Los Angeles News Observer 9.7.23

Oprah Winfrey and Dwayne Johnson Launch Fund with $10 Million for

Maui

Heroic Intervention Thwarts Potential

The Month of Mookie and Continued Dominance

By Austin Gage

Contributing Sports Writer

SUBTITLE: Mookie Betts’ remarkable hot streak paired with shutdown pitching propels Dodgers to an historic August as they all but put away the National League West Crown.

The Los Angeles Dodgers’ obligatory August hot streak once again presented itself in 2023. Coming off of three seasons of scorching month of August records that include a 21-7 record in 2020, a 21-6 record in 2021, and a 22-6 record in 2022, the Boys in Blue of 2023 surpassed those marks comfortably by finishing the month with a 24-5 record. In doing so, they joined the 18781881(!) Chicago White Stockings as the only MLB teams ever to have a .750+ winning percentage in the same month for four seasons in a row.

For a Dodger team that was playing good but not great baseball, for their own standards, up to the August month mark, the dominant stretch was a very helpful tool in the race to winning the National League West division once again. Los Angeles, winners of nine of the last ten NL West crowns, entered the month with just a 2.5 game lead over the San Francisco Giants and a 3.5 game lead over the Arizona Diamondbacks. A month later, the Dodgers would find themselves with staggering 13.5 and 14.5 game leads over the Giants and Diamondbacks respectively to all but basically seal the NL West.

The Dodgers’ opponents during the month included the likes of the Oakland Athletics, San Diego Padres, Arizona Diamondbacks (two separate series), Colorado Rockies, Milwaukee Brewers, Miami Marlins, Cleveland Guardians, Boston Red Sox, and the first game of the heavily anticipated series versus the MLB-best Atlanta Braves.

Without a doubt the heart of the hot streak lied with star outfielder Mookie Betts. Betts, who has won an MVP once before in his time with the Red Sox, firmly established himself as a top NL MVP candidate as the regular season enters its last full month in September.

Prior to his incredible month, Betts held a somewhat underwhelming .277 batting average in a season that would still be most other players’ career high in terms of playing level paired with his already excellent glove (which was showcased in his defensive versatility in playing outfield and in the infield this season). However, Betts was able raise his batting average to a stellar .317 by the end of the month and join real MVP discussions along with superstar first baseman teammate Freddie Freeman and Braves’ outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. and first baseman Matt Olson.

For the month itself, Betts hit for an outstanding .455 average with 51 total hits and added 11 home runs and 30 runs batted in. Playing like a man possessed, Betts was able to surpass his career high for home runs in a season (36) and ride a wave en route to the NL Player of the Month award. Betts 51 hits in the month of August set the record for the most hits in a month in Dodger history.

Outside of Betts, help was present in a number of different places. Not to be outdone, Freeman himself continued his own MVP-like campaign as he batted .374 in August with four home runs and 16 runs batted in from 43 total hits. Alongside the help of Freeman was rookie outfielder James Outman. Outman was able to provide offensive support to Betts and Freeman’s offensive explosions with a .277 batting average of his own to pair with five home runs and runs batted in. And like Betts, Outman was able to end the month with some hardware as he received honors for

being August’s NL rookie of the month.

While credit is definitely due to the offensive for their part in the historic month, the Los Angeles pitching was also superb as well.

In the month, the Dodgers team ERA (earned run average) was an MLB-low 3.00. For a rotation that has seen so many injuries and different faces throughout the season, they were not only able to survive but thrive in the month of August.

Veteran trade pickup from the Chicago White Sox Lance Lynn was able to turn his season around and scoop up four wins in the month and 24-year-old Bobby Miller, 23-year-old Emmet Sheehan, and 26 year old Ryan Pepiot all played key roles in putting the team in position for wins. To act as the cherry on top of all the pitching excellence was the return of star ace Clayton Kershaw, who returned on August 10th against the Rockies to pitch five innings of one run ball and struck out four batters. Kershaw wouldn’t look back after the start, finishing with a 2.12 ERA for the month on 17 innings pitched and 15 strikeouts.

“It’s just good all-around baseball,” manager Dave Robert put it, “I think a lot of times teams talk about ‘you have the hitting and you don’t have the pitching and vice versa’ but I think right now we’ve had both every night.”

The Dodgers 24-5 month even included an 11-game win

Injured California Motorist Trapped at Bottom of Ravine is Rescued After 5 Days

STALLION SPRINGS, Calif. (AP) – A motorist whose truck tumbled about 100 feet (30 meters) down a Southern California bluff was rescued after being trapped at the bottom of a ravine for nearly five days, authorities said.

Rescue crews responded Saturday after receiving a report of a badly damaged pickup at the base of a steep hill southeast of Bakersfield, according to the Kern County Fire Department.

A firefighter who was lowered down with a rope determined that the motorist was injured and had been trapped inside the truck since crashing last Tuesday near Stallion Springs, according to the department`s incident report.

Three more firefighters were then lowered into the ravine and the individual, who has not been identified, was placed in a rescue basket and pulled to safety. The individual was then airlifted to a hospital in unknown condition, officials said.

The California Highway Patrol and the Stallion Springs Police Department assisted in the rescue.

The cause of the crash was under investigation Sunday.

Kobe Bryant`s Daughter Natalia Tosses First Pitch on Lakers Night at Dodger Stadium

LOS ANGELES (AP) –- Natalia Bryant threw out the first pitch on Friday night before the Los Angeles Dodgers hosted the Atlanta Braves as the Lakers NBA franchise for which her father Kobe starred was honored.

streak that saw victories over the Brewers and some NL West rivals in the Padres, Diamondbacks, and Rockies. The Padres, a team who eliminated the Dodgers from the postseason last October in the National League Division Series, just have struggled to get it going this year despite a star-studded lineup including the likes of outfielder Juan Soto, outfielder Fernando Tatis Jr., former-Dodger third baseman Manny Machado, and stud starting pitcher Blake Snell. Fortunately for Los Angeles, it looks like they will not be needing to face San Diego this season in a potential playoff run. Although August could not end on the highest of notes with a wanted series opening win against the Braves in Chavez Ravine, the Dodgers are still in a great position for a deep playoff run. Currently the two seed in the National League, it seems like the National League pennant will run through either Los Angeles or Atlanta.

After the completion of the Atlanta series, the Dodgers will go on the road for a short road trip to face the Marlins in Miami and then travel to the nation’s capital to face the Washington Nationals. They then return home for a three-game series against the Padres, go up north to play the Seattle Mariners, and then return home for two series against the Detroit Tigers and rival Giants. To end the season, the Dodgers will hit the road to finish their 2023 campaign against the Rockies and Giants once again.

The 20-year-old University of Southern California student tossed the ball from in front of the mound. It took one bounce and into the glove of All-Star Mookie Betts, who was handling catching duties.

A smiling Natalia hugged Betts, who wore her father`s No. 24 jersey over his uniform.

Bryant was joined by her mother, Vanessa, and sisters, 6-year-old Bianka and 4- year-old Capri. They all wore Dodgers jerseys. The back of Vanessa`s read Queen Mamba, a nod to Kobe`s nickname. Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka also attended.

Kobe Bryant, daughter Gianna, and seven others were killed in a helicopter crash in 2020. Bianka gave the traditional pre-game shout of “It`s time for Dodger baseball!” with her mother and sisters at her side.

The Braves and Dodgers lined up along the first and third base sides, with the Dodgers wearing Lakers jerseys and fans chanting “Kobe! Kobe!”

As the Bryants were introduced, Vanessa blew a kiss to the crowd. Natalia carried her youngest sister before handing her off and standing alone on the field to watch a slide show of her father visiting the Dodgers clubhouse. Natalia was following in her father’s footsteps. Kobe Bryant handled first-pitch duties at a Dodgers game in 2000.

The family settled into the owners` box to watch the game, with Bianka hanging over the fence separating the seats from the field for a better look.

Fans who purchased a special ticket package received a black jersey with Dodgers and No. 8 on the front and Bryant and No. 24 on the back, the numbers Bryant wore during his 20-year career in Los Angeles.

The Dodgers presented a $100,000 check to the Mamba and Mambacita Sports Foundation, a nonprofit that provides funding and sports programming to underserved athletes.

The postgame drone show was scheduled to honor Bryant.

By Mark Hedin, Lila Brown and Edward Henderson

A Riverside County family is grieving -- and a local community is stunned -- after a 12-year-old boy suffered a fatal medical emergency during an excessive heat wave last week in Lake Elsinore.

On Aug. 29, Yahushua Robinson, a student at Lake Canyon Middle School, allegedly did not “dress out” appropriately for gym class and was consequently punished by running laps in his street clothes. His aunt told NBC4 Los Angeles that he was denied a water break by his Physical Education teacher. His classmates reported that Robinson repeatedly complained of difficulty breathing before collapsing and becoming unresponsive.

