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wo A pr c e P a frica followi ), the n iation f envi esents a rrest of n Am ng st ati or honoronmen nother o two Bla a e t rican emenon’s prem the men t foll i er C r the li t for Afr minous ck men owin er in a publ ommiss fe and w ican Am signal at a P P h ilade g towa ic unres ion foun ork of D ericans of the inhiladelp lyears BAKER . h rds b t in o d ra c L i r r S cism . King a ess than easingl a Starb ecom ur c b efore on Calif FIE nd 5 and ing a omm two y dan ucks orni h 0 u p g w b i s e natio nitie o e fre y e r ed w convict a n wh s, we lice brut ears afte eks after ous ion i r the ality t we ere a still h even Vicente in days, perso have a at th Kern e t n B ng w rooyou 1993 hough enavi tent is jud2.loWhen t of see this logo scan 1. Get the app by scanning or download it was convic the stat d not t of theirged by t ay to go he whole picture with this QR code with your from Google Play the he co over c injur false. M tion on e S lo o haracter cong a i tablet or smart phone. or The App Store or smartphone. f the tablet ation “The Sryour a a n nnou es recan ny doct ro d o t n e insig provi tarbuckir skin. d c fi rst-d ed Tu . Ker rs eg n e ure ht rega des dan s situw o uld b ree mu sday tha C impl of our rding t gerous r d e o e n “ ra tp di drefus icit bia nation he failchar degree mfficult, if nd tha s t e o s g to b eriou not e, he take urde unc ism onscious elieve thsly. We Bena would r. Even im u if B b n w v a e ti id Bus of— e are bias—t t our ton, l a court es will r immedia can h o f e Ker iness P t e w r e s n u and acay and pokesw order to main o t fieldn Coun ionee polic into ou does m naware n o R New ty S r Aw NA o i a r e rder ehabilit man for release h k s . actio e its s Ob uper ard W Sta ACP P ation i i t s h n p e “ r serv ior C s r inne W Cali m ovid . Be Blac and e k the bucks reside “ er p ourt f I r; Ju e n ’ k d v a w n n ow hot ould e seen , Thor vides o requ men (NA failur situat t and o) . (Carin dge G nto if t it h be co ire si in P ion ACP e of C E h gto loria O andc x po hilad wo ) our prov Bena within a appen i n said.

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LOS ANGELES (AP) - The family of a black teenager “They welcome it this is the first time they’ve seen this kind fatally by deputies during a chase has sued Los Angeles 3 . SC Waters said. “For many of them, this is the first Countyshot of authenticity,” and 10 Sheriff’s Department employees.

A S N M time they’veA seen this L kind of authenticity.”

Sixteen-year-old Anthony Weber was killed February 4 at O GO TPalso Shahidi, R who stars in W the “Black-ish” spin-off “Growna South Los Angeles apartment complex. Deputies said they beH O

By Freddie Allen ITH ish,” said that Waters, saysN what of us are thinking. lieved the teenLwas armed but investigators didn’t find a weapon.

E. many Yany OS Editor-In-Chief, NNPA Newswire OUspace “She reminds us that we are worthy of we occupy,” cerNews City ANGreports Wednesday that Weber’s paris su Service R G TIME magazine recently honored Rep. Maxine Waters r a Blotime T Shahidi said. “In this unrest, CongresswomELEa federal civil rights lawsuit alleginghave b ents and daughter A Jonsociopolitical odli ceof a b es: B ght the sfiled y S (A The family is seeking $10 (D-Calif.) as one of the 100 most influential people in the world.

L whand an Filmbrilliant, an Waters has been the tenacious representative ofET the ing negligence wrongful t w i P) _ ate pdeath.

Rev d Bam l e a O s ie i r According to a press release about the honor, “The list, Baneed.” e w p s people that we all rison who R Aaren’t r p k million damages. egna Theondefendants, ersfie not new to it, she’sBaktrue Calinamed, include Tuin d sythe now in its fifteenth year, recognizes the activism, innovation and e i e n n r s fo Shahidi added: “She’s to it.” s t s d g l . t Fres field four deputies who were at the scene of shooting. d a e t S y m o a no S Nat i r a n after rniawhile achievement of the world’s most influential individuals.” a iv c fi h tate critics Waters is one of President Trump’s most on B e Na g Basvocal The Sheriff’s Department says it can’t comment C C a h M k k m ersfie oogle t betw she sa orrethe c aske ooisgleongoing, Waters said that she was shocked and surprised by the recogCapitol Hill, even calling for his impeachment. etball Ceona’sc Headed investigation which may take months.

However, ys sh taion offi l d een i filed for a says s d. h nition and that she “felt very, very blessed” to receive the honor. t e lo n i “[President Trump] has defined himself as someone who is a o m h department evinal I statement less s adds: discrwhen athe e to“the day will come or We In a commentary about the award, “Black-ish” actor Yara nspeak tus.” will R and that should be our mantra, that shouldFRE ld o imin tes whe st he w not beE! the r s e t a dence will for the Cdeserving n i s t e u n u ffi ation n she onseq ap that should be what we talk about with our newsShahidi wrote that, “Congresswoman Maxine Waters of the 43rd conversation, anot ’t possib tion in ous posi cials sh uence laws her p le an Teha s radio stations…we need to speak up,” Waters said. tion District of California, a.k.a. Auntie Maxine, has made my genere uit papers and our w as p chap d sh at th ositi Env this and we don’t ation proud to be nieces and nephews.”

W r e “We have to let everyone know we don’t accept i o e iron e ’d . g n h C S Just n w men e h w h a a n h a lifo e sa ice nt ith ve ta ile Shahidi continued: “She is adored and admired by people sh feel helpless like victims in all of this. We areFacgoing in Issu to l resist him “ Res g Kern es lost running e was s a lower to either ys she w rnia Cor and who care about social justice and is oh so eloquent in letting the iden and we are going to fight him.” h ts Co. e rec s a t a v e s ake l t world, particularly the White men of Congress who dare test her Waters said that Black newspapers should run stories about Depart r baby o stop en mon lary. eave told tha d m a t ue acumen, know that she is not here for any nonsense.” or ac hs t e fi the TrumpStAdministration, every week, monitor digital media,tion d Opinion cept id nont of Co to a pla ght betw pregna ar : Waters said that for many young people, she is one of the especially licespecial counsel Robtsocial cks and pay attentionCPhoto n c o 2 Bbumedia, r t e t e R r , e imm n e argin ecom few lawmakers willing to step outside of the box of a traditional, lack CEO A ert Mueller’s investigation about Russianininterference ediat ctions a tal rupt n inmat Coogle Fata g ICE Amendin the 2016 Men polo l Cra gen u e non-confrontational lawmaker to speak truth to power. n ely c f ts must covpresidential election. Waters the Black sh Press gizthat Arresaid es omm d Commre.” The s and la ell And even though, she captured the attention of millions in a ed allows er President Trump in a waystthat the average person to ter C ent o u a n l viral video exchange with United States Secretary of the Treasury n th ity Re ifornia stay up-to-date and to understand what’s going on in the White e law h Steven Mnuchin, Waters acknowledged that the use of the phrase House.

S suit. abilitah e riff Y “reclaiming my time” is a part of the regular order of business in TIME magazine recognized Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.)

S ays oget “That conversation can help people more involved, get u n H g as one of the 100 most influential people in the world.

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (AP) _ A federal judge is schedb eW Urg as lood in and Congress. people excited about registering toKvote ot get out to vote… ill In g A n Nto (Wikimedia Commons) uled to hear arguments this week in an NAACP lawsuit that mat yone t “It’s what we use when it is our time to speak and we’re being o es government.” and see what we have to do to change this says a traffic control plan during what’s known as “Black Bike “Meet C ignored by the people who are on the panel and you want to shut couldn’t have his way that it was my time and I intended to use it BlackEOmillennials need to know that they can make a signif& Fo Week” in South Carolina is discriminatory. them down,” Waters said. “We use it when we’re being interfered and he could not usurp it.” icant difference inuthe nderupcoming midterm elections, Water said.

The Sun News of Myrtle Beach reports the NAACP is ovote, with by another member of Congress in a debate.”

Waters said that the video inspired a lot of women and f “If our millennials we win,” Waters said. “We can take seeking an injunction to bar Myrtle Beach from implementing Waters continued: “It was something that I used at a time showed that, even on Capitol Hill, women lawmakers must have back the House, we will keep“ many Ram of our state legislature seats… pag a traffic loop during Memorial Day weekend. A judge will hear e Ta when it was important for me to let Mr. Mnuchin know that he the courage to demand respect. mbewin.” if [millennials] go to the polls,ANuwe k Quie r One f es arguments Tuesday. t Pla rom ce The 23-mile traffic loop was first implemented in 2015 for Atlantic Beach Bikefest, commonly referred to as “Black Bike Bey Week.” The loop followed 2014 violence in which three people o $10 nce Giv Hist 0,000 t es were killed and seven injured in eight shootings. o o Sch rically ools Blac City officials said the loop is intended to control traffic, k ease congestion and reduce crime.

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nt. P Family of Teen ictu Shot by Deputies res Mov Sues Los LawAngeles e. A TIME Magazine Says Calisuit d s D County fornia Congresswoman Maxine Alle Talk iscr imin ges Waters Is “One of the Most In. Liv P r egn atio e Sh fluential People in the World” a Offi nt P n by opp riso cer ing. n

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By SOPHIA BOLLAG Associated Press SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) _ Following the police shooting of an unarmed black man in California's capital city, activists seeking police accountability have formed a statewide network to help communities respond to police shootings and to weaken protections for the officers involved.

The Justice Teams Network, which officially launched Wednesday, includes Black Lives Matter Sacramento and Los Angeles, the Anti Police-Terror Project in Oakland and the Law Enforcement Accountability Network in Anaheim. Executive director Cat Brooks said the network provides a response model for communities to launch civilian investigations of police shootings, organize vigils and reach out to family members suddenly in the public spotlight.

“There's no support for them. That was the impetus for our model,” said executive director Cat Brooks, who is a candidate for Oakland mayor.

It's also backing bills in the California Legislature that would require police to release more records on use of force and disciplinary action and to significantly restrict when police can

use force.

The sometimes fraught relationship between California police and communities of color has attracted national attention following the fatal shooting of 22-year-old Stephon Clark by two Sacramento police officers in March. Clark had just run into his grandparents' backyard when he was shot by officers responding to a call of someone breaking car windows. Officers said they thought he was armed, but Clark had only a cellphone.

The Sacramento chapter of Black Lives Matter quickly mobilized protests and a vigil in the wake of the shooting, which is under investigation by the police department and the California attorney general. Through weeks of protests, including several that shut down major roadways and blocked fans from entering an NBA arena, Black Lives Matter helped keep the crowds peaceful and there were few arrests.

The group is now actively training and recruiting people to conduct civilian investigations of police shootings, using the Justice Teams Network's model, said Tanya Faison, founder of BLM Sacramento.

“It may help us with the work that we're trying to accomplish,” she said.

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She hopes the network can set an example for the rest of the country.

John Lovell, a California lobbyist for law enforcement groups, questioned the need for civilian investigations.

“When there are investigations about citizen complaints, about possible misconduct, the investigations by the agencies are very thorough,” Lovell said. “They involve talking to everyone around the transaction whether they are law enforcement or involved citizens.”

