Valley's News Observer 05.29.25

The Valley’sNews Observer

Tariffs, Boycotts Slam Target’s Bottom Line

By Stacy M. Brown

Black Press USA Senior National Correspondent

Target Corporation is projecting a decline in annual sales and profits for 2025 as the retail giant struggles with fallout from its decision to end its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, pressure from new tariffs, and organized boycotts by Black consumers and media. The company reported first-quarter net sales of $23.8 billion, a 2.8% drop from the same period last year, and revised its fullyear outlook downward, now forecasting a low single-digit decline in sales and adjusted earnings per share of $7.00 to $9.00.

Adjusted earnings for the quarter fell nearly 36% year-over-year to $1.30 per share, down from $2.03, when excluding a one-time $593 million pre-tax gain from a credit card interchange fee settlement. “Our team navigated a highly challenging environment and focused on delivering the outstanding assortment, experience, and value guests expect from Target,” Chairman and CEO Brian Cornell said during an investor call. “While our sales fell short of our expectations, we saw several bright spots in the quarter, including healthy digital growth, led by a 36 percent increase in sameday delivery through Target Circle 360, and our strongest designer collaboration in over a decade, Kate Spade for Target.” Cornell also acknowledged the backlash, saying, “We’re not satisfied with current performance and know we have opportunities to deliver faster progress on our roadmap for growth. This morning, we announced the establishment of a multi-year acceleration office led by Michael Fiddelke and several leadership changes. These steps forward are intended to build more speed and agility into how we operate and position key capabilities to drive long-term profitable growth.”

Yet those changes are landing amid heightened scrutiny and organized resistance. In addition to financial pressures from tariffs, Target is now the focus of a national selective buying campaign launched by the Black Press of America after the company announced in January that it would phase out its DEI commitments. In a joint op-ed made available to millions of readers, Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., President and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), and Bobby R. Henry Sr., NNPA Chair and publisher

of the Westside Gazette, issued a searing indictment of the company’s direction. “As far back as October 2024, we sent a formal letter to Target CEO Brian Cornell detailing the company’s persistent refusal to invest in Black-owned newspapers and media outlets. That letter was met with silence. Silence, in the face of truth, is complicity. By ignoring our appeal, Mr. Cornell and Target have made clear that they do not value the voices, institutions, or the economic power of Black America,” they wrote.

“Let us be clear: we will not shop where we are disrespected. Our dollars will not finance our own marginalization.” Tanya Milton, Vice President and Advertising Director at The Savannah Tribune said the boycott is making an impact and that Target’s disengagement speaks volumes. “Their continued silence could mean them hoping not to draw attention to their losses,” Milton said. Asked how Black consumers should interpret the company’s decision to end its DEI programs, she added, “If they just got on board three years ago, then it’s not a big deal to them. Black consumers shopped there

before they were onboard.”

She also addressed the broader consequences of Target’s failure to invest in Black-owned media.

“Being visible helps to make your brand a household name,” she said. Target’s troubles continue to ripple through Wall Street. Shares fell nearly 7% after the earnings announcement and are down 33% year-todate. Despite its digital gains and successful designer collaborations, Target reported a comparable store sales decline of 5.7%, even as digital sales grew 4.7%. Cornell told investors the company has “many levers” to mitigate the effects of tariffs, and that raising prices would only come as a “very last resort.” Still, for many, the damage is already done. “We therefore announce the continuation and intensification of the target-TARGET national selective buying campaign,” Chavis and Henry stated. “We call upon all freedom-loving people from across all segments of society who believe in economic justice, media equity, and corporate accountability to join us.”

California State Capitol for Legislative Day Black Organizations Converge on

California Black Media Publishers Meet with State Small Business Administrator Tara Lynn Gray. Top row (left to right): Pleshette Robertson (Sac Cultural Hub), Ken Miller (South Bay Black Journal), Regina Wilson (Executive Director, California Black Media), Dr. Paulette Brown-Hinds (Black Voice News / IE Voice), Tara Lynn Gray (State Small Business Administrator), Sarah Harris (Suite Life SoCal / Black Business Association), Leah Brown (California Black Media), Tanu Henry (California Black Media), Malcolm Marshall (Richmond Pulse) Bottom row (left to right): Latanya West (San Diego Voice and Viewpoint), James Luckey, Jr. (The Observer Group – Bakersfield, Antelope Valley, Los Angeles), David Miller (Our Weekly), Felicia Roberts (Central Valley Voice), Brandon Brooks (California Black Media) Photo Credit: Robert Maryland, California Black Media

By Antonio Ray Harvey California

Several influential, Black-focused organizations from across California convened in Sacramento to engage with elected officials and lobby for specific policies that would affect Black communities around the state. On May 19, the NAACP California-Hawaii State Conference, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority (AKA) Far Western Region, Black Women Organized for Political Action (BWOPA), National Coalition of 100 Black Women, California Black Media (CBM) and the Black Women Collective (BWC) either jointly or separately participated in legislative advocacy during events and meetings held in and around the State Capitol.

“We don’t always push the stories that are important to us. We are still faced with a number of challenges. That’s why it’s important for you, the media, to educate the public, to tell the stories that are important to you because if you don’t, who do you expect will?” said Secretary of State Shirley Weber, who spoke to Black media outlets represented there about the importance of expanding access to voting and pushing back against the SAVE Act, proposed federal legislation with no accompanying budget that would require states to mandate their residents to provide a passport or birth certificate to vote. CBM and the Black media owners who participated in the legislative day event shared a number of their priorities with lawmakers at the Capitol, including stating their interest in being included in the communications and implementation plans of the state’s Cap-and-Trade investment program and the California Film and TV tax credit program. They also thanked the Black Caucus for elevating their concerns about Assembly Bill (AB) 1414, authored by Assemblymember Heath Flora (R- Ripon). Rick L. Callender, President of the NAACP Cal-Hi State Conference, shared that the “Day at the Capitol is a powerful opportunity” for the Black community leaders and the youth to engage directly in the legislative process and advocate for the policies that impact Black Californians. As did the other organizations and individuals, the members of the NAACP Cal-Hi State Conference met with state lawmakers, including

legislators of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC).

The NAACP top policy priorities discussed with the legislators included:

* Assembly Bill (AB) 1454, authored by Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Hollister), is focused on improving pupil literacy.

* Senate Bill (SB) 437, authored by Sen. Akilah Weber Pierson (D-San Diego), proposes selecting California State University to conduct further research on implementing the recommendations of the California reparations task force.

* SB 518, also authored by Weber Pierson, proposes creating standards and processes for administering reparations to descendants of enslaved persons in California.

* AB 797, authored by Assemblymember John Harabedian (D- Pasadena) and titled the Community Stabilization Act, proposes requiring the Governor’s Office for Economic Development (GO-Biz) to issue a tradable security which would raise money to be invested in communities.

“From Sacramento to San Diego, we showed up and made our voices heard,” Callender said. “We’re here to remind lawmakers that Black policy matters. The NAACP remains the oldest, the boldest, and the most revered civil rights organization in America

Secretary Shirley Weber speaks to CBM publishers about the SAVE Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Act on May 19, 2025. (Photo credit: LaRena Jefferson CBM) California utility to pay $82 million settlement in lawsuit stemming from huge 2020 wildfire

-- and we’re not slowing down.” Before meeting with lawmakers, the NAACP Cal-Hi State Conference and AKAs held a breakfast meeting a couple of blocks away from the State Capitol at the Sheraton Grand Hotel.

At the event, the AKA Far West Region celebrated its 26th annual California “Day at the Capitol.”

Far Western Regional Director Nichole StarrJordan said she and over 150 AKAs were focused on advancing legislative change through civic engagement, public policy education, and social justice advocacy under the theme, “Soaring to Greater Heights of Service and Sisterhood.”

The AKAs also used their platform to bring

LOS ANGELES (AP) — A California utility has agreed to pay the federal government $82.5 million stemming from an enormous 2020 wildfire that churned through mountains northeast of Los Angeles and into the Mojave Desert, officials said Friday. The U.S. Justice Department announced the payment by Southern California Edison on Thursday. U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli said in a statement that the settlement provides “meaningful compensation to taxpayers for the extensive costs of fighting the ... fire and for the widespread damage to public lands.”

Edison agreed to pay the settlement within 60 days of its effective date, May 14, without admitting wrongdoing or fault, prosecutors said.

Utility spokesperson Diane Castro said, “Our hearts are with the people who were affected by the Bobcat Fire. We are pleased to have resolved this matter and will continue to advance wildfire mitigation measures.” The settlement stemmed from a 2023 lawsuit filed by federal prosecutors on behalf

The

came into contact with power lines. Damage from the fire closed campgrounds and more than 100 miles (161 kilometers) of trails for years and harmed habitat for the federally endangered wildlife-mountain yellow-legged frog and federally threatened fish and birds, the government said.

