LOS ANGELES, CA- The 26th Annual Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF) announced two exciting programming shifts this week, the addition of The Forgiven (Saban Films) as their new closing night selection, and the launch of their new #Talk4Reel panel series! Both moves are the perfect additions to an already must-see/must-do lineup of films, discussions, experiences and more!

“Our marquee film slate now stands anchored with the perfect beginning, middle and end,” shares PAFF  Director of Programming,  Asantewa Olatunji. ” Love Jacked” remains as our opening night, while The Forgiven gets added to closeout our festival experience. Nestled in-between is our centerpiece, which, this year, is a private screening event of 2018’s most anticipated film! Definitely not one to miss!” 

All marquee films will feature a star-studded red carpet, a full screening, an informative Q&A with filmmakers and talent, and a happening after-party.

2018 MARQUEE FILMS

OPENING NIGHT – LOVE JACKED

(World Premiere – 2017/Canada/South Africa/US)

Directed By: Alfons Adetuyi

Date: Thursday, February 8

Time: 6PM Red Carpet | 7PM Screening

A warm family comedy centered around Maya, a headstrong 28-year-old with artistic ambitions and her father Ed, who wants a dutiful daughter to run the family store. Ed is shocked when Maya, asserting her independence, decides to travel to Africa for inspiration and returns with a fiancé. Stars Amber Stevens-West, Shamier Anderson, Lyriq Bent, Keith David, Mike Epps, Marla Gibbs, Angela Gibbs, Demetrius Grosse and Nicole Lyn. Cast members will be present.

CENTERPIECE

**PRIVATE RED-CARPET SCREENING**

(2018/US)

Date: Wednesday, February 14

PAFF will host a private screening of 2018’s most anticipated film for PAFF founders, sponsors, partners, friends and esteemed influencers. Stay tuned to for more details!

CLOSING NIGHT – THE FORGIVEN

(US Premiere – 2017/South Africa/UK)

Directed By: Roland Joffé

Date: Sunday, February 18

Time:  5:45PM Red Carpet | 6:45PM Screening 

Academy Award® winner* Forest Whitaker and Eric Bana deliver riveting performances in this tense thriller based on real events. When Archbishop Desmond Tutu (Whitaker) is appointed to head a nationwide investigation, he’s summoned to a maximum-security prison by a notorious murderer seeking clemency (Bana). Inside the brutal prison walls, Tutu is drawn into a dangerous, life-changing battle with the cunning criminal in this captivating film from Oscar® nominated director** Roland Joffé. 

SPOTLIGHT FEATURES

Behind the Movement 

(2018/US/Narr)

Presented by  TVOne

Directed By: Aric Avelino

Date: Friday, February 9

Time: 7PM Red Carpet | 8PM Screening

Behind the Movement is a unique and fast-paced retelling of how Rosa Parks’ refusal to give up her seat launched the history-making Montgomery Bus Boycott. The film will reveal the untold story of how a group of everyday people decided this incident was the right time to take a stand for their civil rights and demand equal treatment.

King of the Stage: The Woodie King, Jr. Story

(World Premiere – US/Doc) 

Directed By: Juney Smith

Date:  Saturday, February 10

Time:  6PM Red Carpet | 7:15PM Screening | 9PM Lifetime Achievement Presentation

Woodie King, Jr. is an African-American director and producer of stage and screen, as well as the founding director of the New Federal Theater in New York City. The Pan African Film & Arts Festival will present him with their coveted Lifetime Achievement Award.

Nothing Like Thanksgiving 

(World Premiere – US/Narr)

Directed By: Mark Harris

Date: Saturday, February 17

Time: 7:15PM Red Carpet | 8PM Screening

Having cancer and six months to live, sends Clayton Rockwell (William L. Johnson) a successful businessman, devoted husband and father on a journey to do the unthinkable. Clayton finds a replacement Wesley Madison (Richard Gallion) and grooms him to exactness to take over his business and family; all the while, Kenneth Swain (Darrin Henson) is working to take over his company. 

*Dates and times are subject to change. For an exhaustive list of screening events and experiences, click here:

https://www.paff.org/pdfs/2018/Screening_Schedule-2018-2.pdf.

PAFF LAUNCHES NEW #TALK4REEL PANEL SERIES OF CONVERSATIONS THAT AIM TO MOVE CULTURE AND CAREERS FORWARD!

The Pan African Film & Arts Festival has always been more than just movie screenings. It also serves as a platform to amplify the voices of industry powerhouses, community influencers, sports figures, cultural icons, thought leaders and disruptors who seek to educate, inspire and empower those who desire personal and professional elevation.

With that in mind, PAFF has officially launched its new #Talk4Reel panel series that makes necessary conversations happen… and when these conversations happen, you definitely want to be in the building! 

