Black Women Murdered Usually by Men They Know with a Gun
Soul Singer Charles Bradley Dies at 68
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See Page A5
News Observer Los Angeles
Volume 32 Number 47
Observer Group Newspapers of Southern California
Sen Harris’ Black Caucus Agenda
to all who pay the premiums, including denying mental healthcare and maternity care. Also under the repeal, healthcare providers would be allowed charge more money for preexisting conditions, raising healthcare costs to millions of Californians. Also on the agenda, was the money bail act co-sponSenator Kamala Harris (Eric Risberg/The Associated Press) sored by Sen Rand Paul (RBy James Luckey KY). The Pretrial Integrity and Safety Act of 2017 is Los Angeles News Observer designed to address the current unrealistic bail guideIn light of the Congressional Black Caucus Week, lines that give overwhelming bias to the rich, while Senator Kamala D. Harris (D-Calif ) starts the week’s ignoring the poor. The average bail in California is events with a conference call to the leaders in Califor- around $20,000, a bail bondsmen might require a nia’s black press. During the call, she addressed several 10% deposit on that bail, forcing a family of an inkey issues and bills that are in place to aggressively carcerated loved one to scramble and come up with move change forward. At the top of the agenda is the $2,000, usually on very short notice. The act requires Affordable Care Act aka Obama Care. On Septem- states to implement bail requirements based on a risk ber 30 congress will vote for a second time to repeal assessment system that is structured and unbiased. Obama Care and replace it with what can only be Other things discussed during the call, that Sen. called a “radical offense” to the health of all Ameri- Harris has sponsored or spear headed bills on include cans. The repeal allows states to deny basic coverage the incarcerated women’s act, aimed at providing ba-
sic reproductive supplies and rights to pregnant incarcerated women; the Voting Rights Advancement Act to reaffirm legal protection against voter suppression that “targets African Americas with almost surgical precision”; and of course, DACA, that is clearly a divisive tool used to divide communities of color. So, what can you do? You can call, tweet, write, email, send a smoke signal. Tell your story to your local representatives, your district representatives, the governor, and congress. By sharing your story and how these law changes affect you personally, your representatives are able to better represent the needs of the masses and fight for what is important to all of us. Sen. Harris is a politician for the people. She challenges inappropriate behavior in the political system on every level and has lobbied to be the voice that connects the people of California to the policy makers. In challenging times like these we can often feel powerless and it’s easy to slip into victim mindset. However, Sen Harris is here to encourage us to use our voices, to speak because she hears us and she is fighting on our behalf.
BSU’s First Female President
By Lauren Poteat NNPA Newswire Contributor In her historic role as Bowie State University’s first female president, Dr. Aminta Hawkins Breaux said that she’s ready to lead the top 25 HBCU into the school’s next phase of growth and development. Following the celebrated legacy of Dr. Mickey L. Burnim, the former BSU president that served the institution for nearly 11 years, Breaux said that she is thrilled and honored to accept the leadership role. “When I look at issues that African American women have faced in this country, it makes me realize how very proud I am to get to this point,” Breaux said about serving as BSU’s first female president. “I have received so much positive feedback from faculty, students and staff and recognize that this is a huge responsibility that is very exciting and I wholeheartedly serve in leadership role with great distinction.” Though Breaux has only officially been in office since July 1, the former vice president for advancement at Millersville University in Pennsylvania has already started to outline new initiatives. Heavily involved with community building, Breaux noted that she wanted to enrich the neighborhoods surrounding the university while preparing students for the ever-changing workforce. “Partnerships are going to be extremely import Dr. Aminta Hawkins Breaux is the first female president of Bowie State University. (Bowie State Continued on page A4
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Thursday, September 28, 2017
Construction of Border Wall Prototypes Begin SAN DIEGO (AP) _ The federal government said Tuesday that contractors began building eight prototypes of President Donald Trump's proposed border wall with Mexico, hitting a milestone toward a key campaign pledge. Construction in San Diego began three months behind schedule after those who didn't win contracts protested. The building process will last about 30 days, Customs and Border Protection said. The agency may pick several winners, or none. It said in a news release that the prototypes “will inform future design standards which will likely continue to evolve to meet the U.S. Border Patrol's requirements.” Each prototype will be up to 30 feet high (9 meters high) and 30 feet long. Bidding documents say four of the prototypes are to be solid concrete and four are to be made of “other materials.” Trump said Friday that the wall should be seethrough, appearing to cast doubt on the concrete designs. The administration faces several federal lawsuits in San Diego that seek to block the prototypes and plans to replace existing barriers in California. A complaint filed last week by California Attorney General Xavier Becerra, a Democrat, largely mirrors two others by environmental advocacy groups that allege the administration overstepped its authority to speed up construction of the wall. At issue is a 2005 law that gave the Homeland Security secretary broad powers to waive dozens of laws for border barriers, including the National Environmental Policy Act, Clean Air Act and Endangered Species Act. The lawsuits say that authority has expired. The administration has not commented directly on the lawsuits but it has issued two waivers since August, the first since 2008, on grounds of national security. Both waivers are in California, including one that covers the site of prototype construction. Funding to extend the wall beyond its distance of 654 miles (1,046 kilometers) is in doubt. Democrats have balked at Trump's $1.6 billion request to replace 14 miles (22 kilometers) in San Diego and build 60 miles (96 kilometers) in Texas' Rio Grande Valley, the busiest corridor for illegal crossings. Caddell Construction Co. of Montgomery, Alabama, and W.G. Yates & Sons Construction Co. of Philadelphia, Mississippi, were awarded contracts to build one wall of concrete and one of other materials. Other contracts for concrete prototypes went to Fisher Sand & Gravel Co. of Tempe, Arizona, and Texas Sterling Construction Co. of Houston. Contracts for prototypes of other materials were awarded to KWR Construction Inc. of Sierra Vista, Arizona, and ELTA North America Inc. of Annapolis Junction, Maryland.
