Israel’s Security Cabinet early on Sunday morning made a series of decisions marking the start of the offensive phase of “Operation Swords of Iron,” ordering the Israel Defense Forces to prepare for the “destruction of the military and governing capabilities of Hamas and [Palestinian] Islamic Jihad.”
“We are embarking on a long and difficult war that was forced on us by a murderous Hamas attack,” said Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu.
“We will restore security to the citizens of Israel and we will win,” he vowed.
“The first stage is ending at this time with the destruction of the vast majority of the enemy forces that infiltrated our territory. At the same time, we have begun the offensive phase, which will continue with neither limitations nor respite until the objectives are achieved,” he added.
Israeli soldiers head south near Ashkelon, Israel, Israel, on Saturday, Oct. 7, 2023. Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip infiltrated Saturday into southern Israel and fired thousands of rockets into the country while Israel began striking targets in Gaza in response. OHAD ZWIGENBERG – STAFFF, ASSOCIATED PRESS.
Among the Cabinet’s decisions was to halt the supply of electricity, fuel and goods to the Gaza Strip.
As Israel readied its response to Saturday’s attacks, four divisions of reservists were being deployed to the Gaza border, joining the 35 battalions already deployed to the area, the army said.
Hamas killed at least 250 Israelis and wounded more than 1,800 on Saturday in a massive offensive launched from the Gaza Strip, including firing thousands of rockets and sending dozens of terrorists to infiltrate the Jewish state.
Of the 1,864 wounded, 19 remain in critical condition, the Israeli Health Ministry announced on Sunday morning. In addition, 326 Israelis sustained severe wounds, while 359 were moderately wounded.
”821 people suffered light injuries, 20 were treated for anxiety and another 223 are under medical supervision,” said the Health Ministry’s most recent figures.
Hamas claims to have taken 163 Israeli captives to Gaza. Channel 13 reported late Saturday afternoon that Israel has confirmed that at least 11 people have been taken hostage in the Hamas-ruled enclave.
Israeli soldiers head south near Ashkelon, Israel, Israel, on Saturday, Oct. 7, 2023. Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip infiltrated Saturday into southern Israel and fired thousands of rockets into the country while Israel began striking targets in Gaza in response. OHAD ZWIGENBERG – STAFFF, ASSOCIATED PRESS.
Overnight Saturday, Palestinian terrorist groups in the Gaza Strip continued to fire rockets at Israel’s southern region, with a direct hit reported at Ashkelon’s Barzilai Medical Center. The projectile struck a bridge between hospital buildings and no casualties were reported, Channel 12 said.
Meanwhile, security forces, including 35 IDF battalions, continued their search for Hamas infiltrators throughout southern communities. Following a day-long standoff, hostages were freed after exchanges of fire in Kibbutz Be’eri and Ofakim.
Control was also regained over the area surrounding the police station in Sderot, where 10 Hamas terrorists were killed after the Israel Police ordered the building destroyed.
A week filled with significant events impacting the markets culminated in an unexpectedly strong September jobs report.
The U.S. Congress managed to avoid a dramatic government shutdown just hours before the midnight deadline Oct. 1 by passing a stopgap funding bill. This bill ensures the continuation of government operations through Nov. 17, excluding new funding for border security and Ukraine. On Tuesday, the House of Representatives made a historic decision to oust Speaker Kevin McCarthy, following a motion initiated by Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) in response to McCarthy’s collaboration with Democrats to prevent a government shutdown.
A week filled with significant events impacting the markets culminated in an unexpectedly strong September jobs report. PHOTO BY MAXIM HOPMAN/UNSPLASH
Throughout the week, yields across the Treasury curve continued to rise. The 10-year Treasury yield surged past 4.75%, reaching its highest level in 16 years. On Friday, the 30-year yield crossed the 5% threshold, driven by a jobs report that exceeded expectations. Funds and ETFs investing in long-dated Treasury bonds such as the PIMCO 25 Year Zero Coupon U.S. Treasury Index Exchange-Traded Fund (NYSE:ZROZ) or the iShares 20+ Year Treasury Bond ETF(NASDAQ:TLT) have now lost more than 50% of their value since March 2020.
The September jobs report showed stronger-than-anticipated employment growth. Non-farm payrolls increased by 337,000 last month, marking the largest monthly gain since January and far surpassing the expected 170,000. August NFPs were revised upward to 227,000, indicating a robust pace of hiring throughout late summer. As a result of the impressive jobs number, economists now see rising risks of further Federal Reserve tightening this quarter.