“These resources will help us rehabilitate burned areas, restore wildlife habitats and strengthen our forests’ resilience to future wildfires,” said Deputy Forest Supervisor Tony Martinez of the Angeles National Forest.

The fire charred about 178 square miles (461 square kilometers). Last year, the utility agreed to pay $80 million to settle claims on behalf of the U.S. Forest Service connected to a massive wildfire that destroyed more than a thousand homes and other structures in 2017.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the Eaton Fire, which destroyed at least 7,000 homes and other structures and laid waste to entire neighborhoods earlier this year. Lawsuits against SCE say

Culpepper, VA, USA – April 21, 2024: Exterior of a Target Department Store on a cloudy day (Photo by Douglas Rissing)

A Legend of Black Politics in Harlem and Beyond, Congressman Charlie Rangel Dies at 94

By Lauren Burke

Charlie Rangel, the long-term Congressman and a heavyweight in New York politics as a member of Harlem’s”Gang of Four”, has died at 94. His colorful and charismatic personality, bowties, and raspy voice made him a character on Capitol Hill who was impossible to forget. Rangel was simultaneously larger than life but also approachable and engaging. Rangel was the last living member of the “Gang of Four” made up of powerful African American leaders in New York: David Dinkins (1927-2020), Basil Paterson (1946-2014), and Percy Sutton (19202009). The four dealmakers were powerbrokers at a time when political decisions were made in smoke-filled rooms over poker games. In 2010, President Obama suggested that Rangel resign from Congress “with dignity” after he was targeted by an ethics investigation that would eventually mean he had to give up the Chairmanship of the Ways & Means Committee. “This guy from Lenox Avenue is retiring with dignity,” Rangel would later tell reporters as he departed Congress on his terms and at the time of his choosing. Rangel ignored Obama and remained in

Congress for another six years with an aura that made many forget about the ethics investigation. Before serving Congress, Rangel did about every job in politics that existed. In 1961, Rangel was appointed by Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy to be an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Southern District of New York. Rangel was also a legal counsel for the New York Housing and Redevelopment Board. Charlie Rangel was born in Harlem in 1930. He would go on to represent one of the most storied parts of Manhattan for 46

years in the U.S. Congress. Along with the late John Conyers, Rangel was also a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus. “We all have a large stake in preserving our democracy, but I maintain that those without power in our society, the black, the brown, the poor of all colors, have the largest stake not because we have the most to lose, but because we have worked the hardest, and given the most, for what we have achieved,” Rangel once said.  Rangel was the first African American to serve as Chairman of the powerful House Ways and Means Committee. As chair and as a member of the Committee, Rangel played a central role in shaping U.S. tax legislation. He advocated for progressive tax reform, closing corporate loopholes, and increasing tax equity.  Rangel was also a strong supporter of Social Security and Medicare and defended and expanded programs aimed at reducing poverty and supporting working-class families. The legendary Harlem Congressman also championed federal investment in affordable housing and urban infrastructure, especially for Harlem and other underserved communities.

In a noteworthy policy move, Rangel also pushed to reinstate the military draft during the

Iraq War—not to promote it, but to spark debate on the fairness of who bears the burden of war. Rangel earned a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star for his service in the Army during Korea. Rangel served as a member of the New York State Assembly from 1967 to 1971 and went on to defeat another New York political legend — Adam Clayton Powell Jr. in a primary, before winning in the general election in 1970. Rangel retired from Congress in 2016 at 86 years old. At a time when many are discussing the age of members of Congress and the many who have died in office over the past two years, Rangel was an exception who departed on his terms.  Rangel’s seat in Congress would go to Dominicanborn Adriano Espaillat. The moment represented a shift in Harlem’s demographics and the power of the Latino community in the Bronx. Rangel’s wife Alma Carter, passed away last year. The two met in the 1950s at the famous Savoy Ballroom in Harlem. They married in 1964 and have two children.l approach at DCA,” Cantwell said. “It is far past time for [Defense] Secretary [Pete] Hegseth and the FAA to give our airspace the security and safety attention it deserves.”

Hate and Chaos Rise in Trump’s America

By Stacy M. Brown BlackPressUSA.com Senior National Correspondent

The Southern Poverty Law Center has identified 1,371 hate and antigovernment extremist groups operating across the United States in 2024. In its latest Year in Hate & Extremism report, the SPLC reveals how these groups are embedding themselves in politics and policymaking while targeting marginalized communities through intimidation, disinformation, and violence. “Extremists at all levels of government are using cruelty, chaos, and constant attacks on communities and our democracy to make us feel powerless,” said SPLC President Margaret Huang. The report outlines how hard-right groups aggressively targeted diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives throughout 2024. Figures on the far right falsely framed DEI as a threat to white Americans, with some branding it a form of “white genocide.” After the collapse of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, a former Utah legislator blamed the incident on DEI, posting

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“DEI = DIE.”

Tactics ranged from local policy manipulation to threats of violence. The SPLC documented bomb threats at 60 polling places in Georgia, traced to Russian email domains. Similar threats hit Jewish institutions and Planet Fitness locations after farright social media accounts attacked them for transinclusive policies. Telegram, which SPLC describes as a hub for hate groups, helped extremists crossrecruit between neo-Nazi, QAnon, and white nationalist spaces. The platform’s lax moderation allowed groups like the Terrorgram Collective— designated terrorists by the U.S. State Department— to thrive. Militia movements were also reorganized, with 50 groups documented in 2024. Many, calling themselves “minutemen,” trained in paramilitary tactics while lobbying local governments for official recognition. These groups shared personnel and ideology with white nationalist organizations. The manosphere continued to radicalize boys and young men. The Fresh & Fit podcast, now listed as a hate group, promoted misogyny while mocking and attacking Black women. Manosphere influencers used social media algorithms to drive youth toward male-supremacy content. Turning Point USA played a key role in pushing white nationalist rhetoric into mainstream politics. Its leader Charlie Kirk claimed native-born Americans are being replaced by immigrants, while the group advised on Project 2025 and organized Trump

campaign events. “We know that these groups build their power by threatening violence, capturing political parties and government, and infesting the mainstream discourse with conspiracy theories,” said Rachel Carroll Rivas, interim director of the

South Africa’s President Asks for Answers and Contradicts Trump on White Killings

By April Ryan

The build-up for the Oval Office meeting between South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and President Donald Trump resulted in a spectacle of a Presidential show and tell. President Trump worked to support the alleged claims that thousands of white South African Farmers have been killed with nothing done to remedy the situation. Leaders from both countries, Elon Musk, world-renowned white Golfers from South Africa, and reporters attended the highly publicized press event in the Oval Office. Before the president showed a video, a reporter in the Oval Office sternly questioned Trump, asking, “What would it take for you to be convinced that there is no white genocide in South Africa?” President Ramaphosa immediately answered the question as President Trump said, “

I’d rather have him answer.” “It will take President Trump listening to the voices of South Africans, some of whom are his good friends,” said the South African president. Ramaphosa also emphasized it would have to take place at a “quiet” table so he could hear the facts.

Another telling moment in the meeting was when President Trump could not answer South Africa’s president’s question about the location of some parts of the video he showed in the Oval Office. Ramaphosa said calmly with concern, “I would like to know where that is. Cause, this I have never seen.” However, Trump continued his assertion that white farmers are being killed throughout the meeting and warned the president of South Africa that before the November G-20 summit in South Africa, the issue must be handled. Ramaphosa said, “There is criminality in our country; people who do get killed, unfortunately, through criminal activity are not only white people. The majority is Black people.” Trump, in a passing moment in that press event, recognized the wrong of the deadly apartheid system in South Africa when the country was white minority rule from 1948 to 1994. During the deadly apartheid system, the white-led government enforced strict racial segregation rules against the Black majority in housing, employment, government, social gatherings, and facilities.