SICKLE CELL DISEASE IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY
By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Contributor A new poll about sickle cell disease (SCD), presented by the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) and Pfizer revealed that while the majority of respondents were familiar with the illness, less than 40 percent realized that it disproportionately affects people of African descent. The NNPA is a trade group that represents more than 200 African American-owned community newspapers operating in the United States. Earlier this year, Pfizer partnered with the NNPA to increase awareness about SCD in the Black community and to encourage greater participation in clinical trials for treatments involving the disease. The groundbreaking poll also helped to dispel one of the long-held myths about the negative perception of medical professionals in the Black community. The poll revealed that, despite long-standing historical perceptions of mistrust in medical professionals by the Black community, 91 percent of respondents indicated that they believe healthcare professionals are trustworthy. Seventy-nine percent of respondents had positive or neutral attitudes toward sickle cell disease (SCD) trials and a majority indicated a willingness to participate in future clinical trials for SCD, given appropriate knowledge and recommendations from health care professionals. “Our core belief is that every patient counts, especially when it comes to rare disease,” said Michael Goettler, the global president of Pfizer’s Rare Disease unit. “When you have a rare disease, often you feel lonely and your physician may not be able to help you.”
NNPA President and CEO Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. (far left) and NNPA Chairman Dorothy Leavell (3rd from left) joined researchers from Howard University and Pfizer officials to release a new poll on sickle cell disease at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. (Freddie Allen/AMG/ NNPA)
“These poll findings will give our readers an indepth understanding of how sickle cell disease is perceived by African-Americans,” said Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., president and CEO of the NNPA. “With this knowledge from the dedicated research team at Howard University, and through our collaboration with Pfizer, we can spur meaningful conversation and assess the best ways to improve disease education for those impacted in our communities.” Dorothy Leavell, the chairman of the NNPA, said that she’s pleased to be a part of a group delivering “good news,” as well as the research that Pfizer continues to embark upon, on behalf of SCD pa-
tients. SCD is a lifelong and debilitating disorder that affects red blood cells and it’s the most common inherited blood disorder in the U.S. Most people who live with SCD are of African descent and the disease occurs in one out of 365 African-American births. The median age of death for sickle cell disease patients in America hovers in the mid-40s, said Dr. Kevin Williams, the chief medical officer for Pfizer’s Rare Disease unit. Williams also writes a regular column about SCD for NNPA, titled “Ask Dr. Kevin.” Williams said that the insight form the poll will not only help researchers determine how to further
enhance disease education and awareness, but will also help Pfizer educate SCD patients and their families about the importance of clinical trials in bringing novel treatment options to market for those in need. The survey was conducted by researchers at Howard University, who made 31,934 telephone calls for the poll that was conducted between June 15 and July 15. A total of 741 individuals aged 20 to 70 living across the country, who identified as being of African-American ethnicity, responded to the survey. The majority of respondents (79 percent) said they understood the importance of disease education and expressed the need for additional current information, specifically regarding pain relief, clinical trials and progress toward better treatment or a cure. “It’s not surprising for us that a majority of our participants understood and were previously aware of sickle cell disease,” said Dr. Terri Adams, an associate dean in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University. “The overwhelming majority understood that it’s a disease, a blood disorder.” Adams continued: “There was a willingness to participate in [SCD] clinical trials, however, 82 percent had very or somewhat negative attitudes toward clinical trials in general, so there’s still a general mistrust in clinical trials.” Researchers and officials at Pfizer and the NNPA each said that they hope to continue to educate patients, family members and primary care doctors about SCD clinical trials. “Close to 20 percent said they were unsure of how it was inherited and this presents a problem,” Adams said. “Because, if you don’t know how it’s inherited, you may be putting your offspring at risk.”
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World & Nation
Los Angeles News Observer
Thursday September 28, 2017
Black Women Shaping Their Own Destiny
ATLANTA, September 18, 2017/NNPANewswirePR--The National African-American Women’s Movement LLC (NAAWM) will host a solutions-focused interactive conference called “The National African-American Women’s Conversation” on Saturday, October 7, 2017 at the Atlanta Airport Marriott Hotel (4711 Best Road, Atlanta, GA 30337). It fills the gap in social advocacy, which traditionally excludes Black women. Your input is required to provide knowledge, insight, accountability, and also coach-
Black Women Murdered by Men Are Nearly Always Killed by Someone Known, Usually with a Gun Washington, DC — Nine out of 10 black women murdered by men are killed by someone they know, most often with a gun, according to the new Violence Policy Center (VPC) study When Men Murder Women: An Analysis of 2015 Homicide Data. The annual VPC report is released in advance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October. The study covers homicides involving one female murder victim and one male offender, and uses 2015 data (the most recent available) from the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Supplementary Homicide Report. The study found that in 2015, 476 black females were murdered by males in single victim/single offender incidents, at a rate of 2.43 per 100,000. In comparison, the rate for white women murdered by males for that year was 0.96 per 100,000. Nationwide, across all races, 1,686 females were murdered by males in single victim/single offender incidents in 2015, at a rate of 1.12 per 100,000. Firearms, especially handguns, were the most common weapons used by males to murder black females. When the murder weapon could be identified, 58 percent of black female victims were shot and killed with guns. Within that group, 78 percent were killed with a handgun. “Homicide victimization has a devastating and disproportionate impact on black women. The magnitude of the loss of life is shocking and deserves immediate attention from policymakers and the public,” states VPC Legislative Director Kristen Rand. Additional findings from the report relating to black females murdered by males include: Compared to a black male, a black female is far more likely to be killed by her spouse, an intimate acquaintance, or a family member than by a stranger. Where the relationship could be determined, 93 percent of black females killed by males in single victim/single offender incidents knew their killers. Of the black victims who knew their offenders, 58 percent were wives, common-law wives, ex-wives, or girlfriends of the offenders. More than 13 times as many black females were murdered by a male they knew than were killed by male strangers. The vast majority of homicides of black females murdered by males were not related to any other felony crime. Most often, black females were killed by males in the course of an argument. In cases where the circumstances could be identified, 88 percent were not related to the commission of any other felony. The study also ranks each state based on the homicide rate for women across all races killed by men. Below are the states with the 10 highest rates of females of all races murdered by males in single victim/single offender incidents in 2015: Females (All Races) Murdered by Males Rank State Homicide Rate 1 Alaska 2.86 per 100,000 2 Nevada 2.29 per 100,000 3 Louisiana 2.22 per 100,000 4 Tennessee 2.10 per 100,000 5 South Carolina 1.83 per 100,000 6 Arkansas 1.78 per 100,000 7 Kansas 1.65 per 100,000 8 Kentucky 1.60 per 100,000 9 Texas 1.54 per 100,000 10 (tie) New Mexico 1.52 per 100,000 10 (tie) Missouri 1.52 per 100,000 The study calculates the rate of women murdered by men by dividing the total number of females murdered by males in single victim/single offender incidents by the total female population and multiplying the result by 100,000. The rate of black women murdered by men is calculated by dividing the total number of black females murdered by males by the total black female population and multiplying the result by 100,000. This is the standard and accepted method of comparing fatal levels of gun violence.
