VALLEY'S 8.20.20 4C

News Observer The Valley’s

Volume 35 Number 40

Serving the San Fernando Valley for Over 35 Years

Observer Group Newspapers of Southern California

Regulating Police Brutality Manny Otiko California Black Media Last week, the California Supreme Court ruled that Los Angeles County had to pay $8 million to the family of Darren Burley, an unarmed Black man who died under circumstances similar to George Floyd.

In 2012, Deputy David Aviles placed his knee on Burley’s neck and back while restraining him. Aviles weighs 200lbs. Burley died 10 days later in the hospital.

The violent murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis at the hands of police has inflamed the country and sparked protests in California and around the nation and the world.

But the disproportionate use of excessive police force against Black men, too often ending up fatally, is not new to California.

“From Rodney King in 1991 to Stephon Clark in 2018, California has a bad history with excessive use of force by police officers,” said Assemblymember Chris Holden (D- Pasadena) in a news release.

In response to this, the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) has authored a series of bills to reign in police violence. Those bills include: • AB 1196, which would ban the use of the chokehold.

It passed in the State Assembly and is now under review in the Senate Appropriations Committee.

• AB 1506. This would require police shootings to be investigated by a division of the Department of Justice.

The State Assembly passed the legislation. It is currently under review in the Senate Appropriations Commit-

tee.

• AB 2342. This would allow parolees to reduce their terms by attending college or volunteering. It passed in the Assembly and is now under review in the Senate Appropriations Committee.

• AB 1022. This bill would require officers to report incidents of excessive force. The bill passed in the Assembly and the Senate Public Safety Committee. It is under review in the Senate Appropriations Committee.

• AB 1185. This would require an oversight board for sheriff’s departments. It passed in the Assembly and is now under review in the Senate Public Safety Committee.

California Attorney General Xavier Becerra praised Holden’s AB 1022, which is also called “the George Floyd” law.

“Americans across the nation demand more accountability in our criminal justice system,” said Becerra. “It’s going to take sustained, thoughtful reform like Assembly Bill 1022 to help answer the call. At the California Department of Justice, we’re committed to partnering with our legislators and stakeholders across the state to help get the job done.”

Becerra said he commends Holden and the bill’s other legislative supporters for getting it through the Senate Public Safety Committee. It’s time for important policies like a peace officer’s duty to intervene to be more than just recommendations. We’re ready for them to be the law of the land.”

Holden said Americans were shocked that officers didn’t intervene when they saw Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin choking the life out of Floyd. Instead, they formed a protective cordon around him and held off the crowd.

“We were outraged when we watched the killing of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer from a knee to the neck,” said Holden. “Equally disturbing, was the lack of intervention from the police officers who witnessed a clear use of excessive force.”

Members of Congress Demand Answers About California

DMV $50M Personal Data Sale

Rocklin, CA / USA - March 25 2019: A California DMV sign in front of the Department of Motor Vehicles building in Rocklin. (Courtesy Photo)

By Manny Otiko California Black Media When news broke about Facebook collaborating with data mining companies during the runup to the 2016 presidential election, it may have broken the damn. Now almost four years later, more citizens are raising concerns about their data and who’s sharing it.

Several members of California’s delegation to the United States Congress, including Rep. Barbara Lee (DCA-13), who is a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, are demanding information from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). They say the DMV has been selling California drivers’ personal data.

According to Motherboard, a tech publication that’s part of the Vice network, the DMV generates about $50 million a year from selling drivers’ data. “We’re troubled by press reports about the California DMV’s disclosure of vast quantities of data which could enable invasive biometric policing and be a symptom of a deeper privacy malady. The California DMV receives more than $50 million annually from selling the personal information of Californians, according to press reports. The individuals whose data are being sold are reportedly not informed of this practice or given the opportunity to opt-out. What information is being sold, to whom it is sold, and what guardrails are associated with the sale remain unclear,” said the letter addressed to Steve Gordon, Director, California Department of Motor Vehicles. Eleven U.S.

Representatives from California signed the letter. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA-12) and Hon. David S. Kim, Secretary, California State Transportation Agency. The letter also addressed concerns about data possibly being shared with federal agencies such as Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the FBI. Since California allows undocumented immigrants to gain driver’s licenses, their personal data may be used by ICE to track and deport people in the country illegally. “What types of organizations has the DMV disclosed drivers’ data to in the past three years? In particular, has the DMV sold or otherwise disclosed data to debt collection agencies, private investigators, data brokers, or law enforcement agencies?” the letter inquired. According to a statement responding to the letter, the DMV says the money generated from the data sale helps offset some of the agency’s operating costs. The practice is not only confined to California.

Both Virginia and Wisconsin DMVs also sell driver personal data. The practice is sanctioned under the Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA), which was passed in the 1990s. “In this day and age, unfortunately, government entities don’t resist the lure of selling Americans’ personal information for private exploitation. This problem will only get worse as cities, trying to be ‘smart,’ collect more information about what we do and where we go,” said Lee Tien, senior staff attorney at the Electronic Frontier Foundation, in an e-mail to Motherboard.

Shirley Weber’s CSU Ethnic Studies Bill is Now State Law

Assemblymember Shirley Weber, center, receives applause from fellow lawmakers during a floor session on June 10, 2020. Weber’s bill, AB 1460, was signed into law yesterday making ethnic studies courses a requirement at CSU. (Photo by Rich Pedroncelli, AP Photo)

Joe W. Bowers Jr. California Black Media Gov. Newsom signed AB 1460 into law on Monday, Aug. 17.

The new state law requires California State University (CSU), the nation’s largest four-year public university system, to provide courses in Ethnic studies at each of its 23 campuses beginning with the 2021–22 academic year and requires CSU students to take a 3-credit course in Ethnic studies in order to graduate beginning in the 2024-

2025 academic year.

The bill was introduced last year by Assemblymember Shirley Weber (D-San Diego), professor emeritus of Africana studies at San Diego State, on behalf of the California Faculty Association (CFA) and with support from the legislative ethnic caucuses (Black, Latino, and Asian Pacific Islander). It passed on Aug. 3 after legislators engaged in personal and passionate debates during committee hearings and on the floor of the Assembly and Senate as each expressed their perspectives on the pressing

need for our society to deal with its history of racial inequities.

Ethnic studies is an interdisciplinary study of race and ethnicity that gained acceptance nationally in universities following the 1960’s Black student uprisings. Research shows that students of color and white students benefit academically and socially from taking Ethnic studies courses. These courses can play an important role in building an inclusive multicultural democracy.

According to Charles Toombs, CFA president and a professor of Africana Studies at San Diego State, Ethnic studies differs from other disciplines. It is crucial in its own right.

Because of that, AB1460 specifies that CSU students take a course in one of the four historically defined racialized core groups: African American studies, Latino studies, Native American studies or Asian American studies.

The bill states, “It is the intent of the Legislature that students of the California State University acquire the knowledge and skills that will help them comprehend the diversity and social justice history of the United States and of the society in which they live to enable them to contribute to that society as responsible and constructive citizens.”

AB1460 passed despite opposition from CSU Chancellor Timothy White, the Academic Senate of the California State University, and the leadership at all 23 CSU campuses.

Chancellor White asked the Executive Senate Committee at each CSU campus to write a letter of opposition when the bill was introduced. Allison Wren from CSU Academic Affairs Division presented CSU’s three main objections to AB 1460 at an Assembly Higher Education Committee Hearing.

“First, we believe the legislature should not impose curriculum,” Wren said. “A legislative mandate, such as this will set the dangerous precedent of allowing the government to determine curriculum. And this does in fact threaten the academic freedom of our campuses.”

“Second, the proposed bill is not necessary,” she continued. “We already have cultural diversity requirements on all 23 campuses. Many of these requirements are met by existing courses in Ethnic studies or courses and other departments such as anthropology, history, gender Women’s Studies, among many others.”

“Finally, such a requirement could adversely impact our associate degrees for transfers programs. The bill could Continued on page A2

Free!