A week filled with significant events impacting the markets culminated in an unexpectedly strong September jobs report. PHOTO BY MAXIM HOPMAN/UNSPLASH
On the consumer front, Walmart reported a decrease in shopping demand attributed to the use of weight-loss and appetite-suppressing drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy, manufactured by NovoNordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO). Shares of beverage giants like The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE:KO) and PepsiCo Inc. (NYSE:PEP) had their worst-performing week since May 2022.
Oil giant Exxon Mobil Corp. (NYSE XOM) is considering acquiring Pioneer Natural Resources Company(NYSE:PXD) to strengthen its position in the U.S. energy sector. The potential agreement could be valued at up to $60 billion, potentially making it the largest takeover in the world this year. Shares of the target company, Pioneer, rose by as much as 10% on Friday.
The S&P 500, tracked by the SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:SPY), rebounded from four consecutive weeks of declines. Similarly, the Nasdaq 100, monitored via the Invesco QQQ Trust (NASDAQ:QQQ), posted weekly gains and recorded its strongest session since late August on Friday.
Notable sectors that displayed strength this week included the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:XLK), which rose by 3%, the Communication Services Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:XLC), gaining 2.1%, and the Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:XLV), which registered a 1.1% increase.
Among the mega-cap stocks in the S&P 100, top performers for the week included Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG) (NASDAQ:GOOGL), Nvidia Corp.(NASDAQ:NVDA), Eli Lilly & Company (NYSE:LLY), and Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:META), all of which posted gains exceeding 5%. NextEra Energy Inc. (NYSE:NEE) was the laggard, down over 12% for the week.
All eyes are on the Consumer Price Index report for September set to be released on Thursday. This report will mark the last crucial piece of economic data ahead of the Nov. 1 Fed meeting. Economists predict that the annual inflation rate will slightly ease from 3.7% to 3.6% in September, and core inflation is expected to fall from 4.3% to 4.1% on a year-over-year basis.
Other relevant economic releases include the Producer Price Index report on Wednesday, where a monthly decline from 0.7% to 0.3% is expected, and the Michigan Consumer Sentiment estimate for October on Friday.
On the earnings front, PepsiCo will report on Tuesday, while Thursday will feature Infosys Limited (NYSE:INFY), Fastenal (NASDAQ:FAST), Delta Air Lines (NYSE:DAL), Walgreens Boots Alliance (NASDAQ:WBA), and Domino’s Pizza (NYSE:DPZ). Some major financial institutions will report Friday, include JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM), BlackRock (NYSE:BLK), Citigroup (NYSE:C), Wells Fargo (NYSE:WFC), PNC Financial Services (NYSE:PNC), along with UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:UNH), and The Progressive Corp (NYSE:PGR).
“Long colds” are a thing – just like long COVID, suggests a new study.
People may experience long-term symptoms for several weeks or more – or ‘long colds’ – after acute respiratory infections that test negative for COVID-19, say scientists.
Some of the most common symptoms of the ‘long cold’ included coughing, stomach pain, and diarrhea more than four weeks after initial infection, according to the research team from Queen Mary University of London.
While the severity of an illness appears to be a key driver of the risk of long-term symptoms, they say more research is being conducted to establish why some people suffer extended symptoms while others don’t.
People may experience long-term symptoms for several weeks or more – or ‘long colds’ – after acute respiratory infections that test negative for COVID-19, say scientists. PHOTO BY BRITTANY COLETTE/UNSPLASH
The findings, published in The Lancet’s EClinicalMedicine, suggest that there may be long-lasting health impacts following non-COVID acute respiratory infections such as colds, flu, or pneumonia, that are currently going unrecognized.
However, the researchers do not yet have evidence suggesting that the symptoms have the same severity or duration as long COVID.
Study lead author Giulia Vivaldi said: “Our findings shine a light not only on the impact of long COVID on people’s lives but also other respiratory infections.
“A lack of awareness – or even the lack of a common term – prevents both reporting and diagnosis of these conditions.
“As research into long COVID continues, we need to take the opportunity to investigate and consider the lasting effects of other acute respiratory infections.
“These ‘long’ infections are so difficult to diagnose and treat primarily because of a lack of diagnostic tests and there being so many possible symptoms.
“There have been more than 200 investigated for long COVID alone.”
People may experience long-term symptoms for several weeks or more – or ‘long colds’ – after acute respiratory infections that test negative for COVID-19, say scientists. PHOTO BY BRITTANY COLETTE/UNSPLASH
The research compared the prevalence and severity of long-term symptoms after a bout of COVID-19 with a bout of another acute respiratory infection that tested negative for COVID.
Those recovering from COVID-19 were more likely to experience light-headedness or dizziness plus problems with taste and smell compared to those who had a non-COVID respiratory infection.
While long COVID is now a recognized condition, there have been few studies comparing long-term symptoms following SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus infection with other respiratory infections.