Law enforcement groups also criticize the two bills moving through the Legislature, SB1421 and AB931.

Brooks says the bills would make progress toward the network's larger goal of dismantling a set of protections known as the Public Safety Officers Procedural Bill of Rights Act. Law enforcement groups say some records should be kept secret to ensure a fair disciplinary process and that police need to have discretion over when to use force.

The protections ensure basic due process rights for police officers in employment-related proceedings, Lovell said.

FEEDING THE MONSTER

Los Angeles News Observer and WGS Stage Play Review

PARIS (AP) _ Visitors at a leading contemporary art museum in Paris didn’t leave only their coats in the cloakroom they left all their clothes.

The Palais du Tokyo museum opened its doors to nudists for a special visit Saturday. It’s part of growing efforts by France’s tiny nudist community to encourage acceptance of clothes-free activities, after a nudist restaurant and nudist park opened in the French capital.

The museum visit was arranged before regular opening hours so the nudists wouldn’t mingle with other visitors. They viewed an exhibit of contemporary works focused on “Discord.”

Organizers said they are hoping to attract younger members and get rid of “complexes” around their nudist practices, which they don’t wanted “limited to beaches, summertime or a certain category of the population.”

Gang Members Plead Guilty in Firebombing of Black families

LOS ANGELES (AP) - Two gang members have pleaded guilty to federal charges for firebombing the homes of black residents in an effort to force them out of an East Los Angeles housing complex.

City News Service says Edwin Felix and Jonathan Portillo entered pleas Monday to civil rights and racketeering charges. A third man is expected to plead guilty later this month.

Each could face 30 years in federal prison.

Prosecutors say they were among eight members of a Latino gang that threw Molotov cocktails into four apartments at the Ramona Gardens housing complex in 2014.

Three units were occupied by black families, including some with children who were sleeping.

Nobody was hurt.

Three other people charged in the case have pleaded guilty and await sentencing. Two others await trial.

Camron Buford Contributing Writer Los Angeles News Observer In an effort increasing awareness to a situation that is far to often “swept under the rug, “ Veronica Loving and LaDarrion William teamed up to develop a Stage Play which was based off a true story that was chronicled in the book authored by Veronica and co-authored by her daughter Jazzmin Jackson published in 2012. The Stage Play Feeding the Monster was Directed by Art Evans best known from the movie ‘Die Hard 2’ is theatrical interpretation of the book, with the same title. Though altered slightly, the passion of the plays writers experience was encapsulated exceptionally well by the carefully selected cast.

This story of betrayal, pain, and anguish threatened to rip this family apart, which could be easily understood. Yet, the strength and courage of Veronica and Jazzmine to bring their experience with the horror of domestic violence and sexual abuse to print and onto the stage is commendable and selfless. This mother-daughter duo agreed that this story should be shared and discussed amongst families rather than being hidden and kept in the dark.

Veronica’s 21 year marriage is the backdrop of the play. She has been the bread winner and support system for her daughter and the man who has raised her daughter Jazzmine as his own.

Her husband, a former minor league baseball player, consistently seeking the next fruitful partnership, to the detriment of his expenses and supposed partnerships. In the play Jazzmine, was in a personal crossroads trying to decide between school and perusing her passion for music. Rhea, Veronica’s sister and Jazzmine’s Continued on page A3

Welcomes Naked Visitors

Pinatas Smash the World Record

Cast members Andre K. Jefferson, Conisha Wade Dorsey, Doyin Domingo, Fayley Patrice, and DeJuan Christopher. (courtesy photo)

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) _ Hundreds of brightly colored tissue-and-papier-mache creations strung along a fence helped festival organizers in Virginia claim the world record for the largest display of pinatas. ¿Que Pasa? Festival of Virginia organizer Lisa Zajur tells the Richmond Times-Dispatch that the 1,013 pinatas lining the city’s Canal Walk on Saturday more than doubled the previous record of 504. That record was set in 2008 in an event organized by the Union de Locatarios del Mercado Municipal in Mexico.

Guinness World Records still has to certify the record. The pinata display at the annual celebration of Virginia’s Latino community was part of an effort to raise money for a mentoring and leadership program for Hispanic youth.

The display included SpongeBob, Olaf, Rubik’s Cubes and Angry Birds. They were donated from across the state.

World & Nation

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THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER

The Big Payback: Let’s “Takeover the Polls”

By Jeffrey L. Boney NNPA Newswire Contributor If there ever was a time that Black people needed to fully understand the power of their Black dollar, as well as the need to emphasize the importance of putting their money where their true influence is, that time is now. The upcoming November 2018 elections are by far one of the most important election cycles in the history of the United States. More importantly, it is one that the Black community can’t afford to ignore.

African Americans make up roughly 13 percent of the overall population in the U.S., and have a buying power so strong that it can’t be overlooked. While having a strong and consistent buying power in itself is a powerful asset for any group to have, turning that asset into a long-term money maker and wealth generation tool is the only thing that will strengthen the overall position and status of African Americans in this country, especially in the area of politics.

With this November election right around the corner, it is a prime opportunity for Black people to realize their true collective power by joining in with one another to create one of the most important movements of this era. It is time for Black people to “Takeover The Polls” in every local, county, state and federal election in this country.

Yes! It is time for Black people to “Takeover The Polls” by any means necessary. This can only be accomplished by championing a concerted effort to register Black non-voters and by encouraging existing, registered Black voters to get out and vote.

One of the leading voices in the Black community is aggressively mounting a push towards registering new voters and increasing voter turnout in the Black community, beginning with the midterm elections and establishing a solid foundation that goes well beyond November.

The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), which is a trade group that represents over 200 Black-owned media companies across the U.S., recently launched an initiative to register 5 million new, Black voters before the midterm elections.

This effort is a bold step that is sure to make a profound impact come November.

Dr. Benjamin Chavis, Jr., the president and CEO of the NNPA, is championing this bold initiative on behalf of a storied organization that is the largest and most influential Black-owned media resource in America, reaching more than 20 million readers, combined, in print and online, every week.

In addition to working with the publications within the NNPA, the campaign initiative will focus on an aggressive voter registration drive, community-level education on important issues, and a mobilization effort, which are all designed to reach young, Black eligible voters, particularly in battleground states, like Texas and North Carolina.

“This coming November, the 2018 midterm elections will be one of the most important elections for American Americans in our lifetime,” Dr. Chavis said. “This is about voting rights and the enormous suffering and bloodshed that our people have experienced to make American democracy real and fair. Yet, this is also about responsibility.”

Dr. Chavis and the NNPA have also partnered with organizations like the NAACP, in order to accomplish the goal of registering these 5 million new, Black voters.

“I am proud that the NNPA is encouraging and mobilizing the Black community to get 5 million more African Americans registered to vote across the nation,” Dr. Chavis continued. “We have to takeover and overwhelm our political adversaries at the voting polls in 2018. This is a payback year! Now is the time!”

In order for African Americans to “Takeover The Polls” effectively before November, however, there are several things that must be done to make it work and get the results needed to make a significant impact.

First and foremost, education about the importance of voting is critical in order to get as many Black people registered to vote as possible, as well as help them truly understand what’s at stake.

Secondly, political candidates must ensure that Black people become more familiar with who they are, which can only be done by effectively advertising in Black media outlets, like the Black newspapers, in their respective geographic locations.

Lastly, more accountability must be placed on the Democratic Party. The Democratic Party must do more, at every level, to cultivate and show appreciation for their loyal base of Black

voters, if they want to truly see change during the midterm elections.

According to the Pew Research Center, 87 percent of Black voters identify with the Democratic Party or lean Democratic, compared with just 7 percent who identify as Republican or lean Republican. Black women are a driving force behind this high percentage of Black registered voters, and when they turnout, they make a huge difference.

Take the recent Alabama Senate race for example.

When Alabama Democrat Doug Jones faced a challenging, uphill battle against controversial Republican candidate Roy Moore in their special Senate election, it was Black voter turnout that made the difference. As a matter of fact, “Black voters turned out for the special election [in Alabama] at a higher level than their share of the electorate when Obama was on the ballot in 2008 and 2012,” according to CNN.com.

After getting reports that 96 percent of Black voters backed Jones and 98 percent of Black women voters supporting Jones, Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chair Tom Perez tweeted, “Let me be clear: We won in Alabama and Virginia because #BlackWomen led us to victory. Black women are the backbone of the Democratic Party, and we can’t take that for granted.

Period.”

Strong, but true words from the DNC Chair, but will those words translate into true appreciation for the power of the Black vote leading up to the November midterm elections and beyond?

The need for groups like the NNPA to work collaboratively with the DNC, community leaders and others committed to creating a political revolution, is paramount and necessary. The revolution must start now. However, it must go beyond the midterm elections and trickle down to the local, county and state races in a major way, as well.

This is just one election cycle, and while it may be one of the most important election cycles in our lifetime, the Black community must start today by aggressively educating, equipping and empowering Black youth, voting age adults and senior citizens, through information sharing and voter registration efforts to ensure their voices are heard loud and clear at the polls.

It is time for the African American community to “Takeover The Polls” this November, and beyond, by joining in with the NNPA to help register 5 million new, Black voters.

Thursday, May 10, 2018

Fatal Attack on Interracial Couple Finally Goes to Trial

By JACQUES BILLEAUD Associated Press PHOENIX (AP) _ An interracial couple was walking near a Phoenix park when authorities say a shirtless neo-Nazi began angrily yelling a racial slur and harassing the black man in the couple over dating a white woman.

Authorities say the men exchanged tense words before Travis Ricci rushed back to a home where other white supremacists were partying, grabbed a shotgun and returned in a sedan driven by an associate. Ricci leaned out the car and fired two buckshot blasts, missing the black man - the intended target - and killing his girlfriend, investigators said.

Lawyers are now picking a jury to decide whether Ricci should be convicted of murder and sentenced to death in the 2009 attack, which prosecutors say was a hate crime. Opening statements are tentatively scheduled for June 6.

The case has offered several unexpected turns.

Ricci, whose defense is expected to include an argument that he's not the man he used to be, claims his great-grandfather was a member of the French Resistance killed by Nazis during World War II. Authorities are seeking the death penalty, saying 39-year-old Kelly Ann Jaeger's killing was meant to further the interests of the Vinlanders Social Club, a neo-Nazi group with a reputation for violence that was later targeted in a law enforcement crackdown.

Since prosecutors have called the attack a hate crime, they can seek as many as 11 additional years in prison _ above the maximum penalty _ if Ricci is convicted of other charges, such as attempted murder, drive-by shooting, aggravated assault and assisting a criminal gang.

Ricci pleaded not guilty, and his lawyers have raised questions about the ability of Jaeger's boyfriend, Jeffery Wellmaker, to identify him as the triggerman. They note that nearly two years after the attack, Wellmaker was jailed in an unrelated case and played chess with Ricci behind bars without recognizing him.

Aaron Levi Schmidt, who authorities say was driving the car used in the shooting, pleaded guilty to murder in Jaeger's death.

He is already serving 11 years for assisting a criminal gang. It's unclear if he's been sentenced on the murder conviction.

Lawyers for Ricci and Schmidt, both now 36, have said their clients weren't members of the Vinlanders.

Police reports say Ricci told associates before the attack that he saw black men hitting a white woman, though it's unclear if that claim was accurate.