ing. The National Conversation is designed for Black Women to unite in peace, equality, and sisterhood. It is time to do more than merely celebrate the previous accomplishments but to assess these actions and identify the next measure in the Black Women’s Liberation Movement. To make this an effective and efficient endeavor, practitioners, grass root activists and business professionals from the sectors of
tion of African American women to help empower one another and find solutions that will help urban communities thrive and grow stronger. Their mission is to empower African-American women through education and positive imagery that will strengthen one’s self and family. Moreover, their vision is to improve the economic and social conditions within urban communities for all generations. Their method is through a series of innovative events; Their aim is to facilitate a movement focused on solutions geared towards the many issues faced by the African-American experience. The National Conversation General Session will be from 1pm to 4pm to include presenters, a conversational panel, an innovative workshop, and a strategy session. Presenters include: Katie Gails, Dr. Hanifa Shabazz, Rev. Dr. Maisha I. K. Handy, Audrey Muhammad, Kesha Gibson-Carter, Student Minister Sharrieff Muhammad-MM#15, Marilyn D. Jackson, Thiah V. Muhammad, Danielle Langford, and Kimberly I. Thomas. Participants will engage and interact with the expectation of providing constructive critiques which also includes the current social positions of Black Women in a society that undervalues us. Following the general session, the “Be Your Most Beautiful” buffet dinner will start at 7pm and the featured Keynote Speaker will be Dr. Ava Muhammad - National Spokesperson for the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan and the NOI. A gifted student minister, attorney, researcher and author of the powerful and popular book ‘Real Love’ and many more. There will be an opportunity for Dr. Ava to sign books. There will be a special tribute for the late Mrs. Martha ous Manson “family,” is among more than 200 octoRivera Chavis, wife of civil rights leader and Nationgenarian prisoners. He's not up for parole until 2027 and should he make to then it's extremely unlikely his al Newspaper Publishers Association President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. age will prompt officials to free him. California has six inmates are 90 or older and the oldest of all is 101-year-old child molester Joseph Mannina, serving a life sentence with the chance of parole. At the other end of the age spectrum, lawmakers approved a bill expanding the state's youthful parole program. State law already requires that inmates who were under 23 when they committed their crimes be considered for parole after serving at least 15 years. AB1308 raises the age to 25. The age for such consideration was 18 when lawmakers passed the first youth offender parole law in 2012. “That gap in the middle is shrinking, it seems, every year,” Hoffman said. Paroling younger inmates is more concerning to law enforcement than freeing older criminals, he said, because they are more likely to be healthy enough to commit new crimes. Statistics show less than oneAdjudicated a Newspaper of General Circulathird of California inmates paroled when they were tion July 2, 1991, Los Angeles Superior Court 60 or older were back behind bars within three years Decree, Case No. BS007262, Government compared to more than 50 percent of those 18-24. Code 6023. There are about 131,500 inmates in the CaliforBulk Mailing nia prison system, nearly 11 percent of whom are 18Permit 724 24 and 7 percent are 60 and up. Bakersfield, CA 93385 In the last three years about 2,000 inmates over 60 and 900 under 23 when they committed their Published By Observer Group crimes have been recommended for release, or about Newspapers of Southern California, Inc. one-quarter of all those considered. Legislative analysts say extending the age to 25 Corporate Office would mean about another 170 parole hearings each 1219 20th St. Bakersfield, CA year. There would likely be a slight decrease in the 93301 (661) 324-9466 roughly 160 elderly inmates granted parole each year because of the narrower eligibility in Weber's bill Member: compared to the federal court order. Her office projWest Coast Black Publishers Assc., ects that about 2,300 older inmates would qualify for National Newspaper Publishers Assc., consideration. Associated Press Sen. Steven Bradford, D-Gardena, said people who were young when they committed crimes dePresident: Ellen Coley serve a second chance. Operations Manager: Jon Coley “Certain areas of the brain, particularly those afEditor: James Luckey fecting judgment and decision-making, do not develop until their early to mid-20s,” he said, adding that, Credo - The Black Press believes that “To say that young people aren't salvageable is a crime America can best lead the world away from in and of itself.” racial and national antagonisms when it acChristine Ward, executive director of the Crime counts to every person, regardless of race, Victims Action Alliance, rejected that reasoning. color, or creed full human and legal rights. “To my mind it's ridiculous to say a 24- or Hating no person, fearing no person, the 25-year-old doesn't know the difference between Black Press strives to help every person in the right and wrong,” she said. firm belief that all are hurt as long as any one is held back. The Observer Group Newspapers reserves the right to publish views an opinions that may not necessarily reflect those of the staff and management and are soleley the product of the responsible individuals who submit comIn addition to her work at Millersville University, mentaries published in these newspapers. Breaux was also dean of students at the University of Letters, articles and comments appearing in the Sciences in Philadelphia from 2000 to 2008 and the Observer Newspapers reflect the opinassistant provost of Drexel University from 1998 to ions of the contributor and do not constitute 2000. the opinion or endorsement by The Observer She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Newspapers or its staff. The Observer Group Temple University, a master’s degree in psychological Newspapers assumes no responsibility for services in education from the University of Pennphotographs, articles, letters, press releases sylvania, and a doctorate in counseling psychology and unsolicited materials. Decisions as to the from Temple University. She is also a graduate of the editiing and publishing of materials are at the Harvard Institute for Executive Management and the discretion of the Publisher and Editors. All American Association for State Colleges and Univerrights are reserved on materials accepted for sities Millennium Leadership Institute. publication unless otherwise specified. In his last days before his departure Burnim, Bowie’s ninth president also shared his vision for the THE OBSERVER GROUP NEWSPAPERS university and wishes for the upcoming president. • Los Angeles News Observer “I have expressed to Dr. Breaux that she is be• Bakersfield News Observer coming president of one of the finest public compre• San Fernando Valley News Observer hensive universities in America,” said Burnim. “Bowie State University is poised for further growth and 1219 20th St. progress. There are many people and organizations Bakersfield, Ca 93301 that want to see that progress and are willing to work with her to achieve it.” Founded in 1865, Bowie State University, locatMailing Address P.O. Box 2341 ed in Prince George’s County, Md. serves more than Bakersfield, CA 93303 5,600 undergraduate and graduate students and ofPhone (661) 324-9466 FAX. (661) 324-9472 fering over 41 bachelor and master degree programs, two doctoral programs and 14 graduate and advanced email: general info observernews@gmail.com study certificates. Areas of focus at the school include advertising observeradvertising@gmail.com computer science, information technology, nursing, www.theobservergroup.com natural sciences and education.
