WSSN Stories

Rest in Power: California Black Leaders Pay Tribute to Sen. Dianne Feinstein

By Antonio Ray Harvey  | California Black Media

Condolences and tributes poured in from California’s Black community after the passing of U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein. Lawmakers, business leaders, and political service organizations expressed their condolences and sympathy to family, friends, and staff of U.S. Sen. Feinstein, 90, who died of natural causes in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 28.

On Friday, in a statement, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said, “In Senator Feinstein’s honor, I am directing the flags flying at all City facilities to be lowered to half-staff.”

“I am saddened by the passing of Senator Dianne Feinstein, one of our nation’s great leaders and someone I was blessed to call a colleague and friend,” added Bass. “Senator Feinstein was a trailblazer on whose shoulders I, and women in elected office all across America, will always stand. She worked harder than anyone I knew on Capitol Hill, and she will be remembered as one of the most effective and impactful Senators in American history.” 

Feinstein made history as the first woman elected to the U.S. Senate from California. She served over three decades in the upper chamber of the U.S. Congress and was the oldest lawmaker on Capitol Hill.

“California lost a trailblazer and a giant today,” wrote Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA-12). “Senator Feinstein broke glass ceilings for women in politics and fought fearlessly for safer communities free of gun violence. My deepest condolences go out to her family and loved ones.”

Feinstein built a reputation as an independent voice, working hard to find practical solutions to issues confronting California and the nation. She was the first woman to chair the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, a position she held for six years beginning in 2009.

In 2017, Sen. Feinstein became the top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee – the first woman to assume that role – where she helped shape policy on criminal law, national security, immigration, civil rights and the courts. She held that position until 2021.

“We have fond memories to cherish of the work accomplished together on behalf of our most vulnerable and underserved communities. The Senator is truly a trailblazer,” stated Black Women Organized for Political Action (BWOPA) founding member and state President Dezie Woods-Jones.

BWOPA’s mission is to empower and educate African American women about politics encourage involvement, and address issues affecting the African American community.

Over 50 years ago, BWOPA charter members Hon. Ella Hill Hutch and Hon. Doris Ward collaborated extensively with Feinstein on a range of social issues during her time on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors and as San Francisco Mayor.

Woods-Jones recalls Sen. Feinstein hosted BWOPA’s first annual board retreat.

“May her profound legacy of supporting women’s rights and leadership continue to be front and center. Thank you for your years of service Senator,” shared Woods-Jones.” May her profound legacy of supporting women’s rights and leadership continue to be front and center.”

 

Feinstein was instrumental in helping another Black political organization grow and become a force to be reckoned with in California politics, the Black American Political Association of California (BAPAC). The group is dedicated to amplifying the economic, social, and political influence of the Black community in California.

According to BAPAC Sacramento Regional Director Rory Kaufman, BAPAC’s growth and influence were bolstered by the support of former Assembly Speaker Willie Brown, former two-time Gov. Jerry Brown, and Feinstein. The organization was founded by Percy Pinkney, an outspoken champion for solutions to challenges facing Black Californians, who also served as a senior state field representative for Feinstein.

“The bottom line is that Dianne Feinstein helped keep BAPAC alive because she had Percy Pinkney on her staff,” Kaufman said. “If history serves me correctly, it was either Brown or Feinstein that sent Pinkney to Indiana where he discovered an organization similar to BAPAC and brought it back here (to the West Coast) to start the organization.”

The California Black Women’s Collective (CBWC) also issued a statement on the passing of Feinstein. CBWC serves as a resource for lawmakers, elected officials, business leaders, and advocacy organizations.

“We are all saddened by the passing of Senator Diane Feinstein, who paved the way for women to serve their communities in California and nationally,” states Kellie Todd Griffin, founding convener of CBWC. “It is imperative that we all take a moment to honor her contributions that positioned California as a beacon for others to follow.”

Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Inglewood), vice chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) ,called Feinstein an “icon for her service and leadership.”

“Senator Dianne Feinstein dedicated her life to public service. As the longest-serving woman in the U.S. Senate, she was a trailblazer who served our state with strength, vision, and compassion,” said Bradford. “Her career was forged through the tragedy of gun violence which fueled her unwavering resolve to pass groundbreaking gun control. A true giant has left us.”

“Oh, When God Says I’ve Had Enough… That’s It… No More Warnings!”