Thursday, August 20, 2020

VA Senator Charged with ‘Injury’ to Confederate Monument

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (AP) – A Virginia state senator has been charged with two felonies for her alleged involvement in the damaging of a large Confederate monument during protests in the city of Portsmouth, authorities said Monday.

WAVY-TV reports Democratic state Sen. Louis Lucas faces charges of of conspiracy to commit a felony and injury to a monument in excess of $1,000.

The monument stands on a site where slaves were once punished. It consists of a large obelisk and statues of four Confederate military personnel.

During protests in June, heads were ripped off some of the statues while one was pulled down, critically injuring a demonstrator.

Portsmouth Police Chief Angela Greene said during a Monday afternoon news conference that several people have warrants out against them. Besides Sen. Lucas, they include a local school board member as well as members of the NAACP and the public defender’s office.

The chief also said that her department is asking for help in identifying several others and has released images to the public.

WAVY was unable to reach Sen. Lucas for comment Monday, but the lawmaker has said previously that she did nothing wrong. Her attorney Don Scott told the station that he was just hearing about the charges.

Confederate monuments around the country have fallen in recent years amid contentious debate over whether they are proud monuments to Southern heritage or hated symbols of racism and past slavery. The debate has escalated anew in the nationwide protests over police misconduct and racism after the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis.

Handcuffed Man Dies During Arrest

by Deputies in CA GUERNEVILLE, Calif. (AP) – A man died after being shocked with a stun gun during his arrest by deputies who were responding to a domestic dispute in California, authorities said.

The name of the man who died Saturday in the confrontation with Sonoma County deputies has not been released. As part of protocol for an officer-involved death, the Santa Rosa Police Department is investigating the incident while the Marin County coroner’s office is conducting the autopsy, the Press Democrat reported.

Deputies were dispatched to the Hacienda Bridge area of Guerneville after a caller said two people were possibly in a fight inside a moving truck. A deputy went to a home after a nearby resident told him he heard a woman scream “somebody help me’’ from inside the house, the sheriff’s office said.

A couple came out of the home with the woman asking for help while the suspect held on to her. When the deputy tried to separate the man from the woman, a fight began, authorities said.

Another deputy saw the altercation and used his Taser to subdue the suspect, who continued resisting the deputies, the sheriff’s office said.

After being placed in handcuffs, the man suffered a medical emergency, police said. The deputies began lifesaving measures and called for paramedics, who arrived and pronounced the man dead outside the home, the office said.

Santa Rosa police Lt. Dan Marincik said his department will interview both deputies as well as review video footage from their body cameras as part of the investigation. He added that there were other witnesses.

He said the man and woman knew each other, but he did not know the status of their relationship.

The sheriff’s office said it will be doing its own administrative review to determine if the deputies followed its policies during the arrest.

Picture Perfect?

Woman Receives ID with Photo of Empty Chair CENTERVILLE, Tenn. (AP) – Driver’s license photos aren’t always the best, but when a Tennessee woman received her new ID the picture was perfect _ for a furniture store.

Jade Dodd renewed her license online and received it last week, but to her surprise, the photo wasn’t a picture of her. It only showed an empty chair.

“The lady at the DMV did not really believe me when I was like `hey, I need my license fixed,’’’ Dodd said. “Then, she looked it up in the system and goes, `oh, I need my manager for this.’’’

The chair ended up being the focal point of the license because it was the last photo taken and saved to Dodd’s file, the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security told WKRN-TV. The photo was taken accidentally, the department said.

Dodd said she wasn’t upset by the mistake. Instead, she said it lightened the mood amidst the coronavirus pandemic and provided her and her coworkers with a few laughs.

“My boss thinks it’s funnier than anyone,” Dodd added.

“I was at work Friday and he pointed to a chair outside of his office door and was like, `I thought this was you, I waved at it this morning.’”

She posted the photo to Facebook on Aug. 6 and as of Wednesday, it had been shared more than 19,000 times and turned into several memes.

Dodd received her new license Monday _ without the chair.

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World & Nation THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER

Thursday, August 20, 2020

To Gov. Newsom: Time Is Almost Up to Do the Right Thing for Ethnic Studies

By Joe W. Bowers Jr. California Black Media On August 3, the California State Assembly passed AB 1460. Now, the deadline for Governor Newsom to sign or veto it is approaching fast.

AB1640 requires California State University (CSU), the nation’s largest four-year public university system, to provide courses in Ethnic studies at each of its 23 campuses beginning with the 2021–22 academic year. It also requires CSU students to take a 3-credit course in Ethnic studies in order to graduate beginning in the 2024-2025 academic year.

The bill was introduced last year by Assemblymember Shirley Weber (D-San Diego), professor emeritus of Africana studies at San Diego State, on behalf of the California Faculty Association (CFA) and with the support of the legislative ethnic caucuses (Black, Latino, and Asian Pacific Islander). It passed after legislators engaged in personal and passionate debates during committee hearings and on the floor of the Assembly and Senate, each expressing their perspectives on the pressing need for our society to deal with its history of racial inequities.

Ethnic studies is an interdisciplinary study of race and ethnicity that gained acceptance nationally in universities following the 1960’s Black student uprisings. Research shows that students of color and White students benefit academically and socially from taking Ethnic studies courses. These courses can play an important role in building an inclusive multicultural democracy.

According to Charles Toombs, CFA president and a professor of Africana Studies at San Diego State, Ethnic studies differs from other disciplines. It is crucial in its own right.

Because of that, AB1460 specifies that CSU students take a course in one of the four historically defined racialized core groups: African American studies, Latino studies, Native American studies or Asian American studies.

The bill states, “It is the intent of the Legislature that students of the California State University acquire the knowledge and skills that will help them comprehend the diversity and social justice history of the United States and of the society in which they live to enable them to

contribute to that society as responsible and constructive citizens.”

AB1460 passed despite opposition from CSU Chancellor Timothy White, the Academic Senate of the California State University, and the leadership at all 23 CSU campuses.

Chancellor White asked the Executive Senate Committee at each CSU campus to write a letter of opposition when the bill was introduced. Allison Wren from CSU Academic Affairs Division presented CSU’s three main objections to AB 1460 at an Assembly Higher Education Committee hearing.

“First, we believe the legislature should not impose curriculum,” Wren said. “A legislative mandate, such as this will set the dangerous precedent of allowing the government to determine curriculum. And this does in fact threaten the academic freedom of our campuses.”

“Second, the proposed bill is not necessary,” she continued. “We already have cultural diversity requirements on all 23 campuses. Many of these requirements are met by existing courses in ethnic studies or courses and other departments such as anthropology, history, gender Women’s Studies, among many others.”

“Finally, such a requirement could adversely impact our associate degrees for transfers programs. The bill could potentially also adversely impact CSU graduation.”

Weeks before AB 1460 passed, CSU Trustees approved an “Ethnic Studies and Social Justice” studies graduation requirement as an amendment to the school’s general education curriculum. Its critics say the approval was timed to present Newsom with an alternative to AB 1460.

The 13-5 vote of CSU Trustees marks the first significant change to the university’s General Education requirements in 40 years. The approved courses include the four core ethnic studies disciplines AB 1460 requires and adds courses on the history and culture of other oppressed groups, such as Muslims, Jews or LGBTQ people. The requirement goes into effect in the 2023-24 school year.

The board members acknowledged the need for more ethnic studies, citing that the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police and the national protests over police violence and systemic racism figured in why they voted.

However, in a letter to Chancellor White before the Trustee vote, Legislators led by Assemblymember Weber pointed out that the policy, “does not respond to the challenges we currently face, has been rejected by the faculty, and is not supported by students.”

“The changes proposed by the Chancellor’s office will significantly water down the intent of AB 1460 and will result in something akin to a “diversity” requirement, which was not developed in collaboration with the CSU Council on Ethnic Studies,” she added.

CFA said, “How the board can look at anyone with a straight face and say that an Ethnic Studies requirement can be fulfilled without ever having to take a course in Ethnic studies is beyond believable.”

Weber followed that up by commenting that though it’s written as an Ethnic studies requirement, the policy approved by the CSU board permits students to meet it without actually taking an Ethnic studies course.

