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SAN BERNARDINO, CA— The San Bernardino Symphony Guild cordially invites the community to share some spooky fun as they gather online for a Virtual Halloween Costume Party and Pumpkin Parade. The festivities will be held on Thursday, October 29 from 5: 30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

As we’ve transcended into this new (para)normal, it’s e-e-rily clear that we’ve missed you all terribly! So, we thought we’d hold a seance… ummm, online party… to lift your spirits! It’s all about having fun and, boo-lieve it or not, this is a FREE event!

What will we do at this online soiree? Learn pumpkin carving techniques from eerie experts! Hear about the new Music in the Schools video program! Re-connect with fang-tastic special guests! Unearth the latest holiday home decorating trends! Play a super fun party game! Participate in an online Pumpkin Parade!

And more… plus, Maestro Anthony Parnther will “let the bat out of the bag” by revealing the 2021 season!!!

Your haunted hostesses, Cool Ghoul Ruthie Chafin and Un-Dead Anne Viricel, invite you to dress in costume or just use the evening as an excuse to wear some ma-scare-a and use scare-spray! 

And, if you’re a pumpkin carver (or painter), please plan to have your creations nearby to share! There will be prizes for the best costume and for the best pumpkin.

KRPR is looking to fill the following positions: Social Media Specialist, Content Writers/Editors, Grant/Loan Writers, and Public Relations Apprentice (interns). View the desceiption of each below: 

• Social Media Specialist – responsible for planning, implementing, monitoring social media campaign strategies in order to increase brand awareness, improved marketing efforts, increase visibility, increase sales across all BRAND PLATFORMS and CLIENTS’ BRANDS: KRPR Media, llc, Leon-Rich Logistics, llc, The Porter-Fields Empowerment Zone, Connect Black LA, Kimiology, Urban Lyfestyles Magazine (ULM), EK Concerts, The Boss Babe Store.
• Content Writers/Editors – responsible for writing, editing, proofing all content across all BRAND PLATFORMS and CLIENTS’ BRANDS. MUST BE PROFICIENT IN English, Grammar, Punctuations, Grammar, Editing and Proofing.
• Grant / Loan Writers – responsible for identifying and submitting small business loans, grants, nonprofit grants.
• Public Relations Apprentice (Interns) – need college/school credit and real-life experience.

These are independent contractor, work from home positions. Only those who KRPR are interested in ill receive a response to continue to the next steps of the interview process. Please send resumes, bios, links to work, samples, and excepted pay to info@krprmedia.com. 

Candidates must live in the Los Angeles area. Brand Associates – represent, promote products at various venues, sale products. Representatives are independent contractors with pay plus bonus.

LOS ANGELES, CA—- Metrolink,Southern California’s regional train service, today launched SoCal Explorer, a new loyalty program that rewards riders with points as well as exclusive offers and perks from local businesses and attractions throughout the Southern California region. The program makes it more affordable for people to make taking the train a part of their everyday lifestyle.

The SoCal Explorer program was designed to reward all Metrolink riders, whether they take the train to commute to work or ride on the weekend for some fun with friends and family. Members earn one point for every mile they travel, which they can redeem for free tickets – making taking the train even more affordable. Just for signing up, members will receive enough points for a round-trip ticket, so new riders can redeem their points and try out the service for free. 

“We are pleased to reward Southern Californians for making the choice to leave their car behind and take the train,” said Metrolink Board Chair Brian Humphrey. “We hope to encourage more people to ride with us, to keep our region’s traffic congestion low and improve our region’s air quality. Plus, taking the train is a healthy lifestyle choice allowing people to avoid the stress of sitting in traffic.”

While the SoCal Explorer program was created to benefit its customers, Metrolink saw an opportunity to also support the recovery of local businesses that were hit hard by the effects of COVID-19. Currently more than 30 local businesses are SoCal Explorer Partners, offering discounts and other incentives to program members in exchange for being promoted as a part of the program. Businesses can sign up to be partners by visiting socalexplorer.metrolinktrains.com/partnerships.