Rep. LaMonica McIver: Members of Congress Rally Around Black Congresswoman Charged by Trump’s ICE Officers

By Lauren Burke At a large press conference on the House side of the U.S. Capitol, members of Congress rallied around Congresswoman LaMonica McIver (DNJ). The members represented the diverse “tricaucus” made up of many of the members of the Congressional Black Caucus, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, and the Congressional Women’s Caucus. The three groups represent over half of the Democratic Caucus in the U.S. House. Though McIver was not present at the press event, she was on Capitol Hill attending meetings and House votes. She is also expected to be on national television on the evening of May 20. Yesterday, the New Jersey Congresswoman was charged with “impeding” and “assaulting” law enforcement outside of Delaney Hall Immigration Detention Center in Newark, New Jersey on May 9. The confrontation occurred after the arrest of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka but last night the acting U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey, Alina Habba announced that the charges against Mayor Baraka were dropped. Rep. McIver was charged on the same day that the Trump Administration, through the Department of Justice, announced an agreement to pay the family of Ashley Babbitt $5 million. Babbitt was shot dead by a member of the U.S. Capitol Police as she attempted to enter the floor of the U.S. House during the violent attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. The charges against Rep. McIver

also fell on the same day as what would have been the 100th birthday of Malcolm X. After three months of witnessing the Trump Administration arrest and deport individuals to a prison in El Salvador with no hearing beforehand and pressure law firms to complete work pro bono, members of Congress at the event in support of Rep. McIver appeared to have recent history front of mind. “We know exactly why we’re here today. That’s because the President of the United States has weaponized his Department of Justice in an attempt to make a young congresswoman from New Jersey the focal point of his efforts to intimidate Congress into submission,” said Rep. Yvette Clarke (D-NY), the Chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus during the crowded press event near the steps of the U.S. Capitol. “Let me be overwhelmingly clear. Congresswoman McIver has the full and unwavering support of the Congressional Black Caucus. Period,” Clarke added.  Rep. McIver, 38, entered Congress in September 2024 after winning a special election after the death of Congressman Donald Payne, Jr. “I’m standing here at a time that should make all of us as Americans truly afraid,” said New Jersey Democrat Cory Booker. Senator Booker shook hands and greeted New Jersey colleagues U.S. Representatives Robert Menendez, Jr. (D-NJ) and Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ) who were also a part of the May 9 visit to Delaney Hall Immigration detention center that

became a confrontation after ICE officials got into a dispute with the federal officials. “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. When they come after judges we should be afraid. When they come after people who use their First Amendment rights we should be afraid. When they come after law firms to represent clients of their choice we should be afraid. When they attack universities and the vital role they play in a free society we should be afraid,” Senator Booker told the large crowd of members of Congress, reporters, and others. “This entire situation happened because of the unjust arrest of Mayor Baraka,” Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) said during her opening remarks at a House Judiciary Committee hearing called by the Republicans on the issue of the fracas on May 9. “Members of Congress have the right to conduct oversight, full stop — whether that’s holding Cabinet officials accountable or visiting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities. Representative McIver was performing her proper oversight role, a role she was elected by the American people to do — and even participated in a one-hour tour after the incident occurred,” wrote Rep. Jamie Raskin who is the ranking member of the House Judiciary Committee. Members expressed concern about what happens next and are monitoring the situation around McIver closely.

Congressman Charlie Rangel

Concept american flag on cracked background (Photo by Jorge Villalba)

SPLC’s Intelligence Project. “By exposing the players, tactics, and code words of the hard right, we hope to dismantle their mythology and inspire people to fight back.”

Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa, at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, September 2024 (Wikimedia Commons / Photo by Ricardo Stuckert)

Key moments from the second week of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ sex trafficking trial

By MICHAEL R. SISAK and LARRY NEUMEISTER

Associated Press

NEW YORK (AP) — Jurors heard from a dozen witnesses during a second week of testimony in the Sean “Diddy” Combs trial as prosecutors sought to prove sex trafficking and racketeering.

Rapper and actor Kid Cudi was on the witness stand. So was singer Dawn Richard, formerly of the group Danity Kane.

There was more testimony from witnesses who said they saw Combs beating his former girlfriend, the R&B singer Cassie. Jurors also heard testimony about guns, extortion and a car being set on fire.

The trial resumes Tuesday after the Memorial Day holiday.

Here are key moments from Week 2: Brick by brick, prosecutors seek to prove racketeering

Much of the case presented by prosecutors so far has revolved around accusations that Combs physically and sexually abused Cassie for years, and coerced her into sexual encounters called “freakoffs” with men who were paid thousands of dollars to have sex with her.

Yet Combs isn’t simply charged with sex crimes. He’s charged with racketeering. Prosecutors say they will prove that Combs used his businesses and employees “to carry out, facilitate, and cover up his acts of violence, abuse, and commercial sex.”

Some of those employees testified in Week 2. George Kaplan, a personal assistant for Combs from 2013 to 2015, told jurors he’d toss out liquor bottles and drugs and clean up baby oil from Combs’ hotel rooms after the music producer finished freakoffs.

He said he never reported abuse to authorities, even after Combs beat up Cassie on a private jet.

Another personal assistant, David James, testified that Combs had him stock hotel rooms with Viagra, condoms, baby oil and lubricant, among other supplies.

He also recounted how Combs had three handguns on his lap as they drove to a Los Angeles diner looking for his record industry rival, Death Row Records co-founder Suge Knight.

Cassie’s mom tells jury that a jealous Combs demanded $20,000 Cassie briefly dated Kid Cudi during a period of time when it looked like she might split with Combs.

Cassie’s mother, Regina Ventura, testified that she felt “physically sick” after her daughter sent her an email saying Combs had learned about the relationship with Cudi and planned to retaliate by releasing tapes of Cassie having sex.

Then, Ventura said, Combs contacted her and angrily demanded $20,000, saying he was owed it because he’d spent money on Cassie’s career.

Ventura tapped home equity to wire the money to Combs’ business. Several days later, the money was returned.

Kid Cudi testifies about a break-in and a firebombed car

Kid Cudi testified Thursday that Cassie sounded “very stressed, nervous, just scared” when she phoned him in December 2011 to say that Combs had learned they were dating.

Cudi said he was confused because he thought Combs and Cassie had broken up. Then, he said, one of Combs’ assistants called.

She said Combs and an aide were in Cudi’s home, waiting to speak with him. She also said she had been forced into a car to join them.

Cudi said he raced to his house, but Combs was gone. Inside, he testified, he found Christmas gifts had been opened and his dog was locked in the bathroom. After the break-in, his dog was “very jittery and kind of on edge all the time,” he said.

Then, someone set fire to Cudi’s car, destroying it.

Cudi set he met with Combs to squash their beef the next day at a Los Angeles hotel. When he walked in, he said Combs was staring out the window standing with hands behind his back “like a Marvel supervillain.”

Combs denied having anything to do with the burned car, but Cudi said he didn’t believe him.

Singer Dawn Richard tells of death threats

The first witness of the week, Dawn Richard, got her big break in the music business as a cast member on Combs’ reality TV show, “Making the Band.” She performed with two Combs-backed acts, Danity Kane and Diddy — Dirty Money.

But Richard said Combs threatened her life after she saw him beat Cassie and try to hit her with a skillet in 2009. She said Combs told her and

another woman that they “could go missing” if they didn’t stay quiet. She said she saw Combs beat Cassie frequently. “He would punch her, choke her, drag her, slap her in the mouth,” she said.

A longtime friend of Cassie’s explained why she’s a friend no more

Kerry Morgan said she had a falling out with Cassie, her friend of 17 years, after Combs attacked her in a rage in 2018 demanding to know who Cassie was cheating on him with.

Morgan said he slung a hanger at her head and tried to choke her, leaving her dizzy, vomiting and concussed, with finger imprints on her neck.

As Morgan contemplated a lawsuit a month later, she met Cassie at a pizza parlor, where Cassie had her sign a nondisclosure agreement in return for $30,000, she said. But then, she said, Cassie “told me she thought I was milking it, that I was overexaggerating.” They haven’t spoken since.

Hotel manager says Combs always left a costly mess

One of the last witnesses of the week was Frédéric Zemmour, the general manager of L’Ermitage Beverly Hills in California.

He revealed that Combs’ guest profile noted that he “ALWAYS spills candle wax on everything and uses excessive amounts of oil.” The profile instructed staff to “place the room out of order upon departure for deep cleaning.”

“Please authorize an extra $1000 when guest stays with us to cover any room damages,” Combs’ guest profile said. Witnesses have testified that Combs liked to use candles and baby oil during freak-offs. Levity finds a place in a trial about violence

Despite the trial’s serious subject matter, there have been a few light moments.

On Thursday, Combs’ former personal assistant, Kaplan, shared that his ex-boss “loves applesauce.”

Combs nodded and smiled as Kaplan recounted that he “eats it on the side or on top of a lot of things.”

“Cheeseburgers?” defense attorney Marc Agnifilo asked.

“Cheeseburgers being one of them,” Kaplan said as laughter broke out across the courtroom.

