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SAN BERNARDINO, CA— A number of residents have asked what County leaders are doing to persuade Gov. Gavin Newsom and other State officials to offer more flexibility on COVID-related restrictions and allow more businesses to reopen. Make no mistake, the County has been hard at work on a daily basis throughout the pandemic trying to influence leaders in Sacramento.

Board of Supervisors Chairman Curt Hagman says he and other County officials and staff are in contact with federal, State and local officials on a daily basis. Much of this effort focuses on requesting alterations in State guidelines and securing additional pandemic-related resources for the county.

These efforts have delivered some notable results. Specifically, we have worked with the State to resume business activities serving communities in Purple Tier counties such as ours. Some of these specific businesses and activities we have fought to open include:

• Personal care services
• Campgrounds and outdoor recreation (with modifications)
• Hotels and lodging (with modifications)
• Libraries, retailers and shopping malls (25% capacity)
• Youth sports
• Allowing for in-person worship in churches and places of worship with restrictions. 

We have also secured commitments from the State for additional testing and critical financial resources, as well as:

• Waivers that have allowed 100 schools in the county to open for in-person instruction
• More than $13 million to help provide temporary and permanent housing for the county’s homeless residents
• More than $50 million in federal CARES Act funding for a variety of services associated with combating COVID-19
• Almost $40 million to help backfill revenue losses associated with the pandemic

Our efforts to relax state mandates

While the County’s efforts have resulted in the State’s providing of additional resources, Chairman Hagman says convincing the governor to relax many of the State’s pandemic-related mandates has been a much harder sell.

Specifically, San Bernardino County has pushed hard for the state to recognize our county’s unique characteristics (primarily our immense geography), that would allow less populated rural areas to be treated differently than densely populated urban areas.

“We not only are the largest county in the lower 48 states, but we also have remote communities that have experienced literally zero infections,” Chairman Hagman said. “So we’ve been asking the State to allow us to adjust requirements based on things like population and infection rates. We’ve also emphasized a variety of practical challenges — such as requiring churches in desert communities to hold worship services outdoors when temperatures approach and exceed 100 degrees.”

He believes Governor Newsom is concerned about setting precedents for counties that don’t share San Bernardino’s unique conditions, but will nevertheless demand similar accommodations. Still, Chairman Hagman emphasizes that the County has no intention of easing up on its efforts.

“We have been very vocal in advocating a relaxation of many of the rules associated with reopening businesses, and have been particularly aggressive in seeking accommodations for churches, synagogues, mosques and other places of worship,” he said. “We’ve seen some success in that area, but are continuing to press our efforts.”

Ignoring the State not a viable option

Though some residents have argued that the county should either simply ignore the State’s directives or take a much more aggressive approach in demanding accommodations, Chairman Hagman said the county’s more cooperative tone has yielded better results — and that defying the State presents a number of unacceptable risks.

“In most of our communications, we have emphasized our willingness to work with the state for the benefit of county residents and others throughout California,” he said. “I am convinced that our cooperative attitude and tone has brought more benefits to San Bernardino County, and that a belligerent attitude would likely backfire.”

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY—- As we await to see will win the Presidential election, we can celebrate on the local side of things. Mayor of Rialto, Deborah Robertson and Assemblymember Eloise Reyes Gomez were among those who were re-elected. So, congratulations to those ladies. They have both been instrumental in bringing about major change to the community. Other good news is that Proposition 17 was passed as well as Proposition 22, and Proposition 20 was rejected. 

Proposition 17 / Free the Vote Act is an amendment to the California constitution restoring the right to vote for people on parole. Now, over 50,000 people on parole in California will be able to vote in the next election. SOI is proud to be a part of the coalition of organizers that worked on the campaign to free the vote. Thank you to all the staff and volunteers that phone banked, did voter registration and helped to get out the vote. 

Proposition 20 was a prison spending scam that would have put more people in prison with longer sentences by turning misdemeanors to felonies and reducing parole options. California rejected Prop 20 and returning back to tough on crime policies.

California voters listened to the hundreds of thousands of drivers like you who want to remain independent. Your story, your voice and your support made this possible, and victory for Prop 22 wouldn’t have happened without you. With the passage of Prop 22, you get to keep your flexibility and will gain new historic benefits.

To see the results for San Bernardino County, please click below

LOS ANGELES—The Million Voters Project, comprised of seven community and regionally based networks working to expand and strengthen democracy, has launched an unprecedented campaign to mobilize 1.5 million people of color, young people and immigrants to vote in California ahead of the November elections. The campaign aims to turn out new and infrequent voters ages 18-59 to back an agenda of racial justice and help Californians win bold and meaningful change across the ballot.