By Lou K Coleman

You’re going to wish you had taken heed.  Look at the Bible. Look at Noah and his generation. In [Genesis 6:3], the Lord says, “My spirit shall not always strive with man.” For 120 years, God said, Please.” For 120 years, God said, “I want to save you.” For 120 years, God said, “Listen to Noah.” For 120 years, God was long-suffering. For 120 years, God was patient. For 120 years, God was merciful. But then the day came when God said, “I’ve had enough. I’m fed up. My patience is gone.” Noah’s people were destroyed by the wrath of God in the flood. Oh, I tell you, when God says I’ve had enough that’s it, no more warnings, you’re going to wish you had taken heed!

You know, there is one unusual thing about Esau; the Bible says, Esau sought repentance with tears, but God said, “No.” Why did God say No? Because prior to God saying No, God begged Esau. God said, “Esau, I beg you. I gave my Son to die for you. I love you Esau. I’ll blot out every sin you’ve committed, I’ll make you, My child. Please, Esau.” And Esau said, “No.”

Then one day, God said, “Okay, Esau, I’ve had enough. I’m fed up.” And God, in His mercy, turned that mercy to wrath and God’s long-suffering was turned to indignation and God’s forgiveness was turned to vengeance. Esau came and said, “Oh, God, I’m ready to get saved now.” And God said, “Not on your life.” “But, God, You are merciful.” “No longer.” “But, God, you are long-suffering.” “I’m fed up.” “But, God, forgive me.” “No.” “Please forgive me.” Tears of remorse flowed down his cheeks and God said, “No, Esau. You said no for the last time. I’m fed up with you.” “Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded; But ye have set at nought all my counsel and would none of my reproof: I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear cometh… [Proverbs 1:24-28].

Will not the land tremble for this, and all who live in it mourn? The whole land will rise like the Nile; it will be stirred up and then sink like the river of Egypt. “In that day,” declares the Sovereign Lord, “I will make the sun go down at noon and darken the earth in broad daylight. I will turn your religious festivals into mourning and all your singing into weeping. I will make all of you wear sackcloth and shave your heads. I will make that time like mourning for an only son and the end of it like a bitter day. “The days are coming,” declares the Sovereign Lord, when I will send a famine through the land—not a famine of food or a thirst for water, but a famine of hearing the words of the Lord. People will stagger from sea to sea and wander from north to east, searching for the word of the Lord, but they will not find it. “In that day the lovely young women and strong young men will faint because of thirst. [Amos chapter 8].

The Lord has sworn by himself, the Pride of Jacob: “I will never forget anything they have done. [Amos 8:7].

Then I saw the Lord standing by the altar, and he said: “Strike the tops of the pillars so that the thresholds shake. Bring them down on the heads of all the people; those who are left I will kill with the sword. Not one will get away, none will escape. Though they dig down to the depths below, from there my hand will take them. Though they climb up to the heavens above, from there I will bring them down. Though they hide themselves on the top of Carmel, there I will hunt them down and seize them. Though they hide from my eyes at the bottom of the sea, there I will command the serpent to bite them. Though they are driven into exile by their enemies, there I will command the sword to slay them. I will keep my eye on them for harm and not for good.” [Amos chapter 9].

Oh, When God Says I’ve Had Enough… You are going to wish that you had taken heed!

Annual Celebration of Allensworth, Historic Tulare County Black Township, is October 14

By Antonio Ray Harvey, Tanu Henry and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media

On October 14, visitors will make the annual trek to Allensworth, a historic township in Tulare County founded by Blacks, to celebrate a little-known piece of California history, and the spirit of self-reliance and determination that marked its establishment.

In 1974, the California Department of Parks and Recreation purchased the land where Allensworth was located and created a state park called Allensworth State Historic Park.

“Allensworth holds a unique place in our state’s history,” writes a press release about the event. “The annual Rededication event is a time to reflect on this legacy, celebrate the accomplishments of its founders, and inspire future generations to recognize and cherish this rich history.”

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the day of the rededication, Amtrak San Joaquins is offering fares at 50% off for visitors traveling to Allensworth. There will also be a shuttle at the station to take guests to the park. Get train schedule and tickets here. (westsidestorynewspaper.com).

WGA Strike: Hollywood Writers Return to Work After Reaching Deal with Studios

By Antonio Ray Harvey, Tanu Henry and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media

The Writers Guild of America West (WGA) and SAG-AFTRA unions have reached a tentative agreement to end a historic and highly publicized strike that shut Hollywood down and lasted nearly five months.

“I am grateful that the Writers Guild of America and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers have reached a fair agreement and I’m hopeful that the same can happen soon with the Screen Actors Guild,” said Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. “Now, we must focus on getting the entertainment industry, and all the small businesses that depend on it, back on their feet and stronger than ever before.”

