Biden Defies Calls to Step Down, Asserts Commitment to 2024 Presidential Race
Bakersfield
News Observer
Fifty Years and Still Going Strong
The Richardsons’ Love Story
Land,
Contributing Writer
Fifty Years and Still Going Strong: The Richardsons’ Love StoryJason Land, Jr.Contributing WriterIn celebration of their 50th year together, the dynamic duo of Pastor Curtis Richardson and his wife, Joyce Richardson, were joined amongst family, friends, and community at Hodel’s Country Dining.
On June 29th, laughter and joy filled the dining hall as the marriage of Emeritus Curtis H. Richardson and Emerita Joyce M. Richardson was celebrated. People from across California gathered to honor this milestone with the couple, from the Bay area in San Francisco, to Lancaster and Fresno. The afternoon of tangible love began with an invigorating prayer from Pastor Aaron Hosey of the Holy Temple Church of God in Christ, followed by a touching scripture from his First Lady, Annie Hosey.
“27She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. 28Her Children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her. 29Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all. 30Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised. 31Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates,” quoted Lady Hosey from Proverbs 31:
Beloved
27-31.
The scripture is but a clear teaching in which honoree Emerita Joyce Richardson embodied throughout her marriage, a lesson she took in order to uphold the strength and foundation of a God-fearing union.
Todd Ward, the son in law of the honorees, represented the family with an official warm welcoming to all in attendance. The attendees rose in a standing ovation to welcome the Richardson’s as they made their entrance and were escorted to their seats. As the hall lit up around Pastor Richardson and First Lady Joyce, the song of “Falling in Love with Jesus” was played by Gregory Hines.
“We are really here to recognize the love they have shared for each other for fifty years!” exclaimed Todd Ward.
With the honorees seated, lunch began, allowing a time of fellowship and communion amongst those who came to commemorate the Richardsons’ union. During lunch, several attendees shared their testimonies to the joy and love Emeritus and Emerita Richardson brought into their lives. One family was Tim and Marcha Hay, who expressed their gratitude for Joyce Richardson. Joyce was Marcha’s mother’s caregiver for several years and was there when her mother passed away while Marcha lived in Sacramento. As a double amputee, Marcha’s mother needed someone who was caring and showed God’s love, and Joyce was there to be that woman. Marcha and Joyce’s friendship has stood as a testament to their joint love and Marcha’s appreciation for over 25 years.
“She was there. She ran the whole show twentyfour seven. She was me when I couldn’t be there!” shared Marcha Hay.
After lunch, Crystal Jackson and Dr. Nadine Scott graced the hall with beautiful selections of “Best of Me” and “Total Praise,” adding a touch of musical soul to the celebration. These renditions not only praised God, but served as symbolization for the long and successful years of marriage, achieved only through their devotion to God.
First AA, Dr. Duane McCalister, was called as the officiant of the ceremony to renew Curtis and Joyce’s vows as witness to their forever vitalized love and devotion to one another.
“God has willed that the Christian marriage is primarily an act of the will. It is the born in love nourished in growing affection of maturing and faithfulness. Every effort, human, and divine should be implored to preserve it. It is God’s will that this union be strong enough to bring you through all temptation, indifference, adversity, discord in the home, and a love grown cold– all of which may continue to threaten the marriage bond between husband and wife. This should be remembered as you now declare your desire to renew your vows,” said Dr. Duane McCallister.
Shortly after the renewal of vows, First Lady Martha Hudson shook the room with her moving rendition of “Never Would Have Made It”, sending the hall into an uproar of praise only caused by the Holy Spirit! This selection transitioned into the sharing of heartfelt reflections among different members who had been touched by the love of
Pastor Curtis Richardson and First Lady Joyce Richardson.
“My daughter was pregnant and going back and forth to the hospital. She didn’t have that baby. Pastor Richardson and Mother Richardson came to my apartment and went into the room and prayed. [Pastor Richardson] told me,
Monday morning, we’re going to have a baby.’ That Monday morning, my daughter told me she was ready. We had a six pound baby girl!” cheered Angie Dyer, a friend and fellow child of Christ with the Richardsons.
“When I look at the number fifty, it was God that told the disciples to go into the upper room and on the fiftieth day– the day of pentecost– said, ‘I’m going to send you somebody just like me.’ Amen,” spoke Pastor Armentha Hines, friend of the Richardsons.
“Aunt Joyce, you are absolutely stunning. Uncle Curtis, you are handsome and we absolutely love you!” said Gennie Richardson Lewis, niece of the Richardsons. She followed her statement with a recital of the poem, ‘Bands of Gold’ by Judith Bond.
When asked about their own opinion on the reason their marriage has stood the test of time, Pastor Richardson mentioned faith was at the top of his list. He stated their marriage was based on scripture in the bible. With God at the top of their list, faith was the main factor guiding them through their fifty years of marriage. First Lady Richardson mentioned that the secret to maintaining a strong and loving marriage was purely God. She mentioned that without keeping God in the center of everything, they wouldn’t have made it.
The event ended with a closing prayer from ‘The Golden Gentleman’ himself, Emeritus Curtis H. Richardson. He and his wife, Joyce, closed with despite this event being about their monumental anniversary, they “wanted the Lord to shower down on the people.” Needless to say, the spirit engulfed everyone in that room, all thanks to the love and support of the community Pastor Richardson and First Lady Joyce Richardson fostered!
By MARIA SHERMAN AP Music Writer
gonna curse and let you know how I really feel” early on in his acceptance. He recounted walking into music mogul L.A. Reid’s office at 12 or 13 years old and telling a room full of executives that he’d make it. “That wasn’t ego speaking. I rebranded that word that day,” he said in a section of the speech that didn’t air. “I rebranded that word that day. I expressed goals out loud.”
The R&B superstar is an eight-time Grammy winner who recently ended a two-year Las Vegas residency, “Usher: My Way” at the Park MGM. In February, he released his first solo album in eight years, and in August is scheduled to kick off a 24-city U.S. tour titled “Past Present Future.” Usher’s 2024 Super Bowl halftime performance drew acclaim and included guest appearances by such stars as Alicia Keys, H.E.R., Jermaine Dupri, Lil Jon and Ludacris. His album “Confessions” has sold more than 10 million units in the U.S., ranking it among one of the best-selling music projects of all time. It launched No. 1 hits such as “Yeah!” with Ludacris and Lil Jon, “Burn” and “Confessions Part II.”
Darlene L. Williams
Contributing Writer
BAKERSFIELD, CALIF— Hundreds attended a twoday service honoring the life, legacy, and service of beloved pastor and community leader, Dr. Freddie Louis Thomas Sr. The memorial service and public viewing was held Friday, July 5, 2024, at Jerusalem Mission Community Church of God In Christ and concluded with funeral services on Saturday, July 6, at Saint Peter Restoration Community Christian Ministries. Thomas was born April 12, 1934 in Marshall, Texas to parents, Joseph and Jimmie Thomas. The family relocated to Los Angeles, California in 1941. Thomas received his early educational experience in Baldwin Heights, CA. He later moved to Bakersfield and graduated from Bakersfield High School. Thomas died on June 19, 2024. He was 90-years old. Several local dignitaries including, Mayor Karen Goh, and representatives from the offices of Senators Shannon Grove, David Valadao, Leticia Perez, and Council Members Eric Arias and Andrea Gonzalez were in attendance and gave words about Dr. Thomas; a man they all seemed to know personally and respected equally. After reciting a biblical scripture, Mayor Goh compared the character of Thomas to that of The Prophet Isaiah as being a” restorer and feeder of the hungry”. The celebration service for Thomas was indicative of the kind of atmosphere he was a part of for so many years. The “spirit-filled” service included jubilant songs of praise and worship, hand-clapping, words of comfort and expressions of love. Thomas was employed by Edwards Air Force Base where he worked in construction. While employed, he attended classes to obtain a contractor license. After receiving a degree in architecture, he accepted a position with the City of Bakersfield Community Development Program. Thomas’ architectural prowess would be showcased in building, constructing, restoring and renovating homes. He later accepted a supervising position for Kern County Housing Authority. Subsequently, Dr. Thomas was inspired to start his own construction company, T&T Construction Company. Thomas’ impressive and extensive history was surrounded by acts of servitude both in the church and community he served for over 50 years.