“We know a better world is possible if we come together and vote,” Amado Uno, director of Million Voters Project. “As we emerge from this crisis, the future is ours to build so that every one of us can care for our families, earn a fair wage, have a safe affordable home, and can plan for a secure future. Now more than ever we must pull together so that coming out of this crisis, corporations contribute their fair share and no one is left vulnerable.”

The unprecedented campaign will be conducted digitally and in-person, with a specific focus on counties in Sacramento, Central Valley, Orange County, San Bernardino, Los Angeles and San Diego, and aims to educate potential voters on what’s on the ballot, and information on where and when they can vote. In the coming weeks, the campaign will also announce partnerships with key celebrities and artists to amplify its message.

“While low-wage workers and workers of color are being pushed out of work or forced to risk their lives in order to keep their jobs, a small group of wealthy billionaires and corporate executives have gotten richer through tax cuts, corporate loopholes and blocking wage increases during the pandemic,” said Christina Livingston, executive director of ACCE Action. “When we come together, we can deliver powerful wins for California. We can rewrite a new contract for California, and make sure that everyone of us — without exception, no matter our skin color of where we came from — come out stronger, healthier and more ready for the future than ever.”

The campaign’s goal of mobilizing 1.5 million voters will be a gamechanger for California. Research shows that California’s likely voters do not represent the state’s demographic reality; Whites make up only 41 percent of California’s adult population but 55 percent of the state’s likely voters. By building political power of California’s majority, the Million Voters Project aims to transform the political landscape in the state, from swinging local and statewide elections to advancing bold structural change. The campaign will be conducted in various languages to reach California’s diverse populations, including Korean, Hmong, Spanish, Tagalog, Vietnamese, Khmer, and Chinese.

“Our goal is to transform California’s electorate into the strongest progressive base possible,” said Diana Colin, political director of CHIRLA. “We are asking people to make their voices heard and commit to supporting a racial justice agenda for more resources for our local communities, restoring affirmative action and voting rights, expanding renter protections and keeping our communities safe and whole.”

About Million Voters Project:

The Million Voters Project is an alliance of seven community-driven state and regional networks working to strengthen and expand democracy:  Alliance of Californians for Community Empowerment (ACCE), Asian Pacific Islanders for Civic Empowerment, California Calls, the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of California (CHIRLA), Power California, PICO California and the Orange County Civic Engagement Table. For more information: http://millionvotersproject.org

YUCAIPA, CA— Twenty area high schools have been invited to send their seniors to virtually visit Crafton Hills College (CHC) on Friday, October 30 from 8:30 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. to find out more about the opportunities available. 

This half-day conference for high school seniors will provide information about programs and services offered at CHC. Attendees can expect program presentations and workshops from departments including Admissions and Records, Business Administration, Counseling, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Fine Arts, Student Life, University Transfer and Career Center, and many more! Students should reach out to their high school counselor prior to registering for the conference. 

To register, please visit: https://forms.gle/fhPk86EjoZhSc4n49

Senior Day was developed to encourage high school students to attend college and discover what is available in their local community. This event is typically held on campus but will be held in a remote format due to the pandemic. 

“CHC is staying connected with local communities,” Vice President of Student Services Delmy Spencer said. “The faculty, staff and administration are being innovative during the pandemic.” 

As one of the 113 colleges in the California community college system, CHC is committed to providing citizens in the region with an accessible higher education. The philosophy of California’s community colleges is that education is the key to better jobs, a better economy, and a better quality of life. CHC offers 53 associate degrees and 25 occupational certificate programs.  For more information, go to www.craftonhills.edu.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Are you and your scholar (s) struggling with math? Then Ms. Kalu is here to help you! Please join in on Thursday, October 29 and hear from Math expert herself, Ms. Kalu on how she can help you. 

The call is open to parents and scholars from 2^nd to 12^th grade. The call will be from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Everyone must register to receive the Zoom link. Please register at www.akomaunitycenter.org.

CORONA, CA— Starting Over, Inc., presents, “Food for Life”. They will be giving fresh food donations every 2^nd and 4^th Friday of the month at 2 p.m. They will be located at their headquarters at 1390 W. 6^th Street, Ste. 100 in Corona. Bags will be provided but is asked that you please wear a mask when entering. For more information, please call (951) 898-0862 or (562) 676-3784. You can also email charles@startingoverinc.org and visit www.startingoverinc.net. 

On Sunday, November 8, please join women’s fashion and accessories retailer, Lady MV, for an exclusive fashion show competition and model mixer. The mixer will take place at 6 p.m./PST across Lady MV’s social platforms (Facebook, Instagram) @ladymv. Krystal Yvonne’s social handle is @krystal_yvonne. The winner will receive a cash prize of $500, as well as other prizes. 

