Local

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.

By Bo Tefu and Antonio Ray Harvey  | California Black Media 

Gov. Gavin Newsom has announced a new program that aims to improve public safety through federally funded investments in supportive housing for individuals exiting incarceration. This initiative, collaboratively managed by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), seeks to reduce homelessness and recidivism among formerly incarcerated individuals.

The federal funding will help the state reduce homelessness and support those looking for a clean start by, “ensuring that those exiting our prison system have the resources and housing they need makes us all safer,” said Newsom.

Newsom stressed the importance of stable housing for successful reintegration. Formerly incarcerated individuals are nearly ten times more likely to experience homelessness, often facing barriers to public housing programs.

The HOME American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP) Reentry Housing Pilot Project (RHPP) will allocate $16 million from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The program aims to provide safe, stable housing alongside comprehensive services that promote employment, education, and healthcare access, which are crucial for reducing recidivism rates.

Jeff Macomber, Secretary of the CDCR, said that the CDCR understands the impact of homelessness on California’s communities and is committed to enhancing public safety and promoting successful community reintegration.

“Housing stability is an important aspect to successful reentry, and this groundbreaking effort in partnership with HCD will provide a valuable opportunity to address these challenges,” said Macomber.

Applications for the program are now open until the Dec. 31, 2024, deadline. Initial funding awards are expected in the summer of 2025.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— The San Bernadino-based Swans Club of the Inland Empire is excited to present six exceptional young women at the organization’s 64^th Annual Debutante Ball, which will be held on the evening of Saturday, November 9, 2024, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Ontario Hotel.

The Swans Club, founded in 1960, is a non-profit organization that raises funds to provide college scholarships to teenage girls in the Inland Empire. Entry into the Debutante Ball is by pre-purchased ticket only. Tickets are $75 each, and the deadline for purchasing tickets is Sunday, October 27, 2024. As a reminder, formal attire is required for all Ball attendees (long gowns and tuxedoes).

The 2024 Swans Club Debutantes making their debut are:

• Miss Ausara Bell, a senior at John W. North High School in Riverside.
• Miss Omaega Johnson, a senior at Cajon High School in San Bernardino.
• Miss Brooklyn Malveaux, a senior at Cajon High School in San Bernardino.
• Miss Leianna Scott, a senior at Cajon High School in San Bernardino.
• Miss Crystal Scott, a freshman at Riverside City College in Riverside.
• Miss Zaair Thompson, a senior at Cajon High School in San Bernardino.

Visit The Swans Club’s website, theswans.1960.com for information to purchase tickets to the 2024 Debutante Ball by the October 27^th deadline or email The Swans at theswans.1960@gmail.com.  All contributions are tax deductible. See you on November 9^th.

By Bo Tefu and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media

The 37th NAACP California-Hawaii State Convention concluded on Sunday, Oct 27 following four days of discussions and workshops at the Los Angeles Airport Marriott. Bringing together civil rights leaders, policymakers, and advocates from California and Hawaii, the convention operated under the theme “All In.” The participants discussed critical issues impacting Black communities, including criminal justice reform, health equity, economic empowerment, education, environmental justice, and voting rights.

A Friday panel featuring NAACP Chairman Leon W. Russell and Regina Wilson, Executive Director of California Black Media, examined Project 2025, an initiative perceived as a potential threat to civil rights, healthcare access, and environmental protections. This session emphasized Project 2025’s projected impact on Black communities, noting that policies within the initiative could diminish gains made in civil and environmental rights over decades. Russell and Wilson highlighted the need for vigilant monitoring and community mobilization to address these challenges.

On Saturday the President’s Fireside Chat brought together NAACP President Derrick Johnson and CA/HI State Conference President Rick Callender, who discussed the urgency of voter engagement and community advocacy.

Guest speakers included Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA-43), who spoke at the Women in NAACP (WIN) Labor Luncheon about the intersection of labor rights and civil rights. California State Superintendent Tony Thurmond delivered remarks at the Leadership Dinner on education equity, focusing on policies to ensure all students have access to high-quality education.