October London is the Rebirth of Cool

By Dwight Brown Entertainment Critic for DwightBrownInk.com

News Wire

and NNPA

“Make me, make me wanna get down tonight….” October London sang what was on the minds of his audience during his entire performance at the Beacon Theatre. On New York’s Upper Westside, on May 25, 2025, that’s what his aura did to them. London’s path was created by Marvin Gaye, Teddy Pendergrass, Luther Vandross and others. Artists who made music folks could make love by. Songs, melodies and rhythms that touch the soul and libido. Song by men who held the room key and were inviting lovers into their boudoir. October London took up that mantle with his 2023 album The Rebirth of Marvin. A tribute to Gaye that brought his vibe back into the light and updated it with a 2020s feel that’s bits of classic R&B, neo soul and jazz for this generation. And so, the young and the old made the pilgrimage to the Beacon theater to see, hear and feel the new king of hearts. The love messenger. And he didn’t disappoint.

Jared Samuel Erskine was born October 17, 1986, in South Bend Indiana. Mom was a singer and dad played guitar. Playing piano from age five started his musical journey. After taking the moniker Sam London, then October London and honing his craft, his career took off when he signed with what would become Snoop Dog’s Death Row Records. He knew his career had grown when he played a fictionalized version of himself on the TV series Empire. The song “Back to Your Place” started his rise up the Billboard charts and reached #1 Adult R&B song. Subsequent singles, EPs, albums, TV appearances, etc. have led to him selling out the Beacon theater on a warm spring night. As the audience took their seats for “The October Nights: Calling All Lovers Tour,” there was great anticipation for London’s first time leading a concert as the main act. His show opened with Joe Leone, from L.A., whose soulful voice is reminiscent of Robin Thicke and Justin Timberlake’s. He sang Over Under and wowed the women. Next, Ro James brought a hip hop vibe to the night with his hit “Permission,” which evokes Curtis Mayfield. That led up to Tamar Braxton. Having honed her skills on WE tv’s Braxton Family Values, she knew how to work the audience. She had a running conversation with the crowd and campily stalked around like she was a refugee from The Real Housewives of Atlanta. The youngest Braxton sang some of her hit songs with her sultry voice and a melodramatic style. The place went nuts when she invited two couples on stage to talk about their marriages. She was funny, bawdy and exhibited a comic sense that makes her a prime candidate for a TV sitcom. Her performance peaked with the classic song, “Superwoman.”

By the time October London hit the stage, the audience was primed by the opening acts. A drummer guitarist, bassist, keyboardist and three backup singers named the “Shendellas” took the stage. The bareboned group made it clear that authentic music would ensue. London came on stage leaving an air of coolness in his wake. The purple and white plaid summer suit, blue turtle neck and sunglasses set the tone. Then he sang, and that voice, which entranced music lovers on Rebirth of Marvin and beyond, sounded exactly the same as it does on your high-priced, high-quality sound bar at home. As he would put it later in his act, “I ain’t autotuned. Not me!”

He crooned into the microphone and the sound that came out the speakers evoked Gaye and consummate live performers at their best. “Back to Your Place,” was as sensual as “Mulholland Drive”

was evocative. “Make Me Wanna” and “Touch On Me” hit a Motown groove. His guest appearance on the Boney James jazz album Slow Burn yielded the very sexy, I’m in the mood song “All I Want Is You”: “Effervescence is your essence. When my confession, it’s like you set me free. Preconception, indiscretion. Teach me lessons, let me know your boundaries….”

The guitarist and bassist each took solos. The singers did a song too as London generously gave them time to show their talents. He also displayed a quick wit and a love for basketball. The New York Knicks are in the playoffs; London was clearly aware. He invited the audience to check the score with their phones, making a funny remark at the same time. “My money’s on the Knicks tonight. Smartphone users take a look. Android users we’ll wait on you….?” That funny comment should make Apple’s CEO Tim Cook happy, because the singer was passively praising iPhones and the audience was in hysterics. Then he sealed the deal, “Knicks in six!”

The friendly banter was almost counter intuitive to the ultra-cool appearance and the sophisticated sound that all were experiencing. This is how you head your first tour. How you make an impression and build a rapport with your fans. Sing like your momma made you just for that. Don’t bring an entourage of twenty, when a basic band will let you shine. Sound better than you do on your records and let your fans leave the auditorium feeling upbeat about life and in the mood for love. That was the assignment for the kid from Indiana who had just picked a New York basketball

team over the Indiana Pacers. Know your audience, give them what they want. In return, they’ll wanna get down tonight and see your rebirth of cool.

To check out October London singing Make Me Wanna live at the Beacon Theater go to: https://

Defense attorney Brian Steel, center, cross examines Kid Cudi, far right, as Sean “Diddy” Combs, far left, looks on during Combs’ sex trafficking and racketeering trial in Manhattan federal court,Thursday, May 22, 2025, in New York. (Elizabeth Williams via AP)

October London interacts with the audience, photo by Dwight Brown

October London and his backup singers, photo by Dwight Brown

and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal

they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.)

The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows:

Date: June 24, 2025

Time: 8:30 a.m. Dept: 62 Address of court: same as noted above IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court

Rep. Al Green Files Articles of Impeachment Against President Trump

By Lauren Burke Congressman Al Green (D-TX) has filed articles of impeachment against President Trump. Rep. Green, 77, has served in Congress since 2005.  President Trump is the only President who has been impeached twice by the U.S. House of Representatives. Rep. Green told Newsweek that he is moving on impeachment now before “tanks are rolling down the street.” The impeachment resolution filed by Rep. Green on May 19, states that President Trump is, “unfit to represent the American values of decency and morality, respectability and civility, honesty, and propriety, reputability, and integrity, is unfit to defend the ideals that have made America great, is unfit to defend liberty and justice for all as extolled in the Pledge of Allegiance, is unfit to defend the American ideal of all persons being created equal as exalted in the Declaration of Independence, is unfit to ensure domestic tranquility, promote the general welfare and to ensure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity as lauded in the preamble to the United States Constitution, is unfit to protect government of the people…” Whether Rep. Green can force a vote in the U.S. House on impeachment remains an unknown issue. President Trump was impeached on December 18, 2019, for abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. He was then impeached a second time on January 13, 2021, for “Incitement of insurrection” in the wake of the violent January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol by Trump’s supporters. The White House stated Black Press USA on Rep. Green’s effort to impeach the President. “This week, Democrats ousted their DNC ‘leader,’ opposed the largest tax cut in history, and were exposed for actively covering up Joe Biden’s fouryear cognitive decline. Now, Democrats have turned their sights to threatening impeachment.

We are witnessing the collapse of the Democrat Party before our eyes. Not a single one of these efforts will help the American people. The contrast could not be more clear: President Trump is fighting for historic tax relief for the American people, Democrats are fighting themselves,” said White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly in a written statement. Several decisions and legal interpretations by the Trump Administration are currently being challenged in federal court. On May 15, the U.S. Supreme Court debated the issue of birthright citizenship after a legal challenge on the issue by the Trump Administration.

During that legal challenge, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson challenged Trump’s solicitor general Dean John Sauer by saying, “Your argument seems to turn our justice system into a catch-me-if-youcan kind of regime … where everybody has to have a lawyer and file a lawsuit in order for the government to stop violating people’s rights.” Rep. Green’s impeachment resolution also focused on the issue of ignoring judicial orders by the executive branch. A notable example was the deportation case of Maryland father Kilmar Abrego Garcia. Garcia was deported to a prison in El Salvador by federal officials on March 15, 2025.“The Constitution does not tolerate willful disobedience of judicial orders — especially by officials of a coordinate branch who have sworn an oath to uphold it. To permit such officials to freely ‘annul the judgments of the courts of the United States’ would not just ‘destroy the rights acquired under those judgments’; it would make a solemn mockery’ of ‘the constitution itself.’”

“You have no mandate,” Congressman Green stood up and yelled at President Trump during his State of the Union Speech on March 4. After the incident, Republicans who control the U.S. House considered sanctioning Rep. Green, but they did not complete an action against him.

