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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

Volume 33 Number 18

Observer Group Newspapers of Southern California

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Thursday, March 1, 2018

Los Angeles Rams Host Cheerleader 2018 Auditions

(KEEP INSPIRING STRONG SISTAHS)

Women’s Retreat Held in Burbank

By Darlene L. Williams Los Angeles News Observer 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.

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

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 movement and brand. It’s powerful 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

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

First Black Female Nominated to State Hall of Fame

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

Continued on page A2

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.

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

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.

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.

World & Nation

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THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER

Thursday, March 1, 2018

A Message of Hope

News Observer The Valley’s

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Continued from page A1

aside some financial support for his education. It was clear to me that their hopes and dreams are the same ones that we all have for our children – not just a better life, but a life where our children can achieve their potential, reaching the stars and beyond.

The Super Sunday initiative, now in its 13th year, represents a critical partnership between the CSU and African American churches throughout the state to encourage our youth to pursue higher education. We are appreciative of the connection with many churches throughout the years that have welcomed us into their congregations and facilitated our reaching more than 1 million students and families since its inception.

Key to this initiative is the clear message of promoting educational opportunity. Over the years, I and scores of other CSU emissaries have visited congregations across California to provide information about the system, entry requirements, financial aid and academic programs.

We have answered questions about effectively bridging between schools, community colleges and the CSU. And we have worked to improve preparation and graduation rates of students so that they are successful in earning their degrees in a timely manner to be able to move toward their post-university goals.

But beyond gaining knowledge about the CSU, I believe the most impactful messages at Super Sunday, as reflected in my engagement with that great-grandmother, have been those engendering hope, supporting aspirations, and extending a message that you are welcome in the CSU and we will support you in the pursuit of your educational dreams.

These messages are not only being extended to the typical college-age students, or those in the K-12 pipeline, or the community college transfers, but also to the adult re-entry returning students. It is a message that highlights our campuses as the California engine of social mobility.

The 23 campuses of the California State University system seek to proactively reach out to underserved communities and multicultural populations, and we are committed to developing partnerships that are aimed at increasing the college-going rate. We know that education offers enormous benefits to the individual and can be transformational in positively impacting the family, community and society. We also acknowledge that much work remains to be done. It is projected by the Public Policy Institute of California that the state will need over 1 million more college graduates by 2030 in order to keep pace with the changing economy. We can ill afford to leave talent on the cutting-room floor of society. The CSU is ready to meet this challenge and will be the major pipeline for that future growth. And we must be intentional in assuring that our African American youth remain a focus as we work across all communities to promote an inclusive educational experience.

Super Sunday is a groundbreaking program that, at its core, helps CSU cultivate a relationship with children, high school students, their families and adults as a catalyst for deeper engagement. It’s an opportunity for the CSU system and campus leaders to share our message directly with underserved populations in their communities where they live, work and worship. It demonstrates our pledge to accessibility and our value of the religious and cultural institutions that have been a mainstay for so many.

Our direct engagement helps to break down misconceptions, acknowledge common and unique challenges, and make ourselves approachable. Most importantly, we can communicate how a degree in higher education is attainable and how we can join in making the dreams for all children a reality.

learn more >

On Ten Year Anniversary,

Airbnb co-founder Brian Chesky announces slate of new programs and benefits for hosts and guests, during a presentation at the Nob Hill Masonic Center in San Francisco, Calif.

(Freddie Allen/AMG/NNPA)

Plans to Reach 1 Billion Guests by 2028

Airbnb Expands Services

By Freddie Allen Editor-In-Chief, NNPA Newswire Celebrating the ten-year anniversary of the launch of their homesharing platform, Airbnb recently announced a number of new initiatives aimed at improving services for hosts and guests and increasing its customer base in the crowded online travel industry.

During a presentation about the app’s new features at the Nob Hill Masonic Center in San Francisco, Brian Chesky, a co-founder of Airbnb and the company’s CEO, said that when he and Joe Gebbia inflated three airbeds in their San Francisco apartment, they never dreamed of what Airbnb would become.

“In fact, people thought the idea that strangers would stay in each other’s homes was crazy,” Chesky said. “Today, millions of people every night do just that.”

Airbnb announced that “superhosts”—known for their fast response times, high ratings (4.8 or higher, overall), and at least 10 guest stays a year—would be eligible for 14 new and updated benefits including annual credit toward travel or a professional photography session, exclusive pricing on select Nest connected home products in available countries, and access to tax preparation support.

By the fall, superhosts will receive additional benefits like access to Airbnb’s marketing partners and a custom URL (web address) to make their listings easier to find and share.

“Airbnb is one of the world’s largest accommodation platforms with 4.5 million places to stay in 81,000 cities,” a press statement about the company’s new programs said.

“Over the last 10 years, Airbnb hosts earned more than $41 billion and guests have checked into an Airbnb more than 300 million times.”

The company plans to reach more than 1 billion guests per year by 2028.

During the presentation, Chesky shared the story of Pamellah, a superhost that lives in Nairobi, Kenya.

A few years ago, Pamellah, who owns a wedding business, often encountered brides that were frustrated, because family members couldn’t find housing during wedding celebrations.

Chesky said that Pamellah decided to save her money, buy a house, and post it on Airbnb.

“A few years later, 1,000 guests have stayed with Pamellah,” said Chesky. “You can imagine all of the countless friendships.”

Chesky continued: “It’s super important that we invest in our superhosts.”

Superhosts earn 22 percent more than other hosts, according to Airbnb.

Airbnb also revealed Collections, a service designed for greater customization and transparency for its guests.

Collections for Social stays, Weddings, Honeymoons, Group getaways and Dinner parties will be added later this year, according to the press statement.

The homesharing platform also added a “Airbnb Plus” program “for guests looking for beautiful homes, exceptional hosts and added peace of mind.” Plus homes go through an in-person inspection that includes a 100+ point checklist.

“Airbnb Plus hosts benefit from top placement, inhome services such as design consultation and expert photography, and premium support,” a press statement about the service said.

Airbnb Plus will debut with 2000 homes in 13 cities including Los Angeles, Toronto, Milan and Shanghai.

During an interview with The New York Times, Chesky, said that those numbers would grow to include over 75,000 homes in more than 50 destinations.

In addition to the existing property types—Shared Space, Private Room and Entire Home—Airbnb will add four new property types to its platform: Vacation Home, Unique Space, B&B and Boutique.

A new “Superguest” program designed to offer benefits across a traveler’s entire trip will roll out on a trial basis this summer and to a wider audience, later this year.

CNBC reported that, “By expanding its listings and breaking out categories, HYPERLINK “https://www. cnbc.com/2018/02/22/airbnb-expands-hotel-listings-announces-loyalty-program.html” Airbnb is taking a page from major hotel companies and online travel agencies that offer different brands and price points. In turn, that could expand the start-up’s customer base as it heads toward an IPO in the next few years.”

Chesky said that hosts will continue to the lead the way on the Airbnb platform.

“I am really excited to see what the next 10 years looks like,” Chesky said.

By Manny Otiko California Black Media In March, State Senator Toni G. Atkins (D-San Diego) will become the first woman to lead the California Senate.

She will replace former Senate President pro Tempore Kevin de Leon (D-Los Angeles) who is running against Dianne Feinstein for a seat in the U.S. Senate. Before being elected to the State Senate, Atkins worked as director of clinic services at Womancare Health Center and served as a city council member and mayor of San Diego.

She was later elected to the State Assembly eventually serving as the first female speaker.

Atkins was elected President pro Tempore by the Senate Democratic Caucus in January and will officially take office on March 21.

“Leading this great State Senate and our united and always productive Caucus at this crucial moment in history is an extraordinary opportunity and a great responsibility – and I believe every senator has a vital role in building a brighter future for the Californians we represent,” said Atkins.

Atkins, who represents the 39th District in the San Diego area, grew up in Virginia, the daughter of two blue-collar parents. She cites this as one of the reasons why she has supports affect policies such as universal healthcare coverage. Atkins also supported the state’s first Earned Income Tax Credit.

As Speaker of the House, she also helped prevent the University of California from implementing a 27 percent fee increase. She has also authored SB 2, which provides permanent budget funding to address affordable housing, which is a major issue for many Californians.

“Homelessness has become a humanitarian crisis in many areas of California, and my home city of San Diego has been hit hard. There’s far too much suffering on our streets,” said Atkins. “SB 2 will help by providing desperately needed funding for permanent housing with supportive services to stabilize people who are living with significant medical or mental-health issues.”

