Gov. Newsom Announces New Council; $182 Million Investment to Create More Jobs Faster

By Tanu Henry, Antonio Ray Harvey, and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media 

Gov. Gavin Newsom is committed to creating more jobs, faster, and increasing pathways to higher paying careers for Californians from all backgrounds, according to his office.

To achieve these goals, on March 8, Newsom announced the formation of a new state-level committee focused on increasing jobs called the California Jobs First Council. He also awarded $182 million in grants to 13 organizations around the state involved in developing viable economic development projects that will stimulate employment and attract significant government and private sector investments.

Gov. Newsom has appointed Dee Dee Myers, Senior Advisor to Governor Newsom and Director of the Governor’s Office of Business & Economic Development to co-chair the council. She will work alongside co-chair Stewart Knox, California Secretary of Labor & Workforce Development.

“I am looking forward to working with my colleagues to align strategic investments that further economic growth and job creation in every region of California,” said Myers.

Other members of the council are the Director of the Governor’s Office of Planning & Research; Secretary of the California Natural Resources Agency; Secretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture; Secretary of the California Environmental Protection Agency; Secretary of the California Health & Human Services Agency; Secretary of the California Department of Veterans Affairs; and the President of the Public Utilities Commission.

“California has created more opportunities, more jobs, and more businesses than any other state, but we need to ensure that we’re all moving forward together,” Newsom said in a statement. “Through this new council and these investments, we’re aligning all of our economic resources to create more jobs, faster for Californians in every community.”

Obituary: Dumas Martin Jr.

APRIL 26, 1948 – FEBRUARY 9, 2024

On February 9, 2024, Dumas Martin, Jr., passed away at the age of 75-years-old. The community will gather to say their final farewell on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at 11 a.m. at The African American Museum of Beginnings located at 1460 E Holt Avenue, Suite 188, Pomona, CA 91767. Everyone will start assembling at 10 a.m. prior to the start of the memorial at 11 a.m.

California Officials React to President Biden’s State of the Union

By Tanu Henry ?|? ?California? ?Black? ?Media?

On March 7, President Biden delivered his third State of the Union address before a joint session of Congress.

In the wide-ranging and impassioned speech that covered broad political ground, Biden defended Democracy at home and abroad, drawing policy distinctions with his predecessor and probable opponent in the upcoming November elections, Donald Trump.

From global wars between Russia and Ukraine to the ongoing military conflict in the Middle East, moving on to wedge issues at home like abortion, the economy and immigration, Biden challenged his Republican opponents on the issues while highlighting his achievements.

“This is a moment to speak the truth and to bury the lies. Here’s the simple truth: You can’t love your country only when you win. As I’ve done ever since being elected to office, I ask all of you, without regard to party, to join together and defend democracy,” Biden said.

“Remember your oath of office and defend against all threats foreign and domestic,” the President added. “Respect free and fair elections. Restore trust in our institutions. And make clear — political violence has absolutely no place, no place in America. Zero place.”

During the speech and after, California officials reacted to the President’s message.

“The President’s State of the Union speech was a powerful reminder that government can be a force for good. Over the last three years, President Biden has been a defender of our freedoms, a champion of our democracy, and an advocate for our progress,” said Sen. Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.).

“He has done the hard work, securing victories that have led to historic job creation and record low unemployment. Americans in cities and towns across the country – including those in California – are better off today than the day he took office. I am proud to partner with an Administration that doesn’t shy away from taking on our most pressing challenges, and faces our future with urgency and resolve,” she added.

Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA-12) praised Biden for seeking a political solution to the conflict in the Middle East and committing to delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza.

“I’m pleased President Biden underscored the dire need to secure a two-state solution in Israel and Palestine. However, as I’ve said several times, in order to reach that goal, the U.S. must call for an immediate and lasting ceasefire,” said Lee. “Each day that Palestinians continue to suffer from famine, violence, and displacement is a tragedy. President Biden’s plan to construct a port for large-scale aid flow is a vital step in the right direction to ending this dire humanitarian catastrophe, but we cannot stop here. The release of hostages is imperative. The lasting peace and security of the Israelis and Palestinians depends on a ceasefire and a hostage deal now.”