Rebecca Wilder, a spokeswoman for the Maricopa County Attorney's Office, which is prosecuting Ricci, declined to comment on the case. The Phoenix Police Department, which inves-

tigated the attack, also declined to comment.

Prosecutors said in court records that Wellmaker, who was unarmed, was extremely distraught over the attack and tried to help his girlfriend after she was shot. They say Wellmaker didn't provoke the attack and tried unsuccessfully to push Jaeger out of the path of the shotgun blast, according to court records.

Ricci's attorneys declined to answer questions about the allegations against their client.

“He is a very sensitive person who cares about people in general,” said Jennifer Willmott, one of his lawyers. “He has had a very difficult life.”

Bruce Blumberg, another attorney for Ricci, said his client's team has gotten records that document the arrest and execution of Ricci's great-grandfather during his involvement with the French Resistance. Blumberg said the great-grandfather's experience may be brought up during the trial, though it's unclear what it will be used to demonstrate.

The attack started brewing after Ricci left his friend's home angry and drunk, making his way into the neighborhood where he eventually noticed Jaeger and Wellmaker, according to a police report.

Prosecutors say Ricci hurled a racial slur at Wellmaker and yelled, “What are you doing with a white girl?”

He also told Wellmaker he was going to get “something for him,” prosecutors said.

Sometime later, Jaeger and Wellmaker were near a pay phone when the sedan pulled up. Ricci fired two shells, hitting Jaeger in the stomach from about 10 feet (3 meters) away, prosecutors said.

Ricci's attorneys have noted Wellmaker was unable to identify Ricci in a photo lineup after the shooting, and he failed to recognize their client in 2011 when the two served time in the same Maricopa County jail pod. Court records filed in Ricci's case didn't specify the charge on which Wellmaker was jailed, and a records check didn't provide a definitive answer to the question.

Ricci ended up telling Wellmaker he was the person accused of killing his girlfriend, a judge wrote in a pretrial ruling.

The judge said Wellmaker's identification of the shooter was reliable because he would have been able to identify Ricci independent of the jail encounter. While working with a police artist after the shooting, Wellmaker described a unique tattoo across the attacker's stomach, the judge wrote.

In an unrelated crime months after Jaeger's shooting death, police say Ricci stabbed two men who tried to stop him from attacking his girlfriend. He is serving a 22-year sentence for assault and weapons misconduct convictions.

SF Mayoral Candidates Battle for ‘Soul’ of City

Jeffrey Boney says that the Democratic Party must do more, at every level, to cultivate and show appreciation for their loyal base of Black voters. (Jeffrey Boney)

learn more >

By JANIE HAR Associated Press SAN FRANCISCO (AP) - San Francisco could make history by electing for mayor the first African-American woman, Asian-American woman or openly gay man in a contest that is also the city's first competitive mayoral race in 15 years.

The winner will inherit a divided city rolling in both wealth and misery as the tech-based boom that defined San Francisco for much of the decade shows little sign of abating. Residents and tourists are horrified by homeless tent camps and human waste on the streets, even as the median home price hit $1.3 million in March. People are cranky over congested streets and vehicle break-ins.

“The soul of the city is being ripped away. San Francisco's a jewel, we're an icon and we're just being torn apart because everybody hates everybody,” said Angela Alioto, a former San Francisco supervisor and daughter of a former mayor who is also running for mayor.

The last time San Francisco had a mayor's race without an incumbent was in 2003, and once again, the contest is a battle between so-called progressives and moderates over issues of development, homelessness and quality of life.

The leading candidates in this year's race have compelling life stories: London Breed, 43, is a native San Franciscan and African-American who overcame a rough childhood to become president of the Board of Supervisors. Supervisor Jane Kim, 40, is the daughter of Korean immigrants and would be the first Asian-American woman elected mayor of San Francisco.

And former state Sen. Mark Leno, 66, who moved to San Francisco in the “disco `70s” as part of an influx of gay newcomers, could be the city's first openly gay mayor four decades after Harvey Milk made LGBT history by winning a supervisor's seat. Milk and then-Mayor George Moscone were assassinated in 1978.

In San Francisco, just about everyone who holds political power is a liberal Democrat. They agree on minority rights, sanctuary for people in the country illegally, and better benefits for

George W.Carver Missouri School to Be Rehabilitated

hourly workers, but moderates are considered friendlier to corporate interests.

Both Kim and Leno have positioned themselves as the progressive alternative to Breed, who is endorsed by former Mayor Willie Brown, a formidable power broker who pushed the candidacies of former Mayor Ed Lee and before him, Democratic businessman Gavin Newsom in 2003.

Kim says electing Breed would continue the city down the same path.

“We have the fastest-growing income gap between the rich and the poor, we have a shrinking middle class and we're increasingly becoming a city of the rich, the very rich and the very poor,” she said.

Leno says the “status quo” has been around for decades and “it's time for some fresh eyes, a new perspective and a new energy.”

Lee's sudden death in December pushed up to June 5 a contest that was planned for November 2019. The city's first Asian-American mayor oversaw the city's climb out of recession into prosperity, but critics say he was far too lenient with the tech industry.

Breed describes herself as an independent political thinker, not a pawn of the business lobby. In 2016 she successfully pushed expansive legislation banning foam packaging.

“I ask people to not attribute what I've done, my success and how hard I've worked, to not reduce that or attribute that to someone else,” she said.

A former art complex executive director raised by her grandmother in public housing in the Western Addition neighborhood, Breed is heralded as a success story among the city's dwindling black population. African-Americans were furious when progressives on the board removed Breed as acting mayor after Lee's death and named a white man as interim mayor during the pending election.

Leno, who served 14 years in the state Assembly and Senate before he was termed out of office in 2016, was first to enter the mayor's race, long before Lee's death. He was a prolific and Continued on page A4

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NEOSHO, Mo. (AP) _ A Missouri school where noted scientist and inventor George Washington Carver attended as a child is undergoing rehabilitation to return it to its original condition.

The Neosho Colored School is being moved so that the Carver Birthplace Association can rebuild and stabilize the structure, the Joplin Globe reported. The school building was built in 1872.

“It’s a project worth restoring,” said Executive Director Kim Mailes. “We will restore it the same way it looked the day Carver walked up to it.”

Carver used to walk 10 miles to Neosho to attend the allblack school. The school gave Carver his first formal education. It operated from 1872 to 1891.

The association plans to complete the foundation, chimney and roof rehabilitation by summer, said Mailes. The group will also add furniture to resemble the building’s original state, including benches and a chalkboard.

The organization plans to use the school as a visitor’s center where students can learn about history, diversity and racial harmony, said Mailes.

“It’s going to be a rare opportunity for the public to be able to visit an actual restoration of the school and have a greater understanding of the processes that began at African-American schools following the Civil War,” he said.

The group hopes to complete the project by 2020 to coincide with the school’s 150-year anniversary. It’ll depend on funding, which will come from community donations, fundraisers and grants, said Mailes.

The renovations are estimated to cost about $250,000.

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Thursday, May 10, 2018

THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER A3

Features

Los Angeles News Observer and WGS

FEEDING THE MONSTER

Stage Play Review

Continued on page A3

Co-author/producer Veronica Loving, Director Art Evans, and co producer LaDarrion Williams. (courtesy photo)

aunt, and Eli, Jazzmins friend from college, act intermediaries through this saga, were additional characters that were added to bring an even more relatable experience to the audience.

Even though the play switched venues since their initial showing, none of the intensity of the actors and actress was lost in the process. We all should be grateful that Veronica and Jazzmine have been willing to share thier painfully honest truth, for the benefit of families all across America. Because there is a right and wrong way to address this haneous crime I felt the Stage Play captured the imaginations of the audience with their real raw truth.

The cast of “Feeding A Monster” included actors Conisha Wade Dorsey (playing Rhea), Fayley Patrice (playing Veronica), Doyin Domingo (playing Jazzmine), DeJuan Christopher (playing Kenneth), and Andre Jefferson (playing Eli). This dynamic cast delivers an impactful performance that really evokes the feelings of anger, disgust, self-discovery and rage from the audience.

Loving says, “You definitely want to see this play and learn how you can help someone who’s been affected by sexual assault and domestic violence start the road to physical healing,” You can Follow Veronica Loving on Facebook at https:// www.facebook.com/iamveronicaloving and on Twitter at https:// twitter.com/Lovingveronica1, to learn about future showings of the Stag Play. Feeding A Monster the book is available on Amazon.com. We at Whats Good In Sports give this play a 4 football out of 5 rating, once have had an opportunity to read the book or see the “Feeding The Monster” Stage Play, please share comments and feedback in the comment section at whatsgoodinsports.com.

Also download the new “Observer Interactive” app to see exclusive video of the red carpet on opening night.

Co-author of the book turned stage play, Jazzmine Jackson. (courtesy photo)

Black Airbnb Guests Questioned

by Police Serve Notice to Sue

By AMANDA LEE MYERS and JANIE HAR Associated Press LOS ANGELES (AP) _ Three black people are planning to sue a Southern California police department over what they say was an excessive response to a racially motivated 911 call, but police say their officers' response was polite, brief and nothing out of the ordinary.

The Rialto Police Department said Monday that it had received notice of legal action by the three, who were leaving an Airbnb rental with their luggage when a neighbor called police on April 30 to report a burglary in progress.

The encounter is the latest example of friction between law enforcement and minorities. Last month, two black men in Philadelphia were arrested after a Starbucks employee called police because they hadn't bought anything.

One of the Airbnb renters, Kells Fyffe-Marshall, wrote on social media that they were “surrounded” by seven police cars and told to put up their hands. Police said a helicopter was tracking them.

“You want to laugh about this but it's not funny,” said Fyffe-Marshall in her post, adding that police told her the woman called 911 when they “didn't wave to her as she looked at us” packing up.

Police said in a news release that officers were polite during the 22-minute interaction. The caller did not recognize the vehicle or the people, police said.

Rialto police Lt. Dean Hardin said it is standard for a helicopter to monitor the scene of a residential burglary in progress, in case someone leaves the house before ground police can get there.

“We didn't detain anybody, we didn't put anyone in handcuffs, we didn't point any weapons at anybody,” he said. “We actually allowed them pretty free movement about the scene, so it's a pretty mild response to a situation.”

Fyffe-Marshall declined comment, citing legal advice.

Rialto is in San Bernardino County about 50 miles (80 kilometers) east of Los Angeles.

Diversity Shines in Fairbanks, Alaska’s Graduating Class FAIRBANKS, Alaska (AP) - Diversity was on display as members of the University of Alaska Fairbanks 2018 graduating class received their diplomas.

Of the approximately 1,300 students at Saturday’s commencement ceremony, almost one-fifth were of Alaska Native or American Indian heritage. School officials say 223 Native graduates received degrees, certificates or occupational endorsements, the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner reported .

A breakdown by ethnicity also shows 28 were Asian-American; 28 were African-American; 67 were Hispanic; 11 were Hawaiian or Pacific Islander; 661 were Caucasian; 35 were international students and 262 were of other or unknown ethnicity.

Women graduates also outnumbered men, 714 to 595.

The youngest person to earn a bachelor’s degree was 20, while the oldest was 75. The youngest graduate was a 16-yearold who earned an occupational endorsement in basic carpentry.

Student speaker Aaron Cottle, a Navy veteran who graduated with a bachelor’s in business administration, spoke during Saturday’s ceremony about the failures and triumphs that shaped his nontraditional educational path.

