VALLEY'S 11.5.20 4C

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The Valley’s

Volume 35 Number 51

Serving the San Fernando Valley for Over 35 Years

Observer Group Newspapers of Southern California

Election 2020 Update:

All California Black Caucus Members Hold Strong Leads in Races Joe W. Bowers Jr. California Black Media Election Day 2020 is behind us, and a winner for President of the United States has not been decided. As predicted, California voted overwhelming for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris and they will be receiving the state’s 55 electoral votes. Also, as predicted, counting the votes in battleground states will take time to determine a state winner. There are seven battleground states that will determine the next President and right now Joe Biden is leading in four of those states (Arizona, Nevada, Wisconsin, Michigan). President Trump is leading in three (Georgia, North Carolina, Pennsylvania). If the trends hold in the battleground states, Joe Biden is on course to collect at least 270 electoral votes and will be the next President. But, nothing is certain until all votes have been counted and all lawsuits that Trump is likely to initiate have been resolved. In California elections, a ballot postmarked by Nov. 3 has up to 17 days later to be counted. Counties have until December 3 to certify contests for office. The vote counts in State District contests involving African American incumbents show that they have all ei-

ther won or are winning their contests. In some of our local races Former San Francisco Dist. Att. George Gascon leads 53.8% of the vote to 46.1% over incumbentLA County District. Atty. Jackie Lacey as of press time Wednesday morning. La county also voted to pass County Measure J with 57.08% of the vote. In the Congressional races – Barbara Lee, (Democrat – Congressional District 13), Karen Bass (Democrat – Congressional District 37 Los Angeles) and Maxine Waters (Democrat – Congressional District 43 Los Angeles) have been declared winners. State Sen. Steve Bradford (Democrat35th Senate District) won his contest. In Assembly races, declared Legislative Black Caucus winners include: Kevin McCarty (Democrat – Assembly District 9), Chris Holden (Democrat – Assembly District 41), Sydney Kamlager (Democrat – Assembly District 54),

and Autumn Burke (Democrat – Assembly District 62). Assemblymembers currently leading in their contests by double digits are Jim Cooper (Democrat – Assembly District 9), Reggie Jones Sawyer (Democrat – Assembly District 59) and Mike Gipson (Democrat – Assembly District 64). However, the percentages of votes counted at this time are not enough to project that those three state legislators will be re-elected in their districts. State Sen. Holly Mitchell (Democrat – 30th Senate District) was not up for re-election, but she was running for a seat on the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. She is currently leading in her contest against Los Angeles City Councilman Herb Wesson. If she wins, there will have to be a special election to find a replacement to complete her term in the State Senate.

ELECTION 2020: For Black People, Criminal Justice a Top Priority

“If the President were re-elected, we should expect a Department of Justice that throws its resources at left-wing groups but will frequently disregard the threat from right-wing terror,” said Nora V. Demleitner, the lead author of, “Sentencing Law and Policy.” (Photo: iStockphoto / NNPA)

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
 Election rhetoric around the criminal justice issue continues to change though there seems to be a broad agreement between both presidential candidates that criminal justice reform is overdue. President Donald Trump continues to counter occasional talk of reform with law-and-order rhetoric, which focuses on various left-wing groups he calls Antifa and on the Black Lives Matter Movement. Trump has accused both groups of inciting riots. The president also has brought back the divisive antiimmigrant rhetoric from 2016. He smeared Mexican immigrants as rapists, murderers, and drug traffickers, noted Nora V. Demleitner, the lead author of “Sentencing Law and Policy.” She also serves as editor of the Federal Sentencing Reporter and a board member of the Prison Policy Initiative and the Collateral Consequences Resource Center. Demleitner serves on the Albermarle County, Virginia, prosecutor’s citizen advisory committee and is a Roy L. Steinheimer Jr. Professor of Law at Washington and Lee University in Virginia. “There seems to be much less traction for [Trump’s] claims … empirical support is absent as immigrants are substantially less crime-prone than US citizens,” Demleitner remarked.

In 2018, Trump signed the First Step Act, which he said addressed outdated, failed policies long overdue for reform. The legislation eliminated the three-strikes life sentencing provision for some offenses and expanded judges’ discretion in nonviolent crimes’ sentencing. It also led to some commutations, including Alice Johnson, who served more than 20 years for a nonviolent drug offense. “Even though President Trump’s pardons and commutations have been largely politically motivated, the Bureau of Prisons has seen a large decrease, due largely to changes in drug sentences that preceded his presidency and COVID-19 related increases,” Demleitner responded. While Democratic Nominee Joe Biden has received loud criticism for his role in a 1990s crime bill that devastated African Americans, he has met with families of Black victims of police brutality like George Floyd. Biden has called for a federal ban on police chokeholds, a new federal police oversight commission, new national standards for when and how police use force, more mandatory data collection from local law enforcement, and more power for the Department of Justice to investigate local police departments, among other changes. And, as noted by Politico, despite a bipartisan push to reduce the United States’ highest-in-the-world incarceration rate, the prison population decreased only slightly in 2018 to 1.5

million, the most recent year for which data is available. “If the President were re-elected, we should expect a Department of Justice that throws its resources at left-wing groups but will frequently disregard the threat from right-wing terror,” said Demleitner. “Much of it will be business as usual, with a focus on immigration prosecutions, drug cases, and healthcare and antitrust prosecutions. There would also likely be more conflict between progressive big-city prosecutors and their local US attorneys and between so-called sanctuary cities and the federal government.” Should Biden win, Demleitner believes America could expect a slew of politically motivated pardons and commutations before Trump leaves office. Whether the Senate will try to push through Trump’s slate of US Sentencing Commission members is unclear. “They might prove an obstacle for any federal sentencing reform a President Biden wants to see happen. An example here is the final equalization of crack and powder cocaine sentences, which is supported by the science but apparently not politics,” Demleitner said. For a Biden presidency, much of the change expected could come in funding to the states. It could take the form of mental health and addiction treatment funding or funding for certain types of police training, such as de-escalation. “The Civil Rights Division should be expected to begin to investigate select police departments around the country and push for consent decrees and federal oversight, as was happening during the Obama administration. These changes would contribute to greater racial equity,” Demleitner further noted. “Gun regulation has to be at the forefront of the Biden administration as well though that area will create the strongest backlash,” the professor continued. “Yet there is sizeable national agreement on some restrictions and those may be the fastest areas in which to get an agreement, though much of that will hinge on which party gains the Senate majority. There are also countless smaller rules that the current justice department changed. According to Demleitner, many of those, such as guidelines on prosecuting cases, need to be rolled back. “Assessment of the racial impact of these rules needs to be done,” Demleitner added. “The new administration has to tackle broader issues, such as what a vibrant and non-politicized pardon/commutation regime should look like. “Biden’s agenda is long, but still it isn’t comprehensive. Since prosecutors run the Department of Justice, it will be essential for non-prosecutor voices to be heard. Reform cannot be limited to drug cases only. It’s important to remember that the part of the criminal justice system the president controls is unique and only a slice of the entire criminal justice system. Funding and DOJ oversight, as well as the involvement of other agencies, such as Housing, Education, and Health, will be crucial in criminal justice reform.”

Free!

Thursday, November 5, 2020

Pregnant Woman Pushes Labor Aside to Cast Vote

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) – A pregnant Florida woman didn’t let labor stop her from casting her vote in the presidential election, refusing to go to the hospital until she filled out her ballot. Officials with the Orange County Supervisor of Elections said the woman was already in labor when she arrived at the polling site with her husband Tuesday afternoon, news outlets reported. Elections employee Karen Briceno Gonzalez said the husband asked for a ballot for his wife and later told the staff that she was in the car, in labor and refusing to go to the hospital until she was able to vote. Briceno Gonzalez said she rushed outside to give the woman her ballot and check her ID. The staffer thought the woman would fill it out later, but while doing some controlled Lamaze breathing, the woman filled the ballot out right away. Elections clerk Eileen Deliz said the couple never mentioned why the woman waited until she was in labor to cast her vote. “Maybe she wanted to come in-person at one point and that’s why she was waiting, who knows. But she wouldn’t go to the hospital until she voted,” Deliz said. Deliz said the unexpected incident delivered a bunch of smiles to the election workers. “We are very, very busy, but when something like that happens it just makes our day,” Deliz said. “Every election cycle brings us a great little story.” Officials said the woman’s husband later drove her to an Orlando hospital.