As leader of the State Senate, Atkins will have her hands full dealing with the #Metoo movement, which has raised national awareness about sexual harassment. Democratic Senator Tony Mendoza (D-Artesia) has already resigned due to the scandal, and Senator Bob Hertzberg (D-Los Angeles) is currently under investigation for sexual harassment.

“Our first priority is to create a safe working environment for our employees, and accepting Tony Mendoza’s resignation is consistent with that goal. Going forward, I will work with my colleagues to ensure that our zero-tolerance policies on sexual harassment are backed up with strong enforcement in order to guarantee that all employees are protected,” said Atkins.

First Woman to Lead California Senate

BORN TO BE GREAT To be ready for the jobs of the future, students need learning experiences that meet them where they are, engage them deeply, let them progress at a pace that meets their individual needs, and helps them master the skills for today and tomorrow. To learn more about ESSA and how you can get involved, visit www.nnpa.org/essa.

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© 2018 National Newspaper Publishers Association. All rights reserved

PG&E’s Black Media Grant Continued from page A1

tion about how PG&E’s Black Employee Resource Group supports the community, the company’s PowerPathway workforce development program, the ways PG&E’s supplier diversity program assists diverse suppliers and the role GPS plays in damage prevention to PG&E equipment.

CBM Executive Director Regina Brown Wilson said PG&E’s support shows the company is “all about their customers and the people they serve.” She praised PG&E for their interest in making sure the community is informed about issues affecting them.

“We need the resources so we can continue to do the

work,” said Brown Wilson. “We need to empower people with relevant information they can understand. The people must know before they can act and there’s no educator like the press. (-Ida B. Wells) “California Black Media wants to make sure our community is included in a meaningful way. It’s critical to have partnerships like the one with PG&E so we can continue to educate the community,” added Brown Wilson. “You don’t want to tell them how to think, but you want them to have the information so they can think and then engage.

PG&E understands the importance of keeping people informed.”

Thursday, March 1, 2018

THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER A3

Features

Mystery Confines Estebanico,

Black Explorer of US Southwest

By RUSSELL CONTRERAS Associated Press ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) _ A black Moroccan slave who explored present-day Texas, New Mexico and Arizona with Spanish conquistadors is credited with being the first person of African descent to enter the American Southwest, but he's all but absent from the states' histories.

Estebanico guided the shipwrecked Spaniards through Native American communities thanks to his language and healing skills before leading a second expedition, which ended in his disappearance.

But while scholars say the American Southwest likely would not have been settled by Europeans without Estebanico, there are no parks, buildings or malls named in his honor like they are for other Spanish conquistadors.

Tourism agencies have informational webpages about Estebanico's past, but there are no tourism sites around his historic journeys.

American literary studies professor Finnie Coleman, from the University of New Mexico, said black people “have never had a place” in New Mexico's official heritage and the heritage of the Southwest.

“To embrace Estebanico,” Coleman said, “would be to embrace a new narrative.”

Scholars believe Estebanico, who's known by many other names, including Estevanico, Esteban and Esteban the Moor, was born in Morocco around 1500 and likely was sold into slavery in the port city of Azemmour by Portuguese slave traders amid a famine.

Spanish aristocrat Andres Dorantes bought Estebanico and took him along for Panfilo de Narvaez's ill-fated expedition of 1527 to colonize Florida and the Gulf Coast.

A series of storms left some of the party in Florida while others sailed across the Gulf of Mexico to seek Spanish settlements.

Estebanico, Dorantes and a handful of other Spaniards landed on present-day Galveston, Texas, and began their eight-year journey to find a Spanish settlement back in present-day Mexico. Estebanico guided the last of three fellow survivors through Texas and northern Mexico as a

free man while adopting traditions of the Native American tribes they encountered, according to accounts by two of the survivors.

After being located by Spanish authorities, Estebanico and his surviving party were taken to Mexico City, where authorities persuaded him to help lead another expedition into Arizona and New Mexico in search of cities made of gold. Historians believe Estebanico agreed to join the expedition to escape a life of slavery that awaited him in Mexico City or back in Spain.

During his second expedition, Estebanico, according to historical accounts, was killed at Zuni Pueblo either in confusion or because he angered elders with his mistreatment of Zuni women.

Or was he?

British scholar Robert Goodwin suggested in his 2009 book, “Crossing the Continent 1527-1540: The Story of the First African-American Explorer of the American South,” that Estebanico may have staged his death to escape slavery.

Coleman, the professor, said Estebanico “was like an ancient Tupac,” referring to the late hip-hop artist, who some fans believe is still alive.

University of New Mexico law professor Kevin Washburn, a citizen of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma, said Estebanico is forgotten in the Southwest's story largely due to racism.

“History can't just be the public relation job done by the victors,” Washburn said. “It's got to be everyone's history.”

Coleman, who is black and Native American, said some tribes blame Estebanico for hardships they later experienced and that may be another reason he's largely forgotten.

“A Pueblo elder once told me, `We never forgot it was you who brought them here,”' referring to a black person leading the Spanish into New Mexico and Arizona, Coleman said.

Some anthropologists say a Pueblo tribe spiritual being named Chakwaina, which appears in Hopi, Zuni and Keresan ceremonies, is a representation of Estebanico.

The New Mexico Tourism Department doesn't know of any monuments or anything else named after Estebanico in the state, spokeswoman Bailey Griffith said. But the department had on its website information about him and his effect on the European settlement of New Mexico.

Texas and Arizona also have websites on Estebanico's

legacy but don't appear to have any monuments honoring him.

The chair of the Twelve Travelers Memorial of the Southwest, a group that promotes the history of El Paso, Texas, through statues, said sculptor John Sherrill Houser had discussed doing something to honor Estebanico, but Houser died last month in Tucson, Arizona, and currently there are no plans.

“It would be nice to have something on him,” group chair Kenna Ramirez said. “He's part of our history.”

For the First-Time Ever,

An African-American is CHP’s Top Cop

By Madlen Grgodjaian | California Black Media Day’s before the close of Black History month, a bit of black history was made atop the ranks of the California Highway Patrol.

Governor Jerry Brown swore in Warren Stanley, a CHP officer of over three decades, as the California law enforcement agency’s commissioner during a Feb. 26 ceremony at the State Capitol in Sacramento.

Stanley is the first African-American ever to lead the CHP. The man of law said he is very humbled to be appointed to his new post by Brown.

“I’m going to do everything I can everyday to make the state of California a little bit safer and a great place to live,” Stanley said.

The new CHP commissioner has held every rank in the department including field training officer, lieutenant of the Border Division Investigative Services Unit, commander of the CHP Academy, and deputy commissioner.

Employed by the CHP since 1982, Stanley now leads the largest state law enforcement agency in the nation composed of over 11,000 employees. Stanley will earn nearly $260,000 a year in his new role.

Raised in Central Valley’s Merced County Dos Palos, the commissioner always knew he wanted to be in law enforcement. Stanley graduated from the CHP academy when he was 20 and worked his way up the ranks.

The Sacramento resident graduated from the FBI’s National Executive Institute, and earned a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from California State University, Los Angeles.

Stanley was appointed to the rank of Assistant Commissioner, Staff in 2010 and two years later earned the rank of Assistant Commissioner, Field – making him one of few to hold both positions within the CHP. Brown made Stanley acting CHP Commissioner in 2017, taking the reins from former Commissioner Joe Farrow.

California Highway Patrol (Courtesy Photo)

On Feb. 9 Brown announced Stanley’s appointment as Commissioner of the CHP. Acting Transportation Agency Secretary Brian Annis said Stanley would excel in his position.

“CHP Commissioner Stanley has served the public for more than 35 years with the California Highway Patrol, excelling at every role from patrol officer to deputy commissioner where he oversaw the day-to-day operations of

the CHP,” Annis said.

“Warren has led the CHP’s response in the face of some of the worst natural disasters in this state’s history.

We know that under his leadership the department will continue to uphold its mission.”

The 56-year-old is a proud public servant who is determined to create trust among the public and CHP by breaking race and ethnic lines. Stanley and his team are actively involved in a variety of communities, including the African American community.

