WSSN Stories

By Lou K. Coleman

And you are going about business as usual. Wake up and pay attention! For we are not on the ‘Brink’ of WWIII. We’re in It. Russia, China, and Iran are openly at war with the United States. And although this is not an all-out war but a decentralized one, do not be fool, soon, and very soon things are going to be full blown and the impact of the upheaval; devastation, destruction, and death that will be brought about on America cannot be overstated. So be alert! Be watchful! Be on your guard, as Jesus commanded. Because I tell you a full-blown disaster is lurking around the corner!

“Weapons of mass destruction. U.S. and Chinese warships battling at sea, firing everything from cannons to cruise missiles to lasers. Stealthy Russian and American fighter jets dogfight in the air, with robotic drones flying as their wingmen. Hackers in Shanghai and Silicon Valley duel in digital playgrounds. And fights in outer space decide who wins below on Earth. Are these scenes from a novel or what could actually take place in the real world the day after tomorrow? The answer is both.” [Peter Warren Singer]. So be alert! Be watchful! Be on your guard, as Jesus commanded. For the powers of the heavens will be shaken. [Luke 21:26].

End time prophetic wars in their likely chronological sequence.

The War of Extermination [Psalm 83] – Read it. The First War of Gog & Magog [Ezekiel 38 and 39] – Read it. The Conventional War of the Tribulation [Revelation 6] – Read it. The Nuclear War of the Tribulation [Revelation 8 & 9] – Read it. Wars ??[Revelation ?13, Revelation ?12, ?and Revelation 16– ?[First ?War, ?Second ?War, ?Third ?War] – Read it!

God’s Warning! The Time is Near!

God did not just let them go into sin. He sent messenger after messenger, prophet after prophet, judge after judge, king after king—and they never listened. Maybe for a short time, they would put on a face of righteousness, but that was all it was. Because He loved them, God sent these men and women, but the people never listened. Even though God had compassion on them and wanted to save them from this, they were not willing. [2 Chronicles 36:15].

By Antonio Ray Harvey. | California Black Media

Since Gov. Gavin Newsom presented his 2024-25 budget to the State Legislature on Jan. 10, lawmakers — including members of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) — have been sharing their initial reactions to potential cuts.

Those stakeholders have also been examining the Governor’s  $291 billion spending plan to get a clearer sense of how funding adjustments may impact families as the state faces a deficit estimated at tens of billions of dollars.

At the top of the list of concerns for some lawmakers are cuts the governor is proposing to balance the budget, as required by California’s constitution.

A day after Newsom announced his budget, Assemblymember Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley), reacted with a post on his Facebook page.

“Yesterday’s budget proposal for human services programs causes me to be alarmed for our most vulnerable populations particularly in our CalWorks, Development Disability, and Foster Care programs,” wrote Jackson, who is a member of the CLBC.

“I will be using the next few months to review its impact from a social work lens. My priority is to ensure that this budget promotes stability and keeps people out of a state of crisis and on a path to thrive as the Governor has done for both the CalFresh and Childcare programs,” promised Jackson.

Assemblymember Akilah Weber (D-La Mesa), also a member CLBC hosted a 60-minute Budget Townhall Webinar on Jan. 17 to discuss the budget and the forecasted deficit.

The webinar was presented to give the public an idea of budget cuts, budget proposals, and potential tax increases.

“This is really the beginning of conversations in the legislature and our conversation with the governor,” Weber said. “Once the May revision comes out after taxes have been done, we’ll have a better sense of where we are and what the budget will be.”

Webinar participants submitted a variety of questions concerning the budget such as how education funding will be impacted, strategies to address the budget shortfall, and will the deficit lead to tax increases and undermine progress made in housing the homeless and other social services programs.

During the webinar, Christian Griffith, Chief Consultant of the Assembly Budget Committee – responsible for directing the Assembly’s state budget process – said Newsom’s proposal involves spending reduction, spending delays, usage of reserves borrowing, and usage of the “special fund.”

“Reduction usually gets the most attention,” Griffith said.

The LAO – a nonpartisan government agency that provides fiscal and policy advice to the California Legislature – said the state budget estimates based on tax revenue are imprecise due to the IRS delaying tax filings in California until Nov. 16, 2023, because of natural disasters the state faced last year.

Griffith said the “budget problem” could create a financial burden on the state for a few more years. It was assumed that the state had a surplus of “$100 million two years in a row” but actually had $60 billion,” Griffith said.

“The main thing, a really big problem here, is not only do we have this problem right now, but we also project for the next three or four years that every year we are going to be spending $30 billion more than we take in revenue. We have a structural problem,” he said. “The easy thing is trying to find one-time money to plug a hole. The hard thing is when you have that structural thing where you’re always paying on that credit card every year.”