The study is the latest output from COVIDENCE UK, Queen Mary University of London’s national study of COVID-19, launched in 2020 and still in follow-up, with more than 19,000 participants enrolled.
The latest research analyzed data from more than 10,000 UK adults, with responses collected via questionnaires and statistical analysis conducted to identify symptom clusters.
Professor Adrian Martineau, Chief Investigator of COVIDENCE UK, said: “Our findings may chime with the experience of people who have struggled with prolonged symptoms after having a respiratory infection despite testing negative for COVID-19 on a nose or throat swab.”
He added: “Ongoing research into the long-term effects of COVID-19 and other acute respiratory infections is important because it can help us to get to the root of why some people experience more prolonged symptoms than others.
“Ultimately this could help us to identify the most appropriate form of treatment and care for affected people.”
Victoria King, of Barts Charity which funded the research, said: “These findings highlight not only the long-term symptoms experienced by people after COVID infection, but by people after other acute respiratory infections as well.
“As we learn more about long COVID symptoms and their possible treatments, studies like this help to build greater awareness around other prolonged respiratory infections that may be going unrecognised.”
A world-first research breakthrough has sparked fresh hope for patients with the same cancer that killed Dame Deborah James.
Australian scientists have discovered a new “roadmap” to beating bowel cancer.
They found an important group of immune cells in the large bowel – called gamma delta T cells – are “crucial” to prevent the disease that claims tens of thousands of lives every year.
The breakthrough was made by researchers at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute in Heidelberg, Australia, named after the Anglo-Aussie singer who succumbed to cancer, aged 73, last year.
The BBC journalist and podcast presenter chronicled her battle with early onset bowel cancer, before her death, aged 40, in June last year.
Illustration depicts tumour growth shrinking inside large intestine. The breakthrough was made by researchers at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute in Heidelberg, Australia, named after the Anglo-Aussie singer who succumbed to cancer, aged 73, last year. PHOTO BY OLIVIA NEWTON/SWNS
The research team says there is an “urgent” need to discover more effective treatments and improve bowel cancer screening, particularly for early-onset bowel cancer as Australians born in 1990 onwards have double the risk of developing bowel cancer compared with those born in 1950.
They said younger bowel cancer patients often have poorer outcomes as they only turn to their doctor when the disease is already in its later stages.
Immunotherapy is one of the most promising new treatments for cancer. It involves boosting the ability of immune cells to recognize and remove cancer cells.
However, less than one-in-10 bowel cancer patients respond to current immunotherapies.
Study principal investigator Dr. Lisa Mielke said: “We have discovered that an important group of immune cells in the large bowel – gamma delta T cells – are crucial to preventing bowel cancer.
“Gamma delta T cells act as our frontline defenders in the bowel.
“What makes these immune cells extraordinary is that they constantly patrol and safeguard the epithelial cells lining the bowel, acting as warriors against potential cancer threats.
Illustration depicts tumour growth shrinking inside large intestine. The breakthrough was made by researchers at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute in Heidelberg, Australia, named after the Anglo-Aussie singer who succumbed to cancer, aged 73, last year. PHOTO BY OLIVIA NEWTON/SWNS
“When we analyzed bowel cancer patient samples, we found that when more gamma delta T cells were present in the tumors, these patients were reported to have better outcomes and improved survival.”
She explained that the large bowel contains trillions of bacteria, viruses and fungi, collectively known as the microbiome.
While some bacteria are associated with disease, others are extremely important for the immune system.
Study co-lead author Marina Yakou says the research may lead to improved treatments for cancer patients in the future.
She said: “We discovered that the amount, and diversity of, the microbiome in the large bowel resulted in a higher concentration of a molecule called TCF-1 on Gamma delta T cells compared to other areas of the gut.
“This molecule (TCF-1) suppresses our natural immune response, the gamma delta T cells, from fighting off bowel cancer.
“When we deleted TCF-1 in gamma delta T cells using pre-clinical models, this fundamentally changed the behavior of these immune cells and we saw a remarkable reduction in the size of bowel cancer tumors.”
Yakou, a PhD candidate at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, added: “Our world-first research breakthrough paves a new roadmap for developing targeted combination immunotherapies to more effectively treat bowel cancer patients.”
The researchers say their findings, published in the journal Science Immunology, also open up new possibilities for understanding how the microbiome and immune cells in the bowel interact – which could lead to the development of new ways to lower the risk of bowel cancer and better screening.
The breakthrough was welcomed by 36-year-old bowel cancer patient, Elise Stapleton, who was initially diagnosed with reoccurring endometriosis.
But, in January this year, she received a shock diagnosis of Stage 3 bowel cancer.
