SACRAMENTO, CA – Pasadena native, and longstanding California Supreme Court Justice, the Honorable Leondra R. Kruger was recognized by Assemblymember Chris Holden and the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) as the 41st Assembly District’s Unsung Hero for her outstanding achievement and positive impact on the community.  An Unsung Hero is defined as a person who makes a substantive yet unrecognized contribution — a person whose bravery is unknown or unacknowledged.

“Justice Kruger is a true trailblazer and someone that future generations can look to as an example of hard work, discipline and all-around excellence,” said Assemblymember Chris Holden.

The California Legislative Black Caucus established the Black History Month Unsung Hero Award to recognize individuals who have contributed selflessly to their respective districts. Justice Leondra R. Kruger received her bachelor’s degree with high honors from Harvard College and received her J.D. from Yale Law School. She then went on to serve as a law clerk to Judge David S. Tatel of the United States Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, and to Justice John Paul Stevens of the United States Supreme Court. In November of 2014, she was appointed to the California State Supreme Court, confirmed by the Commission on Judicial Appointments on December 22, 2014, and sworn in by the Governor on January 5, 2015.

“By enduring all that it takes to become the second African American woman and third youngest person ever to be appointed to the California Supreme Court, she is paving the way for upcoming young and diverse leaders and showing them that they are capable of more than they ever imagined,” said Holden.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Bass Public Affairs (BPA) and The King for America Foundation hosted the first in a series of events focused on celebrating the long-shared history of collaboration between the African-American and Jewish American communities. Under the banner of the Yahweh Project BPA hopes to remind Black and Jewish communities of the historic achievements that resulted from their unified efforts.

The Black History Month luncheon, held at the National Press Club in Washington, DC, featured a discussion led by Rev. Dr. Nathaniel Thomas, senior pastor at Forestville New Redeemer Church in Forestville, Maryland. Dr. Thomas cautioned against Black Americans being misled by antisemitic misinformation from the past and present. “We have a number of groups pouring into our black churches to educate pastors in a way that is anti-Israel,” said Dr. Thomas. “We don’t need indoctrination, we need education.”

The Yahweh Project serves as a resource not only for pastors but also for educators, students, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Black and Jewish collaboration. In light of the increasing prevalence of antisemitism in the United States, dialogue centered on democracy and intentional efforts to foster unity on college campuses, in the media and in popular culture are imperative.

“After the horrific attacks of October 7th, we were deeply troubled by the antisemitic rhetoric emanating from some corners of the black community,” said Dee Dee Bass Wilbon, a partner at Bass Public Affairs. “Our mission is simple. We want to remind America that after Reconstruction, during the turn of the 20th Century, and amid some of the darkest days of the Civil Rights Movement, Jewish Americans marched, bled and died for the cause of justice on behalf of African Americans.”

“We are grateful to advance the goals of the Yahweh Project with initial support from the Ken and Frayda Levy Foundation and additional support from Cliff and Laurel Asness,” said Dr. Alveda King, founder of King for America.

Upcoming events include roundtable discussions at Historically Black Colleges and Universities, ecumenical forums with faith leaders, and a media campaign featuring ads in Black press outlets. For more information, visit BassPublicAffairs.com/theyahwehproject.

MEMPHIS, TN – Aqila Augusta, a former nurse turned entrepreneur, is proud to share a special list for Black History Month titled “Celebrating Black History Month: Iconic Natural Black Hairstyles Through the Years.” She aims to honor the rich cultural heritage and diversity of black hairstyles while highlighting their significance throughout history.

“Edge Entity is more than just a brand; it’s a symbol of empowerment and confidence,” says Aqila Augusta. “We are committed to helping individuals reclaim their natural crown and rebuild their self-esteem through our innovative products.”

The list features a showcase of iconic natural black hairstyles spanning decades, highlighting their cultural significance and evolution over time. From the iconic afro, symbolizing black pride during the Civil Rights Movement, to the intricate artistry of cornrows and the spiritual significance of locs, each hairstyle tells a story of resilience, creativity, and pride within the black community.

Other featured hairstyles include twists, Bantu knots, the frohawk, big chop, natural curls, faux locs, and the teeny-weeny afro (TWA), each representing a unique expression of self-love, cultural heritage, and individuality. Here they are explained.