Funding for state initiatives that are likely to be cut or delayed include some climate change programs, housing programs, school facilities, higher education student housing loans, UCLA Immunology Institute, Middle-Class Scholarship financial aid programs, and more.

Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood), who is a member of the CLBC, said, despite looming cuts she remains confident because the state has a cushion of nearly $18 billion in cash in its various reserves often called “rainy-day funds.”

“Thank God for California’s rainy-day fund! Kudos to former Governor Brown and current Governor Newsom for their foresight,” McKinnor posted on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. “They’ve been tucking away funds, and in 2024-2025, it’s going to pour! Ready to weather any budget shortfalls with our well-fed piggy bank!”

Last week, the California Budget and Policy Center (CBPC) analysis of Newsom’s budget was positive, stating that the budget “protected or maintained” programs that provide economic security, particularly for lower-income families.

“California has the wealth and state leaders have the tools and resources to further protect essential services and build upon earlier progress,” the CBPC report stated.

One of the questions posed during the webinar hosted by Weber involved Proposition 98, the minimum funding level for Schools, which guarantees funding for kindergarten through the 12 grades and community colleges. Griffin said they should not be any trimming of the total education allocation, which is expected to be $109 billion, according to the budget.

The day before Newsom presented his proposal, the California Pan-Ethnic Health Network, the American Civil Liberties Union, and the Ella Baker Center launched a campaign focused on protecting budget spending for their priority programs called #SmartSolutions.

At a news conference held on the grounds of the Capitol, members from those organizations called on state leaders to focus limited resources on solutions that address root causes of crime and to enhance public safety for all Californians. CLBC Assemblymembers Mia Bonta (D-Alameda) and Isaac Bryan (D-Ladera Heights) spoke about the danger of underfunding of housing, healthcare, criminal justice reform and other programs that are critical in Black and Brown communities.

“I like to remind you that every dollar we spend criminalizing poverty is a dollar we could’ve better spent ending it,” Bryan said.

Gov. Gavin Newsom presented a $291 billion spending plan to the California Legislature on Jan. 10. Despite a looming shortfall estimated at tens of billions of dollars, Newsom avoided making cuts to critical expenditures in education, public safety, curbing organized retail theft, housing for the homeless, mental health care reform, climate action, and other issues that are priorities.

During his speech, delivered at the auditorium of the Secretary of State building in Sacramento, Newsom clarified that he expects the state to have a $37.9 billion deficit. That figure is considerably lower than the nearly $68 billion deficit projected last month by the nonpartisan Legislative Analyst Office (LAO).

“Those of you who’ve been writing about a different number I hope you’re immediately correcting,” Newsom said moments into his presentation. “We’ve been pretty damn transparent with you by making the point publicly, not just privately that that was not the number, but it continues to be reported as the gospel.”

On Jan. 13, the LAO released an analysis of Newsom’s budget proposal that placed the amount of the budget deficit problem to about $58 billion, $10 billion lower than its original projection and nearly $20 million more than the Department of Finance calculations.

In addition to ordering a reduction on general fund spending last month, Newsom proposed a number of actions to bridge the budget gap during his presentation, including the possibility of declaring a budget emergency, which would allow him to borrow cash from the state’s reserves. He also suggested making “moderate cuts” totaling $8.5 billion in spending from some programs that support climate change initiatives, housing and other services; and reconsidering the healthcare wage increase.

“Our state is in a strong position to close this shortfall while protecting key priorities and programs that millions of Californians rely on,” Newsom remained upbeat about the state’s economic forecast. “I look forward to partnering with the Legislature to meet this moment with a balanced approach that meets the needs of Californians and safeguards our state’s future.”

During the Q&A session after his presentation, Newsom, in response to a question posed by California Black Media stated that he took deliberate steps to safeguard programs that the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) had identified as important. They included the state’s equity multiplier funding program designed to support schools with significant numbers of socioeconomically disadvantaged children – an initiative strongly advocated by Assemblymember Akilah Weber (D-La Mesa), and funding for the Ralph J.Bunche Center for African American Studies at UCLA.

In a statement released Jan. 11, State Controller Malia M. Cohen, who is responsible for accountability and disbursement of the state’s resources, says that she has faith in Newsom’s projections.

“While the Governor had difficult choices to make to address the budget shortfall, I’m confident that the budget announced (Jan. 10) will keep California moving forward and continue the work necessary to support vital public health and safety programs along with other core services,” Cohen stated. “As Controller, my office is prepared to provide the tools and resources necessary to ensure the state meets its financial obligations and maintains economic stability.”

Newsom’s budget plan reflects $18.4 billion in total budgetary reserves, including $11.1 billion in the Rainy Day Fund.

Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber thanked Newsom’s for keeping funding flat for programs that are central to the services her department delivers, including two new digital programs that promote transparency in political financing and provides electronic notarization of business documents.