His spiritual journey began early in his life when he accepted Jesus Christ and received the baptism of the Holy Ghost. Elder Freddie, as he was passionately called, answered “the voice of God calling him into full-time ministry” in 1965. His humble beginnings started in the garage of a “saintly mother” and later expanded and moved to its current location at 924 South Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd. The church continued to grow under the direction and visionary leadership of Pastor Thomas.
“My father met no strangers, said daughter, Debra Hodges. He showed up for all school events and would apologize to his children when he felt that he was wrong. That’s the kind of man he was”, she said.
Many spoke about the character of Thomas and his smile that “lit up the world” as his daughter stated.
Dr. Thomas continued his passion for learning and knowledge in Biblical Studies by attending The International Bible seminary in Orlando, Florida graduating with a Master of Theology degree.
He attended Bible College under the tutelage of the late, Dr. Eddie V. McGee. Subsequently, Thomas received a ‘Doctor of Divinity’ through Summit Bible College where he would later serve as a board member and admired colleague. Thomas served in various capacities of service, including a mentor for young men as a Buffalo Soldier Leader, community spokesman, Coach and mentor for the AYSO youth soccer league. He was instrumental in organizing food drives and giveaways to all those in need. Thomas leaves to cherish his memory: wife of 40 years, Dr. Dorothy
(Photo Credit: Jason Land, Jr.)
(Photo Credit: Jason Land, Jr.)
Jason
Jr.
Biden Defies Calls to Step Down, Asserts Commitment to 2024 Presidential Race
By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
In a resolute stand against mounting pressure from within his party, President Joe Biden declared on Monday, July 8, that he is “firmly committed to staying in the race,” directly addressing congressional Democrats who have recently suggested he should withdraw from the 2024 presidential election. Biden’s two-page letter, which his campaign released, emphasized his resolve to stick with it and rally the party against the twice-impeached former President Donald Trump, who has been convicted of 34 criminal felony charges, massive business fraud, and a jury found him responsible for sexually assaulting a woman. “The question of how we move forward has been well aired for over a week now,” Biden wrote. “And it’s time for it to end. We have one job. And that is to beat Donald Trump.”
The letter follows a private conference call where five senior House Democrats expressed their belief that Biden should step aside, adding significant pressure on the President and his advisors. However, Biden firmly rejected those calls, noting the importance of respecting the primary process and the voters’ decision. “Do we now say this process doesn’t matter?” he questioned. “We have 42 days to the Democratic Convention and 119 days to the general election. Any weakening of resolve or lack of clarity about the task ahead only helps Trump and hurts us. It is time to come together, move forward as a unified party, and defeat Donald Trump.”
Biden reiterated his commitment to the race and his confidence in leading the party to victory. “Now that you have returned from the July 4th recess, I want you to know that despite all the speculation in the press and elsewhere, I am firmly committed to staying in this race, to running this race to the end, and to beating Donald Trump,” he wrote.
The President acknowledged the concerns and fears expressed by various party members but stood firm in his decision. “I have had extensive conversations with the leadership of the party, elected officials, rank and
Biden’s two-page letter, which his campaign released, emphasized his resolve to stick with it and rally the party against the twice-impeached former President Donald Trump, who has been convicted of 34 criminal felony charges, massive business fraud, and a jury found him responsible of sexually assaulting a woman.
file members, and most importantly, Democratic voters over these past ten days or so,” he said. “I have heard the concerns that people have—their good faith fears and worries about what is at stake in this election. I am not blind to them. Believe me, I know better than anyone the responsibility and the burden the nominee of our party carries. I carried it in 2020, when the fate of our nation was at stake,” he wrote.
Biden expressed gratitude for the support he has received from Democratic voters and officials. “I also know these concerns come from a place of real respect for my lifetime of public service and my record as President, and I have been moved by the expressions of affection for me from so many who have known me well and supported me over the course of my public life,” Biden noted. “I’ve been grateful for the rock-solid, steadfast support from so many elected Democrats in Congress and all across the country and taken great strength from the resolve and
determination I’ve seen from so many voters and grassroots supporters even in the hardest of weeks,” he continued. “I can respond to all this by saying clearly and unequivocally: I wouldn’t be running again if I did not absolutely believe I was the best person to beat Donald Trump in 2024.”
Highlighting the primary results, Biden emphasized the legitimacy of his candidacy. “We had a Democratic nomination process, and the voters have spoken clearly and decisively. I received over 14 million votes, 87% of the votes cast across the entire nominating process. I have nearly 3,900 delegates, making me the presumptive nominee of our party by a wide margin. This was a process open to anyone who wanted to run. Only three people chose to challenge me,” he stated. “The voters of the Democratic Party have voted. They have chosen me to be the nominee of the party. Do we now just say this process didn’t matter?
That the voters don’t have a say?”
Biden firmly rejected the notion of stepping down. “I decline to do that,” he asserted. “I feel a deep obligation to the faith and the trust the voters of the Democratic Party have placed in me to run this year. It was their decision to make. Not the press, not the pundits, not the big donors, not any selected group of individuals, no matter how well intentioned. The voters—and the voters alone—decide the nominee of the Democratic Party. How can we stand for democracy in our nation if we ignore it in our own party? I cannot do that. I will not do that.”
The Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) also has voiced strong support for Biden, with California Democrats Rep. Barbara Lee and Rep. Maxine Waters defending him fiercely during a recent call with Democratic lawmakers. Rep. Frederica Wilson of Florida also expressed her unwavering support for Biden, criticizing those calling for him to step down.
Meanwhile, the Trump campaign continues to attack Biden’s age and fitness for office, while Biden’s team counters by highlighting Trump’s own blunders and lack of transparency regarding his health.
Trump’s team is trying to make voters forget that he is just three-and-a-half years younger than Biden.
Recently, Trump launched into another one his mindboggling diatribes that ping-ponged from shark attacks to electric batteries to electrocutions. Team Biden called it “unhinged.” In recent months, Trump also confused the leaders of Turkey and Hungary, warned that the world was headed for a second — not third — world war, and called fictional serial killer Hannibal Lecter a “wonderful man.” He’s also claimed there were good things about Hitler and white supremacists. Trump is no longer subject to the same routine and regular medical examinations that his rival must undergo as the occupant of the Oval Office. As head of state, Biden must take a litany of medical tests for transparency purposes. The detailed results are made public by the White House physician. In contrast, no information has been made available in years about the health of Trump, who is known to be a fan of fast food.
