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By Bo Tefu and Antonio Ray Harvey ?|? ?California? ?Black? ?Media

California voters have rejected Proposition 33, which aimed to expand rent control protections by repealing the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act. With nearly 95% of precincts reporting, 61.6% of voters opposed the measure, while 38.4% supported it. The proposition would have allowed cities to extend rent control to properties not previously covered, such as newer homes and units with new tenants.

The initiative, backed by labor unions and tenant advocacy groups, sought to ease housing costs for groups like seniors, low-wage workers, and veterans. However, it faced strong opposition from landlords, real estate developers, and property owners, who argued that it would worsen California’s housing crisis by discouraging new construction and lowering property values.

This marks the third failure of a similar measure, following two unsuccessful attempts in 2018 and 2020. Proponents of Prop. 33 raised $50.1 million, while opponents outspent them with $124.6 million.

By Bo Tefu and Antonio Ray Harvey ?|? ?California? ?Black? ?Media

In the wake of the general election and Donald Trump winning another term as president, State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SPI) Tony Thurmond is on a mission to protect public education in California.

On Nov. 8, Thurmond, members of the California legislature, educators, union leaders, and other elected officials expressed their concerns at a news conference about the possibility of the Trump Administration dismantling the U.S. Department of Education (DOE).

“To tear down and abolish an organization that provides protections for our students is a threat to the well-being of our students and our families and of Americans,” Thurmond said.

Thurmond said losing $8 billion dollars in federal funding is at stake. During his campaign, Trump didn’t hesitate to take barbs at the DOE.

Closing the doors of the DOE could affect a range of scholastic programs such as Special Education, English as a Second Language (ESL), free lunch, federal grants for college students and Title I, a program that provides support to educate disadvantaged families.

Sen. Aisha Wahab (D-Hayward) and Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance), the chair of the Assembly Education Committee, spoke at the news conference held in the boardroom of the California Department of Education building.

Muratsuchi said, “We need to get ready now for what is going to start on Jan. 20 (2025).”

“It is the job of every teacher, every school board member, every principal, every elected representative in the state of California who believes in public education,” he said. “It is time for us to stand up to protect all of these kids. When we are facing a bully who is targeting our most vulnerable students, we all need to stand up.”

Trump has said that he prefers the Choice School initiative, a policy that provides parents and students the choice to use public funds to attend a school other than their district or local public school.

Thurmond and supporters of the traditional public school system are asking President-elect Trump and the U.S. Congress to continue federal supporting the funding of the programs.

Thurmond said he has started reaching out to lawmakers in Washington, D.C., and in the California legislature to get in front of Trumps policy plans.

“I’m prepared to sponsor legislation that would call on the California State Legislature and the Governor to backfill that funding to preserve and protect that funding for the students of California,” Thurmond said.

SAN DIEGO, CA— U.S. Navy Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Seaman India Hawkins, from San Bernardino, California, tapes a panel light for painting aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), Nov. 6, 2024. Theodore Roosevelt, the flagship of Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group, is currently pierside at Naval Air Station North Island in its homeport of San Diego.

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

There is one African American woman currently serving in the California State Senate, Sen. Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D-Ladera Heights).

It’s the same in the U.S. Senate.

In October of 2023, Gov. Gavin Newsom appointed Sen. Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.) to complete the term of Sen. Dianne Feinstein after she passed away in September 2023. Butler will likely be replaced in January by Adam Schiff, who is projected to win the seat after the Nov. 5 general election.

Now, two more Black women are on pace to become California State Senators.

In the United States Senate, two Black women have already won seats. Lisa Blunt-Rochester of Delaware and Angela Alsobrooks of Maryland will be going to Capitol Hill in January after winning their respective U.S. Senate races.

It will be the first time in U.S., history that two Black women have served in the Senate at the same time.

“It is remarkable to think that in two years, America will celebrate is 250^th birthday and in all those years, there has been more than 2000 people who have served in the United States Senate and only three have looked like me,” said Alsobrooks in her victory speech on Nov. 5.

“So, I want to salute all of those who came before me, who made it possible for me to stand on this stage tonight, whose sacrifice and stories I will continue to carry with me,” added Alsobrooks.

In Southern California, as of Nov. 9, Laura Richardson leads Michelle Chambers with 107,255 votes to 103 638 votes in Senate District 35. Both women are Democrats. The 35th Senate District 35 encompasses an area in South L.A. County, including parts of Inglewood, Compton, San Pedro, Hawthorne, and Carson.

