By Quinci LeGardye | California Black Media 

As cities across California take a closer look at unfair practices in the criminal justice system, Proposition 25 offers a statewide policy that could aid their efforts: getting rid of cash bail.

The ballot measure, which is based on SB 10, a bill former Gov. Jerry Brown signed into law two years ago, would replace cash bail with risk assessments for suspects awaiting trial. 

Currently California uses a cash bail system that allows suspects to pay a cash bond to be released from jail with the promise to return to court for trial, at which point the cash bond is repaid. If Prop 25 passes, cash bail would be replaced with a risk assessment system that categorizes suspects as low risk, medium risk, or high risk, with suspects for misdemeanors exempt from needing a risk assessment. 

Under the new system, suspects who are categorized as low risk and likely to appear in court – and are also a low risk to society — would be released from jail before trial, and those deemed high risk would remain in jail. The state Judicial Council would decide what the risk assessment tools would be, with the proposition mandating that “tools shall be demonstrated by scientific research to be accurate and reliable.” 

The California Legislature approved SB 10 during the 2018 session, and former Gov. Jerry Brown signed it into law on Aug. 28 that same year. The next day, opponents filed a referendum to overturn the bill, which prevented the law from being scheduled to take effect in 2019. Opponents gathered enough support to move it to a 2020 ballot initiative, which means the decision to overturn or uphold Prop 25 now falls to voters on Election Day next week. 

Supporters of Prop 25 argue that the cash bail system is inherently unfair, where wealthy people can pay their way out of jail and poor people with the same likelihood to appear or not appear for trial have to stay imprisoned. They say that the risk assessment system will make public safety the guiding factor to determine which suspects have to stay in jail before trial. They also argue that they system will allow more poor people to go free before awaiting trial, which would save money for local jails. 

Supporters also argue that the cash bail system is deeply inequitable. They say that people who cannot afford bail are more likely to take a plea deal after months of sitting in jail while possibly losing their jobs and homes. Those who can afford it, can avoid or minimize jail time and be less impacted by the implications of their arrest. 

Supporters include the California Democratic Party, the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and the California Medical Association — as well as Gov. Gavin Newsom and U.S. Congresswoman Karen Bass (D-CA-37). 

“For years, California has proudly led the way on fundamental civil rights and criminal justice reform but, as we’ve witnessed firsthand across our country, there’s more we must do to root out racial inequity and structural bias and to embrace proven reforms that work. This November, 

state voters will once again have the opportunity to make California a national leader in the unfinished fight for equity and justice,” said Newsom. 

Opponents of Prop 25 argue that the risk assessment system could be potentially worse than cash bail, with a high possibility that racial profiling could be used in the assessment process. Also, they argue that implementing the system would be too expensive, as the proposition’s fiscal impact statement says it would cost “possibly in the mid hundreds of millions of dollars annually” for the new system. 

Opponents include the Republican Party of California, the ACLU of Southern California, the California Business Roundtable and the California Black Chamber of Commerce. 

Prop 25 is also opposed by the commercial bail bond industry, which would be disrupted if the proposition is passed. The American Bail Coalition organized the political action committee Californians Against the Reckless Bail Scheme that filed the veto referendum in 2018. Representatives of the bail industry argue that risk assessments are no better than cash bail, that they are potentially more costly and that more people who go free before trial may commit more crimes before trail. 

“This legislation is a reckless attempt at changing the state’s bail system and is fundamentally bad for California. While we all agree that bail reform is necessary, this costly, reckless plan will use racially biased computer algorithms to decide who gets stuck in jail and who goes free. That’s not right,” said Jeff Clayton, spokesperson for Californians Against the Reckless Bail Scheme.

By Quinci LeGardye | California Black Media

The legal push-and-pull over whether ride-hailing company drivers in California will maintain their status as independent contractors or become W-2 employees continued last week. 

On October 22, the First District Court of Appeal in San Francisco upheld the injunction issued against Uber and Lyft last August that those companies’ app-based drivers are employees. 

In its ruling, the court said there was an “overwhelming likelihood” that Uber and Lyft are violating AB 5. The law that has driven a wedge between opponents and supporters across the state requires that employers classify workers who meet certain criteria as employees instead of independent contractors. It also states that those hiring firms must provide all worker benefits to employees that California’s labor laws mandate. 

