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Tour Has Hosted Thousands of Educators on Immersive Tours Retracting the Steps of Freedom Seekers from Kentucky to Canada

RIVERSIDE, CA— The third and final “Footsteps to Freedom Underground Railroad Study Tour” of summer 2024 will take place from Tuesday, July 23, to Tuesday, July 30. Founded by Black Voice Foundation Inc., and now produced by Footsteps to Freedom LLC, the eight-day trip provides a unique Underground Railroad study tour experience. Led by experienced conductors and subject matter experts, the tour has hosted thousands of educators on immersive tours retracing the steps of freedom seekers spanning two countries, four states, and over three thousand miles from Kentucky to Canada.

Tour stop highlights include Rankin House, John Parker House, National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, Oberlin College Archives, Charles Wright Museum for African American History, North Buxton Historical Site, Walls Family Farm, Women’s Rights Museum, Harriet Tubman homesite, and Frederick Douglass NorthStar Newspaper site.

Founded by Cheryl Brown, retired California Assemblymember and Black Voice News Publisher Emeritus, the tour celebrates its 27th anniversary this year. Brown’s children, Paulette Brown-Hinds, PhD, Founder of Voice Media Ventures and Publisher of the Black Voice News, and Hardy Brown II, Chairman Emeritus Black Voice Foundation, and Managing Principal, Footsteps to Freedom, serve as the tour’s lead executives. “Our mother started the Footsteps to Freedom tour to provide an immersive, educational experience that brings to life the rich history of the Underground Railroad, one of our country’s greatest freedom movements,” Brown-Hinds and Brown share in a joint statement. “She believed that understanding the struggles and triumphs of those who sought freedom is crucial to appreciating our collective history and fostering a more inclusive society. Today, the tour remains as relevant as ever, reminding us of the importance of resilience, courage, and the ongoing fight for equality and justice.”

The tour is a transformative learning opportunity built on a foundation of historical empathy that expedites professional and personal growth. “We believe through historical empathy, participants can connect more deeply with the past, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of the experiences of others,” Brown-Hinds and Brown add. “This approach not only enriches our historical knowledge but also helps to build a more compassionate and empathetic society.”

Conductors include lead historian and retired history professor Dr. Daniel E. Walker and Kenneth Morris, co-founder and president of the Frederick Douglass Family Initiatives. “Participating in the Footsteps to Freedom Underground Railroad Study Tour for 19 years has been a profound honor,” Morris says. “As a direct descendant of Frederick Douglass and Booker T. Washington, I’ve had the privilege of inspiring and empowering thousands of educators over the years with the remarkable stories of my great ancestors and the brave freedom seekers whose resilience and courage we study and honor.”

The tour partners include the Black Voice Foundation, Mapping Black California, Black Voice News, Howard University, The Jerry Gore Collection, and various school districts in California.

The City of San Bernardino has announced that Kenneth Chapa has joined its leadership team as the new Economic Development Director. Chapa’s first day on the job was on July 15.

“Ken Chapa has a distinguished background in economic development and tourism,” said Acting City Manager Rochelle Clayton. “We are thrilled to have him aboard and look forward to him hitting the ground running.”

Chapa has over 20 years of experience in economic development and tourism at both the municipal and state levels in Arizona, Nevada, and Michigan. Most recently, he spent the last four years as the Director of Economic Development and Tourism in Avondale, Arizona, where he oversaw the creation and implementation of the Phoenix suburb’s first Economic Development Strategic Plan since 2008, and its first ever Tourism Plan.
“I’m excited and grateful for the opportunity to join the City of San Bernardino team,” said Chapa. “I look forward to working with our residents, business community, and city leadership to grow our economy and showcase San Bernardino as a premier location to do business.”

Prior to his time in Avondale, Chapa spent nearly four years as the Economic Development Officer in Henderson, Nevada, and worked for Detroit, Michigan; Mesa, Arizona, the Arizona Commerce Authority, and the Arizona Department of Commerce.

“Everywhere Ken’s has experienced significant growth in commercial development, residential development, and tourism,” added Clayton. “He knows the recipe for success
and is bringing it to San Bernardino.”

San Bernardino’s Economic Development Department was recently separated from the Community Development Department into its own unit. The Department includes both the Economic Development and the Real Estate Service Divisions.

Chapa holds a bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Western Governor’s University.

By Bo Tefu | California Black Media

A study on disparities revealed that Black people in California experiencing unstable housing are more likely to struggle with mental health at a higher rate, stated a report by the Center for Health Policy Research (CHPR) at the University of California Los Angeles.

