Vice President Kamala Harris is a Black, South Asian, daughter of immigrants who has tirelessly advocated for and fought for our communities. She’s fought to raise the minimum wage, to protect our voting rights, to make higher education tuition-free, to reform the cash bail system, to expand access to health care, to hold sexual abusers accountable, to protect our reproductive freedom and bodily autonomy, to protect the LGBTQIA+ community, and so much more.  Harris has a proven track record of putting people over corporations by taking on fraudsters trying to cheat the American people—and winning, successfully going after Big Oil, greedy pharmaceutical companies, and predatory mortgage lenders to deliver wins for working people. This is what the media should focus on instead of racist and sexist attacks. Unfortunately, attacks against Black candidates, especially Black women candidates, are not new. When former Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to the House of Representatives, ran for president, she was not taken seriously. When Stacey Abrams ran, Republicans talked about her relationship status, her weight, they darkened her skin in political ads to rile up their racist base, and so much more. And now, Republicans like Congressman Tim Burchett are calling Vice President Kamala Harris a “DEI hire." We have to call it what it is: A racist dog whistle against Vice President Harris that bigots also use to diminish and discredit Black and brown people, LGBTQIA+ people, and women’s experiences and accomplishments. “DEI'' which stands for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, is being weaponized similarly to how the word “woke” has been weaponized by bigots. And news outlets stoke the flames, reporting on these statements without providing necessary critical analysis or context regarding the underlying racism and sexism. We must come together to fight back against this.  The truth is that Black women have powered the Democratic Party for years. In 2008 and 2012, 96% of Black women voted for President Barack Obama, providing the margin he needed to win two presidential terms. In 2016, 94% of Black women voted for Hillary Clinton. Black women powered the blue wave in 2018, and 90% of Black women voted for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris in 2020. We can’t sit idly by as MAGA Republicans and bigots continue to hurl racist and sexist attacks and news and media outlets legitimize their most offensive and baseless claims. Vice President Harris has broken glass ceiling after glass ceiling many times throughout her life. But when trailblazing Black women and women in politics like Harris are put in the spotlight, they are far too often subject to sexist and racist disinformation campaigns, made worse by news publications looking for "hot takes" and social media virality for clicks, views, and money. We need news outlets and journalists to be held to the highest standards of integrity, ensuring that they are not spreading harmful misinformation, recklessly sharing racist or sexist commentary that undermines Harris's qualifications, or publishing biased and unbalanced reporting on Harris.  Harris is a beacon of hope and representation for young Black and brown girls and women, not only across the country but the world. MAGA Republicans are afraid of her because they know she will continue to expose their dangerous Project 2025 agenda that will give Trump unchecked powers to eliminate abortion, hurt working- and middle-class people, fire civil servants, and roll back our rights and freedoms while reshaping all aspects of the government. They are afraid of her because they know she will fight for the working class instead of big corporations. So they resort to racist and sexist attacks against her. We can only imagine how low MAGA Republicans will go to discredit a successful, qualified candidate like Harris. But we can and must demand better from independent journalists now to STOP these sexist and racist attacks in their tracks. The media has a significant influence on the public narrative, and journalists have a responsibility to address racism, sexism, misogynoir, and any biases that can influence their election reporting when it comes to Harris.  Will you add your name to the petition? 

Signing the petition to get our congressman to advocate for us with FEMA is crucial for several reasons: 1. Amplify Our Voice: A petition demonstrates that a significant number of constituents are concerned about an issue. This collective voice is more likely to get the attention of our congressman and prompt action. 2. Urgent Needs: FEMA assistance is often needed to address urgent needs following disasters, such as providing temporary housing, financial aid, and recovery resources. Our congressman's advocacy can expedite this process. 3. Accountability: By signing the petition, we hold our elected representative accountable to the community. It reminds them of their responsibility to represent and support our interests. 4. Resource Allocation: Effective advocacy can ensure that our community receives a fair share of resources and support from FEMA, which can be crucial for rebuilding and recovery efforts. 5. Highlighting Issues: A petition can bring to light specific issues or challenges our community faces that might not be widely known. This can help tailor FEMA's response to better meet our needs. 6. Building Support: A strong show of support through a petition can encourage other elected officials and organizations to join our cause, creating a broader coalition for effective action. By signing the petition, you help ensure our community's needs are heard and addressed promptly and effectively.