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond said he celebrates the President’s decision to support students at different stages of their educational attainment.

“The President’s call to ensure that every three- and four-year-old has access to preschool and to ensure that every child learns to read by third grade echo our work to invest in early learning, reading specialists, and proven professional development for teachers of literacy,” said Thurmond.  

He also touted the President’s plan to support opening career pathways for students to career opportunities.

“President Biden also called for more access to internships so that all students can discover their passions and develop career-ready skills,” said Thurmond. “I am proud of our work to invest in paid internships for our young people, which directly connect California youth with opportunities in high-growth, high-wage industries.”

Reacting to the President’s speech, Mayor Karen Bass issued a statement affirming the President’s accomplishments and crediting him for investing in programs that have transformed the lives of people and improved infrastructure in Los Angeles.

“With President Biden’s partnership, more than 3,365 Angelenos moved into permanent housing through emergency housing vouchers delivered through his American Rescue Plan and the administration provided historic waivers to cut through bureaucracy and moved more formerly unhoused Angelenos indoors,” Bass said.

“In the midst of a global pandemic, the Biden-Harris Administration also provided relief for local small businesses and helped the city keep essential workers on the payroll and continue delivering critical services,” Bass added.

Biden urged Americans to stand up for America’s ideals.

“Hate, anger, revenge, retribution are the oldest of ideas. But you can’t lead America with ancient ideas that only take us back. To lead America, the land of possibilities, you need a vision for the future and what can and should be done. Tonight, you’ve heard mine,” said Biden.

“I see a future where in defending democracy, you don’t diminish it. I see a future where we restore the right to choose and protect other freedoms, not take them away,” he said.

 

Music Changing Lives and California Health Collaborative Join Forces to Combat Underage Tobacco Sales in Community-wide Dialogue

APPLE VALLEY, CA— On Saturday, March 23rd, Music Changing Lives (MCL) and the California Health Collaborative – San Bernardino County Tobacco Control Program (CHC – SBCTCP) will hold a powerful community dialogue to address underage tobacco sales taking place in the Town of Apple Valley. This exclusive event is a call to action for parents, students, and residents to join the conversation and discover how they can play a part in standing against tobacco. The event will be held from 12pm – 2:30pm at the United In Christ Baptist Church located at 13580 Nomwaket Rd., Apple Valley, CA 92308.

More than an informative session, this event is an invitation for residents to actively engage in a meaningful and creative dialogue about cultivating a healthier community. Exciting activities include the Apple Valley Against Tobacco poster art contest, the premiere of a compelling music video by MCL youth sharing their perspectives on the impacts of tobacco, and presentations from key speakers representing MCL and CHC.

Josiah Bruny, CEO & Founder of Music Changing Lives, emphasized, “One of the key reasons MCL is part of this campaign is to protect our youth.  Cities and towns across our region need tobacco retail licensing (TRL) policies to prevent retailers from selling tobacco products to underage youth, potentially exposing them to a lifelong nicotine addiction. Local TRL policies can be adapted to meet the unique needs of our communities such as restricting them from selling tobacco products within 1000 feet of youth sensitive areas. As we continue to survey tobacco retailers in different cities, we continue to find stores willing to sell tobacco to our kids. This is unacceptable and detrimental to the health and well-being of future generations.”

To attend the event, community members can RSVP at https://1l.ink/BXB4H7D. A complimentary and delicious lunch will be provided for all guests who join in on the conversation.

The March 23 conversation marks the second event in a 3-part series hosted by Music Changing Lives and the California Health Collaborative -San Bernardino County Tobacco Control Program in the campaign, Apple Valley Against Tobacco. The first event took place in February and served as a significant platform for advancing campaign initiatives by fostering collaboration among stakeholders, disseminating crucial information, and mobilizing community support for tobacco prevention efforts. The recent event featured key speakers, including Bruny, who discussed the impact of music programs on youth development and substance abuse prevention, while CHC highlighted the importance of community collaboration in addressing underage tobacco sales.  The California Health Collaborative – San Bernardino County Tobacco Control Program participated and shared strategies on how to combat sales to youth and enforce regulations.