The report details problems associated with housing insecurity and related mental health challenges, stating that 45% of people with unstable housing experienced psychological distress including depression and anxiety.

However, only 22% of adults with housing issues used mental health care to help manage the stress. People of color experienced the highest rates of housing insecurity, the majority of whom reported that they often worry about paying their rents or mortgages.

A total of 5.2 million people described their housing situation as unstable. Consequently, 26% of Black Californians reported that they faced housing insecurity, 44% higher than the national average. The study attributed this crisis to decades of redlining, a system of discrimination that denied people financial services including mortgages and insurance loans based on race and ethnicity.

Sean Tan, a co-author of the study and senior public administration analyst for the research center said that the state’s housing crisis has become a public health concern.

“Our study reinforces what research has demonstrated for years: Access to affordable housing affects a person’s health,” said Tan, regarding the state’s housing crisis. “It also spotlights the critical need for more affordable housing in California.”

The lack of affordable housing across the state has disproportionately impacted Black people. In California, approximately 43% of Black adults reported that they often worry about being able to pay their rent or mortgage.

Joelle Wolstein, a CHPR research scientist and co-author of the study, said housing insecurity has a ripple effect that goes beyond finances and worsens existing disparities.

“Housing is the largest regular expense for the vast majority of people, so it follows that people who typically have lower wages and fewer assets would have more unstable housing and worry more about paying their bills,” said Wolstein.

The CHPR study provided various recommendations for California lawmakers, including investments in creating and preserving affordable housing, connecting mental health services with housing resources, and enacting inclusive housing assistance policies.

By Rick Burke, Navy Office of Community Outreach

GREAT LAKES, Ill. – Sailors are some of the most highly trained people on the planet, and this training begins at Recruit Training Command (RTC) Great Lakes, otherwise known as boot camp. Every enlisted sailor starts their Navy journey at boot camp at Naval Station Great Lakes (NSGL), Illinois.

Chief Petty Officer Laurence George Cerezo, a native of San Bernardino, California, is currently stationed at NSGL as an instructor with Naval Education and Training Command (NETC).

Cerezo, a 1994 graduate of Juan C. Laya San Manuel Pangasinan High School in the Philippines, joined the Navy over 18 years ago.

“I joined the Navy to provide better opportunities for my family’s future with the benefits of military life in both honor and pride,” said Cerezo. “After all, being the fifth generation of my family to join the military, it is significant for me to continue the legacy.”

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in the Philippines.

“The town in the Philippines where I grew up, has taught me the priceless quality of being selfless,” said Cerezo. “Living my childhood in poverty caused me to have the mindset of putting others first, which drives me every day to care. It’s about staying patient, being considerate, being an advocate for myself and striving to help bring out the best in people.”

During the 10 weeks at RTC Great Lakes, sailors learn five warfighting competencies – firefighting, damage control, seamanship, watchstanding, and small arms marksmanship.

NSGL is the Navy’s largest training installation and the home of the Navy’s only boot camp. Located on over 1,600 acres overlooking Lake Michigan, the installation includes 1,153 buildings with 39 on the National Register of Historic Places. NSGL supports more than 50 tenant commands and elements as well as more than 20,000 sailors, Marines, soldiers, and DoD civilians who live and work on the installation.

Two commands at NETC are Surface Warfare Engineering School Command Great Lakes (SWESC GL) and Surface Combat Systems Training Command Great Lakes (SCSTC GL). Every surface Navy engineer, quartermaster, boatswain’s mate and deck seaman attends SWESC GL for technical training. These sailors leave SWESC GL as surface warriors, ready to perform aboard ships operating around the globe. Instructors at SCSTC GL provide a culture of excellence and warrior toughness by building a surface warrior mindset to complement the technical and tactical skillsets.

“The thing I enjoy most about training and mentoring sailors is the challenge of seeing people from different backgrounds with aspects of life and unique individual skills, communicating efficiently to bring their ability to a real-world scenario, such as on deployments or when assigned missions,” said Cerezo. “It’s heartwarming and rewarding in itself to see that I’ve had an impact on students during the weeks we share honing more and more knowledge. I enjoy supporting the command’s mission of Excellence, Ownership and Sustainability (E.O.S.), because my part in bringing capable warfighters, and the next generation of leaders and sailors with bright futures to the fleet, brings feelings of pride to me and my career.”

With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.

“We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day,” said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations. “Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”

Cerezo serves a Navy that operates forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.

“Serving in the Navy means being a part of the larger mission to keep peace among the vast seas warships that come and go for trade, whether it be myself physically serving on a ship or sending others with the knowledge I have given them,” said Cerezo. “It also means the strength of camaraderie between sailors from diverse backgrounds.”