The Wheaties cereal box is a prime example of the impact that Olympic and Paralympic athletes have on culture in the United States. As a cultural touchstone, Wheaties can help push back against the growing wave of dangerous anti-trans policies and sentiments across the country.  And now that the International Olympic Committee has issued new guidelines on transgender athletes, reversing unnecessary and harmful policies, this is the perfect moment for Wheaties to make clear that they stand for inclusivity and acceptance.   A staggering 25 states have dangerous policies restricting transgender students from participating in sports that align with their gender identity. Violence against transgender and nonbinary Americans is on the rise, and conservative states are mounting attacks on both transgender children and adults, passing laws that restrict funding for and access to gender-affirming care.  Representation matters. We need young transgender and nonbinary kids to see themselves represented in major sporting and cultural events. Join us in calling on Wheaties to put Nikki Hiltz front and center – signaling that anyone can be an Olympic athlete, no matter their gender or sexuality.

The two largest private employers in the U.S.—Amazon and Walmart—are using abusive and invasive surveillance tactics to get even richer at the expense of workers’ rights, safety, and dignity. Warehouse workers are being constantly monitored, creating environments where they have no choice but to keep up with inhuman, unsustainable productivity standards. These often result in health and safety risks, with workers reporting they don't have time to use the bathroom because of how fast they are pushed to work. This is unacceptable. Add your name to the petition to demand Amazon and Walmart stop the hyper-surveillance of their warehouse workers that compromises their health, safety, and well-being.

Empowering the Future - A Call to Lower the Age to Run for President Dear Fellow Citizens, Our nation stands at a crossroads, facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities. In this moment, we must harness the full potential of every citizen, regardless of age. I am writing to you today to advocate for a cause that is not just about me, but about empowering an entire generation of young Americans who are ready to lead, innovate, and create a brighter future for us all. It is time to lower the age requirement to run for president and give young voices the platform they deserve. Why It Matters 1. Fresh Perspectives and Innovative Solutions The younger generation brings fresh ideas and a keen understanding of modern challenges such as climate change, technological advancement, and social justice. Our nation needs leaders who can think outside the box, who are not bound by outdated paradigms but are eager to explore new solutions. By lowering the age requirement, we open the door to innovative policies that address today’s most pressing issues with the urgency and creativity they demand. 2. Representation for All Generations Youth make up a significant portion of our population, yet their voices are often underrepresented in the highest levels of government. This imbalance means that the concerns and aspirations of young people are not fully reflected in national policies. By allowing younger candidates to run for president, we ensure that our leadership is truly representative of all generations, leading to a more inclusive and balanced approach to governance. 3. Energy and Determination Young leaders are driven by passion and determination to make a difference. They are not yet jaded by the status quo and are often more willing to challenge existing systems to create meaningful change. This energy is essential for tackling long-standing issues that previous generations have struggled to resolve. It is time to infuse our political system with the vigor and ambition of youth. Why You Should Support This Movement 1. A New Era of Leadership Supporting the movement to lower the age requirement for presidential candidates is about more than just changing a number. It is about ushering in a new era of leadership that is responsive, dynamic, and attuned to the needs of a rapidly changing world. It is about believing in the potential of our youth to rise to the occasion and lead with integrity and vision. 2. Bridging Generational Divides Lowering the age requirement fosters greater understanding and collaboration between generations. It encourages mentorship and the sharing of wisdom between older and younger leaders, creating a more cohesive and united society. By bridging these divides, we can work together more effectively to build a prosperous future for all. 3. Fixing What Past Generations Couldn't There are persistent issues that have been passed down from generation to generation, unresolved and festering. It is time to give the younger generation the chance to tackle these problems with fresh eyes and new approaches. By supporting this movement, you are empowering young leaders to address and fix the challenges that past generations have struggled to overcome. Why Choose Me I stand before you as a representative of this movement, ready to champion the cause of youth empowerment and lead with dedication and purpose. My commitment to this cause is unwavering, and I am prepared to work tirelessly to ensure that our voices are heard. Here is why you should choose me to spearhead this movement: 1. Passionate Advocate for Change I have always been driven by a deep passion for making a positive impact in our society. My experiences have equipped me with the knowledge and determination to advocate effectively for this cause. I am committed to fighting for the rights and representation of young people in the political arena. 2. Proven Leadership Throughout my life, I have demonstrated leadership in various capacities, whether it be in community organizations, educational institutions, or advocacy groups. I have a track record of bringing people together, building consensus, and driving meaningful change. I am ready to bring this experience to the national stage. 3. Vision for the Future I envision a future where age is not a barrier to leadership, where young people are empowered to bring their unique perspectives to the forefront of national policy. I am committed to creating an inclusive and forward-thinking government that truly reflects the diversity and potential of our nation. Join the Movement This is a pivotal moment in our nation’s history. Together, we can create a future where every voice is heard, and every citizen has the opportunity to lead. I ask for your support in this movement to lower the age requirement to run for president. Let us stand together, empower our youth, and fix what past generations couldn't. Thank you for believing in the power of young leadership. Together, we can make history. Sincerely, West Abadie 

Concerns have been raised about some presidential candidates' cognitive abilities, psychological traits, or integrity, affecting their mental acuity, communication, behaviors, honesty, and other competencies. As Americans, we demand full transparency regarding candidates' cognitive abilities, psychological states, and integrity assessments to make informed decisions in November. We, our congressional representatives and governors must ensure presidential candidates are fit for the Executive Office of the President of the United States. The role is too demanding and consequential for us, our country, and the world to ignore or dismiss any possible deficiencies in any candidate that we may see and hear.