She said: “After waking up from my surgery to remove endometriosis, the bombshell hit.
“Instead of a planned keyhole surgery, surgeons told me that they had found a tumor and performed open surgery to remove ‘what they could’.
“I then had a second operation to remove 20 to 25 centimeters (0.82 foot) of my large bowel, follow up chemotherapy in April; and I have side-effects from the surgery and treatment.”
Elise continued: “My life has changed dramatically. After having been through a lot in a very short amount of time this year, I’m now feeling very empowered.
“I want to help raise awareness with young people that bowel cancer is not just an older person’s disease and to trust your instincts – if something doesn’t seem right, then keep following it up with health professionals.”
She added: “I’m hopeful that this new research may lead to more targeted immunotherapies that will result in less side effects, and hopefully even one day help to design better screening so people can be more accurately diagnosed and treated earlier.”
Running is as good for beating depression as medication and leaves you fitter, according to the first study of its kind.
Researchers from Vrije University, Amsterdam, found 44 percent of people with depression and anxiety started to feel better if they spent 16 weeks going on runs, or 16 weeks taking antidepressants.
Participants either joined a supervised running group two or three times a week or took SSRI escitalopram as prescribed.
The majority picked exercise, and their treatment also improved their weight, waist circumference, blood pressure and heart function.
Meanwhile, people who took antidepressants tended to become less fit.
However, experts insisted that telling patients to go run is not enough, noting that a larger portion of the runners dropped out, with just 52 percent sticking to the plan versus 82 percent of those taking the pills.
Speaking at the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology conference in Barcelona, Professor Brenda Penninx said: “We wanted to compare how exercise or antidepressants affect your general health, not just your mental health.
“This study gave anxious and depressed people a real-life choice, medication or exercise.
“Interestingly, the majority opted for exercise, which led to the numbers in the running group being larger than in the medication group.
“Both interventions helped with the depression to around the same extent. Antidepressants generally had worse impact on body weight, heart rate variability and blood pressure, whereas running therapy led to improved effect on general fitness and heart rate for instance.
“We are currently looking in more detail for effects on biological aging and processes of inflammation.
“It is important to say that there is room for both therapies in care for depression.
“The study shows that lots of people like the idea of exercising, but it can be difficult to carry this through, even though the benefits are significant.
“We found that most people are compliant in taking antidepressants, whereas around half of the running group adhered to the two-times-a-week exercise therapy.
“Telling patients to go run is not enough. Changing physical activity behavior will require adequate supervision and encouragement as we did by implementing exercise therapy in a mental health care institution.”
Her team offered 141 depression and or anxiety patients a choice of SSRI antidepressants for 16 weeks or running in a group two or three times a week for the same period of time.
Overall, 45 selected medications and 96 running.
Running is as good for beating depression as medication and leaves you fitter, according to the first study of its kind. PHOTO BY PIXABAY/PEXELS
Those who chose medication were slightly more depressed than the runners.
The antidepressant group had to take SSRI escitalopram as prescribed for 16 weeks, but that did not generally impact on their daily behaviors.
Meanwhile, runners aimed for two to three closely supervised 45-minute group sessions a week for 16 weeks.
The exercise tackled. the sedentary lifestyle that often accompanies depression and anxiety, encouraging people to head outside, set goals, improve fitness and get involved in a group activity.
Professor Penninx added: “Antidepressants are generally safe and effective. They work for most people.
“We know that not treating depression at all leads to worse outcomes; so antidepressants are generally a good choice.
“Nevertheless, we need to extend our treatment arsenal as not all patients respond to antidepressants or are willing to take them.
“Our results suggest that implementing exercise therapy is something we should take much more seriously, as it could be a good – and maybe even better – choice for some of our patients.
The antidepressant group had to take SSRI escitalopram as prescribed for 16 weeks, but that did not generally impact on their daily behaviors. PHOTO BY PIXABAY/PEXELS
“In addition, let’s also face potential side effects our treatments can have.
“Doctors should be aware of the dysregulation in nervous system activity that certain antidepressants can cause, especially in patients who already have heart problems.
“This also provides an argument to seriously consider tapering and discontinuing antidepressants when depressed or anxious episodes have remitted.
“In the end, patients are only truly helped when we are improving their mental health without unnecessarily worsening their physical health”.
Dr. Eric Ruhe, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, said the impact of the findings could be huge.
Commenting on the study originally published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, he said: “These are very interesting results that again show that physical health can influence mental health and that treatment of depression and anxiety can be achieved by exercising, obviously without the adverse effects of antidepressant drugs.
“However, several remarks are important. First, the patients followed their preference, which is common practice, but ideally, we should advise patients what will work best.