“Ladies and gentlemen, we have work to do,” he said. “We cannot afford to lead small lives. We are standing on the threshold of greatness. We have opened the door. All that remains is to step through.”

The “Feeding the Monster” cast with Director Art Evans (center). (Camron Buford photo)

Crystal Nichols a Prime Time Official

By Earl Heath

Crystal Nichols. (Earl Heath photo)

The of the most quiet keep secrets in So Cal is Crystal Nichols. The fun spirited one had quietly had her place in sports over the last few decades.

As a member of the Los Angeles Football Unit he has officiated high school football for more than 25 years.

She runs up and down the field with All-Americans who have gone on to play in the Pac 12 , Big 10 and Big 12 conference’s.

For years she worked as a line-judge on the side line, but in recent seasons she has stepped into the middle as an umpire.

“I just try to work hard and do my best,” said Nichols.

Being a female never comes up any more.”

The 5-9, 125 pound Nichols works her way around 250-to 300 pound players with no fear.

Her talent have led her to become the first female to work a Los Angeles City Championship game in 2006.

She ‘s worked the Semi-Pro leagues and NFL games in Europe. She has done California Junior College football and and occasional Division 1AA football game.

Nichols is also a basketball referee. She has been a member of the C.B.O.A. California Basketball Officials Association (Los Angeles Unit) for some 38 years. She had done play-off games, the NBA Pro-Am games and other men League game with no sweat.

She has a part-time job as a building manager but also takes time to teach Yoga as part of her regimen to stay in shape.

She’s one of the people you want on the field or on the court during a tough situation.

A4

Legal Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF WISCONSIN, CIRCUIT COURT, MILWAUKEE COUNTY PUBLICATION SUMMONS Divorce-40101 Case No. 18fa618 IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF Petitioner AGUSTINA CARRILLO

You are further notified that if the parties to this action have minor children, violation of S948.31, Wis. Stats., (interference with custody by parent or others) is punishable by fines and/or imprisonment.

If you are the petitioner have minor children, documents setting forth the percentage standard for child support established by the department under S49.22(9), Wis. Stats., and the factors that a court may consider for modification of that standard under S767.511(1m), Wis. Stats., are available upon your request from the Clerk of Court.

You are notified of the availability of information from the Circuit Court Commissioner as set forth in S767.105. Wis. Stats.

S767.105 Information from Circuit Court Commissioner.

(2)Upon the request of a party to an action affecting the Family, including a revision of judgment or order under sec. 767.59 or 767.451: (a)the Circuit Court Commissioner shall, with or without charge, provide the party with written information on the following, as appropriate to the action commenced: 1. The procedure for obtaining a judgment or order in the action.

2. The major issues usually addressed in such an action.

3. Community resources and family court counseling services available to assist the parties.

4. The procedure for setting, modifying, and enforcing child support awards, or modifying and enforcing legal custody or physical placement judgments or orders. (b)The Circuit Court Commissioner shall provide a party, for inspection or purchase, with a copy of the statutory provisions in this chapter generally pertinent to the action.

CYNTHIA HERBER 04-23-2018 LOS ANGELES BAY NEWS OBSERVER PUB: May 3, 10, 17, 2018

And Respondent RAMON NAVA MUNOZ THE STATE OF WISCONSIN, TO THE PERSON NAMED ABOVE AS RESPONDENT: You are notified that the petitioner named above has filed a Petition for divorce or legal separation against you.

You nust respond with a written demand for a copy of the Petition within 40 days from the day after the date of publication.

The demand must be sent or delivered to the court at: Clerk of Court, Milwaukee County, County Courthouse, Address: 901 N 9th St, Milwaukee WI 53223 And to Petitioner: AGUSTINE ACRRILLO c/o Attorney CYNTHIA R HERBER 700 W Virginia St #302 Milwaukee WI 53204 It is recommended, but not required, that you have an attorney help or represent you.

If you do not demand a copy of the Petition within 40 days, the court may grant judgment against you for the award of money or other legal action requested in the Petition, and you may lose your right to object to anything that is or may be incorrect in the Petition.

A judgment may be enforced as provided by law. A judgment awarding money may become a lien against any real estate you own now or in the future, and may also be enforced by garnishment or seizure of property.

THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER

News

Thursday, May 10, 2018

Wells Fargo Commits to $60 Billion in

Lending for Black Homebuyers

By Stacy M. Brown The Washington Informer/NNPA Member Wells Fargo’s $60 billion pledge to African American homebuyers is a major part of the company’s dedication to a community that’s grown accustomed to being shut out from having a slice of the American Dream. In addition to the $60 billion in lending for home purchases, the company committed to increasing the diversity of its sales team and providing $15 million toward initiatives focused on homebuyer education and counseling.

“Homeownership is vitally important, because homes are the building blocks of the American Dream and a proven, sustainable vehicle for building individual and family wealth that can be passed down from generation to generation,” said Cerita Battles, the senior vice president and head of retail diverse segments for Wells Fargo Home Mortgage.

Battles continued: “Homes make up our neighborhoods and our communities and are a stabilizing force for families, making homeownership a key driver of our nation’s economic and cultural well-being.”

With that understanding, bank officials know that their commitment and helpful information to those interested in becoming homeowners must be communicated to the African American community.

To that end, sharing news through the Black Press is also important for Wells Fargo, Battles said.

“Being present in the communities we serve is one of our key strategies for reaching our goals and African American newspapers are a trusted vehicle for news and information in those communities,” Battles said. “So, having information about being a homeowner and sustaining homeownership is critical to reaching the goals of the commitment and helping more African American families become homeowners.”

Housing experts have said that it’s important for aspiring homeowners to have as much knowledge as possible about the homeownership process; that information helps to dispel myths that many African Americans have about homeownership.

“There are many myths that cause a lot of potential African American homebuyers to assume that getting a home mortgage is something beyond their reach. But many times, this is completely untrue, and that message needs to get out,” Battles said.

“African Americans need to have the confidence and knowledge

Mayoral Candidates Battle for Soul of City Continued from page A2

the mayor's race, long before Lee's death. He was a prolific and respected lawmaker who fought to raise the minimum wage, restrict the use of solitary confinement for juveniles, and legalize gay marriage.

Critics say he's a career politician who won't shake up anything.

Kim is the only one of the four best known candidates to make an issue other than tent camps and homelessness her first to tackle if elected. Instead, the former Chinatown community organizer has promised to double the number of street cleaners.

Critics scoff since she represents some of the filthiest parts of the city.

Finally, there's Alioto, a 68-year-old attorney who served as a supervisor in the late 1980s and 1990s. Her father, Joe, was mayor from 1968 to 1976. Alioto is endorsed by the San Francisco Police Officers Association and, if elected, vows to fire city department heads.

Polling shows her a distant fourth but no candidate has a lock on the race.

Complicating matters, San Francisco uses a “ranked-choice voting” system where voters rank candidates in order of preference, whittling them down until there's a winner.

Also on the ballot are Michelle Bravo, a massage therapist; Amy Farah Weiss, a homelessness activist; Republican businessman Richie Greenberg; and Ellen Lee Zhou, a public health worker who opposed recreational marijuana legalization.

Cerita Battles, the senior vice president and head of retail diverse segments for Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, says that Wells Fargo is committed to doing what it takes to help increase African American homeowners. (Pexels.com)

to recognize that they can be homeowners, and that a lender, like Wells Fargo, truly wants to help them meet their home-financing needs. The Black Press, and other media for that matter, helps us share these messages to those who desire to obtain and sustain homeownership.”

Battles noted that it’s also important to remember that Wells Fargo’s African American homeownership commitment is not a separate loan program, but an effort by the company to increase homeowners in the community. Any of the programs, products, and services that Wells Fargo offers are available to all customers who qualify.

She said it’s not really about what the bank is doing differently for African Americans, but more about how Wells Fargo is showing up for them.

“It’s more about getting the messages to them, meeting them where, when, and how they want to interact with us so that we can leverage all that we have to offer. It’s about education, counseling, and being present in their communities,” Battles said.

Wells Fargo’s commitment to the African American community extends beyond the homeownership commitment. In 2016, the company committed to offering $75 million in grants and lending to help diverse-owned small businesses access capital and

technical assistance by the end of 2020.

“In fact, by the end of 2016, the Wells Fargo Works for Small Business: Diverse Community Capital program had distributed $38 million in grants and lending capital to 30 Community Development Financial Institutions serving diverse, small businesses, placing us more than halfway to our goal,” Battles said.

Battles said that even though the goals of the homeownership commitment are challenging, Wells Fargo is committed to doing what it takes to help increase African American homeowners.

“This commitment is not a sprint, but a long journey that will require the focus of our team and collaboration with industry influencers, nonprofits and other organizations,” Battles said. “If this were just a public relations campaign, we would not have made the goals so lofty.”

“Making this commitment holds us accountable to ourselves, our customers, our communities, and the organizations that joined us in this effort; by pushing ourselves, stretching ourselves, and then delivering on our commitments in a responsible manner, we are ensuring true meaningful progress for African-American homeownership across America.”

PG&E Partnership Powers Up Careers

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on your PC , Tablet or Phone Bill Cosby’s Daughter Ensa Dies at 44 Page A6

Billy Graham Civil Rights Regrets Page A4

News Observer K.I.S.S. The Valley’s

Graham Volume 33 Number 18 Billyl Rights Civi Regrets

Bill Cosby’s Ensa Daughter Page A6 Dies at 44

Observer Group Newspapers of Southern California

Thursday, March 1, 2018

r News Observe K.I.S.S. Page A4

FREE!

Los Angeles Rams Host Cheerleader 2018 Auditions

The Valley’s

March 1, Thursday,

ers of Southern

Observer

Volume 33

Number 18

S) ONG SISTAH PIRING STR (KEEP INS at

tre Women’s Re k rban Held in Bu

2018

Rams Los Angeles ader Host Cheerle s ition8th at Aud through March 2018 May Register

California

Group Newspap

wife, enawson, to singers Tina Knowles-L (Car, and mother Knowles. trepreneur & Solonges Angeles News Beyoncé rington Prichett/Lo Photo) Observer

Candidates cheerauditions cheerleader March Rams are hosting attherams.com/2018 The Los Angeles season starting Sunday, perform the 2018 rs not only at auditions for Rams Cheerleade Coliseum and 11. Los Angeles at the LA Memorial also participate service at home games in Mexico City, but community Estadio Azteca internas, events and nationally and in public appearance Angeles region, t the year. or oldacross the Los must be 18 tionally throughou online by looking to audition Candidates March 1, and must register is not availer by Thursday, 8. Walk-up registration y auditions Thursday, Marchfrom last year’s preliminar /videos. able. Coverageat therams.com/cheerRams Cheerleaders can be viewed to auditions the Los Angeles In addition,voluntary workshops prior t the LA region. four Choby are hosting Fitness locations throughou led n hour of dance at 24 Hour includes one followed by a presentatio Each workshop PETERS, Rams Cheerleading Diper the reographer JOHN cost $40.00 last segment with Workshops and a Q & A FIMBRES. Footage from candiavailability. rector KEELY have limited viewed here. Interested person and can be at therams.com/cheer year’s workshops up for workshops dates may sign leaders/workshops.