If voters approve the ballot measure, which Uber and Lyft are sponsoring, the gig economy companies will be able to continue classifying their employees as independent contractors. The injunction resulted from a lawsuit that California Attorney General Xavier Becerra filed in May in conjunction with the city attorneys of San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego. The suit argued that Uber and Lyft violated AB 5 by classifying drivers as independent contractors after AB 5 took effect in January.

The injunction resulted from a lawsuit that California Attorney General Xavier Becerra filed in May in conjunction with the city attorneys of San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego. The suit argued that Uber and Lyft violated AB 5 by classifying drivers as independent contractors after AB 5 took effect in January. 

“Uber and Lyft have used their muscle and clout to resist treating their drivers as workers entitled to those paycheck and benefit protections. The courts saw right through their arguments. It’s time for Uber and Lyft to play by the rules,” said Becerra in a statement after the ruling. 

Uber, Lyft and other gig economy companies have been fighting against AB 5 since Gov. Newsom signed it into law in August 2019. While the state’s lawsuit has worked its way through the courts, Uber and Lyft, along with other gig economy companies, have pumped nearly $200 million into the Yes on Prop 22 campaign so far. 

Lyft spokesperson Julie Wood said in a statement, “This ruling makes it more urgent than ever for voters to stand with drivers and vote yes on Prop 22.” 

The gig economy companies are also facing another legal battle. On Oct. 22, a group of California gig workers sued Uber for penalties totaling up to $260 million. The workers argue that Uber’s use of aggressive in-app messages urging the workers to support Prop 22 violated their employment rights. They are seeking an injunction to prevent Uber from showing any more Prop 22 messages in the app. 

“Uber’s threats and constant barrage of Prop 22 propaganda on an app the drivers must use to do their work have one purpose: to coerce the drivers to support Uber’s political battle to strip them of workplace protections,” said attorney David Lowe of Rudy, Exelrod, Zieff & Lowe in a statement announcing the lawsuit. 

There have been numerous reports on social media of the Uber app’s messages, which read “Prop 22 is progress” and “Prop 22 will provide guaranteed earnings and a healthcare stipend.” Drivers then had to click either “Yes on Prop 22” or “OK” to proceed in the app. Uber spokesman Matthew Wing said that specific language is no longer used, and now drivers are occasionally shown a pop up that says “Drivers deserve better” and offers the option to click through to see more facts. 

An Uber spokesperson called the lawsuit “without merit, filed solely for press attention and without regard for the facts.”

WASHINGTON, D.C.— Kornisha McGill Brown has been elected as the 27th National President of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated. 

With more than 245 chapters nationwide, representing more than 40,000 family members, Jack and Jill of America is the nation’s oldest African American family organization. Founded in 1938, Jack and Jill boast the specific mission of nurturing future African American leaders. 

Newly elected National President Brown has served as a member of the organization for more than 13 years, fulfilling roles and responsibilities that include 2017-2019 Regional Director of the Southeastern Region, 2015-2017 Southeastern Regional Secretary, Regional Nominating Committee member for 2 terms, and Regional Chair of Rules and Regulations. In 2015, Brown was recognized as “Chapter President of the Year” by the Southeastern Region during her term as President of the Columbus, GA Chapter. 

“As mothers, we unite together in Jack and Jill with the primary purpose of seeing our children and all children succeed in every way,” Brown said. “Together, we are committed to ensuring Jack and Jill remains revered and prepared for the future.  I am committed to keeping our children as a top priority.” 

A native of Thomaston, GA, Brown resides with her family in Columbus, GA. She is married to Dr. Darius K. Brown, Sr., and they are the very proud parents of two children —Jordan Janay Brown and Darius Brown, Jr.

Brown is an educator, servant leader, small business managing partner, and philanthropist. She is a member of The Links, Incorporated-Columbus, GA Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and Board of Directors of the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Chattahoochee Valley. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Spelman College and a Master of Education Degree in Social Science Education from the University of Georgia.

