THIS WEEK’S FEATURE STORIES

Economist: Sac State’s Sports Ambitions Face A ‘Whole New World’ Of College Athletics

By Robert J. Hansen

Sacramento State is dreaming big with plans for a new football stadium and a move up to the FBS, but it’s not going to be easy. Big changes are coming to college sports, and experts like Stanford’s Roger Noll say the old rules are gone for good. Can Sac State make it work.

Bibby And Shaq Take Charge At Sac State

Hornets Basketball Aims To Elevate Sac State’s Athletics Program With NBA Legends

By Robert J. Hansen

Sacramento State’s men’s basketball team is getting a major boost with Mike Bibby and Shaquille O’Neal joining forces. They want to turn the program into a powerhouse. Everyone is excited about what these two legends could bring to the team.

County Office Of Education Chief, Dr. Steven Winlock, Retires

With half a century of experience, Winlock worked across local school districts such as Elk Grove, Folsom Cordova, Sacramento City Unified.

By Taylor Johnson and Stephen Magagnini

Steve Winlock, who has spent 50 years in education and even performed in musicals in Berlin, is retiring as the executive director of the Sacramento County Office of Education. He has made a huge impact on the community, from building schools to supporting the arts. Winlock’s retirement marks the end of an incredible career and the start of a new chapter.

Local Minister Remembered As Cultural, Spiritual Leader

Minister Imhotep Alkebulan Lead Wo’se Church For Nearly 40 Years

By Genoa Barrow

Minister Imhotep Elijah Alkebulan, who spent his life sharing the wisdom of African history and culture, has passed away at 67. He was a well-known spiritual leader at Sacramento’s Wo’se Community Church. His work touched many lives, and his legacy will continue to inspire.

Why Every Vote Still Matters: Lessons From The Voting Rights Act

Secretary of State Dr. Shirley Weber Hosts 60th Anniversary Discussion

By Genoa Barrow

Dr. Shirley N. Weber and Willie Brown came together to talk about the long fight for voting rights in America. They shared their personal stories and reminded everyone how important it is to keep pushing for equal rights. The panel was part of a discussion celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Local AKA Chapter Celebrates Dads And 2025 Prospective Debutantes

By Observer Newsroom

The historic Ryde Hotel was the perfect spot for the 59th Annual Debutante Ball’s special Father-Daughter luncheon. Hosted by the Eta Gamma Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, the event celebrated the important role fathers play in their families’ lives. The luncheon was full of touching tributes and heartfelt moments, all honoring the dads of the 2025 debutantes..

Dr. Kristee Haggins Helps Black Teens Off The Ledge

By Stephen Magagnini

Facing a growing mental health crisis among Black youth, Sacramento-based psychologist Kristee Haggins is leading a transformative movement with Safe Black Space. As the executive director, Haggins is not only combating stigma but also creating vital support networks for young Black adults. Her journey from personal struggle to national recognition highlights the urgent need for accessible mental health resources within the Black community.

Sacramento NAACP Sues Former Leaders Over Alleged Misuse of COVID Relief Funds

By Robert J. Hansen

The Greater Sacramento NAACP is suing three of its former leaders, including President Betty Williams, and some businesses they were connected to. They say these leaders used a COVID-19 meal program to line their own pockets with hundreds of thousands of dollars. The lawsuit brings up some serious accusations of fraud and mismanagement.

Jussie Smollett breaks silence in new documentary on 2019 hate crime allegations

By Special To The Observer

Jussie Smollett is back in the spotlight with a new Netflix documentary. “The Truth About Jussie Smollett?” looks at the controversies around the 2019 hate crime he reported. The film dives into the legal twists and turns and tries to clear up the confusion.

Sac State Quicks Facts

By Larry Hicks

Sacramento State has a lot to be proud of these days. Their sports teams are really making a name for themselves, and the university is planning some big changes. With a new stadium on the horizon and a bunch of recent wins, it’s an exciting time for Hornet fans.

This Week’s OBSERVER – Audio Edition (August 31-September 6, 2025)

Here we bring you a curated selection of the week’s most compelling news narratives, delivered in a convenient audio format. Dive into the headlines that matter, from gripping local stories to events that shape our world and our community.