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Don’t let COVID put a damper on your kids celebrating Halloween! On Friday, October 30 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., First 5 San Bernardino will be hosting a Drive Thru Trunk-or-Treat. The event will be held at Arrowhead United Way located at 646 North D. Street in San Bernardino. 

First 5 San Bernardino will be recognizing Pastor Derek Smith and the congregation of Loveland Church for their generous donation of diapers and wipes to serve hundreds of children and families in San Bernardino County. 

Kinder kits will be available at the event and will include: 1 glue stick, 1 pair of scissors, 1 pencil box, a coloring page, 3 books, 1 pencil, 1 large eraser, 1 pack of crayons, and 1 kid’s clothing item. Lunch/dinner will be provided between 2:20 and 3:30 p.m.

This is a FREE event, but space is limited. 

RIVERSIDE, CA—- As part of its longstanding history, the San Bernardino-Riverside Area Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated will honor two outstanding community leaders with the Dorothy Inghram Social Action Advocate Award on Sunday, November 8, 2020.

The Chapter proudly announces the selection of Dr. Judy D. White as a 2020 honoree in recognition of her inspirational leadership and invaluable contribution to the growth and educational development of Inland Empire students. Dr. White recently announced her retirement after 42 years of service in public education, effective November 1.

Mr. Damon Alexander, an active community leader, public servant, and member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated is also selected as a 2020 honoree, recognizing his tireless contributions to the increased political awareness and involvement throughout our Inland Empire communities. Mr. Alexander is currently running for the San Bernardino City Council, representing the 7th Ward.

“Due to COVID-19 we cancelled our annual Culmination program in May where we would have publicly recognized Dr. White and Mr. Alexander,” said President, Erica Shorts. “But we are planning a wonderful virtual event on November 8 and we hope their family, friends, supporters and the community will join us as we celebrate two individuals who have done so much to improve the lives of individuals and families living throughout Riverside and San Bernardino counties.”

The Dorothy Inghram Social Action Advocate Award honors the legacy of Ms. Dorothy Ella Inghram, a long time resident of the City of San Bernardino who blazed the trail for black educators when in 1942, she became the first black teacher in San Bernardino County and later the first black principal. In 1953, she became the first black school district superintendent in California. Before her death in 2012 at the age of 106, she authored five books. Ms. Inghram was also a charter member of the San Bernardino-Riverside Area Alumnae Chapter, which started in 1959.

The Dorothy Inghram Social Action Advocate Award program will take place via Zoom on Sunday, November 8, 2020, at 2:00PM. To register visit for the event visit www.sbraac-dst.org.

RIALTO, CA— – To facilitate population, commerce and job growth for underserved areas of the Bloomington region, the West Valley Water District (WVWD) Board of Directors approved a contract with Michael Baker International (MBI), one of the nation’s leading providers of engineering and consulting services, to design, build, and oversee the expansion and replacement of major water main pipes for the community.

In cooperation with the Federal Highway Administration (FHA), California Department of Transportation (CALTRANS), San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA) and County of San Bernardino, WVWD hired MBI to replace 3600 feet of water main pipe for a key highway improvement project that addresses serious congestion and freeway access issues. The project, known as the I-10 Cedar Avenue Interchange Improvement Project, includes an expanded freeway entrance, exit ramps and bridge to reduce congestion by creating more room for vehicles to maneuver. Since water main pipes are located within the highway improvements, WVWD must relocate the entire affected section of the water main. By investing in new infrastructure instead of reusing aging pipes, WVWD is guaranteeing the reliability and safety of the area’s water supply for future residents, employees, and visitors for decades to come. WVWD’s portion of the project is estimated to cost just over $350,000 and will be fully reimbursed by the SBCTA.

“With the economic devastation wrought by this pandemic, we appreciate the opportunity to bring jobs and investment into our community,” said WVWD Board President Channing Hawkins. “MBI has my full confidence and support, and I am happy to see the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority take meaningful action on transportation justice.” 

The project is expected to start in August 2021 and take over a year to complete. Seven firms received applications for the contract, with two proposals ultimately sent in for consideration. MBI was not only the most cost-effective option but brings 80 years of experience and an in-house staff of over 3400 employees with them, ensuring that WVWD’s needs for this project can be met in-house, on-demand. 

“It is with careful consideration that we selected MBI for this contract: given their consistency, long history of success and clear value proposition, MBI was the obvious choice for this project,” said Board Vice President Kyle Crowther. “This project will not only create valuable new jobs for the area but allow WVWD to improve its infrastructure without any additional cost to ratepayers.”