On Sunday, November 8, please join women’s fashion and accessories retailer, Lady MV, for an exclusive fashion show competition and model mixer. The mixer will take place at 6 p.m./PST across Lady MV’s social platforms (Facebook, Instagram) @ladymv. Krystal Yvonne’s social handle is @krystal_yvonne. The winner will receive a cash prize of $500, as well as other prizes. 

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Don’t let COVID put a damper on your kids celebrating Halloween! On Friday, October 30 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., First 5 San Bernardino will be hosting a Drive Thru Trunk-or-Treat. The event will be held at Arrowhead United Way located at 646 North D. Street in San Bernardino. 

First 5 San Bernardino will be recognizing Pastor Derek Smith and the congregation of Loveland Church for their generous donation of diapers and wipes to serve hundreds of children and families in San Bernardino County. 

Kinder kits will be available at the event and will include: 1 glue stick, 1 pair of scissors, 1 pencil box, a coloring page, 3 books, 1 pencil, 1 large eraser, 1 pack of crayons, and 1 kid’s clothing item. Lunch/dinner will be provided between 2:20 and 3:30 p.m.

This is a FREE event, but space is limited. 

RIVERSIDE, CA—- As part of its longstanding history, the San Bernardino-Riverside Area Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated will honor two outstanding community leaders with the Dorothy Inghram Social Action Advocate Award on Sunday, November 8, 2020.

The Chapter proudly announces the selection of Dr. Judy D. White as a 2020 honoree in recognition of her inspirational leadership and invaluable contribution to the growth and educational development of Inland Empire students. Dr. White recently announced her retirement after 42 years of service in public education, effective November 1.

Mr. Damon Alexander, an active community leader, public servant, and member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated is also selected as a 2020 honoree, recognizing his tireless contributions to the increased political awareness and involvement throughout our Inland Empire communities. Mr. Alexander is currently running for the San Bernardino City Council, representing the 7th Ward.

“Due to COVID-19 we cancelled our annual Culmination program in May where we would have publicly recognized Dr. White and Mr. Alexander,” said President, Erica Shorts. “But we are planning a wonderful virtual event on November 8 and we hope their family, friends, supporters and the community will join us as we celebrate two individuals who have done so much to improve the lives of individuals and families living throughout Riverside and San Bernardino counties.”

The Dorothy Inghram Social Action Advocate Award honors the legacy of Ms. Dorothy Ella Inghram, a long time resident of the City of San Bernardino who blazed the trail for black educators when in 1942, she became the first black teacher in San Bernardino County and later the first black principal. In 1953, she became the first black school district superintendent in California. Before her death in 2012 at the age of 106, she authored five books. Ms. Inghram was also a charter member of the San Bernardino-Riverside Area Alumnae Chapter, which started in 1959.

The Dorothy Inghram Social Action Advocate Award program will take place via Zoom on Sunday, November 8, 2020, at 2:00PM. To register visit for the event visit www.sbraac-dst.org.

By Lou Yeboah

“After all I’ve done for you. I have loved you, with an everlasting love [Malachi 1:2], but instead of receiving Me with delight, you receive Me not. [John 1:11]. You stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart people. I have spread out my hands all day unto a rebellious people; A people that provoketh Me to anger continually to My face’. [Isaiah 1:4-6; Jeremiah 7:17-20 Jeremiah 25:7-11; Ezekiel 8:17-19; Deuteronomy 31:29; 2 Kings 22:16-17 Hebrews 3:7-9, 12, 15].

You Ingrates! Don’t you know, that My grace is love which you do not deserve, but yet are given? Don’t you know, that it is My grace that is keeping you alive? [Ephesians 2:1-2]. Prostituting My grace. Taking My goodness for granted. [Romans 6:23]. Listen, and listen good. I WILL NOT allow you to become complacent or neglectful concerning Me. I WILL NOT allow you to take Me for granted. Think lightly of the riches of My kindness, tolerance, and patience, and repent quickly, before I bring My wrath upon you, for my patience is at its limit!” [Romans 2:4-5; 2 Peter 3:8-10].