(KEEP INSPIRING STRONG SISTAHS) Female First Black to Nominated Fame of State Hall

Women’s Retreat Held in Burbank

Tina Knowles-Lawson, wife, entrepreneur, and mother to singers Beyoncé & Solonge Knowles. (Carrington Prichett/Los Angeles News Observer Photo)

By Darlene L. Williams Los Angeles Contributing Beat Writer BURBANK, CA- The K.I.S.S. (Keep Inspiring Tina Knowles-Lawson further empowered the enerpe of HoWomen’s Strong retreat was held Saturday, Feb- getic group with an open question and answer session in geSistahs) Messa ruary, 24th at the Ramada- Burbank Airport Hotel from relation to operating successful businesses.

The CSU’s 1 p.m. to 9.m. The one-day event geared towards inspir“The best businesses are services people need. You ing and empowering women to love themselves, featured want to have a product that people need,” explained dia Keynote Speaker,rni andaMulti-Award Winner, TinaasCampan Knowles-Lawson.

Black Me Tex Womin Pan ts of Ca the lifo famed sister duo, Mary Mary and Q es and t to “Find a couple of people you can trust, she said. anbell Defaecat gs Dru PG&E’s Gr A session with entrepreneur, designer, philanthropist, e to Hid Knowles-Lawson along with husband, Actor Richmotivational speaker, and mother of iconic daughters ard Lawson successfully operates and owns WACO Beyonce’ and Solange; Tina Knowles-Lawson.

(Where Art Can Occur) Theater Group in Los Angeles, The event also included a One-Woman Stage play, where they mentor inner-city youths. an All Male Panel Discussion (What Men REALLY “I’ve always dreamed of mentoring young girls”, she Want?) hosted by Fox 11 News Reporter, Leah Uko; and said.

Flying Over 50 Exotic Dance Coach, Makeda Smith.

Event founder, producer, life-coach, and celebriCampbell, spoke to a group of about 70 women ty hairstylist, Stephanie Singleton told The Bakersfield about the importance of faith, forgiveness, and healing.

News Observer; that the overall message intended “I’m a person of faith, Campbell said. Jesus is for women is that they embrace their “outer and what I do”. inner beauty”.

Campbell, spoke about her marriage to Robert Coats and Brandon Ellis both husband, Teddy Campbell. “I dealt with his inflew out from Akron, Ohio to support Singlefidelity very publicly and it almost destroyed ton and the K.I.S.S. retreat.

“I’m here my marriage. I’ve overcome the opinions of to support the movem e n t people,” she said. and brand. It’s power“God has your life fully orchestrated, Campful for bell told the attentive group, as she began to the womsoftly sing her hit song, “Destiny” an culture. This “I’ve got a destination in my view/ is a great time to push the road may be bumpy getting there/ for the woman, it’s so importBut I’m pressing through/ I will enjoy ant,” Coats said. this journey/ No matter come what “It’s a nice atmosphere; it’s nice what may/ I’ll become better and she’s (Singleton) doing for the women. stronger/ and wiser every It’s important to make women feel powerday.” ful, Ellis said. We are kings and queens.” “ W h y Additionally, Veteran Entertainlook good er and Flying Over 50 Exotic Dance when you can be Coach, Makeda Smith encouraged the good,” Campbell women in attendance to move their said. hips and to “awaken the sleeping goddess within.” “When was the last time Exotic Dance Coach, Makeda Smith leading you shook your hips? Smith asked. the audience in a dance practice. (Carrington Soon the energetic and funny Prichett/Los Angeles News Observer Photo)

Billy Graham Civil Rights Regrets Page A4

Page A6

News Observer K.I.S.S.

By Darlene L. Williams Los Angeles Contributing Beat Writer BURBANK, CA- The K.I.S.S. (Keep Inspiring Strong Sistahs) Women’s retreat was held Saturday, February, 24th at the Ramada- Burbank Airport Hotel from 1 p.m. to 9.m. The one-day event geared towards inspiring and empowering women to love themselves, featured Keynote Speaker, and Multi-Award Winner, Tina Campbell of the famed sister duo, Mary Mary and a Q and A session with entrepreneur, designer, philanthropist, motivational speaker, and mother of iconic daughters Beyonce’ and Solange; Tina Knowles-Lawson.

The event also included a One-Woman Stage play, an All Male Panel Discussion (What Men REALLY Want?) hosted by Fox 11 News Reporter, Leah Uko; and Flying Over 50 Exotic Dance Coach, Makeda Smith.

Campbell, spoke to a group of about 70 women about the importance of faith, forgiveness, and healing.

“I’m a person of faith, Campbell said. Jesus is what I do”.

Campbell, spoke about her marriage to husband, Teddy Campbell. “I dealt with his infidelity very publicly and it almost destroyed my marriage. I’ve overcome the opinions of people,” she said.

“God has your life fully orchestrated, Campbell told the attentive group, as she began to softly sing her hit song, “Destiny” “I’ve got a destination in my view/ the road may be bumpy getting there/ But I’m pressing through/ I will enjoy this journey/ No matter come what may/ I’ll become better and stronger/ and wiser every day.” “ W h y look good when you can be good,” Campbell said.

Mayors California Billion Seek $1.5 eless to Help Hom

Continued

Candidates May Register through March 8th at attherams.com/2018cheerauditions The Los Angeles Rams are hosting cheerleader Bill Cosby’s auditions for the 2018 season starting Sunday, March Daughter Ensa Dies at 44 11. Los Angeles Rams Cheerleaders not only perform at home games at the LA Memorial Coliseum and The at Valley’s Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, but also participate in public appearances, events and community service across the Los Angeles region, nationally and internationally throughout the year.

Candidates looking to audition must be 18 or older by Thursday, March 1, and must register online by Thursday, March 8. Walk-up registration is not available. Coverage from last year’s preliminary auditions (KEEP INSPIRING STRONG SISTAHS) can be viewed at therams.com/cheer/videos.

Women’s Retreat In addition, the Los Angeles Rams Cheerleaders Held in Burbank are hosting four voluntary workshops prior to auditions at 24 Hour Fitness locations throughout the LA region.

Each workshop includes one hour of dance led by Choreographer JOHN PETERS, followed by a presentation and a Q & A segment with the Rams Cheerleading Director KEELY FIMBRES. Workshops cost $40.00 per person and have limited availability. Footage from last year’s workshops can be viewed here. Interested candidates may sign up for workshops at therams.com/cheerleaders/workshops.

Volume 33 Number 18

the enerempowered awson further and answer session in L. Williams Tina Knowles-L question

By Darlene Inspiring g Beat Writer with an open You female K.I.S.S. (Keep Feb- getic groupoperating successful businesses.

Los Angeles Contributin people need. , CA- The _ The first black to was held Saturday, BURBANK Conn. (AP) is being nominated to from relation best businesses are services need,” explained Women’s retreat people Airport HotelinspirHARTFORD, “The General Assembly Fame.

Strong Sistahs)the Ramada- Burbank a product that towards at member of the t Women’s Hall of was first elected to said. want to have event geared ruary, 24th can trust, she The one-day to love themselves, featured Knowles-Lawson.

E. Morton the Connecticu She served four of people you husband, Actor RichCamp1 p.m. to 9.m. g women The late Margaret tives in 1972. a Dem“Find a couple rd Winner, Tinaa Q and along with Representa owns WACO ing and empowerin . She later wonand then and Multi-Awa Mary and the House of Knowles-Lawson operates and in Los Angeles, g Bridgeport senator pist, Keynote Speaker, sister duo, Mary successfully court terms, representin famed Theater Group designer, philanthro ard Lawson against an incumbent after a lengthy bell of the entrepreneur, iconic daughters (Where Art Can Occur) ocratic primary the general election mother of inner-city youths. young girls”, she A session with and mentor Democrats. went on to win awson. speaker, mentoring eventually bewhere they redreamed of motivational Solange; Tina Knowles-L the Senate, an Stage play, battle with Bridgeport “I’ve always six terms in tempore in 1990. She and celebriBeyonce’ and also included a One-WomMen REALLY She served life-coach, Bakersfield president pro (What said.

The event Discussion coming deputyand died in 2012. told The founder, producer, nominated Leah Uko; and Panel Event Singleton Male Reporter, legislators intended 1992 an All message tired in black women

by Fox 11 NewsCoach, Makeda Smith. “quiet determihairstylist, Stephaniethat the overall their “outer and Four current of fame, citing her Want?) hosted 70 women ty embrace News Observer; 50 Exotic Dance the hall group of about is that they and racism. are accepted on Flying Over Morton to , and healing. spoke to a for women of fame to fight prejudice Tina Campbell.

Ellis both Campbell, hall scholars is PhoArtist, nation” the beauty”. of faith, forgiveness e for Brandon Jesus ns inner Gospel Observer and said.

Nominatio and reviewed by a consulting my Winning s Angeles News about the importanc Robert Coats Ohio to support Singleof faith, Campbell basis Akron, n Prichett/Lo “I’m here Multi-Gram “I’m a person an ongoing to (Carringto flew out from m e n t her marriage K.I.S.S. retreat. committee. to) what I do”. ton and the the movespoke about dealt with his inhad powerCampbell, rGetsOld, to support Campbell. “I almost destroyed is #SexyNeve It appeared as It’s ful for it husband, Teddy and brand. whose motto of moving. publicly and the wom- 57 year-old,up on their feet and been awakened, as the fidelity very I’ve overcome the opinions had This the women to a sultry goddesses side culture. to my marriage.said. an Campsleeping side d, hips from to push if all the inspirational people,” she to life fully orchestrate swayed their Smith used for the is a great time as she began “God has your it’s so import- women blues tune attentive group, event and soulful for the woman, Actress and bell told the hit song, “Destiny” from Calview/ said.

Author, Aspiring for self-love and (AP) _ Mayors e; it’s nice what moment. softly sing her a destination in my ant,” Coats looking Bridgett LaRe’, NTO, Calif.on Wednesday asked state women.

“I’ve got BNO, “I was I knew it was God.” “It’s a nice atmospher getting there/ SACRAME what doing for the power- attendee, told the be bumpy largest cities billion to help with event retreat; feel the road may through/ I will enjoy $1.5 me about the at church, said another ifornia’s eleven she’s (Singleton) to provide to make women a friend told what a flyer I’m trying to lawmakers growing homeless crisis. would require the But I’m pressing It’s important We are kings and queens.”

“I was handedTowner of Los Angeles, No matter comeand billion they say is a backing legislation that this journey/ ful, Ellis said. ly, Veteran Entertaincreating a $3 tempomovebecome better Dance attendee, LaToya They are Additional place; it’s a may/ I’ll matching funds, wiser every Over 50 Exotic the find myself.” affordable housing, from a personal to know that cities to provide stronger/ and er and Flying Smith encouraged outreach. leaders to be spent on “K.I.S.S. stems I’m helping women us if you pot of money supportive services and to move their day.”

Coach, Makeda to legislative $6.1 Singleton said. love and someone robbed attendance rary shelters, in an earlier letter “ W h y with the state’s women in “awaken the sleeping god- ment, were all born They said should use a quarter of good hips and to “When was the last time we say you love yourself.” look be can’t that lawmakerssurplus to help the homeless.called it “the asked. dess within.”

Smith when you can hips? billion budget Mayor Kevin L. Faulconer today.’’ you shook your energetic and funny good,” Campbell the San Diego California cities Soon the estimate that issue facing said. homea 2017 federal most pressing Smith leading n mayors cited has more than 134,000 (Carringto Coach, Makeda The Dance now practice.

