ford Street Ste. 203 Redlands, CA 92373 (909) 307-2000 Published in The San Bernardino American Newspaper March 18, 25, April 1, 2021.

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: WILLIAM J. HEDGE CASE NO : PROPS 2100175

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

J. HEDGE

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by: CHRIS HEDGE in the Superior Court of California, County of SAN BERNARDINO. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that: CHRIS HEDGE be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: Date: March 29, 2021 Time: 9:00 a.m. Dept: S36 SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO 247 West Third Street San Bernardino, CA 92415-0212 Family Law And Probate Division IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file

with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for petitioner: Sasha L. Collins 5425 Everglades Street Ventura, CA 93003 (805)644-7188 Published in The San Bernardino American Newspaper March 4, 11, 18, 2021. ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CIVSB 2102754 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner: SZU-HAN CHANG filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: a. SZU-HAN CHANG Proposed name: to: SALLY SZUHAN JEHNG b. SALLY SZUHAN CHANG to SALLY SZUHAN JEHNG THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 4/26/21 Time 9:00 a.m. Dept.: S-16 The address of the court is: SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO San Bernardino Justice Center 247 West Third Street San Bernardino, CA 92415-0210 A Copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: The San Bernardino American Newspaper P.O. Box 837 Victorville, CA 92393 Date: Jan 22, 2021 Lynn M. Poncin Judge Of The Superior Court Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper March 11, 18, 25, April 1, 2021. ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CIVSB 2102373

NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 4/19/21 Time 9:00 a.m. Dept.: S-16 The address of the court is: SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO San Bernardino District-Civil Division 247 West Third Street San Bernardino, CA 92415-0210 A Copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: The San Bernardino American Newspaper P.O. Box 837 Victorville, CA 92393 Date: Lynn M. Poncin Judge Of The Superior Court Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper March 11, 18, 25, April 1, 2021. AMENDED ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CIVBA 2100062 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner: court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: a. KENNETH ALLEN HEISE Proposed name to: KENNETH ALLEN STEWART THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 4/27/21 Time 1:30 p.m. Dept.: B4 The address of the court is: SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO 235 E. Mt. View Barstow, CA 92311 A Copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: The San Bernardino American Newspaper P.O. Box 837 Victorville, CA 92393 Date: 3/05/21

PUBLISH

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CIVSB 2102582 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner: SARARAY SIGRUN BLOODWOLF filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: a. SARARAY SIGRUN BLOODWOLF Proposed name: to: SARA RAY BLOOD WOLF ROBICHEAUX THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 4/13/21 Time 9:00 a.m. Dept.: S-16 The address of the court is: SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO 247 West Third Street San Bernardino, CA 92415 Civil Branch A Copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: The San Bernardino American Newspaper P.O. Box 837 Victorville, CA 92393 Date: March 02, 2021 Lynn M. Poncin Judge Of The Superior Court Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper March 18, 25, April 1, 8, 2021. AMENDED ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CIVDS 2101283 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner: MALE SALUZZI and filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: a. MALE SALUZZI to Proposed name: MICHAEL SALUZZI THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

Women (SOEW) and The Pasadena Delta Foundation, Inc. (PDF) with $25,000 grants respectively to provide supplies and services to aid female high school and college minority students pursuing an education in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). “SoCalGas strives to create systematic change for racial equality and social justice focused on equality and inclusion. It’s been an amazing opportunity to partner with organizations like the Society of Extraordinary Women and the Pasadena Delta Foundation in driving programs that help support the youth in our communities,” said Jill Huppenbauer, director of diversity, equity and inclusion at SoCalGas. “These funds will help provide materials and resources for these students to help them continue to learn and grow, hopefully allowing them new opportunities to excel.” “Our exceptional programs at SOEW provide exposure to great opportunities that they would otherwise not have. We’re extremely grateful and proud to partner with SoCalGas to assist our students in need with necessary funding and help make their aspirations a reality,” said Shirley Coates, founder and president of Society of Extraordinary Women. “Through our programs, students are exposed to technology, for now and for the future. They’re able to study subjects such as GIS, mapping, robotics, coding and more, which allows them to discover new opportunities in traditionally male-dominated career paths in STEM and various trades.” The $25,000 grant provided to SOEW will help expand its Ignite Leadership and STEM Academy program, which encourages middle through high school female students to pursue careers in STEM and GIS, to the Inland Empire. Through this grant, students without internet services were provided access to Spectrum internet and those without access to a computer received notebooks and writing supplies. Additionally, the funds were also used to provide stipends

significantly and I’ve been a proud participant since the seventh grade,” said Aleeyah, a freshman at Spelman College. “Being a part of this

Present name: a. SERGIO DANIEL MONTEJANO ORTIZ to Proposed name: DANIEL LEVI MONTEJANO

Date: February 18, 2021 Lynn M. Poncin Judge Of The Superior Court Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper March 4, 11, 18, 25, 2021.