1. Afro: Popularized during the 1960s and 1970s, the afro became a symbol of black pride, identity, and empowerment during the Civil Rights Movement.
2. Cornrows: Originating from Africa, cornrows are braided close to the scalp in rows, often intricately styled and adorned with beads or other accessories. “Also, a crazy fact about cornrows: they were used during slavery as maps or guides for runaways to help them navigate paths to escape,” says Augusta.
3. Twists: Twists are a versatile hairstyle where sections of hair are twisted together to create a rope-like appearance, offering a low-maintenance yet stylish look.
4. Locs (Dreadlocks): A hairstyle where hair is intentionally matted and knotted to form rope-like strands, locs are often associated with spirituality, cultural identity, and rebellion against societal norms.
5. Bantu Knots: Originating from the Bantu people of Southern Africa, Bantu knots are small, coiled buns formed by twisting sections of hair, often worn as a protective style or as a precursor to voluminous curls.
6. Frohawk: A variation of the afro, the frohawk features a strip of hair left untouched down the middle of the head, while the sides are shaved or styled closely to the scalp, creating a Mohawk-like effect.
7. Big Chop: A bold statement of self-love and acceptance, the big chop involves cutting off chemically processed or damaged hair to embrace one’s natural texture and start afresh.
8. Natural Curls: Embracing the natural texture of black hair, whether in loose curls, coils, or kinks, celebrates individuality and authenticity without the need for chemical straightening or heat styling.
9. Faux Locs: Offering the look of traditional locs without the commitment, faux locs are created using extensions or braiding hair, providing versatility and style without the long-term commitment.
10. TWA (Teeny Weeny Afro): A chic and low-maintenance style, the TWA showcases the beauty of short, natural hair, allowing for easy styling and versatility while embracing one’s natural texture.

These hairstyles not only reflect the diversity and creativity within the black community but also serve as a means of self-expression, cultural heritage, and empowerment throughout history.

Originally from New Orleans and now based in Memphis, TN, Aqila Augusta embarked on her entrepreneurial journey after experiencing her own hair loss struggles. As a mother and a Hurricane Katrina survivor, Aqila’s determination led her to create her own hair growth formula after numerous failed attempts with existing products. Drawing upon her nursing background and extensive research, she founded Edge Entity, a brand dedicated to providing high-quality hair care solutions for men, women, and children worldwide.

For more information about Aqila Augusta and Edge Entity, please visit edgeentity.com and follow them on social media @Edge.Entity.

Join Aqila Augusta and Edge Entity in celebrating Black History Month and embracing the beauty of natural black hairstyles.

About Edge Entity

Edge Entity is a leading provider of high-quality hair care products, founded by Aqila Augusta, a former nurse and entrepreneur. With a mission to empower individuals to embrace their natural hair, Edge Entity offers a range of innovative solutions, from hair growth formulas to shampoos, conditioners, vitamins, and moisturizers. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has made them a trusted brand among men, women, and children worldwide.

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

On February 12, Attorney Gen. Rob Bonta joined members of the California Legislative Black Caucus in Sacramento to announce they are backing a bill written to address the high maternal mortality rate among Black women.

The legislation, Assembly Bill (AB) 2319 – aims to ensure the successful implementation of SB 464, or the California Dignity in Pregnancy and Childbirth Act of 2019 (Act).

This act which took effect in 2020, mandates that all physicians in the state undergo implicit bias training every two years and requires hospitals to inform patients about their rights.

If the Legislature votes to approve it and Gov. Newsom signs it into law, AB 2319 will “provide clarity” on who qualifies to offer anti-bias trainings; designate state authorities to implement and enforce accountability measure; improve equity and inclusion; increase transparency around implementation; establish penalties for violators; among other provisions.

“It is a tragic reality that race continues to be a factor in maternal health and infant mortality rates not just in California, but across this country,” said Bonta.

“Together, we have made so much progress, and we must continue to address healthcare bias head-on. Today’s legislation does just that; it is designed to make transformational change in a system that has historically failed our mothers and babies, especially those of color,” Bonta added.

In California, ever year, Black women account for about 5% of pregnant women but make up an estimated 21% of pregnancy-related deaths, according to California Department of Justice.

Assemblymembers Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City) Chair of the CLBC: Mia Bonta (D-Oakland), chair of the Assembly Health Committee; Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley); and Mike Gipson (D-Carson) attended the news briefing at the State Capitol about AB 2319.