Canceled 2021 Rose Parade

PASADENA, Calif. (AP) – The 2021 Rose Parade is canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic, but viewers will still get a show with a two-hour television special on New Year’s Day, organizers said. The Tournament of Roses Association said in a Thursday news release that the TV special will include “live-to-tape musical and marching band performances, heartwarming segments related to the Rose Parade, celebrity guest appearances,” and highlights from past Rose Bowl football games. And of course there will be “spectacular floats from years past,” as well as a behind-the-scenes look into the making of flower-laden displays that are the trademark of the parade, the release said. The Pasadena, California, association said in July that it was canceling the 132nd parade because of the risk of spreading COVID-19 infections among its huge audience and participants. The Rose Bowl college football game that traditionally follows the parade is still scheduled for New Year’s Day. Since its inception in 1891, the parade has only not occurred during the wartime years of 1942, 1943 and 1945, the association said. Thousands of spectators normally jam the 5-mile (8-kilometer) parade route through Pasadena, some camping out overnight on sidewalks to ensure a good view.

School Mural Slavery Depiction

CANTON, Ohio (AP) – Officials in an Ohio school district have placed a temporary cover over a historical mural at a high school after concerns were raised about its depiction of slavery. A black and red banner reading “Champions are made ... and success is tradition” now covers the mural at McKinley High School’s downtown campus in the Canton City Schools district, the Akron Beacon Journal reported. Administrators decided in September to conceal the northern portion of the 195-foot-long mural that encircles the school’s food court and meeting area after at least one person voiced concerns during the last school year. One section of the “Highlights of American History” mural, which illustrates U.S. history until the middle of World War II, shows a white man with a whip lunging toward a shirtless Black man whose hands are bound to a pillar. Superintendent Jeff Talbert said in a statement that the covering is a temporary remedy until the district can host a communitywide “true conversation” about whether the mural remains appropriate . “As the school year began, our leadership team determined that the highly charged climate around social injustice and the marginalization of certain groups within our school and city communities elevated the immediate need to cover up parts of the mural that have been deemed offensive and inappropriate,” wrote Talbert, who took over as superintendent in August. The art deco mural dedicated in 1943 contains more than 350 historical figures, beginning with Christopher Columbus in the 1490s and extending to the United States emerging from the Depression and entering the Second World War. The artist, Timken High School student Frank Marchione, who spent two years painting the mural, died in 2012 at age 90. His son, David Marchione, said removing the mural his father painted because it shows the oppression of slavery would be a mistake akin to removing artwork that shows the crucifixion of Christ. “The reason (the crucifixion) is depicted so much is because it is the thing that shows the triumph of Christ above the cruelty of humanity,” David Marchione said. He noted that an illustration to the right of the slavery image shows President Abraham Lincoln issuing the Emancipation Proclamation. “The idea that slavery is depicted and people are undergoing the suffering of slavery is an example of the triumph of the United States as a self-transforming society and the triumph of the African American people over the oppression of slavery,” he said. By not acknowledging the horrors of slavery, people cannot truly understand the triumphs of civil rights activists such as Martin Luther King Jr., Marchione said. He said rather than hiding the depiction of slavery, educators should use it as a teaching tool.

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World & Nation THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER

Thursday, November 5, 2020

U.S. Bank’s Community Partnership

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – U.S. Bank recently rolled out a new campaign focused on reaching multicultural audiences, specifically Black, Hispanic and Asian Pacific Islander consumers, with the tagline, “Turning talk into action.” The campaign includes digital and print advertisements, social media and contributions in five markets: Chicago, Cincinnati, Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco. The goal of the campaign is to raise awareness of critical financial resources. The campaign directs people to a corresponding campaign website with more financial resources. “Multicultural communities are being hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic both financially and culturally,” said Beth McDonnell, U.S. Bank Chief Marketing Officer. “Our responsibility is to actively assist multicultural consumers and communities as they recover and rebuild their financial lives for the near and long term. This campaign is just one way we are focused on reaching these communities.” For struggling small businesses, people laid off or furloughed, or anyone struggling to make ends meet, the website directs them to vital Covid-19 relief programs, helpful financial articles, tips and a free financial wellness webinar series. Available in both English and Spanish, it also encourages users to seek one-on-one support from a banker by phone or in person. Additionally, U.S Bank is offering a series of free financial wellness seminars for consumers both in English and Spanish. U.S. Bank is also sponsoring events like the BET Hip Hop Awards. The ads are appearing on multiple news sites including a partnership with Univision. In addition to the campaign consumer and business

resources, U.S. Bank highlights its continued commitment to communities through rapid and meaningful response through multiple donations to local nonprofits that are offering consumer financial education, supportive housing resources and small business technical assistance. The campaign included additional financial support to accompany general operating support grants that have allowed nonprofit partners in underserved communities to add services and keep their doors open for critical community needs. Neighborhood Housing Services of Los Angeles County, Mercy Housing Lakefront in Chicago and Asian Pacific Fund in San Francisco were beneficiaries of the additional support. Investment in Black-owned businesses Strengthening Black-owned businesses and fighting racism has never been more important. While the campaign is working to reach multicultural consumers and communities, U.S. Bank is making financial commitments to create lasting change. As racial tensions increase across the nation, U.S. Bank aims to make a difference committing to $116 million in initiatives and investments addressing social and economic inequities. Committed to equality Though the pandemic has required us to remain six feet apart, U.S. Bank has come together with the communities it serves. U.S. Bank is commitment to creating a world of diversity, equity and inclusion is stronger than ever. For more information on how U.S. Bank is creating more opportunities for diverse communities to reach their financial goals, visit usbank.com/action.

U.S. Bank is offering a series of free financial wellness seminars for consumers both in English and Spanish. U.S. Bank is also sponsoring events like the BET Hip Hop Awards. The ads are appearing on multiple news sites including a partnership with Univision. (Photo: iStockphoto / NNPA)

Open Enrollment What You Need to Know By Bernard J. Wolfson California Healthline California’s annual health insurance enrollment season for individuals and families kicks off this week against a dramatic backdrop: the hotly contested presidential election; a pandemic raging out of control in much of the U.S.; and, on Nov. 10, a Supreme Court hearing of a case that could end the Affordable Care Act and strand millions without coverage. The massive unemployment caused by the pandemic has already stripped employer-based health insurance from millions nationwide and induced severe financial anxiety as families struggle to pay rent and buy food. One question hovering over enrollment for 2021 health plans is whether the large-scale loss of medical coverage will generate a surge of sign-ups, or if more pressing financial worries for many people will push insurance lower down their priority list. “People have so many things to deal with: They’ve lost jobs, they’ve lost a lot of income, and in California they’re also facing fires. I don’t think health insurance has been top of mind for people,” says Cheryl Fish-Parcham, director of access initiatives at Families USA, a consumer health care

advocacy organization. But Peter Lee, executive director of Covered California, the state’s ACA marketplace, is confident it will match the 40% increase in new sign-ups it had for 2020 coverage. “It is clear that COVID is on Californians’ minds,” he says. “You cannot have COVID on your mind without also having coverage on your mind.” A Supreme Court decision on the future of the ACA probably won’t come until well into next year, and it is unlikely to affect your 2021 coverage. “So people should feel confident in looking for a health plan,” says Sara Collins, vice president for health care coverage and access at the Commonwealth Fund. If you are 65 or older, you probably qualify for Medicare, the federal program for seniors, which is entirely separate from the ACA exchanges and broader individual market. Open enrollment for the private Medicare Advantage plans and Part D drug plans is also underway and ends Dec. 7. Insurance agents can usually help you with Medicare, and you can get advice by calling 1-800434-0222. If you are under 65, live in the Golden State and want to buy insurance for you and your family, start with

(Photo Credit: Ana B. Ibarra/California Healthline)