economics, business, finance and entrepreneurship; health, nutrition, mental wellness, and spirituality; family, community, social justice and more will be gathering at this interactive conference. Also, Black women who are college and university student leaders and first time movement activists have ALL been called and MUST be in attendance. In honoring the best of ourselves, the founding Black women of the NAAWM has formed a coali-
California Wants to Free Older and Younger Inmates By DON THOMPSON Associated Press SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) _ To ease overcrowding in state prisons, California lawmakers want to release more of the state's older prisoners and more of the inmates who were young when they committed their crimes. The two bills sent to Gov. Jerry Brown in the waning days of the legislative session are the latest attempt to keep the prison population below the cap set by federal judges, with the goal of eventually ending federal oversight. One requires parole officials to consider whether “age, time served and diminished physical condition” reduced the risk for future violence by older inmates. And the other mandates officials consider whether young people fully understood their actions and if their lack of maturity allowed for a greater chance of rehabilitation. The measures follow voter-approved early-release efforts in recent years that have reduced penalties for drug and property crimes and, most recently, allowed more sentencing credits that can lead to earlier releases for inmates who complete rehabilitation programs. Law enforcement agencies and victims' organizations say the efforts put hardened criminals on the streets and create safety issues for communities. They point to rising crime rates following the earlier initiatives as evidence that once out from behind bars many convicts return to their criminal ways. “At some point you have to ask, when it is it going to stop?” said California District Attorneys Association legislative director Sean Hoffman. Supporters of the measures emphasize they do not guarantee parole for anyone and say it makes sense to target the young and old as lawmakers try to unwind decades of get-tough policies that led to unprecedented prison crowding. Many older inmates have health issues that make them extremely costly to house. “There's no point of incarcerating someone who's at the point of death,” said Assemblywoman Shirley Weber, D-San Diego. Weber's bill would write into law a 2014 federal court order that requires California to consider releasing inmates age 60 or older who have served at least 25 years. Death row and other no-parole inmates were excluded by the judges, and her bill further excludes cop killers and third-strike career criminals. Sen. Jim Nielsen, R-Gerber, mocked the bill when it was debated in the Senate. “Why not Charles Manson? For heaven's sake, he's done a lot of time, he's really suffered. Poor guy,” Nielsen said. The 82-year-old Manson, leader of the murder-
BSU’s First Woman President Continued from page A1
ant. We want to reach out to our business leaders and the rest of our community and help them see the value that our students and faculty bring to this area,” Breaux said. “This campus is filled with rich opportunity and initiatives and strong academic programs, but we are also a part of a larger scheme. Initially, I want people to know that we are a part of this community...We want to begin looking at our business community, business leaders and partnering with businesses in the area to make sure that we are preparing our students for the workforce...not just for today, but for tomorrow.” Though the university is fully-equipped with state of the art facilities including a Fine and Performing Arts Center that opened in 2012 and an elaborate Center for Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Nursing that opened this year, Breaux said that this only just the beginning of a long-term focus on K-12 institutions and community colleges, as well. “I envision our students mentoring and bringing different K-12 and community college students to our campus,” said Breaux. “With state of the art facilities, it is always good to let students see other role models at higher levels doing great things. You know, you have to give students that goal and let them see that they can get to that point.” Breaux continued: “I am looking forward to partnering with Prince George’s Community College, in particular, and reaching back to K-12 institutions in order to ensure that these students are prepared to come into our university and succeed.”
News Observer Los Angeles
Thursday September 28, 2017
News
Los Angeles News Observer
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SUPERVISOR MARK RIDLEY-THOMAS AND LA COUNTY LIBRARY TO REOPEN NEWLY RENOVATED VIEW PARK BEBE MOORE CAMPBELL LIBRARY
$1.38 Million Renovation to 7,000-Square Foot Building Library LOS ANGELES COUNTY (September 25, 2017)—Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas will join Library Director Skye Patrick to celebrate the re-opening of the renovated View Park Bebe Moore Campbell Library. Following formal remarks and a ribbon-cutting ceremony, the public is welcome to enjoy refreshments, a library open house and programming for the entire family both in the library and on 54th Street, which will be partially closed for the event. WHAT: View Park Bebe Moore Campbell Library Grand Re-Opening WHEN: Friday September 29, 2017 at 3:30 p.m.
until 7:30 p.m. (special late hours) WHERE: View Park Bebe Moore Campbell Library, 3854 W 54th St., Los Angeles, CA 90043 54th Street will be closed between S. Harcourt Ave. and Keniston Ave. View Park Bebe Moore Campbell Library will reopen after a $1.38 million renovation, thanks to an investment by the Second Supervisorial District of Los Angeles County. Pedro Cordova of Choy Associates served as the architect for the project, with Mackone Development serving as contractor. The interior of the 6,983 sq. ft. library has been updated with a new floor plan capable of accom-
Health Net Awards $1.5 Million
modating various library programming, with an increased seating capacity of 67. New technology includes 22 computers for various ages, a retractable projection screen with audio-visual system for movies and presentations, two new self-checkout machines, and a new laptop vending machine for in-library public use. The library will also feature three murals by local artists, and a specially-curated art collection from the Golden State Mutual Art Collection. In 2015, by motion of Supervisor Ridley-Thomas, the Board of Supervisors unanimously approved renaming the library in recognition of Bebe Moore Campbell (1950-2006), a best-selling author, and one of the View Park community’s most distinguished res-
idents. Founded in 1912, LA County Library is one of the largest and most innovative library systems in the US. It offers free public resources including books, music, multimedia materials, computer and internet access, as well as educational and recreational programs to 3.5 million residents through its 87 community libraries. LA County Library is dedicated to providing exceptional services to its customers by reducing any potential barriers and increasing access and equality of public services for the diverse communities it serves. For more information, visit colapublib.org.
