Category: Valleys

Bakersfield
Stefi Mar

Q&A With California Gubernatorial Candidate Steve Hilton: “California Can Be Golden Again”

Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton says he’s running for governor to “restore the California dream.” The political commentator, entrepreneur, and former adviser to British Prime Minister David Cameron says he’s watched California become a place where middle-class families can no longer afford to buy homes, small businesses struggle under red tape, and schools fail to deliver for working parents.

Los Angeles
Kathleen Untalan

Kyle Tucker Brings Star Power — and the Right Mindset — to Dodgers

The Los Angeles Dodgers made headlines this offseason by adding one of baseball’s most coveted free agents, right fielder Kyle Tucker. But beyond the record-setting contract and All-Star résumé, the 29-year-old slugger may be an even better fit for the clubhouse than he is for the lineup.

Los Angeles
Kathleen Untalan

Pat Riley Receives Monumental Tribute at Crypto.com Arena

Former Los Angeles Lakers coach Pat Riley recently received a “super” honor when the franchise unveiled an 8-foot bronze statue in his likeness outside Crypto.com Arena. The tribute immortalizes the Hall of Fame coach who masterminded the electrifying “Showtime” era that defined Lakers basketball in the 1980s.

Featured
Kathleen Untalan

“Jesse and Me” A Statement from Congresswoman Maxine Waters

The very Reverend Jesse Jackson, presidential candidate and civil rights leader, was not only my close friend and confidant, he was my longtime political ally and mentor. Rev. Jesse Jacskson was my idol and spiritual and political leader. He was a brilliant, gifted and courageous civil rights leader who inspired millions. He registered millions to vote and challenged and changed Democratic Party politics. 

Bakersfield
Stefi Mar

Civil Rights Leaders and Congressional Black Caucus Unite to Challenge Trump Administration Policies

During a recent gathering on Capitol Hill, lawmakers and advocacy leaders sharply criticized a series of policy decisions implemented since Trump’s return to the White House, as well as the president’s rhetoric and governing approach. While participants outlined broad areas of concern, they provided limited specifics regarding immediate tactical responses.

African Americans
Stefi Mar

Why Black Parents Should Consider Montessori

As a mother of four children, I’ve done A LOT of school shopping. I don’t mean the autumn ritual of purchasing school supplies. I mean shopping for schools – pouring over promotional materials, combing through websites, asking friends and community members for referrals to their favorite schools, attending open houses and orientations, comparing curriculums and educational philosophies, meeting teachers and principals, and students who all claim that their school is the best.

Bakersfield
Stefi Mar

Meet David and Cynthia Hobdy: Birmingham Judge-and-Doctor Couple on Blessings and Lessons of a Loving Marriage

This Valentine’s Day, The Birmingham Times steps into the chambers of justice and the corridors of care to celebrate three extraordinary marriages where love lives at the intersection of duty and devotion. We shine a light on the relationships of three area judges and doctors who are building healthy bonds while serving a community shaped by history, faith, and resilience.

Bakersfield
Stefi Mar

Tensions Flare at Newsom’s Signing of $90 Million Reproductive Health Bill

On Feb. 11, California Gov. Gavin Newsom held a news conference to sign a $90 million one-time emergency funding bill for Planned Parenthood and other reproductive health care clinics in the state.  The event became tense when questions from reporters veered into unrelated political issues, prompting California’s First Partner Jennifer Siebel-Newsom to step in and sharply criticize the press.

Features
Stefi Mar

Ed. Dept. Dismissed 90% of Discrimination Cases, Report Says

The Education Department office responsible for protecting the rights of marginalized and minority students in the nation’s K-12 public schools dismissed nearly every discrimination complaint it received last year, due to the Trump administration’s massive reduction in force, according to a new government watchdog report.

Featured
Kathleen Untalan

Obamas Make Courtside Appearance at NBA All-Star 75

Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama were among the evening’s special guests, attending the Midwinter Classic alongside their daughter, Sasha. The family drew warm applause from fans as cameras panned to their seats during the nationally televised broadcast.

Featured
Kathleen Untalan

Kawhi Leonard Delivers for the Home Crowd at NBA All-Star 75

From start to finish, there was zip, hustle and a level of intensity that hasn’t always defined All-Star weekends. The official record will show that USA Stars defeated USA Stripes, 47-21, after World was eliminated earlier in the format. History will preserve the numbers. But what stood out most was the atmosphere on the floor — competitive, spirited and dripping with pride.