CHECK OUT OUR EXCITING #Talk4Reel LINEUP BELOW

Nate Parker Foundation Film Premiere Event

Sat, Feb.10 at 2:00pm-4:00pm

Through cinematic arts, the Nate Parker Foundation empowers young voices of African descent to advance social justice and revolutionize culture. Two films will be screened, #Hashtag and Baggage, followed by a discussion led by Nate Parker.

TV One: Social Justice Screenings and Community Forum

Sat, Feb.10 at 5:00pm

TV One will be screening two short films, Evidence of Innocence and Two Sides, followed by an intriguing panel discussion.

UMC Presents

Sat, Feb.10 at 8:00pm

A showcase of UMC original series featuring episodes and discussions with talent and content producers for four new shows.

Seed & Spark

Sun, Feb. 11 at 1:30pm

Join Seed & Spark founder, Emily Best, for a discussion on the future of filmmaking and distribution. Seed & Spark is an innovative new streaming service changing the way films are financed and distributed — equal parts streaming network and crowd-funding platform.  Screening films: Kingsley’s Crossing, Across the Track and Matter of Black.

The Quad – Presented by BET

Sun, Feb. 11 at 4:00pm

Exclusive screening of an upcoming episode BET’s hit series followed by a discussion with the cast and crew.

Black Studio Executives Talk

Thu, Feb. 15 at 7:15pm

The gates of Hollywood finally appear open to more diversity in its business suites as well as its content. Black studio executives participate in an informative discussion on green-lighting, producing and distributing Black content in the digital age. Moderator: Effie T. Brown (Producer); Confirmed Panelist: Moira Griffin (Fox) and more to be announced.

Sports and Activism Panel – Presented By NAMIC

Thu, Feb. 15 at 6:30pm – 8:30pm

Panelist: Marc Spears (SR. NBA Writer, The Undefeated), Galen Gordon (VP, Talent Management, NFL Network), Ramona Shelburne (Sr. Writer, ESPN.com) and LZ Granderson (Sr. Writer at ESPN and ABC Contributor).

Canal Street 

Fri, Feb. 16 at 7:00pm

A modern-day thriller telling the story of a teen, Kholi Styles, trying to get by in an unwelcoming new world. After the mysterious death of a classmate, all eyes fall on Kholi, and it’s up to his father, Jackie Styles, an up-and-coming lawyer from the slums of Chicago, to defend his son in court and battle an outraged public before time runs out. Jackie fights to keep his faith and prove his son is not the monster the world has made him out to be. Screening extended clips followed by discussion with director, cast and crew.

Talk4Reel: Secret Event

Sat, Feb.17 at 3:00pm

Extended movie trailer of a highly anticipated film followed by a discussion with the director, cast and crew. This is one major motion picture exclusive you won’t want to miss!

The Chi – Presented by Showtime

Sat, Feb.17 at 6:00pm

Exclusive screening of an upcoming episode of the SHOWTIME® Original Drama Series, THE CHI, from Emmy® winner Lena Waithe and Academy Award® winner Common. 

TRAFFIK – Presented by Codeblack Films

Sat, Feb. 17 at 9:00pm

Screening select scenes of the upcoming suspense thriller movie, TRAFFIK followed by a discussion with special guests. Directed by Deon Taylor and starring Paula Patton, Omar Epps and Laz Alonso.

Black Lightning

Mon, Feb. 19 at 6:50pm

Screening followed by discussion with talent and above the line crew on the hot new CW hit series. 

The 26th Annual Pan African Film & Arts Festival will take place  Thursday, February 8 through Monday, February 19  at the Cinemark Rave 15 Theatres/Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza   (3650 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd)  in Los Angeles, California.

To view the full schedule and complete lineups of PAFF Institute, StudentFest, Children’s Fest, ARTFest, PAFF Spoken Word, PAFF LOL and Senior Connections, click here: https://www.paff.org/pdfs/2018/Screening_Schedule-2018-2.pdf. 

For more details, ticket information and group sales, log on to  www.PAFF.org !