The Lead Up to the Five-Year

Anniversary of George Floyd

By April Ryan

“Companies have not necessarily been transparent” in the corporate data collection process about their commitments following the policeinvolved death of 46-year-old George Floyd, says Marc Morial, President and CEO of the National Urban League. The highly publicized Floyd death almost five years ago garnered worldwide attention and protests in search of justice on May 25, 2020, deadly case. Corporations saw the massive outpouring and offered support then. However, Morial summarizes the findings: “We use publicly available data. We use commitments that people have made.” When it comes to corporate commitment to the Black community, it is a mixed bag, “I think even some that have remained committed have made cosmetic changes, have changed names of programs. They’ve dropped a program here and there. But some have maintained most of what they do,” added Morial who spoke to the audience of the Substack show The Tea with April. The Urban League head also offered that some companies spread the support by contributing to HBCUs and civil rights organizations. The report also captures, in an Urban League written statement, how institutions, advocates, and the business community have mobilized since George Floyd’s death to advance policing reform and racial justice. However, the report also traces the political and cultural backlash. It shows that some progress has reversed. One of the most recent real-time reversals is the current request by Georgia Congresswoman

Affordable Childcare Remains a Barrier: Solutions in New Report

By Jason Roberts While America’s childcare supply grew nationally, the price of that care continues to rise— placing affordable, high-quality care out of reach for many families. A new report released by Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA), Child Care in America: 2024 Price & Supply, shows that despite promising signs of increased supply, affordability remains a major barrier — and underscores the need for increased sustained federal and state investment.

From 2023 to 2024, the number of childcare centers increased by 1.6% (to 92,613) and the supply of licensed family childcare (FCC) homes increased by 4.8% (to 98,807). The national growth in FCC homes’ supply is driven largely by four states (CA, KS, MA, VA) and is especially notable as it reverses a year-long downward trend.

At the same time, the national average price for childcare rose by 29% from 2020 to 2024, outpacing inflation and exceeding other major family household expenses like rent or mortgage payments in many states. Childcare is now so expensive that it consumes 10% of a married couple with children’s median household income and a staggering 35% for a single parent. In most states, families pay more for childcare than rent, mortgage payments, or in-state university tuition.

“Childcare supply is increasing, and that is a win—but it’s not enough,” said Susan Gale Perry, Chief Executive Officer of CCAoA. “Recent federal and state pandemic-era investments have stabilized and grown supply in some places, but a significant supply gap still exists — especially in rural communities and for infants and toddlers. We also still haven’t put a dent in affordability for working families. That’s why we urgently need increased funding and new solutions.”

CCAoA’s Childcare in America: 2024 Price & Supply report also found that:

• The average price of

childcare increased by 29% from 2020 to 2024, outpacing the national inflation rate of 22%.

• In 45 states plus Washington, DC, the average annual price of center-based childcare for two children exceeded mortgage payments, in some states by up to 78%.

• In 49 states plus Washington, DC, the price of center-based childcare for two children exceeded median rent payments ranging from 19% to over 100%.

• In 41 states plus Washington, DC, infant care in a center cost more than in-state university tuition.

CCAoA urges policymakers to increase childcare funding at both state and federal levels to maintain the momentum of growing supply, address rising prices, and expand access to childcare for families. Federal funding increases have fallen short of the need and our research shows that total state investments in child care or preschool vary widely from state to state, putting children, families, and communities across America on an uneven playing field. Further, targeted investments in childcare supply building and stabilization and childcare workforce recruitment and retention strategies are essential to help sustain an adequate supply of highquality childcare options nationwide.

Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) is the only national organization that supports every part of the childcare system. Together with an onthe-ground network of people doing the work in states and communities, it helps America become child care strong by providing research that drives effective practice and policy, building strong child care programs and professionals, helping families find and afford quality child care, delivering thought leadership to the military and direct service to its families, and providing a real-world understanding of what works and what doesn’t to spur policymakers into action and help them build solutions.

Marjorie Taylor Greene, pushing for a presidential pardon of Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin. He was the first officer convicted of the death of George Floyd for kneeling on his neck at the time of his death. President Trump can only pardon federal sentences. Keith Ellison, the Attorney General of Minnesota, says it’s just “a rumor” right now. However, if a Chauvin pardon were to happen, President Trump could only pardon Chauvin of the federal prison sentence. He is currently serving 20.5 years. When it comes to the state of Minnesota, there are still 22 years left on Chauvin’s state prison sentence. Ellison feels “it would be worse” for Chauvin to be pardoned. Chauvin would be transferred to a state prison to serve his 22-year sentence. Chauvin would be expected to be segregated from the general population for 23 hours daily. Ellison went on to tell Black Press USA that if a pardon does happen, “it’s a slap in the face to the Floyd family” and the multiple cultures of people around the world that called for justice for George Floyd’s death. Ellison fears that if there is indeed outrage in the streets over a pardon for Chauvin, President Trump will try to use Martial Law and the Insurrection Act against those in the streets. Damon Hewitt, President and Executive Director of the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law tells Black Press USA President Trump’s anticipated actions against protesters is “the legal process equivalent to wiping out Black Lives Matter Plaza.” Hewitt went on to say, “It’s another way of saying Black lives do not matter.”

Two mixed race children of elementary school age attend class from home. School has been cancelled due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

California Capitol News You Might Have Missed Political Playback

Bo Tefu

California Black Media Sen. Rosilice Ochoa Bogh Praises U.S. Senate for Voting to End Taxes on Service Workers’ Tips

In a unanimous vote on May 20, the U.S. Senate voted to eliminate federal taxes on tips for service workers.

California State Sen. Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Redlands) praised the U.S. Senate for passing the bill, which was introduced by U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX)

“I applaud the U.S. Senate for putting service workers first and providing much-needed tax relief. Now it’s California’s turn,” said Ochoa Bogh, who has authored similar legislation in California, Senate Bill (SB) 17. The U.S. Senate bill, which codifies into federal law a campaign promise made by President Trump, establishes a tax deduction of up to $25,000 for tips for employees who earn

less than $160,000. The deduction is limited to cash tips workers earn and report to employers for withholding on their paychecks.

“Tipped workers are taxed on inconsistent and unpredictable income causing instability in their families already struggling to make ends meet,” said Ochoa Bogh.

However, on May 23, the Senate Appropriations Committee voted to send Ochoa Bogh’s no-statetax-on-service-workers bill – along with hundreds of others – to the “suspense file,” where bills are sent for further consideration of costs to the state.

Could This Be a Call to Black Church? California to Fund Special Ed at Religious Private Schools

California will now allow public funds to pay for students with learning disabilities to attend religious private schools, marking a major shift in longstanding state policy. The change follows a court settlement reached May 19 between state officials and a group of Orthodox Jewish parents who had challenged the state’s exclusion of religious schools from its funding program.

Since 1993, California law has permitted the use of public funds to cover the cost of private school education for students with disabilities, but only at nonsectarian institutions. That requirement was declared unconstitutional by a federal judge after the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in October that the law appeared to violate the First Amendment’s guarantee of religious freedom.

“For too long, California has discriminated against children with disabilities simply because of their faith. This settlement puts that injustice to an end,” said Daniel Mitzner of the Teach Coalition, affiliated with the Orthodox Union, which backed the legal challenge. The plaintiffs included three Orthodox Jewish families in the Los Angeles area, each with children diagnosed with autism. One family described their 14-year-old son being served nonkosher meals at his public school, while another struggled to afford speech therapy for their 4-year-old enrolled in a private Jewish school that had no access to state funding.

Eric Rassbach, senior attorney at the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, said the resolution “ensures that Jewish kids with disabilities can access the resources they need and deserve” without compromising their religious beliefs.

The challenge drew support from 22 states led by Idaho and religious groups such as the California Catholic Conference and the Rabbinical Council of America. The California Department of Education, led by Superintendent Tony Thurmond, did not issue a statement, but attorneys for the department agreed in court that the settlement was “fair and equitable” and would not be appealed.

California Seizes $123.5 Million in

Illegal Cannabis in Largest-Ever Enforcement Operation

In the largest coordinated crackdown to date on California’s illicit cannabis industry, a state-led task force seized more than $123 million worth of illegal cannabis during a week-long operation in the Central Valley. The multi-agency enforcement, carried out in early May, targeted unlicensed growers and distribution sites across Kern, Kings, and Tulare counties.

Through the Unified Cannabis Enforcement Task Force, more than 200 personnel from 15 state, local, and federal agencies executed 71 search warrants across 4,600 square miles. Authorities seized 105,700 cannabis plants and 22,057 pounds of processed cannabis. They also confiscated nine firearms. Multiple arrests were made, and charges are being coordinated with local district attorneys.

Gov. Gavin Newsom reaffirmed the state’s zerotolerance policy on illegal cannabis and praised the joint enforcement effort behind the massive seizure.

“Let this be a reminder to all who grow cannabis illegally: we won’t tolerate the undermining of our legal industry and impacts to our environment,” said Newsom. “I appreciate the multi-agency, crosscounty efforts to take on the illicit market.”

The operation also uncovered environmental violations at eight sites where banned or restricted pesticides were used. Officials warned that these substances pose a threat to native wildlife and public health when consumed through tainted cannabis.