“As a Black Mother and as Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus, the fight to improve these outcomes is personal to me “I look forward to collaborating with our Attorney General Rob Bonta, Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber and other stakeholders to push this accountability measure across the finish line as we seek to make strides in improving Black maternal health outcomes throughout California,” said Wilson.

ETIWANDA, CA – High school senior Anthony Johnson knows he wants to go to college but isn’t sure where he would like to land. Meeting with recruiters from 20 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), which had gathered Wednesday, February 7, at Etiwanda High School, gave him some long-distance options he hadn’t thought of. And for his father, Brenton Johnson, it was music to his ears.

“I think (Anthony) wants to stay around here. I get that. But learning to be independent is such a big part of what you get from college. I would love for one of these schools to take him in, get him his degree, and send us back a man,” Brenton Johnson said.

Judging from the results of the HBCU Caravan, several Chaffey Joint Union High School students will be starting their college journeys at schools such as Florida A&M, Grambling, Alabama State, Morgan State and Talladega College. By the end of the two-hour recruitment fair, 51 students had received on-the-spot acceptances, and $867,600 in scholarships had been awarded.

The Caravan was coordinated by Joshua Kirk, Director of College Readiness & Access for the state’s second-largest high school district, in partnership with Dr. Theresa Price, founder of the National College Resources Foundation. Kirk, himself a graduate of an HBCU (Southern University), was instrumental in building a guaranteed-enrollment partnership between the District and Florida A&M earlier this year.

“It’s such a great opportunity for our students to explore all sorts of different opportunities as they begin this incredible journey into adulthood,” Kirk said.

Tirrell Hamilton, a recruiter and alumnus from Florida A&M, said events such as the Caravan and the 25^th Black College Expo in Los Angeles on February 10 can open students’ eyes to the bigger value of the college experience. “I tell kids all the time, college is not a destination. It’s a place to prepare you for the rest of your life,” he said.

For Anthony Johnson, that’s beginning to resonate. Speaking with a recruiter from Texas Southern University, the Colony High School senior asked about the college’s computer science program and fitting in as a student there. “This is good,” he said afterward. “I’m learning a lot about the HBCU community.”

Dr. Mathew Holton, Superintendent of the Chaffey District, said he appreciated the support of the National College Resources Foundation and the 20 colleges and universities that participated in the event.

“For many students, it’s not just about opening a door to a new opportunity. It’s finding out that door even exists. The HBCU Caravan is showing our students just how many opportunities, how many doors, are out there waiting for them,” Holton said.

Lon Weind, Director of Admissions Recruitment at Talledega College, described it as a win-win for students and for schools such as his – a small college of fewer than 800 students.

“They probably wouldn’t know all that we have to offer,” Weind said, adding that through recruitment fairs and programs such as the HBCU Caravan, “we have a lot of students from California.”

That’s what it’s all about, said Dr. Price, who founded the National College Resources Foundation to inspire students to attend college.

“I realized that many students were told they weren’t college material, so I said to myself, ‘What can I do about it?'” she said.

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

Last week, the California Black Women’s Health Project (CABWHP) announced that it is kicking off its 30th anniversary with special programs throughout 2024, and a continuing commitment to fighting for equity and pushing policies that help Black women and girls lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.

“Over the past 30 years, we’ve worked to support Black women and girls who are too often overlooked and neglected in the healthcare system and other systems that claim to serve us,” said Sonya Young Aadam, CEO of CABWHP, in a statement.

“Despite ongoing challenges, we will continue to unapologetically advocate for the improved health and well-being of Black women and girls across California from San Diego to Sacramento, Aadam continued.

CABWHP began anniversary celebrations with a fundraising drive under the theme Giving F.O.R.W.A.R.D. (For Our RIGHTS, WELLNESS, ADVOCACY, RESOURCES, and DESCENDENTS). The organization also hosted a fireside chat honoring its past five CEOs of the organization.

All proceeds from the drive will be used to “strengthen operations and support existing programs focused on training, educating, and building the capacity of Black women to become health advocates and activists,” according to a CABWHP press release.

“We know that it takes collective community efforts to address gaps, and we remain committed to fighting against inequities,” Aadam said.