Ms. Jones, a past event attendee stated, “[I] truly enjoyed the event’s impact on increasing awareness, empowering youth to make healthy choices, and fostering a sense of unity in the community’s commitment to combatting underage tobacco sales.”

For more information about Music Changing Lives and its initiatives, visit www.MusicChangingLives.org or call 951-992-0721.

About MCL and California Health Collaborative:

Music Changing Lives stands as a catalyst for positive change, dedicated to addressing youth advocacy, social injustices, and health disparities within communities. Leveraging the transformative power of music and art, the organization strives to create impactful initiatives that resonate with individuals, fostering positive transformation and community well-being.

The California Health Collaborative is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization committed to enhancing the quality of life and health of the people of California, particularly the underserved and underrepresented. Learn more at www.healthcollaborative.org.

Ten Little-Known Facts About Harriet Tubman: Symbol of American Freedom and Womanhood

By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

As time passes, the details of our great African American historical figures begin to feel more like legends than concrete facts. At the beginning of this Women’s History Month in 2024, and as March marks the 201st year since Harriet Tubman was presumably born, California Black Media (CBM) honors this monumental figure by sharing 10 little-known facts about her life.

  1. Harriet was not her birth name.

Historical accounts suggest that Tubman was born between 1820 and 1821 into slavery in Eastern Maryland.

The then-named “Araminta Ross” was the daughter of Ben Ross, a skilled woodsman, and Harriet ‘Rit’ Green. Tubman worked from the age of six, as a maidservant and later in the fields, enduring inhumane treatment, and brutal conditions.

Tubman adopted her mother’s name after escaping slavery, and her surname came from her first marriage in 1844, to a free Black man John Tubman. This blended marriage was complicated by her slave status, passed on by her mother, but was not uncommon.

  1. She was the first woman to lead an armed assault in the Civil War.

Recognizing the significance of a Union victory for the abolition of slavery, Tubman contributed to the war effort as scout, a nurse, a cook, and a spy to Federal troops.

In June 1863, Tubman worked alongside Colonel James Montgomery to assault plantations along the Combahee River. Using intelligence from escaped slaves, she guided Union riverboats through Confederate torpedo traps. At least 750 slaves were freed in the mission. Unfortunately, despite Tubman’s years of service, she never received a regular salary and was denied veteran’s compensation for 34 years.

  1. She helped find a cure for dysentery.

During her time as a nurse during the Civil War, Tubman was credited for providing a treatment for dysentery. Many people in the hospital where she worked were suffering from the disease. Tubman used her knowledge of plant roots to put together a herbal remedy that alleviated the patient’s symptoms and facilitated their recovery from the disease.

  1. She refused anesthesia when undergoing brain surgery in 1898

Tubman lived much of her life experiencing severe migraines and seizures due to an injury inflicted on her by her slave owners. By the late 1890s, the pain in her head had affected her ability to sleep. Fortunately, she found a doctor in Boston willing to operate on her brain. Instead of receiving anesthesia while the doctor cut open her skull and performed the surgery, she chose to bite on a bullet — something she had seen soldiers do during the Civil War when they suffered pain on the battlefield.

  1. She had a beautiful singing voice

Tubman reportedly had a beautiful singing voice and would sing two songs – “Go Down Moses” and “Bound for the Promised Land” – as signals while leading escape missions. Tubman would change the tempo of the songs to let escaping slaves know if it was safe to come out of hiding.

  1. Two years after escaping captivity, Tubman came back for her husband, but he refused to leave. 

When Harriet escaped slavery in 1850, she left her husband behind in Maryland. Two years later, she returned hoping to bring her husband north with her. However, she soon discovered that he had married another woman and had no desire to leave. Instead, she found a group of slaves who wanted to escape and brought them up to Philadelphia.

  1. Her second husband was 22 years younger than Tubman when they wed in 1869.

Tubman’s second husband was Nelson Davis, a veteran of the Civil War. At the time of their marriage, Tubman was 59 years old, while Davis was just 37. In 1874, the pair adopted a baby girl named Gertie. They shared a life together for 20 years before Davis passed away.