That seat is currently held by California Legislative Black Caucus vice chair Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Inglewood), who terms out in December and is running for lieutenant Governor in 2026.

Richardson served in the California State Assembly in 2006-2007 before she was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where she served from 2007 to 2013.

“As a dedicated housing advocate for the past decade, I stand unwavering in my commitment to ending homelessness,” Richardson stated on her campaign website. “With a profound understanding of the pressing issues at hand, my top priority is to spearhead the creation of more affordable housing options.”

Chambers is a former Compton city Councilwoman who has worked for the State’s Attorney General’s office.

“Our campaign is about fighting for the needs of working families,” Chambers posted on the social media platform X, formerly called Twitter, on Oct. 11. “I’ll always stand up for our #SD35 communities – not special interests.”

In San Diego, Assemblymember Akilah Weber (D-La Mesa), is leading her Republican opponent, Bob Devine, in the race for the 39th Senate District seat. Weber has 219, 465 votes (62.4%) so far to Devine’s 132, 044 (37.6%).

Weber and Devine are vying for a seat that is currently held by Sen. Toni Atkins (D-San Diego), who will be running for governor in 2026.

“I am extremely humbled and incredibly grateful for the support you’ve shown me throughout the election,” Weber posted Nov. 6 on the X. “San Diego has just made history by electing the first African American woman to the CA State Senate south of Los Angeles. Thank you for believing in me. Now let’s get to work.”

Eight years ago, Blunt-Rochester first made history in Congress as the first Black person and woman elected to represent Delaware. Alsobrooks was a Maryland states attorney and a County Executive in Prince Georges County before running for the Senate.

Vice President Kamala Harris, the first Black person elected as U.S. Senator from California, served from 2016 to 2020. Blunt-Rochester pointed out that Kamala Harris had only four months to launch her presidential campaign, highlighting the significant challenge of such a tight timeline.

“From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank Vice President Kamala Harris for stepping up to run when our country needed her leadership, tenacity, and commitment to serve the American people,” Blunt-Rochester stated. “Because of the trails she blazed, the lives she touched, the communities she fought for, the stories she uplifted, we are better.”

By Lou K. Coleman | WSS News Contributor

Open your eyes! Everything is lining up just like Jesus said it would [Mark 13:28-37]. The signs are everywhere! Examine what has happened on the world scene to gain understanding of what it means in the larger context of Bible Prophecy and God’s purpose in history. Study the Book of Revelations for in it, Jesus allowed his disciple John to see many visions. Time after time, John says throughout this book, “And then I saw… “I turned and saw… “I saw…” things that are meant to reveal to God’s people the truth about what’s happening now. Where things are headed, and how they will all play out.

I tell you; The World is Preparing Itself for The Final Fulfillments of God’s Prophecies. What we are watching in today’s world events is more than a historic cycle of political and national interests. We are watching the concluding chapters of human experience leading to the moment when Jesus appears in the glory of his Second Coming. So, Pay Attention! Be alert! Be awake!

Final Fulfillments of God’s Prophecies –

Sign 1: The Rise of Great Britain and America – The Bible foretold that two powerful nations would rise. One nation would be the leader of a group of nations and become the greatest empire in history. The other nation would become the wealthiest and most powerful nation in history. This prophecy about the last days was fulfilled right on time by Great Britain and the United States of America [Genesis 35:9-11]. Fulfilled!

Sign 2: An Explosion of Knowledge – There would be an increase in travel and knowledge [Daniel 12:4]. Fulfilled.

Sign 3: The Jews Return to the Land of Israel – In 1916, during World War I, Great Britain and France made a secret treaty to divide the Middle East and create a special international zone in the area of modern Israel. With help from the British, the Arabs began a revolt, and soon after the allied forces invaded Palestine. These events opened the way for the Jews to return to the land of Israel. [Jeremiah 30;1-3; Ezekiel 20:41-42 Jeremiah 29:14; Ezra 1:1]. Fulfilled!

Sign 4: The Rise of Germany – After World War II, most people were sure that Germany would never rise again. But those who understood end-time Bible prophecy confidently foretold that Germany would rise again to become the leading power in Europe and the world [Revelation 17]. Fulfilled!