“Following this choice is understandable from a pragmatic point of view when patients have strong preferences, which you have to take into account when doing a study like this.
“The downside is that the comparisons between groups might be biased compared to doing this in a truly randomized study.
“For example, patients in the antidepressant group were more depressed which might be associated with less chance of persisting engagement in the exercises.
“So, we have to be careful not to over-interpret the comparisons between groups, which the authors acknowledge properly.
“Finally, a very important finding is the difference in adherence between the interventions: 52 percent in the exercise group and 82 percent in the antidepressant group.
“This shows that it is more difficult to change a lifestyle habit than taking a pill. This is not exclusively found in psychiatry, indicating that we also have to focus on how to improve compliance to healthy behavior.
“This could have a tremendous impact on healthcare more generally, but also on psychiatric diseases.”
Pam Montana, the Kiwanis president, honored the Provisional Accelerated Learning Academy and the PAL Center. She expressed how much the PAL Center and Charter meant to her and the community. The breakfast played host to many prominent organizations throughout the Inland Empire.
Kiwanis of Greater San Bernardino are local groups of like-minded volunteers who make a difference in our community. They are friends, neighbors, and anyone who loves working together to change children’s lives. Kiwanians are part of a global network of clubs and members who partner with each other, as well as organizations whose mission aligns with their own.PAL Charter is the first and longest-operating Charter school under the San Bernardino Unified City School District.
Their tenure as a school is 25 years and counting. PCA is a Free Public Charter School serving 6-12 graders. They have two campuses in San Bernardino and are using state-of-the-art equipment to drive home their school mantra, “Education with an Individualized Approach.”
San Bernardino City Unified School District named the Dr. Mildred Dalton Henry Elementary School in her honor. The school’s mission develops college-focus, internationally-minded scholars through AVID Elementary systems, global studies, and project-based learning using research and technology.
Henry is ninety years old and is still active in the organization. She told her Board members and friends our nonprofit ‘Provisional Educational Services, Incorporated, “has been in continuous operation for 39 years-!! We incorporated it in 1984! PESI, the nonprofit, community-based organization, has continuously served thousands of people from 5 to 85 years old for four decades! WOW!”
PAL Center and Charter School is currently under the leadership of CEO, Dwaine Radden Sr. the founder of Saving Our Sons, I.E. Live Market Nite, San Bernardino Pop Warner Football and Cheerleading, and has many other accomplishments throughout the San Bernardino area. Radden showed off the Kiwanis plaque to students and staff, thanked them, and said this is for you. Without you, there is no PAL Charter Academy or PAL Center.”
The PESI organization currently has a middle and high school: a Youth Build program serving young men and women between the ages of 16-24. Their Youth Build has programs like CNA, construction, and logistics programs. PESI also has an Upward Bound program, which helps students attend a four-year university or college, as well as the Food IMPACT program that feeds the local community. PAL Charter school also has a CTE program for pharmacy tech, automotive, construction, CNA, cosmetology, and culinary coming soon. For more information, visit https://www.palcenter.org or https://palcharteracademy.org.
By Antonio? ?Ray? ?Harvey? |? ?California? ?Black? ?Media?
Gov. Gavin Newsom has announced that his choice to succeed U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, who passed away on Sept. 29, is Laphonza Butler, a labor leader and the president of EMILY’s List – the country’s most extensive resource for women in politics.
“As we mourn the enormous loss of Senator Feinstein, the very freedoms she fought for — reproductive freedom, equal protection, and safety from gun violence — have never been under greater assault. Laphonza will carry the baton left by Senator Feinstein, continue to break glass ceilings, and fight for all Californians in Washington D.C.,” said Newsom in a statement released Oct. 1.
Butler will make history as California’s first openly LGBTQ+ U.S Senator and the first Black lesbian to openly serve in the U.S. Congress. She will join 47 other Democrats and three independents who caucus with the Democrats in the Senate for the remainder of Feinstein’s term, which ends in December 2024.
“An advocate for women and girls, a second-generation fighter for working people, and a trusted adviser to Vice President Harris, Laphonza Butler represents the best of California, and she’ll represent us proudly in the United States Senate,” Newsom stated.
Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson), a member of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC), says he is proud of Newsom’s choice.
“As a proud member of @CABlackCaucus and Assemblymember for #AD65, I am extremely proud that @GavinNewsom stood by his commitment as he always has,” Gipson wrote on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. “And I appreciate him for standing by his word and providing a great successor amidst the passing of the honorable Senator Feinstein.”
“I am always excited when a Black Woman is elevated. Laphonza Butler will represent California well and will bring a perspective to the US Senate that is desperately needed as a Black, LGBTQ+, mother, organizer, and labor leader,” said Kellie Todd Griffin, founding convener of the California Black Women’s Collective.