So, it is up to Governor Newsom to decide which Ethnic studies graduation requirement will be implemented at CSU. If he signs AB 1460 or just lets 12 days go by after the bill passes without signing it, AB 1460’s strict definition of Ethnic studies will supersede the policy that CSU Trustees approved.

If it becomes law, AB 1460 would be the first time the Legislature dictated a CSU graduation requirement. The Legislature fully debated this concern and concluded that the CSU system on its own lacked the will to adequately tackle society’s reckoning around race and inclusion.

Weber in explaining why it was necessary for the Legislature to act said, “I know the Ivory Tower seldom opens its door unless the door is kicked down. And that’s the reality of the Ivory Tower.”

AB 1460 is inspired by the legacy of Ethnic studies that arose out of the protests and activism of CSU students demanding course offerings that covered the experiences of oppressed racial American communities. It offers Newsom the best opportunity to initiate radical change on race in our public higher education system and introduces CSU graduates to perspectives critically needed to solve society’s most pressing problems.

Shirley Weber’s CSU Ethnic Studies Bill is Now State Law Continued from page A1

potentially also adversely impact CSU graduation.”

Weeks before AB 1460 passed, CSU trustees approved an “Ethnic studies and Social Justice” studies graduation requirement as an amendment to the school’s general education curriculum. Its critics say the approval was timed to present Newsom with an alternative to AB 1460.

The 13-5 vote of CSU trustees marks the first significant change to the university’s general education requirements in 40 years. The approved courses include the four core Ethnic studies disciplines AB 1460 requires and adds courses on the history and culture of other oppressed groups, such as Muslims, Jews or LGBTQ people. The requirement goes into effect in the 2023-24 school year.

The board members acknowledged the need for more Ethnic studies, citing that the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police and the national protests over police violence and systemic racism resonated in their thoughts as they voted.

However, in a letter to Chancellor White before the trustee vote, legislators, led by Assemblymember

Weber, pointed out that the policy, “does not respond to the challenges we currently face, has been rejected by the faculty, and is not supported by students.”

“The changes proposed by the Chancellor’s office will significantly water down the intent of AB 1460 and will result in something akin to a “diversity” requirement, which was not developed in collaboration with the CSU Council on Ethnic Studies,” she added.

CFA said, “How the board can look at anyone with a straight face and say that an Ethnic studies requirement can be fulfilled without ever having to take a course in Ethnic studies is beyond believable.”

Weber followed that up by commenting that though it’s written as an Ethnic studies requirement, the policy approved by the CSU board permits students to meet it without actually taking an Ethnic studies course. By signing AB 1460, Newsom sided with Weber and her legislative colleagues in deciding that a strict definition of Ethnic studies was needed to supersede the policy that CSU trustees approved.

AB 1460 is the first time the Legislature dictated a CSU graduation requirement. The Legislature fully debated this departure from precedent and concluded that the CSU system on its own lacked the will to adequately tackle society’s reckoning around race and inclusion.

Weber in explaining why it was necessary for the legislature to act said, “I know the Ivory Tower seldom opens its door unless the door’s kicked down. And that’s the reality of the Ivory Tower.” AB 1460 is inspired by the legacy of Ethnic studies that arose out of the protests and activism of CSU students demanding course offerings that covered the experiences of oppressed racial American communities.

Newsom by acknowledging that legacy is advancing the proposition that radical change on race in our public higher education system has to be fostered and is directing that policy be instituted that assures CSU students are introduced to perspectives critically needed to solve society’s most pressing problems as a requirement for graduation.

Trump Administration Ramps Up Efforts to Dismantle Post Office

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent President Donald Trump has made no secret of his desire to dismantle the United States Postal Service or revamp the agency in a way that has angered Democrats and others who said it’s a tactic to prevent mail-in voting for the upcoming election.

The CARES Act passed in April authorized the postal service to borrow up to $10 billion from the Treasury Department for operating expenses if it’s determines that, due to the COVID-19 emergency, the post office would not fund operating expenses without borrowing money.

“They have withheld that money. They have broken the law,” Congressional Black Caucus Chair Karen Bass told BlackPressUSA during a livestream interview last month.

Other Democratic lawmakers, including Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Rep. Bobby Scott (D-Va.), and Rep. Hank Johnson (D-Ga.), also told BlackPressUSA that the president is trying to dismantle the postal service.

Trump has steadfastly opposed funding the postal service.

Despite recently voting with his wife by mail in a Florida primary election, the president said he’s against mail-in voting.

“Trump is not stupid. He knows if there is a decentsized turnout in this election, he loses,” Sen. Bernie Sanders (D-Vt.) wrote on Twitter.

“He and his friends believe they can suppress the vote by destroying the post office. We aren’t going to allow that to happen.”

Several postal workers have reported the removal of sorting machines at postal facilities and the removal of sidewalk mailboxes.

Postal officials reported that in the last week, the agency had removed letter collection boxes in at least four states: New York, Oregon, Montana, and Indiana.

Postal workers in at least three states – West Virginia, Florida, and Missouri – have received notification that retail operating hours also face reduction.

Removing mailboxes had become a practice along marathon and parade routes since the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, however, the latest removals are believed intentional and strategically coordinated to impact the election.

In response to the removal of mailboxes and a slowdown in the delivery of mail, the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) sent a letter to the Postmaster General on Aug. 7. New Mexico Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver (D), Louisiana Secretary of State R. Kyle Ardoin (R), Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson (D) and Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose (R) joined in signing the letter.

“State and local election officials are busy planning for the November general election, and many expect an

Slowdowns at the post office have reportedly also resulted in seniors receiving their medications late and other important mail like social security checks. (Photo: iStockphoto / NNPA)

increase in the use of absentee and mail ballots, along with other election-related mailings,” the state officials wrote.

“We view the [United States Postal Service] as a vital partner in administering a safe, successful election and would like to learn more about any planned changes around USPS service due to COVID-19, preparations for increased election-related mail, USPS staffing levels and processing times, and other pertinent issues.”

The postal service has sent letters to warn 46 states that it could not guarantee all mail-in ballots cast for the November election would arrive in time to be counted.

Some states, like Maryland and Virginia, received a “heightened warning” that the postal service could not meet state-mandated deadlines.

In response, a large group of protesters staged a “noise demonstration” on Saturday, Aug. 15, outside of Postmaster General Louis DeJoy’s home in Washington, D.C. The demonstration was organized by the direct-action group “Shut Down D.C.” The organization said they believe DeJoy is “dismantling” the U.S. Postal Service in favor of President Donald Trump’s re-election. They said his actions contribute to voter suppression.

“DeJoy has fired or reassigned much of the existing USPS leadership and ordered the removal of mail sorting machines that are fundamental to the functioning of the postal service. Meanwhile, mail delivery is slowing down under other decisions made by DeJoy, such as eliminating overtime for postal workers,” the organization wrote in a statement.

This week, the U.S. Inspector General opened an investigation into DeJoy’s policy changes at the post office.

According to some lawmakers, those changes are reportedly taking a toll on military veterans who are experiencing much longer wait times to receive mail-order prescription drugs.

Slowdowns at the post office have reportedly also resulted in seniors receiving their medications late and other important mail like social security checks.

It has also angered those who work for the agency.

Postal workers throughout the country have reported low morale, and many have cited the actions of Dejoy, who was appointed by Trump. On Friday, Aug. 14, the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC), a union that boasts nearly 300,000 active and retired postal workers, endorsed Presumptive Democratic Presidential Nominee Joe Biden.

“Vice President Biden is, was, and will continue to be a fierce ally and defender of the United States Postal Service, letter carriers, and our fellow postal brothers and sisters,” NALC President Fredric Rolando said in a statement.

“Together, Biden and [vice presidential running mate] Sen. Kamala Harris fully exhibit the experience, dedication, thoughtfulness and steady hands that will work to ensure that letter carriers and working families are put first,” Rolando declared.