LOS ANGELES – March 16, 2020 – Southern California Gas Co. (SoCalGas) today announced its donations to the Society of Extraordinary

“The Ignite Leadership and STEM Academy has changed my life

Published in the San Bernardino American Newspaper March 18, 25, April 1, 8, 2021.

NEED TO

NOTICE OF HEARING Date: April 01, 2021 Time a.m. Dept.: The address of the court is: SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO San Bernardino District-Civil Division 247 West Third Street San Bernardino, CA 92415-0210 A Copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: The San Bernardino American Newspaper P.O. Box 837 Victorville, CA 92393

Lifestyle News

for participating teachers and for the hiring of program coordinators.

Commissioner Scott Seeley Judge Of The Superior Court

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner: SERGIO DANIEL MONTEJANO ORTIZ filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

SoCalGas Provides $50,000 in Grant Funding to Support Minority Students in the San Gabriel Valley and Inland Empire The grants are part of the utility’s diversity, equity and inclusion initiative

program has opened many doors that I didn’t even know could be open for me, such as attending flight school to learn how to be a pilot. I just want to thank Mrs. Coates in pushing us to be the best that we can be and helping us grow our confidence. Together, we can achieve more.” “The Pasadena Delta Foundation, Inc. is excited to present STEM

A CLASSIFIED AD?

scholarships to underrepresented students in the greater Pasadena area. We are extremely grateful and proud to partner with SoCalGas to provide necessary funding to make these opportunities a possibility for our college students,” said Debra Ward-Samad, president of the

CALL TODAY! FOR A QUOTE (909) 889-7677

the financial freedom to pursue their interests in STEM freely.” The PDF STEM Scholarship program is designed to assist deserving students currently enrolled in a four-year college with a STEM field major by providing scholarships for the completion of their degree, and to further enhance their competitiveness in the workforce. The $25k grant will provide five students with $5,000 scholarships that will be used towards tuition, living expenses, school supplies,

OR EMAIL:

Pasadena Delta Foundation, Inc. “These funds will allow our students

study materials and additional courses to further their education. "I am beyond grateful to be receiving this award from the

Msbamericannews @gmail.com

Pasadena Delta Foundation. I cannot thank the organization enough -- the scholarship will be used towards my study materials and help pay for my Spring and Fall tuition,” said Nicole, a freshman at California State University, Northridge. “I am so thankful for this opportunity and

extremely appreciative of the support on this exciting journey towards becoming a Mechanical Engineer!"

Publish Your FBN Statement with The San Bernardino American News For ONLY $45 go to sb-american.com to upload Payments are accepted by debit/credit card

March 18, 2021

Page 6 WORLD/ENTERTAINMENT NEWS

Cal. Black Elected Officials Unite to “Crush Unfair” Effort to Recall Gov. Newsom

Museum Announces Red Tier Reopening Schedule World/Entertainment News

Manny Otiko and Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media

Top Row L-R: Congresswoman Karen Bass, Congresswoman Barbara Lee, L.A. Supervisor Holly Mitchell, Senator Steve Bradford S.F. Mayor London Breed, L.A. City Councilman Mark Ridley Thomas, Senator Sydney Kamlagar, Antioch Mayor Lamar Thorpe Los Angeles City Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson, California Board of Equalization Member Malia Cohen, Assemblymember Autumn Burke, Assemblymember Reggie Jones-Sawyer, Assemblemember Mike Gipson, California State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond and Darryn Harris (chief of staff to Hon. Karen Bass).