By Naomi K. Bonman

By Lou Coleman-Yeboah

Yes, we need to remember the importance of what we believe. We need to be stirred up, and gripped by the reality of it. For we should never, no never! Forget the toils and dangers. We should always cherish them and tell the history of our suffering in the cause of freedom. For if we have no memory, we are adrift because memory anchors us to the past, interprets the present, and charts a course for the future. And so, being reminded of the truth is critical. Don’t let the deceitfulness choke your life so as to forget where you came from. Remember what you know. Remember the day we came out of Egypt. [Matthew 13:22]. It’s in the Word [Deuteronomy Chapter 8]. Moses was having a little talk with the Israelites, they were getting ready to come up, out of 40 years of being in the wilderness, yeah, 40 years of trials, tribulations, and hardships and they were getting ready, to enter the blessed land of Canaan, but before it was time to go, God wanted them to be reminded of a few things, Moses says, first of all, that thou shall remember, the long way that God has bought thee, remember, where you came from, and he says that it was to test thee, to humble thee, to prove what was in thine heart, whether thou would keep thy commandments or not, as God’s chosen people. We are to remember…lest we become tempted to return back to our old way of life. You see, every time Israel forgot what Egypt was really like, they got the itch to go back. For this reason God asked them to have an annual event to “remember the day they came out of Egypt!  The importance of remembering and being reminded of truth – BLACK HISTORY! 

Without remembering the past we have no future, and present comes meaningless. Past victories gives us hope for the future when we need it in the present! Don’t forget to Remember! You see, the Bible commands that one generation should praise the Lord’s works to another [Psalm 145:4] The Bible commands that fathers should teach the history of Israel and the wonderful works of God to the children, so that future generations would know God’s acts in history, and “set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God” [Psalm 78:1-70]. The Bible commands believers to “Remember the days of old” and what took place in previous generations, so that it might inform our current realities [ Deuteronomy 32:7]. This generation and future generations need to understand what God has done in previous generations to deliver His people from darkness and bring them into the light. The Christian slaves understood that they were grafted into the family of Abraham and they made Israel’s story, their story. How did the slaves endure, overcome, and find hope while being in physical bondage for over 200 years? They learned the story of Israel having been delivered from Egyptian slavery. They heard sermons based on the story. They originated songs based on the story. Don’t forget to remember – BLACK HISTORY!

Jobs for This Week:

Satellite Tech needed – in So Cal. Call Francisco (951) 202-6762

Paint Prepper needed – in Temecula, CA. Apply in person 27590 Commerce Center Drive, Temecula, CA 92590.  No resumes

General Labor wanted – in Ontario, CA. Call Carol Rangel (909) 476-2955.  $12.00/hr.

Rack Installers/Construction Helpers needed – in Fontana, CA. $13.00/hr.  Call (909) 395-0243

Construction Workers needed – in Fontana, CA. Call Kevin (310) 406-4641 8:00am-4:00pm to apply.  No texting

Company – is seeking General Service Tech/Tire Installer in Temecula, Winchester, CA. Call Saul (951) 719-1600

Beaumont Lowes – is seeking General Labor in Beaumont, CA. Apply at Employment Solutions, 10444 Magnolia Avenue, Riverside, CA.  92505

Mobil Field Tech needed – in Upland, CA. Call (909) 949-2156

General Labor Warehouse needed – in Ontario, CA. Call (909) 443-5050

General Labor needed – in Ontario, CA. Call John (909) 917-8266

DHL Chain – is seeking Warehouse Operators (Case Pickers) in Fontana, CA. indeed.com

Canadian Sales Agency – is seeking a Material Handler in Fontana, CA. indeed.com

New Vision – is seeking a Warehouse Shipping Manager in Ontario, CA. $20,000.00-$40,000.00k/yr.  indeed.com

Fas Temps – is seeking a Shipping Clerk in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

Sapphire Chandelier, LLC – is seeking a Shipping and Receiving Clerk in Anaheim, CA. $14.00-$16.00/hr.  indeed.com

Morgan Handler – is seeking a Material Handler in Riverside, CA. indeed.com

Niagara Bottling Co. – is seeking a Receiving Associate in Rialto, CA. indeed.com

The Hellman Group – is seeking a Material Handler Trainee in Rialto, CA. indeed.com

H & E Equipment Services – is seeking a Yard Worker in Fontana, CA. indeed.com

Buena Vista Food Products – is seeking Mixers, Scalers and Production Workers in Azusa, CA. $12.00-$13.00/hr.  indeed.com

Humano – is seeking a Warehouse Freight Handler/Palletizer in Fontana, CA. $11.50-$16.50/hr.  indeed.com

Triad Bellows Design and Mfg., – is seeking a Shipping and Receiving Worker in Anaheim, CA. www.indeed.com

Walmart – is seeking a Freight Handler in Chino, CA. indeed.com

Home Chef – is seeking a Production Associate in San Bernardino, CA. $11.00/hr.  indeed.com

ICI Services Corporation – is seeking a Naval Warehouse Specialist in Corona, CA. indeed.com

Sauder Companies – is seeking a Transquad Picker in Jurupa, CA. indeed.com

Neovia Logistics Services, LLC – is seeking a Warehouse Inventory Clerk in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

Quanex Products – is seeking a Production Worker in San Bernardino, CA. indeed.com