For more information on CABWHP’s work and 30th anniversary events visit CABWHP.org.

By Lou K. Coleman| WSS News Contributor

While people are saying, “Peace and safety”, destruction will come suddenly… [1 Thessalonians 5:3]. Do not be deceived. Sudden, unexpected, destruction with devastating force is on the horizon. Get in the ark NOW! For the most dangerous of all delusions is that there is plenty of time to prepare. NOT! Look around you. Are we not living in days similar to Noah? The end is near! Get Ready, Get aboard! Get into the safety of God’s ark before it’s too late!

Out in the open wisdom calls aloud, she raises her voice in the public square; on top of the wall she cries out, at the city gate she makes her speech: “How long will you who are simple love your simple ways?

How long will mockers delight in mockery and fools hate knowledge?  But since you refuse to listen when I call and no one pays attention when I stretch out my hand, since you disregard all my advice and do not accept my rebuke, I in turn will laugh when disaster strikes you; I will mock when calamity overtakes you—when calamity overtakes you like a storm, when disaster sweeps over you like a whirlwind, when distress and trouble overwhelm you. “Then they will call to me but I will not answer; they will look for me but will not find me, since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the Lord. Since they would not accept my advice and spurned my rebuke, they will eat the fruit of their ways and be filled with the fruit of their schemes. For the waywardness of the simple will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them, but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm.” [Proverbs 1:20-33].

Get into the Ark, NOW!  “The end of all things is at hand” [1 Peter 4:7]

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

On February 14 last week, Valentine’s Day, the Los Angeles City Council honored California’s first Black Secretary of State, Dr. Shirley N. Weber, with a heartfelt gesture of appreciation.

As part of its Black History Month celebration, the 15-member council declared February 14 “Shirley Weber Day” in Los Angeles.

“We celebrate the homecoming of an undeniable force who emerged from the streets of South L.A. to the epitome, showing strength and grit,” said Councilmember Curren Price, who represents the city’s 9th District where Weber grew up.

Price introduced the resolution to honor Weber earlier this month, which acknowledged the Secretary of State for her “lifelong commitment to service within the realm of civil rights, voting rights, public safety, protections for those with disabilities, food insecurity and legislation on education.”

Councilmember Heather Hutt, who represents the 10th District, called Weber “an extraordinary woman who has made history and she really continues to inspire us all.”

Latricia T. Mitchell, NAACP Los Angeles President, congratulated Weber and praised the city council for its decision.

“Her unwavering dedication to the California dream, where hope, opportunity, justice, and fairness thrive, serves as an inspiration to all,” wrote Mitchell in a statement. “With unwavering integrity, she consistently prioritizes the needs of the public over any political agenda, fulfilling her responsibilities with utmost commitment.”

Weber, born in Hope, Ark, in 1948, moved with her family to Los Angeles as a young girl. She grew up in the Pueblo Del Rio housing projects and earned her undergraduate, master’s and PhD from UCLA.

Weber, a former Assemblymember who represented the 79th District in San Diego, thanked the councilmembers, recognized how growing up in L.A. contributed to her success, urged the audience to help build communities where young people can be motivated, feel supported and thrive.

Weber also remembered her parents.

“My only regret in life is that my parents are not here to see what they did, what they made, and see the contributions they made not just to my life, but to the life of California,” she said. “I always pay tribute to them.”

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—In November, the Board of Education presented the Outstanding Achievement Awards to students, parents and staff of Barton and Gomez Elementary Schools, Arrowview Middle School and San Gorgonio High School (San G).

The Board recognizes Outstanding Student Award winners to honor excellence in academics, athletics, fine arts, citizenship, and most improvement. The Board also presents the Outstanding Parent/Grandparent/Volunteer Award and Outstanding Employee Award to individuals who embody the District’s dedication to student achievement and well-being.

Barton Elementary School, Principal Dr. Janice Gordon:

Aaron Caballero is a fourth-grader and Outstanding Student. Caballero is a model student for his peers and the definition of a Barton Bulldog by being respectful, responsible and safe. As ASB class president, he leads by example. His quiet but confident demeanor shines when he makes announcements. Caballero wants to become a lawyer. He said, “I want to help people with their cases.”