“This operation represents the power of collaboration across agencies with a shared commitment to protecting our natural resources and preserving the integrity of California’s legal cannabis market,” said Charlton H. Bonham, Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Nicole Elliott, Director of the Department of Cannabis Control, said, “This operation sends a clear message: California will not tolerate illicit cannabis activity that threatens public safety, the environment, and the integrity of the legal market.”

This latest action adds to more than $534 million in illegal cannabis seizures made by the task force in 2024 alone. Since its establishment in 2022, the task force has served 500 warrants and seized over $650 million in unlicensed cannabis.

Barbara Lee Sworn in as Oakland’s First Black Woman Mayor Barbara Lee was sworn in on May 20 as the 52nd mayor of Oakland, becoming the first Black woman to hold the city’s highest office. The longtime East Bay congresswoman received a standing ovation as she entered Oakland City Hall to take the oath of office following her victory in a special election.

Before her swearing-in ceremony, Lee revealed she has been collaborating with interim Mayor Kevin Jenkins on a comprehensive budget proposal that includes job cuts at City Hall, while prioritizing funding for public safety. Lee emphasized the urgency of addressing the city’s fiscal challenges alongside her broader goals.

Lee expressed a commitment to revitalizing the community.

“I want to restore hope, create opportunities for our young people, ensure a safe path for our sons and daughters to have long, productive lives and to be housed in our own homes in a safe, clean city,” said Lee.

Lee highlighted her progressive values, adding that she aims to “address the moral disgrace of our unsheltered population with dignity, to support our senior citizens and our artists, and yes, to recommend solutions to make our city and its people economically healthy and vibrant.”

Congresswoman Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12), Lee’s successor in Congress, praised Lee’s leadership and historic achievements.

“Mayor Lee has always led the path forward -- as the first Black woman to represent Northern California in the State Assembly, State Senate, and Congress, and now as the first Black woman to serve as Mayor of Oakland,” said Simon.

Simon described Lee as “a champion for human rights, the forgotten, for peace and democracy” and affirmed that Lee “is the right person to make the difficult decisions that will help bring Oakland into its next chapter.”

“I am excited to see the mayor’s work to rebuild trust in our city’s leadership at this critical time,” Simon added.

Lee was elected last month following a special election held after the recall of former Mayor Sheng Thao. While she did not reference the recall, Lee acknowledged the city’s expectations for change.

“Oaklanders expect and demand that we must govern in a new way,” she said while addressing the

crowd. “Where there’s a will, there’s a way. And it starts with the people.”

Looking ahead, Lee said her administration plans to engage a diverse group of residents, promising that within 100 days, people “from all walks of life” will help City Hall better serve the community and “usher in a new era of prosperity and progress.”

California Leaders Blasts U.S. Senate Vote to Revoke State’s Clean Air Rules Against the guidance of the Senate Parliamentarian, the U.S. Senate voted 51-44 on May 22 to revoke a federal government waiver that allows California to set its own clean air emissions standards.

Responding to the vote, Gov. Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta announced that they will sue the federal government for the move they say will “make America smoggy again” and undermine U.S. leadership in the global race to green energy conversion.

“This Senate vote is illegal. Republicans went around their own parliamentarian to defy decades of precedent,” said Newsom.

“We won’t stand by as Trump Republicans make America smoggy again -- undoing work that goes back to the days of Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan -- all while ceding our economic future to China. We’re going to fight this unconstitutional attack on California in court,” he added.

Before the vote on May 20, Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) condemned his Republican colleagues for their plan to bypass Senate rules and revoke California’s Clean Air Act waivers. Padilla accused Republicans of using the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to rescind the waivers with only 50 votes, thereby avoiding the 60-vote filibuster threshold. Speaking on the U.S. Senate floor, Padilla made clear that this move would set a dangerous precedent and threaten the health of millions. “I will be back here again and again throughout this process to make sure that everyone knows what these votes mean not just for the precedent and procedures of the United States Senate, but for the health of my constituents in California,” he said.

Padilla criticized the Republicans for a “total 180-degree reversal” on their previous defense of the filibuster, noting that Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) had earlier described overriding the Parliamentarian as “totally akin to killing the filibuster.” He emphasized that what Republicans are attempting is “more than going nuclear on the Parliamentarian. They are going nuclear on the Congressional Review Act itself.”

The senator warned that such a precedent would allow the next Democratic administration to face similar attacks on agency actions, stating, “All bets are off. Every agency action that Democrats don’t like -- whether it’s a rule or not, and no matter

how much time has passed -- will be fair game if Republicans go through with this.”

Padilla highlighted the broader consequences of ignoring Senate rules and law. “By voting to go nuclear on the CRA, they are ignoring the law — not just Senate rules but the text of the law,” he said. “By voting to overrule the Parliamentarian, they are saying the rules are whatever Republicans say they are.”

He concluded with a reminder of the stakes. “We’re in the minority today. But Democrats will be in the majority again one day. We will not forget what happened here. History won’t forget. And Mr. President, California won’t forget what’s at stake today either.”

Federal Glover, Contra Costa County’s First Black Supervisor, Dies at 69 Federal Glover, the first African American elected to the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, died on May 18 at age 69. Glover served District 5 for more than two decades, representing communities including Pittsburg, Martinez, Bay Point, and parts of Antioch.

“Federal’s leadership and tireless commitment to improving the lives of residents left a lasting legacy that continues to benefit our County today,” read a statement from the Board of Supervisors. “Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of working with him.”

Glover’s wife of 47 years, Janis Glover, confirmed his passing at the University of California San Francisco Medical Center in a statement.

“It is with deep sorrow that our family announces the passing of my beloved husband, Federal D. Glover,” she stated. “His legacy is one of unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and service.”

First elected to the Board in 2000, Glover served six terms. Before his tenure as supervisor, he was a city councilmember and mayor of Pittsburg. Born on May 9, 1956, Glover grew up in Pittsburg, the son of parents who migrated from the South during the Great Migration. He was the first in his family to attend college and was one of 12 siblings.

In a 2020 reflection on his health battles during the COVID-19 pandemic, Glover described a 16hour heart and kidney transplant surgery that saved his life five years earlier.

“Even though our communities are faced with a daunting public health crisis, I cannot help but be thankful that I am here with both the passion and the power to face life’s challenges,” he stated.

Glover announced last year that he would not seek re-election.

“I know I’ll be turning in my card key, so I won’t be coming to the building,” he said to his colleagues. “I’ve had the opportunity to work with some amazing people down through the years.”

Glover is survived by his wife, two children, and grandchildren.

The funeral service for Glover will be held on May 28 at 11a.m. at The Bay Church in Concord. The church is located at 4725 Evora Road.

“I want to be crystal clear. Fast-tracking the Delta Conveyance Project (DCP) is a direct attack on our region’s environmental integrity, economic stability and public trust,” Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City) warned Gov. Newsom. Wilson, a member of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC), was speaking at a press conference on May 20 at the State Capitol organized to push back against the Governor’s plans to speed up $20 billion worth of improvements to the State Water Project (SWP), a tunnel that delivers water from Northern California to areas in the south of the state. Wilson, who is also co-chair of the legislative Delta Caucus, was joined at the press conference by Sen. Jerry McNerney, the other co-chair of the caucus, and Assemblymember Rhodesia Ranson (D-Tracy), also a member of the CLBC.

Other Delta Caucus members -- a bipartisan group of lawmakers representing counties in the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta, where the tunnel begins -- also attended, along with officials from the Delta Coalition of Counties, regional environmental leaders and tribal leaders from the

Delta.

Almost a week before, on May 14, when Gov. Newsom presented his May revision of the state’s 2025-26 budget, he announced his plans to make improvements to the water supply infrastructure he called “critical.”

Planned upgrades include a 45-mile tunnel with intakes to draw water from the Sacramento River; a connection to the California Aqueduct via the Bethany Reservoir; new earthquake-resistant features; a pumping plant, and other improvements.

“For too long, attempts to modernize our critical water infrastructure have stalled in endless red tape, burdened with unnecessary delay,” said Newsom, referring to opposition to the project by environmental leaders and others.

“We’re done with barriers -- our state needs to complete this project as soon as possible, so that we can better store and manage water to prepare for a hotter, drier future. Let’s get this built,” the Governor added.

Newsom is urging the State Legislature to create policy that will simplify the process to obtain construction permits and expedite the time judicial reviews take.

Wilson said the construction on the tunnel will

damage the San Joaquin Valley ecosystem.

“Shifting water from one farming region to benefit another farming region does not solve our water problem,” she said. Wilson also pointed out that the project will become a cost burden for utility ratepayers.

