VALLEY'S 1.2.20 4C

e

n han ooper. an-American q ruple death rowuad The allegeddcuffs and ha New inmate incident wa Cooper’s 1som’s decision could F lo ri making ouda Today reports t Hills famil 985 conviction in lead to the overtu t. y th rning of and their 1 e killing of Enough Of Authorities say t has the 1-y a ru Your Love” Californiapnotential, some polieatir-old house guest. ral Chino and a s.

Th cal watcher s say, to de case Both the C ivide aliforn and more an a dozenia and United States past appeath lower court su p re ls. s have reject me courts “I take no p ed Cooper’s osition regar nocence at about the h this time,” Newsodming Mr. Cooper’s g uilt igh-profile said in his terest. N ca executive oor inse free 2. When you see a photo or ad with the Observer 1. Get for downloading that hby Yothe as rk Tapp d rder ra Sen. Kamew im w n inte es’Play colum rn al at Interactive logo scan over the whole photo with your it from Google or The Apple App a io n is H n al t ar N in ri ic have all ca lled for res -tand reality TV starholas Kristof, U.S.tablet or smartphone. forensic Store es K ting using im technology.

SUL current, m Kardashian The ACLU gorilla suitPHUR, La. (AP) – P o re sensitive and other h groups hav mattress befbroke into a Louisiaol o n a deeper in e also urged Califuoman rights and soci Serving the San Fernando News ouretl officers arrested ha ves gation rnia state o al et into Cooper fficials to lajustice s Gov. Newtiso sp quote Sulp okesm M Valley for Over 35 Years unch ’s con m’s hu tion issu el Estes in officers saan Thursday by formerorder Friday expandviction. w Je test four ed re m s G ie p co o M re v. st v o p u io Je ra me. ey h n walkin lowed an ieces of crime scen rry Brown in D us direcad received son lookinTh ember to calls a g into hom an orangealysts to perform DNe evidence. Brownec es.

Estes says prosecutorstowel; and the hanA re-testing on a t’sanorder al- bo M ora proached b dle and sh dies in the say Cooper T-shirt; ut was disncoran into a eath Ry In th new u charges incl vered investigatseiod in the murders. of a hatchet Joshua Ryen, theen’s home with a total u d of hair frois try, meth p ing resisting an hidin v n w o ic m , f o ti an 1 u th m 4 n al 3 e s’ d y v st o st o 8 offic ictims’ han ss sion an ab n his throat -y r-old so button Co ds, blood ssawill look at strands tack. d In Louisiaes oper’s atto . He was ea n, sufferedwounds. ing in the San Bern tigators pla na, a persowearing a m the only su mples and rney Norm th ar a e d in sl in al as p le o h u g C b n at n li o te a io s Cooper rvivor of th unty are n c an Hile m After Coop d at the sc green nvicte Angeles most. Excecan be sentencedco ain ins in e at- D.A.’s officen t surprised en to thre . Many of’s attorneys are moak ptions are al ves- legally stayed in eras’s jail break, inves about vestigatioCnounty Superior Coeuof the crime. A ta ra ci h al o in li ti th b lo re al days like H gators foun house next g out th iases and d em . so y they wed for li tire rt judge wil ei d, e il- complaints iscriminatio frequently compab d fo g l oversee thd Los familsa Coo er, 61 It’s unclearalloween and Marre lain aboutr y’s station uwnd evidence in thoeor to the victims. hTh are handle n e in, has main in years. Hispla di G th if g e an w M m d R g ay . o ag en y ta ey Ju p ra en o th ro t. in n st n ’s w ei se ed h la th h r y cu For some, G as a lawy o e and in st ers hope th at tied Coo ca

by Gov. N e results ohfis innocence over th ov. Newsom per to themm the under pressuretor Michael Selyem,month, a San Bernarses or ewsom, w the case Newspapers the re-testin for making w d hel7p pro ’s e oinf g in Group u Volume 35 Number

Observer of Southern California Thursday, January 2, 2020 in h o h rd o o o rd ic n er is h is er s. so W b co

to ci ei v u h e al m ng met wit b aden D g ordered cr ld ke sev ite, their client’ the murder him. h ismay. ro er A test- chelle Obamedia. His insults taurgde and racist and co resigned s innocenta The lone N ce and final months, will porters of the sRJoshua Ryen anddfa mments et a, ed U ,S fo su B . rm R la In 1985, a rv ep. Maxine ck shooting ally exoner er First Lad ivor yens and H mily, friend they are dis San Diego at W v on four cou s u e ic at g ap an ti h er m es pointed wit d s and an un y Mi“Unfortun h the goverall across the statesup- Los AThomas R. Parker., named 26 and an nts of murder. ACt ounty jury convicte at el sa n a n o y, fo y fo g r’ eles office, rmer deputy cord - incluescaped prison inmthe time of his arre d Cooper n r justice in this caseover time it seems s decision. b el h ie ea Th v es ooper. d of the FB is guy is in o District st, he was e victims’ d in Pennsylv ding several burglaate. His lengthy crim I’s Attorney Jamatters less and leth nocent,” C esire “The evidence “Prior DN ries and the ania – did ss,” San Ber he told the in so al n re A w n as A d o n te er p n o n Cooper, form rape of a m st la so N t help his ca ar th in n ew n d te e g icl sa d st th ai Y , id an o at m h rk d.” e was fram in ed ould ex Mr. Cooper inor se. erly named in 1958 ed, the copTimes.

What has k onerate him sought, agarestatement. per’s guilw s lied t.” months onldear Pittsburgh, PenRichard Goodman, ep h ed av t a to th e fe al e d an er l ca d confirmed al appellate se going nsylvania. was born Yet persuas During his , he was adopted an M an W ec co r. d u h u C iv ti en C rt ooon and re ie e argumen ’s o he was six monies and LAKE FOR and he spenchildhood, his par d renamed Kevin ts ased on w the casedecision in 2004 tooper alive - is Gov. Newvso EST, Calif. ents physica is recoverin w stay his exCooper. reasonable qualeslegations of evidenbce t a good p co it h n fl m ic juvenile det o ti m re n D ’s g sc ar P) – O ci

N ll d te ti ie t ta y ec A o n st o m n ab ti is if g te s p fi io at ad u ab st er yon road in g after being stru(A a mental h ention centers. In olescence living sed him at ors used to nail Co out the methods ing, keep raising Californ ing comes early n to allow anoth c evidence. ck by a pffi Southern C in ea er ta 1 an in ia olic o 9 ck lt p d G se 8 ro th er h 2 , st o v . u , e L fa al er an v o Th n C er ag ifornia. ries cility in Pen te of th al d of California. d o n re u e progress nsylvania obper escaped from three attackerin sworn testimony,e weapons were usedinvesti- have high expectatioor whose supporterrm the Orangnea Beach Police Offi iv s e o s ce efore movin n Jo During his C in n w shua Ryen ho were W the politica NA test g s. someone’s p ounty Register h r Thomas g to could have been H murder tria said he sathwe solve “D l Left gued that e itially th should imm et when th the Ryen in ispanic. hite. He later testified l, prosecuto F eb. 19.

F u e cat dartein ed rt h ia Ryen, theirCooper killed husban ca er te that they Chiang sa se and final rs successfu complicatin ly take pla d in front an FROM THE

1 d n 0 id am -y an ll ly ce g y d ea d M th ed en u to ar rw ri e cGuire says neighbor C D sure justice o ng the cam re- th rosecutions’ that DNA hristopherld daughter Jessica ifane Doug and Peggy belonging toiana Roper came foprw w p is h ev ai e cl en se g an id ai n. “Not on rvVALLEY’S he got out im ed,” al was OBSERVER her former Hughes. Po d NEWS d with bloo ms, a wom- but testing in thence can help law en to chec boyfriend ar lice foundan 11-year-old inal. She turned Animal Cobigger than a house dy clothing is case wou forcemently is it proven w th the bloodie E h n o d cat. e v tr es so w ld en ev o to tr as lv l idence over co oyed it. o th an e a violent cr ffi m cr o ce u an e im d g rs at im h es to the poli - is bold, he is tread Newsom’s decisio no cost to the stat , trauma. al hospital, where rushed the ble African Am ce, but thim e.” n in the C ing carefu issue that it was diagn ericans, His ey ose panics and watching. California voters acllroy on a potentially opoper case sh Dr. Kristi Krause other mino H e , o ss a e is keepin ex la v th ri p et ec zi e er n p rities liv- C ts in g o th li tica g his focus back into th e 11-pound (5-k arian, tells th ontinued trum ar on fairnesl sspecSACRAMENTO, ilogratraon page A e w – California’s (AP) m) t to after it regailong and justicee 2 MCA cGuire vilisditlegislation ns strengca dition of advancing continues thatnation-leading ed th. th if e he sereining boeconomy, bcat on Fri es it agaiinn,the gig into the new year, with laws d he’ll issu e a tick boosting online privacy and discouraging shootings byet foray. ja police, among other potential trend-setters.