Changing the order of protection system to address its misuse is crucial for several reasons: Preserving the Integrity of Legal Protections: Orders of protection are essential tools designed to protect individuals from genuine threats of abuse, harassment, or violence. When these orders are misused, it undermines the credibility and effectiveness of the entire legal system. Ensuring that orders of protection are used appropriately helps maintain their integrity and ensures they remain a reliable resource for those in real need. Preventing Abuse of the Legal System: Misuse of orders of protection for personal gain, such as in contentious divorces or custody battles, can clog the legal system with frivolous cases. This not only wastes valuable judicial resources but also delays the resolution of genuine cases where individuals are in immediate danger and need prompt protection. Protecting the Rights of the Accused: Individuals falsely accused and restrained by orders of protection suffer significant emotional, social, and financial harm. They may face damage to their reputation, job loss, and severe emotional distress. By addressing misuse, the legal system can better balance the rights of the accused with the need to protect genuine victims. Ensuring Fairness and Justice: A legal system perceived as fair and just is fundamental to public trust. When orders of protection are weaponized, it creates a perception of injustice and bias, eroding confidence in the legal system. Reforming the system to prevent misuse helps restore faith in legal processes and ensures that justice is fairly administered. Encouraging Genuine Victims to Seek Help: When orders of protection are misused, it can create skepticism and stigma around seeking such protections. Genuine victims might hesitate to come forward, fearing they won't be taken seriously or that their cases will be seen as part of a larger pattern of misuse. Ensuring that orders of protection are applied correctly encourages genuine victims to seek the help they need without fear of judgment.  Reducing Retaliatory Actions: Misuse of orders of protection can lead to retaliatory actions, escalating conflicts rather than resolving them. By implementing measures to prevent such misuse, the system can focus on de-escalation and resolution, reducing the potential for further conflict and harm. Promoting Accountability and Responsibility: Holding individuals accountable for misusing legal protections promotes a sense of responsibility and respect for the law. It sends a clear message that the legal system is not a tool for personal vendettas or manipulation, but a serious and vital mechanism for ensuring safety and justice. By addressing the misuse of orders of protection, we can create a more just, efficient, and trustworthy legal system that better serves the needs of all individuals involved.

Clayton state has cut Counseling and Psychological services for its students leaving them helpless and in need. According to The Amercian College Health Association (ACHA) in 2022 they surveyed 54,000 students and "77% of students experienced some kind of psychological distress either moderate or severe" While in college students can experience burnout, homesickness, stress, anxiety, depression and more. Services pertaining to our mental health must be taken seriously in all schools across the country. Many students here take advantage of these services especially considering that we pay $46.00 each semester to have Mandatory Student Health which mental health should be a part of as well. Clayton State is also trying to fund a new football club which we want just as much as they do but not at the cost of our psychological wellbeing not to mention we pay $170 athletic fee already a year not to be mistaken with the student activity center fee for $115. We feel there are other ways to fund this rather than taking away much needed services or raising the prices for housing. The students deserve better, and the school needs to do better. Signing this petition is a push for a change to be made for the sake of our family, our laker nation, our school! 

Right now, Chí’chil Biłdagoteel Historic District of Arizona, a high desert oasis sacred to multiple Indigenous tribes and commonly known as “Oak Flat,” is under extreme threat. Rio Tinto, a UK-Australian mining company — notorious for polluting Papua New Guinea, causing an environmental disaster in Brazil that left 19 dead, and blowing up Juukan Gorge, a treasured 46,000-year-old Aboriginal site in Australia — would destroy the area by carving out a 1,115-foot deep, 1.8 mile-wide crater for strip mining. A coalition of Western Apache tribes and their allies is taking their case to the Supreme Court after the Ninth Circuit narrowly ruled against them earlier this year. It’s the necessary next step in this fight. Still, we’ve seen the Court fail to protect Native rights and the environment before — that’s why we need to work every possible angle to #SaveOakFlat. As the litigation continues, we’re piling the pressure on Congress to pass Rep. Raúl Grijalva's Save Oak Flat from Foreign Mining Act. This bill would reverse the land transfer and permanently protect the area — and building enough support to pass it in the House is one more way to ensure Oak Flat remains sacred and pristine for generations to come. Can you take two seconds to act to uphold tribal sovereignty and permanently protect this sacred space? Urge your Rep. to support and pass this legislation now.