“Orange County businesses need our support now more than ever. Metrolink’s SoCal Explorer program is another great reason to mask up and get out of the house for a train ride to one of Orange County’s many restaurants, stores, and attractions,” said Lucy Dunn, President & CEO, Orange County Business Council (OCBC), a leading voice of business in the region that enhances economic development and quality of life.

Creating a Metrolink SoCal Explorer account is easy by simply visiting SoCalExplorer.Metrolinktrains.com. Metrolink mobile app users can register with SoCal Explorer using the same email address used for the mobile app account. Tickets purchased through the Metrolink Mobile app will earn points and be credited to their SoCal Explorer account automatically. Paper tickets users can take a photo of their tickets and easily upload it to their SoCal Explorer account to be rewarded with points.

“Our customers are at the center of everything we do, and our new SoCal Explorer program rewards them for the trust they continue to show us during these extraordinary times,” said Metrolink CEO Stephanie N. Wiggins. “This month, as we approach the anniversary of our 28^th year of service, I can’t think of a better way to thank customers for riding with us than to reward them for each mile they travel.”

Metrolink takes every precaution possible to protect the health and safety of its riders. Face masks are required on station platforms and aboard trains that are continuously cleaned and disinfected by a Clean Care Crew. As an additional layer of protection every day each train car is deep-cleaned and electrostatically sprayed with hospital-grade disinfectants. And social distancing is a breeze using Metrolink’s How Full is My Train? tool to check recent ridership levels and ensure there’s plenty of space for their adventure. To see all the ways Metrolink is working to keep riders and team members safe, please visit metrolinktrains.com/cleancommute. 

For more information about Metrolink’s SoCal Explorer rewards program please visit SoCalExplorer.metrolinktrains.com.

LOS ANGELES, CA—- The Taste of Soul returns on Saturday, October 17 at 6 p.m. But of course, due to COVID-19, things are a little bit different this year. While you won’t be able to walk the Crenshaw Blvd. with your friends and family, you guys can still catch the performances by hosting a watch party live from your living room. 

The evening will be hosted by Kym Whitley with sounds by D.J. Mal-Ski. Musical performances will be performed by After 7, Anthony Hamilton, Deborah Joy Winans, Doug E. Fresh, En Vogue, Fred Hammond, Jade Novah, and Montell Jordan. There will also be celebrity appearances by Darrin Dewitt Henson, Dr. Bobby Jones, Faithe C. Jones, Kim Fields, Lamman Rucker, Loni Love, and Wendy Raquel Robinson. 

The live stream will take place at tasteofsoul.org. 

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— County Chief Operating Officer Leonard X. Hernandez, who began his career with San Bernardino County 20 years ago as a County Library public service employee, on Tuesday was appointed by the Board of Supervisors to serve as the county’s next Chief Executive Officer effective October 10.

“I am humbled by the confidence the Board of Supervisors has placed in me and grateful for the opportunity to lead this great County organization, which has been my professional home for so many years,” Hernandez said.

“Under the leadership and guidance of the Board of Supervisors, the County team has built a culture of innovation, efficiency, and public service,” Hernandez said. “My overarching goal is to expand and nurture that culture within each of our worksites, within every service we provide, and within every County employee.”

“We are excited to welcome Leonard Hernandez as San Bernardino County’s new CEO,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman Curt Hagman. “COVID-19 has presented many unique challenges within our community, and Leonard’s extensive experience within the County and his integral role on the executive leadership team have strongly positioned him to lead the County during this unique time. I look forward to working with him in solving these challenges and know that his talents, leadership, and dedication to seeing the County thrive will serve him well as CEO.”

Hernandez will succeed Gary McBride, who has served as CEO for nearly three years and will remain with the County as Strategic Projects Director under a contract extension approved by the Board of Supervisors on Tuesday.