The laws have sent businesses including Uber, Lyft and Google scrambling, not to mention President Donald Trump.

The state dominated by Democrats has delighted in tweaking the Republican president on immigration and other issues, though legislation requiring Trump to reveal his tax returns backfired when the California Supreme Court unanimously ruled it unconstitutional.

Some of the higher-profile new laws taking effect Jan. 1 include: GIG ECONOMY California is making it harder for many industries to treat workers like contractors instead of employees who are entitled to minimum wage and other benefits such as workers compensation. The Legislature carved out certain exemptions after the state “Our dad, Dr. Herbert Oye (fourth from left), is a Nigerian immigrant. Upon moving to the United States, he attended medical school and has worked tirelessly Supreme Court ruled in favor of workers at the delivery to build his own Vascular Surgery practice,” the young physicians wrote in a statement on Facebook. company Dynamex in 2018.

The California Trucking Association and two assoBy Stacy M. Brown Perhaps, most impressive is that each of Dr. Oye’s four icine Resident.” ciations representing freelance journalists and photogNNPA Newswire Senior Correspondent children followed in their father’s footsteps.

Each are attending or have attended the West Virginraphers have already sued on behalf of their members.

Dr. Herbert Oye is a Board Certified Endovascular David, Monique, Michelle, and Melissa Oye, each ia School of Medicine. Monique, the eldest of the family, The ride-sharing company Uber has said it will defend and Vascular Surgeon, specializing in invasive and non-in- said they were inspired by their father and all have become graduated in 2018. Michelle is in her fourth year, while its current model from legal challenges. And Uber, Lyft vasive treatment of vascular diseases. doctors.

Melissa is in her third year. and DoorDash have said they’ll spend $30 million to Dr. Oye received his medical degree at the University “Our dad, Dr. Herbert Oye, is a Nigerian immigrant.

David, the only son of Dr. Oye, is in his second year. overturn the law at the ballot box in 2020 if they don’t of North Texas Health Science Center, according to his Upon moving to the United States, he attended medical Their success has social media buzzing. win concessions from lawmakers. official biography. school and has worked tirelessly to build his own Vascular “Sending congratulations to your amazing family of ONLINE PRIVACY The nation’s most sweeping His General Surgery residence was performed at Wy- Surgery practice,” the young physicians wrote in a state- wonderful world citizens,” Kathryn Stollmeyer Wright, data privacy law takes effect with the new year. The law ckoff Heights Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY, an affiliate ment on Facebook. wrote on Facebook. passed in 2018 requires companies to tell consumers of Albert Einstein Medical Center.

“Dad has since opened a hospital back in Nigeria and Another Facebook user, Patricia Combs, wrote: “Well what data they collect about them, why it was collected Dr. Oye completed his fellowship training in ad- splits his time between the United States and Nigeria. We done. Congratulations for excellence in your drive, motivaand who sees it. Consumers can refuse to let companies vanced vascular and endovascular surgery at the Arizona are all currently in the medical field as a second, third, and tion, and ability to accomplish such great and momentous sell that data, and companies are barred from selling Heart Institute in Phoenix, Arizona. fourth year medical student and a first year Internal Med- feat. You all are wonderful and blessed,” Combs stated. data from children younger than 16 without consent.

Facebook and other technology and internet giants have been heavily criticized for sharing, selling or targeting personal information that customers thought was private. The San Francisco developer who pushed for the law, Alastair Mactaggart, is now advancing a 2020 ballot measure to protect the law by creating a new state agency to enforce the privacy protections and requiring

By Lauren Victoria Burke greater protections for users under age 16 to opt in.

NNPA Newswire Contributor POLICING Two new laws together give Califor“I am going to fight it,” read a statement from Rep. nia one of the nation’s most comprehensive approaches John Lewis on the evening of December 29. to deterring shootings by police. One changes the legal “I may miss a few votes during this period, but with standard for when police can use deadly force, while the God’s grace I will be back on the front lines soon,” he addcompanion law increases officers’ training on how to ed. Lewis announced on the last week of 2019 that he has handle confrontations. been diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer.

California’s old standard was based on the doctrine The news sent shock waves through the political comof “reasonable fear,” meaning they were unlikely to face charges for even questionable uses of lethal force if prosmunity on the left and right and prompted many to reflect ecutors or jurors believed officers had a reason to fear on what Lewis’ life has added to American history. for their safety. The new law allows police to use deadly “While I am clear-eyed about the prognosis, doctors force only when “necessary” to defend against an imhave told me that recent medical advances have made this minent threat of death or serious injury to officers or type of cancer treatable in many cases, that treatment opbystanders. But it doesn’t define necessary. tions are no longer as debilitating as they once were, and HAIR DISCRIMINATION California becomes that I have a fighting chance,” Lewis continued in his statethe first state to bar workplace and school discriminament. tion against black people for wearing hairstyles such as The Georgia Congressman and civil rights icon was braids, twists and locks. The new law says hairstyles are associated with race and therefore protected against disfirst elected to Georgia’s Fifth Congressional District crimination. in 1986. In a year that sadly saw the end of the lives of Federal courts have historically ruled that unlike Congressional Black Caucus co-founder John Conyers characteristics such as race, hair can be changed, so there of Michigan and revered Baltimore Congressman Elijah are no grounds for discrimination complaints based on Cummings, Lewis’ diagnosis was particularly jarring. hairstyle. The California law says “race’’ also includes At a time when the country is in need of moral au“traits historically associated with race.’’ thority many reflected on the diagnosis as a wake-up call.

The issue came to wide public attention a year ago “John Lewis is one of our great American heroes who when a black high school wrestler in New Jersey was reshaped our American Dream into one billions more, at told by a referee that he had to cut off his dreadlocks if he wanted to compete. home and abroad, finally felt included them also. His is a VACCINATIONS State public health officials have priceless gift which leaves us forever in his debt. It’s been new tools to crack down on doctors who write fraudsaid that honest public service is the rent we pay to live in ulent medical exemptions for schoolchildren’s vaccinaAmerica. He pays his rent better than most everyone else tions, after the most emotionally charged legislative deand, hopefully, will remain in Congress long after he beats bate of the year repeatedly drew hundreds of supporters this cancer, no easy thing as he knows. His guts as a college and opponents to the Capitol. student inspired me to integrate the campus elective poliOfficials can investigate doctors who grant more tics of my college and later to help Wilder when no one else than five medical exemptions in a year and schools with in VA who looked like me would. In a country struggling The LBJ Foundation honors Congressman John Dingell and Senator Carl Levin with the LBJ Liberty & Justice vaccination rates under 95%, the threshold that experts for All Award at Newseum in Washington, D.C on November 18, 2014. Special guests included Congresssay means a population is resistant to a disease like meato make Dr. King’s a reality for so many far too long, we man John Lewis, Admiral William H. McRaven, and Senator Jack Reed. The Master of Ceremonies was Bob sles.

Schieffer.

(Photo: LBJ Library, Photo by Emily Clack / Wikimedia Commons) Continued on page A2 It includes a phase-out period for existing medical exemptions similar to one allowed when California eliminated personal belief vaccine exemptions in 2015.

For instance, a kindergartner with an exemption can retain it through sixth grade, while a seventh-grader can be exempted through high school.