“Our CHP officers in L.A. County a few years ago created a community engagement team,” said Stanley. “That team works directly with educational leaders, spiritual leaders, political leaders, and other community leaders in the African American community, so we can get better ties and be better engaged. Find out what their needs are and what services they’re looking for. I’ve been meeting with several leaders down there in Southern California.”

In 2015, Assembly Bill 953 was enacted which prohibits a peace officer from engaging in racial profiling and requires training to prescribe patterns, practices, and protocols that prevent racial profiling. Existing law requires the Legislative Analyst’s Office to conduct a study of the data that is voluntarily collected by jurisdictions that have instituted a program of data collection with regard to racial profiling.

AB 953 requires the Racial and Identity Profiling Advisory Board produce a report each year on past and current statuses of racial and identity profiling with policy recommendations for eliminating it. Stanley is a RIPA board member and will be implementing this process into the CHP in July.

“I can use the feedback from that data and bring it back to my executive staff and to my personnel and say, ‘Here is what the data is showing us that is going on in these communities, here are the stops they are making and here is how they’re handling them,’” Stanley said. “It’ll give us a lot of feedback we can use for training and to enhance our operations, and to enhance our trust with the communities that we serve.”

Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., the president and CEO of the NNPA, delivers remarks during a Black History Month celebration at the Twelfth Street Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Washington, D.C. (Claudette Perry/NNPA)

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Volume 33 Number 15

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Black Entrepreneur has rver ObseMillennial NewsSuccess in Call Center Industry The Val

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February Thursday,

8, 2018

California

usment Park s Name preneur ha Am Changing ” nnial Entre of “Rebel Yell ster Black MilleCall Center Industry Roller Coa in us” s r Average Geni Johnson Jr. Says He’s Just “Your Average Genius” Succes He’s Just “YouTavere Observer

Volume 33

NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. Talks about the ‘Freedom Movement’ and the Black Press at Twelfth Street Christian Church

ers of Southern

Group Newspap

Number 15

t Virginia amusemen Va. (AP) - Aa roller coaster named of RICHMOND, the moniker soldier.

Confederatereports that Kings park is changing whoop of a after the war its “Rebel Times-Dispatch great.” of The Richmond t park will rebrand in and to be you believe view of stress.

The park outside amusemen all for what Johnson has a unique subtitled “Enemies and Dominion coaster as “Racer 75.”

In fact, debatof his book, Yell” roller opened in 1975. to battle adversity been widely Roof In one chapter explains the need Richmond Dylann symbols have Johnson frown stress.

Confederate d white supremacist rs at a church Obstacles,” overcome bythe word stress and they and not being erican parishioneSince then, nued since self-avowe look at If you are stressed, African-Am “Most people“I actually enjoy stress. is at risk, so the killed nine , South Carolina, in 2015. said. about have been reviewing upon it,” he that you care going to do about in Charleston including Richmond something you cities are it means blog demerous ‘What symbols.

Dominion question becomes, Confederate post on the Kings a “revitalization.” approaches of A Friday note that he it?’” manager applicachange as part s Johnson’s friends public relations an eye on what’s scribes the name asked sensitivitie with to GeThe newspaperif the change was due life and business she said – Your Average y. On Saturday, ble.

Katelyn Sherwood He said “YAGthe budding businesste iconograph of the park.” over Confedera evaluating elements nius,” is for titan of the industry “we’re constantly person, the everyday go-getter. how or even the a way of sharing The tome is not religious—and but a spiritual— will bring success s’ resourcpositive approach g individual by maximizin g obstacles with climbed es, approachin and taking time to the corpothe energy and positive ladder, person’s goal them, rate he also consider a and of obtaining Johnson said and trade shows consequences sisters I attended to further his knowledge he said.

(AP) - Two in my life, generation seminars ATER, Mass.

“At this point his first lead he used his permanently . a positive impact EAST BRIDGEW a 5-year-old girl, rid her of a later Johnson founded with,” experience want to make to burned At just 21, a group of partners, and agency call rub shoulders tied down and in a voodoo ritual meantsaid. The womon people I lead generation than $4 center with Johnson call capital to start a healthcare disfiguring her, her to misbehave, police the girl’s 8-yearvalued at more Johnson said. to own which he said is currently Born in Jamaica, head of demon causing immigrated Johnson to cut off the center, said. call centers,” and his family least en also threateneda machete, authorities settled in Florida, million. down on at with the more dynamic the U.S. and 13. old brother said his sister was tied “It’s one of milestone. her face when he was said he’d always blew fire over with a was a personal disThe boy said. book, he said, he didn’t want to just Johnson while the sisters collar area who played Writing the that two occasions the arm and in the to police. right away family friends. been “a hustler,” sneakers. cut her on blood, according her eyes a Johnson knew to his parents anda positive impact, so for and stand drawing book sports and loved over object, the impact, after I got needle-like the women also poured “I had a lemonade at a car tribute“I want to make an from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m., together,” went to work“I was a of The girl said stung. months andwrote and put this book and then I Hilaire, 40, said. six or seven I substance that , 51, and Rachel girl and threatwash,” Johnson who put himself out of the daily grind, That’s the Peggy LaBossiere average genius. sponge, though, people, because I he said. er, denied injuring reported . They : “I am the and encourages me to right and East Bridgewatthe Brockton Enterprise me around the I don’t Johnson continued assault and entrepreneurial e of what drives to mayhem, shoulders with. always had that ening the boy, didn’t on Jan. 29 the cornerstoneveryone that I rub like everybody can acwomen guilty the he’s spirit.” for not said in hustler pleaded Johnson instill this cliché genius and I feelwill, so I want to be of A public defender In a lot of ways, Johnson, Sr. I on Saturday.

Haiother charges. think I’m a Tavere have and what seeking comment hair stylist of like his father,mentor and he motivates complish what I everyone return a call the girl’s mother is a requestsaid he wishes ment.”

“He’s my hybrid of him, as a client and Police say message Johnson said. “I’m a especially in encourage who has LaBossierecharged but is receiving If there’s one the book, he said its positivity. me,” Johnson been tian descent said. more tenacious, it and is from She has not the root of would take wins,” Johnson but I’m a little ed the ritual. treatment. age, but he’s from there.”

Superior Court “Positivity always health this digital Brockton springs call in of mental back whether be going. Everything corporate world The sisters will a hearing to determine what’s got mebegan his career in the from Jamaica. As he is the auy for he arrived Johnson Jr. Johnson on Wednesda to be released. have performed eur Tavere Johnson Jr.) three years after entrepren (Tavere that they centers just they’re too dangerous the past, told police Black millennial Average Genius.” friends in The sisters thor of “Your rubbing family and chanting prayers, “cleansing baths”for salt on their that involves oils and sea something on Twitter. and eucalyptus the newspaper reported. speech and completely Lucy Amato l is the frankincense Bowl,” stateda “Martin Luther King” burning myrrh, for a truck acommercia as spirits leave stateof the late “Using bodies, and get burned CONTEXT in typical King, the daughter it OUT OF Twitter user reacted Children sometimes and Bernice her face is the taking another an annuKing Center ee burn across a disgrace,” @BerniceKing body, they said. a have become a third-degr police said.

Center nor civil rights leader. words or imagmarketing to ment. advertisements The girl suffered tly disfigured, custody by “Neither @TheKing use of #MLK’s (movies, muSuper Bowlthe expensive and targetedproducts are deher permanen into Victoria Burke r and ads entity that approves the ise, entertainment tonight’s @ where as that will leave at a hospital and taken brother, who

By Lauren Contributo al obsession has become a place ads have also become merchand Freeman rapping her including singer in treated Newswire ent, tweet with use with Morgan was Bowl for NNPA along She with fast cars huge audiencefirst time. Super the many marketing magic ery artwork, etc) or advertisem l,” The King Center authorities, the sisters’ house There were ads the world and sic, happened at commercia state welfare

buted for the to analyze and study of the ads seen from around ads with medieval themes, police what with babies Dodge #SuperBowl the ad was broadcast. y of the assassi- an annual time as the “hits and misses” re were described to days. and Tennes- strategy, as well and voice of stated not long after the 50th anniversar Steven Tyler. The practices developed, voice words multiple Memphis, the in King’s over religious 2018 was Jr. to April 4, the game. and song. there was the ad using Dodge Ram sell trucks. the Caribbean Luther King, the ad featuring over the coming Voodoo refers Africans in like during Then Jr. to sell in a speech of Dr. MartinJames Earl Ray. It’s likely that the source of analysis on some of the are sometimes by enslaved that use icons of Luther King, great,” Dr. King said “You only nation the practices centuries ago ls are those like a Dodge Ram words will likely be also Luther Dr. Martin see, at the hands reignite discussion can be and Martin words. primarily in Haiti, where he was murdered. worst commercia things Matt might King “Everybody ad sell “The before love.”