Honors were given to longtime social justice advocate and former Assembly member Mike Davis for his work in community activism, while actor and activist Danny Glover and the Rev. Dr. Amos C. Brown received the 2024 Legacy Hall of Fame Awards, recognizing their lifelong commitments to advancing civil rights.

The convention also offered practical workshops, including “What’s On Your Ballot?,” where coalition leaders provided analyses of California propositions, explaining their potential impacts on community rights and resources. The Voter Turnout Workshop provide background and encouraged participants to promote voter turnout through community-centered outreach strategies.

Sunday’s events closed with a Prayer and Memorial Breakfast honoring the contributions of past and current civil rights leaders.

By Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media 

As the November 5, 2024, General Election approaches, a number of Black candidates are running for positions in the United States Congress, the State Senate, and the State Assembly. If elected, they would collectively represent a larger proportion of elected officials at the state level than California’s Black population of about 6.5%.

Of the state’s 52 U.S. House of Representatives seats, three are currently held by Black representatives. In the State Senate, which comprises 40 seats and elects half of its members every two years, there are currently two Black Senators. In the Assembly, which has 80 seats up for election every two years, 10 Black Assembly members currently serve.

In this election, five Black candidates are running for Congress, four for State Senate, and 13 for Assembly.

Below are the Black candidates (in bold letters) running for Congress and the State Legislature:

Congressional Races 

In Congressional District 9 (Stockton), Kevin Lincoln (R), Mayor of Stockton, is challenging incumbent Josh Harder (D). Lincoln, a former Marine, is running on a platform focused on economic development, public safety, and government accountability. Harder, meanwhile, has focused on issues like healthcare access and immigration reform.

In Congressional District 12 (Oakland), Lateefah Simon (D), a nonprofit foundation president and civil rights advocate, is running to succeed Rep. Barbara Lee. Simon’s platform emphasizes civil rights, affordable housing, and economic reform. Her opponent, Jennifer Tran (D), a professor and chamber president, is focused on economic development, public safety and leveraging technology for government transparency?.

In Congressional District 37 (Southwest L.A.), incumbent Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D) is campaigning on criminal justice reform and expanding healthcare. Her opponent, Juan Rey, a train mechanic running with no party preference (NPP), advocates for populist solutions.

In Congressional District 43 (South L.A.), Maxine Waters (D) is running for re-election. Waters has long championed housing reform, civil rights, and economic justice. Her challenger, Steve Williams (R), a commercial real estate broker, is focused on reducing government regulation and fostering entrepreneurship.

California State Senate Races 

In State Senate District 7 (Oakland and Berkeley), Jovanka Beckles (D), an Alameda-Contra Costa (AC) Transit Director, is running on a platform centered on environmental justice, affordable housing, and public transportation reform. Her opponent, Jesse Arreguín (D), the Mayor of Berkeley, is focused on housing and economic development?.

In State Senate District 35 (Inglewood and South LA), Michelle Chambers (D), a former Compton City Councilmember, is campaigning on affordable housing, public safety reform, job creation, and healthcare access. She is facing Laura Richardson (D), a former U.S. Congresswoman and Assemblymember, who is focusing on public safety and moderate housing reform. Both candidates aim to replace Sen. Steve Bradford (D), who is term limited.

In State Senate District 39 (San Diego), Assemblymember and medical doctor Akilah Weber (D) is campaigning on healthcare equity, public safety, and job creation. She faces Bob Divine (R), a retired Navy Commander, who is advocating for fiscal restraint and law-and-order policies?. This seat is currently held by former Senate President pro Tempore Toni Atkins, who is term limited.

California State Assembly Races

In Assembly District 7 (Citrus Heights), Porsche Middleton (D), a city councilmember, is challenging incumbent Josh Hoover (R) on housing reform and local governance?.

In Assembly District 11 (Suisun City), incumbent Lori Wilson (D) is focused on healthcare access, economic development, and education. She is facing Dave Ennis (R), a civil engineer who emphasizes infrastructure improvement and reduced government regulation?.

In Assembly District 13 (Stockton), business owner Rhodesia Ransom (D) is campaigning on small business growth, educational reform, and economic justice. She faces Denise Aguilar Mendez (R), a non-profit director focused on conservative family values and reducing the size of government?. Aguilar Mendez has faced controversy including a guilty plea for welfare fraud.