Fourteen California Black Democratic elected officials serving at the federal, state, county and city government levels joined hands in a virtual show of support for Gov. Gavin Newsom on Monday during a news briefing on Zoom. In one-minute statements, each one explained why she or he is standing behind Newsom as a Republican Party-led effort to recall California’s 40th governor gains ground across the state. The two main organizations spearheading the recall effort, RescueCalifornia.org and RecallGavin2020.com, announced last week that they had collected the signatures of more than 2 million Californians for the petition they expect will soon trigger a recall election. To begin the process of removing Newsom from office, the governors’ opponents must collect 1.5 million signatures – or 12 % of the total number of people that voted in the last gubernatorial election. They must also submit the signatures to registrars in all 58 counties by close of business on March 17. “This is the beginning. Let’s hope this is the last time we come together to talk about this. But mark my words, if this recall does qualify, we will crush it because we will be united. We will not fall for a trick,” said U.S. Congresswoman Karen Bass (D-CA-37), pointing out that Gov. Newsom has done nothing that should warrant him being removed from office. Bass said based on the price tag of past attempts to recall California governors, most recently Gov. Gray Davis in 2002, an election to remove Newsom from office would cost taxpayers over $100 million. A total of 9.4 million voters

cast ballots in the special election that ended Davis’ governorship. Because the state, will hold a gubernatorial election next year, Bass says, it not fiscally responsible to hold one this year. California’s highest-ranking Black elected official U.S. Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-CA-13) said there is “no reason to recall the governor of the state of California.” “There will be an election in June 2022 and people will have a chance to vote. So, I urge everyone to join us in this unfair recall against Governor Newsom,” she said. Sen. Steve Bradford (D-Gardena) said Gov. Newsom has been a “friend of the African American community.” “This governor has stood with us on criminal justice reform. He has eliminated and paused executions because he realized the majority of people of death row are minorities – Black and Brown individuals who are over-sentenced and over-prosecuted all the time and many times are innocent,” said Bradford. “So, we stand with this governor. He has stood with us.” So far, recall supporters say they have over 2 million signatures – well over the minimum required by the state. The Secretary of State’s office has until April 29 to verify the signatures. Many supporters of the recall effort say their plan to oust Newsom has been motivated largely by frustration over the strict coronavirus lockdown the governor imposed on the state. Some of the leading supporters are the California Republican Party, 2018 Republican gubernatorial candidate John Cox, former San

Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer and the Republican National Committee. Both Cox and Faulconer have put their names forward to replace Newsom, if he’s removed from office. “We’ve proven we can win. And I did it twice in San Diego. San Diego’s registration mirrors that of California — 24 % Republican — it’s the same in San Diego as it was statewide,” Faulconer said in an interview with the conservative magazine National Review. “So, I know how to build coalitions and win and get results. I know how to use the power of the bully pulpit to go out and win the argument publicly and then win the vote. That’s what you have to do to be successful in California and you have to get not just Republicans but independents and a portion of Democrats as well.” But according to Ballotpedia, Republicans have had it in for Newsom for a while. This is the sixth recall attempt against Newsom since 2019. But the previous five weren't successful. In addition to Bass, Lee and Bradford, the other African American California elected officials who joined the media briefing to express their support for Newsom are: State Sen. Sydney Kamlager (D-Los Angeles); Assemblymembers Autumn Burke (D Inglewood), Reggie Jones-Sawyer (D-Los Angeles) and Mike Gipson (D-Carson); San Francisco Mayor London Breed; Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell; California State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond; California Board of Equalization Member Malia Cohen; Antioch Mayor Lamar Thorpe; Los Angeles City Councilmember

Mark Ridley-Thomas; and Los Angeles City Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson. Gov. Newsom, who has said very little publicly about the recall, spoke up in an email to supporters Monday. “I am not going to take this recall attempt lying down," Newsom said. "I'm going to fight because there's too much at stake in this moment.” The governor also took to Twit ter. “I won’t be distracted by this partisan, Republican recall — but I will fight it,’’ he tweeted. Getting Californians vaccinated, our economy safely reopened, and our kids back in school are simply too important to risk." Breed said Newsom had led the state through a difficult time. She said Newsom showed more leadership than former President Donald Trump. According to Breed, Trump had abandoned San Francisco during the early days of the coronavirus pandemic. She dismissed the recall effort as a “right-wing attack.” In Washington, Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (D-VT), Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) all came out in full-throated support of Newsom the same afternoon. Shortly after, Georgia Democrat Stacey Abrams also voiced her support for California’s governor. “This governor was duly elected and deserves to serve his full term,” said Cohen. “A recall is the ultimate statement of voter suppression. Citizens of California came together and voted disproportionately to support Gov. Newsom. It is our duty to fight this baseless, senseless recall.