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Legal Notices

Thursday, August 20, 2020

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER 20CMCP00099 SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES LOS ANGELES SUPERIOR COURT SOUTH CENTRAL DISTRICT OFFICE 200 W COMPTON BLVD. COMPTON, CA 90220 PETITION OF: IDRIS JOHN MENDOZA BY AND THROUGH MOTHER, OSIRIS LEONELA BAIDE MENDOZA TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner: IDRIS JOHN MENDOZA BY AND THROUGH MOTHER, OSIRIS LEONELA BAIDE MENDOZA for a decree changing names as follows: Present name IDRIS JOHN MENDOZA Filed a petition with this court Proposed name IDRIS JONATHAN MENDOZA 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: Oct 20, 2020 Time: 8:30 a.m.

Dept: A Room: 904 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 NEWS OBSERVER Date: Aug 11, 2020 MAURICE A. LEITEA JUDGE OF THE SUPERIOR COURT RICHARD MARQUEZ DEPUTY IDRIS JOHN MENDOZA BY AND THROUGH MOTHER, OSIRIS LEONELA BAIDE MEN-

DOZA 1275 E. 126th St. Los Angeles, Ca. 90059 Phone: (323) 972-9829 E-Mail: LOS ANGELES NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Aug 20, 27, Sept 3, 10, 2020 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO: 2020119694 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: MAMA DEE’S FYE POPCORN at 901 Irolo St. Apt 103, Los Angeles, Ca. 90006 Mailing Address: Same County: LA REGISTERED OWNERS(S): SHANARA SANDERS, 901 Irolo St. Apt 103, Los Angeles, Ca. 90006 The business is conducted by: an Individual SIGNED: SHANARA SANDERS, Owner The date registrant started to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above: 01/2020 This statement filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles County on: Aug 6, 2020 DEAN C. LOGAN, Los Angeles County Clerk By: (No Name), 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 Aug 6, 2025 LOS ANGELES BAY NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Aug 20, 27, Sept 3, 10, 2020

Features

THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER A3

Cooper Calls Out Racism

Assemblymember Jim Cooper (D-Sacramento) at the Capitol - June 10, 2020. (Courtesy Photo)

Antonio Ray Harvey California Black Media

Assemblymember Jim Cooper (D-Sacramento) inked a two-page open letter to leaders of environmental organizations, calling out racism and the lack of diversity in their organizations.

Cooper, who represents the 9th District and is Chair of the Assembly’s Budget Subcommittee No. 4 on State Administration, released the letter through his Twitter account, stating that “It’s time we have a discussion about environmental racism.”

The Sierra Club California (SCC), the California League of Conservation Voters (CLCV), the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC), and Environment California “have long had all White or (mostly) leadership teams,” Cooper wrote.

“These organizations from their leaders to their funders, are nearly all White, and attempt to trade on race issues by branding their efforts as: ‘environmental justice’ — for which they do not apologize,” Cooper wrote in the letter dated Aug. 3.

Cooper backed his allegations, adding, “these organizations consistently push legislation that is designed to ‘protect or improve’ the environment,’ but fall way below addressing the needs of disadvantaged communities,” he wrote.

In the letter, Cooper included information provided by the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC), an independent nonprofit research institution based in San Francisco.

PPIC reported that California residential electric power rates are 55.8% higher than the average of other states. The report also says that California drivers are dishing out more at the pump to pay for the second-highest gasoline prices in the nation at 98 cents per gallon (47% higher than the average of the 49 other states).

“These higher costs impact disadvantaged communities, especially those who live in areas like the Central Valley, and force them to pay more for energy costs than coastal community households do,” Cooper stated.

“These disadvantaged communities throughout the state are mostly comprised of Black and Brown people.”

Cooper penned the letter after the Sierra Club California recently announced its commitment to invest $5 million of its budget into initiatives to diversify its staff and environmental and racial justice efforts.

Michael Brune, the Executive Director of the Sierra Club California, released a statement on July 22. In it, he apologized for his organization’s “substantial role in perpetuating white supremacy.”

The Sierra Club California is the legislative and regulatory advocacy arm for Sierra Club chapters in California. It is one of the nation’s oldest and largest environmental organizations.

The Sierra Club California has chapters in every state and a national membership that exceeds 1 million.

California is unique among states in that it has 13 chapters of the organization, representing more than 400,000 members and supporters.

“It’s time to take down some of our own monuments, starting with some truth-telling about the Sierra Club’s early history,” Brune stated. “That will be followed by posts on how we’ve had to evolve on issues of immigration and population control, environmental justice, and Indigenous sovereignty.”

Cooper commended the 128-year-old organization for the public apology and putting up funds to address internal and external racial issues. But the Assemblyman still pointed out the Sierra Club’s timing.

Recent and continuing racial strife in the country, including the death of George Floyd on May 25, played heavily into the environmental organization’s decision,

Cooper said.

“I have to ask why it took the murder of an unarmed Black man, nationwide civil unrest, and protest?” Cooper stated.

In his July 22 letter, Brune also admitted that SCC was an exclusive organization that catered to certain members and “screened out any applicants of color” from 1892 to the 1960s.

One of SCC’s founding members is environmentalist and naturalist John Muir, the “Father of the National Parks.” Muir Woods National Monument near Mill Valley, Calif., is named in honor of the Scottish American.

“The Whiteness and privilege of our early membership fed into a very dangerous idea -- one that’s still circulating today,” Brune wrote. “It’s the idea that exploring, enjoying, and protecting the outdoors can be separated from human affairs. Such willful ignorance is what allows some people to shut their eyes to the reality that the wild places we love are also the ancestral homelands of Native peoples.”

Before joining the Assembly in 2014, Cooper served as a Captain in the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department for 30 years and spent 15 years as Elk Grove’s founding mayor and councilmember.

Elk Grove, located 15 miles south of downtown Sacramento, is the second-most populous city in Sacramento County with more than 172,000 residents.

In response to Cooper’s Aug. 3 letter, “Environmental Racism and Lack of Diversity,” and Brune’s July 22’s press release, “Pulling Down Monuments,” the assemblyman engaged in some back-and-forth dialogue with Mary Nichols.

Nichols is the Chair of the California Air Resources Board (CARB). CARB is charged with protecting the public from the harmful effects of air pollution and developing programs and actions to fight climate change.

On Nichols’ Twitter account, which has since been removed, she posted a disturbing message in regard to the death of George Floyd, who died when a Minneapolis, Minnesota, police officer pinned his knee on his neck for nearly nine minutes.

Nichols posted on June 1, “‘I can’t breathe’ speaks to police violence, but it also applies to the struggle for clean air. Environmental racism is just one form of racism. It’s all toxic. Government needs to clean it up in word and deed.”

Cooper responded by tweeting, “How dare you use a dying man’s plea for help as a way to discuss your agenda.

Have you no shame?”

Nichols later issued an apology via Twitter, stating “I apologize for speaking at the wrong time about the wrong topic. Racism comes in many forms and I believe we must fight every instance of it in our society.”

Governor Newsom Must Pick an African American to Replace Sen. Kamala Harris

Top row: Congresswoman Maxine Waters, City Council Member Herb Wesson, Assemblymember Shirley Weber, Mayor London Breed, Congresswoman Karen Bass. Bottom row: Board of Equalization Member Malia Cohen, Superintendent Tony Thurmond, Congresswoman Barbara Lee, State Senator Holly Mitchell.

By Hardy Brown Special to California Black Media U.S. Senator Kamala Harris, the first Black woman to serve on a major party’s presidential ticket made history last week when Joe Biden, the Democratic Party’s presumptive nominee, announced that she would serve as his running mate. While much of the national and local news centered around the selection of Senator Harris, California political insiders were having a different conversation. Almost immediately after Biden’s announcement, the politicos in the Golden State began formulating predictions on who Gov. Gavin Newsom would select to serve the balance of Senator Harris’s term in the U.S. Senate, which ends in January 2023.

The opportunity to see the celebrated rise of a member of another ethnic minority, whether it be the Latino community, API community, or other group, should not come at the expense of California’s Black community.