The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) – the organization that represents the studios – approved a potential new deal on Sept. 24 that allows 11,500 writers to return to work beginning Sept. 27 while the ratification process takes place. The new agreement will run until 2026.

The unions were protesting for higher wages and protections from studios using artificial intelligence in the creative process.

In the end, negotiations included streaming compensations and set a minimum number for writing staffs. Staff writers reportedly received a 5% increase in weekly pay, while story editors and executive editors saw a 3.5 to 4% increase in their compensation.

 “What we have won in this contract – most particularly, everything we have gained since May 2nd – is due to the willingness of this membership to exercise its power, to demonstrate its solidarity, to walk side-by-side, to endure the pain and uncertainty of the past 146 days,” the WGA stated in and email to members.

WSS News Exclusive: The Goose is Still Grand!

Ruth Stevens was named ‘Granny Goose’ by her first granddaughter, Myshjua, over 50 years ago.

The name has been echoed by eight grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter! The ‘Goose’ is shown here with one of her great granddaughters!

Ruth recently celebrated her 97th birthday. Her life is profiled in her book, “Ruthie ’Jewels”, available in the Amazon bookstore!

Scientists 3D Print Human Stem Cells To Repair Brain Injuries


By James Gamble

Scientists have used a 3D printer to print human stem cells that could help repair brain injuries.

The researchers from Oxford University have successfully implanted the cells into the brains of mice.

The exciting advance has raised the prospect of the method being tailored for use in treating brain injuries in humans in the future, by essentially 3D printing brain cells.

In experiments, the implanted cells integrated into the animals’ brains both structurally and functionally.

The innovative University of Oxford study, published in the journal Nature Communications, marks the first time neural cells have been 3D printed to mimic the architecture of the cerebral cortex.

The research builds on a ten-year track record in producing and patenting 3D printing technologies for synthetic tissues and cultured cells.

The success of this latest project has increased hopes similar technology could one day be used to treat brain injuries.

The exciting advance has raised the prospect of the method being tailored for use in treating brain injuries in humans in the future, by essentially 3D printing brain cells. PHOTO BY MART PRODUCTION/PEXELS 

Injuries to the brain, including those caused by trauma, stroke and surgery or tumors on the brain can typically result in damage to the cerebral cortex – the outer layer of the brain.

This can lead to difficulties in cognition – the process of acquiring knowledge and understanding through thought, experience, and the senses – as well as movement and communication.

Each year, around 70 million people across the globe suffer from traumatic brain injuries (TBI), with five million of those being severe or fatal.

But despite their significant toll on the human population, there are thus far no effective treatments for TBI, leading to serious impacts on the sufferer’s quality of life.

However, tissue regenerative therapies are seen as a promising route to treatment; especially those which incorporate implants derived from patients’ own stem cells.

But, up until now, no method has been able to ensure that implanted stem cells mimic the architecture of the brain.

In this latest study, researchers used 3D printing techniques to create a two-layered brain tissue using human neural stem cells.

When implanted into the brain slices of mice, these cells encouragingly showed convincing structural and functional integration with the host tissue.

The cortical structure was constructed from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), which have the potential to produce the cell types found in most human tissues.

A key advantage of using hiPSCs for tissue repair is that they can be easily derived from cells harvested from patients themselves; therefore not triggering an immune response.

The hiPSCs were differentiated into neural progenitor cells for two different layers of the cerebral cortex by using specific combinations of growth factors and chemicals.

The exciting advance has raised the prospect of the method being tailored for use in treating brain injuries in humans in the future, by essentially 3D printing brain cells. PHOTO BY MART PRODUCTION/PEXELS 

The cells were then dipped in a solution to generate two ‘bioinks’, which were then printed to produce a two-layered structure.

The printed tissues maintained their layered cellular makeup for weeks, as indicated by the expression of layer-specific biomarkers.

Dr. Yongcheng Jin, a lead author of the study from the University of Oxford’s Department of Chemistry, excitedly explained: “This advance marks a significant step towards the fabrication of materials with the full structure and function of natural brain tissues.

“The work will provide a unique opportunity to explore the workings of the human cortex and, in the long term, it will offer hope to individuals who sustain brain injuries.”

When these printed tissues were implanted into brain slices in mice they displayed strong integration, demonstrated by the projection of neural processes and the movement of neurons across the boundary between the implanted and the host cells in the brain.

The implanted cells also showed signalling activity which correlated to that of the host cells – indicating that the human and mouse cells were communicating with each other and demonstrating functional as well as structural integration in the brain.

The research team now intend to further refine their printing technique to create complex, multi-layered cerebral cortex tissues that more realistically mimic the architecture of the human brain.

