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Leslie Odom Jr. to reprise his Tony-winning role in ‘Hamilton’ this fall
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Leslie Odom Jr. to reprise his Tony-winning role in ‘Hamilton’ this fall

MARK KENNEDYApril 18, 2025

By MARK KENNEDY AP Entertainment Writer NEW YORK (AP) — Leslie Odom Jr., one of the original cast members of the mega-hit Broadway musical “Hamilton,” is coming back for another shot, a role he says “gave me life.” Odom, who played Aaron Burr opposite Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Alexander Hamilton, will return to his Tony Award-winning role at the Richard Rodgers Theatre on Sept. 9 through Nov. 23. “I was born on the stage of the Richard Rodgers in so many ways. It gave me life in a way,” he tells The Associated Press. “I’m really looking forward to it.” Odom and

‘Shut Up and Prosecutor’ – Bold Memoir Exposes Truth Behind Injustice in the Legal System
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‘Shut Up and Prosecutor’ – Bold Memoir Exposes Truth Behind Injustice in the Legal System

Magrira, Contributing Writer April 17, 2025

In Shut Up and Prosecute, Thelma Anderson takes readers on an unflinching journey through the American justice system, exposing the racial and institutional barriers she faced as a Black woman working within a system that was never designed to protect her. From her rise as a successful prosecutor to her wrongful termination and subsequent legal battles, Anderson’s memoir is a powerful and raw testament to her resilience, defiance, and determination to speak out against systemic injustice. With vivid storytelling and unfiltered honesty, she challenges readers to rethink the systems they trust and fight for true justice. 

Tev’s Kitchen: Jamaican Food Made With Love 
LocalNews

Tev’s Kitchen: Jamaican Food Made With Love 

Zon D’Amour, Contributing Writer April 17, 2025

If you want to eat at Tev’s Kitchen (1905 West 48th Street, LA 90062), make sure you arrive early because the line will definitely be down the block. While founder Tevin “Tev” Love has been at his current location for two years, he’s been nurturing his loyal customer base for nearly a decade. 

California Calling for Volunteers to Join the State’s Largest Service Corps  
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California Calling for Volunteers to Join the State’s Largest Service Corps  

Edward Henderson, California Black Media April 17, 2025

On April 9, Gov. Gavin Newsom and the Governor’s Office of Service and Community Engagement (GO-Serve) Director Josh Fryday announced that California is seeking 10,000 people to join the California Service Corps. Members gain meaningful work experience while helping their communities and earning money.   

The Lookout: Update on Bills in the Black Caucus’ 2025 Priority Package  
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The Lookout: Update on Bills in the Black Caucus’ 2025 Priority Package  

Sentinel News ServiceApril 17, 2025

In February, when the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) announced its “Road to Repair 2025 Priority Bill Package,” which consists of 16 bills, Caucus Chair Akilah Weber Pierson (D-San Diego) said, “This bill package is about repairing centuries of economic damage and abuse that was inflicted on Black Californians.”

Political Playback: News You Might Have Missed - April 17 
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Political Playback: News You Might Have Missed - April 17 

Bo Tefu, California Black Media    April 17, 2025

California lawmakers have approved a $2.8 billion funding boost to Medi-Cal, the state’s low-income health insurance program, to cover higher-than-expected costs before the fiscal year ends. Passed April 10 as part of a budget trailer bill, Assembly Bill (AB) 100, the allocation unlocks $8.3 billion in federal funds and follows a $3.4 billion emergency loan to the program earlier this year. 

Ta’Rhonda Jones Uplifts Love on Screen and Empowers Dreams in Real Life 
LocalNews

Ta’Rhonda Jones Uplifts Love on Screen and Empowers Dreams in Real Life 

Khari Jones, Jr., Contributing Writer April 17, 2025

Her latest project places her right back in the hearts and homes of audiences as the host of Season 2 of The Never Ever Mets, which premiered April 4th. The reality show explores the emotional journey of couples who’ve developed deep online relationships but have never met in person. As host, Jones serves as the grounded voice of reason—guiding couples through their first real-world moments together with empathy, honesty, and humor. It’s a role that fits her perfectly—not just because of her on-camera charisma, but because she genuinely understands the power of connection. 

COMTO Celebrates Extraordinary Women Leaders in Transportation  
LocalNews

COMTO Celebrates Extraordinary Women Leaders in Transportation  

Rodd A. Amos, Contributing Writer April 17, 2025

The Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) honored the extraordinary accomplishments of women leaders in the transportation industry with a luncheon on April 5 at Los Angeles Union Station in downtown. About 100 members and guests attended the elegant outdoor affair on the North Patio under calm, blue skies. 

Narissa is Building More Than a Brand—She’s Building a Movement 
LocalNews

Narissa is Building More Than a Brand—She’s Building a Movement 

Khari Jones, Jr., Contributing Writer April 17, 2025

Rapper. Entrepreneur. Visionary. Narissa is redefining what it means to be a boss in both the music and business worlds. While many artists dream of hitting the charts, Narissa’s vision goes beyond the mic—she’s building legacy, ownership, and a platform that uplifts other women along the way. 

Maya Griffin Preserves Black Literature with the BAAP Boutique  
LocalNews

Maya Griffin Preserves Black Literature with the BAAP Boutique  

Shelby Stephens, Contributing Writer April 17, 2025

Los Angeles native Maya Griffin has always lived her life in pursuit of her passion for art and literature. From a young age, she drew picture books, wrote fiction, and created magazines. She recognized the value of culture and community by visiting the African Marketplace as a child with her mother and participating in Kwanzaa celebrations at Lulu Washington. Those experiences laid the foundation for her journey into the arts. Griffin is now the proud co-owner of the Black Art and Philosophy (BAAP) Boutique in the Crenshaw District.