Despite the efforts of medical professionals, Robinson was pronounced dead at Loma Linda University Medical Center-Murrieta.

The coroner’s report attributed Robinson’s death to cardiac arrest.

On the day of the incident, temperatures reached a high of 106° F. The California Department of Education advises schools throughout the state to assess whether outdoor activities, such as physical education and sports, should continue under such conditions. However, it is still being investigated whether the proper protocol was followed. At 11a.m., Riverside County Sheriff’s deputies were called to the school.

“Our hearts are with the family, friends, and our school community,” said Lake Canyon Middle School Principal Gil Rodriquez.

The family has since started a GoFundMe page to raise money for funeral costs and other related expenses for the child they affectionally called “YaYa.”

Around the state, there is a growing concern among Black Californians about how extreme heat could affect elderly family members, impact skin care and exacerbate other health concerns. Authorities have warned that sweltering temperatures will now be a part of life in the Golden State.

Worldwide, July was the hottest month on record, and the California Governor’s office reports that 2023 is “shaping up” to be the hottest year on record.

During an Aug. 29 press briefing hosted by Ethnic Media Services (EMS) and California’s Office of Community Partnerships and Strategic Communications,

nia (Photo Credit: From Robinson Family Member Facebook Page)

speakers discussed what’s changed and what we can do to adapt to this new reality.

“These are not your grandmothers’ heat waves,” said Braden Kay, Extreme Heat and Community Resilience Program manager for California’s Governor’s Office of Planning and Research.

“We have a critical need to support behavior change and mind-shift for a lot of people who feel their bodies should just be able to handle the heat, but are not,” Kay continued. “Not just today, not just this summer, not just next summer, but for decades to come.”

According to Kay, “Extreme heat is a climate risk that all 58 counties in California will face,” noting that

90-degree weather now sometimes occurs as early as March and as late as November.

Sara Gardner, a massage therapist in San Diego, said skin care is extremely important during heat waves and everyone should wear sunscreen to protect their skin from dangerous sun rays.

“When it’s hot and dry out, I’ve have found exfoliating and moisturizer to be a must every day. I like to use ice each morning directly on my skin to help close my pores which helps me make sure I don’t let out as much sweat and buildup throughout the day. I also like to lock in my moisture with a cream, typically something with Vitamin C.

Experts who participated in the EMS news briefing said Black Californians, Indigenous communities and other people of color are the most affected by health disparities worsened by extreme heat and are at a higher risk of heat- related deaths.

“As doctors, perhaps one of the most useful things we can do is educate the public,” said Sharon OkonkwoHolmes, a doctor of family medicine at Kaiser Permanente Southern California.

“Older adults in general don’t feel as thirsty, but I’m telling them, ‘Stay on top of your hydration. Add lime, lemon, cucumber, whatever’s necessary to make you have an incentive for drinking.’”

To combat the extreme heat, California is making historic investments in climate action and public awareness. The state has launched a website at heatreadyca.com.

“It is an “all-of-state-government approach” to the challenge, Kay said. The site offers a new grant program to support awareness campaigns and add trees and shade infrastructure.

Last week, the Governor’s Office of Emergency of Emergency Services (CalOES) released a number of online toolkits (in 12 languages) to inform state residents about extreme heat and natural disasters.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include feeling fatigued and tired, said Okonkwo-Holmes. Swelling in the lower extremities and high blood pressure are other signs.

“We really need our bodies

Revelers Pack London Streets as Notting Hill Carnival Celebrates Caribbean Culture

LONDON (AP) –– Hundreds of thousands of revelers packed the streets of west London on Monday for the climax of the Notting Hill Carnival, one of the world’s biggest celebrations of Caribbean music and culture.

Organizers say up to 2 million people are expected to take in the music, parades, dancing and food over the two days of Europe’s largest street party, which began Sunday with a children’s parade.

The carnival traces its history back to 1958, when Trinidadian human rights activist Claudia Jones began organizing a gathering to unify the community after a series of racist attacks on Black people in the Notting Hill neighborhood. Launched in 1964 with a few Trinidadian steel bands, it has grown into a huge annual street party involving colorful floats, thousands of calypso dancers in spectacular feathered costumes, almost 20 steel bands and more than two dozen sound systems.

The carnival returned to the neighborhood’s narrow streets last year after two years when it had to be held online because of the coronavirus pandemic.

This year’s event coincides with commemorations of the 75th anniversary of the arrival in England of the Empire Windrush, a ship carrying hundreds of people from the Caribbean to new lives in Britain. The voyage became a symbol of the post-war mass migration that has transformed the U.K. and its culture.

That journey has not always been easy, a fact exposed when some members of the Windrush generation were caught up in a U.K. immigration crackdown that improperly targeted legal residents largely from the Caribbean and other parts of the former British Empire.

Mookie Betts (Jon SooHoo/Los Angeles Dodgers)

Middle School Student Yahshua Robinson collapsed and became unresponsive during PE activities as a heatwave hit Southern Califor-

Heroic Intervention Thwarts Potential Tragedy:

Gunman Foiled in Attempt to Target Ambridge Black Church

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior

National Correspondent

In the small Ambridge, Pa., community, a quickthinking witness and swift police response prevented a potential massacre at Greater Dominion Church on Sunday morning, Aug. 27. Jeffrey Harris, a 38-year-old white man, now faces a litany of charges, including aggravated assault and making terroristic threats, after attempting to enter the predominantly Black church with murderous intent.

The ordeal unfolded just after 9 a.m. on a quiet Sunday morning when multiple concerned citizens called 911 to report a man clad in a camouflage vest brandishing a long gun and menacingly targeting two women outside the church at 4th Street and Melrose Avenue. According to a criminal complaint, the eyewitnesses watched in terror as Harris threatened the women, all while attempting to gain access to the church.

The frantic 911 calls immediately alerted Beaver County Regional Police to Harris’s presence on the 300 block of Merchant Street, and they promptly informed Ambridge police. As an officer approached the suspect, Harris menacingly pointed his weapon.

Bishop Kenneth Crumb of Greater Dominion Church later spoke to WTAE, revealing the chilling possibility that Harris might have succeeded in entering the church had he arrived just one hour later for his Sunday service. “There is a whole lot of mass murders going on, there are shootings,” Crumb emphasized, “particularly in the African American community, people targeting our communities.” He added that this incident serves as a grim reminder of America’s deeply rooted history of racism and the ongoing racially charged attacks against African Americans, even within the confines of their places of worship.

The horrifying episode at Greater Dominion Church evokes memories of a painful past, with the killing of nine

people at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina, just one of many attacks targeting predominantly Black churches in the United States. Tragically, several past cases involved the burning of churches by Ku Klux Klan members, highlighting the persistence of racial hatred in some parts of the country.

Among these horrific incidents was the burning of the Macedonia Church of God in Christ in Springfield, Massachusetts, shortly after the election of President Obama in November 2008. In Knoxville, Tennessee, in January 1996, a fire destroyed the Inner-City Baptist Church, which had racial slurs painted on its walls. Similarly, in February 1996, a group of churches within a six-mile radius in Louisiana were set ablaze on the anniversary of the sit-in in Greensboro, North Carolina.

On June 21, 1995, four former Ku Klux Klan members set the Macedonia Baptist Church on fire in Manning, South Carolina. The fire was one of many that plagued predominantly Black churches across the South during that period, and Macedonia Baptist was awarded $37.8 million in a decision against the Klan. A jury believed that the Klan’s rhetoric had motivated the men to commit this heinous act.

This incident serves as a grim reminder of America’s deeply rooted history of racism and the ongoing racially charged attacks against African Americans, even within the confines of their places of worship.

This week, U.S. Rep. Chris Deluzio, D-Pa., wrote to the Department of Justice, asking for a federal investigation into the event to see whether Harris had violated any civil rights laws and, if it was determined he committed federal crimes, to pursue him to the maximum degree possible, according to a press release. “With hate crimes on the rise across the country, including against Black Americans, it is understandable that any community would be concerned by an armed individual terrorizing a place of worship,” Deluzio wrote to the federal authorities. “A community not too far away from the massacre at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, the Greater Dominion congregation knows too well the harm that an armed individual filled with hate can do.”

New COVID-19 Variant, “Pirola,” Raises Concerns Amidst Ongoing Crises

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

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Amidst a news cycle that now routinely features wildfires, former president indictments, and extreme weather events, the world is grappling with the resurgence of COVID-19 as a new and concerning variant, BA.2.86, emerges. This variant, informally dubbed “Pirola,” has ignited alarm among public health experts due to its substantial spike protein mutations.