Political insiders in Sacramento report that Newsom is already being pressured by outside groups to make history by appointing a Latino to replace Harris. With close to 40% or more of the state population being Latino, the governor will be under pressure to deliver to such a large constituency. However, according to some capital insiders and news reports, discussions have already been had with the governor to appoint California Secretary of State Alex Padilla to the U.S. Senate, should Sen. Dianne Feinstein decide to retire before her term ends in 2024.

Black women and men have poured decades of work, blood, sweat, tears and sacrifice into the Democratic Party, and Gov. Newsom must recognize that. Black voters are not the Democratic Party’s mules; they should not have to put the histories of other groups’ oppression on their backs and step aside so someone else can walk through the political door that Senator Harris has opened. To prevent what would be a consequential snub, the Governor should be intentional about acknowledging the important role that Black people have in California politics, and the trail that has been blazed by Kamala Harris, by choosing among California’s Black elected officials to replace her in the U.S. Senate. Fortunately, California has an impressive list for the Governor to consider:

Congressional Members Congresswoman Barbara Lee. Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-CA-13), former Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and the Congressional Progressive Caucus, was an early supporter of Gov. Newsom and is beloved by her Bay Area constituency. Though she is in her 13th term as a Congresswoman and may not want to give up the seniority she’s earned in the House, Lee would garner support from progressives and African Americans statewide, and be a force in the U.S. Senate.

Congresswoman Karen Bass. It is likely that Governor Newsom has already added Representative Karen Bass (D-CA-37) to his shortlist of candidates to fill Senator Harris’s seat. A 10-year veteran in the House of Representatives, Congresswoman Bass, the current Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and former Speaker of the California Assembly, possesses both the leadership skills and the acumen to serve in the U.S. Senate in this historic moment.

Congresswoman Maxine Waters. Affectionately called “Auntie Maxine” by fans from all backgrounds and ages, Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA-43) has been a member of the U.S. Congress for almost 30 years. She is both loved and loathed for her no-nonsense, in-your-face politicking and sharp criticism of political opponents, including Republican Presidents George W. Bush and Donald Trump. Waters served 14 years in the California Assembly before being elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where she is the current chair of the House Financial Services Committee.

Constitutional Officers Superintendent Tony Thurmond. Tony Thurmond became California’s State Superintendent of Public Instruction after successfully defeating a well-funded opponent statewide. Prior to this position, he served as a state Assemblymember, a member of the Richmond City Council and a member of the West Contra Costa County Unified School District. Superintendent Thurmond has enjoyed national attention in the wake of COVID-19 with innovative plans to initiate distance learning and to reopen public schools.

Board of Equalization Member Malia Cohen. Board

Member Malia Cohen, a native of the vote-rich Bay Area, is no stranger to Gov. Newsom and is a tested and proven viable statewide vote getter, having garnered 72 percent of the vote in her 23-county Board of Equalization District, representing over 10 million Californians. She was elected the first Black woman to Chair the BOE, which administers the $70 billion property tax system. Prior to her election to Constitutional Office, BOE Chair Cohen served two terms on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors and as President of the Board.

State Legislators State Senator Holly Mitchell. Senator Holly Mitchell (D-Los Angles), who serves as the Chair of the California State Senate Budget Committee, is one of the most well respected, and powerful policy makers in California.

Senator Mitchell has developed a close working relationship with Gov. Newsom which has served the state well. They have pursued policies that align with their respective agendas on homelessness, criminal justice reform, early childhood development, seniors etc.

Assemblymember Shirley Weber. Assemblymember Shirley Weber (D-Sam Diego) serves as the Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus. She is one of the most effective and respected policymakers serving in the California legislature. She passed landmark legislation establishing a new reasonable force standard in the wake of the death of Stephon Clark by Sacramento law enforcement officers. This year she championed the Assembly Constitutional Amendment 5, which placed on the November ballot Proposition16. If voters approve, Prop 16 would overturn anti-affirmative action Proposition 209, which passed in 1996.

Local Elected Officials City Council Member Herb Wesson. Los Angeles city council member Herb Wesson is former speaker of the state assembly, former president of the Los Angeles City council and is currently a candidate for Los Angeles County supervisor. He is well known around the state and is widely regarded as a persuasive and effective deal maker.

Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas. Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas is one of the most effective policymakers in the state of California. Ridley-Thomas previously served

in both the California State Assembly and the California Senate, and served as the Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus. He was a strong supporter of Gavin Newsom in his race to become Governor, and Ridley-Thomas has worked closely with the governor to address homelessness in Los Angeles County and statewide.

Mayor London Breed. Mayor London Breed, the first African American woman to serve as Mayor of San Francisco, made a splash on the national political stage this year because of her pro-active response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to serving as Mayor of San Francisco, Breed served as the President of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. Breed, who was appointed to the San Francisco Fire Commission by then-Mayor Gavin Newsom, enjoys a close working relationship with the governor and has the experience of running a major metropolitan city.

When coming up with this list, I did a poll check and talked to both young and older veterans in the political space.

Chaya Crowder, an African American Political Science Professor at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, said, “Black women continue to be the most loyal voting block within the Democratic Party. The Democratic Party cannot continue to rely on Black women as voters without having Black women in represented in elected office.”

Danny Bakewell, publisher of the Los Angeles Sentinel and producer of the largest Black festival in California, ‘Taste of Soul,’ said, “at a time that we say Black lives matter, Black people must be considered for this and other positions.

Gov. Newsom has been confronted with a plethora of difficult decisions in 2020, ranging from the management of COVID-19 to balancing a budget in the middle of a severe recession. After the general election, if the Democrats win, the Governor would be charged with an equally important decision -- who to choose to serve out the remaining two-and-a-half years of Senator Harris’s term. Our advice to the Governor is to be thoughtful in his deliberations and understand that his decision will speak very loudly to Black communities throughout California and the nation.

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THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER

Thursday, August 20, 2020

Entertainment

2 Men Charged in ’02 Killing of Run-DMC Star Jam Master Jay

By Jim Mustian, Michael Balsamo, Tom Hays And Michael R. Sisak Associated Press NEW YORK (AP) — Nearly two decades after the slaying of Run-DMC star Jam Master Jay, federal prosecutors said Monday they have solved one of New York City’s most enduring mysteries, charging two men from his neighborhood with murder and suggesting that the hip-hop artist — celebrated for his anti-drug stance — was ambushed over a cocaine deal.

The suspects were identified in court papers as Ronald Washington, 56, who is currently serving a federal prison sentence stemming from a string of robberies while on the run from police after Jay’s 2002 death, and Karl Jordan Jr., 36, who is also charged with engaging in a cocaine distribution conspiracy in 2017.

Jason “Jay” Mizell, known professionally as Jam Master Jay, formed Run-DMC with Joseph “Run” Simmons and Darryl “DMC” McDaniel in the early 1980s. Together, they helped take hip-hop mainstream with hits like “It’s Tricky” and the Aerosmith remake collaboration “Walk This Way.” Jay’s death, following the long unsolved slayings of rappers Tupac Shakur in Las Vegas in 1996 and Christopher “Biggie Smalls” Wallace in Los Angeles in 1997, shook the hip-hop world. Chuck D of Public Enemy compared his death to that of John Lennon. More than $60,000 in rewards was offered, but witnesses refused to come forward and the case languished.

“This is a case about a murder that for nearly two decades had gone unanswered,” Acting U.S. Attorney Seth DuCharme said at a news conference announcing the charges. “Today, we begin to answer that question of who killed Jason Mizell, and why, and we’re confident that we can prove those charges beyond a reasonable doubt.”

Washington, who had reportedly been living on a couch at Jay’s home in the days before the killing, was publicly named as a possible suspect or witness as far back as 2007. Prosecutors allege he waved a handgun and ordered another person at the recording studio to lie on the ground while Jordan shot Jay in the head Oct. 30, 2002.

According to prosecutors, Jay would bring in bulk amounts of cocaine to sell retail and was killed as retribution for cutting Washington out of a plan to distribute 10 kilograms in Maryland.

“They walked in and murdered him in cold blood,” DuCharme said.