San Bernardino County Museum in Redlands will reopen to the public on Thursday, March 18, featuring the long-awaited exhibit, Here Comes the Sun: Solar Science and Spirituality. The exhibit features dramatic, large scale footage from NASA’s Solar Dynamic Observatory. While in the red tier, a 25% capacity guideline will be followed, including temporarily modified hours: Tuesday– Sunday, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Victor Valley Museum in Apple Valley will reopen to the public on Wednesday, March 24, featuring the exhibit Military in the Mojave. The exhibit features artifacts and stories of the role that local residents played during wartime, including USAF Captain Joseph McConnell, and Purple Heart recipient Army Lt. Manuel Rodriguez. While in the red tier, a 25% capacity guideline will be followed, including temporarily modified hours: Wednesday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. The historic John Rains House in Rancho Cucamonga, will reopen to the public on Saturday, March 20. While in the red tier, 1-hour site tours can be scheduled 24 hrs. in advance, Tuesday–Saturday, 10 a.m.– 3 p.m. by calling (909) 798-8608. No drop-in tours will be offered at this time, and small related groups only (no more than 10). All visitors will be required to follow Centers for Disease Cont rol and Califor nia Department of Public Health guidelines, including wearing masks over the mouth and nose during the entire visit, maintaining six feet of social distancing, and using hand

sanitizer located throughout the museum. One year ago, the museum adhered to state orders, closed to the public, and reopened for only two weeks in June. During the closure, the museum staff developed virtual and drivethrough programming to continue to engage the local community. Proving popular with families, these programs have included Old West Days, Old Spanish Trail Days, Cosmic Nights, Science Spooktacular, and Arthropolooza: The Ultimate Bugfest. Museum Director, Melissa Russo said, “during the last year, I’ve watched our County Museum staff adapt expertly, with resilience and creativity, in order to continue to serve the public. We are all thrilled to welcome the public back safely to see our fantastic new exhibits.” The museum has also developed technology-based interactive exhibits and virtual collections research to supplement the museum’s physical galleries and collections spaces. This digital strategy, SBCM Connect, is currently in beta testing with expected launch by summer 2021. The San Bernardino County Museum’s exhibits of regional, cultural and natural history and the Museum’s other exciting events and programs reflect the effort by the Board of Supervisors to achieve the Countywide Vision by celebrating arts, culture, and education in the county, creating quality of life for residents and visitors. For more information, visit www.sbcounty.gov/museum to see the full schedule of activities.

Should America “be less white” Is Coca-Cola’s Training Right?...continued from page 4 Coca-Cola denies that it was part of their required training. “That’s not the point,” said Dameron, who has more than 30 years’ experience training American, European and Asian executives worldwide but is not involved in the disputed training. “Coca-Cola should have said, ‘We are committed to a fair, equal workplace environment,’” she explained. “It’s not corporate training that makes workplaces fair. It’s offering equal pay and equal opportunities for hiring and advancement regardless of race or gender. That’s how you change.” Dameron understands why the issue triggered some people’s emotions. “I have a lot of empathy for people being told to be less white,”

she said. “I know it hurts. As a Black child and as a grown-up, I have been told to be less Black, straighten your hair, dress to look like a nice corporate person. I can understand how being told to be less white hits you in your identity, because I was told be less Black.” Dameron is currently leading a series of seminars on “Healing the Collective Trauma of Racism.” In her sessions, she helps participants recognize the difference between interpersonal and institutional racism and build a feeling of community and energy. To introduce people to her sessions, she is offering a free, self-paced, one-hour course. You can learn more by going to www. KathleenDameron.com

March 18, 2021

Page 7 NATIONAL/HEALTH NEWS/ADVERTISING

COVID Scams on the Rise Amid Chaotic Vaccine Rollout and Distribution Delays By Nina Mohan