Dr. Scott Roberts, an infectious diseases specialist at Yale Medicine, warned that Pirola exhibits over 30 spike protein mutations compared to the previously dominant XBB.1.5 variant in the United States. The spike protein is critical for the virus’s entry into human cells, and such a high number of mutations raises red flags. In an online Yale Medicine article, Dr. Roberts compared the mutation count to the shift from the Delta to the Omicron variant in 2021, which caused a significant surge in cases due to its immune evasion capabilities.

What’s particularly concerning is that Pirola has been detected in at least six countries, and these cases appear unrelated. Experts said that suggests undetected community transmission and international spread, sparking concerns of a potential resurgence.

According to medical experts, BA.2.86 is a designated variant of Omicron, a variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus responsible for COVID-19. BA.2.86 stems from BA.2, a previously circulating Omicron subvariant. The variant was first identified in Denmark in late July and made its way to the United States in August. Knowing that cases aren’t linked indicates broader circulation, significantly as COVID-19 surveillance has waned, medical experts asserted.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that current COVID-19 tests and medications, such as Paxlovid, Veklury, and Lagevrio, seem effective against Pirola. However, Pirola may be more adept at infecting individuals who have had COVID-19 or have been vaccinated. There isn’t any current evidence that it causes more severe illness.

The increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations in the U.S. is attributed to XBB lineage viruses rather than Pirola. The multitude of mutations in Pirola raises concerns about its potential to bypass immunity from natural infection or vaccination.

Dr. Roberts emphasized that ongoing studies would

reveal the true nature of Pirola’s threat. The unprecedented number of mutations in Pirola is reminiscent of significant shifts seen in other respiratory viruses, such as the 2009 swine flu. However, he noted that these variants sometimes fade away without causing a significant impact.

The critical question now is whether Pirola will follow the explosive growth pattern of Omicron or fade away, as everyone hopes. As of August 30, the CDC has identified Pirola in at least four U.S. states through samples from individuals or wastewater.

Some regions have reinstated mask mandates in response to the spike in COVID-19 cases. Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, New York, is among the institutions requiring masks in clinical areas to protect patients and staff. The CDC reports a nearly 19% increase in weekly new COVID-19 hospitalizations in the U.S., marking the sixth consecutive week of rising admissions.

The arrival of new COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer, Moderna, and Novavax in mid-September is expected to offer robust protection against variants. Until then, experts stress that masking remains a crucial tool for safeguarding against COVID-19, even for individuals with normal risk levels, depending on their location and contacts.

Dr. Stephen Thomas of the Upstate Medical University in Syracuse told NPR that the facility has reverted to mandating masks.

“We wanted to, No. 1, protect our patients, and, No. 2, protect the men and women who work in our facility, and take care of them,” Thomas told NPR. “So, we implemented universal masking for staff, visitors, and patients only in clinical areas. So, we’re a university. We’re large. We have a lot of non-clinical regions. Universal masking is not being mandated in non-clinical areas.”

NNPA President Launches Daily Radio Commentary Show in Partnership with USBC Radio Network

By Stacy M. Brown

NNPA

Newswire

Senior National Correspondent

Inside the hallowed halls of the Audacy Studios at the heart of New York’s financial district, National Newspaper Publishers Association President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., a noted Civil Rights Icon, co-founder of the Hip-Hop Summit, and National Director of The Million Man March, formally announced the launch of a new daily radio commentary set to hit the airwaves this fall.

The groundbreaking initiative, titled “The Good News,” will be broadcast on Audacy News/Talk and Urban stations, made possible by the underwriting support of The Good News and U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. Radio Network.

In its inaugural season, “The Good News” will feature Chavis delivering concise, impactful 60-second radio commentaries. During a news conference on Aug. 28, Chavis and his partners said the segments will offer a refreshing and timely outlook on positive stories often overshadowed by the headlines dominating the news cycle. Chavis and U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. President and CEO Ron Busby said the show will cast light on positive developments across America and the world and will also spotlight “the commendable local business ventures” fostered by the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. members, a network boasting an impressive 350,000 local chamber participants.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to host ‘The Good News,’ supported by KMG Networks and the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc.,” Chavis asserted during the press conference that took place as legendary New York radio

station 1010 WINS aired in the background. “We aim to amplify those genuine stories that often go unnoticed in mainstream media. We are dedicated to magnifying authentic narratives that serve as inspiration, fostering positive social transformation, equality, and equity.”

The collaboration between Chavis and the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. marks a turning point, with “The Good News” becoming an integral part of the comprehensive USBC Media Network. The integration will see the highly anticipated USBC Radio Network seamlessly join forces with its media counterpart, creating a dynamic and influential platform.

“For our debut season, ‘The Good News’ and the USBC are investing in important News/Talk and Urban stations, including WCBS/NY, KNX/LA, and KCBS/SF, and other leading News/Talk and Urban Contemporary stations across the U.S. to kickstart his very important audio commentary to a national radio audience,” said Gary Krantz, CEO of KMG Networks.

Busby also added his excitement about the partnership. “We’re thrilled to present the debut program on the USBC Radio Network, ‘The Good News,’ with Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. As we reveal this inaugural show, it marks the initial stride in a compelling series that aims to inspire, educate, and enthrall,” Busby stated. “Our enthusiasm extends to the forthcoming array of impactful programming, set to connect deeply with a diverse range of audiences. Our partnership with KMG Networks has us poised not only to make a significant impact in the realm of media but to transcend its boundaries.”

“The Good News” promises to be “a beacon of

positivity, celebrating stories that deserve the spotlight,” Busby continued. “With its far-reaching impact and the support of influential partners, the show is positioned to uplift and engage listeners nationwide, fostering a renewed sense of inspiration and unity.”

The increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations in the U.S. is attributed to XBB lineage viruses rather than Pirola. The multitude of mutations in Pirola raises concerns about its potential to bypass immunity from natural infection or vaccination.

Oprah Winfrey and Dwayne Johnson Launch Fund with $10 million for Maui

By THALIA BEATY

Associated Press

Oprah Winfrey and Dwayne Johnson have committed $10 million to make direct payments to people on Maui who are unable to return to their homes because of the wildfires, through a new fund they announced Thursday.

The People`s Fund of Maui will give $1,200 a month to adults who are not able to return to their primary residences because of the recent wildfires, including people who owned and rented their homes, according to the fund`s website. The fund will also seek donations to extend the length of time it can provide the support.

“How do we help?” the “Young Rock” star said he and Winfrey asked each other during the wildfires, saying in a video released along with the announcement that they grappled with how to best direct their efforts. “You want to take care of the greatest need of the people, and that`s giving them money.”

They are looking forward to the help of “every person who called me and said, 'What can I do?'” Winfrey said in the video. “This is what you can do.”

The pair were inspired by a similar fund set up by Dolly Parton after wildfires swept through Gatlinburg, Tennessee in December 2016, killing 14 people and destroying 2,400 structures.

Jeff Conyers, president of The Dollywood Foundation, said he consulted with Winfrey`s team multiple times in the past weeks to share the lessons that they`d learned from administrating the fund, which eventually granted $11 million to families who had lost their homes.

“Dolly's idea was that, 'Hey, look, these are my people and I want to take care of them and we trust them to know what recovery looks like for themselves and their families in the days and weeks following this immediate catastrophe here, '” Conyers said.

Parton`s fund, called My People Fund, worked with first responders and a local utility company and asked residents to help them determine which structures were destroyed and who lived in those homes, Conyers said. Around 1,000 families eventually received assistance from the fund, according to an evaluation from the University of Tennessee Knoxville College of Social Work. That included a final $5,000 lump sum transfer at the end of six months.

To qualify for the People`s Fund of Maui, applicants must show a government ID and a utility bill in their name for a lost or uninhabitable residence, the fund's website said.

Winfrey, who lives on Maui part-time, visited an emergency shelter on Maui in the days after the wildfire hit

and worried about effectively getting resources to residents. At least 115 people were killed in the fires, though an unknown number are still missing. The fire that ripped through the historic town of Lahaina on Aug. 8 was the deadliest in the U.S. in more than a century.

Forecasters warned Wednesday that gusty winds and low humidity increased the risk that fires could spread rapidly in the western parts of each Hawaiian island, though they were not as powerful as the winds that helped fuel the deadly blaze three weeks ago.

In the announcement, Winfrey and Johnson said they consulted with “community elders, leaders and residents including Hokulani Holt-Padilla, Keali'i Reichel, Archie Kalepa, Ekolu Lindsey, Kimo Falconer, Tiare Lawrence, Kaimana Brummel, Kaleikoa Ka'eo, Brian Keaulana, Kaimi Kaneholani, Henohea Kane, Paele Kiakona, Ed Suwanjindar, Shep Gordon and Jason Momoa.”