For Californians who are buying their own insurance, enrollment in 2021 health plans runs through Jan. 31. Covered California. It’s the only place you can get federal and state assistance to cover some or all of your premiums. The enrollment period for Covered California, and for the individual market outside the exchange, started Nov. 1 and runs through Jan. 31. In states whose exchanges are operated by the federal government, the enrollment window shuts Dec. 15. If you lost coverage and need it for the month of December this year, you can still get it through Covered California if you sign up by Nov.30. For regular annual coverage that starts Jan. 1, you must sign up by Dec. 15. If you miss that deadline, you can still get coverage starting Feb. 1 if you enroll by the final Jan. 31 deadline. Many people leave money on the table because they aren’t aware of the financial assistance or think they earn too much to qualify. But you don’t need to be poor to get aid. The federal subsidies, which are tax credits typically provided in the form of reduced monthly premiums, are available to individuals with annual income up to about $51,000 and a family of four with income up to nearly $105,000. California has supplemented the federal aid with statefunded assistance that extends further into the middle class: up to around $76,500 for an individual and $157,000 for a family of four. If you log on to Covered California’s website, www.coveredca.com, you can check how much financial help you qualify for and compare health plans. Or, an insurance agent or certified enroller can do the legwork work for you — at no charge. You can find one on the website. You can also call Covered California directly at 800-300-1506. If your income is below 138% of the federal poverty level, you will probably qualify for Medi-Cal, the government insurance program for people of limited means. The Covered California website — or an enroller — will let you know if you do and walk you through signing up. You can also contact your county’s Medi-Cal office. If you don’t qualify for Medi-Cal, your children might, because the income threshold is higher for them. If you are looking for exchange-sponsored coverage, click the “shop and compare” tab on the Covered California website, which takes you to a screen that asks your age, income, ZIP code and family size and shows the health plans available, their premiums and your aid amount. The website also provides quality ratings of the participating health plans. And you can check for plans that have your doctors in their networks — though, as the website warns, that information is not always up to date. Comparison shopping on the website is straightforward, because at each of the four levels of coverage — bronze, silver, gold and platinum — benefits are uniform from insurer to insurer. So once you’ve decided which metal tier

People in Prison Can Receive $1,200 Stimulus Payments Quinci LeGardye California Black Media The first round of economic impact payments funded by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act, or the CARES Act, has been opened to a new group of Americans. Incarcerated individuals can now apply to receive their stimulus payments of up to $1200. According to a June report from the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA), the IRS initially sent nearly 85,000 payments, totaling about $100 million, to incarcerated individuals. After the report raised concerns about the payments, the IRS decided that payments to incarcerated people were not allowed under the CARES Act and ordered that the payments sent should be returned. Then a class-action lawsuit was filed. Lawyers argued that denying the payments solely based on an individual’s incarcerated status was against the law. The language of the CARES Act does not explicitly say that incarcerated individuals cannot receive payments. On Sept. 24, Judge Phyllis Hamilton of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California ordered the Treasury Department and the IRS to reverse the decision. The previously rescinded stimulus payments now have to be returned to the incarcerated individuals. On Oct. 14, Hamilton also ordered the IRS to extend the deadline for incarcerated individuals covered by the lawsuit to file paperwork to receive the money to Nov. 4. People covered by the lawsuit who did not file a 2018 or 2019 tax return will have to submit a postmarked simplified Form 1040 paper return by Nov. 4 to receive the stimulus payment. The IRS also extended the online deadline to register for a stimulus payment for people who don’t typically file a on this web page,” the IRS states. tax return to Nov. 21. Under the CARES Act, stimulus payments must be According to the IRS website, the government is working on an appeal to the decision. “The government made by Dec. 31. People will still have an opportunity to has filed an appeal and request to stay the preliminary get the stimulus funds next year, but they won’t receive the injunction. Any updates regarding the appeal will be posted money until they file their 2020 tax return. Information on how to help an incarcerated person

is best for you, you only need to think about the price and whether your providers are in the network. If you have a Covered California health plan already, shop around rather than automatically renew the one you’re in. “The best deal last year is not necessarily the best deal this year,” says Anthony Wright, executive director of Health Access California. Covered California announced a 0.5% average statewide premium increase last month, but actual rate changes vary across the state and among carriers. Anthem Blue Cross, for example, will hike rates by a statewide average of 6%, and the Oscar Health Plan of California by 7.6%, while Blue Shield of California will cut rates by an average of 2.4% and the L.A. Care Health Plan by 4.6%. If you switch to the lowest-cost plan in your current metal tier, you could reduce your premium by as much as 7.4%, according to Covered California. Keep in mind that the lowest premium, a bronze plan, is not necessarily the wisest — or cheapest — choice. Tom Freker, a Huntington Beach, California, insurance agent, counsels people not to buy bronze, because its higher deductibles and coinsurance rates could cost more than a higher-premium plan if you fall ill or have a serious accident. Freker recommends you enroll in Covered California rather than the off-exchange market, even if you don’t initially qualify for aid. That’s because if your income drops and you report it to the exchange, you might then qualify and get a break on premiums for the rest of the year or a tax credit the following April, he says. If your income rises during the year you also should report it, so your monthly premium subsidy is reduced, helping you avoid a potentially hefty tax bill come April. Your initial aid amount, if you qualify, will be based on your projected 2021 income. In this period of pandemicdriven furloughs, slashed hours and job loss, that might be difficult to predict. Maria Weston, a massage therapist in Long Beach, California, said her income has fluctuated week to week since the pandemic started and is down about 50% overall. Her priority for 2021 was to find a less expensive option, so she switched to a cheaper silver plan last month (current enrollees were allowed to make their health plan choices starting Oct. 1). Weston’s new health plan will save her nearly $1,700 a year on premiums. “I could put that in my retirement account — or eat,” she says. “One of the two.”

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THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER Bakersfield News Observer Los Angeles News Observer file for a stimulus payment is available at caresactprisoncase.org. The website includes directions on where to mail the simplified return, as well as a sample Form 1040 with instructions on where to add the incarcerated individual’s personal corrections number to ensure payment is sent to the right place.

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Features

Thursday, November 5, 2020

THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER A3

Ka’Mauri Harrison, 9, Takes Fight to Stay in School to the Louisiana Legislature

KaMauri Harrison, 9, speaks to Louisiana legislature on virtual school discipline laws. (WAFB photo)

By Candace J Semien The Drum Newspaper, Jozef Syndicate Sitting on Governor John Bel Edwards’ desk is a historic act that creates school policies for virtual learning in Louisiana and allows students who have been punished by their schools to appeal their school’s decision. The Act, which was written by State Rep. Troy Romero (R-District 57) and co-authored by 70 legislators, earned unprecedented unanimous support across the House and Senate during this second extraordinary session. And it all began with the parents and supporters of Ka’Mauri Harrison fighting to appeal an elementary school’s decision to expel him. Ka’Mauri’s BB Gun When the Nyron Harrison and Thelma Williams of Harvey, La., made the decision to keep their five children in virtual learning throughout the coronavirus pandemic, they did not realize that they were opening their home to the review of the Jefferson Parish School System. Nine-year-old Ka’Mauri Harrison was expelled for having a

BB gun visible in his bedroom while he attended virtual classes. According to his teacher’s report, Harrison was completing a test during a virtual class when his younger brother tripped over the toy near him. He picked it up and placed it near his laptop and the teacher saw the barrel of the toy gun. She reported it to school officials who suspended the boy and recommended him for expulsion. Louisiana has a zero-tolerance law for weapons on school grounds and the Jefferson Parish School System upholds a “Weapons on Campus” policy. At his school hearing, an official declined to expel Harrison but still upheld his six-day suspension. Harrison was upset. “They are treating it as if he brought a weapon to school,” said his father. His parents said the school violated their privacy rights and denied them due process. They are suing the school system and is seeking damages for “mental pain, suffering, anguish and embarrassment, humiliation and loss of self-esteem, future counseling and tutoring and lost income,” according to the suit.