Scammers are taking advantage of the confusion surrounding the COVID-19 vaccine distribution and using it as an opportunity to prey on consumers anxious to get their shots. Because distribution varies state by state and changes are announced almost daily, there’s not a lot of clarity on when and how people can get vaccinated, explained Karen S. Hobbs, Assistant Director, Division of Consumer & Business Education at the Federal Trade Commission. “Officials are doing what they can, the best they can, but no state is immune to confusion and scammers are ready to take advantage,” she said. “This is one of those schemes that, like the pandemic, is affecting literally everyone, everywhere,” she added. Hobbs said the FTC has received numerous reports of vaccine scams, though none so far have involved large numbers of people. The complaints involve scammers posing as federal and local officials, as well as hospital staff, clinic workers and healthcare providers. “People are pretending to be someone you can trust in order to get money or information,” she said, adding that victims have reported being asked to provide sensitive information like social security numbers, medical information and driver’s license numbers. On its website, the County of Merced reported that scammers posing as clinic workers contacted Merced residents and offered them COVID-19 vaccines for an upfront $100.00 fee. After the money was paid, the victims were referred to a vaccine site where they did not have appointments. Prepaid schemes have also

appeared in Ventura County, and in Skagit County, WA., local news outlets GoSkagit.com and KGMI.com have reported that scammers claiming to be Skagit County representatives called residents and offered them vaccine appointments and then asked for personal information such as a mother’s maiden name or social security numbers to confirm the appointment. “The general message people are hearing [about vaccines] is scarcity and the logistical hurdle of delivery, and that feeds into this confusion and makes people pay attention when they get a call,” explained Hobbs. The FTC website offers tips on how to recognize a vaccine scam. First, you should never pay for a vaccine and anyone asking for money, whether to get you an appointment, put you on a list or reserve a spot in line, is a scammer. Other signs of a scam include: • Advertisements to buy the vaccine. You can’t buy it anywhere, it’s only available at federal- and state-approved locations. • Requests for personal, financial, or health information. No one from a vaccine distribution site, healthcare provider’s office, pharmacy, or your insurance company or Medicare will ask for personal information or your Social Security, credit card, driver’s license or bank account number to sign you up to get the vaccine. • Unexpected or unusual texts and emails containing links about the COVID vaccine. Do not click on links or open attachments from sources you don’t recognize

as you could download dangerous malware onto your device. “Our advice to people is that you should contact a trusted source, so you’ll be checking with state and local health departments to learn when and how to get the vaccine and you can also talk to your healthcare providers directly,” Hobbs said. Hobbs also encouraged people to sign up for FTC consumer alerts for the latest information on a variety of consumer issues, including COVID-related scams, and noted that if you have been scammed, it’s important to contact authorities right away. “Getting money back from scammers is a challenge because scammers ask people to use certain payments and these methods have certain characteristics: quick, anonymous, difficult to reverse,” she explained. One popular method involves instructing victims to buy gift cards and then asking them for the numbers on the back. Scammers also ask for payments via cashreload cards and money transfers such as Western Union and MoneyGram. “They choose these methods because they’re like cash – once the money is gone, it’s gone. That’s why it’s important to act quickly. It’s the only way to increase your chances of getting your money back.” Reporting scams to the FTC also helps the FTC and law enforcement prevent future fraud, Hobbs noted. “When victims report scams, the information goes into a database that our 3000 law enforcement partners read too,” she explained. “The information helps the agency spot trends, alert communities about potential scams, and informs the FTC’s

education, messaging and policy priorities.” “We’ve redesigned our report intake system to be really easy, and we also have a version of the site in Spanish," which, Hobbs noted, is important for many communities served by EMS. “We want to hear from these communities, we really want outreach to them and part of the way to do that is through the reports they file.” People can file anonymously, she said, adding that the FTC does not ask or care about immigration status. “There is no required information [to file a report], people can tell us as little or as much as they like,” she said. For more information on how to avoid scams, or what to do if you have been a victim of fraud, please visit FTC.gov or click on the links below. • What to do if you have been scammed: https://www. consumer.ftc.gov/articles/whatdo-if-you-were-scammed • Three ways to avoid COVID-19 vaccine scams: https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/ attachments/coronavirus-adviceconsumers/three_ways_to_avoid_ covid-19_vaccine_scams_508_2. pdf • Information on COVIDrelated topics for consumers: ftc. gov/coronavirus • Report fraud, scams and bad business practices, and get actionable Next Steps to help you recover: ReportFraud.ftc.gov • Report identity theft: www.identitytheft.gov For information on how to get the COVID-19 vaccine, please speak with your healthcare provider or pharmacist, or contact your state and local health department. • Contact your local health department: https://www.naccho. org/membership/lhd-directory • Contact your state health department: https://www. cdc.gov/publichealthgateway/ healthdirectories/ healthdepartments.html

Gentleman Jack Teams Up With Female Leaders To Raise A Glass For Frontline Workers "We Share One Spirit" recognizes the accomplishments and journeys of diverse women in Women's History Month National /Health News