According to the Governor’s office, California is expected to lose 10% of its water supply and the reliability of the existing tunnel to deliver water could reduce by 23%. The project, expected to begin in 2029, is designed to respond to that eventuality by making key improvements to the tunnel that “captures, moves and stores water used by 27 million people and 750,000 acres of farmland.”

Ransom said the project would “steal water” from the Delta.

“I’m disappointed to see this proposal to override legal protections and statutes to violate both water and property rights. Let’s be real- this is a $20 billion water grab that shifts wealth from the San Joaquin Delta to wealthy Southern California interests,” said Ransom.

Both Wilson and Ransom represent districts in the Delta region that have Black populations that are among the 10 highest concentrations of African Americans in the state.

McNerney slammed the project, saying it will “destroy nearly 4,000 acres of prime farmland in the fragile Delta, along with salmon fisheries and tribal resources.”

On May 22, a number of Southern California Water utilities wrote a letter of support commending Newsom for proposing action to streamline approvals for conveyance tunnel improvements. They include The Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA), Western Municipal Water District (Western Water), Eastern Municipal Water District (EMWD), and Three Valleys Municipal Water District (Three Valleys/TVMWD). Joe Mouawad, EMWD’s General Manager, said the SWP helps to manage California’s water supply during floods and drought, but the system’s infrastructure needs urgent repair.

“There have been significant challenges and deficiencies with the current infrastructure, leading to significant water supply loss,” said Mouawad. The DCP is critical to protecting the reliability of the SWP from threats by extreme weather fluctuations, seismic activity, and aging infrastructure.”

By Tanu T. Henry California Black Media

Sen. Rosilice Ochoa Bogh ( R- Redlands)

Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee

Hon. Federal Glover

Bruins Battle Back, Headed to Oklahoma

City

By Earl Heath Contributing Sports Writer

The UCLA Bruins showed true grit and heart during the NCAA Super Regionals in Columbia, South Carolina, punching their ticket to the Women’s College World Series with a dramatic

comeback.

Facing elimination in Game 2, the Bruins (5411) were down to their final out when sophomore slugger Jordan Woolery blasted a walk-off two-run homer over the left field wall, tying the series against South Carolina. It was Woolery’s 23rd home run of the season and UCLA’s first postseason walk-off since Rachel Garcia’s memorable three-run shot in the 2019 WCWS.

“That moment was everything,” said Woolery.

“This team is made of love.”

With momentum on their side, the Bruins dominated Game 3, shutting out the Gamecocks 5-0 to advance to Oklahoma City for the 33rd time in program history—and the ninth time in the last 10 seasons.

Timely Hitting and Lockdown Pitching

UCLA took an early lead in the decisive game with three straight singles to open the first inning.

Woolery drove in Jessica Clements for the game’s first run with a base hit up the middle. Though South Carolina managed a double play to limit damage, the Bruins kept the pressure on.

Leading 2-0 into the seventh, UCLA added three more insurance runs. Clements led off with

a single, and she and Savannah Pola scored on a clutch single from Rylee Slimp. Alexis Ramirez followed with an RBI single to cap the scoring.

“We faced adversity, and we had each other’s backs,” said Pola. “We weren’t separating or giving up.”

In the circle, Kaitlyn Terry (19-5) bounced back from a rough Game 1 outing to deliver 5 2/3 scoreless innings. Taylor Tinsley came in for the final 1 1/3 to earn her third save, combining to hold the eighth-seeded Gamecocks (44-17) to just four hits.

Heart and Hustle

Terry’s Game 1 struggles—five hits and five earned runs in less than two innings—didn’t define her weekend. In Game 3, she didn’t allow a runner past second base.

“For my Bruins, I couldn’t be more proud,” said Head Coach Kelly Inouye-Perez. “We talk about believing in the work, playing together, and having each other’s backs. Every team sets out with the goal of making it to OKC, and this group earned it.”

South Carolina’s last real threat came in the sixth, with two deep fly balls that right fielder Liesl Osteen caught at the warning track. Tinsley closed

Harden, Zubac Earn NBA Honors in Standout Season for Clippers

All Eyes on OKC: Women’s College World Series Set to Begin

By Earl Heath Contributing Sports Writer

It’s one of the biggest weeks in college sports— the Women’s College World Series (WCWS) kicks off Thursday, May 29, in Oklahoma City, where eight of the nation’s top softball teams will compete for the NCAA championship.

At the center of attention is the University of Oklahoma, aiming for its fifth consecutive national title. Led by head coach Patty Gasso, the secondseeded Sooners are the dominant force in college softball, having captured the last four WCWS crowns. All games will take place at Devon Park under a double-elimination format, with the final two teams advancing to a best-of-three championship series starting June 4.

Opening Day Matchups The tournament opens with a marquee SEC showdown: No. 6 national seed Texas takes on No. 3 Florida. The game will be broadcast on ESPN. Oklahoma faces No. 7 Tennessee in its firstround matchup. The Sooners punched their ticket to OKC by defeating Alabama in the Norman Super Regional last weekend.

Later Thursday, unseeded Ole Miss meets No. 12 Texas Tech in a night game full of firsts. Ole Miss, fresh off road wins at Arizona and Arkansas, is

making its first-ever WCWS appearance. The same goes for Texas Tech, which reached the tournament after knocking off Florida State in Tallahassee. The winner will notch their first WCWS victory in program history. ESPN2 will air the game at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT. West Coast Clash: UCLA vs. Oregon

The final game of the night—scheduled to begin 25 minutes after the Ole Miss–Texas Tech game—features a West Coast rivalry with new Big Ten implications: No. 16 Oregon vs. No. 9 UCLA. Oregon reached OKC after beating Liberty in the Eugene Super Regional. The Ducks benefited from a surprise upset in which Liberty knocked out No. 1 seed Texas A&M, giving Oregon homefield advantage for the Super Regional. This marks Oregon’s first WCWS appearance since 2018.

Meanwhile, UCLA delivered the most dramatic moment of last weekend’s action. Down to their final out against South Carolina, the Bruins hit a walk-off two-run homer to steal a 5–4 victory and force a decisive Game 3, which they went on to win. This marks UCLA’s record 33rd WCWS appearance and their ninth in the past 10 NCAA tournaments. The Bruins are the highest remaining seed on their side of the bracket. ESPN2 will also carry the Oregon–UCLA nightcap.

Ram Rookies Team Up for Fire Relief Efforts in Los Angeles

By Earl Heath Contributing Sports Writer

Rookies from the Los Angeles Rams kicked off their first major community outreach effort this season with a focus on service and solidarity. Tight end Anthony Torres, running backs Jarquez Hunter and Jordan Waters, and other members of the Rams’ 2025 rookie class—including outside linebacker Josaiah Stewart, defensive lineman Ty Hamilton, inside linebacker Chris Paul Jr., and wide receiver Konata Mumpfield—joined forces with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (Habitat LA) and Hollywood Park to support families impacted by recent wildfires across Los Angeles County. The team participated in a drive-thru distribution event held in the Red Zone parking lot

of SoFi Stadium, where they helped provide critical household items to those affected. Roughly 500 families received donations, including small home appliances, boxed furniture, and air purifiers— resources aimed at helping residents begin to rebuild their homes and lives.

The event is part of the Rams’ ongoing commitment to both short- and long-term wildfire relief in the region. Organizers required all attendees to pre-register to ensure the safety and efficiency of the distribution.

Community members expressed gratitude not just for the resources, but for the presence and involvement of the Rams rookies.

“They’re not just showing up to play football,” said one attendee. “They’re showing up for the community.”

By Earl Heath Contributing Sports Writer

Two LA Clippers players received major recognition from the NBA this week for their performances during the 2024–25 season.

Guard James Harden was named to the AllNBA Third Team, marking his eighth career selection and his first since joining the Clippers.

Center Ivica Zubac earned a spot on the AllDefensive Second Team—the first of his career— joining elite company in franchise history.

Zubac is now one of just five Clippers to receive All-Defensive honors, alongside Kawhi Leonard (2019–21), Patrick Beverley (2019–20), Chris Paul (2011–17), and DeAndre Jordan (2014–16).

Harden’s Impact Harden, a Los Angeles native, started all 79 games he played this season, averaging 22.8 points, 8.7 assists, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.49 steals in 35.3 minutes per game. He was the only player in the league to rank in the top 10 in total points (10th), assists (3rd), steals (8th), and three-pointers made (tied for 9th).

Among guards, he was one of only two to average at least 20 points, eight assists, and five rebounds. Harden had 52 games with 20 or more points, 12 games with 30+, and four games over the 40-point mark. His 50-point night against Detroit on March 5 was a season highlight and marked the first-ever 50-point game at Intuit Dome.