Alana Chavez is a sixth-grader and Outstanding Student. Chavez is innovative, creative and excels in all academic areas. Her commitment to her academics is commendable, and it is obvious she has a passion for learning that inspires others to be the best version of themselves. Chavez would like to attend Cal State San Bernardino to major in Business and open a Craft Shop.

Outstanding Aunt Award winner Hanna Perez is an asset to Barton, helping in the classroom, on field trips and events like the Fall Festival. She has a nurturing approach when she works with students. Perez is new as a volunteer, but it seems like she’s been a part of the Barton team for years.

Educational Assistant III (EAIII)-Spanish Luz Cruz models a sense of purpose and emotional commitment by how she carries herself every day. She is emotionally invested in the data-driven discussions to ensure that all the supports are in place for all students. She is truly outstanding.

Third-Grade Teacher Anna Ortega is respected by staff, students, parents and administration for her commitment to educating students. She has a great attitude and tackles any task with a big smile. She is always professional and works collaboratively with colleagues and parents to ensure students are learning and growing.

Gomez Elementary School, Principal Maria Martinez:

Korinna Dominguez is a sixth-grader and Outstanding Student. In addition to excelling in academics, Dominguez also follows all behavioral expectations and is a great role model for other scholars. During her time at Gomez, she has joined the honor orchestra and played the violin. Dominguez enjoys baking cakes, so she aspires to one day become a chef or baker.

Melanie Flores is a fifth-grader and Outstanding Student. Flores is a hardworking and involved student. She plays the violin and is also in choir. She participates in the Expanded Learning acting club, even being cast as the protagonist of one of the school’s films. Flores wants to become a teacher because she wants to help kids learn.

Outstanding Parent Award winner Mayra Romero attends all the school council meetings, as well as the District-level parent council meetings. When she meets with the principal, she always brings solutions and ideas on how to improve. Romero always looks out for not only her own children but for all children at Gomez.

Outstanding Bilingual Secretary II Jose Alvarez is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Alvarez always comes to work with a positive attitude. When asked to complete an assignment, he never complains, and he follows through with all requests made. He frequently checks in to ensure that staff members are satisfied with how he handled a situation or how he completed a task.

Fourth-Grade Teacher Iliana Munoz is extremely dedicated and passionate about the students she serves. She ensures that all the students in her class get the best education that they can receive. She has an emotional commitment to her scholars by showing pride and empowering them to become leaders on campus.

Arrowview Middle School, Principal Berenice Rios:

Seventh-grader Tafara Sibanda is an Outstanding Student. Sibanda is polite, respectful and is an overall model student. You will not find another student more excited about coming to school and learning. Sibanda’s goal is to attend UCR’s Medical School to become a heart surgeon.

Arely Velazquez is an eighth-grader and Outstanding Student. Velazquez is mature, confident, respectful, polite and a leader for the many extracurricular activities she participates in, such as Folklorico club, National Jr. Honor Society, Dual Club and more. Velazquez is always ready to learn and always has a positive attitude. Her goal is to become a lawyer.

Maria Solano Moreno is Arrowview’s Outstanding Parent. Solano Moreno has served on the School Site Council and ELAC for the past few years, and when it comes to decision making she is always advocating for all students.

School Accounting Tech I Norma Martinez is an Outstanding Classified Employee. She works closely with the school’s Associated Student Body and the principal to ensure students and staff have everything they need in order to be successful. Martinez goes above and beyond, has positive passion and is focused on results for students.

Outstanding Program Facilitator Yesenia Casillas is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. She has been an instructional coach for 12 years, and she has impacted every new teacher that comes to the Arrowview campus. Casillas wears many hats at the school, and one of them is to organize professional development and the Arrowview Academy for new teachers.

San Gorgonio High School, Principal Jorge De La Torre:

Amara Jackson is a senior and an Outstanding Student. Jackson has been a key member of the music program at San G. As a senior, she has stepped up and been a role model for all student musicians. Jackson is always willing to lend a hand and works hard at everything she sets her mind to. Jackson plans to major in museum arts and hopes to one day be a museum curator.

Senior Gustavo Morales is an Outstanding Student. Morales shows tremendous resiliency and confidence in himself. He strives to step into leadership positions, currently serving as Vice President of Civic Awareness and participating in the Del Sol Mariachi and Ballet Folklorico. Morales has plans to join the military and also has an interest in law.