Chief to by and Dexter Jr days. The months image made by players, Martin Luther King Globe Deputy Bureau in 1968, twofull of grace; soul generated spelled “vodou.” use of their father’s decisions being to Boston images of football one who noticed. Luther King Jr. King III regarding the need a heart ent featuredresponders as a backdrop truck,” tweeted wasn’t the only ed Martin to sell trucks to an image The advertisem troops and first ent ended with to Serve.” Viser. HeRam Truck appropriat black “So, cowboys, U.S. The advertisemthe cast + 1 tokenin the 1950s. #Superwords “Built protest on and used an all white King’s voiceover. as if we’re back a Dodge truck, trucks provokedSuper Bowl and of a soldier, l for Dodge many Trump supporters The commercia after it aired fromtweet from the The shortly social media It also induced a reaction LII viewers.

Jr. Says Tavere Johnson

By Stacy M. Brown all for what you believe in and to be great.”

NNPA Newswire Contributor In fact, Johnson has a unique view of stress.

At 28, Tavere Johnson Jr. has In one chapter of his book, subtitled “Enemies and established himself as an author, Obstacles,” Johnson explains the need to battle adversity creative entrepreneur and, as many and not being overcome by stress.

Girl who know him say, a forward ld “Most people look at the word stress and they frown 5-year-O Voodoo thinker.

Burned in rged upon it,” he said. “I actually enjoy stress. If you are stressed, The Jamaican-born Johnson it means something that you care about is at risk, so the Ritual 2 Cha has still another way of describquestion becomes, ‘What are you going to do about ing himself: “Your Average Geit?’” nius,” or “YAG” for short, which Johnson’s friends note that he approaches also happens to be the title of his life and business with an eye on what’s applicanew book that should hit book ble. stores this year.

He said “YAG – Your Average Ge“I just try to nius,” is for the budding businessreveal the person, the titan of the industry very simple or even the everyday go-getter. idea of the ks The tome is a way of sharing how Truc a v e r a g e MLK to Sell a spiritual—but not religious—and l Us e n ing ius, positive approach will bring success Superbow gwho lives by maximizing individuals’ resourcinside all es, approaching obstacles with of us,” positive energy and taking time to Johnconsider a person’s goal and the Who s o n consequences of obtaining them, Bank Robber ey on said. m Ends he said.

Threw Mon gra Pro way “I Stu useddent Intern “At this point in my life, I SoCal Free rer Sentenced want to make a positive impact City Treasu t h e word on people I rub shoulders with,” average Johnson said. not to Born in Jamaica, Johnson downand his family immigrated to p l a y the U.S. and settled in Florida, t h e when he was 13. greatJohnson said he’d always n e s s been “a hustler,” who played of us, sports and loved sneakers. but to “I had a lemonade stand encourand then I went to work at a car age and wash,” Johnson said. “I was a promote sponge, though, who put himself courage, around the right people, because I work ethalways had that entrepreneurial and ics, drive, hustler spirit.” self-confiIn a lot of ways, Johnson said he’s dence and like his father, Tavere Johnson, Sr. the willing“He’s my mentor and he motivates ness to risk it me,” Johnson said. “I’m a hybrid of him, but I’m a little more tenacious, especially in this digital age, but he’s the root of it and is Black millennial entrepreneur Tavere Johnson Jr. is the auwhat’s got me going. Everything springs from there.” thor of “Your Average Genius.” (Tavere Johnson Jr.) Johnson began his career in the corporate world of call centers just three years after he arrived from Jamaica. As he

Amusment Park Changing Name of “Rebel Yell” Celebrating BLACK HISTORY Roller Coaster The Valley’s

News Observer

Brown

By Stacy M. Contributor Jr. has NNPA Newswire Johnson At 28, Tavere as an author, himself established ur and, as many forward creative entreprene him say, a who know thinker. orn Johnson The Jamaican-b way of describGehas still another “Your Average which ing himself: for short, of his nius,” or “YAG” to be the title also happens should hit book new book that stores this year. to “I just try the reveal very simple idea of the average genius, who lives inside all of us,” Johns o n said.

“I used t h e word average not to downp l a y t h e greatn e s s of us, but to encourage and promote courage, work ethics, drive, self-conf idence and the willing-it ness to risk

who _ A bank robber E, Calif. (AP) a Southern California endRIVERSID Wanda Brown Treasurer onto Intern Program been senof stolen cash City of Inglewood by police has Treasurer Student in the program. threw wads being chased The 13th City 38 students enrolled meet with City highway while years in prison.

2017. that 25-yearwhere studentsa half hours. The ed December tenced to seven Service reported Monday last week to and week program It is a four Wanda Brown for two the interns with the City News pleaded guilty felony evadhow their Treasurer Dr. program is to acquaint Jerome Burke charge of government, old Thomas s dropped a focus of the of Municipal community and how their robbery. Prosecutor day to day operations Important fichase that endofficials represent ing. on a high-speedAmerica branch local elected the City Treasurer functions.

Rule of 72, such as, the Burke led deputies a Bank of a basic the office of were also taught after robbing to give them he tossed money nancial concepts compound interest, ed with a crash During the pursuit of Los Anthey 15 southeast bond concepts,of how money works. in Lake Elsinore.

Chamber wheremayor, onto Interstate understanding visited the Council out of the car the roles of stopping on Students ty to play attorney, geles. seeing motorists the opportuni city clerk, city interns were given Witnesses reported city treasurer, cash. the student presentato pick up the authorities asked anyone council members, Mayor Butts invited give them a the highway was arrested unclear if anyand city manager.conference room to the history of how it After Burke return it. It’s and to the executive the money to in their city Councilman Alex Padilla, who grabbed condetails of today. tion about changes Burke has prior be what it is also provided kids with for the one did. photo) has come to court records, lunch courtesy district 2, According to the City Tresurer who represents consist of and he provided robbery. of for interns. (Office or June victions, including what his duties of the four sessions. , 911 Dispatch d by the student again in May Dr. surrounde interns for oneResidential Sound Insulation During the Powill be offered program contact Wanda Brown The program Tours of were provided. a K-9 demonat the n about the City Treasurer Department given Inglewood were presentedparents, 2018. For informatio 412-5642. and the Police nt tour students were jail. at (310) 100%! 38 plaques 60 student interns, Wanda Brown lice Departme as a tour through the examination to see students scored ceremony. Overthe event. stration as wellwere given a take-home they were able to plaque awards attended n taught Students for pass- and family members of the informatio was required 5 how much score of 85% 90% percentile and in the grasp. A minimum the scores were ing. Most of

Thursday, February 8, 2018

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RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - A Virginia amusement park is changing the moniker of a roller coaster named after the war whoop of a Confederate soldier.

The Richmond Times-DispatchBlack reportsMillennial that Kings Entrepreneur has Dominion amusement park will rebrand Successitsin“Rebel Call Center Industry Tavere Johnson Jr. Says He’s Just “Your Average Genius” Yell” roller coaster as “Racer 75.” The park outside of Richmond opened in 1975.

Confederate symbols have been widely debated since self-avowed white supremacist Dylann Roof killed nine African-American parishioners at a church in Charleston, South Carolina, in 2015. Since then, numerous cities including Richmond have been reviewing Confederate symbols.

A Friday post on the Kings Dominion blog describes the name change as part of a “revitalization.”

The newspaper asked public relations manager Katelyn Sherwood if the change was due to sensitivities over Confederate iconography. On Saturday, she said “we’re constantly evaluating elementsSuperbowl of the park.”Using MLK to Sell Trucks Volume 33 Number 15

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Contributor At 28, Tavere Johnson Jr. has established himself as an author, creative entrepreneur and, as many who know him say, a forward thinker.

The Jamaican-born Johnson has still another way of describing himself: “Your Average Genius,” or “YAG” for short, which also happens to be the title of his new book that should hit book stores this year.

“I just try to reveal the very simple idea of the average genius, who lives inside all of us,” Johns o n said.