MIAMI, March 16, 2021 / PRNewswire/ -- Gentleman Jack, an exceptionally smooth double charcoal mellowed Tennessee whiskey created by women and men who are experts at their craft, has partnered with Jessica Williamson (aka "The Whiskey Chick"), actress Maria Canals-Barrera and Shelly Bell for a campaign launching today entitled, "We Share One Spirit." The Gentleman Jack "We Share One Spirit" Video Campaign,

featuring Jessica Williamson (aka “The Whiskey Chick”), actress Maria Canals-Barrera and Shelly Bell Filmed remotely, the diverse influential women from different industries in Florida share their stories, their drive to success, and raise a glass to the unsung women frontline essential workers. Their inspirational, moving videos will release one by one this week and run through Women's History Month, which coincides with

the one-year anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic. "I am raising a glass to all women actors and storytellers who impacted our lives," said CanalsBarrera, whose video releases on March 16. "Our contributions have engaged and entertained all communities throughout the pandemic." "I'm honored to have been chosen by Gentleman Jack to participate in this campaign," said Bell, CEO of Black Girl Ventures, whose video releases on March 17. "There are so many different fields where women lead in the frontline, such as teachers. As a former teacher, I cannot imagine what it must be like trying to educate students during a pandemic. My support goes out to all those who have been navigating the virtual learning landscape over the last

year." "Empowered women change the world!" said "The Whiskey Chick" Williamson, a Miamibased DJ and entrepreneur, whose video releases on March 18. "We are strong when we come together in love, support and celebration. I'm grateful for Gentleman Jack recognizing women and bringing us together to show our passions and share our stories." With the World Economic Forum reporting last month that women comprise 70 percent of frontline workers, now is a poignant time to look back at female essential workers who have been working tirelessly to keep their communities safe. In the concept of sharing "One Spirit" during Women's History Month, Gentleman Jack and its continued in next 2 columns

Gentleman Jack Teams Up With Female Leaders To Raise A Glass For Frontline Workers...continued partners are calling attention to the contributions and importance of these women. "We are excited to have these amazing leaders join us in thanking the women frontline essential workers that have been continuously keeping us safe," said Fabricia da Silva, Brown-Forman's Multicultural Marketing Manager. "In the spirit of Gentleman Jack's campaign that celebrates women, we want them to know that we see their contributions, especially during this last year of unprecedented challenges due to

COVID-19." "We Share One Spirit" will be presented on Jack Daniel's YouTube channel and on social media with the hashtag, #GJOneSpirit. In addition to this content launch, Canals-Barerra, The Whiskey Chick and Bell will share their stories on their social channels. All content will also live on the brand's "One Spirit" platform microsite. More information about Gentleman Jack's "One Spirit" program for Women's History Month can be found at GJOneSpirit.com.

State’s first case of P.1 coronavirus variant appears in San Bernardino National /Health News A San Bernardino resident is the first California case of the P.1 “Brazilian” variant of the novel coronavirus. County health officials urge residents to be as vigilant as ever about wearing masks, social distancing, avoiding contact with people outside of their households, and getting tested often to prevent the transmissions of all variants, along with getting vaccinated as soon as they are eligible. The California Department of Public Health alerted the county to the case on March 13 after it was detected in a positive test sample collected on March 2. The variant was detected by Fulgent Genetics (FLGT) using Fulgent’s next-generation sequencing-based COVID-19 test. County contact tracers have been in contact with the resident, a man in his 40s, since March 3. He reported experiencing symptoms and that he is self-isolating at home. County health officials are continuing to investigate how the resident might have been exposed to the variant. He has not been vaccinated. “We are taking immediate and aggressive action to contact trace and contain the virus and working with the CDPH in expanding whole genomic sequencing to identify more cases,” said County Health Officer Dr. Michael S. Sequeira. “Slowing the spread of

the disease and minimizing the spread of all variants is doable with contact tracing, strategic quarantine with masking and social distancing, and most importantly vaccination.” The P.1 variant, discovered in Brazil in January, is believed to be more contagious than the most-common strain of the virus. There is no evidence yet that the variant leads to harsher cases of COVID-19. It is not yet clear whether the variant is more resistant to vaccines. “The Johnson & Johnson vaccine was tested in Brazil, where it showed 0% mortality and 85% success in preventing hospitalizations and severe infections,” Sequeira said. Safe practices are more important than ever now that the State has moved the county from the highly restrictive purple tier of the State Blueprint for a Safer Economy to the less-restrictive red tier. The county’s key coronavirus metrics are moving quickly toward qualifying the county for even more-lenient orange tier. “If we can contain this and continue vaccinating, we will continue to move forward,” Dr. Sequeira said. “If we complete the vaccination effort, at maximum pace and urgency, we will contain and virtually eliminate this and other variants.”