The Entertainment Industry Fund, a Los Angelesbased nonprofit that helps celebrities administer their charitable work, is sponsoring the fund, the announcement said.

Johnson and Winfrey hope the fund will continue to make transfers to qualifying residents for at least six months, but Winfrey said it would be up to the American public to determine how long the fund extends, based on their support and donations.

When setting up a direct cash transfer program, it's important to define the objective, said Holly Welcome Radice, the regional representative for the Americas at CALP Network, a collective of organizations that studies and implements cash assistance programs. In this case, $1,200 should correspond to the price of housing or the living costs for an adult in the area or whatever the need is the fund is seeking to meet, she said.

“The objective will be difficult to meet if your transfer value is not connected to the reality of the people,” she said, adding the fund should consider if the local economy can respond to the influx of money and map out what other services people may need.

“If it's feasible and appropriate, then cash is a very direct way for people to benefit and have agency,” Welcome Radice said.

The fund should also spend time communicating the parameters of the program clearly, she said, “so people understand who qualifies and why they qualify and making sure that there is some type of feedback mechanism where people can place grievances.”

In ‘Equalizer 3‘, Denzel Washington’s Assassin Goes to Italy

By LINDSEY BAHR

AP Film Writer

Filmmaker Antoine Fuqua has been dreaming about taking the Equalizer abroad for years. The action franchise (very loosely based on a 1980s television series) starring Denzel Washington as the reluctant assassin Robert McCall had rooted itself in humble domestic beginnings, in Boston. But after two films and $382.7 million in boxoffice receipts in the past decade, the time seemed ripe to travel.

“Denzel is an international movie star,” Fuqua told The Associated Press. “We thought it would be nice to see a man of color in a story that's more international. Why not take this character around the world? Luckily, Sony loved the idea.”

And there was only one place that was ever seriously on the list: Italy. Washington, Fuqua said, goes every summer and has since his kids were babies. He loves the culture, the people, the food. He even speaks some Italian.

“He just feels right there,” Fuqua said.

And for Fuqua, it was the stuff of filmmaking dreams to get to shoot in Cinecittà Studios in Rome and bump up against cinema history walking where Fellini and so many other greats have before him. In Naples, they found an authentically 1970s New York grittiness that required little to no production design for a pivotal showdown. And on the Amalfi coast, they stumbled on the small village of

their, and McCall's, fantasies in the picturesque Atrani.

It's the kind of place you'd believe someone like McCall (or anyone really) might feel immediately tied to and protective of, which is what happens in “Equalizer 3,” debuting in theaters nationwide Friday. The difference is McCall is more uniquely suited to take on the Camorra. Single-handedly, of course.

“When we went to that small town, we knew that was the place,” Fuqua said. “The people were so beautiful, we were sitting around and they would just bring us coffee and espresso. We didn't even ask for it. Or big giant lemons because it was so hot. You fall in love with the people in a town like that.”

The only complaint, which isn't even really a complaint, was about the steps. One of the jewels of Atrani is a medieval church perched on the mountainside high above the beach that they decided would be perfect for an important scene between McCall and Dakota Fanning's CIA analyst. But the only way to get there is to climb up over 700 steps. It wasn`t a pleasant journey with all the equipment necessary to shoot a scene, but it was a good reminder of purpose for Fuqua and his cinematographer, three-time Oscar winner Robert Richardson. They wanted to show a real place, not a vacation destination.

“It's not a travelogue,” Fuqua said. “It's beautiful in the Mediterranean, but for the people who live there it's real life. The fisherman live off what they catch. They live in

small houses. They walk up those steps every day.”

The film brings together a core team with decades of history, including producers Todd Black and Jason Blumenthal. In addition to the “Equalizer” films Fuqua directed Washington in “Training Day,” which would win him his first lead actor Oscar, as well as in the recent remake of “The Magnificent Seven.”

And Black has produced all of the films Washington has directed as well as several others. It was Washington who introduced Black and Fuqua for the first “Equalizer”, which all assumed would just be one film, not a franchise.

“You can't think about franchises, or awards, when you're making a movie. If you're making a movie to win an award, or even to get nominated, or have a franchise, you're dead in the water going in probably,” Black said.

“Not 100% of the time, but you shouldn`t think that way.”

Instead, they took it one script at a time and “let the audience decide.” The audience, it seemed, liked seeing Washington as McCall more than once. Both the first and second film made over $190 million each against production budgets that didn't exceed $65 million and Sony was interested in a third. It helped also that Black and Fuqua had become friends, with the priceless trust that comes along with it. Both know that on their films, everything will be safe and controlled, whether that's handling an unexpected fan situation for their star or making sure that it's not too dangerous to shoot in Naples

at night. “We've never had an incident at our movies because we are so vigilant,” Black said. “And Antoine really protects actors.”

Now Black and Fuqua have found themselves in the unusual situation of having to be the primary voices promoting “Equalizer 3” in lieu of their movie stars, who along with Hollywood writers, are deep into a long strike. But while some films released without the help of a star's late-night anecdotes and red carpet appearances have faltered at the box office over the past month, Black feels confident in “Equalizer 3.”

“I have other movies coming out that definitely need my actors to promote them, but everyone knows Denzel Washington is the 'Equalizer,'” Black said. “We're very, very confident, thanks to Antoine for making a gorgeous film that works and that audiences love so far. We're in really good shape.”

Both just mostly miss having Washington by their side for the press tour. The 68- year-old star, Black said, is much “mellower” now than years ago and is fun to do publicity with. Fuqua also observed that McCall in “Equalizer 3” might even mirror a bit where Washington is in his life too. Both are a little more quiet and a little more patient.

“He'll call me and Todd at 4 in the morning to look at the sunrise,” Fuqua said. “That wasn't Denzel before. It`s nice to see him really stopping and appreciating life.”

Video of Police Fatally Shooting a Pregnant Black Woman Set to be Released

By SAMANTHA HENDRICKSON Associated Press/Report For America

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) __ Ohio authorities on Friday released bodycam video showing police officers fatally shooting Ta'Kiya Young in her car in what her family denounced as a "gross misuse of power and authority" against the young Black mother.

The 21-year-old from Columbus was pronounced dead shortly after the Aug. 24 shooting outside a grocery store in the suburb of Blendon Township. Her unborn daughter did not survive.

The footage, which comes more than a week after her death, shows another officer at the driver's side window, repeatedly demanding that Young "get out of the car. "

The officer by her window tells Young she had been accused of theft. She protests, and he repeats his demand that she get out of the car. She turns the steering wheel to her right and accelerates toward the officer standing in front of it. The officer in front of the vehicle fires through the windshield at Young and seconds later, her sedan drifts until it hits the grocery store`s brick wall.

Officers then break her window, which Blendon Township Police Chief John Belford said was to get Young out of the car and render medical aid, though footage of the medical assistance was not provided.

Young's family members were able to view the footage before its public release and released a statement Friday through their attorney, Sean Walton.

"Having viewed the footage in its entirety, it is undeniable that Ta'Kiya's death was not only avoidable, but also a gross misuse of power and authority," the statement said.

Walton called Young`s death avoidable and said the family is seeking a swift criminal indictment of the officers in Young and her daughter`s deaths.

Walton told The Associated Press on Thursday that the family grew frustrated with delays in the police department timeline of releasing body camera footage publicly. Belford said the delay resulted from a small staff trying to process the video and properly redact certain footage, such as officers` faces and badge numbers, in accordance with Ohio law.

The two officers' names, ages and races were not immediately released. They are on paid administrative leave while the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation examines the shooting, which is standard in cases of police use of deadly force.

Young was expected to give birth to a daughter in November. An online effort to pay her funeral expenses has raised nearly $7,000.

Ta'Kiya's siblings, cousins, grandmother and father have rallied around her sons, 6-year-old Ja'Kobie and 3-year-old Ja'Kenlie, who don't yet understand the magnitude of what happened to their mother, Walton said.

"It's a large family and Ta'Kiya has been snatched away from them," Walton said. "I think the entire family is still in shock."

Family and friends held a private vigil a day after Young was killed, releasing balloons and lighting candles spelling out "RIP Kiya."

Her grandmother, Nadine Young, described her granddaughter as a family-oriented prankster who was a loving older sister and mother.

"She was so excited to have this little girl," Nadine Young said at a news conference Wednesday. "She has her two little boys, but she was so fired up to have this girl. She is going to be so missed."

"I'm a mess because it's just tragic," she said, "but it should have never ever ever happened."