This season, he also climbed from 20th to 11th on the NBA’s all-time scoring list, passing legends like Tim Duncan, Oscar Robertson, and Moses Malone. With Harden leading the charge, the Clippers posted a 50–32 record, notching their 14th straight winning season and finishing fifth in the Western Conference.

Zubac Anchors Defense Zubac, a native of Croatia, played all 80 games as a starter and averaged career highs in points (16.8), rebounds (12.6), and minutes (32.8). His rebounding numbers led the NBA, totaling 1,010 boards—joining a short list of Clippers greats to do so, including DeAndre Jordan, Michael Cage, and Swen Nater. Defensively, Zubac helped the Clippers achieve the third-best defensive rating in the league (109.4) and fifth-best net rating (4.9). LA held opponents under 100 points in 20 games, tied for second-most in the NBA.

Zubac also finished third in defensive win shares (among players with at least 65 games played) and tied for ninth in plus-minus (+514), reflecting his value on both ends of the floor. He joins Toumani Camara (Portland), Rudy Gobert (Minnesota), Jaren Jackson Jr. (Memphis), and Jalen Williams (Oklahoma City) on the AllDefensive Second Team.

the door by striking out Ella Chancey with two on. UCLA now joins the nation’s elite in Oklahoma City, chasing another championship with its trademark resilience and unity.

UCLA coach Kelly Inouye-Perez hugs third baseman Jordan Woolery after winning the Super Regional in Columbia, South Carolina. (Photo: Mitchell Northam/SB Nation)

Cal transfer Mickey Matthews showed great moves in the BRUIN Showcase.

(Photo: Earl Heath)

Black Orgs Converge on California State Capitol for Legislative Day

awareness to maternal health and reproductive justice, economic security, voting rights and civic engagement, and education equity.

the “2025 Eaton or Palisades Fires: Notification of Owner’s Intent to Sell” Act, authored by Sen. Sasha Renée Pérez (D-Pasadena).

The bill would protect communities within the impacted Eaton and Palisades areas from predatory property land grabs and provide funding to rebuild neighborhoods affected by the Los Angeles County Wildfires.

A couple of AKAs shared that many Black residents who lost their homes in the fire in January were contacted and pressured into selling their property.

“At their most distressed times that they have ever experienced in their lives, (developers) are offering lowball offers,” said AKA member Elise Preston Mallory, from Southern California. “We don’t know how much our community is worth, but we do know there’s value in that land. We need them to step back and let people figure it out.”

In addition to meeting with lawmakers, leaders of the Black organizations that participated in the legislative action day were recognized on the Assembly floor by Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom (D-Stockton) and Sen. Akilah Weber Pierson (D-San Diego) on the Senate floor.

Among those leaders were Starr-Jordan, event co-organizers LaNiece Jones (Oakland) and Patrice Marshall McKenzie (Pasadena), NAACP board member LaJuana Bevins from San Diego, BWOPA President Dezie Wood-Jones, and 100 Black Women Oakland-Bay Area President Shari Woodridge, CBM Executive Director Regina Wilson, and founder of the BWC Kellie Todd Griffin were recognized for their contributions.

“AKA Day at the Capitol is more than an annual tradition. It’s a powerful reminder that Black women are not only the backbone of our communities, but also bold, informed advocates for legislative change,” Starr-Jordan stated. “This gathering reflects our unwavering commitment to amplifying our voices, protecting our rights, and shaping policy for generations to come.”

One of the bills they support is SB 658, titled

What Do You Know About L.A.’s Marina?

By Duane “D.J.” Johnson

FUSE Executive Fellow

What do you know about L.A.’s Marina? For many of us, especially those raised in South L.A., Inglewood, or Compton, the answer might be, “not much.” Maybe you’ve seen it in a movie or remember when Sunday brunch at the Marina was a special outing. But for many, that connection has faded.

This summer, the L.A. County Department of Beaches and Harbors (DBH) is working to change that.

This shift is meaningful. Communities are reconnecting with the coast through joy, music, family, and access. It all kicks off on Saturday, May 31, with Marina Culture Jam, a free, family-friendly event from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Burton Chace Park, celebrating the 60th anniversary of Marina del Rey.

The Marina will come alive with taiko drummers, Peruvian folk musicians, community drum circles, food trucks, resource booths, and $1 WaterBus rides—all with harbor views in the background. It’s all part of Marina del Rey for All, an initiative to ensure the Marina feels welcoming and accessible to everyone, not just those living nearby.

Throughout the year, the Marina hosts free outdoor concerts, family movie nights, cultural festivals, and community events that bring people together by the water. Visitors can also enjoy a wide range of recreational activities—from kayaking and sailing to biking along the Marvin Braude Coastal Trail or relaxing with a picnic in the park.

Marina del Rey is for all of us. When our families show up, we’re not just enjoying a day out— we’re reclaiming space. Learn more at beaches.lacounty.gov/mdrevent.

Among those leaders were Starr-Jordan, event coorganizers LaNiece Jones (Oakland) and Patrice Marshall McKenzie (Pasadena), NAACP board member LaJuana Bevins from Stockton, BWOPA President Dezie Wood-Jones, and 100 Black Women Oakland-Bay Area President Shari Woodridge, CBM Executive Director Regina Wilson, and founder of the BWC Kellie Todd Griffin were recognized for their contributions. They were accompanied to the Senate and Assembly chambers by former Assemblywoman Cheryl Brown, who represented a Southern California district covering areas in San Bernardino County. “We are proud to recognize another Divine 9 organization,” Ransom said on the Assembly floor, referring to the historically Black Greek-letter fraternities and sororities. “These individuals and the many members with them today represent what Black collective action looks like.”

Memorial Day Ceremony and Remembrance

By Ricky Richardson Contributing Writer

Monday, May 26, the nation paused to honor and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Their sacrifice is a solemn reminder of the true cost of freedom. Across the country, people gathered to reflect, express gratitude, and keep alive the memory of our nation’s fallen heroes.

Locally, the cities of Lawndale and Hawthorne hosted heartfelt Memorial Day ceremonies that brought together veterans, civic leaders, community members, and families for moments of unity and reverence.

In Lawndale, the ceremony was held at Veterans Memorial Wall in William Green Park.

Local officials, including Mayor Robert PullenMiles, addressed the crowd, honoring the courage and sacrifice of those who served. The program featured a color guard presentation, the playing of taps, and a moment of silence. Several community members placed wreaths and flags at the memorial in quiet tribute.

“We must never forget the lives that were lost defending our freedoms,” said Mayor PullenMiles. “Their legacy lives on through our collective memory and our commitment to peace.” Attendees reflected on what the day meant to them personally.

“It brings tears to my eyes every year,” said Lawndale resident Angela Simmons, whose father served in Vietnam. “But it also fills me with pride. This is a time for healing and gratitude.”

Meanwhile in Hawthorne, the ceremony took place at City Hall Plaza, where veterans groups, students, and residents gathered under clear morning skies. The event included remarks from local veterans, patriotic music from the Hawthorne High School band, and a flag-lowering ceremony led by Boy Scouts Troop 722.

Councilmember Alex Monteiro emphasized the importance of educating younger generations about the meaning of Memorial Day. “It’s more than just a long weekend,” he said. “It’s a time to teach our children about sacrifice, service, and history.”

For many in attendance, the community atmosphere and intergenerational presence made the event especially meaningful.

“I brought my kids so they can understand the importance of honoring those who came before us,” said Michael Randle, a Hawthorne resident and U.S. Army veteran. “These ceremonies aren’t just about the past—they’re about shaping how we remember, and how we move forward.”

The ceremonies in both cities served as reminders that honoring our fallen heroes is not just a one-day event but a lasting commitment to remembrance and respect.

Representatives from the NAACP, AKA’s BOWPA, California Black Media, and the Black Women’s Collective joined hundreds at the Capitol on May 19, 2025. (Photo credit: Robert Maryland, California Black Media)

Patrice Marshall McKenzie (AKA), Nichole S. Jordan (Far Western Regional Director, AKA), Dezie Woods-Jones (BOWPA), Lajuana Bivins (NAACP), Kellie Todd Griffin (President & CEO, Black Women’s Collective Empowerment Institute), and Regina Wilson (California Black Media) represented their organizations on the floor of the Legislature, May 19, 2025.

(Photo credit: Robert Maryland, California Black Media)

Senator Laura Richardson, Lawndale Mayor Robert Pullen-Miles and Congresswoman

Maxine Waters, (Photo by Ricky Richardson)

Awards Presentation by Senator Laura Richardson, (Photo by Ricky Richardson)