The incident has garnered national and international attention from mainstream media, gun association magazines, legal blogs, and Black media. Ka’Mauri’s Supporters On the day the story was published in the New Orleans Advocate newspaper, Dillard University president Walter Kimbrough PhD penned a letter to the school district and media. He questioned if the school system had adequate policies to address incidents like this to determine where school functions or school grounds end during virtual learning. He admonished the Jefferson Parish public schools superintendent to revoke the punishment, update school policies to reflect changes to virtual environments, and apologize to Harris. School Board member Simeon Dickerson said the punishment didn’t fit the offense and also urged the superintendent to reconsider. As of today, Superintendent James Gray has not reconsidered. Kimbrough often speaks against the over criminalization of Black boys, so it is consistent of this HBCU leader to spot this situation and proactively attempt to prevent a long-term effect on the fourth grader and his family. Attorney General Jeff Landry launched an investigation into the situation on the same day of the story. “I have begun investigating this matter and plan to take action in defense of this young man and his family and all families who could suffer the same invasion of their homes and constitutional rights…“It is ludicrous for this All-American kid to be punished for taking responsible actions,” wrote Landry. Likewise, The ACLU of Louisiana also condemned the school system’s decision. State Rep Jason Hughes (D-New Orleans) shared Harrison’s story on Facebook and posted, “During the 2020 Regular Legislative Session, I filed a bill that would completely overhaul Louisiana’s School Discipline Code… The bottom line is we suspend and expel far too many kids in the State of Louisiana, including students in Pre-K and Kindergarten. This is not accomplishing anything meaningful. Rather, these actions are causing our kids to fall further behind and placing them on a destructive path, rather than a path to prosperity. Louisiana MUST do better! I invite any parents, teachers, students, and members of the public to join me in addressing this problem and working toward a meaningful solution!” The Harrison family has done just that. Ka’Mauri’s Victory On Oct. 6, a judge signed a temporary restraining order enjoining the Jefferson Parish School System from performing a social work assessment on Harrison or any other acts of retaliation, his family stated on their GoFundMe page. The Harrison Family

said they hope raise enough money for Ka’Mauri’s legal defense to appeal the school’s decision, clear his record of an “on-campus weapons violation, and support the family as needed.
Because of an over-reactive school expulsion, the Harrison family has become active advocates for fair education policies even in the midst of their own financial challenges. They have been caught in a whirlwind of rules and policies, even while KaMauri returns to virtual instruction. With the help of New Orleans attorney Chelsea Berner Cusimano, the Harrison family went to the State Legislature on October 7 to encourage the Louisiana House Education Committee to pass House Bill 83 and review student disciplinary laws and policies especially considering the new virtual learning environment. Representatives applauded Harrison before unanimously voting to advance the bill which they renamed the “The Ka’Mauri Harrison Act.” In an open letter to legislators, the Jefferson Parish School superintendent and board members urged legislators to reject the bill stating that the bill will have serious and wide-reaching implications for school districts. They said school boards statewide would be overwhelmed with suspension appeals. “From what I’m looking at — just by reading and what I know — it seems like this was way overboard and this thing should have never even gotten to this point. “This kid should have never been recommended for expulsion over something like this with a BB gun,” said Sen. Kirk Talbot. On Oct. 19, the Senate Education Committee also unanimously voted to advance the Act to the full Senate for final passage which it received with 35 votes, unanimously, on Oct. 20. “We have the legislature on our side... Had this not happened these children would have been left with no recourse,” said Cusimano. Ka’Mauri’s Act If signed by the Governor before the legislative session ends on Oct. 27, the Ka’Mauri Harrison Act will become a law in Louisiana and school districts will have to write policies specifically for online learning. The law would allow Ka’Mauri Harrison, and every student punished since schools shut down in March, to appeal all the way to District Court. It gives families more options to appeal disciplinary decisions, including a secondary review if they’re recommended for expulsion. This will allow students the opportunities to clear their school records as a result of a second appeal. “He (Ka’Mauri) doesn’t understand the seriousness of what’s going on right now, but he’s making history and I’m a very proud father,” Nyron Harrison told WDSU news.

Black-owned Gun Club Opens in Colorado By NOELLE PHILLIPS The Denver Post DENVER (AP) _ Shawn McWilliams held a gun inside a dark room at a new armory in Denver's historically Black Five Points neighborhood, explaining the importance of practice to a group of mostly new gun owners, all of them Black. “If you just got your concealed carry permit this year, we want you here,” McWilliams said. “I want to train you.” The 1770 Armory and Gun Club is Colorado's first Black-owned gun club, and it opened its doors recently as Black people increasingly are arming themselves amid a pandemic and racial division within the United States. In Aurora, a church pastor recently started a gun club for Black residents and other people of color after seeing a demand for it in his community. “Given the place in which we are in America _ politically, racially _ African Americans don't feel safe anymore,” said Wanda James, the gun club's co-owner. “It's a sad scenario when people don't feel comfortable in their homes, walking down the street or in their cars.” In the first six months of 2020, a record 10.3 million firearm transactions were processed by U.S. retailers, according to a report from the National Shooting Sports Foundation. Among those sales, the highest overall increase in purchases were among Black men and women, who bought 58.2% more guns in the first half of 2020 when compared with the same period in 2019, the report found. Overall, Black men made up 9.3% of all firearms sales while Black women accounted for 5.4% during the period. Still, Black people are less likely to own guns than white people. In 2017, about a quarter of Black Americans owned a firearm while 36% of white people did, according to a Pew Research Center study on gun ownership in the United States. There is no comprehensive gun sales data that shows racial demographics for Colorado. But the Colorado Bureau of Investigation's background check database _ an indicator of the number of gun sales in the state _ shows a significant increase in purchases in 2020. As of Sept. 30, the CBI's Instacheck program processed 373,036 background checks for gun buyers this year, an

8.2% jump from the same period in 2019 when 342,439 background checks were processed and 27% more than in 2016, the last presidential election year. – “You've got to protect your family” When the novel coronavirus pandemic struck in mid-March and stores started running low on food and household supplies, James Beverly reconsidered his stance on gun ownership. “You need to protect your family,” said Beverly, an Aurora resident who grew up in Five Points. “If it comes down to it with a food shortage and it's the wild, wild west out there, you've got to protect your family.” So Beverly purchased a Sig Sauer P-365 9 mm handgun, one of the most popular models for people who want to carry a concealed weapon. Until then, Beverly said he never considered himself a “gun person.” But Beverly recently found himself at 1770 to check out the range. The owners chose Five Points so the new range would be affordable and accessible to people in Denver. And while the neighborhood is undergoing considerable change through new development, lead instructor Master Young said, “I want people to know that in the middle of this reconstruction there are still Black-owned businesses in the community.” The owners chose the name 1770 after the year the American Revolution started and the year Crispus Attucks, a Black man who is widely considered the first American to die in the revolution, was killed. At 1770, shooters won't find a live-fire gun range. Denver prohibits those, but Young said the club has partnerships at outdoor ranges in other counties for its members. Instead, the range uses an infrared simulator where computer cartridges shaped like bullets are inserted into a gun's chamber, and those cartridges send signals to a computer that records the shots fired at targets mounted on the walls. From there, McWilliams and the other instructors analyze a shooter's grip, stance, trigger pressure, breathing and aim. Using a simulator saves members the expense of

ammunition, which is rising in price as Americans stockpile it, James said. Boxes of 9 mm ammo are hard to find because that caliber of handgun is so popular, James said, and when a shooter finds a box it can cost $35 to $50. All of the trainers have multiple licenses and certifications to teach people to shoot pistols, shotguns and semi-automatic rifles, and to help them earn a concealed carry weapons permit. Young, an Army veteran who has been teaching for 14 years in Colorado, most recently was the range manager at Cherry Creek State Park, where he met Anubis Heru, another instructor at 1770. They became friends when Heru brought his son to Cherry Creek to shoot. “It's rare you see a Black man out there – but a Black man and his son!” Young said. – “People became fearful” Derone Armstrong, pastor of Leake Memorial Church in Aurora, is leading the charge to form a new local chapter of the Black Gun Owners Association. He started the group after talking to other Black gun owners in Aurora, who said they felt uncomfortable at a predominantly white range, and with the encouragement of his wife, who decided she wants to get a concealed weapon permit. “I've been talking to her about getting a concealed weapons permit to protect herself because of the state of this country,” Armstrong said. Church members started talking about arming themselves after the 2015 shooting at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina, where nine people, including the pastor, were killed by a white supremacist. “When the pandemic hit, it escalated. People became fearful because they didn't know what was going to happen with the hoarding,” Armstrong said. “And then with the rise of racism and white supremacy, people want to protect themselves.” Armstrong grew up hunting and firing guns and he continues to hunt. He understands the nervousness Black people have in the current political climate, especially in rural areas. He recalled a recent rabbit hunt in Kit Carson County where he saw a large Confederate flag flying on

nearby property. “I thought, ‘Derone, you're way out here. You better watch out,”’ he said. The new Ethnic Ordnance group, which will be a chapter of the Black Gun Owners Association, earlier this month formed a board of directors, created a logo and mission statements, and filled out paperwork for nonprofit status. “Part of our curriculum will be to teach our people to protect their families,” Armstrong said. “We don't know what's going to happen after this election.” Traditionally, many African Americans have eschewed gun ownership because firearms were associated with street gangs and because people with liberal political views often are opposed to guns, James said. Black people also are afraid to carry guns in case they encounter police, fearing it will bring them unwarranted trouble, Young said. Since moving to Colorado in 2006, Young said he has been stopped by police four times – including once when he was walking in Five Points while wearing an Oakland Raiders jersey – but his training helped him navigate the situation and deescalate any perceived threat an officer might have felt when encountering a Black man with a gun. “I didn't fear them,” Young said. This year, Young has taught 300 people in concealed weapons classes, a requirement to receive a state permit. Only five were non-Black, he said. Now, the gun club owners and the Aurora church pastor want to educate all those new owners on how to use their weapons responsibly. “Honestly, to be frank, it's the state of politics right now. White supremacy is on the rise,” James said. “It's not as safe as it used to be. A lot of people are buying out of fear right now. “Now that they have it we want to step in and fix that fear. The people who are afraid are the people who we will have problems with later. They'll be the ones who shoot the wrong person.”