Ma$e, Faith Evans, The LOX, 112, and the Estate of the Notorious B.I.G. are among those who have already inked deals to reclaim their rights, as per Billboard. Combs started the process in May 2021 to sell the catalog, but the details of the arrangements are still unknown.

Sean Combs“Diddy” Gifts Back Publishing Rights to Bad Boy Artists

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

Sean “Diddy” Combs has gifted his Bad Boy family with life-changing anniversary gifts. According to Billboard, the music mogul has decided to return the publishing rights of his label’s artists and songwriters to their rightful owners.

The move resulted in Bad Boy Entertainment’s host of creatives quickly signing agreements to regain control of their intellectual property. Ma$e, Faith Evans, The LOX, 112, and the Estate of the Notorious B.I.G. are among those who have already inked deals to reclaim their rights, as per Billboard. Combs started the process in May 2021 to sell the catalog, but the details of the arrangements are still unknown.

For years, the administration of publishing on behalf of Bad Boy was entrusted to EMI, a subsidiary of Sony Music Publishing/Sony Corporation of America. Notably, EMI still handles Combs’ publishing. Providing artists with publishing rights could mean tens of millions of dollars for their bottom line, as sales of publishing have steadily increased over the years.

For example, Dr. Dre recently sold his catalog for more than $300 million, and Justin Bieber netted north of $200 million.

This generous move by Combs coincides with the 30th anniversary celebration of Bad Boy Entertainment this year. The decision follows a longstanding public feud between Combs and Ma$e, one of Bad Boy’s hitmakers. The rift arose when Combs criticized the Recording Academy during his 2020 Industry Icon

Award acceptance speech for undervaluing Black artists in R&B and rap. Ma$e confronted his former label boss in an Instagram post. He revealed that he offered $2 million to buy back his publishing, but Combs said no. Ma$e further alleged, “Your past business practices knowingly have continued to starve your artist purposely and have been extremely unfair to the very same artist that helped u obtain that Icon Award on the iconic Bad Boy label.” The post shed light on longstanding grievances, including Combs retaining Ma$e’s publishing rights from 24 years ago in exchange for a mere $20,000.

In a later interview with The Breakfast Club in 2022, Combs stated that Ma$e owed him $3 million for an album advance that was never received.

Bad Boy Entertainment, founded by Combs in 1993, has enjoyed a storied history in the music industry. The label quickly became successful, with many albums and singles that went gold, platinum, or multiplatinum. The artists included Craig Mack, the Notorious B.I.G., Faith Evans, Ma$e, Total, 112, The LOX, and Diddy himself. Over the years, the label’s illustrious roster has also featured talents like Carl Thomas, Shyne, Dream, Danity Kane, and French Montana. Additionally, it housed an in-house writer/producer collective known as The Hitmen, which included notable figures like the late Chucky Thompson, Stevie J, Deric “D-Dot” Angelettie, and Mario Winans. Recent releases under the Bad Boy banner include Machine Gun Kelly’s 2022 album “Mainstream Sellout” and Janelle Monae’s latest offering, “The Age of Pleasure.”

California Black Media, Ethnic Media Services Host Award Show and Conference

The Ethnic Media Conference Awards and Expo took place at the Kimpton-Sawyer Hotel in downtown Sacramento on Aug. 31. The event celebrated the work of journalists, podcasters, photojournalists, and investigative reporters whose contributions have been published by media outlets serving ethnic audiences across California.

The awards ceremony, sponsored by Ethnic Media Services and California Black Media, recognized winners selected from over 300 entries republished between January 1 and December 31, 2022.

“We had more awards, we had more submissions than ever, and we had judges saying this was the best we’ve ever seen. “Now, that is against the odds of remarkable,” said Sandy Close, Ethnic Media Services (EMS) Executive Director.

In all, 26 writers, communications specialists, educators, playwrights, and publishers from across the state served as the judges. The award categories were: Breaking news, commentaries, explanatory analyses, feature reports, and photography.

The Ethnic Media Conference Awards and Expo was a full day event attended by over 300 journalists, publishers, elected officials, business leaders, and others.

Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber and U.S. Census Director Robert L. Santos opened the conference with messages that underscored the importance and power of ethnic media in California.

“California is the most diverse state in this nation, and it’s reflected in this room,” said Weber. “It’s reflected in our relationships with each other, and it’s reflected in our values. We will always celebrate that.”

California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) Chair Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson (D-Suisun City) and CLBC’s vice chair, Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Inglewood) made appearances at the event. State Controller Malia Cohen was the guest speaker at the awards ceremony and Secretary of Transportation Toks Omishakin participated in a plenary session.

Three plenary sessions were held. The breakout meetings were designed to discuss pressing statewide issues and how to develop public awareness campaigns that resonate with and engage all communities.

Rick L. Callender, the President of the California/ Hawaii NAACP State Conference, spoke on behalf of Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) about how ethnic media covers issues that the mainstream media often overlook.

“If we cannot rely on the ethnic media and the Black

press to do exactly what they are doing, to continue to report on what’s going on out there, or if we cannot partner with the ethnic media in the ways that we have; we won’t have anyone telling our stories. We need a strong, funded ethnic media,” Callender said.

“I know when I was listening to the folks from the state, we talked about the $90 million that was put into the community. Well, that’s excellent but I need to make sure that these dollars are getting to our ethnic media,” Callender added.

The final session before the presentation of awards was a Reporters Roundtable. A diverse group of journalists discussed the challenges of breaking the silence around community taboos and other sensitive issues that sometimes are left uncovered.

Ethnic media outlets are designed to cater to audiences defined by characteristics such as race, ethnic origin, religious affiliation, or gender identity.

Pan-ethnic media outlets target multiple ethnic audiences (such as pan-Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, pan African diaspora, pan-immigrant, pan people-of-color, pan LGBTQ+).

Integrated into the Ethnic Media Conference Awards and Expo was the Stop the Hate Campaign (STH). This campaign facilitates cooperation between leaders of community-based organizations and ethnic media to address inter-ethnic tensions and help communities heal

from hate.

Authorized by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS), the STH program provides funding to qualified nonprofit organizations. These organizations offer support and services to victims and survivors of hate incidents and hate crimes, as well as their families. The program also promotes crime prevention measures.

The sponsors of Ethnic Media Conference Awards and Expo were: Pacific Gas and Electric; BMO; SoCalGas; the California Wellness Foundation; the California Newspapers Publishers Association; Stop the Hate, Spread the Love; and Blue Shield California Foundation.

“Every time we come together like this, representing Black-owned and other Ethnic-owned media in California, we display the power we have to effect change in our communities and in our state government,” said Regina Wilson, Executive Director, California Black Media.

“The work we do in our communities is based on trust we have earned, commitment we have shown and relationships we have built over decades,” Wilson said. “Organizations can’t just show up, slap an ‘ethnic’ name on a media company and claim that they are serving our state’s diverse communities.”

Andy Wong, representing Cynthia Choi, Chinese for Affirmative Action and Stop AAPI Hate, Manjusha Kulkarni, Stop AAPI Hate, Sandy Close, director of Ethnic Media Services, CalOES representative, Yurina Melara, Connie Nakano, California Department of Aging, Chris Holbein RS-E, Jamie Romas California State Library and Regina Wilson, California Black Media. (Photo by Robert Maryland CBM)

Diana Ding, Ding Ding TV, moderated a panel with Maricela Rodriguez, Senior Advisor for Civic Engagement and Strategic Partnerships Office of the Governor, Michelle Bass, director of the Department of Health Care Services, and Susan DeMarios, director of California Department of Aging. (Photo by Robert Maryland CBM)

Martha Diaz-Aszkenazy, the publisher of The San Fernando Valley Sun, moderated the Stop The Hate panel session, (L to R) Becky Monroe, deputy director office of the Civil Rights, Becky Monroe, Deputy Director of Strategic Initiatives and External Affairs, Civil Rights Department, Marcela Ruiz, director of the office of Equity for California Department of Social Services, Helen Zia, Vincent Chin Institute, Rick Callender CA State NAACP President, Tazheen Nizam, executive director CAIR, San Diego and Tuyen Nguyen, Catalyst of San Diego & Imperial Valley. (Photo by Antonio Ray Harvey/ CBM)

Larry Lee, publisher Sacramento Observer moderated a panel discussion with Secretary Amy Tong, Government Operations and Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin. (Photo by Robert Maryland CBM)

Antonio Ray Harvey California BlackMedia

Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber speaks with Rob Santos, Director for the US Census Bureau, at the 2023 Ethnic Media Awards Luncheon. (photo by Robert Maryland/CBM)

California Black Media Political Playback: News You Might Have Missed

Joe W. Bowers Jr. and Edward Henderson California Black Media Gov. Newsom’s New Executive Order Opens Pathway to State Jobs, Higher Pay

On Aug. 31, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed an executive order to improve access to higher paying and more fulfilling careers for students and workers.