RENT CONTROL Landlords will be barred from raising yearly rent prices by more than 5% plus the cost of inflation under a new law that drew supporters who OAKLAND, CA (AP) – A judge has in a series of evaluations. The judge said he said they can no longer afford the state’s soaring housing ruled that a 29-year-old parolee with a history understood Cowell has a history of mental costs. Landlords also won’t be allowed to evict someone of mental illness is mentally fit to stand trial illness but that doctors who had previously without a reason or refuse to rent to someone solely befor the slaying of a woman on an Oakland examined him felt he was “malingering’’ to cause they have a federal Section 8 housing voucher. subway platform. avoid standing trial.

Gov. Gavin Newsom called it the “strongest packAlameda County Superior Court Judge The judge recessed the hearing, saying age in America,’’ though the restriction follows Oregon’s James Cramer said Tuesday that John Lee he needed 24 hours to reach his decision. He slightly higher statewide rent cap. A previous law still Cowell will face trial starting in January for announced his ruling Tuesday. bans local governments from adopting their own rent the unprovoked stabbing death of 18-yearWilson’s death was one of several violent control policies, though opponents want to overturn old Nia Wilson in July 2018, KPIX-TV re- or fatal attacks on Bay Area Rapid Transit that restriction with a 2020 ballot measure. ported.

(BART) lines that connect San Francisco to CHILD SEX ASSAULT California is joining severCowell has been charged with murder the cities of Berkeley, Oakland and others. al other states in giving adults who were sexually assaultand attempted murder for the attack on BART has announced new safety meaed as children more time to sue, a measure expected to Wilson and her sister, Letifah, 26, who was sures and installed thousands of security camtrigger multitudes of new lawsuits against the Catholic wounded in the attack. eras as part of an effort to increase safety. church, Boy Scouts of America and other organizations.

The trial had been in legal limbo as auProsecutors have said they will seek a life The law gives victims of childhood sex abuse until thorities sought to determine Cowell’s mental sentence against Cowell and are investigating age 40 to sue, up from the current age 26. It alternately competence. if he was motivated by racial hate when he gives adults five years to sue after discovering they sufAt a hearing Monday, Cramer said Cow- killed Wilson. The women are black, and he fered psychological or other damages from a sexual as18-year-old Nia Wilson was ell was not cooperating with doctors appoint- is white.

John Lee Cowell will face trial sault, whichever is later. And it gives victims three years stabbed to death in an attack on ed last month to evaluate him, for the latest starting in January for the unproto file past claims that missed earlier deadlines. her and her sister. voked stabbing death.

Welcome to Observer Interactive

Deeper Content. Pictures Move. Ads Talk. Live Shopping.

Man in Go Breaks in r Hides UndH e

News Observer The Valley’s

Family of Black Doctors

Free!

Bobcat Re After Beincove Police Car g Hi

Has Social Media Buzzing

New CA Laws

Civil Rights Icon Cancer Diagnosis I am Going to Fight It!” “

Parolee will Face Murder Trial in Stabbing

A2

THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER

Thursday, January 2, 2020

World & Nation

Changes to the Community Reinvestment Act Community Reinvestment Act Changes Expected to Benefit Low and Moderate Income Communities

By Christopher G. Cox Publisher and Managing Editor, www.realesavvy.com Proposed changes to the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) could lead to greatly enhanced investment in low- and moderate-income (LMI) communities around the country, according to Grovetta N. Gardineer, senior deputy comptroller for Bank Supervision Policy with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC).

The OCC is soliciting comments on a proposal to modernize the CRA by clarifying what counts, updating where activity counts, measuring performance more objectively, and making reporting more timely and transparent.

“The CRA has a very noble goal of making sure banks meet their responsibility for lending, investing in and servicing communities where they do business, with a focus on low- and moderate-income individuals and areas,” Gardineer said. “The statute remains a noble goal, but the implementation is outdated and, in many ways, ineffective.”

The CRA was enacted in 1977 as a direct response to redlining, an unethical practice whereby banks and other lending institutions made it extremely difficult, if not impossible, for residents of poor, inner-city communities to borrow money, get a mortgage, take out insurance or access other financial services. Redlining did not take into consideration an individual’s qualifications or creditworthiness.

Gardineer explains that a primary reason the CRA needs updating is because the banking industry has changed fundamentally in the more than 40 years since it was implemented. “Among other things,” Gardineer adds, “we did not have the internet in 1977, and interstate branching was not available.

“Banks were limited to where they had branches or where their home office was located, so they had a com-

The OCC hopes stakeholders will carefully review the proposed changes and submit comments so that a final rule can be issued in the first half of 2020. (Photo: iStockphoto / NNPA)

pletely geographical approach,” she continued. “With all of the tremendous technological advancements in recent

years, banks now offer products and services across the country regardless of geography.”

The OCC hopes stakeholders will carefully review the proposed changes and submit comments so that a final rule can be issued in the first half of 2020.

Noting that the new CRA rules would fight displacement and harmful gentrification – a high priority in many minority communities – Gardineer points out that the OCC is making a concerted effort to work closely with such organizations as the NAACP and the National Urban League.

To that end, OCC has invested the time to meet with thousands of concerned individuals “discussing the issues that need to be addressed.” Meetings are currently scheduled with Derrick Johnson, president and CEO of the NAACP, and Marc Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League. Another recent outreach effort to solicit public input included an Atlanta bus tour with Ambassador Andrew Young.

There are still too many underserved communities in the U.S. that are “CRA desserts,” Gardiner notes. “No matter what their geographical footprint, we want banks to be able to offer a broad array of services to communities and individuals throughout the nation.

“Given the wide spectrum of individuals who we know will benefit from this rule making process,” Gardiner said, “it is particularly important to the Comptroller to make sure that we spread a wide net, that we make ourselves available and that we share our vision.

“We have really worked hard over the past two years,” she concluded, “closing a loophole that allowed wealthy people to get CRA credit for investing in LMI areas. That is not what CRA was ever intended to do. And that is being directly responsive to some of the feedback we have been receiving.”

Separate, Unequal, and Dismal: Urban League Rekindles Leaders’

Commitments to Improve Public Schools enrolled in public schools attend “D” or “F” rated schools.

“We will also be the first to admit that we are not where we want to be, but we are committed to the ongoing communication and collaboration with key partners that will be essential in moving our schools forward,” Smith said.

“The inequities that economically disadvantaged students and students of color are facing is concerning but we now have information analyzed in a way that allows us to begin addressing it,” said Judy Reese Morse, president and CEO of the Urban League of Louisiana. She encouraged Baton Rouge leaders to “use the findings to work toward building an education system that serves all students equitably.”

In a school district that is under a federal desegregation order, commitment and action towards academic equity are critical, especially as Baton Rouge faces more segregation.

“This report is a great rallying call for us. It’s important that we continue as an education community to This report comes a week secessionists voted to come together and have honest conversations and dialogue,” said Dana Peterson, deputy superintendent after incorporate the city of St. of external affairs for the Recovery School District. (Photo: iStockphoto / NNPA) George in an effort motivated mainly by the desire Posted By Jozef Syndicate ethnicity. Also, less than 50% of Hispanic students earn to form a separate, majority The Drum Newspaper any form of diploma or credential while 36.7% of white white school district.

The Urban League of Louisiana released an equity re- students earned a diploma with an Advanced credential, “Louisiana and local school districts are putting themport examining the quality of Baton Rouge public schools compared to 6.1% for Black students. (These findings were selves at a disadvantage by failing to properly address segand identifying gaps in outcomes, access, and excellence. compiled from publicly available information at www.Lou- regation in public schools,” wrote LBP. “It is time we have Calling the findings “dismal” and “concerning,” sev- isianaBelieves.com) a genuine discussion about what it takes to ensure every eral education stakeholders were present at the McKinley According to Adam Smith, East Baton Rouge Schools’ child has access to quality education.”