“I have known Leonard since 2006, when he was the manager of the Fontana Branch Library,” said Board of Supervisors Vice Chair Josie Gonzales. “Throughout the years, I have watched him grow as a leader and I have seen his commitment to serving the community.  As a Supervisor for the past 16 years, I know that there is no decision more important than the selection of the CEO.  I have full confidence in Leonard, and I have no doubt that he will help guide our County to new heights in the years to come.”

“Leonard first impressed me with his leadership and problem-solving skills when he was placed in charge of the Lewis Library in Fontana while I was on the City Council,” Supervisor Janice Rutherford said. “Since then, he’s continued to demonstrate his leadership abilities, commitment to excellence in public service, and his dedication to ethics, and I look forward to working with him to address the challenges facing our county.”

“I appreciate Leonard’s willingness to accept the role of CEO and continue the leadership that has been established,” said Supervisor Robert Lovingood. “His experience and knowledge of the County is foundational to our ongoing success and I look forward to working with him in this capacity. As a County, we have faced unprecedented challenges and I am confident that these proactive leadership transitions prepare us well for what is ahead. I want to thank Gary for his leadership and continued commitment to help the County strategically navigate the complexities that this health crisis has brought.”

“I look forward to working with Leonard to implement the vision of our Board of Supervisors,” said Supervisor Dawn Rowe. “He is a hard-working leader with a keen understanding of the inner-workings of our county government. I’m confident that he will continue the great progress made by his predecessor, Gary McBride.” 

After launching his career in San Bernardino County, Hernandez gained experience and honed his management skills at the City of Riverside as the Director of Libraries before returning to San Bernardino County in 2010 as County Librarian. 

In 2014, while still serving as County Librarian, Hernandez served as interim Museum Director. In 2015, Hernandez was promoted to the position of Deputy Executive Officer over the Community Services Group, which includes the County Library and Museum systems, Registrar of Voters, Regional Parks, County Airports, and Agriculture/Weights and Measures. 

In 2016 Hernandez became the Interim County Chief Operating Officer and then in 2017, Hernandez was officially appointed to the position of County Chief Operating Officer. In that role, Hernandez has coordinated the County’s multi-departmental response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the leadership of the Board of Supervisors the County’s COVID Task Force has led the State in its response to the pandemic and service to the public. 

Hernandez, a resident of San Bernardino County, has a bachelor’s degree in history from California State University Fullerton and a master’s degree in library and information science from Clarion University of Pennsylvania.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—- Save the date for Monday, October 26 for Southern California Black Chambers of panel discussion. The discussion will be held at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom.  

Discussion topics will include: Knowing Your Voting Rights! Get to the Polls; The Importance of the BLACK VOTE; What to LOOK for on the Ballot; What’s on the Ballot for San Bernardino County; San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors; State Assembly; State Senate; House of Representatives; City races; School, college district races; and Ballot measures. 

Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85119136856?pwd=WEUwcWdrTC9Ha2dJRFl3czNRanVlQT09

Meeting ID: 851 1913 6856

Passcode: 569408

By Stephanie R. Wilson

Vibrant Green for Vibrant Peace and Vernon Dental Specialties recently collaborated with 911 Biocare to show their gratitude and appreciation to the heroic firefighters who are effortlessly fighting to tame the Eldorado and Bobcat fires.

Founder and CEO Eugene Weems of Vibrant Green for Vibrant Peace and a few of his local business partners are doing what they do best and that is giving back to the community. Only this time, Vibrant Green for Vibrant Peace and Vernon Dental Specialties wanted to support the firefighters by acknowledging their hard work and efforts to tame the horrific fires happening in Southern California. 