Photo) state Exotic in a dance Demomost populous News Observer the audience s Angeles day that two billion Prichett/Lo less people. came the same seek $2 Their request announced they will to the mayors’ in response cratic state senators housing, also Los y. She wanted for affordable mayors from and opportunit to excel in Fresno, requests. group includes system to access son continued becoming The bipartisan San Jose, San Francisco, , Anaof the CSU Bakersfield Diego, that if her great-grand his dream of he should M. Coley reassurance Angeles, San Sacramento, Oakland, one day achieve courses

By Dr. SorayaPoly Pomona Gov. e of CSU’s Super school, he might also wanted advice on her husband were Long Beach, Ana. six months after President, Cal reflecting on the importanc I had meetShe and imastronaut. She to set heim and Santa come less than Photo) into law. They a were trying As I was was an experience who intro- an to prepare him for college. bills proposals but (Courtesy mind The to placed housing Coley resources mother take came M. fee and signed 15 Dr. Soraya Sunday, what American great-grand son that she and her in their 70s and had few Jerry Brown $75 real estate transaction November ballot. great-grand message about the ing an African posed a new bond on the her 8-year-old my A2 duced me to raising. She had heard and the commitment Continued on page $4 billion housing degree husband were of a college increasing value

a

By Tony Khing Media PG&E presentedefCalifornia Black NTO -- On Feb. 22, to help their SACRAME California Black Media outlets to erican news t was $53,000 grant major African-Am The endowmen California forts in supporting service area. company’s event at The eight Afwithin the a multicultural media CBM with given during co-hosted by PG&E and organizations. t the AfriEndowmen print and broadcast to support sperican-American we work hard but February is a “At PG&E, all year, of many community acknowledgement can-American it’s a formal made significant cial month because erican heroes who’ve erican press is a y. We’re The African-Am unsung African-Am history. communit in We contributions in the African- American their work. to support vital resource with them work with them in 2018 to initiapleased to partner to continuing energy policy Jimi look forward PG&E updates and Manager ty Relations on important PG&E Communi Post tives,” said such as The other and Harris. from outlets Representatives andSacramento Observer rate plan Time of Use Reporter News, Sun ned about PG&E’s their energy usage. media outlets lear can better manage received informa and how customers session, they also one-hour During the

FREE!

Exotic Dance Coach, Makeda Smith leading the audience in a dance practice. (Carrington Prichett/Los Angeles News Observer Photo)

Observer Group Newspapers of Southern California

Tina Knowles-Lawson further empowered the energetic group with an open question and answer session in relation to operating successful businesses.

“The best businesses are services people need. You want to have a product that people need,” explained Knowles-Lawson.

“Find a couple of people you can trust, she said.

Knowles-Lawson along with husband, Actor Richard Lawson successfully operates and owns WACO (Where Art Can Occur) Theater Group in Los Angeles, where they mentor inner-city youths.

“I’ve always dreamed of mentoring young girls”, she said.

Event founder, producer, life-coach, and celebrity hairstylist, Stephanie Singleton told The Bakersfield News Observer; that the overall message intended for women is that they embrace their “outer and inner beauty”.

Robert Coats and Brandon Ellis both flew out from Akron, Ohio to support Singleton and the K.I.S.S. retreat.

“I’m here to support the movem e n t and brand. It’s power ful for the woman culture. This is a great time to push for the woman, it’s so important,” Coats said.

“It’s a nice atmosphere; it’s nice what she’s (Singleton) doing for the women.

It’s important to make women feel powerful, Ellis said. We are kings and queens.”

Additionally, Veteran Entertainer and Flying Over 50 Exotic Dance Coach, Makeda Smith encouraged the women in attendance to move their hips and to “awaken the sleeping goddess within.” “When was the last time you shook your hips? Smith asked.

Soon the energetic and funny

First Black Female Nominated to State Hall of Fame

Los Angeles Rams Host Cheerleader 2018 Auditions

Tina Knowles-Lawson, wife, entrepreneur, and mother to singers Beyoncé & Solonge Knowles. (Carrington Prichett/Los Angeles News Observer Photo)

Multi-Grammy Winning Gospel Artist, Tina Campbell.

(Carrington Prichett/Los Angeles News Observer Photo)

57 year-old, whose motto is #SexyNeverGetsOld, had the women up on their feet and moving. It appeared as if all the sleeping goddesses had been awakened, as the women swayed their hips from side to side to a sultry and soulful blues tune Smith used for the inspirational moment.

Bridgett LaRe’, Author, Aspiring Actress and event attendee, told the BNO, “I was looking for self-love and a friend told me about the retreat; I knew it was God.” “I was handed a flyer at church, said another event attendee, LaToya Towner of Los Angeles, I’m trying to find myself.”

“K.I.S.S. stems from a personal place; it’s a movement, Singleton said. I’m helping women to know that we were all born with love and someone robbed us if you can’t say you love yourself.”

The CSU’s Message of Hope

By Dr. Soraya M. Coley President, Cal Poly Pomona As I was reflecting on the importance of CSU’s Super Sunday, what came to mind was an experience I had meeting an African American great-grandmother who introduced me to her 8-year-old great-grandson that she and her husband were raising. She had heard my message about the increasing value of a college degree and the commitment

of the CSU system to access and opportunity. She wanted reassurance that if her great-grandson continued to excel in school, he might one day achieve his dream of becoming an astronaut. She also wanted advice on courses he should take to prepare him for college. She and her husband were in their 70s and had few resources but were trying to set Continued on page A2

Dr. Soraya M. Coley (Courtesy Photo)

PG&E’s Grant to California Black Media

By Tony Khing California Black Media SACRAMENTO -- On Feb. 22, PG&E presented a $53,000 grant to California Black Media to help their efforts in supporting major African-American news outlets within the company’s service area. The endowment was given during a multicultural media event at The California Endowment co-hosted by PG&E and CBM with eight African-American print and broadcast organizations.

“At PG&E, we work hard to support the African-American community all year, but February is a special month because it’s a formal acknowledgement of many unsung African-American heroes who’ve made significant contributions in history. The African-American press is a vital resource in the African- American community. We’re pleased to partner with them to support their work. We look forward to continuing to work with them in 2018 on important PG&E updates and energy policy initiatives,” said PG&E Community Relations Manager Jimi Harris.

Representatives from outlets such as The Post News, Sun Reporter andSacramento Observer and other media outlets learned about PG&E’s Time of Use rate plan and how customers can better manage their energy usage.

During the one-hour session, they also received informa

a Texas _ Police say arrest by Texas (AP) an CORSICANA,to hide evidence during to conceal using the feces woman attempted her pants and defecating in (88 kilomea about 55 miles drugs. g a report of investigatin when they atOfficers in Corsicana, of Dallas, were ters ) south take her into store on Wednesday suspect and Martin in the theft at a grocery subdue a female Shannen ly tempted to say they placed say she intentional custody. Police cruiser where they pipe, 2.3 grams hid a crack card in her exback of a police her pants then Day defecated in and a Valentine’s feces of crack cocaine the woman’s on through crement. to sift was booked a Officers had of after Martin PG&E, the evidence evidence and possession to retrieve with Energy Efficiency, Customer Dionne Adams, President charges of tampering , PG&E, Voice, Smith, Manager Operations Fernandez Central Valley Bell, V.P. controlled substance.

PG&E, Julia Diversity,O’Connell,PPG&E, Allen CBM, Valerie Roberts, Publisher, Manager, Director, Manager, Supplier Program Sun Reporter, Felicia Hub, Libby Real, Sr. Wilson, Executive Sac Cultural Jerilyn Gleaves, rd, Publisher,y Support, Regina L to R Justin , Publisher, ations, PG&E, Ashley-Wa

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) _ The first black female member of the General Assembly is being nominated to the Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame.

The late Margaret E. Morton was first elected to the House of Representatives in 1972. She served four terms, representing Bridgeport. She later won a Democratic primary against an incumbent senator and then went on to win the general election after a lengthy court battle with Bridgeport Democrats.

She served six terms in the Senate, eventually becoming deputy president pro tempore in 1990. She retired in 1992 and died in 2012.

Four current black women legislators nominated Morton to the hall of fame, citing her “quiet determination” to fight prejudice and racism.

Nominations for the hall of fame are accepted on an ongoing basis and reviewed by a consulting scholars committee.

Continued on page A2

Robertson Communit Amelia ral Communic Multicultu Media Group, Pleshette of Black Employees Integrated One New Fiona Chan Publisher,One New Media Group.

Dudley Najieb, Lennice Najieb, G&E and

on page A2

Multi-Grammy Winning Gospel Artist, Tina Campbell.

(Carrington Prichett/Los Angeles News Observer Photo)

57 year-old, whose motto is #SexyNeverGetsOld, had the women up on their feet and moving. It appeared as if all the sleeping goddesses had been awakened, as the women swayed their hips from side to side to a sultry and soulful blues tune Smith used for the inspirational moment.

Bridgett LaRe’, Author, Aspiring Actress and event attendee, told the BNO, “I was looking for self-love and a friend told me about the retreat; I knew it was God.” “I was handed a flyer at church, said another event attendee, LaToya Towner of Los Angeles, I’m trying to find myself.”

“K.I.S.S. stems from a personal place; it’s a movement, Singleton said. I’m helping women to know that we were all born with love and someone robbed us if you can’t say you love yourself.”

The CSU’s Message of Hope

L to R Justin Real, Sr. Program Manager, PG&E, Allen Fernandez Smith, Manager Customer Energy Efficiency, PG&E, Amelia Ashley-Ward, Publisher, Sun Reporter, Felicia Roberts, Publisher, Central Valley Voice, Dionne Adams, President of Black Employees Community Support, Regina Wilson, Executive Director, CBM, Valerie Bell, V.P. Operations, PG&E, Fiona Chan Integrated Multicultural Communications, PG&E, Jerilyn Gleaves, Manager, Supplier Diversity, PG&E, Julia Dudley Najieb, Publisher, One New Media Group, Pleshette Robertson, Publisher, Sac Cultural Hub, Libby O’Connell,PG&E and Lennice Najieb, One New Media Group.

Candidates May Register through March 8th at attherams.com/2018cheerauditions The Los Angeles Rams are hosting cheerleader auditions for the 2018 season starting Sunday, March 11. Los Angeles Rams Cheerleaders not only perform at home games at the LA Memorial Coliseum and at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, but also participate in public appearances, events and community service across the Los Angeles region, nationally and internationally throughout the year.

Candidates looking to audition must be 18 or older by Thursday, March 1, and must register online by Thursday, March 8. Walk-up registration is not available. Coverage from last year’s preliminary auditions can be viewed at therams.com/cheer/videos.

In addition, the Los Angeles Rams Cheerleaders are hosting four voluntary workshops prior to auditions at 24 Hour Fitness locations throughout the LA region.

Each workshop includes one hour of dance led by Choreographer JOHN PETERS, followed by a presentation and a Q & A segment with the Rams Cheerleading Director KEELY FIMBRES. Workshops cost $40.00 per person and have limited availability. Footage from last year’s workshops can be viewed here. Interested candidates may sign up for workshops at therams.com/cheerleaders/workshops.