“We are now at a point and time where people are talking about Biden is too old; hell I’m older than Biden,” Rep. Maxine Waters, 85, said. “Trump has told you who he is. He defined himself,” she said. “He is a no-good, deplorable, lying, despicable human being.” She also warned that Trump’s talk of an impending civil war should not be taken lightly, given his role in the January 6 Capitol insurrection.
Waters clarified that Biden remains the Democratic candidate and urged unity and support for his campaign. “Do we have to talk about the difference between these two? There ain’t gonna be no other Democratic candidate. It’s going to be Biden and you better know it,” she said, adding, “He should have done better in the debate, but hell, he’s already starting to do better. Did you see the latest interview? And he gets stronger, and he’s going to do better every day.”
During the Essence Festival in New Orleans, other CBC members provided additional reasons for Black voters to continue supporting the Biden-Harris administration. Waters assured the audience that she and Biden would continue to fight for the Black community. “I want you to know that for the rest of my years, me and Biden are going to live a long time,” she said. “We are going to win.”
Government Excludes and Discriminates Against Black-Owned Media Despite
Federal Advertising Spending Reaching
By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
A new report released this month has revealed that the federal government spent $14.9 billion on advertising contracts over the last ten fiscal years to inform the public about various programs and services. However, despite the government’s mandate to provide contract opportunities
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to businesses owned by minorities, women, and other socially or economically disadvantaged groups, significant disparities persist.
The report found that contracts with those businesses represented about 14% of total federal advertising spending, amounting to $2.1 billion from fiscal years 2014 to 2023. Additionally, federal agencies allocated about $1.1 billion for COVID-related advertising contracts, with only 3.5%, or about $37 million, awarded to these disadvantaged businesses. Additionally, the report does not specify the amount allocated to Black-owned media. Several previous reports suggest that Black-owned media received no more than $10 million of the total $14.9 billion spent.
“Of the $14.9 billion spent, a disproportionately small fraction has gone to Black-owned media,” National Newspaper Publishers Association Chair Chairman Biden Henry stated. The NNPA is the trade association representing the Black Press of America. “This underrepresentation, neglect, and disrespect not only undermines the economic stability of Black-owned businesses, but also limits the diversity of voices and perspectives essential to a vibrant democracy. The NNPA calls for immediate and substantial reforms to ensure fair and equitable distribution of federal advertising dollars.”
In 2023, Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) introduced a bill called the Federal Government Advertising Equity Accountability Act requiring federal agencies to detail their advertising spending with small, disadvantaged businesses and businesses owned by women and minorities in their annual budget justifications. Norton, along with Reps. Hank Johnson (D-GA), Barbara Lee (D-CA), and Val Demings (D-FL), co-led a letter to President Biden seeking answers about the inequity in federal advertising contracts awarded to minority- and women-owned media and advertising agencies compared to the rest of the industry.
A Government Accountability Office (GAO) study revealed that the federal government spent more than $5 billion on advertising over five years, with Black-owned businesses receiving only $51 million, or 1.02 percent of those funds. Black-owned newspapers and media companies received a small portion of the $51 million.
Jessica Lucas-Judy, Director of Strategic Issues for GAO, clarified in an email to the Black Press, “Black American-owned businesses were awarded $256 million (21 percent) of the $1.2 billion in federal advertising contracts obligated to minority-owned businesses from FYs 2014 through 2023. When looking at the number of businesses, 148 Black-owned businesses were awarded advertising contracts during that time period.” Lucas-Judy added, “I double-checked with my team; the data from FPDS identified Black-owned businesses generally, rather than Black-owned newspapers/media outlets specifically. I think the only way to find the information you’re looking for would be to review each individual contract.”
The trend of underrepresentation in federal advertising contracts has been around for a while. In March 2016, Holmes Norton joined with the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) to call for a report on federal advertising contracts with minority-owned newspapers and media companies. The NNPA is the trade association of more than 250 African American-owned newspapers and media companies. The conglomerate comprises the 197-year-old Black Press of America.
Norton emphasized that the federal government, as the largest advertiser in the country, should ensure equal opportunities for news outlets and media companies owned by individuals of color, especially as African Americans and Hispanic Americans continue to grow in number in the United States.
“The federal government is the largest advertiser in the United States, and it has an obligation to ensure equitable access to its contracts for SDBs and businesses owned
$15 Billion
“The GAO’s findings demonstrate that there is still much progress to be made.”
In 2007, GAO had already investigated advertising spending by five agencies—the Departments of Defense, Treasury, Health and Human Services, the Interior, and NASA—and found that only five percent of the $4.3 billion available for advertising campaigns went to minority-owned businesses. Thirty-one members of Congress joined the call for accountability in the federal government’s advertising practices.
The latest GAO report, released June 27, 2024, highlighted those three agencies—the Departments of Defense, Health and Human Services (HHS), and Homeland Security—were responsible for more than half of advertising contract obligations to specified businesses from FYs 2014 through 2023, totaling about $1.3 billion. While these agencies obligated the most dollars to selected companies, other agencies had higher percentages of their obligations directed to these businesses. For instance, NASA allocated 99 percent of its advertising contract dollars to specified businesses, albeit a lower total dollar amount.
“The NNPA notes, as we have raised over the past decade, the issues of equity, inclusion, and accountability with respect to federal advertising dollars spending with Black owned newspapers and other media companies,” NNPA President & CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. stated.
“The latest GAO report is very telling and documents decades of racial discrimination and inequality concerning the allocations of federal advertising dollars. We live in a data conscious society and marketplace,” Chavis added. “We appreciate the data transparency of the GAO report that raises the urgency for immediate systematic change in federal government advertising spending to be more equitable and inclusive of advertising with the Black Press of America in this fiscal year.”
Absolute Foolery of Subjective Mainstream Media, Nervous Democrats, and Project 25 Fascists
By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
President Joe Biden’s age and misperceptions of cognitive decline have set off a self-destructive political firestorm within the Democratic Party, causing a dramatic shift towards favoring former President Donald Trump despite his impeachments, 34 felony convictions, and a litany of other alleged crimes and hate-filled rhetoric. Mainstream media’s increasingly favorable treatment of Trump, coupled with internal Democratic nervousness and unrest, has added to the turbulence, increasing the possibility that America will elect its first self-declared dictator.
Simply put: The so-called mainstream media in America has devolved into “subjectivity” with the clear abandonment of the principles of investigative and factual journalism, while the Black Press of America remains and retains its historic and contemporary “objectivity.”
Meanwhile, African Americans have notably defended Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, who recently faced a racist headline and story from the New York Post calling her potentially the first “DE&I President.” A headline right out of Trump’s vision of America.
All the while, Democrats are playing a deadly game of “What have you done for me lately.” Eleven House Democrats—Reps. Adam Smith (WA), Jerry Nadler (NY), Mark Takano (CA), Joe Morelle (NY) and seven others— reportedly urged Biden to step aside for the 2024 race during a recent conference call.
Adding to the controversy, Biden’s campaign reportedly provided pre-approved questions for recent radio interviews, sparking outrage and leading to the firing of a host at WURD Radio. The move has been criticized for undermining journalistic integrity and feeding into the narrative of media manipulation.