 “The January Budget includes resources for the Secretary of State to maintain its core ongoing operations,” said Weber.

“In addition, the Budget includes funding to support the Help America Vote Act mandates and resources to continue the CAL-ACCESS Replacement System (CARS) Project and to support the continuation of the Notary Automation Program Replacement Project (NAP 2.0) which are mission critical and vital to the services the SOS provides to the public, Legislature, and its stakeholders,” Weber added.

Several Republican lawmakers expressed their disapproval of Newsom’s spending plan, including Assembly Minority Leader James Gallagher (R-Yuba City), who called the Governor’s budget “pure fantasyland.”

Senate Minority Leader Brian W. Jones (R-San Diego) and Vice Chair of the Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Committee, Sen. Roger Niello (R-Fair Oaks) also shared their views on Newsom’s budget proposal.

Jones stated in a Jan. 10 statement that Newsom’s plan is “year six of ‘Gavinomics’ where his budgets turn surpluses into deficits and his policies push Californians to flee.”

Niello stated that the governor’s rhetoric is a way to weave “through a deficit of dollars.”

“As the governor pulls revenue gimmicks and accounting tricks, it’s impossible to bury the truth: California is bleeding because of a decade of Democrats’ one-party rule and reckless spending,” Niello stated.

Calling California’s economy, the “greatest wealth generator in the world,” Newsom said he is confident California will close its budget gap, continue on its overall path of prosperity while providing innovative solutions to address social and economic issues.

“This is a story of correction, a story of normalization after a period of a tremendous amount of distortion,” Newsom said.

By Lou K. Coleman

She cries in the chief place of concourse, in the openings of the gates: in the city she utters her words, saying, How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and how long will the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge? [Proverbs 1:20-21]. Don’t you know that dismissal of God’s messages led to disastrous outcomes. [Proverbs 29:1]. For every violation of the law and every act of disobedience is punished [Hebrews 2:1-2].

Wisdom shouts in the streets; Do not ignore the warnings because before God sends down a judgment against a people, He always sends a warning and when a warning is given, it also come with instructions on what to do to prepare for the destruction.

Listen, massive changes are coming. Wars will be fought on a scale never seen before, and weapons of mass destruction will be used. The level of nuclear devastation from the events of this Fifth Trumpet is prophetically revealed to destroy a third of the United States, which also means the death of over one hundred million people. “One Woe is past, and behold, there are two more Woes coming after this” [Revelation 9:12]. And it is at this juncture that the world is warned of even far greater destruction that will follow. [Revelation 9:13-16]. I know this is unimaginable, but it is soon going to come to pass. Do not ignore the warnings. Wisdom Shouts in the Streets. Warning comes before destruction. Heed the warnings.

Just as God warned the people of the impending doom through Noah, in Noah’s time, most people will ignore the warnings. Noah preached to the people for 120 years, trying to warn them of what was going to happen, but none would listen. They mocked and ridiculed him as he gave the warning. They laughed and insulted as he constructed the ark. The people would not believe Noah and because they did not believe it, the flood came and took them all away. [Matthew 24:30].

Wisdom Shouts in the Streets…. Heed the Warnings of God!

By Tanu Henry, Lila Brown and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media

On January 12, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass held a press conference to announce the retirement of LAPD Chief Michel Moore, who will officially step down at the end of February.

Moore will be retained on contract as a consultant during the transition to a new chief.

“I want to thank Chief Michel Moore for his more than 40 years of service to the people of Los Angeles, and for his partnership in bringing homicides and violent crime down over the last year,” said Bass at the news briefing.

Bass remained even keeled although Moore was pressured to resign by a coalition of clergy and community leaders after a Los Angeles Times investigation revealed that he ordered detectives to investigate the merit of Bass’ scholarship at USC while she was running for mayor in 2022.

“If LAPD Chief Moore has directed detectives to investigate our mayor, Mayor Karen Bass, based on a personal agenda, we are asking him to resign immediately,” said the Rev. K.W. Tulloss in December, according to an L.A. Focus report.

Tulloss, who is the Pastor of Weller Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles and President of the Baptist Ministers, Conference, added,” If he does not resign? We’re asking that the L.A. Police Commission to immediately remove him.”

At the news conference there were no signs of tensions between Bass and Moore.

“Amidst a national police-recruiting crisis, LAPD also saw more than 1,000 applicants to its academy in a single month, which is the highest number in years. I have directed the immediate launch of a nationwide search for LAPD’s next chief, which will include significant community input and consultation with law enforcement officers and experts, said Bass.  The appointment of an interim chief will be made by the Board of Police Commissioners.”

By Tanu Henry, Lila Brown and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media

On January 11, Gov. Gavin Newsom, First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom and the California Museum announced inductees into the 17th Class of the state’s Hall of Famers.