The executive order launches the development of a new Master Plan on Career Education designed to prepare students for the workforce of tomorrow, including jobs that don’t require college degrees. Additionally, the executive order directs the state to take further steps to reduce other barriers to state employment.

“All families, students, and workers deserve the freedom to succeed: to build real-life skills and pursue careers — including those that don’t require college degrees,” said Newsom. “California is leveraging billions of dollars in investments to prepare students and workers for good-paying, long-lasting, and fulfilling careers.”

The Master Plan on Career Education aims to create career pathways; prioritize hands-on learning and real-life skills; and advance universal access and affordability for all Californians through streamlined collaboration and partnership between government and the private sector.

The executive order also builds on California’s effort to improve the state’s hiring process. Recognizing that many state jobs do not require four-year college degrees for success in a position, the Governor’s executive order directs

Assemblymember Jones-Sawyer Applauds Passage of Gun Safety Resolution On Aug. 31, the Senate Public Safety Committee voted to pass Senate Joint Resolution (SJR) 7, the Right to Safety Act, legislation that could impact federal gun laws.

“This is not a symbolic gesture,” said Assemblymember Reggie Jones-Sawyer (D-Los Angeles). “This is a push to have a real national conversation on the issue of gun violence in America and do something about these neardaily horrific acts.”

According to the resolution’s language, “The measure would apply to the United States Congress to call a constitutional convention under Article V of the Constitution of the United States for the purpose of

“I am confident that this will be a seamless transition, and that Senator McGuire will continue to guide the Senate and California down a path of success. Senator McGuire has been a key member of my leadership team, a trusted confidant, and time after time, the convener who sets the table to get things done,” she said. “The Senate and the people of California will be in good hands with Senator McGuire as their future leader of the Senate.”

The same day, Senate Republican leader Sen. Brian Jones (R-Santee) announced that Sen. Kelly Seyarto (R-Murrieta) will replace Sen. Janet Nguyen (R-Huntington Beach) as Senate Republican Caucus chair. Nguyen is the first Vietnamese American state legislator in the United States. She is stepping down to run for a seat on the Orange County Board of Supervisors.

“I look forward to working with him on our priorities to fix California. As a retired firefighter, Kelly is a fearless advocate for protecting the public and tackling fentanyl in our communities,” said Jones at a Capitol press briefing.

Anti-LGTBQ Groups Announce Plan to Place Transgender Student Rights on 2024 Ballot

Last week, multiple anti-LGBTQ groups announced an effort to place three initiatives on the November 2024 California ballot aimed at limiting the rights of transgender youth. The initiatives, which need 550,000 valid signatures each to get on the ballot, are an effort to put policies in place that lawmakers have refused to take up with legislation, the activists say.

and Republican Officials Rally Against Crime

On Aug. 31, Republican lawmakers, businessowners, crime victim advocates and law enforcement officials held a rally at the State Capitol demanding an end to policies, in their view, that have made communities around the state less safe.

The rally took place one day ahead of the Appropriations Committee suspense hearing where the fate of several bills the Republican Caucus prioritized was determined for this session.

California Black Media (CBM) will follow up with more coverage on bills that advanced this session and others that have been put on hold.

“Enough is enough – the Legislature needs to stop excusing and enabling the crime wave that’s turning people around the state into victims,” said Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher (R-Yuba City).

“Members of the Appropriations Committee have a choice: double down on the pro-criminal policies that got us into this mess or protect law-abiding Californians. I hope they make the right decision.”

Speakers, including trafficking survivor Dominique Brown, of Breaking the Chains, called on the committee to advance Senate Bill (SB) 14, which would make human trafficking of a minor a serious felony.

“SB 14 is a critical step to protect children and young adults from the horrors of human trafficking,” said Brown. “I hope the passage of SB 14 will make a lasting statement that God’s children are not for sale.”

the California Human Resources Department (CalHR) to evaluate whether a college degree is needed for a particular position whenever its classification is reviewed. CalHR is currently engaged in outreach efforts to help more Californians access state employment.

proposing a constitutional amendment relating to firearms, as specified.

Jones-Sawyer says if SJR is approved by the Legislature, it will give California and other states a chance to fight back against an “activist Supreme Court.”

“Poll after poll shows a majority of Americans want action taken to have gun safety laws in place,” JonesSawyer said. “A Right to Safety Amendment to the U.S. Constitution will do exactly that without impeding on the Second Amendment.”

California Senate Sees Leadership Shifts on Both Sides of the Aisle

Both Democrats and Republicans in the California Senate announced changes in their leadership last week.

Senate Pro Tem Toni Atkins, who made history as the first woman and first LGBTQ+ Californian to hold the Senate’s top job, announced on Aug. 28 that the Democratic Caucus had convened and chosen Sen. Mark McGuire (D-Healdsburg) as the Senate Pro Tem designee. Atkins, who is termed out and must leave the Senate at the end of next year, will step down from her post in January 2024.

One of the initiatives requires that parents be notified if their child identifies as transgender at school. The second would prohibit transgender students from participating on sports teams not aligned with their gender at birth. The third would ban gender-affirming medical care for minors. This includes puberty blockers, hormone therapy and surgery. Similar policies have been put in place in 20 U.S states. Many are currently facing court challenges.

“We need to make sure that the legislation that we’re doing will stand the test of time … and is as robust and appropriate as possible in response to the threats that are out there,” Assemblymember Chris Ward (D-San Diego), vice chair of the California LGBTQ Legislative Caucus, told the San Francisco Chronicle.

Legislation regarding students’ rights to control the disclosure of their identity or sexuality is being considered in the State Legislature. However, a floor vote in the Assembly or Senate is unlikely before lawmakers go on recess Sept. 14.

Another bill, AB 1314, that would require schools to notify parents if their children self-identify as a gender different from the one on the birth certificate is currently under review in the Assembly Education Committee.

Victim Advocates, Business Owners, Law Enforcement

Attendees also rallied to stop other public safety and crime-and-punishment related bills, including SB 553, SB 94, SB 81, and ACA 4.

September Is National Emergency Preparedness Month

The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) has designated September as Emergency Preparedness Month as part of its public awareness campaign on disaster preparedness.

Last week, the Governor’s Office of Emergency of Emergency Services (CalOES) released a number of online toolkits (in 12 languages) to inform state residents about what they can do if faced with a natural disaster.

As the state gets drier, hotter and wetter – and as more and more residents experience extreme weather conditions every year – officials say the information is lifesaving, and preparation for emergencies is a lot simpler than most people think.

For more information on getting prepared visit Listos California.

California Black Media

Every Sunday, I look out at the faces of my congregation, and I am grateful that we have overcome the many challenges we have faced over the past few years. At the same time, I am also reminded of all the beautiful souls we have lost to COVID-19. The pandemic has upended the lives of many in our community, and the residual effects are still being felt.

As pastor of the First African Methodist Episcopal Church of Los Angeles (FAME), the oldest African American church in the city, I have always strived to lead my members to health and prosperity. But nothing could have prepared us for the challenges of the pandemic, which affected every aspect of our church -- from how we conducted services to how we communed with people. But the church leadership and I knew it was our calling to take on COVID-19 and protect our flock. Over the years, we have continued to learn and evolve our approaches to address the overall health, social and educational needs of our parishioners and the larger South LA community.

Although we have made it through the most difficult period of the pandemic, COVID-19 remains a threat to our loved ones, especially Black communities in California who have been disproportionately impacted by the virus.

According to the Los Angeles County Public Health Department, Black residents in Los Angeles County were twice as likely to be hospitalized with COVID-19 as white residents, and one-and-a-half times more likely to die from

the virus. These disparities are unacceptable, and we must work to reduce them.

Now, with COVID-19 vaccines and treatments widely available, we have the tools we need to protect ourselves and our loved ones from serious illnesses and deaths. We can return to doing the things and seeing the people we love.

Our initial focus was to prevent COVID-19 exposure, but sometimes this was not always possible. Now, we are shifting priorities to making sure our members know what to do if they test positive. Although they are free, widely available, and effective, COVID-19 medications have been relatively unknown within my community. We are starting to integrate initiatives to raise awareness around COVID-19 medications into our other long-standing programs to support our community members who test positive. Scientific evidence shows that when COVID-19 medications are taken within the first week of testing positive, they can prevent serious illness, hospitalization, and death by half or more. Timing is crucial as most of the medications must be taken within the first 5 days for symptoms to work.

To address these issues, we have had to overcome many barriers, one of the biggest being my community’s mistrust of the medical system due to generations of racism and mistreatment. We have worked hard to educate about COVID-19 safety and rebuild trust in the medical system.