Overlooked is that most communication directors and publicists routinely offer questions to journalists. That WURD was offered and accepted isn’t the bombshell and gotcha story that CNN, whose hierarchy reportedly are Trump donors, made it out to be. CNN’s utter failure to
challenge 90 minutes of lies during the debate has gone unreported compared with Biden’s poor performance. However, other networks and news outlets, like the Washington Post and the New York Times, have failed to challenge the former president’s authoritarian rhetoric and legal transgressions.
Trump, unabashedly campaigning on promises of revenge and authoritarian rule, has gained momentum with little pushback from mainstream media. A Daily Beast report revealed that Trump weaponized the Justice Department to prolong the imprisonment of his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, who was jailed for crimes committed on Trump’s behalf. Cohen warned of Trump’s dictatorial aspirations. “He’ll run the country like a king, like a supreme leader, like a monarch, like a dictator, like the Führer,” Cohen asserted.
“Look. I get it,” attorney and writer Daniel Miller wrote on X. “There is more than one issue that’s important in this race. I get that Biden’s debate performance, as well as related issues, is news. But can we also spend some time on the fact Trump seems to have an odd interest & even an admiration of Hitler & Nazis?” Miller continued:
“Biden was really bad in the debate, but can we also talk about how Trump reportedly said ‘Hitler did some good things?’ Don’t we think that’s relevant to whether Trump would be a moral president and whether he’d abuse his power to do awful and illegal things?”
“I get Biden’s immigration policy hasn’t been perfect. But can we also talk about how Trump said migrants are ‘poisoning the blood of our country?’ That seems relevant given Trump world is planning to deport 11 million immigrants by placing them in ‘vast holding facilities.’”
“I get that some on the far Left who hate Biden are really antisemitic,” he added. “But can we also talk about Trump hosted Nick Fuentes for dinner, said there were ‘very fine people on both sides,’ and has otherwise trafficked in antisemitic tropes and outright antisemitism?”
Then there’s Project 2025, a conservative manifesto aiming to reshape American policy radically, which has also become a focal point of concern. Despite Trump’s denials,
evidence closely connects him to the MAGA-inspired project his former aides created. Key figures behind Project 2025 include Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, former Vice President Mike Pence, Senators Ted Cruz (RTX), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Mike Lee (R-UT), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Representatives Jim Jordan (R-OH), Kevin McCarthy (RCA), Steve Scalise (R-LA), and Elise Stefanik (R-NY). The project threatens to dismantle democratic checks and balances, empowering Trump to enact his extreme agenda if re-elected.
“If it talks like a dictator and it walks like a dictator, then you better believe it will rule as a dictator,” BidenHarris 2024 spokesperson Sarafina Chitika stated. She emphasized Trump’s history of abusing power and the existential threat he poses to American democracy.
Despite concerns about his age, Biden has achieved significant legislative and policy successes in his three years in office, arguably more than his predecessor and many other presidents. His administration has passed historic infrastructure bills, advanced climate initiatives, and navigated the country through a post-pandemic economic recovery.
“If elected to a second term, Trump would prosecute anyone he deems an enemy, unleash troops on protesters, and essentially unravel the rule of law as we know it,” MSNBC Host and former White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki stated. “And this time, he plans to line his administration with people who will actually help him do it.” Miller, the author, recalled that Trump once reportedly had a book of Hitler speeches in his bedroom. “Isn’t that an issue in this race? Why was he so interested in Hitler? Can someone ask him?” he wrote Friday,” Miller wrote. “Trump seemingly admires Hitler. Has read Hitler. Uses Hitler rhetoric. This is a relevant issue for many reasons. And someone should get to the bottom of this before Trump once again controls the most powerful military in the world. The voters DESERVE answers.”
by minorities and women,” Norton stated.
Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F
Eddie Murphy Returns to Beverly Hills, Which is Good Enough for Everyone
By MARK KENNEDY
AP Entertainment Writer
Judge Reinhold is in a truck barreling down the highway chased by angry cops when he turns to Eddie Murphy at the wheel and says something we're all feeling, “God, I missed you, Axel.”
We all really did, but we get the sarcastic and sweet Axel Foley once again in Netflix's “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F,” exactly 30 years since “1994’s Beverly Hills Cop III.” Is the new movie any good? Who cares?
The fourth outing brings back not just Murphy and Reinhold to the Axel Foley Cinematic Universe, but also long-time co-stars Paul Reiser, John Ashton and Bronson Pinchot. Kevin Bacon, Taylour Paige and Joseph GordonLevitt make their debuts.
The plot is pretty simple: Murphy's Foley is living his best cop life in Detroit — destroying things spectacularly — when he's asked to urgently return to Beverly Hills to help his estranged daughter, played with real grit by
Taylour Paige. He then gets caught up in a murder case that has dirty cops and lets him make fun of snooty Beverly Hills.
Newcomers may be puzzled by the slow pace and '80s feel of Mark Molloy's directed sequel. It's not as funny as previous ones or ambitious in the way sequels for beloved franchises have gotten. But it has Murphy blowing stuff up and joking about it — all we need, really.
“Goddamn, Foley. Here we go again,” says Ashton, playing the exasperated chief of police, and that sentiment runs through the fourth entry. All you need to make your Gen X friends happy is a montage of Murphy behind the wheel while “The Heat Is On” by Glenn Frey plays. (“Neutron Dance” by The Pointer Sisters also returns).
Speaking of music, the filmmakers seem to want to break some sort of record for Most Theme Song Plays in a Single Movie, as the instrumental tune ”Axel F”by Harold Faltermeyer is cued up, by one rough count, approximately 5,000 times.
There are also a lot of vehicles commandeered in “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F,” perhaps a nod to the advanced age of the core group. There's a snowplow, a helicopter, a golf cart and trucks, none of which are returned in mint condition.
The screenwriters — Will Beall, Tom Gormican and Kevin Etten — leave plenty of places for Murphy to improvise but also craft some surprisingly strong dialogue between Foley and his 32-year-old daughter, both nursing hurt feelings.
“You didn’t fight. I’m your daughter. The only thing you’ve ever fought for is your job,” she tells him. “Look, we both messed this thing up. All right? Let's just call it even.” Come for the explosions, stay for the heart-to-hearts.
Murphy uses Mary J. Blige's “Family Affair” and proves it. In one scene, Foley is arrested while trying to drive away in a comically small cop car. One of the traffic cops is played by Murphy’s daughter, Bria, one of his 10 kids. Another cop who later tases him is a son-in-law.
A lot has changed in the three decades since Foley was breaking rules and skulls and there's the feeling of a requiem as these aged men go into battle again. “They don’t want swashbucklers out there anymore. They want social workers,” Reiser's detective says. There are jokes about Wesley Snipes, small yappy dogs and Spirit airlines, a scary shootout on Wilshire Boulevard, way too much synth played and an inside joke about the last sequel, a stinker: Gordon-Levitt goes through all of Foley's brushes with the California police and says “'94, not your finest hour.”
“Axel F” is not exactly Murphy's finest hour, either. But Murphy just saying “Jesus!” is funny. Let's hope we don't have to wait another 30 years for our next Axel Foley fix. God, we've missed him.
“Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F," a Netflix release that starts streaming Wednesday, is rated R for “language throughout, violence and brief drug use.” Running time: 117 minutes. Two stars out of four.
Tank and the Bangas to Pay Tribute to Their New Orleans Roots at Essence Fest
By CHEVEL JOHNSON RODRIGUE
Associated Press
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Seven years ago, New Orleans band Tank and the Bangas squeezed into the corner of a classroom and recorded themselves performing their song “Quick,” for National Public Radio’s Tiny Desk contest, the nonprofit's annual search for the “next great undiscovered artist.”