A message seeking comment was left with a publicist for Run-DMC. The group performed anti-drug concerts, established scholarships and held voter registration drives at its live shows. In Hollis, the Queens neighborhood where he grew up, Jay was seen as a role model. Friends were puzzled by his death, thinking him an unlikely target FILE - The rap group Run-DMC, from left, Joseph “Run” Simmons, Darryl “DMC” McDaniels, and Jason Mizell “Jam Master Jay,” poses at the 31st annual Grammy for violence.

If convicted, Washington and Jordan each face a Awards in New York, on March 2, 1988. Two suspects have been indicted in the 2002 killing of hip hop artist Jam Master Jay, which until now had been one of New mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in prison and a York City’s most notorious unsolved killings, according to two law enforcement officials, Monday, Oct. 17, 2020. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan, File) maximum of life in prison, or the death penalty. Prosecutors Before ending up on Jay’s couch, Washington served Washington filed a handwritten petition asking to said in court papers that Attorney General William Barr with Jay when he was killed, including the two armed gunmen. prison time for grand larceny, assault, criminal use of a immediately be released to home confinement, arguing had not yet decided whether to seek the death penalty.

At Jay’s funeral, McDaniels remembered his friend firearm, heroin possession and other charges. He was been his medical history put him at risk for complications from Jordan pleaded not guilty at an arraigned held Monday by teleconference because of coronavirus-related and fellow Run-DMC star as “the embodiment of hip- linked to the 1995 fatal shooting of Randy Walker, a close coronavirus. Federal prosecutors responded by asking for more time to respond, delaying any decision until after precautions. His lawyer declined comment. Washington, hop.” He was also a husband and a father of three children. associate of the late Tupac Shakur.

“Jam Master Jay was not a thug,” McDaniels said.

Afterward, prosecutors said, Washington hopped Washington was charged. who is imprisoned in Kentucky, will be arraigned later this “Jam Master Jay was not a gangster. Jam Master Jay was a from motel-to-motel and robbed businesses including Jordan, just a teenager when Jay was killed, was week, prosecutors said. supermarkets and a Burger King while detectives pursued declared a juvenile delinquent after a 1999 robbery arrest Prosecutors have asked that both be jailed pending unique individual.”

Prosecutors, though, now say Jay had been bringing him in connection with Jay’s killing. He remained at large and had a firearm case dismissed when the complaining trial. for nearly three months until police on Long Island nabbed witness refused to cooperate with law enforcement. In The 37-year-old Jay was shot once in the head with cocaine into the New York area since 1996.

At the time, Jay’s acquaintance with Washington — a him for robbing a motel. recent years, prosecutors said, he’s been caught on audio a .40-caliber bullet by a masked assailant at his studio in Last month, as prosecutors were preparing to seek and video surveillance six times selling cocaine to an Hollis. Police identified at least four people in the studio repeat offender with convictions dating in 1982 — worried and upset his family. a grand jury indictment against him for Jay’s death, undercover federal agent.

Beyoncé’s Message to America: “Vote Like Your Life Depends on It”

Beyoncé, whose net worth is over $400 million, recently released the song “Black Parade,” celebrating Black pride. (Photo: BET Networks via YouTube)

Lauren Victoria Burke NNPA Independent Journalist Popular singer Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, 38, had a message for the audience at this year’s BET Awards.

During the ceremony, Beyoncé was presented with a Humanitarian Award by former first lady Michelle Obama, who congratulated Beyoncé on her commitment to the Black community.

“You can see it in everything she does, from her music that gives voice to Black joy and Black pain, to her activism that demands justice for Black lives,” Obama said. Obama also honored Tyler Perry, Trayvon Martin’s mother Sybrina Fulton, and others.

“You’re proving to our ancestors that their struggles were not in vain,” Beyoncé said as she accepted the award, adding, “I’m encouraging you to continue to take action, continue to change and dismantle a racist and unequal system. We have to vote like our life depends on it, because it does.” The singer from Houston dedicated her award to protesters around the country.

Several celebrities have become increasingly involved in philanthropy focused on struggling communities. They include Beyoncé, Pusha T, Trey Songz, Common and John Legend. Trey Songz and Pusha T have both participated in large efforts in their hometowns of Portsmouth and Norfolk, Virginia to feed needy families as part of the “Feed Your City Challenge.”

Thousands have benefited from their events, including the literal tons of food that have been given away to help families in those communities. Pusha T had previously

been involved in philanthropy with a focus on giving back to his community in Norfolk. The rapper has said the work of The Ricky Davis Legacy Foundation in Houston inspired him to replicate a similar effort in Hampton Roads, Virginia. On June 3rd, a large food giveaway drivethru event took place in Norfolk and Trey Songz hosted a large drive-thru food giveaway event in Petersburg on June 20.

Beyoncé was honored at the 20th annual BET Awards in part because of her BeyGOOD initiative. BeyGOOD is a philanthropic initiative that teams up with local charities in places of need to help the homeless, sick children and the unemployed. BeyGOOD joined with Bread of Life, Greater Houston Community Foundation, and Texas Southern University to assist people displaced after Hurricane Harvey in August 2017.

Beyoncé, whose net worth is over $400 million, recently released the song “Black Parade,” celebrating Black pride. “…I hope we continue to share joy and celebrate each other, even in the midst of struggle. Please continue to remember our beauty, strength and power. “Black Parade” celebrates you, your voice and your joy and will benefit Black-owned small businesses,” the description reads under the YouTube Video of “Black Parade.”

Lauren Victoria Burke is an independent journalist for NNPA and the host of the podcast BURKEFILE. She is also a political strategist as Principal of Win Digital Media LLC. She may be contacted at LBurke007@gmail.com and on twitter at @LVBurke

R. Kelly’s Manager Charged with Phone Threats

By LARRY NEUMEISTER Associated Press NEW YORK (AP) – R. Kelly's manager has been arrested in California on charges that he threatened a shooting at a Manhattan theater two years ago, forcing an evacuation and the cancellation of the screening of a documentary addressing allegations that the singer had sexually abused women and girls.

Donnell Russell, 45, of Chicago, was charged with conspiracy and with threatening physical harm by interstate communication.

He appeared remotely Friday from Los Angeles before a magistrate judge in Manhattan. He was permitted to remain free on $75,000 bail. An email seeking comment was sent to his court-appointed lawyer.

The charge comes on the heels of Russell being charged in Brooklyn federal court earlier this week with harassing a Kelly victim and her mother after the unidentified woman

filed a lawsuit against Kelly. Authorities said Russell sent a letter to the woman's lawyer with cropped nude photographs of her and later sent her a text warning her: “Pull the plug or you will be exposed.''

In the latest case, authorities said the threats by Kelly's manager and adviser in December 2018 forced the cancellation of the screening of Lifetime's “Surviving R. Kelly'' series at the NeueHouse Madison Square as police took precautions, although they determined that there was no imminent threat.

Acting U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said in a release that a number of the Grammy award-winning R&B singer's accusers were to attend the screening.

“Threats of gun violence aimed at intimidating and silencing victims of sexual abuse are unlawful as well as unacceptable,” she said.

William F. Sweeney Jr., head of New York's FBI office, said it “defies logic that a threat like the one alleged

here could stop victims from speaking about their alleged abuse.”

Sweeney said Russell succeeded in shutting down one airing of the documentary but failed to silence the women featured in the film.

“Each and every day, we do everything in our power to make sure victims of sexual abuse have the opportunity to be heard, and will continue to do so regardless of those who allegedly use violence as a means to stop them,” he said.

Kelly remains jailed in Chicago after pleading not guilty to dozens of state and federal sex crime charges in Illinois, Minnesota and New York.

The charges range from sexual assault to leading a racketeering scheme aimed at supplying Kelly with girls.

Kelly also is accused of having unprotected sex with a minor in 2015 without disclosing he had herpes.

Donnell Russell

Thursday, August 20, 2020

Sports

THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER A5

Chargers Weekly - Chapter 1 season, Coach Lynn said, “the most responsible team will win this season!” This message has been well received by the entire team.

This team is solid in many areas. Though to be great, they will need the Offensive Line and Linebacking Corps, having watched this team closely over the past two seasons. They made some moves to address both position groups this offseason, and it will be interesting to see which moves will have the most impact on this team this season.