George Floyd Family and House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn (D-SC) Receive the NNPAF 2021 Newsmaker of the Year Award... continued from page 3 BUSI N E SS C h a l le nge s , Responsibilities, and Opportunities Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic.” The two-day conference will be held Thursday, March 18, and Friday, March 19, from 11:00, am (EST) to 1:00 pm (EST). Reportedly, 40% of Blackowned businesses have closed their doors permanently as a result of the pandemic. The challenge now is to sustain the remaining 60% struggling to survive during these uncertain times. Black newspapers are Black businesses that are experiencing similar obstacles created by COVID-19. Because of this shared burden, the NNPA Fund’s first workshop on Thursday will feature U.S. Congressman and House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn (D-SC) and U.S. Congressman Dwight Evans (D-PA), a member of the Small Business Committee and ranking member of the Subcommittee on Economic, Growth and Capital Access. The two high-ranking legislators will address the plans Congress is developing to help Black-owned businesses cope with various

economic issues. On Friday, the second workshop will concentrate on alternative funding for Black newspapers, including representatives from digital companies including Google, Facebook, and Borealis, that invest in non-profit and forprofit media organizations. The cornerstone of Black Press Week is the Enshrinement Ceremony. This year, Carter Walker Wesley (1892-1969), an American lawyer, newspaperman, and political activist from Houston, Texas, will be enshrined in the Black Press Archives housed at the Moreland Spingarn Research Center at Howard University. Black Press Week is held annually to honor the nation’s first Black-owned newspaper – Freedom’s Journal –on March 16, 1827. Previous NNPAF Newsmakers of the Year include Attorney Ben Crump, Civil Rights Activist Al Sharpton, Senator Kamala Harris, Senator Barack Obama, the Trayvon Martin family and many more. To attend Black Press Week activities, go to: https:// virtualnnpa2021.com/.

March 18, 2021

Page 8 COUNTY/LOCAL NEWS/ADVERTISING

Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. hosting Community Food Drive Thru Local News Rialto, CA. - San Bernardino County Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. in partnership with the City of Rialto, Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County, and the Zakat Foundation of America will host a Community Food Drive Thru on Saturday, March 27th from 9am to 12pm at the Rialto City Hall located at 150 S. Palm Ave. Supervisor Baca, Jr. will be donating 1,000 free food boxes

and resources on a first come, first served basis with no registration needed. “We are living through unprecedented times and it is more important now than ever to provide resources and services to our communities. I encourage anyone who is in need to come out and join us.” – Supervisor Baca, Jr. Other partners for this event include: Never Stop Grinding Impact, Sahaba Initiative, Smile

America, Food Pantry, and Sistas Making a Difference. For more information, please call our office at (909)387-4565. The Fifth District includes the cities of Colton, Fontana, Rialto, San Bernardino, and the unincorporated communities of Arrowhead Farms, Bloomington, Devore, El Rancho Verde, Little Third, Rosena Ranch, and Muscoy.

Rent Assistance Now Available for Income Eligible Households and Landlords CA COVID-19 Rent Relief application portal opens today $2.6 billion in federal aid to assist Californians impacted by the pandemic Call Center, toll-free line, and community-based organizations assisting with effort; and applications available in multiple languages to connect hardest hit communities to relief County/Local /News

Youth Art Contest Seeks Invasive Species Detectives County Local News The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is pleased to announce the eighth annual California Invasive Species Youth Art Contest. This year’s theme, “Be An Invasive Species Detective,” encourages students to think about how paying attention to their surroundings can protect against the spread of invasive species. “Detectives look for clues and use observation to solve crimes,” said Elizabeth Brusati, an environmental scientist with CDFW’s Invasive Species Program. “We want young people to look for ways to stop the spread of invasive species. Helpful actions could include choosing native plants for landscaping, not releasing unwanted pets into the wild, reporting invasive species sightings, and taking precautions to clean, drain and dry gear after visiting waterbodies.” The contest is offered by CDFW’s Invasive Species Program as part of California Invasive Species Action Week, June 5-13. There are three age divisions for youths in grades 2-4, 5-8 and 9-12. All types of media are welcome and encouraged, including (but not limited to) drawings, paintings, animations, comic strips, videos and public