This has been such a tragic time for the firefighters, working in extreme heat, and in the process losing a team member in the midst of it all. What is greater than showing their love and cherishing the firefighters by providing bags of hope filled with tee shirts, free dental care certificates, IV hydration bag gift cards, and other items to show thanks to all the fire fighters who work non-stop to preserve, save the property of the residents and keep the community safe.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—- Homecoming season is approaching, which means it is time for SBCUSD Alumni and friends to get up and show their school spirit! Join our virtual marathon to help bring hope to our community! One price and five distance choices to keep you moving at your own pace. Simply register and pick your Alma mater’s team!

We are raising money to support SBCUSD high schools and our Foundation’s mission. Schools will get to keep 25% of adult entry fees that their team earns. The school with the greatest number of adult runners registered will receive $1,000 for their ASB. Also, for every 500 runners a school team has registered in their team, they will get a $5,000 scholarship for one of their 2021 graduates!

Register or Donate now by October 15th at: bit.ly/HomecomingHustle

SACRAMENTO, CA—- The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) today announced special tax filing relief for Californians affected by recent wildfires. Because of the governor’s state of emergency declared on September 25 and September 28 and his recent executive order, taxpayers in governor-declared disaster areas are granted an extension to December 15, 2020, to file California tax returns on 2019 income and make any tax payments that would have been due between now and December 15.

“Californians affected by this historic wildfire season need the opportunity to focus on themselves, their families, and their properties,” said State Controller and FTB Chair Betty T. Yee. “I hope this extension provides a small measure of relief under very difficult circumstances.” 

With the addition of the California counties that received a disaster declaration in September, FTB now has extended the deadline for individuals and businesses to file and pay in the counties of Butte, Del Norte, Fresno, Lake, Los Angeles, Madera, Mariposa, Mendocino, Monterey, Napa, Nevada, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Shasta, Siskiyou, Solano, Sonoma, Stanislaus, and Yolo. Any counties added later to the disaster area will be granted the same extension of time to file. This relief applies to various upcoming tax filing deadlines including the following: 

Individual filers whose previous tax-filing extension was set to end October 15. Because tax payments related to these returns were originally due on July 15, any payments associated with these filings are not eligible for relief. 

•  Business entities with a due date between now and December 15.

• Taxpayers who are victims of wildfires may claim a deduction for a disaster loss sustained in an area proclaimed by the governor to be in a state of emergency. For a complete list of all disasters declared by the governor, see the “List of Disasters” chart on FTB’s disaster loss webpage. Additional information and instructions are available in FTB Publication 1034, 2019 Disaster Loss: How to Claim a State Tax Deduction. 

Taxpayers may claim their disaster loss in one of two ways. They may claim the disaster loss for the 2020 tax year when they file their return next spring, or they may claim the loss against 2019 income on this year’s return. An amended return may be filed by those who already have filed this year. The advantage of claiming the disaster loss in the prior tax year is that the FTB can issue a refund sooner. 

Taxpayers claiming the disaster loss should write the name of the disaster (for example, Glass Fire) in blue or black ink at the top of their tax returns to alert FTB and to expedite any refund. If taxpayers are filing electronically, they should follow the software instructions to enter disaster information.

Disaster victims also may receive free copies of their state returns to replace those lost or damaged. Taxpayers may complete form FTB 3516 and write the name of the disaster in blue or black ink at the top of the request.

John Abad, former San Bernardino 7^th Ward City Council candidate endorsed Damon Alexander for San Bernardino City Council 7^th Ward. Mr. Abad pledged his support for Mr. Alexander in the general election, Tuesday November 3, 2020.

Candidate Alexander beat incumbent James Mulvihill by more than 150 votes for the lead in the top 2 spots in the primary, qualifying him for the general election.

Mr. Alexander believes “San Bernardino needs new leadership that will set the example, by rebuilding the City, restoring the trust and repairing the breach.”  

Damon has called the City of San Bernardino home for over 30 years. Candidate Alexander is married to his lovely wife Felicia Alexander. Together they have 5 children and 4 grandchildren. Candidate Damon Alexander is a Marine veteran who served his Country proudly.

For more information about Damon Alexander, please visit his website at www.damonalexandercitycouncil.com.