Legals PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF JANET F. WANG CASE NUMBER: 20 STPB05048 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of JANET F. WANG, JANET FANG-MEI WANG, JANET WANG A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by JENNIFER P. WANG in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES 111 North Hill Street, Los Angeles, Ca. 90012 Branch Name: Probate Dept. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that JENNIFER P. WANG be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should

PUBLIC NOTICE not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: Date: Nov 19, 2020 Time: 8:30 a.m. Dept: 4 Room: IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the deceased, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within four months from the date of first issuance of letters as provided on Probate Code section 9100. The time for filing claims will not expire before four months from the hearing date noticed above. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (for DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate code section 1250. A request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner: Shirley Tam 111 North Market Street, Suite 300 San Jose, Ca. 95113 Telephone: (408) 977-7766 LOS ANGELES NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Oct 22, 29, Nov 5, 2020

PUBLIC NOTICE �������������������������������

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF PINKIE M. ROBINSON CASE NUMBER: 20 STPB01419 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of PINKIE M. ROBINSON, PINKIE MAE ROBINSON, PINKIE ROBINSON A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by CLARENCE ROBINSON in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES 111 North Hill Street, Los Angeles, Ca. 90012 Branch Name: Central District THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that CLARENCE ROBINSON be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

PUBLIC NOTICE A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: Date: Dec 15, 2020 Time: 8:30 a.m. Dept: 5 Room: IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the deceased, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within four months from the date of first issuance of letters as provided on Probate Code section 9100. The time for filing claims will not expire before four months from the hearing date noticed above. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (for DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate code section 1250. A request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner: Daniel De Soto 9420 Reseda Blvd., Ste. 400 Northridge, Ca. 92341 Telephone: (818) 270-8309 LOS ANGELES NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Oct 29, Nov 5, 12, 2020

Please wear a mask and socially distance youself. DO YOUR PART TO END COVID-19

Entertainment

A4

THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER

Thursday, November 5, 2020

Curious About Going To a Movie Theater? 7 things to know

By LINDSEY BAHR AP Film Writer It's been over two months since movie theaters started reopening in the U.S., but there is still a fair amount of consumer confusion about moviegoing in the COVID-19 era. Movie studios and theater owners have found themselves in the unique position of having to re-educate audiences on how to see movies now. Warner Bros. even recently revamped the website for “ Tenet,” Christopher Nolan's sci-fi espionage thriller, to help take some of the mystery out of going back to the movies. So what do you need to know about going to the theater? WHERE ARE THEATERS OPEN? Indoor movie theaters remain open in most states, except New Mexico, although some are on a countyby-county basis, including California, Massachusetts, Maryland, Hawaii, Washington, Oregon and Wisconsin. Last weekend, theaters were cleared to open begin opening in some New York State counties at under 50% capacity and this weekend San Francisco will join in too. New York City, Washington, D.C. and Los Angeles remain closed,

however. WHAT THEATERS ARE OPEN? Regal theaters are currently closed in the U.S, and independent cinemas vary by location, but AMC Theaters (the nation's biggest chain) and Cinemark are largely up and running. Approximately 54% of screens are open in the U.S., according to the National Association of Theater Owners. ARE THERE NEW MOVIES? Yes, there are movies being released in theaters almost every week, although there have been quite a few major fall movies, like “Black Widow,” “ No Time To Die “ and “West Side Story,” that have moved to 2021. The biggest release since reopening began in late August is “Tenet,” which is still playing on around 1,800 screens. Current offerings widely available also include the Liam Neeson thriller, “Honest Thief,” a PG-13 horror movie with Gillian Jacobs called “Come Play,” the R-rated horror “The Empty Man” and the comedy “The War With Grandpa” with Robert De Niro. There are also “retro” releases, like “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” “Hocus Pocus” and “Monsters Inc,” which are available for $5 tickets at AMC. And this weekend, Fathom Events is bringing “Apollo 13” back to theaters for its 25th anniversary.

TAKING? During the long shutdown, the National Association of Theater Owners helped spearhead the development of a sweeping set of protocols and guidelines called CinemaSafe that over 400 companies representing over 3,100 locations have committed to. They include mandatory masks for employees and patrons, social distancing, reduced capacity, mobile ticketing, modified concessions, air filtration, employee training and enhanced cleaning. Anyone not feeling well is also asked to stay home. CAN YOU PURCHASE AND CONSUME CONCECSSIONS? Yes, in most locations. San Francisco has a concession ban and Chicago has recently suspended dining and bar services at theaters. Customers are generally allowed to remove their masks while consuming concessions.

WHAT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ARE THEATERS

WHAT ARE VIEWING OPTIONS? There are a few options for seeing movies. You can buy tickets regularly, wear a mask and social distance in the theater (theaters with assigned seating do this automatically and others have taped off seats and rows). Or, some chains like AMC and Cinemark and some theaters are renting screens for private viewing parties for up to 20 people. Pricing varies by movie (new movies tend to start at $149 whereas back catalog classics can be $99) and location. Cinemark is even offering “ private gaming party “ pricing ($99 for 2 hours) where you can play your own video game

ended September with 73 million subscribers in U.S. and Canada, with the overwhelming majority located in the U.S. The move had been widely expected after Netflix raised its prices in Canada earlier this month and then ended free 30-month trials in the U.S. Netflix’s price hike comes amid a surge in worldwide growth as efforts to contain the novel coronavirus closed down restaurants, theaters and other entertainment venues. The Los Gatos, California, company gained 28 million worldwide subscribers during the first nine months of the year, already eclipsing its growth for the entire year of 2019. This year’s subscriber increases included an additional 5.4 million customers in the U.S. and Canada. But the price increases may test the bounds of Netflix’s popularity, especially if the pandemic-driven recession deepens and forces more U.S. households to curtail their

spending. After Netflix raised its U.S. prices early last year, the streaming service suffered a decline of 130,000 subscribers in the U.S. and Canada between from the end of March to the end of June. Netflix is also facing more competition than ever, including deep-pocketed rivals that include Amazon, Apple, Walt Disney and AT&T. And several of those are far less expensive than Netflix’s U.S. plan. For instance, Disney’s rapidly growing streaming service charges just $7 per month for access to a library that includes some of the most beloved films of all time. Apple’s year-old streaming service costs just $5 per month for a relatively small selection of TV series and films, but the iPhone maker is trying to extend its reach by pouring more money into programming and bundling with its some of its other services. For instance, a plan that includes video,

on the big screen. IS IT SAFE? Health experts recommend wearing masks and maintaining social distance when outside and avoid going out when sick. Indoor spaces like movie theaters, restaurants and malls mean prolonged exposure, which could mean greater risk. “At this point, with cases surging, I'm not sure that being indoors for two hours with folks is a really good idea,” said Lisa M. Lee, a public health expert at Virginia Tech. Private viewing parties – with safeguards – might be a way to lessen the risk, however. “If you have, for example, a family or a pandemic pod that you stayed with and everyone has agreed to be safe and to maintain physical distance and masking and all the precautions, that could be an option,” she said. But in general, drive-ins or an outdoor screening “would certainly be a lot safer,” Lee said. “We're never going to have a zero-risk situation with this because we have far too much community spread at this point, so we all have to pick carefully what we're willing to risk and that's an individual decision,” Lee continued. “But it's also really important that we avoid putting other people at risk, which is the issue in a closed space with other people that you don't kn ow are infected.”