TKC Holdings – is seeking a Shipping Staff in Fontana, CA. indeed.com

TKC Holdings – is seeking a CAM-Material Handler in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

Managing Personnel Services – is seeking General Labor in Ontario, CA. $11.00/hr.  indeed.com

States Logistics – is seeking an Order Picker/Forklift Operator 2^nd shift in Ontario, CA. $12.00-$15.00/hr.  indeed.com

JHD Corporation – is seeking an Office Assistant in Ontario, CA. $11.00-$14.00/hr.  indeed.com

Pro Crete Resources, Inc. – is seeking a Warehouse Delivery Driver & Shipping/Receiving Specialist in Costa Mesa, CA. indeed.com

BTL Machine – is seeking a Receiving Inspector in corona, CA. indeed.com

Arrow Staffing – is seeking General Laborer in San Bernardino, CA. $12.00/hr.  indeed.com

Manpower, Inc. – is seeking a Production Specialist/Production Worker (F/T) in Pomona, CA. $16.69/hr.  indeed.com

Manpower, Inc. – is seeking a Receiving Equipment Operator in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. indeed.com

Yinlun Tdi, LLC – is seeking a Shipping and Receiving Lead (Forklift Operator) in Ontario, CA. $13.00-$16.00/hr.  indeed.com

The Adecco Group – is seeking a Receiving Worker in Ontario, CA. $14.00/hr.  indeed.com

NFI Industries – is seeking an Order Selector in Chino, CA. indeed.com

Prime Supply, Inc. – is seeking a Warehouse Shipping and Receiving Worker in Pomona, CA. $15.00-$18.00/hr.  indeed.com

Tarbell Realtors – is seeking a Shipping/Direct Mail Clerk Worker in Santa Ana, CA. indeed.com

Partners Personnel – is seeking an Order Filler/Puller in the Inland Empire, CA. indeed.com

Volkswagon Group of America, Inc. – is seeking a Warehouse Operations Coordinator in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

Conco – is seeking a Yard Laborer in Fontana, CA. $13.00/hr.  indeed.com

Connect Staffing, Inc. – is seeking a Lumber Yard Worker in Riverside, CA. $13.00/hr.  indeed.com

Stark – is seeking a Warehouse Associate Picker in Chino, CA. indeed.com

Chartwell Staffing Solutions – is seeking Citrus Fruit Packers in Riverside, CA. $11.00/hr.  indeed.com

Agua Tri – is seeking a General Laborer in Ontario, CA. $13.00/hr.  indeed.com

Vario Corporation – is seeking a Warehouse Associate in Chino, CA. indeed.com

Fed Ex Express – is seeking a (P/T) PM Handler in Ontario, CA. $14.95/hr.  indeed.com

Backyard Products, LLC – is seeking a Warehouse Clerk in Riverside, CA. $13.00-$15.00/hr.  indeed.com

Crown Tech – is seeking an Entry Level Wiring Worker in Fontana, CA. $13.00/hr.  indeed.com

The Solares Group – is seeking a Sales Associate/Customer Servicer in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. $18.00-$32.00/hr.  indeed.com

com – is seeking Plant Managers & Manufacturing Leaders in San Bernardino, CA. www.indeed.com

Praxair – is seeking a Process and Pipeline Tech in Fontana, CA. indeed.com

Dixon Valve & Coupling Company – is seeking a Warehouse Worker in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. indeed.com

Ralphs – is seeking a Grocery/Stocking Hourly Associate in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. indeed.com

RNS Channel Letters – is seeking an Electrical Sign Assembly Worker in Corona, CA. indeed.com

California Aseptic Beverages – is seeking an Inventory Control Clerk in Fontana, CA. $15.00/hr.  indeed.com

VWR International, LLC – is seeking a Material Handler in Claremont, CA. indeed.com

Options for Youth – is seeking an English Learner Specialist in Fontana, CA. $57,000.00k/yr.  indeed.com

Jack’s Box and Crate – is seeking a General Laborer/Warehouse in Riverside, CA. $10.50-$11.00/hr.  indeed.com

General Photonics Corporation – is seeking a Shipping and Receiving Clerk in Chino, CA. $12.00-$13.00/hr.  indeed.com

Cintas – is seeking a Stockroom Utility Worker in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

XPO Logistics – is seeking a Customer Service Rep in Fontana, CA. indeed.com

American Hotel Register Company – is seeking a Warehouse Administrative Assistant in Fontana, CA. indeed.com

Department of the Army – is seeking a Tools and Parts Attendant in March AFB, CA. $19.28-$22.49/hr.  indeed.com

Global Environmental Products, Inc. – is seeking a Mechanical Assembler in San Bernardino, CA. $12.00-$15.00/hr.  indeed.com