Their video — a lively mix of funk, soul, hip-hop and spoken word — wowed NPR's judges and won them an appearance on NPR's popular, stripped-down Tiny Desk series, helping grow their loyal fanbase. A 2020 Grammy nomination for “Best New Artist,” followed, as did 2023 and 2024 Grammy nominations for “Best Progressive R&B Album” and “Best Global Music Performance,” respectively.
On Sunday, Tank and the Bangas will return to their home city for one of their biggest performances yet: the main stage of the Essence Festival of Culture, the world’s largest celebration of Black women, culture and communities. The group has performed at Essence before, but those were miniconcerts in “super lounges,” created inside the Superdome’s massive corridors, not the mammoth stage on the Superdome's floor.
The fact that the group will get to play on the main stage this year is “scary” and “exciting,” lead singer Tarriona “Tank” Ball told The Associated Press.
“Those are big shoes to fill, opening up on the festival’s main stage," Ball said. "We played in the super lounges in the past but I’m proud to step up. I’m just doing it scared. But don’t get me wrong, I’m always nervous for the special ones. I’m excited about doing this because it’s home. That’s a big deal.” The set also will infuse flavor from other artists with ties to New Orleans, including Teedra Moses, Dawn Richard and HaSizzle.
“It's going to be beautiful,” Ball said of the
performance. “Soulful. Poetic. We're tailoring it for that. We've got HaSizzle, Teedra Moses, Dawn Richard. We're bringing all these aspects to the stage all of whom have helped bring the city back to musical life.” Ball describes their sound as “when Disney meets the ghetto.”
“We're flavorful,” she said. “We can go anywhere. Our influences are from go-go music to the old-school vibes of Stevie Wonder. I like to say we're genre-fluid. We flow between genres,” she said. Ball hopes the experience will draw new fans into their world.
“Essence is that platform for us to connect with our people,” she said. “I hope we leave them with a wow and a feeling of ‘I need to follow this,’” she said.
Norman Spence, the band's musical director, said the group is grateful for the opportunity to participate in the long-running festival experience but notes they're not entirely new to such a space.
“We've seen some of those types of crowds, at amphitheaters, other large festivals, at Coachella. We get around a little bit,” he said, laughing. “We have a sound that inspires people and makes people self-reflect. To see us have the opportunity to do something so monumental though ... there's a lot of gratitude there. I just can't wait to get it done. Meanwhile, I'm just going to embrace it all and just shine.” Ball said she's hoping the performance will “be impactful” for attendees.
“I hope they find something that they've been listening for,” she said. “I hope they hear something and say ‘They changed my world.’”
The band starts a new tour later this month that will take them across the U.S., as well as to England, Poland and Japan. Ball said they're also working on a poetry project that should drop in October.
“We're gearing up for an amazing year,” she said.
June Jobs Report Reflects Biden’s Steady Economic Leadership, Record Job Creation
By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
A recurring theme from supporters of President Joe Biden since the debate debacle has remained: “Look at my record.” Biden himself said, “I know how to do this job.” The latest jobs report has shown that the BidenHarris administration has been as effective as any other in American history. According to the Labor Department’s report on Friday, the American labor market produced another solid month of employment gains in June. The economy added 206,000 jobs, while the unemployment rate edged up to 4.1 percent from 4 percent the previous month. This marks the 42nd consecutive month of job growth, with teen employment also reaching new heights. In June, 37.3 percent of 16-to-19-year-olds were employed, the highest rate for that month since 2007.
Addressing the latest figures, President Biden emphasized the administration’s track record. “With today’s report that 206,000 jobs were created last month, a record 15.7 million jobs have been created during my administration,” Biden said in a statement. “We have more work to do, but wages are growing faster than prices and more Americans are joining the workforce, with the highest share of working-age Americans in the workforce in over 20 years.”
Though the unemployment rate slightly increased, economists suggest this may not indicate a downturn. Tom
such
discouraged workers and those working part-time for economic reasons, held steady at 7.4 percent. Household employment, used to calculate the unemployment rate, rose by 116,000. However, the household survey also showed a decrease of 28,000 full-time workers and an increase of 50,000 part-time workers. Nonfarm payrolls increased by 206,000 for the month, surpassing the Dow Jones forecast of 200,000, though it was below the revised gain of 218,000 in May. David Russell, global head of market strategy at TradeStation, commented on the data to CNBC, saying, “The job market is bending without yet breaking, which boosts the argument for rate cuts. Things are not too hot and not too cold. Goldilocks is here, and September is in play” for a Fed rate cut. Government employment has nearly returned to its pre-pandemic level and trend, adding to the overall positive outlook. Despite these gains, President Biden acknowledged ongoing challenges. “Too many Americans are still feeling squeezed by the cost of living,” he said. “I’m fighting to lower costs by taking on corporate price gouging, capping the cost of insulin and prescription drugs, and calling on Congress to lower rent by building 2 million new homes.” Biden contrasted his administration’s efforts with those of Congressional Republicans, asserting that their policies would “supercharge inflation” and impose high tariffs, costing middle-class families thousands of dollars annually. “While they fight for Park Avenue, I’ll keep fighting for working families like the ones I grew up with in Scranton,” Biden concluded.
How a Caring Community, Including Head Start, Propelled My Life
I was an adventurous and curious child growing up in Decatur, Alabama. Still, even good traits can be channeled in the wrong direction when the environment pulsates with the effects of poverty and brokenness. My mom, a single mom, was a hard worker who had multiple jobs, one of which was cooking at the Head Start program I attended. Mom had abusive partners and our household featured all the horrors that come with domestic violence. My dad was in and out of my life and seemed to wrestle with whether he wanted or understood fatherhood. That, combined with being caught between him and my mother when they weren’t getting along, meant I didn’t establish a positive relationship with him until much later. I had to grow up early, and there are things I experienced and saw that no child should.
I remember Head Start as one of the few safe havens in my community. The teachers formed a protective cocoon, shielding us kids from real-life hazards that were immediately outside those doors. Head Start was a place of love and hope, and I relished that environment. I craved love as a child, and that’s where I found it. Getting it was a high for me. I spent all of my childhood, teenage years, and some of my early adulthood years, chasing that high.
A Village Is Formed I strongly believe in God, and though life was turbulent while growing up, God put people in my life to bridge gaps where I was missing nurturing and guidance. They were part of a village, an informal support system for me. Aunt B was the cornerstone of this village. She was a white woman in our neighborhood who invited my brother and me to her house to do minor household projects. She paid us in popsicles and good company. I mention her race because, even in the 1990s, the vestiges of segregation and discrimination permeated my community and socialization.
I had learned implicitly and explicitly not to trust white people. But Aunt B tore those walls down. My brother and I grew to trust and love her; the same is true of her family toward us. I remember early on while getting to know her, I asked her very pointedly, “Can I love you?”
as I ached to feel parental love. Not only did Aunt B let me love her, but she also loved me right back. Through Aunt B, I learned that true love goes way beneath the skin’s surface. This lesson informs so much of my work as a church ministry leader.