“I used t h e word average not to downp l a y t h e greatn e s s of us, but to encourage and promote courage, work ethics, drive, self-confidence and the willingness to risk it

Black millennial entrepreneur Tavere Johnson Jr. is the author of “Your Average Genius.” (Tavere Johnson Jr.)

climbed the corporate ladder, Johnson said he also attended trade shows and seminars to further his knowledge and experience.

At just 21, Johnson founded his first lead generation call center with a group of partners, and later he used his own capital to start a healthcare lead generation agency call center, which he said is currently valued at more than $4 million.

“It’s one of the more dynamic call centers,” Johnson said.

Writing the book, he said, was a personal milestone.

Johnson knew right away that he didn’t want to just distribute the book to his parents and family friends.

“I want to make an impact, a positive impact, so for six or seven months and from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m., after I got out of the daily grind, I wrote and put this book together,” he said.

Johnson continued: “I am the average genius. That’s the cornerstone of what drives me and encourages me to instill this in everyone that I rub shoulders with. I don’t think I’m a cliché genius and I feel like everybody can accomplish what I have and what I will, so I want to be of encouragement.”

If there’s one message Johnson said he wishes everyone would take from the book, he said its positivity.

“Positivity always wins,” Johnson said.

By Lauren Victoria Burke NNPA Newswire Contributor There were ads with Morgan Freeman rapping and ads with babies from around the world and fast cars with singer Steven Tyler. There were ads with medieval themes, magic and song.

Then there was the ad using the words and voice of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to sell Dodge Ram sell trucks.

“Everybody can be great,” Dr. King said in a speech in 1968, two months before he was murdered. “You only need a heart full of grace; soul generated by love.”

The advertisement featured images of football players, cowboys, U.S. troops and first responders as a backdrop to King’s voiceover. The advertisement ended with an image of a soldier, a Dodge truck, and the words “Built to Serve.”

The commercial for Dodge trucks provoked protest on social media shortly after it aired from many Super Bowl LII viewers. It also induced a reaction tweet from the The

Observer Group Newspapers of Southern California

all for what you believe in and to be great.”

In fact, Johnson has a unique view of stress.

In one chapter of his book, subtitled “Enemies and Obstacles,” Johnson explains the need to battle adversity and not being overcome by stress.

“Most people look at the word stress and they frown upon it,” he said. “I actually enjoy stress. If you are stressed, it means something that you care about is at risk, so the question becomes, ‘What are you going to do about it?’”

Johnson’s friends note that he approaches life and business with an eye on what’s applicable.

He said “YAG – Your Average Genius,” is for the budding businessperson, the titan of the industry or even the everyday go-getter.

The tome is a way of sharing how a spiritual—but not religious—and positive approach will bring success by maximizing individuals’ resources, approaching obstacles with positive energy and taking time to consider a person’s goal and the consequences of obtaining them, he said.

“At this point in my life, I want to make a positive impact on people I rub shoulders with,” Johnson said.

Born in Jamaica, Johnson and his family immigrated to the U.S. and settled in Florida, when he was 13.

Johnson said he’d always been “a hustler,” who played sports and loved sneakers.

“I had a lemonade stand and then I went to work at a car wash,” Johnson said. “I was a sponge, though, who put himself around the right people, because I always had that entrepreneurial and hustler spirit.”

In a lot of ways, Johnson said he’s like his father, Tavere Johnson, Sr. “He’s my mentor and he motivates me,” Johnson said. “I’m a hybrid of him, but I’m a little more tenacious, especially in this digital age, but he’s the root of it and is what’s got me going. Everything springs from there.”

Johnson began his career in the corporate world of call centers just three years after he arrived from Jamaica. As he

King Center and Bernice King, the daughter of the late civil rights leader.

“Neither @TheKingCenter nor @BerniceKing is the entity that approves the use of #MLK’s words or imagery for use in merchandise, entertainment (movies, music, artwork, etc) or advertisement, including tonight’s @ Dodge #SuperBowl commercial,” The King Center tweet stated not long after the ad was broadcast.

April 4, 2018 was the 50th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in Memphis, Tennessee, at the hands of James Earl Ray. “The worst commercials are those that use icons like Martin Luther King Jr to sell things like a Dodge Ram truck,” tweeted Boston Globe Deputy Bureau Chief Matt Viser. He wasn’t the only one who noticed.

“So, Ram Truck appropriated Martin Luther King Jr. and used an all white cast + 1 token black to sell trucks to Trump supporters as if we’re back in the 1950s. #Super-

5-year-Old Girl Burned in Voodoo Ritual 2 Charged

climbed the corporate ladder, Johnson said he also attended trade shows and seminars to further his knowledge and experience.

At just 21, Johnson founded his first lead generation call center with a group of partners, and later he used his own capital to start a healthcare lead generation agency call center, which he said is currently valued at more than $4 million.

“It’s one of the more dynamic call centers,” Johnson said.

Writing the book, he said, was a personal milestone.

Johnson knew right away that he didn’t want to just distribute the book to his parents and family friends.

“I want to make an impact, a positive impact, so for six or seven months and from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m., after I got out of the daily grind, I wrote and put this book together,” he said.

Johnson continued: “I am the average genius. That’s the cornerstone of what drives me and encourages me to instill this in everyone that I rub shoulders with. I don’t think I’m a cliché genius and I feel like everybody can accomplish what I have and what I will, so I want to be of encouragement.”

If there’s one message Johnson said he wishes everyone would take from the book, he said its positivity.

“Positivity always wins,” Johnson said.

Bowl,” stated Lucy Amato on Twitter.

“Using a “Martin Luther King” speech and completely taking it OUT OF CONTEXT for a truck commercial is a disgrace,” another Twitter user reacted in a typical statement.

Super Bowl advertisements have become an annual obsession as the expensive and targeted marketing to a huge audience has become a place where products are debuted for the first time. Super Bowl ads have also become an annual time to analyze and study the many marketing strategy, as well as the “hits and misses” of the ads seen during the game.

It’s likely that the ad featuring King’s voice and words will likely be the source of analysis over the coming days. The ad might also reignite discussion on some of the decisions being made by Dexter King and Martin Luther King III regarding the use of their father’s image and words.

City Treasurer Student Intern Program Ends

Wanda Brown City of Inglewood Treasurer The 13th City Treasurer Student Intern Program ended December 2017. 38 students enrolled in the program.

It is a four week program where students meet with City Treasurer Dr. Wanda Brown for two and a half hours. The focus of the program is to acquaint the interns with the day to day operations of Municipal government, how their local elected officials represent their community and how the office of the City Treasurer functions. Important financial concepts were also taught such as, the Rule of 72, bond concepts, compound interest, to give them a basic understanding of how money works.

Students visited the Council Chamber where they were given the opportunity to play the roles of mayor, council members, city treasurer, city clerk, city attorney, and city manager. Mayor Butts invited the student interns to the executive conference room to give them a presentation about changes in their city and the history of how it has come to be what it is today. Councilman Alex Padilla, who represents district 2, also provided kids with details of what his duties consist of and he provided lunch for the interns for one of the four sessions.

Tours of Residential Sound Insulation, 911 Dispatch and the Police Department were provided. During the Police Department tour students were given a K-9 demonstration as well as a tour through the jail.

Students were given a take-home examination to see how much of the information taught they were able to grasp. A minimum score of 85% was required for passing. Most of the scores were in the 90% percentile and 5

EAST BRIDGEWATER, Mass. (AP) - Two sisters tied down and burned a 5-year-old girl, permanently disfiguring her, in a voodoo ritual meant to rid her of a demon causing her to misbehave, police said. The women also threatened to cut off the head of the girl’s 8-yearold brother with a machete, authorities said.

The boy said his sister was tied down on at least two occasions while the sisters blew fire over her face and cut her on the arm and in the collar area with a needle-like object, drawing blood, according to police.

The girl said the women also poured over her eyes a substance that stung.

Peggy LaBossiere, 51, and Rachel Hilaire, 40, of East Bridgewater, denied injuring the girl and threatening the boy, the Brockton Enterprise reported . They pleaded not guilty on Jan. 29 to mayhem, assault and other charges. A public defender for the women didn’t return a call seeking comment on Saturday.

Police say the girl’s mother is a hair stylist of Haitian descent who has LaBossiere as a client and requested the ritual. She has not been charged but is receiving mental health treatment.

The sisters will be back in Brockton Superior Court on Wednesday for a hearing to determine whether

Inglewood City Treasurer Wanda Brown surrounded by the student interns. (Office of the City Tresurer courtesy photo)

students scored 100%! 38 plaques were presented at the plaque awards ceremony. Over 60 student interns, parents, and family members attended the event.