If successful, it is hoped that scientists may soon simply be able to print necessary brain cells from a patient’s own stem cells and implant them in the brain.

Besides their potential for repairing brain injuries, these engineered tissues might also have uses in drug evaluation, studies of brain development, and improvement of our understanding of the very basis of cognition.

Senior author Dr. Linna Zhou said: “Our droplet printing technique provides a means to engineer living 3D tissues with desired architectures, which brings us closer to the creation of personalized implantation treatments for brain injury.”

Associate Professor Francis Szele, from the University of Oxford’s Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics and another senior author of the study, added: “The use of living brain slices creates a powerful platform for interrogating the utility of 3D printing in brain repair.

“It is a natural bridge between studying 3D printed cortical column development in vitro and their integration into brains in animal models of injury.”

Professor Zoltán Molnár, another senior author, said though the technology was not fully advanced yet, the study shows significant promise in treating brain injuries in the future.

“Human brain development is a delicate and elaborate process with a complex choreography,” he said.

“It would be naïve to think that we can recreate the entire cellular progression in the laboratory.

“Nonetheless, our 3D printing project demonstrates substantial progress in controlling the fates and arrangements of human iPSCs to form the basic functional units of the cerebral cortex.”

Produced in association with SWNS Talker



Experimental Vaccine Sends Immune Cells Into ‘Incredible Hulk Mode’ To Fight Hospital Superbugs


By Stephen Beech

An experimental vaccine that sends immune cells into “Incredible Hulk mode” could protect patients against all hospital superbugs, according to new research.

Scientists say a study in mice suggests a single shot administered just before or after arriving in hospital could prevent all antibiotic-resistant infections – including potentially deadly MRSA.

The new vaccine has been developed and patented by an international team led by scientists at the University of Southern California (USC).

Researchers designed the formula to stop serious infections from drug-resistant pathogens.

Scientists say a study in mice suggests a single shot administered just before or after arriving in hospital could prevent all antibiotic-resistant infections – including potentially deadly MRSA. PHOTO BY GABRIEL TOVAR/UNSPLASH 

The Incredible Hulk was a super-strong Marvel Comics character who was the alter ego of scientist Dr. Bruce Banner.

The new study, published in the journal Science Translational Medicine, shows that a single dose, administered in mouse models, put immune cells into “Incredible Hulk” mode, providing rapid protection against eight different bacteria and fungi species.

Senior author Dr. Brad Spellberg, chief medical officer at the USC-affiliated Los Angeles General Medical Center, said: “It’s an early warning system.

“It’s like Homeland Security putting out a terror alert. ‘Everybody, keep your eyes open. Keep an eye out for suspicious packages.’

“You’re alerting the soldiers and tanks of your immune system.

Scientists say a study in mice suggests a single shot administered just before or after arriving in hospital could prevent all antibiotic-resistant infections – including potentially deadly MRSA. PHOTO BY GABRIEL TOVAR/UNSPLASH 

“The vaccine activates them. ‘Oh my, there’s danger here. I better turn into the Hulk.’

“I mean, when you have bad superbugs lurking, that’s when you want the Hulk waiting to pounce rather than Dr. Banner, right?”

Healthcare-acquired infections kill more than 90,000 people every year in the United States alone.

On any given day, around one in 31 hospital patients in America has at least one such infection, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In many cases, infections are caused by superbugs such as MRSA.

The infections spread via contaminated surfaces or equipment, such as catheters or ventilators, or through person-to-person spread, often from contaminated hands.

Risk is highest among intensive care patients who may suffer surgical site infections, bloodstream infections, urinary tract infections and ventilator-associated pneumonia.

Typical vaccines usually prompt the body to make antibodies against a specific pathogen but – despite the high incidence of healthcare-acquired infections -there are currently no approved vaccines that prevent the most serious, antibiotic-resistant infections.

Dr. Brian Luna, of Keck School of Medicine at USC, said: “Even if there were such vaccines, multiple vaccines would have to be deployed simultaneously to protect against the full slate of antibiotic-resistant microbes that cause healthcare-acquired infections.”

He said the new experimental vaccine takes an entirely different approach as it “gooses” the body’s pre-existing supply of pathogen-gobbling immune cells called macrophages, which engulf and digest bacteria, fungi and other bad actors.

Dr. Luna said the activated fighters, found in all tissues, quickly neutralize incoming invaders which might otherwise multiply rapidly and overwhelm the body’s defenses.

Study first author Jun Yan, a doctoral student at Keck School of Medicine, said: “This is very different from developing new antibiotics.

“This is using our own immune system to fight against different superbugs, which is a different approach than everybody else.”