Among this year’s 10 inductees — both groups and individuals — are four Black Californians: Former San Francisco Mayor and California Assembly Speaker Willie Brown; award-winning filmmaker Ava Duvernay; Federal Judge and civil rights leader Thelton E. Henderson; and basketball Hall of Fame player and broadcaster Cheryl Miller.

Other 2024 inductees are: master chef and “mother of fusion cuisine Helene An; computer scientist and “father of the internet Vincent A. Cerf; all-female pop punk band The Go-Gos; Chicano Rock band Los Lobos; former U.S. Secretary of Defense and Congressman Leon E. Panetta; and artistic director and choreographer Brenda Way.

This year’s honorees join 150 other Californians who have been inducted into the Hall of Fame.

“The contributions of this newest class of the Hall of Fame will have an impact on California – and the nation – for generations to come. Through their boundless qualities and trailblazing achievements, these visionaries embody the spirit of California and will continue to inspire millions more,” Newsom said in a press release issued after videotaped announcement last week.

First Partner Siebel Newsom also welcomed the “spectacular new group of trailblazers.”

“With a penchant for challenging the status quo, these individuals wholly reflect the courageous, ambitious, and bold spirit of California, and have made an indelible mark on our state, nation, and world,” she said.

Inductees are selected annually by the Governor and First Partner.

By Antonio? ?Ray? ?Harvey? |? ?California? ?Black? ?Media?

On January 11, the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) honored the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, at a breakfast celebration held at the Grand Ballroom of the Town and Country Event Center in downtown Sacramento.

The annual CLBC event was attended by about 200 people, including members of the Legislature from diverse backgrounds, community leaders, staffers from the State Capitol, among other attendees.

“It was an honor to host this year’s annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day breakfast. The California Legislative Black Caucus put on another lively event with great discussion on ways we can honor Dr. King’s legacy and uplift all Californians,” CLBC Chair, Assemblymember Lori A. Wilson (D-Suisun City), posted Jan. 11 on the social media platform X.

At the breakfast, Assemblymember Reggie Jones-Sawyer (D-Los Angeles), a member of the CLBC, served as the master of ceremonies at the breakfast held four days prior to the date that would have marked King’s 95th birthday on Jan. 15.

CLBC members Assemblymember Chris Holden (D-Pasadena) provided the invocation and Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento) led the Pledge of Allegiance. Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Inglewood), Vice Chair of the CLBC, shared a message from members of the Black Caucus.

Bradford revealed a little unknown fact about Dr. King’s name. He was born Michael King, Jr., on Jan. 15, 1929. In 1934, his father, a pastor, traveled to Germany where he was inspired by Protestant Reformation leader Martin Luther, Bradford said.

“As a result, King, Sr. changed his own name as well as that of his 5-year-old son,” Bradford shared.

To the delight of the audience at the event, sponsored by Vertex Pharmaceuticals, vocalist Nia Moore-Weathers performed a powerful rendition of the Black National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” a hymn written as poem by National Association for the Advancement of Color People (NAACP) leader James Weldon Johnson in 1900.

Wilson held a 30-minute fireside chat with guest speaker Kwame Anku about Dr. King’s life, achievements, and vision, and the importance of building wealth in Black families and communities.

Anku is the founding managing partner and chief investment officer of Black Star Fund, an early-stage venture capital fund. He got the idea to start the fund on the urging of Roger “Prince” Nelson, the singer, songwriter, multi-music instrumentalist who passed away in 2016.

Anku was named the 2022 Entrepreneur of the Year by Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and was also among 21 distinguished recipients of the prestigious Aspen Ascent Fellowship awarded by the Aspen Institute. He said King’s famous 1963 address at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., the “I Have a Dream speech,” could have been more aptly titled “America, It’s Time to Look in the Mirror” reflecting its core messages of accountability and denied justice.

“We’re telling ourselves how great we are but we’re not living up to the promise that we’ve made to ourselves because that’s the bedrock of what we do when he said we have come here today to cash the check,” Anku told Wilson. “So, we’ve come to cash the check because this check guarantees us the riches of freedom and the security of justice. So now we’re not just cashing that check. Now, we are writing those checks.”

This year marks the 57th Anniversary of the CLBC. For nearly six decades, the CLBC has been a key advocate for issues such as fair housing and the prevention of homelessness.

Historically, the coalition of Black lawmakers has actively resisted redlining in banking and insurance in California, and fought against apartheid in South Africa, among other issues.

The CLBC plans to continue the legacy of Dr. King by developing legislation around its current priorities, which include pursuing reparations for eligible Black Californians, criminal justice reform, environmental justice, and helping to ensure greater access to education and enterprise for African Americans. During the 2024 legislative session, the CLBC aspires to secure funding for critical programs and organizations working to enhance the lives of Black Californians.

There are 12 members of the CLBC serving in the California Assembly and Senate.