Alumni Center for a press conference and panel discussion associate superintendent of schools, the district has made Education reform leader Lisa Delpit, Ph.D., said into present data from the Advancing Educational Equity for “significant gains.” These gains include a 5% increase in equality has also been the result of unequal funding, the Public Schools in Baton Rouge report. student performance and an increase in the number of lack of Black teachers, and ever-changing national policies The findings are not new neither are the gaps. Howev- Black students taking Advanced Placement tests. that benefit white students and affluent students while er, organizers said the report analyzes the data in a way that The report did not identify institutional or systemic harming others. As part of a panel that followed the news would rekindle conversations and actions around creating barriers that have kept these results pervasive in the city conference, Delpit challenged leaders to look closely at the equity for students attending public schools within Baton and throughout Louisiana. However, the Louisiana Budget findings at what has worked for Black students and repliRouge.

Project released a report in May identifying the impact of cate it.

“This report is a great rallying call for us. It’s import- “highly segregated” schools.

“We must create new school models, programs, and ant that we continue as an education community to come “Louisiana and local school districts are putting them- an environment to foster innovation. I’m proud to know together and have honest conversations and dialogue,” said selves at a disadvantage by failing to properly address segre- that we have plans in place to address these issues,” said Dana Peterson, deputy superintendent of external affairs gation in public schools,” wrote LBP. Peterson. for the Recovery School District.

Like LBP, the Urban League found that public schools These plans include having parents, educators, and The report documents inequalities and an academic with a majority white student population have much high- school administrators assist in establishing strategies and “opportunity gap” for historically disadvantaged students er teacher retention rates, higher percentages of certified solutions to ensure equality, said Dana Henry, vice presin the areas of student outcomes, school climate, school teachers, and are far more likely to be rated “A” or “B” than ident of education and youth development at the Urban access, teacher quality, and discipline. It found great dis- schools with high minority populations. Data shows that League of Louisiana. parities in performance on state assessments by race and in Baton Rouge, more than half (52%) of Black students Although the report did not offer specific strategies or

Civil Rights Icon Cancer Diagnosis Continued from page A1

simply can’t afford to be without John Lewis. There are too few of such icons left,” wrote Virginia political legend Paul Goldman. Goldman was incremental in electing America’s first African American Governor, L. Douglas Wilder.

“John Lewis is a giant—an icon of the civil rights movement, a leader in Congress and one of the kindest people I know. I’m praying for a speedy and full recovery.

We need you making good trouble in the halls of Congress,” wrote Freshman Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN).

“Our hero. Our shining beacon and standard. Praying for Rep, John Lewis and his family. And for us all,” wrote attorney Sherrilyn Iffill, President of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund.

solutions, panelists did.

Delpit admonished the community at large to get involved. “Pay attention to education policies. Stand strong about redistributing funding…and those of us who can, need to support (the schools) as often as we can.”

Baton Rouge councilman LaMont Cole said panelists and organizations involved in the process—Urban League, EBR Schools, Baton Rouge Area Chamber, and New Schools—should pick a school and “get to work” giving it everything it need to be sustained.

Excellence is never an accident,” he said. “We have to choose excellence and be intentional.”

Cole, who has been a principal at several schools in the city, said equality is when administrators and teachers have what they need to reach individual students where they are, give the students exactly what they need to succeed, and then, sustain it. “Choose excellence and make it happen,” he repeated.

Chris Meyer, CEO, New Schools for Baton Rouge agreed. “We should expand schools that are working and intervene in schools that need it.”

“We must be strategically intentional. We must be deliberate in the breaking down of silos. As the city of Baton Rouge becomes more intentionally grounded in educational equity, we will reach our goals and will tear down silos while helping the students of Baton Rouge excel,” said Pamela Ravare-Jones, Ph.D., chief administrative officer who spoke on behalf of EBR Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome.

Urban League of Louisiana officials said the organization will host followup community meetings. “This report is just a road map and we’re going to build from here,” Henry said. “We are not going anywhere; we’re going to be here.”

News Observer The Valley’s

Adjudicated a Newspaper of General Circulation on July 2, 1991, Los Angeles Superior Court Decree, Case No. BS007262, Government Code 6023.

Bulk Mailing Permit 724 Bakersfield, CA 93385

Published every Thursday by The Observer Group Newspapers of Southern California, Inc. Member: National Newspapers Publishers Association, Associated Press, Better Business Bureau, GLAAACC

President: Ellen Coley Operations Manager: Jon Coley Editor: James Luckey

Credo-The Black Press believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonisms when it accounts to every person, regardless of race, color, or creed full human and legal rights. Hating no person, fearing no person, the Black Press strives to help every person in the 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 solely the product of the responsible individuals who submit commentaries published in these newspapers. Letters, articles and comments appearing in the Observer Newspapers reflect the opinions of the contributor and do not constitute the opinion or endorsement by The Observer Newspapers or its staff. The Observer Group Newspapers assumes no responsibility for photographs, articles, letters, press releases and unsolicited materials. Decisions as to the editing and publishing of materials are at the discretion of the Publisher and Editors. All rights are reserved on materials accepted for publication unless otherwise specified.

THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER Bakersfield News Observer Los Angeles News Observer 1219 20th St. Bakersfield, Ca 93301 Mailing Address P.O. Box 2341 Bakersfield, CA 93303 Phone (661) 3249466 FAX. (661) 324-9472 emails- General info: observernews@gmail.com Advertising: observeradvertising@gmail.com Online: www.ognsc.com

Thursday, December 26 2019

THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER A3

Entertainment

Watchmen is a Testament to Trauma

THE BLERD BINDER:

Watchmen Episodes Seven and Eight Commentary

By Noah Washington The Blerd Binder covers nerdy news for the Black nerds of the world. We welcome all as we talk about subjects ranging from Movies to Music and Tech to Toys.

(Check out Noah Washington’s previous articles on “Watchmen” and other topics in Black Nerdom. NOTE: If you haven’t seen Watchmen, there are spoilers ahead for what has happened in the series so far through episode 8.

You have been warned).

Episode six, seven, and eight of “Watchmen” are what I consider to be some of the best hours of television in history.

Episode six of Watchmen (titled “This Extraordinary being”), depicts vital moments in Black culture, trauma, or experiencing trauma. Episode seven delves into how we handle trauma. Episode nine goes over the story of why Dr. Manhattan after his self-imposed exile on Mars. These episodes came with big reveals in them as well as expanding the lore of Alan Moore’s original graphic novel.

Episode six opens with Angela haven taken her Grandfather Will’s “Nostalgia” pills. This then takes her through a cascade of his memories, which begin with him becoming a police officer in 1930’s New York, being inducted by a fellow black police officer who warns him off an organization called “Cyclops” (more on that later).

Police Officer Will arrests a white man for burning down a Jewish Deli. The screenwriters inserted a subtle irony as we see a white vendor reading a Superman comic — Superman was created by two Jewish men.

When Will brings the man in to the station, the front desk officer meets him with hostility, but then there is a glimmer of hope when a white cop stands up for him and takes him in, only for that hope to be diminished as the same perp is back on the streets the very next day.

After a series of events during which we see the same cops who stood up for Will, heartbreakingly dragging two African Americans through the streets, nearly lynching Will, we witness his transformation into the original vigilante: Hooded Justice, who had initially perceived as a white man.

Later in the episode, Captain Metropolis asks Will to reach out to Hooded Justice, who he thinks is a white man that Will has been feeding information to.

In the very next scene, Will and Metropolis are engaging in sexual intercourse.

Metropolis then proceeds to tell Will not to take off his mask when he is with the other members of the Minutemen because they are racist and need to be bankrolled by racist banks — leading back to that famous quote, “Who Watches the Watchmen?”

Will then discovers a plot by the group Cyclops (who

turn out to be the Cops that Will conflicted with) to use screens as mediums for hypnotism, but the Minutemen refuse to come to his aid.

Will then kills all of the members of Cyclops and, ironically, strangling the leader who had threatened to lynch Will with a wire. After a scene of Will coming home to see the trauma that he has brought to his family, there is a time jump forward to Will confronting Jud, the chief of police (on the night of his murder), using the Cyclops’ hypnotic technology to have Jud hang himself, thus ending the episode.

The writers were able to do something truly amazing: They did not change anything at all.

With sequels or reboots, something is usually modified from the source material, either making things completely different from the original story, or to add context to new material that was not in the original. But Watchmen screenwriters were able to take pre-existing lore and not change any of the original Alan Moore comics.