“My goal is to lift up the voices and needs of Black Women throughout state,” continued Todd Griffin. “That’s what we did three years ago when we created Keep the Seat and what we did in this case. We will keep pushing for what we believe is right regardless of the outcomes.”
Butler, recognized as a Democratic Strategist and a labor leader, served for seven years as President of SEIU United Long Term Care Workers (ULTCW). The union she led represents over 325,000 nursing home and home-care workers across California.
Newsom, who has the constitutional responsibility to appoint a replacement, promised he would select a Black woman if Feinstein chose to step down before her term ended in 2024. He made that statement in 2021 after he chose Alex Padilla to fill the vacancy left by Sen. Kamala Harris when she resigned to become vice president. Black women groups had been urging him to appoint a Black woman to succeed Harris.
Until Butler is seated, the U.S. Senate has no Black women members even though Black women are the most influential – and most loyal – voting group within the Democratic party. More than 90 % of Black women voted for Joe Biden in the last presidential election. Before Newsom’s announcement that he had been chosen her to succeed Feinstein, Butler expressed her condolences on X. She wrote, “I’m saddened to hear of the passing of Sen.@DianneFeinstein. Not only was she a titan in the Senate, but a legendary figure for women in politics and around the country. Her legacy and achievements will not be forgotten. My prayers are with her family. She will be deeply missed.”
Since Feinstein’s passing was announced, pressure had been mounting on Newsom to quickly appoint an interim Senator in her place. Three well known candidates running to succeed her in the 2024 election are Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA-12), Rep. Adam B. Schiff (D-CA-28) and Rep. Katie Porter (D – CA-45).Lee, the only Black woman contending for Feinstein’s seat, congratulated Butler in a post on X.
“I wish Laphonza well and look forward to working closely with her to deliver for the people of the Golden State,” she wrote.
On Oct.1, the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) wrote a letter to Newsom urging him to appoint Lee.“She is the only person with the courage, the vision, and the record to eradicate poverty, face down the fossil fuel industry, defend our democracy, and tirelessly advance the progressive agenda,” CBC Chairman Steven Horsford (D-Nevada), stated in the letter to Newsom. “For these reasons, we strongly urge you to appoint Congresswoman Barbara Lee to the United States Senate.”
Newsom had expressed that his appointee would not participate in the 2024 election out of respect for the candidates already running. However, this stance has changed. Now the decision to run in the 2024 election lies with Butler. The deadline for candidates to file for the office is Dec. 8.Butler, a native of Magnolia, Mississippi, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Jackson State University, an HBCU located in Mississippi.
“I’m honored to accept Gov. @GavinNewsom‘s nomination to be U.S. Senator for a state I have made my home and honored by his trust in me to serve the people of California and this great nation,”, Butler posted on X.
After the State Legislature’s Sept. 14 deadline to pass bills introduced this year, eleven education bills found their way to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s desk for his signature.
The bills, sponsored and co-sponsored by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, fall into three categories: promoting inclusivity in the schools, building the teacher pipeline, and ensuring the well-being and success of California’s students.
“This is an important step in building a brighter future for all of California’s students,” Thurmond said. “I applaud the efforts of our legislators, and everyone involved who worked on these important pieces of legislation.”
The bills in the inclusivity category, all signed by Gov. Newsom on Sept. 23, focused primarily on the protection and rights of LGBTQ+ students.
“A small group of extremists has sought to divide communities by advancing policies to ban books related to civil rights for communities of color and the LGBTQ+ community, to force school districts to ‘out’ LGBTQ+ students, and to restrict inclusive curriculum,” Thurmond said.
Authored by Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Santa Monica), Assembly Bill (AB 5) requires staff training for schools with students from the seventh to the twelfth grade to better support LGBTQ+ students.
Senate Bill (SB) 760, authored by Sen. Josh Newman (D-Fullerton), requires California’s K–12 schools to ensure that students have access to all-gender restrooms.
SB 857, authored by Sen. John Laird (D-Monterey), creates a task force to assess the needs of LGBTQ+ students and provide policy to meet those needs.
“California is proud to have some of the most robust laws in the nation when it comes to protecting and supporting our LGBTQ+ community, and we’re committed to the ongoing work to create safer, more inclusive spaces for all Californians,’ Newsom stated in a press release. “These measures will help protect vulnerable youth, promote acceptance, and create more supportive environments in our schools and communities.”
The following bills have been enrolled and presented to the Governor for his consideration.
Bills aimed at enhancing and expanding employment opportunities for teachers are the following:
SB 765, authored by Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Glendale) provides a way to expedite the process for members of the California State Teacher’s Retirement System (CalSTRS) looking to return to the field of education.