Cerezo is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“I will always thank God for giving me the patience to experience life as a Navy sailor,” added Cerezo. “I especially want to thank my wife, Pernita Dabalos Cerezo. She has sacrificed many opportunities, special occasions and her career just to support mine. I would never have served for as long as I have without her being by my side and raising our children, Larence Prinz Cerezo and Larene Precious Cerezo. She has spent all her time raising them and they’ve become my pride and joy. Lastly, I would like to thank my friends and relatives who have supported me throughout my Navy career.”

By Darrell Frye

Good afternoon, Fam! Darrell Frye here, President of the Black Young Dems (IE)! Get ready for the dopest event of the summer!!! Join us on Saturday, August 17th from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the City Center SB for an incredible Artivism experience.

Come and explore music, art, and vendors all dedicated to making a difference! Artivism is about using art to create social change – and we plan to create a space that does just that!!! This event will be free with RSVP!

The City Center is located at 455 W. 4th Street, San Bernardino, CA 92401. To RSVP as a guest, vendor, or artist, please click here.

The Board of Supervisors passed a proclamation on June 25, declaring July as Park and Recreation Month, which aligns with the National Recreation and Park Association’s (NRPA) resolution celebrating parks around the country.

Since 1985, the United States has celebrated Park and Recreation Month in July to promote building strong, vibrant and resilient communities through the power of parks and recreation.

NRPA is dedicated to the services that park and recreation professionals provide in communities — from protecting open spaces and natural resources to helping fight obesity and providing activities and resources for all people. Park and Recreation Month encourages everyone to reflect on the exponential value park and recreation professionals bring to communities.

Director of Regional Parks Beahta Davis says, “San Bernardino County Regional Parks is committed to protecting the county’s natural, cultural and historical land resources and we envision an eco-friendly, well maintained, park system that improves the well-being of our communities through recreational and educational activities and events.”

This year, the NRPA’s Park and Recreation Month theme is “Where you Belong,” which celebrates the many ways park and recreation professional across the country foster a sense of belonging in their community by providing welcoming and inclusive programs, essential services for all ages and abilities, and safe, accessible spaces to build meaningful connections.

Davis says this is why this proclamation is so vital to supporting our parks and recreation in our communities. Our programs and events align with the Countywide Vision, encouraging residents to increase their physical activity and connecting them to many opportunities to be active.

Davis also added that as part of the celebration this month, Regional Parks is offering visitors half-off park admission and fishing permit fees on Friday, July 19 at the following parks:

• Cucamonga-Guasti: 800 N. Archibald Ave, Ontario
• Glen Helen: 2555 Glen Helen Pkwy., San Bernardino
• Mojave Narrows: 18000 Yates Road, Victorville
• Prado: 16700 S. Euclid Ave., Chino
• Yucaipa: 33900 Oak Glen Road, Yucaipa

Park admission on Friday, July 19, will be $4 per vehicle and fishing permits will be $6 per person. The discounted admission does not include camping rates or swimming fees at Glen Helen and Yucaipa swim facilities.

All parks will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and the lakes will be stocked with catfish on Thursday, July 18.

By Bo Tefu | California Black Media

Last week, the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) approved nearly $1.9 billion to upgrade and sustain public transportation systems statewide.

The state plans to invest a total of $5.1 billion among regional transportation planning agencies over several years, as mandated in Senate Bill (SB) 125, which Gov. Newsom signed into law in 2023.

The funding will pay for transit operations and capital improvements, allocating varying amounts of money to 22 agencies based on population.

“This vital funding serves as a lifeline for transit agencies all over the state and helps to advance California’s ambitious, world-leading climate goals,” said Newsom.

At the same time, we’re adding accountability measures that help put our state’s transit agencies on a path toward long-term stability,” the Governor added.

Planning agencies will also receive funds from the transportation package. CalSTA plans to approve $500 million for projects implemented this summer. More funds will be approved for future projects until the 2027-2028 fiscal year.

California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin said the investment aligns with the state’s environmental and equity goals and responds to the needs of the public.

“California’s commitment to public transit is unwavering, and with billions more in funding in the pipeline — including for zero-emission equipment and operations — we are just getting started in delivering a more sustainable and equitable transit system for the people of California,” said Omishakin.

Deal includes weekly newspapers in several Inland Empire communities

REDLANDS, CA – Times Media Group (TMG) announced today that it has acquired Century Group Media, a publishing company that has operated weekly community newspapers in California’s Inland Empire for the past 37 years.