The program will be offered again in May or June 2018. For information about the program contact Dr. Wanda Brown at (310) 412-5642.

Thursday, February 8, 2018

Amusment Park Changing Name of “Rebel Yell” Roller Coaster RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - A Virginia amusement park is changing the moniker of a roller coaster named after the war whoop of a Confederate soldier.

The Richmond Times-Dispatch reports that Kings Dominion amusement park will rebrand its “Rebel Yell” roller coaster as “Racer 75.” The park outside of Richmond opened in 1975.

Confederate symbols have been widely debated since self-avowed white supremacist Dylann Roof killed nine African-American parishioners at a church in Charleston, South Carolina, in 2015. Since then, numerous cities including Richmond have been reviewing Confederate symbols.

A Friday post on the Kings Dominion blog describes the name change as part of a “revitalization.”

The newspaper asked public relations manager Katelyn Sherwood if the change was due to sensitivities over Confederate iconography. On Saturday, she said “we’re constantly evaluating elements of the park.”

5-year-Old Girl Burned in Voodoo Ritual 2 Charged EAST BRIDGEWATER, Mass. (AP) - Two sisters tied down and burned a 5-year-old girl, permanently disfiguring her, in a voodoo ritual meant to rid her of a demon causing her to misbehave, police said. The women also threatened to cut off the head of the girl’s 8-yearold brother with a machete, authorities said.

The boy said his sister was tied down on at least two occasions while the sisters blew fire over her face and cut her on the arm and in the collar area with a needle-like object, drawing blood, according to police.

The girl said the women also poured over her eyes a substance that stung.

Peggy LaBossiere, 51, and Rachel Hilaire, 40, of East Bridgewater, denied injuring the girl and threatening the boy, the Brockton Enterprise reported . They pleaded not guilty on Jan. 29 to mayhem, assault and other charges. A public defender for the women didn’t return a call seeking comment on Saturday.

Police say the girl’s mother is a hair stylist of Haitian descent who has LaBossiere as a client and requested the ritual. She has not been charged but is receiving mental health treatment.

The sisters will be back in Brockton Superior Court on Wednesday for a hearing to determine whether they’re too dangerous to be released.

The sisters told police that they have performed “cleansing baths”for family and friends in the past, something that involves chanting prayers, rubbing frankincense and eucalyptus oils and sea salt on their bodies, and burning myrrh, the newspaper reported.

Children sometimes get burned as spirits leave the body, they said.

The girl suffered a third-degree burn across her face that will leave her permanently disfigured, police said.

She was treated at a hospital and taken into custody by state welfare authorities, along with her brother, who described to police what happened at the sisters’ house over multiple days.

Voodoo refers to religious practices developed centuries ago by enslaved Africans in the Caribbean, primarily in Haiti, where the practices are sometimes spelled “vodou.”

Bank Robber Who Threw Money on SoCal Freeway Sentenced

RIVERSIDE, Calif. (AP) _ A bank robber who threw wads of stolen cash onto a Southern California highway while being chased by police has been sentenced to seven years in prison.

City News Service reported Monday that 25-yearold Thomas Jerome Burke pleaded guilty last week to robbery. Prosecutors dropped a charge of felony evading.

Burke led deputies on a high-speed chase that ended with a crash after robbing a Bank of America branch in Lake Elsinore. During the pursuit he tossed money out of the car onto Interstate 15 southeast of Los Angeles.

Witnesses reported seeing motorists stopping on the highway to pick up the cash.

After Burke was arrested authorities asked anyone who grabbed the money to return it. It’s unclear if anyone did.

According to court records, Burke has prior convictions, including for robbery.

valleysnewsobserver.Com

By Lynette Monroe NNPA Newswire Contributor During a recent service celebrating Black History Month at the Twelfth Street Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., the president and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), expressed gratitude and reverence for the church’s rich history. He also highlighted the importance of the Black Press in 2018.

“There’s a sweet, sweet spirit in this church,” said Chavis, greeting the congregation.

Located in the historic Shaw neighborhood of Washington, D.C., the congregation, led by Rev. Dr. Paul H. Saddler, boasts a professional, eclectic crowd of the best of the district’s “Chocolate City” past. From a Superior Court Judge as the First Lady to one of the first African American drag racers as a third pew member, the Twelfth Street Christian Church represents the diversity of Black excellence, distinctive of the nation’s capital.

Dr. Chavis presented a timely sermon titled “The Faith That Strengthens” from Isaiah 40:31: “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”

The message was extremely relevant for an African American congregation working to keep their traditional values rooted in a gentrifying neighborhood.

Concluding a Black History Month series of distinguished

special guests, Dr. Chavis challenged the crowd to remember that, “God has been good to Black people.” Reflecting on his expansive history on the front lines of the Civil Rights Movement, or as he likes to call it, the “Freedom Movement,” Dr. Chavis wove seamlessly through a timeline of Black history and its relationship to the familiar text.

Encouraging the audience to both vote and pray, Dr. Chavis explained that waiting on the Lord was no excuse for complacency. He wrapped up his remarks by reminding the crowd of a traditional question asked by every civil rights activists that followed Martin Luther King Jr.: “What would Martin do?”

“We live in the wealthiest nation in the world. There should be no poverty. There should be no homelessness. There should be no inadequate education for our children. It shouldn’t be an absence of healthcare for those that need healthcare,” Dr. Chavis said. “Dr. King would be disturbing our consciousness, making us uncomfortable in the name of Jesus, in the name of the gospel and the application of righteousness.”

The congregation shared their appreciation for Dr. Chavis’ message of motivation through their open arms and wide smiles, during a reception after the service.

Dr. Chavis said that we must choose community over chaos, “a beloved community where we treat each other fairly, treat each other justly and look after not only the least of these, but all of these in our community.”

A4

Legal Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF KWAME JOBRONEWET CASE NUMBER: 18STPBO1555 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of KWAME JOBRONEWET A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by ANTHONY JOHNSTON in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that ANTHONY JOHNSTON be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils aare available for examination in the file kept by the court.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held

in this court as follows: Date: Mar 21, 2018 Time: 8:30 a.m. Dept: 79 located at 111 N Hill St, Los Angeles, Ca. 90012 Central District IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the deceased, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within four months from the date of first issuance of letters as provided of Probate Code section 9100. The time for filing claims will not expire before four months from the hearing date noticed above.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. IF you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (for DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate code section 1250.

A request for Special Notice form is available from the courtclerk.

Attorney for petitioner: MICHAEL A YOUNGE Law Office of Michael A Younge, 180 N Riverview Dr #210 Anaheim Hills, Ca. 92808 Telephone: (714) 242-4027 Fax: (714) 276-1443 Email: youngelaw@aol.com LOS ANGELES BAY NEWS OBSERVER (E) PUB: Feb 22, Mar 1, 8, 2018

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THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER

Thursday, March 1, 2018

TRIBES MIGHT GROW THEIR OWN

Tribes Cut Out of California Pot Market

By MICHAEL R. BLOOD Associated Press LOS ANGELES (AP) _ American Indian tribes that say they have been cut out of California's legal marijuana market have raised the possibility of going their own way by establishing pot businesses outside the state-regulated system that is less than two months old.

The tribes floated the idea of setting up rival farms and sales shops on reservations after concluding that rules requiring them to be licensed by the state would strip them of authority over their own lands and their right to self-governance.

The possibility of the tribes breaking away from the state-run system is one more challenge for California as it attempts to transform its longstanding medicinal and illegal marijuana markets into a unified, multibillion-dollar industry.

For tribes to participate in the state-run market, “they have to give up their rights to act as governments, with regard to cannabis,” said Mark Levitan, a tribal attorney.

At issue are legally thorny questions about who governs whom, taxation and the intersection of state marijuana laws with tribes that the federal government recognizes as sovereign nations within the U.S. Under regulations issued last year, California would retain full control over licensing. Tribes would have to follow state rules, including “submission to all enforcement,” to obtain a license to grow or sell marijuana. Any application must include a waiver of “sovereign immunity,” a sort of legal firewall that protects tribal interests.

Without state licenses, businesses cannot take part in the legal state pot market. California has over 100 federally recognized tribes, the most of any state, and estimates of the number either growing and selling pot or eager to do so varies, from a handful to over 20.