I want you to know that when God learned of how Israel had betrayed His love and taken His grace for granted, God became furious, and brought His wrath upon Israel. [2 Kings 17:18]. And before they had satisfied their craving, while the food was still in their mouths, the anger of God rose against them, and he killed the strongest of them and laid low the young men of Israel. [Psalms 78:31]. “What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid! [Romans 6:2,15] Know that God’s long-suffering will eventually ends. It ended in the days of Noah [Genesis 6:8]. It ended for Sodom and Gomorrah in the days of Abraham. [Genesis 19:1-5]. And, it eventually will end for all of us. [2 Peter 3:10]. “One final appeal, and this is it! This is the final call, says the Lord. Repent before I bring My wrath upon you!”

I admonish you to receive Him while you are able. He is a gracious and compassionate God, [Romans 2:4-5; 2 Peter 3:8-10], but He has His limits. For the Lord said in [Genesis 6:3] “My Spirit will not always strive with man. I will proceed no longer in this way, but pass and execute the sentence of condemnation on you…” No one is excluded from Jesus’ demand to repent..” All is included.  Don’t delay! The need is urgent! [Acts 17:30]. For Jesus said, “Unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.” [Luke 13:3]. “The men of Nineveh will rise up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and behold, something greater than Jonah is here” [Matthew 12:41].

Jesus, is warning us of the judgment to come, and offering escape if we will repent. If we will not repent, Jesus has one word, “Woe unto you.” “Repent, and turn from all your transgressions, so that iniquity will not be your ruin” [Ezekiel 18:30; Acts 3:19]. The Bible commands it, our wickedness demands it, justice requires it, Christ preached it and God expects it. Don’t let the verdict be for you as it was for Israel. They saw all the evidence. They heard all the teaching. They saw the miracles. But they refused to repent.

Know that, “If you do not obey Me [take Me for granted and treat Me neglectfully], and do not observe all these commandments, and if you despise My statutes, or if your soul abhors My judgments, so that you do not perform all My commandments, but break My covenant, I also will do this to you: I will even appoint terror over you, wasting disease and fever which shall consume the eyes and cause sorrow of heart. And you shall sow your seed in vain, for your enemies shall eat it. I will set My face against you, and you shall be defeated by your enemies. Those who hate you shall reign over you, and you shall flee when no one pursues you. ‘And after all this, if you do not obey Me [if you still take Me for granted and if you still neglect Me], then I will punish you seven times more for your sins. I will break the pride of your power; I will make your heavens like iron and your earth like bronze. And your strength shall be spent in vain; for your land shall not yield its produce, nor shall the trees of the land yield their fruit. ‘Then, if you [still take Me for granted] and walk contrary to Me, and are not willing to obey Me, I will bring on you seven times more plagues, according to your sins. I will also send wild beasts among you, which shall rob you of your children, destroy your livestock, and make you few in number; and your highways shall be desolate. ‘And if by these things you [still take Me for granted] are not reformed by Me, but walk contrary to Me, then I also will walk contrary to you, and I will punish you yet seven times for your sins. And I will bring a sword against you that will execute the vengeance of the covenant; when you are gathered together within your cities I will send pestilence among you; and you shall be delivered into the hand of the enemy. When I have cut off your supply of bread, ten women shall bake your bread in one oven, and they shall bring back your bread by weight, and you shall eat and not be satisfied. ‘And after all this, if you do not obey Me [if you still are complacent and you continue to neglect Me and take Me for granted], but walk contrary to Me, then I also will walk contrary to you in fury; and I, even I, will chastise you seven times for your sins. You shall eat the flesh of your sons, and you shall eat the flesh of your daughters. But, “If you turn your heart around; if you accept your guilt and change [repent], I will remember My covenant. [Leviticus 4-29; Deuteronomy 28].

They continue in their foolishness. [Proverbs 26:11].

Yet you have not listened to Me, declares the Lord, in order that you might provoke Me to anger with the work of your hands to your own harm. [Jeremiah 25:7].

Hear, O earth: behold, I am bring disaster on this people, the fruit of their plans, because they have not listed to My words, and as for My law, they have rejected it also. [Jeremiah 6:19].