SB 765 would also raise the income cap from 50 percent to 70 percent.
AB 1127, authored by Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes (D-San Bernardino), would reestablish the Bilingual Teacher Professional Development Program, which provides language learning opportunities for teachers and school staff to produce more bilingual and multilingual educators.
“At the heart of the work of our schools is caring for the safety, well-being, and success of our students,” Thurmond said. “Providing resources and support to ensure the health and safety of our teachers, school staff, and students is paramount to achieving successful student outcomes.”
Bills sent to Newsom for his signature concerned with the success and well-being of the state’s students are the following:
AB 483, authored by Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance), is designed to increase student engagement with school-based health and mental health services by reforming elements of the Department of Health Care Service’s auditing process of claims made by schools.
SB 88, introduced by Sen. Nancy Skinner (D-Oakland), requires drivers and vehicles involved in student transportation, with compensation by a local educational agency, to meet certain safety requirements.
Another bill introduced by Skinner, SB 274, would ban schools from suspending students between the sixth and the twelfth grade for behaviors that fall under the disruption or defiance category.
SB 348, also authored by Skinner, would provide students with enough time to finish their meals during lunchtime.
It would also require the California Department of Education (CDE) and the California School Nutrition Association to create guidelines to regulate sodium and sugar in these meals.
Authored by Sen. Dave Cortese (D-Campbell), SB 10 would widen the scope of California’s efforts to provide education about fentanyl-related overdose prevention in schools.
Lastly, SB 502, authored by Sen. Benjamin Allen (D-Redondo Beach) would allow the state to access federal funds to provide vision services for California students categorized as low-income.
The funds needed for these potential additions to California laws are covered by the 2023–24 education budget which totals $108.3 billion.
By Greg Wright, CEO, Medicare & Retirement California for UnitedHealthcare of California
As inflation in the U.S. remains high, you may be looking to adjust your lifestyle and spending habits. But when it comes to health care, it’s important to keep your budget and well-being in mind.
This year’s open enrollment season is a good chance to review how you’re using health services and decide whether you’ll stick with the plan you’ve got or switch to another being offered. It’s also an opportunity to assess your overall care costs to help ensure you choose a plan that will work best for next year’s budget.
Enrollment timing: For people with coverage from their employer, open enrollment typically happens during a two- or three-week period between September and December. For those eligible for Medicare, the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period runs from Oct. 15- Dec. 7 each year. Coverage selections made during the fall will take effect on Jan. 1, 2024.
Here are seven tips to consider when choosing a plan that may help lead you to better health and cost savings:
First, consider all your options. Take time to understand and compare the benefits, services and costs of each plan available to you, so you can figure out which will be the best fit. Pay attention to more than just the monthly premium – like what out-of-pocket costs, including the deductible, copays and coinsurance, you may be responsible for. Medicare members and caregivers: As you weigh your options, ensure you’re familiar with the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. If you need a review, visit MedicareEducation.com — an online resource with answers to questions about eligibility, plan choices, cost basics, prescription coverage and more.
Learn the language. If you’re overwhelmed by or unsure about certain health care terms, there are resources to help. As a start, check out UnitedHealth Group’s Just Plain Clear Glossary (in English, Spanish and Portuguese) to help you make informed decisions. Medicare members and caregivers: There’s a lot to learn about Medicare and Medicare Made Clear can help you understand the basics, the complexities and everything in between.
Help prevent financial surprises. Visiting doctors that are in-network is one way to help keep your costs lower. So before selecting a plan, check to see if your doctor is in your health plan’s provider network. Also, make sure your medications will be covered by the plan you choose next year – even if you don’t expect to change plans. Look into filling your prescriptions at a participating network pharmacy or with home delivery by mail — two more potentially money-saving options. Medicare members and caregivers: You may be surprised to learn Original Medicare doesn’t generally cover prescription drugs. Consider adding Part D or enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan with prescription drug coverage to help keep your medication costs in check.
Check for mental health coverage. In addition to in-person mental health care, you may have access to a large virtual network of therapists and psychiatrists. Some health insurers also offer advocacy services to help you find the right type of behavioral health care. Medicare members and caregivers: Look for plans that offer virtual mental health care with a $0 copay.
Don’t forget about specialty benefits. Additional benefits, such as dental, vision, hearing or critical illness insurance, are often available and may contribute to overall well-being. Medicare members and caregivers: You may be surprised that Original Medicare doesn’t cover most dental, vision and hearing services, but many Medicare Advantage plans do.
Look into wellness programs. Many health plans offer incentives that reward you for taking healthier actions, such as completing a health survey, exercising or avoiding nicotine. Medicare members and caregivers: Many Medicare Advantage plans also offer gym memberships and wellness programs for members at no additional cost.