The Home Depot – is seeking a Warehouse Associate in Mira Loma, CA. indeed.com

Syntech Group – is seeking a Contractor for HP@Aruba Network in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. $35.00-$45.00/hr.  indeed.com

On Time Staffing – is seeking a Material Handler in Mira Loma. CA. $11.50/hr.  indeed.com

Loma Linda University Medical Center – is seeking a Document Imaging Specialist in Loma Linda, CA. indeed.com

Pitney Bowes – is seeking a Mail Quality Control Clerk, 3^rd shift in Corona, CA. indeed.com

Acuity Brands Lighting – is seeking an Assembly Call Operator in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

Kaiser Permanente – is seeking an Admitting Rep (Temp) in Fontana, CA. indeed.com

GEODIS – is seeking an Inventory Specialist in Fontana, CA. indeed.com

B. Powell – is seeking a Wood Finisher in Norco, CA. www.indeed.com

Dependable Personnel – is seeking a Material Expeditor in Ontario, CA. $14.00-$16.00/hr.  indeed.com

AKDY – is seeking an E-Commerce Customer Service Rep in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. indeed.com

MSA Safety, Inc. – is seeking a Hydrogen Sulfide Sensor Production Call Operator in Corona, CA. indeed.com

Northwest Pallet Supply – is seeking a Pallet Sorter/Repair in Rialto, CA. $11.00/hr.  indeed.com

Globalux Lighting – is seeking a Customer Service/Inside Sales Person in Ontario, CA. $12.00-$13.00/hr.  indeed.com

Workforce Development – is seeking a Data Entry/Warehouse/Errand Runner in Colton, CA. $12.00-$13.00/hr.  indeed.com

Custom Screen Printing & Emb – is seeking a Screen Printing Automatic Press Operator in the Inland Empire, CA. indeed.com

PepsiCo – is seeking an EHS Coordinator-Back Filler in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. indeed.com

Insource Performance Solutions – is seeking a Warehouse Associate in Fontana, CA. $12.00-$14.00/hr.  indeed.com

Apollo Retail Specialist – is seeking an Amazon Home Service Assembly Provider in Riverside, CA. indeed.com

Inland Empire Rescue Mission – is seeking a Front Desk Receptionist in Corona, CA. $12.00-$13.00/hr.  indeed.com

The Home Depot – is seeking a Warehouse Support in Mira Loma, CA. indeed.com

Amarr/Entrematic – is seeking a Warehouse Worker in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. $15.50-$17.50/hr.  indeed.com

Career Specialist – is seeking a leasing Consultant in Fontana, CA. $10.50-$15.00/hr.  indeed.com

Exclusive Headhunting – is seeking a Customer Service Rep in the Inland Empire, CA. indeed.com

Universal Technical Institute – is seeking a Receptionist in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. indeed.com

San Antonio Regional Hospital – is seeking a Housekeeping Aide in Upland, CA. indeed.com

HR Direct Services – is seeking a Packing and Manufacturing Worker in Mira Loma, CA. $12.00-$13.00/hr.  indeed.com

Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration – is seeking a Housekeeping Aid in Loma Linda, CA. $12.27-$14.30/hr.  indeed.com

Stater Bros. Markets – is seeking a Customer Service Rep in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

HD Supply – is seeking a Warehouse Associate II in Corona, CA. indeed.com

L & M Services, Inc. – is seeking a Cabinetry Draftsman in Ontario, CA. $30.,000.00-$50,000.00k/yr.  indeed.com

Ryder – is seeking a Material Handler I in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

Morgan Corporation – is seeking an Assembler in Riverside, CA. indeed.com

Fitness 19 – is seeking a Sales Associate in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. indeed.com

Verigent – is seeking an Electrical Apprentice in San Bernardino, CA. indeed.com

International Paper – is seeking a General Labor in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

US Specialty Vehicles – is seeking an Automotive Exterior and Interior Final Assembler in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. indeed.com

Edison International – is seeking an Administrative Aide 3 in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. indeed.om

Bison Workforce Solutions – is seeking a Repair Tech in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

San Joaquin Valley College – is seeking a Financial Aid Officer in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

Office Team – is seeking a Customer Service Rep in Ontario, CA. $16.15-$18.70/hr.  indeed.com

Sprouts Farmers Market – is seeking a Courtesy Clerk in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. indeed.com

Tropical Foods, Inc. – is seeking a Route Sales Rep in Ontario, CA. $50,000.00-$70,000.00k/yr.  indeed.com

Martinez & Turek, Inc. – is seeking a Crate Builder in Rialto, CA. indeed.com

Norton Delgado Family Medicine – is seeking a Prior Authorization Coordinator in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. $13.56/hr.  indeed.com