The deal includes the Redlands Community News, Yucaipa News Mirror, Calimesa News Mirror, Fontana Herald News, The Record Gazette serving Banning and Beaumont, and the outlets’ websites. Each of these longstanding publications have served the San Bernardino/Riverside area of the Inland Empire as the region has experienced significant growth.

What is now Century Group Media was founded in 1987 by Jerry Bean, a longtime newspaper media executive who formed his own company after serving as publisher of Gannett’s San Bernardino Sun. Bean, 81, plans to retire after 66 years in the newspaper business.

As a high school sophomore, Bean was hired by his hometown weekly in Lacon, Illinois, as a part-time “printer’s devil” tasked with cleaning the shop and re-melting the lead type used to print the newspaper at that time. In addition to writing high school sports articles, he learned to operate the newspaper’s typesetting and printing machines, an interest that served him well as he moved through the newspaper ranks.

After volunteering for the Daily Illini while earning a journalism degree from the University of Illinois in 1966, Bean joined the Rockford (Illinois) Morning Star as a reporter. Twelve years later he was named publisher of the then 80,000-circulation Gannett daily.

Bean served Gannett as the launch general manager of USA Today and later as a regional vice president while also serving as publisher of the San Bernardino paper.
Living in nearby Redlands, he has been in leadership roles in many community non-profit organizations. He also was elected president of the California News Publishers Association in 2006.

Times Media Group, headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, owns more than 35 weekly publications throughout Arizona and California. The company is committed to keeping quality local journalism alive in the many communities it serves.

“Every week more than a million readers in communities large and small turn to our pages and websites for the news and happenings in their communities,” said Steve Strickbine, the founder and president of TMG. “Ten years ago, I would never have imagined our growth would encompass such a large footprint and so many loyal readers. We are honored to be the stewards of that trust as a true source for news in a rapidly changing media environment.”

Strickbine founded TMG in 1997, quitting his job as a CPA to pursue his dream of becoming a newspaper publishing entrepreneur. Over the past 27 years, TMG has grown into one of the largest community publishers in the country. Strickbine says the company remains committed to continuing to grow by acquiring more community news groups.

“There are real opportunities to acquire and preserve many of the news publications residents have come to know and trust,” said Strickbine. “I continue to meet many newspaper publishers who want their life’s work to carry on serving the communities they love. I would invite anyone motivated to protect their legacy in newspapers to give me a call, because we would certainly be interested in that discussion.”

Bean said he was impressed with what TMG brings to the table. “In looking for a buyer who would maintain the traditional roles and responsibilities of newspaper journalism, I was impressed with the quality of Steve’s newspapers,” he said. “Just as importantly, he does a great job of incorporating the internet and social media into his operations. That is often hard for an old guy like me to do effectively.”

Bean took care to thank his staff for their hard work. “We have employees who have just joined us and employees who have been with us for the entire 37 years,” he said. “Every one of them is truly appreciated.”

SAN BERNARDINO, CA– On Tuesday, June 25, 2024, the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors voted to support changes to the County Code to acknowledge the unique needs of community cats. This groundbreaking initiative is aimed at improving the welfare of community cats through sterilization and vaccination efforts by the County Department of Public Health (DPH).

Residents will have the opportunity to schedule appointments, at no cost, with DPH veterinary contractors or mobile veterinary units. These appointments will facilitate the sterilization and vaccination of community cats, after which the cats will be returned to their outdoor habitats rather than being held in shelters.

“This initiative represents a proactive approach to animal welfare,” said Supervisor Curt Hagman. “This program promotes a humane and sustainable solution that benefits both the cats and our community.”

The amendment to the County Code will not prevent DPH from intervening in situations where community cats pose health or safety risks, or in rare instances of nuisance concerns. This flexibility ensures that the program maintains a balance between animal welfare and community needs.

Residents interested in participating in the program or learning more about the details are encouraged to reach out to San Bernardino County Animal Care.

This initiative aligns with San Bernardino County’s commitment to compassionate animal management practices and reflects a collaborative effort between the County and community stakeholders.

Supervisor Hagman has served as the Fourth District Supervisor since 2014, representing Chino, Chino Hills, Montclair, Ontario, and Upland (generally below 14th St.). Hagman holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from UCLA. He, his wife Rossana, and his family currently live in the Chino Valley. He is also proud to serve as a Lieutenant Colonel in the California State Guard.

Earlier last week, alongside Chair Rowe and Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr., Mayor Warren attended the ribbon cutting for Station 81 over in the City of Fontana. This station has been in the works since she was a Council member. And its opening in the North End of Fontana will assist in cutting down response times and helping people at a faster rate. This station was much needed.