Explore virtual care services. If you’re busy or just prefer connecting with a doctor from the convenience of your home, consider choosing a plan that includes 24/7 virtual care. You may have access to virtual wellness visits, urgent care and chronic condition management. Medicare members and caregivers: Most Medicare Advantage plans provide access to virtual care, which can be an easier, more affordable way to talk with doctors about common health issues on a smartphone, tablet or computer.
For more helpful articles and videos about open enrollment, visit UHCOpenEnrollment.com.
By Antonio? ?Ray? ?Harvey? |? ?California? ?Black? ?Media?
Before Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill (AB) 1078, legislation prohibiting book bans in California, he told Assemblymember Corey Jackson (D-Riverside), who authored the bill, “I appreciate you and your leadership.”
“Remarkable,” continued the Governor. “We’re living in a country right now in this banning binge, in this cultural purge that we’re experiencing, all throughout America, and now increasingly here in the State of California, where we have school districts, large and small, banning books, banning free speech, criminalizing librarians and teachers.”
Newsom said codifying AB 1078 into law shows that California isn’t just “pushing back rhetorically” against what he describes as a “banning binge” happening across America.
AB 1078 also makes it illegal to censor instruction material and it mandates schools to provide access to textbooks that educate students about diverse cultures and people, according to Jackson, who was with the Governor when he signed the bill,
Newsom said Illinois passed a similar bill that takes effect in January. California is the second state in the nation to make it illegal to ban books or restrict learning material that includes information about the LGBTQ+ community, or specific races or ethnic groups. However, AB 1078 takes effect immediately because the Legislature passed it with an urgency clause.
On Sept, .7, AB 1078 passed in both the Assembly (61 to 17) and the Senate (31 to 9).
“We’re taking a firm stand against book banning in California’s schools, ensuring that our students have access to a broad range of educational materials that accurately represent the rich cultural and racial diversity of our society,” said Jackson, a member of the California Legislative Black Caucus, that day.
AB 1078 requires school boards across the state to receive approval from the state Board of Education before stripping any instructional materials or books from classrooms and school libraries or “ceasing to teach any curriculum.”
AB 1078 now extends to cover school libraries, prohibiting any censorship or removal of books, instructional materials, or curriculum resources that state law requires be reflected in instructional materials.
The bill’s passage in both legislative houses demonstrates California’s commitment to preserving academic freedom, fostering diverse perspectives, and discouraging the practice of book banning, Jackson observed in an Aug. 21 statement.
Jackson introduced the bill after Temecula Valley Unified School District attracted attention when most of its schools barred a state-approved history textbook that features renowned politician and gay rights activist Harvey Milk.
Milk was assassinated along with San Francisco Mayor George Moscone on Nov. 27, 1978, 11 months after he won a seat on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors.
On Aug. 14, parent groups opposing AB 1078 voiced their opinions about Jackson Bill and AB 5, the “Safe and Supportive Schools Program” at a rally held on the southeast lawn of the state capitol.
“This is not about your rights as a parent. There is no such thing as a parental right,” said Nicolette Vochelle from Southern California and a member of BLEXIT, a conservative community organization co-founded by Candace Owens. Vochelle was one of the speakers that participated in the rally.
“This is about our decisions as parents to raise our children as best as we possibly can and to choose the village and environment that they are raised in,” said Vochelle, expressing her opposition to AB 1078 and AB 5.
AB 5, which Newsom signed into law on Sept. 23, requires the State Department of Education to finalize the development of an online training delivery platform and an online training curriculum to advance LGBTQ “cultural competency” training for teachers.
According to BLEXIT’s website, the organization promotes economic independence, individual freedom, strengthening the nuclear family, and fostering a deeper appreciation for patriotism in Black American culture.
Vochelle told California Black Media that “Gov, Newsom, (Attorney General) Rob Bonta, and (Superintendent of Public Instruction) Tony Thurmond have zero rights to our children and it is beyond time that we remind them of that fact. We don’t give them another inch or second of our time to strip our children’s innocence. They will not be victims and they will not be confused. They will be protected.”
Jackson disagrees with Vochelle and other opponents of the legislation.
The lawmaker, who is openly gay, said AB 1078 will keep the path open to understanding, trust, equality, and knowledge in the classrooms. He believes that the bill will build a strong bond between schools and parents.
“California is the true freedom state: a place where families — not political fanatics — have the freedom to decide what’s right for them. With the passage of this legislation that bans book bans and ensures all students have textbooks, our state’s Family Agenda is now even stronger. All students deserve the freedom to read and learn about the truth, the world, and themselves,” Newsom said after the Legislature approved AB 1078.
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