They gave meaning and depth to the Minutemen, who were just a plot device for Alan Moore, using the source material and creativity to turn that plot device into a complicated origin story.

Will interchanges with Angela throughout the episode.

Could this be the writers commenting on genetic memory? Genetic memory refers to the phenomena that comes about when someone has endured conditions so traumatic that the memory is passed on to the victim’s descendants.

We see that Angela is literally experiencing Will’s Trauma.

Episode seven opens with a young Angela trying to buy the black exploitation film “Sister Night.”

We then see her parents were killed by a Vietnamese terrorist, leading her to wake up in Lady Trieu’s recovery room, treating her overdose.

Throughout this episode, we see Angela go through glimpses of Will’s memories only to go into her memories, linking her trauma to his (that genetic trauma I was talking about).

In this episode, we also learn that Adrian Veidt’s timeline is completely different from the main storyline as a whole year has passed since the last time we saw him. Still, the real surprise happens when we discover that Dr. Manhattan is in Tulsa walking around like an average person, and to makes matters even crazier, the Seventh Cavalry plans on killing him to allow Senator Joe Keene to take his power!

After learning this, Angela rushes home to find a sleeping Cal with the book “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” which, if you haven’t guessed by now, is a dead giveaway for who Dr. Manhattan has been masquerading as. Dr. Manhattan has been Cal this entire time!

In episode eight, Dr. Manhattan’s decision to turn into a black man was based on the fact that Angela feels more comfortable being with a black man and Adrian Veidt’s storyline connects since he was the one to erase Dr. Manhattan’s Memory.

In fairness, the writers have been dropping clues, such as Cal’s religious worldview, his accident, the allusions to Dr. Manhattan’s infamous genitalia, and the dialogue from Will saying that Dr. Manhattan can make himself look like anything with any color.

Dr. Manhattan is pretty notable for moving from woman to woman, but the questions remain: Why would he want to make himself a black man? How does Adrian Veidt’s storyline fit into the show as a whole? And How is Lady Trieu’s clock going to save the world?

In episode eight, Dr. Manhattan’s decision to turn into a black man was based on the fact that Angela feels more comfortable being with a black man and Adrian Veidt’s storyline connects since he was the one to erase Dr. Manhattan’s Memory.

How he also ended up on Europa, a moon of Jupiter, is almost heartbreakingly funny. Adrian wanted Dr. Manhattan to transport him to a place where he would be continuously worshipped but Europa turned out to be the exact opposite. This leads me to think about a little saying, “Be careful what you wish for, you just might get it.”

I’m sure these questions will be answered in the next episode as we are nearing the end of this season. This show has consistently been putting me on the edge of my seat, so I can’t wait to see how these storylines come together.

I hope that the world will watch this television spectacle and like it. Who knows how it will all play out? I can’t wait to get into the finale.

The AP Names Surviving R. Kelly The Top TV Show of 2019 ‘

’

This combination of photos provided by Lifetime shows, top row from left, Michelle Kramer, Lisa VanAllen, Lizzette Martinez, Andrea Kelly and Kitti Jones, bottom row from left, Asante McGee, Faith Rodgers, Stephanie "Sparkle" Edwards, Jerhonda Pace and Jovante Cunningham from the documentary series "Surviving R. Kelly." The series was named one of the top ten TV shows of the year by the Associated Press. (Lifetime via AP)

By ALICIA RANCILIO Associated Press 1. “Surviving R. Kelly,” Lifetime. No other series made the kind of real world impact that this one did. Allegations of sexual abuse against minors followed R. Kelly for years: The superstar was even acquitted of child pornography charges in 2008. But it wasn't until after the airing of Lifetime's six-part docu-series featuring testimonials by alleged abuse survivors that criminal investigations were kicked into high-gear. He now faces criminal charges federal and state courts. Lifetime also announced last summer that it was planning a “Surviving Jeffrey Epstein” series.

2. “Unbelievable,” Netflix. This series about a young woman who is accused of lying about rape allegations and two female detectives in another state trying to catch a serial rapist is the kind of eye-opening show that isn't just compelling television, but a lesson in treating sexual assault victims with compassion and humanity.

3. “Succession,” HBO. There was no sophomore

slump for this HBO series about a wealthy family that owns a major media conglomerate. The show only upped the ante with compelling performances from its entire cast, playing characters that are ruthless and not even likable, yet somehow you root for (some of ) them anyway. That final scene of season two was the perfect cliffhanger.

4. “Fleabag,” Amazon Prime. Not since “The Thorn Birds” has a forbidden romance between a woman and a priest been so exciting. Phoebe Waller-Bridge established herself as a woman in crisis in season one but season two showed her heart, with her in love with a hot priest and devoted to her sister who is trapped in an unhappy marriage.

5. “Schitt's Creek,” Pop TV. The series aired its fifth season in 2019 but “Schitt's Creek” has been a slow burn thanks to word of mouth and a run on Netflix. The comedy about a rich family that loses their fortune and moves into a rundown motel in a small town is funny and smart with rich, quirky characters.

6. “The Morning Show,” Apple+. Jennifer Aniston per-

forms her best work in years as a long-time morning show anchor whose co-host (Steve Carell) is fired for sexual misconduct. Reese Witherspoon co-stars as the new co-host who makes Aniston question the status quo. Their scenes together, whether getting along or at each other's throats, are just fun. The show also has a great supporting cast including Mark DuPlass, Billy Crudup and Gugu MbathaRaw. 7. “Chernobyl,” HBO. This series about the 1986 Soviet Union nuclear power plant disaster is grim but masterfully executed. An equally heartbreaking and horrifying scene where children marvel and play in radioactive dust falling like snow will stay with you.

8. “When They See Us,” Netflix. Ava DuVernay did an excellent job with this four-part series about the five black and Latino teens wrongfully prosecuted for the rape of a white Central Park jogger in 1989. The interrogation scenes where the boys are confused and disoriented are especially hard to watch, but that's the point. It also made

an Emmy winner out of Jharrel Jerome and a star out of Asante Blackk, also featured this year on “This Is Us.'' 9. “The Politician,” Netflix. Ben Platt has already mastered Broadway but he showed he could carry a series with “The Politician.” Platt shows his range as a young man obsessed with becoming student body president (a necessary step to achieve his ultimate goal of becoming president of the United States). The supporting cast including Gwyneth Paltrow and Zoey Deutch, and the wardrobe and lush settings of the show make the entire experience a colorful ride.

10. “FYRE: The Greatest Party That Never Happened,” Netflix. This documentary followed plans and hype for the kind of luxurious music festival in the Bahamas that Instagram was created for, except poor execution and over-promising turned it into a failure of epic proportions.

Hulu also released its own film on the festival featuring an interview with its organizer, Billy McFarland, but the Netflix version is better.

A4

Legal Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER 19LBCP00439 Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles, 275 Magnolia, Los Angeles, CA 90802 Branch Name: Govenor George Deukmejian Courthouse PETITION OF: GIANNA MARTINEZ FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner: GIANNA MARTINEZ for a decree changing names as follows: Present name GANESA GIANNA CISNEROS Filed a petition with this court Proposed name GANESA GIANNA MARTINEZ THE COURT ORDERS: that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted if no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING Date: Jan 16, 2020 Time: 8:30 a.m.

Dept: S-26 Room: 5500 The address of the court is: Same as noted above.