  1. She was an active proponent of women’s suffrage.

Tubman worked alongside women suffragettes such as Susan B Anthony and Emily Howland. She travelled to New York, Boston and Washington speaking about her actions during the Civil War and her role as an Underground Railroad conductor. Her speeches were seen as validations of the struggle for women’s rights.

  1. Harriet Tubman has two National Park sites dedicated to her memory.

The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park in Dorchester County, Maryland, interprets Tubman’s early life and features a visitor center with thorough and informative exhibits, the site of the plantation where Tubman was enslaved as a girl, and the general store where she suffered her traumatic head injury. The Harriet Tubman National Historical Park in Auburn, New York, tells the story of her later life and includes the house she owned. Visitors can also see Tubman’s grave at a nearby cemetery that is unaffiliated with the historical park.

  1. She converted the home she owned into an assisted living facility.

Tubman was very passionate about the lives of senior citizens. She founded ‘The Tubman Home for Aged and Indigent Negroes’ in 1908 with help from the A.M.E. Zion Church. The facility was located in Auburn, New York, and was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1974.


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

Lecrae Releases New Single “I Still Believe” ft. for KING & COUNTRY following Two GRAMMY Wins

ATLANTA, GA— Grammy Award-winning artist Lecrae has once again captivated audiences with his latest release, “I Still Believe,” featuring his good friends and the acclaimed Australian pop-singer duo for KING & COUNTRY. Following Lecrae’s monumental success at the 2024 Grammy Awards, securing two Grammy wins for his latest album “Church Clothes 4” and his single with Tasha Cobbs Leonard “Your Power,” “I Still Believe” is a poignant anthem that resonates with themes of resilience, hope, and unwavering faith in the face of adversity.

Stream “I Still Believe” ft. for KING & COUNTRY HERE!

Lecrae, known for his groundbreaking contributions to the hip-hop and Christian music scenes, continues to push artistic boundaries with “I Still Believe.” His ability to seamlessly blend genres and deliver impactful messages has earned him widespread acclaim and a dedicated global fanbase. The track showcases Lecrae’s signature lyrical depth and dynamic delivery. for KING & COUNTRY, comprised of brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone, bring their distinctive sound and unparalleled vocal prowess to “I Still Believe.” With a string of hits and multiple awards to their name, the duo adds an extra layer of depth and emotion to this collaboration.

Together, they craft a musical masterpiece that speaks directly to the human spirit. This single not only showcases their exceptional talent but also reaffirms their commitment to creating music that inspires, uplifts, and connects with listeners on a profound level.

Nearly a decade after the release of Lecrae’s breakout album, “Anomaly,” in which he received a Grammy for his single “Messengers” also ft. for KING & COUNTRY, Lecrae is now speaking from a place of experience and hope. Over the course of that time, he has engaged and documented the complexities of his belief in God through his music as well as publicly online. Most recently with his GRAMMY-winning album “Church Clothes 4,” Lecrae’s heart wrenching and passionate delivery on his track, “Deconstruction,” summarizes his journey of doubt leading to a deep depression and ultimately being called back to his God given purpose over a beautiful and impactful vocal sample uttering, “you can still find your way back home. you’re never too far gone.”

Ten years, six albums and many trials after the beginning of that journey, Lecrae makes the statement with his latest single that despite all he’s gone through, he still believes God is his Lord & Savior and that he exists to ultimately bring Him glory.

“Purpose is not something that you can conjure up, It is given to you. After everything I’ve been through, I still believe that purpose is found in God. I hope that people can see my story, relate, and find hope. Healing is not something that can happen overnight, but it can happen, and I am an example of that,” says Lecrae.

A journey that would leave most people scared and resistant, has led Lecrae to a further connection and belief in God that he believes is available to everyone. “I Still Believe” is a reminder for people also struggling and dealing with doubt that God is here, He is good, and He is for you.

Follow Lecrae:

Website: http://www.lecrae.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lecrae

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lecrae

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lecrae

 

For more information on Reach Records, please visit www.reachrecords.com and on social media @ReachRecords.