RIALTO, CA— – To facilitate population, commerce and job growth for underserved areas of the Bloomington region, the West Valley Water District (WVWD) Board of Directors approved a contract with Michael Baker International (MBI), one of the nation’s leading providers of engineering and consulting services, to design, build, and oversee the expansion and replacement of major water main pipes for the community.

In cooperation with the Federal Highway Administration (FHA), California Department of Transportation (CALTRANS), San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA) and County of San Bernardino, WVWD hired MBI to replace 3600 feet of water main pipe for a key highway improvement project that addresses serious congestion and freeway access issues. The project, known as the I-10 Cedar Avenue Interchange Improvement Project, includes an expanded freeway entrance, exit ramps and bridge to reduce congestion by creating more room for vehicles to maneuver. Since water main pipes are located within the highway improvements, WVWD must relocate the entire affected section of the water main. By investing in new infrastructure instead of reusing aging pipes, WVWD is guaranteeing the reliability and safety of the area’s water supply for future residents, employees, and visitors for decades to come. WVWD’s portion of the project is estimated to cost just over $350,000 and will be fully reimbursed by the SBCTA.

“With the economic devastation wrought by this pandemic, we appreciate the opportunity to bring jobs and investment into our community,” said WVWD Board President Channing Hawkins. “MBI has my full confidence and support, and I am happy to see the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority take meaningful action on transportation justice.” 

The project is expected to start in August 2021 and take over a year to complete. Seven firms received applications for the contract, with two proposals ultimately sent in for consideration. MBI was not only the most cost-effective option but brings 80 years of experience and an in-house staff of over 3400 employees with them, ensuring that WVWD’s needs for this project can be met in-house, on-demand. 

“It is with careful consideration that we selected MBI for this contract: given their consistency, long history of success and clear value proposition, MBI was the obvious choice for this project,” said Board Vice President Kyle Crowther. “This project will not only create valuable new jobs for the area but allow WVWD to improve its infrastructure without any additional cost to ratepayers.”

By Jacqui Lyons, Divisional Merchandise Manager, Seafood and Seasonal Meat, Walmart

When it comes to grocery, the weekend before Thanksgiving is typically a busy one as shoppers across the country begin to prepare the holiday meal. This year has brought rapid and constant change in every facet of our daily lives, and we know Thanksgiving celebrations will be no exception. The sprint to Thanksgiving is likely going to be spread over a greater number of days, and the largest turkey in the freezer is less likely to be the star.

In fact, demand for turkey will undoubtedly look different this year, and at Walmart, we made early shifts to ensure our customers would find the items they want for the Thanksgiving meal.

Here’s how we’re preparing for ‘center of plate’ this Thanksgiving.

COVID-19 continues to reshape how people shop, and in turn, it’s sure to reshape traditions this holiday season. In fact, according to Butterball, the number of consumers who plan to host extended family and friends for Thanksgiving has dropped from 30% during a typical year to 26% this year while those who plan to celebrate only with immediate family has risen from 21% in a typical year, to 31%.

With more customers planning for smaller groups, we anticipate a higher preference for smaller turkeys. As always, we’ll have plenty of whole turkeys, but this year, we’ve increased our assortment of bone-in and boneless turkey breasts by 20-30% in stores across the country.

We also learned a lot from our customers this past Easter. To avoid crowds, shoppers stocked up earlier than ever. That’s going to continue this holiday season. It’s no longer about catering to a single peak the weekend before Thanksgiving. This year, Walmart customers can take advantage of everyday low prices on a range of turkeys beginning earlier in the season on November 2.

Following Easter, ham sales continued to peak even into summer as people were inspired to cook differently at home. We expect that trend to continue right into Thanksgiving dinner. With Walmart customers planning smaller gatherings and prioritizing convenience, ham will be in the spotlight and we’ve increased our inventory accordingly.

We know this year has been difficult for our customers and their families. We know they’re busy and burdened, and we know they want to make the holiday special. Regardless of how they plan to celebrate Thanksgiving, we’re committed to ensuring our customers can find what they want earlier in the season, all at affordable prices. From turkey and ham to all the sides, our merchants have been busy preparing for a season unlike any other so that our customers can take comfort in knowing the items will be here in our stores and available for online pickup and delivery, ready when they are.