Sign 5: The Decline of the USA and Northwestern Europe – The troubles in America, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, France and the rest of Northwestern Europe are obvious. The Bible predicts many specific troubles these countries are experiencing now and will experience in the next few years [Daniel Chapter 11]. Fulfilled!

Sign 6: Skepticism and Disbelief. The Bible foretells that in the last days, many people will scoff at Bible prophecies [2 Peter 3:3-4]. Fulfilled!

Sign 7: Widespread Selfishness – [1 Timothy 3:1-5]. Fulfilled!

Sign 8: The Rise of a False Christianity – When Jesus taught His followers about the end times, the very first thing He said was: Watch out so that no one misleads you. For many will come in My name, saying I am the Christ, and they will lead many astray [Matthew 24:4-5]. Fulfilled!

Sign 9: Wars, Famine, Disease, and Death – Among the sign that Jesus foretold would come before the end are wars, news of war, famine, disease, and death [Matthew 24:6-7; Revelation 6:8]. Fulfilled!

Sign 10: The Persecution of Christians – Jesus told His followers: At that time, they will hand you over to oppression and will kill you. And you will be hated by all the nations because of My name [Matthew 24:9]. Fulfilled!

Sign 11: The Gospel is Preached – Jesus said that shortly before the end of the age, the gospel of the Kingdom would be preached everywhere in the whole world for a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come [Matthew 24:14]. Fulfilled!

Sign 12: An Attack on Europe – In the Book of Daniel we find a prophecy about a war between the King of the South and the King of the North. This war marks the beginning of “the time of the end [Daniel 11:40]. The King of the North, coming out of Europe, will respond to this attack with an invasion of North Africa and the Middle East. He will conquer Egypt, invade many lands, and many of the countries of North Africa and the Middle East will submit to him. Fulfilled!

Sign 13: Sacrifices Stop in Jerusalem – Just 45 days after the war in North Africa the Middle East begins, the King of the North will stop the daily sacrifices in Jerusalem and set up an image in the holy place called the Abomination of Desolation [Daniel 9:26-27;11:31; 12:11]. Fulfilled!

Sign 14: The Rapture – The Rapture occurs before the start of the tribulation. It is described in [1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Matthew 24:36-42; Revelation 3:10]

Sign 15: The Great Tribulation – [Matthew 24:21-22; Daniel 7:20 and Revelation 13:1]

Sign 16: The Day of the Lord – In [Joel 1:15; Zephaniah1:14- 3:8; 2 Peter3:10; Jeremiah 23:10; 2 Corinthians 1:14].

Sign 17: The Return of Christ – Finally, at the end of the Day of the Lord, Jesus Christ will appear in the sky. Everyone will see Him, and everyone will hear the sound of a loud trumpet. At that time, Jesus will be proclaimed as the King of the earth. [1 Corinthians 15; 1 Thessalonian 4:13; 5:11].

Sign 18: Armageddon – Shortly after Christ appears in the sky; the nations of the world will form a plan to overthrow Him [Psalms 2]. Huge armies will gather at Mount Megiddo [Armageddon] in Northern Israel, and from there they will march toward Jerusalem to fight Christ.

Sign 19: The Kingdom of God is Established on Earth – [Revelation 11:15].

Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. So, you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near—at the door! [Matthew 24:32-34; see also Mark 13:28-29; 32].

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Rep. Pete Aguilar announced a $600,000 grant award for Inland Behavioral and Health Services, Inc. to expand its mental health and substance use treatment services. The funding comes as part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources and Services Administration’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Behavioral Health Services Expansion (BHSE) Grant Awards.

“We need to improve access to health services that address addiction and improve the health and well-being of the Inland Empire,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “This grant will empower Inland Behavioral Health and Services, Inc. to expand treatment and support for urgent mental health and substance use needs, helping individuals find stability and opening doors to brighter futures and more job opportunities.”

This funding comes as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Unity Agenda for the Nation. It includes a historic $240 million investment to launch and expand mental health and substance use disorder services in more than 400 community health centers nationwide that provide care for more than 10 million people.

The grant award will help Inland Behavioral and Health Services, Inc. expand its mental health and substance abuse services by hiring certified substance use counselors and Peer Support Specialists and training providers to treat opioid use disorders.

Inland Behavioral and Health Services, Inc. (IBHS) is a community-centered nonprofit and federally qualified healthcare provider that has served the Inland Empire since 1978. IBHS offers primary healthcare and social services, including physical health care, substance abuse treatment, mental health improvement, homeless services and prevention education.

By Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media

Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson), a member of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) says he supports Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposal to expand the state’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program from its current $330 million annual budget allocation to $750 million.

Gipson, who is chair of the Assembly Committee on Arts, Entertainment, Sports, and Tourism, says, historically, that tax credit has aimed to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion” as outlined in SB 132.

He’s counting on it to continue making diversity a priority.

“The Legislature finds and declares an overall trend toward increasing diversity based on existing research on diversity in the motion picture production and television industry,” the bill language states.

In a statement, Gipson told California Black Media (CBM) the tax credit, “would allow our state to be more competitive against states with tax incentive programs of their own, such as Georgia, New York, and New Mexico.”

“The film and television industry is iconic to California, impacting thousands of jobs for below-the-line workers on film and television crews, as well as many others working in hair and make-up, food services and transportation, costume and set design, and more,” Gipson continued.

According to the Governor’s office, the increase would uplift the state for capped film incentive programs, surpassing other states. Gipson says he agrees with Newsom’s assessment and the notion that the program would bring more business back to California.

“California is the entertainment capital of the world, rooted in decades of creativity, innovation, and unparalleled talent,” said Newsom on Oct 27 in L.A. at the unveiling of the tax credit.

“Expanding this program will help keep production here at home, generate thousands of good-paying jobs, and strengthen the vital link between our communities and the state’s iconic film and TV industry,” the Governor continued.

As chair, Gipson’s oversees programs and policies affecting the recording, motion picture, and other entertainment industries, tourism and arts programs, and museums. His purview also extends to professional and amateur sports, including the State Athletic Commission and the regulation of athlete agents.

California’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program has generated over $26 billion in economic activity and supported more than 197,000 cast and crew jobs across the state since it was created in 2009, according to Newsom’s office.

The California Film and Television Tax Credit 2.0, enacted in July 2015, has generated over $26 billion in economic activity and supported more than 197,000 cast and crew jobs across the state.

Now, for the first time in 15 years, tax credits will become refundable, beginning with “Program 4.0” set to get underway on July 1, 2025. According to the Newsom Administration, between 2020 and 2024, data reveals that California experienced lower production spending due to limited tax credit funding and increased competition in other states and countries. This dip in production directly impacted California’s labor market and local economies.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass says she supports the proposal because California is the entertainment capital of the world and supporting a thriving film and television industry is key to the state’s economy.

Bass said she was Speaker of the Assembly when the tax credit program was first approved.

“I worked to support leaders like now-Councilman Paul Krekorian to create the film tax credit,” Bass said. “Despite the economy being in a difficult spot, we knew that the industry needed support, and if we could at least start the program, then we could grow it.”

Newsom’s tax credit proposal is expected to appear as a bill during the next legislative session, raising concerns about diversity, equity, and inclusion for some lawmakers and advocates.

Gipson’s CLBC colleagues Sen. Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D-Los Angeles) and Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood) led a faction of legislators who demanded answers from Hollywood last year after several Black women left high-profile executive positions in Hollywood.

A number of those Black executives who left those prominent roles were leading DEI initiatives at major entertainment companies such as Netflix, Disney, British Broadcasting Company, Warner Bros., and the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences.

Before the tax credit program was scheduled to sunset on June 30, 2025, on July 10, 2023, Newsom signed Senate Bill (SB) 132 to extend the state’s $1.65 billion or $330 million annually Film and TV Tax Credit Program for an additional five years through fiscal 2030-31.

Speaking on behalf of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) employed in the industry, McKinnor and Smallwood Cuevas insist on holding television and film studio executives accountable as they benefit from taxpayer support but often appear reluctant to support Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives.

“I was highly offended to see the industry’s response to a $1.6 billion tax subsidy?by quietly eliminating Black women from executive positions with a number of studios,” said McKinnor. “Many of these women were involved in their studios’ diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, which raises a serious question about their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the film industry.”

The legislation for this year’s tax credit program has not been written, but Gipson’s staff has indicated that he will not introduce it – even though the issue is close to his heart.

“The impacts of the entertainment industry go beyond movie theaters and television screens, with movies and shows drawing tourists to California from all around the world,” Gipson stated. “I applaud the work being done by the California Film Commission, the studios, and the entertainment unions, and I look forward to supporting this proposal next year as it moves through the legislative process.”