The acquisition of veterans Trai Turner and Bryan Bulaga should immediately improve that offensive line, which was much too porous last season. 27-year-old Thomas is a former thirdround draft pick that has made has made five straight Pro Bowls for the Carolina Panthers. Bulaga come over from Green Bay where he protected Aaron Rodgers, having played 12 or more games in 7 of the past 9 seasons.

A Former OU Sooner Kenneth Murray is a big, fast

By Cameron Buford whatsgoodinsports.com Just as this has been a unique year in America, it’s been just as unique for the world of sports. The National Basketball Association and Major League Soccer has created bubbles to complete their season. Major League Baseball has implemented a no fans policy in an attempt to start and complete their season.

The National Football League as well as the Los Angeles Chargers have also taken multiple measures to prepare for the upcoming NFL season.

The Chargers kicked off their training camp on August 14 at Jack Hammett Sports Complex in Costa Mesa, CA. Their first

linebacker that is expected to fill the holes and be a sure tackler for this defense. Murray appeared in 40 career games for the Sooners, while amassing 325 tackles (36.5 for loss), and 9.5 sacks. The 23rd pick of 2020 has a chance to earn some playing time while simultaneously improving that Chargers run defense. “Man can he run well; I’m surprised at how fast he’s picked things up!” Said Chargers Defensive Coordinator Gus Bradley when talking about Murray.

Each week we hope to provide an additional installment of Chargers Weekly. So be on the lookout for the next chapter of this periodical and also feel free to make your suggestions on what you would like to see discussed next week. Contact us by sending an email to info@whatsgoodinsports.com or tweeting us at @whatsgoodnsport. I look forward to hearing from each of you Los Angeles Football fans in the coming weeks.

day in pads was on Monday, August 17th oddly enough with no fans in attendance. Some very noticeable differences from previous camps would be Chargers coaches and staff are all wearing masks.

Latex gloves and hand sanitizer are readily available for coaches and trainers to keep the team healthy in the era of COVID 19.

There are also yellow x’s painted on the sidelines for the media to practice social distancing since the players can’t.

Chargers Head Coach Anthony Lynn said in a Zoom press conference a few short weeks ago that “We (the Chargers) are playing two opponents, Covid19 and the one on our schedule!”

He also mentioned that “The Chargers have not had anyone opt out of the NFL season.” When asked how that will impact the

Dodgers Sweep Angels Reclaim First Place

Keibert Ruiz became just the seventh player in franchise history to go “UPTOWN” in his first at bat. (Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports)

By Earl Heath Contributing Sports Writer The Dodgers continued their solid play hitting and pitching while sweeping the Angels in Anaheim. Cody Bellinger came out of a slump by ripping a two- run homer in the top of the sixth inning. In the eight is was Bellinger again who his second two run blast.

The Angel got two in the bottom of the frame and one in the ninth to make the final 7-4. Justin Turner and Austin Barnes had two hits apiece. Clayton Kershaw (2-1) had one of his best outings going seven innings giving up one hit, one run striking out six. Kenley Jansen got the save his sixth.

GAME TWO: The American League last two MVPs made their presents known. Mike Trout (2019) went to “RIP CITY” blasting a 433-foot two run homer off Walker Buehler in the first off to give the Angels the early lead, his ninth of the season.

In the top of the 2nd with the bases loaded Mookie Betts lashed a two run single to left driving in Bellinger and Max Muncy.

In the third Chris Taylor doubled moving Bellinger over that’s when Muncy drove them both in to make it 4-2 LA. It was Muncy’s first hit of the year with runners in scoring position.

The Angels would tie it in the fifth as Tommy La Stella single followed by Trout knock in a run on a fielders-choice that gave the Angles a 5-4 lead. Betts would tie it up at 5-5 in the seventh with a solo shot his ninth of the year.

In the tenth Chris Taylor stole third then scored on a Max Muncy deep drive to the warning track in right field. In the bottom of the tenth Hanley Jansen got the save striking out Trout who looked at all three strikes.

One bright spot Jake McGee retired all five batters he faced in the eight and ninth inning.

GAME THREE: It was a big day for young players on the Dodger roster. Keibert Ruiz got his first major league hit which

was a homer in the third inning. The 22year-old catcher became just the seventh player in franchise history to go “UPTOWN” in his first at bat. That got the Dodgers rolling in the series finally.

Players sitting in the stands scrambled to get to the ball, they knew the value of the hit to Ruiz.

“You never know what’s going to happen when a guy takes his first major league at-bat,” said manager Dave Roberts. ”He just put just a good swing on it and the irony of it is that’s something that the guys in player development have been working with Keibert on as far back as spinning the baseball to the pull side.

That’s exactly what he did.”

Later in the third Max Muncy hit a two-run shot to cap a three-run inning. In the fourth Mookie singled in Keke Hernandez. Cory Seager followed with a three-run shot. Matt Beaty homered in the eight to cap Dodger scoring giving them a 8-2 lead.

Mark May who had worked with Ruiz several times in the minor leagues went 4 1/3 innings giving up seven hits. Scott Alexander (1-0) pitched 2 innings got the win.

DODGER NOTES: Mookie Betts had a good weekend (at press time) he was batting .319, 2nd in RBI’s with 21, and 2nd in the majors with 67 total bases. His 9 homers has him third in homers behind the Padres Fernando Titas (11) and the Angels Mike Trout (10)…Betts also took time over the weekend to help with a grab and go giveaway at Compton Town Center.

They gave away, reusable mask, hand sanitizers, and food boxes. There was also health screening and voter registration…

Clayton Kershaw and his wife Ellen continued their annual community contribution as they help giveaway back to school items such as back packs, health kits, school supplies and many other items that prepare young people for the school time. It’s the eighth years they have assisted with the program that was held at Dodger Stadium.

Rams have Choices at Skill Positions

By Earl Heath Contributing Sports Writer The Rams prepare for the upcoming season and they knew they had spots to fill right away starting with the departure of running back Todd Gurley, who is now in Atlanta and WR Brandon Cooks now in Houston.

When draft time came they selected Cam Ackers RB from Florida State and Van Jefferson from Florida both in the second round. They are joined by Darryl Henderson, a third rounder from 2019 draft.

The 5-11, 215 pound Akers is a powerful runner who ran his way for 2,400 and 28 touchdowns in three years at FSU. He also caught 69 passes there. The 6-3 Jefferson finished his 48 game college career with 179 catches for 2,159 yards and 16 touchdowns.

“When we made those picks it was to add explosiveness, add vision, and weapons that could run block and catch out of the backfield, ” said Rams General Manager Les Snead.

In 2017 the Rams were eighth in the league in rushing, third in 20l8, and last year they were nineteenth. This year they want to get back in the top five again.

Malcom Brown is a person that can help the younger player person that can help. As a five year backup he has rushed for 769 yards and has five touchdowns. Last season he had a career high 256 yards .He’s expected to be a leader.

“It’s been easy to fall into that role. I knew right when TG (Todd Gurley) left I would want to play a bigger role,” said Brown. “It’s easier in the running back room because we all want to earn time and we all want to get better. There’s nothing drastic or anything like that, but we’ll see throughout training camp we Five year Veteran Malcolm Brown, will be a leader of young Ram running backs, with his veteran presence in the backfield. (John Cordes/Associated Press) will see how we will fall into our roles.”

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Local

THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER

Thursday, August 20, 2020

Rep. Waters Marks 85th Anniversary of Creation of Social Security; Condemns Trump’s Shameless Plan to Defund Social Security

“When Donald Trump campaigned for president back in 2016, he promised he would not cut Social Security. This promise was just another bold-faced lie from a dishonorable man who has lied more than 20,000 times since his inauguration.”

WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA43), the Chair of the House Financial Services Committee, marked the 85th anniversary of the landmark Social Security Act, which was signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on August 14, 1935, and condemned Donald Trump’s attempt to defund the program. She released the following statement: “It is ironic that on the 85th anniversary of the creation of Social Security, Donald Trump is trying to defund this essential program. Donald Trump’s order to defer payroll taxes from September through December of this year is a shameless attempt to undermine the entire Social Security system while distracting attention from his failure to stop the spread of the coronavirus and save our economy.