Viewsonic – is seeking a Warehouse Material Handler in Chino, CA. $12.00-$14.00/hr.  indeed.com

Stanley Black & Decker – is seeking a Class 9 Processor in Rialto, CA. indeed.com

Heydude Shoes-Wewood Watches – is seeking a Planner in San Bernardino, CA. $17.00/hr.  indeed.com

Commercial Metals Company – is seeking a Machine Operator in Fontana, CA. indeed.com

Shurtope Technologies and Shur Tech Brands, LLC – is seeking a Slitter Operator in Highland, CA. indeed.com

Syntech Group – is seeking a V Mware Consultant in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. $35.00-$45.00/hr.  indeed.com

IMI-A Global People Company – is seeking a Recruiter in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

Workforce Enterprises – is seeking an Injection Molding Tech in Fontana, CA. $22.00-$24.00/hr.  indeed.com

Seidner’s Collision Centers – is seeking an Auto Body Tech in Ontario, CA. $40,000.00-$100,000.00k/yr.  indeed.com

Sterigenics – is seeking an Operator Trainee in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

California Aseptic Beverages – is seeking a Blender in Fontana, CA. $16.00/hr.  indeed.com

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By Charlene Muhammad | California Black Media

The fallout over the replacement of London Breed as San Francisco’s first Black, female mayor in the city’s history with a White male, Mark Farrell as the interim mayor continues.

After the passing of Mayor Ed Lee the first Asian American to be elected in that role suddenly died due to a heart attack on December 12, Breed took the seat as allowed by the city charter.  It also allows supervisors to vote in a successor.

She was to hold the post for the remainder of Lee’s term, six months but served as acting Mayor until January 23, 2018.

Residents protested after Breed’s colleagues voted 6-3 to remove her on January 23.

“In an only-in-San Francisco tale that involved a mix of tech money, racial tension, and political jockeying, the city’s most progressive elected officials spearheaded the ouster of the city’s first female African-American mayor, a woman with roots in the city’s public housing projects, in favor of a white, male venture capitalist who represents the city’s wealthiest neighborhoods,” wrote Benjamin Schneider in the San Francisco Chronicle.

In interviews, Breed, 43, has talked about her upbringing around a lot of poverty, despair, and crime.  She was fortunate enough to attend UC Davis, and in that time, she realized she should not be the only one from her neighborhood to succeed, so she chose to return to make a difference, Breed told Hoodline, an online site for news in San Francisco.

The Sun Reporter Newspaper publisher Amelia Ashley Ward said she was surprised at so many “young white liberal progressives speaking out against Breed.” She continued, “Perhaps San Francisco isn’t as progressive as some people like to think.”  

Kimberly Ellis, former California Democratic Party Chair candidate, chided the Board of Supervisors vote, which many alleged was rigged.

“It only took Democrats 43 days from praising Black women for delivering the U.S. Senate victory in Alabama to disenfranchising the first Black woman Mayor of San Francisco,” posted Ellis on her Facebook page.

“Welp, that’s the Democratic Party establishment for you…,” she continued.

Ellis said the matter is not about the race for mayor.

“This is about making lame excuses, reinterpreting San Francisco’s charter and replacing a progressive woman of color with a wealthy white male moderate. 

So much for all of those pink pussy hats, eh,” she questioned rhetorically.

Ellis is referring to hats worn during the first Women’s March as a symbol of support and solidarity for women’s rights and political resistance.

“But not to worry. We’ll handle it from here… Like we always do. Time to turn rage into election results. See you at the polls,” Ellis’ post continues.

Dr. Willie and Mary Ratcliff, publishers of the San Francisco Bay View Newspaper, feel Breed is now in a better position.

“Nobody did London Breed any favors at Tuesday’s board meeting. Not the supervisors who swept her out of the mayor’s office that had been given to her by the city charter and not Ron Conway and the big money boys whose overly aggressive support was the screen the supervisors hid their racism behind,” indicated the Ratcliffs in a recent editorial.

Breed heads into the June election owing nothing to anybody, only the people of San Francisco, including the neediest, they said. 

The Bay View quoted Fred Jordan, who heads the San Francisco African American Chamber of Commerce.  “San Francisco is a racist city,” wrote Jordan.  He noted Dianne Feinstein wasn’t removed when she was president of the Board of Supervisors like London Breed, succeeded a mayor who died in office, the outlet continued.

Following the vote, Breed herself spoke out.

“Last night, six of my colleagues voted to elect a successor Mayor to serve until the June election. It’s been an honor to serve the City as Mayor during this difficult time, and I will continue working for ALL San Franciscans to address the important issues we face as a City: homelessness, housing, & public safety,” she stated.