A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county LOS ANGELES BAY NEWS OBSERVER Date: Dec 5, 2019 Michael P. Vicencia JUDGE OF THE SUPERIOR COURT Elizabeth Salcido DEPUTY PETITIONER: Gianna Martinez (For minor Ganesa Gi-

anna Cisneros) 906 Oakmere Dr Harbor City, Ca. 90710 Phone: (310) 529-0635 LOS ANGELES BAY NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Dec 12, 19, 26, 2019, Jan 2, 2020 ������������������������������� FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2019324932 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: CAMPOS TAX at 11532 Rosecrans Ave Ste C, Norwalk, Ca. 90650 Mailing Address: Same County: LA REGISTERED OWNERS(S): BETTY CAMPOS, 1284 E California Pl., Anaheim, Ca. 92805 The business is conducted by: Individual SIGNED: BETTY CAMPOS, Owner The date registrant started to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above: 01/2004 This statement filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles County on: Dec 18, 2019 DEAN C. LOGAN, Los Angeles County Clerk By: HELEN SOTO, Deputy NOTICE: IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES ST THE END IOF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE OF WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2014, THE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY THE AFFIDAVIT OF IDENTITY FORM. This statement expires on Dec 18, 2024 LOS ANGELES BAY NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Dec 26, 2019, Jan 2, 9, 16, 2020

THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER

Thursday, January 2, 2020

Features

California Writers, Photographers

Sue Over New Law that Chokes Freelance Journalism Tanu Henry California Black Media When he’s not studying, Aldon Thomas Stiles, 25, a senior at Cal State Bernardino, writes freelance articles to help pay his way through college and assist his parents with the bills at home in Fontana.

The Fontana Herald, Screen Rant, Westside Story News and several African-American newspapers around the state have published Stiles’ articles in the past. Most of his work focuses on educating Californians about state policy or bringing light to unreported Inland Empire stories that, he says, people should know about..

“Freelancing is an incredibly convenient work opportunity,” says Stiles, who is African American. “It has helped me hone my skills as a journalist at my own pace and work on stories I’m passionate about - all from home.”

Stiles says the money he makes freelancing helps him keep a roof over his head while in school and that his schedule would have prevented him from working as a full-time writer while he pursued his degree in Criminal Justice.

Now, AB 5, a new California law that takes effect Jan. 1, 2020 threatens the livelihood of California freelance journalists like Stiles, critics argue, calling the legislation “unconstitutional.”

The legislation that Gov. Gavin Newsom signed in September and takes effect Jan. 1, 2020, limits the number of freelance articles journalists in California like Stiles can write for any one publication to 35 per year.

For budding writers like Stiles who can get paid, on average, about $100 per article, that adds up to only about $3,500 a year.

Last week, the American Society of Journalists and Authors, Inc., (ASJA), a national professional organization that represents independent non-fiction authors, filed a lawsuit in federal court against the state of California to prevent AB 5 from impacting its members.

“We have no choice but to go to court to protect the rights of independent writers and freelance journalists as a whole,” said Milton C. Toby, president of ASJA. “The stakes are too high, and we cannot stand by as our members and our colleagues face ill-conceived and potentially career-ending legislation.”

ASJA, which represents about 1,100 freelance writers across the country – with about 120 of its members living in California – is joined by the National Press Photographers Association as a plaintiff in the lawsuit. The Pacific Legal Foundation, a libertarian non-profit with offices in Sacramento, is representing the groups pro bono.

“This law as written, even if it has good intentions, sadly, is an affront to first ammendment constitutional protections,” says Regina Wilson, Executive Editor of California Black Media. “It’s unfair and inconsistent, too.

How can you allow freelancers who write marketing copy and press releases to work unrestricted while taking food off the table of freelance journalists who are writers and photographers? Their words and images contribute to our national historical record and they provide critical information to the public.”

“It will no doubt hurt the bottom lines of small ethnic-owned media businesses in the state. They already lag behind their mainstream counterparts,” Wilson added.

“We have to do something about this.”

Supporters of AB 5, introduced by Assemblymember Lorena Gonzalez (D-San Diego), praise the legislation for closing loopholes, they say, employers use to underpay workers and deny them benefits like health insurance, minimum wage, paid parental leave, etc., that state law requires for full-time employees.

“Big businesses shouldn’t be able to pass their costs on to taxpayers while depriving workers of the labor law protections they are rightfully entitled to,” said Gonzalez in May when the Assembly voted 59-15 to pass AB 5.

AB 5 writes into law a 2018 California Supreme Court ruling that instructed businesses in the state to apply an “ABC” test to determine whether a worker is a freelancer or employee. For a worker to be classified as a freelancer, employers would have to prove that the person is (A) not under the contracting company’s control, (B) is doing work that is not central to the company’s business, and (C) has an independent business providing a service.

If freelancers or contractors don’t meet those requirements, companies would have to employ them and provide all the pay and benefits required under California labor laws.

It’s still too early to gauge exactly how AB 5 will im-

pact freelancers in California, but some moves in the media industry, for a while now, have been sending early signals.

Last week, Vox Media, parent company of popular niche websites, including Vox, SB Nation, Eater and Curbed, announced that it is laying off hundreds of freelancers in California. On the other hand, the Los Angeles Times hired 30 of its freelancers as full time employees after the Supreme Court decision last year, according to that publication.

“First, this states the company had been contemplating the switch for 2 years,” Gonzalez wrote in a tweet that was widely criticized on social media for coming off as insensitive. She was responding to Vox Media’s freelancer layoffs last week.

“Second, it clearly states that those contracted jobs are being converted to full & part time jobs,” the Assemblymember’s tweet went on. “I understand a contractor who doesn’t want a job being upset, but that’s certainly not all bad.”

Laid-off Vox freelancers who have spoken out publicly about their loss of work fired back at Gonzales, pointing out that the company transitioned only about 15 journalists to full-time positions while cutting hundreds of freelance gigs.

“The government cannot single out journalists,” said Jim Manley, a Pacific Legal Foundation attorney, in a statement about the lawsuit.

Last week, news about the lawsuit lifted the hopes of many California-based freelancers who fear that employers outside the state might blacklist them while California-based companies might replace them with peers living in other states.

“Freelance journalism is a whole different ballgame and this law ignoring that is a travesty,” said Antonio Ray Harvey, a Sacramento-based African-American writer who has, for more than 17 years now, wholly earned his living freelancing. He covers sports, politics, current events, and other beats, for the Associated Press, NBC sports Radio, California Black Media and the Sacramento Observer.

“Its not like there are a lot of journalism jobs out there nowadays,” said Harvey. “We have to maintain our careers and pay our bills.

Get The Valley’s News Observer Online at www.

OGNSC.COM Observer Group Newspapers of Southern California

Sports

As Los Angeles Chargers Season Comes to an End, So May Have the Career of Chargers Rivers and Gordon

By Cameron Buford whatsgoodinsports.com The Los Angeles Chargers season ended in Kansas City last after their loss to the Chiefs last week. It’s unknown as of now if Chargers fans has seen the last of 38-year-old quarterback and 16-year veteran Phillip Rivers and/or their 5th year Running Back Melvin Gordon. Though neither player has said they hope to have played their final game in the Chargers Blue a Yellow uniform, both players are at the end of their current contracts with the team.

In an interview last week, I asked Rivers if he wanted to play football next season? He was short and clear when answered simply, “yep”. Previously he was asked if he wanted to lead the franchise in that new chapter as they move into SoFi stadium next season and if that was a motivating factor, he responded by saying, “I don’t’ think so, that’s not a motivating factor.”

Chargers Head Coach Anthony Lynn was noncommittal when asked if he wanted Phillip Rivers as his starting quarterback next season stating, “who wouldn’t want a guy with those intangibles and that production… sure.” However, since Phillip’s contract has expired, Chargers fans must accept the idea that they may have seen the Rivers will be behind center. Not only is he not under contract, but neither side has emphatically stated they want this partnership to continue.

Last week, Melvin Gordon made it clear to me before their game against the Chiefs, that he wants to return as a Charger next season if it were up to him. When Head Coach Antony Lynn was asked if he wanted Gordon back

Phillip Rivers walks off the field. (Photo Credit- Orange County Register- Getty Images)

next season, though complimentary he was once again noncommittal when he stated stated “I love Melvin Gordon!

He’s fun to be around, he’s a hard worker.”

“Losing 9 games by one score,” was what Head Coach Anthony identified the most frustrating part of the season.

Going 5-11 this season is tough for these guys to accept, especially after finishing at 12-4 last season. Though injuries played a major role in the adversity they endured during the season, it’s not an easy pill for the team to swallow.

In addition to Rivers’ vague response about his return to the team last week. It sure appears that the Chargers will have a new starting quarterback under center, as they start the season in the new SoFi Stadium in September.