Netflix Raising U.S. Streaming Prices Amid Booming Growth By MICHAEL LIEDTKE AP Technology Writer SAN RAMON, Calif. (AP) _ Netflix is raising most of its U.S. prices by 8% to 13% as its video streaming service rides a wave of rising popularity spurred by governmentimposed lockdowns that corralled people at home during the fight against the pandemic. The increases imposed Friday boost the cost of Netflix’s most popular U.S. streaming plan by $1 to $14 per month while a premium plan that allows more people to watch the service on different screens simultaneously will now cost $2 more at $18 per month. Netflix’s basic U.S. plan remains at $9 per month. It marks Netflix’s first price changes in the U.S. since an increase rolled out early last year. New U.S. subscribers will be charged the higher prices immediately while the increases will affect existing customers in phases during the next few months. Netflix

music, video games and online storage is being offered for $15 per month, or just a $1 more than Netflix’s most popular stand-alone plan. “We understand people have more entertainment choices than ever and we’re committed to delivering an even better experience for our members,” Netflix said in a statement. “We’re updating our prices so that we can continue to offer more variety of TV shows and films.” The higher prices should help lift Netflix’s profits, a prospect that investors like. But Netflix’s stock fell more than 5% to $475.75 in Friday’s afternoon trading amid a broad market sell-off. Netflix’s shares have climbed by nearly 50% so far this year, thanks largely to its robust growth amid the pandemic.

The University of Pittsburgh Acquires August Wilson Trove By MARK KENNEDY AP Entertainment Writer NEW YORK (AP) – The University of Pittsburgh has acquired the archive of the late playwright and Pittsburgh native son August Wilson, a trove that contains recordings, letters, artwork, poetry, unpublished work and notebooks. The August Wilson Archive will reside in a state-ofthe-art home in Hillman Library's renovated Archives & Special Collections, the university said Thursday. Processing the collection _ more than 450 boxes of materials _ will start in early 2021. “This acquisition is about more than bringing August Wilson back home to Pittsburgh,” said Chancellor Patrick Gallagher in a statement. “This archive deftly puts the experiences of Black Americans beneath an intimate magnifying glass and unpacks themes of injustice and inequity that are just as relevant today as when Wilson's first play debuted.” Wilson died in October 2005 at the age of 60. He is renowned for the characters he put on stage in an ambitious 10-play cycle, nine of them set in Pittsburgh, that recounted the struggle of Blacks in America. He won two Pulitzers and a Tony and is best known for his plays

“Ma Rainey's Black Bottom,? “Fences? and “The Piano Lesson.” Highlights of the archive include hundreds of writing tablets and notebooks which contain drafts of dialogue, poetry, artwork and other writing. There are also draft scripts and correspondence with friends and collaborators, including director Lloyd Richards and Claude Purdy, a close friend and colleague who was crucial to Wilson's later success. Denzel Washington has vowed to produce the Wilson canon for the screen, and recently starred in “Fences.” He was nominated for an Academy Award for his performance alongside Viola Davis, who took home both the Tony Award and the Oscar for her performance on Broadway and film. Next up this December is “Ma Rainey's Black Bottom,” directed by Tony-winner George C. Wolfe and adapted by Ruben Santiago-Hudson. The cast includes Davis in the title role, alongside Colman Domingo, Michael Potts, Glynn Turman and Chadwick Boseman, who died in August. Washington says “The Piano Lesson” is the next Wilson work he hopes to bring to the screen. Black American Playwright August Wilson.

Chef Marcus Samuelsson Celebrates

Black Food

By MARK KENNEDY AP Entertainment Writer NEW YORK (AP) – If anyone asks chef Marcus Samuelsson what African food taste like, he has a ready answer: Have you ever had barbeque? Rice? Collard greens? Okra? Coffee? “All of that food comes from Africa, has its roots in Africa,” says the Ethiopian Swedish writer and restaurateur. “Everyone has had African American dishes, whether they know it or not.” Samuelsson is hoping to educate Americans and champion Black chefs in “The Rise: Black Cooks and the Soul of American Food” from Little, Brown and Company's Voracious imprint. The book has 150 recipes inspired by Black chefs, writers and activists, and includes profiles of 26. The recipes celebrate the legacy of Africa, the influence of migration and integration, and where cutting-edge Black chefs are going next. “When I look at American food and I look at the Black experience, we've done so much but almost got erased,” says Samuelsson, the chef of Harlem's famed Red Rooster. “There's never been a better time to tell those stories.” The book _ with essays by Osayi Endolyn and recipe development by Yewande Komolafe _ is a rich mix of stories and food, from citrus scallops with hibiscus tea to oxtail pepperpot with dumplings. As Samuelsson writes in the introduction: “This isn't an encyclopedia. It's a feast. And everyone's invited.” Readers will learn how Los Angeles-based chef Nyesha Arrington's cooking draws on family history from Mississippi and South Korea. They'll learn it takes just 45 minutes to make Eric Gestel's chicken liver mousse with croissants, a dish informed from his years cooking at the acclaimed Le Bernardin. And they'll learn how Mashama Bailey is reinventing traditional Southern dishes. “Our pasts are so unique and it's so important to tell,” says Samuelsson. “We needed to tell our very layered and beautiful, non-monolithic journey.”

Samuelsson notes that many cookbooks celebrate European and Asian foods but hardly bring up Black dishes, meaning we know more about ricotta than ayib, the fresh cheese of Ethiopia. “This is America's past. So for me, as much as we learn about Japan, as much as we learn about Italy and Spain and so on, wouldn't it be great to learn about our own food? This is America's food,” he says. Samuelsson compares the food in the book to popular music. He looks at New Orleans and hears the influence of France, Haiti, Africa and Spain _ he hears jazz. Black food is no different. “It comes from the continent first and then it lands here. And then, whether we went North or stayed in the South or went out West, it's going to have a different journey _ a different flavor profile to it _ depending on who we met and who we got together with,” he says. The book took four years to make and had to grapple with the pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement. Samuelsson says in his author's note that the effects of COVID-19 will stay in the Black community for longer than elsewhere and that the nation must also fight the virus of systemic racism. But he marvels at the resiliency of the Black community and says “Black food matters.” “We still will cook,” he vows. “Black food has always been controversial because the way we were brought here to work, the food and the land. We have always had to do it through different lengths and a different set of rules.” Readers will learn how wide and rich the food rooted in Africa can be, from the use of venison to pine nut chutney to roti. They'll learn that benne seeds are a delicious alternative to sesame seeds and make a vinaigrette sing. “Whether this is your first experience making Africaninspired dishes or you're familiar with them, my hope is this book will spark an interest _ or continue one _ and you'll want to learn more about the people redefining and celebrating this cuisine,” said Endolyn.

Thursday, November 5, 2020

Sports

THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER A5

California Players Shine Around the Country

Chris Olave (#2/Mission Hills High) is congratulated by Jeremy Ruckert after one of his 2 touchdowns. He had 7 catches for 120 yards in a Ohio State 38-25 win over Penn State. (Photo-OSU Athletics)

By Earl Heath Contributing Sports Writer DJ Uiagalelei (St. John Bosco) stepped up big time replacing veteran Trevor Lawrence who was out due to a positive COVID-19 test. The true freshman led the #1 ranked Tigers (7-0, 6-0 ACC) from a 15-point halftime deficit to a 34-28 win against Boston College. Uiagalelei was steady and showed poise as he connected on 30 of 41 passes for 342 yards and two touchdowns is his debut as a starter. He also scored on a 30-yard TD run. “I’ve been down before in high school playing in big games. We have a great team,” said the 6-5’ Uiagalelei. “As long as we came out in the second half and executed we were going to have a chance to win the ball game.” The freshman will get his chance for an encore as it was released due to the COVID protocols Lawrence will miss this weeks game at #4 Notre Dame. This past December Uiagalelei led St. John Bosco to a 49-28 win over Concord De La Salle in the CIF State Open Division Bowl Game. He completed 23 of 28 passes for 398 yards and four touchdowns. “He thrives in these situations,” Jason Negro St. John Bosco Head coach told the Los Angeles Times. “He has

been in these situations before.” On the season he has completed 44 of 60 passes for 444 yards two TD’s and a 70 percent completion rating. Clemson Head coach Dabo Swinney stated, “He’s made some big plays but what I like about DJ is his poise and demeanor.” It was the 28th straight ACC win and 10th in a row over Boston College. MORE CALI PLAYERS in action: Lawrence White of (Bakersfield Ridgeview high) had 4 tackles as Iowa State (4-2, 4-1) defeated Kansas 52-22. White is 4th on the team with 30 tackles 23 solo and he has 1 interception… Chris Olave (Mission Hills High) had 7 catches for 120 yards and 2 touchdowns as Ohio State (2-0) defeated Penn State 38-25 in BIG-10 action. Bailey Gaither (Paso Robles) high had 10 catches for 208 yards and a touchdown helping San Jose State defeat New Mexico 38-21… Jack Sears (San Clemente High) went 17 of 20 for 280 yards and three TD’s and ran for one as Boise State (2-0,2-0) outlasted Air Force 40-30. Sears is also a transfer from USC. As a high school senior he threw for 2,600 yards and 37 touchdowns while leading the Tritons CIF Southern Section DII Title.