“I am running for Mayor because San Francisco deserves a leader who will fight to get things back on track for families and working people,” announced Breed on in a Facebook post.

Social media sounds off

“My childhood friend I’m sad to say that your colleagues was wrong for voting you out but I & the citizens of SF will vote you back in as the mayor of our city you live in I may be living across the bay from my hometown that I’m going to pray everyday until the day its time to vote you in as mayor because I know the late mayor Ed Lee would rather have you in his place this is just a minor set back so you just continue to look for our people in the city of the lovely San Francisco love you girl,” commented Deidre Bradford on Breed’s thread.

Monica Jones said she welcomes Breed’s candidacy and leadership.  “What went down last night was wrong and unprecedented,” Jones wrote.

Hugh E MC remarked, “#Salute sis. That was a conniving ugly move…but we know this is politrickz…You are handling this with incredible grace….Now let’s Bring them war #DonMachiaveli style.”

“Although, I am not a fan of all of your policies I must say that the vote the board decided on was a bamboozle and wreaked of race-baiting and pure political maneuvering,” commented Amos Gregory.

“I no longer live in SF, so I can call Hilary Ronen out for being a race-baiting manipulator. Breed can’t have a rich white male help her reach her goals, but you can? This BS is the progressive Imprimatur from 2016…telling black folk they’re the tools of white folk, if we only really understood politics, we would know we were being used. Reading Hilary Ronen’s condescending racist claptrap! It’s just Bernie Sanders drivel…wash, rinse, and repeat,” posted Victoria Jee.

Black Lives Matter co-founder, Alicia Garza responded with a tweet “San Francisco dislikes Black women so much they appointed a white conservative to be the caretaker Mayor. Somebody explain to me how this was the best option. Oh, San Francisco you break my heart.”

 

WASHINGTON, DC- On Monday, January 29, Rep. Norma J. Torres (D-CA) is attending the State of the Union address with Cal Poly Pomona student veteran Sommarani “Mayra” Chan as her guest. Mayra’s family fled from the Khmer Rouge Genocide in Cambodia and sought protection in a Thailand refugee camp. In 1985, the family resettled in the U.S., where Mayra became a first-generation American.

“It is an honor to have veteran and Cal Poly Pomona graduate student Mayra Chan as my guest to the State of the Union. Mayra’s incredible story and commitment serves as a shining example of the value and strength that immigrants, refugees, and their children bring to our nation,” said Rep. Torres.

“I am grateful to be here.  As a veteran and first-generation college student, to be here representing something greater than myself is truly an honor.  It is a once in a lifetime experience to be able to attend tonight’s State of the Union as a guest of Congresswoman Torres,” said Chan.

From 2006 to 2014, Mayra served in the United States Army Reserve where she did one tour in Afghanistan and a humanitarian mission in Panama in 2009. During her time in Cal Poly Pomona, Mayra has kept busy by focusing her work on serving the student veteran community on campus as a student employee at the Veteran Resource Center. Mayra earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Food and Nutrition last year and is currently working on her Master of Science in Agriculture, concentrating her thesis research on combating obesity amongst the veteran community.

Congresswoman Torres’ guest is a personification of the policies she continues to push for in Congress that ensure that the Inland Empire remains a welcoming place for all and that veterans have access to the tools they need to thrive when they return home.         

By Evan Wheeler, Contributor of Purposely Awakened

My enemies acting friendly distorting my past,

We know history needed generations of great Black men.

Stop portraying this illusion that won’t last,

Years of lies and stripping origins from our ken.

You are not without sin but the first stone was cast,

Eyes were blinded to your trash but that was then.

I woke up putting your fallacies on blast,

I refuse to lose and remain sleep with you pigs in this American pen.

By Word of Mouth Ministries 

Have you ever had a dream you wanted to fulfill, or a goal you wanted to achieve, but just didn’t know how to get there?   Me too.    My dream at Word-­?Of-­?Mouth Ministries is to spread the Word of God by helping other God-­?centered businesses or individuals do the work that God has called them to do (Based on Ephesians 4:10-­?16).   

In order to do that though, I need to know where the God-­?centered individuals and businesses are and what they are doing.  That’s where you come in.  If you are an individual with a dream, a small business, a new business or even a big business that has been in operation for many years and you love the Lord, I want to help you spread the Word.   

Spreading the Word does not necessarily mean that you are preaching or handing out tracts. It means that God is the priority in whatever you do. Your customers and the people around you can feel God’s presence through you and God is blessing what you are doing because you are doing what He wants you to do. 

Here is an example of what I do. A lady who used to go to my church had prepared some homemade soaps and body butters for a trade show she was going to. She told me that after I had sampled her products and told her friends and family how soft and bouncy my hair was (after I used the body butter on my hair), she sold out of all the products she had prepared for the trade show. Since people don’t usually put body butter on their hair, it gave her a different way to promote her products.                  