We strongly believe this is the wrong decision because there is a more qualified candidate for the job who has not only more experience, but better results Her name is Coach Yolanda Rivera. We can only get her if you all help out. She has been coaching the girls team for more than twenty years and through  those many years, she has made many well-rounded players both for the girls and boys team. She knows how to get us to work hard and really absorb the skills and knowledge of volleyball to then apply them to real games. She is very cultivated on how to teach a new, non-experienced player to then grow them into fully fledged birds, flying in the court, working as a team to do their ultimate best, and to be proud of their best. She gives us goals and holds us to high expectations to encourage us to keep going on to our prime. She has really developed the love for this sport in the eyes of many of the players on the team and even has shown to people at tryouts how determined she is to teach these young, aspiring players to her wits end. Not only does she teach us, but she makes it an enjoyable community as well as a challenging one. Rivera is very deserving of this spot and I hope you all see it too. On the other hand, Mr. Bartomeo is someone who we don’t think is quite qualified just yet. We aren’t saying he is bad at his job, but it’s like comparing billions of stars in our galaxy to our Sun. He doesn’t have nearly as much experience coaching volleyball as he has only been coaching the JV Girls Volleyball Team for two years. He hasn’t gained as many results from people who began at the same spot as many players have that were in varsity.  Examples of this are serving, spiking, and overall moving. He is a very chill coach that doesn’t get those girls working hard and exercising. This includes warming up which without it is very dangerous and can lead to more chances of injury when playing. Though he did many drills for bumping and setting, he never did any drills for spiking which should be drilled and at least be a little developed before a student goes into varsity to flourish that technique. Not only that, but he didn’t properly teach how an underhand serve should be performed as many of those girls who tried out for varsity couldn’t get the ball over the net or in the court in some cases and many of these girls didn’t really move around to try and get the ball. The blame is not only on the coach, but he has to actively encourage and make time for change and to really get better results on how they play and understand the game. Many girls that joined Varsity this past fall were from JV previously were coached by Mr. Bartomeo. Most of the girls have claimed their season started late, they rarely had any practices, and when they did they were very short practices. As a result, this caused the girls to have a short season, low skill learning, and lost motivation into playing volleyball. We see that he enjoys volleyball, but he has a few years of improvement ahead of him before he should be teaching at the varsity level since if he can’t get beginner level athletes to improve a lot, how can he do that for intermediate to advanced level players? Coach Rivera is a huge advocate of warm ups because she knows it prepares your body for safe playing when you learn to do them accurately. She teaches you not only how to underhand serve correctly, but how to overhand serve. She teaches you more than just the basic bump-set-spike. She teaches you what to do when a teammate bumps the ball to the net. She teaches different positions as well as formations and determines which fits each of us the best. She motivates us to move and to really work together on the court. She has helped us trust each other and get closer as a team. She can make a beginner advance so far. She has also helped in building teamwork and makes the girls feel comfortable, confident, and connected. She has made every single girl she coached improve not only physically, but mentally. She has opened up the world of determination for each of us and even to apply it to an outside situation like this. She has aided all of us so much and we’re determined to do our very best to get her back for many years to come. Thank you all for your time.

Merced County Public Employees need your support to have a salary increase granted by the Board of Supervisors in order to address the following issues:       1.   Cost of Living Increase: The cost of living is rising by 3.3%, making it harder for public employees to afford basic necessities.  2.   County Budget: With a budget of $1.17 billion, Merced County should have the financial capacity to support its employees with a livable wage.  3.   Fair Compensation: Public employees deserve fair compensation for their hard work and dedication to our community.  4.   Poverty Rates: Merced County's poverty rate is above the state and national average. Many public employees are near the poverty line, and it is crucial they receive adequate salary increases to address this.   Merced County public employees are the backbone of our community, and investing in them is investing in our county’s well-being. These hardworking individuals manage important tasks in government offices, such as handling records, processing permits, and assisting the public with their needs. They ensure everything runs smoothly in our local government. These employees have families to support, needing money for housing, food, education, and healthcare. By giving them fair pay, we help them take care of their families and continue to provide excellent service to our community. Ensuring they are paid well is crucial for keeping Merced County a great place to live.

There are so many furbabies that are well cared for. I ask everyone to help out in getting our furbabies the protection they deserve. Our furbabies ARE NOT A POSSESSION, they are part of our family.