Voters weighed in on key races in San Bernardino County in voting that ended when polls closed at 8 p.m. Tuesday.

From the race for president to local races throughout the county, our team has the latest coverage, listed below.

Check out live results here, and we’ll continue to update as new results are released from the San Bernardino County Registrar of Voters.

State races

• 19th state Senate District: state Sen. Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh, R-Yucaipa vs. Democrat Lisa Middleton
• 47th Assembly District: Democrat Christy Holstege vs. Assemblymember Greg Wallis, R-Rancho Mirage

City councils and measures

• Redlands City Council Districts 2 and 4
• Rialto mayor
• San Bernardino City Council Wards 5 and 7
• Upland Measure N

School districts

• Chino Valley Unified School District
• Redlands Unified School District

More on schools

• School bond measures across the Inland Empire

YUCAIPA, CA— The Association of California Community College Administrators (ACCCA) has announced that Associate Dean of Student Services and Student Life at Crafton Hills College (CHC), Dr. Ericka Paddock, is one of 45 leaders selected for the second cohort of the Social Justice & Career Advancement (SJCA) Institute.

In a competitive process, fellows are selected for their leadership potential and commitment to making an impact. The SJCA Institute aims to provide education leaders with a strong foundation in social justice and identity training, combined with career advancement strategies and professional networking opportunities. This initiative seeks to create more equitable and diverse campuses across the system and is aligned with the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility goals of Vision 2030, a strategic plan of the California Community College Chancellor’s Office.

With over two million students enrolled across 116 campuses, California Community Colleges represent one of the most diverse student populations in the nation. The SJCA Institute is a unique effort to ensure each campus is led by qualified, diverse leaders equipped to drive student success. This year’s cohort includes participants from over 30 institutions, ranging from small rural colleges to large urban campuses.

“The Social Justice and Career Advancement Institute is a transformative program, providing educators and administrators with essential social justice training, career development tools and a strong peer network to lead systemic change across California’s community colleges,” said Dr. Sonya Christian, chancellor of California Community Colleges. “This groundbreaking collaboration between the Chancellor’s Office and ACCCA is a key step toward realizing Vision 2030’s mission of embedding equity throughout higher education by cultivating leaders who will champion inclusion and equity-driven practices at every level.”

Dr. Delmy Montenegro-Spencer, vice president of Student Services at CHC, said, “Dr. Paddock’s selection for the SJCA Institute is a testament to her passion for justice and equality. This opportunity will undoubtedly empower her to continue leading initiatives that drive lasting, positive change in our community.”

CHC President Dr. Kevin Horan also emphasized, “Dr. Paddock has been instrumental in advancing Crafton Hills College’s efforts to foster an inclusive environment. Her participation in the SJCA Institute is a well-deserved recognition of her outstanding leadership in addressing these critical issues.”

For more information about the SJCA Institute, visit https://accca.org/events-and-programs/sjca-institute.

By Bo Tefu and Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media 

Open enrollment for Covered California kicked off on Nov. 1, 2024, offering individuals, families, and businesses a chance to secure quality, affordable health insurance for the upcoming year. This annual enrollment period allows California residents to choose from a variety of health plans that meet their specific needs.

Covered California offers comprehensive coverage, including preventive care and financial assistance to help eligible applicants lower their monthly premiums. The program features insurance plans from leading providers, ensuring access to essential health services such as doctor visits, hospital care, and mental health services.

This year, notable updates include expanded financial assistance, which increases the support available for eligible households to help offset monthly costs. Additionally, consumers will find greater plan flexibility, allowing them to select options that fit their lifestyles and budgets. Access to no-cost preventive services — like vaccinations, screenings, and annual check-ups — remains a priority.

Key enrollment deadlines are set as follows:

The open enrollment period runs from Nov. 1, 2024, to Jan. 31, 2025.

Those who enroll by Dec. 15, 2024, will have their coverage start on Jan. 1, 2025.

To facilitate enrollment, applicants can fill out an inquiry form on the Covered California website, reach out to Certified Enrollment Counselors, or contact Covered California directly at (888) 234-5366 or via email at GetCovered@cbhn.info.

The California Black Health Network (CBHN) collaborates with Covered California to advocate for health equity, focusing on underserved communities, including unemployed and gig workers. CBHN’s certified enrollers engage in outreach and onsite signups to help individuals access affordable healthcare options.