Unlike those that have prospered from casino gambling, some are in struggling rural areas and would welcome a new source of cash to improve schools and pave roads.

After long-running negotiations between tribes and state officials failed to produce an agreement before broad legal sales began Jan. 1, the California Native American Cannabis Association warned state officials that tribes “may engage in commercial cannabis activities through our own inherent sovereign authority.”

If tribes choose to step away from California's market, “the state will have no jurisdiction to enforce its cannabis laws and regulations on tribal lands,” the group said in a sharply worded letter to Democratic Gov. Jerry Brown's administration in December.

Tribes “just want to be able to do business in the state of California and elsewhere, just like anybody else,” said Paul Chavez, former chairman of the Bishop Paiute tribe.

The dispute in California differs from another legal pot state, Washington, where seven tribes have marijuana compacts with the state and others are in negotiations or awaiting the governor's approval. The compacts al-

Indian tribes that say they’ve been cut out of California’s legal pot market are raising the possibility that they could grow and sell on their own. “Everyone agrees conceptually there should be an even playing field, a level playing field,” said Assemblyman Rob Bonta, D-Oakland, who is at the center of the negotiations in Sacramento. (AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli, File)

low tribal marijuana businesses to participate in the legal system, such as selling tribe-grown pot to retailers off the reservation.

In California, the tribes are circulating a proposal that calls for the governor to strike agreements with them.

Those pacts would allow them to participate in the legal market, while the state would recognize a tribe's “exclusive authority” to regulate commercial marijuana activity on its lands.

Tribes are eager for a settlement, but reaching a deal in the Legislature could take the remainder of the year.

“Everyone agrees conceptually there should be an even playing field, a level playing field,” said state Assemblyman Rob Bonta, a Democrat at the center of the negotiations in Sacramento.

In addition to the problems in Sacramento, tribes are facing uncertainty at the federal level.

Earlier this year, Attorney General Jeff Sessions lifted an Obama-era policy that kept federal authorities from cracking down on the marijuana trade in states where the drug is legal, which also guided enforcement on tribal lands.

The shifting ground has put a chill over development plans _ including in an isolated stretch of eastern San Diego County.

Nevada-based GB Sciences Inc. announced last year that it would build and manage a commercial cannabis company on tribal lands, nurturing plants, manufacturing products and distributing them across the state.

The tribe, the Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupeno Indians, would get an ownership stake, jobs and 40 percent of the profits. GB Sciences would get income for its marijuana research and a foothold in the largest legal pot market in the U.S. But the projected $8 million project is on hold, with the status of tribes in the pot market unclear.

Issues involving sovereignty touch a sensitive subject for tribes, and they see the predicament with marijuana as part of a history of exploitation.

The state rule “harkens back to the end of the 19th century ... when federal and state policies favored extermination or forced assimilation of California tribes,” the tribal group wrote.

Billy Graham’s Civil Rights Regret

By JAY REEVES Associated Press BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) _ The Rev. Billy Graham was single-minded when he preached about God, prefacing sermon points with the phrase “The Bible says ...” Yet he had a complicated role in race relations, particularly when confronting segregation in his native South.

In Alabama for one of his evangelistic crusades in 1965, just months after passage of the Civil Rights Act, Graham talked about the Confederate flag flying “proudly” atop the state Capitol and the fact that both of his grandfathers served as rebel soldiers, according to a recording available on his ministry's website. He didn't address the evils of segregation directly, talking instead about God's unique power to change people and communities.

But Graham also drew scorn from segregationists for speaking to racially mixed crowds and allowing blacks and whites to mingle during the trademark altar call that ended each service. The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. was an ally, and King publicly credited Graham with helping the cause of civil rights.

As a white moderate who spoke with a Southern drawl, Graham helped ease the region's transition away from legalized segregation, said Steven P. Miller, a scholar who has written about Graham. Graham had a “huge base” of white support in the Bible Belt, Miller said, and those people listened to him.

“He could reach that audience as a native Southerner, but also because he spoke a familiar evangelical language _ and because he was obviously not an activist,” said Miller, author of the book “Billy Graham and the Rise of the Republican South.”

“Ultimately, what Graham put forth was what we might now call a colorblind gospel,” Miller said via email.

“In this sense, he provided a familiarly Christian path for some white Southerners to back away from Jim Crow.”

A current civil rights leader from Graham's native North Carolina, the Rev. William J. Barber II, credited Graham with meeting with King and agreeing to challenge segregation, an act Graham pursued through preaching reconciliation and peace rather than marching.

“Billy Graham inherited a faith in the American South that had accommodated itself to white supremacy, but he demonstrated a willingness to change and turn toward the truth,” Barber said in a Facebook post after Graham's death. “He helped to tear down walls of segregation, not build them up.”

Still, Graham had regrets. In an interview with The Associated Press in 2005, when he held his final crusade, Graham said he wished he had fought for civil rights more forcefully. In particular, Graham lamented not joining King and other pastors at voting rights marches in Selma,

Billy Graham pictured here in earlier days with Muhammad Ali said “I made a mistake when I didn’t go to Selma. I would have liked to have done more.”

Alabama, in 1965.

“I think I made a mistake when I didn't go to Selma,” Graham said. “I would like to have done more.”

Graham also apologized for making anti-Semitic remarks that were captured on the White House taping system installed by President Richard Nixon, who relied on Graham for both spiritual needs and political cover. The relationship between the two men helped turn the South into the solidly Republican territory it is today, Miller argues in his book.

Born in 1918 on the family farm near Charlotte, North Carolina, Graham grew up in a South strictly divided by race. In an act that sounds mundane now but was perilous at the time, he demanded the removal of ropes separating black and white audience members at a crusade in the South in the early 1950s.

Graham was an internationally known preacher traveling the world by 1955, when King first gained notice by leading a bus boycott against segregation in Montgomery, Alabama. Graham embraced King's work, and the two appeared on stage together during a Graham crusade at New

York's Madison Square Garden in 1957. Graham paid the jail bond following King's arrest during demonstrations in Albany, Georgia, in 1962.

Following the racial violence of “Bloody Sunday” in Selma in 1965 and partly at the suggestion of President Lyndon B. Johnson, Graham toured Alabama, speaking to racially mixed crowds. It was during that trip that he recorded the message in which he spoke wistfully of his Confederate roots and God's ability to heal.

While Graham didn't march with King in Selma, the Atlanta-based King Center for Non-violent Social Change credits Graham with evolving from an early, noncommittal stance on race following the Supreme Court's 1954 decision outlawing segregation in public schools.

Barber said Graham also eschewed the religious right movement, which many Southern evangelicals embraced on the way toward increasing their political power after the Nixon years.

“His life was about following Jesus, and he knew that meant an ongoing commitment to be changed by love,” Barber said.

Entertainment

Thursday, March 1, 2018

THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER A5

What’s Good NBA Power Rankings

The Golden State Warriors look primed and ready for another championship run. (NBA Courtesy Photo)

By Cameron Buford Contributing Sports Writer Whatsgoodinsports.com This NBA season has been one of various exciting.

Now that we are past the All Star break in the NBA, we found this to be a great time to unveil our NBA Power Rankings. It’s always a tough Identifying the most talented teams with the best athletes in world. Though our Power Rankings will do just that.

Our list will start from the bottom and work our way to the number one spot in our Power Rankings; 10.

Washington Wizards- oddly enough this team, led by Head Coach Scott Brooks, is playing better without their starting point guard. They have recently played into our Power Rankngs.

9.

Portland Trailblazers- This team led by first-year All-Star Damien Lillard, have managed to climb into solid playoff position.8.

8.

Oklahoma City Thunder- The reigning MVP of the league has some better help than previous season. How far can Russell lead his team as they prepare for the upcoming playoff season.

7.

Minnesota Timberwolves- this team is a collection of old and new players with very good coaching.

They will definitely be a tough out in the upcoming playoffs.

6.

Boston Celtics- these new look Celtics has proven that young talent and great coaching will have

you in most games against any team or game.

5.

Toronto Raptors- even as they lead the Eastern Conference in wins, this team won’t garner much attention until the playoffs begin.

4.

Cleveland Cavaliers- We have seen this Cavalier team come from behind to win the Eastern Conference, in the past. They will have to do the same this season, as this newly assembled team gets used to playing together.

3.

San Antonio Spurs- Even without their “superstar” this team continues to win, based on their coaching and crew of coachable players 2.