In Assembly District 18 (Oakland), incumbent Mia Bonta (D) is running on housing reform and education. Her opponent, Andre Sandford, American Independent Party (AIP), advocates for fiscal responsibility and housing cost management?.

In Assembly District 55 (Ladera Heights), incumbent Isaac Bryan (D) is running on criminal justice reform, affordable housing, and economic equity. His opponent, Keith G. Cascio (R), is focused on fiscal conservatism and entrepreneurial growth?.

In Assembly District 57 (South Los Angeles), Sade Elhawary (D), a community activist and educator, is running on a platform focused on improving affordable housing, addressing homelessness and implementing criminal justice reforms. Her opponent, Efren Martinez (D), a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and small business owner, emphasizes economic development and public safety. Both candidates are competing to replace Reggie Jones-Sawyer (D), who is termed out of office.

In Assembly District 60 (Riverside), incumbent Corey Jackson (D) is campaigning on social justice and healthcare reform. His opponent, Ron Edwards (R), a small business owner, is focused on pro-business policies and reducing government regulation?.

In Assembly District 61 (Inglewood), incumbent Tina McKinnor (D) is focused on affordable housing and economic justice. She faces Alfonso Hernandez (R), a restaurateur who advocates for small business growth?.

In Assembly District 65 (Compton), incumbent Mike Gipson (D) is focusing on public safety and healthcare access, while his opponent, Lydia A. Gutierrez (R), is prioritizing educational reform?.

In Assembly District 72 (Huntington Beach), nonprofit executive Dom Jones (D) is running on business growth and community development, while incumbent Diane Dixon (R) is focused on fiscal responsibility and infrastructure improvements?.

In Assembly District 77 (San Diego), James Brown (R), an entrepreneur and financial advisor, is focusing on economic policy and job creation. His opponent, incumbent Tasha Boerner (D), is campaigning on healthcare access and environmental protection?.

In Assembly District 79 (San Diego), LaShae Sharp-Collins (D), an education leader, is focused on reproductive rights, educational equity, and affordable housing. She faces Colin Parent (D), a La Mesa City Councilmember, who emphasizes housing affordability, climate action, and transportation. This seat is currently held by Akilah Weber, who is running to represent State Senate District 39.

These Black candidates are running to address key issues such as housing, healthcare, public safety, reparations, and economic reform. The diversity of their platforms reflects California’s broad political spectrum, with some focusing on progressive reforms, while others advocate for a shift to more conservative policies.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— The San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) Board of Education is proud to announce that it has awarded the Outstanding Community Partner Award to No Kid Hungry, a nonprofit dedicated to ending childhood hunger and reducing food scarcity.

This award, presented at the Board’s Oct. 22 meeting, recognizes No Kid Hungry’s exceptional efforts in supporting SBCUSD’s students and families with access to nutritious meals.

Through its innovative programs and partnerships, No Kid Hungry has played a critical role in ensuring that children in the San Bernardino community have access to the meals they need to thrive, both inside and outside of the classroom. Their work has significantly reduced food insecurity, helping thousands of students stay focused and succeed academically.

“The impact No Kid Hungry has had on our students and families is profound,” said SBCUSD Superintendent Mauricio Arellano. “Their commitment to ending childhood hunger aligns perfectly with our mission to provide every child with the resources they need to succeed. This award is a testament to their invaluable partnership.”

No Kid Hungry’s initiatives have supported SBCUSD in expanding access to meals, particularly Breakfast in the Classroom. By working closely with local schools and communities, they’ve ensured that children receive the healthy meals they need year-round.

“We are honored to partner with SBCUSD in the fight against childhood hunger,” said Daisy Munguia, Associate Director, No Kid Hungry California. “Together, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of students, ensuring that hunger is not a barrier to their education. Our partnership to bring Breakfast in the Classroom to San Bernardino City schools continues to have a significant impact on students’ health, well-being, and their readiness to come to school and learn.”

For more information on No Kid Hungry and SBCUSD’s ongoing efforts to reduce food insecurity, please contact Laura Rice at Lrice@strength.org.