“Social Security is a bedrock of American society. Signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1935, the Social Security Act has provided economic stability and retirement security to millions of hard-working Americans. Prior to the passage of this landmark law, many American seniors were forced to live in abject poverty, and many slept on the streets. Social Security is financed by the payroll taxes seniors paid during their working years, and it provides financial security to 65 million seniors and disabled workers. Social Security keeps a roof over their heads and food on their tables.

“Cutting or deferring payroll taxes weakens Social Security U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters takes the stage in July 2016 to speak during the third day of the Democratic Na- and endangers the benefits that seniors have earned. Trump’s shameless order is opening the door to cutting or eliminating tional Convention in Philadelphia.(Paul Sancya / Associated Press)

Social Security’s dedicated financing and jeopardizing the future of this important program.

“Deferring payroll taxes for four months will do nothing to help struggling families or stimulate the economy. It will not help the 30 million Americans who are unemployed and no longer have a payroll, nor will it help those who are self-employed. It might not even help the workers whose taxes are intended to be deferred. Some employers may simply keep the money rather than pass on the benefits of a deferral to their workers. Other employers may decide that the logistical challenge involved in reducing payroll tax withholding and then increasing it four months later is simply not worth the effort, and consequently, these employers will continue collecting and paying payroll taxes to the federal government as before.

“For those employers that do take advantage of a payroll tax deferral and pass on the benefits to their workers, they – and their workers – will still have to pay the taxes, possibly in a large lump-sum payment at the end of the four-month deferral period.

Getting a bill from the federal government for a lump-sum tax payment at the end of December is like getting a lump of coal in your Christmas stocking!

“When Donald Trump campaigned for president back in 2016, he promised he would not cut Social Security. This promise was just another bold-faced lie from a dishonorable man who has lied more than 20,000 times since his inauguration.”

LeBron’s More than a Vote Campaign Partners with Dodgers Stadium

By Cameron Buford Whatsgoodinsports.com The United States is in turmoil! Along with the COVID-19 pandemic infesting the country, the spikes in unemployment rates many are suffering through, and the multitude of families facing eviction, Americans have a presidential election a few short months away adding to the uncertainty and anxiety of the path forward. These are critical times for Americans!

Because of these awkward times, it’s even more critical that every one of us gets out and votes in this year’s coming election.

There have been some challenges broached by some and as Los Angeles Clippers Head Coach so passionately stated, “Voter suppression has been happening my entire life; and it’s been done by the same people to the same people.”

With all of the unknowns our country is facing, it’s critical every one of us gets out and vote in this 2020 election. As our leaders and journalists have broached topics regarding our supposed democracy and our actual voting process, one easily understands the perspective of the Los Angeles Clippers Head Coach, Glen “Doc” Rivers. Doc stated recently “voter suppression has been happening my entire life; and it’s been done by the same people to the same people.” Amid everything else Americans are dealing with, there is a threat to revitalizing voter suppression tactics voting of America’s past.

To combat concerns with voter suppression, 4-time NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP), 3-time NBA Championship winner, and current Los Angeles Laker, LeBron James, has founded the non-profit organization, “More Than a Vote”. More Than a Vote is in lockstep with James’ mantra, “More Than An Athlete.” Through More Than a Vote James is exposing tactics employed to suppress votes, while simultaneously campaigning for Black people to register and vote in the upcoming election.

“Yes, we want you to go out and vote, but we’re also going to give you the tutorial,” James said. “We’re going to give you the background of how to vote and what they’re trying to do, the other side, to stop you from voting.” LeBron proudly boasts of his inspiration by stating… “I’m inspired by the likes of Muhammad Ali, I’m inspired by the Bill Russell’s and the Kareem AbdulJabbar’s, the Oscar Robertson’s—those guys who stood when the times were even way worse than they are today.”

LeBron has already enlisted comedian Kevin Hart, Los Angeles Dodger David Price, Golden State Warrior Draymond Green, Miami Heat legend Udonis Haslem, as well as New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara. In addition to receiving the signatures from WNBA players Skylar DigginsSmith, Kristi Toliver, A’ja Wilson, Brittney Griner, Renee Montgomery, Chiney Ogwumike as well as current and former NFL players Jeff Okudah, Emmanuel Acho, Michael Vick, Bobby Wagner, Mike Evans, DeAndre Hopkins, and Odell Beckham Jr.. He has also gained signatures from current and former NBA players Eric Bledsoe, Mo Bamba, Damian Lillard, Kyle Lowry, CJ McCollum, Trae Young and Ray Allen, Caron Butler, Kendrick Perkins. Several other athletes and entertainers have joined the cause such Jozy Altidore, Tim Anderson, Toni Braxton, Bun B, , Carlton Davis, Jeremy Ebobisse, Andrew Hawkins, Jason Heyward, Justin Morrow, Arike Ogunbowale, Dare Ogunbowale, CC Sabathia, Ben Simmons, Sloane Stephens, Marcus Stroman, along with NBA Analysts Jalen Rose, and Maria Taylor.

Just recently, The Dodger Stadium agreed in a joint effort between the Dodgers and More Than A Vote, to becoming a voting site for many American citizens in the Los Angeles market.

“I may still be new to LA, but it didn’t take long for me to learn how special the relationship is between the Dodgers and Lakers.

We are all in this together,” LeBron James explained. “I’m proud we were able to help the Dodgers become the first MLB stadium to open for voting. This is exactly why we created More Than a Vote. A lot of us are now working together and here for every team who wants to follow the Dodgers lead and turn their stadium into a safer place for voting.”

“Winning takes collaboration, and that’s exactly what we’re seeing between Los Angeles County and professional sports here in LA,” said Dodger Pitcher David Price, who is also a member of the More Than A Vote campaign. “We may not be able to play in front of our fans this year, but we can do our part to provide a core civic function and make sure that Angelenos can safely vote this fall. By becoming the first Major League Baseball team to convert our stadium into a voting center, the Dodgers are handing a blueprint to teams across MLB that can be used to make a very real difference in the lives of their fans.”

Having been closed to the public for much of 2020 Dodger

Stadium and the surrounding property have hosted many civic and communal initiatives. Most notably being the county’s largest Covid-19 testing site, Los Angeles Unified School District’s virtual graduation in addition to being used as a staging ground for emergency equipment and a food distribution site for those families who’ve experienced food insecurities.

“We are thrilled to partner with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

We are thankful for their commitment to civic engagement and voter enfranchisement,” Dean C. Logan, L.A. County RegistrarRecorder/County Clerk mentioned. “Hosting a vote center at Dodger Stadium is a grand slam that allows us to meet public health standards for physical distancing while ensuring voters have access to in-person voting options in the presidential election. In uncertain times, it is collaborations such as this that demonstrate the spirit of community and the strength of our democracy. We encourage voters to head out to the ballpark to make their voices heard this Fall.”

“The Los Angeles Dodgers hosting a vote center at Dodger Stadium is a home run for democracy,” Secretary of State Alex Padilla said. “Civic partnerships that help us offer new and safer

voting options is critical during the COVID-19 pandemic. I hope this partnership, which is the first by a Major League Baseball team, inspires others to join us as we work to educate the public on changes to the November general election and to identify new voting locations and poll workers.“ In a recent communication further explaining the purpose of the More Than a Vote Campaign, James urges the communities to participate in the election this year, “We saw you in the streets.

We saw your social media posts. Your voices are breaking through, but it’s now time to do more. We know you have the ability to organize. So, join us and take your protest to the election and fight to keep our community from being silenced.”

It’s been said in the past that athletes, specifically LeBron should shut up and dribble. This is yet another example of how that statement is an unintelligent response to an athlete using his platform to do positive things in the community he lives and works in. What are your thoughts on this initiative and its potential impact on the upcoming election? By reaching out to me on Twitter @whatsgoodnsport or forward your thoughts to info@whatsgoodinsports.com.