Another person in my growing village was a strong black woman named Edith Garner. Ms. Garner took me under her wing in my preteen and early teen years. She counseled me. She took me to church. When I would cry about my parents not loving me, Ms. Garner deftly explained that they did love me but didn’t know how because of emotional wounds. I use this wisdom as foundation in my work today as a parenting coach. Amid a disrupted home life, a stream of individuals like Aunt B and Ms. Garner at different points provided listening ears, stern admonishment when I needed it, a place to sleep, food, and most of all, love, especially during some of the darkest moments in my life, and darker clouds were coming.
Surfing
He had hit her again. I had reached my limit. I got my gun. I would set my mother and our household free from the abuser once and for all. Though I spent years trying to protect my mother, I couldn’t stay at home any longer while the abuser remained. It hurt me, but one of us had to go. As I prepared the weapon, resolute in ending the nightmare, my mother stopped me physically. She put herself between me and a decision that would invariably lead to a lengthy prison sentence. So, at 16 years old, I left home. I would couch surf, stay with different friends, and people I knew. My girlfriend’s family let me stay with them for a while if I agreed to attend church. I didn’t mind because the church affirmed me, and there, I started to see a glimpse of my future as a motivational speaker and leadership developer.
A year went by, and I was living in a friend’s basement, and on the surface, I tried to make things appear normal. I remained active in school and extracurricular activities, including football. But things were far from normal. Every day, I would arrive at school early and shower in the locker room so no one would know my status. It had been two
years of sleeping at friends’ houses, in my car, scrounging for food in the streets. I was weary. The stress of instability was overwhelming. I felt abandoned. I was having suicidal thoughts; I asked God, “Do you love me?” I found an affirmative answer through the Christian scriptures: nothing can stop God from loving us. I chose to trust and believe that, and it gave me hope.
Cloudy With a Chance of Sunshine
In my senior year of high school, I moved back home to help care for my mother, who was recovering from surgery. The abuser was gone, and it was a step in the right direction to healing our relationship. With help from a few additional folks who joined my village, I was encouraged to apply to college. I knew I wanted to attend college but didn’t understand the process. With guidance from teachers and others, I applied to and was admitted to Auburn University to study Exercise Science and secured a starting position on the football team. During my college years, life was going in a positive direction: I was a soughtafter youth speaker for churches and other organizations, was married, and had an event planning service. The dark clouds seemed to be clearing, and it felt like daybreak was coming.
Daybreak Arrives
Sometimes, life is darkest before a breakthrough. While at college, I suffered a knee injury, which ended my football career opportunities, including my chance to play at Auburn University. My marriage dissolved, and I became homeless again, with two small children. A few faculty members learned about my situation and rallied the university to find a way to assist me. I’m in awe of how this village worked together to ensure I got the support needed to finish school and care for my children.
Today, I work across several fronts as an author, speaker, ministry leader, and Head Start director to deliver hope where there’s little of it. Hope is the engine that keeps you moving forward when everything around you tells you to give up. I want my story to resonate with everyone with childhood trauma, living in poverty, or any other adversity. I hope to encourage them to take a leap of faith and dare to hope; there’s something good on the other side.
Black Attorney, Zulu Ali, Renames Youth
Mentoring Program in Memory of His Mother
Attorney Zulu Ali, founder and principal of the Law Offices of Zulu Ali & Associates, LLP, the largest Blackowned law firm in California’s Inland Empire, honors his mother by re-naming his non-profit youth mentor program to the Linda Reese Harvey Stop & Frisk Youth Leadership Academy (stopfriskacademy.com); all in memory of his mother, Linda Harvey, who transitioned on May 16, 2024 at the age of 77.
“As a Black male, raised by a single Black mother, she made me understand the challenges ahead of me, but also made sure that I made no excuses when it came to achieving my goals and success. My mother worked two jobs and dedicated her life to my success. I was able to succeed as a husband, father, U.S. marine, police officer, athlete, student, believer in God, humanitarian, human being, and activist due to the guidance and teachings of my beloved Mother, Linda Jean Reese Harvey. My mother instilled in me that I could accomplish anything I set my mind to. Working hard, never giving up on my dream, being humble, avoiding haters, and trusting in God, among other things, was her daily lessons. I have walked in her footsteps and followed her vision; and I could not have done it without her. I owe it all to her; she is my Hero,” Ali stated.
A former police officer and U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Attorney Ali earned a juris doctorate in law (J.D.) from Trinity International University; a master’s in administration of justice (M.S.) and business (M.B.A.) from University of Phoenix; a degree with a focus on African studies from Regents College through a consortium with Tennessee State University; and is a doctoral scholar researching pan-African business and trade at California Southern University.
Attorney Ali’s law firm focuses on representing persons accused of crimes, immigrants, and persons seeking civil justice in state and federal courts. Ali is on the list of counsel at the African Court of Justice and Human Rights in Tanzania, Africa and the International Criminal Court at The Hague, Netherlands. He served as Director of the American Committee for United Nations Oversight, an advocacy group that lobbied the United Nations for police reform in 2015. He
is the Director of the Linda Reese Harvey Stop and Frisk Youth Leadership Academy, which mentors and trains at-risk youth to deal with police encounters; Director of the Southern California Veterans Legal Clinic, a legal clinic offering no cost and low-cost legal services to military veterans; and a member of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. serving on the international governing body (Grand Council) as General Legal Counsel. Attorney Ali, a distinguished biographee of Marquis Who’s Who and a recipient of the Albert Neilson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021, received the Marquis Who’s Who Humanitarian Award for 2022. In 2017, he was recognized as one of the most influential African American Leaders in Los Angeles by the National Action Network founded by Reverend Al Sharpton. In 2022, Attorney Ali was recognized by the United Nations General Assembly (Charter 68/237) for his contributions and listed as one of the Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD)
The latest jobs report has shown that the Biden-Harris administration has been as effective as any other in American history.
Simons, a U.S. economist at Jefferies, noted to reporters, “Rather than indicating a big decline in labor market demand, we view this data as a sign that workers themselves
Churmell Mitchell, the author, as a boy who looked to mentors for guidance and wisdom.
By Churmell Mitchell
By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
President Joe Biden’s bid for a second term is on shaky ground following his poor showing in a debate with the twice impeached and convicted felon and former President Donald Trump on June 27. Mainstream news outlets, which played a vital role in Trump’s political ascendance, now report that Biden is contemplating dropping out of the race.
According to The New York Times, Biden recently told a trusted ally that he fears his campaign might be beyond saving unless he can quickly reassure the public of his capabilities. Despite maintaining his resolve, Biden is aware that his upcoming appearances—including an interview with ABC News George Stephanopoulos and campaign stops in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin—are crucial.
NBC News reported that Biden scheduled a meeting with Democratic governors to address rising concerns about his campaign. White House Chief of Staff Jeff Zientz also planned an all-staff meeting, and Biden campaign chair Jen O’Malley Dillon and campaign manager Julie Chávez Rodriguez reportedly led an all-hands call with campaign staff.
One significant voice urging Biden to withdraw is Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas. Doggett’s call might prompt other officials to follow suit. Many Democrats, however, are awaiting fresh polling data to determine the impact of Biden’s debate performance on his support and close races down ballot.
The Democratic Governors Association’s chair, Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota, organized a separate session before the meeting with governors—the gathering, which includes Govs. Gavin Newsom of California, J.B. Pritzker of Illinois, Kathy Hochul of New York, and Andy Beshear of Kentucky, aims to offer support and strategic advice to Biden. “The governors back Biden and, at a time when everyone wants to get back to the core contrast in this race, they want to hear from the president and offer key insights from their states as allies and surrogates for his campaign,” an unnamed Democrat told NBC.