First Black Female Nominated to State Hall of Fame

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) _ The first black female member of the General Assembly is being nominated to the Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame.

The late Margaret E. Morton was first elected to the House of Representatives in 1972. She served four terms, representing Bridgeport. She later won a Democratic primary against an incumbent senator and then went on to win the general election after a lengthy court battle with Bridgeport Democrats.

She served six terms in the Senate, eventually becoming deputy president pro tempore in 1990. She retired in 1992 and died in 2012.

Four current black women legislators nominated Morton to the hall of fame, citing her “quiet determination” to fight prejudice and racism.

Nominations for the hall of fame are accepted on an ongoing basis and reviewed by a consulting scholars committee.

California Mayors Seek $1.5 Billion to Help Homeless

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) _ Mayors from California’s eleven largest cities on Wednesday asked state lawmakers to provide $1.5 billion to help with what they say is a growing homeless crisis.

They are backing legislation that would require the cities to provide matching funds, creating a $3 billion pot of money to be spent on affordable housing, temporary shelters, supportive services and outreach.

They said in an earlier letter to legislative leaders that lawmakers should use a quarter of the state’s $6.1 billion budget surplus to help the homeless.

San Diego Mayor Kevin L. Faulconer called it “the most pressing issue facing California cities today.’’

The mayors cited a 2017 federal estimate that the most populous state now has more than 134,000 homeless people.

Their request came the same day that two Democratic state senators announced they will seek $2 billion for affordable housing, also in response to the mayors’ requests.

The bipartisan group includes mayors from Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Fresno, Long Beach, Sacramento, Oakland, Bakersfield, Anaheim and Santa Ana. The proposals come less than six months after Gov. Jerry Brown signed 15 housing bills into law. They imposed a new $75 real estate transaction fee and placed a $4 billion housing bond on the November ballot.

Texas Woman Defecates in Pants to Hide Drugs CORSICANA, Texas (AP) _ Police say a Texas woman attempted to hide evidence during an arrest by defecating in her pants and using the feces to conceal drugs.

Officers in Corsicana, about 55 miles (88 kilometers ) south of Dallas, were investigating a report of a theft at a grocery store on Wednesday when they attempted to subdue a female suspect and take her into custody. Police say they placed Shannen Martin in the back of a police cruiser where they say she intentionally defecated in her pants then hid a crack pipe, 2.3 grams of crack cocaine and a Valentine’s Day card in her excrement.

Officers had to sift through the woman’s feces to retrieve the evidence after Martin was booked on charges of tampering with evidence and possession of a controlled substance.

California Mayors Seek $1.5 Billion to Help Homeless

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) _ Mayors from California’s eleven largest cities on Wednesday asked state lawmakers to provide $1.5 billion to help with what they say is a growing homeless crisis.

They are backing legislation that would require the cities to provide matching funds, creating a $3 billion pot of money to be spent on affordable housing, temporary shelters, supportive services and outreach.

They said in an earlier letter to legislative leaders that lawmakers should use a quarter of the state’s $6.1 billion budget surplus to help the homeless.

San Diego Mayor Kevin L. Faulconer called it “the most pressing issue facing California cities today.’’

The mayors cited a 2017 federal estimate that the most populous state now has more than 134,000 homeless people.

Their request came the same day that two Democratic state senators announced they will seek $2 billion for affordable housing, also in response to the mayors’ requests.

The bipartisan group includes mayors from Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Fresno, Long Beach, Sacramento, Oakland, Bakersfield, Anaheim and Santa Ana. The proposals come less than six months after Gov. Jerry Brown signed 15 housing bills into law. They imposed a new $75 real estate transaction fee and placed a $4 billion housing bond on the November ballot.

valleynewsobserver.com

By Dr. Soraya M. Coley President, Cal Poly Pomona As I was reflecting on the importance of CSU’s Super Sunday, what came to mind was an experience I had meeting an African American great-grandmother who introduced me to her 8-year-old great-grandson that she and her husband were raising. She had heard my message about the increasing value of a college degree and the commitment

of the CSU system to access and opportunity. She wanted reassurance that if her great-grandson continued to excel in school, he might one day achieve his dream of becoming an astronaut. She also wanted advice on courses he should take to prepare him for college. She and her husband were in their 70s and had few resources but were trying to set Continued on page A2

Dr. Soraya M. Coley (Courtesy Photo)

PG&E’s Grant to California Black Media

By Tony Khing California Black Media SACRAMENTO -- On Feb. 22, PG&E presented a $53,000 grant to California Black Media to help their efforts in supporting major African-American news outlets within the company’s service area. The endowment was given during a multicultural media event at The California Endowment co-hosted by PG&E and CBM with eight African-American print and broadcast organizations.

“At PG&E, we work hard to support the African-American community all year, but February is a special month because it’s a formal acknowledgement of many unsung African-American heroes who’ve made significant contributions in history. The African-American press is a vital resource in the African- American community. We’re pleased to partner with them to support their work. We

Texas Woman Defecates in Pants to Hide Drugs

CORSICANA, Texas (AP) _ Police say a Texas woman attempted to hide evidence during an arrest by defecating in her pants and using the feces to conceal drugs.

Officers in Corsicana, about 55 miles (88 kilometers ) south of Dallas, were investigating a report of a theft at a grocery store on Wednesday when they at-

FREE!

Thursday, March 1, 2018

By Genoa Barrow| California Black Media In Oakland he was an out of work party promoter and she was a single mother, living in a hotel room with a young son. Both say a job-training program run by Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) gave them the power to change the course of their lives.

Shawn Tate and Shimia Buie are African American graduates of the highly competitive PowerPathway™ Program, which exists to “train the next generation of utility workers.” Tate and Buie participated in Oakland, where PG&E partners with the Cypress Mandela Training Center, which offers a 16-week pre-apprentice construction program that serves as a preliminary to PowerPathway™.

“I knew people that came there and didn’t even know how to read or do math well but when they graduated they knew how to do math, read blueprints and do surveys,” Tate shared.

“You name it; they teach it to you there. Anybody that’s serious about getting their life on track, there are people that’ll help you. I’m a living testament that it can be done,” he continued.

After completing the construction course, some participants are selected for the PowerPathway™ Program, which includes hands-on work in Electric or Gas Operations, pre-employment test preparation, safety certifications and help in resume building and developing interview skills.

Both the 16-week Cypress Mandela program and eight-week PowerPathway™ Program are unpaid. Participants of Cypress Mandela, have to pay for their own uniforms and monthly drug testing. If the student is enrolled in PowerPathway™, their screening, uniform and boots are paid for by PG&E. Additionally, completion of the PowerPathway™ Program does not guarantee employment with PG&E. It’s a leap of faith students are willing to take, even though most are out of work or experiencing chronic unemployment.

“I really wanted it,” said Tate, who graduated in 2014.

Tate didn’t immediately get hired after graduation, but did land a temporary job with the company

as a general construction hydro utility worker with the IBEW 1245 Hiring Hall, also known as a GC Hydro.

The job was three hours away from his home in Oakland and his wife was pregnant with twins at the time.

“I’d leave on Sunday and not come back until Friday,” Tate shared.

As a GC Hydro, Tate worked at substations and powerhouses that control power and create energy that is distributed to different grids and then onto customers.

He also built dams and bridges and served on a helicopter detail, surveying flumes that brought water to powerhouses. He was later hired onto a general construction crew full time with PG&E. “You’re a grunt worker, you’re doing all of the digging and shoveling, but I was just happy to even be hired on permanently with the company, so I didn’t mind the hard work,” he said.

Tate later became a gas compliance representative, a job that required less travel and came with a $12 pay increase.

“I wasn’t complaining at $24, but I just had some ambition and I’m one of those guys that talks to people, I pay attention, I ask questions. I’m fine with being blessed and having a job, but I’m also going to strive and if I know there’s more out there, I’m going to definitely try and excel,” Tate said.

Tate took his current position as a rotating supervisor in November 2017. He has 20 employees who report directly to him and a budget of a few million dollars.

He also has plans to go into government relations with PG&E. The company, he says, will pay for him to go back to college and finish his degree in communications.

“I’ve had jobs before and made money and I worked for myself for a long time, but my job now, hands down this is one of the top companies to work for. They pay you good, I’ve got my own company truck, company credit cards. It’s unbelievable actually. I make over $150,000 a year, and it has impacted my life tremendously,” Tate said.

PowerPathway™ debuted in 2008 and came to Oakland in 2012. There are also locations in Fresno, Sacramento, San Francisco, and San Jose.

Entertainment

Thursday, May 10, 2018

THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER

A5

Rapper Calls for Criminal Justice Reform Rapper Meek Mill Says U.S. Criminal Justice System “Made to Keep Minorities Trapped Forever”

By Lauren Victoria Burke NNPA Newswire Contributor Rapper Meek Mill sat down with NBC’s Lester Holt to talk about his experiences in the criminal justice system for a Dateline interview that will air on Sunday, May 6.

“I had eight years of probation that turned [into] 16 years of probation,” Mill said in a preview of the interview.

“Something is not working,” in the criminal justice system.

TMZ.com reported that Judge Genece Brinkley amended the order regarding Mill’s bail conditions, “and he now has approval to travel outside of Pennsylvania’s Montgomery County for scheduled business activities.”

According to TMZ.com, “The amended order also gives Meek approval to live in Montgomery Co. The original bail conditions required him to live in neighboring Philadelphia County. Meek still has to submit to at least one urine test per month.”

After being sentenced for violating probation and spending almost five months in prison, Philadelphia rapper Meek Mill was released on April 24.

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court ordered an immediate release for Mill, whose real name is Robert Rihmeek Williams, and also instructed the judge in his case to assign an “unsecured bail.”

On Twitter, Mill thanked God, his family and his public advocates for their love, support and encouragement.

“While the past five months have been a nightmare, the prayers, visits, calls, letters and rallies have helped me stay positive,” Mill tweeted.

Mill added that he planned, “to work closely with my legal team to overturn this unwarranted conviction and look forward to reuniting with my family and resuming my music career.”

Mill was given a two- to four-year prison sentence in November 2017 for violating his probation stemming from a 2008 gun and drug case.

According to Pitchfork.com, when Judge Genece E. Brinkley sentenced Mill, she “cited a failed drug test, violation of court-ordered travel restrictions, and two misdemeanor arrests: for reckless driving involving a motorcycle in Manhattan and for an alleged altercation at the St. Louis airport.”

Pitchfork.com also reported that, “Charges in the New York case are set to be scrubbed from Meek’s record in April, if he avoids further violations; the St. Louis charge was reportedly dropped. Regardless, she gave him the twoto four-year sentence.

Mill’s case garnered the attention of civil rights activists across the nation, and was cited as an example of a broken criminal justice system. Celebrities including Jay-Z, Colin Kaepernick, T.I. and New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft also took interest in the case.

On the same day he was released, Mill was spotted at the Philadelphia 76ers playoff game against the Miami Heat. Mill sat next to comedian Kevin Hart and 76ers co-owner Michael Rubin, another supporter. The 76ers won the game, which marked the team’s first playoff series win since 2012.

“We applaud the Pennsylvania Supreme Court for directing Judge Genece Brinkley to immediately release Meek Mill from prison, underscoring what we already knew, he did not deserve to be imprisoned in the first place,” stated Rashad Robinson, the executive director of Color of Change. “This decision sets an important precedent against the unjust jailing of so many Black and Brown people for petty probation violations.”