One Black Juror Out of 12 Jurors and the Allegations of Inappropriate Conversations
Grants and investments are core components of company’s efforts to transform the health of the communities it serves, one person at a time LOS ANGELES – September 26, 2017 – Health Net, Inc. (“Health Net”), one of California’s largest health insurance companies, is awarding a combined $1.5 million to 10 health care and community-based organizations across the state to help close the insurance gap, improve the quality and availability of health care and enhance health outcomes in medically underserved communities. These grants are supported by Health Net’s Community and Infrastructure Investment Program, created as a result of the Undertakings agreed to by Health Net and the California Department of Managed Health Care as a condition of the department’s approval of the merger between Centene Corporation and Health Net, Inc. “Increasing the number of insured individuals is an important part of our efforts to transform the health of the communities we serve,” said Steve Sell, president of Health Net of California, Inc. “We are partnering with key health care providers to help them expand their services and capacity for serving patients. By supporting these organizations, we are helping Californians be well and stay well.” The organizations receiving the grants support a wide range of programs and initiatives that directly address many of the unmet needs of the state’s most underserved communities. Investments in these organizations, through Health Net’s Community & Infrastructure Investment Program, are intended to grow coverage in health insurance programs and help individuals find the care they need. “Many of the recipients are committed to providing culturally relevant programs, education and services focused on medical, dental and behavioral health care to underserved populations,” said Carol Kim, vice president of Community Investments & Public Affairs for Health Net. “And they are committed to expanding outreach efforts to help individuals enroll and retain Medi-Cal and Covered California coverage and navigate the health care system.” The Recipients Northern California • Ampla Health: $150,000 to facilitate access to healthcare, educate consumers about the importance of good health and help families enroll in and renew their Medi-Cal and Covered California coverage. • Sacramento Covered: $150,000 to develop, inte-
grate and implement Medi-Cal and Covered California retention tools, protocols and strategies. Central Valley • Centro La Familia Advocacy Services: $100,000 to support the Aseguré Su Bienstar (Secure Your Wellbeing) program, which helps increase awareness of the benefits and requirements of Medi-Cal enrollment through education and outreach activities at health fairs, community forums and workshops. • Community Health Initiative of Kern County: $100,000 to increase enrollment and retention in the Medi-Cal program as part of the “Good Health Starts at Your Medical Home” program that serves largely agricultural communities. Los Angeles • East Valley Community Health Center: $100,000 to educate individuals on their health plan benefits and how to access healthcare, and to increase access to social service resources. • Institute for High Quality Care: $500,000 to support safety net healthcare providers statewide by increasing their capacity to apply quality improvement tools and techniques to positively affect their required performance and quality measures, including HEDIS. And to design a program to increase the number of Medi-Cal providers engaging in, and sustaining, quality improvement efforts. • Maternal & Child Health Access: $100,000 to implement enrollment and retention strategies, primarily for Medi-Cal, and advocate on behalf of Medi-Cal beneficiaries. • Northeast Valley Health Corporation: $100,000 to implement Medi-Cal and Covered California enrollment and retention strategies and provide education on navigating the healthcare system. • Southside Coalition of Community Health Centers: $100,000 to educate local residents about enrolling in health coverage for low-income and undocumented adults and children, and provide care-coordination when patients are admitted to or treated in the emergency department at California Hospital Medical Center. • The Children’s Clinic: $100,000 to increase enrollment and retention, primarily in Medi-Cal, through enhanced in-reach and outreach activities to help improve re-enrollment rates.
The NAACP condemns the treatment of Kharon Davis by the Dothan criminal justice system in Alabama.
Irregularities at Kharon Davis Trial BALTIMORE, Sept. 21, 2017/NNPANewswirePR/The NAACP issued the following statement regarding the trial of Kharon Davis in Dothan, Alabama. “The inappropriateness of the Dothan criminal justice system in all aspects of its treatment of Kharon Davis is unacceptable. For the last ten years, Kharon has been denied his Sixth Amendment rights to a public, fair, and speedy trial. Now, the poisonous drink of injustice is seeping into his long-deferred opportunity to face a jury of his peers. After waiting over a decade for a hearing, he must now face the additional challenges of a nearly all-white jury and allegations of inappropriate conversations among jurors. The right to be tried by an impartial jury of one’s peers is fundamental to our justice system; this right is already in jeopardy at the outset of Kharon’s overdue trial. The NAACP is concerned and committed to
keeping the nation’s eye on Dothan’s treatment of Kharon. Kharon has maintained his innocence since his arrest on June 9, 2007 on robbery and capital murder charges. During his prolonged pretrial detention, Kharon has described prior inhumane treatment, including several years of solitary confinement, denial of visits by family and friends, and mental torture. The NAACP became involved in the case several years ago due to the obvious violation of Kharon’s Sixth Amendment rights. The Sixth Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees the right to a trial without unnecessary delay, a lawyer, an impartial jury, and to know who your accusers are and the nature of the charges and evidence against you. Dothan cannot continue to disregard these basic rights with impunity. “The NAACP and the NAACP’s Alabama State Conference and Dothan Branch will continue to monitor the trial to ensure transparency, visibility and justice.