We have also partnered with other trusted entities and organizations like the University of Southern California

and Jewish congregations to share resources, materials, and knowledge to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. We have made it a priority to educate those close to us about the resources and tools available to stay safe and protect ourselves, including vaccines and treatments.

As COVID-19 remains present in our communities, we continue to step up to protect our community. The good news is that we know what works. Our church has worked to increase awareness, trust, and utilization of COVID-19 services, including hosting teachable Thursdays, that highlight influential medical professionals to discuss vaccination benefits, side effects, and other important information about COVID-19. Additionally, we opened a wellness center to create a welcoming and trusting environment for those in the community, operated by community members to provide necessary services that address COVID-19, such as vaccinations, testing, and education around COVID-19 medications.

We invite and welcome all Angelenos who have questions or need support to come and access these services.

Overcoming challenges that Black communities here in Los Angeles and throughout California have faced due to COVID-19 has not been easy. However, through hard work, listening to our community, and the power of prayer, we have found ways to win over the virus. After all, prayers are powerful, but even more so when paired with COVID-19 medications.

How We Can Protect Our Communities From COVID After the Pandemic Support the Black Community Read the

The Rev. Edgar Boyd is pastor of the First African Methodist Episcopal Church of Los Angeles (FAME), the oldest African American church in the city. Under his leadership, FAME is working to address the health, social and educational needs of parishioners and the surrounding community.

(Shutterstock Photo)

Asm. Reggie Jones-Sawyer (D-Los Angeles), shown at a California Reparations Task Force Meeting on June 29.

Rev. Edgar Boyd

Shedeur Sanders is the third Colorado player (and first offensive honoree) to earn Walter Camp National FBS Player of Week honors since 2004 (Photo: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports)

Sanders and Rucker Earn Walter Camp Award

By Earl Heath

Contributing Sports Writer

In the first big weekend of the College football season Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders and North Carolina’s Kaimon Rucker were named Walter Camp Defensive and Defensive Players of The Week respectively.  Sanders, a junior came out smoking for a new look Colorado team, setting school-record 510 yards and four touchdowns as the Buff a 21-point underdog defeated 17th-ranked TCU, 4542.  Sanders, who completed 38-of-47 passes in the game, led the team to their first win against a ranked opponent since 2019.  The Dallas, Texas native connected with four different CU receivers who totaled over 100 yards each.   Sanders also became the first

player since 1996 to throw for 500+ yards in his FBS debut.

The 6-2, 215pounder is the third Colorado player (and first offensive honoree) to earn Walter Camp National FBS Player of Week honors since 2004, joining former Buffaloes Terrence Wheatley (DB, Oct. 28, 2007) and Nate Landman (LB, Nov. 29, 2020).

On the defensive side it was Rucker who recorded eight tackles (6 solo), including 5.5 tackles for loss, and two quarterback sacks.  North Carolina opened the 2023 season with a 31-17 victory over South Carolina in the Duke’s Mayo Classic. The defense limited the Gamecocks to just 4 of 13 on third-down attempts and 0 of 3 on fourth down. The Tar Heels, who recorded

Bruins Win Opener

By Earl Heath

Contributing Sports Writer UCLA got off to a good start this season with a win over Coastal Carolina. Dante Moore threw two touchdowns in his first collegiate game and UCLA pulled away in the second half for a 27-13 victory at the ROSE Bowl.

Ethan Garbers started the game and led the BRUINS to a touchdown on the first possession after the opening kickoff with a 21-yard scoring pass to tight end Carsen Ryan-that culminated a seven-play, 78-yard drive. It was the sophomore’s first career TD.

Garbers also started the second half and with the first time with the ball he easily drove the team down field.

Garbers though couldn’t generate points in his remaining four possessions. The junior was picked off twice and had a pair of three-and-outs as he went 10 of 17 for 121 yards.  “I’m a little dissatisfied in my performance,” Garbers said. “You try to get the ball to amazing guys and it doesn’t go your way. It was one of those nights.”

Michael Sturdviant had five catches for 136 yards that included a beautiful 62-yard beauty from Moore that sent the crowd of 43,706 to its feet.

“It was just go,” Sturdivant said. “The DB bailed at the snap and I kept running. Dante put a good ball on me and I got in the end zone,”   Moore appeared to be confident under center. His teammates were confident when he was in the game

The freshman from Detroit came into the game in the second quarter and completed 7 of 12 passes for 143 yards with an interception. He’s the first five-star recruit during Chip Kelly’s six seasons in Westwood, he directed

the Bruins to scores in four of his six drives.

“All my life, I’ve worked and always been the starter, ”said the 18-year-old. “In high school, coming in as a true freshman I always took the first snaps and always started the first drive, through the hard work Garbs [Ethan Garber] put in, he earned the start – congratulations to him – but really when my chance got called and being in college football, going on the field and always taking a deep breath and appreciating the moment. I prayed about this, and I’m blessed to be here.”  The BRUINS had the edge in total yards 417 to 345 thanks to 153 rushing yards, compared to just 56 by Coastal Carolina. Carson Steele (13) carries, and TJ Harden (11) carries both rushed for 76 yards to lead UCLA.

The defense struggled a bit but forced turnovers on three of its final six drives by CC. The Bruins were also the first team to pick off Chanticleer QB Grayson McCall twice in a game. John Humphrey of Muir high got his first career interception.   McCall — the three-time Sun Belt Conference Offensive Player of the Year — had only eight interceptions in 35 games in his first four seasons, including only two last year.

It’s the third straight season-opening win by UCLA and the third straight opener in which it has limited the opponent under the 20-point mark. Darius Muasau led the team in tackles with nine (7 solo).

“I’m really pleased. Coach [Craig] Naivar and the defensive staff had a really good plan together,” said Kelley . “Our players played really hard, played really well, never quit, kept fighting and made plays when they had to.”

17 sacks in the entire 2022 season, more than halved that total in the first game of the 2023 campaign with nine.   Rucker led a Tar Heel defense that tallied nine sacks and limited South Carolina to -2 yards rushing.

The Hartwell, Georgia native was the seventh Tar Heel player has earned Walter Camp National Player of the week honors since 2004. He is the first Tar Heel defensive POW honoree since DE Kareem Martin (Nov. 17, 2013).  UNC (1-0) improved to 12-3 under Mack Brown as head Coach.

“The defense stepped up and they played so hard tonight and so tough. We knew they’d be much better ... This is a great start for us,” Brown stated.

About Walter Camp-, “The Father of American football,” first selected an All-America team in 1889. Camp – a former Yale University athlete and football coach – is also credited with developing play from scrimmage, set plays, the numerical assessment of goals and tries and the restriction of play to eleven men per side. The Walter Camp Football Foundation (www. waltercamp.org, @WalterCampFF) – a New Haven-based allvolunteer group – was founded in 1967 to perpetuate the ideals of Camp and to continue the tradition of selecting annually an All-America team.

USC Rolls Over Nevada

Caleb Williams threw for 319 yards and connected with Tahj Washington for two of his five touchdown passes, leading No. 6 USC Football to a 66-14 victory over Nevada.

By Earl Heath

Contributing Sports Writer

The Walter Camp Player of the Year and Heisman winner also had Zachariah Branch, Michael Jackson III and Brenden Rice catch TD passes for the Trojans (2-0), who followed up their blowout of San José State with another rout of a Mountain West opponent at the Coliseum.

USC’s 668 yards were its most under coach Lincoln Riley and its 66 points matched the highest-scoring game of his ten.

Williams passed for 258 yards and four TDs on just 15 completions as the Trojans 2-0 built a 35-7 halftime lead. He finished 18 of 24 while also rushing for 42 yards and adding another array of remarkable escapes and pinpoint completions to his collection.

“He’s the best quarterback in the country,” said Nevada head coach Ken Wilson. “You can make good calls and he’ll make you miss or make a play. Several times, we had him on blitzes and adjustments where we had guys free and he’s able to slide and throw it to an open guy and let his players make plays. A couple of times, he got out of the pocket and we tried to get him out of bounds and he threw for big gains there.”

South Carolina transfer MarShawn Lloyd had 76 yards rushing and 59 yards receiving, while freshmen Quinten Joyner and Duce Robinson scored their first career touchdowns in the

fourth quarter.

Brendon Lewis passed for 182 yards for the Wolf Pack (0-1), who scored on their opening drive before giving up 45 consecutive points. Freshman AJ Bianco threw a 77-yard touchdown pass to Jamaal Bell on his first career pass attempt during the fourth quarter for Nevada.

