• Breaking News:
Civil Rights Icon Rev. K.W. Tulloss to Release Born to Make a Difference on January 22, 2026
CDPH: Super Flu Cases on the Rise in California California health officials have confirmed the spread of a mutated influenza strain known as the “super flu,” as flu-related hospitalizations across the state reach their highest level of the season. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) said Jan.15 that the strain, a mutated form of seasonal influenza A known as H3N2 subclade K, is present in the state. The announcement comes as the department confirmed a second pediatric death linked to the flu since the start of the current respiratory virus season. State data show flu activity has eased slightly from a late-December peak. As of Jan. 3, about 15% of flu tests statewide were positive, down from 17% recorded through Dec. 27. Despite the modest decline, hospitalizations have continued to rise. Flu-related hospital admissions reached a season high of approximately 3.8 per 100,000 people statewide as of Jan. 3, according to CDPH figures. Public health officials continue to emphasize vaccination as the most effective way to reduce the risk of severe illness, even when circulating strains differ from those targeted by the vaccine. “Current seasonal flu vaccines remain effective at reducing severe illness and hospitalization, including the currently circulating viruses,” said Dr. Erica Pan, CDPH director and state public health officer, said in a statement. Pan added that “it is important for families to know that flu vaccines, tests, and treatments remain widely available for all Californians and that it is not too late to get a flu vaccine.” Health officials urge residents to seek medical care if flu symptoms worsen and to take preventive measures as flu season continues across California. Track statewide and regional weekly respiratory virus data
Black Caucus Chair Akilah Weber Pierson Applauds California Ban on Police Officers Wearing Face MasksSen. Akilah Weber Pierson (D-San Diego), chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) last week praised California’s new law limiting when law enforcement officers may wear face coverings, calling it a critical step toward accountability and public trust in policing. The measure, SB 627 -- also known as the No Secret Police Act -- was signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom last year and took effect on Jan. 1. It restricts law enforcement officers from wearing facial coverings while performing public duties, except under limited operational circumstances. The law applies to local, state, and federal agencies operating in California and requires departments to adopt and publicly post mask-use policies by July 1, 2026. Weber Pierson, a co-author of the legislation, said the law affirms the public’s right to transparency. “The public has a right to know who is enforcing the law in our communities,” Weber Pierson posted on Facebook on Jan. 14. Framing the issue as more than administrative oversight, Weber Pierson stated that visibility and accountability are essential to community well-being. “Transparency in policing is a public health issue,” she added, noting that communities cannot heal from historical trauma when officers wield authority anonymously. Despite support from civil rights advocates, the law is facing a federal court challenge. The U.S. Department of Justice is seeking to pause its application to federal agents, arguing that the measure interferes with federal law enforcement operations, particularly immigration enforcement. Federal attorneys told the court on Jan. 14 that the law improperly regulates federal officers and exposes them to increased safety risks. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli said officers are increasingly targeted through facial recognition and AI tools, claiming an “8,000% increase in threats” against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. He also cited instances of agents being tracked to their homes and harassed. During the hearing, the judge raised concerns about potential unequal treatment if exemptions apply differently to state and federal officers. A decision on the request to pause enforcement is expected soon. Supporters of SB 627 argue the law advances civil rights by ensuring officers are identifiable during public interactions, while opponents contend it endangers officer safety and undermines federal enforcement authority -- setting the stage for a legal battle with broader implications for policing and oversight in California.
New Ballot Push: Initiative Would End Prop 50 Temporary Congressional Maps After 2026
Victory Community Church Invites Inland Valley Residents to Worship Service in Ontario
Commentary: How CalMatters Turned a Handbag Into a Political Firestorm and Exposed a Journalism Blind Spot
State of the Dream 2026 Finds Black America Facing a Recession Across Jobs, Housing, and Technology
Black Author Announces Forthcoming Book “Overqualified. Overworked. Overlooked.”
Former Black Panther Leader Elaine Brown Delivers Keynote at Black Caucus MLK Breakfast
San Bernardino County Board Honors Community Leaders, Votes on ADU Rules and Storm Recovery at Jan. 13 Meeting
Thursday, 22 Jan 2026
Thursday, 22 January 2026
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Black-Owned Luxury Handbag Brand Debuts on Nordstrom Online, Marketing a New Ear of Luxury Access

Nationwide — VIE LORIE, a Black-owned luxury handbag brand defining a new lexicon of modern elegance, has announced its highly anticipated launch on Nordstrom’s online platform. The partnership introduces a curated selection of the brand’s most coveted silhouettes to one of the world’s foremost luxury retail destinations—an alignment that underscores the brand’s rising influence in the global accessories market.

Founded by Dr. Verniese Moore, VIE LORIE has earned distinction for its meticulous attention to detail, timeless silhouettes, and intentional design philosophy centered on understated opulence. Each piece is crafted with the intention of becoming an heirloom—quietly powerful, deeply feminine, and unmistakably refined—an aesthetic that has resonated deeply with women seeking pieces that feel both elevated and meaningful. The brand’s entry into Nordstrom reflects a broader industry shift toward celebrating independent, Black-owned luxury ateliers with distinct creative visions. This elevated partnership grants clients access to a curated selection of VIE LORIE’s most sought-after designs—including The Valencia, and The Vittoria—now offered through Nordstrom’s esteemed digital storefront.