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Features Myths Around Sickle Cell Disease Thousands Say Goodbye to Dick Gregory Page A4
Los Angeles News Observer
By Dr. Kevin Williams Chief Medical Officer, Pfizer Rare Disease Unit This article is the second installment in the “Ask Dr. Kevin” series, brought to you by Pfizer Rare Disease in collaboration with the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) to increase understanding of sickle cell disease. In the United States, sickle cell disease (SCD) is considered rare, because it affects only about 100,000 people nationwide. As such, not many people in the U.S. are aware of what SCD is, or if they are aware, they have limited experience with the disease. As with any disease, low awareness can spur myths and misperceptions and make it more difficult for those affected to obtain the care and support they need. Throughout my career, I’ve been asked a number of questions about SCD—many of which are common myths. In this article, I will share some of the more common myths, in an effort to separate out the facts from fiction. Sickle cell disease is a “Black” disease. Myth! It’s true that in the U.S. more than 90 percent of peo- Dr. Kevin Williams says that addressing barriers in ple living with SCD are of African descent. In fact, clinical trial participation has been a big focus of the SCD occurs in one out of every 365 African Ameri- Pfizer Rare Disease unit. can births. However, it’s not exclusive to this patient population. SCD is also found in people of Indian, to manage SCD pain. This need for high doses of Middle Eastern, Hispanic, and Mediterranean eth- opioids (which may not even provide complete relief from the pain), has unfortunately led to the percepnicities. Sickle cell disease is contagious. Myth! You tion that these patients are “drug-seeking.” A baby born with SCD will die before reaching cannot “catch” SCD—it is a genetically inherited condition (passed down from parent to child). For adulthood. Myth! Until the 1990s, SCD was cona child to inherit SCD, both parents must carry the sidered a life-threatening condition as many children sickle cell trait (or have the disease) and each must born with the disease did not live to adulthood. In developed countries, like the U.S., this is no longer pass the sickle cell gene to the child. A person with the sickle cell trait will automat- true, with the majority of children living to adultically develop sickle cell disease. Myth! Sickle cell hood, thanks to advances in SCD care. However, the life expectancy of someone with trait is different from SCD. Just because a person carries the sickle cell trait does not mean they will have SCD in the US is only between 40 and 60 years, the disease. What’s the difference? When a person has compared to average U.S. life expectancy of 78.74 only one copy of the sickle cell gene, he or she will years. There is still much more work to do to improve have sickle cell trait. Someone with SCD will have the outcomes of people with SCD in the US and worldwide, particularly in underdeveloped countries. two copies of the sickle cell gene. A person with sickle cell trait can, however, pass Although the disease was identified more than 100 the disease on to his or her child, if the other parent years ago, there are still very few medicines available also has trait. That’s why testing for sickle cell trait to help patients or address SCD symptoms. While or disease is incredibly important. Sickle cell disease there has been recent progress in this area, more still (and sickle cell trait) can be diagnosed through a sim- needs to be done. At Pfizer Rare Disease, we are workple blood test. In developed countries, like the U.S., ing tirelessly to bring safe, effective treatment options babies are now routinely screened at birth to deter- to those in need. Addressing barriers in clinical trial participation mine if they carry the trait or have the disease. People with sickle cell disease abuse pain med- has been a big focus of Pfizer Rare Disease, and workication. Myth! Studies have shown that there is no ing with organizations like the NNPA has been critiincreased substance abuse in patients with SCD. The cal in helping spur engagement and action. As part of most common symptom of SCD is excruciating, de- our collaboration with NNPA, we have sponsored a bilitating pain that often does not respond to over- national poll among the African American communithe-counter medications and needs opioids to provide ty to better understand their perceptions about SCD relief. Over time, the body becomes used to the opi- and participation in clinical trials, and will look to oids—ultimately leading to high doses being required these findings to guide future efforts in this area.
Freddie Allen/AMG/NNPA
Community Reinvestment Act
By Christopher G. Cox Publisher/Managing Editor, realesavvy.com Since it was passed in 1977, the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) has enabled thousands of lowand moderate-income families—many in minority communities—to become homeowners. In the current political climate, however, many observers, who have played a role in monitoring how effectively the CRA is enforced, wonder whether it will continue to offer broad access to affordable mortgage financing. James Perry, the chief executive officer of the Winston-Salem, N.C. branch of the Urban League, has nearly 15 years of experience in the area of fair housing, primarily with the Greater New Orleans Fair Housing Action Center, where he served for 10 years as executive director. “The CRA has been an extremely valuable tool for providing access to mortgage financing for disadvantaged individuals, particularly African Americans and Latinos,” Perry said. “Unfortunately, it appears the act might be imperiled based on the rhetoric we hear from many in the current Administration, as well as in Congress.” Under the CRA, the federal government monitors how well banks and other lending institutions do in meeting the credit needs of the entire community, with the goal of making certain that neighborhoods which can be categorized as low- and moderate-income are not overlooked. Under provisions of the CRA, a bank’s application for new branches, relocation of existing branches, mergers and acquisitions, and other corporate activities are closely evaluated. Institutions that do not have a good record of CRA compliance can have these business activities constrained by officials with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), a division of the U.S. Department of the Treasury, which monitors CRA compliance. OCC uses a four-tier ranking system to measure compliance: outstanding, satisfactory, needs to improve and substantial noncompliance. Chris Rockey, community development market manager for the Greater Maryland for PNC Bank, said that CRA was enacted as a direct response to “redlining,” which was an unethical practice whereby
Christopher G. Cox, the publisher and managing editor of realesavvy.com writes about the impact of the Community Reinvestment Act in the Black community
banks and other lending institutions made it extremely difficult, if not impossible, for residents of poor inner-city neighborhoods to borrow money, get a mortgage, take out insurance or access other financial services. Redlining did not take into consideration an individual’s qualifications and creditworthiness. The practice of redlining disproportionately affected Black borrowers. “Too often, inner-city problems have been viewed in silos, rather than strategically,” Rockey said. “You can’t consider such factors as access to affordable housing, elimination of blight, high levels of commercial vacancy, safety and availability of public transportation, individually and in isolation. Effective CRA programs look at the totality of how these issues impact a community and how they can all be addressed simultaneously.” Rockey discussed one such strategic program in Baltimore where PNC partnered with other institutions, including a competitor bank, to raise $10 million in capital to invest in a community development project. Rockey referred to working with other competitor banks on such projects to as “co-opetition.” Both Rockey and Perry agree that the CRA has, to some extent, been unfairly blamed for the housing crisis of 2008 and the subsequent loss of billions of dollars in home equity. “The rhetoric that the CRA was largely responsible for the housing crisis comes mostly from the ‘right,’” said Perry. “Actually the CRA requires lenders to make credit available in disadvantaged communities at the same rate as in majority communities.” “There is more than enough blame to go around for what caused the housing crisis,” Rockey explained. “There were many factors involved, including predatory lending, by unscrupulous banks and lending institutions and investors propping up subprime mortgages without a truthful and honest examination of what they represented.” Perry and Rockey are also in agreement that the way CRA compliance is currently measured does not fully recognize the rapidly changing nature of the banking industry. “The CRA predates the Internet,” Perry said, “and looks at such things as where a bank locates its retail branches and how many of those branches are in African-American and Latino communities.” “Where a bank has branches is still relevant to its obligations under the CRA,” said Rockey. “But as banking has become increasingly mobile, with more and more banking transactions being handled on smart phones and other digital devices, we are hopeful that new measures of CRA compliance would be considered. Perry and Rockey, although viewing the CRA from somewhat different perspectives, both support what is has accomplished for urban communities, as well as what it has the potential to continue to accomplish. “In terms of community development the CRA is a way for a bank to do well by doing good,” Rockey said.