Nereida Rubio is a stellar San Gorgonio Spartan parent, supporting her three children at San G. Her oldest graduated in 2020 and competed in football and track. Her second oldest just graduated in 2023 and competed in cheerleading and swimming. Her youngest child is currently a junior and plays football and track.

Custodian III Anjeanette Tirado is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Tirado is a positive influence at San G. She is always smiling, laughing and making sure our school is ready for students and staff. She works to ensure customers receive the best service, even working 6 days a week because of the frequent Saturday events at San G.

Associated Student Body Director Jeffrey Juhnke is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. No matter what the obstacles and challenges are, Juhnke makes sure we give our students the best. He builds his students to be leaders and work collaboratively to make decisions for the students they represent.

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

The California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) and the California Black Chamber of Commerce (CALBCC)  celebrated Black-owned businesses from across the state at its 2024 Legislative Business Brunch, held at the Citizen Hotel in Sacramento on February 12.

The event, part of the CLBC’s Black History Month celebrations, honored the business owners for their outstanding achievements, impact on communities, enduring legacy, and high level of professionalism.

Jay King, CALBCC President and CEO, and CLBC Chair, Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City), and CLBC Vice Chair, Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Inglewood), hosted the event.

“I thank each and every one of you for being here for this grand occasion organized to celebrate and honor Black business owners from around the state of California for their hard work, dedication, perseverance, and tenacity,” King said. “These are but a few of the attributes that must be on display at all times for Black business to survive.”

This year’s Black History Month business awardees are: Flawless Cutz and Stylez (Bakersfield); Imperial Electric Service (Fresno); OC Podiatry (Orange); Seashells Realty Group (San Jose); SER Transportation Services (Sacramento);Chez Soul (Fairfield); Beauchamp Distributing Company (Compton); BLK Girl Greenhouse (Oakland); South LA Café (Los Angeles); D.R. Roberts Event Management (Oakland); Sal’s Gumbo Shack (Long Beach); Leading Edge Learning Center (Moreno Valley); Woody’s Bar-B-Que (Los Angeles); Urban Roots Brewery and Smokehouses (Sacramento); Detour Hair Studios and Earle’s Restaurant (Inglewood); and Spacebar Café  (La Mesa).

All of the awards were presented by King and members of the CLBC.

“As we gather here today, let us reaffirm our collective commitment to fostering an environment where Black businesses can thrive and continue to be meaningful to the economic landscape of California,” said Wilson, the chairperson of CLBC. “We continue to look forward to continuing our collaboration with the California Black Chamber of Commerce and stakeholders dedicated to empowering and uplifting Black-owned businesses.”

One of the oldest Black businesses in the state, Woods-Valentine Mortuary of Pasadena, received a special recognition for its longevity and contributions to its community. The mortuary was established by James and Annie Mae Woods in 1928 in the area now known as Old Pasadena.

Fred Valentine and his brothers were employed by the mortuary. Then, in 1958, Valentine and his wife, Arzella J. Valentine, purchased the business and renamed it Woods-Valentine.

Mr. Valentine passed away at the age of 98 in 2017. Their daughters Janyce Valentine and Gail Valentine-Taylor now operate the business with their 97-year-old mother, who was present at the brunch.

“I’ve known this family for about 40 years. I am so proud of this family,” said Assemblymember Chris Holden (D-Pasadena), who represents Assembly District (AD) 41 where the Woods-Valentine business is located.

Holden presented the award to the Valentine family.

While growing up, Holden said he learned about the 96-year-old mortuary business through one of the most effective forms of advertising in the Black community: church hand-held cooling fans.

Holden reflected on how the fans, for decades, were an important medium for information and advertising in Black communities across the United States for businesses like insurance companies, funeral homes, law firms, car dealerships and more.

State Controller Malia M. Cohen was the keynote speaker, and she was presented with the CLBC’s Chair Award. Tara Lynn Gray, the Director of California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA), also delivered remarks.

Toks Omishakin, California Secretary of Transportation, was a guest.

King urged the business owners to continue to be exemplars and beacons of hope for other Black entrepreneurs and companies in the state.

“The business owners you see here have survived many obstacles and barriers, have been denied access to capital and other necessary resources to succeed, and have been told ‘no,’” King said. “But we say today, ‘thank you’ and ‘we appreciate you,’ with the hopes that they must carry the message: don’t quit and keep pushing.”