The vaccine is comprised of just three ingredients, two of which are already used in officially approved vaccines.

A third component is a tiny piece from the surface of a fungus commonly found on human skin.

Tested in two independent labs, the vaccine works within 24 hours and lasts for up to 28 days.

In lab models, the number of pathogen-eating immune cells in the blood increased “dramatically” – and the survival time of invasive blood and lung infections improved.

Early data suggest that a second dose could extend the window to prevent infection, according to the research team.

To develop the vaccine, they formed the start-up ExBaq LLC.

The technology licensing office for USC has successfully filed one patent for the vaccine and is pursuing others.

Professor Ishwar Puri, senior vice president of research and innovation at USC, said: “The pandemic stimulated unprecedented innovation in vaccine development, where federal funding and university-industry partnerships were game changers for translating promising discoveries from academic labs for the good of all.”

Now ExBaq’s founders have begun talking with potential pharmaceutical partners who might be interested in further developing the vaccine for human clinical trials.

They said the first such trial would be done in healthy volunteers to find the right dose of vaccine that is safe and triggers the same kind of immune response in people as seen in the mice.

Produced in association with SWNS Talker



“So, You Mean to Tell Me, You’re Not Concerned At All?”

By Lou K Coleman

Your whole world is about to be turned upside down and you are not concerned. What’s wrong with you? We are constantly moving forward toward the Biblical description of the last era of human history prior to Christ’s return and you aren’t concerned. Woe unto you! Repent before it is too late! For “My spirit will not always strive with man.”  And know that every tender warning, every word of mercy, every expression of compassion, every act of grace and every extended breath within the framework of My patience is not to be treated lightly or trivialized. Right now, you are living in a time of grace. Enter the ark, before it is too late! If you do not, death and destruction will be your portion. I the Lord have spoken!

Final Invitation. Final Instructions. Final Response. Final Judgment. [Genesis 7:1-24].

God is not a man that He should lie…If God says it, He means it. And the Bible warns us in the New Testament…that Judgment is coming again…and the earth will be destroyed one more time. [Jeremiah 4:5-7].

Burning like a furnace, when all the arrogant and all evildoers will be stubble. The day that is coming shall set them ablaze, says the Lord of hosts, so that it will leave them neither root nor branch.” [Malachi 4:1].

But nobody responded.

Legislative Black Caucus Chair “Extremely Disappointed” by Gov. Newsom’s Veto of Child Gender Identity Bill

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

Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson (D-Suisun City) says she’s extremely disappointed by Gov. Gavin Newsom’s decision to veto Assembly Bill (AB) 957, legislation that would have required judges in custody cases to consider a parents’ affirmation of their child’s gender identity in their application of the law.

Wilson, who is the chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus and who has a transgender child said, “I know the Governor’s record. He has been a champion for LGBTQ+ rights even before it was popular to do so.”

“However, on this point, the Governor and I disagree on the best way to protect transgender kids,” Wilson continued.  “I’ve been disheartened over the last few years as I’ve watched the growing hate and heard the vitriol towards the trans community. My intent with this bill was to give them a voice, particularly in the family court system, where a non-affirming parent could have a detrimental effect on the mental health and wellbeing of a child. Whether the roadblock comes from the opposition or even a supporter, it only hardens my resolve. I’m far from done, this fight is personal! Not just for my family, but to all the trans kids that deserve a brighter and safer future.”

The Governor announced his decision in a press release his office sent out Friday that listed bills he has so far signed and others he has vetoed.

Oct. 14 is the deadline for Newsom to sign bills lawmakers introduced during the 2023 legislative session.

Explaining his decision to veto AB 957 in a message, Newsom said people elected officials could point to the legislation as precedent to “diminish the rights of vulnerable communities.”

“I am returning Assembly Bill 957 without my signature,” Newsom wrote.  “I appreciate the passion and values that led the author to introduce this bill. I share a deep commitment to advancing the rights of transgender Californians, an effort that has guided my decisions through many decades in public office.”

That said,” the Governor continued in his message, “I urge caution when the Executive and Legislative branches of state government attempt to dictate – in prescriptive terms that single out one characteristic – legal standards for the Judicial branch to apply.”

Former L.A. County Prosecutor Christopher Darden Announces Run for LA County Superior Court Judge

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

Last week, Christopher Darden, an attorney, bestselling author, law professor and former L.A. County prosecutor announced his candidacy for L.A County Superior Court judge.

The elections will be held next March.

Darden, 67, a Richmond native, gained national prominence when he served as a co-prosecutor in the 1994 O.J. Simpson murder trial.