About Reach Records:

Reach Records is an Atlanta based independent hip-hop label founded in 2004 by Lecrae and Ben Washer. Long before acclaim, awards, plaques, chart positioning, and radio play, the two started the label because they both love hip-hop and Jesus. Reach Records was launched with no strategy, no funds, no big players, but they made big moves! Today Reach Records is a trailblazing label with a roster of nearly 10 artists and a staff of 20 who are unashamed about sharing their faith and passionate about hip-hop. Reach Records is committed to building a movement that combines faith with music and popular culture.

Dancers Wanted!

RIVERSIDE, CA— Join the “Dancing with the Leaders of the Inland Empire” project! There will be auditions and an information meeting on Saturday, March 9, 2024, from 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., held at 6377 Riverside Avenue, Suite 120, Riverside, CA 92506.

This activity is funded in part by the California Arts Council, a state agency, as part of the Creative Corps Inland SoCal Arts Project. The “Dancing with the Leaders of the Inland Empire” multi-media production will be touring this Summer 2024 with three shows in three locations! Victorville 6/8/24, San Bernardino 6/15/24, and Riverside 6/22/24.  More information is coming soon.

San Bernardino County’s Sheriff’s Department Enhances Law Enforcement in Muscoy for Added Safety and Security

SAN BERNARDINO, CA – In a move to bolster safety and security in the unincorporated areas of the Fifth District, Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr., celebrates the announcement of additional law enforcement personnel to unincorporated communities within the Fifth Supervisorial District.

These four additional deputies will be strategically placed at Central Station in San Bernardino, focusing on areas identified as priority zones for crime prevention and proactive policing efforts in the unincorporated communities of San Bernardino, and Colton. Two deputies will be assigned to targeted patrol duties, concentrating their efforts in the community of Muscoy.

Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr., shared, “In addition to the deputies we’ve already placed in our unincorporated communities of Bloomington and Rosena Ranch, we’re further reinforcing our commitment to safety by adding more deputies in our district.” Supervisor Baca, Jr, further emphasized “Additional deputies in Muscoy means we are really stepping up for our underserved neighborhoods, especially where it’s needed most. It’s about making sure everyone, no matter where they live, feels safe and looked after.”

Implementing additional law enforcement resources in these areas highlights the Supervisor’s responsive and proactive approach to community safety. The decision to enhance law enforcement comes in response to community feedback.

“This is not just about increasing law enforcement numbers; it’s about making a tangible difference in the lives of our residents,” Supervisor Baca, Jr. added. “We are committed to creating a safe environment where families can thrive, businesses can grow, and communities can flourish. Together, we are making our district a safer place for everyone.”

Residents can expect an increased police presence in the coming weeks, along with continued efforts to engage the community in these safety initiatives.

Letter to the Editor: “A Forgotten Legacy: The Role of the Second Amendment in Black History”

By Craig J. DeLuz  | California Black Media 

The streets of America, once shrouded in shadows, are filled with the flicker of hope as Black History Month comes upon us. A time to reflect on the struggles and successes of African Americans in this great nation. But amongst the celebrations and festivities, there is one crucial aspect that often remains shrouded in the darkness of ignorance.

The Second Amendment.

It’s a delicate topic, one that is often swept under the rug and avoided during this time of year. But let’s not forget the role that this amendment has played in securing the rights and liberties of not just African Americans, but all Americans. From the Civil War through the civil rights movement and even until today, the Second Amendment has been a powerful tool in the hands of those who have fought for justice and equality.

But unfortunately, as with most things in Black history, this topic has been silenced and overshadowed. The harsh reality is that laws were put in place to keep slaves and freed Black men from obtaining firearms. And even after the Civil War, many states passed what’s known as Black Codes, intentionally designed to restrict African Americans from exercising their right to keep and bear arms.

These laws, coupled with the growing violence against African Americans, gave birth to an unlikely ally in the fight for civil rights: the NRA. Yes, you heard that right. The National Rifle Association, often portrayed as a white, racist organization, was founded by three union officers who fought for the end of slavery and the civil rights of African Americans. They recognized the need for individuals to defend themselves against the tyranny and violence of the Ku Klux Klan, as the government was not doing enough to protect them.