On the defensive side Stanley Ta’Ufo’ou had a standout play. The senior picked up a fumble after a Braylan Shelby sack and ran 23 yards for a TD that put USC up 51- 7 with just over 12 minutes left in the game/

The Troojan defense gave up just 49 rushing yards on 38 carries while missing Mason Cobb and Eric Gentry who both were on the sideline. Shane Lee led all tacklers with nine including a sack.

Freshman LB Tackett Curtis was ejected for targeting 5 minutes into the second quarter.  The Many, Louisiana native had to sit out the second half but should be good to go this week against Stanford.

“I’m proud of both sides (of the ball),” Riley said. “A few plays here and there that we’re going to want back, that we know we have to continue to clean up, but we took a step this week.”

Next Up: The Trojans will host Stanford beginning PAC-12 play Saturday at the Coliseum.

Kaimon Rucker (Courtesy Photo)

Stanley Ta’Ufo’ou (47) scores after scooping up fumble caused by freshman Braylan Shelby sack. (Photo: Sara Media)

J.Michael Sturdivant had five catches for 136 yards and one touchdown (62-yard strike from Dante Moore)

From Awkward Pauses to Open Dad and Daughter Dialogues

By Brittinae Phillips

I still remember the awkward silence that filled the room when I first asked my father about relationships. It’s a silence that many of us might be familiar with. As students gear up for another school year amidst the flurry of preparations, topics that often remain shrouded in silence are healthy relationships and sex.

Growing up, my mother was the primary source of information on relationships and sex, which is still a common trend. We had in-depth conversations on birth control, consent, and respect between partners. However, when I began having sexual relationships, my mother’s disappointment made further discussions challenging. My father took a less active role in all these discussions, though he did his best. I wish I could have openly discussed more about sex, relationships, and love with both parents growing up, especially my father. Having a male perspective may have given me a different outlook on relationships and provided insight into how some guys think.

Many parents express discomfort discussing sex and relationships, often hoping their kids abstain from both until adulthood. Yet the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Youth Risk Behavior Survey data reveals that 34% of Black high school students have engaged in sexual activities. It may be tempting to avoid these “awkward” conversations before they return to schools and campuses, but as kids’ most trusted resource, parents should be committed to sharing their values while understanding that their kids will make their own choices.

Recently, there has been growing recognition of the importance of fathers being more actively engaged in open, supportive discussions that build strong bonds with their children, particularly their daughters. Through my work with parents and teens, I know that father figures who don’t shy away from talks about relationships, periods, and birth control build stronger ties with their daughters.

According to Ohio State University research (2018), young women who reported healthy relationships with their fathers were less likely to become clinically depressed, anxious, develop eating disorders, or be dissatisfied with their appearance. Here are a few ways to normalize questions, concerns, and curiosities about sex and relationships.

Dad and Daughter Dynamics

Offer a male perspective. When your daughter asks questions about flirting, affection, or desire, topics she is definitely talking about with her peers, dads should give honest advice without judgment. Remember, this is a test of trust – your daughter wants to know that she can rely on you rather than you reacting to her behavior.

Build her confidence. Dads who get defensive or overprotective about their daughters’ relationships could eat away at any confidence-building efforts from both parents. Instead of resorting to threats like “If he hurts you, I’ll hurt him!”, help your daughter set boundaries and explore her feelings for someone while letting her know you will always support her. Be appropriately transparent about your own relationship. Dads can talk all day about how a man should treat a woman, but daughters often choose partners based on what’s modeled by their parents. Be sure your daughter sees and hears your care and affection toward your partner.

While maintaining an open dialogue with both parents is crucial, having a father figure can positively influence a daughter’s self-esteem and perspective on healthy relationships, including sexual behavior. However, it’s essential to remember that you’re not alone in navigating these topics. Healthy families can come in various forms, from single parents to same-sex couples, grandparents, or other guardians. The key is the willingness of any parent or guardian to engage in conversations about sex and relationships, as this plays a pivotal role in nurturing a wellinformed, confident, and healthy adult. Reach out to your local health department or family physician to answer your questions or concerns. You can also access a wealth of free, fact-based information on various topics by visiting https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/parents

Brittinae Phillips is the Community Education Manager for Planned Parenthood Los Angeles’ Black Health Initiative, managing community outreach and education for parents, college students, and youth

Georgia Republicans Seek Action Against DA

By Stacy M. Brown

NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

Fani Willis in Trump Indictment Fallout

Georgia’s political landscape remains ablaze as Republicans in the state explore avenues to address District Attorney Fani Willis’ recent indictment of former President Donald Trump and 18 other defendants. The controversy has ignited a fierce debate over the intersection of politics and the judiciary.

State Senate Majority Leader Steve Gooch, a prominent Republican figure, revealed to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution that Senate GOP leaders are considering legislative hearings to examine whether Willis is exercising her authority for political gains. This move comes after her expansive racketeering indictment, which has shaken the foundations of Georgia’s legal landscape and threatens to turn the 2024 presidential race on its head. Gooch emphasized that Senate Bill 92, a recently enacted law allowing a state panel to investigate and remove prosecutors found to be acting improperly, could serve as a potent tool for Trump’s allies to scrutinize Willis’s utilization of public resources.

“We believe she is definitely tainted,” Gooch asserted. “She’s politicizing this, and we want to make sure these people get a fair trial and a fair shake.”

The Republican initiatives represent only a fraction of a

broader effort by Trump’s allies within Georgia and Congress to retaliate against Willis and other high-profile prosecutors handling Trump’s ongoing criminal cases. The twice-impeached and four-time indicted Trump faces 91 felony charges across four jurisdictions related to his 2020 loss to Joe Biden and his alleged mishandling of classified documents. Earlier this year, a civil jury found Trump responsible for sexually assaulting an author and journalist decades ago.

Well-known Georgia Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has urged the House Judiciary Committee to investigate Willis’ office’s funding from federal sources and any potential coordination with White House officials. Greene has even floated the idea of a state-level inquiry into Willis’s actions. Meanwhile, U.S. Rep. Andrew Clyde, also from Georgia, is planning to leverage an upcoming appropriations bill to cut federal funding for Willis, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, and federal special counsel Jack Smith, who have spearheaded the pending legal actions against Trump. However, Gooch quickly acknowledged that there were limitations to the Republican efforts to reprimand Willis. He, along with other party leaders, condemned a petition by firstterm Republican state Senator Colton Moore that aimed to force a special legislative session for the impeachment of the district attorney. Such an action would necessitate support from three-

fifths of the legislature, including Democratic members.

“We want to make sure we calm down, we look at this stuff deliberately, and we do it in a mature way,” Gooch explained, underscoring the need for a measured approach. He added that he has repeatedly engaged in discussions with Moore, urging him to refrain from derogatory remarks about fellow Republicans. “There’s a lot of angry people in this state on both sides of this issue,” Gooch told the newspaper. “But there’s still a majority of the Republican base who feel like there was fraud in the 2020 election, and they don’t feel like it was completely vetted properly and investigated. And that’s why a lot of these people are still upset today. They don’t feel like they were heard. And I think Colton Moore resonates with those people, and they support what he’s saying, but maybe not the way he’s saying it and the way he’s conducting himself in the chamber.”

In contrast, Moore remains unwavering and unapologetic. He insists that his GOP colleagues should be incensed about the indictment of fellow Senator Shawn Still, who was among those charged in the Georgia indictment. Still maintains his innocence, asserting that he did nothing wrong when he served as a fraudulent GOP elector. “To hear that I need to tone it down when I’m encouraging my colleagues to do their legislative duty is absolutely ridiculous,” Moore countered. “And I hope the people of Georgia see what’s going on.”

In a recent appearance on Steve Bannon’s podcast, Moore issued a stark warning about the potential consequences if Willis’s prosecution is not defunded. “I don’t want a civil war. I don’t want to have to draw my rifle. I want to make this problem go away with my legislative means of doing so,” Moore stressed. Willis, a Democrat, made history as Fulton County’s first female District Attorney and assumed office following a landslide victory over six-term incumbent Paul Howard. She has pledged the restoration of integrity to the district attorney’s office while addressing a backlog of cases. Willis’s career has seen her transition from the private sector to the role of assistant district attorney for Fulton County in 2001. She gained widespread recognition as a lead prosecutor in the Atlanta Public Schools cheating scandal, securing convictions in a case that dated back to 2001, resulting in elevated statewide test scores.

In 2018, Willis worked in private practice specializing in criminal defense and family law, focusing on representing fathers in child custody and support battles. Her election campaign against Howard came when he faced misconduct allegations, including financial mismanagement and sexual harassment. Despite initial reluctance, Willis’s friends said she embraced the challenge, “motivated by her conviction that it was a call from a higher power.”

(Photo: ©Monkey Business via Canva.com)