Robinson continued: “Meek’s case is just one example of how the excessively punitive criminal justice system targets Black people every day and turns prisons into profit-generating institutions.”

Robinson noted that thousands of people are illegally detained in Philadelphia jails on unjust probation and parole violations every day without a hearing or the possibility of posting bail.

“Together with money bail, probation detainers are one of the largest drivers of mass incarceration,” Robinson said. “With the Pennsylvania Supreme Court decision, we proved that when our communities hold those in power accountable, we can expose our racist criminal justice system and stop its disproportionate impact on the lives of Black people.”

Philadelphia rapper Meek Mill was freed from prison on Tuesday, April 24. (Shareif Ziyadat/WireImage/Getty photo)

The Met Gala goes Catholic The theme for Monday’s event was the influence of Catholicism on fashion.

West’s Wild Words Stir Again:

Kanye Calls Slavery a Choice LOS ANGELES (AP) _ Before the last one had a chance to simmer down, Kanye West caused another stir, calling American slavery a “choice” in an interview Tuesday.

“When you hear about slavery for 400 years, for 400 years, that sounds like choice,” West said on “TMZ Live” after questions on his pro-President Donald Trump posts and pictures that caused a dust-up last week. “You was there for 400 years, and it's all of y'all?”

“Do you feel like I'm thinking free and feeling free?”

West asked the TMZ employees in the room.

“I actually don't think you're thinking anything,” TMZ's Van Lathan quickly cracked back at West, as many would in the ensuing hours.

Lathan said while West gets to live the elite artist's life, “the rest of us in society have to deal with these threats in our lives. We have to deal with the marginalization that has come from the 400 years of slavery that you said for our people was our choice.”

Considering her Met Gala history, it shouldn’t surprise anyone that Rihanna’s full-on pope getup was one of—if not the—best looks of Monday night’s ball. But for Gala first-timer SZA, getting to see Queen Rih grace the red carpet in real time was clearly an experience of a different caliber.

Symone D. Sanders, political commentator and CNN contributor, led the anti-West chorus on Twitter.

“Kanye is a dangerous caricature of a `free-thinking' black person in America,” Sanders tweeted. “Frankly, I am disgusted and I'm over it. Also (I can't believe I have to say this): Slavery was far from a choice.”

Others put it more briefly.

“Slavery wasn't a choice,” Russ Bengtson tweeted, “but listening to Kanye is.”

West also told TMZ that he became addicted to opioids that doctors prescribed after he had liposuction surgery in 2016. He was hospitalized for a week and had to cut short his “Pablo” tour. West said the painkillers drove him to a “breakdown,” which became a “breakthrough” when he found himself again.

West also doubled down on his love of the president, which Trump has been returning in tweets.

“I just love Trump,” West said, adding that most in hip-hop agreed with him before Trump became president.

“Trump is one of rap's favorite people.”

Chadwick Boseman wearing Versace.

Cardi B at Met Gala 2018

SEC Probe ‘A Celebrity Hunt’

By LARRY NEUMEISTER Associated Press NEW YORK (AP) _ Lawyers for Jay-Z told a judge that the Securities and Exchange Commission has gone on a “celebrity hunt” by demanding the rapper submit to unlimited questioning beginning Friday about a company to which he sold his apparel business more than a decade ago.

The attorneys wrote in a submission in Manhattan federal court that Jay-Z is concerned that the SEC’s request is “driven more by governmental fascination with celebrity and headlines than by any proper investigative purpose.”

In a declaration filed with the court Monday, Jay-Z’s lawyers said he has agreed to appear for one day before the SEC, but the agency wants more. The Justice Department, which represents the SEC in court, declined comment.

Jay-Z, whose birth name is Shawn Carter, must appear before the SEC in Washington on Friday for a deposition of unlimited duration unless he can explain why it should not be required, U.S. District Judge Paul G. Gardelphe wrote last week. The judge also set a hearing for Tuesday, though it was unclear whether Jay-Z will be there or just his lawyers.

The SEC described Jay-Z, whose hits include “99 Problems” and “Empire State of Mind,” as an “important witness” who has “defied two lawful subpoenas,” failing to show up twice for scheduled testimony.

The commission has sought to depose Jay-Z as part of its probe into possible securities fraud in the reporting of financial results by Iconix Brand Group, which purchased the rapper’s Rocawear apparel brand. The SEC said Jay-Z and Iconix continued some business partnerships after the sale, and that the Rocawear-related assets are among the financial results under scrutiny.

In their submission, Jay-Z’s lawyers called the SEC’s subpoena “unreasonable and, indeed, oppressive,” saying he never had a role in Iconix’s financial reporting and hasn’t been shown to possess any unique and relevant information.

They said the SEC has issued nine subpoenas to Jay-Z,

In this Jan. 27, 2018, file photo, honoree Jay-Z speaks onstage at the 2018 Pre-Grammy Gala And Salute To Industry Icons at the Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel in New York. (Michael Zorn/Invision/AP, File photo)

his colleagues and his affiliated businesses, and that nearly 11,000 pages of materials have been submitted. The lawyers wrote that the chief operating officer of two of JayZ’s businesses has already testified for a full day before the SEC. They noted that the entertainer has an extensive business empire employing thousands of people. His schedule, they said, is especially hectic now with a global tour of 45 shows to begin June 6.

“The upshot imposes unreasonable burdens on Mr. Carter and raises serious questions about whether this exercise has transcended any investigative purpose and crossed over into a celebrity hunt,” they wrote.

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THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER

Thursday, May 10, 2018

Grand Opening of America’s Job Center

The East San Gabriel Valley America’s Job Center of California (AJCC) will open in the Hacienda La Puente Unified School District on their Adult Education campus.

LA PUENTE, CA – On May 10th, the East San Gabriel Valley America’s Job Center of California (AJCC) will open in the Hacienda La Puente Unified School District on their Adult Education campus. This is the first AJCC in the State to open in a school district. The AJCC is a one-stop shop for workforce services, providing a comprehensive range of no-cost employment and training services for employers and job seekers.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis will provide remarks at the Grand Opening Ceremony, along with Hacienda La Puente Unified School District (HLPUSD) Superintendent Cynthia Parulan-Colfer and WDACS Director Cynthia Banks.

WHAT: Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of the East San Gabriel Valley America’s Job Center of California WHO: Hilda L. Solis, LA County Supervisor Cynthia Parulan-Colfer, HLPUSD Superintendent Cynthia Banks, Director of LA County Workforce Development, Aging & Community Services Offices of Congresswoman Napolitano, Assemblymember Calderon, LA County Supervisor Hahn WHEN: Thursday, May 10, 2018 9:00 AM – Gates Open, Light Refreshments Provided 9:30 AM – Grand Opening Program to Begin 10:00 AM – Ribbon Cutting & Photos Tours Begin WHERE: Hacienda La Puente Adult Education – Willow Campus 14101 Nelson Ave E, La Puente, CA 91746 LA County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, Superintendent Cythina Parulan- Colfer, Director Cynthia Banks will be available for one-on-one interviews. Media is also invited to tour the HLPUSD Adult Education campus to see their career technical education programs firsthand, including courses in medical assisting, dental, cosmetology, business services, culinary, automotive, and more.

Martin Man’s Racial Slurs Turns Parking Has Best Entrance Lot Fight Into a Hate Crime

By Earl Heath Contributing Sports Writer The Stars came out to support George Lopez and his 11th annual Celebrity golf classic.

None came bigger and bolder than former news host Roland Martin. After pulling up in a white sedan draped with Astro flags on each window the Huston native stepped out and posed for some 100 media members wearing orange cowboy boots, an Astros jersey with Martin on the back .An Astro golf bag that held customized orange golf shoes with Astros engraved on the . Al this while “The Champ Is Here” played in the background.

“I told George I had some special for him”,said Martin . Who clearly was the main stay of the red Carpet. Martin is a regular at the Lopez Classic and a tremendous supporter of the tournament.

“Where ever I am I have to have the first Monday in May off “ to attend this tournament.It is in all of Martin’s contracts he signs.

SANTA MONICA, Calif. (AP) - Police in Southern California were investigating a parking lot fight as a hate crime after video on social media showed a white man hurling racial slurs at a black woman.

Enrique Conde of Los Angeles posted the video on Twitter, saying Tuesday’s spat was sparked by a bad parking job at Santa Monica College, just west of Los Angeles.

The video shows an older man repeatedly screaming the slur at the woman and telling her she was in the wrong area and to “go back to South LA.” The woman yells at him, “What did you call me?

Say it again!”

The man screams the slur a couple more times before the woman appears to swing at him first. He then appears to kick her and follow her as she tries to walk away.

“The incident is being classified as a hate crime,” college police Chief Johnnie Adams said in a statement.

The man, identified by Adams as 80-year-old Frederic Shinerock of Los Angeles, was cited on suspicion of battery and released. The case will be forwarded to city prosecutors for further review, police said.

Shinerock, who has a court date set for June 13, didn’t return a phone message seeking comment.

Adams said Shinerock is not affiliated with the school and was on campus for an opera performance.

College President Kathryn Jeffery said in a statement that “there is no room for hate” on campus.

“Santa Monica College is an institution that prides itself on inclusivity and diversity and we will continue to do our utmost to uphold our commitment to provide a safe and inclusive learning environment,” she said.

The man, identified by Adams as 80-year-old Frederic Shinerock of Los Angeles, was cited on suspicion of battery and released.

Celebrities Give George lopez

George Lopez and Dodger great Yasiel Puig walk the Red Carpet before the Celebrity Tournament. (Earl Heath photo)

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By Earl Heath Contributing Sports Writer The George Lopez Foundation had it’s 11th Annual Golf Tournament At the elegant Lakeside Country Club where George hit a home run with the celebs that came to support him.

Former L.A. Laker and Clipper Norm Nixon was one of many from sports and entertainment to throw their support behind Lopez.

Television host Sheryl Underwood (The Talk) was on hand for back to back years. “It great to see all the people come out for a great cause, “said Underwood. “ I am just proud of his George’s friends showing up give him ‘big support’. He has a big heart and he helps so many kids with this program. I am really glad to be a part of it.”

L.A. Dodger Yasil Puig made his first appearance. A muscular looking Puig had Lopez worried. “I’ve seen what he can do with a baseball. I am looking forward to see what he can do with

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George Lopez and Dodger great Yasiel Puig walk the Red Carpet before the Celebrity Tournament. (Earl Heath photo)

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Jonathan Fernandez of Lethal Weapon fame talks with media. (Earl Heath photo)

a golf ball.”

The two-day event featured a meet and greet over hors d’ oeuvres, cocktails and a night of fun at Baltaire Restaurant. “This golf tourney is the bread and butter of the entire event,” added Lopez.

The mission of the G.L Foundation is to create a positive permanent change in underprivileged children. Lopez had a kidney transplant in 2005 and felt this was one of the best ways to pay back his gift.

The money raised helps send some 250 kids to a summer and fall camp for memories they will have for the rest of their lives Cedric the Entertainer is a regular at the annual event. “The celebration that we have out on the golf course is a real tribute to a friendship especially when we get around hole nine. It great to have a camaraderie. Lopez summed up what it meant to have such support from those in various industries.

“The best thing about having all my friends here is if I ever need a birth certificate is that these guys would let me have a copy of theirs.”