Houston Rockets- their unique style of play has led them to the best record in the league, though at this point in the season we have them listed as the second best team in the league 1.

Golden State Warriors- the defending champions and their embarrassment of riches has played up to the expectation of all NBA fans. Their explosiveness would have many teams shaking in their boots when they see them on the schedule.

This season is building up to be another fantastic finish for the NBA. Though there are only a few teams that, legitimately, have a chance to upset the defending champions. Those teams will have to be at peak performance to supplant the champions. Please share your thoughts, feedback and opinions by letting me know what’s good about our NBA Power Rankings atwww.whatsgoodinsports.com.

Marian Anderson Celebrated in Her Hometown DANBURY, Conn. (AP) _ The late music icon Marian Anderson will be celebrated in her Connecticut hometown on the 121st anniversary of her birth.

Western Connecticut State University in Danbury has scheduled the community gathering for Tuesday.

The opera singer is credited with breaking down barriers for blacks in the arts and galvanizing the fledging civil rights movement with a 1939 concert at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington.

First lady Eleanor Roosevelt arranged for the con-

2-time Pro Bowl Cornerback Marcus Peters, newest LA Rams defensive back. (Courtesy Photo)

NFL Trades; The Rams Get Their Man

Music Icon Marian Anderson

cert after Anderson wasn't allowed to perform at another Washington venue.

Anderson became the first black artist to perform at the White House in 1936 and the first African-American to perform at the Metropolitan Opera.

Anderson lived in Danbury for nearly 50 years.

She died in 1993 at age 96.

More information about the celebration is available online .

By Cameron Buford Contributing Sports Writer Once again, the NFL proves to be a year-round sport.

At least the better teams take advantage of the off season much better than others. There has been a couple trades and signings that have intrigued fans and shaken up the league.

With the 2005 #1 overall draft pick, the San Francisco 49ers, picked Alex Smith. After being benched in favor of Colin Kaepernick the 49ers traded Smith the Kansas City Chiefs in 2013. Since joining the Chiefs, not many quarterbacks have won more games as a starting quarterback for their team.

Despite all that winning Alex Smith, also known as Captain Check down, has been traded once again. This past January, the Chiefs announced they have traded Cornerback Kendall Fuller and a 2018 3rd draft pick to the Washington football team for the veteran quarterback.

It’s not often a QB is traded and much less often that a quarterback is for a starter cornerback. I think the Chiefs win this trade, simply because they have their quarterback of the future primed and ready to step in for Alex Smith. As for the Washington football team, they have added more confusion their quarterback position by bringing in Smith while already having their own playoff caliber quarterback in Kurt Cousins.

The Chiefs remain busy in the trade market this off season by trading their 25-year-old, 2-time Pro Bowl Cornerback Marcus Peters to the Los Angeles Rams for 2018 4th round draft pick and a 2019 2nd round draft pick.

The Rams needed an upgrade at the Cornerback position and the Chiefs obviously had seen enough of Peters and his antics. The 18th pick in the 2015 Draft became erratic and untrustworthy, this is a bulk of the reason for trading Peters for such a minimal price. The Rams clearly win this trade.

Pairing Peters with veteran Defensive Coordinator Wade Phillips, who has experience handling high maintenance players makes this a easy win for the Rams. In addition, Phillips will get to scheme for offenses knowing they have one the most ferocious defensive lines in the league.

This trade only makes their defense more formidable as they add a turnover maker to their secondary.

As teams position themselves for the NFL Draft in April, this is the time for them to take inventory of their teams and make the necessary roster moves. What do you think of the recent trades and do you agree with the winners. I am very much interested in your feedback. Please let me know What’s Good by commenting in the comment section at www.whatsgoodinsports.com.

Local

A6

THE VALLEY’S NEWS OBSERVER

Thursday, March 1, 2018

Bill Cosby’s Daughter Ensa Cosby Dies

By Stacy M. Brown The Washington Informer/NNPA Member) Just one week before hearings in his criminal retrial are set to begin, comedian Bill Cosby is mourning the loss of his daughter, Ensa Cosby.

Ensa Cosby, 44, died on Friday in Massachusetts, though Bill Cosby’s spokesman Andrew Wyatt confirmed the death to The Washington Informer on Monday.

“The Cosby family thanks many people for their prayers for their beloved and beautiful Ensa, who recently died from renal disease,” Wyatt said.

Last year, Ensa spoke to the Black Press, saying that her father had been publicly lynched in the media.

“I strongly believe my father is innocent of the crimes alleged against him and I believe that racism has played a big role in all aspects of this scandal,” Ensa Cosby said.

Ensa once worked alongside her father, appearing on the iconic “The Cosby Show” in 1989, as a girl at a party.

That episode, titled “I’m In with the In Crowd,” featured Ensa with Vanessa and a group of girls playing the Alphabet Game while chugging alcohol.

Cosby and his wife of more than 50 years, Camille Cosby, had five children, Erika, Erinn, Ensa, Evin, and Ennis, their only son.

Ennis Cosby was murdered in 1997 while trying to change a flat tire along a darkened off-ramp of the Interstate 405 freeway in Los Angeles.

Meanwhile, a hearings are set for Monday, March 5 and Tuesday, March 6 in Norristown, Pennsylvania on the criminal charges facing Bill Cosby.

The comedian is accused of sexually assaulting a former Temple University employee more than 14 years ago.

A jury failed to reach a verdict in the trial last year and a new trial has been scheduled for April 2.

The Washington Informer is a member publication of the National Newspaper Publishers Association. Learn more about becoming a member at www.nnpa.org.

AG Race Candidates Accused of Ignoring Police Abuse

By Manny Otiko California Black Media The California Democratic Party made national news during its state convention when delegates to the convention failed to endorse long-serving U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein. Feinstein is facing a longshot challenge from State Senator Kevin de Leon. But, a member of the Reverend Al Sharpton’s National Action Network (NAN) also used the occasion to lambast Attorney General Xavier Becerra for his lack of action on police shootings.

During a fiery speech at the California Democratic Convention’s Black Caucus meeting in San Diego, Reverend Shane Harris, president of the San Diego NAN chapter, accused Becerra and State Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones, another candidate in the race for Attorney General, of focusing on immigration and ignoring police abuse.

Harris accused the candidates of being quick to threaten to take legal action against the Trump administration for its proposed border wall, while failing to address police shootings of unarmed black people. Harris also said President Donald Trump was moving backward on civil rights.

“California leads the nation in police shootings,” said Harris. (According to British newspaper the Guardian, the

Los Angeles Police Department recorded the highest number of shootings in 2016.)

In 2017, NAN members lobbied for the passage of Assembly Bill 284, the Deadly Force Act, which would have required all police shootings to be investigated by the Attorney General. (The bill stalled in the legislature and was opposed by law enforcement organizations.) Currently, police shootings are investigated by local district attorneys who often depend on the support of police unions when they are running for office.

Harris also reminded the audience that black people were still a potent force at the ballot, pointing to the victory of Democrat Doug Jones, in the Alabama Senate race. Jones relied heavily on black female voters.

“It’s time for California to stand for black people,” said Harris. His speech was followed by chants of “Black Lives Matter.”

This isn’t the first time Harris has locked horns with Becerra. Last year he criticized Becerra in a Twitter post.

“California AG Becerra is quick to sue Trump admin over border wall but has the full power to investigate police shootings and won’t do it,” said Harris in a tweet.

Bill Cosby’s daughter Ensa Cosby passed following a battle with renal disease. (Courtesy Photo)

California Gets Snow & Rain from Latest Storm LOS ANGELES (AP) - Many of California’s mountains are sporting new coats of snow, much of it down to low elevations, from the first of two cold weather systems predicted for the state this week.

A winter storm warning remains in effect Tuesday for the ranges east of Los Angeles and south through the interior of San Diego County.

A winter weather advisory is also still in effect for the Sierra Nevada from around Yosemite southward. The Mammoth Mountain resort in the Eastern Sierra says it received 6 inches (15 centimeters) to 8 inches (20 centimeters) of snow.

The weather has brought chain controls to many mountain areas, and it’s a snow day for some students.

In terms of rain, Los Angeles County was a big winner with a quarter-inch to a half-inch overnight.

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The 5 Freeway in the Grapevine near Gorman reopened Feb. 1, 2016, after the California Highway Patrol closed it because of low visibility and icy road conditions. (Credit: Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

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