“This launch is a milestone that honors the women who inspired VIE LORIE from the very beginning,” says Dr. Moore. “Partnering with Nordstrom allows us to expand the world of VIE LORIE while maintaining the exclusivity, storytelling, and design integrity that define our brand. We are entering this chapter with gratitude and a renewed commitment to offering luxury that moves with purpose.”

With its Nordstrom debut, VIE LORIE steps onto a broader stage while preserving the intimacy and discernment that have shaped its identity since inception. This moment positions the brand for continued growth, international visibility, and a strengthened presence within the luxury fashion landscape.

What’s next?

In tandem with its Nordstrom debut, VIE LORIE is preparing to unveil an expanded universe of design. The house will introduce new handbag collections available for limited pre-order—pieces that further evolve the brand’s architectural aesthetic and commitment to heirloom craftsmanship. Select new renderings will be offered first to private clients within exclusive communities who have previously acquired VIE LORIE pieces, granting them privileged early access before the collections are available to the wider public.

Additionally, the brand has begun production on an entirely new category of luxury items, marking a deliberate expansion of its creative repertoire and deepening its presence within the broader world of modern luxury. These forthcoming releases reflect VIE LORIE’s dedication to continual innovation while preserving the intimacy and intentionality that define its signature style.

VIE LORIE handbags are now available online at Nordstrom. Also, visit VieLorie.com or follow the brand on Instagram.

About:

VIE LORIE is a Black-owned luxury handbag brand known for its sophisticated craftsmanship and poetic approach to design. Created to honor the power, spirit, and beauty of women everywhere, VIE LORIE blends artistry with modern elegance to produce pieces that stand the test of time.

The Most Read

Civil Rights Icon Rev. K.W. Tulloss to Release Born to Make a Difference on January 22, 2026

January 22, 2026

CDPH: Super Flu Cases on the Rise in California California health officials have confirmed the spread of a mutated influenza strain known as the “super flu,” as flu-related hospitalizations across the state reach their highest level of the season. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) said Jan.15 that the strain, a mutated form of seasonal influenza A known as H3N2 subclade K, is present in the state. The announcement comes as the department confirmed a second pediatric death linked to the flu since the start of the current respiratory virus season. State data show flu activity has eased slightly from a late-December peak. As of Jan. 3, about 15% of flu tests statewide were positive, down from 17% recorded through Dec. 27. Despite the modest decline, hospitalizations have continued to rise. Flu-related hospital admissions reached a season high of approximately 3.8 per 100,000 people statewide as of Jan. 3, according to CDPH figures. Public health officials continue to emphasize vaccination as the most effective way to reduce the risk of severe illness, even when circulating strains differ from those targeted by the vaccine. “Current seasonal flu vaccines remain effective at reducing severe illness and hospitalization, including the currently circulating viruses,” said Dr. Erica Pan, CDPH director and state public health officer, said in a statement. Pan added that “it is important for families to know that flu vaccines, tests, and treatments remain widely available for all Californians and that it is not too late to get a flu vaccine.” Health officials urge residents to seek medical care if flu symptoms worsen and to take preventive measures as flu season continues across California. Track statewide and regional weekly respiratory virus data

January 22, 2026

Black Caucus Chair Akilah Weber Pierson Applauds California Ban on Police Officers Wearing Face MasksSen. Akilah Weber Pierson (D-San Diego), chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) last week praised California’s new law limiting when law enforcement officers may wear face coverings, calling it a critical step toward accountability and public trust in policing. The measure, SB 627 -- also known as the No Secret Police Act -- was signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom last year and took effect on Jan. 1. It restricts law enforcement officers from wearing facial coverings while performing public duties, except under limited operational circumstances. The law applies to local, state, and federal agencies operating in California and requires departments to adopt and publicly post mask-use policies by July 1, 2026. Weber Pierson, a co-author of the legislation, said the law affirms the public’s right to transparency. “The public has a right to know who is enforcing the law in our communities,” Weber Pierson posted on Facebook on Jan. 14. Framing the issue as more than administrative oversight, Weber Pierson stated that visibility and accountability are essential to community well-being. “Transparency in policing is a public health issue,” she added, noting that communities cannot heal from historical trauma when officers wield authority anonymously. Despite support from civil rights advocates, the law is facing a federal court challenge. The U.S. Department of Justice is seeking to pause its application to federal agents, arguing that the measure interferes with federal law enforcement operations, particularly immigration enforcement. Federal attorneys told the court on Jan. 14 that the law improperly regulates federal officers and exposes them to increased safety risks. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli said officers are increasingly targeted through facial recognition and AI tools, claiming an “8,000% increase in threats” against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. He also cited instances of agents being tracked to their homes and harassed. During the hearing, the judge raised concerns about potential unequal treatment if exemptions apply differently to state and federal officers. A decision on the request to pause enforcement is expected soon. Supporters of SB 627 argue the law advances civil rights by ensuring officers are identifiable during public interactions, while opponents contend it endangers officer safety and undermines federal enforcement authority -- setting the stage for a legal battle with broader implications for policing and oversight in California.

January 22, 2026

New Ballot Push: Initiative Would End Prop 50 Temporary Congressional Maps After 2026

January 22, 2026

Victory Community Church Invites Inland Valley Residents to Worship Service in Ontario

January 22, 2026
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