If you’d like to give Word-Of-­Mouth Ministries a try, then please send your bio, a photo of yourself and your  products  and  a  brief  description  of  the  work  you  are  doing  and  why  you  are  doing  it  to wordofmouthministries777@gmail.com. Include  in  your  description  what  you  believe  are  your strengths  (what  you  are doing well),  the  weaknesses  (what  you need to do better), your opportunities (what doors God has opened for you) and the threats (what has kept you from moving forward). 

Once  I  receive  your  information  and  it  is  something  I  can  help  you  with,  I  will  pray  for  you  and  your business,  send  you  some  helpful  suggestions  on  ways  to  improve  either  your  product  or service,  your pricing, your place of business or your promotions.  I will also give you a supportive Scripture from the Bible  and spread the word to  let people know what you are doing, so you can increase your customer base.   All  I  ask  is,  if  God has blessed you with the  means  to do so,  then please sow a seed  of  $20  into Word-­Of-­Mouth Ministries so the ministry can continue to grow and be a blessing to others.  

HELP ME TO FULFILL MY DREAM, SO I CAN HELP YOU TO FULFILL YOURS!  

HAVE A BLESSED DAY, EVERYBODY. 

RIVERSIDE, CA- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire is partnering with barbershops across Riverside and San Bernardino counties to recruit volunteers for its one-to-one youth mentoring program. The Shaping Up for the Future campaign runs from February 3 to February 24 and aims to find mentors to serve as positive role models for the more than 200 boys currently on the waitlist.  

On February 3, current mentors in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program will participate in campaign kick-offs at the six participating barbershops, including: Gentlemen’s Barber Club, Thee Latest Barbershop and Good News Barber Shop in Rancho Cucamonga; and Shaves and Fades Barbershop, Expensive Habits Barbershop and The Hair Doctors in Riverside. Each shop is tasked with educating its patrons about the significant impact of youth mentoring. The barbershop that brings in the most potential volunteers will receive the Champion for Change trophy, presented by Big Brothers Big Sisters on February 28.

“As a former professional athlete, it means a lot to me to give back to the community that I grew up in and help young men stay out of trouble,” said Terrell Thomas, a retired NFL Giants player and owner of Thee Latest Barbershop. “You see kids all the time getting in trouble, going to jail and just following the crowd. Big Brothers Big Sisters provides a way for these kids to have a better future.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters matches volunteer mentors one-to-one with youth facing adversity (“Littles”), building friendships that help them overcome challenges such as having an incarcerated parent, exposure to substance abuse, gang violence, human trafficking and growing up in the foster system. The organization supports more than 1,000 children annually in San Bernardino and Riverside counties. As a result, many local youth are becoming the first in their families to earn a high school diploma, go to college and build a career to achieve sustainable independence—creating lasting generational change throughout the Inland Empire. 

“There are hundreds of boys in our community growing up without a positive male role model, so we are excited to have these local businesses be part of our inaugural campaign that will provide them with life-changing friendships,” said Jennifer O’Farrell, executive director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Inland Empire. “The patrons our partner barbershops recruit will be matched with children to help them explore new interests and provide consistent support as they navigate the challenges of growing up.”

Traditional program volunteers must be 18 years or older, sign up to mentor a child for one year and have a vehicle, current driver’s license and proof of auto insurance. For more information about the Shaping Up for the Future recruitment campaign, visit barbershopbigs.org.

By Lue Dowdy

The Evans presents “Stand-up Comedian T.K. Kirkland” is WHAT IT DO! So, you know the saying, “Laughter is good for the soul,” well prepare to wet your pants on Wednesday, February 7 because the very funny and talented T.K. Kirkland will be taking the stage at the Ontario Improv.

The show will be hosted by comedian Arae Sherwin and the line will consist of Julio Gonzalez and Brian Monarch.

Born in New Jersey but raised in Compton, T.K. Kirkland is not just a comedian. He’s also an actor and writer known for Strays (1997), New Jersey Drive (1995) and The Champagne Gang (2006). Possessing several talents, T.K. Kirkland is a writer, singer, radio host and musician. Being able to connect and work with Rap Legend Eazy–E allowed his career to flourish and the opportunity to share the stage with other great artists in the game.

I will be in the house taking notes and conducting interviews. I’m totally excited about this show! Please if you’re available come join me. The show starts at 8 p.m. Early arrival is suggested. Tickets can be purchased on the Ontario Improve website at https://ontario.improv.com. Remember, make sure you always do you because can’t nobody do it better. Follow me @lueproductions on Facebook and all social media sites.

Until next week L’s!