At a fundraiser in McLean, Virginia, Biden acknowledged his subpar debate performance, attributing it to exhaustion from extensive travel. “I wasn’t very smart for having traveled around the world a couple of times before the debate,” he said, adding that he “almost fell asleep onstage.” Biden reiterated the critical need to defeat Trump in November.
CBS News reported that Trump now leads Biden by three points in battleground states and holds a twopoint advantage nationally. Democratic voter enthusiasm appeared to have dipped, with fewer Democrats than Republicans declaring they would “definitely” vote. Despite this, over 90% of Biden and Trump supporters remain committed.
Meanwhile, Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, fiercely defended Biden, criticizing colleagues who suggest he should step aside. “If Dems found half as much energy to attack MAGA, the real threat, then we’d be good,” Crockett asserted. She challenged those advocating for a new candidate to explain who could replace Biden, how they would secure ballot access in all 50 states, and how they would raise the necessary funds and build the campaign infrastructure in just four months.
“Dems spend all their time seeking perfection, while Republicans focus on their disastrous agenda and could care less so long as they rig the system in their favor,” Crockett said, urging her party to focus on substantive threats like Project 2025 and the Supreme Court’s role in undermining democracy.
Biden’s Campaign on the Brink: Dems Reportedly Express Concern Support Black Press
Advertise in the Bakersfield News Observer
Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, fiercely defended Biden, criticizing colleagues who suggest he should step aside.
California Capitol News You Might Have Missed Political Playback:
By Bo Tefu California Black Media
November Election: Calif.
Voters to Decide on $10 Billion Bond for Public Education Upgrades
Last week, the California State Legislature approved a $10 million bond proposal to modernize and repair K-12 schools and community colleges statewide.
The education bond measure, Assembly (AB) Bill 247, will appear on this year’s November ballot.
AB 247 aims to upgrade school buildings, allocating $8.5 million to public schools and $1.5 million to community colleges across California.
Authored by Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance), the measure was authored in collaboration with Assemblymembers Mike Fong (D-Alhambra), and Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City), and Senators Steve Glazer (D-Contra Costa) and Josh Newman (D-Fullerton).
Supporters of the proposition point out that schools in California are over 50 years old, raising safety concerns among community and school leaders. The education bond will provide matching dollars to K-12 school districts based on local priorities and it calls for monitoring spending for local taxpayer accountability.
“California urgently needs a statewide school bond to repair dilapidated and unsafe school facilities and to invest in our children to meet 21st century educational and workforce needs,” said Muratsuchi, an author of the education bond proposal.
Since 1998, the state has been providing $54 billion in education bonds for K-12 schools and institutions of higher education. Voters approved the last successful bond, Proposition 51, during the 2016 November election. That proposition has provided K-12 schools with $7 billion and community colleges with $2 billion for repairs and construction to improve safety.
However, some school district officials are concerned that funds from state and local bonds mostly benefited affluent districts, leaving rural districts disadvantaged.
A report by the Public Policy Institute of California stated that it is easier for the state to match funds from the district in wealthier areas. The report stated that voters in affluent areas are more likely to approve bonds making it easier to raise funds since their property values are higher.
Public Advocates, a nonprofit law firm, threatened to sue the State claiming that the bond system is unconstitutional.
“The Legislature is shooting itself in the foot. What they’ve proposed will only undermine support from voters,” said John Affeldt, an attorney who supports the bill. “But technically they still have time to fix this.” State officials, on the other hand, remain optimistic about the outcome of the education bond during this year’s November election.
Acting Calif. Gov. McGuire Signs Bill Clearing Way for Nov. Ballot Measure on Water, Wildfire Prevention
Last week, Gov. Gavin Newsom appointed Senate Pro Tem Mike McGuire (D-Healdsburg) as acting governor while he traveled to Washington to support President Biden and travel with him on the campaign trail.
In his capacity as governor, McGuire signed Senate Bill (SB) 867 that clears the way for a ballot measure to appear on the November ballot that connects communities with clean drinking water and protects residents from floods and threats of wildfires.
“The safe drinking water and wildfire prevention bond will sustain and enhance the quality of life in the Golden State by providing communities the resources they need to protect themselves from the growing threat of wildfires and floods and help protect them from the impacts of extreme heat,” said McGuire.
If voters approve the ballot measure that is based on SB 867 -- also known as the Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024 -- the State will provide up to $10 billion in funding to help communities avoid and recover from the harmful impacts of any wildfire, flood, and drought. With the water and wildfire bond, the State is making one of
the largest public funding investments in climate change resilience. McGuire views the bond measure as a critical investment that protects.
As part of the climate bond agreement, California taxpayers are expected to pay back the bond with interest. Financial analysts estimate that the bond repayment will cost approximately $650 million per year over the next 30 years, costing taxpayers an estimated total of $19 billion.
According to the bond measure, the state is required to invest nearly half the funds in disadvantaged communities disproportionately impacted by climate change.
Sen. Padilla Blasts Supreme Court’s Decision Giving Trump Partial Immunity
U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) condemned the United States Supreme Court Justices 6-3 decision last week granting former President Donald Trump partial immunity from criminal prosecution in his federal election subversion case.
The recent court ruling makes Trump less likely to face trial before this year’s presidential election. The Supreme Court Justices’ decision delays the trial proceedings challenging the legal viability of the case overall. In the court decision, Chief Justice John Roberts wrote that a president’s motive is irrelevant to the assessment nor is the fact that an action would have allegedly violated a generally applicable law.
Padilla denounced the court ruling accusing former President Trump of using handpicked justices to abuse the power of the executive and judicial offices for personal and political gain.
“Before today, America’s judicial system was rooted in the simple but fundamental principle that no one is above the law. Not Congress, not the courts, and not even the President of the United States. Today’s decision turns that most fundamental principle on its head,” said Padilla.
Law experts warned that the court ruling alters the possibility of consequences, allowing presidential powers to go unchecked except in the case of a possible impeachment.
Justice Sonia Sotomayor wrote a dissenting opinion arguing that the ruling reshapes the presidency and makes the president above the law. The court’s decision is a blow to the foundation of the U.S. Constitution and government system establishing that, no man is above the law.
“The President of the United States is the most powerful person in the country, and possibly the world. When he uses his official powers in any way, under the majority’s reasoning, he now will be insulated from criminal prosecution,” Sotomayor in her statement of dissent.
Gov. Newsom to Michigan Voters: Support President Biden
Gov. Gavin Newsom urged Michigan Democrats to back President Joe Biden, despite wavering support in the key swing state.
Newsom asked voters in Michigan to push back on negative information about President Biden’s debate performance against former President Donald Trump debate on June 27 in Atlanta.
Since the debate, Democrats, including some influential party leaders, have raised questions about the Biden-Harris 2024 presidential ticket based on the President’s slow responses to questions and what appeared to be memory gaps during his match-up with Trump.
Newsom reassured voters in Michigan, stating that, although Biden’s debate performance had a slow start, he presented a better vision for America than his opponent. He made the statement while addressing a group of voters at the Van Buren Dems BBQ for Biden-Harris in South Haven, Michigan, on the Fourth of July.