A tweet from ESPN’s Beat Writer Eric Williams supports this idea, as he states in his post, “Philip Rivers was in the building, but did not make an appearance at locker room cleanout today, something he’s done every year I’ve covered the team.”

Please share your thoughts on the Chargers season and who you would like to see as their quarterback next season provided Rivers does, in fact, not return as their starting quarterback, by commenting in the comment section of this article on www.whatsgoodinsports.com or by following me on Twitter @whatsgoodnsport for immediate engagement. Additionally, subscribe to our weekly “Voice of the Fans Podcast” which is available for you on most podcasting platforms, Apple and Google Podcasts including Spotify, TuneIn, and iHeart Radio. As always, we certainly appreciate you for making our voice your choice!

Thursday, January 2, 2020

THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER A5

Sports

Gervonta Davis and Yuriorkis Gamboa Tangle in Atlanta for the WBA Lightweight Title

By Damarus Stephens www.whatsgoodinsports.com Gervonta Davis has quickly become one of the best draws in boxing. Despite failing to make weight for the 2nd time in his career, the Baltimore native still put 14k plus butts in the seats. He appears to be one of those once in a generation type fighter. Tonight, in Atlanta he was tested by an older but still game boxer in Yuriorkis Gamboa.

In the lead up to the fight, not much was said by the Cuban native except that he wanted to take Davis to the later rounds. He indeed delivered on that goal but it came at a great cost. During a knockdown in the second round, Gamboa seemed to point to his right side as he was getting up from the canvas. He went down from a left hook from Tank but did not seem to be all that hurt. He would finish the round but, in the corner, he began to complain to his corner pointing to his right leg and foot. As the Showtime cameras zoomed in on the corner it seemed that he would not be able to continue the fight. The packed crowd began

to erupt with disapproval as they viewed the Jumbotron overhead. Gamboa’s corner would talk him into continuing the fight though despite the issue.

It was a valiant effort from the 38-year-old former Olympic medalist but it was not hard to tell that he could not put anything behind his punches. He would be knocked down again in the 8th round but would survive the round and continue boxing.

Meanwhile, Davis would show patience and even got caught by a 3 punch combo in the 7th round. Davis said after the fight that he purposely abandoned the jab because he wanted to do some things differently and also show Gamboa something different. Tank also acknowledge that he knew he was in with a great fighter because Gamboa was able to take some of his best shots. Davis also did a great job of not letting Gamboa get under his skin as he did do some holding and clenching in attempts to keep Davis from being able to land in close quarters.

The 12th and deciding round saw both fighters

slugging it out but would end with a Davis uppercut that sent Gamboa to the canvas yet again. That punch came on the end of 2 previous shots that stunned and set up the KO. Though Gamboa did not seem to be out of it the referee in charge called a halt to the bout giving Davis his 23rd victory and his previously vacated WBA World Lightweight title.

In the post-fight press conference, Davis said 2020 would be a big year for him. I asked if there was a certain fighter, he wanted to face in 2020, Davis did not name any fighter specifically but said: “there is no safety on this Glock”. It will be interesting going forward to see who will step inside the ring with this young fighter who might just be the right combination of skill and power to pack arenas throughout the world for years to come.

In other action, Jean-Pascal was able to win a decision over Badou Jack to retain his WBA World Light Heavyweight belt. The crowd on hand did not approve of the outcome perhaps because Jack won the second half

of the fight and had a knockdown in the 12th. However, Pascal won the early rounds also having a knockdown in the 4th. After the fight, both fighters stated that they felt they won the fight. Leonard Ellerby spoke at the post-fight presser saying he felt so bad for Jack and that he got robbed yet again.

Tell us your thoughts on the state of boxing as this busy year comes to a close, by commenting in the comment section of this article on www.whatsgoodinsports.com or by following me on Twitter @whatsgoodnsport for immediate engagement. Additionally, subscribe to our weekly “Voice of the Fans Podcast” which is available for you on most podcasting platforms, Apple and Google Podcasts including Spotify, TuneIn, and iHeart Radio. As always, we certainly appreciate you for making our voice your choice!

Gervonta Davis celebrates his title defense Saturday night in Atlanta. (Photo Credit to Sean Michael HamMayweather Promotions)

Kenny Washington’s family was on hand as he was honored as Ram “Legend of The Game”. (Earl Heath Photo)

Gervonta Davis drops Yuriokis Gamboa Saturday night to defend his WBA Lightweight World Title (Photo Credit to Sean Michael Ham- Mayweather Promotions)

Rams Final Game at Coliseum

By Earl Heath Contributing Sports Writer The Los Angeles Coliseum has been a special place over the years. It hosted concerts, soccer matches and two Olympics. It is also the home of USC football and has been the home of the L.A. Rams for 38 seasons. It will be the second time the Rams have left the internationally known venue.

They returned in 2016, and last week vs the Arizona Cardinals it was the 38 game played since. Now the team will exit to So-Fi Stadium in Inglewood.

It will be the centerpiece for a nearly 300 acre sports and entertainment district being developed by Rams Owner/Chairman E. Stanley Kroenke.

The Rams made the final game special. The National Anthem was done by Keith Williams Jr. the gospel singer who worked for several years at the Coliseum for CSC. He was stationed at sections 21 and 22 during USC home football games as well as multiple events at the Galen Center.

His version of the Anthem was passionate enough to receive a standing ovation from the 68,665 in attendance.

The Rams recognized 15 high school coaches who won Coach of The Week honors. Saugus High Head Coach Jason Bornn was named Coach of the Year. “It’s really humbling to be selected with all these great coaches.” said Bornn. “We don’t do it (coaching) for the money, we do it because we love kids.”

Kenny Washington was honored as the Ram “Legend of the Game”. The L.A. native played football and baseball at UCLA from 1937-1939. He was the first UCLA athlete to be named All-America during that era. He was also a baseball teammate of Jackie Robinson. After graduating from UCLA he was passed over by the NFL due to a 12 year ban of African-American players. He return to coach the freshman team at UCLA. It was after his graduation the NFL lifted its ban of African American players. That’s when he and Woody Strode would both be signed by the Rams joining the team in it’s inaugural season at the Coliseum. Washington still holds the Rams record for the longest touchdown run 92

yards vs Chicago in 1947. Four members of his family were at the Coliseum including his daughter Karen WashingtonCohen.

Ram greats Jackie Slater was on hand with Super Bowl QB Vince Ferragamo. It was Slater who brought the crowd to its feet after his farewell comments.

Gospel singer Kieth Williams Jr. received a standing ovation after performing the National Anthem.

(Earl Heath Photo)

“When we played here we didn’t sellout every game, the NFL had a blackout rule.” said the 20 year Ram veteran to the crowd. “People would drive to Bakersfield to watch us play on television. So when you all go home, tell your parents, grand parents, your aunts, and your uncles that Jackie said thanks for cheering us on.”

Actor Manny Trejo and Rapper YG at take in Rams win at the Coliseum final game. (Earl Heath Photo)

A6

THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER

Local

Thursday, January 2, 2020

New Report Marks Major Step Forward in the The Inglewood Campus will be the Most Clippers Environmentally Friendly and Energy Efficient Sports Venue in California Arena Project The new year comes with new momentum for the LA Clippers arena project. The City of Inglewood released the draft Environmental Impact Report for the proposed arena campus on December 27th, marking a major step forward for the state-of-the-art complex.

The draft EIR shows how the project will achieve the most stringent environmental standards and become the most environmentally friendly and energy efficient sports arena in state history.

The draft EIR follows the recent certification by Governor Newsom and the California Air Resources Board, which determined the Clippers arena project will meet landmark environmental standards. They certified that the project will be net-zero for greenhouse gas emissions.

“The release of the EIR and the start of the public process marks an exciting and major step forward for the Inglewood Basketball and Entertainment Center,” said Chris Meany, lead developer on the project. “This open and transparent process will give the residents of Inglewood the opportunity to learn more about the project’s stringent environmental standards and incredible community benefits.”

The thoroughly researched and remarkably detailed report took 23 months to prepare and cost more than $5 million to produce. It offers a wide range of innovative solutions to complex challenges, including traffic.