Freddie Allen/AMG/NNPA
Freddie Allen/AMG/NNPA
Freddie Allen/AMG/NNPA
Thursday, September 28, 2017
Entertainment
Thursday, September 28, 2017
Los Angeles News Observer
Trump Tweets, NFL Responds
Page A5
Drama
Sunday Game Drama Escalates By DAVE CAMPBELL AP Pro Football Writer The owners of the Baltimore Ravens, the Super Bowl champion New England Patriots and other teams on Sunday joined a chorus of NFL executives criticizing President Donald Trump’s suggestion that they fire players who kneel for the national anthem. The statements, including those from Patriots owner Robert Kraft and Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti, contrasted a morning tweet from Trump and further escalated the political drama of the league’s game day, which was expected to be one of the most-watched for non-sporting reasons in years. Bisciotti said he “100 percent” supports his players’ decision to kneel during the national anthem. At least seven of them did, joined by more than a dozen Jacksonville Jaguars, before the teams played at Wembley Stadium in London. Other players linked arms and Jaguars owner Shad Khan joined them, standing between tight end Marcedes Lewis and linebacker Telvin Smith. He called it a privilege to do so. Kraft, who has been a strong backer of the president, expressed “deep disappointment” with Trump and said politicians could learn much from the unifying spirit of a competitive, team-oriented enterprise like football. “Our players are intelligent, thoughtful, and care deeply about our community and I support their right to peacefully affect social change and raise awareness in a manner that they feel is most impactful,” Kraft said in a statement. Cleveland Browns owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam wrote that they didn’t want to let “misguided, uninformed and divisive comments from the President or anyone else deter us from our efforts to unify,” and Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin told CBS his team wouldn’t be on the field when the anthem plays before the Steelers game in Chicago. He doesn’t want his players to be divided between those who kneel and those who stand, he said. “We’re not going to be divided by anything said by anyone,” Tomlin said. “We’re not going to let divisive times or divisive individuals affect our agenda.” Haslam’s brother, Bill, is the Republican governor of Tennessee. Quarterback Colin Kaepernick started the kneeling movement last year when he played for the
A Path to Possible Wealth; Getting a Little Shady NEW YORK (AP) _ Tired of living a life in which you are not making bank on royalties from the 43rd Grammy Awards Best Rap Solo Performance, “The Real Slim Shady?” The world may turn for you come October. Royalty Flow Inc., through its parent Royalty Exchange, is offering stakes in Eminem's recordings from 1999 to 2013 through an initial public offering of stock. The company hopes to raise up to $50 million. According to Royalty Flow, royalties from the catalog grew 43 percent between 2015 and 2016, though the artist hasn't released a new album since 2013. In a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission this week, the company cites the growth of digital downloads and streaming music as a driver. “Music streaming is booming and we believe is leading the way toward an anticipated music industry resurgence,” the company said. Still, overall music sales have been declining for the better part of a decade, and the recording industry itself often contends with slim margins. Another key risk for the company is that it will only initially have one asset: the music catalog of Eminem, who's actual name is Marshall Bruce Mathers III. The company is working with F.B.T Productions to acquire royalty rights. It was founded by Jeff and Mark Bass, the producers who worked with Eminem. The company intends to sell up to 3.3 million shares of stock for $15 apiece. Investors would be required to purchase a minimum of $2,250 in stock. If the IPO is approved, the company expects to trade under the “RLTY” symbol on the Nasdaq.
Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Mike Wallace, from left, former player Ray Lewis and inside linebacker C.J. Mosley lock arms and knees down during the playing of the U.S. national anthem before an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley Stadium in London, Sunday Sept. 24, 2017. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)
San Francisco 49ers, refusing to stand during “The Star-Spangled Banner” to protest the treatment of black people by police. Kaepernick became a free agent and has not been signed by a new team for this season. Without identifying Kaepernick, Trump aimed a Friday talk at a Huntsville, Alabama, rally at those players who have knelt for the anthem. “Wouldn’t you love to see one of these NFL owners, when somebody disrespects our flag, you’d say, `Get that son of a bitch off the field right now. Out! He’s fired,”’ he said to loud applause. Again in a Sunday morning tweet, Trump urged
his supporters to take action: “If NFL fans refuse to go to games until players stop disrespecting our Flag & Country, you will see change take place fast. Fire or suspend!” Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin followed up Sunday on ABC’s “This Week” defending Trump, saying the NFL has many rules governing what players can and cannot do. “I think what the president is saying is that the owners should have a rule that players should have to stand in respect for the national anthem,” Mnuchin said. “They can do free speech on their own time.” Trump’s remarks provoked team owners and the NFL to stridently defend the sport and its players. Commissioner Roger Goodell, who has taken heat for Kaepernick’s struggle to find a team, quickly condemned Trump’s comments. “The NFL and our players are at our best when we help create a sense of unity in our country and our culture. There is no better example than the amazing response from our clubs and players to the terrible natural disasters we’ve experienced over the last month,” Goodell said. “Divisive comments like these demonstrate an unfortunate lack of respect for the NFL, our great game and all of our players, and a failure to understand the overwhelming force for good our clubs and players represent in our communities.” At least seven team owners donated $1 million each to Trump’s inaugural committee. But Los Angeles Chargers owner Dean Spanos , Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank , New York Giants owners John Mara and Steve Tisch, Miami Dolphins owner Ste-
phen Ross, Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay, Tennessee Titans’ controlling owner Amy Adams Strunk, Detroit Lions owner Martha Firestone Ford and San Francisco 49ers owner Jed York were among the league power brokers who issued condemning statements through their clubs. “The callous and offensive comments made by the president are contradictory to what this great country stands for,” York said. “Our players have exercised their rights as United States citizens in order to spark conversation and action to address social injustice. We will continue to support them in their peaceful pursuit of positive change in our country and around the world.” Added Green Bay Packers President and CEO Mark Murphy: “We believe it is important to support any of our players who choose to peacefully express themselves with the hope of change for good. As Americans, we are fortunate to be able to speak openly and freely.” This weekend’s games were sure to bring more protests, with Tampa Bay receiver DeSean Jackson promising to make “a statement.” “I know our players who kneeled for the anthem, and these are smart young men of character who want to make our world a better place for everyone,” Ross said. “They wanted to start a conversation and are making a difference in our community, including working with law enforcement to bring people together. We all can benefit from learning, listening and respecting each other.”