DJ Uiagalelei #5 former St John Bosco stand-out connected on 30 of 41 passes for 342 yards and two touchdowns is his debut as a starter for #1 ranked Clemson. (Photo courtesy of Clemson Athletics/David Platt)

Rams Have a Tough Go in Miami By Earl Heath Contributing Sports Writer The Rams had high expectations and confidence after a solid performance the previous week at home against the Bears. They made an east coast trip for the fourth time in the first eight games. They also faced a rookie quarterback with his first start as pro. The Rams were givers as they turned the ball over four times which is the most by any team this year and the most for the team since 2008. They also gave up a 88 yard punt return that left them with a 28-17 loss in front of 12,379 fans at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. It was the first time all season the visitors played in front of fans.

The defense got things going as Aaron Donald stripped Tua Tagovaiola on is first pass attempt of the game. A few plays later it was Robert Woods took a hand off from Jared Goff and easily walked into the end zone from 15-yards out. The first half was a nightmare as Goff had two interceptions and two lost fumbles. One fumble was scooped up by Andrew Van Ginkel and returned 78 yards for the Dolphins (4-3). Goff and the offense did move the ball as he completed 35 of 61 passes for 350 yards. They had 31 first downs to 8 for Miami and controlled the ball 36:29 minutes to 23:31 for the home team. It was time stops and the mishaps. They converted just 7 of 17 third down conversions. “They did a good job of applying some pressure, that’s kind

of how they are built,” Goff stated. “And we did not respond quickly enough or well enough and that starts with me.” Newly sighed kicker Kai Farbath hit a 23-yard field goal that made the score 28-10 at the half, however he did miss a 48 yarder badly. A silver lining for the Rams (5-3) is the defense shutout the Dolphins in the second half. Tagovailoa was 12 of 22 passing for 93 yards and one TD as the Dolphins only had eight first downs. They have only given up more than three points in the second half just once this year. Micah Kiser led the led the team six tackles followed by Sebastian Joseph-Day and Donald who had five a piece. “It’s good that we have a bye week right smack dab in the

middle of the season. Get rested and reflect back on the first eight games,” said Johnny Johnson. “Were seeing some good flashes but we really want to play our best football in late November and December.” RAM NOTES: The Rams will have the next five of eight games at SoFi beginning with the Seahawks Nov.10 after the bye… Donald’s force strip sack on Tua marks the 18th career forced fumble…Cooper Kupp had 11 catches for 110 yards. It was his 2nd 100 yard game this year and 10th of his career… Woods rushing touchdown is the fourth of his career putting him in second place of WR in franchise history.

Walter Camp Awards Corral and Ossai

Rams Cornerback Try Hill (22) and teammates make a tackle during Sunday’s game vs the Miami Dolphins. (Photo Credit: Brevin Townsell/LA Rams)

Texas’s Joseph Ossai, left, carries a the ball after one of his two fumble recoveries against Oklahoma State in Stillwater, Okla. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)(Sue Ogrocki)

By Earl Heath Contributing Sports Writer After a big weekend of college football Matt Corral of Ole Miss and University of Texas linebacker John Ossai were honored with the Walter Camp Offensive and Defensive Players of the Awards. A very hot Corral from Long Beach Poly connected on his first 19 passes on the way to going 31 of 34 passes for 412 yards and six touchdowns as the Rebels (2-4, 2-4 SEC) knocked off Vanderbilt 54-21 in an SEC match-up. The 19 in a row broke Eli Manning’s school record for consecutive passes that stood for 19 years. “Matt and Elijah (Moore) were light’s out. It’s hard to go 31 of 34 on the air,” Coach Lane Kiffin said. “Keith Carter and I were talking about it and he could remember the incompletions. That’s pretty cool if you can remember all the incompletions.” The sophomore is the second Ole Miss player to earn the award since it origin in 2004. The last was former Rebel running back Dexter McCluster in 2009. On the defensive side it was Ossai of Texas who sacked Oklahoma State QB Spenser Sanders on 4th down in the

second overtime to give the Longhorns a 41-34 BIG-12 win over the Cowboys (4-1, 3-1 BIG-12). “Big time players make big time plays in big time games,” said Texas QB Sam Ehlinger. The junior from Conroe, Texas had 12 tackles (7 solo) to go with three quarterback sacks recovered two fumbles while forcing another. The Longhorns are 4-2, 3-2 in the BIG-12. Ossi is the 10th Longhorn to earn the award since 2004. The last was his teammate Ehlinger on September 13. Walter Camp is known as the Father of American football. He first selected an All-American team in 1889.The Walter Camp Foundation is an all-volunteer organization based in New Haven, Connecticut. It founded in 1967 to perpetuate the ideas of Camp and continue the tradition to select annual All-American team. This is the 17th year that the Foundation has awarded one Offensive and Defensive Player of the Week. Recipients are selected from a group of national media members and administrated by the Foundation.

Chargers WeeklyChapter 12 By Cameron Buford whatsgoodinsports.com Well, it finally happened this week in the Chargers camp, after paying strict attention to their COVID19 protocols, the Los Angeles Chargers has experienced their first positive COVID 19 test. Needless to say, the team informed the players promptly and in addition to performing their contact tracing to identify which players may have also been infective. Once they identified the impacted player they both were placed on the Reserved COVID List for this week. Not only were the COIVD 19 protocols reinforced with the players, but the Chargers players were also sent home early on Thursday enabling them to relax their minds and spend time with their families. It was also mentioned that the players specifically, Joey Bosa, used this day off to rest his body and get some work in… leading up a divisional matchup with the Denver Broncos. For the first time since 2013, the Chargers are looking to win in two out of the past three seasons in Denver. Additionally, this division rivalry has been decided by one score in eight of the last ten matchups in the Mile High City. So both teams should be anticipating another close contest in their 121st regular-season matchup, though the Broncos hold a 52-67-1 advantage in this rivalry and swept the season series last year. Having won 19 games when achieving a positive turnover margin, which is tied for the fourth-best in the NFL, as the

Former UCLA Bruin and Los Angeles Chargers rookie running back Joshua Kelley making his way into Mile High Stadium sporting his Vote t-shirt before Sunday’s game vs the Denver Broncos(Photo Credit: Mike Nowak/Los Angeles Chargers)

Matt Corral (2) former Long Beach Poly Jackrabbit completed his first 19 passes while throwing for 412 yards and six touchdowns for Ole Miss. (Photo Credit: Joshua McCoy/Ole Miss Athletics).

Chargers look to win in Denver for the second time in three seasons. They are 19-2 since Anthony Lynn was named head coach in 2017, this supports the reason Coach Lynn frequently mentions the need to win the turnover battle in every game, regardless of the opponent. Former Oregon Duck Justin Herbert recorded three-plus touchdown passes for the fourth consecutive game, joining Houston’s Deshaun Watson as the only rookie quarterbacks to achieve this. His fourth three-touchdown game streak not only ties an NFL rookie record, however it eclipses Hall of Fame quarterback Dan Marino record, who did this only 3 times.