“This report will be an incredibly useful tool as we work with the Clippers to craft and implement solutions to safeguard Inglewood’s quality of life,” said Inglewood Mayor James Butts.

The 18,000-seat arena, at the intersection of West Century Boulevard and South Prairie Avenue, will also be home to the LA Clippers’ team offices, practice facility, sports medicine clinic, and an outdoor plaza with community and retail and restaurant uses.

Among other things, the environmental report studied 114 intersections, 28 neighborhood street segments, 53 mainline freeway segments and 10 freeway ramps in a 20-square-mile area around Inglewood. The result is a plan that will actually help improve Inglewood traffic on non-

event days and help reduce traffic congestion on game days by 15%.

The measures include: • Road upgrades • Restriping and converting medians to turn lanes • Widening freeway off ramps • Implementing traffic signal timing improvements • Targeting key intersections for “special event” timing that lengthens the time of green lights • Building a pedestrian foot bridge from a parking garage across Prairie Avenue • Encouraging fans to use mass transit by providing shuttles and game-day ticket discounts • Adding traffic-control officers on game day The report’s release kicks off the required 45-day period for the public to comment on the project.

If approved by the City of Inglewood, the arena would open in time for the 2024-2025 NBA season.

The project will be LEED Gold certified, meaning it achieves rigorous, internationally recognized environmental standards for building performance.

Other sustainability measures include: • A “Zero Waste” program to reduce and divert waste from landfills.

• An on-site solar energy generation system that will produce more than 1 million kilowatt hours of electricity per year and extensive use of “green” (i.e., renewable) energy sources.

• A program to plant 1,000 new trees in nearby neighborhoods.

• A program to purchase and install 1,000 electric vehicle chargers for residences in Inglewood and the surrounding area.

• 330 on-site electrical vehicle chargers and 20 additional publicly available chargers within Inglewood.

• Smart parking systems to more efficiently direct vehicles to parking spaces, reducing vehicle emissions.

In addition to the complex, the LA Clippers are intent on being a good neighbor off the court. The team has already pledged to provide a $100 million community benefits package designed to help lift families out of poverty and give more Inglewood students an opportunity to achieve the American dream.

The majority of the money is dedicated to easing the area’s housing crunch with $75 million for affordable housing programs and $5 million to help first-time home buyers and renters. The program also includes nearly $20 million for youth and family programs that will help provide quality after-school activities, student scholarships, library upgrades and services for senior citizens.

The project will be an economic boon to Inglewood and the surrounding communities. The arena complex will generate an estimated 7,000 union construction jobs, 30% of which are earmarked for Inglewood-area residents, and pay a total of $450 million in wages during the construction process.

When completed, the complex will provide an estimated 1,500 permanent jobs, 35% of which are earmarked for Inglewood-areas residents, and generate more than $100 million in new tax revenue, which help fund critical services, through 2045.

The Spirit of Hope at Live on Green Pasadena

By Ricky Richardson Contributing Writer Pasadena- Live On Green Pasadena returned to the Pasadena Convention Center, and so did I! A large, diverse crowd gathered inside the Pasadena Convention Center to officially kick-off 3-days of family fun and entertainment.

The 5th Annual Live On Green Pasadena Operation Hope was held on Sunday, December 29 through Tuesday, December 31, 2019.

Pasadena residents were joined by visitors from the Greater Los Angeles area, as well as fans in town for the Rose Bowl Parade and Rose Bowl Game between the Oregon Ducks and Wisconsin Badgers for the festivities in the Pasadena Convention Center.

Ally Phillips of Ally’s Kitchen jump started our taste buds with her Aloha Chicken wings and fabulous Sunday Morning Oven Pancakes with a variety of fruitbased toppings. Ally Phillips is the 2019 Dole Cook-Off Champion, Hallmark Channel’s #BestHomeCook Finalist and GE’s America’s Grandma.

The festival officially got underway with an inspired Welcoming Ceremony. Ashley Moreno, former Rose Queen hosted this special segment of the program.

The Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles Color Guard Team was featured in the presentation of Colors and led

the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance. Guitarist Jon iLaw dazzled the crowd with his phenomenal rendition of the National Anthem, aided by the GSGLA Color Guard Team doing sign language to express the breath and scope of this marvelous masterpiece.

Pasadena Crowd City Chorus-a barbershop-style chorus was amazing as they sang “Oh Pasadena” as people came together in celebration of the Power of Hope!

Representatives from all the organization in attendance were acknowledged and recognized for their participation. Ronald McDonald House was one of the organizations present to inter-act with attendees.

Tamieko Foster, Founder of Miss Black Pasadena recited a poem that resonates with Hope, Still I Rise by Maya Angelou. Miss Black Pasadena is a first of its kind.

The Miss Black Pasadena Mentor and Scholarship Program was created to crown the culture. The organization provides a space for Black girls to shine unapologetically. Miss Black Pasadena through a series of workshops, mentoring sessions, and pageant showcases, empower young women celebrating their beauty; cultivating their leadership skills; and reaffirming their role as change agents. The aim of Miss Black Pasadena is to honor the uniqueness of African American while uplifting the landscape of Pasadena.

Miss Black Pasadena highlight the importance of self-

Sue B. Dance Company (Ricky Richardson Photo)

improvement and celebrate the importance of sisterhood and commitment to the African American community.

The Pasadena Branch-A History of Making a Difference for All. The Pasadena Branch of the NAACP is celebrating its 100-year anniversary in Pasadena, having been chartered on September 8, 1919 by the National NAACP organization. The national organization has and continues to serve as the voice of African Americans and all minorities denied the basic dignities and rights of citizens, with the Pasadena branch focused on the local community and issues that include Economic Development, Education, Housing, and Legal Redress/Civic & Human Rights Compliance. Many of today’s minority-focused organizations stand on the shoulders of those in the NAACP whose hard-fought battles and accomplishments laid the groundwork for the current generation of activist to build upon.

The Armenian Folk Music Trio lead by Ruben Harutyunyan performed a set of treasured Armenian folk songs, featuring “Krunk” which means “crane” in Armenian and it is a symbol of longings for one’s homeland, and “Alagyaz” is a mountain in Armenia. The trio performed on the duduk-double-reed woodwind flute and dhol-double headed drum.

Dole Cooking Camp Counselor Nicole Schulman presented an educational and informative workshop entitled “How Does Your Garden Grow? Sweetly?

Award-winning Chef and Restauranteur Chef Zov Karamardian (https://www.zov.com) captivated the crowd as she shared stories of Armenian culture while creating a mouthwatering Roasted rack of lamb with pomegranate sauce, and Golden Lentil soup. There were a throng of people volunteering to sample her dishes to no avail. Click on the above link to visit her find the location of her popular restaurants.

Sue. B. Dance Company presented a lively performance of tap dancing while spotlighting their legacy of talented youth. They also led the crowd in basic tap dance steps.

The Los Angeles Cultural Festival presentation was awesome. Dr. Harold Ganga brought forth the incredible, colorful, vibrant costumes representing various countries as they paraded through the Pasadena Convention Center.

A beautiful and authentic performance of Armenian folkloric dance was performed superbly by Nairi Dance Group to the delight of the audience.

Chef Saul Jauregui demonstrated how making scratch-made taquitos along with multi-layered dip into a

whole new experience.

A plethora of gifts were raffled off throughout the day, no purchased necessary! Raffle prizes consisted of cookbooks from Ally Phillips and Chef Zov, Dole Aprons, Albertsons/Vons gift cards, Dole Watch, Dole Gift bags at the Culinary Stage.

The Let Us Entertain You Stage raffle prizes consisted of IMS Rose Parade Gift Basket, Tickets to the Grammy Museum in Los Angeles, tickets to see an upcoming show featuring Miranda Lambert at the Toyota Arena in Ontario courtesy of Go Country 105 Radio.

The Coaches Challenge Family Fun Zone featured on-going engaging activities all day-make crowns and scepters, create paintings of Hope, design conservation bracelets, take a selfie with the Mayflower Pilgrims, meet the USAF Weather Warriors, play engaging games, arts and crafts, face paintings, get a custom twisted balloon.

Allen Edson and Tamieko Foster (Ricky Richardson Photo)