Soul Singer Charles Bradley Dead at 68 By The Associated Press NEW YORK (AP) _ Powerful soul singer Charles Bradley has died after battling cancer. He was 68. Bradley died on Saturday. His publicist says in a statement that Bradley had been diagnosed last fall. Discovered later in life, Bradley was known as the “Screaming Eagle of Soul” for a fiery, raspy style that evoked his idol, James Brown. He once worked as a James Brown impersonator under the name Black Velvet. Recording on the Daptone label, Bradley's first album was released in 2011 and his last, “Changes,” in 2016.
Page A6
Local
Los Angeles News Observer
Thursday, September 28, 2017
CA Coffee may Carry Cancer Warning
Coffee beans are seen in a roaster. (Reuters)
By BRIAN MELLEY Associated Press LOS ANGELES (AP) _ A future cup of coffee in California could give you jitters before you even take a sip. A nonprofit group wants coffee manufacturers, distributors and retailers to post ominous warnings about a cancer-causing chemical stewing in every brew and has been presenting evidence in a Los Angeles courtroom to make its case. The long-running lawsuit that resumed Monday claims Starbucks and about 90 other companies, including grocery stores and retail shops, failed to follow a state law requiring warning signs about hazardous chemicals found everywhere from household products to workplaces to the environment. At the center of the dispute is acrylamide, a carcinogen found in cooked foods such as French fries that is also a natural byproduct of the coffee roasting process. The coffee industry has acknowledged the presence of the chemical but asserts it is at harmless levels and is outweighed by benefits from drinking coffee. Although the case has been percolating in the courts since 2010, it has gotten little attention. A verdict in favor of the little-known Council for Education and Research on Toxics could send a jolt through the industry with astronomical penalties possible and it could wake up a lot of consumers, though it’s unclear what effect it would have on coffee-drinking habits. The lawyer taking on Big Coffee said the larger
goal is to motivate the industry to remove the chemical from coffee, which would also benefit his own three-cup-a-day fix. “I’m addicted _ like two-thirds of the population,’’ attorney Raphael Metzger said. “I would like the industry to get acrylamide out of the coffee so my addiction doesn’t force me to ingest it.’’ Under the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act, passed by voters as Proposition 65 in 1986, private citizens, advocacy groups and attorneys can sue on behalf of the state and collect a portion of civil penalties. Metzger represented the council in a case later taken up by the state attorney general that resulted in potato-chip makers agreeing in 2008 to pay $3 million and remove acrylamide from their product. The law has been roundly criticized for abuses by lawyers shaking down businesses for quick settlements but is also credited with reducing chemicals known to cause cancer and birth defects, such as lead in hair dyes, mercury in nasal sprays and arsenic in bottled water. But warnings, which can be startling on first encounter, have been less effective due to sometimes inconspicuous placement or vague language. Drivers everywhere appear to prioritize parking in a garage over warnings such as, “This area contains chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth defects and other reproductive harm.’’ The state Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment adopted new regulations last year that will require more specific warnings that list the chemical
consumers may be exposed to and list a website with more information. Parking garages, for example, will have to post that breathing air there exposes drivers to carbon monoxide and gas and diesel exhaust and warns people not to linger longer than necessary. “The intent is not to scare people,’’ said Allan Hirsch, chief deputy of the office. “The intention is to help people make more informed decisions. If you continue to buy a product that will expose you to a chemical, that’s OK as long as you’re informed.’’ Many of the coffee defendants have already posted warnings that specifically say California has determined acrylamide is among chemicals that cause cancer and attorneys have stated others, from mega-chains to mom-and-pop operations, will follow suit if the judge rules against them. Metzger said many of those warnings often appear after the point of sale or where cream and sugar is provided, which offers no warning to someone drinking black coffee. Coffee companies lost a first round in the case two years ago and are now presenting their last defense. Defense lawyers declined to comment on the case but asserted in court that they should prevail under an exemption for chemicals that result naturally from cooking necessary for palatability or to avoid microbiological contamination. “It is hard to imagine a product that could satisfy this exemption if coffee does not,’’ defense attorney James Schurz said in court papers. “The answer to the question of whether Proposition 65 requires coffee to carry a cancer warning must be an emphatic `No.’’’ In the first phase, Superior Court Judge Elihu Berle said the defense failed to present enough credible evidence to show there was no significant risk posed by acrylamide in coffee. The law puts the burden on the defense to show that the level of the chemical won’t result in one excess case of cancer for every 100,000 people exposed. Berle said the epidemiology studies they presented were inadequate to evaluate that risk. Civil penalties could come to $2,500 per person exposed each day. With penalties reaching back eight years that could ring up an astronomical bill in a state with close to 40 million residents, though such a massive figure is very unlikely. Starbucks Corp., the lead defendant, would not comment on the case. Its latest quarterly report said it’s not “party to any legal proceeding that management believes could have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.’’ Two of the defendants have settled in the past month and agreed to post warnings. BP West Coast Products, which operates gas station convenience stores, agreed to pay $675,000. Yum Yum Donuts Inc. agreed to pay nearly $250,000.
County Program Offers Competitive Business Loans to Green Companies Alhambra, CA, September 26, 2017 - Last month, the Community Development Commission of the County of Los Angeles (CDC) announced the streamlining of its small and medium business loan programs — all now known as SMART Funding. SMART Funding provides competitive loan programs to help local business leaders make smart, sound financial decisions, offering low-interest loans with customizable terms. SMART Funding focuses on multiple areas of economic development, including the fast-growing clean technology (cleantech) industry. While Los Angeles County is home to the largest cluster of green employment in California and the United States, SMART Funding can help position the County as an undisputed leader in the growing cleantech space. By making costly efforts simpler and smarter for business owners, SMART Funding is looking to amplify green job creation and strong continued growth. The program helps businesses acquire office space, make capital improvements, bring on new employees, and purchase new machinery and equipment. Cleantech is just one example of SMART Funding’s target businesses. With potential loans ranging from $25,000 to $1,500,000, SMART Funding also provides flexible assistance to businesses in manufacturing, medical and health professionals, and transportation-adjacent development projects. “Development and innovation in clean technology is important to our community’s future,” Sean Rogan, Executive Director of the CDC, said. “SMART Funding will provide the tools these businesses need to succeed.” With customizable loan terms and very competitive interest rates, the SMART Funding loan program officers are looking for ways to help grow sustainable businesses that encourage economic success for the entire County, in line with the agency’s goal of Building Better Lives and Better Neighborhoods for residents and business owners. Growing a small business is a monumental effort, and the CDC provides SMART Funding to help business leaders meet the challenge — additional capital could help businesses of all types reach the next level.
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