“I had a lot of talking points in mind, you may have noticed if you saw me, I didn’t bring them with me. And
that’s to make the obvious point -- things did not go as well as the campaign had hoped, and obviously did not go as well as President Biden had hoped,” said Newsom. Newsom denied claims that he was running a “shadow campaign” in preparation for replacing Biden as the Democratic presidential nominee.
The governor’s recent visit comes at a critical time as Michigan is a battleground state whose vote will be determinant in the outcome of this year’s presidential election.
“What I need to convince you of is not to be fatalistic, not to fall prey to all this negativity,” Newsom said to supporters at a Democratic campaign event. “I believe in this man. I believe in his character. I believe that he has been one of the most transformative presidents in our collective lifetime.”.
New California Laws Require High School Classes on Drug Education, Financial Literacy and Ethnic Studies
Last week, California became the 26th state to require high school seniors to pass courses focused on finance literacy, adding to a recently added ethnic studies prerequisite and a health class requirement focused on the dangers of fentanyl use. The senior class of 2031 will be the first group of students to take the mandatory financial literacy course. California school districts are required to implement Assembly Bill 2927, authored by Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento), at the beginning of the 20272028 academic year. The bill works hand-in-hand with newly approved Assembly Bill 2429, authored by Assemblymember David Alvarez (D-San Diego). That law requires students to take health classes that discuss the dangers of fentanyl use and illegal drugs commencing in the 2026-2027 school year. Both bills require high school seniors to complete the designated coursework during any semester between the ninth and twelfth grades. High school students in charter schools are also required to complete the state-mandated coursework. Under this law, local educational agencies will impose the required courses using state-mandated local programs.McCarty said that the financial literacy classes will prepare students for the future and empower them to make smart money decisions throughout life.
“It’s such an important life skill,” he said. “The stressors that young people face today -- especially student loans, renting, buying a house, credit cards all those things are so critically important, and if you fall behind. The consequences have a serious impact later in life.”
Unlike the bill on financial literacy that imposes classes as a graduation requirement, the bill on health education allows school districts to choose if health classes are a graduation prerequisite.
Alvarez said that health education can help address the state’s fentanyl epidemic, specifically among the youth.
“I think it’s important… that we share facts with young people, especially these days as they rely more and more on social media with misinformation,” said Alvarez.
“There’s still no better-trusted source than our schools for students and for families to receive the information that they need in order to make better decisions and better choices,” he continued.
Gov. Gavin Newsom said the state needs to help prepare young people in a statement backing the bills.
“Saving for the future, making investments, and spending wisely are lifelong skills that young adults need to learn before they start their careers, not after,” the Governor said in statement backing the education bills.
Starting in the 2025-2026 academic year, the state will also require high school seniors to take an additional one- semester course on ethnic studies.
Mike McGuire is President pro Tempore of the California Senate. signs bond Bill as acting governor along with fellow lawmakers. (Photo Courtesy: Senate Rules Photography)
Weather Experts: Heat Waves Can Cause Wildfires, Health Problems and Death
By McKenzie Jackson California Black Media
It was more than a simple walk in the park for exercisers pacing and jogging around Warner Center Park in the Woodland Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles around midday on July 4.
The weather was “sweltering,” according to one of the parkgoers, an African American man in his 40s who asked to remain anonymous.
“Working out around this time is a way hotter experience than a few weeks ago,” the man continued, adding that this summer continues to get progressively hotter.
According to weather experts, Californians should not expect a break in the extreme heat any time soon, which will force people in most areas of the state to find ways to cope and manage it.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration meteorologist David Lawrence said most of the Golden State is experiencing a heat wave, which began at the beginning of the month, and could get worse in mid-July.
“The longevity of this particular event is what I’m most concerned with,” he explained. “We will see daytime high temperatures for many interior areas reaching to 100 to 115 degrees each afternoon. Overnight low temperatures won’t provide much relief -- only dipping into the 70s and holding into the lower 80s for some locations.”
Lawrence was speaking during a July 2 news briefing focused on the current weather conditions, their dangers, and what Californians need to know to stay safe in the blistering weather this summer.
The online briefing was organized by Listos California, the state’s disaster readiness program, and hosted by Ethnic Media Services and California Black Media. State emergency preparedness officials and a frontline responder spoke during the news conference.
California Black Media Executive Director Regina Wilson said heat waves can create dangerous fire conditions and catapult temperatures in inland areas of the state into the triple digits.
“This level of heat could pose a danger to the entire population if proper heat safety is not followed,” she said. “As we move into the summer season, hotter and drier conditions mean California will likely face higher risk of wildfires -- wildfire smoke, heat, power outages and dangerous water conditions.”
The same day as the press conference, the Thompson Fire began blazing in Northern California’s Butte County. At press time, the wildfire had destroyed 25 structures and injured two firefighters. It has been 55% contained.
The French Fire, which sparked up on July 4 in the town of Mariposa in the Sierra Nevada foothills, covered over 1.3 square miles before firefighters tamed the blaze. That same day, yet another fire, the Sharp fire in Los Angeles’s Simi Valley, broke out. It has been 60% contained.
Listos California, the state office in charge of emergency preparedness, has partnered with community groups and offers a resource hub built around an educational campaign to help Californians get ready for disasters related to extreme heat.
Dr. Rita Nguyen, assistant health officer for California and director of population health at the California Department of Public Health, said people underestimate how dangerous heat waves can be.
“Heat waves kills more people directly than any other
weather-related hazard,” she said. A 69-year-old homeless man in San Jose died on July 3 due the extreme heat.
Nguyen added that the state doesn’t have precise data on the number of health emergencies or deaths caused by heatwaves.
She said the people at most risk of experiencing heatcaused health issues include children and infants, senior citizens, pregnant people, people working outdoors or indoors without air conditioning, disabled individuals, unhoused persons, and lower-income people.
“Anyone can be a victim of life-threatening heatstroke because a lot of it doesn’t have to do with absolute temperature,” she explained. “Sometimes, it can be if folks are not acclimated to hot temperatures and there is a fast rise. When the temperature doesn’t cool at night and when it is hot for a long period of time, all these things increase the risk of folks having health-related injuries and
potentially death from heat.”
The warning signs of heat illness include confusion, vomiting, passing out, heavy sweating, muscle cramps, weakness, headache, nausea, vomiting, paleness, tiredness, irritability, and dizziness.
Staying hydrated, cool, and informed about the weather forecasts are ways to prevent heat health problems. Nguyen recommended to not drink sugary, caffeinated, or alcoholic drinks, which can dehydrate a person.
California Division of Occupational Safety and Health Program Senior Safety Engineer Charlene Gloriani said, under state law, businesses with employees who work outdoors -- such as agricultural workers -- are required to give plenty of access to free and clean water and shade to prevent heat-related illnesses.
“Shaded areas must not cause exposure to another health or safety hazard,” she explained. “When temperatures
exceed 95 degrees a buddy system should be in place and employees must be monitored for signs of heat illness. They must also be encouraged to drink water. Cool down rest periods are required every two hours.”
Sacramento Fire Department Captain Andrew Ramos noted that people must remember to stay safe while doing activities in waterways such as rivers and lakes when cooling off on hot days.
“We need each and every one of you to be your own safety monitor,” Ramos said while suggesting people wear life jackets. “Look and make sure your family members are wearing their life jackets even if they’re able to swim.”
To get more information on extreme heat and to access resources to help you stay healthy and cool.
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