But as with most things that go against the status quo, there were those who were not pleased. And thus, the gun control movement was born. But make no mistake, it was not about protecting people or reducing violence. It was about keeping guns out of the hands of African Americans.

The Black Panthers, a civil rights group, understood this all too well. In the late 1960s, they called upon the American people to take note of the racist California legislature that was passing laws specifically aimed at disarming Black citizens. And just like the KKK, the inspiration for these laws came from an unlikely source: Nazi Germany. The language used in these laws was almost identical to that of the Nazi regime, showing the true intentions behind gun control.

But for some, history seems to repeat itself endlessly. As we see yet again with the rise of hate groups and acts of violence against innocent citizens, the importance of the Second Amendment cannot be understated. It was created to prevent a new government from slipping back into tyranny and to allow individuals to protect what is theirs from any threats.

And yet, even in modern times, there are those who continue to deny African Americans their Second Amendment rights. As prominent lawyer and gun rights commentator Colion Noir stated, “Dr. King would look at me with a bit of confusion as he happily struggled with me…that I, a young Black male living in the heart of the South, whose house was never firebombed and has never received death threats, was granted a concealed handgun license. Yet he who had encountered all of these things was denied.”

It’s time to shed light on the role of the Second Amendment in Black history. To educate ourselves and others on the importance of this amendment in securing not just civil rights, but all rights. Let us not be afraid to speak out and defend the Second Amendment, for it is the one that defends all others. And let us never forget the words of one man who truly understood the power of this amendment: “When you touch the Second Amendment, you can’t become more anti American, because America would not be without her guns.” – Willian Owens, President / Founder at America’s Altar.


About the Author

Craig J. DeLuz has almost 30 years in public policy and advocacy.  He is currently President of the Robla School District Board of Trustees where he has served for almost 20 years. Learn more at CraigDeLuz.com or follow him on X at @CraigDeLuz.

 

“This Means War!”

By Lou K. Coleman | WSS News Contributor

“Whatever is going wrong, put your war clothes on. You might be in a daze but tell the devil he can’t have your praise. No matter the attack, you won’t turn back. This means War! He can’t have your family, he can’t have your increase, he can’t have your breakthrough, because you plead the blood of Jesus. You can’t take this lying down. Whenever the enemy’s attacking in your life, you can’t be breaking down and falling out, you gotta say, This means War!” [Charles Jenkins & Fellowship Chicago].

Understand we are fighting a spiritual war that underlies all of man’s wars.  This battle is for the salvation of souls, for our eternal destiny. This battle is real, so put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. So, gear up, [sword, shield, and armor] and prepare for battle. This means War!

You see, Satan knows that this is his last chance to win in his battle against God, and he’s going to “pull out all the stops.” He’s going to marshal every evil human power on earth, and this grand armada will devote its vast power to achieve one purpose: the total elimination of God’s people from the face of the earth.  He is without a doubt on the warpath and ready to destroy people’s livelihood. This is serious stuff. This is not for the faint hearted or the weak-kneed. This means War! And it’s time to start acting like it! Satan is not pulling any stops. He will come at you from every direction. He got his eyes set on you. Your enemy is prepared to overtake you. According to the War in Revelation [Chapter 13 and Chapter 19], Satan will use every spiritual tool he has ever devised, especially deception and force, to get you and me to surrender our faith in Jesus. The Hell with Satan. Gear up and prepare for battle. This means war!

Stand, therefore, with truth like a belt around your waist, righteousness like armor on your chest, take the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit [Ephesians 6:14-17] and know that God has given you power to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” [Luke 10:19]. He has given you everything you need to experience victory. The only question is: will you use what he has given you, or will you walk into battle unprepared and exposed to the enemy’s attacks?

I pray that as a result of today’s message you will be encouraged to prepare for spiritual battle every day. And I pray that you will take advantage of these tools God has given you to fight the enemy and win the victory. Gear Up!

“And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death”. [Revelation 12:11]