Additionally, Herbert’s 15 touchdown passes through his first six games in the NFL, it also ties Deshaun Watson and surpasses aforementioned Hall of Fame quarterback Dan Marino. His Center, as with the rest of the team I’m sure, smile with excitement when asked Herbert’s progression in the season stating, “He’s incredible back there. It’s awesome to see him continue to grow each week, just get better and better. Each week his level of play is just increasing and it awesome to see; he’s going to be a great player for a long time in this league.” Accompanying Herbert’s record-breaking performance on Sunday, was the Chargers’ best rushing output since 2018. The Chargers running backs combined for 218 rushing yards, led by Northwestern graduate Justin Jackson’s day as he rushed for career highs in carries and yards, as he amassed 89 carries on 17 carries. Justin also complemented his rushing yards with a career-high 53 yards receiving. Recently signed free agent Troymaine Pope running back joined UCLA Rookie Running Back Joshua Kelley to gain an additional 99 yard on the ground. This balance offensive attack led to a Chargers 24-3 lead. However, for the 4th time in said amount of weeks this season, the Chargers have relinquished a double-digit lead. This has become a major source of concern for Head Coach Anthony Lynn, because the offensive is playing well enough to win games yet the defense is not allowing them to close out games. Some are questioning if a change should be made on the defensive coaching staff, Lynn responded by saying, “what do you want to do; go hire new players, go hire new coaches’ right in the middle of the season? You can’t do that; this is what we have and we’ve got to figure this (expletive) out!” When asked if he thought, this was a schematic or personnel issue Coach Lynn replied “we did not execute.” I followed that up with, then is that competence or commitment issue? In revelatory response or a moment of honesty he replied by saying it’s a “some of this is youth.” I was somewhat surprised to hear such an honest response. Los Angeles Chargers Veteran Cornerback Casey Hayward was also asked if he thought there should be a replacement in the defensive coaching staff, and he expressed that Gus (Bradley Defensive Coordinator) was not the problem. I also asked him if he thought their issues on defense where a schematic or personnel issue, he sharply replied, “it’s a team thing! We have to find a way to finish as a team.” Defensive Coordinator Gus Bradley is supported by Anthony Lynn, hopefully, for Lynn, it’s not at the detriment of his job. Though the team has suffered some injuries to key players most notably Austin Ekeler and Derwin James, as they always seem to do. The historic play of Justin Herbert should have netted them more than 2 wins at this point in the season. Kindly share your thoughts on how you see the recurring theme of the Chargers giving up big leads in the second half of games this season, by reaching out to me on Twitter @ whatsgoodnsport, or forward any suggestions on what topics or angles you’d like to see discussed to info@whatsgoodinsports. com. Lastly, be sure to 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. Thank you, as always, for making our voice your choice!

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THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER

Thursday, November 5, 2020

Miss Bakersfield USA 2020 Morayo Olujumu has been selected to represent Bakersfield, California at the Miss California USA®/Miss California Teen USA® Competition as Miss Bakersfield USA. Her selection was based on her academic and professional interests, involvement in her community, her passion for

the pursuit of excellence and her interest in empowering other young women to follow in her footsteps. Originally from Palmdale, California, Morayo Olujumu is a first generation Nigerian American who is representing Bakersfield at the prestigious Miss Cal-

ifornia USA 2021 pageant. This young entrepreneur is a self-taught fashion designer and currently owns her own fashion label, Orisa, where she sells clothing inspired from her Nigerian heritage. Morayo recently graduated from California State University, Bakersfield in May 2020 where

Bakersfield’s Newest Queen is Originally from Palmdale–

she earned a Bachelors of Science Degree in Business Administrations with a double concentration in Management and Marketing. During her time at Cal State, she was a cheerleader for 4 years on the Spirit Squad. She earned the opportunity to perform for CSUB’s Men’s Basketball’s first NCAA March Madness Appearance and also performed at the NIT Semifinals at the “World’s Most Famous Arena”, the Madison Square Garden in New York City. Morayo was also the President of the African Student Association of Cal State Bakersfield for 3 years where she founded the first and largest student sponsored African culture show of Kern County. In addition, she coordinated and hosted events regarding social issues with local leaders and spoke at “Local Struggles, Critical Lecture” series at Cal State Bakersfield with the 2008 Green Party Vice Presidential Candidate Rosa Clemente. Due to her accomplishments with the African Student Association, Morayo earned over 18 Organizational Awards, and was inducted into the Student Leadership Hall of Fame. Currently, Morayo is an avid volunteer at the Bakersfield Homeless Center and has a passion for ending humanitarian crises around the world. Morayo is also a mental health advocate, and has started her own social media campaign called the #BeNiceToHer Campaign where she provides advice and resources for women who need support on their mental health journey. Morayo was the former CSUB Homecoming Queen 2019, Miss Kern County 2020, and is hopeful to bring home the Miss California USA 2021 title to Bakersfield. Morayo describes herself as a servant leader for her community and is available for any volunteer requests or event appearances. Find her on Instagram @morayoo._ to book an event request for Miss Bakersfield USA 2020. Support her on her journey, and join her “Road to the Crown” fundraiser— find out more information on her Instagram and Facebook. Girlbossing Inc., as the California USA Organization, will produce and conduct the Golden State’s oldest and most celebrated competition this coming April 2021 to qualify two young ladies from California to advance to either Miss Teen USA or Miss USA and ultimately Miss Universe. All competition details are available at www. MissCaliforniaUSA.com. The sponsored prize package includes over $100,000 in gifts, cash and scholarships for both Miss California USA and Miss California Teen USA including the official crown and sash, round trip air fare to MISS USA/MISS TEEN USA, an official competition evening gown, official crown portrait, fitness coaching, skin care, hair care and much more. “We actively encourage young women in the state of California to give back in their communities and advocate for issues they feel passionately towards. Our organization is committed to providing new opportunities for women in media, entertainment, modeling, fashion, beauty and more, at our events throughout the year, and the actual weekend of competition,” said Girlbossing Inc. CEO Robin Ross-Fleming. For young women between the ages of 14-27 who wish to represent their hometown at the state event, applications are being accept at the official website, www.MissCaliforniaUSA.com

Morayo Olujumu, Miss Bakersfield USA 2020 (Courtesy Photo)

Educators Conference to Focus on Equity

A Blueprint California’s Black Students Need Antonio Ray Harvey California Black Media The California Association of Black School Educators (CABSE) will hold its fourth annual conference in a virtual setting this year.

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Scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 12 and Friday, Nov. 13, the statewide conference will be centered on the theme “Blueprint for Educational Equity.” Organizers say attendees can look forward to workshops that highlight the newest innovations in learning and cutting‐edge educational interventions that lead to academic success, particularly for Black students. “Despite the challenges posed by COVID‐19, this year’s conference will continue to build on CABSE’s strong legacy of shining the spotlight to expose inequities faced by students of color in this country,” said Micah Ali, the Conference’s chairperson. “I am confident that our speakers and workshop programming will offer an illuminating view of the challenges faced by Black and Brown students.” “I look forward to the thoughtful, productive and collaborative solutions that will undoubtedly be advanced during this convening,” Ali continued. Confirmed speakers include Tony Thurmond, California State Superintendent of Public Instruction, and Dr. Shaun Harper, Founder and Executive Director of the University of Southern California’s Center for the Study of Race and Equity in Education. Dr. Thomas Parham, President, California State University Dominguez Hills, is also scheduled to speak during the virtual meeting. Compton Unified School District (USD), Riverside County Office of Education (COE), San Diego USD, Ed Trust West, Corona Norco USD and Fresno COE, among others, will all participate in scheduled workshops. Each workshop will address a “Blueprint” theme: Applying a Holistic Cradle‐to‐Career Lens to Education; Embracing Technology as the Great Equity Equalizer; and Challenging Inherent Bias and Promoting Positive Campus Climates. “Our Blueprint for Educational Equity is envisioned as a living document that crowdsources the best and brightest ideas in the educational space,” said CASBE President Gary Hardie, Jr. “We look forward to seeing how these issues will be elevated and the kind of solutions that will be proposed.” Even with a thoughtful blueprint to help Black students succeed, CASBE faces an uphill climb. The organization is holding its annual conference at a time when the COVID-19 pandemic has dealt a blow to public school education in California and across the country. Public education policy experts warn that distance learning will likely increase the disturbing achievement gap that already exists between Black students and that of their peers of other ethnic groups. In California, nearly 68 percent of all African American perform below their grade level in English and language arts. In math, about 80 percent of Black students do not meet the state’s proficiency mark.