service announcements. Entries should reflect the 2021 theme: “Be An Invasive Species Detective.” The top three winners in each division will receive awards and have their entries announced on CDFW’s Facebook page. The deadline for art contest entries is May 5. Completed entries and entry forms should be submitted electronically. Submission instructions can be found on the CDFW website. The goal of California Invasive Species Action Week is to increase public awareness of invasive species issues and encourage public participation in the fight against California’s invasive species and their impacts on our natural resources. Please visit CDFW online for details about the 2021 contest and information on how to participate in Action Week. The mission of CDFW’s Invasive Species Program is to reduce the impacts of invasive species on the wildlands and waterways of California. The program is involved in efforts to prevent the introduction of these species into the state, detect and respond to introductions when they occur, and prevent the spread of those species that have established.

Don’t Miss Out On Timely News!!!!! Visit The San Bernardino American News Website sb-american.com

SACR A M E N TO – I n keeping with Governor Gavin Newsom’s commitment to ensuring individuals and families stay housed during – and despite – the COVID-19 pandemic, Californians who have experienced a financial hardship because of the pandemic and who are most at-risk of eviction can now apply for the CA COVID-19 Rent Relief program to help pay past due rent. Beginning today, renters and landlords can check eligibility and apply by visiting HousingIsKey.com or by calling 833-430-2122 toll-free, seven days a week. “For hundreds of thousands of renters and small property owners, there is more light at the end of the tunnel,” said Governor Newsom. “We have the strongest eviction protections in the nation and, beginning today, we are providing greatly needed financial support to both renters and small property owners in need of assistance to pay their mortgages, with a focus on racial and geographic equity.” The CA COVID-19 Rent Relief program was created by the COVID-19 Tenant Relief Act, with the strongest-in-the nation eviction protections signed into law by Governor Newsom on January 29. Funding comes from the $2.6 billion in federal emergency rental assistance program to states and local jurisdictions. “An estimated 1.5 million California families, front-line workers and low-wage earners are behind on their rent due to the economic fallout of this pandemic,” said Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency (BCSH) Secretary

Lourdes Castro Ramirez. “They have accumulated significant debt and their landlords are struggling to meet their financial obligations. The CA COVID-19 Rent Relief program will be a lifeline to renters and landlords. It clears accumulated rental debt, keeps families hardest hit housed and will lead to a more equitable economic recovery.” Both renters and landlords can apply for CA COVID-19 Rent Relief. If landlords choose to participate, they will receive 80 percent of an eligible tenant’s unpaid rent for the period of April 1, 2020 and March 31, 2021 if they agree to waive the remaining 20 percent of unpaid rent. Renters making less than 80 percent or less of the Area Median Income (AMI) for their location are eligible. For example, a family of four in Visalia in Tulare County is eligible for rental assistance if their household income is $55,900 or less. Renters’ income eligibility will automatically be calculated during the application process. Eligible renters with landlords who choose not to participate in the program can apply on their own. Those renters will be eligible to receive payments of 25 percent of unpaid rent accrued from April 1, 2020 to March 31, 2021, which can help protect them from eviction under SB 91. “One of our primary goals is to ensure we reach and serve communities that have been hardest hit by the pandemic,” said Gustavo Velasquez, Director of the Department of Housing and Community Development, which is administering the program. “We appreciate the support and

partnership of local jurisdictions working with the State to ensure that those in most need of assistance get clear, accurate, consistent, and accessible information on how and when to apply.” A statewide network of has been established to help individuals answer eligibility questions and submit applications. In addition, a robust statewide multilingual communication and education effort is underway to help inform renters and landlords about the availability of CA COVID-19 Rent Relief. The application will be available in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Chinese and Korean, and help will be available in more than 200 additional languages through the California COVID-19 Rent Relief call center at 833-430-2122. Applications from landlords or renters must include all required information and eligibility verification items to be processed. Case management teams will be available to help applicants complete their applications. There is a checklist for renters that includes the paperwork they will need, and one for landlords. Once an application has been successfully submitted and processed, both the landlord and tenant will be notified by a COVID19 Rent Relief case manager about the application status. For more information on program eligibility, required application information, and to start the application process, visit HousingIsKey.com or call 833430-2122.